Everywhere and Nowhere

In all her intergalactic travels and stellar adventures, Beatrix Belladonna had only run into a few versions of Sombra. One was her teacher, who provided her knowledge in magic and strength, fathering a wonderful daughter in Cerise. Another was responsible for creating her half-sister, Bellatrix if only to exploit the Necronomicon's dark prophecy.

Yet none looked so impressive nor intimidating as the dark stallion that stood before her.

The aptly named Ambros was easily the largest version, standing just below Triek’s collarbone. He was also incredibly bulky, even with his royal armor and garb. Yet despite the frightening visage and hardened expression, there was a level of gentleness in his red eyes as he looked over each party member.

“You may rise,” he assured them, watching them scurry to their feet. His attention pulled to the dream faun, a small smile spreading his beard. “Good to see you, old friend.”

“A pleasure tae see ye too, yer majesty,” Oona smiled, bowing her head once more. “How has th' empire managed since last we spoke?”

“Fairly well. We’ve managed to maintain prosperity for a good two years, mining resources to share with the other kingdoms.” Ambros’ crimson eyes fell back to Beatrix, who was still processing that the Lost World’s Crystal Empire was run by Sombra, Tirek, Cozy Glow, and, assumingly, Chrysalis acting as queen. Just what have they done with Shining Armor and Cadance!?

The witch jumped as the dark stallion laid a hand on her shoulder, looking up to him with frantic breath.

“You seem to have a lot on your mind,” Ambros stated gently, his voice low and husky, sending shivers down her spine. “Tell me, what troubles you?”

The violet unicorn pulled away from his hand, trembling in her boots. She ran her fingers through her platinum mane in stress, unable to tear her gaze away from the perplexed king. When she finally found her voice, all she could do was demand, “Where are Shining Armor and Cadance!? Why are you ruler of the Crystal Empire? What are they doing here! How could this have happened!?” Beatrix clung to her chest, finding it hard to breathe as something was pull from behind her. Looming behind the witch was her shadow, taking her figure as crimson eyes burned with spite.

“Ceann Oga!” Oona called out, about to rush to her before Tirek held his arm in front of the sheep shaman. The centaur pointed towards the unicorn king, whose hand glowed with a wispy dark aura.

“Ahh, there it is…your spirit is drenched with animosity,” Ambros proclaimed, keeping Beatrix’s shade at bay before snapping his fingers, the aggressive manifestation evaporating. Beatrix was able to catch her breath, looking back up wryly to the dark unicorn. “Why are you so interested in the whereabouts of the betrayers?”

“B-betrayers!?” Both Beatrix and Midnight exclaimed in unison.

“E-errm, yer highness!” Dion politely interrupted, calling attention towards him. “These two are nae native tae this realm, havin' crossed ower from parallel worlds. Baith happen tae be children of Shining Armor.”

King Ambros furrowed his brow, turning back to the two ponies, and looked to find any resemblance of the former crystal ruler. “Hmm...I do detect his visage. I wasn’t even aware alternative dimensions existed. Though I suppose you are fortunate to not have been sired by the filthy traitor during the Caribou War. I take it you know nothing of it?”

“N-no, sir,” Midnight admitted with a shake of his head, squeezing his fists tightly in seething rage. Even if this version of Shining Armor wasn’t as heroic in this world, it still left the pegasus soldier stricken to hear anyone speak lowly of his father. And upon looking over the still trembling Beatrix, the sentiment was mutual.

“Then allow me to explain,” Ambros nodded. “Sometime after my second defeat, a barbaric tribe of caribou ravaged Equestria’s landscape, defiling all creatures of female gender for this fetishized lifestyle. All mares were treated as nothing more than cattle, sows to bear offspring. I laid low, recovered my strength until joining a resistance regime, lead by none other than Lady Ewe.” The king gestured his hand towards the dream faun, who sheepishly turned away.

“Wait! You were a military leader?!” Beatrix exclaimed in disbelief.

“Ah was mair ov a consultant than a leader,” Lady Ewe corrected with flustered cheeks. “Equestria was in a dire state, an' they needed all th' help they could tae drive back th' caribou invaders.”

“Still. Tae think mah wee sister would get herself involved in warfare,” Dion noted with a chuckle, earning a stern look from his sibling.

“Without her help, Equestria would have become a wasteland of depravity,” King Ambros continued. “It was through her that I discovered my archaic signature, Hades. With it, I was able to turn their brutish fearmongering against them. And through my leadership, we took down their accursed king. Ponyville was the first to liberate from caribou rule, where I departed to reclaim the Crystal Empire. Along the way, I met up with Tirek, Cozy Glow, and the former queen of changelings herself.”

“Chrysalis!?” Midnight immediately rose up, eyes widening with fury. “You would join forces with a changeling? Let alone the hive queen!? Have you lost your minds?!”

“Calm down, laddie!” The burly ram insisted, firmly gripping the blue pegasus’ shoulder. But Midnight jerked away with a snarl.

“No, I refuse to calm down! Those monsters are roaming around free! Eating up all the love and emotion they want! How can any of you remain calm about that!?”

Both the two generals and their king gazed cautiously at the rambling pegasus before Beatrix spoke up. “You’ll have to excuse him, your majesty. Where he comes from, changelings are a menace to society. This is all very unusual for us…as it is for you.”

The platinum armored king nodded his head in understanding.

“Where is Chrysalis, if I may ask?”

“Oh, she’s around…somewhere,” Tirek huffed, his muscular arms folded before his broad chest. “We can never be too sure, given her duty to the C.I.D.”

“C.I.D?” The witch asked with a tilted head.

“Yeah, the Changeling Infiltration Defense!” Cozy Glow beamed in, smiling assuringly. “Chrysalis and those loyal to her are tasked to snuff out any intruders in the Cyrstal Empire. They use their shapeshifting ability to hide in plain sight and report back to us if they find anything shady. It’s ingenious!”

“It’s insanity!” Midnight bellowed. “You’re idiots for trusting any changeling! What’s to stop them from backstabbing you when they get the chance!? The moment you let your guard down, they’ll--aaaughch!?”

The room darkened as Midnight found his own shadow clutching at his throat, glaring angrily at him. The soldier lowered to his knees, grasping to free his neck. His green eyes gazed towards Ambros, who loomed over him with shimmering crimson eyes and a disgruntled frown.

“Let’s make one thing clear,” the dark unicorn stated in a grave tone. “Nothing happens in my kingdom without me knowing about it! Nothing! I can understand the paranoia. But I will not tolerate the disrespect of my comrades, nor my subjects.” King Ambros drew his face closer to Midnight’s, his horn glowing ominously.

“Learn your place, boy.”

Whatever retaliation and rebutting comment the hyper-stallion wanted to make died under the menacing glare the dark stallion gave him. It was a look Cerise’s father would give when he was greatly disappointed. For so long, he wanted to earn Sombra’s approval. Yet even in this world, he was a harsh judge of character. Midnight nodded his head with narrowed eyes, his shade releasing its hold of him as King Ambros resumed his retelling of the caribou war.

“We formed a pact, the four of us. We spent long weeks preparing, gathering resources, mastering spells, and experimenting with arcane magic. And once we were confident, we stormed the Crystal Empire to free our people from the resisting caribou factions. And the betrayers that ruled over them.”

Ambros turned towards Beatrix, an uneasy look in his crimson eyes. “Whatever the reason, Shining Armor and Cadance allied with the caribou to indulge in their sick pleasure. They subjugated the crystal ponies to perform insidious deeds that I would have been ashamed of back in my despot days. I did try to help them, but they were committed to continuing their atrocities. I had no choice but to lock them away.”

He gently patted her shoulder, the witch’s eyes watering, her snout pursed. “It weighs on my heart to tell you that the stallion you call father is not who you believe he is. I’m sorry.”

The violet unicorn looked away, unable to accept this reality. She met up with numerous versions of Shining Armor, all of them friendly or at least welcoming of his parentage to her. How could there ever exist anyone as awful as King Ambros described and wear his face? No, it simply wasn’t true. Not until the witch saw it for herself.

Beatrix turned her head towards her lover and said in a shaking voice, “Take me to them, Oona. I’m going to make them see reason.”

“Beatrix, It’s not that simple. You can’t-”

“Now!”

The sheep jumped at the sudden harshness of her tone, gazing at the troubled unicorn with saddened honey eyes. Sighing, she nodded as she and Beatrix began to lead her away from King Ambros and his generals, who each shared condolences over the circumstances. Midnight rose up to follow them, his face drawn and plumage enclosed behind him.

Only Dion remained with the platinum armored king, letting out a deep sigh. “Yeesh, such childish naivety. A’m seriously startin' tae doubt they’re e'en up fur th' task at hand.”

“Weren’t we all at one point?” King Ambros proposed to the warrior ram. “Weapons must be honed to their full potential before they can be used in battle. You know this more than anyone.”

“Aye, Ah do. Ah know what mah sister’s capable ov when she doesn’t hold back. But th' rest ov them are too fickle tae fight. Especially that Cerise!”

“Cerise...? Who is Cerise?” The dark unicorn questioned, wearing a puzzled look. Dion’s eyes widened upon realizing what he said, turning towards Ambros to address the subject.

“Ah, shite! Ye don’t know, dae ye? We’re a five-man faction, one ov which passed out durin' th' Wendigo attack. She’s yer child from another timeline.”

“My what?!”

“His WHAT!?” Tirek and Cozy exclaimed, the pink pegasus fluttering around to examine the astonished king. “Golly! Now that you mention it, she did look a bit like you…. I mean, if you became a mare and decided to become a strip club dancer~.”

“Still, that shouldn’t be possible,” the centaur rebuffed. “Ambros is unable to have children!”

The crystal king nodded with pursed lips. “No matter how hard we tried, the queen and I could not produce any heirs. We both knew parenthood was beyond our reach unless we took to adoption. Yet, for so long, I have coveted the thought of holding a foal of my own. I…I have a daughter?”

“Aye, sir. An' a bonnie lass, she is!” The white ram nodded with a broad smile. It was a scarce sight to see King Ambros visibly emotional, having ruled his kingdom stoically with fairness. Even that tiny display of rage earlier was only a minor offence. Yet, at that moment, the dark unicorn looked as if he woke up from a pleasant dream.

“Where is she?” Ambros asked.

“In the recovery room,” Cozy said. “We had medical staff treat her upon their arrival at the palace.”

“Please…take me to her.”

“Yes, your majesty!” The pegasus and centaur saluted as they lead Ambros and Dion from the throne room towards the long hallway.

The ram began to explain their plight, yet the only response the dark stallion could give was ‘I have a daughter,’ repeating it like a mantra. The poor king was unable to listen with that revelation on his mind.

The sound of heels clicking echoed through the solid walls as Beatrix followed Lady Ewe into the dungeons far below, a draft spilled over solid stone. Midnight looked around the structures not too far behind, noting this part of the palace was incredibly dim, with only a few torches lighting their way. Thankfully, there were no guards on duty to impede them, for Beatrix was not in the mood to deal with more obstacles.

Steel bars divided the prisoners from the corridor, a few of them whistling wolfishly at the witch, beckoning her to come closer. She ignored the lecherous gestures until she found the cell she was looking for, her eyes widening at the silhouette of her father.

The haggard Shining Armor didn’t notice his visitor at first, lounging on his rocky bed with a toothpick in his mouth. But as the young mare cautiously approached the cage, he turned his head to glare at Beatrix. “Who the fuck are you? I didn’t ask for any visitors,” he sneered.

“N-no, I’m not a visitor. I’m-”

“Shut up for a second,” the alabaster stallion rudely cut in, rising from his bed with a groan. As he approached his side of the bars, the flicking light above revealed how visibly rugged the former prince looked. His blue mane was messy, looking as if it hadn’t been groomed in months with a matching beard. He wore baggy pants, his scruffy chest on display. A stone ring was fashioned around his horn, likely to inhibit his magic. And despite how aged and stressed he looked, it was apparent he kept in shape with nothing else to do in there. But those hard, predatory-like blue eyes squinted harshly over her form, brows furrowed.

“What are you, some kind of Trixie knock-off?”

“N-no! Well, I-I’m her daughter, Beatrix Belladonna. Actually, I’m your-”

“Pft! Doesn’t matter. No mare should be allowed to walk around like they're free. Especially when they're dressed like discount strippers,” Shining scoffed a tinge of bitterness in his voice. The older unicorn turned his attention towards the pegasus and sheep that stood close by. “And you! You’re a disgrace to our gender. These bitches should be collared on a leash, on their knees, gravelling for dick."

Oona firmly scowled at him, holding her shoulders nervously. Midnight was deeply appalled, unable to believe this depraved creature was the commander who trained him. “N-no! I could never do that. They’re my friends!”

“Ha! Only beta cucks choose friendship,” a feminine voice called from behind them. The party turned to see Cadance, draping her voluptuous figure against the bars. She looked equally as dishevelled with a matching ring around her horn, a sickening smile on her face as she eyed the hunky pegasus. “Such a shame too. You’d probably get so many mares worshiping your cock if you showed them their place~.”

Midnight looked away with flustered cheeks.

“Not too late, you know,” Cadance continued to tease. “Just look at the witch bitch. She’s already asking to get gangbang in that get-up. Might as well fulfill that fantasy~.”

“I am not a whore!” Beatrix exclaimed, teeth and fists clenched tightly while pointing to Shining Armor, who had been leering at her bare flesh, licking his chops. “I’m your daughter!”

The two shared a cackle. “Haha! What kind of plants are you on?!” Shining Armor crowed. “I would have known if I knocked up that stage slut. I don’t have another daughter!”

“N-no, it’s true!” Midnight insisted. “We’re your children from different dimensions!”

“Damn, Shiny. Must be quite the stud across the universe,” the pink alicorn snarked. “Who knows how many mares you got pregnant to carry your babies~.”

“That’s enough!!” The witch flared up, her magic shimmering off her horn and eyes in a vapor-like aura. She stared hard at the rugged stallion, barely able to comprehend how this version became so repulsive. “Where is Flurry Heart?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” taunted Cadance.

“Tell me!!”

“Am I suppose to be afraid of you?” Shining Armor huffed. “You thought that by walking down here and showing off your freaky aura, I’ll take a walking sex doll like you seriously? Get real. You’re just a stupid little filly with cum leaking out of her brains.”

“Shut up!” Midnight snarled, the white of his eyes shimmering with the vermillion and yellow glow of his instincts. “Don’t talk to her like that! She’s stronger than the both of you combined!”

The alabaster knight held up his ear, looking around confused. “Honey, do you hear something? I could have sworn someone else was talking just now.”

“Nope! Didn’t hear a single word of importance,” Cadance replied, a spiteful grin on her snout.

“Huh. Must be my age catching up,” he laughed with a shrug, digging out earwax before flinging it at the pegasus’ breastplate, making Midnight seeth. Eying the busty unicorn once more as a smug grin curled his snout. “Mmm.… Y’know, maybe we can make some kind of arrangement. You did come all this way to see me after all.”

“Like what?” The witch sharply asked, crossing her arms over her exposed cleavage. Judging by his antics and lecherous gaze, she could already tell where this was going.

“You’re Lulamoon's kid, right?” Cadance chimed in. “Why don’t you put on a show for us, and we might give you a clue to where Flurry is.”

“No, Beatrix!” Lady Ewe insisted, clasping her lover’s arm. “Don’t play into their game. It’s not worth it!”

“Oh, shove it down your cocksleeve, cowtits,” Shining Armor spat. “C’mon, kiddo. Help your old man out. Just do this one favor for me, and I’ll give you what you want~.”

“Ceann Oga, please!!”

But Beatrix pulled away, fuming. There was no doubt these poor excuses of royalty wouldn’t keep their word. But the witch had to take any chance to find her half-sister. With a deep breath, she muttered, “...fine!” But before she could wave her hand to dispel her attire, Shining Armor stopped her.

“Ah-ah! No magic,” he insisted. “I wanna see you strip like the cock-hungry slut you are. Do it, or I ain’t talking.”

Beatrix blushed furiously, bitter tears watering her eyes before she did as instructed, slipping her leotard off her prominent breasts, her bosom bouncing free for her father to see. She slowly bent down to slide the garment down her shapely legs, giving Cadance a pleasant view of her plump backside. Oona couldn't stand to see her lover shame herself, looking away.

“Damn!” Shining Armor breathed huskily. “Now those are some nice perky tits~!”

“I’ll say. Trixie popped out one fine piece of ass! Must run in the family~” Cadance cooed coldly.

With her leotard, gloves, cap, and hat piled on the floor, Beatrix stood back up, her flesh naked for all to see, save for her thigh-high boots. She shivered, her wide nipples painfully erect from the exposure, her self-esteem dwindling with every catcall and whistle the other inmates gave. Yet she refused to cover herself, glaring bitterly at the white stallion. “Happy?”

“Oh, I’m delighted right now,” Shining Armor chuckled, a large bulge present in his prison pants. He rolled his finger towards him, beckoning his daughter closer. “Love it when a mare does what she’s told. Now how about a kiss for dear old daddy~?”

“Bastard!!” Midnight yelled, slamming his fists against the bars, nostrils flared with anger. “She did what you asked. Now tell us where Flurry Heart is!”

Stepping back, the alabaster unicorn simply shrugged nonchalantly. “Pft. I don’t know.”

“What!?”

“Haven’t seen her since that pussy Ambros and his whore wife locked us away. She could be in the palace or in some other kingdom. Don’t know, don’t care. Ungrateful slut’s not my problem anymore.”

“Yeeeaah, sorry. Looks like you came all this way for nothing,” Cadance pouted playfully. “But hey! Thanks for the show, you dumb bimbo~!” The two let out cruel laughter as they went back to their beds.

Upon realizing how badly she humiliated herself, Beatrix crumbled onto her knees, covering her chest as sobs escaped her throat. Oona steadily knelt down to pull her towards her, holding her head to her chest.

“Beatrix, A’m sae sorry,” she said sadly, her snout pursed. “Ah told ye, they’re not th' same. There’s not a trace left ov their old selves. Th' caribou’s influence left them permanently damaged.”

The witch turned to face the dream faun, crying out, “Why didn’t you save them!? You knew all this time what they were like and didn’t help them!”

“A’ve tried, Beatrix! Please, believe me!”

“I don't know what to believe in anymore. I’ve trusted so many people, and all of them hurt me!” All the unicorn could do was bawl her eyes out, clinging to Oona’s soft clothes.

If they couldn’t find Flurry Heart, her little Abby would be lost forever. Midnight could only stand silently, unsure what he could do to help.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps echoed through the corridor. A soft glow illuminated the dimly lit dungeon, a slender shape draped in sparkling cloth and jewels. Midnight turned, releasing a gasp before slowly kneeling down. The couple looked up to the new visitor, Beatrix wiping away her sorrow before gazing in astonishment.

There stood the elegant queen of the Crystal Empire, adorned in a greek style tunic dress with crystal braces and neckwear. Her dazzling turquoise mane draped over her left shoulder, braided into a golden ornament. A matching crown sparkled atop her head, only adding to her cool gaze and charming smile.

“R-Radiant Hope?!” Beatrix uttered softly.

The crystal mare nodded her head. “Pardon my intrusion. I was busy tending to my garden when I was informed that we had some unexpected guests arrive.” She bent forward to level her snout to Beatrix. “I can tell you have suffered much heartache. Perhaps I can enlighten you on recent events?”

“T-that would be nice,” admitted Beatrix before realizing she was nude in the presence of the queen. Blushing, she lightly pushed Oona away to put on her clothes. “I-I am sorry! I-I was-”

Radiant giggled, dismissing the unicorn’s apology with a wave and smile. “No need to be concerned. I’ve seen more mares naked during the caribou’s rule than I would in another hundred lifetimes. It was a dark age.” Her face darkened, recalling the unpleasant memories of slavery and anguish. “If not for Ambros’ return or the aid of the Deighdyr, Equestria would still be in pitiful shape. I can tell you, reclaiming power from those two was not easy.”

Both Shining Armor and Cadance scoffed, turning their backs to the crystalline ruler. Shaking her head, she let a smile grace her lips. “But that’s in the past. Our country grew stronger from those hardships. And you are welcome to stay here for as long as you need. Although I would suggest a proper escort the next time you feel like visiting them. They’re powerless as long as their magic is blocked. But they’ve proven to be highly agitative.”

“I-I just don’t understand,” Beatrix sniffled, rising up while cradling her bosom tightly. “How could this happened! Why would Shining Armor and Cadance become such… scum!?”

“None of us could have prepared for their betrayal,” the queen gently chided, stroking the witch’s shoulder. “But don’t quarrel. Lady Ewe did all she could to help Equestria rise. I’m certain if within her power, she would have saved them. But I’m afraid they chose their path. We can only hope that one day, they’ll choose to accept our help.”

Beatrix nodded before turning her teary violet eyes to Oona’s warm honey browns. “Oona, I’m so sorry!”

“Shhh,” the dream shaman hushed, pulling her student into a warm hug. The unicorn mare returned the gesture, clutching at her back while burying her tear-stained face into Lady Ewe’s soft bosom.

“I love you so much,” the mare muffled.

“I love you too,” the sheep sage replied, holding her tightly.

Radiant Hope beamed happily before turning her attention to the pegasus soldier, a perplexed expression still on his snout. “And what seems to be troubling you, young colt?”

“I’m…still trying to process this strange world,” admitted Midnight. “To think that such a place would exist where magic runs rampant, changelings are apparently welcomed, and two of Equestria’s nobles are disgusting perverts! Maybe Dion was right to believe I wasn’t cut out for this journey. Maybe then, my wife wouldn’t have been hospitalized…”

“Ahh! So that’s who that mare is,” Radiant Hope giggled softly. “I passed by the infirmary and noticed a charcoal earth mare stirring in her sleep, calling out the name ‘Midnight.’ Would that be you?”

“Y-yes! Gah, what am I doing!? I should be by her side!” The blue pegasus groaned, clutching his head in frustration.

“Pha! Can’t even keep your bitches in check. What a pathetic loser!” Shining Armor laughed, earning a scowl from the crystal queen.

“I think we’ve spent more than enough time here. Let us head up. She should be awake soon.”

All three nodded in agreement, following the queen out of the dungeon. Beatrix gazed back at the cells containing Shining Armor and Cadance, mentally promising herself to return one day to council them.

Because despite how crude and mean-spirited they became, she sensed a great sadness reflected in their eyes.

The servants and medical staff continued to survey Cerise’s slumbering form, monitoring her heart rate. Frequently, the charcoal dancer would groan and scream silently, crying and whimpering for her lover. It appeared to be a horrible nightmare, one where Midnight had perished.

“What is her status?” Tirek called as he, Cozy, Dion, and King Ambros entered the infirmary.

“My lords,” the head nurse bowed her head. “It’s nothing severe, I can assure you. But she is trapped in a dark dream, calling out for someone named ‘Midnight.’”

“Poor lass,” the ram grumbled, sympathetic, feeling partially responsible for the situation. “A’ll go get mah sister. She’ll know what tae dae!” The burly warrior quickly departed, yet Ambros took no notice. His crimson eyes remained fixated on the sleeping mare, slowly approaching her bedside.

He examined Cerise, noting the few resemblances they shared outside of coat color. A strange wave of emotion washed over Ambros. He had never seen this mare before, yet he felt…connected to her. There was no doubt in his mind that Cerise was related to him, despite the timeline differences.

Gingerly, he held her cheek, which seemed to have a calming effect that steadied her irregular breathing, and leaned into his touch. A small smile spread his hardened features, eyes large and filled with joy.

“I wonder who her mother is,” he pondered, failing to find any features of similarities between Cerise and his queen.

The dancer groaned as her eyes began fluttering open. Neon pink looked up to meet crimson red as the groggy mare faintly said, “D-daddy...?”

The affectionate call froze Ambros into place as Cerise fully woke up. Rubbing the sweat and sleep off her face, her eyes went wide before she flung her arms around the platinum armored king.

“Daddy! I can’t believe you’re here! Oh, I’ve missed you so much!!” The dancer wept, overjoyed to find her father in the Lost World. An awkward silence hung in the air as Cerise slowly pulled away in confusion. The pigtailed earth pony met the bewildered expressions of the staff and generals.

It didn’t take long for Cerise to realize that the Sombra she clung to was vastly different than her father. He stared at her in astonishment, unable to move or speak. Yelping, she quickly backed away from the towering unicorn.

“Oh gosh! I am so sorry! I thought you were my… y-you’re not actually my father, are you?” She stammered sheepishly, cheeks flustered with embarrassment.

A soft chuckle left King Ambros. “It’s a strange feeling, is it not? To find someone who looks and sounds like your father, yet isn’t?”

The mare nodded with a pursed snout.

“If it makes you comfortable to call me 'daddy,' I won’t discourage it. I…have always wondered what having a daughter is like.”

“You don’t have any children?”

King Ambros shook his head, frowning deeply. “I am a king with no jewels for his crown, so to speak. To continue my legacy is a daunting task, lest I turn to other methods.” The older unicorn forced a smile to return. “But let us not dwindle on such sorrow. I am glad to see you are well, Cerise.”

“O-okay…thank you,” Cerise nodded, looking away as a medical servant checked her vitals, pulse, and respiratory system.

“Everything is in working order,” she confirmed. “Your body temperature has stabilized, and you haven’t suffered any external injuries. Though you were deeply troubled during your slumber. Might I ask what was haunting your dreams?”

Cerise folded her arms to her squishy bust, looking away with a dreadful expression. Over and over, she watched her husband die in brutal and insidious manners. Nothing she did could stop his imminent demise. “I-I'd… rather not talk about it.”

“Understandable,” the head nurse nodded. The crystal ruler turned to Tirek and Cozy Glow, unsure what to do or say to lighten the situation.

“Cerise!!” A plethora of voices exclaimed in unison. Rushing through the doorway were Beatrix, Oona, Dion, and Midnight, with Queen Radiant entering from behind. The blue pegasus came to his wife’s aid, squeezing the distraught mare in his bulky arms.

“I’m so glad you’re safe! Everything’s going to be okay!” He beamed, only for his face to fall upon looking at Cerise’s sour expression. His dying visage and harrowing screams remained fresh in her mind, and seeing him now only made the daughter of darkness ache more.

“N-no…everything is not okay,” she whispered, blinking with watery eyes. “You’re still going to die well before we reach midlife! I-I still haven’t forgiven her fully for what she’s done!” She pointed a finger towards Beatrix, who hung her head low.

Midnight seized her hand in his own, caressing her knuckles. “Honey. No matter what, I’ll always be a soldier at heart. It’s in my nature to rescue people, save lives. There’s always a risk I might die young. But that doesn’t mean I plan to fall in battle, okay? After we get Abadonna from Enock, I’ll retire and live the rest of my life by your side as king. I’m keeping that promise to you.”

Midnight reassured his wife, tracing a finger over her lips and jaw. Sniffling, she nodded as she leaned into his touch, practically purring. “I don’t want to lose you, my love.”

“You’ll never lose me. I love you too much to leave,” he smiled, bringing their lips together before their arms wrapped around each other, Cerise closing her eyes in a vain attempt to hold back more tears. Beatrix looked to Oona before shuffling close to take her hand, squeezing tightly. The sheep sage smiled warmly.

“She looks a lot like you, my king,” Radiant commented, hooking her arms around his to lay her head against his shoulder, smiling fondly. “Is she, perhaps..?”

Ambros returned her grin and nodded, nuzzling his wife. “Strange circumstances brought us a daughter from another world, my love. It’s like she was always here. And yet, it’s only now that I know about her…”

“Ahem!” Dion coughed, stepping forward. “Sorry tae interrupt this touchin' reunion. But we still have urgent matters tae discuss!”

“Yes, you’re right,” King Ambros nodded, stroking his long, black beard. “Perhaps we can hold this meeting over dinner? We're hosting a banquet this evening, and I’m sure you all must be hungry.”

As if on cue, Cerise felt her tummy rumble, rubbing it while tittering bashfully. “Yeah, I think food might make me feel better!”

“A little rest and relaxation would do us some good,” Midnight agreed, sitting down on the bed to thoroughly squeeze his wife in his arms.

“A banquet sounds like a lovely idea,” Lady Ewe nodded, casting a glance towards the witch, knowing her impatience to reach her child as soon as possible.

But to her delighted surprise, Beatrix smiled cheerfully back. “Sounds like just what we need.”

Immediately, Cozy and Tirek commanded the servants and guards to prepare a feast while the party made themselves comfortable within the crystal palace. After a near-fatal encounter in the harsh winter tundra, the adventurous heroes finally found respite in strange yet familiar territory.

Beneath the crystalline city, a tunnelling system was hollowed out by the many servants and miners. Every day, for twelve hours, the crystal ponies would stock up on minerals and new jewels to craft and sell to other countries. A valuable resource King Ambros and Queen Radiant were delighted to share.

In one of these lustrous mines, darkness rippled before a portal that shimmered within the reflective stones. A hooded mare in a raven cowl emerged, followed by the grey cloaked reaper and the burgundy jacketed nephilim. Shadow Scythe looked around the vast cave of jewels, quietly marvelling at the sparkling splendor from the torch’s flickering light. Admittedly, this was one of her rare visits to the Crystal Empire.

“Such elusive stones,” complimented Zeloph, tracing over one gem protruding from the wall before lightly tapping his knuckle against its hard surface. “It must have taken diligence to forge this entire empire! No wonder so many tried to claim it for themselves.”

“How right you are, Amico,” Madame Doppia snickered, pulling back the hood of her shroud to unveil her face. She held up her messy emerald mane in a short ponytail as longer hairs draped over her shoulder. Dark makeup clouded her amber eyes as her crystalline marine blue skin glistened with sparkles. A sigh parted her grinning lips. “Bello essere a casa!”

Shadow Scythe couldn’t help the envious leer she gave Doppia, secretly hoping her appearance would be as hideous as her personality. But there was no denying the crystal mare was beautiful.

And much to the unicorn’s dismay, even Zeloph wasn’t immune to her charms, his eyes fixated on the Vice Lord.

Doppia eyed him back, fluttering her lashes in a sultry fashion. “Perhaps now you’ll reconsider my proposal, yes? There’s a lot more underneath that I can show you~.”

Before the enamored angel could answer, the pale reaper interjected with a sharp, “Not. Interested. Just show us the way already!”

The crystal mage sneered at her comrade before rolling her eyes. “Fine, very well. This way.”

Zeloph let out a relieved sound before looking away from Shadow Scythe sheepishly. The reaper shook her head, disappointed that someone as marvellous and cunning as the fallen one was still susceptible to seduction, a reminder of how weak mortal flesh and emotions were.

If Zeloph continued to be careless around Doppia, she’d have to bond him up in chains or a leash just to…

Her face flourished at the image before quickly shaking it off, muttering curses as her loathsome carnal desires continue to grow unbearable. The reaper quickened her steps to distance herself from Zeloph and Doppia as the trio explored the catacombs.

Crossing through one dimly lit tunnel, slabs were lined by stylized caskets with the names of the dead written in runes. Shadow Scythe traced the symbols and read each phrase and passage, every movement and word carried in the darkness. Moss and cobwebs lined an interior worn down by years and weather alike. Looking back, Zeloph was quietly reading through the runes, his natural glow highlighting the engravings. Doppia was the only one who ignored the caskets, pressing onward.

Scoffing, Shadow Scythe proceeded to read over each tomb. She had always felt more at home in such places, the secrets of the dead hers to claim. But reading the parting words from the families of the deceased, the unicorn discovered further inner conflict to even consider stealing more souls.

With more training, the power of Thanatos would be more than enough to continue her work. It seemed that over time, Shadow Scythe’s thirst for power had diminished, replaced by these strange feelings and empathy for others.

Could she even call herself a proper reaper anymore?

“Amica! Up ahead!” Doppia called forth, pulling the ice queen from her thoughts as they approached an intersection, with three paths branching off. The one in front lead upwards, where light poured through the cave’s mouth. Another went downwards, and the last went straight. By proxy of elimination, the entrance facing them was the entrance to the Crystal Empire.

“Now then,” Madame Doppia began, addressing her two cohorts. “Here’s the plan. I’ll need you two to divert attention from our enemies. Shadow Scythe, cause as much destruction to the city you can to lure out the guards and generals. Kill as many as you'd like.”

“H-huh!? Why would I--”

“Oh please. Don’t try to act morally after you’ve slaughtered countless people for their souls. Get over yourself!”

“I-Igh! Hnngh…”

“As for you, Zeloph,” the crystal mage addresses, smirking at the winged immortal. “I think it’s time you and Beatrix confront each other. Draw her out, but make sure she is separated from her allies. I will secure the Crystal Heart.”

“But what about the king?” The Fallen One proposed, folding his arms. “Surely, he will be alerted that his treasure is being stolen.”

“He won’t come,” Doppia assured. “The mystical jewel is connected to his precious queen. Ambros won’t dare abandon her side when I carve out a piece of her heart~.”

Zeloph tried to think up a response to counter her, but the false idol cast his glance aside, deeply disturbed by the inclusion of innocent lives. Yet was he not that different when he tried to liberate the masses, only to smite them when they showed defiance?

Ultimately, the Fallen One knew that he and Belladonna would meet again, be it through a civil conversation or in combat.

And if Zeloph could vouch for the former, he would; not wanting to bring more harm to the mother of Abadonna.

Doppia’s smirk deepened, a hand upon her shapely hip. “Eccellente! Then let’s depart now an-”

“Hold it!” Shadow Scythe interrupted, grabbing the Vice Lord by her hand in a harsh grip, the two locked in a death glare.

“Take your hand off me, cagna! This is no time for petty arguments!”

“Why do you get to choose who goes after the Crystal Heart?!” The reaper demanded.

“Pha! As if I could trust either of you to obtain it after your run-in with Grogar,” Doppia spat, yanking her hand free. “Besides, I’m the only one who knows its location.”

“And what’s to stop you from claiming its power for yourself?” Shadow Scythe proposed, her icy gaze penetrating the Vice Lord’s stern glare. “I know that look. That’s the look of a mare starved of power, hungry for it. I should know better than anyone of us. Up until now, I couldn't see it, but it's clear as day. What are you really up to!?”

“You delusional cogliona,” Doppia seethed. “We all know why we’re here.” She gestured towards their arms, causing the reaper and demihuman to favor their branded forearms cautiously. “I am a loyal servant to the Burning King. His freedom to cast the universe ablaze is all I covet. And if you wish to avoid incurring his wrath again, you’ll follow through with my plan! Comprendere?!”

Shadow Scythe hissed, staring down the oppressive Vice Lord before giving a short nod. Doppia turned her back with a huff and walked towards the downward corridor, swaying away into the darkness.

“Gngh! Floozy! Babylonian whore!!” The reaper muttered bitterly. “Loyal servant, my ass! That bitch is up to something, I know it. Surely, you don’t believe her, right?”

She turned her head to address the Fallen One, only to find him not beside her. Instead, he was wandering off to the other tunnel.

“Zeloph...?”

Shadow Scythe steadily followed before pausing, now noticing a passage of runes that shimmered around the entrance.

“Cavern of Memories…”

While his companions were arguing, his feathery ears detected a slight sound that lulled Zeloph through this particular tunnel. A tune that brought a wave of nostalgia to wash over him. At the end of the tunnel was a large room. The walls are embedded with clear quartz, his reflection visible. In the center stood a massive black obsidian stone, and within the smooth, murky surface was a familiar image.

It was himself from so many years ago.

Adorned in his old emperor robes, his midnight hair draped below his lower back. He sat atop the roof of an old cathedral, humming the melody of a song he had long forgotten. The song his human mother taught him before her passing.

Just then, his half-sister, Anarchia, emerged from the balcony, bottle in her pink claws as she puffed a small plume of smoke. Consciously, Zeloph clenched his fists tightly, knowing exactly where this memory was heading.

This would be their last argument before his imprisonment.

Zeloph watched as his recollections were displayed within the crystals. The two demi-humans yelled at each other, arguing over who was right or wrong. Ana pleaded for him to abandon the path he had chosen. That he was playing into their Divine Father’s hands, even after they rose to defeat them. Yet his previous mindset refused to cooperate, berating his sister for indulging in mortal standards, sleeping around the block, and drowning herself in booze.

And with every spiteful word past Zeloph spat at his other half, present Zeloph cringed at the nostalgic vision, regret coiling his heart like a noose. Teary-eyed, Ana rushed back inside where Lady Ewe and her father would be waiting to spring their trap.

Yet Zeloph’s remnant continued to gaze at the setting sun, internally justifying his cause and rash actions.

Shadow Scythe remained behind Zeloph, peering into memories that unfolded throughout the room. Each crystal highlighted a point in the fallen one’s life and how blinded he was by sanctimony to enforce his sacrilege on those who believed him.

The unicorn’s ears perked up when Zeloph began humming along with his past self. And then the humming became a song in full, confronting his past aggressions through melodic singing. The reaper watched as he slowly danced by himself, never once tearing his gaze from his memory nor addressing Shadow Scythe’s presence.

Nonetheless, the reaper was spellbound as Zeloph’s plumage formed around him with every motion he made, the numerous eyes along his wingspan closed.

Zeloph directed his song towards the reflections, singing to himself that he had become stronger despite his inevitable downfall. Shadow Scythe watched the memory of Zeloph being cast into the fabled Necronomicon, Anarchia using her Onoma to disable her brother’s power long enough for the sheep shaman’s to complete the binding ritual. The pale unicorn wrenched, hearing the false idol’s screams, devastated by his sibling’s betrayal. Her eyes fell back to the physical nephilim, who clutched his shoulders in a protective motion.

Suddenly, another voice joined the song. The two turned to see a towering figure adorned in similar pale robes with golden accents. Decorated around them were two pairs of mismatched wings, giving the entity a bizarre demonic and angelic visage. And instead of a face, a swirling nexus of matter and nebulous clouds flowed from his neck.

Whoever this was, Zeloph stared back at the glaring reflection with distress. The imposing figure twisted the lyrics to highlight how pretentious the Fallen One was in thinking anyone needed him, berating Zeloph for his failures.

And Shadow Scythe felt her heart sink upon hearing the remnant encourage her comrade to end his life.

Yet the Fallen One sang once more, answering his reflection that if not for his transgressions, he would have remained a slave to his father’s design. Zeloph continued to encourage himself that pressing forward with his life was the right choice.

The demi-human and pale phantom sang back and forth, trying to convince the other to see their side. Upon reaching the song’s climax, the two harmonized, their hands pressed together against the crystalline surface. Yet Zeloph felt no resolve as the enigmatic figure faded away, leaving only the Fallen One to gaze into his reflection.

Once more, the winged immortal sung by himself, trying to remain confident in his motivation. But the reaper could hear his voice waver as Zeloph sang the last chorus, slumping to his knees. Tears rained down his cheeks, staining the crystalline floor.

Shadow Scythe, while stoic in expression, was moved by this display of vulnerability. She wanted so badly to comfort him, her hand shaking, reaching to touch him. The reaper understood how overwhelming confronting one’s memories were, given Beatrix and Sunny nearly stole hers.

And if not for Zeloph, she would have been trapped in that manor, forever oblivious to her atrocities and unforgivable crimes.

But before the pale unicorn could do anything, another sound greeted her ears. Behind her, the obsidian stone showed a new image of a grey filly with long hair that faded into black. Tattered robes hung over her tiny body, her eyes pure white with black sclera.

“Abadonna..?”

The mention of the child’s name drew Zeloph’s head up, looking back towards the murky image of the child. This memory appeared to be from his perspective, recalling the first time he met little Abby. She tried to cheer him up, noting how ‘grumpy’ he was with a childish smile. When Zeloph asked her who she was or why she was here, Abadonna only stated that she didn’t know and wanted to find her mother.

The images conversed about a variety of topics, some the reaper found dreadfully boring at worst. It wasn’t until the end that made Shadow Scythe pause in alarm. Abadonna curled up underneath Zeloph, hugging him despite the Demiurge attached. But it was the child’s following statement that left the death goddess perplexed.

“If you want…maybe you could be my daddy? That way, when we find my mommy, we can become a big happy family!”

The memory ended with Zeloph’s remnant promising to never abandon her before it too faded away. Slowly, the reaper turned to Zeloph, bewildered by what she saw.

“You…would risk your life-no, the lives of millions…for a child that’s not even yours!?”

The truth opened the wound he kept secret for so long, rubbing his face clean of sadness.

“I was selfish,” he confessed. “I thought I could change my fate. That by becoming Abadonna’s parent, I could redeem myself for the life of blind ignorance I lived. But instead of glory, I brought ruination and pain. Through hatred and arrogance, I lost my chastity, my love, and my child. That is why I must rescue her! If I could do just one thing right, prove that I’m a better father than...”

The false idol couldn’t finish his sentence, clutching at his palms tightly. Zeloph hung his head before admitting, “It’s my fault she disappeared from reality. If I hadn’t-”

Zeloph flinched as two hands seized his wrists, looking into the soft icy eyes of Shadow Scythe.

“Don’t talk like that,” the reaper insisted. “You weren’t responsible for Abadonna suddenly appearing in the physical plane. For all we know, her existence is unexplainable! And Belladonna would not have become her mother if not for you.”

Zeloph considered her words. It was true that it was only through his restorative touch that Beatrix’s womb became fertile.

But would Abby have been born had he not been banished?

“We've done things we regret, Zeloph. I can tell you how badly I want to go back to how things were. But this is reality. We can’t change who we were, only who we are. We need to reach Enock’s library. It doesn’t matter if you’re not her actual father. Abbadonna wanted you!”

With a wry sigh, the nephilim rest his head into the reaper’s shoulder. And in a rare display of affection, Shadow Scythe brushed her fingers through his midnight-colored hair. She fought the urge to pull his head back and smash her lips against his.

“You’re right,” he admitted, pulling away to look at the unicorn with warm magenta eyes. “But what will we do about Doppia?”

“Oh, screw the harlot! She'll serve her purpose, and then we'll be done with her.” Shadow Scythe brought his hand to her cheek, his tender caress momentarily easing her body. “After she retrieves a shard from the Crystal Heart, we'll kill her and continue our journey together! O-or if you want, I can make her an undead slave for us to-”

“No, Shadow Scythe!” Zeloph firmly told her, cupping both sides of her face. “We can’t get ahead of ourselves. As long as we’re bound to the Burning King, we have to abide by her scheme. We don’t know how much he is aware. It's not safe for us!”

“But it's not safe to follow her either! She’s plotting something, Zeloph. Something that’ll not only put our lives in danger but the lives of thousands! I don’t want to be responsible for the death of the innocent!”

“Neither do I…” The fallen angel sighed, knowing that they’ve wasted enough time as it is. Doppia already had doubts about their cooperability. “Look.… We have to carry out our mission. We’ll figure out a solution later.”

The reaper nodded, disappointment clear on her snout. “Alright, fine.”

For a moment, neither said anything else. Just gazing longingly into each other’s eyes, a silent understanding of their wants and desires. And had Zeloph not reluctantly pulled away, Shadow Scythe was positive she would have flung herself onto him like some wild animal in heat. The reaper groaned, berating herself for almost giving in again. But she knew the longer she denied herself of what she obviously craved, the stronger her need for the nephilim would become.

Shadow Scythe could only hope that doing her task would help shave off her unbridled lust.

Yet the two failed to realize their third assailant was among them, watching from within the reflective quartz crystal. Madame Doppia already presumed Zeloph and Shadow Scythe would try to avoid fulfilling the Omega Prophecy. The latter was even sharp enough to realize the deceiver did have another objective for the quest.

One that didn’t distinguish between allies or enemies. The crystal mage snickered, pulling out a single strand of Cerise’s pink hair, her dark aura glimmering off it like faint smoke.

“In the end, it won’t matter who reaches the library first,” Doppia mused. “I will be the one who gets the last laugh~.”