Dearly Beloved

by Dr Sharaz Jek

Rating: mature
Tags: Anthro, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Bat Pony, Alternate Universe, Comedy, Other, Romance, Porn, Sex, King Sombra, Crystal Ponies, Profanity
Length: 26806

King Sombra and Queen Inky Rose hold a wedding for their daughter, Cerise Silhouette. The attendees arrive from across multiple dimensions.

You are cordially invited to the wedding of Cerise Silhouette and Midnight Blitzer, to be held on a planet at the end of time. King Sombra and Queen Inky Rose will attend to give away their daughter.

There will be wine, women, and song, humor, plus a number of surprises, so please come on in!

Signed, Beatrix Belladonna :heart:

"Beatrix, don't embarrass me!" -Cerise Silhouette

A collaboration with NotaPonyPerson. All characters in sexual situations are 18 or older. This fic follows sometime after the events of Forbidden Manor At The End of Time: A Beatrix Belladonna Tale, however no prior knowledge should be necessary.

Canon characters: King Sombra, Inky Rose, Lily Longsocks, Somnambula

OCs by creator:

Cerise Silhouette, Beatrix Belladonna, Bellatrix Primadonna, White Shadow Penumbra, Foal-Bearer, Wet Nurse, 'Sunny', Mini-Trix by Dr Sharaz Jek

Midnight Blitzer, Moonlight by Shadic Midnight Blitzer

Lady Oona Ewe, Dion, Moxxi, Sixth Measure, Zeloph by NotaPonyPerson

Shadow Scythe by Alphamon_Ouryuken

Moon Hammer by Arcanum -Phantasy

Seabreeze by Anon E Moose

Arcanum Folklore by Disavowed ASH

Shimmer Shade by Red_Velvet_Skye

Hanzal, Candy by Bronycommander

Published 2021-01-16 17:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2021-02-17 03:54:18 UTC

Chapter 1

It was the happiest day of Cerise Silhouette's life so far.

She wouldn’t say ever, not when she was still so young. But the dancer-turned-bride was ecstatic to have this day happen so soon!

She kept her neon hot pink mane styled in pigtails, held by stylized star baubles. Her shapeliness squeezed into a form-fitted scarlet dress her mother had sewn for her, somewhere between classy yet scandalous. Her charcoal-furred cleavage nearly spilled from her top, her slender back bared, the dimples of her pert bottom emphasized.

Cerise beamed wide, her neon pink eyes large and bright, aware that all eyes would be on her wherever she strode about.

The gothic manor served as the backdrop, replete with gargoyles perched above. Not merely decorations either, as the eldritch abomination that made up the structure could make them spring to life on command, if necessary. The double doors were open, and guests were able to wander in-and-out to mingle. This area was enshrouded in the illusion of sunlight, a clear blue sky with a gentle breeze. But if one moved beyond the grounds, they would see the barren planet shrouded by the cosmos that was its reality.

Thankfully the air was entirely breathable, and the grass below filled the atmosphere with earthy scents she inhaled sharply.

Cerise wandered through a small maze of tables lined in succulent feasts and desserts. Plucking up a cherry smothered in glaze by the stem, she munched on the candied delicacy, moaning in approval. Since both the manor and its owner, Beatrix Belladonna, were able to travel between dimensions freely, they had been able to invite old friends scattered across the multiverse.

In fact, it was this very mansion where she'd encountered her groom, Midnight Blitzer. She studied her stud, adorned in a navy blue tuxedo, bright blue dress shirt, and a white cortege pinned near his breast.

While she admired how handsome the stallion looked, part of her was disappointed that his chiseled chest was concealed, her leathery wings ruffling behind her.

Cerise used to be an ordinary earth mare, until a portion of her had awakened during a conflict in the mansion, transmuted into a thestral which she could now shift to at will.

A better match for a pegasus like him, she thought. His wingspan was more comprehensive than average since he was a draft stallion, his spiky dark blue mane in contrast to his more standard blue coat.

Midnight returned her smile, his emerald eyes still wide and innocent. He was a soldier from a young age and, more importantly to her, a loyal and fantastic lover.

He, too, had made a discovery about himself in the manor. He was a 'hyper-stallion,’ a sporadic mutation that was a throwback to more primitive ponies, far stronger and more virile than most common colts.

She blushed brightly, a tingling sensation throughout her plush body, trying not to focus on his prowess. Sure, they could sneak off and have some fun, but Cerise knew there would be ample time later.

Still, she wandered over to him with a titter, pressed a palm to a bare portion of his chest, and directed one of his hands to rest on the slope of an ample buttock. Gently he squeezed the soft flesh with a wolfish smirk.

“Oh, Midnight my love,” she cooed playfully, delicate fingers tracing over his broad shoulders. “This is so wonderful!”

“Yeah, this is looking great!” Her stud agreed, his grip tightening. “I’m happy that I got to see your world and meet all these friends. Though I can’t say the same for some folks...”

A trip by Beatrix allowed him to see his mentor, Shining Armor, and explain why he wouldn't be returning now that he'd settled down with her. Though, as Midnight figured, the captain was indifferent by his decision, figuring he’d gotten himself killed long ago.

Cerise frowned at her lover’s change in tone. “Are you sure you’re not beaten up by that?”

“Trust me, I’m fine,” Midnight assured, his head pressing against hers. “There wasn't much for me there, anyway. No war to fight, no family, no real direction. I wouldn’t go back, not when I’m at home with you, Cerise.”

“Good!” The dancer gave a more suggestive wink while her eyes lowered into a seductive gaze. “Because need I remind you that you’ll be married to a princess! One who will do anything to please her sweet prince~!”

“Oh yeah?” He laughed, squeezing her half-bared cleavage of her ass before the two smacked each other’s lips in growing heat.

“Ahem…”

A dry cough interrupted the lover’s latest session to pull attention towards King Sombra, standing between the two with a stern expression. Over his expensive tuxedo were silver ceremonial pauldrons, complete with a crown and scarlet cape tinged in a white hem. He studied his daughter and son-in-law, his saturnine features drawn.

Awkwardly, Midnight lightened his hold on his bride and snapped to attention. “O-ohh! H-hey, sir! I didn’t see you come in.”

“Still can’t keep your hands off my daughter, I see,” Sombra spoke darkly, raising an eyebrow. “The ceremony has yet to begin, and already you plan to ravish her like some wild animal? Surely, you were taught proper manners training under Shining Armor?”

“Daaaaaad! Enough with the tough guy routine! This is my big day,” the daughter of darkness said and rolled her eyes.

“Let them be, Sombra.” Inky Rose snickered to the side of her husband, adorned by a button-up, gothic black dress with white frills, flashy-yet-conservative, her feet housed in laced-up heeled boots. “Need I remind you of a similar stallion who was just as ravenous before we were married...?”

A low chuckle left his throat as Sombra softened his facial features. “Oh, what fun memories of that day.” The dark stallion drew his wife closer, brushing his hand over her plush breast, making her quiver.

“C’mon, don’t embarrass me,” Cerise complained playfully while Midnight felt his cheeks flourish, still not use to how sexually driven so many people were.

Sombra placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “I jest, of course. You’re a fine catch for my daughter. Someone she can depend on. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“T-thank you, sir.” He smiled bashfully.

“Ohh, you're such a cute couple!” Inky squeed, observing the two lovers. Her pastel purple coat appeared closer to gray, complemented by a darker purple mane with lighter streaks, and pulled into double braids that fell at the sides of her head.

Sombra cast his glance towards Cerise, a proud smile spreading his snout. “Oh, sweetheart. She’s almost a spitting image of her during that day,” he whispered to Inky, who nodded as they studied her.

Cerise was the partial reincarnation of Inky's old friend, Pacific Glow, a tragic loss in a war that devastated her world before birth. Sombra’s dark magic had attached Pacific's soul to her own, melded it into a single entity. She remembered being lovers with her parents as Pacific, a taboo attraction between the three still there, left unspoken.

Sombra cleared his throat before looking back to him. “Midnight, I trust you will do everything possible to make Cerise happy?”

“O-of course, sir!” Midnight insisted, possessively drawing his bride close to him. “I’ll take good care of her. I swear it!”

“Good. If there’s anything I value in a son, it’s dependability,” he concluded, patting his shoulder. “To be a prince and inherit one of my territories, I must make certain you’ll be worthy. And while you’re swordsmanship is quite stunning, I feel there’s more you can learn. Perhaps I'll instruct you directly?”

Midnight gulped, recalling how antagonistic Sombra was the first time they met. He had to prove he was worthy of his daughter’s hand, dueling the king by blade. Midnight refused to give up with each blow and knockdown, earning the former tyrant’s respect, concluding the match with a standstill, and gave his blessing. But Sombra warned Midnight that for him to be his successor, they would locked blades again. And this time, he wouldn’t hold back.

“Honey,” chided Inky, removing Sombra’s hand from her ample bosom. “Now is not the time to discuss business. This is a happy day, for all of us! The future can wait.”

Sombra sheepishly folded his hands back behind him, nodding. “Yes, you’re right. This is my daughter’s day. Therefore, if there’s anything she wants, she will have it.”

Cerise pulled free of her lover momentarily to embrace her parents. “It's been wonderful so far! Almost exactly how I pictured it! It's too bad my other brother couldn't be here. At least White Shadow Penumbra came!”

“Yes, ah-- Where is he, anyhow?” Inky asked conspiratorially, before sighing. “Don’t tell me he snuck off to have ‘fun’ with Lily…”

“He is my son, after all,” Sombra added cheekily, earning a quick jab by Inky’s elbow.

“Oh, I'm sure he'll turn up soon,” Cerise giggled, turning to kiss her lover. “I need to make sure the other guests are here. Can you keep my parents company?”

“Yeah, sure thing,” Midnight smiled, taking another drawn out kiss before audibly smacking her supple rump, earning more raised brows from Sombra and Inky.

“Oh, he’s a bold one,” Sombra murmured.

“I suppose this is part of that ‘hyper-stallion’ gene,” Inky agreed with a bemused smirk.

“I'll see you later, love,” Cerise parted, taking one more kiss while wiggling her way out of his hands to wander around the manor.

“Have fun!” He waved, arching with her parents to continue their conversation.

Further in the musicians proved more audible, an entire orchestra prepared for the ceremony. Beatrix had even tracked down Sixth Measure, that boy band she was enamored with, to perform a couple of songs during the party, her parents having paid them a handsome sum. The Clef brothers were currently on stage, drinking water for their next song, before spotting the blushing bride and flashing her some poses. Cerise giggled, finding the real versions of Tenor, Bass, and Alto better than in her dreams.

She noted several familiar faces who danced in the open. First was White Shadow Penumbra, the pale pegasus wearing a turban and cape over his Nehru jacket, his attire white and trimmed in gold.

Her brother danced with Lily Longsocks, an amazonian earth mare, her coat a light pink, and her mane pulled into short purple pigtails. She laughed with him, her bright green eyes meeting his warm gaze.

“There you are,” Cerise exclaimed, shimmying over to groove with the pair.

“Sister! Welcome,” Penumbra greeted.

“You look lovely,” Lily complimented, shyly looking her over, a finger raised to her lips.

“You too!” She couldn't help but admire Lily's amazon, yet feminine frame. The pair were married in a similar ceremony back home, a way to celebrate their victory over a foe that nearly brought their planet to its knees.

“I must say, Cerise,” Penumbra said. “You picked one hell of a soldier in Midnight. I hope he wouldn’t mind a few rounds with me, after father ’s finished with him.”

“I’m sure he won’t.… But just to spar, okay? Nothing serious.” Cerise insisted.

“I won’t. I've rarely have bad blood with anyone. I just want to know the stallion who will wed my sister,” he promised.

“I’ll make sure he doesn’t cut a hair off his body,” Lily added with a wink. “Gotta make sure you two are set for a wonderful honeymoon~! I don’t think I told you how Penumbra carried me to our room, then slammed me into the bed before we-”

“Yes, you have!” Penumbra interrupted before his wife could say anything further about their intense honeymoon, his pale cheeks colored. “Ahem! Yes, I'm certain a…'hyper-stallion' will provide you many foals, should you wish it.”

“Oh, that’s right! Do you plan on having any children?” Lily asked, patting her own belly. “Penny and I have been trying a while now~!”

The often stoic General made a face at the mention of his pet name.

Cerise took a step back, rubbing her neck sheepishly. “O-oh.... Um, maybe someday. We want to have lots more fun first!”

“Don’t hink tay hard oan it, Cerise,” a smooth voice called forth, calling the mare’s attention to the speaker. Lady Ewe walked towards them, dressed in a bright green formal dress with a seethrough blue scarf draped around her shoulders. The fabric clung to her figure, plump breasts more pronounced, the silky skirt hanging over her motherly hips. Her warm honey eyes and a gentle smile graced her elegant features. “Th' time will come.”

“Oona!” The bride approached, taking her hands. “I’m so glad you could make it!”

“‘Tis a pleasure, princess.” The goat woman bowed her head in respect.

“Heehee! No need for that, we’re equals! Where's Beatrix, by the way?" Her eyes darted about. "Usually, she's with you!”

“She was, though she went tae fin' mair guests. Nae a surprise since mony ay her friends are scattered athwart dimensions. Ah heard that th' mansion must feest each time it travels, sae 'at option, Ah fear, is impractical. She shood be returnin’ suin.”

“Aw, that's too bad. I hate to see anyone on their own!” She pouted with a petulant frown, hands planted on her wide hips.

The dream faun laughed politely. “Haha, fash yerself nae. Thaur ur plenty ay new fowk Ah can meet. Plus, it won’t be lang until mah brither joins me shortly.”

“Your brother is coming?!” She had heard Beatrix mention another goat, a proud warrior from where Lady Ewe hailed. “Wow, so many heroes and soldiers are attending!”

Oona nodded. “Normally, Dion woods still be fightin' ur trainin'. But recently, he’s foond time tae spend wi' me. ‘A celebration ay life is nae somethin’ Ah plan tae miss,’ he tauld me. He an' Ah plan tae perf'rm a traditional hymn tae mark th' occasion.”

“Ooooh, that sounds wonderful! I can hardly wait~!” The dancer beamed wide, bouncing on her heels while clapping her hands.

“Don’t lit me keep ye,” Lady Ewe suggested, pulling away. “There’s still plenty ay friends tae greet.” With that, she decided to converse with Penumbra and Lily, not having had a real chance to speak with them.

Cerise nodded, making her way towards the bar, where the shelves were lined with various exotic drinks. Some were taken from different worlds. Her shapely bottom settled onto a stool, and her eyes scanned the menu. She wiggled in her seat, excitement pumping through her veins. Though the bride-in-question was aware she couldn't afford to make an ass of herself, so she needed to keep it light for the moment.

“Hi there,” the bartender greeted with a wink. The unicorn mare had a sea-green coat, silver mane in a hairband, and vivid purple eyes. Tall and athletic, her bust was modest, but she made up for that with wide hips. “Whatever you want, I can mix it.” To demonstrate, she concentrated and used telekinesis to lift several bottles wrapped in her aura. “So, babe, what's your pleasure?”

“Ohhh, fancy! Seabreeze, right?" She sucked on her lip. "Why don't you pick for me?”

“As you wish. Hmm.… I think you’re lookin’ for something sweet.” She popped a cork and poured the contents into a glass.

“Thanks!” She beamed back at her laid back smile and took a drink. Warmth settled into her stomach. “Not bad!” She licked her chops, savored the nectar-like substance that settled on her tickled taste buds. “You're a friend of Midnight's and Beatrix's, right?”

“Yeah, we were drawn into a paradise world that overflowed under colorful flora. That, and clothes were forbidden there~.”

“A nudist planet? Kinky! I wouldn't mind a nude wedding ceremony myself, but not sure how many here would go for it!” She tried not to lech over the bartender, yet couldn't deny she was curious how she would look naked. Draped in a simple dress that accentuated a toned form, it appeared she'd be more comfortable in sporty attire.

“You never know,” replied Seabreeze with another wink. She nodded at another pair slumped near the bar. "Pals of yours?"

Pressed to the furniture were a stallion and mare, the latter familiar. They were plopped side-by-side, half-finished drinks in hand and emptied bottles discarded beside them.

“Yo,” called Sunny, who offered a small wave. Garbed in black lace and heavy makeup, she was Sunset Shimmer's counterpart from the human world, shaped into an anthropomorphic unicorn in this dimension.

She waved back. “Good to see you here, Sunny! And who's your cute friend?”

“Arcanum Folklore.” He took her hand and kissed it. “You must be the princess. Sorry, didn't intend to crash your party.” The unicorn had a greyish-blue coat, amber eyes, and a black mane, his chin lined in stubble. He also dressed more casually than most in his dusty woolen overcoat, a fedora in his lap like a detective from an old pulp novel.

“Oh, no problem! So, you a friend of Beatrix's?” She tilted her head.

“Never met her. Or anyone here, honest. I was on a routine investigation and stumbled into a wormhole, I guess. At least, that's the best I could figure it. It seems like the 'mansion' accidentally scooped me up on a trip. I could tell it's some sort of monstrosity, but curiously, it seems tamed.” Arcanum downed another drink, sighing in satisfaction. “Care to offer me a lift home?”

“Whoa there,” Sunny clasped his hand and pressed her shapeliness closer to him. “Why the rush, cutie? Why not stay and celebrate! I could always use another drinking buddy.”

“Oh.… Hmm, I don’t see why not. Though haven't you had enough to drink, doll?” He noted how she draped herself on him.

“Pft! Trust me, sweetcheeks, I know my limit,” Sunny practically slurred her words and failed to stifle a small burp. Clumsily she all but straddled him, her face a bright crimson, her eyes hazy. “Heeey boy.... You're kind of cute, in a scruffy sort of way~.”

Cerise pulled her off. “Okay, Sunny, you need to cool down!” She held the unicorn who swayed in her slender arms, barely conscious. “Sorry about that, Arcanum! Don't worry, I'll make sure Beatrix gets you back home! Enjoy the party until then, okay?”

“Thanks, I will.” He flicked a lighter taken from his coat, lit up a cigarette, and took an extensive puff as he watched them leave.

Having to practically drag her stumbling partner along, Cerise headed up the short stairs, into the threshold of the mansion itself. While the interior dimensions could shift at will and the rooms shuffled as needed, the she-demon who possessed it rarely made such massive alterations, since those who dwelt in it sought domestic comforts. Currently, it wasn't unlike the first time she arrived, the foyer spacious, complete with a chandelier, suits of shining armor lined up, and a pair of staircases.

The interior was decorated with nude statues and busts of debonair mares and stallions. The paintings and murals depicted scenes from various adventures the 'owner,’ Beatrix Belladonna, had undertaken across multiple dimensions. Some worlds were primitive, post-Apocalyptic, or paradises, but one in particular where people embedded themselves in machinery caught her eye.

Cerise paused and called, “Hey, Bellatrix Primadonna? Is your sister back yet?”

A concrete wall parted like flesh, and the she-devil-turned-angel strolled out from the hole, currently in the latter guise, golden hair in curls draped down skin so radiant it glowed. Feathered wings adorned her back, a supple form clad in lacy white lingerie that was covered in rose designs, her azure eyes piercing over lips drawn in a pout. “There's no need to shout. I can hear you anywhere.”

“Oh, uh, sorry about that!” She recalled the shapeshifter could see, hear, smell, perhaps even feel whatever happened inside the grounds, ever since she had fused with the eldritch abomination disguised as a house, and become its undisputed mistress.

Bellatrix waved her apology aside, her mouth drawn into a thin line. “To answer you, I’m afraid Beatrix is still away.” Of course, the pair weren't sisters by blood, but the witch had taken the succubus in and helped her ascend to her current state. “Is there anything else I can do for you, princess?”

“Um, take care of Sunny, will you?” She held the unicorn slumped and snoring softly on her shoulder, snout open and lined in drool.

Shaking her head, a wry smile split Bellatrix's lips. “Already passed out, huh? Honestly, I feel like I’ve become a nanny with how many people I tend to.” The manor's true nature was momentarily visible as fleshy tendrils rose from below, tenderly lifted Sunny up, and deposited her on a fluffy bed in an open room. Gently she closed the door.

“Thanks! You're great!” She approached to embrace her, then remembered the she-devil usually didn't do hugs and stopped.

“I-It’s nothing really.” Bellatrix's slightly sour features softened, allowing herself to return the warm embrace she offered. They held each other a moment, and the angel rocked her in slender arms, a halo bright above her dome. “You also helped save me, after all.”

“M-me? I didn't do anything, not really-”

Bellatrix pushed an index finger over her lips. “Nonsense. You, Midnight, the twins, Sunny, Moxxi, my sister.... Hell, shamed as I am to admit it, even Shadow Scythe had a part in the salvation of my soul! Uniting with this creature provided the purpose I lacked.”

“Good." She held her for several moments. "Oh, speaking of which, where is Moxxi and Shadow Scythe? I haven’t seen them yet!”

“They're about.” Bellatrix frowned. “Those two are rather secretive and evasive. The truth is, I can never keep track of them. With the imp, I’m not surprised. She's a creature of chaos by nature who bends reality itself. The reaper, however…” She looked to the floor, concern written all over her face. “I still find it dangerous to keep her with us, especially with a bunch of people here.”

“Yeah… You don’t think Shadow Scythe will ever remember or old self, do you?”

“I hope not. Though if she does, Beatrix is prepared to confront her.” She shook her head. “Let’s not discuss this on your special day. I fear the twins are incredibly busy like always, but fortunately, they've decided to prepare a suitable surprise for you.”

Cerise tilted her head. “Surprise?”

“Yes. A moment, please.” Closing her eyes, Bellatrix silently communicated with the manor and individual inhabitants.

A few moments later, another portion of the wall audible slid open with a fleshy suckle, and from it daintily emerged two sets of the Crystal Pony twins, one pair who had been pulled into this manor and were permanently tethered here, the other sisters from the dancer's own homeworld.

Dressed in their usual maid uniforms, complete with headdresses, stockings, and heels, their light pink coral coats glittered under the soft light above. Even their eyes were gem-like, manes styled in bob cuts. Midnight had innocently described them as 'works of art that looked like they belonged in a museum,’ and she couldn't help but agree, admiring their beauty in a stare.

“Welcome home, princess,” the foursome said in unison and curtsied.

“Wow, this is so cool! Really thankful you decided to come!" She pursed her lips. "Um, but won't this get kind of confusing...?”

“I wouldn't worry about that,” said one of the sisters named Foal-Bearer, due to her slightly wider hips. Or at least that had been the case until Shadow Scythe had lopped the heads of the siblings off, then traded them onto the wrong bodies, after she had turned them into her zombie slaves through necromancy.

At least she could tell those two apart by stitch scars around the width of their necks.

Her other half, Wet Nurse, usually had the fuller bust, until they were switched. “We're all practically one here!” To demonstrate, they all lifted a portion of their pleated skirts, exposed shapely thighs adorned by their cutie marks, two female symbols intertwined. The symbols glowed in resonance, the empathic foursome now linked, able to share pain and pleasure.

“Very convenient for more…amorous purposes,” explained the other Foal-Bearer, who remained prim-and-proper to a fault.

“A shame we don't have any time to slack off,” added the other Wet Nurse. “This is your special day, and we have to respect that!”

Cerise shook her head. “I don't want that! It doesn't seem fair that you four have to work so hard, while everyone else relaxes!”

“Do not worry,” said the first Foal-Bearer who bowed. “We're used to it. In fact, to serve those we love is our reason.”

“It's what we were called to do!” The second Wet Nurse traced the cutie mark on her bared thigh, unable to hide her grin.

Bellatrix cut in, “That reminds me. Another surprise we prepared.” Another section of the wall shifted open with a rumble, and led a stone staircase that spiraled to what used to be a dungeon below; a grisly place back then, where Shadow Scythe had carried out her brutal experiments on the twins and the numerous beasts once trapped in the manor. “Don't worry, it's perfectly safe.”

To ease the princess, Bellatrix and the quadruplets led the way down the steps. Cerise followed, and they descended lower and lower until they reached the bottom. While the area was still cool and lined in stone, the clank of a hammer on an anvil sounded. Sparks danced, and torches on sconces lit the corridor. Their steps echoed while they headed to meet the blacksmith.

“You've arrived,” came the warm, masculine voice. The minotaur was mildly shorter and leaner than most of his kind, though still impressive in his muscular stature. His coat was silver, and messy dark brown hair came down to his neck. Sweat poured down his chiseled body once he paused, mid-stroke, and relaxed his taut posture. “I've prepared what you asked.” He opened a meaty hand.

In his palm rested a pair of engraved rings, one gold for the groom, silver for the bride.

“Thank you, Moon Hammer,” said Bellatrix, who accepted the tokens of love and passed them to the princess. "Fine work as always."

Garbed in little more than a leather apron, he used a sheet to wipe his brow and tossed it aside. His hammer sizzled and steamed. “No problem. It's the least I can do to repay Beatrix, after she helped me return home.”

“Wait.… Beatrix commissioned these for me?” Cerise sniffled and rubbed her eyes.

“I did it for free,” he explained, his smile warm. “Sure, she offered me a small fortune, but that's not what I want.”

Cerise took his hands and stared up at him. “And what do you want...?”

“To finally prove myself to my village. And a cow to call my own,” he admitted in reference to the female of his species.

The quadruplets shared a look and nodded.

The second Wet Nurse approached. “Is this close enough?” She took his hand, directed it to her bust, where she helped him slide down her top, and bare her plump breasts. Her pink nipples were wide and inverted, swallowed a sizable portion of her tits, and under the pressure of his caress, warm milk spurted out from the nubs that peeked out.

The foursome cooed in shared appreciation at his touch. “We share everything. Lovers included,” explained the second Foal-Bearer whose cheeks colored. “We have little choice, honestly, due to our unique nature. Not that we would ever wish to be separated.”

The second Wet Nurse offered, “Take a chance on us, Moon Hammer? Please?”

“We can't ever leave this manor since it sustains us,” explained the first Foal-Bearer. “But we can spend the night with you, too.”

“A dream come true for you,” added the first Wet Nurse, who smiled and tittered.

Moon Hammer nodded, unable to hide the delighted grin. “I accept your offer.” He looked them over before nodding in approval. The maids struck a playfully saucy pose for him in unison, determined to make this a night the minotaur would never forget, once the sisters were finally able to relax.

They surrounded him, traced his muscles, wet down a cloth in warm water, and wiped the beaded sweat from his skin. Massaging him like they were back on that nudist paradise planet, they undid the knots in his taut musculature, and a low guttural moan rose from the minotaur who was directed to a filled basin. Cerise couldn't help but note he was well-hung once they stripped him.

Cerise studied the rune-inscribed rings, satisfied, and handed them back to Bellatrix for safekeeping until it was time. Silver was her family's color, while gold matched it and suited her lover. He was the light to her shadow, the completion of what she lacked.

At first appearance, she appeared bright and cheery, which was true most of the time. But hers was a dark beginning, cut from Pacific Glow's womb by Inky Rose to save her, born prematurely and uncertain whether she would soon join her deceased mother after her end by Chrysalis. Then there were her father's years of meddling in the dark arts, which passed a portion of his curse onto her.

Thankfully it had its upsides, too. She licked her upper teeth, felt the tiny fangs that arose at her whim, and the shift of flesh at her back, where leather bat wings could retract. A reminder that for all her innocence, she too was a creature shrouded in darkness.

Cerise said, “I'm kind of similar to Beatrix, in a weird way. We're all touched by the dark.”

“Yes…. Though few of us wished we didn’t reach for the light,” Bellatrix shuddered.

“Don’t remind me,” Cerise closed her eyes, remembering those traumatizing times. They had barely survived an encounter with a creature that claimed to be a messiah.

“Cerise, I…I am sorry I called you a silly wench. That I treated you so poorly simply to maintain my cover,” the shapeshifter said, referring to the recent war back in Cerise's world. Bellatrix had infiltrated the enemy's camp and sworn fealty to their messianic nemesis. “I hope you did not take that to heart. You know I did not truly mean it.”

“I know,” murmured Cerise. “But that's behind us. We’ve both matured quite a lot after that.” She was suddenly embraced from behind, radiant hands-on her midsection, and she relaxed into the angel's warm touch, thankful they could further bond.

Deciding she should freshen up after she'd danced herself into a sweat earlier, Bellatrix seemed to read her intentions and opened up a wall. She strolled into it, felt the flesh close around her, soft and warm like she was back in the womb, serene. It pushed her body along like she was being born anew, down the winding canals, until she was gently deposited in a spacious bathroom.

Waltzing to the tub, she turned the knobs, then shed her clothes and undergarments, now placed on a rack. She studied her reflection in the rising waters, let her pigtails down held by star shapes down, often told she was one of the most beautiful mares.

Dipping her toes in, she settled into the steamy water and shut it off. Her hand wandered to a bottle, emptied a portion of the contents, and made herself a bubble bath. Bright colors filled the confines, and she giggled between splashes, lounging back.

“Ah,” she moaned and closed her neon pink eyes, her legs spread and resting over the sides. Her arms were similar draped, although she would routinely raise a bar of soap with one hand that lathered up her supple flesh and charcoal coat. “Oh, yes~!”

Another splash sounded in front of her. “Baaah!” Cerise yelped, shooting up only to come face-to-face with the imp. “Moxxi!”

“That’s me name, Lov. Don’t wear it out~” She winked. Moxxi was a short and shapely minor demon, adorned by small bat wings. A face was visible on her tail’s spade, her cutesy features humanoid, with spikey purple hair that contrasted to her gray skin.

“What are you doing here?! A little privacy, please!” Cerise whined, sinking lower into the tub, thankful she hadn't masturbated.

“Oh, ya kna me. Just wanted ter get a good butcher's at the blushin’ bride before she’s been wedded off.” She said, flicking her tail. “Thought ya gotta admit, would be sugar and spice ter let loose and explore the buffet table, if ya kna wot I mean~” She wiggled her eyebrows. “That minotaur looked loike 'e could choke me gullet wif 'is rim rod!”

Cerise sighed. “I-I can’t help it that so many good looking people are here. I won’t cheat on Midnight, not on our wedding night!”

“I dunna. Sounds kinky~!”

She frowned and bounced the soap bar off her. “I’m serious!”

“So am I! Look, lov. There’s nuffin' Pete Tong wif wantin’ ter Bo-Peep 'round the block wif people yer not married too,” the imp offered. “Tits bound wif rings ain’t as fan as tits bound in rope. I’m sure Midnight would be on board. And I kna a Hoppin' Pot full of ladies who’d love ter board the ‘Midnight Express.’ Choo choo~!”

Cerise grumbled, unable to deny the idea of pursuing other sexual partners did excite her. She knew her father and mother often invited others, usually handmaidens who served the queen, to their bedchambers.

Did she want the same with Midnight? There weren’t any real downsides, outside of jealousy. But would he accept that...?

“I-I guess you make a point.” She concluded, smiling at the little scamp before resuming her lazy bath. “So, are you settled in?”

“Yep! Still got plenty ter learn from Bellatrix on maintainin' me true form! Plus, she makes certain there's always new stuff ter clock and explore.” She playfully wrestled with her, the pair laughing and colorful, bubbly waters splashing over the sides.

Soon they spilled out onto the white tiled floor themselves, sopping nude bodies dotted in suds pressed on each other. “You think you’ll be able to stay as Anarchia?”

“Wishful thinkin’, lov. I burn a lot of energy tryin’ ter stay Anarchia, even after Bellatrix 'elped me learn ter control it. Would it swell ter 'ave full tits and 'ips again? Sure! But this current body isn’t wifaht its perks and benefits~” She rolled off Cerise's wet suppleness and onto her clawed feet. Then she seized a towel, wiggling her wide hips and butt, hummed and toweled herself off.

Cerise also dried herself, reminded she needed to get back to her own party. A click of the imp's fingers and their clothes materialized over them. “Whoa, nifty!”

“Nicked that wahn from Beatrix,” she winked cheekily. The imp had a shimmering yellow dress over her curved body, a fancy furry scarf wrapped around her neck. The dress had a single slit to better show off her left leg. “Na, c’mon. Moriarty 'appenin’ down the stairs! Strut your stuff, twist n twirl!”

Cerise nodded, the two swaying their way back down to the party. Pretty soon, the imp scurried onto the dance floor, where Seabreeze also attended, the bar duties taken over by Sunny, who had sobered up fast. Cerise speculated Arcanum Folklore had somehow helped out, the stallion seated at a stool and served fresh drinks by Sunny who shook them with a smirk. She even lit her horn and set a few drinks aflame in a hiss.

Reminded that this was her celebration and she could do what she wanted, Cerise hopped onto the bar, followed by Moxxi. Glasses clattered under the impact but didn't spill, and they raised their arms, breaking into a spontaneous dance. The musicians caught on and began to play faster, wilder. Arcanum and Sunny raised a toast to the princess, clinked their cups, and drank.

Penumbra raised an eyebrow. “She’s dancing a little too wildly, don’t you think?”

“Oh, knock it off. This is her moment,” reminded Lily, her arm linked with his as she leaned on him. "Let her revel in it!”

Gathered crowds soon surrounded the small bar. Claps and cheers sounded. Feet stomped. Watched by almost everyone present, her parents included, she dared take it a little further, and started to disrobe.

Soon she was down to her scanty dance costume, little more than a neon pink top that exposed most of her cleavage, including ample underboob and a matched highcut thong bottom, all of them decorated in tiny bells that jingled with each sensuous movement that the minor demon copied.

Inky caught the scarlet dress she tossed her way. “Ah, to be a maiden once more.”

“We can always remember the old days,” reminded Sombra, who wolfishly grinned and fondled one of her heavy tits.

“Mmm, I’d like that, but later.” She swooned, holding her husband’s arms over her to sway in his embrace, draped over him. “This is her time to shine. Oh, I’m so proud of her!”

“As am I. I think Midnight was a good choice. I saw it in the boy’s eyes. He’ll do anything to keep her safe.” He kissed his wife's neck as his hands continued to wander all over her.

In the distance, reality itself swirled, and a bluish-white oval opened up. It shimmered and hummed, and from it stepped its weaver, Beatrix Belladonna, the shapely unicorn physically almost a clone of her mother Trixie Lulamoon, save for her violet color scheme that also tinged her platinum mane. A cape clasped by an eye trailed after her when she stepped out in her Ursa Minor-decorated leotard and hat, a cosmos swirl cutie mark adorned on her supple flanks.

“Phew! Made it! Looks like the party started without me.” She shrugged, waving at the air. “Come on out already, don't be shy!”

From the rift stepped another mare, a thestral with purple hair, grayish-purple skin, and striking yellow, predatory eyes. She dressed in casual attire, which included a shirt and pants, like she didn't want to draw attention to herself. The witch closed the nexus behind her with a hand wave.

“Midnight!” The thestal called, snout drawn into a line once she turned to face him.

“Moonlight?! I was worried you wouldn't be able to make it,” Midnight exclaimed, who smiled at his old comrade-in-arms.

“Yeah, well, I...” She swallowed the words rather than continue. “Anyway, you look nice.” They maneuvered to meet up between the mobs, barely able to talk over the chatter, whoops, hollers, and music around them, then awkwardly stood face-to-face.

For a moment, neither of them spoke, both once child soldiers in Midnight's homeworld who had trained under Shining Armor. Peacekeepers, since the war had never come. “Sorry, I…I didn't mean to leave you behind.” He scratched the back of his neck.

“No problem, really. So that's the bride, huh?” She craned her head at the dancer atop the bar. “She is pretty damn sexy.”

“Yes, she’s gorgeous!” He beamed warmly at his future bride, who winked back and shook her luscious breasts, hips, and bottom.

“And here I thought you were just asexual,” mumbled Moonlight. “You never responded to my advances, no matter what I tried.”

He rested a hand on her stiff shoulder. “I didn't know, myself. Not until some friends of mine helped, um, 'awaken' that side of me. It's hard to explain. I found out I'm a 'hyper-stallion,’ and from what I've been told, it's a primitive throwback to our ancestors.”

She perked up. “Really?” She looked his toned body over. ”Wow, that's pretty impressive, actually.” She folded her arms and whistled. “That means you have far more stamina and 'volume' than typical stallions, huh? That means you've already-”

“Y-yeah.” He blushed a tad. “Sorry. I now realize you wanted to be my first-”

“Don't worry about it.” She waved his apology aside. “Not like we ever so much as dated. Too bad you're taken now.”

“You're still my oldest friend,” he reminded her. “To be honest, I was worried you wouldn't want to come, what with-”

“Oh, come on now. I wouldn't miss this.” She playfully punched the bare portion of his chest. “Still, that Cerise is one lucky bitch.”

Beatrix interrupted when she came between them and said, “I think that's everyone?” Her eyes wandered about while she attempted a headcount, which wasn't easy after the crowd was so riled up. “I can see most of them! Who all is currently inside the manor?”

From the double doors arrived Bellatrix, who rattled off several names. “That should be everyone, minus Oona’s brother. Shadow Scythe's locked herself in the library, like usual. She’s been asking for you a lot, dear sister. You should head in and see her.”

“Yeah, that’s probably a good idea.” She sighed, turning to Cerise with a casual wave. “Wanna come see Shadow Scythe, too?”

“Sure,” answered Cerise, sliding off the counter to the audible disappointment of many. “Don't worry, we can continue this later! Lead the way, Bea!” She fell into step beside the witch, skipped on the way, and climbed the small stairs into the mansion.

In truth, the dancer wasn't certain how to feel about Shadow Scythe. The reaper of souls had tried to murder all of those once trapped in the manor before it had fused with Bellatrix, and only the intervention of Sunny, who used her empathic abilities to 'burn out the sins' of their enemy, had purified the unicorn mare, who resisted to the bitter end and had emotionally been rendered a child as a result once cleansed.

True, she had another chance at life. Cerise told herself Shadow Scythe wasn't the same person anymore. But neither could she simply overlook all she'd done to them.

Much like Midnight, Sunny, and Moxxi, she usually tried to avoid the former reaper. Beatrix was the main exception since she felt responsible for what had happened. After all, she had teamed up with her to begin with, to try and redeem the narcissistic villain.

They ascended the second-floor steps, marched down the dimly-lit halls, and arrived at the sealed library. Beatrix sucked in a deep breath, hesitated a moment, then knocked a couple times. “Shadow Scythe? It's Beatrix. I have Cerise with me-”

There was a rattle of multiple locks, and the door was thrown open. Shadow Scythe tackled the witch and nearly knocked her down, the tall unicorn dressed in a white hooded robe trimmed in black. Her mane was a pallid white, her coat a pale blue, her eyes like ice. Her slender form trembled.

“Beatrix,” she cried out in a downpour of pent up emotions. “I've missed you so bad!”

“Y-you too,” replied Beatrix, who awkwardly evaded her stare. “Have you been okay?”

“Yes! I've also made a new friend!” She nodded at another mare seated further in between rows of shelves lined in books.

The unicorn artist wore a beret, a purple scarf that trailed down her dress, and black-and-white striped stockings. Her dark hair ended in light pink curls, the same as her tail. Her ears were sharp like a cat's, her eyes large and a soft shade of purple “Mon dieu.”

“Shimmer Shade! Nice to see you,” said Beatrix, letting the reaper in her arms down. “But hey, how did you end up here?”

Shadow Scythe spoke before she could answer and said, “I've experimented with the mansion's interiors. Turns out certain sections of the house are connected to other parallel dimensions. You simply need the knowledge of how to open them! Neat, huh?”

“What?! How did you-- No, Shadow Scythe! You shouldn’t do that!” Beatrix snapped without thinking.

“I-I'm sorry,” replied Shadow Scythe, who pouted and lowered her snout. “A-all I wanted was for you to be proud of me...”

Beatrix softened her face. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to yell. It’s just that it’s dangerous. You don’t know what you’ll bring in here. We don’t want anyone getting hurt, okay?”

“Okay,” whispered the reaper, who clutched at the hems of her snowy robes.

“That aside, it is nice to see you again, Shimmer Shade. It's been quite a while since I visited that paradise world,” said Beatrix.

“Oui! Indeed it has mademoiselle,” answered Shimmer Shade in her prench accent. Blind eyes stared ahead, a soft smile on her refined lips. “I was told a friend of yours is to be wed, and wish to paint the couple in question, if they're okay with that?”

Cerise flashed her teeth. “I'd love that! I'm sure Midnight would, too!”

“Excellent! Consider it repayment since Beatrix was able to transport us all home.” She clapped her hands together. “I already offered to sketch a portrait of Lady Shadow Scythe here, but I fear she is rather shy.”

Shadow Scythe shook her head. “Not really,” she muttered childishly, staring down at thick sleeves that hid her hands.

“Should you change your mind, simply ask.” Shimmer Shade's smile widened. “Remember how I told you my third eye had been opened, mademoiselle? I can see the truth of the mansion, the spirits that wander the air and suffuse the walls. Most fascinating! They cast an aura I can perceive,” she admitted and waved a hand through the atmosphere around her.

“Wow,” replied a wide-eyed Beatrix who cocked a hip. “That's pretty handy!”

“My thanks,” answered Shimmer Shade. “I sense you are all touched by the darkness.”

“That's true,” admitted Cerise, who crossed her arms under her breasts. “You already know about Beatrix's connection to the Necronomicon. My soul was melded to my mother Pacific Glow, who was partially reincarnated into me, and Shadow Scythe, well...” She hesitated and stole a subdued look at her. “She is a potential reaper of souls, so that's to be expected, huh?”

“Ah, I see. Tres bien!” The artist nodded, pacified despite the tacit knowledge they needed to keep the reaper's secrets.

"Let's take a walk, okay?" Beatrix took Shadow Scythe's hand and led her out, a subtle wink cast to Cerise, certain she would soon want to put the artist's skills to work.

"Okay," said Shadow Scythe. "See you later!"

Cerise tracked down her love a short time later, pulled him back to where Shimmer Shade waited in a museum chamber, then stripped him down piece-by-piece. Soon he stood naked in the light, breathtaking as the first time she laid eyes upon him. He was taller than other stallions, down to his wingspan and package, which she couldn't help but stare at hanging between his legs.

And while he was a perfect gentleman, she knew the more feral side induced by his lust could easily be released, once aroused!

Uncertain whether he preferred to disrobe her himself, she raised her arms and started to weave her hips. Sensuously she swayed, let her breasts and buttocks swish until they threatened to spill out of her scanty costume. Little jingles sounded, and she undid her top, let it slip away to bear her succlent breasts. Next, she slid down the bottom portion, then stepped out of it.

She stretched and called on her hidden nature. Flesh twisted at her back, her silhouette crawled over the walls, and her bat wings arose to their full span. Fangs popped in her snout, and her eyes burned brighter. The couple pressed their nude bodies on each other, embraced, locked a shared stare filled with adoration. “Like this, okay? Capture this moment,” stated Cerise.

Shimmer Shade nodded once, able to perceive their shapes. Despite a brush in her slender hand she didn't paint traditionally.

Instead her tool somehow warped reality itself. She crafted a perfect replica of the pair, the nude statues of the intertwined lovers so colorful and lifelike it could easily be mistaken for the couple themselves.

Cerise and Midnight momentarily broke apart after a kiss to inspect her work, walked around the masterpiece, which immaculately captured their most intimate details.

“It's warm,” murmured Cerise, who stroked his likeness and blushed as she traced its penis, disappointed it couldn't harden.

“Lovely work,” he agreed and traced Cerise's statue, over her luscious breasts, stomach, and hips, his cheeks also well-colored.

“Don't be shy,” said Cerise, who half-lidded her eyes and tittered. “Touch it wherever you like!” She directed his hand between the statue's thighs, let his hand rest on its vagina, and his other hand on her mound to compare their smooth texture. “Looks like you captured every inch of us to perfection!”

Shimmer Shade smiled. “Thank Shadow Scythe. I wonder what she's up to...?”

Aware they would soon be missed, the lovers reluctantly redressed and headed back.

In less than an hour, the ceremony would officially start. Her heart suddenly fluttered more than she could ever remember. Would she truly make a suitable wife...?

Not to mention motherhood! But she reminded herself that was hopefully still a ways off! Until then, the day was hers!

Cerise reclaimed her dress from Inky Rose, set it aside, and hopped back on the bar. She shouted, “One last dance!” The crowds cheered and raised another toast. She winked at her love, and he nodded, her intentions unspoken but evident to him.

This time she took it even further. What better way to celebrate life, she figured?

“This is for you, my love,” she called over the musicians and mobs. First came her top, the strings undone as her tits toppled free from their prison under an exaggerated wobble, the piece was tossed to her love. Whistles sounded around him while he caught it.

“That’s it, ya basin of gravy! Kathy Burke it! Flaunt it~!” Moxxi cheered on the barstool.

Next Cerise turned with a wink, bent over, and wiggled her hips as she peeled down the bottom and showed her heart-shaped ass. She shook this too to more cheers, felt the heated splash of wine over her curves tossed by Sunny, who hooted beside the bride.

Nudity wasn't taboo where she came from, nor were such open displays of lascivious desire. Midnight had been shocked upon entering her country, where most of the women went bare-breasted, and wore transparent slips that further tantalized more than anything. Even the queen, Inky Rose, and her handmaidens had been garbed in such attire that drew the eye.

She'd told her love about their unusual customs, a throwback to ancient times, much like the pyramid that served as their home.

At her beckoning, he flew up to her side, and he also stripped to more cheers, letting himself loose as he danced alongside her.

“Almost time to seal our union,” she reminded, taking his hands and winking as she met his muzzle in a drawn-out kiss.

Chapter 2

Muffled noises emanated below the floor where the former reaper stood. For most of her time here, Shadow Scythe clung to Beatrix Belladonna, in fear she would abandon her and never return. But thanks to the celebration today, she had the opportunity to slip further into the library until entirely losing herself in her studies.

Currently, her research took her to one of the many rarely used bathroom stalls. She glanced at the piles of decrypted and rotten books she gathered, next to a pair of mysterious pristine ones that showed up out of nowhere. Shadow Scythe gazed over the polished tomes quizzically, skeptical of their origins. Sure, the monster that acted as the manor traveled between dimensions to bring in an array of stuff, but the books looked deliberately placed to her. As if someone brought them to her attention.

Lifting one with a fancy cover, the pale blue unicorn’s body shook. Voices whispered into her ear in a language she couldn’t understand. Something was wrong.

Shadow knew she should go to Beatrix about this. But their last encounter made the unicorn even more conflicted.

Just how much was Beatrix keeping from her? All she wanted to do was a help! Sure, she had warned dangers were lurking around, and these enigmatic scriptures felt unnerving to be close to. No doubt there was a threat. But wasn’t that true of everything?

She pulled the cover apart with a deep breath and firm hand, then began reading through the dense contents.

This book depicted a great battle in Equestria that nearly wiped out a multitude of villages and towns. One image caught her eye. Above the land, descending from the skies, were strange winged creatures.

Below were the depths of Tartarus, the underworld of Equestria. And among the demonic-looking animals were ponies in cowls. The next page held an entry about them, showcasing the rare cuties marks adorned to them. A horse skull over crossed bones. She wouldn’t have found this unusual if that wasn’t her own cutie mark!

“A-aagh,” she whimpered, her skull aching—a light ringing in her ears as white flashed before her mind. Shaking it off, she grabbed the next book in her piles and scanned through it. Yet with each book, faint memories stirred within her troubled head. Memories of a life she struggled to recall.

The knowledge to work powerful, forbidden spells came naturally to her, which had allowed her to open the nexuses she discovered inside the interior.

Upon flipping through the pages of another mysterious tome, her icy eyes widened at the eerie grim reaper depiction, garbed in a hooded cloak like her, complete with a scythe clasped in its bony grasp.

“A reaper of souls, tasked to guide the dead to the afterlife? Was that my role...?”

Once more, her head throbbed with familiar yet distant thoughts. Teeth clenched, she clasped her temple, on the verge of a discovery that continued to elude her.

Lightning her horn, she waved her hand and recast an enchantment over the area. She knew better than to block the manor's and Bellatrix's perceptions, which would only arouse suspicion, but instead worked a spell that directed their attention elsewhere.

Routinely, Shadow Scythe repeated the complicated spell, determined to divine all the secrets she could in the hopes she could prepare a suitable surprise for the wedding.

Unfortunately, she was running out of time, and desperately scanned the contents.

“There must be something I can use,” she mumbled. “A suitable gift for Cerise...” She rapidly turned the pages, quickly absorbed what she could, questioned what a princess, who had everything, could possibly want.

“What could I ever hope to give her..?”

“A̴͇͓͕̙͔̼ ̛͚̗͈͎̠s̟͇̗̬̙͍̟w̭i̬̬f̜̰̱ṭ͕̮̪͉̖̻͢ ̸̩̜̲̻̟ḓ̯̼̲̥͍̞ea͖̳̩̪͕̠ͅt̵͇̯̫̙͕̮ḫ̲̘̬̞̞ ̠̦̳̰͕̲w̢̺͈̟͓͚o̸͈̬̠͙͇̖u͈̳̗̕l͙d̲̲̬̤̰̮̝͞ ͢m̫̘̥a̷̱͓̞̹̲̪̥k̺͔͙̗̫̲̞͘ę̜̻̘͈̼̼͚ ̰̟̟͎̰̹̟͜a̧ ̪̣̺̳͉͇͘l̨̜̼̲̙o͠v̺̟̹ͅe̖̣̗̯̺̻̲l̵̦̞̥͚̤͉͚y̡ ͇̳̀ǵ̝̝̜i͙f̳t̳̙̱͚̙.̩̟͕̮̺͢”

She froze at the sound of another voice echoing in the abandoned bathroom. She held her mouth, instinctively keeping her legs high on the toilet seat. Her eyes widened as the filthy tiled floor suddenly glowed from a mysterious light source outside the stall.

“I͇̪̣ ̱̘̭͔̭͔͙k̻̫͟n̟̟̣͈͈̖͞o̙̤̺͖w̮̜̹͎̳̬̼ ͚͚̠͉͈yo͓͇̤̟̠u̷̙’̣r̟̳̙̣e͓̙ ̶i͕͡n̮̠̣̟͙ ̤̪͖t͍͉̳͎͚͎̪he̞r̛̖̱̱̹͉ͅe͇̺̖…̤̣̝͚́ ̫̥̤̳C͔̣͓͇͘o͙̱̺̙͠m̵͎͔e̟̥̝̼̙͍̫͜ ͏͚̗̼o̹̫͍͇̮͕n̝̟̺̖ ͈̮̩͔͈̗͓o͍̗u̲͙͕̪t̶̳̳͓̜ͅ,” the voice called gently, like a knowing parent. Shadow Scythe’s shoulders tensed, gripping onto something she didn’t know she conjured, gasping in alarm.

In both hands was a scythe lined in runes. She gazed at the light before she slowly pushed the door open with her foot and came out. Once more eyes underlined in dark circles went wide in astonishment.

The entire mirror gleamed with brilliant, unnatural light before revealing an entirely different realm behind the cracked glass. A world made of clouds, rays of varying colors shimmering through—a complete contrast to the creepy interior.

And standing in the middle was a looming, tall figure, clad in pale robes adorned with gold accents. Feet length midnight colored mane flowed behind him, his face resembling a pegasus.

But his most striking feature was the plethora of eyes gazing from each of his six wings. One pair on both sides of his head, a second, more extensive plumage stretching from his back, and two narrower wings folding over his waist. The messianic figure greeted the dazed unicorn with a smile.

“T̶̪̩͔̞̮h͉͚͍̥͞er̨̝̠e̡̗̙̭̰̻ͅͅ ̨͙y̙͇̠̱̝̙ͅo̡̟̗̘u̝̰ ̠̠͉͙̙̪a̹͓̖̺̕r͓̗͘e͇̲͓̜~̤̺͓͜.”

“W-who are you?!”

“A friend,” the angelic pegasus assured, placing a hand against the surface. “One who wants to return what was stolen to you. I trust you’ve gathered all the books I’ve given?”

“You…have been giving me books?!”

He nodded. “Hope you like them. They weren’t easy to find.”

“But why? Something was... stolen from me, agh!?” She grabbed at her head, the painful memories flashing through her, scythe dropping onto the ground with a clink.

“Don’t fight it,” the winged immortal insisted. “The pain will not last long. Remember who you are, Shadow Scythe. Remember…who is r̴͟esp̵on̶̛s͟i͢b̀͢le̷ for your torment.”

Shadow Scythe yelled with pulsing agony, gripping at her forehead that threatened to split under the pressure of repressed memories. There was a battle outside the manor, a flash of darkness and steel. Beatrix standing over her, a blade aimed at her. But there was something else. She was kneeling before a child and a tall creature bathed in ethereal light. One that looked like...

“Y-you!” She exclaimed, backing away from the mirror, eyes glaring at the robed creature. She hadn't met him, and Beatrix had conveniently removed all references to him from her adventures. But she vaguely recalled when she was fused into the mansion and made aware of Beatrix's many secrets, one of them going by a name.

“Y-you’re Zeloph…”

Cautiously, he approached. “I am. But am not your enemy, Shadow Scythe. Not your t͜r̸̢͏ư̴e͡ enemy, anyway. I merely wish to help.”

“Help?” She quickly retrieved her rune sickle, ready to shatter the mirror should he try anything. “And why should I accept your help? Beatrix sees you as a monster!”

Zeloph frowned gravely, rubbing at his cheek. Shadow Scythe noticed that tiny prismatic scales had grown from his gray complexion like a rash. His iris was slit, adding to his reptilian disease. Even the underside of his wings was darkened, a few feathers molting off with each movement.

“If I appear monstrous, it’s because of her,” he said bitterly. “You and I are both victims of Beatrix’s dark magic. And if you’ll allow me, I can show you. Don’t you wish to learn the truth about yourself? What your ‘friends’ have kept hidden from you?”

Shadow Scythe gulped nervously. This was definitely something she should alert Beatrix about. Yet.… She couldn’t deny that part of her wasn’t suspicious of what the witch was keeping her from. What exactly she did that kept her from remembering.

“W-what must I do?” she asked with a narrowed gaze. Zeloph’s smile returned before he motioned to the books lying in the stall door. Shadow quickly retrieved one he pointed at, suggesting a page that held a spell. The pale unicorn faltered before performing the spell, a strange symbol glowing before the mirror, opening a small portal that the primordial pushed through.

From her end, Zeloph manifested in a spectral like form, a soft aura around his seethrough robes. In the other end, his actual body stood motionless, eyes missing from their sockets. He looked around his area before turning back to the bewildered unicorn.

“Thank you,” he praised softly, placing a hand onto her shoulder. She shuddered, his touch warm yet phantom-like. His smile spread wide. “Now, t̡̘͉̗o͎̬͇̣̙ ͎̰͘ͅh̯͍͉èaĺ̫̘ ̣̺̝̼̺̞̗͠y̪o̘̪̭͟u͚̰̭̜̰̝̘~̵̙̹̫̥̖.”

Tenderly, he bent slightly, pushing back her hood to reveal her face. Shadow’s cheeks brightened as he planted a chaste kiss on her temple. Instantly, the primordial’s ‘miracle’ started healing the self-inflicted wound on her psyche, an attempt to preserve her true self buried deep in her soul, when Sunny had 'purified' her black heart and soul. Her eyes went white, and her knees wobbled, barely able to stand.

She sunk to her knees and huffed once he withdrew, hyperventilating and shaking under pressure. A smorgasbord of repressed memories resurfaced, struggling to put the pieces of her mind back in place, like a jigsaw carelessly strewn about.

“I...I...no…no, it can't be!! I'm not..!” Shadow crawled over to the toilet, emptied the contents of her last meal into it. The soft trickle of her tears on the water met her ears, unable to deny the vicious force-of-nature she'd once been in pursuit of power.

What hurt just as much was that her 'friends' had betrayed her. That they had warped her into this sad parody of herself, a lie, then treated her like a pariah, a time bomb they needed to walk on eggshells around, in case she ever turned on them.

She clasped the rim for support, determined to be pragmatic like always. She couldn't deny the truth. “I'm...pure evil.”

Her statement made Zeloph laugh. “Death isn’t evil. Death is the natural end to all things. Anyone who perceives things as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ is merely afraid.… You know this better than anyone.”

Shadow Scythe heaved, using a cloth to rub her muzzle. “It doesn't matter. The results are the same.” Shakily she rose, her delicate features drawn, dark circles under her eyes. “I-I'm so confused. Logic dictates I should hate them! And I do! They’ve lied to me this entire time! But I…I can't deny I still care about them. It makes me feel...ill.” She leaned on her sickle for support, unable to hold back bitter tears that spilled loose.

Zeloph’s features softened as he approached, arms opened to embrace the distraught reaper. But she pulled away, glaring darkly at him.

“Do not touch me! You are especially dangerous, given what I know from Beatrix’s memories. Why should I trust you?!” He kept his distance, a pleasant grin to his snout.

“You shouldn’t,” he agreed. “At least, not yet. Just merely offering you a taste of greatness.”

“‘Greatness’?”

He nodded, turning away while the eyes on his wings kept looking at her. “There lies a potential within you that could bend the cosmos to your knees. One that would rival Beatrix, should you choose to seek it.”

Shadow Scythe scoffed, though thinking more fluidly, she recalled the sudden boost in strength and prowess her would-be nemesis displayed, how she called it ‘arcane magic.’ Her stern expression softened slightly. “And you would help me obtain such power? Why? What’s in it for you?”

Zeloph looked back to her, a sinister gleam to his eyes. “As I’ve said, you and I aren’t that different. Just as she has stolen your identity, Beatrix has taken away my child, left me to shrivel away into this hideous state! All I’m asking is that we join forces. I help you obtain the power you’ve coveted for so long. And in return, you help me find my daughter. And together, we can smite our wicked foe and her friends, once and for all!”

Shadow Scythe paused, the radiant glow shimmering off his form like flames. “She really messed you up badly. Even still, I--”

“S̶̛̞͓͈̣̹̜͎̳̤̰͚͜͡͞h̤͎̹̻̖͈̜͘͟e͏̯̖̞͔̻͈̣̣̞́͜͠ ̸͓̪̙̥̜̬̤̪̲̫̻͕͉̻r̮̠̩̯͕͔̗̩̞̮͙̪̘͇̘͔͞ͅͅù̸̡̨͔͍̰̩̣̯̭̖̰̤̺̥̞̦͖̯̞̼͡ͅi҉̴̧͍̮͓̪̘̻̖̜̻̦̮͝n͖͓̟̼͔̟̙̮̜̠͉͖͇͚͎̟̘̙͟ȩ͇͍͇̯͖͇̬̤͜d͎͍̙̜͇̳̤͟͝ ̶̧͇̘̞̱͓͇̫̠͙̰̩͔̞̟̀̕͘m̧̯̤̱̗̱͕͎̪̳͞é̴̡̖͔͕̣̦͠!҉̶̖͈̲̼̟̫͘͘͞” He suddenly shouted, slamming a fist into a sink to obliterate it.

The pale blue unicorn flinched as Zeloph leaned against the wall, wings, and hands hiding his face. “I was so beautiful once—an avatar of light, a beacon of hope to all trapped in sin. And then she came, turned them away from my purifying light, leaving me to fall into nothingness.”

His plumes unfurled, black tears streaming down his cheek while glaring back at the former reaper. “Abadonna is gone because of her. If I don’t reach her, I will have lost everything…”

Shadow Scythe felt pity for the winged immortal, reminded of her state before her memories returned. She clutched onto her weapon, torn between the ultimatum. Should she accept his offer, becoming greater than before, and resume vengeance against Beatrix and her friends?

Zeloph was clearly someone Beatrix feared, and Shadow Scythe could use that to her advantage. But her newfound empathy conflicted with her desire for revenge. Even after all she did, Beatrix stuck around to make sure she was okay…

“Look,” she sighed. “I will consider your offer. It’s clear there’s much you have to show me, and I am curious about what arcane magic is. And if I could wield it. But, for now…I wish to remain here, and sort out my feelings.”

Rising, Zeloph cleaned his face before regaining his composure. “Understandable,” he nodded, bowing his head. “Another time, perhaps. Though I hope you come to a decision soon. It won’t be long until Beatrix suspects something. Think carefully, my dear.”

His form evaporated from light, taking a new shape that startled the pale unicorn. Coiled over the sink was a long, feathered serpent-like creature. Its wings much smaller than before, eyes now adorning along its back. Slowly, it slithered to the floor.

“A-and where are you going?”

“Exploring,” he hissed, looking back to Shadow Scythe. “It’s been a struggle trying to infiltrate this place. But, thanks to you, I can hide like this for a little while. My fall from grace has given me a few benefits~.” With that, the winged snake found a breached pipe before slipping inside.

“B-but what about your…” She turned to address his form in the mirror, only to discover someone else beside him. Another robed figure stood by his body, cloaked with dark feathers. Only the bottom of her face was visible underneath her hood, thin red lips spread into an unnerving grin. Placing a finger to shush Shadow Scythe, the realm began to fade within the mirror until only her reflection remained.

The pale unicorn felt deceived. Shadow Scythe may not have accepted Zeloph’s proposal, but she ended up helping him in some way. And as she sat back down in the stalls, she realized there was no one she could truly turn to. No one understood her.

The closest was perhaps Bellatrix, a once amoral succubus driven by hunger, but to confide in her she would have to reveal the return of her memories. She was alone, like always...albeit this time, not by choice.

So instead, she turned back to the book. Tasked to direct souls to their proper resting places, she instead had learned a way to absorb them into her own, and multiplied her innate power in an attempt to become death incarnate, the Goddess of Death.

Taking a heavy breath, she was further determined to make this wedding an unforgettable event for everyone involved...

*****

Moxxi shuddered, an unusual wave of dread washing over her. The little imp trembled while sitting on the barstool, taking another sip. The witch noticed this and approached her friend cautiously.

“Everything alright, Mox?” Beatrix asked, tilting her head. “You look spooked.”

“Uhm, yeah.… Maybe I 'ad a wee bit too much ter tiddley wink,” she laughed nervously, putting away her glass.

“You sure? You’re pretty insatiable.”

“I’m sure, lov~” She insisted, adjusting the top of her dress to make her cleavage stand out more before fluttering up. “Maybe a good tug ‘n’ suc will rid me of the willies!” As she levitated away to flirt with more guests, the witch simply shrugged and continued on her way around the manor.

Last-minute arrivals were made, and Beatrix scrambled to collect every guest. Aware she would have to abandon her search for the reaper, for now, she sighed and dipped out, confident Shadow Scythe would turn up once she was ready. She drew a circle in the air, stepped through the void, then returned almost as quickly as she'd disappeared.

“Damn! I've gotten a lot better at this,” she mused in delight, though reminded herself instant karma tended to bite her in the ass whenever she got too cocky.

Yet with how much she continued to refine her skills, she was sure a reunion with her daughter wasn't that far away! Sweet little Abadonna was trapped in a higher plane she currently couldn't reach, but in time she would breach that realm, too!

“Hey, do you hear something?” A voice from the crowd interrupted her thoughts.

“Yeah, it’s coming from outside!”

“Sounds like…bagpipes?!”

Indeed, the loud instrument’s music resonated throughout the manor as Beatrix moved her way to the entrance. And sure enough, there stood the player, a layer of mist evaporating upon his arrival. It only took one look for the unicorn to realize who this was, as the curved, sturdy horns and ram-like muzzle were a dead give away. A black mohawk style mane flowed, red paint across his right eye. He wore a tuxedo top while a kelt clung over his wooly black legs.

Before she could say anything, Lady Ewe pushed past her and the gathering crowd, a look of excitement on her face as she walked towards her sibling. At once, the music ended, the warrior ram opening his crimson eyes met with warm golden orbs, a smile raising his bearded chin.

“Bràthair,” she exclaimed, pulling him into a hug. “Ye came!”

“Mah kin,” he returned, lightly butting his head to hers. “Wooldn’t miss this fur th' warld”

The two goats held each other tenderly as Beatrix cautiously approached. Oona removed herself to beam at the violet unicorn. “Beatrix, I’d like ye tae meet mah brither, Sir Dion.”

“Hello!” Beatrix smiled, offering her hand, to which he shook firmly. “I’ve heard a lot about you!”

“As hae Ah,” he acknowledged. “Sae thes is th' mare who bewitched mah sister. Gotta say, Oona; ye picked one bonnie lil’ lass!”

“Brither!!” Oona playfully nudged, cheeks flourishing. “This isn’t abit us! We’re here tae celebrate Cerise an' Midnight’s unity!” Beatrix couldn’t help but snicker at their banter.

“Ah ken,” Dion chuckled, unstrapping the bagpipe from his arm. “Still, It be a pleasure tae finally meet ye in person. Ah sense a strong spirit within ye, an' Ah hope we can get mair in tooch wi' each other!”

“Hehehe! The feeling’s mutual~” Beatrix winked, escorting both goats back into the manor. Almost immediately, Dion headed towards the drinking bar while greeting each strange along the way.

A far contrast to how shyly his sister was upon getting here, only speaking with more familiar ponies despite her claims.

“I think that’s everyone then!” She said, looking over everyone wandering in to mingle. She wiped her brow, strolled through the rows of tables lined by delicacies, where the crystal pony maid quadruplets also rushed about to serve everyone.

They seemed to sense Beatrix's eyes on them, bent over in their too short frilled skirts that exposed white silk panties that clung to their buttocks, or cleavage that spilled out of their tops to the point where she caught a hint of sparkly nipples.

“Pft, those teases,” she muttered with a titter. She used her aura to flip their skirts and poked one in the rump while she passed by.

“Ohh~! Quite a nice breeze,” admitted one of the Foal-Bearers, most of her pastel pink coral rump bared to the onlookers.

Wet Nurse leaned over the other side of the table, pendulous breasts suspended to the point where all but her nipples were visible, and they almost toppled free. “Sure you don't want to cop another feel, Beatrix...?”

“Well, I...” Beatrix blushed, reached into her offered top, and cupped a soft, warm tit, which she squeezed under her palm.

“Careful,” teased Wet Nurse as milk trickled over her hand. “Or I might ask you to help milk these poor, sensitive udders later!”

“It can be a problem,” noted the first Foal-Bearer, who'd had her body from the neck down switched with her twin and now shared the same affliction. “They're quite...sensitive. But those aches can quickly turn to pleasure, if properly stimulated.”

“Wow~” Beatrix almost forgot where she was for a moment and possessively played with the titties that continued to soak her palms. Sheepishly she withdrew after a moment, reminded that they all still had work to do!

The maids often made passes at her whenever she was around, driven by their own needs they frequently asked her to sate, like they were often in an induced state of estrus by their twin cutie marks. Almost like they were born to be breeders.

Thankfully, she was certain Moon Hammer would be more than enough to handle them once they were free!

“Is 'at aw ye got, laddie? Mah grandmother lifted boolders heavier than ye!”

“Keep talking, goat! You’re only going to embarrass yourself!”

Speaking of the minotaur, he was locked with Dion in an arm-wrestle, a small crowd of spectators cheering for either to win. Both males grunted, muscles strained, drawn taut. They were both bare-chested, soaked in beaded sweat, grunted and strained, trapped in a deadlock that refused to be broken.

Beatrix said, “Wow…only just got here, and he’s already butting heads?”

“That’s mah brither fur ye,” Ewe said while shaking her head, unimpressed. “Can’t ye go one visit withit tryin' tae pick a fight?!”

“Ah caught this thick, chucklefuck midget tryin' tae a cup a feel ay ye, Oona. He’s lucky Ah don’t break his arm in half!”

“Hey, the lady and I were just talking,” Moon Hammer defended.

“I’m nae some delicate flower tae be protected, brither,” the dream faun huffed. “Ah can flirt mah skirt aff wi' whoever Ah feel like!”

“Hence wa Ah’m offered thes challenge to tae bull; tae prove tae me yer man enough tae handle a doe ay our clan!”

“Oh, trust me, sir. I’m more than man enough,” Moon Hammer proclaimed, the two grinning at each other as their contest of strength continued.

The witch sucked in a breath, daring to not speak a word for fear it would decide the match. Oona rolled her eyes and left to go find someone less thick-headed to chat with.

Arcanum Folklore tossed a few more bits into the sizable pile. “Want to make a bet, too? Winner takes all.”

“I'd feel bad if I took sides,” whispered back Beatrix, uncertain who to root for.

Sunny took another drink from a keg she shared with Arcanum and said, “Maybe that's the motivation they need! Or maybe...” She leaned in closer to the contestants, flashed more of her cleavage with a crooked grin. Both males turned redfaced at the offer, but this seemed to help push them further.

“Chill out,” said Seabreeze, refilling the glasses that lined the table. “My money's on Moon Hammer. Got to admit I'm biased, since we all met on that nudist planet. 'Sides, it's all in fun, no matter who pulls ahead.”

“Might not stick that way with money on the line,” noted Arcanum, who watched intently between drinks. “Come on, Dion!”

“Grah! Ah refuse tae lose tae this weapons-grade plum!” Dion grunted, clutching harder.

Moon Hammer clenched his teeth, reminded he was smaller and weaker than a typical minotaur, but his physical prowess was still far beyond even the mightiest stallion. “Almost...there,” he hissed, veins visible on his chiseled flesh, both pushed to the limit.

Suddenly the blue skies above, dotted by the occasional fluffy cloud, violntly rippled. Reality itself appeared to bend, most eyes drawn in that direction. Cracks appeared, the fractures spreading throughout, and portions split away and rained down like shards of glass. Screams sounded, and the crowds broke apart, the vast blackness of space decorated by stars visible in the hole.

From it hopped a hellbound that landed between the arm wrestlers and forced them to disband, glasses knocked over and spilling wine, coins scattered with a clink.

The two released their hold before turning to one-another in understanding. Their contest could wait for now, for the warriors must fight together to defend the guests!

The mages were close behind, horns and hands lit in anticipation, while more monsters arose from the wound. The first beast drooled and growled between yellowed teeth, its fur rust-colored, the hound two-headed and bulky.

“HOLD IT!” A booming voice sounded from the heavens, chirpy and child-like.

“Everyone is ready,” called Beatrix, waving her arm and summoned clothes, armor, and weapons to everyone she could. The objects materialized from seemingly nowhere, a small army ready to face the swarm of creatures that emerged from the fissure.

“THEY WON'T HARM YOU...UNLESS I WISH THEM TO!” From the opening lowered a diminutive figure that hovered in place, garbed in what appeared to be a perfect replica of Beatrix's costume in mid-air above them. Which matched the rest of her, as Beatrix swore she stared into the cocky features of her childhood self, unable to help but inwardly cringe at her childish mirror.

Beatrix motioned everyone to stand down for the moment. “Who the heck are you?” It couldn't be Abadonna! The color scheme was all wrong, not to mention that the few times her daughter manifested, she had always carried a minor, visible deformity as a result!

The tiny witch posed and proudly boasted, “I AM YOUR CLONE-SISTER FROM THE DISTANT FUTURE! CALL ME MINI-TRIX, FOR I HAVE MANY TRICKS!” She cast back her head and burst into maniacal laughter. “I COMMAND ALL THE BEASTS YOU SEE BEFORE YOU!”

“...”

Someone coughed awkwardly amongst the crowd, the monsters frozen in place.

Unable to help but cringe harder, Beatrix wondered how she knew of the stage name and catchphrase she'd almost taken when she trained to be a witch under her mother, Trixie. It had to be horseshit, didn't it? She couldn't possibly be related to her!

Midnight, now in white armor trimmed by gold, beat heavy wings and hovered, hand at the sword sheathed at his hip. “Uhm, hi there! Mind if I ask what you want from us?”

“Yeah,” Cerise said while floating to his side, dressed in a scanty dancer costume, a spear in her hands, the cloth decorating the tip from when they'd first bonded in the manor. “This is our wedding day. And I rather not have to face any more needless drama!”

“I JUST WANT TO HAVE SOME FUN! AND YOU ALL WILL HELP ME WITH THAT!”

A wave of Mini-Trix's tiny hand and the monstrosities sprang into action. Some were animals twisted by the dark arts, others creatures from different realities, but the attendees capable of battle were forced into action at the onslaught she loosed.

The tiny unicorn continued to cackle. Explosions of colorful magic rippled across the sky. Weapons sunk into the beasts. Each time one was felled, they barely made so much as a muted whimper and vanished into puffs of colored smoke that dissipated.

“What the-? They're bloody illusions,” shouted Arcanum, clicking his fingers to banish a floating eyeball nearby.

“So they're harmless, huh?” Sunny pressed her back to his, while the casters helped hold off the twisted invaders.

“In that case, use your magic sparingly,” Sombra urged to all the casters, realizing spells were more of a threat to bystanders.

Despite the legions of twisted abominations that spilled out, they were handily dispatched by those in attendance, many seasoned champions that had been collected across an infinite number of parallel worlds.

Fighting side-by-side, Dion and Moon Hammer unleashed a war cry that made the hounds cower. They swung down a hammer and ax, respectively, cleaved more creatures who puffed out under the brutal impacts.

“Now this is mair like it!” Dion laughed while he decapitated another monster.

“More weddings should be like this,” Moon Hammer agreed, slamming his weapon down onto another beast’s skull.

“Yeah…. This is kind of fun!” admitted Cerise, now that they realized there was little real threat despite their appearance.

“Definitely works me up,” added Midnight as the lovers danced through the air to launch their own assault. In his homeworld, he'd rarely been able to test his skills beyond training, thankful at another opportunity
to show his love what he was capable of.

“NOT FAIR!” Mini-Trix stomped the air itself, her small fists balled up. Every time someone approached her, she pulled a smoke bomb from the folds of her cape, crushed it, and cackled some more, whereupon she vanished amidst the colorful plumes.

A couple tables were knocked over in the bedlam. Dishes clattered and shattered. Thankfully the chaos was now closer to a game for everyone. The illusions were provided a bit of substance since they were melded with ectoplasm, but otherwise were toothless predators with no will or sentience of their own. Beatrix stared at her childish copy, convinced she was a mere ruse, too.

Yet if she was simply a decoy, who could be the mastermind behind all this nonsense...?

Atop the mansion, she spotted her sister, Bellatrix Primadonna, currently in her succubus form, which included crimson skin, silky black hair, leather wings, a spaded tail, and nails that were closer to claws. Garbed in a slim black leather bikini, her golden eyes turned to her. “Whoevers behind this is inside the mansion! Do you think it's...?”

“Yeah, has to be!” Beatrix rushed inside the open doors to support her sister, certain of who the likely candidate was.

Aware it would take forever to search each individual room, Beatrix was thankful that Bellatrix mentally commanded each door to be thrown open simultaneously.

A shimmer resonated from one of the bathrooms, and Beatrix stormed in.

“Shadow Scythe!? So it is you!” She stalked towards the reaper hidden in the back, who spun to face her.

A thin smile was visible under a white hood trimmed in black, shadowing the unicorn's pale blue snout. “What do you think, Beatrix? I wanted to put on the kind of show you would when you were still a foal!” She swept back her hood, unable to suppress a bemused smile. “This time, I didn’t even have to borrow the manor's power! This is all me!”

“No, you shouldn't have done that,” chided Beatrix. “People could have been hurt!”

“Hey, when did you lose your sense of humor, Bea? It's fine,” said Cerise, who trailed behind her.

“Yeah,” Midnight nodded, close at hand. “Everyone was having fun!”

“Well, yeah, maybe, but...” Beatrix quietly fumed, unable to find a proper retort. Why did she suddenly feel like the bad guy?

“C’mon, lov,” Moxxi’s voice sounded before the imp popped in in a puff of neon smoke. “No harm in wanting to show off, right?”

“R-right,” confessed Shadow Scythe, drawing her muzzle into a line. “It seemed a waste to have so many skilled warriors here and not let them have a chance to strut their stuff!”

A portion of the wall peeled away as if on cue at Bellatrix's mental command, and they were able to witness the anarchy outside, 'Mini-Trix' and her minions currently overwhelmed by the champions.

The imp asked, “What do you say, special girl? It's your day! Let them fight it out or have Shadow Scythe break the spell?”

“Nah, let it continue!” The bride beamed with bemusement. “Everyone’s having a blast. How about it, Midnight? Want to help?”

He nodded. “Save some for me!” The two fliers headed back onto the battlefield, the lesser demon close behind.

Beatrix turned back to Shadow Scythe, their eyes locked. She hesitated a moment, struggling to find the right words. “Look, I'm sorry I yelled at you. I’m just…worried about you.” A smile managed to pull through. “Mini-Trix with many tricks, huh? Painful as it is to look on a reminder of one of my more ill-conceived ideas, it's kind of heart-warming, too! But how did you know about...?”

“Just remembered it somehow,” said Shadow Scythe, who bashfully looked away and stroked her pallid mane. The stack of books she received were tucked away from view.

“Huh, I see.” She folded her arms and wondered how much the reaper really recalled? “Just try not to let it get out of hand, okay? Couldn't bear to send anyone home hurt, or worse! Let's try to be responsible, okay?” She winked at her.

“Okay! Sorry, I worried you. But I'm relieved Cerise liked my present!” Her smile widened.

“Teehee! That she did,” said Beatrix, who couldn't deny the results. Nonetheless, the fact that the reaper could pull this off under their noses made her skin crawl. She shared a subtle look with Bellatrix, who mimicked her concerned frown, her arms folded.

She had barely beaten her before, and only thanks to the utilization of 'arcane magic,’ taught to her by Lady Ewe. A hidden power that manifested differently to each person who wielded it. Magic she had yet to master.

“Come back to the party, okay? I'm sure everyone would like to meet you,” offered the witch, who extended a hand.

“I-I'm scared.” She bowed her head, hands hidden in her wide sleeves, and brushed her foot about. “Maybe later, okay?”

“Okay.” With that, Beatrix waved and headed back beside Bellatrix.

Neither of them noticed a wicked smile that danced on Shadow Scythe's snout, satisfied that not only had she fooled them all, but she continued to master and expand powers once lost to her. She was tempted to take her sickle and hack through the illusions herself, aware it would help her let out some pent-up aggression, but instead she immediately turned back to her research.

Outside, the battle raged on, Beatrix, Bellatrix, and Moxxi also lost to the fun of it all. They felt alive at the moment, and a pang of envy stabbed at the reaper's heart, watching them all laugh and smile, united—a reminder of what she could have.

But to do so, she would have to surrender who she was. For a moment, she couldn't help but further ponder who she even was now, burdened by so many contradictory emotions? Where would she stand once she finally made her decision...?

Incoherent whispers pulled her head away, drew her back to the walls where the words sounded, reminded that she wasn’t the only one who observed the party below...

*****

It made her happier than Cerise could have believed. She pirouetted in the air, sailed in formation beside her lover, almost disappointed that their combined efforts had so quickly whittled down what once appeared to be an infinite number of monsters. At least she was able to show off her skills, trained under Bellatrix to incorporate her dance skills into her combat. A talent she proudly displayed before her lover, for she had honed her limber body to contortionist levels over the years.

She was impressed by her stud's own prowess, able to cut loose once his saber was drawn, and he diced apart airborne foes that vanished back to nothingness. Nearby her brother, Penumbra, flew about and displayed his own swordsmanship. Below him, his amazon wife, Lily, quickly broke the monsters that were herded her way below bare fists that she rained down on them.

Moments later Mini-Trix yelled, “OKAY! SHOW'S OVER! BUT WATCH OUT, FOR ONE DAY, I WILL RETURN!” The illusion waved her small hand, melodramatically opened a portal in the air, and slipped into the rift that closed behind her, more smoke and mirrors.

Cheers erupted all over as the invaders popped out of existence. Cerise landed beside Midnight, hugging and kissing him, both soaked in sweat. Armaments were raised, the masses surrounded by the ruins of their party, scattered about the grounds.

“What a mess. I suppose we must clean it up,” said Foal-Bearer, who exhaled.

“Nah,” said Cerise, who shook her head and leaned on her spear. “Let it be! I think it lends the place more character!”

Wet Nurse nodded. “Glad that this didn't ruin your special day! We were all worried!”

“What matters is you're all here!” Cerise beamed at the quadruplets, then scanned the crowds collected around them. “All of you handled yourselves so well! Oh, but it's almost time, isn't it? We're supposed to march down the 'aisle' in a couple minutes!”

“Allow me,” offered Bellatrix, who used the manor's power to bend the area and crafted a trail that led to a massive tree.

“Perfect! Just have to get changed!” Cerise started to run off, only for Beatrix to block her path and waved her arm again. The weapons and armor were banished, and replaced by suitable costumes that materialized over everyone there.

The witch herself dressed up for the occasion, wearing a sparkly blue royal gown over her figure. A frilly mermaid’s tail draped down her hips, a slit providing an eyeful of her leg. The top could barely keep over Beatrix’s ample bust as her platinum mane cascaded down the left of her shoulder.

“Nifty, huh~?” Beatrix blew on her index finger and winked. “Okay, everyone, let's head to our places! Chop-chop!”

People snapped to attention and dashed into position. Beatrix stopped to stare at the hole in the sky, which hadn't vanished. Her eyes widened once something toppled out of the wound. The stallion and mare landed atop her, their fall broken as she whimpered.

“Oh! I-I'm sorry," the pegasus said while they clambered off the witch. “My name's Hanzal.” He offered a hand she took, and he helped her up. Green-coated and blonde-haired, his blue eyes shyly met her bewildered stare. “Nice to make your acquaintance, miss-?”

“Beatrix Belladonna.” She shook his hand. “And who's your cute friend?”

“Candy,” she said and offered her own hand, which she took. Purple-maned with white stripes that matched her brilliant coat, she was exceptionally curvy, and in contrast to his conservative wear, she wore hers like a second skin. She looked around them. “Not sure how we ended up here? Wherever this is? We decided to do a little exploring, and-”

“Ah,” said Arcanum, who strode up, a lit cigarette between his lips. “Must've wandered into a dimensional rift, too.”

Beatrix nodded and said, “I'll take you all home the moment this is over, if you like. But I don't want to ruin the wedding!”

“Wedding? Ooh, that sounds fun.” Candy grinned, a hand on her wide hip. She turned to Cerise. “That must be the bride, huh?”

“She's lovely,” noted Hanzal, who also turned to Cerise. He cradled his wings to him, one smaller than expected, several of its feathers missing. Self-consciously he traced it. “S-sorry. It was crippled when I was born.”

“Nothing to apologize for,” said Arcanum, who studied it. “Are you able to fly?”

“A little. I've practiced a lot.” He rubbed it reflexively. “So, you don't mind if we attend?”

“I'm sure Cerise would like that,” said Beatrix, who winked. “The more, the merrier, as they say! Settle in, we’re about to start!”

Candy turned to watch the maids dash about. “Oh, there are crystal ponies here?” She suddenly withdrew into herself a little. “A-and King Sombra.” She drifted closer to Hanzal, the only person she knew here.

“Yeah,” said Beatrix, who creased her lips. “But don't worry. This one's changed.”

“I-I see. This really is another universe, after all? It's just, well...I used to be a slave,” she whispered almost inaudibly and stared at her feet. “It reminded me of that, that's all. I'm sorry. But I want to believe it's safe here.”

“It is. For the most part,” assured Beatrix who whistled innocently, thankful they'd missed the advent of 'Mini-Trix.’

“I'm sure we'll understand soon,” said Hanzal, whose line of sight rested on the manor. “I'd like to study it a bit if that's okay?”

“Shouldn't be a problem. I'll introduce you to my sister,” replied Beatrix, who winked and then spun on her heel to head on in.

Further on, Cerise watched in fascination as the enchanted clothes her mother had woven morphed into something more suitable. The tailored costumes sparkled during their transformation, as did Midnight's until they settled into place. She traced her white dress and his dark blue suit, felt her heart hammer anew, aware the next step of her life was about to commence.

Within a few minutes, the musicians started to play. Friends and family lined up on the sides. The tree framed the sky beneath the sun, the sky still scarred by its wound. Her ears flicked at the soothing sounds. The orchestra halted once a new sound arose from near the tree that framed the horizon.

Lady Ewe and Sir Dion began to play a hymn from ancient times, the male ram sounding the bagpipes, while the dream faun plucked the strings of a harp. Gently, she started to croon;

“O is beannaichte an latha nuair a thig na spioradan a chluich~♩
O beannaichte le ar caraidean airson a thighinn còmhla rinn airson comharrachadh~♩
De dhithis leannan, gabh a-steach tro ghràs agus buaidh, gus na làithean aca a chaitheamh an seo gu bràth~♩”

Everyone was speechless. While no one could understand the language she spoke, Lady Ewe sang it elegantly, moving Cerise to tears. Beatrix even wiped some tears from her face, smiling lovingly at her mentor.

“O is beannaichte an latha nuair a thig na spioradan a chluich~♩
O beannaichte le ar caraidean airson a thighinn còmhla rinn airson comharrachadh~♩
Mar a bhios dithis leannan, a ’ceangal le neart agus aonachd, an aghaidh nan làithean a tha romhainn còmhla.~♩”

As the tempo picked up and the dream faun looked over to the bride and groom, the two jumped a little before starting their walk down the aisle. It was like Cerise walked through a dream, side-by-side with Midnight, the soldier a comforting presence that made her feel secure. Shadow Scythe was also there to her wide-eyed shock, trying to hide her face behind the trunk, and the reaper openly wept at the proceedings.

It was a surreal sight, like much of what she had encountered in her short life.

At the end awaited another unexpected guest. Somnambula stood in her white priestess garb, a bible written in a dead language that only she understood in hand.

She smiled serenely, wings neatly folded behind the pegasus. At the request of King Sombra, she had agreed to seal their union, partially to atone for her ruthless actions to help with the war that ruined Cerise's world.

The couple paused before her, and Oona and Dion ended their playing; a small applaud from the guests before joining in to take their seats on the summoned chairs.

Vows were exchanged, the rune-lined silver and gold rings then presented, which were slid onto their fingers. “You are pronounced husband and wife,” Somnambula stated. “Now, seal the ceremony with a kiss.”

The lovers nodded, eyes locked, and Cerise melted into his touch, brushing his lips to hers. He crushed her to his warm chest, her wings wrapping around him, and his own expansive feathered plume enshrouded her. Jubilation exploded from the onlookers.

Her mother teared up, and she swore her father's face twitched and strained to withhold his own torrent of emotions.

Corks popped and confetti rained. Guests cheered and partied. He swept her into his arms, and she pressed her head to his chest, her cheeks afire at what was soon to come.

Not that the couple hadn't already been at it like rabbits before this momentous day!

Around them Arcanum and Sunny were back to drinking and had almost downed an entire keg between them. Seabreeze, Candy, and her parents danced. Hanzal spoke with Somnambula, who shared tales of her exploits in her homeworld. The quadruplet maids swarmed around Moon Hammer, who resumed his friendly competition with Dion, Sunny and Arcanum at his corner.

The lovers arrived at the wedding cake. A superb piece stacked so high it towered over them. Gently he set her down, and Beatrix offered her a knife to cut the first piece. “Go ahead,” Beatrix smirked. “Indulge yourself!”

“Aiblins th' bride woods like tae make a wish?” Lady Ewe asked, standing by her side.

“Huh,” said Cerise aloud, the knife held in her grasp while she considered. “Well, I did kind of want a nudist beach party...”

On cue, the cake's top popped open, and the dancer stumbled back onto her butt, the knife seized by Beatrix's aura and set aside while their eyes turned. From the cake arose a nude Moxxi who posed and grinned. “Ta-da~! 'ere’s ter gettin' 'itch, ya jolly wankers~!” She shook her assets, the imp's tiny fangs exposed, and flapped her small bat wings.

“Bah! Why, you little scamp!” Growled Beatrix in a playful manner.

Cerise huffed and burst into cheerful laughter amidst a flap of her own. “I have to admit, you got me! How did you pull it off?”

“Oh, it wasn't 'ard. Bellatrix wanted ter take a short break, so she left me in charge of the bloomin' gaff. And since someone was eager ter 'ave a nudist wedding…”

Beatrix's violet eyes went wide. “W-wait, what!? Oh no, no NO--”

But before the implications could start to settle in, Moxxi worked her new abilities over the area, which instantly transformed into a sandy beach, complete with an ocean. A salty scent was carried on the breeze.

Yet the imp was far from done and couldn't help but snicker as, with several simple finger snaps, she instantly made one of the bride's hushed wishes into a reality.

There were many yelps once clothes vanished in an instant. Stallions, mares, and other creatures in attendance were rendered nude, costumes simultaneously banished to a hidden spot in the mansion.

Pretty soon, everyone in attendance was stripped bare. The one exception Cerise noted was Shadow Scythe, who had somehow made herself scarce in the chaos.

Thankfully a number of them were quick to adjust to their nudity, while others took shelter under what little cover was on offer.

The imp yelped, lifted upside-down by her tail due to Bellatrix. “What did I tell you about the misuse of these powers?!” She sternly cast her a sour look. “I swear, Moxxi, I can't leave you alone for a minute!”

“Oh, c'mon. Just givin' Cerise wot she wanted,” Moxxi pouted at the bride.

Cerise folded her arms. “Well, I do think you should have sought permission first! I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable, even if I admittedly wanted everyone naked!” Her face burned, unable to help but stare at all the fresh eye candy on display. “Mmmn…. Screw it, why is this so hot!?”

Groaning, Bellatrix dropped the imp. “You get a pass...for now. But I'll expect the manor back by the end of the day.”

“Don’t worry, I will!” Moxxi innocently showed her small hands.

“Oh,” added Beatrix, who rested a hand on her hip. “And leave the clothes in a pile so anyone who wants can reclaim them, okay?”

She turned to the cluster of outfits that rained from the hole in the sky and piled up, briefs, boxers, bras, and panties neatly plopped atop the mountain. She nodded in approval, then tested her toes in the sparkly sands, unable to suppress a wry smirk.

“I don't mind,” admitted Midnight who stretched. “After all we've been through, I'm quite comfortable with my body!”

“Same! But I always have been!” Cerise draped her ample nakedness over him. “Ready to, you know...?”

Midnight watched the minotaur, Moon Hammer, playfully scoop up one of the maids and drape her over a broad shoulder. She tittered as he landed a soft swat on her crystalline bottom, rubbed a circle around the fleshy cheek, and carried her off, closely followed by her counterparts who were ready for some fun of their own. “Of course!” He swept her into his own grasp.

“Have fun, you crazy kids!” Beatrix offered a wave and watched the cute couple move on.

Cerise started to leave the party behind them with some reluctance, because she wanted to visit them all some more, mostly since she saw Seabreeze atop a surfboard, in a demonstration of her skills over the subdued waves that lapped on the shore.

The sun had started to dip below the horizon, the day-and-night cycle on this barren planet artificial, and decided by Bellatrix, who watched over it. Shimmer Shade used her brush to capture the scene depicted before them. Candy collected seashells, while Hanzal sat nearby and spoke more with Bellatrix and Moxxi, who shared tales about the places they had visited.

But the conversation drew short as the imp shuddered again. This time, the wave much stronger now that Moxxi and the manor were connected. Her eyes narrowed to the roof, as a familiar presence called to her.

“Hey Moonlight,” called Cerise who spotted the lone mare. “Come over here!”

“Huh? Okay.” The thestral shrugged and wandered over to the couple. “What is it?”

“It's obvious you still have feelings for him. Heck, I don't blame you! What do you two say?” Cerise looked between their faces. “How would you like the three of us to hook up for the night? A hyper-stallion isn't easily satisfied, and I could always use the help!”

“Tempting. But I wouldn't want to butt in on your special night,” she replied, wings pinned at her back and arms crossed.

“You won't be! Come on, you two! We might not have another chance like this for a while!” While Beatrix promised to pop in often, and swore that they could crash at the mansion anytime, like all her friends, she would usually be busy with her adventures.

Midnight grinned. There had been moments the male and female recruits were forced to share showers to conserve water, so they'd already seen each other naked many times, but he'd never looked on her like this. She boldly posed for him, breasts thrust out, let him drink in every inch. “I'm okay with that. I don't want you to feel pushed, of course.”

“You kidding? We'll have to see if you two can keep up with me!” Moonlight smirked back. “Fine, count me in!” She pushed ahead of them, into the manor's threshold, and the lovers couldn't help but stare at the swivel of her ample buttocks.

Gently the double doors creaked shut behind the trio, who maneuvered the halls and retired to a private room.

Inside stood a familiar face, the unicorn hooded and cloaked. “O-oh! Didn't realize this was occupied,” said Cerise who turned.

“Wait,” said Shadow Scythe, her face drawn. “Sorry to interrupt, but we need to talk.” They paused, and she closed the door behind them. “It concerns Midnight, actually. Thanks to experimenting with the manor's power, I've uncovered many secrets.”

“About me?” Midnight quirked a brow and set his bride down at his side. “Go on.”

The reaper nodded. “There are weaker portions of the manor which act as pocket dimensions, or in some cases tunnels to parallel worlds. I didn't dare travel into one, but I have seen pieces of other realms, which include where you came from.”

Cerise swallowed hard. Had her memories returned? “W-what did you see...?”

“Shining Armor talking to himself. You knew, didn't you?” Shadow Scythe turned to Moonlight, who shrank before her cool scrutiny. “You've had to keep it in, all this time. When did you plan to finally tell him?”

“D-don't,” muttered Moonlight, who shook her head, and shrank into herself.

“What is it people say? ‘The truth will set you free', or some such rubbish?” Shadow Scythe skulked around the room, burdened by the weight of her own revelations. “Shining Armor claimed your mother and father were killed in a pointless, bloody skirmish, but-”

“Okay! He's your father!” Moonlight balled her fists and teared-up, her sharp teeth bared. “There! Are you happy now?!”

Midnight paled and took a step back. “Wh-what...? My father? But...how...”

Tears poured out from Moonlight, who hung her head and covered her face, shaken. “I-I swore to keep it a secret. He was drunk one day, called me into his office, and confided in me. Shining Armor fathered you on a mare he had a one-night stand with, but he didn't know! She was lost in a skirmish, but by the time he learned about about his son, you were already a few years old!”

“So he took me in? Trained me to be a soldier, too?” His head spun in confusion.

“Y-yeah.... He felt ashamed he wasn't there to raise you, but he couldn't bring himself to tell you the truth either, so he taught you all he could to make up for it.” Moonlight sniffled, relieved to finally release what she'd been forced to keep bottled up for years.

Cerise clung to her husband to support him, caressed his cheek, her neon pink eyes locked on him. “Are you okay? That means-”

“That you and Beatrix are half-brother and sister,” noted Shadow Scythe, who lit her horn. The wall itself opened with a fleshy sound, which twisted and deposited the mare in question, who clumsily toppled out onto her butt. “Welcome back, Belladonna.”

“Oh! H-hi.” She sheepishly rose and strained to meet them. “I didn't mean to spy, but-”

“I know. You were after me,” noted Shadow Scythe, aware that she and Bellatrix continuously tracked her movements whenever possible. “I've learned a lot these last few days.” She skulked about the chambers, face shadowed. “I wanted to help you all, but I never imagined I'd stumble on revelations so monumental. You may think me cruel, but isn't it better to accept reality?”

Beatrix paled at the implications and asked, “H-how much do you know...?”

“Enough.” Shadow Scythe heaved her shoulders and cast back her hood. She coolly studied them, dark circles under her narrowed, icy eyes. “If you’ll excuse me, I’ll need to collect my stuff and take my leave.”

“Leave?!” Beatrix reached to stop her, only for the pale unicorn to yank away. Shadow Scythe paused, then briefly looked back to her caretaker before she headed upstairs.

A forlorn Beatrix exhaled before she turned to address Midnight. “S-so, we're kind of distant siblings, huh? Good thing we didn't...”

He nodded. “Do you think Shadow Scythe is right? That universes partially bend themselves to you when you travel there?”

“It would explain a lot,” admitted Beatrix, who reached to clasp her Prima Materia for comfort, only to remember their clothes had all been banished. “I wonder if that would happen to anyone who travels to another world? That maybe it conforms around them? It could mean only this version of you is related to me. That I did this. I'm...sorry.”

“Don't be. I'm happy to finally know the truth.” He smiled at them all.

Did this mean Shadow Scythe was their enemy? Cerise also couldn't help but worry she would return to fulfill a vendetta, if she indeed recalled all that had happened in these haunted walls. But it appeared she nonetheless recalled the kindness they'd shown her, too. She was probably more confused than they were, unable to reconcile the love and hate she felt for them.

“To think I have family left,” said Midnight, who broke his bride's reverie. “I wish Shining Armor had come forward to tell me himself.”

“I'm sure he wanted to,” said Beatrix, who touched his well-toned arm. “Guess my father's not so brave outside of battle!” She couldn't help but scoff in disappointment. “Bellatrix increases her skills with the mansion all the time, so she'll be prepared if Shadow Scythe returns, at least. Hopefully, it won't come to that. You're all welcome to crash here whenever you like, of course!”

Midnight nodded. “We'd like to spend our honeymoon here! It's kinda like home.”

“It's a lot to take in,” admitted Cerise, whose head still spun from what they'd heard.

Moonlight sniffled, wiped her face on a cloth she found nearby, then tossed it into a trash bin. “So, what does this mean?”

“I don't think it changes much,” assured Cerise, whose eyes darted about. “It just means you'll all be even closer now, yeah?”

“Yeah.” Beatrix's smile widened. “Anyhow, I didn't mean to intrude. We'll catch up more later, okay?” Quietly she opened the door, slipped out, and closed it behind her, like them in need of time to process all that they'd learned. Heading back downstairs, she noted Oona and Dion were conversing by the beach, and figured she’d join them.

Cerise turned back to Moonlight and held her to her bosom. “Will you be okay?”

“Yeah. Soldiers like us have to be tough,” answered Moonlight, who inhaled and steeled herself. “Let's not be glum, huh? Especially since we're about to have some fun!” She laughed and pushed the dancer down onto the bed, their limbs intertwined.

The pair bounced atop it amidst titters, watched by Midnight, whose loins burned and stirred at playful lovely sight before him, aware it would be a long, hard night...

Chapter 3

After an hour of lounging on the beach in her angel shape, a still denuded Bellatrix Primadonna made her way back into the mansion, maneuvering through rows of guests who also reclined naked on the sands.

On the second floor, she discovered a room that resembled a love motel, down to the blinding, sensuous pink that emanated from its warm walls over her radiant skin.

Each chamber could alter itself to match the inhabitants, Moxxi in this case, since she was left in charge while the she-devil rested. She strode up behind the imp with arms crossed, looked over her shoulder where the urchin used a series of mirrors to watch over the grounds.

“Why am I not surprised? Ever the voyeur,” dryly observed Bellatrix, her mouth drawn.

“Can ya 'eaven and 'ell blame me?” Moxxi snickered, licking her lips. “Wif aw the sexual tension risin' up, people were bound ter zig and zag! I’m just pushin’ them in the wite direction~.”

“Hmm, I suppose you have a point,” Bellatrix sighed. She did promise the imp to let her run the show for the remainder of the day, so she decided to sit and watch. It felt a tad wrong to invade their privacy, but she felt compelled to at least peek in to make sure everything was okay. After all, if Shadow Scythe did remember all that had happened, they had to be ready for anything.

And while the imp displayed her usual lascivious demeanor, Bellatrix sensed something was ‘off’ about her. Still, she didn’t want to pressure Moxxi about it just yet.

For now, Bellatrix watched as Sombra swept up Inky Rose, carried her behind the tree, and now claimed his lover. Happily, the pegasus fluttered her wings, one of her legs raised, as their snouts mashed and he repeatedly pushed into her. He'd barely been able to keep his hands off her since their arrival, the king and queen obviously reminded of their own wedding night.

“Two of our children are married,” murmured Inky as he cupped one of her bouncing breasts mid-thrust.

“I expect Midnight will have lots of responsibilities,” Sombra agreed, wheezing between grunts. Wet schlicks and the sound of raw flesh slapping met the ear as he drove himself in-and-out, his other hand tracing her inner thigh and bouncy buttocks.

“I-I'm sure he'll, mmm, be fine,” she answered, her face thoroughly flushed, palms resting on the trunk. The sun continued its dip below the horizon, the sky stained in vibrant colors. “Mmnh~! You haven't lost a single step, my love.”

“Nor have you.” He nipped her neck, eyes closed as he sped up, groaning as he loosed himself inside her. She shuddered and panted, a warm wet trickle down her legs, pushed back into him when he drove himself deep as possible into her moist depths.

More than convinced the outside area was safe, Bellatrix turned her attention towards another room, where her sister and Lady Ewe were currently intertwined. A slight smile appeared on the she-devil’s snout. In her eyes, the pair had all but officially declared themselves a couple, the apparent romance growing through their shared travels. Of all the potential partner’s Beatrix could have chosen to settle down with, she was elated it would be the dream faun.

“Damn.… I wish I could stay like this forever,” murmured Beatrix, her bare flesh pressed into her lover's. “Just you and me, hand in hand, not having to worry about anything.”

“Hehe! As dae Ah, Ceann oga,” Oona responded in a soft purr, stroking the mare’s platinum mane.

Sighing, Beatrix reluctantly pulled away. “I’ll have to set out again soon…”

“Av course. You need to explhre as many whrlds as you can to fully master yooehr powers. Still, Ah impressed how far you’ve come in such a shhrt amahunt av time!"

Her mentor’s praises earned a blush from the witch, the two mashing their heated breasts against each other. “I wish you’d come with me,” Beatrix admitted.

“Ah know, but Ah can’t yit. Ah need tae return hom an' see if Ah can fin' anythin' 'at coods leid us toward th' reit path. But…” A knowing smile appeared as Oona fluttered her lashes. “Ye coold convince me brither tae join ye~.”

Her suggestion caused Beatrix to squeak in alarm. “D-Dion?! I-I mean, only if he…a-and you.… I-I only just met him, but I wouldn’t be opposed.” She pouted, face completely red.

Oona snickered. “Relax, hen. Ah’ve seen th' way th' two ay ye’ve bin eyin' each other. Wa naet spend th' nicht an' git tae know one anither better~?”

“...I was that obvious, huh?” Beatrix laughed sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head. “B-but, are you sure? I don’t wanna ruin what we have…”

The shaman cupped her friend’s cheeks to pull her close, locking lips briefly. “Ah don’t min'. Mah brither an' Ah hae shared plenty ay things durin' uir yooth. Sharin' a lover wooldn’t be tay far fetched. Besides, nae matter whit, Ah’ll still be haur fur ye. Always.”

Nodding, Beatrix whined as Lady Ewe rose to pull up the straps of her dress, motherly mounds jiggling back into place as she went to open the door, the witch yelping to discover Dion was already waiting outside.

“She’s aw yers~” Oona giggled, butting her head to his before leaving the room, the taller ram closing the door behind her while giving the bashful unicorn a sly grin.

“Y-you two planned this, didn’t you?!” Beatrix exclaimed, her heart racing as her eyes fell onto the warrior’s bare, chiseled chest and biceps as he shrugged his shoulders.

“Th' heart wants whit it wants! Ah won’t lie an' pretend Ah haven’t wondered whit a nicht wi' Beatrix Belladonna was like~.”

Beatrix gulped, doing her best to compose herself as she shuffled up to make space once her burly partner took a seat. Sir Dion was naked save for the black wool that covered his thighs and crotch, though a bright red tip was poking through, much to her excitement. “S-so then.... Do we...?”

“Naet yit,” Dion said politely, crimson eyes staring adamantly into her violets. “Ah can tell ye’re naet ready.”

“I-I’m so sorry!” Beatrix groaned, folding her arms over her bust. “This is all sudden. I-I want to, you’re, like, really sexy. I-it’s just, I don’t know much about you, I-I’m infatuated with your sister, a-and...”

A light chuckle left his lips as he scooted closer, wrapping his large arm over to comfortably rub her shoulder. “Oona has tauld me much abit ye. How, despite yer origins, ye strife tae become yer own person an' fight aw ‘at threaten those aroond ye. 'at is th' markin' ay a true warrior, Beatrix.”

Her eyes watered, slowly growing comfortable in his arm while she pressed into his chest, her hand trailing over his arm, fingers tracing over a few of his scars. “I-I wish I could believe that…”

“Ohh? Ye don’t hink sae?”

“I’m still scared,” Beatrix confessed. “I’m constantly fighting against my fears; they just keep piling up with every new foe or problem I face. Half the time, I’m putting up a mask to hide behind in hopes people will believe me. Come to think of it, I haven’t had any real male company like this since…h-him…”

Dion frowned, nodding his head. “Aye. Oona tauld me abit yer encoonter wi' th' fallen one Zeloph. Th' burden he’s left ye is heavy; Ah can feel it. But th' fact 'at ye woods go tae th' end ay time tae fin' yer daughter is admirable. An' when ye reunite wi' 'er, naethin' will be left tae stand in yer way.”

“You…you really think so?” Beatrix asked, sniffling as the male ram lifted her chin up, smiling down at her.

“Ah know sae! Those who fight fur themselves are destined tae die forgotten. But those ‘at fight fur others will have their names remembered fur eons. Sure, ye’ll be scared. But fear will make ye bolder. Fur each time 'at ye’ve wanted tae rin ur hide, ye turn back tae confront yer enemy head-on. 'at is determination. 'at is whit will leid ye tae Abadonna!”

Beatrix’s heart fluttered, reaching to wipe away her tears while smiling gratefully. It seemed poetic wisdom was hereditary, making the witch feel at ease in the warrior’s muscular arms.

“Thank you…for understanding. It really means a lot,” the unicorn cooed softly, brushing her hand through his beard as their faces grew closer before their lips briefly touched. A couple more lip locks, and the two pulled each other close as Beatrix straddled on top of Dion, grinding her pelvis to work his throbbing cock out.

The unicorn moaned, feeling those rough hands grope and secure her tits and ass, his mouth leaving hers to attach to her neck, earning more squeaks. Meanwhile, the witch’s hands trailed down his torso and abs to coil around his hot red member. It wasn’t as big or girthy as a stallion’s, but it was long with a pointed tip, definitely made to reach deep within a mare.

Suddenly, he pushed her down, Beatrix yelping as her back met the comforter before it arched as Dion’s lips captured her erected nipple. She whimpered, his big hands running all over her belly and thighs in a sensual rub down, giggling as his beard tickled her navel while trailing his kisses down. Her eyes briefly met his before the ram began to lap and suck at her folds, thumb rubbing into her clit, causing Beatrix to gasp and groan in pure bliss.

“A-aaagh! O-oh shit! Fuck~!”

Her nethers quivered as that wickedly long tongue slithered around inside her juicy hole, Dion muffling his grunt into her marehood, trying to savor all her nectar. And just as she felt the throes of orgasm climbing within, he pulled away with heavy pants, smiling slyly while the witch returned a frustrated pout.

“Y-you bastard!! I was close~!” She growled playfully, eyes half-lidded. The ram chuckled before climbing over her curvy body, cupping her cheek while rubbing his wet thumb against her lips, to which she suckled on.

“Ah can’t lit ye cum just yit,” he apologized, stroking his cock against her wet slit while batting Beatrix’s pussy with the tip. “Naet ‘til Ah’ve fucked ye brains out. An’ e’en then, Ah don’t plan on stoppin’ ‘til we’ve tay exhausted~.”

“Mmmhmmnf~! Oh yeah? Think you’re quite the hot stu--aaaah~!” She squeaked upon feeling Dion ram his rod into her gushing hole, her vaginal muscles trying to squeeze down on his thrusting shaft.

“Ye may have faced kings, demigods, an’ monsters. But now, ye face a man!”

“O-oh fuck~!” Beatrix moaned happily as he got to work fulfilling that promise, hammering her hips with rough thrusts, silencing her cries with soft kisses.

From their vantage, Bellatrix’s face was heated while shaking her head at the display of ravenous lovemaking. “Good grief! Already scored another one, and she didn't even have to leave the house this time.”

Used to her sister's promiscuous adventures, she turned her focus elsewhere, more than assured Beatrix was in good hands. Her main concern was Shadow Scythe, though she remained elusive in the manor. Bellatrix suspected she had taken her leave.

More rooms were scanned, most of them empty, until they stumbled on Moon Hammer and the crystal pony maids. The first set of Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse squished their mounds together, sticky with his seed and their own juices, which spilled from their pink slits. Each time they connected, it was like masturbation, as their cutie marks all shimmered in resonance.

The minotaur currently mounted the second Foal-Bearer, who, like her sisters, had a thoroughly flushed face, her arms pulled behind her while he mounted her on all fours, her teeth bit into a pillow. Sweat ran down his chest as he railed her, and soft buttocks smacked under the repeated impacts. He huffed and snorted, flared his nostrils, on the verge of fresh release.

“Give it to her,” wheezed the second Wet Nurse, who sat with her legs spread and furiously rubbed her swollen love button. “M-my sister needs it!” She impatiently awaited her own turn with him, having quickly lost track of their shared climaxes.

Groaning, he sheathed himself deep as he could, most mares unable to handle his size. But they had taken to him quickly, their holes moist and stretchy, like the quadruplets were born to be prized breeders. He fired directly into her womb, painted its hot, slimy walls, overfilled it to the point her belly swelled like the first set under his virile seed. She whined and cooed, messily squirted over his crotch.

A familiar ripple tore through her counterparts, who liked her sprayed across the sticky bedsheets, long thoroughly soaked. He withdrew from her gaped cunt, his cock still connected to her pussy by a messy trail, then he seized Wet Nurse by the waist and lifted her onto his lap.

She nickered and pressed her back to his chest, impaled on his still erect meat in one swift motion. “You wanted a 'cow' to call your own,” she whispered and directed his palms over her tits. “Didn't you?” Under his possessive squeezes, warm milk leaked out.

“Too bad two of you have to stay here,” he noted about the first set of twins, forever tied to the mansion.

“It's fine,” said the first Foal-Bearer sleepily. “You can always have Beatrix transport you here to visit us.”

“Yeah,” added the first Wet Nurse, her polygonal eyes hazy. “I want to try this with more sets of us!”

The first Foal-Bearer shook her head in bemusement. “That might be too much. We can barely handle this much pleasure,” she noted as the second Wet Nurse welcomed his size into her depths. “Still, maybe six of us would be possible...”

The second Wet Nurse said, “W-we have the best cutie mark.” She clenched around him, blushed, and tittered. Rough hands bounced and squished her udders, milked her sensitive bounties, her nipples so feminine and wide they swallowed up much of the smooth, prismatic flesh. “I...we'd like to try anal with you sometime, but w-we'll have to work up to it...!” She shivered happily.

“She means you're a lot to take in,” said the second Foal-Bearer who was happily stretched by him. Always one for details, she noted the bite mark in the pillow, where drool-stained feathers were visible. “Oh my, I lost my composure.”

True to her namesake, her womb was shaped to receive a potent seed, and she felt her eggs swim in his mass release. Her heated insides sloshed, felt a part of her filled whenever she and her counterparts fulfilled their biological purpose.

Moon Hammer kissed his current lover's neck and asked, “Do you want to return with me? Will you bear our children?”

“Yes~!” The second Wet Nurse shamelessly accepted, bounced atop him, skewered balls deep.

The foursome draped around him, aware he was close. He erupted into Wet Nurse, who squealed with her sisters and rapidly fluttered her eyelashes. She trembled and painted his lap, and the squirts of her siblings washed over him, so overwhelmed by their own shared bliss that they slipped unconscious around him. He clasped the sleepy Wet Nurse to him, barely awake.

“You're wonderful,” she murmured, his member still locked in her, and rubbed her swelled stomach.

“You too,” he answered and cuddled her. “You four have made me really lucky.”

Satisfied the area was safe, Bellatrix finally turned her attention to the married couple this all centered around. The lovers were already at it, Cerise atop Midnight as she rode him. Beside the bed, the shelves were lined in various corked bottles filled with bubbly contents, a variety of alchemy-derived potions Beatrix left with them as a gift to further spice up their sex life.

She stared into his bright eyes, traced his chiseled chest. Usually, she let the hyper-stallion take charge, but she wanted to work him up, aware that even with Moonlight's help, who watched from the side, it would be difficult to fully sate him once aroused.

“Huh,” said Moonlight, who brushed her own breasts, her wild mane draped about her. “Not bad, but...” She swung a leg over his face, settled her grayish-purple bottom onto his face, and wiggled her wide but well-toned tush. “Don't be shy, soldier! Get in there!”

“Yes, ma'am,” he quipped and sunk his muzzle into her warm, messy snatch.

“You've certainly gotten bolder,” murmured Moonlight. “And...more skilled...” Sure, she'd barely so much as touched him before, but she imagined the once painfully innocent pegasus would've been clumsy in bed.

“We've just started,” reminded Cerise as the bed creaked under her bounces. The pair of thestrals flapped their wings. Above him, the two mares kissed, and Cerise surrendered under her forceful, possessive kiss.

Moonlight yelped as he landed a loud swat on her toned ass, which wobbled. “Ooh, you've turned pretty bold, too!”

“Hyper-stallions are supposed to be dominant,” reminded Cerise, who toyed with the mare's tits. “A stud like him could need a herd down the line, and I can't invite just anyone. I need someone I can trust. Any chance you want to settle down with us...?”

“I'll think about it,” she admitted and continued to rub her plush ass over his face.

“Good!” Cerise didn't want to rush this, but she needed to think ahead, too. Her parents had their own arrangement to satisfy her father, since her mother picked the most beautiful handmaidens under their service to invite into their bedchambers, on occasion.

After the wars that had devastated her world, the population was desperately low. Was it her duty to provide more heirs? Or would that risk a potential civil war? She tried not to focus on politics and the like, reminded this was her moment.

She huffed and clenched around him when he first spilled his seed. Her tummy blossomed out, overfilled by his impossibly voluminous creamy load that pushed her over the edge. Her dam broke over his groin, and she whined into Moonlight's mouth, the pair locked while their hands wandered above their stud. Hastily she withdrew from him with a pop, starry-eyed.

“Your turn,” she said and landed her own swat on Moonlight's other ample cheek.

“Finally,” answered Moonlight, sliding off his face, her ass still faced towards him when she mounted him. A dopey smile split her face when she settled onto his massive member, felt it stretch and probe her, and to her shame, she almost lost it on the spot, as she had often dreamed of this moment but had accepted it would never happen. And yet somehow, there they were!

She started to shift her hips, rode him faster and harder, the soldier determined to prove she was a match for his bride.

Growls arose from deep within Midnight, who sat up, felt the familiar need to conquer and dominate his mares. Emotions that were once alien to him, before the twin maids had awakened the hyper-stallion. His muscles bulked up, his coat of blue fur ruffled when his eyes went white and feral.

She yelped in surprise as his hand rested atop her head and pushed her down. Moonlight moaned and clawed into the sheets, his weight pressed atop her, helpless to do anything but repeatedly take his cock, which had somehow swelled even further.

“Oh fuck~” He clamped one of her tits, and her hazy eyes met Cerise's, who used her fingers to probe her own soppy snatch.

He still had the awareness not to harm her or to pull away if she seemed uncomfortable. But instinct demanded he break her into his herd. To claim her as his. To prove to her no other mate could possibly compare.

She would plead for his cock by the time he finished with them, aware from his sessions with Cerise he could cream their well-used fuckholes at least a dozen times over.

Of course, it would leave him completely exhausted the next day, but he'd worry about that later!

Giving her a moment to adjust to his new size, he stretched his muscles taut and started to increase the fierceness of his thrusts. He'd found his seed was addictive, that had the maids not met up with Moon Hammer, they would have struggled to keep themselves off him, after the events in the manor. Strangely, only Moxxi wasn’t cum hungry, though that was likely due to her sexually chaotic nature.

Moonlight's face burned. She'd casually slept with a few fellow soldiers, stallions and mares alike, but she'd always taken charge. Yet much as she didn't want to admit this aloud, it felt nice to simply be used for someone's base pleasure for once.

Grunts escaped between his teeth. He wheezed and kept her pinned as he fucked her. She clamped around him, milked him, and her bright asshole pulsed. Drool escaped the corner of her crooked smile, her snout met by Cerise's, who burrowed into her side. Moonlight relaxed under the lovers, her mind dulled by euphoria, more thoroughly bred than she'd ever been.

With another brutal slam, he unloaded into his newest mate. "Oh shit," she cried. She closed her eyes and strained, squelched, and squirted on him as her own womb filled to overflowing and made her tummy swell. Were it not for all the potent contraceptives Beatrix left for them, they would have undoubtedly been impregnated many times over. Her dreamy eyes crossed when she writhed under her hyper-stallion stud.

“Don't surrender now,” whispered Cerise hotly in her ear. “That's only the first round! We have lots more to go!”

“W-wait, more!?” Moonlight wasn't sure whether to be excited or anxious. But she couldn't let herself look weak! “Erm, yeah, just...need a second.” He withdrew from her well-used lovehole, which oozed his viscous slime that bubbled and pooled below.

Taking up the slack, Cerise bent over the bed and presented her backside to him. She pulled aside one of her charcoal cheeks and exposed her tight pink exit hole, which he smacked his shaft on a couple of times before he pierced it. Her well-trained ass accepted him with ease, his meat lubed up by the combination of their and his own slick releases. A squelch sounded from her anus.

She tittered over her shoulder and spanked one of her wobbly cheeks. Her wingspan widened to its full width. “H-have you tried anal?” She asked his other lover, who continued to pant at their side, still overstuffed by his potent seed.

“Well...no. At least not on the receiving end,” she admitted, as she'd taken a strap on to some mares and a couple adventurous stallions. At that admission, Cerise sunk a couple fingers up Moonlight's rectum to help prime her. She pulled apart the orifice, loosened it, and made out with Moonlight as the pair of thestrals nibbled on their lips.

“Then prepare your anus,” teased Cerise, aware her words were probably a result of spending too much time with the imp.

Another hot cum explosion-filled Cerise's bowels, which her stud pumped full. She was thankful for the potions to cleanse her Beatrix supplied, worried the rush of his seed would otherwise have acted as an enema. One of which she now offered to the other mare to prepare her, reminded that if she did accept an invitation into his herd, she'd become her lover, too.

Moonlight swung a leg over the dancer and straddled her, her well-shaped ass now presented like a sandwich ready for his meat atop her. They waved their bottoms in preparation, and Midnight landed a couple playful pats on her asscheeks before he claimed her swollen asshole. She hissed and winked, dripped her nectar and his leaky seed from her twat onto Cerise's rump.

“Fuck!” Muttered Moonlight. “Shit, this feels… so different. I-I think I like this!”

“Good! Because after you're done, we'll clean up his cock,” reminded Cerise, who dutifully sucked him off each time he finished. Or when she wanted to wake him up in the morning. She couldn't deny the addictive taste and texture of the hyper-stallion's seed, a concoction that always left her dazed and euphoric after their hours worth of sessions came to an explosive end.

He pumped into Moonlight's stretchy ass, landed more possessive swats that left red handprints on her bouncy cheeks. She cooed and whimpered in response.

Pretty soon, he howled and blasted a fresh load into her clenched rectum.

The moment he withdrew with a pop, they shoved him down onto the bed and sunk between his muscular thighs. Half-lidded eyes met his own when they traced their tongues up-and-down his still erect and moist shaft, down his swollen balls, licked up the slimy cum that stained the vein-lined, massive phallus that throbbed in response and oozed out more sticky rivulets.

Instinctively his hands rested on their heads, directed his similarly needy mates to service him, to remind them they were his mares.

A last strained howl broke from Midnight while they worked his cock over, rubbed between their cheeks while they licked, sucked, and pulled on his meat.

Another pulse and his flare thundered until blossoms of cum showers fired into their manes and all over their faces, their eyes forced to close under the ceaseless onslaught that also painted their bared tits.

They drained him completely, left their stud slumped in a pile, hazy eyes barely able to focus. But from here, he watched them continue to messily kiss. Greedily the mares lewdly swapped his spunk between them, savored the swish of it in their mouths, where it stuck and swished and swirled, until they finally exhausted its salty masculine flavor and cheerily drank it all down.

Cerise sunk before the mare's tits, peppered them in messy kisses, and licked off every last stray drop. “So, what do you think?”

“Seems I'd be a fool not to accept,” admitted Moonlight, who smacked her lips, felt more of his seed settle into her warmed-over belly. “Trouble is, I'm still a little worked up, and it looks like he's finally started to tucker out...”

“My fault,” confessed Cerise, who'd been at it with him whenever possible these last few days. “Allow me?” Rather than answer with words, Moonlight pounced on her and pretty soon found herself pressed swollen pussy-to-pussy with her lover.

They lost themselves in another fresh haze of lust, aware neither would be content until they worked it all out. Sticky trails connected them, and loud squishes filled the area, drowned in a sea of their potent musk.

Cerise lost track when they switched positions. She soon bent back below her and took a strap on up her cunt, reminded that maybe next time she would let her partner try one of Beatrix's potions that would allow her to temporarily have a penis.

Maybe if her husband was up to try it, they could stuff a couple of cocks up her lower holes at the same time...?

The mere thought made her whimper and cream herself. She bit her lower lip and curled her toes, shaken to the core.

The show was broken up by Bellatrix, who decided they'd seen more than enough. Better to let them have their privacy, satisfied that if there were any threats in the mansion, they were elsewhere.

Thanks to Zeloph's intervention, she had awakened the full extent of her powers, achieved her status as a true demon lord, as she had pretended to side with him to get in close and backstab him. The torrent of emotions that once bristled in her had been quenched. After that, she had united with this eldritch abomination of a manor, and further discovered a sense of serenity.

Bellatrix headed out to the beach, confident it would be a nice place to relax until Moxxi had finished up. "Moxxi...?" She wondered where the little imp wandered off to.

*****

Thanks to the amount of sexual energy emitting from the sessions in each room, Moxxi had absorbed enough to resume her proper shape of Anarchia.

Her large hand-wings didn’t form, leaving her golden dress intact over her curvaceous body. Her heels clicked on the floorboard while she traced the strange energy that had been disturbing the house.

Energy she was more than acquainted with.

The demoness shuddered as she got closer and closer to the source, leading her to an unfamiliar room, an eerie lavender glow shimmering beneath the door frame. With a deep breath, Anarchia slowly creaked it open, light pouring out as she stepped inside.

It was a child’s room, a cradle abandoned to the side as light and music played above, a tall figure looming over the frame. His head turned, matching magenta eyes reflecting off each other, sharing a look of confinement. After a moment of silence, Anarchia was the first to speak.

“So it is true, brother. You’ve really let yourself go!”

“No thanks to you, sister,” the male nephilim scoffed, turning his wings and robes towards her. “I’m surprised to see you’ve found a way to bypass father’s curse. I can’t recall the last time I saw you like this.”

“And from the present and past I recalled, ya were proudly proclaimin' 'a you’d recuse aw mortal life from the chuffin' clutches of damnation,” she proclaimed, her gaze softening as she approached Zeloph, his numerous eyes fixated on her in a harsh glare. “And look how that turned aahhht.”

“Well, for one, I didn’t think my own flesh and blood would betray me and lock me away into a book,” the fallen one seethed, crossing his arms together.

“Ya gave me nah choice!” Anarchia insisted, balling her talons tightly. “Ya were plottin' ter massacre a bunch of people just 'cause they didn’t 'old your righteous view of the bloomin' world! Half of them were your friends!”

“As if you were any better. You carelessly threw their lives away the moment they stopped being amusing to you.”

“That was then! This is a different nickle and dime na,” she reminded him, stomping her foot down as the two locked in a deathly glare before the chaotic demoness looked over the scales and feathers growing out of his face and hands.

“You’re right,” he sneered, turning away. “I thought things would be the same. That even by facing the worst of humanity, I could still save them. My only regret is that I didn’t realize it sooner. Mortals will never change...”

“Maybe they’re not the bleedin' ones 'oo need ter change, Zenith. Maybe it's you...”

A dry chuckle left the winged immortal’s throat. “I haven’t heard that name in a long time…”

“Yer mum refused ter call ya ‘Zeloph’ if only ter spite the bloody bastard,” Anarchia spoke softly, reaching to trace her fingers over her brother’s scaled cheek, causing him to flinch at the touch before eventually relaxing.

“I…I almost forgot about that. Father would constantly berate me for preferring that name.”

“Father tried ter smite me for refusin' ter go by anything but Moxxi!”

“Oh, please. They tried to smite you for anything offensive.”

“Oh yeah~! I remember replacin' 'is scepter wif a big ol’ fleshlight.”

“And the face they made was priceless~.”

The two shared a laugh before looking back to one another, sorrow and bitterness reflecting in the other’s eyes.

“Oh, brother,” the female nephilim murmured. “Wot 'ave ya done ter yourself? Wot ‘ave ya got yourself into?”

Zeloph was going to interject her comment, stating that this was all because of Beatrix. But he knew better than to lie in front of his twin. The nephilim lowered his head to hers.

“I thought I was to be a bright beacon to those in dark times…. But now I’m just… this,” he hissed, clasping her hands away from his face. “And if this is what I’m meant to be, so be it.”

“Brother, no!”

“It’s too late for me, sister,” Zeloph shook his head. “I’ve murdered too many to stop now. More will add to the pyre should they stand in my way. I will not rest until I have my daughter safely at my side.”

“And ya fin' 'elpin’ the bloody Burnin' King is a smart idea!?”

The expression on Zeloph’s face was hard to decipher, the winged immortal tearing away from her touch.

“No.… There’s more than just that, isn’t it? I see the 'atred eatin' away at your soul. You’re not plannin' ter just find your bricks and mortar. Ya got summit worse in mind for Beatrix, and aw 'oo defied ya!”

“And what of it?” He confirmed. “Will you try to protect them from me? Are you going to stand against me once more!?”

“Nah! Gaagh! Don’t ya get it?!” Anarchia groaned, shaking her head. “I’m tryin' ter stop ya from makin' a 'orrible mistake! It’s not them I wanna protect, idiot! It’s you!”

Zeloph’s glare softened with confusion, unable to comprehend his sister's words before she flung herself at him, nearly knocking the crib over. He yelped as Anarchia pinned him to the floor, her body pressed up against him, tears leaking down her face.

“There’s not a day that goes by where I don’t regret 'urtin' ya, Zenith. Ya were the only wahn 'oo stuck by me whenever I got into barney rubble. Ya always 'ad me hammer and tack! And I feel loike absolute shit for lettin' ya fall so low. Ya were such a gentle soul, brother! Ya 'eld so much golden dove and warmf in your light! I’m…I’m sorry for what’s 'appened ter ya.”

“A-Ana…” Zeloph groaned, struggling to remove his twin, only for her to cling to him tighter. Their breath brushed against each other’s lips before they slowly met. Anarchia’s cheeks flourished, having fantasized about this scenario so many times. Of all the darkest desires and feelings to hide, arousal for one’s sibling was one she personally couldn’t deny. Many saw it as taboo, yet she couldn’t deny how strongly she missed having her brother.

On Zeloph’s end, the shock and astonishment left him unable to return her advances. For as long as he knew her, Anarchia would tease him, accidentally bumping into him or flashing him with an eyeful of her cleavage. Back then, they were minor annoyances. But after escaping the Necronomicon, a new wave of elation washed over being kissed by his sister. They were strong, dark, and passionate, and he found himself eager to return them.

Their lips parted, staring heavily at each other before slowly raising. Once again, tension hung in the air as they just looked over one another. Awkwardly coughing, Zeloph broke the silence this time.

“And to think, all those times you teased me…. I thought you weren’t serious,” he stated, trying to collect himself.

“Lust is easy ter find. Love’s much 'arder ter come across…ya and I bof kna that,” Anarchia responded bitterly, folding her arms over her chest. “Look. I won’t get in the way of your plan. I don’t approve of it, nor do I like who ya got taggin’ along. But I kna I can’t change your mind…”

Zeloph sighed, shaking his head as a mirror lit up, his hooded assailant waiting on the other side. “I should go… I’ve stayed for too long.” The winged immortal began to make his exit before his half-sibling took his arm, halting him. Zeloph was almost alarmed at the pleading look in her water pink eyes.

“... 're ya garn ter kill 'er?” The demoness asked.

He looked away, considering the option before he answered, “...I want to, but… I don’t know.”

“Well…kna this, Zenith. Even if you’ve chosen ter turn your back against the bloody universe. Even if ya 'elp brin' abaht the chuffin' end of days...kna that I’ll be the wahn ter save ya. Even if ya despise me…I will always love ya, brother.”

Anarchia’s eyes lit up as a familiar glow shimmered softly in her brother’s. For a brief second, the innocent, noble angel she grew up with flickered back to life…before he turned away to walk into the portal. But before he took another step, Zeloph turned around to his sibling.

“I forgive you,” were his parting words before vanishing into the reflection. The hooded figure leered at the demoness, who returned the look in kind, as the image faded away.

Anarchia sighed as she curled her knees to her chest, letting the melody playing over the crib help her drift to sleep. She knew she’d have to relinquish the manor back to Bellatrix, and by proxy, she would learn of this encounter. But that would be a problem for another day.

*****

A costume materialized over Beatrix, stretching and yawning when she walked the beach, where people were scattered about. Many of them were still asleep, others aware she would have to return many of them home soon. Trash littered the shore, some of it washed away by the waves.

Seabreeze continued to surf, while Shimmer Shade casually captured more of the scene that spread before them.

She wandered so far the party vanished behind her, reminded she couldn't head out too far, or else she would leave the safety of the mansion's influence. Soon she stood alone, paused to study the moon, hummed, then shifted a heeled boot in the sand.

“BOO!” Someone poked her from behind.

“Gah!” Beatrix hopped and spun to face the source of the voice. “Mini-Trix?! Shadow Scythe, wherever you are-”

The little clone of herself mischievously smirked. “NOT HER DOING! I'M MY OWN PERSON NOW, THANKS TO YOU!”

Beatrix cocked an eyebrow. “What do you mean...?” Then she realized that somehow the miniature 'illusion' had made contact with her. More ectoplasm to provide its substance? No, she sensed it was somehow far more than that...

“She's a tulpa,” stated Bellatrix, who stood near them with her arms folded.

“Wh-what? But...how...?” Beatrix stared at her little theatrical copy and recalled what she knew of the term. “So, she's like an imaginary friend who's gained sentience and independence...? How's that possible...?”

“Mini-Trix is tied to the mansion now,” further explained Bellatrix, who sighed. “You've 'birthed' her into existence.”

Snorts and snickers escaped the little mare who scrunched up her snout. “YOU WERE SO TERRIBLY LONELY, AND WANTED TO SEE POOR ABADONNA, BUT I POPPED UP INSTEAD! MINI-TRIX HAS MANY TRICKS!”

“Stop that!” Beatrix clamped hands over her ears. “You're so loud! And I don't want to hear that terrible catchphrase anymore!”

“WHY? YOU CAME UP WITH IT! HEEHEE~!” She spun on her heel.

“And you don't need to shout! We can hear you just fine!” Beatrix couldn't help but wonder if she'd ever been that annoying...?

The eldritch abomination was capable of small miracles, able to warp its interior, and somehow it had helped make Belladonna's dreams into reality. Yet rather than the daughter she'd lost, it had brought to life this mischievous manifestation.

“AHEM. Okay. Indoor voice,” said Mini-Trix, who continued to wickedly smirk.

“Tch. Fine.” She knelt before her, unable to deny she could use the company. There were times the mansion's massive interior could feel quite lonesome, where she heard each step echo. “Just don't make trouble, okay?”

“M'kay,” she answered innocently and crossed her fingers behind her back.

Bellatrix pursed her lips into a thin line. “She could prove worse than the imp. I'll keep a watchful eye on her.”

“You'll have to catch me~!” Mini-Trix taunted them in her little sing-song voice, whipped a smoke bomb from the inside of her cape, and dropped it at her feet. Her silhouette vanished amidst the clouds of colored smoke while she cackled maniacally.

A wry smile crossed Bellatrix. “What a nuisance…no offense.”

“None taken,” answered Beatrix, heaving her shoulders. She watched her sister take off, simultaneously relieved and saddened to be alone again. She clasped the Prima Materia that held her cape for comfort, disappointed this reunion would soon come to an end.

Most of those she met would move on, like they always did. She reminded herself they had their own stories to tell, and trying to hold onto them too tightly would only limit them and breed resentment. She couldn't afford to be needy if she hoped to mature.

Her heels crunched on the sands while she wandered about aimlessly. “Mini-Trix, huh? Good to know I can still be surprised...”

*****

Dawn started to break over the area. Cerise Silhouette walked hand-in-hand with Midnight and Moonlight, still naked and at her sides, her footfalls light on the moist sands. The moon's rays reflected off their bared skin. She sucked in the salty scent carried on the wind, their nipples perky under its caresses. A toothy smile split her face while she listened to the waves.

Fireworks exploded in the distance and sparkled in the air each time they screamed. The light show washed over their bodies, and she wondered, who was responsible? Beatrix, she assumed? She openly laughed in glee, her neon pink eyes lit up.

Next came more wild music. “Come on!” She released their hands, landed a playful smack on her lovers' rumps, then ran off to dance some more. They exchanged a look then rushed after her.

What more could she possibly want...?

This was the start of her new life, and she didn't want to waste a moment of it!

“Hey, is that...?” She pointed to Hanzal and Candy, who sat bare on a rolled out towel.

“Oh! H-hi,” he said and blushed. “We decided to go with the flow. Hope you don't mind.”

“Of course not! It was my idea,” replied Cerise and noted how close they sat. “So, are you two like a couple now?”

“Yes,” replied Candy, who wrapped an arm around him. “To be honest, stallions usually scare me, but I can trust him.”

He reddened further and scratched his mane. “W-well, I simply did what anyone should have. I couldn't abandon you. But I'm thankful you decided to take a chance on me. I promise not to let you down.” His hand closed over hers.

“Aww~” Cerise made a heart with her hands when Candy kissed his cheek. “You're such a cute couple!”

“Reminds me a little of how we first met,” said Midnight. “Like when I caught you and swept you up into my arms!” The dancer giggled as he demonstrated, yanked off her feet and into his arms, whereupon she nestled in his fluffy blue fur.

“I'm sure you were your usual chivalrous self,” said Moonlight, who nudged his ribs while Cerise nuzzled his bare chest.

Aware that the party would soon come to an end, Cerise hopped down and moved on to make the last rounds before the day closed.

She sang, danced, ate, and drank some more, stuffed herself silly with wedding cake until she nearly made herself sick, sharing laughter with her companions. Pretty soon, clothes began to materialize over the guests, once dawn started to break over the area.

“Already time? Darn,” she mumbled and lightly hopped to her feet. “Let's see everyone off! Hurry!”

A bluish-white oval shimmered and hummed ahead in the middle of the air. Beside it stood Beatrix, and some of the attendees were lined up before the nexus.

“It's been fun,” said Arcanum Folklore, who chewed on his cigarette and offered a casual salute, back in his trench coat and outfit he arrived in. “But I think it's about time I headed back. Thanks a ton, everyone.”

“Please visit again someday,” called Cerise with a sad smile.

“Yeah,” added Sunny, smirking flirtatiously at him. “I want to drink with you some more! And hear more of your stories!” A subdued hiss sounded when he made his exit, followed close behind by Sunny, who playfully punched Beatrix in the shoulder.

“Hold up,” reminded Beatrix, who raised a palm to halt her. “Let me close this one down and open another, or else you'll end up where he's headed!” She closed the circle and then drew a fresh one, confident she returned each guest to their rightful place.

“Darn it,” mumbled Sunny, who secretly hoped she could trail her new buddy home. She then vanished into the next circle.

Next came Seabreeze, who wore the attire she came in and carried a surfboard beside her. “Wild party. You'll have to invite me the next time you throw one.” She shook hands with everyone near her, then crossed into the portal, which flashed in response.

Aftet that Moon Hammer marched up with the quadruplets all around him. “Too bad all of you can't come home with me.”

“We'll always be here,” said the first Foal-Bearer. “So if you ever decided to return...” She and the first Wet Nurse winked.

The second set of twins draped themselves on the minotaur. “We can be wed in your village if you like,” said the second Foal-Bearer. “Plus, we can always try this with another set of twins, the next time Beatrix crosses a set of our counterparts...”

The second Wet Nurse planted a smack on his cheek, forced onto her toes to reach him despite their heels. “Thanks for everything, princess! And you too, Beatrix!” The second set of twins waved to them first before they crossed into the rift ahead of their lover.

“Those rings have protective runes inscribed on them,” reminded Moon Hammer as he followed his lovers inside. The minotaur looked off to see the warrior ram, the two nodding at each other, looking forward to the day they could continue their bout.

“Quite th' impressife brawler,” Dion complimented. “Those maids will be quite canty, Ah reckon.”

“Oh, aye,” Lady Ewe giggled. “Which reminds me, Ah’ll need tae be headin’ hom shortly. Whit have ye decided?”

“Ah can afford tae stick aroond a wee bit longer. Beatrix an' Ah still have plenty tae gab abit.” He threw a cheeky wink at the witch, who smirked back at him before turning her attention to Hanzel and Candy.

Beatrix smirked and said, “Sorry we didn't have more time to get acquainted, but I'm glad you were able to crash the party!”

“Thank you for letting us stay,” he replied and offered a hand, which she shook.

“We had fun! Plus, we were able to kindle a romance,” said Candy, whose cheeks colored. They, too, crossed into the tear.

After them came Shimmer Shade, whose skirt swished about. “My thanks for allowing me to practice my trade, mademoiselle.”

“And thank you for the life-like statues,” replied Cerise, who cheerily tittered.

She returned her smile and fluttered her lashes. “They should last a lifetime,” she stated with a slight bow, then crossed over.

One-after-another more filed out, returned to a variety of dimensions. A few chose to stay at the mansion for now, where the rooms shifted to suit their personal tastes.

Moxxi had relinquished the manor's reins back to Bellatrix Primadonna, but wished to have a moment alone. The first set of Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse immediately started to clean up the area, only for most of the rubbish to be wrapped up in Bellatrix's aura and banished elsewhere to save them unnecessary time and effort.

“I hope this doesn't make us redundant,” muttered Foal-Bearer.

“Hey,” cut in Wet Nurse. “Bellatrix has to rest sometime! That's when we'll shine!”

“Yes,” Bellatrix telepathically cast into their heads, able to hear everyone on the grounds who weren't able to mask themselves with potent magic, like Shadow Scythe had. “Your services will always be invaluable, as I can only afford to strain myself so much.”

Soon, Cerise Silhouette found herself back in the dining hall, seated across from her parents, brother Penumbra, and his wife, Lily. Somnambula also sat in, the room dimly lit by candelabra that cast them in shadow. The bride squeezed Midnight's and Moonlight's hands below the table, both situated at her sides. She inhaled deeply and began, “There's a lot I have to discuss...like...um...”

“We three have decided to form a herd,” stated Moonlight boldly.

Inky raised an eyebrow. “So soon? Well, congratulations! It's certainly a common practice, since females far outweigh males.”

Midnight nodded and said, “That's true of our world, too.”

Somnambula carefully studied them. “Hmm...yet I sense there is a far more profound revelation you wish to share.”

“Uh-huh.” Cerise lowered her eyes. “It's about Midnight and Beatrix. Apparently, they're half-brother and sister! And if what we heard was true, Beatrix's presence alters any world she travels to and makes it conform to her!”

King Sombra nodded darkly. “I suspected as much. My apprentice has many talents, and moreover, the Prima Materia isn't the mere trinket she came to believe, but a vital part of her, like she first suspected. She's used it in the past to draw on a small portion of the Demiurge's power. She's like a walking butterfly effect, warping reality in small ways wherever she treads.”

Midnight asked aloud, “Does that mean she makes things worse like, Shadow Scythe claimed...?”

Sombra shook his head. “Not necessarily. Simply...different. But I'd like to think she's overall had a positive effect on the multiverse. Of course, no one was ever meant to wield that much power, which is why she needs companions to keep her in check. Frequently, Lady Ewe has fulfilled that role. But there may come a time where she needs a team to back her up.”

Penumbra said, “You mean Cerise.”

“If she wishes,” he answered. “I know my daughter hungers for adventure, and while I worry for her, I have no wish to hold her back, either. Besides, when Midnight and I crossed swords, I sensed a similar stirring inside him. Politics will likely bore him.”

Midnight pursed his lips. “I'll do my best! But I’d indeed like to repay Beatrix, after she's helped us all so much!”

“Same,” added Cerise, who rapidly nodded enthusiastically.

Inky Rose frowned, clearly outnumbered. She had pampered and sheltered her daughter all her life, paranoid she would be lost early like the dancer's birth mother, Pacific Glow. “It's up to you, sweetheart. Just please, always be careful.”

“I will,” swore Cerise, whose eyes watered like her mother's. She hated to make her worry, but she couldn't live in a bubble forever, either! It would drive her absolutely nuts! Besides, she had faith her stud could protect her!

“I'll be with them,” reminded Moonlight, who cast the rulers a clipped salute.

Sombra nodded and rose beside his wife. “Then it seems Beatrix is in good hands. I entrust my daughter and apprentice to you, Midnight Blitzer. It was obvious from the moment we crossed swords your technique was inspired by Shining Armor's. You even moved like the Paladin, at his peak. I look forward to our next duel.” A playfully wicked smirk crossed his saturnine features.

“Daddy~” Cerise shot her father another stern look, used to him using his reputation to intimidate anyone he decided to test.

He chuckled and turned to the priestess. “Thank you for the favor, Somnambula.”

She bowed and said, “I do not want any bad blood between us, even though I have decided to leave your service.”

“You were wonderful,” said Inky with a small smile. “Let's head home and leave the lovebirds alone, shall we?”

“It will be like our own honeymoon,” cut in Lily, who squeezed her husband and pressed her chest to him. “Where we-”

“Ahem,” broke in Penumbra, who flushed. “Take care of yourself, sister.”

Within moments the subdued echo of retreating footsteps dissipated, the herd left alone at the table. Cerise was thankful for all the support she'd received, especially from her family, who always respected her decisions. She rose alongside Midnight and Moonlight, grateful for their warm presence because otherwise, the dinner room would have suddenly felt rather lonely.

Her gaze drifted to the silver ring, hand raised to study runes she couldn't decipher. While her father was one of the most skilled sorcerers ever, she hadn't chosen to learn a lick of magic from him, much to her regret.

But hey, there was always more time, right? Especially if she decided to team up and travel alongside Beatrix! Her comrades appeared enthused by the idea, obviously restless and ready to test their skills.

They had trained their entire lives for a war that had never come, left to be peacekeepers. At least this way, they would find a new purpose!

Taking them by the hands, she guided them up the stairs, back to her bedroom. Sure, she needed to brush up on her training under Bellatrix, who'd trained her to incorporate her dancing into her martial arts, but she would always concentrate on that later!

This had been her day, and everyone who came to see her wed had made her the happiest bride alive!