Everywhere and Nowhere

The artificial sun hovered over a field of lush vegetation, covering the area where the eldritch manor laid dormant. The beast still suffered from the climactic battle, barely maintaining the integrity of the outer shell's more benevolent appearance. Its return to form was partially due to Bellatrix's miraculous recovery, despite having her heart torn out by the Burning King.

The living room was set up as an infirmary, where the rest of Beatrix Belladonna’s friends rested in bandages. With her arm wrapped around Lady Ewe, the witch hurried down in a plain white gown. The twins, Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse, had been busy giving medicine and balms to help ease their soreness. Rheneas was assisting them as a way to make up for her inability to participate during the battle. Cerise had her entire midsection patched up, and her husband, Midnight, wore an arm cast. Spotting Beatrix, they offered a smile, the charcoal dancer rising up to hug her friend.

“How are you guys holding up?” The violet mare asked.

“Middy and I are fine,” assured Cerise, who passed a sad glance to Moonlight. The bat mare looked miserable, staring at the reflection of her bandaged back where two small nubs protruded. “She’s taking things a lot harder, understandably...”

The blue pegasus gently patted her shoulder. She gave a heavy sigh and leaned her head against his shoulder in response.

“Back home, they say that when you go to war, you have to accept that some part of you will be lost somehow,” Midnight said, staring at the floorboards. “I never really understood what that meant. Until now…”

“Aye, that’s th' price ov violence,” said Dion, who laid in a bed opposite of them. His head and shoulder were covered up in gauze. “Doesn’t matter how strong or weak ye are. Someone always gets hurt. But what matters is how ye pick yerself up afterward.” Soft crimson eyes rested on Moonlight, hopeful she would come around in time.

“Even if one can recover, the scars will always be there,” Penumbra grumbled, gazing into where his left hand used to be. Now just a nub underneath the bandages. “A lost limb is a lost limb.”

“But what about Zeloph?” Beatrix questioned with pursed lips. “I thought he was able to fix any injury like a departed arm or wing!”

“He’s tired,” Shadow Scythe spoke up, who sat on the edge of her bed, wearing nothing but a hospital gown. “But the Burning King’s damage appears too abrasive to undo, even with his miracle. It’s taking all his efforts just to restore Bellatrix’s heart.”

“Plus, I advised against it,” the white pegasus proclaimed. “I consider my arm proper punishment for the loss of my men. I told them it was a suicide mission, that if the Burning King and his court were allowed to run loose, every universe would perish. No, Bellatrix needs far more help than I. It would be dishonorable to their sacrifice…”

“I suppose that’s true.” The witch frowned. “Speaking of which, where is my sister?

“Follow us,” the maids answered as they led Beatrix towards a private curtain. Inside, Bellatrix laid bare while the demi-human, who was once more a cherub, focused his shimmering energy in sealing up the crater in her chest. Her heartbeat steadily, though veins and arteries struggled to realign and stay attached.

Beatrix knelt down while wrapping her hand around the red-skinned succubus. “How do you feel?”

“Terrible,” Bellatrix rasped and coughed, clearing her throat. “But I'll live.”

The twins brought her a new tray of food and water, carefully pouring the cup’s contents into her mouth. Sighing, she rewarded their doting with a smile while resting her head back. “How about you? After all, that's happened...”

“Like you, I’ll be fine,” the witch affirmed with a wink. “I’m just glad everyone else is going to survive.”

“Yes, we were very fortunate for that.” The she-devil opened her eyes, staring at the ceiling. “If you hadn’t made such wonderful friends and allies to call upon, that could have been the end of us all. I summoned everyone I could on short notice. Honestly, I'm a little envious. I've never been able to make friends easily.”

“That makes two of us,” Zeloph quipped before giving her heart a gentle message, which made Bellatrix groan and quiver a bit. “I never would have thought being dragged in by you would be the best decision I ever made. So… thank you for being my friend.”

“Not a problem, Zell,” Beatrix nodded before scooping him into a tight hug, purposefully pressing her breasts into his back. “Though it's not too late for us to become friends with benefits~!”

“Mmm~! He’s very gifted with those hands,” the succubus agreed with a mewl, smirking slyly. “Are you certain we can’t convince you to experiment with an open relationship?”

The cherub squirmed in the witch’s embrace before replying, “Oh no, I’ve sworn off ever getting intimate with you again. You’re both too extra for my taste!”

Both sisters tittered but nonetheless respected his sentiments.

Some time passed until everyone was well enough to stand on their own. Waiting in the foyer were Lord Grimmwald and Iclyn, who sought an audience with Beatrix before returning home. The allies shuffled into groups so as not to crowd the whole room.

Shadow Scythe and Zeloph hung by the stone buttress hand in hand, with Moxxi fluttering down to sit beside her brother. Midnight, Cerise, Moonlight, Rheneas, and Penumbra gathered to the left of the stairs, while Dion and the twins occupied the right. And once Beatrix, Oona, and Bellatrix took the couch, Brutus stood up from his seat.

“Let me be the first to say how grateful I am to see you alive,” the warden began saying. “Despite the tremendous casualties, the End of Days was prevented due to your combined efforts. So on behalf of Queen Tatyana and Canterlot, I’d like to personally thank you and your friends, Miss Belladonna. We owe you a great debt.”

Beatrix shook her head and replied, “I wouldn’t be standing here if not for these incredible people. From my closest friends to my greatest adversaries, the fact that we stood united against the Burning King and won is in itself a miracle! I owe these guys a ton!”

She opened her arms to them as the hearth burned in the background, and they returned the embrace in a group hug. Even Shadow Scythe and Zeloph joined, much to her surprise.

“Hey, don’t I get a celebratory group hug?” A high-pitched voice called out.

Beatrix’s eyes snapped open before calling, “Mini-Trix?!”

“As if that wretched fiend could ever keep me down,” chirped her little double who joined in on the circle. “Might have taken me a while to reform, but I’m back and better than ever~!”

“You really pulled through when we needed you, little… me?” The witch looked closer and realized her cartoonish tulpa had aged up a bit, her rubber hose body showing more curvy lines. Not only that, her coat looked grayer, and tiny pixie wings fluttered from her back. “What’s with the Tinkerbell glow-up?”

Mini-Trix gave herself a once over before blushing slightly, confessing, “Well, not all of me survived that infernal monster. Originally, I was made from the innocence you and Shadow Scythe once shared. But during that moment, I felt a greater desire resonate, and that helped me… ‘mature.’”

She pointed towards Moxxi and Zell, who, at the time, learned from Varys that more of their kind existed. And while the imp’s face lit up with delight, the cherub’s face fell when realizing the implications. “... oh no.”

“Ooooh yes~!” Moxxi squeezed, pulling Mini-Trix into her arms for a tight hug. “I much prefer this look on ya, love. Na I don’t 'ave ter deal wif that bloody censor shit, wite?”

“I-I guess so,” the tulpa considered. “Always wanted to know what all those words meant.”

“Smashin’~!” The imp tittered excitedly. “Wot say ya, brother? Fin' we can pass 'er off as our own~?”

This earned an icy glare from Shadow Scythe, who defensively said, “... I don’t like what you’re implying, imp!”

“Waaat? It’s not loike we went and shagged behind your back, edgie… though, not gonna lie, that sounds super 'ot~!”

“Ana!!” Zeloph snapped, face redder than a tomato. “Enough with this nonsense!”

His statement made Mini-Trix pout teasingly. “But I thought you’d be happy having a daughter figure in your life.”

“Yeah,” Moxxi quipped while pinching the tulpa’s cheeks. “'re ya really garn ter look at this face and say nah? C'mon, daddy. Lighten’ up~!”

Zeloph fumed at his sibling before muttering. “Don’t. Ever. Call me that again!”

The rest of the room (except for Shadow Scythe and Iclyn) laughed with amusement at the fallen angel’s expense. Oona cleared her throat to call attention. “Ahem! Before we continue wit our discussion, may Ah ask what became ov Suela?”

“The selkie has returned home with her husband, Trom,” affirmed the minotaur. “But she has entrusted me with the remnants of Storbjorn and Gaoth. Rest assured, I will find them a special resting place.”

Dion said, “Aye, that’s good!”

“I also gathered and refused the Crystal Heart pieces,” noted Iclyn, who held up the shimmering shard. “I’ll return it to King Ambros and Queen Radiant on my way through the Crystal Empire.”

“Send my regards,” Beatrix requested with a wide smile. “Tell them we hope to visit again soon!”

“Yeah,” Cerise beamed wide as she clung to her husband and herd mate. “I want to know more about what my father is like there!”

Midnight nodded and said, “Hopefully, next time, we'll be able to take it a little easier! We've all earned it!”

“That does sound inviting,” murmured Moonlight, who mentally battled against the burden of losing her wings. The blue pegasus pulled her closer into his wingspan, doing his best to reassure her.

Cerise turned her head towards the jade crystal pegasus, asking, “What about you, Rhenny? Going to head home now that you’re free?”

The ballerina shook her head, replying, “I don’t have anywhere to return to. I think, for the time being, I’d like to stay with you… if you’ll allow my company?” She cast a shy glance to Cerise and her husband, aware that Doppia had done many unforgivable things with her body.

Her friend gave a reassuring smile before pulling her into a hug. “Of course! You’re more than welcome to join us!”

Rheneas submitted to the charcoal dancer’s warmth and embraced her tightly.

“Lily’s going to kill me when I get home,” Penumbra muttered. “Especially since I told her to stay behind. Going to be a very ‘fun’ explanation on how I lost a whole arm…”

“Ah think we could all use a vacation,” Dion weighed in, his arms secured around the crystal twins' ample hips. “Ah know Ah talked a big game about headin' home tae claim mah father’s mantle, but after goin' through literal hell, a month just tae unwind will dae me wonders!”

“We can think of other ways to help you unwind, sir Dion~!” Wet Nurse cooed, unable to resist tracing her fingers over his sore musculature.

Her twin giggled while pressing her soft flesh against his side. "Especially now that we're half succubi!"

It was Grimmwald’s turn to clear his throat. “That’s all fine and dandy, but I would like to discuss the future while I’m here.” His tunsen gaze fell upon Oona’s slightly large belly. “Specifically, the future for the Child of Lightendark.”

“W-well, we plan tae raise Abby together,” the azure sheep reassured, her hand clasping around Beatrix’s. “While A’m vouchin' for a subtle life, no doubt she’ll yearn fur adventures like-”

“Oh, will you stop beating around the bush already!?” Iclyn coldly interrupted. “Or do I have to remind everyone who helped put Abadonna in your womb?”

A deafening tension hung in the air, where only the ticking of an old grandfather clock was audible. Uneasily, Brutus added, “She’s right. Conspiring with the Nightmare Stag was an extremely unwise decision.”

“Oh, lay off it!” Beatrix snapped. “Sure, Omen’s a little shady, but look how it turned out? If not for him, Abby wouldn’t have survived fulfilling that dreadful prophecy!”

The bull-man shook his head. “You don’t understand what he's capable of, Belladonna.”

Oona furrowed her brows. “An' you do?”

Taking a heavy sigh, Grimmwald begrudgingly admitted, “We share… a bit of tainted history, he and I. He wasn’t always a ghastly apparition that stalked the dreams of many. He was a charming fellow, one of the first to partake in my studies when creating the Grimm.”

“But make no mistake,” Iclyn weighed in. “He was always a monster. All wendigos are.”

“Wendigos? You mean those frozen deer creatures that attacked us before the Crystal Empire?” Midnight asked, recalling that deadly encounter.

The snow doe’s eyes narrowed, fist-clenching tightly. “Those stragglers must have followed me when I arrived at the borders…”

Oona reached for her former flame, asking, “What dae ye mean ‘followed you’?”

Iclyn softened her glare before confessing, “The deighdyr has been plagued by a mysterious illness for many years. We call it ‘the Wendigo’s curse,’ named after the tribe who gave into gluttonous temptations during harsh blizzards. I have reason to suspect the Nightmare Stag is involved somehow, given he's a descendant from the first deserters.”

Beatrix fell silent, wanting to deny such accusations. But given how little she actually knew about Omen and the supposed timeline of events shared from the warden and deighdyr, it was hard to stand against the notion.

Sensing this turmoil, Iclyn approached the witch and dream faun. “I know you think I’m just some bitter ex, jealous of the life you two share. And maybe I am. But I still care for your well-being despite your choices.”

She gripped Lady Ewe’s shoulder tightly, trying hard not to lose her temper. “But this… was such a bad decision, you can’t begin to imagine the consequences! Association with any wendigo is a violation of our laws. One that could breach the peace treaty the deighdyr and Jakobson clan have shared since the downfall of your uncle! How could you be so careless, Oona!? Blindly giving away your body to someone whose hunger for flesh and fear is boundless! Just to appease your lover!?”

“Ah wasn’t goin' tae lose th' Child ov Lightendark, Iclyn!” The dream shaman fiercely protested. “Ah was aware ov th' consequences when Omen approached me. Ye have every right tae be upset wit me. This isn’t th' first time A’ve let ye down…”

“And it seems it won’t be the last,” she said with scorn.

“But regardless, Beatrix an' I now share th' responsibility ov being Abadonna’s mother. An' Ah will make sure she doesn’t grow up wit our mistakes! You have mah word.”

“And how active of a role will you allow the ‘father’ to play?” Brutus interjected with a skeptical expression.

The wayward witch pursed her lips as she stepped in. “As far as I know, Omen has every right to be with Abadonna. And even if he’s as evil as you claim, what’s one more baddie for us to take down? We faced the Burning King’s and survived his onslaught!”

“Barely,” corrected Shadow Scythe, who shyly held the cherub’s warm hand.

“Nor have we defeated every foe we’ve come across,” Zeloph added while squeezing tenderly. “Varys and that other Vice Lord remain at large…”

“Aye,” nodded Dion. “Th' kelpie will be a problem back home now that they no longer serve th' Burnin' King.”

Moxxi cupped her chin in thought. “Wait, wot became of that vampire chick?”

“Eaten by the mansion,” Bellatrix reaffirmed. “It’s how the creature is repairing itself while I recover.”

“Ahh! Makes sense.”

“Alright, alright!!” Beatrix cut in, sighing with frustration. “So there’s a couple of loose ends we need to deal with. We'll tackle them! My life has always been on the line, no matter where I go. But that hasn't slowed me down one bit!”

“Yeah, we’ll worry about it later!” Cerise joined in. “Can’t we take some respite over the fact that we’re alive?!”

Bellatrix also came to her sister's defense, insisting, “When the time comes, we’ll be ready to face whatever obstacle that stands before us. “But for now, the princess is right. We deserve a break after that grueling battle with the Burning King.”

The rest of them voiced their agreement in unison. And while Iclyn didn’t appear convinced, Grimmwald had come to appreciate the determination Beatrix and her group of friends showed. With a chuckle, he responded, “You never make things easy for yourself, do you?”

“Even after saving the multiverse, I can never feel like settling down,” replied the violet unicorn, smiling slightly. “Too many places to see, and tons of people to meet! Even if I retire, I want my little Abby to see all there is to explore!”

“Then I’ll trust her future is in capable hands,” concluded the bull-man, who offered his hand out to Beatrix. After she shook it, he asked, “Now, if you mind, I’ll be taking my leave.”

“Oh, of course!” The witch nodded, replenishing enough magic to open a portal outside the mansion’s entrance.

Grinning widely, Grimmwald made his way over before turning back to the witch. “Come visit us soon when you can! I’m sure Flurry Heart will want to learn more about you.”

“Tell her she won’t have to wait long,” she replied with a wink, watching the minotaur disappear through the spiraling blue oval. Once he sealed the rift, the witch’s attention returned to Iclyn, who she cautiously approached. “I don't want there to be any bad blood between us, Iclyn. I know you're just looking out for Oona. I’m not blind. I’ve made some awful mistakes that have left many scarred. But that doesn’t mean we can’t be friends, does it?”

Once more, she extended her hand towards the icy doe, who deeply considered accepting it. But with narrowed eyes, she pushed it away and responded, “Be lucky that I don’t consider you anything less than an ally!”

“Yeesh, and I thought ya were stubborn,” Moxxi whispered to Shadow Scythe, who scrunched her snout.

Iclyn walked towards one dark hallway that would lead to the door connecting to the Crystal Empire. She looked over her shoulder to stare at Oona, whose honey-brown eyes wetted. “We’ll be in touch,” she assured her former flame. “But don’t cry to me when you realize you’ve given birth to a little monster…”

It took all her effort for Lady Ewe not to break down at that comment, watching the deighdyr leave. Sensing her partner’s distress, Beatrix wrapped her arms around the trembling sheep and whispered insistently, “That’s never going to happen! We’ll make sure of that.”

Oona gave a nod while resting her head on the witch’s shoulder. But inside her mind, she began to doubt her decision. Not helping was that Omen had yet to appear to her in the dreamscape. But she could sense his presence and knew that he was somewhere close. Watching.

Heavy steel doors were forcibly opened as daylight poured through the abandoned facility. How long had it been since Varys was last here? Years? Decades even? Perhaps more time than he realized. Nonetheless, the newly made demi-human stepped inside before shutting the doors behind him.

The interior of the empty factory was layered with dust and cobwebs, cogs and gears riddled with age and lack of use. Mechanical arms and other devices laid dormant. Not even the overhead lamps turned on upon flipping a switch multiple times. Realizing this place was deprived of power, Varys leaped down the steel platform into the lower levels. Unfurling his wings, he glided past iron pillars and pipelines until landing right in front of what he was looking for. The room that led to the generator.

He jiggled the knob a couple times before activating his circular saw to cut the obstacle right off its hinges. It was too dark to see. So the mechanical plague doctor turned on high beam lights from his visors to help scan the room. Inside, many inactive super computer drives and switches held up the walls, collecting more dirt.

But eventually, Varys found the six diesel generators, with their motor shape, wheels, large tubes, and dusty air conditioners. And attached to the wall was the killswitch that connected them all. He flipped it, yet nothing happened. He tried again, but the result remained the same.

“Hmm.”

It appeared a different method was in order if Varys wanted to get this place up and running again. So he charged his palms with electrical energy and clutched the killswitch in place while volts traveled through the wires. Now the generators began to whirl with life, with spinning wheels and power emanating from their grids.

Small lights along the computer drives flickered on, and the room became red under the overhead lamp. A warning buzz echoed from outside, drawing the former Vice Lord out of the room.

Flying back to the walkway, Varys was greeted by the sight of his industrial facility once more in motion. Gears turned. Pistons pumped. Conveyor belts transporting cargo while the robotic arms lifted and placed them aside. All accompanied by the rhythmic rumbling of machinery. The cyber demon felt tranquility at last.

He proceeded towards the center of the platform, where his primary computer station still resided. Composed with giant monitors, multiple keyboards, and steel attachments, Varys placed his hand over the sphere, quickly identifying his handprint.

The screens blipped up, showcasing many data files and boot-ups. A digitized voice spoke through speakerphones. “Reboot process: complete. Status: online and fully functional. Authorization: confirmed. Welcome home. Master: Varys.”

“Good to be home, I.V.O,” the cyber demon nodded. “There is much work to be done.”

“Confirmation: required. What are my directives?”

“First, I want a status report. Tell me what still functions and what needs to be repaired.”

“Acknowledged,” the computer beeped before quickly analyzing everything with the factory before compiling the results on its left screen. “Factory inner workings; obsolete. Recommendation; upgrade to steel arms, computer motherboards, and interior decorating. Replace all working automatons.”

Varys noted that the robots he built struggled to walk properly, given the rust that corroded their limbs. “Nothing my new powers can’t accomplish. Certainly will save me time and resources.”

“Transdimensional Space Porter: fully charged and ready for next jump.”

“Excellent! And what of my many satellites scattered across the multiverse?”

At the request, I.V.O opened a hatch outside the factory that pushed a large object underneath. The contraption spiraled into a large dish that sent a signal to test the distance. And, to his relief, more screens flickered to life, showing different parts of space.

“Communication Satellites; active.”

“Good. I’ll need to send a commission to my colleges for any progress regarding my technology. But first, I’d like you to scan this.”

Varys carefully pulled off a strand of bright blue hair that stuck to his metal claw. An aperture briefly beamed an analytic laser before pulling up a depiction of Zeloph.

“Yes. Now, do a widespread search for anything that matches his genetic coding.”

“Acknowledged,” said the A.I, who sent another digital signal that traveled to the other correspondent satellites. After a few minutes, three locations blipped onto the monitor. One revealed the asteroid where the manor was resting with two dots, likely being Zeloph and his half-sister, Ana.

Another location with two dots was the futuristic world Varys had infiltrated, much to his surprise. He scratched his jaw in thought, saying, “Fascinating! So there were Demi-humans right under my nose? Shame I can’t return to that planet thanks to Oona’s banishment spell. But I suspect Zeloph will investigate once he discovers the truth. Hmm…”

His attention turned to the space that contained only a single dot, which also looked familiar. “I.V.O, pull up the stationary spy drone located in that section.”

“Acknowledged.”

The screen frizzled into white noise until pulling up a new area. The camera feed was choppy due to how far away this particular planet was, but the cyber demon could make out five figures in a room. One of which looked to be a skeletal horse in tattered robes.

“Ahhh! What perfect timing,” chuckled Varys, who recalled providing this specter with his aid during the assembly of his group. “It appears Mortis and his underlings are preparing their assault.”

“Proposition: shall we assist them with the annihilation of Shadow Scythe?”

The mechanical plague doctor shook his head. “Negative. Send a droid in my stead. I want to resume operations here immediately. After I’ve patched this place up, we will proceed where we left off. It's time to recalibrate PROJECT: Nephilim.”

“Affirmative. Assembly protocol: engaged. Pulling up all saved files for PROJECT: Nephilim.”

His visors took in the familiar documents and blueprints of his grand design, a smile twisting behind his beak-like mask. Finally, his plans for a shining new future would come to fruition. And nothing would stand in his way!

𝕋𝕙𝕣𝕖𝕖 𝔻𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕃𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕣...

“Holy cow!”

Flurry Heart exclaimed as she leaned into her palms. The little ruler listened to her ‘half-sister’ retell their triumph over the Burning King while they had lunch at a table outside the castle. “That sounds so mortifying! I don’t get how you can handle all that pressure!”

“Eh, you get used to it,” Beatrix shrugged before taking a sip from her teacup. “I’ve come to accept that my life is a continuous spiral of danger no matter where I travel. Everyone wants a piece of me, for better or worse~!”

“Well, at least you’ll be able to settle down once the baby comes, right?”

The witch tittered. “That’s the plan! Though given my track record, I'm sure something will go wrong. But speaking of plans, I heard you’re going to be running Canterlot for a little while!”

“O-only until Tatyana has recovered enough,” insisted the alicorn princess, whose cheeks flustered. “I’m still mastering the basics, so my magic isn’t sufficient to defend the kingdom yet.”

“Just keep practicing, and it will be,” Beatrix said encouragingly. “That’s all it takes!”

Flurry looked down at herself and frowned. “But what if I turn out like my parents a-and-”

“Hey!” The violet unicorn placed her cup down. “Listen to me. Don’t you ever compare yourself to those monsters! You are nothing like them.”

It was no secret that Shining Armor and Cadence were horrible ponies, thanks to the trauma of the caribou war. Flurry Heart knew about this when King Ambros escorted her to the safety of Canterlot. But even though they were beyond saving (especially since they were now dead), a part of her still held onto the slimmest possibility of redemption.

“Y-you’re right,” Flurry Heart sighed, wearing a sad smile. “I shouldn’t let them weigh me down. I have to be better for my people!”

Beatrix pulled her into a tight hug, squeezing her head into her bust. “That’s the attitude!”

The pairing shared a giggle until the ruffling of the older mare’s cape pulled their attention. From its folds popped out Mini-Trix, who did a tumble and landed on her feet, hands, and snout upraised. “Tada~!”

Instead of annoyance, Beatrix greeted her cartoony tulpa with, “Nice little entrance there, mini-me.”

“Ooh! This must be Mini-Trix,” said Flurry, who clapped her hands together. “Beatrix has told me much about you.”

“Did she tell ya that if it weren’t for me, she and the gang would have lost to that nasty Burning King?” The miniature mare snickered, causing Beatrix to roll her eyes. Mini-Trix took the alicorn’s hand into a shake, saying, “Nice to meet ‘ya!”

“Hehe! I also heard you were a vital part in helping her duel the Sovereign Witch,” Flurry added.

“You betcha!”

“Oh, please,” Beatrix playfully denied, arms folding into her chest. “She was more of a distraction than anything. Besides which, no one actually won that bout thanks to Tatyana going berserker after absorbing her Grimm!”

“Well, the next time you and her fight, I’ll stay out of it. Then we’ll see how much you actually need me,” boasted Mini-Trix, who held her hips and let out a raspberry.

“Still so childish,” groaned the witch, who rubbed at her chin in thought. “Though now that I know what she’s capable of, I wouldn’t mind having a rematch…”

“That won’t be happening for a long while, unfortunately,” Grimmwald’s voice boomed as he overheard their conversation. “Queen Tatyana has only recently awakened from her slumber.”

“Right,” Beatrix said, rubbing the back of her neck sheepishly. “Sorry that Oona almost put her in a coma.”

“Heh! Don’t be,” the bull-man snorted. “She clearly wasn’t ready to handle such power. Hopefully, her ‘nap’ will serve as a firm reminder that no amount of magic is easily conquered.”

The violet unicorn and pink alicorn nodded in agreement, aware of how wickedly cruel the royal monarch had been.

“That being said, I do wonder what Canterlot would look like if you took up the throne,” pondered Brutus.

“M-me!?” Asked Beatrix skeptically.

“By defeating Tatyana, you could inherit her mantle as the Sovereign Witch. And you certainly possess the magic to ensure the kingdom’s safety. While some may still hold a grudge against you, I’ve talked with others who speak nothing but praise!”

“Yeah!” Flurry encouraged. “A-and then you and I could hang out more often!”

Beatrix couldn’t deny that the idea wasn’t an appealing one. Lots of potentials came with the responsibility of becoming a queen. More space to raise Abby and Oona wouldn’t be far from her homeland. Plus, she knew more was waiting to be discovered in this world.

But the wayward witch shook her head. “As nice as that sounds, I don’t think I'm exactly ‘queen’ material. I’ve already got a lot on my plate. Right now, I just want to be with my lover and daughter.”

“Not to worry,” said Grimmwald, who bowed his head. “Just know that the option will always be available to you, regardless of who sits on the throne.” Flurry, while holding a look of disappointment, nodded as well.

“Ooh! We better get going,” Mini-Trix exclaimed. “We’re expecting a lot of guests back at the manor. Let’s move, Bea!”

The tulpa vanished in a poof of colored smoke, and a broomstick hovered where she stood. After a moment's hesitation, Beatrix straddled the broom before it instantly took off.

“Whaaaaaaaaaaa!!” She wailed, clinging to the shaft for dear life as she watched Brutus and Flurry Heart grow smaller and smaller the higher they went, waving goodbye. Managing to regain control, Beatrix properly sat her flank along with the broom, her legs curled over. She stirred it towards the Crystal Empire and, after a while, began to feel giddy about sailing over the wondrous land of Equestria.

It wasn't unlike when she and the Flurry she knew lost themselves in a series of childish misadventures before their battle with the Cult of the Nemesis had brought any innocence they had to an end. She shook the darker parts of those memories away, focused on returning to her home with an optimistic smile.

Zipping through the dungeon door, Beatrix arrived to find the entire interior decorated with banners in celebration of Lady Ewe's pregnancy and their recent victory. Those who decided not to return home helped throw the private party alongside some old friends and family. The manor was filled with life and bustle with activity, which spilled outside into the serene forestation beyond.

Much like they had at the wedding, Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse rushed about to prepare a wide variety of succulent foods while ensuring everyone was comfortable. The pair changed their costumes for the occasion, dressed like bunny girls complete with high-cut leotards, silk stockings beneath, heels, and hairbands with false ears since the half-succubi decided to serve as eye candy for their guests.

Bellatrix watched the proceedings, laying her body across the couch while she sipped at a cup of wine. A form-fitting black dress adorned her red skin, the skirt barely hiding her thighs.

She winced on occasion, as the bandages needed to be changed by the hour, fearful that she and the manor would never fully heal from the Burning King’s wrath. That there was a risk, she would be crippled for the rest of her unnatural lifespan. She shook such dark thoughts away, visibly troubled.

Her hands shook, barely able to hold onto her cup. Beatrix closed a hand over hers with a pained smile, her gratitude unnecessary to be spoken, as, without her sister's aid, they never would have been able to rescue Abadonna.

She held it in until her sister moved on, Bellatrix's cheeks covered in silent tears. “It was worth it,” she murmured.

“Blimey wite it is,” spoke Moxxi, who fluttered closer to her, wearing her sparkly golden gown from the wedding. “The kid’s comin', the Burnin' king’s gone, and we get ter live it up for once! Don’t let that hole in your chest weigh ya daahhhn, Love! now’s a fine nickle and dime ter celebrate!”

“I do apologize for the price you paid,” offered Zeloph, who leaned down on the other end. He wore a bright white tuxedo with a purple undershirt and tie. “I wish there was more I could do to help you heal.”

She turned her head aside, giving him a small smile. “...thank you. I wouldn't have expected sympathy from you, especially after our history. Though don’t think you’re off the hook yet. There's always a risk you and Shadow Scythe will revert back to your old ways. I know the temptation, so I hope you both prove me wrong.”

“Not gonna 'appen,” proclaimed Moxxi, who ruffled her brother’s head before he lightly brushed her off. “I’ll make sure they're on their best behavior~!”

“Oh, like you’re one to talk,” he scoffed at his sibling before brushing away a tear from Bellatrix's cheek. “Either way, we both owe you much for your hospitality.”

She shrugged it off. “I'm not the type to collect. I prefer to stay independent,” she explained with a flick of her spaded tail. “I'll be fine. I'm sure the twins will swing around to dote on me some more~.”

“Yea, go on! Play wif the boys,” Moxxi encouraged, pointing towards the outside where Dion, Midnight, and Penumbra sparred. She gave him a wink and said, “I’ve got 'er covered.”

He smiled and replied, “Anytime you need to talk, I'm here.” He walked towards his comrades, who greeted him with masculine handshakes.

Just then, a muffled shriek rumbled through the mansion walls. And, while partygoers were too busy grooving to the music, Moxxi picked up on the sound. “That’s been garn on nearly aw day! Ya sure the manor’s doin alwigh'?”

“Erm, yeah, I’m sure,” Bellatrix coughed, rising from her seat and handing the imp her drink. “The creature’s just anxious about having a bunch of people here during its recovery. And frankly, so am I. Excuse me for a moment.”

Despite still feeling woozy, she walked briskly towards the basement.

The lesser demoness felt something wasn’t right and considered following the succubus. But then a new song played that got her head bobbing and shoulders shimming. “Ooh~! This is me peanut butter and jam!!”

Feral howls and groans continued to echo within a dark cell, the rustling of chains scraping along the concrete floor. The inhabitant slammed against the stone wall until she picked up footsteps. Equipped with a candle, Bellatrix approached the prison hold where its light revealed the Baobhan Sith. Iron shackles bound her arms behind her back. Her scarlet eyes leered at the red-skinned woman with scornful hunger.

“I thought I told you to stay quiet,” the she-devil said with an unamused glare.

A playful titter croaked out from Alma as she leaned her voluptuous frame against the bars. “Aw, what’s th' matter? Afraid yer sister or her little friends will come down an' discover me?”

“Yes,” she admitted frankly. “And unless you want me to remove your tongue, you’ll keep your mouth shut!”

“Then FUCKIN' FEED ME!!” The vampiress snapped, baring her fangs. “It’s bad enough Ah remain a prisoner. In a much dingier dungeon, no less. Th' least ye can dae is provide me wit sustenance!”

“I offered you my blood, and you adamantly refused!”

“Dae Ah look like those wannabe cocksuckers ye read in adolescent fiction?” spatted Alma, who turned away. “A’m a predator! An' every predator has its own preferred diet. Fur me, it's th' blood ov th' unfaithful. Blood from a liar just leaves a bad tinge in mah mouth.”

Bellatrix's frown deepened. It's not like she wanted to keep the Baobhan Sith’s status a secret from her sister and friends. But she couldn’t trust they would understand why she spared her from inescapable death. With a wry sigh, she once more offered her wrist. “Listen. I’ll get you what you need once I have regained enough strength. But for now, I ask you to bear with feeding off my blood to survive.”

She looked back at the she-devil with a curious expression and asked, “Fur what purpose does mah survival give ye? Ah know ye didn't rescue me fur shits an' giggles. Sadism, maybe. But certainly not wit'out a cause.”

“You’re worked closely with Varys and the kelpie,” Bellatrix stated. “And I seem to recall you not having high opinions of either Vice Lord. Don’t you want to claim vengeance for them abandoning you?”

This made the Baobhan Sith laugh bitterly as she fully faced the she-devil again. “Ye can’t begin tae imagine how badly Ah want tae eviscerate those bastards~,” she said before sinking her teeth into Bellatrix’s wrist to suckle her essence, causing her to groan and coo from the mixing pleasure.

She stumbled away, rubbing her thumb over the bite mark as droplets oozed out. Hellish eyes looked towards the vampires smacking her lips, savoring her taste.

“It’s so strange,” Alma commented. “Ye’re th' only being Ah can’t bend tae mah will despite th' consumption ov yer essence. Maybe it’s because ye’re not a real succubus! Is this why ye’re sae hellbent on becomin' a devil queen? Tae validate yer existence~?”

“T-that’s none of your business!” hissed Bellatrix. “Naaagh! You didn’t have to drain so much!”

“Then next time, bring me a proper meal,” demanded the other demoness, who took her seat on the wooden bench. “Dae that, an' Ah might be a little more reasonable.”

Rising on her legs, she retrieved her candle and strained, “Just keep it down!” before making her way towards the exit.

“Ha! Good luck explainin' th' love bite!” Alma responded in spite. “Someone will find out eventually, Primadonna!”

On the sixth step, Bellatrix paused and returned to glare at those malicious eyes peering from the cell. “Yeah, they might. But even then, you’ll still be my prisoner!”

This shut the former Vice Lord up as no witty retort was made. Content, for the time being, Bellatrix proceeded back to the party. But she worried about keeping the Baobhan Sith at bay before her sister or comrades inevitably discovered her.

‘Ugh… how am I going to explain myself? Will they truly understand?’

No matter how much she wanted to deny it, Alma was as useful to her as she was beautiful. She didn't wish to see that go to waste. But should it prove impossible to make the monster serve her? Well, Bellatrix was sure the mansion would appreciate a morsel as delectable as the Baobhan Sith...

Outside the mansion, an audience gathered to witness the spectacle of aerial combat. Zeloph and Midnight danced around each other, flapping and batting their wings against each other. Feathers littered below, where Cerise, Rheneas, and Moonlight cheered for the blue soldier. Not too far off was Dion and another minotaur named Moon Hammer, who were busy forging something on an anvil.

“Your technique is quite impressive,” the blacksmith noted while making a metal piece into place with his tool.

“Ah learned only from th' best,” the ram chuckled, pausing to wipe away some sweat. “Father always told me that a weapon is only well crafted as its maker.”

“Quite right. You think this will cheer up the poor commander?”

He turned towards White Shadow Penumbra, who sat between his sister and wife, Lily Longsocks. The taller mare was tenderly stroking his sole arm while the commander held a grim expression. Before them laid vast beds of wildflowers left to mark their fallen comrades.

“Mmm, hard tae say,” Dion said. “A battle wit grief is a war wit'in itself. Th' best we can hope fur is that this gives him th' boost tae help overcome his sorrows.”

With a heavy sigh, Penumbra finally spoke. “I feel responsible. I asked them to come, and they felt a duty to follow me into hell itself.”

“We all know the risks,” reminded Lily, who rubbed his wings.

He shook his head. “Not like this. I wasn’t prepared to see my own men slaughtered like rabid dogs, only to rise from their immolated remains and give into that monster’s madness. They looked to me to guide them to victory. But all I accomplished was sending them to an early grave…”

Somewhere he dreaded the idea that the souls of his slain men were condemned to perpetual torment in Pathos, despite how many times Shadow Scythe assured him otherwise.

Cerise cast them a sad smile. “You can’t beat yourself up over what happened, brother. You are a noble leader. By defeating the Burning King, I’m sure your soldiers can rest peacefully.”

“He’ll get over it,” a confident voice called out, drawing their attention towards a gray unicorn with sandy locks. Over his expensive-looking suit were multicolored silk scarves, which helped enliven his smile. “The brother I know wouldn’t sulk after a crushing loss no more than a day~!”

“ASHEN DUNES!!” The charcoal princess exclaimed happily, leaping into his arms while twirling her around.

“Ah, it’s so good to see you again, sis,” the younger brother replied, clutching her tightly. “I’ve heard that you were body-snatched by a despicable fiend!”

“I was, though not without some benefits. I’m way more powerful now!” Doppia’s manipulation had helped unlock hidden abilities that were hers to wield freely, almost on the level of her father in his prime.

Ashen nodded, beaming with pride. “I can sense it!”

“We’re all very proud of you, sister,” added Penumbra, who embraced his siblings with his plumage.

“I've come a long way,” she replied with a giggle. “I finally feel like an equal with my friends!”

“You always were,” Rheneas chimed in, her dazzling white tutu with see-through silk straps catching their eyes. With a shy smile, she added, “I think doubt was the greater demon that trapped both of us into Doppia’s coils. But when you reached for me, I knew you were far more special than you believed. I am forever grateful for your help, Cerise.”

“Hey, don’t sell yourself short,” Cerise reassured, pulling the crystal pegasus into her arms. “You were just as vital in Doppia’s downfall as I was!”

“Ahh, yes! I’ve heard quite a bit about you as well,” Ashen Dunes gently cut in, taking Rheneas’ hand before bringing her knuckle to his lips. “May I have the pleasure of knowing your name?”

“Rhe-Rheneas, sir!” The crystal ballerina stammered, her cheeks coloring before performing a short curtsy.

“Rheneas…” He paused, closing his eyes. “Such a pretty name! Like the clear river leading towards a hidden oasis!”

“Oh, brother,” Cerise tittered teasingly, shaking her head. “You only just met her!”

Ashen shrugged. “What can I say! I am always drawn to whatever catches my eye. And you, my dear, are perhaps the most stunning crystal mare I’ve ever laid eyes upon~!”

Lily slapped her forehead while her husband groaned, “How any woman can buy into your cringe is beyond me…”

But the unicorn’s charms appeared to have worked as it earned a shy giggle from Rheneas, who took his arm.

“Come! Let us return to the party before we are missed!”

“Hold on there, laddie!” Dion called after as he and Moon Hammer carried what looked to be an armored sleeve made of golden crystals, complete with straps and a full gauntlet. “It'd be a wee bit awkward tae dance wit just one arm!”

Everyone gathered around the newly forged artifact, collectively ‘ooh’ing with praise.

“Outstanding craftsmanship,” complimented Ashen Dune.

“I don’t suppose you’d be able to make me a new set of wings?” Moonlight asked, a glimmer of hope in her yellow eyes.

Moon Hammer studied the batmare, looking over the bandages that concealed her bareback. “Wings are very tricky. If one part isn’t built correctly, everything falls apart. And you don’t want to be flying when that happens… Still, I think it’s doable! May take a few months once I’ve gathered the right materials.”

The possibility to fly again brought a smile to Moonlight’s snout. “Thank you so much! I really appreciate the effort!!”

Penumbra kept staring at their gift in astonishment, his fingers gliding over the details. His mouth was agape, no words able to form.

“Well, don’t just stand there, Penny,” Lily urged. “Try it on!”

With a nervous gulp, he opened his stylish cape to tug down the sleeve, leaving his nubby bicep bare. Dion and Moon Hammer helped put the golden arm in place, tightening the straps around his chest. Immediately, weight pulled the pale pegasus down. “I-it’s quite heavy!”

“Ahh! That’s because I haven’t put in the final touch,” chuckled the blacksmith, who pulled out a glowing sapphire stone and placed it into the stylized eye embedded in the pauldron. Energy surged through Penumbra’s arm, allowing him to raise the gauntlet from the ground.

His green eyes stared with amazement as he moved the sleeve around like his limb was still there, flexing and grasping his hand. Then, Penumbra turned to the minotaur and ram and proclaimed, “I-I don’t know what to say!”

Moon Hammer chuckled while folding his arms. “A simple 'thank you' will suffice.”

“Nothin' tae it, lad,” added Dion, who extended his fist out. The pale pegasus lightly pressed his gauntlet’s knuckles with a gracious smile.

Just then, Zeloph and Midnight fluttered down, the latter inhaling large gulps of air. A throbbing strain ran through his entire wingspan. “Damn! I didn’t know wings could hit so hard.”

“Helps that mine aren’t entirely corporal,” the demi-human stated while ruffling his brilliant plumage. “While your wings can cause major damage, due to their size, they’re quite taxing in stamina and weight. You need to choose your battles more carefully; otherwise, you’ll be tuckered out too soon.”

“That’s easy for you to say, considering you have much more vision and reach!” He pointed out the many eyes blinking along with his covert feathers.

“It’s not about being fair, Midnight,” countered Zeloph. “It’s about using every advantage you have. Even with restrictions, I’ve witnessed mortals accomplish a lot more than I have.”

Celeste blue eyes looked over to Penumbra, a tinge of guilt washing over him as he stared at his golden armored sleeve. Noticing his expression, the pegasus commander gave a stiff chuckle before extending out to the seraphic demi. “If you really want to make up for my poor departed arm, you’ll bring me that cyborg’s head.”

Zeloph responded with a gentle laugh before giving his hand a shake. “I plan to.”

Both winged warriors were suddenly locked inside the ram's arms, who let out a hardy laugh. “C’mon, ye knucklefucks! I decorated th' entire pantry wit th' strongest boozes Ah have. An' Ah say we deserve a drink!”

“B-But I am strictly straight edge,” the demi attempted to protest.

But the burly ram wasn’t having it when he pointed out, “Bullshit, ye are! If ye have th' lungs fur smoke, ye have th' stomach fur booze!” The others laughed as they took arms and followed Dion back into the mansion.

“He’s right, you know,” Lily said to her husband. “Your men wouldn't want us to be sad!” She snuggled against Penumbra, who returned his wife’s affection and kissed her cheek. After all, it was hard to be depressed when one was given a badass new arm!

Crowds of familiar faces wandered around the manor. One of which was 'Sunny,' the counterpart to Sunset Shimmer from the human world. Her empathic ability to purify souls had altered Shadow Scythe to be more vulnerable to emotions. And thus indirectly set her down on her current path. So to spot her at the barstool, chugging down a drink while dressed in gothic attire, made the reaper a bit hesitant to approach.

But with a relaxed grip and a deep breath, the pale mare walked towards her and said, “Uhm… H-hey.”

The empath nearly spat out her drink upon seeing her old enemy, having a coughing fit while pounding her chest. “Ackh! Whoa!! Shadow Scythe?!”

“Y-yeah! It’s… me.”

“Holy,” coughed Sunny. “Bea told me how you came over to our side. But I almost didn't recognize you in that get-up…”

Shadow Scythe’s expression remained neutral, even though her cheeks were colored. Instead of her robes and bandages, a strapless gray minidress with glistening silver sparkles highlighted her lithe form. Her eyes briefly narrowed at the two mischievous troublemakers responsible for this attire before shifting focus back to Sunny.

“It’s… too girly for my taste,” she admitted. “But I figured I’d mark the occasion as a sign of good faith for this new change of pace.”

A sly smirk spread the empath’s features. “You really turned over a new leaf, huh?”

The reaper managed a small smile. “I have...partially in thanks to you.”

“Well, I’m glad to hear it!” Sunny tittered before raising another glass and drinking its content.

“Oh my word,” Zeloph’s voice called as he walked over towards them, his many eyes lost on the reaper’s wardrobe. “And I thought you were beautiful before..!”

“Ehh!? D-don’t look at me like that,” stammered Shadow Scythe, who cautiously folded her arms over her petite bust.

“What are you talking about? You look so good!” Sunny encouraged, though her half-lid eyes were busy taking in her angelic companion. Adjusting her position to better show off her cleavage, she asked in a sultry tone, “Speaking of good lookin’, who's this hot stud~?”

“My name is Zeloph. I’m-” He introduced while blushing, about to offer his hand before the pale unicorn clasped it with her own.

Clearing her throat, she said, “He’s my boyfri-ermm. Partner! If not for his guidance, I would have surely been dead.” This earned a couple of snickers from Moxxi and Mini-Trix, who observed the reaper reveal their relationship to the public.

Realizing she was treading on dangerous waters, Sunny backed off with a begrudging sigh. “Damn! Even you got a cute boyfriend before I did? I really need to step up my game!”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” the reaper huffed while Zeloph awkwardly chuckled.

The gothic mare took another swing. “Pity that stallion from the wedding couldn’t make it. What was his name? Arcanum Folklore? Agh, I would love to share stories over drinks with him again.”

“They brought in everyone they could,” explained the Fallen One. “However, since Bellatrix and the manor are injured, it risks a reopening of their wounds the further they travel out. Didn’t want to risk further strain on them.”

“Yeah, I wouldn't want Bellatrix to get harmed on my account,” said Sunny, who finished off the dozenth bottle of drink and swayed on her feet as she turned to study the murals and paintings that showed Beatrix's adventures.

Another was added with the latest one completed. It depicted the gruesome battle with the Burning King and the Vice Lords, along with snippets of their meeting with Enock, the Mystic Guardians, and the Sovereign Witch.

“Quite a momentous journey this time,” observed the angel.

“It had some ups and downs,” admitted Shadow Scythe, who rested her head on his shoulder. “But the price was worth it.”

The trio cast their glance to Beatrix and Oona, who were being showered with congratulations for the latter’s more noticeable pregnant belly. A slight curl to Zeloph’s lip appeared as he agreed, “Yes. Things are better this way…”

Near them, a slam sounded from another bottle slapped atop the table. Several onlookers gathered around Dion and Midnight, who watched them arm wrestle and cheered. “C’mon, lad! Give me all ya got! Beat me, an' A’ll treat ye tae yer first proper drink like a man!”

“You're on!” answered Midnight as their muscles strained, both of them stripped bare-chested as veins bulged in their arms. Groaning and straining, he called on his hyper-stallion strength, able to control it without loss of his sanity anymore.

“Hohh! Ye think yerself a true warrior, do ye?” Said the ram between gritted teeth, still able to push back against the pegasus’ ramping strength.

“I know I am!” He replied with a confident grin, the pair of them at a standstill. Grunts arose from his bellow, and with a final, mighty push, he slammed down his arm with a thud that knocked over a few bottles. “Ha! I-I did it! Hell yeah!”

“Aye, ye did,” said Dion, who accepted a mug handed over by one of the twins. “As promised. A drink from mah homeland that’ll separate lightweights from th' heavy hitters,” he elaborated as Foal-Bearer popped open the bottle. She smiled and bent over as she poured the rich drink, allowing her ample bosom to hang and sway, barely contained in her scant top.

Midnight sniffed the drink before he took a swig. The spices burned his taste buds and smoldered in his belly. His eyes watered momentarily, and his face went red, invigorated by a substance that kicked and tickled his insides all over. “Wow,” he exhaled and burped, his sense of gravity already wavering. “That hits hard! And you mentioned that berserkers used to drink this stuff before they went into battle?”

“Aye. Gives ye th' strength ov ten stallions if ye down th' whole body. Puts fire in both yer belly an' loins~!” He snickered.

“Ooh! I’d like to put that to the test,” Moonlight River noted as she curiously studied the liquor bottle.

“All yers~!” The ram said with a wink, pushing the bottle to their side of the table. The bat mare’s cheeks colored as her lover brushed a palm over the slope of her bottom.

“H-haah, fuck yes,” she admitted. “Shame that Cerise couldn't see your moment of triumph, but I understand she wanted to catch up with your brother and his wife.”

“There will be lots more time later,” assured Midnight, who continued to subtly tease her curves, frisky after his drink.

“Mmm, that reminds me,” Moonlight pulled her lover's face to hers, her snout pursed. “Beatrix told me what happened. About what it means to be a hyper-stallion? She didn't want to get you or Cerise's hopes up, but she plans to explore more worlds and seek a cure for your condition.”

“That would be awesome if she found one. But all that matters to me is that I have you and Cerise,” he assured her.

“That's th' spirit,” said Dion as the twins poured fresh drinks for the three warriors, who clinked their glasses and drank.

Outside at the back of the mansion, a vigil was held for the soldiers lost to the forces of Pathos. Their bodies could not be recovered, much to Penumbra's open dismay, where his wife and sister stood in solemn silence for a moment.

Atop the roof watched a pair of troublemakers. Gargoyles lined the edges, the grotesque slabs of marble frozen to guard the mansion. “Bahh! A lil' too laid back for me toothpaste,” muttered Moxxi, who observed with hands settled on her wide hips. “Wot say we use our magic touch ter 'elp kick this shindig up a notch~?”

“Okay,” chirped Mini-Trix, who beamed wide and hopped. “What did you have in mind?”

The imp tittered gleefully, knowing that with Bellatrix weakened, she could momentarily slip back into control of the mansion. Moxxi touched the roof and momentarily fused with the abomination, who easily accepted her since the neon demon had once bound herself to it. All she needed was a moment to borrow its eldritch power, which multiplied her own many times over.

Guilt nibbled at her heart a tad, but in return, she offered some of her life force to it, hoping it would help the creature and its usual hostess heal faster. “Alwigh', lil' wahn. Gonna need your expertise for explosives for this wahn! Toss aahhht aw the smoke bombs you’ve got!”

“Gotcha,” snickered the little mare, who launched a barrage of smoke bombs. The colored clouds billowed over everyone present outside and inside until they were obscured. Coughs sounded until various male and female silhouettes slowly became visible.

Shocked yells sounded as everyone felt naked, like they were back at the wedding. “H-ho, wow!” Exclaimed Mini-Trix, her face bright red. “So many different shapes and sizes..!”

The imp snickered while tucking her into a one-arm hug. “Ohh, this is just the start, babe~!” Assured Moxxi, who sailed down to wander through the confused crowds, brushing a claw over each. Like her brother, the demi’s touch triggered instant enticement for everyone she made contact with. Their repressed libidos pushed to the surface.

“E-ehh! Wait, no! This is happening too fast!” The tiny magician vanished in a puff of smoke. Just as quickly, clothes materialized back onto everyone in attendance like nothing had ever happened, much to the imp's audible annoyance as her fun was partially spoiled.

“Party pooper,” she grumbled before disappearing in a haze of neon smoke.

Not too long after, the area was lively with fresh activity. Despite being denied excessive lewd fun, Moxxi managed to provide a boost of confidence that none of them would regret later, as the participants started to pair off. Mostly those who were obviously in love and had waited patiently until such a moment to excuse themselves finally arrived.

Giggles sounded from Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse before they pounced Dion, pressing their supple crystalline flesh into his muscular build. With a sultry growl, he scooped each twin over his broad shoulders, landing playful smacks on their plush asses.

Elated moans sounded as he continued to rub their soft, pliable cheeks and marched his way up the stairs, ready to test their new appetite as partial succubi. They bounced on the bed where he tossed them.

Hungrily, Dion ripped at their clothes, their jiggling breasts flopping out for his greedy hands to grope. Eagerly, they pushed off the kilt around his wooly waist, a red hot cock already hard and ready to go. As her lover rolled his hips into hers, Foal-Bearer was the first to have her pussy stuffed. Yelps and mewls were pushed out of her with each slam, her legs hooking around his waist to ensure the ram went nowhere but inside.

“Haaah~! Yes, yes! Fuck me! Wreck this slutty pussy~!!” Foal-Bearer chanted, brushing her fingers through the ram’s black mohawk while his mouth attacked her sensitive tit. Her other bouncy mound was soon groped by her sister, the stimulation almost mind-numbing.

Their cutie marks shimmered as Wet Nurse felt every pummeling thrust her twin received, her fingers stroking along her drenched labia. But the wait was too much before she crawled in front and presented her bubbly flank right above her sister’s face. Taking a handful of her ass to spread and show off her winking marehood, she looked over her shoulder. “You promised to knock me up first~!” She reminded him while waving her hips to catch his attention.

Pulling off Foal-Bearer’s breast, he retorted, “How could Ah forget~?” Dion leaned up to pull her ass closer before burying his snout into her snatch, lapping up her leaking marecum. Both crystal mares shuddered upon feeling him pull free from Foal-Bearer; her sopping wet pussy gaped. The feeling of emptiness was short-lived before Dion slapped his coated meat against Wet Nurse’s bare mound before inserting every inch into her moist folds.

“Aaaaayaaaaes! Yes! Breed me!” She whined once her stud found the right pace to properly jackhammer her cunt. Grunts arose from the ram, feeling his lover try to milk the seed right out of his balls. Foal-Bearer watched in a daze as his swinging breeder bag slapped against her sister’s clit. Licking her lips, she leaned up to suckle one fat orb, earning a loud groan from Dion.

Crimson eyes watched the singular wings and horns that protruded from their heads and back. Fueled by lust and alcohol, the warrior surrendered to the primal urge of fornication, making both sisters wail in bliss. No doubt, by the end of this, the three of them will have fucked each other into the unconscious, ruining their bed with a cocktail of bodily fluids.

A similar scene played out in the room across theirs. Midnight held up his wife's rump while bouncing her along his stallionhood. Their moans muffled against their pressed snouts, locked in a frenzied kiss driven by weeks of repressed desires.

"Haaaaah~! Fuck, I've missed this! I've missed your cock!" the princess moaned, working her hips to shove more of her husband's meat spear inside her clutching love tunnel.

"Too long," Midnight groaned, his large wings fanning out as the buzzing alcohol fueled his aggressive thrusts.

Moonlight reclined nude at the bedside, masturbating to the two before he gently tossed Cerise right next to her. The herd shared a three-way kiss, the soldier's hands feeling up both bat mare's curvature and thighs.

He alternated between the mares as the air became filled by the slap of wet flesh under each push. Both mares mewled and yelled to the roof, hoping they could keep up with their champion's dominant side. As Midnight dipped his fem cum soaked member between their gaping fuck holes, Cerise and Moonlight held hands, bracing themselves for a night's worth of relentless love pounding.

Beatrix and Lady Ewe also retired to their own room, eager to make up for lost time. The azure sheep laid bear for her unicorn lover to topple over, feeling eager hands massage and caress her many curves. Brays and airy sighs filled the room from Beatrix kissing and suckling her mountainous breasts, wondering how sweet the milk the dream faun would produce once further in her pregnancy. But until then, the pair were content to rub against each other, dripping mounds squishing between their thighs.

Finally, Shadow Scythe shyly led her partner up the stairs into the last bedroom available, listening as their allies made passionate love to each other. She clicked the lock behind them as they sat down on the bed. For a long while, the two did nothing but gaze at each other, both equally anxious.

Rubbing her bare pale blue arms, she admitted, “Heh… a little silly, isn't it? I've faced some of the most dangerous demons imaginable, and yet this is where I’m truly a little scared.”

Zeloph smiled at her, gingerly stroked her hand before assuring, “We don’t have to do anything you aren’t ready for.”

“N-no! I want this,” the reaper reaffirmed, sucking in a breath. “I’ve suffered through this stupid heat for long enough! Just… help me out of this.”

With a nod, the demi-human stood up with her and gently pulled at the back zipper. With a sigh, Shadow Scythe felt the glittering gray dress slide off her wispy form, unveiling her bareback and flank to her glowing lover. That sigh escalated when gentle lips caressed her shoulder, his hands feeling over her subtle, lithe curves.

“Mmm… oh so beautiful,” he murmured in a breathy voice, tickling her ear. Her dark nipples hardened upon feeling his groin pressing into her backside. Her hand slyly felt over the bulge, a low growl escaping her lips.

“How dare you say that and still be clothed,” she said, playfully glaring at him when she turned around.

“That is pretty unfair of me,” Zeloph teased with a grin. But a startled yelp came out of him when the unicorn used her magic to cut off his tuxedo and pants, leaving him in only underwear. He pouted, “M-my suit!”

A wicked smile spread her lips before she placed them on his. “You look better without it~.”

Soon, those slow kisses became longer and hungrier with every parting breath. Her hand glided along with the angel’s lean physique before sinking into his garments, feeling the hot, pulsating cock growing against her palm. Her blush deepened, having never sexually explored her own body, let alone someone else's. To her, it had been enough to read anatomy books. The act of being subservient to one’s flesh was once enough to fill her with disgust.

But now, Shadow Scythe shivered in delight with soft, muted mewls as Zeloph’s mouth touched and kissed her neck and collar bone, traveling south before flicking a tongue over her hard nipple. The way his hand lifted her small breast made her back arch to push her chest forward. Her other hand danced over his blue locks, trending through each strand of hair.

The reaper’s icy blue eyes glimpsed down to find that his humanoid cock erected out from his briefs, a rush of heat stirring between her legs. “I… I-I understand how Beatrix was so easily seduced…”

The Fallen One chuckled softly and said, “I’m not as well versed in the act of lovemaking, but I can say with confidence she misses that part of our relationship~.”

The reaper scoffed, tightening her grip around his phallus. “Well now, you have to give me thrice the pleasure she received!”

“Of course… my sweet Angel of Death~” he quipped, catching the mare off guard to take another kiss. His plumage drew her against him while he caressed her white mane. Zeloph sat down for Shadow Scythe to straddle his lap, her eyes dilating to see the tip of his cock rest against her navel. He wasn’t even a stallion, and the bastard threatened to split her in half!

But her marehood quivered in anticipation of having such a long narrow member finally penetrate her virgin walls. His hands gently rubbed the reaper’s upper leg as he asked, “Everything alright?”

“Y-yeah, it’s just…” Her lips pursed as she recalled a minor detail about her partner. Due to his incredible healing prowess and virility, sex with Zeloph was a guaranteed way to be inseminated. Hence how the normally infertile Beatrix was first pregnant when they eloped.

“My body was built for efficiency, unlike most mares,” she confessed. “The idea of bearing a child used to be the most loathsome thing imaginable to me. And while I still don’t wish to personally take that plunge, I would like to help little Abby find her way in the world once she's born.”

It was very brief, but the reaper detected a hint of disappointment in his celeste blue eyes before he nodded. “No, I understand,” he insisted, cupping her cheek. “We’re still very early in our relationship to consider such a thing. Tonight, it should be about us. Only us.”

Her heart fluttered at his words before Shadow Scythe went for another fierce lip lock. Their fingers interlocked as she rubbed the tip of his manhood into her parting lips before slowly sinking him into her depths.

The lovers hissed and muffled against their kiss until every last inch of the demi-human was fully inside the reaper’s plucked flower, a thin layer of blood oozing down.

But whatever pain there initially couldn’t compare to how full she felt. The pleasure only spiked once she started to make short bounds on top of her seraphic lover.

“A-aaah~! O-ohhhh fuck~!” Shadow Scythe cried before once more burying her snout into his face. Zeloph ached and moaned, his size conformed to her tight confines while her small, perky breasts brushed against his chest each time she bounced atop him.

So wrapped in the euphoria, the reaper failed to notice when the demi-human shifted positions, her back pressed into the comforters while he drove his spear deeper into her hot love tunnel. The only time Zeloph broke away was to catch a small breath before kissing Shadow Scythe with more need.

Unused to this form of stimulation, it didn't take long before the reaper closed her eyes and muffled a loud moan, reaching what would be the first of many orgasms to come. She clawed at his shoulders, clinging to his heavenly body. The pale unicorn’s entire form was overwhelmed by heat as she drenched his crotch and her canal repeatedly winked when it milked him.

Yet Zeloph managed to slip out of her slippery honey pot before spilling his seed all over her belly, reeling back to let out a heavy moan. Another squirt of mare cum arrived as the reaper felt his hot essence stain her waist before feeling his weight press down on her.

The couple huffed once they steadily came down. Her eyes glazed over to his, feeling his member grow flaccid. “Haaah… That was...amazing,” she whispered between pants. “To think I deprived myself of this pleasure for so long… I'm glad you were gentle for our first time.”

“Of course,” Zeloph breathed, taking another smooch. “I'm just happy circumstances have brought us together, Shadow Scythe.”

She leaned into his lips, happiness, and warmth enveloping her lithe body. Their arms secured to each other's hips, keeping the other as close as possible. Pulling away, she suddenly whispered, “... Atalanta.”

“Hmm?”

“Shadow Scythe is just an alias if that wasn’t obvious,” she admitted. “My real name is Atalanta. But only you get to know that. Otherwise-”

“You’ll slice my dick off if I don’t hold my tongue?” His eyebrow cocked, and a smirk curled his lip.

“It’s a tempting idea,” the reaper teasingly pondered.

“Oh, come now! After all the wonderful bonding we've shared?”

“Pft! Once I turn your mummified penis into my own personal device, I won’t need you.”

“It’ll hardly be the same,” he rebutted slyly. “Plus, you’ll be missing out on all the things I could do with my tongue~.”

“Oh, shut it, you!” Shadow Scythe laughed, rolling on top to playfully smack at him. Their mock fighting ended with their lips once more sealed into the kiss before the couple relaxed into each other's arms.

The truth was, thanks to the way her flesh recovered, Shadow Scythe doubted a fetus would survive inside her womb. That thought alone made her shudder. And much as the reaper hated to admit it, she once considered harvesting the Vice Lord's souls, curious to how powerful she would be. Though given Varys' uprising and the other's disappearances, it was an unlikely endeavor to pursue.

Not like it mattered to her anymore. No, Zeloph's love was all she needed. Her estrus finally settled, and her heart was at ease, despite her recent troubles.

After a long journey full of troubles, the reaper and angel were thankful that they could finally consummate their relationship.

Once the artificial sun began setting, the party finally died down. And with that, Bellatrix and the manor had recovered enough to help send everyone who wished to leave home. Beatrix offered to let anyone crash for the night if they so wanted.

“Don't worry,” said Cerise, who hugged her brothers tightly. “I’ll be back home soon! But after my adventure, I’ve come to realize I don't want to be a pampered princess forever! Someday, I want to pursue my own territory to rule.”

“I’m sure father and mother will understand,” Ashen Dunes complied, releasing the charcoal mare to gaze longingly at the ballerina by her side. “It was very nice to meet you, Rheneas. I hope you and I can meet up again sometime.”

“Yes, I… I wish the same,” she admitted with flustered cheeks.

Moonlight lightly nudged her and suggested. “Not too late to go with him, y’know~.”

“B-but what about my-”

Cerise shook her head and reminded, “You didn’t swear a thing to me, Rhenny. You’re free to make your own choice. And if that choice is by Ashen’s side to explore more of my world, I wouldn’t say no!”

Rheneas looked between her smiling friend and the gray unicorn, who extended his hand once more. Then, with a gracious smile, she gave Cerise a tight hug before accepting Ashen’s hand as he pulled her to his side. “Oh, I can’t wait to show you everything back home. You’re going to love my airship!”

“A-airship!?” She questioned while the stylish bachelor guided them through the swirling portal.

“I’m sure she’ll be alright,” Lily said with a wave of her hand before her eyes fell on Midnight. “You really think there's a way to undo your hyper-stallion condition?”

“If there's a cure out there, we'll find it,” promised Midnight, who grinned. He studied the engraved rings on his and his wife's fingers.

“Seems those did you both some good,” noted Moon Hammer, who observed how dull they now shined. Fishing into his pocket, he pulled out a glassy-looking stone and handed it to Cerise. “Set the rings by it each night, and it should rejuvenate their energy. You know it’s done when the stone turns color.”

“Awesome! Thank you so much!!” The charcoal dancer beamed.

“Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have wives to tend to.” He gave a small glance at his own pair of crystal maids before vanishing through the portal.

“Give our regards to Inky Rose, if you please.” The twins offered a curtsy.

“Will do,” nodded Penumbra before turning to his wife and sister. “Time for us to head home.” After a long embrace and best wishes, the pale pegasus and sturdy earth mare marched into the hole and vanished with a sizzle and flash of light.

Midnight turned to his herd mate and questioned, “You sure you didn’t want to go with them?”

Moonlight responded with a shrug. “Can’t really fulfill my duties without my wings. Besides! It sounds like you two will be on another adventure soon, and I don't want to miss it! Don’t think my crippled back doesn’t hinder my ability to kick ass~!”

“That’s the spirit!” The blue soldier cheered, pulling his lovers closer as the trio giggled gleefully.

Zeloph and Shadow Scythe watched from afar when Sunny took her to leave through the many portals the manor channeled, waving goodbye at the couple. While the demi-human was dressed in his normal eighties rocker garb, the reaper wore something much different. A thin gray hoodie with darkened sleeves, the golden talismans still adorned around the neck were placed on her pale robes and bandages. Her midriff was bare, showing off her navel and black jean shorts, a belt with a skull buckle holding them up. Lastly, her shapely legs were covered by black mid-thigh boots.

The creature responsible for this wardrobe fluttered by to seat her heavy rump next to Shadow Scythe, a proud smirk to her painted lips. “See? Much more appealin' than those filthy rags” Moxxi complimented. “And ya complained that I’d put ya in sumthin saucy~!”

The pale unicorn huffed. “I prefer this to the alternative. Knowing Belladonna’s closet, she’d make me look like a whore.” Her snout pursed while taking a better look at herself through the window. “I’m not one to care for my appearance… but these clothes do look nice.”

“I think they suit you,” agreed Zeloph, who smiled. “Still gives you an edge of danger without being too obvious. Plus, you still resemble a reaper with the hood.”

“When it comes ter fashion, I kna 'ow a woman should dress,” the imp boasted, having tried on many outfits and styles during her time as a nightclub dancer.

“Mmm, that reminds me,” her sibling began, making a more serious face. “Before we left, you mentioned you had ‘rumors’ to look into. What was that about?”

Her smile dropped as her magenta eyes looked elsewhere. “Well, it's not much of a rumor anymore. Wot wif Varys turnin' 'imself demi and all…”

Zeloph’s eyes closed, and his fist tightened. Had he been faster, maybe he could have prevented the vile doctor from acquiring his blood? But then, would he have accepted the truth that others like him and his sister existed?

Shadow Scythe, sensing her lover’s unease, took his hand into hers and squeezed. “We’ll find him,” she swore, nuzzling her head into his neck. “Him and others like you.”

The angelic demi only gave a small nod. “But where do we start looking..?”

“Not far from the pope in Rome, actually,” Moxxi chimed in before pulling out a newspaper and handing it to Shadow Scythe.

Upon a quick read, her icy eyes narrowed. “Wait… I recognize this city! Is this from..?”

The imp nodded. “While I perusin' the scenery, I found sum reports and articles abaht a strange creature spotted in your dimension. Thought ya might be interested in case ya were 'omesick~!”

“Curious indeed,” noted the reaper, who stroked her chin. “Could this be connected to my former master? I was certain all his Elemental Titans were dealt with.”

“Whatever it is, we should investigate,” said Zeloph.

“Yeah! Could be another demi-human!” suggested Moxxi.

“Then we’ll depart tomorrow,” decided Shadow Scythe, who folded up the newspaper. “We still need another night to recuperate.”

While one demi-human nodded his head in agreement, the other snarkily replied, “Ya sure you’re not usin' that as an excuse ter 'ave more ‘down’ time~? Hehe-YOWW!”

Her snide comment was met with a firm ‘thwack’ as the reaper battered the rolled-up newspaper upside Moxxi’s head. Blushing furiously, Shadow Scythe chastised, “Get your mind out of the gutter, Imp! Not everything is about sex!”

“The multiverse would respectfully 'ave ter disagree wif that notion-ywwoch! 'ey! Stop it!! Gah, Zelly! Your marefriend’s 'ittin' on me! And not in a fun way!” She whined.

Her brother shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t feel the need to get into this.”

“Oh, sure! But that wouldn’t stop ya from gettin' into her-YAAAGH!!”

Beatrix and Oona tittered with amusement while watching the reaper mercilessly take swings at the wiggling imp. The last guest had departed for their homeworld as the final portal closed. Hand in hand, they approached the crystal maid twins. “How’s mah brother doin',” the azure sheep asked.

“Still asleep,” one twin giggled. “We might have gotten a bit carried away.”

“We plan to contact Ebony Ivory in hopes she’ll allow us to take our vacation with her people for a while. Why don't you two come with us? We can share the news! Maybe explore more of their culture, eh, Beatrix?”

“I'd love that,” the witch admitted before shaking her head, “But I'd prefer a night of proper respite after our long journey.”

“Take all the time you need,” offered the crystal mares as they proceeded back inside to clean up the messes no doubt left. Walking past them, Bellatrix made her way over to the happy couple. “So, who decided to stay over?”

“Dion, Midnight, Cerise, and Moonlight aren’t ready to head home just yet,” confirmed Beatrix, who watched as her former adversaries, plus Moxxi, followed the twins through the entrance doors. “And from what I heard, the deathly duo and the imp need a night before they head out to hunt for Varys.”

“I’ll make sure they have rooms prepared then,” the red-skinned woman nodded, her hand covering her wrist behind her back.

“And what about ye? Are you okay? Ye look kinda pale,” Oona asked with concern, hoping the she-devil hadn’t pushed herself too hard.

“Yeah! I’m merely a tad drained,” half-admitted Bellatrix. “A nice warm bubble bath should ease my aches and pains.”

“Okay. Just tell me if I can help you somehow,” encouraged Beatrix.

The future devil queen nodded before using a mental command to shift herself into the bathroom, where a tub filled with steamy water awaited her. She waved away her clothes and moaned once she settled into the bath, as whenever she didn’t train her sentinels or succubi, Bellatrix enjoyed long soaks for hours on end. With a splash sound, the shapeshifter reclined, her skin already shiny from the heated perfumed pool.

By the time Beatrix and Lady Ewe got to their room, the sun had disappeared over the horizon, and evening settled in. “Ah think Bellatrix feels a wee bit crowded,” suspected Oona, who undressed from her robes and slid on her nightwear. “Not that she wants anyone tae leave. More that her pride is wounded. It’s not easy havin' tae rely on e'eryone fur support.”

“Yeah, that sounds about right,” Beatrix frowned while she sat on the bed, clad in her lacy pink gown. “I hope she’s not forcing her recovery…”

“Give her time,” assured Oona, who placed a hand over hers. “Ah can feel Abby stir. She's sae warm an' serene.” She eased her tired body into the sheets, and Beatrix settled beside her, face-to-face as they relaxed in the company of their partner.

Beatrix smiled and brushed a palm over her teacher's belly. “All thanks to you, teach!”

“Don't downplay yer role, Ceann Oga. E'eryone helped make this possible!”

“Well, one especially did,” the witch reminded, shuffling closer into the sheep’s wool. “Do you think Iclyn is right about Omen..?”

Knowing this would pop up eventually, Oona turned to face her lover. “There is truth tae her words,” she confessed. “A’m aware ov th' deighdyr’s struggle wit wendigos. An' in return fur helpin' my people fend off caribou, mah father has sent help tae stop this ‘curse' from spreadin'. As fur th' Nightmare Stag’s involvement, A'm not entirely sure…”

“What if he is? What will that mean for Abadonna? Shouldn’t we have communion with him for answers!?”

“Not tonight, Beatrix,” Oona gently pushed down, brushing her fingers through stray platinum locks. “Ah promise, we will confront him. An' no matter what path we take, we will make certain our daughter is raised an' taught properly. But fur now, let us rest.”

“O-okay,” the violet mare nodded as a yawn escaped her mouth. Not soon after, the couple drifted off into a comfortable sleep. Despite what Iclyn had said, Beatrix had no doubt that if she could swear herself to anyone partner, it would be Oona. Perhaps one needed to settle down somewhere eventually to mature, but a nomad like her and her mother would always have their roots on the road.

Beatrix and Oona shared a pleasant dream, where they took their daughter on a grand adventure. Blissfully oblivious to the darkness that hung around the room. And the looming figure that gently brushed his hand over their cheeks.

Gleeful Maroon eyes gleamed through the shadow veil, a low voice gently whispering,

“ꌦꏂꇙ… ꋪꏂꇙ꓄ ꋊꄲꅐ, ꋬꋊ꒯ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꂵꋬꋊꌦ ꇙꅐꏂꏂ꓄ ꒯ꋪꏂꋬꂵꇙ.”

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