Everywhere and Nowhere

The sun drifted over a somber setting. Civilians of the Crystal Empire worked hard to rebuild what was damaged. Yet none were wiser to the sufficient blows caused within the palace walls.

King Ambros and Queen Radiant Hope gathered a council in their throne room. Despite her frail state and her lover's reservations, the crystal mare insisted on attending the meeting. Both Tirek and Cozy Glow remained by her side in case of complications. Queen Chrysalis, hidden leader of C.I.D, stood by her king’s side, masking any emotion behind a stone facade.

Standing before them were the weary travelers, who had proven themselves honorable in defending their kingdom…though at a horrible price. Suffice to say, Beatrix, Oona, and Dion did not sleep well during the night. And who would, after the harrowing events that transpired?

Zeloph and Shadow Scythe, long-time adversaries, both willingly locked themselves in the dungeon for questioning. Though unfortunate, Midnight, too, was confined due to his actions against his wife, Cerise. The poor mare was hospitalized after her brutalization.

In their own way, everyone felt responsible for the atrocities that befell the Crystal Empire, Midnight, and Cerise. It wouldn’t be until Ambros cleared his throat that the dreadful silence finally ended.

“Before we begin, I would like to formally apologize for not taking greater actions during the calamity.”

“That’s not necessary, yer highness,” Lady Ewe interjected. “None ov us could have predicted this would happen.”

“Nonetheless, I have to ensure my people’s safety. And I failed not only them, but my queen,” the dark unicorn disagreed, stroking his lover’s cheek affectionately. “Anything that happens in the Crystal Empire is ultimately my responsibility. So let's settle that debate, shall we?”

Everyone reluctantly nodded in agreement.

“Now then,” Ambros continued. “What is to be done to our...‘guests’ downstairs?”

“Let them rot for all I care,” Beatrix stated bitterly, arms folded tightly into her bosom.

“Ceann Oga…” Oona said, looking at her lover sternly.

“Don’t tell me you’re actually going to defend them! Oona, they chose this path of villainy. After all, they’ve done to us, to me, they deserve a far worse punishment than death!”

“Lass!” Dion interrupted, placing a hand on her shoulder. “As much as Ah want tae go down there an' give them a wallopin'…Oona has reason tae suspect they’re just as much victims in this mess as we are…”

Beatrix yearned to make her foes pay for their crimes but managed to steady her flared nerves to listen to her lover’s plight. As much as she hated both Zeloph and Shadow Scythe, she’d loved Oona more. The azure sheep took a couple of steps forward before making her case.

“When Ah was aidin' th' battle against Shadow Scythe, Ah noticed she took precautions tae avoid attackin' th' villagers. An' upon speakin' with her, she looked reluctant tae carry out her assault. Not only that, a hellish sigil was scarred intae her forearm.”

“Zeloph also showed me one when I fought him,” Beatrix added. “Claimed that it was a mark to those destined to die in the realm of Pathos.”

Lady Ewe nodded before continuing. “Which brings me tae my point. While both are wicked monsters in their own right, Madame Doppia is th' bigger threat here. She orchestrated this attack, used both ov them as pawns tae achieve her own goals.”

“And what goals would that be?” Radiant questioned.

“A’m not too sure, but it likely involves completin' th' Omega Prophecy an' liberatin' th' Burning King.”

“Say your theory is correct,” Tirek offered. “So what? We can’t let those criminals go unpunished. Shadow Scythe caused collateral damage, and Zeloph would have likely done worse! Regardless of reason, they must be held accountable for their actions!”

“Agreed,” King Ambros nodded before gazing back at the dream faun. “What do you propose, Lady Ewe?”

Oona took a knee, bowing her head low. “If yer highness would allow me, Ah ask fur permission tae speak wit th' prisoners. An'...perhaps convince them tae help us.”

“WHAT!?”

Everyone in the room exclaimed in disbelief, except for Dion, who knew beforehand what his sister was planning.

“Are you crazy!?” Beatrix snapped, unable to hold her animosity from her mentor. “We can’t trust them! Why would we want their help?!”

“Ceann Oga, they know more about Doppia’s plans than we do,” Oona countered. “We don’t have a lot ov options. Nor do we have time!”

“And what makes you think either Shadow Scythe or Zeloph will listen?” Cozy Glow interjected. “They have no obligation to cooperate!”

“And yet, they were arrested wit'out any resistance,” the sheep sage rebuffed. “Shadow Scythe an' Zeloph are aware ov their fate. What mair could they have left tae lose?”

“But… B-but Oona,” the witch strained, fists tightly clenched. “Even if you managed to convince them, I don’t know if I could work with them! I tried being reasonable to Shadow Scythe; I gave Zeloph the benefit of the doubt. I just don’t like this...”

“Neither do Ah, my love,” Lady Ewe affirmed, standing up to gently hold the distraught mare close to her soft textures. “But we’re in sore need of allies. Cerise has suffered a tragic outcome an' Midnight likely blames himself fur the actions he committed. Plus, was it not ye who convinced me Sombra could be swayed tae th' path ov righteousness? Ah trusted ye then…an' now, Ah ask ye tae trust me.”

The mare sniffled, fighting back her tears. She didn’t give any response, just squeezing her mentor for support. She wanted to blindly believe in her lover, but the witch knew Oona to hold off parts of the truth before. Beatrix couldn't get over her doubts.

“She has a point, my love,” Radiant Hope whispered to her husband. “No matter the reason or allegiance, everyone has suffered here. If anything, it’s been too long since Equestria saw the magic of friendship.”

“Yes,” Ambros agreed. “And if the Burning King is anything to go by, hatred is not the answer.” His crimson eyes gazed at Beatrix, whose aura blistered with spite and anger. Then, with a long sigh, the dark stallion called to Oona, “If I allow this, I trust you will be responsible for the criminals? You will apprehend them at first sight of treachery?”

“Ov course,” Lady Ewe nodded, a weary smile on her snout. “We’ve bested them a handful of times. Ah doubt they’ll be much trouble now.”

King Ambros nodded. “Very well, Oona. Go to them, try and convince them to aid your journey to Canterlot. But if they refuse, they are to remain here until a proper punishment is decided.”

“Thank ye sae much, yer majesty.” Then, with a bow of her head, Oona ushered her lover and brother to leave until Chrysalis spoke up.

“Before you go, there is a matter I’d like to address. During the assault, there was an incident in the dungeon.”

“Yes, we’re aware of that,” Tirek cut in. “Shining Armor managed to escape and massacred every guard and inmate he could find.”

“That is not the case,” the changeling queen said grimly before motioning for a follower to buzz forward. “This changeling happened to be posing as a guard and witnessed the slaughter. It was not caused by Shining Armor like we thought. The culprit was…something else.”

Chrysalis looked to her subordinate and politely ordered, “Show them what you saw.”

With a hesitant gulp, the changeling landed on its feet before a shimmer of green light consumed its form, altering it to appear much smaller and avian-like. The entire court stared perplexed at the dark feathered bird, which took into the air, cronking loudly.

“A raven..?” Ambros said, stroking his beard, puzzled.

“It flew through one of the barred windows. But it wasn’t a raven for long…” Chrysalis answered before the subject changed forms again. In a flash of red, a strange beast landed on the ground, letting out an ear-piercing screech, forcing the party to cover their ears. It looked like a chimeric creature of a bat, bird, wolf, and deer, jumping around to slash around the floor, likely mimicking the incident. After a few moments, the beast stopped, panting heavily before assuming a more shapely feminine form.

The woman had long, bright orange hair that passed her curved deer-shaped hips. The wolf's tail swayed behind, matched in color by the feathered sleeves around her arms. Emerald fabric clung over her prominent breasts, the rest of her corpse-pale skin unconcealed. Scarlet red eyes gleamed, mirroring the blood dripping down her twisted smile. Small antlers grew out both sides of her head, curling to form a ‘heart’ structure.

“Gaaagh! W-who is that!?” Beatrix exclaimed, both mesmerized and unnerved by the appearance of this creature.

“The Baobhan Sith,” answered Dion. “A vampiric devil who cares only fur bloodshed an' arousin' those she can use. But we know her by another name…”

“Countess Alma,” Oona nodded, a haunted look on her face. “Sae th' other Vice Lords are makin' their move...”

“Other Vice Lords!?” Cozy Glow yelled, fluttering towards the sheep siblings. “Whoa whoa whoa! What do you mean other Vice Lords? What even arethey!?”

“Aye, Ah should have elaborated from th' start,” admitted Oona, who felt guilty for concealing secrets from her friends and family. “Vice Lords are some ov th' strongest demons from Pathos, first forming when th' Burning King was trapped. Unlike normal demons, who mindlessly seek prey tae fulfill their endless desires, Vice Lords actively tempt souls tae commit th' sins they strongly advocated in their mortal life. Not just tae feed but tae also achieve a form of possession. One gains this through spreadin' disease, another through desolatin' their victims. In Alma’s case, mere desire is enough tae sustain her thirst fur blood.”

“And Madame Doppia?” Beatrix asked as the changeling became the jaded ballerina’s shape instead.

“Th' youngest ov th' bunch, havin' always lived in th' shadow ov her peers. Through jealousy an' hatred, she fueled her lust fur power by invokin' those bitter emotions from her prey. That is how she stole Cerise’s body; through deceit.”

Lady Ewe continued, “As ye’ve already guessed, th' worst ov them all is th' Burning King himself. Once free, he’ll scorch everythin' in sight. An' those who give intae his violent nature will carry out endless destruction.”

“And how many Vice Lords are we dealing with?” asked Ambros, sporting a grim expression.

“Five, as far as we know. But if all ov them are workin' tae bring forth th' End ov Days, more will be born.”

Beatrix bit her lip hard enough to draw blood. This whole situation sucked. The thought of forming an alliance with two of her biggest nemeses disgusted her. But considering both her friends were incapacitated, and more threats lurked beyond the horizon, the witch knew she didn’t have a choice. She vowed to save her daughter, no matter the strife. And she would uphold her promise.

“Well, not a moment to waste,” Beatrix reluctantly said. “Let’s head back down and-”

A blood-curdling scream resounded from the castle halls. Beatrix froze and flattened her ears, unable to deny that voice. “Oh no, Cerise..!”

“We better go comfort her,” Dion insisted wearily, knowing whatever support they give wouldn’t erase the pain of the charcoal mare’s traumatizing ‘transformation.’ So the three rushed off towards the infirmary ward, leaving the royal council to think over their decision.

“Permission to accompany them,” Chrysalis requested. “Just in case the prisoners do act up.”

“Granted,” said Ambros, his hand holding his wife’s. “But take caution. Even though I’ve reinforced the cells with magic nullifying steel, we've never faced opponents like these, and I'm not sure the extent of their abilities. So who knows how powerful they truly are…”

The changeling nodded before fluttering off after the group. Cozy Glow asked, “Should we also go with them?”

“That won't be necessary,” Tirek assured. “All of them have proven to be vastly capable should our enemies prove resilient. I had the opportunity to fight alongside my friend again. I’m content with keeping on the sidelines.”

“Well said,” Radiant Hope sighed, resting her head on Ambros' shoulder. “I pray they find a way to resolve this horrible curse. Poor Cerise must be scared out of her mind!”

“Me too, my love,” the dark unicorn sighed worryingly. “Let us have faith that all of them will overcome the odds and defy the prophecy...”

The anguished cries continued as Beatrix, Oona, and Dion rushed towards the room. Before any of them could fully reach it, the mare in question stumbled out, pushing aside the doctors and nurses, disheveled and garbed in naught but a dressing gown.

“Please, return to your bed,” one medical servant requested before getting their face smacked by a darkly feathered plumage. The gloomy crystal mare curled her arms to hide her face, sobbing uncontrollably.

“Cerise!” Beatrix gasped, taking to her side and pulling the distraught mare up. Her heart sank upon gazing into the amber orbs of their enemy and not the neon pink eyes of her friend. Still, the violet mare tried her best to console her. “T-take it easy, Cerise. I’m here!” She looked back to the sheep siblings, who shared a sorrowful look. “We’re all here.”

“B-Beatrix..!” She sniffled, clinging onto the witch, her nose runny and eyes leaking. “I wish this was a terrible dream! That none of this happened. T-that Midnight hadn’t…h-he didn’t..!”

She couldn’t continue that thought, burying her face into Beatrix’s breasts while the violet unicorn stroked through her emerald locks.

“M-me too,” admitted Beatrix, her own eyes watering. “Oh, Cerise, I'm so sorry! I shouldn’t have brought you here. C-cause then you wouldn’t have-”

“N-no!” Cerise insisted, looking up with wide tear-streaked eyes. “This wasn’t your fault. I should be the one to apologize! I foolishly held onto my contempt for what you did. But you didn't mean to alter Midnight when you visited his world. And I know he's not responsible for what happened, either. It was her...” Her focus shifted on her reflection, staring hatefully at the body she was now trapped in. For all the loveliness, Cerise was constantly reminded how wickedly cruel the crystal mare was.

“Ye’ve suffered a lot durin' this trip,” Oona acknowledged, placing her hand to soothe Cerise’s unbridled spirit. “Ye should rest here an' recover.”

“Aye! Leave th' rest tae us,” Dion insisted. “We’ll get yer bod back!”

“And let you do all the work for me? Not a chance,” she stubbornly declared, pushing Beatrix away to stand up on wobbling legs. “I came on this quest to help my friend, regardless of the consequences. And I will not take a back seat knowing that evil bitch is out there, dancing around in my body! I refuse to sit here and remain a liability. I’m coming, and there’s nothing you can say that’ll change my mind!”

Despite her concerns, Beatrix couldn’t help but smile proudly at Cerise’s courageousness. Even though she got the short end of the stick, the sheltered princess had clearly come a long way. Of course, the dark dancer may have pushed herself too hard to keep up with the more experienced teammates. But there was no doubt that Cerise would grow to become a great queen in the witch’s mind.

“Well, look at that,” Dion laughed, also impressed by Cerise’s boldness. “Th' lass is finally puttin' on her grown-up pants!”

His cheeky retort was rewarded with an elbow to his ribs, the crystal mare narrowing her gaze at the burly ram. “Some help you are! If you weren’t always so encouraging Midnight that he could handle his hyper-stallion nature, he wouldn’t have been so easily brainwashed!”

“G-gaagh! Aye, yer right. Ah wasn’t exactly th' best teacher,” Dion wheezed, rubbing his chest.

“There’s plenty of time to reprimand your mistakes later,” Chrysalis chimed in, appearing out of nowhere, startling the group. Cerise immediately went on edge, knowing her husband’s disdain of changelings. But Oona patted her shoulder with a shake of her head.

The slender queen smiled when addressing Cerise. “Good to see you back on your feet, Princess. King Ambros will surely be pleased knowing you’re…physically alright.”

“Y-yeah,” the crystal pegasus nodded, realizing that her ‘father’ must have been deathly worried about her.

“To be fair, I don’t think anyone would be alright waking up in someone else’s body,” Beatrix proclaimed.

“It’s a weird experience, that’s for sure,” Cerise nodded. “I’ll likely need a therapist after I’m home.” The dancer shook her head, forcing as confident a smile she could muster. “But that’ll be my reward after retaking my body and getting Abby back to Beatrix! So, what’s our plan of action?”

“... This is a horrible plan!!”

Cerise declared as she and her friends followed Chrysalis, descending into the dungeon.

“Shadow Scythe is the queen of backstabbing! And Zeloph nearly wiped out my people from existence! Why would we ever employ their help!?”

“Ah would like fur th' record tae state that Ah did not agree tae this plan,” Dion scoffed.

“Yeah, I’m not a big fan of it either,” Beatrix huffed, her arms folded once more. “But Oona’s right. We’re limited to what we know about Doppia or the Vice Lords. And if anyone knows about evil forces, it’s probably those two…”

Cerise planted hands on her hips and huffed, “Okay, so why not just interrogate them and leave it at that!?”

“We know first hand what Shadow Scythe an' Zeloph can accomplish,” Lady Ewe pointed out. “Now imagine our chances in stoppin' th' End ov Days if we all joined forces!”

“Kinda hard when such awesome power is abused by those assholes…” Cerise muttered.

“Regardless, there’s no guarantee that they’ll want to work with us,” Chrysalis reminded. “So let’s not make assumptions on an unlikely outcome.”

Changeling guards greeted them at the entrance, no longer needing their disguises as they escorted them down the corridor. Management did their best to clean up the bloodstains and stench, though it still lingered in places. Finally, all the cages were empty, saved for the three occupied spaces down the end.

Cerise froze and went pale the moment she spotted her husband trapped in his cell. His armor was gone, leaving him in bagged pants and a black tank top. The once chipper pegasus hung his head low, slack and unresponsive even when she spoke his name.

“Midnight…”

“Status report,” Chrysalis ordered one drone, who saluted her.

“This one hasn’t said a word since waking up, my queen,” the changeling guard answered. “The only reaction we got was contempt for us, of all things! Like he was stricken with horror.”

“I see,” the tall monarch nodded, her snout pursed. “I suspect trauma caused by a counterpart of mine?”

Beatrix slowly nodded. “I don't know much of his world, but the Chrysalis there conquered it with her changeling army. By the time he was born, they were mostly driven out. But it looks like he still has repressed memories...”

“Oh no,” whispered Cerise, working up to more sniffles. She moved closer to try and comfort him but found her feet wouldn't respond. Her insides twisted in nausea as memories of what he had done resurfaced. “I-I'm so sorry, Middy! I-I took the bait, and that vicious bitch did this to us!” She covered her face with both hands and sobbed uncontrollably.

“No… It’s my fault,” weakly said Midnight, who slowly raised his head, his eyes wet. “I shouldn’t have left you. I tried being a hero… but I ended up acting like a villain!”

“Nonsense,” insisted Beatrix. “Middy, I've done far worse than you! Lots of people I know have! My sister, Bellatrix, used to be a baddie until I took her in! Besides, you can't blame yourself after what that Vice Lord made you do! You're a victim here, too!”

“Oh, so you and your sister can change, but the other prisoners can’t? Kinda hypocritical if you ask me,” Chrysalis called out, earning a sharp glare from the witch.

“Hey! I’m open to giving people a second or third chance… even when they don’t deserve it…”

“Doesn’t matter,” Midnight cuts in, taking off the gold finger from his ring. “I still assaulted my wife when I swore to protect her. Because of that, I don’t deserve to bear this ring...”

“Hubby,” murmured Cerise, who knelt before the bars and gripped them.

Deciding to give the couple some privacy, the group turned to what they'd initially come here for. Next down the block was the self-proclaimed ‘Death Goddess,’ looking more pathetic than she had ever been. Beatrix could tell Shadow Scythe had lost the will to live, her eye drawn to the burnt brand adorning her forearm.

“Shadow Scythe surrendered without a struggle,” the changeling guard continued. The pale unicorn cast an icy glance at the group before looking away, hiding her shame under her hood.

“And Zeloph?” Oona asked.

“Well…see for yourself.”

They shuffled towards the last stall before everyone audibly went, “Huh!?”

Instead of the tall, pompous demi-human the heroes came to know (and despise), a smaller creature was in his place. Everything about Zeloph, from his hair, jacket, and wings, had shrunk, giving him an appearance not unlike Moxxi’s imp form. He cast an empty gaze towards the onlooker, a cigarette lit in his mouth.

Beatrix couldn’t help but snicker at her foe’s ‘shortcoming,’ much to the chagrin of her lover.

“Beatrix!”

“Oh, c’mon, Oona! Look how cute he is~!” The witch snorted, trying to hold back her laughter.

“No, go ahead,” Zeloph said dully. “Have a laugh. It’s not like I’ve been humiliated enough…”

“Pft!” Beatrix waved off. “If you ask me, you deserve far worse than turning into a munchkin!”

“Erm, yes. How did this happen?” Chrysalis asked her guard, perplexed.

“We have no idea,” the guard shrugged. “His cell lit up during the night, and when it faded, he came out looking like that. We’ve never come across a demi before...”

Zeloph folded an arm behind his head before taking a small puff from his cigarette.

“... Nor do we know how he acquired that…”

Oona pushed Beatrix aside to speak with the cherub-shaped creature, clearing her throat. “Zeloph… Ah know there’s been bad history between us. You an' Beatrix especially. But Ah also know ye care deeply about Abadonna’s wellbeing. Sae A’ve come tae ask ye if-”

“Fuck off, you overgrown rug,” was his answer, cutting her off. Oona backed up appalled, not expecting such a rude response.

“How fucking dare you!!” Beatrix yelled, rattling the cell bars. “My marefriend’s trying to vouch for your freedom, you little shit!”

“Sorry, I don’t recall ever asking.”

Dion slammed his fists against the cage, snarling at Zeloph. “Don’t make me come in there, ye pissy daftie toerag!! A’ll kick yer sorry arse sae hard; ye won’t remember what ye had last Tuesday! No one talks tae mah sister like that!!”

“Wanna bet?” Zeloph scoffed, unmoved by their threats while glaring back at them. “Trust me. I’ve been through far worse than whatever hell you two could conjure up.”

“I’m so fucking done with your ‘woe-is-me’ bullshit!” Beatrix growled, her horn flaring to blast the little fucker before Chrysalis and her guards pulled them aside.

“That’s enough from all of you!” The changeling queen barked before snapping her head towards the snarky cherub. “Any particular reason you have such a massive stick up your ass?”

“Look, I already tried the whole ‘we should work together’ speech with Beatrix, and that ended with me getting blasted, cut open, and an entire roof dropped on my head! And that’s not even touching what Doppia did to me! So forgive me if I don’t feel comfortable working with people who want me dead. But since I’m a generous fellow, here. You can take these with you!”

Zeloph then held both hands to flip off his former adversaries, the guards struggling to hold off the warrior ram from prying the cell door off.

“Grrrragh!! Don’t you see, Oona?! Even he understands an alliance isn’t possible!” Beatrix complained.

“It is! Ah know it is!” The sheep sage insisted, rubbing her temples in frustration. “Zeloph, please. Abby depends on us tae rescue her from th' Vice Lords! We need you an' Shadow Scythe tae put yer differences aside an' help us!”

“...and why should I?” The demi-human responded, dropping his sassy tone for one that sounded more reasonable. “The moment Abadonna is secured, what’s to stop you from locking me away again? Even if I wanted to help, you’d all turn on me the moment I prove useless...” Zeloph looked over his tiny features with dismay written all over his face.

“No, I’ve done enough damage as it is. It’s better for everyone that I just rot away here. Now, please. Leave me alone...” He turned his back towards the group, much to Lady Ewe’s disappointment.

“He’s a cheeky fucker, but he’s got a point,” Dion admitted. “Ah wouldn’t think twice ov lockin' him back in th' Necronomicon.”

“But that wouldn’t make any ov this better…” Lady Ewe sighed, wondering if she was wrong to believe such a union could come to fruition.

“C’mon, Oona. We’ll figure something else out,” Beatrix encouraged, the group ready to depart before a low voice joined the conversation.

“Zeloph doesn’t speak for me,” Shadow Scythe said, pulling herself from her fetal position, though avoiding direct eye contact. “If the offer still stands, I…I’d like to make amends.”

Oona beamed up, ready to respond before Beatrix cut between the two, hands on her hips, eying the reaper skeptically.

“Seems a little late for that, don’t you think?” The witch spat, causing the pale unicorn to clutch at her branded arm.

“I know none of you have any reason to trust me. Before, I simply aided Belladonna as a matter of self-preservation,” Shadow Scythe acknowledged, pulling up her sleeve to stare at her mark. “But I'm not the same mare I was. I honestly don't know who I am anymore. But I...I want to pay back everyone I've wronged if I can.”

“Ye poor soul,” Lady Ewe lamented, placing her hands on the bars. “Ye’ve become much weaker than before.”

“Yes,” said the reaper. “After that beating, some of the souls I absorbed escaped me.” Only she could see the colorful wisps escape her mouth as she vomited them out, trashed so severely she had struggled to regenerate.

“I-I...I don’t know...” Beatrix grumbled, struggling to look past the reaper’s crimes to see the bigger picture. Like Cerise said, backstabbing was Shadow Scythe’s primary trait.

The dream shaman touched her shoulder. “Ceann Oga. We need all th' help we can get..!”

“...okay, fine!” Beatrix ultimately decided with a begrudging sigh. “I really hope I won't regret this…”

“Ye can blame me if things go astray,” Oona smiled, kissing the violet mare on the cheek. The witch shook off her blush to address Shadow Scythe.

“If you hurt my friends, I'll banish you to the worst dimension I can find!”

“That's more than fair,” agreed the reaper.

Chrysalis nodded to her guards, who unlocked the cell door with the keyring. The pale unicorn cautiously walked out, unable to deny how small she felt under the suspicious eyes of her newfound ‘comrades.’

“I-I’m coming too,” Midnight’s voice resounded, his hand gripping over Cerise’s. “I have to redeem myself.”

“No, you don’t, you big dummy!” Cerise insisted. “I know you wouldn’t have intentionally hurt me.”

“Still, my genetics are getting in the way. I-I don’t think I can handle another outburst! I...I don’t wanna be a hyper-stallion if it means I’ll blindly hurt my wife…”

“Then we’ll find a way to cure it! I’m sure Flurry Heart and I could come up with a potion that'll fix you up!” Beatrix offered. Granted, she doubted the pink alicorn of this world was into alchemy, like the one from Cerise’s world or her own dimension. Still, she couldn’t wait to meet her!

“O-okay!” The blue soldier nodded, feeling slightly better about the whole ordeal. The guard turned to free him from his cell, whereupon he approached to comfort his wife but was saddened to find her moving away.

“S-sorry, Middy,” she apologized. “My- I-I mean, this body hasn’t fully recovered yet. So it’s going to take some time getting used to this…”

“O-Oh… Yeah, I understand,” Midnight said downheartedly, wondering how long it would be until their relationship could be mended.

“Besides! If I’m going to make that bitch pay, I’ll need to work with what I got.” She did a couple of dance moves, realizing that Doppia’s physique was much lighter, meaning she could strike far more swiftly.

“Good mindset tae have, lassie! Plus, we have a piece ov th' Crystal Heart!” The white ram proudly showed the fragment tied on a string around his neck. “Sae let’s go find that body-snatchin' harlot an'-”

“Hold on,” Shadow Scythe interrupted, drawing attention towards Zeloph’s cell, where the Fallen One silently broods. Biting her lip, she asked, “Are we really going to leave him here?”

“Hey! Ye heard what th' runt said! If he wants tae sulk in th' pits, Ah say let him drown!” Dion scoffed.

“But then I--erm, I mean, we’d be losing a valuable ally,” the reaper caught herself, earning a few raised eyebrows. Despite the pissy attitude the cherub developed, Shadow Scythe couldn’t ignore the feelings she still held for Zeloph. She knew what he’d been through and didn’t want to abandon him.

“Aye, that's true,” Lady Ewe agreed. “Unbearable as he’s become, Zeloph’s innate healing an' solaromancy would be beneficial.” The dream faun paused to think, stroking her chin.

“Now, if only there was a way we could convince him…”

A gust of wind suddenly blew through the corridor, everyone clutching onto their belongings. Sparks of magic crackled from the wall until it began to warp into a spiral. Upon completion, a shockwave pulsed, nearly knocking everyone back. Beatrix, her friends, and the changelings stared in astonishment at the newly formed door. And before anyone could question what had happened, it slowly cracked open. Tiny pink claws pushed the frame wider before a familiar small head popped out, looking around the premise.

“'ello~? Is the Pope in Rome?”

“Moxxi!?”

The imp gasped in delight before taking to the air. “Cock and balls! We made it through! Yeess~!” She fist-pumped the air before she wrapped her arms around Beatrix’s face, purposefully squishing her into her breasts. “Ahh~! It’s so good ter see ya again, lov!”

“I-It’s nice to see you too!” The witch's muffled voice replied before she managed to tear away from Moxxi’s grip. “What are you doing here? How did you get here!?”

“And what do you mean ‘made it through’?” Chrysalis questioned, her guards prepared to jump the intruder.

“Ooh! Well, you see,” Moxxi began. “I returned back ter the manor shortly after I left. Chasin' pleasures across ovver realms can gra old at times. Bellatrix and the twins were tryin' ter figure aahhht a way ter contact ya in case ya needed backup. Turns aahhht that the beast inside the walls can track your magical monica and forge a doorway that connects ter this dimension!”

“I-It can?!”

“I mean, it took a Hoppin' Pot of energy from Bellatrix and me since the bloomin' abomination only craves devil flesh. but yeah! Hoes and studs, it is wif great 'onor I officially declare the lost world nah longer lost~!” Moxxi nudged Oona lightly with her elbow. “Might wanna rename it ter summit more flattering~.”

“A-Ah don’t believe it,” the dream faun said in amazement, tracing her hand over the wooden door. “Incredible!”

“Y-Yeah,” Beatrix nodded, smiling widely. “This means we can regroup inside and then continue on! What luck~!”

“Plus, it saves us th' trouble ov gettin' back,” Dion nodded, scratching his crest of black hair. “Though A’m not sure how th' King an' Queen are goin' tae take havin' an interdimensional door located in their dungeon.”

“Any prisoners locked down here have the means to escape now,” Shadow Scythe proclaimed.

“I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if it meant we could visit more often,” Cerise offered, smiling hopefully. Even though her experience in the Lost World was far fromstellar, the dark dancer did want to return and learn more about this version of her father and his wife.

“We’ll see,” Chrysalis huffed, signaling her forces to back away. “Nonetheless, his lord and lady will hear about this.”

“Ahh, we’ll figure things aahhht mashed potato,” Moxxi half-heartedly waved off. “Na, c’mon! your sister and the maids 're dyin' to--hold on a Cock Linnet!” The imp caught herself before realizing the reaper was among them, sporting pursed lips upon meeting her magenta eyes.

“Ya mind tellin' me why edgy 'ere aint locked behind wahn of these loonie bins?” She asked with a raised brow.

“It’s a long story,” Oona sighed. “But the gist is we’re working together to stop Doppia and the Vice Lords from reaching Abadonna.”

“O-oh shite! Welcome back then, lov! But then where is me…”

Beatrix pointed towards the cell that housed Moxxi’s brother, who tried vainly to disappear into himself. With a gasp, the demi squeezed herself through the bars, though she struggled to push her ample posterior through.

“Nnnnegh! Thumb-suckin' tits! Serves me wite for eatin' aw that cake…” She muttered. “Uhm, lil' 'elp back there, darling?”

Beatrix placed both her hands onto Moxxi’s ass cheeks with a roll of her eyes before shoving the little devil through the cell. Then, wiggling her hips, she approached Zeloph with a concerned expression. The Fallen One turned his head, his glare a little less harsh.

“H-hey, brother!” She greeted gently. “It’s been a while, hasn't it?”

“I’ll say,” Zeloph answered, forcing himself to sit up and face his twin. “What do you want, Ana...?”

“For ya ter stop bein' a tosser and get up already! For aw your talk of ‘redemption,’ now’s the bleedin' perfect nickle and dime ter sha your stuff, lov!”

“Yeah, well, any attempt I make at good ends up backfiring horribly.”

“That’s 'cause you’re a dick abaht it. And nah wahn likes a dick that’s dry~!”

Zeloph grumbled, turning away. Cautiously, Moxxi took his hand into her own, instantly shuddering from how darkly her brother felt.

“T-that…is an awful lot of pain,” acknowledged the imp. “Nah wonder you’ve been reduced ter a mere cherub!”

“Yeah…” Zeloph nodded, narrowing his gaze. “Yet you still insist on keeping your imp shape despite having enough energy. Why?”

“Y-You kna why,” Moxxi replied, more solemn than usual.

“W-wait, what?! I thought you said your father cursed you,” Beatrix interjected. “Isn’t that why you’re training with my sister? So you could become a true demon?!”

“Is that what you told them? Hah!” Zeloph laughed dryly before addressing the witch and her friends. “We demi-humans revert to this pitiful state when we’re low on magic or supplements. She’s not like this because she’s cursed. She’s like this because she chose to be! Now, why don’t you tell your friends the truth… for once.”

Moxxi clenched her fists, looking back towards the group with a sheepish smile. Beatrix only shook her head in disappointment, well aware of the imp’s tendency to lie or not tell things fully.

“The truth is,” she started with a weary sigh. “I could always go back ter me original form. And there’s a good reason why I don’t. You’ve seen me in aw me glory before. Wild hair, 'uge tits, curves for days…well, that sweet ass body comes wif a monstrous appetite for sex and violence. I was really bad back in the bloody day. Almost loike a drug addict...”

Moxxi bit her lip, recalling in vivid detail all those nights she drenched herself in the blood and sex of so many victims. “Zeloph used ter 'elp keep me in check, tried ter rehabilitate me. Course, I never listened, and, well, 'e went full-on mad messiah. Just loike daddy dearest said we would...”

The cherub clutched his shoulders tightly, deeply ashamed that he followed his divine instincts rather than lessons he learned from his Terran family. If his mother and step-father were alive, how devastated would they be to know how far their son had fallen?

“But it’s not aw bad! Bellatrix trainin' has given me better control of me murderous impulses. I can pull off a lot more snazzy stuff as an imp! But that’s the chuffin' reason I never shift unless I 'ave ter. though, I’m not gonna lie; I really wanna wite na...” Her frown turned into a scowl, eyes glowing scarlet briefly.

“...just so I can tear that chav lil’ slut apart!”

“Back of the line, Imp,” Shadow Scythe huffed. “We all have a score to settle with Doppia. Though Cerise, as you can see, has it a bit more personal…”

The imp cast a glance over the crystal mare housing the princess’ soul.

“Well, it’s a good fin' I got 'ere when I did! We’re garn ter need a lot of work done.”

“Aye,” Oona nodded. “We’re runnin' out ov time as it is. Our enemies are likely already invadin' Canterlot as we speak!”

“Not necessarily,” Chrysalis added. “Ever since the Sovereign Witch took over, the Forest of Everfree overgrew rampantly, surrounding the kingdom like a fortress. Any attempt at contact has either failed or…well, we’re still searching for scouts to this day...”

“Then how are we supposed to reach Canterlot?!” Midnight asked.

“I could try teleporting us there by portal,” Beatrix considered. “With the manor now connected to this world, figuring out Canterlot’s location shouldn’t be that hard!”

“Sounds like a plan,” the changeling queen smirked. “I’ll let King Ambros and Queen Radiant know. Best of luck to you, travelers.” With that, Chrysalis and her guards departed up the stairwell.

Once more, the sheep sage asked the demi-human, “Well, Zeloph? Do you still not want to join us?”

The Fallen One didn’t answer immediately. Instead, his arms remained crossed, his brows furrowed while considering the proposal.

Could any of them genuinely get along without imploding on each other?

“C’mon, Zelly,” Moxxi urged, gingerly taking his hands into her own to pull him into the air. “I kna we 'aven’t been a real family lately. But we’ve finally got a proper chance ter start anew! Really change ourselves for the better! 're ya garn ter let that slip through your fingers? 're ya garn ter alla the Burning King ter get 'is hands on Abadonna?!”

“...no, of course not,” Zeloph answered bitterly. It didn’t help that his sister was putting her best wide-eyed sad puppy pout to good use, making the grumpy angel cringe while the others snickered. Finally, he relented with a long sigh.

“...that’s cheating, and you know it.”

“Cheating’s just a fancy word for winnin', bro~!” Moxxi beamed, hugging her sibling tightly. “Ahh, just fin'! After we’re finished, we can go wherever we want! Ana and Zell! Two lovable rogues aahhht ter spread love and chaos 'round the bleedin' world! Don’t ya fin' that’ll be wonderful~?”

“I think Kurt Cobain had the right idea,” the cherub snarked.

“Oh, hush you!” The imp snickered before plucking the cigarette out of Zeloph’s mouth and chucking it out the cell. “And stop tryin' ter smoke! it doesn’t make ya look cool.”

“Oh, now you’re going to act like my more responsible older sister! Only took you, what, several years!?”

“Better late than never~” She winked, much to her younger sibling’s annoyance.

The demi-humans managed to squeeze out the cell bars to be with the group. And while Lady Ewe was certainly pleased by this ‘change of heart,’ Beatrix, Dion, Midnight, and Cerise still had their doubts whether Zeloph or Shadow Scythe would remain on neutral terms.

“Ah still believe we’re makin' a big mistake,” Dion whispered to the witch, who nodded.

“It’s not like they’re much of a problem as before. We can easily take them,” reminded Beatrix. She noticed that her ex and the reaper drifted slightly closer, making her curious about how tight their bond was. It was kinda cute, in a twisted way!

“Hey…” Zeloph said awkwardly, not sure what they could say after that dreadful evening.

Shadow Scythe felt a mix of guilt and relief that her comrade stood by her, despite her moment of weakness, and almost shyly replied, “Hi…”

“Well, let’s not keep Bellatrix waitin'! I’m sure she’s gonna wanna learn aw abaht your adventure thus far~!” Moxxi motioned, opening the door as the manor’s interior appeared inside.

One by one, the group of heroes and villains entered the passageway, cautious of one another.

As the imp had said, the group would need to work out their differences to reach the end of their quest.

As evening settled, dark waves of magic flashed near the outskirts of the Everfree Forest. Lifeless bodies of unsuspecting travelers were scattered along the riverbank, leading towards a lone mare, who hummed melodiously. Using her reflection to fix up her neon pink mane, Madame Doppia reveled in her new form. Both her curly locks now cascaded down her shoulder.

Discarding the flashy top and short pants, the Vice Lord wore a grey metallic dress, low cut to show off her cleavage window. The wavy skirt rested slightly below ample, bouncy buttocks.

“Ahh! Perfetto~!” The charcoal mare grinned, admiring how beautiful she now looked. “What do you think?” She asked, turning towards the few victims that she let survive. Their eyes wisped with smoke, shimmering an eerie green as they nodded their heads. Not only was Cerise's body more luscious, but it was also packed with an outstanding amount of dark magic. Doppia could place whoever she wanted in a trance, making them her puppets! Not only that, she seemed to have inherited her father’s geomancy.

To demonstrate, Doppia summoned obsidian crystals to impale one of her mind slaves, jagged edges branching out from impaled flesh. And combined with her ability to slip into mirrors, duplicate herself, and cast illusions, the Vice Lord was nigh unstoppable!

“Such exquisite power!” Doppia cackled, making the crystal pillar crumble on command. “To think that Sombra would spawn such a weak-hearted daughter! Truly a waste of genetics~!”

She set her sights towards the trail leading into the forest. Doppia had heard about the witch who now ruled Canterlot and how she allowed the Everfree to grow wildly. Anyone who entered was destined to remain lost. But where most saw a warning to keep away, the deranged dancer saw an opportunity to be seized.

“Povere anime sfortunate,” she playfully giggled. “Who knows how long you’ve wandered for a way out! Not to worry. I’ll set you free~ Come, playthings~!”

Doppia motioned her helpless followers towards the passageway. But before they could enter, a chilling voice made the Vice Lord pause.

“Have ye forgotten yer place already?”

The charcoal mare felt every hair stand on end before slowly turning around. Hovering above the river, arms folded under her breasts, was the Baobhan Sith. The moon highlighted her voluptuous curves while framing her face, making her alluring red gaze all the more frightening.

“Oh, who am Ah kiddin'?” She scoffed, floating down until cloven feet touched the earth. “Th' moment power creeps intae yer head, ye start tae believe th' whole bloody universe should bow befur ye~!”

“A-Alma!” Doppia hissed. “What are you doing here?! You’re supposed to be harvesting sacrifices!”

The vampiric creature walked towards her fellow demoness, replying, “Figured A'd check in on ye, see what progress ye’ve made in freein' th' Burning King. An' from what Ah see…” She placed a sharp nail against Doppia’s plush chest, dragging it to hold her chin up. “...ye’re short ov a Crystal Heart~.”

Growling, the dark mare shoved Alma away. “I was outnumbered! A-a minor setback! I’ll secure the fragment once I’m in Canterlot.”

Alma curled a brow. “An' ye plan tae besiege th' kingdom wit…this?” She waved a hand to emphasize the lackies Doppia corrupted.

“Y-yes! And there’s more within this forest whose souls I can capture! What’s the matter, Alma?! Afraid that I’ll surpass you~?” The bat mare attempted to taunt, but the Baobhan Sith simply shook her head, making a ‘tsk’ sound.

“Doppia, Doppia, Doppia... That ability doesn’t even belong tae you! Ye can’t do anythin' wit'out leechin' off someone else.” Alma swiped at each of the Vice Lord’s minions with blinding speed, drawing crimson to lick off her talons.

All of a sudden, the victims jerked in unnatural motions before slowly approaching Doppia. Desperate, the dark dancer tried to regain control to ward them off. But her newfound magic proved ineffective, their eyes glowing red like the vampiric Vice Lord to match their mistress.

“All Ah need is a single drop ov blood tae get what Ah want,” Alma purred. “But you? Ye had tae lie an' cheat yer way intae power. This is, what, th' twelfth body ye've possessed? Ah can’t even remember what ye originally looked like because ye’ve gone through sae many~!”

“Stai zitto!!” Doppia snarled, conjuring a dark crystal to poise at the vampiress’ throat, who didn’t flinch. “I-I am the Burning King’s most loyal follower! I am the key to his liberation!”

“Oh, come off it,” Alma sighed, her blood-bound slaves apprehending Doppia, causing her crystal spear to shatter. She struggled to break free, feeling hands and tongues touch her revealed flesh, making her groan under the assault.

“Ah see through that veil ov bullshit. Ye don’t want th' Burning King's freedom. Ye covet his destruction! An' by takin' th' Child ov Lightendark’s body, ye’ll finally achieve th' means to do so. Sae predictable...”

“Gaaaagh!! A-and why wouldn’t I!?” She cried, not even bothering to deny her intentions. “Don’t act like you’re any better! If the End of Days comes to pass, you won’t have anyone to sink your fangs into!”

“A’d rather die ov starvation than pretend A’m somebody A’m not,” Alma rebuffed, snapping her fingers as all the possessed victims dropped dead and collapsed around them. “Ye can claim all the filthy mortals ye want, Doppia. Ye could even pull off this half-ass scheme an' overthrow th' Burning King! But all the magic in the world will never change what ye truly are inside. A miserable, little cunt!”

As the two Vice Lords were ready to lash out and tear at each other’s throats, an eerie cyan glow shimmered under the water, drawing their attention. A large shape emerged, dragging his lugging body out of the stream. Doppia and Alma narrowed their gaze at the stallion, coat pale and damp. Dripping over his face looked like bleached hair. But in reality, the kelp composed his mane.

He adorned a worn captain’s jacket and trousers, dark veins swelling up his exposed chest. The corpse-like stallion’s eyes found theirs, a smug smile to his lips. “Lovely evenin' fur a stroll downstream. Aye, ladies~?”

“Lord Douglas…” Alma muttered with disdain.

“Doppia! Ah see ye’ve got a new bod,” he complimented, leering over her stolen vessel as he walked around her. She nearly retched from a salty odor wafting off him. “Very nice! Why don’t ye slip off the dress an' come take a dip~?”

“Don’t even think about touching me, kelpie!”

Douglas snickered at her rejection before turning his gaze to the lovely vampiress, who also expressed her disgust.

“Keep yer eyes tae yourself, you filthy colt,” Alma spat at the water demon. “Don’t ye have a chasm to dig out?”

“All in due time,” scoffed the water demon. “But ye know me! We kelpies like to isolate our targets, make them feel utterly worthless an' desperate tae take the plunge. We were only passin' by until Ah got wind ov yer conversation.”

Douglas placed his hands on either side of his waist as he grinned at the female Vice Lords. “Sae did my ears deceive me, or are ye harlots actually thinkin' about turnin' your backs on th' Burning King? Oh, he’ll be livid when he hears this~!”

“Bastardo!” Doppia snapped. “You wouldn't dare!”

The kelpie smiled slyly, retorting, “Traitors get what they deserve. But A'd be willin' tae keep my lips tight… If you tighten yers on somethin' else~!”

“Vile pig,” Alma hissed before she shoved the charcoal mare forward. “Go on, then. Get it over with!”

“W-what!? No, I refuse!”

“A’m not about tae lose mah head over blackmail! Now do it!”

“Aye! Either suck mah cock or return tae Pathos an' face th' Burning King’s wrath! Yer choice, traitor~!”

“Oh, don’t be such a hypocrite, Douglas,” another voice joined in.

Everyone froze before shifting focus to the owner of that synthetic tone. Another Vice Lord made his appearance, walking down the path. In contrast to the supernatural elements each of them possessed, this demon was completely cybernetic in nature. No visible flesh was seen under his dark cloak, which was highlighted with tron lines that shimmered vermillion. Under his hood was an avian visage, giving him the appearance of a plague doctor, orange vizors glowing through the mask sockets. His tail dragged behind him, a metal claw attached on the tip before lifting up as he stood still, arms folded behind his back.

“None of us are truly loyal to the Burning King.”

“Varys!” Doppia shuddered. Of all the Vice Lords not named the Burning King, she found him the most intimidating. She could handle Alma’s cunning insults or Douglas’ depraved demeanor. They, at least, held a form of twisted passion. But with Varys? There was zero emotional understanding. Just cold, calculated logic.

“Well, now,” Douglas chuckled. “Look's like we got ourselves a full Vice Lord party!”

“Ah thought ye were supposed tae remain in Pathos, mechanizing our forces,” Alma recalled.

“I was,” the cyber demon confirmed. “But I’ve been keeping an eye on things while I worked. Needless to say, I’m quite disappointed in the decisions you’ve made, Doppia.” Varys shifted his attention to the mare, who bit her lip while backing away.

“S-so, I might have slipped up in losing the Crystal Heart! L-like I was saying, I’ll-HAAGHK!?!”

Doppia gasped when cold steel clamped around her throat. The mechanical Vice Lord lifted her up with his tail while the others watched.

“I was not referring to your mission,” Varys corrected. “That can be salvaged. What can’t be reforged are the bonds you so carelessly severed!”

“Gaak!! Y-you mean Shadow Scythe and Zeloph!?” Doppia choked, struggling to breathe.

“Ah mean, he’s has a point,” the kelpie agreed. “From what A’ve heard, both have fantastic Onoma’s that would have aided in our cause.”

“They would have certainly been more useful than ye,” the Baobhan Sith nodded.

“Zeloph especially,” he continued. “His biology and unique presence in this world match my own. I don’t think you comprehend how sorely you screwed up. I needed the demi-human for my plans!” His grip slowly coiled harder, threatening to crush her windpipe. “But in greed, you not only threw away your greatest chance of succession. You defiled it! Our freedom from the Burning King depends on this mission!”

His tail snapped open, dropping Doppia onto the ground where she coughed and rubbed at her bruised neck. Then, Varys turned his attention to Alma and Douglas.

“Need I remind you that our goals and desires mean nothing in the grand scheme of things? We all live in fear under the Burning King. His mark binds us to a fate of eternal anguish.” He showcased the scorched symbol on his wrist. Hesitantly, the others did the same, Doppia cringing at the sight of her singed mark. It was the only thing that physically transferred during her spell.

“In the end, we can only herald the inevitable. The Omega Prophecy will be fulfilled. And our chains will finally be broken.”

Varys looked down at the charcoal mare. “So let this be your final warning, Doppia. Stick. To. The plan. I don’t need to go into details of what happens if you fail.”

Summoning a fiery portal, the cyber demon left his comrades and returned to his post.

“Gagh! Ah hate that guy,” Douglas growled. “Thinks he can boss us 'round just because he has th' Burning King’s favor!”

“He’s not even a true Vice Lord,” Alma agreed bitterly. “Shows up in Pathos wit'out explanation an' starts runnin' experiments usin' my servants an' concubines! One day, A’ll rip him apart, see if anythin' still bleeds…”

“Pha! Always plottin' revenge,” the kelpie snickered before making his way back into the river. “First thing A’m doin' when th' world burns over is cause a massive flood. Take everyone down with me. Let me know when you decide ye wanna sink with me~.” With that, Douglas dove underwater and swam away.

“Ugh! Disgusting,” the vampiress muttered before casting a glance at Doppia, who appeared to be seething in silence. “Well, congratulations! Ye got everyone’s attention, just like ye wanted. Personally, Ah can’t wait tae see how ye royally fuck this up! It’ll be just the kick Ah need before th' End ov Days. Good luck, Doppia~!”

The Vice Lord shifted into her raven form and flew away into the night, cronking mockingly at the dancer’s expense. Slowly, Doppia rose to her feet, growls escaping her clenched teeth. Once again, her fellow Vice Lords unceremoniously dismissed her accomplishments. Undermined her for her pitiful nature. So what if she had to take from others in order to survive?

With each identity and body she took, she became stronger! And unlike Cerise, she had no qualms about the morality of her entrancement ability. Thus, she could wield it to its full extent.

“You will pay…” Doppia promised darkly, storming off into the Everfree forest, hatred, and determination on her mind. “... You will all pay!!” She promised darkly.

Once she found the library and assimilated Abadonna’s prowess, she would overthrow the Burning King and claim his might as her own.

Through the End of Days, she would remake the entire multiverse in her image.