Everywhere and Nowhere

by NotaPonyPerson

Rating: mature
Tags: Alternate Universe, Other, Romance, Original Character, Fetish, Profanity, Adventure, Violence, Sex, Anthro, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Death
Length: 186548

Beatrix, Oona and friends journey through the Lost World to find and rescue her daughter, Abadonna. They come across some new and familiar faces, as well as some old enemies. Who will reach the sacred library in time?

Time has passed since Beatrix Belladonna began her search for Abadonna, traveling across different worlds, even perfecting her space hopping magic! Yet, the only clue to her daughter's whereabouts is a library traveling through time itself. Fortunately, Lady Ewe may know how to get there as Beatrix and her friends set off to the mystical Lost World.

They aren't the only ones searching. Shadow Scythe and Zeloph ally together to track down the library for both the Child of Lightendark and access to infinite knowledge.

The race is on to find Abadonna and the library, with the multiverse's fate likely in peril. It's a journey of love, hate, and destiny.

Warning: This story contains many original characters, alternative versions of canon characters, blood, sex, tragedy, romance, anime-esque action, and many more surprises. If this is not your cup of tea, this story is not for you!

Main Characters:
Beatrix Belladonna ~ Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
Lady Oona Ewe ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Sir Dion, the Undaunted ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Midnight Blitzer ~ Shadic
Voice
Cerise Silhouette ~ Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
Shadow Scythe ~ Alphamon Ouryuken
Voice
Zeloph ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Abadonna ~ NotaPonyPerson/Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
Enock, the Curator of Time ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice

Supporting Characters:
Mini-Trix ~ Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
Bellatrix Primadonna ~ Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
Wet Nurse & Foal Bearer ~ Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
White Shadow Penumbra ~ Dr.Sharaz Jek
Voice
Moonlight ~ Shadic
Voice
Moxxi/Anarchia ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice

Lost World Characters:
Trom ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Storbjorn ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Gaoth ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Suela ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Iclyn ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Omen, the Nightmare Stag ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
the Sovereign Witch

the Vice Lords:
the Burning King ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Madame Doppia ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Master Varys ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Countess Alma ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice
Lord Douglas ~ NotaPonyPerson
Voice

Lost World variations of:
Sombra, Radiant Hope, Chrysalis, Tirek, Cozy Glow, Grogar, Cadance, Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, Starlight Glimmer, and Trixie.

This is the finale to the 'Lightendark' story arc for Beatrix Belladonna. For the context of characters and storylines, I suggest reading the following in order:
- The Depths of Oblivion
- Beatrix Belladonna in the Planet of the OC's
- Fire and Shadow: The Rebirth of Spike and Descent of Sombra
- Forbidden Manor at the End of Time
- Dearly Beloved

Special thanks, again, to Dr. Sharaz Jek for this collaboration, adding their characters, vision, and antics to the story.

Artwork by yours truly~

Published 2021-03-12 21:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2022-02-22 21:00:02 UTC

Chapter II: Dream Faun & the Neon Demon

A rocky planetoid devoid of life drifted through space. The only exception was the worn-looking manor on its surface, disguising an eldritch lifeform. Inside, the mansion wouldn’t look too far from a ‘haunted’ attraction, cobwebs draped all over the place. The foyer’s gothic interior was lin with stationary suits of armor, broken busts of nude ponies, and a chandelier swaying slowly overhead. The house’s floorboards creaked with each breath the abomination drew. A draft brushed over them with a low wail throughout the spacious area.

Just then, a rift opened within the main entrance, Beatrix and Dion popping out from the shimmering oval portal.

“Phew! Made it,” Beatrix sighed, sealing the flat tear in reality. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the murals and paintings on display, depicting her various adventures, consumed by a poignant bout of nostalgia. The witch smiled, recollecting the emotions fondly. “It’s good to be home...”

“Quite th’ convenient disguise fur th' beast,” Dion commented, tracing his fingers over the wooden railing. “Reminds me ov th’ abandoned castles back in our homelain.”

“Did you and Oona grow up in one?”

“Only fur a wee bit. Father was ne’er settled with one place, an’, tae be frank, neither was Ah. Only Oona would have preferred one home.”

“I never really had a home until now. My mother and I were always on the road. I wonder where she is now…” Her smile faltered, a part of her missing Trixie.

“Daen’t worry aboot th’ past, lass,” Dion insisted. “Ah suggest gettin’ someone tae give this place a sweep if we’re tae bring Abadonna here.”

“Oh, don’t you worry.”

“We can take care of that!”

Both turn their threads towards the pair of matching voices coming from above the winding stairway. Walking down were the crystal pony twins, Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse, caretakers to the manor. Each was adorned in fetishized maid outfits, complete with a garter belt, stockings, and high-heels tied by ribbons. Their coats glittered a coral pastel pink, their manes styled in bob cuts of a brighter shade.

The only way to tell the two apart was through their eyes and assets. One having slightly wider hips and ruby eyes, while the other boasts bigger breasts and amethyst eyes.

“Welcome home, Ms. Belladonna!” The pair greeted in unison, curtsying to purposefully show off their ample cleavages to the witch.

“I-it’s good to see you too,” Beatrix laughed sheepishly, doing her best to not get distracted by the attractive display. “Ahem! Where is Lady Ewe..?”

“The dream faun is waiting in the dining room, Ms-” The moment those words left Foal-Bearer’s lips, Beatrix had already zipped past them, too concerned over her mentor and the news about her daughter. Enough speed that lifted their skirts to give Dion a peek at their scantily clad crotches. Noticing, each twin gave the warrior sheep a smile before taking to his side.

“We are pleased to welcome you back as well, Sir Dion,” Foal-Bearer purred, tantalizing fingers tracing over his bare chest.

“Is there anything we can do to help settle you in? We live to serve~” Wet Nurse added with a giggle.

“Now is…really naet th’ time,” Dion asserted, gently removing the beautiful crystal maids from his arms to follow Beatrix, leaving the pair to groan in dissatisfaction. “Shite, is e’eryone hornier than a herd ov rabbits, or whit?”

Beatrix rushed through the double doors into a chamber where a long table awaited, lined in candelabra. And at the head of the table was her mentor and lover, Oona Ewe. The sheep shepherd jumped at the noise, nearly spilling her cup of tea. But the moment those honey eyes locked onto the familiar violets of the unicorn, her expression lifted with happiness.

“Oh! Ye’re here!” She laughed gleefully, setting her cup aside to welcome her friend with a warm hug. Beatrix sighed, smiling ear to ear as she returned the embrace, head nuzzled into the faun’s bosom. Her hand slid up Oona’s back, tracing the soft fabric of her blue robe, before brushing over the delicate texture of her woolly mane. “Ah’m so glad tae see ye again, Mo Ghaol. It’s bin too long!”

“I know,” Beatrix agreed, pulling back to gaze warmly into her teacher’s eyes. “I’ve missed you…”

“As have Ah,” she reciprocated, giving her a gentle kiss before pulling her back into another hug, as if afraid she’d leave again. And if not for the matter at hand, the wandering witch would have gladly spent her day just tucked into her mentor’s arms. The double doors opened as Dion and the twins entered, a light chuckle leaving his lips as they all admired their affection.

“It’s funay,” he told them. “Mah sister’s been so cautious about gettin’ close tae people, ever since she was a lamb. Now, she can hardly stand tae be apart from Beatrix! Th' fortune an’ magic ov findin’ a life partner.”

Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse nodded, clinging to his wide while they watch the witch pull away with reluctance. Clearing her throat, Beatrix rolled on her heels back and forth before asking the big question.

“Well, don’t leave me in suspense, teach,” the witch insisted urgently. “What did you find about Abadonna? Do you know where she is?”

Before Lady Ewe could even start, a disembodied voice spoke up through telepathy, echoing through their minds. (Don’t say anything just yet.)

“Sister?” The witch asked. “What’s the meaning of this?”

(Apologies, Beatrix. But it is unsafe for anyone to speak openly here. I have reason to suspect Zeloph infiltrated the manor with the purpose of spying on us.)

“What!?” Beatrix yelped in alarm.

(I’ll explain later,) Bellatrix’s voice promised. (But for now, keep details to yourselves. I’m waiting for you in the basement.)

The witch felt every nerve stand on end, breathing hysterically. The idea that her former lover still possessed the power to keep surveillance on her made Beatrix paranoid. “I-I don’t understand, I-I thought he would be weaker when I severed his Onoma! How could he still be…”

Oona soothed her friend by firmly holding her shoulders, shaking her head. “Ye mustn’t let him get tae ye like this, Ceann Oga. Zeloph has ne’er bin easy tae predict. But he’s naet infallible. We bested him before; we’ll dae it again! Ye’re stronger than before.”

But Beatrix shook her head. “No, I…I haven't wielded my Onoma properly once! I’ve been gone for six months, and it feels like I haven’t learned anything to improve myself!”

“That’s what we’re here fur,” Dion interjected, placing his own hand on her shoulder. “This isn’t a battle ye need tae face alone, lass.”

“He’s right. It is mah duty tae you as yer teacher tae help ye stay in tune wit yer spirit. As long as we’re together, we can confront any challenge ahead ov us.”

“B-but I…wow…I’ve been gone for so long, I’ve forgotten what it’s like to depend on people…thanks, guys,” Beatrix sniffled, pulling both sheep into a tight squeeze before turning to the twins, who each gave a reassuring grin.

“We'll take care of matters here,” said Foal-Bearer, hands grasping her apron. “We’ve been hunting for anything suspicious looking within the corridors.”

“There’s plenty of house cleaning left to do,” added Wet Nurse. “But we’ll let you know once the manor is Zeloph-proof!”

“Thank you…for all your hard work.”

“We live to please and serve happily!” They giggled in unison. With that said, the crystal maids left through the double doors to resume their duties.

Beatrix and company would make their way towards the basement, as Bellatrix requested. Still, the wandering witch couldn't shake off the dread settling in her stomach that her former lover was watching over her.

Bellatrix waited for her sister’s arrival beneath the manor’s floorboards, arms crossed and snout tilted upwards. It was here that she was once confined to the alien lifeform that swallowed her up. But now, they co-existed with each other to ensure a beneficial relationship, the beast feeding off her essence occasionally to survive.

The shapeshifter had silky straight black hair, bangs cut in a straight line, and golden eyes that complimented her scarlet skin. Her lips were pursed, her demonic appearance completed by leathery wings, claws for her toes and nails, and a spaded tail that swished about. Her voluptuous frame was black in a black bondage-style leather bikini that left little to the imagination.

To her right sat a similar creature, though much smaller and stacked, swaying her foot over one leg while tapping her claws into the box she sat on. The imp only wore an electric blue jacket, her short-stack body nude, save for the tap crossing out her nipples. Her spade tail had a functioning mouth, x marks acting as eyes in a cartoony fashion.

Moxxi was known for her mischievousness and provocative behavior, but the imp was unusually sour in expression, though for a good reason. Because of her, the Fallen One was able to sneak around and tune in to their discussions.

Bellatrix shook her head with shame. If she didn’t entrust Moxxi with her task, she could have prevented this disturbance. Yet, she couldn’t entirely blame Moxxi, given she and Zeloph shared a connection. Plus, the she-devil couldn’t ignore how valuable the imp’s knowledge would be. In a way, she could relate to her plight. She, too, wanted to help out her ‘sibling’ in any way she could.

Both demonesses perked their heads up at the sound of footsteps echoing down the stairwell until the violet unicorn, and sheep siblings appeared. Beatrix walked up to her sister, who offered a rare smile.

“Happy to see you home, sister,” the shapeshifter greeted.

“Happy to be home,” the witch laughed. “Though I doubt I’ll be staying here for long, given the circumstances.”

“Even with your own place, you hardly stay around for more than a day,” Bellatrix sighed, shaking her head. “Anyway, you should be safe here. I need to go help Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse secure the place. I’ll leave her to explain what happened.” She directed her gaze towards the imp, who awkwardly waved at the unicorn, now sporting a frown.

“‘Eheh.… H-hey, lov~.”

“Moxxi,” Beatrix groaned, approaching the imp while her sister walked past Oona and Dion to make her exit. “Please tell me you didn’t let your brother invade my home!”

“O-of course not, 'onest!” She insisted hands held up as she fluttered off the box. “I’m not wahn to pick sides, and I’d never 'elp Zeloph if it meant riskin' your daughter’s safety.”

“Then how did he get intae th' mansion?” Oona asked, puzzled.

“I ‘aven’t a clue!” Moxxi shrugged. “All I knew was that 'e was lurkin' 'round, and I went ter confront 'im while everyone was busy celebratin' the weddin'.”

“Was thair anyone else that might have let him in?” Dion questioned.

“'eaven and 'ell, the only other heap of coke I can fin' of wanderin' 'round the mansion is Shado--” A gasp of realization, looking to the witch. “Oohhh...”

“Shadow Scythe! Of course...” It made too much sense, given how the pale unicorn behaved before her departure, memories somehow returning. The lingering fear grew tenfold, the implications unsettling. “So they might be working together..?”

“It’s possible but unlikely,” Moxxi added, folding her arms. “Shadow Scythe’s never been a team player from me experience. I doubt she and Zeloph would get along.”

“We can’t ignore that possibility,” Lady Ewe insisted. “If Zeloph is lookin' fur help, surely that means he’s still in a weakened state.”

“Oh yeah, didn’t look well when I spoke wif 'im. Moltin' feathers, scales growin' in places. 'e was a total wreck!”

“For a total wreck, he certainly got around quietly,” Beatrix frowned, frustrated. “He was still able to infiltrate my home with little detection! I don’t get it! I thought I crippled him by cutting through his halo!”

“Ya did wat?!” Moxxi shouted, eyes wide with astonishment. “Oh… ooooh no!”

“Moxxi..?”

“Oh, lov. It’s a miracle ya got outta the chicken pen ya did,” the imp stated, dread dripping off her tongue. “That 'alo wasn’t the source of Zeloph’s magic. It was more a seal ter keep it in goose's Gregory Peck!”

“A-a what?”

“Fin' of it as a condom.” To demonstrate, Moxxi materialized one in one hand before summoning a dragon-shaped dildo in the other, much to everyone else’s bewilderment. “A lil' 'istory abaht us Demis, lovs. 'cause we’re born 'alf-mortal and spirit, the bloody amount of power we possess doesn’t 'ave a threshold. As long as we 'ave our energy source, we buckshee ter use as much magic as we want! That’s why the Divine Father ‘blessed’ Zelly and me wif limitations. Obviously, I was cursed wif this cute but puny body where the bloody most I can do is disable stuff and Iron Hoof from Drum ter Drum. As for me brother, they tricked 'im into 'avin' 'is magically inhibited by the 'alos. All those angelic abominations 'e commanded were ter confiscate.” She slipped the latex over the sex toy as it throbbed and pulsated like an actual penis. Moxxi squeezed a handle that would shoot fluid inside, the condom inflating a bit.

“So by destroying his halo, he actually became stronger?!” Beatrix exclaimed.

“In a way, yeah,” Moxxi nodded, the condom splitting apart as fluid erupted to spray onto the cardboard box. “But it also did a number on 'im. I bet bein' trapped in the bloody Necronomicon weakened the chuffin' seal in the buff for ya ter break. So, in a matter of speakin', ya successfully wiped aahhht an entire ensemble of angels! Not bad~!”

“I…I did, huh..?”

“Sae e'en if he’s gotten stronger, he’s yit tae recowre frum yer last bit wit each other,” Dion proclaimed. “'at means we shoods have time tae prepaur!”

“Moxxi,” Oona addressed. “Ye’re th' only one who knows Zeloph personally. Anythin' ye know about him an' yer species is vital! Please…shair wit us what ye know.”

The spunky demoness looked over from the dream faun to the distraught unicorn, a wry sigh passing her painted lips.

“...I’m only garn ter say this once, so listen up,” Moxxi insisted, taking her seat with folded legs. “Na, I’ve already told ya quite a bit, Beatrix, but there’s sumthin’ I need ya ter take away from this before ya head out ter find Abby. Okay?”

Th witch nodded in silent agreement.

“Good,” she closed her eyes to collect her thoughts before they became words. “He and I were born separately. The Divine Father disguised themself ter preach of their greatness and whatnot. Naturally, Bo-le Of Glue mortals fell for them and gave birf ter Zeloph and me, though we didn’t come aahhht as… babies.”

The sheep siblings looked to each other then back with puzzled expressions.

“Fin' of it as a metamorphosis. We came aahhht loike larvae, me fuzzy and spiky, Zelly shimmerin' wif a topaz carapace and feathers. We didn’t need food ter feed ourselves, just the positive or negative energy comin' from people. And eventually, we became cocoons for a Robin Hood while before poppin' aahhht fully grahn, wings and all.”

“So…kinda like the lifecycle of a butterfly or moth?”

“Yeah, except less buggy and more sexy~” Moxxi corrected, a sad smile on her lips as she remembered the memories. “After we learned of the other's existence, we joined up ter put an end ter our dear old dad. after that, we were buckshee ter explore the world, made many friends and lovers, though Zelly always remained celibate, the prude thing~. Life was much simpler and fan durin' those days.” Her frown returned. “Though as much as I despise the bloody bastard, 'e wasn't wrong abaht 'umanity eventually turnin' on us. And none took it 'arder than me brother.”

“Yeah, I’m well aware of that part,” Beatrix grumbled, tapping her boot.

“Ya don’t understand. Zeloph was 'eartbroken by how fowl mortals can be! 'e couldn’t bear ter clock a single mortal die 'cause of our father’s spitefulness. It was our refusal ter take part in a genocide that leads ter our punishment. We took that price, and despite the odds, we came aahhht swingin'. For a moment, things were fine…until me brother couldn't stand the bloody rise of violence and depravity. That’s where 'is quest for ‘purification’ began…and I 'ad nah choice but ter imprison 'im before 'e brought more 'arm ter 'imself.”

Moxxi softly glared at Oona, who lowered her head knowingly. “Ah hope ye can forgive me, Moxxi. Ah fear 'at in our efforts, yer brither came out worse than before.”

“I’m not wahn ter 'old a grudge. It was a difficult time for us all,” Moxxi stated, once more taking off her seat to flutter up to Beatrix, placing her hand into her claws with an almost pleading look in her magenta eyes.

“I kna I 'ave nah wite ter ask aahhht of you; I’ve caused a hoppin' pot of 'avoc just bein' 'ere. but.… The next time ya encounter Zeloph.… Please spare 'im.”

Beatrix furrowed her eyebrows, pursing her lips further. “Moxxi, I-”

“I don’t want 'im ter take Abadonna away from ya. I truly don’t. But I don’t wanna lose 'im. We’re the bloody last of our kind, and I wanna 'elp 'im, remind 'im of the love 'e felt for people. The love… 'e felt for me.”

The witch understood where the imp was coming from. It had been a rough battle between her and Bellatrix to swing the she-devil to a better life. And the effort showed in how much she’d done for both herself and others. And while experience and trauma convinced her Zeloph was too far gone to the path of destruction, part of her still wished to believe the Fallen One could be redeemed…

“...I’ll do my best. But I won’t stand idle if he attacks more people. If it comes to it, I’ll put him down,” Beatrix declared.

“That’s all I ask. Thanks, lov,” Moxxi nodded, pecking the unicorn on the cheek, who blushed. “Na, I fin' I’ve overstayed me welcome. Tell Bellatrix I’m sorry for lettin' 'er daahhhn. I promise I'll make it up ter 'er in the bloomin' future. She’s been a great teacher…and an irreplaceable china plate.”

Without another word, Beatrix drew a circle to open another rift for the imp. Looking back, Moxxi waved goodbye to her, Oona and Dion before disappearing into the rippling oval. As it closed, Beatrix let out a long sigh, overwhelmed with thoughts and feelings towards Moxxi.

Ultimately, deep down, she would miss that mischievous little creature despite how things ended up. She hoped circumstances wouldn’t lead them to become adversaries.

“Ye look tired, Mo Ghaol,” Lady Ewe spoke softly, wrapping her arms once more to secure the unicorn. “Ye shoold rest.”

But Beatrix shook her head, pulling away to gaze at the dream faun. “I can’t. Not knowing Abby’s out there waiting for me. Zeloph’s looking for her too. We have to get going, now!”

“Easy thair, lass,” Dion interjected. “Ne'er go intae a fight without a plan.”

“Pft! That’s rich comin' from ye, brither,” Oona snickered. “Most ov yer plans consist ov ‘if Ah can stick th' heid oan th' dobber, Ah can win!”

“Aye, half th' time, it works! Tell 'er, Beatrix! We kicked 'at titan’s blubberin’ shitepipe wi' pure aggression an' wit, we did!”

Beatrix couldn’t help but giggle at the sheeps’ bickering. Gosh, how she missed being with her friends and loved ones.

(Not to spoil the mood, but need I remind you that Zeloph still eludes us?) Bellatrix’s voice resounded once more. (It would be wise to take this discussion elsewhere.)

“Aye, ye’re right,” Oona agreed. “Ah raither we discuss this someplace safe, away from pryin' eyes...”

“Would also be smart tae brin' puckle allies,” the warrior sheep added. “Zeloph won’t be an easy threat tae tak' down.”

A thought crossed through Beatrix’s mind as the witch weighed their options.

Somewhere Zeloph wouldn’t track them and had friends willing to help? Her eyes lit up, and an excited grin spread her snout.

“I think I know just where to go~!”

Chapter III: Death Goddess & the Fallen One

It was a state of utter chaos.

Sirens blaring, medical help rushing to escort the wounded or dying to emergency facilities. Many held their loved ones or friends, praying for their wellness. And yet, none would know of the hooded figure walking through the debris and carnage.

Shadow Scythe continued to observe the horrific outcome of Manehatten. Hours had passed, the sun starting to set, and there was still detritus and ruined buildings left after the titan’s onslaught. No one knew why the giant came, many labeling it as ‘just another monster attack.’ Yet for the reaper, there was only one mare that should be held responsible for the calamity.

In the many months she spent trying to recollect the missing pieces of her memories, the pale unicorn silently observed Beatrix. At first, it was to convince herself that the witch wouldn’t abandon worlds in a bad state. That Beatrix had grown with experience to help others.

But it became abundantly clear that was never the case, the wandering mage too obsessed with finding her daughter to realize the destruction following her trails.

Icy blue eyes turned upward, the sky stained in rich colors, shadows all over the area growing prominent as the sun dipped into the horizon. In her right hand was a curved, rune-lined sickle, a mare’s skull brandished behind the blade, which glinted off the dying light’s rays. It was time to make her move.

Grimly, Shadow Scythe dove into the wreckage, looming over the mortally wounded, unable to receive immediate attention. Without any hesitation, she ended their suffering with a swoop of her blade, so swiftly, it looked like a blur. Fear and pain subsided as the warmth instantly left their eyes. This was her preferred method in delivering death, quick and gentle, without spilling more blood from their already mangled bodies. Shadow Scythe even hummed a gentle lullaby to comfort them on their path towards the afterlife.

This was what she was born to do, as emphasized by the equine skull over crossbones imprinted on her flanks. Yet strangely, Shadow recalled never taking to her tasks like this back when she served in her own version of Equestria. She had grown bored of her duties then, thus beginning her quest and ravenous thirst for power.

Yet here, a strange sense of contentment filled her lithe body as she sliced off another would-be corpse’s head with precision.

Perhaps the unicorn had been a broken spirit, and only now did she realize life’s beauty, despite its fragility.

Glowing orbs of energy escaped from the slain, toppled bodies. The higher they rose, the brighter these wisps glowed before disappearing into the ether, free from their mortal coils. A shimmer reflected off her hood, her eyes narrowed over the lifeless, colorless husk left behind.

Despite this new spiritual awakeness, Shadow Scythe despised how limited her physical form was. Vital sustenance, the need to excrete wastes, the demanded pleasure she denied it…. Sensations she craved, thanks to Beatrix and her friends, one of which forced the malicious reaper to feel empathy, to ‘purify’ her.

A dry chuckle left her throat. Ironic that the witch tried to ‘cure’ her wickedness, yet feared a similar fate by the Fallen One’s hands. “Hypocrite,” she muttered lowly to herself.

And yet, she couldn't deny the truth lingering in her immortal soul. Shadow Scythe cared about her. Despite the reckless actions and self-absorbed nature, the reaper felt sympathy for the witch and her friends.

What left the reaper distraught was whether she had genuinely felt this way, or merely because they implemented it when they stole her identity. She felt split between lingering loathing and dreadful loneliness, unable to help the way her heart ached.

Shadow wiped her face of the icy tears that threatened to stain her cheeks. Whatever the reason, she needed to stop Beatrix before more innocent blood was needlessly drawn. And to do that, the unicorn needed to learn arcane magic for herself.

While keeping an eye on Beatrix, Shadow Scythe bode her time to collect everything she could find on the source. Yet nothing told her what it was and how she could access it. And the reaper really didn’t like the idea of asking that false idol for help. Polite as he was, Zeloph was in a dangerous state of mind, burning vengeance clear in his many magenta eyes the last they spoke.

But what other options did she have left?

Winding her way through a maze of buildings, Shadow Scythe rose her snout towards the old library’s entrance, the one she saw Beatrix emerge from earlier today. She sighed, “...might as well give it a shot.”

She went inside and scanned through the dusty bookshelves and scattered tomes. Unlike Beatrix, however, she slipped into the archives housed below, forbidden to the public eye. Lighting a candle for its lumination, she delved deep into the first set of grimoires, hastily scanning through pages. When nothing related to archaic spells or the sort turned up, the pale unicorn continued through some old, tattered tomes, threatening to crumble into dust.

A musty stench filled her nostrils. Around her were old artifacts displayed in cases similar to a museum. The only exception being a mirror, lined in cobwebs where a bloated spider skittered by. Dust covered the shaded area, also lit by her flared unicorn horn.

“Useless,” Shadow muttered once she tossed books aside, depicting the most advanced spells that she had long since mastered. Another dead-end.

“What a waste of time!” She spat, tossing her current finding aside as it knocked over the pile. Just as she was about to leave, one book toppled over and caught her eye. “A… child’s book? What is that doing here?” she wondered.

The cover was old, yet the faded hue of bright colors made it stand out among the rest. Her curiosity growing, the reaper picked it up and opened it, finding pop-up pictures on each page. Surprisingly, the illustrations held up despite the faded paint.

It depicted a land, unlike Equestria, with many strange creatures roaming about. A castle stood tall, where many gathered to celebrate the arrival of lords and ladies, who had ventured to celebrate.

“Clearly, this had the female fantasy in mind…” Shadow Scythe commented before flipping the next page. What she read through next caused her brows to furrow. “... huh?”

One particular king was colored...or more accurately scribbled in red. The crowd looked frightened, many concerning expressions sketched. The next page showed the character grabbing another by the throat, many guests fleeing in terror. The page had a few spots drawn in charcoal, likely depicting fire.

With every page, the imagery grew more disturbing. Bodies charred, blood leaking over the floor, the red character sporting more deranged expressions until the next page showed the entire castle being burnt down. The book’s final pages no longer held pop-ups, just burnt paper displaying the character within flames, surrounded by monstrous faces. Shadow Scythe’s eyes narrowed over one sentence that deeply unnerved her.

“... And all who have sinned will join the Burning King in death. In his realm of eternal suffering, he and his Vice Lords await… The End...”

It took Shadow Scythe a moment before shutting the book and, gingerly, laying it over a table. “What ignorant trawl thought that would be appropriate for children!?” she growled. “Ugh! Why am I letting a pop-up book get the better of me? It’s just a stupid story…”

… Or was it?

In the back of her mind, she remembered Beatrix mistaking that annoying imp Moxxi as a ‘Vice Lord.’ At first, she didn’t think much of it, thinking the witch over exaggerated details about her foes. But until now, she hadn’t heard that term used again; in a child’s pop-up book of all things!

She cast a cautious glance to the storybook as if expecting it to come to life or unleash those ghastly images upon her. With a shudder, Shadow Scythe turned to make her exit. “Nothing left here that could teach me arcane magic, but what did I really expect? I suppose it was simply intuition that drew me here…”

“Or perhaps, it was fate~.”

Shadow Scythe tensed up, whipping back around, summoning her scythe back on hand. “Who’s there?!” she demanded.

No response. Hastily, the reaper looked all over the room, finding nothing different… minus that the mirror shimmered more brilliantly. Steadily, Shadow Scythe approached the ancient-looking artifact, noticing a shape within the glass.

As she drew closer, the figure did too. When Shadow was close enough, she could make out an unfamiliar mare inside, a feathered cloak hiding her face, except her smirking muzzle.

“Wait… I remember seeing you before. Back at the mansion!”

The hooded figure nodded, lifting her head up as amber eyes glowed through the shadowy veil. “Still struggling to find answers, I see. Che triste~! If only you’d allow someone to help you…”

“As if I’d trust anyone like you,” Shadow Scythe scoffed, her snout pointed to the air. “Who are you, and what do you want?”

“Madame Doppia,” she greeted, bowing her head. “I’ve come on the Fallen One’s behalf, figured I’d report back on all the wonderful ‘progress’ you’ve made~.”

The unicorn snarled, raising the end of her sickle to aim it at the reflective surface. “Give me one good reason not to shatter you into pieces!”

Her statemate made the mirror mare laugh. “The only thing you’ll be earning is seven years of bad luck, mio amica. But I see when I’m not wanted,” she pouted mockingly before turning her back to Shadow Scythe. “I wish you the best in your endeavours. I’m sure spying on Beatrix will eventually give you what you want. Ciao~!”

But before Doppia could fade further into the mirror, a reluctant voice made her pause.

“Wait…” Shadow Scythe said, teeth and hands clenched together tightly, struggling to let go of her bruised ego. “...how do you know I’ve been watching Beatrix?”

“Who hasn’t been watching her?” Doppia admitted with a giggle. “Gotta keep track of where she is while Zeloph heals from their last outing. It’s not hard to see why he’s infatuated with her. Eccentric personality, ample curves…. There’s a lot to be jealous of~.”

“What are you talking about?! I’m not jealous!”

“Oh, but you are!” Doppia insisted, her grin spreading. “Why else would you be stalking her like this? You don’t just want to put an end to her; you want to become her, in a way. Take all that she has, make it your own, so that you can finally fill that emptiness growing in your heart~.”

Her cheeks flushed, glaring death into the mirror mare, refusing to believe her. A sly chuckle left Doppia.

“You don’t have to admit it. Your secret’s safe with me,” Doppia whispered with a wink.

“Do not play with me, wretch!” The unicorn seethed, banging her fist against the mirror without cracking it. “The only reason you’re still in one piece is that you know how to reach Zeloph.”

“I do…and I can take you to him if that’s what you want~.”

Shadow Scythe backed away, weighing in her options. Despite her disdain for the bitch, Doppia had a point. On her own, the unicorn had no chance of learning the magic Beatrix found. And she refused to accept the idea of learning anything from her.

The only way she’d obtain more significant power than she had was through Zeloph. And with no recourse for consideration, she reluctantly sighed. “Take me to him…”

Doppia smiled triumphantly, beckoning her closer with a finger before disappearing into the darker edges of the mirror. Shadow Scythe hesitantly pushed her hand to find the glass rippling over like water. With a deep breath, she strode into the other side, reminded of the rifts Beatrix routinely used.

Inside this dimension were other mirrors and openings, faint light pouring in while Doppia walked along a path. With a heavy heart and begrudgement, Shadow quickly followed her.

Almost instantaneously, the pair arrived in another realm. And unlike the realm of mirrors, shadows, and small fragments, this world was bathed in illumination. An endless cloud-like terrain reached beyond the starry horizon, spiraling from a bright light in the sky. Many of the unimaginative would be right to assume this was heaven.

“What is this place?” Shadow Scythe asked, skeptical to believe this was actually the promised land foretold in many biblical stories.

“Zeloph's personal space,” Doppia answered. “Come, he shouldn’t be too far from here.”

Impassively, the reaper studied the place while she traveled alongside her mysterious tour guide. Strangely formed sculptures stood from out the ‘ground,’ a pair acting as a gateway of sorts. Through it, she found wispy abstracted figures, gathering around a small pool, crystal clear water shimmering under the rays of the sun-like rift.

And below the surface was a mound made up of several avian wings, a pale eerie glow emanating off the feathers. “Is that...him..?”

The hooded mare nodded. “Ever since his fight with Beatrix, Zeloph’s been sleeping here to recover. Although, not even feeding off the souls I’ve brought has healed him of his dwindling condition.”

“I see...” Shadow wondered if some of these souls were from the ones she freed from Manhattan. She did recall the prismatic scales growing from his face, the way his wings folded crookedly. It was like his body was on the verge of collapse. Shadow Scythe watched Doppia walk over to the other side, where a bell mount stood. Grabbing the rope, the mare proclaimed,

“Rise and shine, Zeloph. You have a guest~!”

She tugged at the rope, making the topaz bell chimed loudly, soundwaves rippling over the water’s edge. Clutching her head, Shadow Scythe looked down to see one wing unfolding. And then another. And another until all wings flexed out, the light glowing harshly. Slowly, the wing cocoon rose towards the surface before emerging out from the pool. A strong gale pushed against her robes, yet the reaper stood firm while gazing upon the hovering mound of plumage.

All at once, dozens of eyes opened along the marginal coverts, every wing unfurling as illumination blasted the souls gathered back. The unicorn mare shielded her eyes from the brightness until it dimmed down, peering over to gaze upon Zeloph’s magnificence. The Fallen One gently touched the water surface, his slender yet statuesque figure bare for all to see. He kept his pegasus shape, his long midnight mane flowing around his back behind his outstretched wings. Each magenta eye stared at Shadow Scythe until the central pair on his face opened, a gentle smile curled.

“Welcome, Shadow Scythe,” he greeted. “How nice it is to see you!”

Before she could retort, her eyes were naturally drawn towards the light coming from his crotch, outlining a phallic shape that hung between his legs limply. Once more, Shadow Scythe shielded her eyes, hiding the blush across her snout. “Grrgh! Would it kill you to put clothes on?!”

“O-oh, right. My apologies. I was not expecting company,” Zeloph chuckled, his wings folding over his body until they morphed into his robes, leaving the pair protruding from his shoulders and ears extended. Once it was safe to look again, Shadow noticed that the scales had not vanished, in fact only growing worse.

“Looks like your efforts are in vain, huh?”

Touching his scaly cheeks, the demi-human sighed. “It would appear so. I suspect it's related to my daughter’s fluctuating crisis. Seems purity is still beyond my reach… ņ͈̜̙̰̟̯̩̮o͠͏̻̩̣͇͕ͅ ̺̹̹̞̲͉̝̥ṭ̰̩̠̰̼̜͜͢h̷̰̞̲͕̜á̛͖̜͎̲ņ̺̝̼̩͟͟ķ͓̰̘͖̰̗͉̜s̢͙̼͟͠ ̸̟̳̺̫̲̀t͍̰̜͍͓͙ò̮̰̪͞ ͖͓̣B̰̖͘e̡͔͢ͅa̵͉̳͇̖̲̝̫͔͎t̴̞͍͎̪̘̺̮͞͝r̟̟̪͓i̧̼̪̯̠̩̯x̫̮̰͈̞̫̪̳ͅ.̴̸̼̞̳̯̀.̞͇͠.͏̨̹̖͇͔̫͕̬”

“Yeah, she tends to have that effect on people,” Shadow scoffed. “You get used to it after a while.”

“Hmmm. Do you like what I’ve done with the place?” Zeloph asked, arm motioning towards the heavenly realm, a pleased smile returning to his narrow muzzle. “I think I did a marvelous job creating my own slice of paradise~.”

She shrugged. “It’s…pretty. Passible, I guess.”

His eyes narrowed at her. “Has anyone ever told you that you’re quite the killjoy?”

“Has anyone ever told you you’re a self-righteous hypocrite?”

“Probably more times than you have victories over Belladonna~.”

“At least I didn’t catch some STD slowly turning himself into an iguana! Maybe that’s why you feel like shit, huh?”

“W̷̢̻̻̥͈͇͍̭͜ḩ̸͉͇͢y̨̥͇̙̝͇͠,̨̬́ ̩̻͇́ỳ̺o̵̬̤͔̻̬̘̗̤͞u̴̵̵̻͙̝͔̫͕̝ ͍̮̝̟̩̮̬͔ḿ̼̝̥͉͚i̪͉͇͝͝ͅs̴͠͏͎̬e̵̫̦̺̺̜͎͇̦̺ŕ̢̫̺͚͈͇͇̮a͏̦̻̝̖͉͚͈͠b̲̘͖̲̟́ͅl̶͖e̵͖͕͠-̸̷̟̯̕”

“Ladies, please!” Doppia cut between the brewing fight between the two immortals. “You’re both bellissimo, really~! But our struggle is not with each other. No, we've come together for the same thing.”

“Power,” Shadow Scythe nodded, arms folded.

“And the imminent demise of Belladonna,” Zeloph added.

“Exactly! So let us not waste time bickering like cagnes. Zeloph, dear Shadow Scythe is here to take up your offer of arcane magic.”

“Ooh?” He curled an eyebrow towards the pale unicorn, who begrudgingly turned away.

“As much as I loathe to admit it, there’s a limit to what I can achieve on my own,” she said, hood drawn over her head to hide her face, her snout drawn in a scowl. “So…are you still willing to teach me?”

“Of course,” he nodded, smiling slyly. “On the condition that you’ll help me locate and retrieve my daughter.”

“What’s so special about your daughter, anyway?” She asked, turning back to him. “From what I saw, she’s crippled with growths and can hardly keep a physical form. It is better to put the poor thing out of her misery.”

While she didn’t necessarily mean that, Shadow Scythe couldn’t help but grin over how Zeloph trembled, trying very hard to keep his composure.

Inhaling deeply, he responded, “Abadonna is the Child of Lightendark. She is destined to become extremely powerful at a certain age. Potentially, the ability to reshape fate itself if given the proper parenting. Tell me, is ṯ͖̦͕͓̜̫h̨͈͙̣ͅa͏̡̬̫͙͍̲̲ṱ̠͇̜̫̲̣̀̀ someone you want Beatrix responsible for?”

“W-what?! No, of course not! I’m still astonished that brimmed hat bimbo could even conceive a child, let alone raise one!”

“Well, it helps when you have Sacred Blessing to fully restore what was once lost to you,” Zeloph boasted, light glowing from his finger into a cross shape before dissolving. “But if finding my child isn’t exciting, there’s always omniscience.”

“What do you mean?”

“I’ve been keeping tabs on the manor while Zeloph was asleep,” Doppia explained. “From there, I’ve learned that Abadonna is in an ancient library of sorts. Nothing on where it is or how to get there yet.”

“Well, what are we waiting for? Tell me how to do arcane magic, and let’s go!”

Doppia shook her head. “It is not so simple. To obtain access to such phenomenal magic, having existed since the dawn of time, there are things you must be willing to let go.”

“I have nothing left to lose but my patience,” she sharply responded. “I’ll do whatever it takes.”

Zeloph chuckled, approaching her. “We’ll see about that. First, I require insight into your spirit.” He placed his hands on either side of her face and began to lean in.

Blushing, she pulled away, glaring. “Do you really need to do that by kissing me?!”

“I have other ways, but they’re a lot more painful. Now quit being a prude; it’s just a kiss!”

Sneering heavily at the Fallen One, Shadow relaxed her face before letting him touch her, feeling his lips touch her temple in a chaste kiss. A gentle warmth blossomed in her bosom, but she felt no other change. “W-well? What did you see?”

“Hmm…” He pulled away, contemplating his choice of words. “You’ve got a vital spirit, a ruthless edge. But if I am to be brutally honest, you have a stubbornness about you that dulls your sharp wit. If you want to access your archaic potential, you need to accept yourself wholly; flaws and everything. You might find that challenging, given your narcissism.”

“Pft! That shouldn’t be a problem,” Shadow Scythe scoffed, though a long momentary silence said otherwise. In truth, she was uncomfortable going into details about herself in front of strangers.

And having spent so much time focused on power and delivering death, she hadn’t realized how out of touch she was with her own body. So, with a long breath, she tried to explore the emotions swelling in her chest first.

“Ever since Sunny… ‘awakened’ me, I’ve felt nothing but guilt, shame, and self-loathing. Stuff I’d cast aside as to not get in my pursuit for power. But since then, I’ve come to realize how harshly I’ve neglected myself, whether it came to affection, love, or…. egh… a certain fulfillment…” She rubbed at her forearm awkwardly, feeling bitter and embarrassed in admitting this in front of Zeloph and Doppia, who remained neutral, much to her silent gratitude.

“I… I can’t even deny how much Beatrix and her friends altered me. I hate, and I mean absolute hate, that she forced me to feel these things. But, at the same time… part of me is grateful. Things don’t feel as cold before; the world… actually looks beautiful for a few moments…. And the fact that she does things without considering the consequences pisses me off. Look at how many died because she couldn’t handle that monster!”

Her eyes fell to Doppia, fingers digging into her cloak sleeve while recalling her words.

“And... maybe you’re right. I am jealous. I threw out friendship and love because I found it weak. Yet, here comes Beatrix, boasting new abilities and friends, while I’m left with nothing but my sickle and bitterness…. I think it hit me during that wedding. She kept trying to shun me away… because she was so afraid of me, something I thought made me feel strong. But instead, I’m just…. Alone…”

Shadow Scythe couldn’t even hide the tears, even if she wanted to. So instead, she let them roll, sobbing quietly. Yet a vast, unbearable weight felt lifted from her shoulders.

And then suddenly, wisps of smoky aura flowed off her body. Her cold blue eyes widened, gazing over her hand at the raw magic flowing through her fingers.

“Well, I’ll be damned,” Zeloph said, eyes wide with astonishment, a pleased smile brought to his face. “There is a heart within that ice queen exterior. And with it, a t̨̠͔ŕ̰͎̝̳͖e͉͎̠̣m̡̘̞͢͡e̴̝͓̫̥̪̺̠̼͘ͅn̢͟҉̯̦̙̖d̵̟̕͜o̙͉̥̼̟u̵͉͇̬̠s̥͕̘͍̩ͅ amount of untapped power.”

His hands reached to hold hers, fingers tenderly stroking her knuckles. “Well done, Shadow Scythe. This is a great start! I reckon you’ll learn the nature of your Onoma in no time!”

The pale unicorn felt her cheeks flourish before she yanked her hands away from the false messiah. “Flattery won’t get you anywhere with me, Zeloph…. Just so long as the power I covet will triumph over Beatrix and her entourage of weaklings.”

“Oh, trust me, my dear,” Zeloph assured, sporting a vicious grin. “T͕̥̠̗̼h̲͍̫̖͞ḙ̟̖̰̬y̸̰̫̠̰’҉̮̗̜̦͇͔̲͎l̸͙̺̹͞ļ̤̖̗͎͓͔͖ ̱b̶̧̯͖̗̻̣̫̰e̼̦̞̙̬̰̞̦͢͡ ̜̻͎̭̗͉b̢҉̼̪̖͇̣e͏̲̙̘̥͎g̖̻̼̘͙̭̱ͅͅg̸̡̝̣̞͇͔͓̞̀i͕͝n҉̦͇̀͝g͡͏͎͔̱͖̥͇͙͓ ͏͓f̧͇͍̝̳ờ̢̹̺͓̩ͅŕ̛̺̜̳̹̦̦ ͍̤̥̀t̹͚̟̩͇̤͎̟̩h͕̣e̴̟̝̤̝͖̝͚̝͟i̝̜͜r̡͏͉͔̠̗̞̩̯͙ͅ ͙̳͓̖̣̤l̶̡̪͍͈̳͙̤͞ͅi̡̩͍ͅv̨̬͖̹͚ͅe̵͎̬͈̲̥s͇͘ ̷͇͉̮̥̫̫͓̰͠ͅo̶̞̲̺̟̦ṇ̶̛̰̥̮̳͇͕̕c̱͇̲͈͕̞̪͕e͏̹̞͇̣̪́ͅͅͅ ̷̴͈̙͎̝̪y̦͇̜̝͓̞͠o̢̦͔̭̺̘̫͍u̻̺̯͇’̛̳̲͓̜r̀͏͓̘͚̦͚̲̲̩e̢̢̤͔̝̥͙̩͈̕ͅ ̲̞̞͟͡t͉̺͓̙͇͜͜h̝͉̦̟̘r͏̟̰̥̪͇o̲u̷͚̗̩͝ǵ̨̹͙̭̲̺h̩̩̞̞ ̛̼̙͇͙̺͉̙̀w̵̰͙ͅi̧̩̼̖̦̕t̤͈̟̫̗͕̬̖̠h̴̖̥̕ ̙̫̙̲͚͘t̙̙͓͖͠h̢̹̞͚̲̼̙̩͕e̠̻̩͘͢͢m̵̡͉̹͍͕̯~̵̢̘̖̺̳̥̱.̩̦̞͈̱̩͇̮͜”

The idea did excite her, and despite herself, Shadow allowed a satisfied smile to replace her usually perpetual frown. “So then…what’s our next move?”

“Now we see where our little harlot has wandered off too. And plan accordingly.”

Zeloph took a couple of steps away from both mares once he drew out a runic symbol in the air, in a manner similar to his former lover. Upon completing it, the sigil glowed brightly, a low humming resounded.

“E̴y̧̧é̴ ̵̨of̸ ̶҉p̵̨͜r͘͝o͘m̨in̕e̷͠n̢c̷e͘…̴̢͠ ̶͟R̡͘͢ev̶͘eą͘ĺ͘ ͢t̴͟o ͡m̴͡e ͟al̀l̡͢͠ ţ̸͡há͜t ̷̴I̷ ̵̴͞s͢͠e҉́e̡̨k҉̵!̧” he chanted as the center split open, revealing a small window into the manor. Doppia and Shadow Scythe leaned closer to look inside, portraying Beatrix, two sheep people, and Moxxi talking with each other. The trio watched as the witch opened a portal and the imp disappeared.

“So it seems my sister will stay true to her word after all…. Heh, I’m almost impressed,” Zeloph scoffed.

“‘Sister?’ You and that cockney-lipped hoe are related?!” Shadow exclaimed.

“We’re two halves, yes. The similarities end there, I assure you…”

Keeping quiet, they listened to Beatrix converse with Oona and Dion, the former having discovered something within their homeland. The witch suddenly jumped in excitement before drawing out another portal for all three to slip through.

“H-hey! They’re on the move. Follow them!”

Zeloph conducted his hands to do exactly that, but the image was met with static distortions disrupting the sigil that pushed the winged immortal back before it dissolved. Zeloph sneered with clenched fists. “B͇̜͠l̪̫̗a̴͎͔̝̺̜̙̬̘s̛̥̭̘͉̹t̵͏̜͔̙̙̠͎͈̗s̡͉̩!̸̝̗̟ͅͅ!̼̩͜͡”

“What happened?” Doppia asked.

“They must have gone to a world where my magic cannot flow properly. And if I had to guess, it’s the Equestria I was banished from. Clever girl…”

“So what now?” Shadow Scythe asked with crossed arms. “This ‘Lady Ewe’ found something in the…Lost World, was it? If we’re to find this legendary library that conceals your daughter, why don’t we start there?”

Zeloph stared dryly at the reaper. “Because. It’s. Ĺ̸͜͝o̶̶̵͡͏s̶ţ̕!̸̛̛͠ Traveling to that realm is a hassle for anyone who doesn’t live there. I’m not a natural inhabitant, therefore I cannot locate the portal to that dimension!”

“Oh, great! So Belladonna’s already ahead of us, and we have no way to follow them. Fucking perfect!”

The sound of giggle cut through the growing frustration, both turning to Doppia, who sported a chilling grin.

“Friends…the answer is much easier than it seems~!”

“Oh please, do share,” Shadow Scythe snarked. With a sway to her hips, the hooded mare walked up to Zeloph, who noticeably ruffled his wings uncomfortably.

“You weren’t the only one who couldn’t achieve what they wanted, Shadow Scythe. Isn’t that right, Zeloph~?”

The demi turned away but nonetheless nodded.

“It’s been six months, and the only thing you’ve gotten from spying is just a location. Most of it while sleeping off your ailment! We are now without time and options, Amico. You know what we must do now, yes~?”

And for once, in the short time of knowing him, Shadow Scythe witnessed Zeloph visibly go pale, a look of dread in his wide magenta eyes. Yet despite his shuddering, he gave another nod in response. The unicorn stared at him, puzzled before Doppia summoned another mirror from the clouds.

But within the glass reflection was a portal not leading to the realm she saw before. Instead, it was a barren landscape, crusted earth with little to no natural light outside of small pyres hanging on burnt trees. Doppia stood before the mirror, motioning for Shadow Scythe and Zeloph to follow.

“Come, miei amici. We must meet with the Burning King~!”

Chapter IV: Hyper-Soldier & the Daughter of Darkness

Swords clashed in a shower of sparks, the ‘clang’ reverberating throughout the chambers with each slash, thrust, and parry. A friendly duel was underway in the desert area of Equestria. This particular realm was once ravaged by a race of aliens called the Eldritch, ending with Equestria spending nearly two decades recovering from the wake of their invasion.

Alliances were forged, nations founded over what remained of the once peaceful and magical country. One such nation was headed by King Sombra, who ruled his country under a sacred Pyramid, almost forgotten to the sands of time.

The former tyrant, respected for his newfound compassion and ruthless leadership, finally found peace. And through his queen and a concubine, two noble children were born, one of which currently engaged in the duel.

White Shadow Penumbra, the eldest son, continued to press the assault against his opponent, countering each of his strikes with quick jabs. His white tunic flowed around his movements like a waving banner, matching his pale fur, hiding his dark mane with a grey streak. His crimson eyes narrowed, analyzing his opponent before deflecting another blow to put distance. The grand general's wiry muscles were rising and falling under each strained breath.

“Not bad,” he complimented. “Your skills are improving, at the very least.”

“Thanks,” came the sincere answer of his sparring opponent. A fellow pegasus and soldier, Midnight Blitzer, wiped the beads of sweat dripping off his forehead. His coat was a blue shade, darkened in color by his spiky mane. Green eyes twinkled innocently, his pale armor reflecting the sun’s rays off his pauldrons and collar. Letting out a focused breath, he delivered another strike that was swatted away.

“Don’t misunderstand me,” Penumbra grunted. “You’re getting better, but it isn’t enough if you seek my father’s favor.”

“I-I know!” Midnight groaned, putting his back into every swing while his adversary continued to fence him. “S-say, Penumbra… Do you mind not looking at me so intensely? It gives such an…evil look!”

“Focus, Midnight!!”

“G-gaagh!”

Onward, the two pegasi clashed with each other, unintentionally providing quite a show for their audience of two. Their wives, Lily Longsocks and Cerise Silhouette, watched from onto the entrance to the pyramid, cheering their respective husbands.

“Wooooo! That’s right, get him, Penny!” The earth mare clamored, turquoise eyes lit up with excitement. Amazon-like in physique, she wore a short toga-based attire, her fuschia mane pulled back in two short pigtails. The bat-mare beside her wasn’t as enthusiastic.

“I hope they aren’t taking this too seriously,” Cerise muttered in worry. The dancer was clad in a scanty wrap-around top, matched with a bikini bottom, decorated with tiny bells that jiggled with each movement. They accentuated her charcoal curves, bright neon pink mane-drawn pigtails by star-shaped baubles, matching her wide eyes.

“Pffft. I think the only one taking this too seriously is you~!” Her friend teased.

“I’m just saying, Lily. I’m not sure what I’d do if either of them ended up badly hurt. Or worse…” This was especially true when it came to her husband, who had been training nearly every day just to prove himself worthy in the eyes of Sombra.

Only until the soldier could best the king in combat would he inherit any of his territories and continue his lineage. And as much as she loved his determination and grit, his arrogance towards his own limitations troubled the future queen.

“You worry too much,” dismissed Lily. “You know how the boys tend to get worked up! Look how hot and sweaty they are, just begging for some pampering after a good hard fight~.”

“Yeah, that is true…it is fun to take care of them afterward~” Cerise admitted, sharing a muted giggle. She was thankful the stallions couldn’t hear them over the clatter; otherwise, Midnight would double down on his pursuit. With a loud cry, he tried an overhead swing, only to stumble as Penumbra ducked under and kicked him down. The blue pegasus tumbled, his large wings spreading to align him in the correct direction, panting heavily as he rose back up.

“You’re too forward,” Penumbra commented, shaking his head. “You’ll never win with baseless swings, Midnight!”

With a snort, the soldier firmly gripped his spear, his smile bright with confidence. “Then I think it's time we take things up a notch!”

Midnight knew that against Penumbra's first-hand experience, his own skills wouldn’t cut it. No, in order to best the prince, he needed to tap into his innate talents! And while the prince was a gifted and well-trained general, Penumbra was no hyper-stallion.

During an adventure outside this world, Midnight and Cerise discovered that he was one of the rare few rooted to their primitive ancestors, blessed with raw strength, stamina, and speed. According to history, for a hyper-stallion to reach maximum potency, they had to mate enough times without climax to build and convert energy, to battle other creatures and competitive males. One such stallion built himself up for sexual release but denied it for so long, he became feral. They would be solidified in a permanent state once properly mated.

With this in mind, Midnight could become bigger, more substantial. All at the cost of his innocence being stripped away by the many lusty mares who tempted him.

A growl rose from his muscular belly, partially surrendering to his bestial instincts. He bared his teeth, snarled, and ripped off his breastplate. His arms and torso bulged with veins as the pegasus bulked up. This earned a whistle of approval from Cerise as his barrel chest laced in sweat was proudly bared. The white of his eyes faded into red, making his green pupils glow.

This display of pure masculine aggression caused Penumbra to rethink his approach, raising an eyebrow. “Very well then. Show me the strength of a hyper-stallion!”

Midnight launched at the pale pegasus with a loud bellow as the two matched each other blow for blow. Unlike before, Penumbra noticed how much heavier each blow resounded, causing him to slide backward under Midnight’s sheer force. “Impressive!”

“Woohoo! Keep going, sweetie!” Cerise exclaimed.

“C’mon, Penny! Put him in his place!!” Lily called afterward.

But their cheering fell on deaf ears. Within moments, Midnight lost himself in the adrenaline pulsing through his veins, his mind going blank, subsumed by primal instinct. His arms shook violently, teeth clenched tightly. Midnight saw only red, yellow veins growing angrily from his eyes.

“Must…win! Haaa…haaagh!! Win! Kill! WIIIN!!” He roared, yanking both weapons and tossing them aside. Penumbra had little time to react as Midnight hurled his hulking mass against the pale pegasus, tackling him to the floor.

The duel swiftly became a wrestling match, Penumbra trying to shove Midnight off. “Ghhng! Midnight, enough! Get off of me!!” He demanded, arm struggling to push back.

But it became clear that the prince’s strength was no match against the hyper-stallion's, a crunch sounding as bones threatened to snap. “G-gaaaaragh! Midnight?! Midnight Blitzer!” He cried while the glaring stallion above ignored him, applying more pressure.

“O-ohh, no! Stop!” Lily cried with wide eyes, jumping off her seat and rushing towards the fight. She grabbed onto one of Midnight’s arms, trying to pry him off her husband. “C’mon, Midnight, enough! You’ll break his arm!” The blue pegasus roared at her, throwing her off as Lily rolled back towards Cerise, who joined up to stop the madness. She stared in shock, for not even the amazon’s considerable strength could apprehend Midnight’s untapped prowess.

Cerise’s mind raced with possibilities. Due to the darkness her father had infused in her, the dancer could tap into and shift into her thestral form. But even then, she doubted it could make a difference.

No way could she compete against strength like this! So instead, Cerise would call upon another source of power born of darkness, one she hadn’t used in quite some time.

She raised her arms and started to weave her ample hips. Self-trained to a contortionist-level, her costume was constructed so that her snake-like movements could undo the strings that held it. First, her supple breasts shook to undo her top until her dark perky mounds, erected with wide pink nipples, toppled free with a sensuous bounce. Next, she shimmied her bottoms loose until they slipped from her pert rump and smooth mound, down her legs where she stepped out of them.

Blushing mildly, she danced towards her enraged husband, almost in a trance. The hyper-stallion’s attention pulled towards the swaying beauty before him, pausing his actions while drool dripped from his maw.

Neon shimmers moved similarly to spotlights across her contours, those who stared at her drawn into a trance.

Gradually, the fury within him receded, his madness subdued by tranquility. This gave Penumbra ample time to break free from Midnight’s grasp and knock him out with the hilt of his sword. The blue pegasus slumped unconscious, his swelling muscles deflating to average size. The prince groaned, favoring his nearly broken arm. “Forgive me, friend. A shame you couldn’t have beaten me as yourself…. Good call, sister.”

Cerise nodded, arms folded over her chest as the sun highlighted her curvy form. Lily ran up to check on her husband’s forearm, making sure nothing did fracture.

“C’mon, maybe a nice long bath will help,” Lily suggested, lifting Midnight over her shoulder as the three made their way back into the pyramid. Cerise picked up her clothes, though she didn’t bother to redress herself, used to walking around her home naked.

“Heh, look at you, trying to act all high and mighty when you’re about to bathe with two gorgeous mares,” Lily teased her dauntless husband.

“It’s a communal bath,” Penumbra insisted, trying not to leer over his sister’s bare flesh. “No different from how soldiers bathe. There’s nothing sexual about it.”

“Not unless you want there to be~!” Lily snickered, nudging him playfully in the ribs.

The group arrived at the private chambering area, the princess waving at the bare-chested guards on duty to keep watch by the entrance. The tub itself was more like a pool filled with steaming water.

Once there, Penumbra and Lily stripped their attire and helped Midnight dip into the tub, the hyper-stallion groaning in response.

As everypony else dipped into the soothing, warm waters, a thestral soldier marched up to meet them, a worried expression on her face. “Please tell me he didn’t…” Moonlight began, but upon looking over her unconscious lover, it was clear her concerns were correct. Her grayish-purple coat was enclosed with casual wear, her crescent-shaped mane sharply swept to one side in a punkish style. She knelt down, caressing his cheek while looking to Cerise for answers, face drawn in concern.

The charcoal mare sighed. “Yeah, Middy went a little far. Almost snapped Penumbra’s arm off. I keep telling him he’s not ready to go deep, yet he never listens!”

“He’s pushing himself,” the batmare agreed. “Poor thing, trying so hard to please others…”

“His stubbornness is fueled by his fear of failure,” Penumbra muses, taking Midnight’s previous comments to heart and altering his eye color with one of the potions left behind by Beatrix on her last visit, a lighter shade of green replacing his red pupils. “Unless he conquers the beast, his strength will be nothing outside adequate. I’ve seen it in many soldiers, the constant need for approval. My worry is how obsessive he is…”

“Mmngh…” Midnight began to stir awake, eyelids slowly opening while his eye tried to focus on his surroundings. “H-huh... Where am...I?”

“You’re in the bathing chambers, babe,” Cerise answered, pressing closer to him while running water over his mane. “You lost control again.”

“I did, didn’t I….ugh, dammit. I was so sure I’d…” He hung his head low in defeat, noticing the way Lily was favoring Penumbra’s bruised arm. “Sorry…”

“Nothing personal, friend,” the pale pegasus smiled reassuringly. “Beating yourself up won’t get you anywhere. You just need to maintain better control of yourself when tapping into all that primal rage.”

The bummed pegasus nodded before his head spilled back to his wife, her bright eyes shimmering with sadness. “Midnight, I need you to promise me you won’t do that unless you’re absolutely sure you can handle it! I don’t wanna see you hurt yourself. Okay..?”

“I-I…okay, Cerise.” He nodded and smiled wide, but the earth mare remained unconvinced, shaking her head.

“No. Promise me you won’t do that again unless necessary. Promise me right now!”

“A-aah, okay, okay! I promise I won’t try anything that I can’t fall back on!” He insisted, his green eyes full of sincerity and warmth; it made Cerise melt a little. A pleased sigh left her lips before she smiled, pulling him into a kiss. The couple made room so that Moonlight could join them, the bat mare blushing before wrapping her arms around her herd the pair had welcomed her into.

Moonlight and Midnight knew each other way back in their military days, where the soldiers served a different Equestria as peacekeepers under Shining Armor’s command. It was only after meeting up with Beatrix that they (and Cerise) were united.

“Alright, you sappy dopes. Let’s put this all past us and relax!” Lily encouraged, a big arm wrapped around her husband. The other married couple nodded, Moonlight eventually pulling off her clothes to join them in the bath. Everyone released a long sigh, tired bodies aching for relief in the steaming waters after they settled in.

But tranquility didn’t last long as Lily's hand wandered to her husband's chiseled ass and shot him a cheeky smile, disappointed that she always needed to take the lead in such matters. Penumbra shot her a look that told her, ‘really? here?!’

Yet the herd of young lovers next to them proved to be even friskier. Both Cerise and Moonlight took to the hyper-stallion's side, grabbing hold of Midnight’s cock below the water. With his head arched back, they latched onto his neck, kissing softly while he murmured in appreciation. His hands slid down to seize a handful of their flanks while his stallionhood swelled to fullness in their pulls, the flat tip poking out the surface.

Most mares would struggle to fully wield the impressive shaft bestowed between Midnight’s legs. And even then, the double handjob both mares were giving would hardly quell the beast within.

“Looks like we're all on the same page,” said Lily with wiggling eyebrows, straddling over her husband, grinding her pelvis against his to further erect his member. While he silently protested, he couldn't deny how badly he wanted inside his wife’s slit. Once Lily impaled herself, the decision was made for him, moaning with joy in having her husband’s sizable cock inside her needy twat.

“A-aaagh! L-Lily…~!” He wheezed as she began bouncing atop him, watching her strong hips work and grind his cock deeper into her. He reciprocated by gripping her firm ass and lifting his hips to meet her bounds, much to her delight in no time at all.

“Yeeeeah, that’s it, Penny! Make this ass work~!” She playfully licked his cheek.

Likewise, Cerise and Moonlight helped Midnight sit up on the ledge, leaving his near two-footer fully exposed. They swiftly got to work, the batmare slurping and sampling the pre leaking off his tip while the dancer fondled his leathery sack, wiggling her tongue all over his vein-lined meat.

“Naaaah, f-fuck…” Midnight groaned, his half-lidded eyes locked with their own, his meaty shaft throbbing in appreciation for the oral worship he received. His hand reached to hold Moonlight’s head to help guide her along the girthy inches of dick, earning muffled grunts and moans. He could feel her build-up saliva to coat around his stallionhood and slather his ballsack.

Midnight couldn’t tell, but both mares had their tails swishing about in the water, their cunts leaking and winking between their inner thighs. Cerise released one orb, taking a moment to inhale her husband’s musk with a longing sigh before working the other ball. Moonlight continued to bob her head along his shaft, her throat bulging with how deeply she took him until popping his pecker out, coughing up strains of spit, which she stroked over the rest of his throbbing cock.

Midnight’s hyper-stallion nature slowly resurfaced, the need to dominate and breed his herd of mares growing almost unbearable. His fingers dug through the batmare’s mane, making her coo in excitement when he tried pushing her back down onto his masculine pillar.

“D-damn…you’re so bold now. Fuck, I love it!” She panted in between raspy giggles, taking a long strip off his cock with her tongue before nuzzling her cheek affectionately against the tip of Midnight’s pussy pleaser. “Do you notice me now, Midnight~?”

“W-wha…. What are you talking about,” he asked through hot breaths. “I’ve always--”

“Not like that,” Moonlight cut him off, pulling herself up to straddle the big-dicked stallion, her pussy squelched with tight winks, hungry to fill its emptiness. Both hissed with how close their genitals were to the spatters of hot twat juice all over his spit-coated penis.

“You saw me only as a friend, a fellow soldier. But never as a mare. That’s why I want a go at you first this time~! Erm…hope you don’t mind, right, Cerise?”

“Not at all,” the dancer tittered, sliding out to get in a comfortable position and watch, legs spread and fingers stroking over her puffy pussy. With all that said, the thestral soldier aligned the glans against her marehood before sliding down, a raspy moan escaping her voice as he split her deep. “A-aaaugh! O-oh fuck, that’s BIG~!”

Even after their union during the wedding, Moonlight could never get enough of how stuffed she felt, taking Midnight’s dick almost to hilt, her ass wiggling to snuggle him deeper until she felt his flare mash up against her cervix, threatening to penetrate her slimy womb. Midnight, in turn, responded by bouncing his sow in the making in slow but hard bounces. Flesh smacked wetly into each other, hot grunts and moans exchanged once the two soldiers instinctively fucked on the poolside.

“Baaagh! Aaugh, you're so tight~!” Midnight moaned, mouth clamping on her shoulder.

“Aaaugh, fuck!” Moonlight yelped, hands and leathery wings gripping his shoulders to pull her closer so the batmare could whisper huskily into his ear, “Mmm, that’s it, stud! Mark me~! Claim your dirty lil’ bat slut~!”

“S-shit! You’re so naughty, Moony~!” Cerise giggled before moaning hotly, digging her digits deep into her sopping wet marehood while her hubby humped the soldier good. More nectar flowed over her fingers, reaching a hot spot, making her cunt nice and wet for when Midnight claimed her next.

The stallion in question was lost in the raw passions clouding his head. Midnight felt his heart pounding in his chest, his hips on autopilot pounding his friend’s plot. His grip over each flank tightened as his first of many orgasms came close. With vigorous intent, he slammed Moonlight hard onto his lap until his cock breached into her womb and shot his thick seed inside her. The batmare screeched, her wings stretching out and cunt clamping down tight. Mare cum squirted all over his dick, eyes rolling back into her head, wet tongue hanging off the side with the mind-numbing pleasure overwhelming her senses. She could feel her belly swell up a bit as his hefty load leaked out of her. “Aaaaaugh~!... Ooohmmm~!”

At the same time, his ear perked up, hearing Penumbra howl once he emptied himself into Lily, the other couple clutching each other, trying to squeeze their respective juices out from the other. The pair sank back down into the steamed waters, kissing and stroking each other, finished.

Midnight, however, was still erect and ready to go, his genetics demanding he proceeds with the next mare in waiting. Should he fail to thoroughly bred and build up his sexual prowess, he might suffer from a heart attack, he was told. Reluctantly, he laid Moonlight to the side, her gaping wide twat oozing his virile cum while she recovered her breath.

His eyes locked with Cerise, who continued to display her gushing privates at him, a sultry smile on her face. Grinning, Midnight crawled over until he was atop her, fluid dripping off his cock before rubbing his glans against her eager slit, which winked in response, making the mare quiver needily.

“A-ahh! Don’t tease me, Middy~!” She purred, wrapping her long legs around to secure him closer into her heated pelvis, the tip of his bitch breaker pushing her feminine petals apart. “Take me, my love~!”

“Yes, ma’am~!” He beamed back at her, taking his slimy dick before pushing into her marehood in one slippery go, the combined wetness sliding him fully in with no problems. Cerise arched her back, her husband holding her up before the pegasus resumed plowing the earth mare. Her hands traced over his pecs, one finger adorned by a rune-inscribed wedding ring of silver, staring up at her lover with bright, happy eyes.

“Yes! Yes, fuck me, babe! I love you so much~!” She pleaded.

“I’ve got you! I love you, too,” Midnight replied, snout against hers as a passionate kiss began while the ponies eloped.

“Damn, look at him go,” called Lily, cuddling her exhausted husband. “Hyper-stallions sure do build up a ton of stamina. He doesn’t look the least bit tired yet~!”

“Y-you bet," Moonlight groaned, turning over to address the amazon. “He usually creams all our holes at least twice before he's exhausted. I can barely keep up!”

“We often have to a-AH~! S-seek outside help from other mares,” Cerise moaned, the grip of her legs loosening before Midnight hooked them over his shoulders, slamming his cock harder into her. At this angle, all the dancer could do was scream like a banshee as her husband drove his dick down her marehood. She felt every inch hit the back of her womb, every twitch that told her Midnight was close to creaming her.

But before either one could hit their climax, the air rippled above the tub once a bluish-white oval split open. A familiar voice yelped from the humming rift as Beatrix fell out, splashing into the steamy waters.

“Yaaaaah!!!” Cerise yelped, the noise pulling Midnight’s attention away as the couple ceased their actions, looking over the disturbance in the water. Lily clung onto Penumbra harder, looking at the ripple suspiciously before the violet mare popped back out with a gasp, her hat completely soaked over her head.

More screaming came as two other bodies dropped into the pool before the rip dissolved into thin air. Oona and her brother resurfaced, the former’s woolly mane frizzled drenched, and the latter trying to stay afloat with the weight of his cape.

“Awfurfuxake!” The ram complained. “What got th' rift to tak' a shite on us!?”

“I don’t know; it doesn’t usually happen like that,” Beatrix pondered, begrudgingly throwing her hat away before the trio took in their surroundings, as well as the many eyes on them. And the moment she took in the sight of Midnight balls deep inside Cerise, her cheek flourished. Lady Ewe made a sound before hiding her blushing snout, her brother just staring with blinking eyes. Beatrix approached the married couple with a sheepish grin on her face.

“Ehehehe~! Uh.… Is this a bad time?”

Tossing their drenched attire to the side, Beatrix and the sheep siblings could now enjoy the private bath’s relaxing formula. The wandering witch sighed in contentment, her nude body absorbing the warmth. Almost immediately, Cerise wrapped her arms around her, embracing her friend and welcoming her back.

Everyone in attendance exchanged greetings as well, Dion and Penumbra hitting it off while Oona and Lily spoke fondly about the other’s journey. Midnight kept an arm around Cerise while they both caught up with Beatrix and her wild adventures.

“I’m so glad you're here!” Cerise clamored, her hand casually stroking the blue pegasus’ chest. “Father will be happy to know you’re back.”

“Sorry, Cerise, but I won’t be staying for long,” Beatrix dejected. “I’m actually here for you two!”

“Oh, did you miss us?” Midnight joked innocently.

“Or maybe you wanted to do ‘stuff’ with us~!” Cerise suggested with a wink, though Beatrix shook her head.

“That’s, uh... Not quite the reason I’m here.”

Maybe before discovering that Midnight was technically her half-brother, due to sharing a parent in a different Shining Armor, the witch would have gotten to him first. But now that that knowledge was known, it felt… weird for Beatrix to imagine bedding with the soldier. She was no stranger to incest, given that many ancient gods and goddesses were related to one another.

Hell, even Moxxi still had a particular spot for her brother!

“Ohh?” Midnight tilted his head, a curious glint in his eyes. “Then what brings you to our parts?”

“Well, you see...” Beatrix began, retelling her recent adventures through many dimensions to the married couple. How all this time, she’s been looking for where her daughter was hidden, with no luck. Then she recounted her battle with the titan in Manehattan, Dion coming to her aid (earning the warrior’s raised fist and howl) before returning to the manor with urgent news from the dream faun. As the witch got into her story, though certainly exaggerating a few details, the two listened intently over the situation. Once Beatrix finished, Cerise drew a frown, folding her arms.

“So both Moxxi and Shadow Scythe went awol, and Zeloph’s on the rise again, huh?” The charcoal mare summarized, vividly recalling how their world almost collapsed under the false messiah’s wrath.

“Ohh…so that’s Moxxi’s brother?!” Midnight added in alarm.

Beatrix nodded. “That’s why I need allies on this trip and why I’ve come to you. I know you’d have my back in a heartbeat, but I need you both to understand the risks. Plus, I don’t wanna get in the way of your happy marriage!”

“Nonsense!” Cerise insisted, moving out of Midnight’s arms to press against the unicorn, breasts squishing into each other. “You can’t expect me to sit out knowing you’re going up against that multi-eyed bastard! Face it, Bea. You’re stuck with me. No way am I missing out on another fun adventure!”

Beatrix pursed her lips, holding her friend’s shoulders. “Cerise, this won’t be as fun as you're making it out to be. Who knows what awaits us moving forward! You could end up captured, killed, raped, or--”

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” Cerise shook her head, smiling assertively. “You don’t need to coddle me just because I’m a princess. I get that enough from mom and dad! Remember, your sister trained me to handle stuff like this. And most of all, you’re my friend! I want to do this with you.”

The charcoal mare’s plight got through to Beatrix, who sighed before smiling back at her. “As long as you’re sure.” Once more, the two embraced.

“Wait, what’s with all the ‘you’ business?” Midnight cuts in. “What about me?”

Cerise turned to her husband, an apologetic look on her face. “Sorry, babe. But I think it’s best you remain here.”

“What?! No way!” The blue pegasus, rising up before Moonlight, gingerly held his shoulder.

“Actually, I have to agree with Cerise on this, especially after today…” She added softly.

“What happened?” Oona asked with concern.

“He and I had a friendly little spar,” Penumbra explained. “Unfortunately, it ended up a lot less friendly when he tried to tap into his primal strength.”

“Yeah,” Lily confirmed, pointing towards her husband’s forearm. “Would have snaped his arm like a twig if we didn’t get him off in time.”

“Ahh. A berserker, are ye?” Dion mused, stroking his black beard. “A’ve dealt wit a couple ov those. They’re fiercely powerful but equally stubborn.”

“I’m not a berserker!” Midnight insisted, pulling his arm away as he addressed the group. “Look, I get it. I screwed up, thinking I could handle the raw potential as a hyper stallion. I’m still trying to understand what that even is! But I refuse to sit on the sidelines, knowing my friends are going on a dangerous mission. This is my chance to prove myself!”

“Middy, please,” Cerise pleaded with a sad frown. “You’ve pushed yourself too far already. You need to sit back and think about your health. Won’t you do this for me?”

“Cerise…. How can I do anything for you if I can’t do this for myself?” He questioned, looking away. “All my life, I’ve done nothing but doubt who I am. No matter how hard I tried, how strong I could get, there would always be someone I couldn’t save. As a peacekeeper, my duty was to prevent fights and serve my country. This is my home now. You are my life! I need to be there with you, fighting by your side. Otherwise…what am I even here for?”

“Midnight…” Moonlight sniffled. She knew him well enough to know that he would not stand down, even when directly ordered. It got him a few penalties. But that’s what she’d always admired and loved about the blue pegasus. He wore his heart on his sleeve, even if it was exposed to hurt.

“Well said, laddie,” Dion spoke, raising up from his spot while cracking his neck. “That’s th' makin' ov a true warrior, right thair. An' who are we tae deny yer hidden potential?”

“Brither…” Oona tried to interject, but the stubborn ram ignored her, offering his hand to the blue stallion while addressing Cerise.

“A’ll whip him intae shape,” he declared. “Ah want tae see what a ‘hyper stallion’ can really dae. Ah say we brin' him. An’ if he goes berserk, A’ll go medieval on his arse until he gets it right. Ye have mah word, layde Cerise.”

“Y-you will!? Oh, thank you!” Midnight exclaimed, already taking the ram’s hand in acceptance before Cerise could protest. This caused the dancer to shake her head, Beatrix snickering at the resolve. “Well, I guess that settles it the--”

“Wait a minute!” Moonlight cut in, toned arms crossed. “I’m coming too!”

“Absolutely not,” Penumbra rejected, furrowing his brows at her. “We need all the soldiers available here. Zeloph’s influence still lingers around the area.”

“He’s right,” Lily nodded. “We suspect a cult has formed around him, seeking a way to bring him back!”

“Oh shoot, I forgot!” Midnight admitted, head hanging low as he rubbed his head sheepishly. “Well, maybe we could--”

Moonlight sighed before looking to her herd, smiling sadly. “It’s fine. I’ll stay behind and help out.”

“Are you sure?” Cerise asked, frowning. “I don’t want you to feel like a third wheel…”

“Nah! The truth is, I haven’t explored the place yet. So going around searching for some crazy zealots sounds fun! I trust you two will look out for each other.” The batmare smiled, taking their hands and caressing the engagement rings on their fingers. “My only concern is how you plan to manage Midnight all by yourself, Cerise. Hyper stallions have their needs, and it can be difficult with even just two mares…”

“You’re right,” Cerise groaned. “Much as I like having you to myself, we’ll need to find other partners if we want to keep you in check.”

“Perhaps Ah could provide assistance?” Oona offered as she rose up, much to the surprise of everyone in the bathing area.

“A-are you sure?” Beatrix asked with a twinge of jealousy tugging at her heart.

“Ah am. Wouldn’t be th' first time A’ve handled somethin' like this befur,” Oona smiled bashfully, cheeks heated. She could already feel Midnight’s eyes taking in her luscious curves and mountainous mammaries.

“Ah daen’t think sae!” Dion interjected, getting between the two while addressing the dream faun. “Ye aren't some prize tae be passed around! Ah will naet allow mah flesh an' blud tae be th’ harlot fur some-”

“Oh, don’t be such a hypocrite,” Lady Ewe responded, hands to her hips. “It’s nae like ye don’t lie wi' every willin' mare or doe at every opportunity. A’m surprised ye an' Beatrix haven’t gon at it like bunnies since bringin' 'er back! Or the twins!”

“W-well, Ah.… Raaaugh! That’ll change when Ah become chieftain tae th' clan. Then Ah’ll be ready tae settle doon wi' a partner!”

“An' Ah’ll still be loyal tae Beatrix, knowin' she’ll be sleepin’ aroond wi' anytin’ 'at catches 'er fancy! Sae let me help them sate his urges!”

The two sheep stubbornly butted heads, horns locked with each other while the rest watched their quarrel worryingly. But after a moment, Dion sighed and pulled away.

“Bah! Knowin' ye, yer naet goin’ tae give up that easily. That’s just how our famley is.… Fine, Ah allow it. But Ah expect tae be responsible fur Midnight an' Beatrix’s trainin'. Th' lass’s Onoma is offensive magic, an' we both know ye’ve ne'er wielded a sword.”

“A-Ah could if Ah wanted.… Ah just prefer peaceful methods, is all,” the dream faun huffed. “Oh, very well. Ye’ve got a deal.” The siblings nodded in agreement before lightly headbutting again as if to settle the arrangement.

“Good. Now, Ah believe ye still got somethin' ye’d like tae shair wi' th' class~” Dion cheekily added before taking back his spot.

“Oh, sweet lucid dreams! All this time, catchin' up wi' friends, an' Ah haven’t e'en told ye!” The sheep exclaimed with embarrassment, looking sheepishly at her lover, who gave a polite smile.

“Relax, Oona, it’s okay. I’m ready when you are,” Beatrix stated, winking.

The dream shaman smiled appreciatively for her pupil’s patience before collecting herself in slow breaths. Once ready, she sunk back into the warm water pool and looked to everyone present in the private area.

“A’ve spent long months lookin' fur any clues about Abadonna,” Lady Ewe began, drawing images from with her magic. “Ah looked e’ery Ah could about a mystic library or a child that both existed an' didn't simultaneoosly. Yet Ah found nothin'. Nae one knew what Ah was lookin' fur. Sae, naturally, Ah followed a forgotten path an' went tae th' only other reliable soorce Ah trusted…mah mither.”

Beatrix felt a sense of longing from the mere mention of the word. Her head turned to Dion, who looked equally as surprised.

“Now, ye must understand; Ah don’t come from a normal famley. Mah faither was a local blacksmith befur he became th’ clan chief. Mah mammy, however, is a nature spirit an' sacred guardian tae a floral sanctuary untouched by civilization. But that’s anither story fur later,” she giggled sheepishly, waving off her lineage as if it wasn’t important.

“Tae mah astonishment, mah mammy answered me when Ah asked ov 'er. She hasn't taken a physical form fur years tae ensure th' forest was preserved. It was…sae braw tae be held by 'er again.” Oona pauses, momentarily holding her chest as if to settle the happiness swelling beneath her breasts.

“D-did your mother know where Abby is?” Beatrix asked, a hopeful tone in her voice.

“Aye,” Lady Ewe nodded. “‘Long ago in ancient times,’ she said. ‘Thair lived a wise scholar named Enock, who valued knowledge an' history sae much, they spent their mortal life buildin' a library tae document everythin' they could. E'en when becomin' a spirit, they continued tae savor every event that has, is, an' will ever happen. But when war ran rampant an' destruction was rampant, Enock feared that lords an' generals would seek their library fur battle advantages. Or worse, discover things 'at could set up terrible futures fur th' lain. Sae they conjured a spell that sealed th' library intae th' essence ov time, free tae collect infinite knowledge an' foretell upcomin' events. Forever movin' through space where nae one could threaten or change reality.'" Her amber eyes twinkled at her equine lover, a serene smile on her snout. “If there’s one place Abadonna would end up, it’s most definitely wi' th' Curator ov Time.”

“A library that moves through time itself...” Beatrix repeated, unable to comprehend such a place. It almost sounded too unbelievable to be true! “But then, how are we supposed to get there?!”

“Ah speart mah mither th' same,” Lady Ewe continued. “She didn’t know. Tae ensure that th' library, in all its omniscient glory, remains out ov malevolent hands, only th' mystic guardians may reveal th' ritual tae summon th’ portal ‘at leads tae Enock. An' tae dae that, we will require a council wit them…in th' Lost World.”

The witch almost jumped and squeezed her in excitement. For so long, she had dreamed of travelling to her lover’s homeland. If circumstances weren’t critical, Beatrix would have planned an extended stay. But she now had a path to follow, one that could bring Abby safely back into her arms.

“Then it’s settled,” the witch spoke adamantly, rising from her spot as all eyes were drawn to her. “Pack your things, guys. We’ve got a date with the Curator of Time~!”

Beatrix finished drying off her attire outside the pyramid entrance, adjusting the leotard to keep her ample bosom from spilling out. Likewise, her mentor and Dion strapped themselves in their robes and cloth. Moonlight was helping Midnight back into his armor. All that remained was for Cerise to join them.

“Y’know, how come I’ve never been able to locate the Lost World before?” Beatrix asked, pacing around. “I’ve gotten better in picking dimensions to hop through, yet not once did I come across such a place.”

“Well, if ye could find it, it wouldn’t be very ‘lost,’ would it~?” Dion teased, earning a playful punch to his shoulder by the witch.

“If Ah can remember correctly, our dimension used tae be magically parallel with others,” Lady Ewe theorized. “Ah think its due tae an outer force, far older than our ancestors were alive. That might have bin th' cause ov it. Sae far, only those native tae our homelain can freely pass through.”

“So, kind of like an intergalactic Bermuda triangle? Fascinating!”

“A what now?” Midnight asked, not at all familiar with human terms.

“Think of it like the disappearing act trick. You go into the box, but you don’t come back out, as if you ‘mysteriously’ vanished into thin air,” the witch explained with a theatrical wiggle of her fingers.

“W-wait! You mean there’s a good chance we might not return?!”

“I mean, yeah, that’s the risk to every adventure,” reminded Beatrix.

“Ah, don’t fash yerself, laddie,” Dion offered, smacking the pegasus’ shoulder. “We’ll make sure ye’re back home th' moment Abby’s safe an’ sound. Besides, we're goin’ tae a bonnie place. Sae much tae see an' admire!”

“This isn’t a field trip, brither,” Oona said sternly. “Th' closest guardian sanctuary is located off th' shores ov Equestria. They might not be ready fur what’s in store once we’re thair…”

“What do you mean?”

Before the sheep shaman could reply, Cerise reappeared with her brother, panting heavily. “Sorry about the hold-up. Had trouble picking out the right clothes!”

Everyone gathered closer to take in the dancer’s new attire. An orange top held her firm breasts together, a small skull button pinned along the single strap. Bright pink short shorts slung over her curvy rump, deep purple leggings highlighting her shapely legs. The charcoal mare even had the time to stylize her pigtails, swirling down towards her shoulders.

“Wow,” Midnight marvelled, enamored by his wife’s fit wear as she struck a couple saucy but innocent poses for him. A slight yank pulled the blue stallion’s focus back to his other lover, the batmare finishing up on his chest plate. “Alright, you’re all set!”

“Thanks, Moony!”

“It’s nothing,” Moonlight insisted, caressing his cheeks while smiling sadly. “Just don’t do anything stupid, okay? I need you back in one piece.”

“I will, I promise,” he smiled, pulling Moonlight for a short kiss before offering his hand to Cerise, who eagerly took it as the couple walked forward with Beatrix, Oona, and Dion.

“I trust you’ll make sure they’ll get home safely, Beatrix,” Penumbra added, his good arm tying Lily by the waist to him.

“Obviously~!” She giggled, waving goodbye before turning to Lady Ewe. “Just show me what to do, teach.”

Oona nodded before reaching out. “E’eryone, take hands an' close yer eyes. An' don’t let go until A’ve said sae.” Once everyone was in accord and did as asked, the dream faun channelled her magic through their vessels. In deep breaths, she chanted,

“𝕆 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣 𝕞𝕖, 𝕤𝕡𝕚𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕤. 𝔽𝕠𝕣 𝔸𝕙 𝕒𝕤𝕜 𝕪𝕖 𝕥𝕒𝕖 𝕘𝕣𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕦𝕤 𝕤𝕒𝕗𝕖 𝕡𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕒𝕘𝕖

𝔽𝕦𝕣 𝕨𝕖 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕥𝕒𝕖 𝕥𝕙’ 𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕘𝕠𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕒𝕖 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕞𝕠𝕟 𝕖𝕪𝕖𝕤

𝔹𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕦𝕤 𝕙𝕠𝕞𝕖, 𝕒𝕟’ 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕦𝕤 𝕨𝕚𝕥 𝕪𝕖𝕣 𝕤𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕖𝕞𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕖!”

Runic symbols glowed below their cloven feet, the strange sound of chimes ringing around the group. A whirlwind of sand brewed from beneath, flowing towards the sky. Both Oona and Dion’s markings glowed brilliantly. Energy spirals around them as sparkling, mysterious mist emerged, shrouding Beatrix and her friends until only their silhouettes were visible.

Penumbra, Lily, and Moonlight watched in wonder, silently praying for their comrade’s safety as a pale light flashed within. The fog rolled away, revealing nothing but the hoofprints where they once stood.

Chapter V: the Burning King

Fear was an emotion Shadow Scythe had experienced only a few times in her immortal life.

Even before becoming the self-proclaimed 'Goddess of Death', the pale unicorn was not easy to frighten. She had purposefully done everything in her power not to feel fear. And when she became a reaper, Shadow Scythe was confident she had conquered the need to fear.

And yet, the reaper felt agonizing dread upon arriving through the portal to this dark, hellish landscape.

There was no sky above. No stars, no planets, not even a sun. Just a pitch-black horizon where the only light visible came from the lit torches and burning brushes. The ground she walked upon was course and barren—a rocky terrain not unlike a volcanic exterior. The smell of sulfur and ash hung pungent in the air.

From a distance, Shadow Scythe quivered from the sound of harrowing wails, occasionally followed by unearthly screaming. Tartarus had the fortune of being a prison for those who deserved their punishment. But this gruelling, abysmal wasteland was devoid of any habitation or life.

Whatever this realm was, no one deserved to be here.

“What is this place..?” Shadow Scythe finally asked, turning her attention to her two companions. Zeloph had a faint glow around his pale robes and extensive plumage, shining a bit of light into this abyssal void. Madame Doppia stepped out from behind him, closing the glass portal that brought them here. The sly smile beaming from under her hood only infuriated the reaper.

“Pathos,” Zeloph answered, his haughtiness notably absent in his voice. He could hardly keep himself from trembling. “This is where all restless spirits come to dwell. Contrary to what you believe, not all souls are liberated to the afterlife. Sometimes, when one dies after a life filled with wicked deeds, they remain trapped in their decaying flesh, twisted to reflect their abhorrent nature. Here, they are free to rampage across this hellish plane where nothing matters but eternal hunger and anguish.”

A loud series of shrieks came from behind, which alerted the trio as a managed mess of feathers and flesh flew over. A flock of harpies swooped towards one fleeing pony far off the coast, hooked talons and needle-like teeth piercing the colt’s legs, ripping his limb with a clean rip. The poor stallion released a blood-curdling cry, reaching towards them before disappearing into the frenzy of moulting plumage.

Shadow Scythe felt the urge to vomit, looking upon the heinous display, cradling her sickle as she told herself there was nothing she could have done. This was the fate of this pony. And thousands, perhaps millions, would likely join him here. Her mind returned to the Manehattan incident.

Was she responsible for bringing those tragic casualties to Pathos? Or worse; had she been burying souls under tormented soil from the very beginning? The unicorn shook her head, refusing to accept this as her responsibility. She was a death dealer and nothing more. Wherever they journeyed through purgatory is a consequence of their actions in life.

But even if Shadow Scythe wanted to rescue those who came here, she couldn’t take their souls into herself with such raw power. She remembered when she'd tried such with an ancient elemental titan, simply to have it and Grogar tear themselves from her regenerating flesh. The pale mare shuddered at the memory.

“Never again,” she muttered to herself.

“Never what, amica?” Doppia asked, a curious glimmer in her amber eyes. “Don’t tell me you actually feel sorry for that poor sap~.”

“Of course not,” Shadow Scythe sneered. “Mortal flesh disgusts me! To be unburdened by feeble limitations is liberating!”

“You really are quite stubborn, aren’t you?” Zeloph mused with a shake of his head. “Why must you continue to lie to yourself? There’s nothing wrong with a bit of sympathy for the meek.”

“Ha!” The reaper scoffed. “That’s rich coming from the guy who nearly wiped a planet out for pitiful vengeance.”

This earned a leer from the demi-human, all eyes fixated on Shadow Scythe before looking out towards the harpies, finishing their meal and lifting towards the blackened skies, a fresh corpse left from their ravenous mauling.

“Vengeful, I may be. But I would not wish for anyone to fall into this forsaken pit. Not even Beatrix deserves a cruel fate like Pathos…”

The pale unicorn tensed by this revelation before going back to silently brood over this whole arrangement. The only reason they were even here was to talk with the Burning King, a fabled child’s book character to her knowledge. Part of her wanted to believe that this was all a joke, that Doppia was playing more mind games just to get a laugh. But the reaper knew better, considering she knew nothing about the Lost World or the characters that resided in it.

Whatever this legendary abomination was, Shadow Scythe would face it as she did with Grogar or the Demiurge. With ruthlessness and pure will.

“Hmph…. So where is this ‘Burning King’, anyway?” She asked the hooded mare, freehand resting over her hip.

“Patience,” Doppia hissed, her hand wrapping around her left forearm, twisting it tightly. “He is coming…”

“So we’re just supposed to stand here and wait for demons to ambush us?”

“I think not,” Zeloph agreed, stroking his eye-lined plumage with shaking hands. Being in Pathos made the Fallen One more aware of his affliction to the darkness, making his skin crawl. “My presence alone will draw attention to us. We need to get a move on before--”

A bellowing roar drew their attention behind them. From the ledge crawled a gargoyle-like creature, flesh meld with stone, tusks emerged out its bottom lip, forming a snarl. Another howl echoed as a pack of wolf-like beasts prowled from around. Pale unblinking white spheres, unevenly bulging out from its eye socket, reflected its prey while saliva flowed from its unhinged jaw. The familiar screech of the harpies sounds from above, the flock soaring around the trio.

Grunting, Shadow Scythe readied her weapon in a battle stance as Doppia cowardly hid behind Zeloph’s robes, the angelic pegasus flaring his wingspan as light magic glowed from his hands.

“Pft, coward!” The unicorn muttered before tensing up as one creature lunged for her throat. Swiftly, she decapitated its skull from its neck, ducking as its body rolled off the ledge. This signaled the rest of its pack to attack. Zeloph fired a projectile of pure light from his finger as the harpies descended upon them, causing the flock to scatter. The Fallen one continued to fire warning shots at the stalking wolf beasts until the gargoyle rushed towards them.

“Get down!” Shadow Scythe yelled, using Zeloph’s ducking as leverage to launch herself and deliver a guillotine-style cleave over the creature’s head, hot blood jetting out the base of its neck, staining the reaper and nephilim in spatters of red.

They cast one glance at each other in a mutual nod before resuming to deflect each pounce and attack. The unicorn’s horn lit up to fire an array of her most advanced spells, desecrating the front of the growing pack of hungry demons. Likewise, Zeloph ascends to battle the winged harlots, beating his wings with enough force to break their bones. Parts of his robes unravelled into more plumage, each feather glowing brighter until bolts of lightning dispersed to electrocute the harpies, mangled limbs, and burnt feathers plummeting onto the scorched earth.

His look of satisfaction didn’t last long as more screeching was heard from above. Zeloph turned, eyes wide, to find more harpies swarming towards them. From below, Shadow Scythe caught the beast’s jaws with the handle of her sickle, struggling to push it back while blasting the other monsters away. And yet, more seemed to keep coming as two new gargoyles were lumbering close by.

Her glare fixated on Doppia, who was hiding behind a rock to dodge any pouncing hellhounds. “What the fuck are you doing!? Get your ass over here and help me!!”

“I-I can’t,” she complained, favoring her arm while leaning against the boulder. “My magic is useless here. There’s too many!”

“You worthless cunt! I swear, if we make it out of this, I will rip you asunder unti--”

“Worry not, Shadow Scythe,” Zeloph called overhead, his brilliant aura shining brighter as he channelled his magic. “I shall handle this quickly. With my inhibitors gone, I am free to tap into unlimited power!”

As the ravenous flock of harpies neared, the multi-winged angel focused his archaic energy into wielding his onoma. “Now bare witness to the might of Aeth-à͙̲̀a̡̛̪̤̜̕a͔̜̣̪͓̱̖a̵̰͜ų̭u̷̥͍͈̱͜g̵̣̬͠h̨̪̤̩̦̞̩̻͠ͅḫ͔̺͈̞͈̪̙!͇͕̦̞̲̻͈̻͓!̯̥̝̣͔͘”

Yet the moment he tried to conjure his prolific symbols and halos, his wispy aura flickered and dimmed, a searing headache pulsing through his skull. And the harder Zeloph tried, the worse the pain became before it was too unbearable. His aura completely diminished, his eyes widened in dismay. “No.… No! How can this be!? Why can’t I--Gragh!” The harpies collided with the Fallen One, tackling him down into the ground, clawing at his feathers and flesh while he screamed in agony.

“Are you serious!?” Shadow Scythe yelled before the dog-like demon ripped her sickle out from her hand and pinned her to the ground. “Gyaaagh! Get off me, you rotten beast!” She demanded, panting and yelling as it took her horn into its jagged jaws, threatening to bite it in half. The unicorn flailed feebly, sheering pain burrowing through her head as Shadow Scythe felt it drag its claws into her robes, stripping her with each desperate swipe until not even the bandages concealed her lithe figure. Her eyes dilated upon feeling hot liquid dripping against her stomach, a grotesque knotted tool throbbing eagerly against its underbelly.

“N-no! NO! GET AWAY FROM ME! GUURGH! NAAAAAAAA!!” She screamed, trying with all her might to kick the horny hellhound off while its pack circled patiently around her, awaiting their turn to claim the reaper’s body and sate their unending lust.

A startled screech pulled her eyes away from the ugly canine towards Doppia, arms held up by the gargoyles while she struggled in their grasp. They tried to tug away at her own robes, fat lumpy cocks hanging between their stone thighs. Zeloph was not faring well either, the harpies pressing their nude, saggy breasts into his bare chest while tracing their talons all over him, despite his resistance.

Hot flesh scraping against her mound pulled Shadow Scythe back to wrestling free from the demented dog, only for its jaws to fasten tighter around her horn. Tears streamed from her cold eyes, realizing that nothing could save her from becoming the pack bitch to these monsters. That they were destined to slake the endless hordes gathering around them until nothing remained but broken bodies and crushed spirits. Her eyes sealed shut as she prepared for the inevitable.

“R̈́̊̔͆̾̏̋͊́Ȃ̧̔͞A̧̛ͥ̔́̅͜A̓̌̋ͧ́ͩ̑͛͏A̴̐Aͬͩ͌͜͠Aͬ͆͒̈͌A͊ͮ͆ͯͥͨ̔ͨ͗̕͢Ă̔̒̎͂̓͗̒͢͢͏Ą̵̶ͩ͗ͯ̎A̶ͯ̿̒ͧ̃ͫͨͩͩĄ́ͪ̒̿ͩ͘͟Ä̶̢́̓͑̂̽A͐ͨ̑̑͋̓̈͋͘̕A̴ͭͭ̃͡Aͤͯͮ̓́͟Á̏͌̑ͧ͛A̸ͯ͒Ã̌͗ͬͯ͌̎͊ͮ́͜͏Ã͛̽͟A̓͢͟Aͪ̾̑̕ĄͯAͧͧͫ̏̌̇ͦA̷̢̓̔̄̓̕A͑͊̈́̉͌̔̑̀͠Aͤ͊̆̉̓̅̕͡Ųͣͯ͒͂͌͗̊̚͢R̍͒G̎̌͛̌̏̚H̵̛ͨ͘!̈͌ͪͭ̔!̋̒̓̀̈ͩͧ͐̀”

A thunderous sound echoed through the dark realm, causing all demonic creatures to cease their actions. Taking advantage of the sudden distraction, Shadow Scythe shoved the beast off of her, summoning her sickle back to hand. Her glare narrowed, expecting the creature to fight back. But instead, it curled back with its pack, whimpering, bony tail tucked between their legs.

Her gaze wandered to her comrades, the monsters molesting them having stopped as well, all staring beyond her vantage point. The reaper’s eyes locked with Doppia, a sinister giggle parting her stretched lips.

“He’s here~!”

The sound of clopping hooves perked her ears, causing the Reaper to turn around. Black smoke drifted across the barren plain, yet glowing light slowly grew brighter from within. As the vast figure emerged, thick puffs wrapped around its limbs. And upon making out its horrid visage, Shadow Scythe felt fear swell within her heart as her sickle dropped out of her hands.

It was a horse…or an undead approximation of one. Only a few pieces of burnt skin remained over its exposed musculature and black bones. Fin spines grew out from behind its head and legs, a single eye glowing from the socket of its skull-like face, mouth housing blackened teeth. But what disturbed the trembling reaper most of all was the rider attached to the equine nightmare.

Yes. Attached. Permanently fused to its back was a humanoid torso; its rib cage was torn open to expose the fire crackling within its chest. Thin, elongated arms dragged on either side of its steed. Bovine-like horns protruded from its head, a skeletal visage with a mouthful of jagged teeth. The fire burned brightly from its eye sockets, much like the flowing mane that immolates its head. And if this creature’s identity wasn’t apparent enough, a crown engulfed in flames hovered above its head.

The fabled Burning King had graced them with an appearance.

It rose its lower half on hind legs before the horse head let loose a harrowing neigh, landing on its forelegs with three hooked claws. All at once, the hellish wolf beasts spontaneously combusted, painful howls and screams barking up as their bodies slowly crumbled into flecks. Shadow Scythe rose, watching with astonished pale eyes as nothing remained but their ashes, an acrid stench filling the atmosphere as black plumes swirled towards the sky.

One of the gargoyles bellowed, undeterred by the Burning King’s presence as both burly monsters dropped Doppia and charged towards them. A few of the harpies took flight towards their twisted ruler. A snort of steam left the equine head’s nostrils before the destructive beast rushed towards the racing stoned abominations. The Burning King extended its hook-like claws as they scraped against the ground alongside the galloping steed, sparks flying off the blades until they caught fire.

Just before they could collide, the Burning King swung its hand across the frontmost gargoyle's head, its face splitting in half before collapsing to its knees. The monstrous horseman trampled over the gargoyle’s body, brain matter and blood oozing out from the severed skull.

The second gargoyle, frightened by what had happened to its kin, stopped in its tracks to run away. But the skinless steed lifted off its hindlegs to hook its hooves into the stone creature’s hard flesh, teeth sinking into its neck. The horse head wrestled to rip off its prey’s throat before succeeding as chunks of meat tore away. Using its weight, the Burning King slammed down on the screaming monster, crushing its bones before running off, leaving the crying gargoyle in agony, blood gushing from its wound like lava. Shadow Scythe held her throat instinctively, the putrid feeling rising from her belly.

The screeching harpies dove in circles towards the skinless monstrosity, ready to tear it apart with extending talons. But the Burning King stood its ground, lifting its lower body once more as the equine head opened its maw unnaturally wide, plumes of toxic smog vomiting out to cloak the air around it. The winged creatures cried, the vapor stinging their eyes, the flock flying around aimlessly. But the worst was yet to come as the rider opened his maw to ignite the gas-filled atmosphere with fiery breath.

The harpies exploded, licks of flames burning away at their feathers and flesh until they dropped to the tormented soil like flies. Their sisters harked in alarm, scrambling off Zeloph to fly off into the darkened skies. The nephilim, covered in scratches and teeth marks, shakingly rose towards Shadow Scythe. The two stared at each other in distraught before turning towards the approaching Burning King, embers and ashes dancing around it. Doppia stumbled to their side, awkwardly keeping away from the reaper, tucking her head in as the monstrous horseman trotted towards them. The rider eyed the trio, a permanent sneer on its gaunt face. Not a single word was said until the Burning King snapped its attention towards its lowly follower.

Doppia instantly fell to her knees, trying to hold in screams with little luck, unrolling her forearm to reveal the burnt symbol searing her crystalline flesh. Harsh light shimmered underneath, crawling up her arm before swelling into her face, the mare’s eyes wide as a spark of pyre glowed inside her pupil. Heaving, she stood crookedly before glaring at her companions. And Shadow Scythe trembled under the voice that came from Doppia’s mouth,

“K̡͊̏̆̿ͩn̶̷̾͗͜eͤ̿́͌̃̚͏e̿̆͞l̨̾͌ͬͫ̀̿͜…ͣ̀̀”

A gurgling baritone, layered over silent screams, commanded the both of them to lower onto their knees, bowing their head before the Burning King. Beside them, the immolated bodies of the hellhounds rose anew, burnt skin cloaking a fiery exterior, their faces morphed back into place before the pack knelt similarly.

Shadow hesitantly looked over the torched beasts, breathing heavily while fighting her body to ignore the urge to flee. She knew nothing good would come of it, that even if her flesh could regenerate from any injury, she had had no hope of escaping this…thing. The fear of being trapped in perpetual pain and suffering overwhelmed Shadow Scythe, and the Burning King could see it in her eyes while studying her.

She hated how it stared at her, its maw almost forming a grin.

Finally, the skinless horseman turned its steed to march off, its new pack of hounds following after with Doppia’s possessed body tailing. Shadow Scythe and Zeloph struggled back up, the reaper only able to find solace that her winged companion was equally unnerved. At once, the Burning King stopped, his legion of ignited minions following his actions as they all turned to them, and in unison, beckoned,

“F̏̉̋ͯ̎̽ô̵͐̆̏̌ͪ̂͗́l̸̃̾̓̽ͮ͠͞l̛͊̔̈ͤͬ͊̽͜ơ̄͛ͧ̂ͣͤ̚̚͟w̓̌̾̋͆͏.̵͗ͤͭ̏̓̄͑̀͠”

As if compelled by some unknown force, their bodies lurched forward to shorten the distance between themselves and the Burning King. Once Shadow and Zeloph walked behind Doppia, the group continued their path over the endless landscape of scorched earth. And more immolating victims rose into molten shapes, backing their king in growing bodies.

A short journey later, the pale unicorn and pegasus arrived before the husk of an ancient castle, stone singed with soot, debris scattered all over the place. Dark wood sparked with embers as the Burning King made way, the scorched creatures splitting away towards the lower levels. Shadow Scythe surveyed what looked to be the remains of the throne room, hollowed pillars struggling to stand. A large cauldron of fire highlighted the chamber, six goblets sitting around the rims. And looming over the tarnished bowl was a giant throne, made from bones and melted gold. The Burning King climbed the steps before seating its equine body down. A draft whirled through the hollowed kingdom, black scorch marks decorating the rugged decor, evident of their host’s malicious might.

“Never have I encountered such a horrible-looking monster,” Shadow Scythe muttered, trying to heal the cuts and bruises she received fending off the hellhounds. But to her utter dismay, no rejuvenation spell worked, suspecting this realm prevented the use of such magic. Zeloph confirmed this when he failed to seal up his wounds while approaching her, eyes locked with the sinister ruler.

“That’s because you’ve never encountered a nuckelavee before,” he spoke quietly, attempting to conjure the holy aura of his archaic magic to no avail.

“A-a what?”

“A nuckelavee,” Doppia repeated, temporarily free from her master’s possession, standing by his side. “The worst of all demons. Fiends that feed on mortal agony, blood, and loathing. Legends say that they are inescapable, land or sea. Only the Sea Mither could drown them with saltwater. How fitting that the genocidal ruler of Moira would become such a diavolo orribile~.”

The Burning King remained silent, his clawed fingers scratching into the throne arms, making a slight scraping sound that irritated Shadow Scythe’s ears. “Gnnh! T-that thing... was human?!”

“Hard to imagine, I can agree,” the crystal mare nodded. “But he was once a man. A cruel, terrible man. No one knew why he sought a life of atrocities, committed heinous acts, and slaughtered anyone that stood in his way. The moment he took the crown for himself, the entire kingdom fell into ruin. Some called him a madman, yet the despair he sowed was far more…calculated. He knew what he was doing, might have even enjoyed the countless lives he took. In the end, no one was safe when he set his kingdom ablaze. And even after death, trapped in this hellish landscape, he became the most violent force imaginable. The Avatar of Destruction. The Demon of the Wastes. Thee Burning King! And he is willing to aid you in your journey for the Child of Lightendark.”

“For what price?” Zeloph asked with a furrowed gaze, stepping forward. “What does the Burning King gain from helping us locate Abadonna? What does he w̴͔̻̼̩̕͞a̘̻̮͔̥͙͘͠n̷͏̣̰̞͚̤t̡͕͔̻̱̖̲̥̕?͡͏̷͙̻̥͈̠͈”

Doppia’s smile deepened as she gradually walked down the steps. The cauldron’s pyre erupted behind them, reaching the ceiling as images formed within the flickering flames. Shadow Scythe and Zelophed turned around, seeing a scene depicting Abby, curled up in a room, watched over by an owl-shaped figure. “She is with the Curator of Time, Enock,” the mare revealed. “The celestial’s library cannot be found, as it flows through the history of every existing timeline. However, that doesn’t mean it is out of reach. A ritual can be performed to take us there.”

“The Curator of Time?” Shadow Scythe asked, tilting her head to the fallen one.

“An immensely powerful being,” Zeloph explained. “Said to have knowledge of even before atoms materialized after the grand beginning! If we can infiltrate that library, we gain access to untold history, wisdom beyond years that have yet to come.”

This definitely perked the reaper’s interest, the idea of pure omniscience and knowing the outcome of all things enticing. But suspicion crept up to her as she glared back to Doppia. “And what’s in this library that interests the Burning King?”

“A way out,” the mare stated simply. “The Burning King tires of Pathos, having conquered everything from the scorched plains to the mindless predators. He seeks to escape this prison, so that all life may burn until there is nothing left. Enock’s library holds the key to releasing the Burning King back to the mortal plane, where he can continue his onslaught and bring fulfill the Omega Prophecy; otherwise known as-”

“The End of Days…” Zeloph finished for her, his eyes wide and full of fear. Shadow Scythe didn’t press him to elaborate, the title alone told her enough about the cataclysmic event.

“That’s right, mio amico~!” Doppia said excitedly, pulling his hands into hers. “Join us! Help us bring the cosmos to its knees. Escape the fate that tethers you to ruination, Zeloph~.”

“You expect me to take part in this prolific doomsday?” The nephilim sneered, trying to pull away. “This…would not be something my daughter wants…”

The Burning King glared down at the resistance, a low growl parting his jagged maw.

“Would it truly be so bad?” Doppia asked, pressing herself further against the demi, tracing her fingertip over his bare chest, highlighting his cuts. Her eyes fluttered dangerously low, her twisted smile widening. “Think about your future, Zeloph. Any survivors left would need someone to shepherd them. You could become their ‘savor’ once more! Siring numerous offsprings to bring forth a new generation of superior mortals. Why…. I wouldn’t mind being the first to receive such a ‘holy’ blessing~!”

Shadow Scythe felt the urge to hurl return, disgusted by this display of lecherousness from the already despicable crystal mare. Her eyes looked with Zeloph, silently mouthing him ‘no.’ The nephilim was conflicted, unable to deny how he missed being looked upon and loved by the mortals he once cherished. Yet the way Doppia twisted it greatly disturbed him. But with the looming threat before them and his Onoma seemingly lost to him, Zeloph doubted there was any way he and Shadow Scythe could leave unscathed...

“I…will do whatever I must if it means Abadonna is safe in my arms again,” he relented, much to Doppia’s delight. Shadow Scythe's hands tightened on her sickle, no longer allowing dread to keep her silent.

“Have you lost your mind!?” She snapped at the pair, trying to stand fast in her belief, despite how quickly her heart raced. “Do you not realize that you’ll assist in the complete annihilation of all existence!? I thought you were smarter than this, Zeloph. That even a vengeful soul like you would not resort to galactic genocide!”

“Pft! As if you’re one to talk,” Doppia scoffed, defensively stepping between the reaper and the fallen angel. “If I remember correctly, you’ve been an advocate to death to all things for a long time. How mortals should be liberated from their fleshy prisons, no~?”

“Don’t twist my tongue, you lowly bitch,” Shadow Scythe threatened, raising her blade up towards the hooded mare’s neck. “I advocate death, yes. But I seek to end life naturally. What you offer is anything but natural. Hatred beyond reason! And I refuse to take part in this!”

“Shadow Scythe, wait!”

The reaper pointed her blade towards the nephilim. “I’m sorry, Zeloph. But the price is too great to rescue your daughter. You’re a fool if you think these monsters wil--guuggagh!”

Shadow Scythe froze in place, the atmosphere around her becoming smoldering, more brutal to breathe. Her weapon fell from her hand as it reached for her throat, coughing excessively. Before the reaper’s eyes, the room had combusted, fire immolating her flesh, cooking the skin off her charred bones. But she didn’t disintegrate into dust, left to be in perpetual agony and do little more than twist and scream.

From the outside, she was unharmed, kneeling and wailing over seemingly nothing. Zeloph glared towards Doppia, who manipulated plumes of emerald smoke to swirl around the frightened unicorn. As the Vice Lord of Deception, it made sense she possessed powerful illusionary magic.

“Stop it; that’s enough!” He demanded, trying to tug Doppia out of her trance. “Doppia! Leave her be!”

“Ḋ̷͐̒ͤͬ͟͠o͂͆̄͜ ̒͑͂̀n̄̃̄̑̀̿͂̇̾o̷͒̄͂͗̓͒t̢͑ͫͭ̂͛ ̵ͬ̇̓̒̈́͋͊͝iͩ͛ͦ͌͢n̿̾̆ͮͬ͟të̶̵́r̸̴͌͂͆f͌̉͏̧ę̵̋ͫ̀͌͋r̄̈́͋́ͣͥę̿̂͊ͧ̒ͮ̓̄,̴ͩ̑ ̏́̀f̢̡̀ͥ̋ͦ̒̍̊̓a͐͐̚͟͠ls̷̈̋̄͆ͧ͟e̢ͭ̿ͥͩ̏̿̓̅̕ ̴͌̋ͮ̅̓̀î̵̵ͦ͗ͮͥ̒ḑ̸ͥ̄̌͜ö̶̷̓ͮ̉͐̾̐l̨ͪ̄ͪ́̈̏̓͡,ͧ̔̌̚" a foreboding voice responded, her head turning to show off the fiery embers glowing from her eyes, harsh light highlighting her skull from within. The demi-human instantly backed away, head snapping towards the Burning King, who slowly made his way from the throne. While his skeletal visage remained silent, his voice continued to speak through his mouthpiece.

“Ą̢͊͑͒͋̔͗̉̄̀ ͂̓̓̎̕͝l̴̍̐̄͐ͮ̏̑ͫͩe̡͑̒̅̍̅̇ͪͨͫ̕͠ş͌͗̄sͩ͆ͣ͠ǭ̿̚n̢̒̄͛̃ͯ͑͝ m̃̐̂ͥ̑ͬ͢͡u̧͒̆͊̓͋͆͟s̛̓̉͋͂̉̉̇ţ̧ͫ͆͒͋̆̐̚͜ ̵͐͒b̡̆ͪ̌̉̅̉̕e̷̵͒͂̊ͫ̽́̑̌̂ ̊̈́ͦͭ̄ͣ͢͝t͆͂̉̽ͭ̚͏̛̀ǎ̵̡ͣ́̄ͧͤͫ̂ͦȕͤ́gḩ̾ͫͩ̑̒̒ͯ̊ť̈̉͠ ̇̅ͤ̀̂̕͠t̶͂ͩ̏̑̚͡ỡ̎ͫ͘ ̐̌̍ͪt̶̡́̾h̀̔͐̇ͤ͏̕͟ó̔ͤ̍͗͡s̨̋̅ẻͬ́͝ ̇̂͆̑̐̈́͐͌w͑̍̄ͮͮ̄҉͠hͬ̐̐ͦͨ͒̓͑͜͢ǒ͗̏̍̇̚ ̷̅͗̓͐ͩ͌d̄̔ͣ͌̏̒͑́͡ā̊̽̌ͦͯ̚r̨̍͑̂ͭ͆ͣ͒ͧȇ̿̓̿̽ ̶̐̒̽̎ͩ̊̐́̀̚͜d̈̃̎̾͑͂̃ͬĕ̉ͦ͒̉ͤ̍͏̛͝f̵̨̐̄ͯͭỹ̢̡ͮ͛͘ ̵̛̿m͒́͡y̢͆͋̾ͣ̑ͭ̎̔͟͝ ̐͒̓̈́́̚͢͡w̶̿͛ͮͤ̑̃̈́̑̀͢i̿ͬ͗l̒͒lͮ̄͡”

The nuckelavee walked towards the cowering mare upon reaching ground level, grabbing her by the throat, pulling her out of the deathly vision. Shadow Scythe could not tear away from his immolating gaze.

“T̓ͯͨ̈͐̅ͪh̢ͪͬ̃͗̆͒̐͊͑͞͞a̅̀̽̐̈̔̌͂͏t̶͒̃͐ͭ̑͊…̴̡ͪ͊̒̈́͗̍ ͊̊̇̈́̏w̵͒̉̈̒̄͟a̢͌̑s͑͑͢ ̴̌͋ͤͦ͐̍̽jͯ̋ͤ̕u̴ͧ͋̈́̎̈̓̿ş̷ͭ̊̉̊̏͑̾͌t̴̷͐͊̿ͯͣ͑͌̎̕ ̢̨͂̿ͭ̎̔ͭ͟a̍̔ͣ ̷̶̢̍ͦ̏t̏ͧ̔̊̋aͫ̂͑̋ͪ̇ͨ̅͏s̶̛͑ͭͦͤ͞t̛̛ͨ̌͛̈̎̅͑̃͏ȇͩͤͤ̓̒̐̚͢ ̧͑̽ͭ̑̎̅͋͛́ỏ͘f̐̒͞ ̷͒̔ͩ̽̎ͭ̐̿m̡̐͂y͊ͫ͛ͧ͢͞ ̡̄ͮͨ̎̊͋̅̐̂w̡̓͊̂̽ͪr̴̈͐ͦ̾ͧả̷ͪ̓̎ͤ̔̃ͭ͘t̽ͯ͛͂͘h̐͘͞.̡̽̎͛ͬ ̡ͭ̊̅ͯ̾W̷̸ͣ̓ͩ̓ͮͫͯ̅͢i͒̇ͩ͒͐̃l̨̛͑̐ͤ͂͜ļ̍ͬͫͭͧ ̊̎͛ͬ̾̐ͮ͆͊́y̡ͮ̈̅̾ͥ̂̌͊ͬo̧ͯ̊̍̓̀ù͛̋ͧͫ̄ͮ͂ ̐̐s̵͛̐̓̔̍̽ͭ̏̀ų̴̈̈́ͯ͆͡b̃̓ͤmͥ̈́ͥ͘i͂̏̌ͬͭ̐ͪ̉̾͘tͦ́…̢̀ͥ͝ ̧ͫ̓ͤ͛ͧ̑̄͞ǫ͛ͥ͊ͦͩ̊͛̐ŕ̢ͯ͡ ̽́̈́̓ͧ͘͠s̢̛ͦ͂͛̀u̴̴ͩ͂̾̎͆͂̿̍͗͟fͬ̄ͦ͑̐̒ͤ̈́́ͯ͐́̀͟f̷̵̷́̊͊̾̋ȩ̵̵̷̈́͆͌ͩ̏ͬ̓ͣ̓͋̀r̛͛̈ͥ̆ͫ̔͟͡?̶̧̊̅͑̓ͫ̊̎͆̍̒̂͊̊̏ͣ́͟͝”

Shadow Scythe, though eyes watering, continued to sneer defiantly. Yet she couldn’t deny the pain swelling in her throat, the stinging of his searing flesh coiled around hers. “I…. I-I will serve,” she choked, nodding her head feverishly until he finally dropped Shadow Scythe to her feet. Zeloph rushed to her side, and for once, she did not refuse his touch as she wheezed.

“Y̛̿͐̍ͤͭo͊͆́u̽ ̨ͯ́̀͒b̏̓͌̓ó̐͝t̎͆̚͟h̿̇̅ ̍̎̑͡w̸ͮ̒̉ͨ͛̍̊i̷͛͐lͣͣ͐ļ̿̚ s̶eͮ̄̊̂͊r̀vͨͨ͒̆̽ͤͨe͋ ̀̽ͬ̃ͩ̅ͦm̾ͤ̀̾͒ͫ̚eͧ ̉̓ͣ̚̚͝w͋͌ͩ͏ȩ̑ͨ̇̽͗̓l̨̃ͩl͝,͌ͮ̓͗͌̉͊” the Burning King stated through Doppia’s lips.“Ä́͒ͣ͗̈́̀̀n̓ͥ͋͟ď̆̑͒ͬ͗̋̚ ̆̐̿ͪͧ̈ͤ̔͘͏t̸̢͆ͨ̓͛̕ō̎͛͠ ̶̐͒̎͆̐̽́͝͡a̸̡̾̄̇͋ŝ̷̆ͪs̅̉͛̃̑̆͗ü͆̆̏̔ŗ̃ͮ̎͐̊̐̔eͨ͐̀ ̏͡ỷ̑͜o̶̶͋͌̓̎ͨͩ͘u̍͋ͦ̃ͪ̾͑̚͝ ̡̌̌͌͂͂͂ͫ̐͜͞tͪ̏ͤ̂̅̏͗͢͝h̸̆̅ͤ̂̀͌̒̓͏a̒͐̊̋̔́̍ͧ̚t̸̽͑̈́̅͐̂ ̛ͦͤ̈́ͮ͊͒ͩ͑f̶̋̋̀ͫ̏ͦ͂̒̍͟rͨ͛ͬ̍͌̔e̢ͫ͊͊͘͜ĕ͗҉̛ḋ̎̿͋̽oͮͧ̐ͧ͂̽ͣ͟͝m̶͊̐̂ͭ̔͞ ͤ̊̓͒̍͘͝i̒̿̈́̈͗͑͋̀̕s̛̐͒̒͑͑̕͜ ̧̓͂ͪͫ̂̈́ȃ̸̸͗ͬ̍̈ͤ̊̃ ̶ͤ̎͘h̔ͪ̑ͩ̂̆̇͏o̢̒̌́̿ͯͨ̓͑̀l̏ͪ͒ͦ̂l̸̐̄ͯ͗ô̷̐̑͡͡w̐ͧ͌͌ ̧̄͆̍̕͟ẃͨ̌̂̔̔́͡i̐̐͞sͨ͊̀̔ͫh̷ͪ̓̇̃̉̿́͞.ͧ͂̆ͧ́̕͡.͋̔̂ͣ́͌ͫͭͫ̕͞.̢͐̈ͤͭ̎͢” The skinless demon raised his hand outwards to the pair, a sudden pain burning from their arms as they shared a sharp hiss. Scarred upon their forearms were matching symbols.

“... Äͣ̑ͦ̕ ̨͗̉ͮ́̕͠r̶ͤͣ̐̃͆̾̉̔̕͢e̸͐̆̏͒̇m̶̸̴̌i̿̑͒̌̚̕ņ̧ͬ͌̉͆̽d̍̉͐ͨ̓͛ͯ͒̀͞e̔̓̑͘r̔͆̔ͥ̿͛̀͢ ̶̔̄ͣ̊͆̓̊́͡o̸ͪ̂͑̎̚͟f̴́̚ ͩ͑ͬ̓͐ͪ҉̵̨w̌͊̾̂ͩ͑ͬh̵̛ͫ̉̄͐̂͛̊͠a̧̒̓̾̒ͯtͧ̑̾̆͜͏ ̧ͣͪ̈ͩ̽̀̽́͘â̸ͭ̿ͦ́̔̒͜w̷ͫ̀ͪ̄̿̋̔̐ȃ̵͞i̷̓ͦͮͦͫt̵̨̅͊͋̅́s̢ͭͫ̿͢.ͦ̌́.̧̌ͯ.̴̢͑͆̿̾ͪͧ̋̊ ̴ͣͪͨ̀̍̓ͭ͜s̐͋ͮͨ͏h̶ͣ̑̎ͤͤ̔̓̃̑͜oͬͩͥ̋̉ͯu̶͑̎ͧͯ́͘͞l̵̊̈d͋̐͐̿ͪ͢ ̷̶ͫͤ͛̿̽̓͢y̷̢̏̿ͣ̉ͧ͆o͆ͣ͡u̸̧ͪ͗͏ ͬ̀͊̓̽̾̐̇pͮ̀̄ͮ̂͘r̸̡͛̿̄̂̄͝o̧ͧͣ͒͊ͩ̿͡͠ṽ̓̎ͪͣͣ͌͘͡eͭͯͭ͡͠ ̵̷͐̌͆͌ͭ̄͟t̔͛ͪͯ͌̐̌̊͟r̶̆̐͌̿͑ͭ̚e̛̒ͦ̏͜a̶ͨ͐̆͂̏c̨̾ͬͭhͪ̏̓̋ͣ̌͌͛̕eͫ̈͑ͫ̀͟r̸ͤ͋̓́ͨo̧͛̄̈́̆̀͋͜ȗͩ͟͠͡ş̛ͮ̀͋ ͯ̐̍ͦ͒ͬ͝ȧ̆͌͘g̢̀̎̅͋͒͢͞aͦ̑͠i̽̍ͨͤ́͝n̢̢̏͛̏ͫͣ͞s̋̋͏̷̢t̎ͭ̓̈̈́͟͏ ͥ̈́̋ͬ̈ͯͦm̾̐ͪ̋ͨ́̀eͥͪ̍̽̀ͮͦ͑̕.̇̕.̶̧̇ͣͩͭ͐̚.͌̈́̕͟.”

The fallen one and death goddess leered as the Burning King turned to his emissary, who opened up a portal in the large cauldron, snuffing out the blazing pyre. As the hellish entity turned to leave, he released Doppia from his infernal hold, the enchantress swaying on her feet until she regained her senses.

“This shall lead you to the Lost World,” Doppia explained, her master’s instructions ringing through her mind. “The gateway to the Time Curator requires three ingredients. Essence from the darkest of sorcerers, blood from the purest of alicorns, and a piece from the Crystal Empire’s heart. From there, you will free the Burning King…and the Omega Prophecy shall be fulfilled.”

Zeloph mentally made a note of these requirements, staring into the vortex spiraling below him and Shadow Scythe. “And where are we to find these?”

“They’re not too hard to find,” she insisted with a giggle. “I’m sure you two are quite familiar with the first~.”

“Beatrix,” the pair stated in unison, figuring the witch was connected somehow through her bond with the Demiurge. While Zeloph favored his scarred forearm, making preparations to descend, Shadow Scythe continued to seethe at the hooded mare, tempted to lop her head off for her trickery and cowardice. “You aren't joining us?” the pale unicorn asked.

“It is best I remain on the sidelines, for now, amica. But I’ll continue to watch and guide you when needed. Oh! I do have a favor for you. When you encounter Beatrix and her friends, could you bring me a lock of hair? I’m not picky whose mane it is~.”

“Hair? What for?” Shadow Scythe gave a skeptical look, but the crystal enchantress remained secretive through her sly grin.

“Just something that could prove important to our mission. You better hurry, though. I suspect our adversaries are already on the move,” Doppia urged.

The scythe-wielding unicorn turned to her angelic comrade, a snort of her snout before both jumped into the swirling portal.

And though no words passed between Shadow Scythe and Zeloph, both silently prayed that somehow, they would never return to the realm of suffering, ruled over by the horrible Burning King.

Chapter VI: the Lost World (Part I)

A dense fog hung over the lush plane of grass, gravel, and flora. Distant calls of birds and critters echoed from a distance. The soft blue hue highlighted the lavishing greenery, gently waving off each branch of the looming trees. Lumintaing orbs of light slowly waltz around the enchanted forest, aimlessly wandering towards the stone formations hidden deep inside the woods. Moss grew over the rough surface, hiding the runic etches carved in the rocks.

The wind howled through a set of chimes dangling over thin branches, their melodic sound emanating from the forest as runic symbols began to glow from the trees. Enchanted cyan aura swirled around the stone junction, sacred runes lighting up as if to welcome the travellers. And as light poured out from the whirling mist, Beatrix Belladonna was the first to emerge from the dissolving haze. The gale current nearly threw her hat off her head, had the witch not clunge to it tightly. But once the wind died down, her eyes widened over the sheer size of the towering forest, only hints of sunlight shimmering through the leaves.

“Wow…” She marvelled in an airy tone. The rest of her crew were also dazed by the splendorous forest. Midnight and Cerise scanned the canopy, pointing to a few strange avians flying out or squirrel-like critters gliding through the trees. The dancer even spotted a salamander, blue and pink in color, with transparent scales before it disappeared in plain sight.

The sheep siblings took in the familiar fresh air, sighing deeply while fawning over their friends' awe at their first visit into the Lost World. For a moment, all stood mesmerized.

“I-I can’t believe you live in such an enchanting place!” Beatrix exclaimed, twirling around while venturing through the forgotten path. “I don’t think the paradise planet boasted flowers or animals this exotic!” She crouched down to beckon one pale creature over, who had been hiding behind a bark. It looked like the offspring of a lemur and a cat, with big yellow eyes and glowing rings around its tail. Its nose sniffed the unicorn’s scent, head tilting to the side as it inched closer before deciding to back off, scurrying up the tree. Beatrix grumbled in disappointment while her mentor hid a giggle behind her sleeve.

“Th' Fáilte Darachlain is one ov many forests that enrich our world's history,” Oona reminded, a gentle smile on her snout. “Ahh…thair are sae many wondrous places Ah wish tae shaw ye here.”

“We’ll make time once I have Abby with me. I’m sure she’d love to explore the Lost World too,” Beatrix replied hopefully, her violet eyes reflecting the glimmering light pouring through the forest trees. Both mentor and student gazed longly at each other before pulling in for a brief, tender kiss.

“Damn…really wish we could have brought Moonlight,” Midnight lamented to his wife, picking on flowers with long anthers protruding out from the velvety petals.

“Yeah! I’m sure we could bring some souvenirs back with us, right?” The charcoal mare asked Dion, who shook his head.

“A’d advise against that, lassie,” the burly ram warned. “Many faeries 'n' critters bide 'ere, an' thay dinnae take kindly tae strangers tarnishin' thair home.”

“Faeries?” The soldier asked with half attention, sniffing the floral fragrance until something shuffled inside the flower. Out fluttered a sprite, translucent wings shimmering over a long mane of flowy hair. Her curvy naked body was decorated in tiny leaves and scales, forming a skirt around her hips. Large black eyes stared curiously over the startled pegasus.

“O-oh! I-I’m sorry, I didn’t know this flower was occupied!” He apologized, setting the flower down. A tiny giggle emanated from the creature, who flew around Midnight. Soon, a dozen more sprites, each with different glowing colors, emerged from their flower houses to greet the couple.

“Awwww, they’re so cute!!” Cerise beamed, feeling tiny hands stroke through the curls of her neon hot pink pigtails until a harsh yank pulled her out of the spectacle. “Oww! H-hey! That wasn’t nice!”

The pixie-sized critters snickered mischievously, continuing to pull at the earth mare’s mane while she tried swatting them away. This led to Cerise’s heel hitting a root, causing her to trip onto her backside. She glared at the laughing faeries that swayed around her head, tauntingly.

“Last time I read, faeries weren’t so…mean!” She complained, standing back up to dust her booty shorts and elbows.

“I dunno, they seem pretty friendly to me!” Midnight shrugged, watching as a few sprites gathered, making cooing noises while stroking his bare, muscular arms and cheeks.

“Yeah, a little too friendly,” Cerise growled, swatting away the thirsty faeries from her husband, earning a few hisses before they scattered into the woods. Midnight chuckled sheepishly while Cerise held her snout in the air, hooking her arm into his with a ‘hmph!’.

“Told ye sae,” Dion snickered, nudging Midnight as the group continued to follow the winding forest path.

Midnight said, “Uhm...so hey, uh, Beatrix! You know, back on that paradise island, we met different versions of the twins, right?”

She distractedly answered, “Uh-huh?”

“You think this place has its own variations?”

“Unlikely,” Lady Ewe answered. “A’ve encountered various ponies wit identical names 'n' faces. But none that look nor act like Wet Nurse 'n' Foal-Bearer.”

“Ahh, I see. Still, that was a pretty fun time! Y’know...besides the whole ‘no clothes allowed’ rule.” His face colored.

Beatrix giggled mischievously. “Yeah, we should definitely head back there again~!”

“M-maybe I can come on that adventure too,” Cerise added quickly, sporting a troubled frown. “It sounds like a lot of fun!”

Yet her request fell of deaf ears as the two openly recalled their previous adventure to this ‘paradise’ planet. Insecurity rose within Cerise’s chest, remembering how Beatrix wanted Midnight for herself back in the manor. And had the revelation of the two being partially related not come, would they have gotten married instead? These intrusive thoughts caused Cerise to squeeze her husband’s arm tightly, tracing a digit over the rune-lined ring adorning her finger.

As Beatrix and friends journeyed further, more sunlight shined through the canopy, highlighting the overgrown grass in a clearing ahead. What looked to be a large boulder stood in the center, moss and plant life sprouting over it. Beatrix scanned the overview of trees, not finding any exit. “We’re not lost, are we, Oona?” She asked her woolly mentor. “I can’t see a way out of here…”

“Relax, Ceann Oga,” the dream faun assured. “We're far from lost. In fact, we're about to meet wit our guide.”

“Guide?”

Suddenly, the ground rumbled and shocked before them, causing the mare to turn back towards the large rock as it slowly stood up. To her surprise, the boulder was, in fact, another creature of the woods; vines and stone merged magically together to form a humanoid shape. Large antler protruded from its head, two carved holes illuminated with bright light, acting as eyes.

“W-whoa!!” The witch gasped, the giant golem almost peaking over the entire forest, turning around to face the astonished group of travellers. A curious hum resounded as the creature knelt to get a closer look.

While Beatrix, Cerise, and Midnight took a couple of steps back, Lady Ewe walked forward, placing her hand to stroke the rocks that formed its fingers. “Hello, Seann charaid,” the sheep sage greeted. “Hope we didn’t wake ye from yer nap.”

A low hum emanated from the first golem before it slowly shook its head.

“Ohh, Ah see! An' how have th' treants bin? Hopefully, th' youngin’ have heeded thair warnings nae tae trespass intae their territory.”

Another vibration sounded lighter than before. The three ponies turned to one another in bewilderment, unsure what to make of Oona’s ‘conversation.’

“That's splendid! Well, be sure tae tell them Ah hope thay have a bountiful harvest this fall, ” she giggled quietly. “Now, could ye dae me a favor an' point us towards Cuimhnich? Mah friends an' Ah are headin' thair fur a most important journey.”

The forest golem turned between the dream faun to the ponies, who waved at it awkwardly. Slowly, it rose back up to scan the horizon before pointing westward.

“O, Tapadh leat! C’mon, this way,” Lady Ewe encouraged, leading Beatrix and company towards their new direction as the witch looked behind her shoulder to the towering mossy creature. It stared at her before slowly waving its arm, wishing them farewell.

Not long after their friendly meeting, the forestry began to widen as the team grew closer towards an open field. Once the five companions left the trees, they looked to the skies, hints of the sun peeking from the silver clouds. And before them was the town of Cuimhnich, as stated by the old sign hanging from two poles. Many buildings looked abandoned, with time and nature catching up to cover each establishment in moss, plantlife, and age. Specks of light flickered through the air, the unicorn mare trailing her hand over the worn stone and wood.

“What happened?” Beatrix wondered aloud. “It’s like nothing has lived here for centuries!”

Her question was answered as soft light caught her eye, and the transparent shape of a pony stepped out from the building. He tilted his head from side to side as if looking for something before muttering, “T-The post office…where is Carol’s birthday present?!”

As he trotted off, Beatrix followed him with her gaze until spotting other ghastly apparitions wandering about the center of town. “G-ghosts!?”

“Shhhh,” Oona hushed her, pulling the startled mare back behind the wall. Each mare and stallion lifted their heads towards the sound, pausing momentarily before continuing their business. With a wry sigh, the azure sheep addressed to her love, “They’re lost souls, Beatrix. Carried over after death, only able tae remember a few pieces ov who they were. Ye must take caution not tae interact wit them, or ye'll risk damagin' what’s left ov their memories."

“O-oh.… Kinda reminds of what Zeloph did with the whole nation,” Beatrix nodded, shuddering. Cerise and Midnight stared somberly at the filly souls, who cried for their parents, forever separated from them.

“Yeah…very glad we banished that jerk…” The charcoal dancer agreed, clutching her husband tighter and laying her head on him.

“Oona,” Dion said, patting his sister’s shoulder firmly. “Thair’s a lot ov them this time ‘round. Ye're gonna have tae put them tae rest if we wantae get by safely.”

“Aye, ye’re richt,” the female sheep nodded before turning to the trio of equines. “Please remain here. This should only be a wee bit.”

“What are you going to do?” Midnight asked, tilting his head.

Lady Ewe flashed a proud smile as she summoned her staff into her hand, rowan wood carved into a dreamcatcher, sown together with beads and woven string. Embedded in the center shown a Lapis Lazuli crystal. “Put these sleepy spirits tae bed~!”

Treading carefully, the two fauns walked towards the stone fountain, drops of water leaking down into the well. Oona climbed onto the top while Dion sat along the edge, arms folded to his chest. Beatrix watched with interest, has always been curious about how her mentor worked her magic.

Taking a deep breath, Oona began to sing a song, swaying gently on her spot without fear of falling off. As the melody carried through the town, the troubled souls paused their mantras to look towards the source, slowly trotting towards the singing. Dion would hum along, tapping his hoof in rhythm as their audience gathered.

Once all the attention was on the fauns, Beatrix, Midnight, and Cerise stepped a little closer to observe. Underneath, the land responded to Oona’s hymn, orbs, and bubbles rising towards the skies. The witch’s eyes shimmered at her lover’s elegant display, how the once ghastly ponies began to sway along with Oona. As their forms began to settle, the blue aura of their spectre-like forms grew warmer in color until they dazzled brightly in a golden aura.

“Wow…she’s so beautiful,” Midnight whispered in awe. And Cerise, despite her innate jealousy, did not let his comment affect her. If anything, she agreed with a nod, watching with wide pink eyes. But none probably knew this more than Beatrix, who smiled dreamily at the azure sheep.

“She truly is~.”

As the lullaby continued, the equine souls slowly succumbed to sleep’s lure, giving up their once physical shapes before transcending into more spiritual ones. Animals merged into creatures that could only exist within dreams, representing each mare, colt, and filly. Beaming, Oona waved her staff around as the dreamorphs danced before they finally vanished into the air. Once the performance was over, not a single lost soul lingered in Cuimhnich.

Dion helped his sister off the fountains their equestrian comrades approached, Midnight and Cerise clapping.

“That was amazing!” Midnight exclaimed.

“You should take up singing more often, Oona,” Cerise suggested with a wink. “You’re really good at it~!”

Their compliments caused the faun to blush before releasing a surprised squeak as Beatrix hugged her mentor, the mare’s face equally as hot as her lover’s.

“I…. I-I love you so much,” she stammered, unable to think up any other appropriate response. Lady Ewe giggled, stroking her cheeks with motherly tenderness before lightly pressing her head against hers, minding Beatrix’s horn.

“An' a love you, Mo ghràdhi~” She whispered back, capturing her lips once more. The couple held each other longingly, all of Beatrix’s anxieties and worries washing into the sheep woman's warm wool. Midnight and Cerise similarly hugged each other, while Dion shook his head with a proud smile.

Pulling away reluctantly, Oona cleared her throat. “We best keep movin'. There’s a meadow just north from here whair we can train wit'out worry ov damagin’ anythin’. If we are tae come across Zeloph, we must be at our best!"

Beatrix nodded, keeping in mind that her old flame had likely recovered from their last bout. And if Moxxi was to be believed, the Fallen One’s prowess had greatly increased despite his severe state of mind. If she and the Demiurge could fully unify, wielding Erebus wouldn’t be so challenging. And with both her mentor, Dion, and friends to stand by her side, how could Beatrix not feel so confident?

“No time like the present then. The closer we get to finding Enock’s library and Abby, the better. I’ll be damned if I let Zeloph stand between my family and me!”

“Aye! That's th' spirit, lassie,” Dion encouraged before turning to Midnight. “Ye better be ready, Midnight. A’m a harsh teacher when it comes tae combat, sae don’t expect me tae hold back.”

“Wouldn’t want you to,” the blue pegasus agreed, pounding his breastplate with a grin and flapping his wings. “I’ve never sparred with a faun before, so this is exciting!”

His wife sighed, shaking her head. “Boys and their brawls,” Cerise tsked, yet couldn’t fight the warm smile on her face. “Damn, with so much might and magic in our corner, Zeloph’s not gonna know what hit him!”

With nothing left to explore in the lost town of remembrance, the group of adventures followed the dream faun towards the meadows outside town, shared fervor and optimism building up like energy.

Waves crashed into the underside of the large cliff. Storm clouds stretched over the horizon, fog so thick, it was impossible to see the rest of the ocean below.

Behind Shadow Scythe stood the base of a mountain, a narrow pathway leading upward towards the clouds. To her right were the highlands, where an old castle stood untouched by civilization. Thunder rolled through the sky, threatening to rain.

“So this is the Lost World, huh...” She commented quietly to herself, a knee to her chest while her arm held it close. The reaper and her accomplice had successfully travelled to the fabled universe. Had she not been bound by flesh to the Burning King, she would have found this place to be comforting. Something about the grey and green hue and the absence of others was somewhat cathartic to Shadow Scythe.

Her ears perked at the low whimpering coming from Zeloph, who was not taking things well. Her cold blue eyes watched the nephilim nearly scratch himself to death, feathers and tiny scales layering around him. His condition had worsened, his long mane a mess. And the more he muttered and insisted he was fine, the more his vessel defied him, growing more scales.

He tried in vain to conjure his magic, but every attempt only harmed his dwindling state of mind until he relented with a frustrated groan. "It's gone... My Onoma is completely gone! How am I to save Abadonna like... l-like t̸̢̢h̴ì̧s̛͡!̢̕?̴͟ Damn it! D̶̜͎͉a̺͇̭̹̞̥m̷͝͏̯̦͓͎̙͎͇̝͈n͝͠͏͍͈̻i͖̳̰̞͉̣ṱ̨͉ ̩̠͎̠͍̗ͅa̪̟̦͠ḷ͉̥̘̜̼̭l̵̛͈͙̭͞!̴̙͈̮͍̳̙͝" he yelled, slamming his fist into the damp ground.

Growing impatient with Zeloph’s mewling, Shadow Scythe got back up and knocked him upside the head. “Get a grip, would you? How are we supposed to find that library when you’re bawling like a dropped baby!?”

The false idol rubbed his head before glaring back at the pale mare. “A-aah... You struck me!?”

“Yes! And I’ll gladly do it again if it means getting you off your ass!” Shadow Scythe barked. “Fuck.… If I knew this was what I’d be getting into, I would have never agreed to help you. And now I’m a prisoner to an apocalyptic monster thanks to you!” She pulled back her sleeve to look over the scar seared into her forearm, hissing upon touching it.

“Yes…you’re right. I brought this upon you… upon us! This is all my fault...” Zeloph admitted, standing up to look over his own brand. His eyes watered, the weight of his actions dawning upon him. In hatred, he lashed out to those he thought trusted him, never realizing the fallen one forced them into worship.

A mare he thought could love him instead despised him, clipping his wings and endangering their child’s existence. And now, here he was, promising powers he no longer could access while throwing their souls away to the Burning King and his lackeys.

Zeloph collapsed to his knees, fingers digging into the wet dirt, unable to hold in the sadness weighing down his heart. The angel wept before Shadow Scythe’s knees, and despite her animosity towards this behavior, a ting of pity tugged at her. Most likely, the empathy awakened within her by that damned Sunny. Clenching her teeth, she knelt and pulled his face towards him.

“That’s enough!” She insisted, disgust clear on her face at this weak display. “I have no time for this ‘woe is me’ bullshit! I refuse to feel sorry for you, Zeloph. You got me into this, and now you need to get back up and get me out! You owe me!”

“It’s hopeless,” Zeloph sobbed. “My glory days are behind me. I’m a sickening display of flesh and feathers. I couldn’t save my daughter.… I couldn’t save the ones I love.… I can’t even save myself!”

“So what!?” The unicorn smacked him harder. “Who cares what other people want from you? So what if you’re not some ‘righteous beacon of hope’ or whatever! Maybe you were never meant to be one. Look how far you’ve fallen. You’re a fucking mess! Wake up and face reality, Zeloph! You have no one left but Abadonna. Do you plan to abandon her?”

The rugged winged immortal deeply inhaled, emotions unfamiliar to him burning raw. Zeloph’s eyes lowered to the ground. How long had he’d been avoiding the truth? What did he think would happen for getting involved with the Burning King?

That everything would be fixed, and he would feel justified for all he's done? His winged ears drooped as he went silent, much to Shadow Scythe’s dismay. With a snarl, she threw the battered demi-human away.

“All those eyes and yet every single one of them is blind. Ironic,” she scoffed. “Fine. Just lay there and die if you want. I’m moving forward…” The pale mare proceeded to walk away, feeling nothing but regret for this endeavor. Had she’d not so foolishly given in to the preacher’s talk of power, maybe Shadow Scythe wouldn’t be here. But if this library truly held such unlimited knowledge, perhaps she’d find a way to escape her fate.

Overwhelming thoughts and feelings raced through Zeloph’s head as he laid there, the rain heavily pouring down on them. Tiredly, he gripped the ground to rise back up, looking over his ruined robes, once white and pristine. Looking over each hand, the scally growths spreading along his wrists. Damp clumps of midnight hair draped around his shoulders. All this time, he had kept this look for his father’s nonexistent approval. And even after smiting the bastard, he continued to walk amongst the mortals, pretending he could live among them.

But…how could he? Zeloph had proven himself far stronger than any human, pony, or spirit. Why did he have to lower himself to their standards? For love? Kindness? Those things brought him into the Burning King’s clutches. So why continue to play in their shape?

“No... I’ve had enough..!”

Standing tall, Zeloph took in his surroundings while Shadow Scythe continued to walk further away. The raindrops that drenched him were soothing, and if he stood still and silent enough, he could feel the waves crashing into the shore below—the wind howling along with the cry of thunder.

Yes, the world was cruel. But it was also beautiful. And in his arrogance, he tried to change it when it was against nature. Gripping his palms tightly, Zeloph tore away at his robes, leaving him naked.

“I’m done trying to live to your expectations,” he told himself, imagining the Divine Father’s 'visage' that had haunted his dreams. “I will not kneel before a destroyer...” An image of the Burning King and Doppia flashed as Zeloph backed himself towards the cliff’s edge. “This body, my curse. This is a reflection of my own sins and atrocities. This is all my doing... I see it now. I was never meant to be a guiding light. None were worthy to bask in my glow! But they needeth not perish... with the exception of one...”

Beatrix's charming expression came up to mind as Zeloph came to the very edge of the cliff, his arms spreading out as a glimmering aura wisped off his form. "Yes... This is my redemption. I am the seducer, the beckoning light. I am nephilim! I am... F̛̙̳̀a̞̭̜̭̫l̸̲͉̱̫̕l̴̩͙e͔͕̤ͅn̠̙̰͠ͅ!̢̡͈̭̘" Briefly, he imagined the faces of his sister and daughter before closing his eyes.

“A̬͔̰n҉͎̦̝̭̲͇̞̯d̼̖̟̭͜ͅ ̴̠͕̻͕̩͟I̭̤̹͈̜̣͍̲͘͡ ̴̮̺͠w҉̭̳͎̠̯̣i̸̞̩͍ĺ̴̠̥̲̼̯͈̝͉͟ḻ̻́ͅ ̨̧̢͇͈̜̳s͏̨̦̯̫̘ţ͙̠͖̯̻̯̯̦̞͘o҉̧̻͚̖̰̫̤͇͔͠p͚͇͓͚̰͕̞̘͞ ̶͍͕̗̖a̦̪̪̖̯̕͞͠t̸̲̜̣̜͞ ̜̗̰̫͘ͅn̸̙̟͚̯̺͓͜͜o҉̡̭̣̪̮̫̳͇̱ͅt̶̩̩̜̗̙͢͝h̕͢͏̺̗͍̜̯i̢̧͚̪̮͚͎̘͓ͅn̠͎͢͝͞g̝͔̫̳̫̭̩̮͠ ͍̳͢t̖̯̻͘͞ó̶͇̦̤͕ ̨̤̭̖͙͘ͅr̶̤̻̰̻͉͝è̲͍̟͖̹̪͞c̨̀҉͖̺̜̬͇͖̣ͅl̶̤̖̝̺͍͖̥̀a̷͕̮̠̫̞̪̞̱͢͞i̛҉̬͔m̴̠͕͈͎̭̠̣ ̶̢̙̤̻̞͎̪ẁ̶̬̗̹̝͟h̭͖̙̺à̸̼̰̤̞̰ͅt̛̙͖̘̯̯̤͜ ̨͇̲̠́i̴̤͚̞̟͙ͅs̢̢̜̪̝̙ ̜̖͔̗͟m̴̢̱̬͉̤̳̲̝i̵̧̧̺̠n̛̟͓̘̦e̴̤̮̖͇̦̙̠̱̗!̧̠̟̭̤ͅ"

Tilting back with one last step, Zeloph allowed gravity to carry him off the cliff, plummeting down into the watery depths below, a loud splash alerting Shadow Scythe from her path. Conflicted, she rushed back to where the fallen one once stood, eyes wide in astonishment.

“Suicidal bastard! Did you actually... Huh!?”

A pillar of blinding light rose from the surging typhoon, splitting the stormy skies above. The force pushed the reaper back a bit while shielding her face. Slowly, Zeloph emerged from the raging waves, ascending back to the cliffside. Luminous swan wings extended from his back, waist, and feet, a dazzling golden glow highlighting the dark violet underside feathers. The nephilim’s body glimmered with symbols, most prominently over his hands and chest. His grey skin was clean from any scally disease, crosses marking his cheeks, giving him more resemblance to his other half.

And while his face remained equine, his snout was more narrow. Once Zeloph’s feet touched the ground, his archaic light dimmed, Shadow Scythe staring in bewilderment at the winged immortal’s drastic change. “Z-Zeloph..?!”

His eyes opened, magenta orbs reflecting in her icy blues before he glanced over his arms and legs once more. The golden aura disappeared, leaving him with one pair of wings to furl up. Taking in a deep breath, the renewed nephilim sighed, a slight curl to his lip while gingerly stroking his healed cheeks. “Oh yes... That leap of faith was just what I needed. It's been so long since I last felt like myself!”

“W-what do you mean!? Y-you were trembling, crying like a pathetic weakling!! But now, you're aura is... h-how did you-”

“It's as I said before,” he answered, his haughty tone having returned. “The key to your Onoma is accepting everything you are, flaws and all. Even in slumber, I refused to let go of my past aggressions and truly look at myself. But if I am to lead us towards Enock and rescue Abadonna, getting over myself and embracing who I am were essential. And with it...”

Golden light shimmered within his palm, a ringing sound emanating as Zeloph formed his heavenly zweihänder sword, its hilt, and design now a different shape as well. Each swing made the blade sing louder, much to his glee.

“...my magic restored! Marvelous~! I may no longer wield Aether, but Apollo shines brilliantly!” The blade dissolved from Zeloph's hand as he turned to his sour accomplice. “You did help motivate me while I was down, so you have my appreciation. Thank you, Shadow Scythe," Zeloph bowed his head in gratitude. "As promised, I will help awaken the power hidden inside you. The power that will defeat Beatrix... and, perhaps, the Burning King as well~!"

Before she could reply, her eyes slowly scanned the lean physique of his nude body, cheeks flushing once more. Breath heavy, Shadow Scythe turned away, folding her arms while spatting. “I-It was nothing! I refuse to accept a weakling in my fold. Now that you’ve gotten a grip, you can resume teaching me how to achieve my Onoma. That’s all you’re good for!”

With an irritable huff, the reaper continued on her way while her angelic companion simply chuckled, following behind her. Zeloph could sense Shadow Scythe was glad she didn’t have to face this trial alone, if only for her own benefit, at least.

Just then, a strong breeze brushed through the winged immortal, causing him to shiver once his bareness dawned on him.

“Brrrr! Now if only I knew that clothing spell Beatrix uses...”

Chapter VI: the Lost World (Part II)

As the late afternoon rolled in, the clouds had finally parted to let sunlight through, its rays shimmering off the blue-grassy terrain. A mild breeze brushed over Beatrix and her scant attire, flowing with the wind while she looked over the steady decline. Ahead was the seaside, and beyond it, a veil of thick mist that whirled over the waves. The adventurous mage half expected a ghost ship to sail out, given how mythical the Lost World was. Any story could turn out true!

“We’ll need tae sail if we're tae reach th' stronghold near Equestria’s borders, ” Oona reminded, standing by her side.

“Sail? As in…on a boat?” The violet mare asked, bending forward to scan the shoreline. Outside of one rickety dock, there wasn’t a boat or ship in sight. The party moved on and settled into a spot in the meadows where they waited.

“Relax,” the sheep insisted, placing both hands on Beatrix’s tense shoulders, rubbing tenderly. “We have a mukker who’ll help us over. But fur now, we must prepare. ”

The witch scrunched her snout while reluctantly nodding, trying her best to be patient. It was better for her that she fully grasped her archaic trait. Beatrix found one large half-buried stone, wiping off some dirt before she and Cerise took a seat as their male companions prepared for their sparring session. Both the ram and pegasus began to remove their armor pieces to stretch out their limbs. Beatrix summoned a plate on her lap and produced two teacups.

“Handy,” Cerise commented in wonder, watching as her friend pulled out a kettle from her inner cape, brown liquid pouring out with hot steam. “Ohhh, is that-?”

“Tea helps my mind focus,” Beatrix admitted with a smile. She and Flurry Heart set up this equipment, initially used for alchemy. But now, the witch used it to brew tea, filling the atmosphere with a rich aroma that tickled their nostrils.

“Mmm, so good! Imma gonna need that formula afterward!” Cerise giggled, accepting the cup as the two mares blew off the steam before taking a delicate sip, letting the warmth spread through their bodies.

“Sorry, I can’t! It’s a family secret,” Beatrix teased, winking at her.

“Ye should be payin’ attention, lassie,'' Dion proclaimed loudly, looking over his blade. “These are techniques ye outta be applyin’ tae yerself.”

“O-oh, I am! Trust me, I’ll be taking notes,” Beatrix insisted, though her eyes had already begun to wander, distracted by her teacher’s scarred physique once he removed his cape and pauldron. The eager witch couldn’t help lick at her lips before pushing them to her cup’s rim, slurping down more tea. She glanced to Oona, who had taken a seat beside her while humming in thought.

All three ladies watched as their fellow fighters sized each other up and down in preparation, muscles taut and ready. Midnight had finished tossing aside his armor, the breastplate the last removed, exposing his bulging muscles much like his partner, with only a loincloth wrapped over his groin. His ears perked up, hearing his wife whistle at him, where the blue pegasus responded with a smirk and a wink.

“Haaaa.… So dreamy~” Cerise sighed as little hearts fluttered in her eyes, hands cupping her cheeks.

“A'richt, laddie. Let’s set some ground rules,” Dion requested, cracking the joints out of his neck. “You’re free tae add any kicks or punches as ye like, but Ah expect ye tae focus on usin` yer weapon. Yer nae tae try tappin’ intae that hidden braun 'til Ah say sae. Got it?”

“Got it!” Midnight agreed, twirling his spear around his body before taking a battle stance. “The same goes to you too, right? You won’t be using your Onoma?”

The ram chuckled. “Oh, trust me. Ah won’t be needin' it. ”

This made the pegasus’ eyebrows furrow. “Hey, don’t get cocky! I thought you said you wouldn’t hold anything back!”

“Weel, you’ll have tae make me use it, won’t ye?” Dion taunted back, a broad smile to his lips before he took his stance.

“Don’t tak' this seriously, you two,” Lady Ewe reminded, with Cerise nodding in worry. She knew her husband well enough to know that he could go a bit too further than necessary.

“Ah, don’t get yer fleece riled up, Oona. A bawherr freendly banter ne'er hurt anyone~!”

The two warriors circled each other before Midnight made the first move, lunging forward. But unlike the more nimble Penumbra, Dion forced his blow down with one swing of his claymore before shoving his body to push the pegasus back. Midnight stumbled a bit before regaining his footing, a little shaken. “W-whoa! I knew you’d be strong, but holy!”

“Heh. A’ve climbed mountains wit logs an' boulders over mah back, makin' mah way up an' down 'til exhaustion caught up,” the warrior ram explained before swinging his sword from across, clanging against Midnight’s weapon. “What kind ov trainin' did ye participate in, hmm?”

“Hngh! We had an obstacle course, protocols, a lot of stretching and routines, times ten if we failed or got too tired!” Midnight grunted, trying to get more offensive in his strikes as steel rang with each daunting blow.

“Pha! Ye’ll need a lot mair than basic military shite if ye want tae protect yer herd, Midnight. Now quit thinkin’ about yer wife’s udders an' give me a barnie!”

That response got the sparks flying off their precise strokes, the pegasus managing to shove the ram back a couple times while taking the blunt force of Dion’s sword. Despite the trash talk, the spar remained civil; everyone gathered, aware they needed to challenge each other for the road ahead.

Yet Beatrix couldn’t shake off how impatient she was, tapping her heeled boot as frustration and dread mounted over her head. They should be moving, trying to make as much time possible to save her daughter! Who knows how far ahead Zeloph was?

A gentle hand stroked her thigh, drawing her eyes back to her lover, who smiled calmly at her with a knowing gaze. The witch took a deep breath as her tapping steadily slowed, calming her nerves with her drink. They would get there, she told herself. They were going to get Abby back.

“Eep!” Cerise cried, hands covering her mouth as Midnight got hit in the chest, the blunt blow knocking his spear out of his grasp as he tumbled into the meadow.

Dion stood over, panting, wiping his brow of sweat. “Stand up,” he ordered. “Keep fightin’!”

Growling lowly, Midnight steeled himself to his feet, leaping forward to retrieve his spear. But Dion intercepted with a swift knee to his face, once more knocking the pegasus down. The stallion groaned, holding his swollen cheek while glaring up at his opponent.

“Ye’re becomin' tae predictable, laddie,” Dion snorted. “Again!!”

“Gyaaaagh!” Midnight sounded off, spreading his wings to try and overpower the arrogant ram. Yet each beat was missed before Dion dropped his sword to take hold of Midnight’s plumage, delivering a hard kick into his gut before repeating with a stiff knee. Saliva flew out his gaping mouth before raising his head, only for Dion to headbutt him back into the ground.

“O-ooowww fuck! F-fucking bastard..!!” He groaned, clutching his head.

“An' ye ca' yerself a fighter? A’ve fought against proud stallions an' mares who put up a better rammy than this. Ye're nothin’ mair than an amateur, ” Dion stated in disappointment.

“Dion, stop!” Cerise yelled, glaring at the ram. “You’re going way too hard on him!”

“Butt out, princess, ” he barked back. “This isn’t yer fight. This is th' only way tae get through tae stubborn stallions. Sae... ” He picked up his sword before tossing the pegasus his spear, letting him stand back up before retaking a stance. “Ah think now's a good time tae call out th' beast, isnit?”

Midnight huffed, soaked in perspiration before giving a short nod. Despite the knowledge that this was a sparring match, anger began pumping through the pegasus.

How dare Dion get the upper hand of him. He was better than this. And as Midnight drew out more strength, his muscles slowly expanded in size, his green eyes gleaming while the whiteness drowned in red. With a loud yell, he lunged for the warrior with almost savage blows, finally taking the offensive that pushed Dion back.

“C’mon, laddie! Shaw me th' hyper stallion! A’ve taken jobbies that hurt harder than this!"

“Gnnagh! Shut up!!”

“Make me, ye empty-heided tumshie!”

Their brawl became more physical and aggressive, each blow making Cerise cringe and shield her eyes, unable to watch her husband get pummeled. Beatrix, too, grew concerned at the contest’s sudden change in pace. “Don’t you think your brother’s taking things too far? Shouldn’t we stop them?”

“Aye, he is,” Oona agreed, lips pursed. “But ye have tae understand. That’s just how our people motivate each other.”

“What do you mean?” Cerise asked.

“Part ov th' chieftain’s duty is tae ensure that his clansmen can defend not only themselves but thair famlies as well. An' none valued that mair than our faither. He wis exactly as raucle an' harsh when trainin’ Dion; out of necessity an' love. He wanted mah brother tae become th' man he was meant tae be sae that one day, Dion can take over as clan chief. That is why mah brother is strict wit Midnight. He wants only th' best for him.”

Cerise bit her lip, conflicted. While she could appreciate the reasoning, she still didn’t like how brutal their spar had become as, looking back to the pair, Midnight had collapsed to his knees, panting heavily, bruises and cuts drawing red lines over his arms and chest. The pegasus struggled to get back, looking up to Dion, equally as battered.

With a deep sigh, Midnight lowered his head. “Okay.… I-I yield!”

Cerise almost let out a sigh of relief, glad this was over. That was until Dion seized Midnight by his throat and lifted him. The hyper stallion limbs and wings flailed in alarm, startled by the absolute fury in the ram’s crimson eyes.

“Ye wot?” He said in a low tone.

“I-I yield! I said I yield!” Midnight choked. “Isn’t that what you want?! For me to accept that I can’t grow stronger like this?”

“YE FUCKIN’ TWIT!! How DARE ye insult me wit that shitwashed tongue! ” The ram bellowed, slamming the pegasus back into the ground. Both Cerise and Beatrix started to rise, having had enough violence, but Lady Ewe pulled them back down with a shake of her head.

“Yer fortunate tae have me as yer opponent,” Dion spat, releasing his hold from Midnight’s neck. “If Ah was anybody else, Ah would have impaled ye wit yer own spear an' be done wit ye! A true warrior ne'er admits defeat 'til he draws his last breath!”

“But...gaagh! I can’t beat you! I-I can hardly land a blow, let alone fight! W-why should I?”

“Ye’re not fightin' fur yerself, you jobbyheaded bugger! You fight fur them!” He pointed to the three women who sat there uneasily. “You are their shield. You stand in th' way ov anyone who threatens their livelihood. Those who fight fur themselves are destined tae fall. But those who rise up despite themselves get tae go home tae their loved ones, knowing they're safe. That is why ye must fight!”

Midnight wheezed as Dion’s weight lifted off his chest, his words circling around his head. Weakly, he lifted his head as the ram began walking away, going for what was known as ‘the low stretch,’ an old tactic to get his sparring partner to engage him.

“Ye think Zeloph will shaw ye mercy? Or any stallion that wants yer claim tae th' throne? How are ye tae protect yer guidwife when ye lie thair, helpless tae dae anythin' but watch them strip her down an' fuck her repeatedly 'til-”

“N-noo…. NOOO!” Midnight growled, staggering to his feet, glaring at the ram for providing such a heinous vision. Fist balled tightly, teeth clenched as hyper strength returned through his body. “No one… NO ONE TOUCHES MY WIFE!!!”

He screamed in outrage, charging at Dion with a speed and fierceness that made everyone gasp. The clash knocked the claymore from the ram’s grip, shaking him upon impact as Midnight unleashed a flurry of punches. Cerise nearly teared up at his loud decree, the display of primal, dominant fierceness causing her body to grow hotter.

Finally, Midnight had the upper hand!

But this fury was not completely blind. Each blow aimed precisely where it needed to be, Dion feeling his ribs crack before he caught each fist in his palms, the two at a standstill, muscles straining to push against the crushing weight. The two warriors glared hard at each other, nostrils flared before reeling their heads back to bash their skulls together, the sound loud enough to echo.

Both males fell to their knees, panting heavily, sweating profusely. A searing headache coursed through Midnight, yet he kept his forehead pressed against Dion’s. The ram let out a wry chuckle, raising his tired arm behind Midnight to pat his neck, red eyes staring proudly into green.

“Thair it is, lad,” he huffed. “That’s th' determination A'm wantin' tae see! What ye lack in experience, ye mak' up fur in raw talent. Ye've got what it takes tae tame th' beast wit'in ye, Midnight. Sabaid mhath!”

Midnight sighed, hissing as both men struggled back to their feet and carried each other by their shoulders. “T-thank you for helping…but man, why does your head hit so hard?”

“A’m a ram,” he chuckled. “A’ve got two layers o' skull keepin' mah brain fae splatterin’. Any mair force from me an' A’d murdurr ye.”

Midnight and Dion exchanged tired laughs before the ladies lifted off their seats to give them a place to rest. Immediately, Cerise comforted her husband, taking a wet rag from Beatrix to wash over his bruises and wounds. Lady Ewe did the same for her brother with a few ointments.

“Damn it, Midnight, you should have been more careful!” Cerise whimpered. “I don’t wanna see you get hurt like that again.”

“I-I know, I’m sorry,” he apologized. “My desire to get stronger blinded me from what’s really important. But the next time I fight.… I know who I’m fighting for.”

His words touched the charcoal mare’s heart, making it flutter as Cerise pulled her blue dummy husband for a big kiss, petting his messy mane.

“Yaaaaoowwh!!”

The couple paused to look to Dion, who clutched at his side while Oona applied some healing magic, a soft green glow emanating over her hands. “Ah think ye might have popped somethin’, laddie!”

“That’s what ye get fur playin' roughly wit yer friends,” his sister scoffed, lacking any pity for her brother’s foolhardiness.

“Maybe just a wee bit,” Dion admitted with a stiff snicker. “But th' laddie needed tae learn. An' speaking ov learnin’...” His attention drew to the witch. “That’s enough downtime fur ye, lassie. Get that great arse in gear!”

“A-ahh, y-yes, sir!” Beatrix meeped, putting away her cup onto another side of the rock before standing in attention. She flourished her cape and whipped out her own blade, a stylized rapier she had produced through alchemy with a bit of help from her half-sister, Flurry Heart. She found it easier to manifest Erebus over its shape, making it a little more manageable to wield.

“Ye call that paukit needle a weapon?” Dion teased. “Looks mair like a prop!”

“Hey, we worked hard on this,” Beatrix harrumphed, hand holding her wide hip. “It’s not as heavy, and it gives me style points~!”

“Aye, perfect fur such a theatrical shaw mare,” he chuckled, shaking his head. “Ah suppose finesse does suit ye, but keep in mind what Ah said about usin' both hands.”

“I will…though are you sure you wanna keep going? It looks like Middy roughed you up quite a bit…”

“Pft. Ah can be a reckless bastard, but A’m nae a baw juggler. Ah know when Ah should stop. Sae don’t worry, yer match isn’t wit me. Ready tae take th' reins, sister?”

“Certainly,” Oona nodded, finishing her own cup before taking to Beatrix’s opposing side. The two walked further from the stone as their friends watched, spacing out some distance between them as the winds picked up again.

“Ah trust ye haven’t slacked off?” The dream faun asked.

“Of course not!” Beatrix insisted with a smile. “Though granted, I've mostly been focused on finding Abadonna, so I can’t say I’ve made that much progress.” She'd lost count of how many realms she’d traversed in pursuit of her child. Yet despite what she'd learned on her journeys, it remained another dead end.

“Well, it's fortunate we're on this journey then. Fur like mah brother, Ah can’t be gentle wit ye. Not 'til ye prove yerself capable of handlin' Erebus’ unlimited might.”

“Aye,” Dion nodded. “Hold nothin’ back, Beatrix. Use yer Onoma when ye can!”

“I... Okay.” She nodded, taking in slow breaths to relax her mind. Beatrix didn't want to admit it, but she feared its tremendous power. The idea that it could whirl out of control and bring harm to her friends and loved ones.

While it allowed her to overcome powerful villains like Shadow Scythe, the momentous duel had shaken the universe and threatened to tear it apart as both were pushed to their absolute limits. The reaper was more innovative, smarter, held more potential than her. If not for her friends, Beatrix couldn’t have prevailed.

The witch reminisced over her woes before she and her teacher began their duel. The mage did as requested, holding nothing back as she fired off her strongest elemental spells at the shaman. Bolts of lighting, licks of fire, shards of ice launched while Lady Ewe dodged or cast a barrier to protect herself. In retaliation, she swirled her dreamcatcher staff as circles drew from below, pale blue light shimmering underneath Beatrix.

The witch launched forward, skipping away from each sigil that formed. While she had never seen her mentor use many offensive spells, Beatrix was aware of the consequences should she remain in one of these archaic circles.

Cerise and Midnight watched with interest, the former still scrubbing away at the pegasus’ cuts. “I’ve never seen this kind of magic! It looks so pretty!” Cerise complimented.

“Oh, ye wouldn’t be thinkin' that if ye get caught in that spell,” Dion explained, rubbing at his sore chest. “This is Oona’s only means ov attack. Once th' circle completes around th' target, they’ll be trapped wit'in a bubble 'til it pops, takin' a lot of damage an' knockin’ ye out cold.”

“Whoa…”

“Th' drawback is it takes time an' energy tae cast it over an' over like this. But should it succeed…”

Beatrix was about to unleash a storm of magic until her feet touched the inner ring. As it completed, mist-like magic swirled around her to form a barrier.

Panicking, the witch tried to break free from the seal’s hold until a burst of magic flashed around her. The spherical cage popped as the witch fell to her knees, struggling to fight off the urge to sleep.

“C’mon, Ceann Oga…fight it!” Oona quietly urged as she drew another circle around her lover. Once more, an enchanted bubble formed from the blue mist, sealing Beatrix in what would likely end their bout. Remembering what was on the line, the witch steadily calmed her mind, taking a deep breath to focus on drawing out her archaic magic.

And, in a purple flash, the bubble dispersed as Beatrix emerged with her Onoma awakened. Her costume had dispersed, wisps of cool cosmic dark energy wrapping around her voluptuous figure. Velvet black tendrils wriggled off her limbs, the Demiurge that slept within her Prima Materia binding to her flesh, sensuous to the touch.

Unlike her usual cute appearance, she took on a more mature beauty. Her hair rose and floated about her, filled by the constellations of stars. Her eyes opened, showing cat-like pupils that shimmered. A curtain of the night billowed around her supple shapeliness.

“Yes! That’s it, lassie!” Dion cheered from his seat.

“Way to go, Bea! You’ve got it!” Midnight supported.

“Whoa! She's so…beautiful,” Cerise exclaimed in a soft voice, having not gotten a proper look at her friend’s transformation the first time when they battled Shadow Scythe.

Yet none stood prouder than Beatrix’s opponent, smiling brightly as she bathed in the brilliant illumination of her own Onoma. The area flashed and sizzled under the spells they wove, matched by the cross of their weapons in a refined dance.

“Concentrate,” murmured Lady Ewe, gently directing the witch to her sword.

“I-I will.… I’m... I can do this!” She reassured herself, channeling the Demiurge through her rapier. To her blinking surprise, the blade swarmed in dark matter, momentarily shaping itself into the energy blade that she wielded to take down Shadow Scythe.

But while that one had been more of a clumsily produced cleaver, this one was far more refined, precise, to match her growth.

Her eyes lit up in glee, staring over her weapon as her arcane magic flowed freely over the needle-shaped blade. “I-I did it? Ha… Haha! I did it!! Yes!”

“Well done, Beatrix!” Lady Ewe congratulated. “Now, while ye still have control, strike yer opponent down!” The dream faun shaped a mystical barrier around herself. Beatrix, gripping her rapier tightly with both hands, lunged and struck the shield with all her might, shattering it almost instantly, the force blowing Oona backward. In mere seconds, the cosmic blade dematerialized as she put her stylized rapier away, rushing to help her mentor back to her cloven feet.

“Are you okay, teach?” She asked, patting her over.

“Aye, A’m alricht. Ah know Ah told ye not tae hold back, but woooo!” She giggled, tenderly embracing her pupil. Beatrix melted into Oona’s luscious touch, jubilation washing over her for properly wielding Erebus’s true power, if only for a moment.

“Ahh.… Ah think this calls fur a celebration! How’s about we hae a picnic?”

“Yes, please! I am starved,” Midnight exclaimed, rubbing his bare tummy while Cerise rose up to assist Beatrix in setting up lunch. The witch pulled out a red and white checkered table cloth to drape over the wet grass, summoning a basket from the Prima Materia, full of snacks, goodies, and sweets.

“Ah man,” Cerise cooed, eying the sugary cupcakes, sprinkles layering the creamy frosting. “You really hit the motherload~!”

“Careful, or they go straight to your hips,” Beatrix warned teasingly while she and Oona set up napkins, drinks, and sandwiches. Her statement made Cerise scrunch her snout.

“Oh, please. I always keep in shape, no matter what I eat! See~?” She sensually wiggled her wide hips, causing her friends to snicker while Midnight watched with flustered cheeks.

Soon, everything was laid out perfectly, and the group could enjoy their feast. Dion and Midnight chatted about any war stories from previous battles they fought while Beatrix was nagging her big-horned lover about teaching her that ‘bubble trap’ spell.

This left Cerise in an awkward position, not having much to offer to the group. In fact, part of her was upset that she didn’t participate in any sparring for herself.

She knew everyone needed to be in top shape, but what about her? She was more than a princess and had access to her father’s dark magic to work with!

While she munched slowly in her moody thoughts, she noticed the basket started to shake and tapped Beatrix’s shoulder. “Uhm… Bea?”

The witch pulled out of her conversation to look at the rattling basket before out popped a smaller, cuter version of herself, comical fanfare sounding from somewhere. “Tadaaaaaa~!”

“Mini-Trix?!” Beatrix clamored.

“In the flesh!” The tulpa grinned, stepping out of the basket and striking a dramatic pose. “Didn’t think you’d go on an adventure without me, did ya? No way am I leaving you, crazy kids, without my splendor and much-needed guidance!” She bounced on her heels, her oversized brimmed hat waving about while sporting a childish smirk.

“Actually, we were fine,” Beatrix argued, irritation clear in her throat. “Just go home! We don’t need you here!” Her doppelganger paused, stroking her chin as if to consider the request.

“Mmmm.… Naaaah, I think I’ll stick around! It’s not fair you get to have all the fun to yourself. You’ll need my support if we’re to find Abadonna!”

“No, I do not!” The witch insisted, reaching out to grab her, only for the miniature unicorn to twirl away, cackling.

“Too slow, dummy! You should work on your cardio more~!”

“Why, you little--!”

Like a comedic routine sketch from a cartoon, Beatrix chased her tulpa around the meadow, spouting curses at each other.

“Should we help her out? Mini-Trix seems like a handful,” Midnight suggested, trying to hold back laughter.

“Mini-Trix is a concept given life by Beatrix. Sae technically speaking, she should be acceptin’ her tulpa rather than chasin' it off,” Oona offered, holding her mouth over to hide her giggles.

“As long as she doesn’t get in our way,” Cerise murmured with crossed arms. “The fewer distractions, the better.”
Dion nodded at her sentiment, reminded of when the creature had interrupted the wedding. He gave a whistle before shouting, “Oye, Mini-Trix!”

This caused the tulpa to stop in her tracks to address the warrior ram, Beatrix flying over her head without realizing she had stopped, tumbling into the grass. “Yes, sir?”

He beckoned her over with his hand. “Come, sit wit us. Would ye care fur some cake?”

“Ohhhhh! Why thank you, I love cake!” Mini-Trix beamed, turning to her bigger self with her hands on her cute, curvy hips. “See? Your friend here appreciates me. You should start doing the same~!” Blowing a raspberry at her, she marched through the air to plop her rump into Dion’s lap. Beatrix rolled her eyes, brushing the wet grass off her clothes before taking back her seat.

Oona proceeded to cut the cake, passing it towards Cerise before the tulpa seized it.

“W-wha?! Heeeey!! That was my slice,” Cerise pouted.

“Pft! Get your own, tubby,” taunted Mini-Trix, the two engaged in a staredown, almost enough to cause lightning to flicker between their brows.

“Settle down, children. Thair is mair than enough,” Lady Ewe laughed, giving the charcoal mare her slice as more banter filled the air, everyone settling down.

Luckily, the mood lightened with Mini-Trix around, providing small shows of fireworks and magic while the group ate.

And while it flustered her to no end, Beatrix was somewhat glad her tulpa manifested, helping ease her mind from the long and no doubt dangerous journey still ahead of them.

The sound of snipping pecked at Shadow Scythe’s ears, strands of long midnight hair cascading down the nephilim's back. Having conjured golden scissors, Zeloph severed his lengthy mane while humming a calming tune. The reaper brooded with crossed arms, waiting for her accomplice to finish his ‘transformation.’

It didn’t take long for him to figure out Belladonna’s clothing spell, though his choice of wardrobe was…unique. Instead of a priests’ pale robes, he adorned a mahogany leather jacket, fluffy fur collar with a patched design of six wings hiding a ball of light. Worn jeans tightly clad his lower body, a pair of knee-high biker boots strapped over his feet. He had no undershirt, so his chest and abdominals remained bare for her begrudgement. Once he finished his haircut, the scissors disappeared.

Zeloph brushed his fingers through his wavy locks before shaking his now medium-length hair, his bang curling over the right side of his face. His eyes fell onto Shadow Scythe, a coy smile spreading his lips.

“Well, how do I look?” He asked, holding his arms out.

“...like an 80’s reject,” the reaper snorted, unimpressed. “No, wait…. A poser of an 80’s reject.”

Her witty response only made him chuckle. “So much dishonesty! I can see in your eyes, Shadow Scythe. Though I wonder what… interesting thoughts lay behind them~.”

She waved him off, turning away as her cheeks flustered. He could tell she was infatuated. Not by choice, of course, her mind fought angrily against her body, having so long denied it of earthly pleasures. “Gngh! Of all the things you could have dressed up as, why a wannabe rockstar?!”

“I’m actually very fond of the aesthetics of that era,” the nephilim responded, popping his fur collar. “Reminds me of when my sister and I toured through the various cities. The wild fashion sense, the catchy music, the dancing.… I don’t know why, but something just clicked with us. My only regret was never embracing that due to my ‘purifier’ mindset…” Zeloph let out a long sigh. “In the end, I guess Ana would be right. There was a spark of rebellion in me.”

The mare’s icy blue eyes took in his appearance, unable to help herself. “Hmph, for a sanctimonious asshole…the leather looks good on you,” the reaper muttered.

“Ahah, see? Honesty! Isn’t it a lovely feeling~?” He teased.

“Don't push it. Just lead us the way already. We’re wasting time!”

Zeloph kept his smug grin as the pair made their way towards the base of the mountain. There was no real easy way to climb outside the narrow path. And judging by the strong gales blowing through them, flying might prove hazardous.

Upon placing his hand upon the rocky exterior, Zeloph let out a violent shudder, clutching his shoulders. “Oh no...”

“What is it?” Asked Shadow Scythe.

“Can’t you feel that heavy spiritual pressure? It’s enormous! I’ve never sensed so much dark magic in one place. That couldn’t possibly be Belladonna.... Could it?” Zeloph guided the unicorn’s hand, and a surge of ominous energy coursed through her arm, making her pull away instantly.

“I-impossible! There’s no way she’s gotten this strong in only a few months,” the reaper insisted, glaring into the murky clouds that shrouded the mountain’s peak.

“Nonetheless, whoever is up there is immensely powerful. It would be unwise to continue like this,” Zeloph shook his head. “I think now’s as good a time as any to awaken your Onoma.”

The unicorn nodded, understanding that she would still be outmatched if she fought Beatrix as she was. They walked away from the looming monolith and stood across from each other in the open field.

“Before we start, are there any questions you’d like to ask?” Zeloph offered. If his comrade would accept herself fully, he needed to ensure there were no misunderstandings or doubts.

Summoning her wicked sickle, Shadow Scythe considered his question, with one concern coming to mind. “So…what’s the deal with Doppia? Why wasn’t she sent with us? I mean, not that she’s much help, to begin with, but surely she’s more than the Burning King’s personal bitch…”

The both of them shuddered at the horrible implications. “Let’s…not imagine the details, shall we? Though I assure you, she’s far better suited for infiltration than combat. In fact, she’s the weakest among the Vice Lords.”

“Pfah! Figures…”

“That being said, I would advise underestimating Doppia,” the fallen one warned, looking down to the ground. “I’ve seen what she is capable of. The illusions she weaves, the giddiness she feels while tormenting her victims…it’s absolutely sickening. Make no mistake, Shadow Scythe. That mare is deranged.”

Her eyebrow rose, curious how someone deemed so ‘weak’ could also be such a threat. “And why’s that?”

“Well... Let’s be thankful that she didn’t ask for any of our hairs…” was his only response, clearly uncomfortable with going into details. It wasn’t much of an answer for the reaper, but it would do for now.

In truth, Shadow Scythe was thankful to be away from the smug enchantress and her deplorable master. The Burning King’s presence alone was so overwhelming, she openly trembled.

“So, what are we doing now?” She asked, doing a couple of practice strikes at the air, her steel blade whistling with each swing. “How am I to unleash my full archaic potential?”

“You must be at peace with yourself—mind and body in complete harmony. I believe you’re closest to that during conflict,” Zeloph proposed, extending his aetherial wings from his back, each of the eyes aligning his wingspan opening. “You’ve lived a violent, if not sophisticated, life as a reaper. Death, to you, is as natural as the need for water. And what better way to accept yourself than through battle with a worthy opponent?”

“Bold of you to assume I’d consider you my equal,” Shadow Scythe countered, but the angelic pegasus wagged his finger.

“Oho, but I believe you do. You’ll never admit to it, but you find banter with me far more appealing than the alternative; an eternity of loneliness. And if not with me, perhaps a certain theatrical mage comes in mind...”

Her snout scrunched, hands bawling over the shaft of her sickle.

“But if you still insist that all are beneath you, then come,” the Fallen One challenged, warmth glowing around his hand before his heavenly blade emerged from the light, taking a combatant stance. “Prove me wrong~!”

Shadow Scythe gazed heavily at her opponent before her lips curled, her sickle glinting.

“Heh…. Don’t tempt me,” the reaper cooed, swinging her weapon around before taking her battle stance. “I’ve beheaded many arrogant fools in my time as a death goddess. After I’ve unlocked my Onoma, yours will look nice on top of the pile~!”

Zeloph’s smile deepened. “That’s the spirit. But do keep in mind…” In a flash of light, he was instantly behind her, her pale eyes widening in realization. “You’re not the only one trying to reach the full extent of their power~.”

Grunting, she swung behind her, steel meeting steel as their weapons locked into each other. Shadow Scythe threw herself off before his wings could strike her, immediately launching back to swipe at Zeloph. The cunning angel swiftly dodged and parried each strike amidst sparks, a feat not easily done due to how long his zweihänder was. Yet the winged immortal managed to swing upward, knocking the reaper into the air before taking flight.

Now Shadow Scythe was on the defensive, conjuring a magical barrier to guard herself against each blow Zeloph delivered from every corner. Growling, the shield erupted to knock him aside, floating back down to get some distance between them.

“Gngh! He’s exceptionally quick,” the reaper admitted, having a hard time keeping track of Zeloph’s movements until the fallen one hovered above her, gazing down at her with such haughtiness. If direct assault wasn’t going to work, she’d have to rely on magic.

Her hand and horn flared in a gloomy aura, conjuring advanced spells woven to unleash in a barrage. Yet the nephilim wasn’t deterred, opening his palm as golden rings with wings turned around him to deflect her magic before vanishing instantly. Remnants of the ophanim, a now extinct order of angels, remain in his prowess, using their invulnerability as a temporary shield.

“What!? You’ve gotta be kidding me!” She bellowed, enraged by the futility of her own spells, the number of tiresome years she spent studying to perfect her magic. And none of it phased the Fallen One.

“Has it dawned on you yet?” Zeloph asked, tilting his head. “That all your shortcomings are because of your inability to accept weakness?”

“I…am not weak!!” Shadow Scythe sneered. “I refuse to be weak! I am the Goddess of Death, claimer of souls! All who know me shall fear me and despair. Now get down here so I can tear your head off!!!”

This display of ignorance only brought Zeloph’s hand to his forehead, shaking with a disappointed sigh.

“Do you even listen to yourself!? I mean, how do you expect to become powerful when you’re too afraid to accept that you aren't?”

Shadow Scythe's eyes widened as if a bullet had been shot through her. Her hand gripped her sickle firmly, visibly shaking with fury over the fallen one’s claim. “Afraid..? You think I am afraid!?” She broke into cruel laughter, earning a look of concern from the nephilim. “You’re wrong! WRONG!” Shadow Scythe bellowed, drawing as much magic into her sickle as possible, an eerie glow highlighting steel.

Her eyes leaked tears, her state of mind crumbling. She couldn’t admit that she was, indeed, weak. She despised it. The very thought of it made her want to vomit. “I AM DEATH INCARNATE! I FEAR NOTHING! NOT BEATRIX! NOT THE BURNING KING! AND CERTAINLY! NOT!! YOU!!!”

Shadow Scythe cried as she swung wildly, launching crescent waves of deathly magic at Zeloph. Startled, he channeled his own Onoma into his zweihänder, causing it to ignite in radiant light. A light so bright, the entire plain darkened under its intensity.

The vibrant humming grew louder until it was a high pitch ring. In a single sweep, he unleashed a vast solar wave to diminish her attacks before blasting the ground, the impact sending Shadow Scythe hurtling a few feet from where she stood.

The unicorn struggled to stand back up, catching her breath frantically, eyes wide in alarm. Zeloph slowly descended from the sky, his eyes equally surprised. The field had been obliterated, earth flickering with ambers too bright to be normal fire. Not even the pyrokinesis the Burning King demonstrated matched the intensity of those flames. Shadow’s icy eyes were pinpoints, realization settling in.

“N-no…. T-that was… It can’t be!!”

“Solaromancy,” Zeloph answered, his arcane magic dissolving off his blade, violet vapor hissing off heated steel. Exhaustion leaked down his face, that attack alone draining him of energy, his knees shaking. Yet, he managed to conjure a glimpse of that brilliant glow that matched the massive orb shimmering from the sky.

“But that’s impossible! The only being able to wield the power of the sun was…”

“Celestia.” He nodded, staring into his own palm. “I’ve heard stories about her during my containment. A noble, kind ruler who conjured the sun’s light as magic, bestowing her subjects with its majesty. It’s a power I once coveted but always thought was beyond my capability…”

Zeloph closed his eyes as the brilliant golden wisp of his aura bathed around him, concentrating into a single shining source within his chest. “But through Apollo, I may harness the sun’s beauty and access its sacred power.… Gnh!” Almost instantly, the energy dissipated, fatigue weighing down on the winged immortal.

“Hmm.… It appears I'm not ready to handle this form of ancient magic,” he groaned, shaking off how tired his body was while glaring softly at Shadow Scythe. “And maybe, I was wrong to think you were ready to unlock your own…”

“Damn it.… Damn it!” She muttered between clenched teeth under her breath, slamming her fist into the ground. “How could I have reached my limits?” Surely, if she tried to absorb more souls, she could match the fallen angel in strength.

Yet, any morsels that held real power would prove difficult to contain. And now, knowing what abilities Zeloph could bring forth with his arcane signature, even stolen power wouldn’t be enough to bridge the gap.

“I...” She struggled to say the words, shaking violently. “...I-I yield.”

“Ooh? Has the prideful death goddess finally given up?” Zeloph questioned, lowering his blade to the ground. “If this is some ploy to lower my guard…”

“It’s not! No tricks,” Shadow Scythe insisted, her robes billowed around her when she stood up from the dirt. Her fists balled at her sides, staring down at herself, bristling with frustration, unable to shake the unbearable truth. The reaper was responsible for all her failures. Vainglorious pride had led her to all this. And unless she could somehow break the vicious cycle, she would remain stuck.

“I can’t live like this,” she admitted, more to herself than her comrade. “I can’t keep pretending like I’m better off on my own. Because I’m not! I’m too weak a-and selfish to realize how far I’ve fallen…. I threw away my freedom just to become strong. But it’s only made me sick. I hate this! I hate feeling this! And whether it's because of the empathy forced upon me or not, It doesn’t matter! I can’t deny what I’ve become…”

Quiet tears rained down her face, flashes of Beatrix, Sunny, Cerise and the rest of their friends, all smiling around her. An image of the witch offering her hand to her…. Oh, how badly she wanted to take it. To be loved.

“I…I am afraid,” Shadow Scythe confessed. “I’m afraid for what will happen not only to me but to them. I care about them. I don't want them to die and fall before the Burning King! I may have lost my will, but I won’t lose my soul! And if helping you find the library ensures their safety, then I’ll do it!”

As she looked back to Zeloph, she was startled to find him growing taller. Except… no, he wasn’t moving. Just staring at her with an astonished expression. Her head followed her gaze to realize she was somehow sinking into her own shadow. The smoky aura steamed from her until she completely dissolved into her shade.

“Ehh!? Where did..?” He asked, looking over the small spot of darkness, not seeing his own shade steadily grow larger before it was too late. Instantly, the reaper emerged, her magic forming tendrils to seize Zeloph’s wings and limbs, immobilizing him. He froze upon feeling the curve of her sickle pressing against his throat yet remained seemingly calm. The reaper, her cloak still merged in the shadowy substance, brought her face next to his, panting heavily.

“W-what is this? How did I..?”

“Well, well, not bad,” Zeloph complimented, his many eyes observing Shadow Scythe’s new ability. “The moment you relent and accept your weakness, the shadows gave you safe passage…literally, in this case! Seems you can travel through any contour or dark silhouette and strike from any angle. Incredibly versatile and deadly! I believe this to be the gift of Thanatos.”

“Thanatos,” Shadow Scythe repeated, her expression much calmer and in control once she understood that this was the power she sought. And, admittingly, when she first sank through the sea of endless black, it felt like she was under an ocean, with only Zeloph’s reflection being her source of light. If she were to fully grasp this magic, she could expand her field of reach! A familiar grin appeared on her pale blue snout.

“I see the potential, almost like how I used the manor's power.… This power, ‘Thanatos,’ will serve me well in our mission,” she agreed, already thinking up ways to better exploit her archaic energy. And, more importantly, to best approach Beatrix, should they inevitably meet.

“Well done, Shadow Scythe! I will admit, I had my doubts. But you’ve proven yourself worthy and have silenced me rather masterfully. Now then, let us make haste an-”

In an attempt to pull himself free from the unicorn’s hold, Zeloph felt the tendrils tighten, Shadow’s sickle pressing harder into his throat, threatening to slit his jugulars open. He looked to the cunning reaper with a look of deep annoyance.

“... oh, you are kidding me! Really?!”

“As if I’d let you go when I have you right where I want you,” she whispered into his feathery ear, so low and soft that it sent shivers down his spine. “I should slaughter you right now after everything you’ve done.”

Zeloph gave a long sigh. “Y’know, I was beginning to enjoy how great it was not being backstabbed after helping someone...”

“That’s your own damn fault,” Shadow Scythe reminded, her hand tugging at his head high enough to further expose his neck. “You may have new light, but your soul still burns for vengeance. You really think your precious daughter will appreciate the news of how you killed her mother? How stupid are you?”

“And you’re going to be the one who protects her from me?” He chuckled dryly. “Isn’t that deliciously ironic~?”

“It would be easy and quick,” Shadow Scythe purred, her vessel getting off to the power of toying with the Fallen One’s life. After so long of being frustrated and at the mercy of someone else, it felt so good to be back in control. “Consider your merciful end, my personal thank you for awakening my true power.”

“And after you’ve ‘repaid’ me, then what?” Zeloph asked with a harsh breath, cold steel at his throat. “You’ll take on Beatrix and the Burning King all by yourself?”

“If I have to…”

“Oh, c’mon, Shadow Scythe. I know you’re smarter than this! You’ve seen what awaits you in Pathos. And don’t think your immortality will spare you from the Burning King’s wrath. Once he has liberated, he will find you!”

His warning caused a deep shudder through her body, causing her physical form to manifest more, her shadowy hold loosening a bit. Shadow Scythe knew she didn’t want to live a life where fleeing was her only option until that grotesque demon eventually caught her. As much as she refused to trust Zeloph, he was right. And killing him now would prove a grievous mistake.

“Do you still intend to kill Beatrix once we face her?” She asked. And for a long while of quiet consideration, Zeloph shook his head.

“I don’t…actually want to kill her,” he confessed. “I know Abby would never forgive me if I did. All I wanted was to see Belladonna burn, but that ill will has washed away after coming here. It’s…almost like I’ve forgotten why I wanted her dead. Perhaps she does still elude me…but make no mistake; her getting to Abadonna before I do could cause a cosmic calamity, on a scale which the multiverse has never seen! And…I can’t face her alone.”

As best as he could, the fallen angel turned his head towards Shadow Scythe, an almost pleading look in his magenta eyes.

“Please…. I need your help.”

The pale unicorn considered his plea before hesitantly releasing her grip, withdrawing her sickle from his neck. “Alright, I’ll allow you to live a little longer,” Shadow Scythe accepted as only she could. “You’ve, at least, proven to be a more reliable ally than most. Perhaps you’re still of use to me, after all.”

Rubbing his throat, the winged immortal chuckled. “Wouldn’t have it any other way… friend~.”

She snorted at his notion with dejection, but a small curl to her lip showed otherwise. The pale unicorn slipped between the shadows of nearby trees and rocks to further test her limits with this strange, new energy.

And once she was satisfied with Thanatos’ familiarity, she and Zeloph turned towards the ominous mountain before them. There would be more time to train their Onoma, but they must continue their journey, should Beatrix already have reached the summit.

The question was, from the raw power that radiated about the atmosphere, what awaited them above the dark clouds?

Chapter VI: the Lost World (Part III)

After their wonderful picnic, Beatrix and the gang continued down the meadows. Thankfully, the witch’s mischievous tulpa had disappeared, though her presence remained. And Beatrix expected she would manifest again whenever she felt like it. Mini-Trix was a constant reminder of her childhood when she trained under her mother, Trixie Lulamoon. Fond memories of Beatrix’s time venturing with her arose, how she idolized and tried so hard to emulate her mother’s charisma and passion.

It was a carefree moment, much like her time on the road, during the old days. They overfilled themselves, aware that moments like these were fleeting. No doubt their enemies elsewhere plotted and worked to move their ambitions forward.

Finally, Beatrix, Oona, Dion, Midnight, and Cerise left the cool grassy terrain as their feet stepped into the sandy beach. No other life was present, outside of the squawking sea birds soaring overhead, vanishing into the mysterious mist that hung above the sea. A cool breeze blew past them, salty, aromatic air catching their nostrils. Waves crashed over the damp shore.

“I’ve never been this close to the ocean before,” Midnight commented, closing his eyes while embracing the calming, if not pungent, atmosphere.

“Ne'er had a mission overseas?” Dion asked curiously, earning a shake of the pegasus’ head.

“Most of my time as a peacekeeper was within cities and towns. Never went overseas or on a boat, so that’ll be exciting!”

“Well, after we’ve reunited Abby and Bea, we could come here again for a beach party!” Cerise suggested, already imagining the many people they could bring.

The food, the dancing, making love during the sunset. Oh, it was all romantic!

“Mmm,” Lady Ewe hummed, rubbing her chin. “It’d have tae be a specific time. These beaches tend tae be closed off fur when souls are transferred. They’re also th' hunting grounds fur many sea daemons. ”

“O-oh.… Yeah, maybe not here then,” the charcoal mare agreed, lowering her head.

“A'ament saying it tae put ye down, dear,” Oona assured, holding her hands. “Things are just...different here. Bein' by th' sea is a wondrous experience, but it can also be treacherous. ”

“Besides,” Beatrix added in, hands holding her wide hips. “We’re not here for vacation, Cerise. We’re trying to find my daughter and, potentially, keep the multiverse intact.”

“I-I know that! I just thought it was something we could all do to celebrate. That’s all…”

Midnight wrapped an arm around his wife, pulling her in for a tight embrace. “Cheer up, Cerise. I think it’s a wonderful idea! If no one else is interested, we could come back ourselves. Just you and me!”

“Thanks. I’d like that,” Cerise nodded, smiling at her husband before kissing his snout.

“Okay, so what now?” Beatrix asked, eyes darting around the shores yet seeing no sign of a boat trending waters or making port at the docks. She could only remain patient for so long. “Where’s this ship we’re supposed to take?!”

“Ah know ye’re eager tae press onward, but please try tae relax, ” the sheep shaman urged her lover, rubbing at her shoulder tenderly. “He should be around here somewhere.”

“He?”

As if on cue, the wooden boards creaked as lumbering footsteps came from the docs, pulling everyone’s attention. A prominent figure emerged from the soupy mist, carrying a large crate in his hands, humming a cheery song to himself. As he waddled closer, his astonishing appearance slowly unveiled, Midnight tilted his head puzzled.

“Is that a…walrus?”

“Huh!?” The aforementioned creature puffed, spotting the equestrians before dropping his box, a few fish flopping out. “Braaagh! Get aft, ye stinkin’ sea-devils! Ye come nearrr me, an' I’ll--”

“W-wait wait, Trom! Trom, it’s me!” Lady Ewe yelped, approaching the marine mammal to try and ease his startlement. The plume walrus stopped his aggressive actions upon seeing the mystical sheep, his eyes widening in realization.

“By the Sea Mither 'erself! It be Oona!” He exclaimed with bellowing laughter, wrapping his large arms to pull her into a hug, which she happily returned.

“It's good tae see ye again, mukker,” she giggled.

“Last time I saw ye, ye was but a wee lamb. Now, look at ye! Almost a spittin’ image ov ye mother. An' Dion!” He motioned to the burly ram, who nodded his head. “Ye’ve grown into quite the impressive ram.”

“How are th' waters treatin' ye, Trom?” The burly warrior asked, grinning.

“Harr! They’ve treated me an' me boat kindly,” the walrus beamed before looking over to Beatrix and her friends, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

“Oh, me apologies!” He chuckled awkwardly. “Hard to see ya through that there blasted fog. Thought ye might 'ave been kelpie!”

“Kelpie?” Cerise asked.

“Nasty sea demons who take equestrian shape,” Dion answered. “Their coats murky, hoachin' with algae 'n' brine, wit manes made ov sticky kelp, hence th' name. They trick locals intae comin' closer 'til they’ve pulled them under an' eaten thair innards. Worse if they happen tae be a mare or foal... ”

The dark princess held back the urge to vomit, instantly regretting her decision.

“Eeeegh! They sound horrible,” Midnight commented, equally disturbed.

“Aye, lad! It’s common to find them on these shores,” the walrus nodded. “So forgive me fer assumin' the worst. Oh! Where be me manners!” He adjusted his trench coat, white undershirt, and trousers, which did nothing to hide his girthy belly. A faint glow highlighted his translucent form. Raising one flipper hand, he pulled off his hat, showing a balding spot atop his head of messy orange hairs. Ice-like tusks protruding from his impressive mustache, a jolly grin underneath. “Cap'n Trom, at yer service!”

“Beatrix Belladonna!” The witch replied, taking her own hat to perform a bow. “And this is Midnight and Cerise.”

“Nice to meet you, Trom!” Midnight waved.

“You wouldn’t happen to be a spirit yourself, would you?” Cerise asked, tilting her head to studying him, hands clasped behind her.

“Aye, that there I be!” Trom laughed, placing his hat back in place. “I see you’re blessed with a strong sense o' intuition, lassie.”

“Thanks!”

“Trom is a ferry spirit,” Lady Ewe explained. “Tasked tae transport souls far an' over tae our homelain. This brings me tae why we're here. ” She paused to address the large walrus. “Can we ask ye tae take us tae Equestria's borders? We're on a journey tae locate Beatrix's missing daughter.”

“Mmm,” Trom pondered, scratching at his cheek with furrowed brows. “Lost child, ye say? Oh, that there be most unfortunate. But ye know I can’t just put aside me job. There'll be many wry souls, wanderin' helplessly at the beach, waitin' fer me ship to arrive!”

“Ah wouldn’t ask ye if this wasn’t important, Trom,” Lady Ewe pleaded, tugging at the collar of his shirt. “Ye would ask th' same if it were one ov yer own, missing on land.”

The walrus turned from the sheep to Beatrix, who looked up at him with watery violet eyes. He could tell the young mare had searched endlessly, clinging onto any hope of finding her child. With a steady sigh, he smiled and nodded his head. “Alright, Oona. Just this once, I’ll help ye out. Nothin' tugs at me heartstrings than tae see a mother find her child.”

“O-oh, thank you!! Thank you so much!” Beatrix exclaimed, laughing joyously while wiping away her tears. Oona smiled graciously, giving the walrus a small kiss on his blushing cheek. Clearing his throat, Trom turned around and motioned the group to follow him on deck.

“Wait…so where’s your ship?” Midnight questioned. “I don’t see anything!”

“That’s because a ferryman doesn’t sail on any old boat,” Trom smirked, pulling something out of his shirt. It looked to be a whistle, shaped like a seal, connected to a string around his blubbery neck. He looked towards the sea and bellowed firmly,

“O, Great Sea Mither! May I ask, once again, that ye provide me an' me mates a safe voyage as we sail through yer wondrous an' vast ocean? an' may ye guide young Beatrix Belladonna towards 'er lost pup. I ask, only as a ferry spirit should. Blissed be, o, Mither o' the Sea!”

Puckering his lips, Trom blew into the whistle, a high pitch sound echoing over the waves. Beatrix and co looked around, confused. “Ye, uh...might want to take a couple ov steps aft,” the walrus warned with a knowing smile, which both sheep did before their friends realized what would happen.

Suddenly, light illuminated beneath the surface as a large ship emerged, splashing the witch and her friends in a wave. “Gaaaagh!” The witch cried, her attire and mane soaked. Cerise pouted as her clothes clung tightly to her curvy frame, arms crossing over to warm herself up as she shivered. Midnight shook the water from his mane, leaks pouring from his armor.

“Bahahaha!” Trom bellowed, holding his stomach from laughing too hard. "Don’t say I didn’t warn yarr. Now climb aboard! We’ll need to set sail immediately if we want to get to Equestria by mornin'.”

While doing their best to dry themselves off, Beatrix and company walked over the plank, surprised to find how quickly the ship had dried. Everyone admired the craftsmanship of the boat, the main deck beautifully carved and built together sturdily. Trom waddled onto the quarterdeck, placing a flipper over the wheel before tugging at a string chiming a bell. The melodic sound caused the mist to evaporate altogether, allowing clear skies and sunlight to shimmer the horizon. After a series of clanks, the large vessel began to trend through the crashing waves.

“Whoa…. This ship is amazing!” Beatrix clamored, looking over to see how quickly they traveled, a school of enigmatic fish jumping through the air before diving through the waves.

“Aye. This here boat be enchanted,” Trom replied, chuckling. “She an' I have sailed through these waters fur nearly three decades now. We’ve spied many storms, met plenty o' faces an' battled countless sea monsters.”

“Wicked!”

“Harharr! I’m glad ye think so.” The walrus spirit turned to address the rest of her crew, who were looking around the large boat. “Please, make yourselves at 'ome! We’ll be sailin' fer a while, so if you’ve got any questions, don’t be afraid to ask me!”

Cerise slowly walked over to the captain’s side, turning around to take in the scenery. Like her husband, she too never got the chance to sail a boat, having spent life mainly in the desert. Her neon-pink eyes looked curiously at the wheel, turning to either side from occasion. Trom caught on and grinned. “Care to take the helm, lassie?”

“R-really? Are you sure? I’ve never driven a boat before…”

“Sure, I’m sure! It’s straightforward, really. Here!”

Trom guided Cerise’s hand over the wooden frame, giving her a feel for the control. She gently placed her other hand on one of the nobs, doing her best to keep on a steady line. Once he knew the dancer was confident, the walrus spirit pulled away entirely, leaving Cerise to steer the ship independently.

“I-I’m doing it!” She exclaimed excitedly.

“Nothin' to it,” Trom assured. “Just keep on course, an' let me know when you’d like a break.”

“Aye aye, captain~!”

With a nod, he turned to Lady Ewe and Beatrix. “Now…. Why don’t ye fill me in on this here adventure o' yours, Oona? An' 'ow you’ve come to meet this 'ere sultry enchantress. Be she yer Matanam?” He asked with a raised brow.

“Her what?” Beatrix asked in confusion, turning to the blushing sheep.

“O-oh! Uhm, well…no, we haven’t discussed that yit, eheh~.”

“No worries, lassie. Plenty o' time to figure it out. Let’s discuss this inside,” Trom snickered, ushering the unicorn and sheep into the captain’s quarters.

Midnight leaned over the ship’s balcony, his chest plate, pauldrons, and arm guards removed. He watched the sea pass by while the sun slowly descended down from the sky. He felt a hand tap at his shoulder, pulling back to find Dion, with two fishing poles resting on his shoulder. “Ah take it ye ne'er fished befur, aye?” He asked, smiling. The blue pegasus shook his head. “Here, laddie. Let me shaw ye.”

The warrior ram pulled up a couple of chairs to sit down in, applying bait to his hook before casting the line into the water with a splash.

“Ohhhhh, I've heard about this!” Midnight copied his demonstration. “Now we have to wait, huh?”

“Mhm! When yer feelin' a little tug, reel in as fast as ye can. It's quite relaxin' at times. Mah faither used tae take us off th' coast ov our island home, an' it helps me settle down efter a barnie if a lassie isn’t aroond,” Dion sniggered, nudging the pegasus’s side. “Who knows! Maybe we can have both if we catch a siren or mermare~! ”

“Those are real? Then again, this is a realm full of magic, myths, and mystery,” said Midnight, patiently waiting for a fish to nibble at his line, until finally, something tugged at his pole. “H-hey! I got a bite!”

“Good stuff, Middy! Oh, hold on!” Dion echoed, his own line tugging at something, the two fighters reeling their rods as fast as they could until they pulled out…a leathery tire, connecting by both their hooks. They blinked before turning to each other and laughed hard in their seats.

As the sun began to set over the horizon, everyone gathered to have a festive dinner. Adorned in a chef’s apron and bandanna, Trom cooked his traveler’s exquisite salad, dressed in a delicious ranch, and topped with carrots, berries, and spinach. Dion had taken over in steering the ship while the ladies and Midnight sat together at a table. The walrus suckled on cooked fish before joining the ram in a sea shanty, swaying back and forth. Eventually, Midnight tried to join in, only able to sing the chorus.

Beatrix, Cerise, and Ewe all laughed and hummed together. Just as the trio of poorly trained singers reached the final chorus, a third high-pitched chirp joined in. Once again materialized, Mini-Trix sang the last shrill note, earning cheers from the boys while Beatrix shook her head in dismay.

Hours wore on before the sun had vanished entirely, and night fell over the crashing seas, stars twinkling above and a blue moon hovering overhead. “Alright, lads an' lassies. Time fer this ol’ sea dog to get some shut-eye. The ship will remain on course while we sleep. You’ll find some beds in the forecastle if ye don't fancy the hammocks. G’night,” the tired walrus yawned, lumbering into his cabin.

“Now would be a good time to perform my wifely duties~” Cerise teased to her husband, her soft voice tickling his ear as he quivered.

“A shame Moonlight couldn't come,” Midnight lamented, familiar feelings of heat rising. “Gosh, I miss her…”

“Me too, babe, But we can’t get homesick already! Oona, would you-”

“Ov course,” she answered with a tender smile, letting the couple take her hand and lead her into their quarters. It had been a while since Midnight had been routinely revitalized, and after a well-fought spar against her brother, Lady Ewe figured she’d give him something special.

Within moments, they were tucked into the small chamber, lit by a lamp on the wall that swayed lazily. Cerise decided to begin the show with a striptease, her eyes locked on the pair while she discarded her costume. The dancer started by slowly sliding her top off, the weight of her breasts bouncing free. Twirling around, she waved her ass like a flag while shimmying her shorts off. A silhouette to match her namesake danced on the walls behind her, emphasized by the flame's light reflected from the lamp.

“Saucy,” said Midnight, who reflexively licked his lips.

“Hehe~! Don't be shy,” Cerise motioned to the sheep sage. “I don't mind if you hit it off while I put on a show!”

“Well, if ye insist,” Oona cooed, fluttering her eyes at the studly soldier before she proceeded to rid herself of her robes. Midnight stopped midway from removing his pants to see the dream shaman’s slightly paunchy form unveiled under her light-green undershirt, massive mammaries on display. Just the sight of those big nipples made his mouth water. Only thin wool-covered her wide hips and thighs as she sat back onto the bed.

Midnight tried to go for a kiss to get started, but Oona gently pushed him away, waving her finger. “Ah-ah! Mah lips are reserved fur th' one Ah love~” She giggled before patting her lap. Blushing, the pegasus nodded before resting head into her soft, wooly thighs. One hand trended through his spiky mane while the other fished out his beating cock, pre-cum already leaking down a flat tip.

“Mmmmm…Ah sense tension,” Oona said in a silky voice, hand unable to fully wrap over his girth. Most she could do was massage his stallionhood with firm strokes. Midnight groaned softly, his body easing while his urge to claim a new female rose.

“Y-yeah, I…I’ve been really worked up since squaring off your brother…mmm, fuck! They’re so big,” he marveled, feeling up one tit, thumb rubbing over her pink nub. Lady Ewe whimpered, her cheeks glowing while smiling down at him.

“Go on,” she urged. “Have yer fill~.”

Eager at the permission granted, the stallion raised his head to take her left nipple into his mouth, suckling it like a needy foal. Elation filled the sheep woman, light gasp and moans resounding from feeling her massive tits fondled within his hands. Her own grip tightened as she pumped his staff faster, thumb poking against the leaky hole.

“Ooooo~! A-ahh, easy, Middy…. They’re sensitive~!” She squeaked, but that did not deter the hyper-stallion from nibbling on her teat, tugging to stretch her breast out before jiggling it in place upon release. His hips feverishly humped into her hand, his baser needs growing rampant.

“Ma-agh! S-Sorry, Oona,” Midnight muffled against her soft, tit-flesh. “You’re just so warm…and-mmmngh! Soft! And so beautiful~!”

“O-oh my,” the sheep woman purred, those wet slurping sounds tickling her ears while she chewed on her bottom lip. Her honey-colored eyes briefly looked up to the dancer, who watched intently while feeling up her body. “Ye shouldn’t be sayin’ things like that tae me… not unless ye intended tae knock me up~!”

The titillating promise made his cock twitch, much to the lewd pleasure of the dream faun. Pulling off her raw nipple, his eyes looked up to hers with excitement. “W-whoa, knock you…you would want that?”

Lady Ewe beamed down at Midnight, giving the best bedroom eyes she could muster, which only made the faun more alluring and sweet. “It's bin a…frequent thought ov mine,” she confessed, pressing his head closer to her pillowy chest. “A’ve always dreamed ov havin' a babe ov mah own. Tae care fur, nurture…mmm, breast feed~.”

“M-maooh,” Midnight groaned, mouth kissing and sucking over her milky mounds.

“But Ah won’t let just anyone dae me. A'm needin' a big, strong stallion. Are ye up tae th' challenge, Middy? C’mere, stud. Make a mommy outta me~!”

Cerise found it harder to keep up her performance, entirely baffled by the filthy language she just heard. Hearing such naughtiness from the ordinarily soft-spoken and elegant shepherd was unexpecting.

And yet, she felt her loins drip hotly, watching her husband jerk up to firmly push Lady Ewe onto her back.

The sheep meeped yet panted heavily, feeling Midnight spread her limbs apart and grind that meaty horse cock against her equally wet mound, fuzzy wool almost hiding it. Oona whimpered at how hard and roughly he rubbed his flare gland against her quivering lips before parting them to make entrance into her love canal, earning a sharp moan.

“Fuck! S-so warm... and tight... Gnnrrgh~!” The hyper-stallion snorted, giving into instincts that told him to breed this sow. Wildly, he pistoned his hips to feed his entire length into her pussy, putting those motherly hips to good use.

“A-aaahh~! Oh, sweet lucid dreams! Yes! Breed mah body, make it yours~!” Oona chanted onward, her tummy and breasts jiggling under his bulging form. Her cunt squeezed around Midnight’s girthy spear, trying to milk out that thick spunk. She could feel his balls swell within his leathery sack, smacking into the faun’s round squishy ass.

The escalation of the scene before Cerise was too much, her limbs shaking under the needy lust burning inside her, demanding she scratches the itch. Plopping her ass down, the earth mare spread her legs far apart, fingered and rubbed at her glistening clit, moaning softly as she watched her lover breed the sheep into the bed.

Yet in her mind, Cerise could see herself in Oona’s place…

She had many discussions with her family over having foals, a concept she felt equipped for. Yet hearing Oona beg Midnight to impregnate her awakened new feelings deep down. A part of her did want her husband to put a foal into her belly.

And that need only grew as she sunk her digits deeper into her gushing marehood, whining lewdly. “Fuck…fuck, me too! Please, Middy! Give me one too~.”

Of course, this was all sweet talk to butter the couple up. Painted around Oona’s round tummy was a special rune that would nullify any inseminating effects, keeping her womb safe. So Midnight was free to pump her full of his spunk without risk of bearing any foals. But the dream faun sensed some unspoken discord between the two ponies and had conjured a plan to further unite them.

Although it was hard to keep focus when Lady Ewe was getting her cunt rearranged with how deeply Midnight speared his cock through her. Oona brayed, feeling the tip rub into the back of her womb, feeling him flare up and swell before the hyper-stallion released a husky groan.

“Gaaaaaaagh! Fuck, I’m coming! Take it! Take it all~!” Midnight warned prematurely, as thick torrents of spunk bathed Oona’s entire uterus in seed, triggering a reactive orgasm. Her legs squeezed down to keep the pegasus deep, clinging onto him while crying loudly. Cerise joined their choir of ecstasy, squirting fem juices all over the floorboards.

Midnight collapsed into the squishy sheep sage, sweat pouring off his shoulders and face, which was buried between Oona’s ample cleavage. Catching her breath, she resumed brushing her fingers through the stallion’s hair, a coy smile to her muzzle.

“Heh…. Such a vigorous lover,” Ewe whispered through shallow sighs. “Ye surely mak' Cerise a happy mare~! ”

“Y-yeah, I…I do my best,” he murmured, palms rising to her motherly breasts to rub them in circles, kissing her puffy nipples. “For a little while…I feared I’d wasted my life. Moonlight and I had trained since we were foals to protect a world from a war that never came. I mean, I want to pay Beatrix back, but…I don't want to settle into a routine. I’d grow bored soon enough, I think.”

The sheep sage hummed thoughtfully. “Ah see.… that can be a burden tae bear. Yet Ah sense yer beloved harbors her own unspoken angst.”

“H-huh?” His head turned to where Cerise laid against the wall, panting quietly while continuing to stroke her drenched marehood. He whispered, “O-oh…. Fuck, I got so into us, I didn’t.… I know she said she was fine sharing me like this, but…sometimes, I don’t think that’s true.”

“Ah believe it fashes ye an' Beatrix,” Oona proclaimed. “Cerise thinks ye two were meant tae be together, given how ye blether an' act towards one another. If Beatrix hadn’t interfered in yer world, alterin' yer life an' causin' ye tae become her half-brother, th' two ov ye wouid have likely been a couple instead.”

“W-what? That wouldn’t be true! Beatrix loves you, and I love Cerise! We wouldn’t have…w-would we?”

“Who's tae say,” Oona shrugged. “Th' paths we take are sometimes not th' ones we're destined fur. But what matters is whair an' who we are at this moment. An' richt now, yer wife is suffering…”

“I-I see,” he muttered, guilt growing in the pit of his stomach while looking over Cerise. Ruffling his massive wings, Midnight gently lifted off Oona to walk over to Cerise, who was still focused on milking another orgasm for herself. So wrapped in her thoughts and desires, she overlooked her husband until she felt hands on her shoulders and let out a surprised yelp.

The hyper soldier smiled widely at his lover before helping her back onto the bed and straddled the dancer onto his lap, arms securing her flanks while his still rigid member throbbed against her needy pussy. They just stared into each other’s eyes, lovingly and knowingly, before passionately pressing his maw to hers, making Cerise blush as she melted into his kiss.

Midnight pulled away, a thread of drool still connecting their lips. “Sorry…I lost myself again,” he began apologizing before he found a finger silencing his lip.

“Don’t be, I get it. You gotta do your thing with others to keep going,” she said with pursed lips. “I really don’t mind…a-as long as you give me love too.”

“Of course, Cerise. No matter who I’m with, It’s your bed I’ll come back to,” he smiled, taking another kiss before sliding his mare’s puffy pussy onto his shaft, the couple grunting as he quickly slid in.

“Gaagh! Damn, Oona. You made him all slippery~!” This earned a short giggle from the sheep shaman.

“Mhmm! Means we can go even deeper~” Middy growled playfully before he rested his back into the bed, letting his wife have the reins to ride his pole. With gyrating hips and short hops, Cerise bounced around on her lover’s pelvis, her velvety walls clamped over his dick and leaking viscous marecum down his matted crotch.

“A-ahhh! Oh, fuck! You feel so much bigger tonight~!”

“Y-yea, wow…mmngh! Guess Oona really worked me har-mmph!?”

Midnight’s response was muffled by a woolly crotch as Lady Ewe sat her large posterior onto his face, the dream faun braying lowly as his muzzle pressed against her dripping folds.

“Ye made a mess in me, Midnight. Ye should clean up after yourself~ ” Oona purred, grinding her snatch against his snout until she felt his tongue lap at her lips, licking away the excess cum drooling out.

The sheep moaned out while watching his lover work her hips, driving his dick around inside her tight marehood. The two closed in on each other, getting a feel of each other’s bodies, breasts squished against each other with nipples rubbing friction. Oona squeezed, feeling Midnight’s hands grip into her doughy rump while wiggling his tongue around, moans muffled in her mound.

The pleasure further rose upon Cerise lifting one tit to suckle for herself, causing the shaman to cream more femjuices for the stallion to drink up.

The three continued to thump around the bed, unaware that they provided quite the show for their nosey onlooker.

“F-Fuck..!” Beatrix muttered quietly, face pressed against the wall while observing the sultry scene from the other side.

It was hard to rest knowing what was transpiring inside the forecastle. And upon noticing a convenient hole in the wall, the witch couldn’t help but sneak a small peak. Her curious eye was greeted by the sight of Oona getting plowed by her half-brother, rutting the sheep like a ravenous beast. And it only grew hotter once Cerise joined them.

The captain didn’t seem like the type to peep, so Beatrix suspected this tiny opening was Mini-Trix’s mischievous doing. Knowing her, the tulpa wanted to spy on her friends only to realize what was happening before vanishing. “That little nuisance! The next time she appears again, I’ll.… I-I will...mmngh~!”

The witch bit into her bottom lip, unable to ignore the sensation burning at her marehood. One hand groped at her enhanced bosom while the other slid down her smooth stomach to pull aside her thong and finger at her sopping pussy, mimicking the thrusting motion Midnight made with his wife.

“A-aghn…d-damnit! Fuck, I haven’t gotten properly laid in so long~!” She whined quietly.

“Then why don’t we fix that~?” A gruff voice whispered behind her.

The unicorn let out a sharp gasp upon feeling weight press up against her curvy ass, a pair of familiar hands securing her hips. She turned her head to see Dion, fully naked and grinning knowingly down at the scandalous witch.

“Bonny rude ov ye tae be spyin' on our friend’s intimacy, Beatrix, ” he snickered, baritone low and husky. “Ah outta punish ye~!”

He gave her left flank a hard smack, earning a short yelp out of Beatrix. He gave the opposite side another slap, grinding his hips up into her jiggling buttocks.

“H-hey~! Y-you can’t just sneak up on me like this, a-and expect me to-”

“Pft! Please,” Dion snorted. “Ye've bin eyin' mah johnny ever since Manehattan. An' it's taken a lot ov willpower tae resist pinnin' ye lik' this 'n' pumpin' ye full. But ye feel this? ”

The violet mare shuddered upon feeling his red, hot cock rub between her flanks, each throb making her marehood wink.

“M-mhm~?”

Dion leaned close to Beatrix’s head, whispering into her ear, “Ye did this tae me. Now, you’re goin' tae take responsibility~. ”

“Oof, you’re right~,” the mare cooed, fluttering her lashes up at the burly ram, swaying her hips side to side against his shaft. She teased, “I-I just couldn’t help myself, being so close to a fierce, noble warrior with such a fat dick~! I'd do anything to get you to ram me~!”

His breathing grew heavy, pantingly hotly by her ear as his hips jerked to press his member firmly into her ass cheeks. “Hat an' 'tard off, ” he commanded gently. “Ye can keep th' boots, though.”

“Hehe! Yes, sir~” she giggled, her horn briefly lighting up to magic her leotard and wide-brimmed hat away, leaving her bare and ready for the taking as her tail hiked over to present her rump fully. No sooner did her clothes come off before Dion pressed her face against the wall, smacking his stiff member against her needy pussy before finally pushing in.

The two shared a pleasurable hiss, Beatrix’s walls contracting around the shape of Dion’s cock before the ram began to hump and pound the unicorn with heavy thrusts. Both his hands remained on the unicorn’s wide hips, pulling them back to meet his, thick ‘plaps’ echoing whenever they met.

Beatrix tried her best to hold in her lewd noises while her lover bashed her cunt into submission. The rough pummeling caused her massive boobs to bounce and clap into each other, a reminder of how she ‘slightly’ enhanced her assets to become larger and a bit wobblier.

Not that Dion knew or cared as he deeply shoved his dick further into her gushing marehood while asserting his bulk against her back. One hand slide up her sides to claim one udder-sized tit, rolling and squeezing her breast while tugging at her nips. Beatrix could practically feel the fucker kiss the back of her womb, making her moan and gasp with a short breath.

“A-aagh! Oh FUCK! Fuck yeah, babe! Fuck me! Harder~!” She chanted to her champion, feeling him pulsate deeply within her honey pot. Dion’s thrust grew more reckless, smacking harshly into her jiggling rump while his balls slapped against her clit. The ram bellowed lowly, feeling his impending orgasm before delivering one final thrust before firing thick ropes of spunk to splatter her womb. Beatrix cried almost silently, her cunt gushing sticky fluids all over his black wooly thighs.

The witch leaned her chest and arms against the wooden wall for support, her legs shaking to keep standing. And if not for her lover holding her, she might have collapsed.

“A-ahhhh~! Mmmng, fuck. I really needed that,” Beatrix laughed, huffing and puffing.

“Oh, A’m not finish wit ye, lassie,” Dion murmured.

“H-huh?! Waaah~!”

“C’mere ye!” The ram chuckled, pulling his wry lover away from her peeping spot, spinning her around, and lifting her high into his arms. Beatrix yelped and giggled before feeling her back pinned against the main mass, Dion pressing his torso into her squishy breasts while his hands secured her flanks. For a moment, the two said nothing but gaze passionately into each other's eyes, the moon highlighting their features.

As she wrapped her arms around his neck, Beatrix brought Dion’s head against her own before the warrior resumed to pump his shaft into her puffy pussy, taking a slow yet firm rhythm. They shared sharp moans and airy pants, ditching the lewd wordplay in favor of raw lovemaking. The mare’s legs squeezed around her lover’s waist, pinning him closer to her body. In return, his mouth placed many kisses along her collar bone before taking her right breast, earning heightened coos out of the witch.

It didn’t take long before the two reached climax once more, muffling their moans with a kiss as their embrace deepened. Love juice leaked out from Beatrix’s overstuffed pussy as her burly warrior steadily dropped them back into the hammock.

Fatigue and bliss washed over Dion, chest rising and falling with each breath. Beatrix groaned, feeling his cock flaccid out of her as she adjusted her position to curl over his chest.

“I...I think we overdid it,” Beatrix giggled sleepily.

“Maybe,” Dion sighed, one arm wrapped over the mare’s shoulder to stroke her platinum locks. “But A'd happily go again~"

“Mhmm~! I really hope Oona is okay with us sleeping together…”

“Ah know mah sister, ” Dion insisted. “Nothin' means mair tae her than yer happiness. You’re a hedonist by nature, an' she’s accepted that.”

As her mentor came into discussion, Beatrix thought back about what Trom had asked Oona before they talked about their mission. “Say.… What does Matanam mean?” She asked Dion, looking towards him.

His brow rose curiously before he answered, “‘Matanam’ means ‘soulmate.’ Th' one ye give undyin' love tae 'til yer body expires. An' in the afterlife, yer souls will reunite an' share eternity together.”

“So it’s like…marriage?”

“Mmm, not quite,” the ram explained. “Thair’s a ceremony we hold fur th' occasion when couples have come tae that decision. An' once th' ritual is complete, ye're magically bound tae one another. An' even in life, should ye turn away from each other, yer spirit will return tae yer Matanam in death. ”

“O-oh gosh.… That’s a big commitment,” Beatrix admitted, pursing her lips while shyly looking away.

“Aye. An' Ah take it that scares ye?”

“N-no! Well, yes. I mean.… Ugh, it’s complicated!” The unicorn sighed as she looked up towards the ceiling. “I’ve never really thought about settling down. There’s so much of the universe to explore, new faces to meet. I’m always looking for a new adventure! But ever since Abby came into my life, I’ve had to consider laying off so that I can properly raise her. And being with Oona feels…so much better than any fling or crush I’ve had. I just…I don’t know if I could give up adventuring.”

The ram nodded. “Ah get that. Tae be honest, A’ve allowed meself tae be consumed in mah quest fur strength. ”

“Really?” Beatrix looked back to Dion, her eyes almost sparkling under the dim light.

“One day, A will challenge mah faither fur mah rights as chief,” he explained. “But along th' wey, A’ve fought valiant battles in countless wars an' countries. As much as Ah want tae return home, Ah can’t ignore those in need of guidance. It's in mah nature tae resolve conflict an' turn th' tides ov battle. Sae 'til A'm settled an' fully prepared, Ah'm devoted tae mah cause. ”

“Mmm…” Beatrix hummed, her fingers gingerly tracing the large scar on his chest. “That’s quite the load on your shoulders. You’re very brave, Dion.”

Maroon eyes stared into violets as a broad smile spread his muzzle. “Ye have tae be in these circumstances. Though ye have a lot tae carry yerself. We're bound tae come across yer old flame, richt? How are ye feelin' about that? ”

His question startled Beatrix, having not really thought about what she would do when seeing Zeloph. He probably hated her; after she stopped him from ruining the world, he sought to make ‘perfect’ for Abbadonna. But despite that love towards their daughter, she could never forgive the false idol for using her in his zealous scheme.

“I want to hurt him," she confessed, bawling a fist. "I want to show him how badly he hurt me. Used and betrayed me. Not even Shadow Scythe broke my heart. I won't allow such a vengeful being in Abadonna's life. If he wants to redeem himself, then I'll give him one chance. But I've lost all respect and sympathy for him...”

Dion nodded in understanding. “Then let him hae it, lass. Ah expect a legendary battle worthy ov tales tae be tellt. 'Beatrix Belladonna, slayer ov angels!' Has a good ring tae it, don't ye think? ”

She snorted, flicking his nose. “Oh, Please! I’m much more than just fancy titles~.”

“Oh, aye! Ye've certainly come a long way from ‘Dark Messiah ov th' Necronomicon.’ ”

She grinned at him as she pecked his lips before snuggling closer into him, taking in his warm scent while the ram laid his head back to let sleep take him. Her eyes wandered towards the glowing light from the small window where Oona, Midnight, and Cerise resided as it flickered out.

“Bound to your soul forever,” Beatrix whispered through drowsiness. While uncertain of her stance in commitment, a part of her was jealous of the married couple. But of all the allies and friends she’d consider settling down with, Oona proved to be the most likely. Because to her, the dream faun showed her unwavering kindness, support, and love. Maybe having their souls tethered wouldn’t be so scary, knowing it was with her darling mentor.

Beatrix’s last moments awake were looking up towards the starry night, wondering if Abadonna was somewhere in the stars, waiting for her...

Blistering winds howled as night fell over the mountainside. The two travellers had to take shelter in a cave lest they face the blizzard’s wrath. Shadow Scythe rubbed at her shoulders, fighting the bitter cold through chattering teeth. Her icy gaze fell to Zeloph, shivering violently as some of his feathers had frozen and eyes on his wings closed under layers of frostbite. Gathering what little wood he could find, his hands lit up before igniting the pile with baleful fire. Its glow reflected off the rocky walls as they settled down, rubbing their hands close.

“Whoever d-decide to cast an eternal blizzard spell should d-d-d-die a thousand d-d-deaths,” she sneered between chatters.

After a moment to warm up, he answered. “Whatever’s up there likely doesn’t want to be disturbed. So the higher anyone gets, the harsher the weather will no doubt become,” Zeloph proposed, rubbing at his ruffled wings, each of his eyes still closed as he brushed off frost. “At least, we can be certain this isn’t Beatrix. I wonder where she is…”

“Grr! Wherever she is, I bet it's a lot better than here,” Shadow Scythe scoffed, ceasing her shivering once she absorbed enough heat. A tired sigh escaped her lips. “No, that doesn’t sound right. She might not be faring that better than us, what with her daughter lost to time and all…”

“Yeah, don’t remind me,” Zeloph muttered, folding his wings around himself for more warmth. “Belladonna nearly brought us both to the brink of ruination. Thinking of her being anywhere close to Enock’s library fills me with unease.”

“She nearly brought you to the brink of ruination. Don’t ever compare yourself to me,” the unicorn warned, narrowing her eyes which emphasized dark circles underneath.

“Oh good. Your ego has resurfaced,” the demi scoffed. “You’re surprisingly sensitive for someone who thinks so highly of herself. Have you forgotten how easily I kicked your-”

The sound of steel greeted his feathery ears as Shadow conjured a sickle from his shadow, once more threatening to lop his head off. Zeloph only smiled smugly at Shadow Scythe’s glare before she dissolved her magic with a frustrated huff.

“I swear…. The moment you adorned that ridiculous, dated look, you’ve become more pompous than before! You’re acting like...l-like..!”

“Belladonna?”

“Yes! Exactly like Belladonna! The haughty attitude, the flashy display...the insufferable level of kindness…” She whispered that last one to herself, looking away.

“Hmm…I suppose Beatrix has rubbed off on me,” He contemplated, unfurling his wings to show off his rebellious attire. “To know my enemy, I must become them, I think the saying goes. At least I’m willing to admit we share a few things in common.”

“Hmph!”

Zeloph rolled his eyes. “You’re never going to grasp your full potential if you stubbornly ignore your feelings, Shadow Scythe.”

“It’s gotten me far before.”

“And yet, you still can’t figure out why you’ve never won a single bout with Beatrix.”

Shadow Scythe said nothing for a while, continuing to sulk until she relented after a couple of minutes of silence. “I’m well aware that I’m full of myself. For so long, I’ve chased after power wherever I could get it. Even when the price was so horrible. I…used to be an assistant to Grogar.”

“The Father of Monsters?” Zeloph asked curiously, recalling hearing a few tales about him.

“The very same,” the reaper nodded. “He made me what I am today. I took many lives in servitude to him, harvested a lot of souls. And when it became clear he was weaker, I slaughtered the old goat where he stood. Not because I was superior, but because if I hadn't, he would have killed me. He betrayed me, left me to die. Heh.… Funny, isn’t it? A Goddess of Death, afraid of dying?”

For once, the nephilim didn’t respond with a witty comment or sarcasm. Instead, he remained respectfully silent, much to her surprise and gratitude.

“Still, you can imagine my frustration coming across this magical, space bimbo somehow overpowering me,” Shadow Scythe continued, tucking her knees further into her chest. “She had everything I didn’t. Friends who supported her cared for her. Helped her when things were tough. For so long, I found emotion and morality to be feeble, disgusting things that hindered one’s ability. Flesh was a reminder of impermanence, so to maintain my purity, I denied it. But now…”

“You’ve realized embracing them has made you much stronger than you ever were,” Zeloph added in, to which she frowned.

“I tolerate and accept that these feelings exist. But I refuse to give into them. I will not be so easily manipulated by the stupid shit Beatrix gets into!”

The Fallen One laughed, shaking his head. “I sense a lot of insecurity. Tell me, why are you so tense?”

Shadow Scythe kept her face hidden under her hood, trying hard not to stare at her witty companion. “I'd...prefer not to talk about it.”

Yet, she couldn't suppress a heat in her cheeks. Nor the subtle fragrance of musk born of pheromones the unicorn attempted to hide under more soaked bandages. It didn’t take long for Zeloph to detect her scent, all of his eyes widening in realization.

“Oh... I see,” he spoke, a little awkward about the situation yet remained without judgment. “You know,” he began cautiously. “Estrus is perfectly natural for a mare. Your body must be desperate to make up for all the years you’ve denied yourself pleasure or release. I suspect your empathetic 'awakening' has something to do with that. If you'd like, I could help you with-”

“S-shut up! Don’t you dare suggest we… gngh, fuck!” She barked, slamming her fist into the wall next to them, bloodying her knuckle. “A-as if I would ever lower myself to sleep with anyone, let alone Belladonna’s sloppy seconds! I won't be a slave to lust!”

Zeloph glared harshly at her, deeply insulted by that comment. “I was only going to use my healing touch to restore your body and mind. I have no base intentions.”

More embittered laughter rose from deep within her. “Like I’d believe that bullshit! Here you are, chest out for me to ogle at while I wrestle with all these damned pent-up desires. I’m not stupid, Zeloph!”

“No, but you are annoying prudish,” the fallen one groaned, carefully reaching over to look over her self-injured hand. She instinctively tried pulling away but stopped upon feeling a tingling sensation flow over her busted knuckle. She watched in astonishment as his fingers traced over her hand, her wounds quickly healed and sealed, blood cleaned. It was like the feathers on his wings brushed the pain away, leaving nothing but warmth and tenderness.

Was this how he charmed that poor fool, Beatrix? With gentle, sensuous touching?

She locked onto his eyes, finding no ill intention or wanton lust. Just shimmering magenta orbs reflecting his glowing fingers. And she couldn’t deny it felt…nice to be cared for like this.

“...thank you,” she muttered and turned her head aside.

“Of course. That wasn’t so bad, was it?” He teased with a gentle grin.

Shadow felt her heart thud; her mind so addled by desires once alien to her, she assumed her body would respond to any charming stallion. But the idea of to mate still made her feel ill. “No.… It wasn’t.”

Despite how badly she feared it would make her appear weak and needy, she settled beside him, content to huddle close to Zeloph. Surprise dawned in his own eyes at this almost foreign display of affection, yet he returned the embrace as several wings and plumage unfurled from his back to cover them in a blanket of seraphic feathers.

A dim light illuminated off the demi-human, providing Shadow Scythe with some vision of the downy fortress protecting them. No sound could be heard outside from their breathing. “This is…cozy,” she complimented, her pale blue cheeks stained bright red. “No wonder Belladonna was so easily seduced...”

“Beatrix yearns for new thrills like an addict. It wasn’t that hard to sway her,” Zeloph sighed, looking away with regret. “Although, I don't think there's anything that could mend our relationship, given our animosity. Still…. It’s nice to be close to someone like this.”

“Hm-mmm.” She was beyond hot, even when the wings adjusted to allow the cool air outside in. Shadow Scythe bit her lip hard, doing everything not to touch herself while in his presence. Yet the reaper couldn’t shake out the troubling thoughts, and with a pained groan, rolling over to press her back against his torso. “Now, when you said you would help by 'touching' me...”

“I won’t go any further unless you want me to. I promise.”

“O-okay, good. You better hold up to that, or I’ll-”

“Shhhhh,” Zeloph shushed, placing a finger to her mouth before whispering sweetly. "Just relax." Steadily, he trailed down her chin as his hand stroked over her torso, careful to not touch her bosom before fully grasping her bandage-covered stomach. Thin light glimmered off his fingertips, transferring his energy to spread out through her front, earning a shallow gasp from Shadow Scythe as elation overtook her senses. She felt the burning need to mate subside with every stroke. The pale unicorn shuddered when his other hand joined the rejuvenating patting, trending closer towards her pelvis.

Shadow Scythe released airy sighs as her burdening lust washed away, a fuzzy warmth in its place. Her legs trembled together over Zeloph’s right hand as he worked his magic, humming a soothing melody. And after a couple more sensual traces, he had wholly absorbed her wanton lust before removing his hands from her navel, leaving the reaper finally free from the unwanted desire.

“A-ahhh! W-wha.… I feel so…light! How did?!”

“You're welcome,” was Zeloph’s only response as he folded his arms around her waist loosely, turning his head away to give into slumber. The faint light vanished with only the fire outside the cocoon of plumage providing any vision.

Not soon after, Shadow Scythe closed her icy blue eyes to allow sleep to claim her, content that the moment had passed. She'd once more forsaken biological needs that would have driven some mares to madness.

Yet the reaper knew she wasn’t fully stated, those lingering needs becoming vivid wet dreams that reminded her she would always be influenced by mortal weaknesses unless she surpassed them completely.

They had a long journey still ahead of them. And it wouldn’t be long until they came across Beatrix and her friends.

Yet who would reach the elusive library and protected the mythic Child of Lightendark remained to be seen.

End of Act I

Chapter VII: Council of Mystics

The grass rustled under a zephyr in a vast meadow, petals from the flowers left to swirl about the area. Azure skies, decorated by the occasional fluffy cloud, framed the sun.

Amid this tranquility sat Abadonna, no longer in her rags. Instead, she wore a pretty white dress, matched with a sunhat. Her white pupils widened at the splendor, trying to catch the butterflies until she ran into a tall yet curvy figure. She gasped in elation.

“Mom!”

Beatrix Belladonna smiled before picking the little unicorn up to twirl her around in her embrace. The two laughed and played in the meadow until they got tuckered out, laying side by side.

“Ohh! Look at that one, mommy!” The cheery monochrome filly exclaimed, pointing to one cloud in the shape of a rabbit.

Beatrix chuckled before she spotted another ambiguous shape. “That one kind of looks like a sheep! Don't you think?”

“Yee!” Abby giggled, reaching for her hat until a strong gust picked up, carrying it away. “W-wait! Come back!” She pouted.

Beatrix observed her daughter, noticing that she looked a little different than before. No longer was her hair long and bone-straight but curled a little around her head. It seemed a lot darker as well, no longer sporting any white hues. And while the growths and bumps on Abadonna had reduced, the strange golden horns had grown a little, the unicorn horn still bent out of shape.

Still, this was her daughter, and she would be loved no matter what form she took. Smiling, she took off her witch hat and placed it on her daughter’s head, though it slipped further over until her snout was peeking out.

“Here. To replace the one you lost,” the violet mare insisted, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, face lit up by a warm, motherly smile. “You’ll soon grow into it. I promise!”

“Thanks, mom!” The little mare squeaked, adjusting her gift to proper fit, though it would constantly tilt to the side. She settled into her mother’s lap and cuddled up to her bosom. “Girls in our family always grow up to be witches, right? I want to be one, too!”

“That’s right. And I’ll teach you everything I know,” Beatrix promised, hugging her child tightly. Her face turned forlorn, and Abadonna followed her gaze to the sea of trees around the meadow, the forestry so perfect it reminded the little mare of the paradise world she'd described.

“Oh, look, mom! Snow!”

Abadonna pointed out tiny flakes starting to fall from the skies, despite there being no clouds. Beatrix curiously caught one, only for her excitement to turn into bewilderment, brows furrowed as she sniffed the air.

“This isn’t snow, honey. It’s…ash….”

Light began to fade from the scenery as the skies gradually bled, blue soaked into a rich crimson that cast the meadows into a hellish hue. The air started to twist around them, becoming sticky, thick, and harder to breathe. The sudden bout of heat was so intense, they were lined in perspiration.

“M-Mommy? What’s happening?” Abby coughed, trying her best not to breathe in the black flakes.

“I-I'm not sure...”

The temperature continued to rapidly rise until reaching a breaking point where the plants and trees spontaneously combusted. Licks of hot flames engulfed the forest, branches, and flowers scorched in embers, crackling viciously. Beatrix lifted Abadonna into her arms and, blasting a nearby falling tree with the entry plane, began to collapse.

“H-Hang on!” She yelled, clinging Abby protectively to her chest as she fled the burning forest. She dodged and rolled whenever more branches fell into a crisp, covering her snout so as not to inhale the plumes of smoke rising into the blackened skies. The little mare kept her eyes closed, whimpering for them to be safe.

Finally, Beatrix made it to a clearing, slowing down to catch her breath, sweat dripping off every limb. But her eyes widened in shock at the sight before her. It was as if a great inferno had scorched the entire plane.

What was going on?

With a grunt, she pressed on, ready to conjure a portal to escape through until the earth began to rumble, forcing the mare to stop in her tracks. Both ponies gazed into the fissures splitting the ground apart, chunks of molten rock tossed out amidst loud pops.

And out from the scorched earth arose a wall of hateful flames, dozens of terrified faces screaming in fear visible. But it was the next sight that made both mares shriek in horror.

Emerging from the hateful blaze was a skinless horse, standing on its hind legs while letting out a grotesque screech. And attached to its back was a demonic rider, head engulfed in wicked flames that formed a crown. Its skeletal visage gazed scornfully at them, pointing a claw before bellowing rage.

The front of the creature stomped down, Beatrix nearly ducking away from the equine head’s maw, spinning around to make a mad dash away from the monstrosity.

“MOM! WHAT IS THAT!?” Abby cried, unable to tear her gaze from the monster as it advanced behind them.

“I DON’T KNOW!” Beatrix repeated, tucking her daughter’s head. “Just don’t look at it! Whatever you do, look away!”

But her escape was cut short as more torrents of flames flared from the ground, barring the way out while their pursuer trotted closer. Beatrix glared in disgust as the creature’s mount vomited out putrid smog from its mouth. Her horn flared, projecting a barrier to seal them, the cloudy substance swirling around them.

The humanoid half snarled before breathing out a wave of immolation, igniting the toxic smog to explode around them, shaking the mares who cowered inside the shield. And while it was significantly damaged into fragments, the buffer still persisted...for now.

Beatrix screamed as the equine half bashed against the barrier with its hooves, its horrid neigh, the sound of nightmares as Abadonna wept, pleading for help as she clutched her.

“LEAVE US ALONE!!” Beatrix yelled, doing her best to keep her protective spell up.

“G̛̓̍̋̚iͥv̵̊̐͞͡e̔̌̆ͧ̓̎͑͝…̆ͤͩ̂͋ ̉ͯ͗ͨ̅ͬ̚͞҉̸M̍͒̊ͤ̽ͨͪ̏͂̕e͌ͮ̇̔̌̀̚͢…̸̶̧́̇̈̓͛̆ͨ ̶̨ͧͬ̉͐̐̂͂̎T̄͆͋̚hͨ̀̔̒ͦe̓̈̆͟͞ ͛̆̑̓̽͏Ĉ̶̒̄ͤ̌͌̒̕͝h̡̨͗̌̍͛͌͗͋̓ͩ͏ȋ̢̧ͮͦ̽l͒ͨ̀͟͢͢d̂̍̽͞!͑̏!̈́͛̑ͪͦ̓̃ͩ͜͢” the skinless demon demanded, slashing at the barrier with its extended claws.

“N-NEVER!” Yet the witch was straining, beads of sweat oozing off her brow, trying desperately to keep her spell up despite how agonizing her horn felt as it vibrated.

“Get away from them!” A voice bellowed as Lady Ewe materialized between the creature and the unicorns. With a wave of her staff, she blasted its equine face in a burst of raw magic, causing it to reel back and shriek.

“O-Oona!?”

“Get out ov here!” The sheep sage demanded, hands alight with a fresh spell. “Take Abadonna an' run befur --gaagh!”

Her warning was cut off once the demon seized her throat, pulling the struggling sheep towards its humanoid torso to study her. She yelled as its claws dug into her flesh, the puncture wounds searing with heat until her flesh caught fire, the poor faun blackening then incinerating in seconds.

“NOOOOOOOOO! OONAAAA!!” Beatrix screamed, Abadonna hiding into her mother’s cape to look away from the awful sight as her lover immolated. The skinless monstrosity dropped her burnt corpse onto the ground, crawling towards the pair. Licks of flames pulsed from her eyeless pupils, skin crisping away to blackened meat, her wool burning off her limbs and scalp.

“Ç͒ͯ̽͑͠͏-̿ͧ͞Cͮ͐̎̽̉ͨ̄ͯ͘̕e̷ͭ̄̆̆̀ĕẽ̉̈́̅̈́̆̊̋͟͡ȁͦ̋̊̀ä̡ͪ̍̐̈̿̒͛̕͠ā̶ͨ̈́n̛̐̈́ͩͣ̆̚͠ ͂̇̑̈́ͣÕ̧̌͊̉̇́gͥͣ̅ͭģ̋͆ͨ̓äͫ͗̉ͤ̑̏͂͞a̷ͥ̔̔̇͗̒̚a̾aͥͨͤ͒̈́̓ͭ͑̀͏…̨͗ͩ̒͋͗ͤ̏” She croaked.

Panting frantically, Beatrix dropped her shield and ran with her child, jumping through the fire while ditching her cape, leaving it to burn away. The monster roared before galloping after them. It didn’t matter to her if there was nowhere left to go.

Anywhere was better than here.

Something grabbed at her ankle, causing her to trip and release Abadonna from her arms. The little mare tumbled into the burnt earth, looking back before screaming, “MOM!”

The unicorn mare struggled to break free of the immolated zombie grasping her heel, about to fire a magical beam until another pair of hands clasped around her throat.

More and more held Beatrix down, just as their skinless pursuer arrived. The horse head of the beast snorted into her face before trotting over towards Abadonna, the filly scurrying away until the rider lifted her up by her dress in one claw.

“NO! LEAVE HER ALONE!!” She choked, desperate to break free as more and more bodies limped towards them. Her eyes widened upon recognizing their faces, despite how disfigured and melted they were. Oona, Dion, Midnight, Cerise, the twins, Bellatrix, Moxxi…even Zeloph and Shadow Scythe were not spared!

And soon, she too would join their fate of perpetual suffering as her innards cooked under immolation. Fire consumes her flesh, screaming in anguish while reaching for her child.

“MOMMY! MOMMY!!” the frightened filly cried, hyperventilating as she was pulled closer and closer to the gaunt face of the skinless horseman, its teeth resembling a horrible smile as its maw opened.

“NO! NOO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!”

Abadonna awoke with a scream, her powers distorting the chamber that contained her as her startled cry echoed through the library. She gasped for precious air, layered in sweat as she took in her surroundings, thankful to find she wasn’t anywhere near that hellish landscape nor that infernal creature.

She touched her face, finding a few of the growths were gone. But more importantly, she found her mother’s hat still on her head.

Just then, the chamber doors burst open as Enoch rushed in, cosmic feathers scattering from their plumage. “What happened? I heard screaming!” They asked and perched by the bed, looking over Abadonna to make sure she was unharmed; their eyes widened upon finding the wide-brimmed hat. “Where did you get that?”

“M-My mom gave it to me…in my dream,” Abadonna answered with a sniffle, pulling it off to look it over, tiny fingers brushing over the fur. “We were together, enjoying the scenery until everything went black, and then there was fire! Fire everywhere an-” Her breathing picked up, tears streaming down her face, trying to hold back her sobs.

“Shhhhhh,” they hushed, enveloping her in their massive wingspan. The little mare’s robes rustled as Abby whimpered and cradled into the tufts of the guardian’s downy feathers.

“I-it felt so real...!”

“I know,” Enock nodded, lowering their head closer. “Please, tell me what you can…”

The curator of time listened attentively as the young filly struggled to describe all she dreamt. A horrible image of scorched earth ignited bodies and a skinless monster with fire atop its head. The owl-griff's eyes widened, realizing what happened before pulling his head away. “Oh no…”

“W-what? It was just a dream…wasn’t it?”

“If only that were true,” Enock shook their head, scanning over the hat laid next to the filly. “Remarkable. You’ve only been sleeping, and already, your magic has started to manifest!”

“My magic?” Abadonna asked, tilting her head to the side.

“Your mother’s hat,” they pointed out. “That shouldn’t be here, yet you pulled it right from your dream. Your form has even taken a more stable shape. The prophecy of Lightendark is slowly coming true!”

“Y-yeah! Maybe that means both mommy and daddy are almost here!!” Abadonna chirped hopefully, though her excitement faltered looking back to the cosmic guardian, who still wore a grim expression.

“What’s wrong?”

“No…. Something isn’t right. Follow me.” They urged, lowering themselves on all fours so the little filly could climb back on before they soared through the library once more. Enock took her through multiple corridors, more clocks appearing on the walls and statues until he hovered over one.

Abadonna gazed at it fearfully. “W-what is that?!”

It was a large, ancient structure made of stone. Dials scratched into the surface as an ominous red aura glowed within. Around the bottom were burnt bones and singed marks, corroding the atmosphere with an acrid stench. Hovering closer, they could hear that it was steadily ticking.

“It’s just as I feared,” Enock stated, stricken with horror. “The doomsday machine has activated, ticking closer and closer to midnight.”

“W-what happens at midnight?” Abadonna gulped, regretting the question.

“The End of Days. When the Burning King breaks free and casts all of existence into endless turmoil.” The mention of the monster’s name made the small filly shudder.

Enock turned their head around to gaze at the child. “I’m sorry, little one. But I must withhold my promise. I cannot allow anyone to reach the library, should I risk your safety and the universe’s livelihood!”

“B-but you can't! My mother and father-”

“Are NOT welcomed! You MUST understand! If the Burning King breaches through, there is nothing that will stop him from destroying everything! I’m sorry, I wish there was another way.”

Abadonna stared sadly at the cosmic owl-griff, deeply hurt by their change of heart, but nodded her head as they began to fly away. The little filly glared back at the doomsday machine, hoping that it never reached the end of its countdown.

Beatrix awoke from the same dream, panting heavily while clutching at her bare chest. Relief slowly washed over upon finding her body still intact. Her rustling caused her lover to stir awake, scratching at his head. “Mmnh... Lassie? Whit's the time?”

“O-oh, sorry! I didn’t mean to wake you,” she mumbled, rubbing over her clammy skin. Platinum hair with violent tinges tossed about in disarray, sweat beading down her face as she rubbed tears from her eyes. Well aware that the witch looked like an absolute mess, the warrior held her close, feeling her wet cheek press into his muscular chest.

“Hey, it's okay! No need tae apologize,” he insisted with a gentle tone, stroking her hair. “Dae ye feel like talkin' about it?”

“No, I’m fine. It was just a bad dream,” she groaned groggily, stretching out her sore limbs before rising out of the hammock.

“A'm afraid it was mair than a dream,” a voice called from the side. Beatrix flinched as a flickering light fell over them, Lady Ewe having stepped out with a lantern in hand. The witch noted her teacher looked equally restless and bothered, face was drawn, bags under her eyes.

“Ah need tae talk wit her. Dae ye mind?” She asked her brother, who nodded and lifted his waking body before he hurried inside the forecastle to give the two some privacy.

Beatrix waved her hand to swiftly redress, though she was surprised to find her hat didn’t materialize when her attire came.

After a couple more waves, she gave up and followed Oona to the ship's bow. Dark waves quietly stirred below, a cool breeze upon them that carried a salty scent. The moonlight shone above. For a while, the couple was content to sit in silence.

“So…” Beatrix started, turning to her lover with concerned violet eyes as her hair rustled. “It wasn’t just a dream, was it?”

Oona shook her head. “A premonition, most likely. A warning ov things tae come... ”

“And what…or who is coming?”

“Th' Burning King.”

Beatrix felt her blood run coldly at the mention of that name, having heard Lady Ewe mention it before. Though, given the nature of their nightmare and the gruesome demon they encountered, it made sense.

“That’s the Burning King?! Well, no wonder you've avoided talking about him! What even is he?”

“A Nuckelavee,” Oona answered. “A demon ov old myth. Said tae chase efter its victims wit'out puggle 'til rippin' them asunder, all fur sadistic glee. Only th' Sea Mither had th' strength tae vanquish th' beasts. An' that was true…befur th' Burning King became one in death."

“So he was human once?”

The sheep sage nodded. “An' even then, his mortal life knew no mercy. Sent tae war by his faither on a suicide mission, th' carnage an' bloodshed only fueled his rage, bringin' forth a massacre tae anythin' that moved. He returned as a war hero, but that changed when he butchered his faither fur th' crown. From then on, th' kingdom ov Moira knew only conquest, pillage, an' slaughter. When other kingdoms stood united an' defeated his army, he brunt down his entire castle, trappin' foes and villagers inside, an' earning th' moniker ov th' Burning King.”

“H-holy…” Beatrix muttered and paled, unable to imagine how such a person could become so horrid. “B-but he can't be coming back, right? And even then, why would he want Abadonna?! She's still a child-”

Oona shook her head and exhaled. “He exists in th' realm ov Pathos, whair souls who cannot escape their mortal vices go tae suffer. Four ov which embraced their insidious nature, becoming Vice Lords. They sought tae help him return thro' something called th' Omega Prophecy…. Ah don’t know th' details or why Abby is involved. But if th' Burning King brings th' End o' Days, all life will be extinguished.”

Lady Ewe reached for her pupil’s hand, squeezing it tightly while gazing at her with frightened eyes. “That is why we battle th' Vice Lords, wherever they appear. Tae prevent his imminent return. Yet it's a battle ah fear we will lose…”

“Don’t say that, Oona,” Beatrix spoke firmly, clasping both hands over her lover's. “We’ve fought plenty of terrible monsters before. What’s one more for us to handle?”

“Ye don’t understand, Ceann Oga!” Oona shook her head, panic in her voice. “This isn’t like wit Zeloph or Shadow Scythe! If th' Burning King comes back, he will be unstoppable! He cannot be defeated!”

“Okay, okay..!” She sighed. “I’ll help, you know I will! But my priority is getting my daughter back safe and sound. And, who knows! Maybe this library will have something to prevent the Burning King from ever coming back! But we gotta get there first. So…let’s not let some awful dream rule us, okay?”

While the dream faun looked too distraught to agree, she let out a wry sigh before nodding her head. “Alricht, Beatrix. Ah understand. Ah just hope this isn’t a bad omen… what wit sae much at stake already!”

“Me too, Oona.” The witch exhaled, pulling her into a comforting hug, which she returned. They walked back to find Dion had fallen back asleep in the hammock before entering the forecastle to make a bed for themselves. The two lovers fell back to sleep comfortably in a tender embrace, hopeful this peace would not end anytime soon.

As dawn broke through the horizon, the ship reached the outer borders of Equestrian territory, arriving by the docs. Beatrix and allies gathered their belongings as they prepared to make port. The witch materialized a new hat to wear, wondering if her daughter actually managed to grab it.

“It micht be possible,” Ewe answered, perplexed by this bizarre development. “Dreams are often th' windae tae th' soul. Sae if given enough power, one could pull something out upon awakenin'!”

“If that’s true, then maybe Abby isn’t as far away as I thought!” Beatrix stated hopefully.

“Wishful thinking, Lassie,” Trom interjected. “The sun may look close, but it be much farther away. Not that ye want to shoot right to it, harharr!”

“No, you’re right,” Beatrix sighed, smiling sadly while looking up at the walrus captain. “Thank you so much for your help, Trom.” The violet mare wrapped her arms around his ample belly and hugged him, and the others did the same to thank the ferry spirit.

He returned the embrace with colored cheeks. “Nawww, I’m just doin' me duty! Carryin' lost souls to where they belong. Now best ov luck to ye! I 'ope ye all 'ad a pleasant stay! The mystic fortress lies just beyond the cliffside; ye can't miss it!”

“Thank you, Trom,” Lady Ewe called as she, her brother, her lover, and the married couple reached the shores and waved farewell. At the sound of his magic whistle, the ship departed back to sea, into the mysterious mists. Everyone gazed at one another before nodding in unison, ready to undertake the next portion of their journey.

It was a steady climb towards the cliffs, needing to catch their breath once they reached the tops. The highlands shimmered refracted sunlight, the wind howling gently, carrying the salty air of the sea.

“Wow…. I didn’t know Equestria could look this beautiful!” Midnight clamored.

“Micht want tae take another look, laddie,” Dion dejected, pointing towards tarnished terrain, where a battle had clearly taken place. Instantly, Beatrix rushed over to examine the aftermath, her heart sinking upon recognizing the baleful sparks of white fire, still flickering on the ground.

“Zeloph was here!”

Midnight asked, “A-are you sure?”

“She’s sure,” Cerise defended, glaring intensely into the ghastly pale flames. “I’d recognize that bastard’s work anywhere…”

“An' it looks like he wasn’t alone,” Oona pointed out, noting the different footprints in the dirt. “Thair was a skirmish.”

“Shadow Scythe?” Midnight proposed, to which Beatrix cupped her chin in thought.

“Might be…. Knowing her, she probably used Zeloph for any info about the library and tried to murder him the moment she could. One can only wish she succeeded…”

Cerise agreed with the sentiment, nodding firmly as she seethed at the reaper.

“But then, that would mean she’s closer tae th' library an' yer daughter. That’s nae somethin' tae be hopeful about,” Dion reminded, much to their begrudgement.

Beatrix said, “Then we can’t waste time! C’mon, I see the fortress up ahead!”

Eagerly, the group continued to follow up the trail, where the runic castle awaited. Vines and wild growth covered the stone structures, the drawbridge having remained down for millennia. Stepping through, the group found themselves in the courtyard, a long table with forgotten bowls and tableware ahead. The wind blew through a series of chimes, where a large pillar with ancient markings protruded from the stone tiles. A massive fountain stood in the center, trinkets of water still pouring out slowly.

“So spooky…yet so cool!” Beatrix complimented quietly, looking around with twinkling eyes. And this was just the outside! Who knows what they could find inside!

“Ease yer heart, Ceann Oga,” Oona politely suggested, smiling as she touched her shoulder. “This is not a place tae go explorin'. We are tae council wit th' spirits. An' we need tae mak' yer trial convincin'.”

“B-but what if they don’t agree..?”

“Have faith in me,” the sheep shaman assured, rubbing her cheeks tenderly while staring through to Beatrix’s wavering spirit with confidence. “Just as Ah have wit you.”

While her mentor’s words swayed her to believe, Beatrix still couldn’t help the nervousness. With a nod, she and her friends settled down at the table. Oona took to the head, her dreamcatcher staff glowing with magic, as she closed her eyes and called out,

“𝔸𝕙 𝕔𝕒' 𝕦𝕡𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕙' 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕔 𝕠' 𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕕𝕤 '𝕟' 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕖, 𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕘𝕥𝕙 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞𝕚𝕕𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖, 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕒𝕘𝕖 𝕦𝕟𝕨𝕒𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕.
𝕀 𝕔𝕒' 𝕦𝕡𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕙' 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕔 𝕠' 𝕤𝕜𝕚𝕖𝕤 '𝕟' 𝕨𝕚𝕟`, 𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕗𝕒𝕤𝕥 '𝕟' 𝕤𝕨𝕚𝕗𝕥, 𝕕𝕚𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕦𝕟𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕕.
𝕀 𝕔𝕒' 𝕦𝕡𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕙' 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕔 𝕠' 𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤 '𝕟' 𝕤𝕖𝕒, 𝕔𝕒𝕝𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕘 '𝕟' 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕪𝕗𝕦𝕝, 𝕡𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕦𝕟𝕞𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕕.
ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕣 𝕞𝕖, 𝕤𝕡𝕚𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕤, 𝕗𝕦𝕣 𝕒𝕙 𝕣𝕖𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕪𝕖𝕣 𝕘𝕦𝕚𝕕𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖. ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕒𝕝 𝕪𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕖𝕝' 𝕥𝕒𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕖 𝕖𝕖𝕟!”

Slowly, the wind began to blow more harshly, the earth started to rumble below their feet, causing the group to cling onto the table. Violet energy erupted from the stone pillar, forming into a colossal bear spirit, who released a thunderous roar upon arrival, causing Beatrix and Cerise to yelp in alarm. Emerald gales brushed through the chimes, swirling around the table until it twisted into shape. Once the pale wolf spirit fully materialized, he loosed a howl with the bear.

Shimmering water began to pour from the old fountains, bubbles hovering out before another strange spirit jumped out. It was a seal-like woman, wearing a white fur coat while her round body bounced onto the table, knocking stuff off as she slid and splashed Beatrix and friends with water.

“B-baah! Not again!” The witch complained. The seal held her flipper to her mouth, giggling before she jiggled her way towards her fellow mystics. Each of them was marked by symbols similar to Oona's and Dion’s. The bear wore study designs in yellow, the wolf sported green slashes, and the seal spotted pink teardrops.

“Who dares disturb the great Storbjorn’s slumber!?” Bellowed the bear, glaring down at the party with one glowing yellow eye. The stone helmet and battle braids reminded Beatrix of fabled warriors from human history; Vikings. “Who has the gall to-'' But he soon gasped upon seeing Lady Ewe, quickly scooping her up in one claw, smiling widely.

“Minn goð dóttir! It’s been ages!!” He laughed, nuzzling the giggling sheep who hugged his nose.

“As Ah’ve missed ye, Dia athair!” She looked back at the startled group before explaining. “Storbjorn is an old friend ov th' clan. He an' mah faither go way back. ”

“An' 'oy is yer father, Dion?” The wolf asked in a soft-spoken voice.

"Wouldn't know. Haven't gone back tae th' village yet," The ram replied with a snort. "And how's Naoi?"

"As vexin' as a vixen can be," the gale spirit chuckled. “So ye 'aven't returned ter scrap for chieftain?”

“Oh, lay off him, Gaoth! It's bin tae long since Ah got tae plooter these kids!” The seal woman snickered, sliding closer to jump into the burly ram’s arms and cuddle him.

“Heh! A'm barely a kid anymair, Suela!” Dion chuckled before laying her back on the table.

"Nonsense! Ye'll always be yer mother's boy, na matter how old ye grow."

Cerise got up to look over her fur coat, marvelling at how soft it looked. “Oh, that looks so cute! Where can I get one in my siz-- oww!” Her attempt to reach for it earned her hand a slap from Suela.

“How rude!” She hissed. “Don’t ye know better than tae take a selkie’s jacket?”

“N-no, I didn’t! I’m sorry, okay,” she pouted with flat ears, rubbing her sore knuckles. “And what’s a selkie, anyhow?”

“Oh, that’s what Ah am, lassie! ” Suela said proudly, slapping her belly in quick succession. “Mah coat allows me tae donder on land. But if someone were tae tak' it, A’d be stuck wit no way home. Though, funny enough, tis how Trom an' Ah came tae be Matanams. ” She winked at her.

“Oh, wait! You're... Awww, that’s so cute!”

The selkie gave a bashful smile, her small nose sniffing the scent of fish and seawater off their clothes. “Ah miss th' muckler. Always workin' wit his heart on his sleeve. A’ll have tae reward him wit more cuddles~!”

“Nigh is not de time,” Gaoth reminded, leaping onto the table while looking over Beatrix and her friends, the wolf's greenish-yellow eyes shimmering brightly. “We were summoned 'ere for a purpose.”

“Aye, onto business,” Storbjorn nodded, clearing his throat before gently placing Oona back onto the ground. “What requires oor presence, Oona? I know ye wouldn’t caa us ere if it were terribly important.”

“Please,” the dream faun began. “Ah come askin' ye fur a way tae th' stoatin library ov Enock. Beatrix Belladonna,” she motioned to the witch, who nervously waved at the mystics. “Has come in search fur her missing daughter, th' Child ov Lightendark herself!”

The three spirits backed away in surprise, looking between one another.

“But that can’t be possible,” Storjborn exclaimed. “The Child o Lightendark isn’t prophesied te be born for anither hundred years!”

“Unless somethin' caused her birth by mishanter,” Suela proposed with pursed lips before turning to ask, “Who's th' faither?”

Oona answered, “A demi-human named Zeloph. He, too, seeks th' library, fur it's th' only place Abadonna can stabilize in.”

“Ahh. That must be the lad who made a mess outside my stone walls,” the bear spirit growled. “Demis, pha! Think they’re sae hot.”

Lady Ewe turned to the group, noting the bewildered expressions. “Before we learned ov his origins, we referred tae Zeloph an' Moxxi as demi-humans or ‘demis’ fur short. Mostly based on their humanoid shape while sporting different animal features.”

“Ahh! Makes sense,” Midnight nodded and scratched his spiky mane. “A lot better to remember than nefull...uhm, nephilia?”

“Nephilim,” she corrected, giggling.

“...yeah, that!”

“Regardless,” the pale wolf spirit cut in. “We can’t afford ter share Enock’s locashun!”

Storbjorn stubbornly nodded. “We made a solemn vow te the curator, te niver reveal the portal unless absolutely necessary!”

“It’s a great risk,” Suela agreed, looking back to them with saddened eyes. “Countless worlds would be at stake if th' wrong person got access tae untold knowledge!”

“But someone already has!” Oona countered, desperate to hold her plight. “Zeloph likely knows how tae get thair. If we dae not get tae Enock in time, Ah dare not dream what he’ll dae wit infinite knowledge at his fingertips! Please, Ah beg ov ye! Tell us!”

“This doesn't look good,” Dion whispered to the married couple, arms crossed over his bare chest and his a drawn face.

“Don't tell me we came all this way just to be turned away?” Cerise asked, clutching her hands together. “That’s not fair!”

“We'll convince them somehow,” assured Midnight, wrapping a large, feathery wing over his wife to draw her closer. “We have to pay you back after all you've done for us, sis, and I can't think of a better way! Maybe-”

He was interrupted when Beatrix pushed her way past and interrupted the debate, slamming her fists on the table. Each mystic paused their commotion to gaze at the witch. She leaned over the table between the guardians, palms planted on the surface, her eyes watery. “Please,” she implored as silence fell between them, their attention drawn to her. “Without your help, my daughter could be lost forever! I’ll handle the consequences if it means Abby will be safe in my arms. I can't abandon her! I won’t lose her to Zeloph! I couldn't bear it if...if...”

She closed her eyes, unable to hold back the tears that ran down her cheeks, a quiver as her knees threatened to buckle. All she could think about was little Abadonna, all alone, convinced that her mother had finally given up on her. Despite that she had sworn to upturn heaven and hell if necessary to locate her, she again felt powerless and bristled with frustration, that despite how hard she'd worked and what she'd learned, her fate lay in the hands of people she'd just met.

“Ceann Oga,” said Lady Ewe, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder to reassure her.

The guardians exchanged a glance, quietly debating their course of actions before nodding in unison. “Verra well, Oona. Beatrix Belladonna,” Storbjorn spoke, a softened look on his large face. “We hear yer cries. We will show ye the way te Enock’s library. Unner the condition that ance ye git ther, you’ll come hint onlie wit Abadonna an nae newfound wisdom.”

“Y-yes! Of course!” Beatrix sniffled, rubbing her eyes clean while giving a gracious smile. “You have my word; I will respect Enock and not attempt to steal their knowledge!”

“Gran',” Gaoth nodded, a small gust of air swirling around the unicorn mare. “Ter break a promise wi' spirits is ter sentence yer soul ter be 'unted. Oi can sense lashings av darkness deep within yer,” the wolf sneered, yellow eyes narrowed with suspicion.

Yet Oona stood in her way, shaking her head. “Crafty an' sneaky as she may be, Beatrix haes a good heart. Ah trust her tae know she’ll dae th' richt thing.”

“Oh! Speakin' o' darkness,” Suela interrupted, putting on a warmer smile. “That is th' foremost requirement fur th' portal. A great energy source blacker than what most sorcerers can conjure. An' luckily fur ye, Beatrix, you’re Onoma is packed tae th' brim wit it!”

“Seriously?! Then we’re already one step closer!” Cheers erupted from the travellers. Beatrix embraced Lady Ewe, Cerise hopped, and her bells jingled as she cheerily laughed; Dion and Midnight made a fist bump at the first decisive victory. The mystic guardians couldn’t help but smile over their joy.

“Okay, okay!” Beatrix said, calming herself down before turning to address the guardian spirits. “So that’s one down, thanks! Now, what are the other requirements?”

“A single shard from de Crystal 'eart, currently 'oused in de Crystal Empire,” Gaoth stated, his nose pointed towards the west of where they were.

“The Crystal Empire?!” Midnight exclaimed. “T-then that would mean...”

“W-we could potentially see our dad,” Beatrix nodded. In so many universes, she had encountered many versions of Shining Armor. The witch wondered what this variant would be like. Oona, however, sported a frown while keeping out of her lover’s vision.

“Lastly,” the selkie continued. “You’ll need blood fae a pure alicorn.”

“A pure alicorn?”

“I think she means one who was naturally born and not altered by magic to become one. So neither Twilight Sparkle nor Cadance.”

“An' unfortunately, Celestia An' Luna are no longer alive at this time, ” Dion noted.

“But Flurry Heart still exists, right?” Beatrix asked hopefully, to which her mentor nodded. “Great! Then that means we just need to get to the Crystal Empire, find my sister, and we can potentially get to the library way earlier than expected!”

“Beatrix,” Oona politely interjected, pulling her lover towards her. “Ye must understand, things are different here an'-”

Suddenly, Storbjorn released a mighty roar, once more shaking the entire room. A vicious sneer adorned his face.

“What is it, Storbjorn?” Suela asked nervously.

“The mountain! My stone sentinels ar awakening frae thair post. Someone’s been climbing, aamaist at its peak!”

“That’s gotta be Zeloph!” Cerise exclaimed.

“Or Shadow Scythe,” Midnight proclaimed. “But why would either of them-”

“No…” Oona gasped, nearly falling onto her knees, shaking her head back and forth in terror. Dion started breathing heavily, fist bawled tightly as he looked away.

“Oona? What’s wrong?” Beatrix asked, holding her mentor gingerly while staring with concern. The sheep sage looked back with teary honey eyes.

“W-we must intercept th' intruders quickly! Before they reach… him!!”

“Him?”

At the summit awaited many stone golems. The guardians were silent and impassive but immediately creaked into motion the moment they sensed the arrival of intruders. Wasting no time on warnings, the sentinels rushed to intercept, created to attack on sight since few could hope to reach this spot, and it was unlikely anyone that did so had noble intentions in mind.

The earth shook under their movements. A solid fist smashed toward Shadow Scythe, who floated before them. The reaper melted into her own shadow reappeared in the one cast by her attacker from behind, and her crescent sickle flashed in a blurred arc.

The protector froze, and its lopped-off head slowly slid off until it toppled with a thud. She chuckled evilly at her work.

Another had its bulky chest blasted open by a ray of light. The stone crumbled, dust rose around the defender, and it crumpled, deactivated. Zeloph's fingers burned, another spell already prepared in his hands and on his lips to deal with their adversaries.

An ethereal light show erupted from the Nephilim's wings. Cackling sounded each time the reaper popped in-and-out of looming shadows, her scythe arcing out from all directions to carve through solid rock. She summoned a storm of smaller sickles that floated around her, wrapped in her aura as her horn lit up, and let fly in a whirlwind of death as the crescents carved up solid rock.

With their newly discovered abilities, the pair made quick work of their foes. It was almost a game to them, as the travellers tested their powers out some more, almost disappointed that the mystic automatons were so quickly and easily felled between them.

By the time it was over, the duo had found themselves pressed back-to-back as they huffed. Before, Shadow Scythe would have pulled away, but she lingered by him despite the unpleasant stickiness of sweat they had worked up at the moment. Tattered white robes lined in black clung to her tall, wispy frame, one that was coldly beautiful but built more for efficiency than its aesthetics.

They took a brief moment to savor their rest, their shattered enemies reduced to scattered rubble at their feet. The reaper summoned her scythe back into the hand, and the sickles followed, banished back into the ether until needed as they slipped into her shadow. Another bitter reminder she and Beatrix had more in common than she liked, now that her Onoma had been unlocked.

“You’re handling yourself well,” Zeloph complimented with a wry smile. “Not even a day has passed, and you’re using Thanatos quite masterfully. Not bad~.”

“Hmph.… I’m surprised you can even keep up with me,” the reaper huffed, unable to deny Zeloph’s own advancing skill.

“As if I would allow you another chance at my throat,” he scoffed, letting his heart rate stabilize once he surveyed the sealed door. “So...should we try knocking?”

“Stand aside. Allow me...” She narrowed her icy eyes in determination and carved through the barrier to the stronghold. With the last defenses out of the way, the reaper and nephilim pulled open the stone doors, making their way inside. Zeloph’s body illuminated the dark passage, providing vision down the carved steps. The duo kept close if only to remain on constant alert, should they run into further resistance.

“Quit shaking; your feathers are tickling me!” Shadow whispered harshly.

“I can’t help it,” Zeloph quivered, ruffling his wings as the eyes twitched. “There is so much immense pressure here! How could one person conjure so much… evil?”

Grunting, she pushed him aside to take the lead until they entered a small room, hollowed out from within the mountain’s peak. Runic stones glowed around, magic pulsating through chains, binding a titanic figure who kneeled in the center. Shadow Scythe narrowed her gaze at the shadowed creature, a sense of familiarity eluding her.

“Is this...a prison cell?” Zeloph quipped.

A low grumble came from the prisoner, lifting his head to glare at his ‘guests.’ And upon meeting his intense stare, Shadow Scythe felt her blood instantly freeze. How could she ever forget those sinister crimson eyes, withered blue coat, sickly white hair, and the large, curved horns?

Braced with gold around his neck, adorned in tattered black robes, there was no mistaking his familiar shape and posture. Two fangs protruded from either side of his lower jaw, forming a grim frown.

Before her in chains was a version of the very creature she served in her home dimension before she beheaded the would-be tyrant to claim his soul. She dropped her sickle while Zeloph looked between the two with a worried expression. Her eyes remained wide, full of dread, her voice trembling as she spoke the creature’s name.

“... Grogar?”

Chapter VIII: Father of Monsters

For a moment, Shadow Scythe could not tear her gaze away from her former mentor, processing the fact that Grogar was still alive. No, she reminded herself. This wasn’t the same bastard she'd worked under.

Yet the memories of what she’d done and an irrational threat of reprisal threatened to overwhelm her. Her small breast heaved, her hands reaching to clutch her fallen weapon, trembling within her tightened grip.

Zeloph was equally unnerved, having never seen his partner in such a constant state of fear, not even with the Burning King!

Just how atrocious was this ancient ram?

Grogar remained fixated between the two, his weary face drawn, brows furrowed. “How curious,” he finally stated, settling on glaring at Shadow Scythe. “You look at me as if you know me, yet this is our first meeting. Judging by your weapon and ghastly complexion, you must be a soul reaper, correct?”

She flinched, backing further away from the monstrous sheep, teeth clenched tightly. Pleased with her reaction, Grogar swayed his head back to Zeloph. “You, however, don’t look like any creature I created. Your wings are magnificent! Are you, perhaps, from an angelic order beyond this realm?”

“You are…very well informed,” Zeloph confirmed, stroking his avian appendages. The azure ram chuckled.

“I’m impressed that anyone could scale this mountain with Gusty’s eternal blizzard spell rampant. It must have been a hassle to come see me. Which brings me to my next question; why are you here? Come to finish me off?”

“If only,” Shadow Scythe muttered darkly.

“No…you were sent here. And not by those mystical idiots! You both reek of ominous arcane magic, as if it singes your very souls.”

“Wait, you can see our archaic signatures?” The demi exclaimed in alarm.

“Of course I can,” Grogar scoffed. “It was I who first tapped into arcane magic!”

“What!?” The pale unicorn sneered, ready to butcher the bastard where he stood. Yet before she could strike, the ancient ram glared her down, paralyzing her with dread. A smirk stretched his mouth.

“What’s wrong? Afraid you’ll miss? It’s not like I can move, you know,” he taunted, earning a sharp glare from the reaper as she relaxed her combative stance. “Heh…you are wise to remain fearful of me. There’s plenty about me you don’t know, and to slay me now would be a grievous mistake.”

“Is that so?” Zeloph huffed, unswayed by the ram’s arrogance, arms folded into his chest. “Well, let's hear it then. How were you the first to discover arcane magic?”

Snorting, the ram briefly closed his eyes, recalling the events. “It was during my initial reign as First Emperor of Equestria. Gusty the Great led a revolution against me, and my armies could not maintain the riots. I refused to forfeit control! I had to snuff out their rebellion. To do so, I returned to my homeland of Tambelon, where I made contact with the ancient ones.”

Both Shadow Scythe and Zeloph listened intently, uncertain whether to believe his claims.

The azure ram continued, “They taught me the ways of arcana, how to wield it, unlock my Onoma and use it in battle. And through it, I was able to create an abundance of monsters and secure my crown. A story so old, only a handful of scholars live to know its existence! It was how I earned my moniker as the Father of all Monsters!” He paused, a moment of triumphant pride swelling within his breast, smiling boldly.

“But you clearly lost that power. Otherwise, why would you be a prisoner here?” Shadow Scythe stated, getting a seething look from the ram, who sighed.

“In my hubris, I failed to notice my great-nephew had learned arcane magic from a mere fae and joined Gusty in an alliance. Together, they overthrew me, forging weapons to slay the beasts I commanded. I was defeated, locked away to rot in this mountain. To think my own blood would betray me after all the prosperity I provided our clan.”

“Prosperity?” Zeloph scoffed. “I find it hard to believe a land full of monsters and demons would benefit Equestria.”

“Says the one who nearly erased the minds of many for the sake of ‘purity,’” Shadow Scythe grunted, earning a soft glare before gazing back when Grogar chuckled.

“Oh, I provided much more than that. Ever since my imprisonment, I’ve stored up on magic, as you can sense. Grown a greater understanding of the arcane. And fortunately for me, someone else wanted a taste of that knowledge.”

“You took an apprentice?” Shadow Scythe asked as the azure ram nodded.

“Someone who could continue my work in exchange for lessons. One who happened to be another blood relative! Tell me…. Does the name Oona Ewe ring any bells?”

Both of them took a step back, astonished by this information. To think such a kind, compassionate lady was related to such a horrible sorcerer. Grogar’s grin deepened.

“Heh, thought so! I only ask because I sense faint traces of her magical signature on you, angel. But everything she knows now, she learned from me. Though It wouldn’t be long until her father learned of our arrangement and ceased all contact. Just as she was beginning to show real promise as an arcane sorceress! Haven’t seen anyone since…until now.” He sighed wearily, wrinkled face studying the prison’s shadowy interior, where only the faint glow of runic boulders holding him captive highlighted the room.

“It appears we share a dilemma,” Grogar said thoughtfully, swinging his head to gaze at Shadow Scythe and Zeloph. “You too are also forced here against your will.”

“W-what, preposterous!” The pale unicorn proclaimed, gripping her arms tightly. “I am no one’s slave!”

“Pah! Please, I can smell the sulphur off your cloak. You’re no less a prisoner than I am! Now show me your forearms. Both of you!”

Begrudgingly, both pulled up their sleeves to reveal the mark of burnt flesh scarring their limbs, much to the amusement of the Father of Monsters, who let out a hardy laugh.

“So the Burning King has sent you, has he? I figured as much. You’ve come here hoping for a way to escape the apocalypse.”

“Partially,” Zeloph uttered.

“How do you know the Burning King?!” Shadow Scythe questioned.

“I was the one who supplied him with the body of a nuckelavee,” Grogar admitted. “Of all the demons I spawn, that one is an old favorite. The primordial manifestation of carnage, born to slaughter everything in its path.”

Zeloph said, “But... that would make you responsible for the End of Days!!”

“Yes, precisely,” the old ram smiled sinisterly. “You must think me mad for giving life to pure destruction. But when you’ve gotten to my age, you’ll have seen it all. So why not burn down every foundation to start anew?”

“Grrgn! This was a waste of time! Doppia, that bitch.… She led us astray! Let’s go, Zeloph,” Shadow Scythe growled, ready to depart from this insanity.

Grogar called, “Leaving so soon?”

“I see nothing left for us here, except a deranged goat,” the demi bitterly spat.

“I beg to differ. It is my magic that you seek to activate the portal to Enock’s library, yes?”

The fallen one paused, tearing his gaze away from the knowing ram. “How did you know we were-”

“I propose a trade,” Grogar interrupted. “Get me out of these chains, and I’ll supplant you with my dark essence. You want to escape your fates, and I want a better view of the Lost World’s destruction. No strings attached. We simply get what we want and never see each other again. What do you say?”

Zeloph knew this was a shady deal. For as much insight he claimed to have, there was no way Grogar could know they were after the library. Did this also mean he was aware of Abadonna’s existence?

Still, for all their effort getting up here, it would be a waste to leave with nothing…

The winged immortal gasped as he was slammed up into the wall, his companion staring deathly into his magenta eyes. “Listen to me, Zeloph,” Shadow Scythe hissed. “Grogar is not to be trifled with. We are not aiding in his release!”

“Let go of me!” Zeloph demanded. “My word! I’ve never seen you so frightened! Are you really that afraid of this old geezer?”

“Yes! As should you be! I know what he’s capable of!”

“But you killed him once, didn’t you? Surely, with our combined magic, we coul--”

“Were you not listening?! Grogar’s been holding back enough magic to fill up this entire mountain!”

“I was! I just...find it cute that you suddenly value my safety all of a sudden~.”

The unicorn’s face flourished hotly with anger, her grip around his collar tightening. “You insufferable, pompous, sanctimonious--”

“Erm, you do realize I’m still here, right?” Grogar injected with a raised brow. “I can hear every word that your--”

“QUIET!!” They both yelled in unison, shutting the bewildered ram up.

“Well, what other choice do we have?” Zeloph argued. “It’s either die by Grogar’s hand or perish before the Burning King! I highly doubt Beatrix would ever be willing to give us her power!”

“You’re a smooth talker, aren’t you? Surely, you can seduce her again! It’s all you’re really good for!”

“Oh, don’t be naive! As if I’d ever lower myself to sleeping with that--”

“There they are!!” A voice echoed from above.

Shadow Scythe and Zeloph paused their banter to look towards the room’s entrance, where Beatrix Belladonna stood there in disbelief.

“Speak of the devil…” Zeloph murmured, freeing himself from the unicorn’s hold, dusting off his burgundy jacket.

“Finally,” hissed Shadow Scythe under her breath, glaring up at her target in a staredown. Swiftly, Dion and Midnight flanked one side while Lady Ewe and Cerise took the other, heavily armed and taking in the sight of their two enemies.

“Zeloph!” Cerise sneered.

“A-and Shadow Scythe!” Exclaimed Midnight, aiming his spear towards the reaper. “So they are working together!”

“Evil always attracts mair evil,” Dion huffed, though his eyes remained on the ancient ram behind him, who greeted the new intruders with a smile.

“Well, if it isn’t my great-grandniece and nephew,” Grogar mockingly stated. “It’s about time you paid your old uncle a visit, don’t you think?”

“Don’t speak tae us, heathen!” Oona seethed, holding her dreamcatcher staff protectively. “Yer no famley ov ours!”

“Oh, Oona,” the azure ram snickered, shaking his head. “My blood flows through your veins whether you like it or not! I’ll never forget the young lamb who came to me, wondering about her connection with the fae spirits. Seeking what her father failed to hide.”

“A-Ah was foolish! He only wanted tae protect me from ye!”

“He was foolish to keep you from your heritage! And where is he now? Hiding on a little island, desperate to keep whatever remains of our once glorious empire! Had you remained by my side, I would have made your gifts flourish!”

While the dream faun kept a brave face, Shadow Scythe noticed she trembled, fighting back the tears. A flash of sympathy flushed over the reaper, unable to imagine sharing a family with this monster.

“You could have been so much more, Oona,” Grogar continued. “But your potential is wasted on being a simple shepherd, frolicking in the dreams of people too weak to aspire themselves!”

“Leave her alone!” Beatrix bellowed, stepping in front of her lover with a heated glare. “She has done more for her family and friends than you’d ever accomplished!”

“Typical Beatrix,” Zeloph sighed, rolling his eyes. “Sticking her nose into affairs that do not concern her. Then again, you always were one to get between families…”

“Don’t you dare talk about family to me, you..! Y-you...” Before she continued her threat, she did a double-take, leering over her former lover as her cheeks brightened a bit. “W-wait, when did you get so hot?!”

“Beatrix!!” Oona and Cerise exclaimed, unamused.

“Whaaaat?! How am I supposed to ignore the whole ‘bad boy’ look he’s rocking? I-I mean…. Damn you, Zeloph!!”

The Fallen One chuckled, brushing his midnight locks from his pale face. “Like what you see? Personally, I’ve never felt more alive~!”

“Oh, go fuck yourself,” Shadow Scythe groaned, irritatingly rubbing her temple.

“And you!” Beatrix addressed the reaper. “I should have guessed you’d go back to your wicked ways, but I’d never suspect you’d align yourself with him! What are you doing, Shadow Scythe?”

“What am I doing?” Shadow Scythe chuckled coldly. “I’m at least content with being a complete monster. But you continue to thoughtlessly interfere in multiple universes and twist them to your will! Not to mention all the collateral damage that you’ve caused!”

Her icy eyes fell towards Midnight before pointing at the soldier. “Just take this idiot, for example!”

“Hey!” The pegasus barked back.

“You subconsciously altered him and Shining Armor in his homeworld, causing him to become your half-brother! His fate is on your hands, and you didn’t even bother to tell them, did you?”

Everyone in the room sported a puzzled look, mainly the stallion in question. “W-wait, what is she saying?”

“Lassie?” Dion voiced his concern, the witch falling silent.

“Ha! Figures,” the reaper crowed. “So what’s it going to be, Belladonna? Want to come clean to them, or should I tell the happy couple~?”

“N-no! Shut up!!” Cerise yelled. “You’re lying! There’s nothing wrong with Midnight! Right, Beatrix?”

The pale unicorn shook her head as the charcoal mare stared pleadingly towards her friend.

“Beatrix..?”

“It's...about hyper-stallions,” she sighed, barely audible and holding her upper arms, unable to meet their eyes. “If I hadn't met Midnight, he never would've been one.”

“O-okay, so what? That doesn’t...”

Her voice was cut off when the witch turned to face her, a look of regret clearly reflected from her violet pupils. “I told you that they’re protoforms, right? But there's a downside. Since they had shorter lifespans, they were driven to spread their seed faster.”

It took a moment for the implications to sink in for Cerise, eyes widened and mouth agape. “Shorter lifespan...? B-by how much?”

Beatrix sniffled, looking back down, and confessed, “He probably won't live to see his middle-age. I'm sorry, Midnight. I know it doesn't really help, but I never meant for this to happen! I just stumbled on your world and wished I had a brother...”

She hadn't known the extent of the Prima Materia's power at the time, that it subconsciously shaped each world in flux she travelled to in often subtle ways to suit her will. A careless wish had altered his entire life the moment she had arrived.

“Well, well,” Zeloph spoke, arms folded while staring at his former lover in astonishment. “So not only have you doomed our child to non-existence, but you’ve taken away their future as well! It never ceases to amaze me how selfish and irresponsible you are.”

“Shut yer gobber, ye multi-eyed shitweasel!” Dion cursed, aiming his claymore towards the snarky demihuman.

“N-no! It’s not true! Tell me it isn't true!” Cried Cerise, whose pink eyes watered as she clung to her lover.

“It’s true,” Shadow Scythe stated, looking over the princess and her knight with softened eyes. “You should have never come here, Cerise. At least, back in your world, you could have lived a happy life together, blissfully unaware of how limited your time would be.” Her eyes hardened on Beatrix, who returned the seething gaze. “How many more lives must you ruin until you’re satisfied, witch?”

“Butt out,” Midnight stated, spear tip poised for the unicorn’s throat. He clutched his weapon with wavering hands, trying hard to swallow down the anger roaring inside him. “So what if I don’t have much time? I’ll still be young, and I can still fight!” He clasped his beloved’s hands, emerald eyes falling over the gold and silver rings, respectively linking their fingers. “It’s not about how much there is to live, but how to live. And I choose to live just like this; kicking your sorry asses and protecting the mare I love!” He chuckled weakly, trying to not show fear in front of his snivelling wife. “I’m a happy stallion!”

“Spoken lik' a true warrior, laddie!” Dion nodded, bashing the butt of his sword against his shield, snorting with impatience.

“Hmph! Disgusting,” Grogar commented, watching as both Shadow Scythe and Zeloph took their stances, holding their weapons, ready for the impending brawl. Beatrix’s horn flared, Oona clutching her side while archaic magic flowed over her hands.

“M-Midnight,” Cerise whimpered.

“Don’t worry, babe!” The blue pegasus insisted, a wing wrapped around her. “I won’t get reckless. I shouldn’t need my hyper-strength to deal with these two!”

“Bold words coming from a dead man walking,” Zeloph taunted, his magnificent wings unfurled from his back, all eyes fixed on the party.

“Not as dead as you’ll be when I’m through with you!” Beatrix declared, glaring spitefully at her old flame.

But Cerise refused to accept the situation, rapidly shaking her head. “No! No, no, NO! He's supposed to return home a hero! To give me a child or two! This was not supposed to happen!” She choked back sobs, overwhelmed by a storm of ambivalent emotions and confusion.

“C-Cerise, please! I-I’m sorry!” The witch insisted.

But the moment her foe was distracted, Shadow Scythe seized the opportunity to sink into her own shadow, crawling through the dimly lit room.

“H-huh? Where did she go?!” Midnight yelped on guard.

“Oh no! This must be her archaic ability!” Oona realized, quickly conjuring a protective barrier. But the sheep sage was too late as the reaper emerged from the witch’s shades, coiling tendrils around Beatrix while cackling.

“Hey! L-let me go!” The violet unicorn demanded, thrashing to break free or wave a spell, sinking into her own shadow.

“Beatrix!” Cerise yelped, attempting to stop her, only for Shadow Scythe to flick her sickle at the dancer, lopping off one of her curled pigtails. Flinching back, she held her cheek, hissing as a thin line of red cut her dark fur.

“NO!!” Midnight yelled, thrusting his spear at the reaper, only to meet the stone floor as they both disappeared. Oona quickly rushed to Cerise’s aid, checking over her wound with saddened eyes. “Cerise! Are you alright?”

“I-I’m okay... Just a scratch,” she whimpered, starting over where her friend once stood in guilt. Had she not caused a scene, Beatrix wouldn’t have given Shadow Scythe an opening to attack.

“Goddamnit,” Zeloph cursed, unable to predict that his partner would abandon him to Beatrix’s entourage. He gasped as a giant sword nearly sliced through his head, his longer zweihänder sword clashing against the bulky blade. Dion struggled to press his bulk into the fallen angel, nostrils flared.

“Bastard! Whair did she take her?!”

“Hopefully, to oblivion!” Zeloph taunted, bashing the ram over the head with one wing before kicking him off. The warrior ram shrugged off the blow, swiping at the demi-human as their swords clanged, sparks flying off their steel.

Grogar winched, ducking his head to avoid the dancing blades. But soon, Dion was slowly backed into his defences, as Zeloph was much faster with his strikes, each blow battering the shield around his arm.

The angelic creature basked off to hover, aiming a finger towards the burly brawler as light emulated off his tip.

“Dion! Watch out!!” Lady Ewe cried before Zeloph fired his projectile. But to his surprise, the ram’s shield absorbed the harsh heat, struggling to push against the beam. Eventually, Dion got close enough to throw off the trajectory and slam his shield over Zeloph’s head, the Fallen One stumbling close by the evil ram’s chains.

“Gaaaggh!”

“Got ye now!” The ram snarled, raising his sword high above his head, ready to decapitate his enemy.

“W-wait! Dion, stop!! You’re too close tae th'--” Oona tried warning, but the ram swung down just as Zeloph rolled out of the way. Metal bashed into the rugged chain, shattering it into pieces. It took the pale ram a few seconds to realize what he had done, crimson eyes widening.

“Oh no..!”

Grogar gazed over the severed chain before breaking the binding around his left arm with concealed strength. Astonishment slowly turned to glee as he clutched his fist, his dark and yellow aura shimmering freely.

“At last!” The ancient ram exclaimed, cackling with elation as all the magic he spent years harboring began to unleash, breaking out his other limb from its binding. “FREE AT LAST!!”

“EVERYONE, GIT BACK!!” Dion shouted, leaping in front and conjuring his onoma to shield his allies. Zeloph called his ophanim shield to brace for impact as the entire mountain top erupted with dark energy. Stone and debris flew everywhere as the cold air flurried around the party.

If not for Dion’s glowing red shield, they might have been crushed!

Midnight held onto Cerise protectively while Oona pressed against her brother’s back, all eyes staring in horror as Grogar emerged from the rabble, sporting a delighted grin.

“No! W-what have Ah done?!” Dion yelled, grasping at his head in frustration.

“Indeed,” Zeloph quipped, hovering above the heroes while collecting Grogar’s darkening magic into a thin veil. “Quite the messy family reunion! Love to stay and chat, but I have more pressing matters to tend to~.”

“Get back here, you coward!!” Midnight bellowed, soaring up to strike the nephilim down.

“Sit down, dog,” Zeloph commanded, prismatic light flaring from his multi-eyed plumage, stunning the pegasus. Dazed, Midnight was unable to withstand the swift axe kick delivered from the demi, plummeting down to the ground amidst feathers.

“MIDNIGHT!” Cerise yelled, rushing to her husband, his eyes unblinking as pale light glimmered from his pupil. The dancer glared up at the winged immortal, who ascended into stormy skies until vanishing completely.

“Horn’s first, lassie!” Dion called them. “We’ve got bigger problems ahead!”

“Nearly an eternity of rotting in that cell, and all it took was blind arrogance,” Grogar stated, relishing in the distraught faces of his niece and nephew. “What delicious irony! If only Haden were here to see his own children die by my hand!”

“We will not die today,” Dion boasted, battle stance ready. “We’re takin’ ye down, Grogar. Permanently!”

Grogar snorted as he channelled his magic into spheres, growing in size, emanating horrible cries and screams. Midnight rose up, shaking off the dizziness, rubbing at his eyes. “Honey, talk to me!!” Cerise begged.

“Dammit! I almost had him,” the pegasus groaned, his eyes focusing on his wife’s wet face before spotting the azure ram powering up. “Oh…uhm, dare I ask?”

“Grogar processes a powerful Onoma called Typhon,” Oona answered, her staff glowing with her own archaic energy, honey eyes fixed into a focused glare at her uncle. “We’re about tae be outnumbered...”

Releasing a mighty cry, Grogar summoned fiendish monsters from the glowing orbs. Many were mythical creatures, though some looked forcefully fused by alchemy. Pointing towards the four allies, the ancient ram uttered one command,

“Get them!”

Instantly, the army of creatures rushed towards the sheep siblings. Midnight pushed his wife behind him and readied his spear as he flew up to aid the ram warrior.

Aware that they were down a member, plus Cerise wasn't in much of a condition to handle herself, they were forced to battle on their own.

Cleaving through a lamia that blocked his way, the bare-chested creature screamed and split into two halves that fell apart, awash in a splash of hot crimson that splattered over Dion as his muscles rippled under the impact. He spun to block the rattle of a tail from one of its companions with his shield, drops of venom splatting the surface, acidic steam hissing.

At his side, Oona summoned up bubbles that collapsed around orcs and goblins, knocking them unconscious. Her wool and robes rustled around her each time she weaved another spell, surrounded by a shimmering aura.

Above Midnight swooped and struck with his spear. From the paintings in the manor, he'd seen little glimpses of Beatrix's adventures with Sunny in another Equestria, where Grogar and Shadow Scythe had commanded similar monsters. He noted the gargoyles, harpies, and other lesser demons, but thankfully, the old ram didn’t conjure any elemental titans yet.

“Cerise, you alright?” He called to his wife, piercing through a winged wretch, screeching with agony.

“Y-yeah! I'll be fine,” she assured, reminded that she had to pull her weight. She called on the darkness in her, shifted from her earth mare form into a thestral, as leather wings sprouted from her back and fangs arose in her mouth. She carried the spear Midnight had given her during the adventure in the manor, still tied with a cloth from his tunic that had sealed their whirlwind romance.

Training under Bellatrix, Cerise had incorporated her dancing into her martial arts, driven to keep up with them, to prove she was more than some spoiled princess. She had sworn never to hold them back, to not be taken hostage by villains like Shadow Scythe again! She hurtled skyward beside her husband, twirled her spear while they battled insane odds side-by-side.

“There’s too many ov them,” Lady Ewe panted, sweat dripping down her face as her magic began to falter, more monsters swarming from where Grogar stood. “We have tae tak' oot th' source!”

“Get out ov mah way!” barked Dion, bashing an orc’s skull and cutting down those that dared bar his path. His crimson eyes met his grand uncle's as he raced to take on Grogar, spatters of red hitting his face with every ghoul he lopped off. Ares began to manifest its enchanted armor, brilliant red aura flowing off his claymore.

With a haughty snort, Grogar answered the white ram’s challenge with waves of black magic, each blast halting Dion’s march towards him, wearing his nephew down. “You want to be our clan’s successor?! Ha! What a joke!!” The azure ram boasted, launching a powerful beam of dark energy at his nephew. “You're even more foolhardy than your father! He must feel great disappointment knowing he sired such a worthless offspring!!”

“Amurnay his failure!!” Dion roared, his own Onoma withstanding the pressure, pushing forward steadily. “Mah faither would be proud, knowin’ A’d die reprimandin’ mah mistake. But it doesn’t matter how much stronger ye are. Sae long as Ah draw breath, ye will ne'er reach mah friends an’ famley. Sae long as A’m a warrior, Ah will stand back up an' ne'er be defeated!”

Shoving his shield into the ground, Dion launched himself at the elder ram, causing Grogar to abandon his attack. The two let out a war cry as they bashed skulls, a thunderous clap echoing across the mountain. Both rams locked by their horns, refusing to relent under the other’s force.

“Ah!” Cerise whimpered, holding off against a gargoyle before impaling it through the chest. But as it crumbled into stone, it took her spear with it, leaving her helpless as another rushed at her. She tried to dive away, but it had the momentum she lacked, and its powerful claw slammed into her wing amidst a crunch of bone.

She yelped and toppled towards the earth, where more monsters awaited to tear her apart and eat her, ready to pile on her.

“Cerise!!” Shrieked Midnight, diving after her. He hissed between his teeth, seized her limp form before she hit the dirt, and his muscles appeared to expand, yellow veins bulging out his arms and chest. His eyes turned a hellish shade of vermillion between snarls. “You BASTARDS! I'LL KILL YOU!!”

“N-no, please! Midnight, I-I'll be fine,” mumbled a half-conscious Cerise, yet her words never reached his ears. Carefully he placed her aside and appeared to bulk up further, veins visible across his taut, sweaty musculature. A hellhound's skull shattered into bloodied fragments under his punch. Her lip trembled while she watched, reminded that each time he pushed himself, more of his lifespan dwindled away.

Oona collapsed to her knees, coughing in exhaustion as the last of her Onoma faded from her robes and wool. “Brother… we have tae retreat! We need... Beatrix...!” She wheezed, trying to muster more magic before passing out, orcs and gargoyles circling around her.

“OONA!!” He yelled, his arcane magic flaring as he slammed his head against Grogar, knocking the older ram aside, launching his fists to knock out his teeth.

The azure ram staggered, giving Dion enough time to bull rush into the orc, shattering its spine before flinging it into its brethren. He held his sister close, baring his teeth and bloody sword.

Grogar wiped the blood oozing down his jaw, glaring down at his kin. “Ungrateful! Finish them off!!” He ordered his monsters, swarming around the heroes.

Dion looked around with pained breath, unable to find a solid solution. Even if he broke through, Midnight would burn out, then he and Cerise would surely die! And with Oona nearly passed out in his arm and Beatrix missing in action, the chances of survival grew smaller with each passing second.

“Goddamn it all,” he wept. “Can we even really retreat?!”

Suddenly, a loud, thunderous roar caused the very earth to shake, monsters halting their actions in alarm. The sound was enough to bring awareness back to Midnight, who noticed the ground around him had darkened considerably, looking behind him. “H-huh? What’s goin-HOLY!!”

There stood Storbjorn, standing much taller than he did before, a kinetic yellow aura flowing off his purple fur. In his hands was a massive war hammer, which could easily be mistaken as a piece of rock attached to a stick! The orcs and gargoyles growled, unafraid, charging towards the mystic newcomer.

“Stand aside, small ane!” The ursine spirit sneered, giving Midnight enough time to roll out of the way as Storbjorn swung his hammer to obliterate the gargoyle into fragments. The orc snarled as it grabbed onto the handle, only to realize its mistake as it was effortlessly lifted off the ground. The earth mystic flung the monster off the mountainside, the orc squealing as it fell to its death. Storbjorn turned to the other monsters, pounding his chest like a war drum.

“Komokr fit mik!” The bear bellowed, charging at the monsters with violent swings.

Lamia slithered closer to the sheep siblings until a haunting howl caught their attention. The gale picked up as Gaoth emerged, his clothes and silver mane whipping around. In his paw was a wooden shillelagh, rings whistling the curved top end as green aerial magic gathered around him. The wolf spirit snarled before twirling his weapon to whip wind across the scaly monsters, hissing in alarm.

“Begone!” Gaoth huffed, blasting the lamia away with a whirlwind. Looking back to make sure Dion and Oona were safe, the silver hunter ran towards Grogar with blinding speed, knocking the old ram back down.

Hellhounds prowled around Midnight and Cerise, the former swinging his spear to back them away. The snarling creatures leered at them until a sudden wave of water crashed over them, whining as they all washed away down the mountain. The last of the mystic trio rolled in, balanced on an aquatic bubble.

“Suela!” Cerise cried happily.

“Don’t worry, friends! A’ll heal ye up,” the selkie said, calming her breath before singing a healing hymn with a beautiful voice that rivalled Lady Ewe’s. The song’s soothing melody rejuvenated the couple, sparkly pink magic healing the cut on the dancer’s cheek.

“What a pretty sound!” Midnight complimented, his own bruises healing up as the singing seal finished with a wink.

Grogar strained to summon up more reserves, lifting his battered body over severed stones while glaring as the Viking bear and wolf made quickwork of his minions. He exhaled heavily, well aware he had summoned his last creation to fight, his defeat now inevitable. He did not resist when Storbjorn shoved him onto his front, Gaoth pinning the ram’s arms to his shoulders. He managed to give a weak chuckle. “I don’t suppose you intend to kill me, do you?”

“An' let yer malevolent spirit manifest as another Vice Lord? Oi tink not,” the silver wolf growled. “Ye will be sealed away wha naw wan can fend yer!”

“Pha! It matters not. The end will come for us all soon enough,” Grogar declared, smiling triumphantly towards the sheep siblings, Oona having slowly recovered. “The Burning King will return! And with him, the end of all creation! Bahahaha!”

“That's enough out ov ye!” Suela snapped, slapping Grogar hard with her flipper with enough force to render the old ram unconscious. Storbjorn flung the azure ram over his sword, ready to transport him to a more secure prison. Gaoth and Suela both turned concerningly to Dion, who rubbed the back of his head.

“Ah hope ye can forgive me. 'twas mah fault that th' bastard got free,” he admitted shamefully. “Had Ah bin wiser, mair careful, we wouldn’t hav--”

“Don’t be vexed, Dion. Yer stood yer groun' an' fought valiantly,” the silver hunter reassured.

“We all make mistakes. A’m sure Haden would understand,” the selkie nodded, stroking his arm comfortingly. “What matters now is that ye an' yer friends are safe!”

“N-no, we aren’t!” Lady Ewe murmured, leaning on her brother to support herself, having trouble standing on her own. “We have tae find Beatrix before it's tae late!”

“Yeah,” Cerise winched, cradling her mended wing, wrapping a bandage around it. “We've seen what that psycho reaper can do!”

“Aye! We must depart,” Dion nodded, turning back to thank the guardians once more as they carried Grogar away.

Once everyone was well enough to begin moving, the party rushed down the mountain, praying they could locate the witch in time!

White flakes gently fell into the ocean of snow covering the ground. Compared to the mountain, the landscape was almost serene. That is until Beatrix emerged from the darkness of one tree, panting hastily. Tendrils bound her limbs, trying to pull her back. With a dramatic flourish of power, Beatrix unleashed Erebus, the Demiurge detaching the shady threads of Thanatos, just as a sickle swung for her throat.

Cosmic energy whirled around her form as the witch adorned her eldritch garb, face drawn in determination as her captor surfaced from the shadows. The reaper’s perpetual snarl deepened, icy eyes fixing a glare on her hated enemy before she launched into the air. Swift to brandish her rapier, Beatrix counter-struck the cold steel of Shadow Scythe, cool darkness overflowing from the elegant, needle-like blade.

There was no time to worry about where they were. Only survival mattered.

Her eyes fell to their shadows, quick to leap away as more tendrils with sickle ends tried slashing at her. But the minute Beatrix landed, Shadow Scythe had repositioned to the witch’s shade, clipping at her heel.

“Gragh!” She hissed, thrusting her rapier in retaliation, stabbing Shadow Scythe’s shoulder and forcing the two to disengage. Beatrix hovered over the snowy ground, significantly reducing her shadow so her foe couldn’t reappear through it. Her one consolation was the lack of trees nearby to cast more shadows around the area.

Plus, it seemed her Onoma could only slip through natural shades, so Shadow Scythe couldn’t launch a direct assault through Erebus. Still, despite the limitation, the pale unicorn proved extremely crafty, the wriggling sickle appendages wisping from her robes.

Shadow Scythe clung to her puncture wound, red oozing to stain her tattered robes. Likewise, Beatrix felt pain overtake her right leg, fresh blood dripping off her foot. Wincing, she gazed down at her opponent. “So…what? Are you and Zeloph fuckbuddies now? Is that how you obtained arcane magic?!”

“Don’t be ridiculous!” Shadow Scythe bellowed over freezing winds. “He and I share mutual aims. That’s all! And the moment that feather-brained prick ceases to be useful, I’ll drop him faster than flies!”

“Pft. That’s so like you,” the witch berated. “When did you become so pathetic? You were given a second chance, and this is how you choose to spend it!? You really are hopeless!”

“You tainted me! Stole my memories and altered my true nature with that damned Sunny,” Shadow Scythe reminded bitterly, her horn glowing to summon more sickles. “Why must I be punished, yet you get to wander freely wherever you like? Carefree of other people’s suffering?!”

“It’s not like that, I swear!”

“Oh, I’m sure the good folks of Manehattan would understand why you allowed a fifty-foot monster to lay waste to their city. I’m sure Cerise will understand why you altered her husband’s fate. How long until your precious Lady Ewe gets hurt along the way? Or your daughter, should you find her?”

“I will find her! I’m a good parent, I wouldn’t…. I-I…” She couldn’t ignore the heartbreak in her friend’s face upon realizing the truth, nor the cries of the innocent that were trampled back then. Doubt crept up on her, seizing her thoughts as her Onoma wavered. Tears began to float from her eyes, her fist tightening. “I’m not evil! Yes, I’ve made lots of dumb mistakes, and I feel guilty for causing anyone harm! But-”

“Open your eyes, Belladonna,” Shadow Scythe stated grimly, each scythe poised to strike her target in quick succession. “You’re a cruel, selfish bitch who cares only for what’s suitable to her own needs. More importantly, you’re a threat to every universe you encounter. And if anyone’s going to stop you, It might as well be me!”

The pale unicorn rushed towards her, a flurry of shadow-laced sickles cutting through the cold air. Beatrix opened her cosmic cloak, attempting to withdraw a potion hidden within, but as she tried to reach in…

“TADA~!”

Fireworks exploded in front of Shadow Scythe, causing her to lose momentum and roll into the snow. “Graagh! My eyes!!” She yelled, rubbing at her sockets.

Beatrix looked down at the source, dismay on her face. “...You’ve gotta be kidding me!”

Hovering before her was Mini-Trix, sporting her own watered-down costume of Erebus, arms folded, cape waving behind dramatically, grinning smugly. “Never fret, Beatrix. I am here to save the day~!” The tulpa beamed back with a wink.

“Mini-Trix! Now is really not the time for your shenanigans!”

“Oh, please! You would have been cut into ribbons had I not stepped in to save your sorry butt!” The miniature witch insisted, sticking her tongue out.

Recovering from her daze, Shadow Scythe took one look at the cartoon version of her enemy and instantly cringed. “What…is that?!”

Mini-Trix turned to address the reaper, hand on her wide hip while holding out a peace sign. “I come in the name of justice and peace! I don’t want to see my two creators fight, after all~.”

“Your what?!” The two unicorns exclaimed.

“That’s right~! If it weren’t for your help, Shady, I wouldn’t exist!”

“Oooooh, no! No nonononono!” Shadow Scythe rejected, shaking her head frantically. “I refuse to believe that I’m responsible for this…thing!”

“Nuh-uh! You two are my mommies~! So you better deal with it and stop fighting this instant! You don’t wanna set bad examples for me, do you?” The little magician taunted, causing both mares to flush over the implications.

“Grrrr, enough of this!” Screamed Shadow Scythe, slashing through the air to fire crescents of deathly magic at the tulpa. She yelped, stylishly dodging each attack in puffs of colored smoke before firing rockets from her inner cape. Bright explosions rocketed around the reaper, distracting her long enough for Beatrix to launch a cosmic storm of dark magic, blasting Shadow Scythe.

“Hurray! Good work, partner,” the cartoon mare cheered.

Shadow Scythe shook off the dizziness, staring deathly at the annoying twerp, extremely pissed off. “Stupid illusion! When I get my hands around you, I’ll make you disappear!” She declared, shadowy bladed tendrils lashing out to slay Mini-Trix.

Childish laughter erupted from the tiny magician each time she dodged and let loose another hail of rockets that popped like firecrackers, the air filled with the stink of smoke and star-shaped pops. She even blew a raspberry while wiggling her fingers beside her head. "Mini-Trix has many tricks!"

“Be careful,” warned Beatrix, knocking aside stray sickles with her rapier, clinking as they were deflected. “This isn't a game! You could get seriously hurt or-”

“Die!” Shadow Scythe yelled, having popped through the tulpa’s own silhouette to cut the cartoon mare in half. So quick, it appeared to be a crescent moon in its arc. Mini-Trix's eyes dilated and her maw fell slack, the sound of a deflating balloon resounding as she twisted into herself.

“Mini-Trix!!”Beatrix shouted, mouth agape, gazing at what remained of her tulpa. “Y-you bitch! You killed her!”

“Tsk! She wasn’t even alive,” Shadow Scythe snarled, noting the lack of blood on her cold steel. Her icy-blue eyes gazed back into the witch’s violet pupils, a vicious smile to her snout. “But if you really miss her that badly, then why don’t you join her!?”

The reaper vanished into her shadow, surfacing from one cast by a stray rocket that continued to whirl about, the witch unable to restrain a shocked cry.

Shadow Scythe slammed the butt of her weapon into Beatrix’s stomach, causing her to hurtle downwards in a spiral. She flew after her, a muffled thump sounding as the witch crashed into the snow and tossed up a white cloud on impact.

Immediately, the pale unicorn landed and pressed her sandal to Beatrix's neck, scythe raised in preparation to behead her as the sun glinted behind her off the curved metal.

Shadow Scythe grinned triumphantly. “Don’t worry, Beatrix. When you die, your soul and the Demiurge will live on inside me. Who better to wield such unimaginable power than the cunning Goddess of Death? I’ll be far more responsible.”

The violet mare struggled to remove her aggressor’s foot, her windpipe at risk to be crushed under the pressure.

“Oh, and don’t worry about your daughter. I plan to take good care of her when you're gone~!”

Beatrix's eyes widened with tears, the implications resonating with her protective maternal instincts as her aura flared up. “You keep your filthy hands off my Abadonna!!” She cried, firing her most potent spell from her horn right into the reaper’s chest, sending her flying as the witch rose up to intercept.

Shadow’s lithe body slid over a nearby frozen lake, and without missing a beat, she leaped back to clash with Beatrix. Dozens of tentacles slashing against the witch’s cosmic blade, which met with thrusts and jabs.

Both were desperate to land a decisive blow, yet proved evenly matched.

Snow began to fall heavily as a blizzard flurried around them. They were momentarily blinded, the winds harshly forcing both to back away. But when Beatrix tried to rise to the air, she slipped on a heeled boot and toppled onto her rump. She winced and yelped as the cold bit into her posterior, slid over the ice with a blush; her hands and horns lit up to conjure another spell before a foot stomped her chest.

“Nowhere to hide now, you buffoon,” Shadow Scythe puffed, her breath visible in the freezing air. She held her weapon over her head, glaring at her struggling adversary.

This was it. She had Beatrix right where she wanted. One final strike, and it would all be over. Shadow Scythe had finally won!

So then why was she hesitating?

Beatrix noticed the reaper’s limbs trembling, taking in deep breaths of air. Either she was severely cold, or her foe was having inner turmoil about dispatching the witch for good.

‘Come on…do it already!’ the pale unicorn told herself. ‘Kill her! She’s defenceless! Now is your chance!’

Neither of them could abandon their paths. If the reaper didn’t kill Beatrix now, who knows how many universes she would ruin. One life for countless in return. It was all numbers to her, not unlike the souls she had reaped and directed to their rightful places.

But then, didn’t that mean they were the same? As much as she despised the notion, they were both responsible for ending countless lives. And despite the animosity she showed her, the witch had tried to help her back in the manor. She could have easily ended their feud right then and there, but resorted to healing and looking after her.

And despite the manipulative method, Shadow Scythe couldn’t deny, no matter how hard she tried, that she deeply cared for Beatrix. And by slaying her now, she’d lose one of the few people in her immortal life who understood her. She curled her snout.

“Hngh!?”

She found herself unable to move. Her arms remained in place as bits of frost slowly formed over her elbows and hands.

Then to her shock, Shadow Scythe found chunks of ice starting to form over her ankles, attaching her to the frozen surface they stood. “W-what the!?”

Beatrix used the opportunity to roll out from under Shadow Scythe’s heel, standing up to resume her combative pose amidst choked coughs. But to her surprise, the reaper remained immobilized, frozen blocks binding her to the icy lake. The reaper yelled in a fury, unable to break free. Not even her Onoma could chip away the creeping ice.

“What’s going on?” Beatrix wondered, chills crawling up her spine as she instantly rubbed her arms for warmth.

“Yeesh! When did it get so cold?” A familiar high-pitched, shrill chirp sounded. The witch turned to gasp, finding her tulpa shivering beside her, all in one piece.

“Mini-Trix! Y-you’re…. But how-?”

“C-can’t kill a concept, silly!” She boasted through chattering teeth. “A-at least, not p-permanently! S-S-Shady should know better.”

“B-but if you’re not causing this, then who..?”

Their ears perked as the clopping of hooves caught their attention, growing louder and closer. A figure emerged from the blinding blizzard, auroral light glowing around her silhouette. It looked to be a cold blue deer creature, a furry winter coat adorning her figure. Snowy white hair whipped atop her head, a large bang hooding her glowing green eyes with diamond-shaped pupils. Crowning her head were icicle-shaped antlers.

She wore no expression, only cooly eying the pair of witches before strutting past them, the reaper fixating her glare on the wintery cervid. “You c-c-c-come any c-closer, and I’ll-!” Shadow Scythe threatened but gasped sharply as her entire lower body was completely encased in ice.

The blue deer placed her hand over her mouth before blowing a gentle breeze from her lips. Icy breath washed over Shadow Scythe, causing her to writhe and freeze faster, unable to slip into any shadows.

She screamed at her interloper, thrashing about until her entire form was entombed within her icy cocoon.

Beatrix slowly approached as the deer stepped aside, gazing over her frozen adversary in astonishment. “She’s not…dead, is she?” She asked, looking towards the cryomancer, who remained silent. “No, I doubt this would do it. She’s regenerated from far worse.… Still, I have to finish this.”

With one arm, the witch held her cosmic blade, fighting off the bitter cold that nipped at her. It drained her to keep herself enclosed in Erebus, but she hesitated to withdraw it, fearing what this stranger would do.

Before she could contemplate the reaper’s fate, the ice darkened as a figure suddenly appeared through the ice’s reflective surface. “Gaagh!” Mini-Trix shrieked as the hooded crystal mare strolled out from the ice. Even the cyan-coated deer looked unnerved, taking a defensive stance. Beatrix shivered, steadily backing away with her sword raised as the robed figure approached her. All that was visible was a twisted smile and a pair of amber eyes piercing right through her.

“S-stay back!” The witch declared, though barely having the strength to fight as the hooded mare reached forward to place a single finger on Beatrix’s snout.

“Boop~!”

Instantly, a dark haze clouded around the violet unicorn, who let out a panicked scream. But the more she fought, the more fatigue she became before falling onto her knees. The mist dissolved around Beatrix, her eyes half-lidded, lashes lined in frost. Her Onoma disappeared, leaving her in her usual garb before she tumbled to her side.

“S-so cold…so sleepy…” She muttered before blacking out.

“Beatrix! Beatrix, get up!!” Mini-Trix urged, pushing the mare’s unconscious form in a futile attempt to wake her. The tulpa's attention returned to the mysterious robed mare, growling, “What did you do to her?!” She was about to fly at her until the deer held her arm out to stop her. She shook her head at Mini-Trix, glaring at the intruder.

The raven-cloaked mare responded with a slight chuckle as she phased through the ice, disappearing as the substance became entirely dark before shattering. Not a trace of her nor Shadow Scythe was present.

With a huff, the cyan deer looked to the witch before the aurora shimmering around her vanished. The blizzard died down as well while she helped Beatrix wrap a limb around her shoulder and proceeded to carry her through the blanketing snow, Mini-Trix trailing behind with a look of dread.

“Whoever that was,” she shuddered. “They can’t be good…”

Shadow Scythe snapped awake, panting heavily as she whipped her head around. She was back in the mirror dimension, and more importantly, no longer trapped in ice. Her teeth chattered as she brushed snow off tattered robes, thankful for the bandages wrapped around a slender form underneath.

“Damnit..! DAMNIT IT ALL!!” She screamed, slamming her wrapped fist into a nearby mirror, unconcerned with the bloodied shards now embedded in her balled-up hand. “I almost had Belladonna!”

“Sure, you did,” Doppia snarked, arms folded as she appeared from behind the shattered glass. “But it seemed that at the critical moment, you…froze up~!”

“Shut your whore mouth!!”

The crystal mage pouted. “Così rozzo! Is that any way to thank me?”

“Oh, get bent, you bitch! You didn’t save me out of kindness. You would have left me to freeze to death if it suited you.”

“You mean like how you plan to kill me once the moment suits you?” A familiar voice chimed in. Shadow Scythe felt a lump in her throat upon seeing Zeloph leaning against another mirror, a look of disappointment clear on his face. "Honestly, it's one step forward, three steps back with you, Shadow Scythe."

“Zeloph! You...heard all that?”

“Loud and clear,” he scoffed, bumping off to walk towards her. “Oh, and thanks for the heads up about abandoning me to Beatrix’s allies! Really appreciated that.”

“I saw an opportunity and took it,” Shadow Scythe huffed, pain settling into her damaged hand as she winched. “I won't feel guilty over that. Besides, I figured you could handle the small fry…” Shadow Scythe looked from her hand to the demihuman before she turned away with embarrassment.

Getting the subtle hint, Zeloph rolled his eyes and stepped up to mend her fractured hand, his fingers shimmering with light as he restored the reaper. “Well, we’re lucky one of them accidentally let Grogar loose! Otherwise, escape would have proven to be a more daunting task...”

Shadow Scythe gasped, quivering from the warmth flowing over her hand as each shard fell to the floor once her cuts sealed up. “Grogar’s free!?”

“He was,” Madame Doppia answered, one mirror pulling up to show the reaper the battle that happened on the mountain, ending with the ram’s defeat by the mystic guardians. “But the spirits stepped in to reseal him. Did you manage to extract some of his essence, Zeloph?”

The winged immortal nodded, pulling out the veil of black magic before tossing it to Doppia, who caught it and hid it away under her robes. She smiled, eying her comrade as she approached him with swaying hips. “Eccellente~! And might I say, Zeloph. Your new style is most magnifico~!”

She shoved Shadow Scythe away to fawn over Zeloph, much to the disgruntlement of the reaper. “Hey!”

The fallen angel tensed as the Vice Lord traced her fingers over his bare chest, his wings and feathered ears ruffling as a slight sigh escaped his lips. “So bello e forte! Why don’t we leave the wretch behind and properly reward you, hmm~?”

“A-as flattered as I am, I must decline,” he insisted, politely pulling her hands off him. “We can’t afford to waste any more time with-aagh?!”

But the crystal mare pressed herself forward, her petite figure rubbing into his muscles as she pulled their faces closer, a lascivious glint in her orange eyes. “Relax! We have plenty of time, amante. I can feel your body begging to be touched an-”

“Get off of him!” Shadow Scythe growled, pushing the dark-cloaked mare away, standing in front of her comrade protectively. “He said no!”

The Vice Lord returned the sneer. “Mind your own business, cagna! Or are you planning to claim him for yourself, hmm? Finally pop that cherry, ice queen~?”

“Of course not!” She assured with heated cheeks. “I don’t give a damn who he sleeps with! But clearly, he isn’t interested in you.”

Ignoring Shadow Scythe, Doppia addressed Zeloph. “How do you stand by and allow this? Moments ago, she admitted she would betray you the second she could! Why do you remain by her side!?"

“Well, It's not like she hasn’t already tried,” the demi-human shrugged. “If anything, I’d probably do the same if I were in her position. I'm used to treachery at this point, but at least Shadow Scythe's honest about it.”

His statement caused the pale unicorn to glance away if only to hide the guilt written on her face. She wouldn’t admit it, but her ‘claim’ was a spur of the moment. She harbored no ill intention towards Zeloph, given he was trying to amend for his mistakes with the reaper. If anything, she was scared to admit the opposite might be true...

“You're too careless!” Doppia continued to argue, hand on her shapely hip. “Did you not see the way she hesitated when she had Beatrix by her throat? That wasn’t the weather, Zeloph. She clearly couldn’t do it! Shadow Scythe has come to care too much about her.” Those piercing amber eyes found icy blues. “I’ve heard you momentarily imprinted on her after you lost your memory. If so, then I think that proves you’re a liability to our mission.”

Shadow Scythe clenched her teeth together as she marched up to the hooded mare. “Let’s get one thing straight, cagna. I’m far more useful than some emo-garbed slut, whose only use outside of sucking the Burning King’s dick is smoke and mirrors! The only reason Belladonna’s head isn’t mounted on my wall is because of that doe! So I suggest you shut your filthy whore mouth before I shut it for you, figa!”

Doppia’s magic manifested from her hands, looking absolutely livid. “How dare you insult me in my tongue, you-!”

“That’s quite enough!” Zeloph interrupted, spreading his swan-like plumage between the pair to stop the brewing catfight. “We’re never going to get to the library with you bickering like children! I’m not asking you to like each other, but for heaven's sake, could you try being civil?”

Neither mare said a word outside of ‘hmph!’ before relaxing their postures. The Fallen One groaned. “As much as I’d prefer Beatrix was no longer breathing, it’s probably best she remains alive. Killing her could cause Abby to no longer exist, and I will not risk my daughter’s safety!”

Shadow’s eyes widened upon realization. She didn’t consider the possibility that by enacting her vengeance on Beatrix, Abadonna would be snuffed out as well. She held her arms closer into her chest, hiding her shame under her pale hood. She could have been responsible for keeping Zeloph from his daughter forever...

“Pft. Whatever,” Doppia scoffed with a half-hearted shrug. “So long as we fulfill the Omega Prophecy and liberate the Burning King, I don’t care what happens. Let us make haste for the Crystal Empire then!”

“Wait...” Shadow Scythe halted, pulling the crystal mare’s attention back to her. The reaper pulled out a small bag that contained bright neon pink strains of hair, tossing it for Doppia to catch. “You asked for hair, right? Managed to snag a few off of the princess…”

Her eyes widened with glee, her grin splitting her snout from ear to ear. “Grazie, Amica! Looks like you are useful for something~.” She bowed her head, tucking her prize away before directing a path towards their next destination.

Shadow Scythe snorted at the backhanded comment, sticking close to Zeloph as the trio walked further into the mirror realm.

The reaper thought back to her latest struggle with Beatrix. No matter how close she came to killing that witch, she always brought in some new ally to back her up. Somehow, she had even conjured an illusionary mockery of herself to aid her!

And where her adversary found friendship and even love, Shadow Scythe stuck to her intuition and self-importance, accepting the label of a villain by her peers and enemies.

And thus far, all her vainglorious pride had really brought her was loneliness and misery, if she were brutally honest with herself.

“Thank you.”

Shadow Scythe broke her reverie. “Huh?”

The pale unicorn raised her head to Zeloph, giving her a gentle smile. “For standing by me earlier. That was…really uncomfortable.”

“Oh…. It was nothing,” She huffed, unable to look directly at the angelic being. “You healed my hand, so I...owed you.”

Zeloph chuckled. “Well, next time, try to control your anger instead of taking it out on your poor hands. It’s becoming a terrible habit.”

Once more, Shadow Scythe’s flushed, saying nothing. But in her restless mind, his suggestion became more perverse, thinking of a ‘certain’ way Zeloph could help take away her frustrations, stirred by her estrus. Doppia’s taunting didn’t help her either, as her body remained starved of the baser pleasures she constantly denied it.

Still, she’d continued to resist these disgusting needs, no matter how badly she coveted the Fallen One’s tender caress. She was content with Zeloph’s companionship, maybe even his friendship. For once, her immortal life felt less lonely. And thinking back to her mortal enemy, Beatrix’s words continued to claw at her emotions.

Shadow Scythe did have a chance to change. And she foolishly threw that away in pursuit of more power, like before. Now, she was trapped to aid in the destruction of all life.

Was it truly too late for the reaper to turn back now? Could she somehow pull herself free from the hole she threw herself in?

Chapter X: Sins of the Father

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The platinum armored king nodded his head in understanding.

“Where is Chrysalis, if I may ask?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Learn your place, boy.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Now!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“My what?!”

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

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

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

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

“Where is she?” Ambros asked.

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

“Please…take me to her.”

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

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

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

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

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

“N-no, I’m not a visitor. I’m-”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Midnight looked away with flustered cheeks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Tell me!!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Ceann Oga, please!!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“What!?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The mare nodded with a pursed snout.

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

“You don’t have any children?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Could she even call herself a proper reaper anymore?

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

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

“H-huh!? Why would I--”

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

“I-Igh! Hnngh…”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Zeloph...?”

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

“Cavern of Memories…”

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

It was himself from so many years ago.

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

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

This would be their last argument before his imprisonment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Abadonna..?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter XI: Banquet of Battles (Part I)

The sun began to drift over the horizon, the shimmering landscape starting to take an orange hue. Around this time, citizens of the Crystal Empire would start closing up shops and set up dinner for their families. Yet only a few were privileged to attend the banquet happening in the palace.

Fortunately for the weary travelers, such invitations were unnecessary. Instead, the men and women were separated into their own rooms to change into the offered formal wear. For Beatrix and Cerise, in particular, they shared a room to admire each other. Adorning the witch’s fair skin was a dress woven in golden fabrics and silk. Beatrix spun around to watch the skirt briefly coil around her legs before looking over her mane through the whole body mirror.

“Mmm, very nice~!” The unicorn noted, adjusting the neckline to show off more of her jiggling breasts. The gown exposed so much cleavage, her girls threatened to spill out. Mother always taught her to ‘flaunt what she had' since it drew in an audience, and Beatrix was no stranger to having eyes on her. “I wonder if I could steal this from them.”

“It’s almost like having a second skin!” Cerise chirped, twirling around to admire her rosy pink dress. The witch was happy to see her friend regain some of her cheer; the two continued to fix up their gowns to expose just the right amount of leg. They even pressed against each other to see how their skirts shaped their ample posteriors.

“These remind me of the dresses Inky would make! Every time, she’d show up at an event and strut down like a model on a catwalk. Daddy couldn’t keep his paws off her,” Cerise added with a giggle.

“Yeah, she always had that effect,” Beatrix snickered as the maid maneuvered around the room to help touch up their garments and hairstyles. The two stared at each other in silence before the charcoal mare sighed.

“Look, Bea. I’m still upset,” she admitted, keeping her head still as a maid pinned a star-shaped ornament into her neon pink mane. “You couldn’t have known what would happen, but I just…can’t help how I feel.”

“No, I agree. You have all the right to be mad at me,” the witch acknowledged, looking away as a servant ran a brush through her platinum locks. “I don’t agree with a lot of what Shadow Scythe says, but she did have a point. I’ve been too careless and irresponsible of the people around me. I’ve potentially toyed with their lives as if I were playing god.”

Brushing one maid aside, Cerise secured Beatrix’s glove-wearing hands. “Don’t let her or Zeloph get into your head, Bea. You’ve still helped plenty of people, too! If not for you, Midnight and I wouldn’t have met or gotten married.” Because her dress was backless, Cerise’s wings were free to unfurl from her back. Her injured wing had healed up nicely, although she still felt weak to use appropriately.

Cerise smiled sadly at the busty unicorn and reminded, “We’ve overcome worse. This is just an extra big hurdle. But we’ll get over it.”

“Yeah…thanks,” Beatrix nodded, bowing her head before wrapping her arms around Cerise, hugging her tightly. Cerise slowly returned it, unable to hold back the tears in her eyes. Distraught by her nightmares and this Equestria’s past, she was unable to shake off her melancholy, tracing over her ringed finger for comfort.

As if sensing her friend’s sorrow, Beatrix pulled away and offered a kind smile, lifting her face up. “Chin up, Cerise! We don’t wanna make the others worry. Tonight’s going to be fun, and we’re gonna relax for a change.”

“Are you sure? I know how adamant you are about getting Abby back.”

“I’m sure. I’m only stressing myself out by trying to race the clock. Besides, we haven’t had a good time to ourselves since arriving in Equestria. So don’t worry about me, okay? I’ll be fine.”

While doubting everything was fine, Cerise didn’t press further on the issue and nodded. With things mostly patched up and their touch-up finished, the pair of beautiful mares followed the servants and made their way towards the vast ballroom where the banquet was taking place. Many guests that did attend sparkled under the illuminating lights above, a crystalline chandelier shimmering in splendor. An orchestra playing sophisticated music filled the well-lit area decorated with sculptures.

Beatrix and Cerise were in awe of the atmosphere that they almost didn’t see Dion and Midnight near the fountain. As they approached their male companions, they noticed the ram grapple the pegasus in a headlock.

“DION, STOP! HELP! GET HIM OFF ME!!” The blue stallion cried, flailing about.

“Ohh, no. Ye ain’t gittin’ out that easy, knucklehead!” The warrior chuckled, turned around while continuing to noogie Midnight’s spiky mane.

“And he says I’m childish,” Cerise giggled while shaking her head at the boyish antics. Beatrix cleared her throat loudly to call their attention, causing Dion and Midnight to straighten up and approach the ladies.

“W-whoa, babe. You look incredible!” Midnight clamored, twirling his wife around before they locked in a tight embrace.

The charcoal mare beamed up, taking a couple of kisses from his snout. “Gotta look my best for my hubby to flaunt around~!”

The burly ram smiled before taking the witch’s gloved hand and placing a small kiss on her knuckle. “Gotta say, lass. Ye should wear dresses mair often. It fits ye like a glove~!”

“Pft! You lecher,” she flirted back, fluttering her lashes at him. “I think you’re only saying that because you really want me out of this dress~.”

“Perhaps,” Dion admitted with zero shame, his eyes feasting on the vast amount of tit-flesh displayed from her cleavage. “Hard ae remain civil when Ah just wanna rip it off ye an' take ye over th' table~.”

“Behave!” Beatrix insisted with a wink, playfully smacking him away. “Unfortunately for you, I’m seeing someone tonight.”

A few delighted gasps resounded from the crowd as Oona slowly walked towards her friends, who were stunned by her appearance. The normal docile and well-dressed sheep was adorning a green ballroom gown with dark patterns highlighting the top, corset, and sleeves. Thin transparent silk sparkled around the dress, the fabrics clinging over her pudgy figure. She even styled her wooly hair and wore emerald eyeshadow. Around her neck was a golden necklace with a jewel embedded that rested above her motherly mounds.

Beatrix went up to meet her lover, mouth slightly agape over how beautiful her lover looked. “I-I…. Oona, you’re gorgeous! I don’t think I've ever seen you in makeup.”

Lady Ewe’s cheek flourished at her compliment, her shoulders hunched. “Normally, Ah wouldn’t. A’m mair fond ov natural beauty. Bit Ah figured, just fur tonight, A’d try somethin' special~.”

“You spoil me,” the violet unicorn blushed, pulling the sheep sage closer as their painted lips touched. “Seriously! I’m so lucky to have you in my life, Oona.”

“Aye. Ah couldn’t dare think ov a world whair Ah daen’t have Beatrix Belladonna by me side,” Oona agreed, hugging the unicorn close to her chest.

The musicians played their horns loudly, announcing the arrival of King Ambros and Queen Radiant Hope, causing all in attendance to bow their heads. Flanked by Tirek and Cozy Glow, the royal party took their place at the head of the table.

Beatrix and her friends sat close by before everyone was seated. Servants and waiters arrived, laying out various trays of succulent cuisine, delicious aroma filling the atmosphere. Everything down to the plates, silverware, and the food’s arrangement was a work of art.

Cerise couldn't help but wrinkle her nose and lick her chops in anticipation. This made the crystal ruler chuckle. “No need to hold yourself to a high standard. You are free to eat as much as you like.”

“O-oh! Thank you,” Cerise sheepishly replied before she dug her fork into the flavorful meat and vegetables, though her large eyes were still fixated with the desserts.

Ambos, likewise, took his knife to saw off a load of buttered bread. “So you wish to take a piece of the Crystal Heart. What for?”

“To find my daughter, your majesty,” Beatrix replied once her mouth was empty. “There is a ritual we need to perform that'll take us to a library within the realm of time itself. My daughter, Abadonna, was brought into existence by accident, so her form lies there to remain stable.”

“Th' portal requires a piece of th' heart along with alicorn blood,” Dion added in. “Hence why we’re also lookin' fur Flurry Heart. Dae ye know whair she is?”

“We do,” Radiant Hope confirmed with pursed lips. “But before we tell you, you must understand something.”

All eyes were on the crystal queen as she began to tug down the front of her gown. At first, the group thought she was about to flash them before gasping upon seeing the heart-shaped hollowed hole in her chest.

“In childish defiance, Shining Armor destroyed the Crystal Heart after his defeat,” Ambros exclaimed, frowning. “Without its power, our kingdom would have fallen if not for Radiant’s sacrifice. Using her Onoma, Persephone, she was able to restore the heart using portions of her body and spirit.”

“So if someone were to damage the Crystal Heart...?”

The crystal unicorn nodded. “I would suffer an immeasurable amount of pain. So please, be careful when you harvest a piece.”

Beatrix furrowed her brows as she asked, “Are you sure? I mean, we could try to find another method if-”

“We are,” Ambros assured. “You’ve come a long way to get here. And if in your place, I would have done everything to rescue my child, despite the risks. It’ll take time, but we'll recover from parting with a fragment.”

“Understood. We appreciate th' generosity,” Lady Ewe said, bowing her head in respect.

“Anything to help an old friend,” the king nodded with a smile. “Now, as for the matter of Flurry Heart, she is not here.”

“She’s not!?” Beatrix spoke up in alarm.

“Try not to have an outburst,” the crystal queen recommended. “It was a tough decision. We wanted to raise her as our own, but we wanted to prevent more trauma due to…you-know-who still occupying our dungeon. So we sent her to Canterlot, hoping her aunt could look after her.”

“So she’s with Twilight!” Midnight said with a muffled mouth, quickly swallowing his chewed contents. “I mean, that’s a good thing, right??”

“Not necessarily,” the unicorn king sighed. “Ms. Sparkle was among the unfortunate to have her horn severed. Thus, she could not teach Flurry about magic. A tragedy to have lost such a gifted and extraordinary caster.”

“Fortunately though, someone did end up mentoring Flurry Heart,” Radiant added, frowning.

Beatrix leaned in, anxious to learn what had become of her half-sister.

“The current ruler of Canterlot,” King Ambros answered. “The Sovereign Witch.”

“The what!?” The party exclaimed simultaneously.

“You don’t know?” The violet unicorn whispered to Oona, who shook her head with an equally perplexed expression. “A’ve ne'er heard ov such a figure.”

“No one has,” Ambros continued. “When it became apparent Twilight was unfit to rule, chaos arose from the ponies living in Canterlot. Then one day, a strange mare appeared, boasting magic and powers beyond anything conjured before. And when she proved unmatched, she secured the throne and reestablished order.”

“Keep in mind, this was from a report Rainbow Dash sent a year ago, so things may have changed since then,” the crystal queen added. “But I’m positive Flurry Heart still lives with Twilight in Canterlot.”

“Under the Sovereign Witch…”

Beatrix was profoundly intrigued. Anyone who boasts a magnificent title of that caliber must be powerful. She could only hope the Canterlonian ruler would be friendly. And if Flurry Heart and Twilight were in Canterlot, perhaps her mother was there, too?

Once the serious talk was over, everyone settled down to finish their meals. Cerise found her husband looking around with shifty eyes with an unfitting scowl.

“Honey, are you alright?”

“Huh? Oh, yeah, I-I mean.… I’m just on high alert, knowing changelings are all over the place is all,” Midnight admitted, scratching his spiky mane, long-buried memories threatening to stir.

From the little he’d been told, his world had fallen to Queen Chrysalis, as many of his allies were hunted to extermination. By the time he and Moonlight were born, the war was over. Yet, they were still trained for a conflict that never happened. His parents and twin were lost during the invasion, with only sheer luck guaranteeing his survival.

“Do not fret,” Queen Radiant assured after a sip of her wine. “It took us a while to fully trust Chrysalis. But she has proven herself a loyal follower. And a good friend.”

“I…guess I’ll take your word on it,” the soldier said begrudgingly.

As everyone finished the dining experience, the orchestra picked up the tempo and began to play classical ballroom music. Excited, Cerise rose up with a quiver of her breasts and tapped on Midnight’s shoulder.

“C’mon! Dance with me!” The charcoal mare encouraged, trying to pull him from his seat.

“B-but I can’t dance…”

“I’ll show you~!”

That got him to smile as the two took to the reflective floor and slowly waltz alongside the other couples. Oona and Beatrix soon joined in, the sheep shaman taking the witch’s hand as they secured each other’s wrists and hips, swaying to the melodies of the violins.

Dion was content to watch from his table until Cozy Glow tapped his shoulder, smiling impishly while offering her hand. With a snort, he took the pegasus’ offer and swung her around. She’d have to keep fluttering to remain head level with the big-horned ram.

Even Ambros and Radiant Hope waltzed in to celebrate the evening, the royal couple laughing to themselves.

“How are ye feelin', ceann oga?” Oona asked as her lover spun within their linked hands until twirling back into her embrace.

“I’m good,” Beatrix confirmed with a smile. “I’m thrilled everyone else is happy.”

“Aye, that is good.”

As if sensing that her spirits had returned, Beatrix spotted Mini-Trix sneak about the hall, no doubt up to more mischief.

“Cerise, at least, appears tae be in a better mood,” the dream faun noted, casting a glance towards the couple, who clung tightly to Midnight. Lost in the moment, Beatrix and Lady Ewe merged with the other dancers, focusing only on each other.

As the song finished and musicians took pause to change sheets, Cerise and Midnight decided to pull the king and queen aside to discuss more the history of the Lost World’s Equestria.

“Gosh! What a horrible story,” Cerise gasped after Ambros finished retelling her of the war with the caribou and how close the equestrians were to the brink of collapse. Settled on her husband’s lap, she felt him stiffen underneath, her thin gown barely a layer between her plush posterior and his groin. She squeaked, blushing at the push she felt from below, which Cerise answered with a wiggle to give him a subdued lap dance as she nipped his ear. “S-sorry! He can be relentless at times~!”

A titter escaped Radiant. “Oh, don't mind us. Enjoy yourselves!”

“Just…not too much,” Ambros stated, slightly uncomfortable by Midnight’s ravenous display of affection. “So tell me, Cerise. Who was your mother, if I may ask?”

“Pacific Glow. I'm actually a partial reincarnation of her! It's hard to explain. But I was raised by Inky Rose, one of my father’s…many lovers,” she admitted with a brighter flush. “Our world was nearly wiped out, and some survivors were desperate to repopulate.”

“Hmm…. I see,” King Ambros noted with a pursed snout.

“Our problem is a little different,” explained Radiant. “The caribou fathered many unwanted foals on our females, determined to wipe out all our males and spread their genetic makeup to every female.”

“Yikes,” Midnight shuddered. “But surely, some caribou could be reformed, right?”

“Some were good, yes. But all caribou were conditioned to behave like savages by their ancestors. And like Shining Armor and Cadance, they refused to accept any other way of life.”

“Reminds me of the changelings back in my world,” muttered Midnight, one hand resting on his wife's waist and another slid to her warm rump to give him comfort. He trembled a little, thankful for the presence of his lover to coddle him when he was down.

Cerise sighed with heavy breath, “I’m glad this Equestria was able to bounce back. But, who knows how many terrible worlds are out there...”

Ambros raised a brow as her bat-shaped wings unfurled due to Midnight’s groping. “That’s curious. Were you…always a thestral?”

“W-well, no, I’m an earth pony. But my father subconsciously imbued me with his…erm, 'dark essence' while I was being conceived.” She blushed as faint memories of Pacific Glow's surfaced in her, a threesome between Pacific, her father, and Inky Rose as the seed he loosed was filled with the taint of the dark arts. “I was the first child he fathered, and since he worried I'd be lost during the Eldritch invasion, he altered me so I could eventually protect myself.”

“Intriguing,” Radiant Hope pondered, holding her chin in thought.

Cerise continued, “It’s more of a mutation than anything. I can switch between forms at will, although I've gotten more used to this one! And I’ve got other powers, too! If Inky Rose's speculation is right, I can potentially mutate further.”

“Fascinating,” Ambros nodded, a smile on his lips as he took another sip. “Well, either way, we’re both happy to have met you.”

“Yeah, me too!” She beamed, tilting her head to let Midnight kiss her cheek softly.

“You know, you’re welcome to live here if you want,” the crystal queen offered. “You could think of this as a second home. We would be proud to have you as our daughter and son-in-law!”

“That’s a generous offer, thank you,” Midnight said, mustering a smile despite how forlorn he appeared. “I…never really had a family before any of this. Only the friends I made on the way.”

“We'll have Beatrix track down Shining Armor and get an explanation,” promised Cerise, who bristled with anger at the idea of any parent abandoning their child!?

“It’s…more complicated than that,” Midnight admitted, bowing his head. Would he ever know the truth? Did he even want to know? Sensing his unease, Cerise wrapped her legs around him and kissed him. Gently he kneaded the supple slopes of her flanks while looking from over her shoulder.

Dion and Tirek were engaged in an arm-wrestling match, both warriors struggling to push their opponent’s hand down. Cozy Glow was chasing after Mini-Trix, who had stolen her tiara, rambling at the tulpa to give it back. And Oona and Beatrix continued to slow dance in each other’s arms.

“Want to excuse ourselves and blow off some steam?” Cerise suggested, whispering hotly into his ear.

“I-I don't want to be rude,” he murmured back despite the twitch in his pants as he felt her warm mound rub against his shaft, separated by a sheer pair of silky frilly panties, already moist at the crotch.

“Oh, c’mon! I doubt they'll really mind. Pretty sure they want to do the same.” She looked over her shoulder, the rulers starting to get a little frisky as Ambros held his queen almost possessively. “And hey! Maybe I can convince some of these cute maids to join us, hmm~? Pretty sure one eyed me up!”

“Gosh, Cerise.… You're the best, you know that? I'm lucky to have you.” His palms traced under her dress and fondled her mostly bare charcoal ass. Her slim panties had ridden up her cheeks, and she nipped at his neck with her tiny fangs, hungry as he was.

But before they could announce their departure to elope, an explosion rocked the palace, causing dishes to spill and attendees to topple to the floor upon impact. Many servants and guests screamed when another loud blast was heard in the distance.

“What’s going on?” Beatrix exclaimed, clinging onto Oona to remain balanced as the interior trembled.

“Are we under attack?!” Dion shouted.

“Tirek! Cozy Glow! Get these people to safety!” Ambros commanded, his generals rushing to secure the guests and usher them towards safety.

Another violent tremor caused Cerise and Midnight to lose their balance and lean against the window. It was then that they noticed a strange creature outside.

“Hey, guys!” The youthful soldier called for his comrades. “Over here! Look!!”

The party looked through the glass. At first glance, it looked like a giant arachnid was attacking with its thin limbs. But looking closely revealed a familiar robed figure, launching shadowy tendrils with sickle ends to demolish the crystalline buildings.

“Shadow Scythe!” Beatrix exclaimed with clenched teeth.

“She was bound to show up again,” Cerise sneered, horny and frustrated.

Midnight said, “Yeah.… We can’t leave this to the Empire! Come on, we better-”

A harrowing scream pulled their attention towards the royal couple as Ambros caught Radiant, who tumbled towards the floor.

“Radiant?! My love, no...!” The dark unicorn pleaded, holding her hand tightly.

“T-the…crystal…h-heart,” Radiant weakly proclaimed as she clutched her hollow chest, struggling to keep awake. “S-someone is…b-breaking it...!”

Ambros stared helplessly as his queen fainted, lying limply in his arms. The crystal king laid his head against her chest, able to hear her fading heartbeat. He turned his worried gaze towards the party, rare tears threatening to spill from his eyes.

“Tell us where the Crystal Heart is,” Cerise insisted, crouching down by her father’s side. “I promise you, the queen is going to be okay. We’ll find and protect it!”

Nodding solemnly, Ambros leaned close to whisper the coordinates into his daughter’s ear, who nodded back.

Beatrix gazed over the chaos happening before her. Cozy Glow helped guide attendees towards the nearest corridor out of the capital. Tirek sent his guards to apprehend Shadow Scythe. Distraught cries echoed around her as boiling frustration started to bubble within her chest.

“This was supposed to be fun,” She muttered bitterly. “Why... Why does this always happen?! Am I that undeserving of peace? All I wanted was one day…one day without anything going wrong!”

A harsh glare caught the corner of her eyes, causing her to winch before looking back out the window. One of the spires was shining brilliantly, the witch instantly recognizing the source of its light.

“Zeloph...!” She seethed, her balled fist swirling with the dark energy of her Onoma.

It took Lady Ewe a few seconds to notice her lover wasn’t by her side until the sound of glass shattering caught her ear. Gasping, she rushed over to the freshly broken window to watch her lover ascend towards the shimmering tower.

“Oh no…. Beatrix! Wait!!”

But before she could follow, her brother secured her wrists and pulled her back, shaking his head. “We have tae stop Shadow Scythe from harmin' any more people! Leave Beatrix tae face th' Fallen One,” the white ram insisted. “Have faith in her, Oona. She won’t lose.”

The shaken sheep wanted to wrestle out of her brother's grasp and protect her lover. But she knew it was best Beatrix settled the score with her former flame. Sighing reluctantly, she nodded and followed Dion as they regrouped near the crystal rulers.

“We’re going to find the Crystal Heart and stop whoever took it!” Cerise declared, removing her jewelry save for her wedding ring.

“I really wish Beatrix didn’t rush off like that,” Midnight grumbled. “I fight better with my lance and armor.”

“Ye’ll have tae make dae with pure strength alone, lad,” Dion encouraged, patting his friend on the shoulder. “Just try not tae go berserk!”

“Aye,” Oona nodded. “Ah suspect Madame Doppia is behind this assault. She’s a master illusionist, sae be cautious! Not everythin' will appear as it seems...”

Midnight saluted. “Right!!”

With little time to further explain or prepare, the group split apart to help the Crystal Empire push back against the unexpected attack. With nothing but their magic, skills, and finery, everyone prayed they would all make it back in one piece.

Dozens of guards were scattered about, bloodied and unconscious. Tirek was the only one standing, nostrils flared while gazing up at his opponent. The self-proclaimed death goddess kept the high ground using her Onoma, her pale robes blending with the cascading snow. Her hood was drawn, yet her icy eyes peered through.

“You’ll pay for this!” The centaur snarled, firing a blast from his bovine horns that were easily deflected by her sickle. With a scoff, Shadow Scythe whirled her shadowy appendages to strike down the grand general. Though just as Tirek braced himself, Dion lept in front to block the attack with his own Onoma, manifesting Ares’ shield.

“Heh! Looks like A’m th' one savin’ yer ass this time 'round!” The ram boasted, flashing a smug grin to his friend.

“We’re about even then,” Tirek chuckled, picking himself up and dusting off the dirt. The pair of brawlers took a stance, ready to take down the reaper once and for all.

“Don’t force my hand, you dogs,” Shadow Scythe warned her adversaries. “Stay out of this, and no one has to die.”

“An' let ye freely roam the empire, harvestin’ all our souls? Ah think not, ya naffty twat!”

Oona arrived shortly to the battlefield, overlooking the damage as the snowflakes flurried. To her complete bewilderment, none of the wounded soldiers or citizens were mutilated. Completely uncharacteristic, given this was the murderous Shadow Scythe, who didn’t hesitate to slaughter thousands for their power.

“Sao why would ye go out ov yer way tao avoid any casualties?” She murmured to herself, ears picking up faint crying from a nearby building. “Dion! A’ll look after th' crystal ponies an' try tae get as many out ov hair!”

“Got it! We’ll handle th' wretch!” The white ram nodded, his muscles drawn taut as he and his battle buddy advanced on the enemy. Due to her aerial leverage, the reaper swiftly dodged every swing and magical blast thrown at her. In retaliation, she sent her scythed arms to clash with the warrior’s sword.

The sound of chains swinging caught the pale unicorn’s attention as she ducked in time before Cozy Glow could clock her with a miniature mace. The tiny pegasus heaved, using all her might to buzz around the reaper and attempt to land a hit.

“Go away!” Shadow Scythe growled, swinging her sickle to launch an arced wave of deathly energy, knocking Cozy out of the air. She screamed in panic before Dion jumped to catch her, hugging her safely in his big arms.

“Got ya!”

“Mmm, my hero~!”

“Now’s not the time, Cozy!” Tirek berated, activating Atlas to draw in what little energy remained from his troops without killing them. Once absorbed, he shared his power with both his allies, rejuvenating their strength and speed.

“Ooooh, now we’re talkin'!” Dion exclaimed with giddiness, eager to get his hands on the reaper, make another great bond, and swing his claymore down. Startled, Shadow Scythe sunk into a nearby pillar, disappearing into the shadows. Dion’s blade only sliced through cold winds, searching his proximity, looking for where the unicorn would strike.

“Dion! Look out below!” Cozy tried to warn.

Realizing too late, Shadow Scythe lashed out from underneath the ram’s hooves. A whirlwind of sickles slashed through Dion’s chest and arms before sending the mighty warrior hurling back into Tirek, the juggernaut tumbling to his knees on impact.

The three fighters stood back up, backs pinned against each other as more of Shadow Scythe’s Onoma slithered from every corner of the city block. With the evening creeping closer, there was plenty of darkness for the reaper to hide in. She had her foes exactly where she wanted them, keeping them paranoid and in a disarray of where and when she would strike.

Yet despite the overwhelming advantage, the reaper continued to hold back. Dion’s fresh cuts weren’t deeply inflicted, despite being capable of severing limbs.

So why couldn’t she do it? Didn’t she want to liberate their souls from the confinement of flesh? Raise them to a higher plane of existence, not ruled by their baser nature?

“Are Beatrix and her friends really rubbing off on me?” She mumbled to herself. Shaking her head, she refocused and swam through the shade to reappear from above.

No matter the reason, Shadow Scythe had a mission to complete. More importantly, she would not prove that demented whore Madame Doppia correct.

Yet she seemed to have taken too much time, as when she swung overhead, Dion intercepted her strike with his shield before battering his head into her chest. The blunt force caused her ribs to fracture, the reaper yelling in shock as her body landed into the ground amidst a blanket of mist, her Onoma dissolving from the structures.

“A direct hit!” Tirek cheered, pumping his fist.

“How’d ye know she'd attempt aerial assault?” Dion questioned the pegasus, who childishly beamed.

“All in calculations, really,” Cozy explained. “She already hit us from underground, so there was only a 38% chance she’d try that again. And we’d likely react fast enough to retaliate if she approached from in front or on either. So that only left her to strike from behind or, with a 4.5% higher possibility, above us.”

“... so, in other words, it was a lucky guess.” The centaur stated, deflating his comrade’s ego as she scrunched her snout at him.

“Hey! It paid off, didnit?” The ram laughed as they all turned towards the staggered reaper.

“Ggnngh! D-damn you!” Shadow Scythe spat, hot blood leaking from her mouth, clutching her sides. She barely had time to slip into the shadows to avoid the centaur’s stampede. Once more, Thanatos’ power wriggled out from every shadow and shade she could find.

Even though the pale unicorn was forced to play this game, it at least gave her time to regenerate her broken ribs.

“She’s gotten mair sluggish,” she heard Dion comment.

“What do you mean?” The pink pegasus asked, tilting her head.

“Ah saw her instantly kidnap Beatrix back at the mountain. Didn’t e'en have a chance tae react! But here, her movement is much more predictable. Somethin's off…”

“Still, we can’t drop our guard,” Tirek grunted, horns alit with his fiery aura. “Because of her, the Crystal Heart was fractured. If we don’t end this soon, the queen and our people will perish!”

“They’ve made me soft…” Shadow Scythe murmured to herself, a wave of empathy washing over her. She endangered many lives by carrying out this ugly task.

Still, she would continue to fight, even if she held off from using fatal blows. Deep within her heart, she knew she had wronged Beatrix and her friends. And nothing would fill the emptiness until she repaid her debt.

Cerise and Midnight descended down the many stairwells, making their way towards the catacombs. According to Ambros, the Crystal Heart was housed in a chamber hidden by diamond pillars, where he and Radiant Hope would play during their youth.

Unfortunately, the pair would have to cross by the dungeon to find one of the secret tunnels.

“N-noo stop! Please!! AHHHHHHHHH!!” A pained cry echoed from the dark corridor, halting Midnight in his tracks.

“Oh no! Someone’s in trouble!” The pegasus presumed, about to run down the hallway before his wife caught his hand.

“Middy, wait! We have to get the Crystal Heart! We can’t just drop everything to answer a cry for help.”

“Then you go after the culprit. I won’t just abandon someone in need!” The pegasus foolhardily insisted, yanking his arm from her grasp. With his plumage unfurled, he sailed away into the dark corridor.

“Midnight!!” Cerise yelled for him in frustration, only to see him fade away completely. Clutching her spear close, the dancer had no choice but to press onward with dismay evident on her pursed snout.

Surely, she wasn’t smothering him, was she? Cerise knew she could be needy, but she'd always wanted something she won by her own hands rather than handed it due to her royal lineage. She just hoped her husband came back to her side sooner than later.

Midnight was already destined to be at death’s door early. And all the charcoal mare could hope was that today won’t be that day.

Back with the soldier, he glided towards the source of the crying, finding all the prison gates open. A feeling of dread crept up Midnight's spine, looking down to see the bloodied remains of all the inmates.

“W-what the…. What happened here!?”

Whatever answer was interrupted by the sound of struggling, two voices groaning and grunting. His green eyes spotted two silhouettes thrashing about, cast by a torchlight. He cautiously approached before his eyes widened in horror.

Out of his cell was Shining Armor, on top of an unlucky maid, her uniform torn to shreds. She pleaded for him to stop, only earning another punch in her bruised face as he pumped his hips into her bare thighs. “Shut your whore mouth!” He ordered and spat saliva, panting heavily. “Now be quiet, and take this fucking dick like a good slu-”

“GET OFF OF HER!!” Midnight yelled, flying at the unicorn to knock him off the helpless servant. The two wrestled on the stone floor before the pegasus pinned Shining Armor, staring down at him with drawn snout and moist eyes.

At that moment, he didn’t see the stallion he called ‘father.’ Only the person who’d abandoned him. He might not have actually been his true father, but he wore his face—the face of an apathetic, bitter old stallion who only looked at the world with disgust.

The maid’s whimpers barely registered as he rained down a series of blows. Hot blood splashed over his muscles, his eyes burned with rage as his pupils highlighted in yellow. However, the prisoner caught one of his angry fists, able to withstand Midnight’s building strength before punching him off.

The maid rose to her feet shakily, clutching at her exposed body as the hulking stallion got back up, looking back at her with a pained huff. “Go, get out of here! I’ve got this.”

Sniffling, she nodded, mouthing a thank you before collecting what remained of her uniform and sprinting out of the dungeon. Midnight turned to his father, who cleaned the blood from his muzzle while spitting out a couple of teeth. The alabaster unicorn smiled, despite his rearranged face.

“Heh. You think that dumb bitch is impressed by you, coming to her side like some pathetic simp of a white knight?”

“What happened here?” Midnight questioned, ignoring the unicorn’s taunts. “Did you kill all these prisoners? Why?!”

“Because fuck you,” Shining Armor scoffed through bloodied teeth. “Mares are only good for popping out children and taking care of our needs. The moment you realize that, the world becomes less of a shithole. But you’re not able to because you’re too much of a pussy-lipped shitstain to put your dumb bimbo of a wife on a leash!”

“You have no right to talk to my wife or anyone like that!!” Midnight growled, his blood boiling hotly as his mass expanded, ripping at the expensive tuxedo jacket.

“Oh yeah? Then why don’t you do something about it?” The rugged stallion challenged, raising his fists up. And Midnight answered by spreading his wings and soaring right at his father, unbridled wrath fueling his mind.

With panting breath, Cerise descended down the mining tunnels. Just a couple more turns, and she should be across from the secret entrance King Ambros told her.

But as the dancer took a left, she gasped in alarm to find incapacitated bodies of many changeling soldiers scattered about.

“This isn’t good! Not even Chrysalis’ forces were able to stop the intruder?” Cerise presumed, carefully stepping around or over the unconscious creatures, their limbs twitching occasionally.

Finally, she found the wall of diamonds that obscured the chamber, slipping behind and passing through the cave’s mouth. And, with only a few more steps, Cerise reached the massive pellucid room, where the sacred jewel hovered over a stylized podium. However, it did not sparkle as brightly, given the large fissure carved through the center.

Cerise began to breathe heavily, her own hands enclosed over her own heart. She couldn’t begin to imagine how much agonizing pain Radiant Hope must be in.

How was she supposed to restore cracked crystal? The assailant was likely already gone!

Or so Cerise thought until a tittering voice spoke from right behind her.

“Looking for something~?”

Swiftly, Cerise turned around to find herself nose-to-nose with the hooded mare, frightened pink eyes meeting harsh embers that were accompanied by the most unsettling smile. As she immediately jumped away, the mare pulled out the stolen shard from her cloak sleeve. She tauntingly waved it between her thumb and index finger as if threatening to drop it.

“You must be Madame Doppia,” Cerise declared, sneering at the raven robbed demoness. “I’ve heard of you!”

“As I’ve heard about you, Principessa,” she retorted, tucking the severed piece away before bowing her upper body in a mocking gesture. “I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to finally meet you in person~!”

“Oh yeah? And why’s that?”

“Well, for starters,” Doppia began sauntering around her foe, much like a predator stalking its prey. “It makes my task all the easier, seeing as they sent the weak link to stop me.”

“I am not a weak link!!” Cerise yelled, unfolding her spear and charging at the hooded mare, who wasn’t deterred as she moved around a pillar. When she thrust forward, the dancer found no target behind the structure.

“Pretend all you like,” Doppia’s voice echoed around the room, keeping the charcoal mare on edge before reappearing from another pillar. “We both know the truth~.”

“You know nothing about me!!”

“I know enough,” the crystal mage coolly rebuffed. “You’re a spoiled little brat who was fed everything on a silver platter and throws a tantrum when faced with the harshness of life. Especially when it comes to people you care for.”

The daughter of darkness did her best to stand firm, yet her emotions continued to bubble within. And it didn’t help that her enemy could stir her up so quickly.

Shaking it off, she tried again to attack Doppia, who vanished to avoid Cerise’s spear. Distant laughter perked at her ears. “Grragh! Quit hiding and fight me, coward!”

“Awww, what’s wrong, signora? Struggling to grasp how powerless you are~?”

“SHUT UP!!”

“You’re out of your depth, Cerise. You couldn’t even save your own life if you wanted. Let alone, your husband’s~.”

A pair of hands slipped under the charcoal mare’s arms to grope at her breasts, squeezing in tenderness. A gasp escaped Cerise’s lips as Doppia pressed her lithe form against her back, the wicked mare using one hand to stroke and massage her navel while stripping magic slowly undid her ballroom dress thread-by-thread to expose dark fur.

Doppia hotly whispered, “See? You won’t even fight back when I touch you like this~!”

“G-get your hands off... M-me! I-I feel no pleasure from this--ahah!”

Another moan squeezed out as Doppia touched her aching neithers, her body still worked up from grinding against her husband during the banquet. The Vice Lord made a ‘tsking’ sound right by her ear.

Her hands wandered over her. “Che peccato, really. You should be stronger than this. Such a beautiful body deserves to dance freely, without any restraints!”

“W-what do you mean?” Cerise whimpered as the hot pink of her perky right nipple was tugged, body squirming to resist unwanted shocks of pleasure her foe delivered.

“Mio caro amica! You’ve only tapped into a fraction of the power your father blessed you with. With proper guidance, you could bend any man you want to your will, like a proper queen! Yet you waste your delicate flesh in servicing your lover like a lowly sow…” She twisted the nipple harshly.

“W-what?! No, that can’t be true! I love my husband! I-I would do anything to-”

And then it hit her. All Cerise ever did was tap off her husband throughout their journey when his need to copulate arose. And even then, she needed to share him with other mares. Whenever a fight broke out, she either was in the way or unconscious.

This entire time, Cerise had been nothing but a liability to her friends. As melancholy settled within Cerise, Doppia continued to play with the dancer’s dwindling mentality and flesh.

“That’s right! You would do anything to make him happy~. It’s why you let him fuck other women. Not because of his needs, but because you know deep down you don’t deserve him~! That you can't satisfy him~!”

Tears once more streamed down her face, trembling from the physical pleasure that made her face heat up and the emotional pain. “N-no, stop! I-I am worthy! I’m his-”

“Whore. Nothing, but his miserable little whore! You think that ring around your finger means anything?!” She snarked, twisting Cerise’s tits, digging her fingers into her drenched snatch. The dancer cried, body shuddering. “If Beatrix hadn’t forced him to become her half-brother, she would be his wife. Not you! Because no matter how hard you try, you will never be anything but a worthless cagna!”

“NOOOOOOOOO!!!” Cerise screamed, a surge of shadowy energy flowing around her body like smoke. Both her wings unfurled to bat Doppia off of her. Spinning around to gain some distance away, the thestral glared at her opponent with renewed vigor, wispy darkness flowing from her eyes much like her father’s.

“I don’t care if Midnight and I weren’t meant to be! I love him, and he loves me!” She declared, holding up her ringed hand. “This ring is a symbol of our love and passion. And I won’t let the likes of you tell me otherwise!”

“Denial will get you nowhere, my friend,” Doppia scoffed, narrowing her hellish gaze over the charcoal mare. “But since you’re so determined, then why don’t you prove it? You might have faced a death harbinger and aided in the defeat of a false messiah. But now, you’re up against a herald of the End of Days. Rest assured, amica. Defeating me will be no small feat~.”

“You want to test me, huh? You’re on!!” Cerise growled, twirling her weapon while taking a graceful stance. Rage and confidence fueled her motions as an opportunity was presented.

If she could bring down the Vice Lord on her own, Cerise would finally feel like she earned her friends' and family’s respect.

Licking her lips, Doppia grasped the collar of her hood and tossed her robes away. Cerise’s eyes widened at the ballerina garb adorning the demon’s glimmering body. Dark feathers asymmetrically collared her shoulders, her tattered black tutu barely covering over her supple thighs. Dark plumage unfurled from Doppia’s back, balancing her controlled movements as she pirouetted in place before striking a pose with her crossed arms held out.

“It’s been a while since I had a worthy dance partner,” the crystal pegasus cooed, curling her fingers in a motion to beckon Cerise to come at her. “Let’s hope you can keep up~!”

The bat-winged earth mare steeled her nerves and huffed her bare bosom, refusing to let the Vice Lord get under her skin. Because if there was one thing Cerise prided herself in, it was her ability to dance.

From the moment she could walk, she spent her childhood mastering her art until she reached the contortionist's level of limberness. There was no way she would be tripped up by this demented ballerina!

“Alright, Doppia. Let’s dance!”

Within the realm of flowing time, Abadonna approached the globe that displayed her timeline. Her shape remained consistent, despite how transparent and fizzled out she looked. Last she saw Enock, they were busy recording history into more tomes to decorate the vast amount of shelves. Hopefully, it wouldn’t be for a while until they noticed the child of Lightendark was awake.

She had been warned not to meddle in her parent’s affairs, lest she risk altering their reality. But Abby couldn’t stand idly by, knowing her birth mother and pretend father would cross blades. So, taking one last look to make sure the celestial wasn’t around, she tapped into the coordinates that brought up the image of Beatrix, using her power to levitate towards her shining spire, where Zeloph was likely waiting.

“Please.… Don’t let hatred rule you too,” Abadonna prayed, unable to do much but watch the scene play out.

Once Beatrix landed at the opening, the click of her heels echoed within the balcony. Her Onoma flowed wildly off her dress, starry darkness waving over her curvature. Her eyes scanned every inch of the tower, recognizing this as the place where King Sombra initially hid the Crystal Heart during his tyranny.

But it had been decorated in angelic statues, molded from marble stone that reflected the light emanating from above. They each draped their figures along the pillars, all wearing sorrowful expressions—no doubt the work of her ex-lover.

And cradled in the arms of one statue was the fallen one himself. His head slowly turned before he stood up and dropped onto the floor. And as their eyes meet once more, Beatrix felt her heart skip a beat and her anger nearly diminish.

Despite her better judgment, the violet unicorn couldn’t help but fluster over how stunning Zeloph appeared. The way his burgundy jacket revealed his chest and abs as if tempting her to touch him. It seemed the nephilim was also flourished, admiring the witch’s beauty in her gown.

But they both knew that these dwindling romantic feelings were only embers of a burnt bridge. Had circumstances not been cruel to the false idol, and had he not deceived Beatrix with fake promises and sanctimonious lies, they wouldn’t be standing across each other as enemies.

Still, the winged immortal attempted to be chivalrous towards the witch, a kind smile crossing his lips.

“You look lovely,” complimented Zeloph. “That dress fits you well.”

“Thank you,” Beatrix accepted with a polite smile. “You look outstanding yourself! I just wish that gorgeous face and body wasn’t attached to such a cruel soul.”

His smile faltered as he sighed, “Why are you doing this, Beatrix?”

“You know why. I have to stop you, Zeloph. I won’t let you senselessly kill anyone else, no matter your justifications.”

“I never intended for things to end up like that-”

“No!” She interrupted, her archaic magic flaring up in anger. “You don’t get to say that after nearly wiping out a planet. Not when you’ve become the lackey of an omnicidal monster that’s after my daughter!!”

Zeloph looked away with clenched fists, taking a deep breath. “Please.… Can’t you see how deeply I regret causing this calamity? I’ve already paid for my sins by associating with the Burning King.”

Pulling up his sleeve, he showed her a burnt mark on his forearm, forever branded to be a pawn. And while the sight of his singed flesh unnerved Beatrix, she refused to give any more sympathy to the fallen angel.

“Shadow Scythe and I threw our lives away over selfish impulse. As long as this mark remains, we’re doomed to suffer unending agony to Pathos.”

“A fitting punishment if you ask me,” Beatrix scoffed. "You deserve each other!"

“You don’t understand,” Zeloph continued. “We didn’t ask to be his pawns. We don’t want to bring the End of Days! All we care for is Abadonna’s safety and our freedom. If we could call a truce and work together-”

“And why would I ever do that?!” She questioned, tucking her arms underneath her bust. “The last thing I want is for Abby to be in the same proximity of you two!”

“Oh, for heaven’s sake, Beatrix! Will you just listen!?” Zeloph yelled in frustration. “This is more than just custody over our child. I’m trying to be reasonable here. I don’t want to fight you!”

A bitter laugh rose from her. “Yeah? Well, it’s too late to make amends with me, Zeloph. I’m not that lovesick, naive little girl you manipulated into following your insidious scheme! I’ve grown a lot since the last time we crossed!”

Before he could even muster a retort, Beatrix launched a powerful spell that blasted him into one of his stone angels, the sculpture crumbling over top of him in a dust cloud.

“Consider that a warning shot,” Beatrix sneered, her rapier materializing in her grasp, Erebus empowering its steel. “Now summon your Onoma and fight me!”

Rubble scattered as two swan-shaped plumage emerged from the pile, eyes studded along the wingspan as Zeloph rose up to meet her glare. The witch noticed a different aura glowed from irises, emanating an almost fiery orange color. Needless to say, the false idol was beyond livid.

“Is obstinate violence truly the only language you understand!?” Zeloph exclaimed, his signature zweihänder forming from his palm in shimmering light, though it took a different shape.

“You have no idea how long I’ve waited for this!”

Realizing that there was no point in talking Beatrix out, Zeloph reluctantly took a battle stance; the aura of Apollo glimmered around his long blade. “Fine! You want a fight? I’ll give you a fight! But when your life passes, I hope the angels mourn for you. Because I certainly won’t!”

Darkness and light clashed once more as the two former lovers engaged in combat. Each blow and strike was driven by the emotions of love, hatred, resentment, and sadness.

It was clear to Abadonna that this bout between her parents would be a duel to the death. And unless the little unicorn somehow changed fate, the outcome was inevitable.

One of them was going to die.

Chapter XI: Banquet of Battles (Part II)

High in the crystal spires, the pair of ex-lovers feverishly exchanged blows. Beatrix struck nimbly, jabbing her rapier in fast succession. Yet due to the size and length of Zeloph’s duel-handed blade, he held greater reach to deflect and counterstrike. As a result, the witch had narrow room for offense in the field of swordsmanship. So she switched up her attacks by firing her strongest spells, sending bolts, flames, and ice shards to smite her foe.

Opening his palm, the fallen angel activated his ophanim shield to absorb the spells, the intersecting golden rings adorned with eyes and wings spiraling around him briefly. Zeloph fired bright beams back at Beatrix in retaliation, who deflected each projectile with her sword, charging at him.

Zeloph intercepted the unicorn’s slash once more, parrying their blades away before delivering a spinning back kick to her midsection. Beatrix yowled as she stumbled back a couple of steps. Clutching her injured side, she glared at her opponent with seething breath. He gazed back with a curled lip, gracefully straightening his posture.

“Your blade work has certainly improved,” he complimented. “But if you think that oversized needle can best my sword, you’ve sorely overestimated yourself…as usual.”

“Hey, you’re one to talk!? That sword is nearly as long as your wings, jackass!” She pointed out, noting the zweihänder in Zeloph’s hand was much longer and differently shaped than the one he wielded during their last battle.

The winged immortal gave a haughty chuckle, responding, “Not my fault you choose style and finesse over power and extension. Don’t suppose you've given it a name?”

“A what? No, I--it doesn’t have a name!”

“Really?” His brows quirked in surprise. “Considering your love for theatrics, I would have assumed you gave your weapon a catchy title.”

“I wouldn’t have time for that since I’ve been busy trying to find Abadonna before you!” Beatrix snarled, her frustrations rising.

“Well, you’ll have plenty of time to think of one once I’ve vanquished you,” Zeloph cockily stated, looking over his heavenly sword. “This blade used to be called the Morning Star, given by my father. I used to think it was the perfect cognomen. But times have changed, and a more fitting alias was needed. Do you recall when Celestia banished her sister to the moon?”

The violet mare only offered a nod, using his time to boast as a means to recover her energy.

“I read that during those years, as the ache in her heart grew more unbearable, she adopted a despot's mindset. It was said that she took on a form like Nightmare Moon. During that reign, Celestia employed the sun’s might to end all conflict and established complete sovereignty. And those who dared defy her were vaporized in an instant. Such majesty and grace must be respected. So in tribute, I now call upon my sword... Daybreaker!”

“Gods, you’re so pretentious! I’m sick of your shit!!” Beatrix violently snapped, launching forth to pierce the arrogant prick. The unicorn dawned her cosmic shroud as her Onoma’s dark essence flowed around her steel.

Yet right as she struck, Zeloph’s Onoma surfaced around his zweihänder, shimmering with intense light. In a single stroke, the fallen one blasted his adversary backward with a wave of solar fire. Beatrix shrieked, feeling the Demiurge writhe in agony from the searing heat. The witch’s eyes stared widely at her former lover, who rested his ignited sword against his shoulder.

“How unsurprising,” Zeloph scoffed. “Do you think I told you all that just to inflate my ego? Unlike you, I know better.”

“N-no…that can’t be!!”

“You’re not the only one who’s gotten stronger, Belladonna,” the fallen one confirmed, eyes glowed hotly as he manifested a small orb that hotly glowed like the fabled star. “Like you, I have awakened great power within my spirit. Through Apollo, I, too, can conjure the divine might Celestia once did. The power of the sun…in the palm of my hand!”

While shielding her vision with how luminous his Onoma shined, a part of Beatrix couldn’t help but admire the beauty radiating off her fallen lover. The rest of her was equally terrified, given that this was a sliver of what Zeloph could delve into. She’d dare not imagine the ramifications should the demihuman master solaromancy.

As the sunny sphere dissolved, Zeloph gazed over his distraught opponent. “It’s not too late to settle this dispute peacefully,” he offered once more, hoping now she would listen to reason. “Put down your sword, Beatrix. This is your final warning.”

Yet Beatrix felt the Demiurge stir within her vessel, unsettled. The abomination was a force of nature that followed its instincts, much like the creature housed in the manor. The entity could manipulate and shape itself into whatever it needed to survive.

The same could be said for the fallen one. After all, Zeloph’s undoing was by his will, or so the witch reminded herself. Yet could she and Zeloph be victims, compelled by prophecy to produce the Child of Lightendark?

Tightening her hold, Beatrix stood up firmly on her feet before once more taking her stance, this time gripping her rapier with both hands like Dion had shown her. Erebus’s might waved around her like spacial water. “You’re even more dangerous than before now. I’m sorry, Zeloph, but peace was never an option with a zealot like you!”

With an irritable groan, the winged immortal’s Onoma flared around his arms and head, forming gauntlets and a helmet out of sunfire. His avian wings stretched out ablaze, another pair unfurling from his waist as he began to levitate. This was Zeloph’s aptly named ‘crusader mode,’ amplifying his already impressive strength. Yet, no matter how unwilling he was to fight the bewitching beauty, Zeloph couldn’t ignore the bristling resentment that clung to his heart.

Channeling that anger to fuel his strength, the fiery angel aimed his heavenly sword towards his opponent, calling out, “Nor with a childish heretic like you!”

Both lunged at each other, ebbing darkness and radiant light trailing after them like curtains. Each clash emitted a wave of force, shaking the tower. Beatrix recalled a similar experience when fighting Shadow Scythe back at the manor. A climactic struggle that threatened to unravel the fabric of the universe as space lost color and cracked.

Yet her mind had gone blank, her wit lost in the growing sea of anguish from being in Zeloph’s presence. Each spell cast, every hit absorbed only re-opened old wounds he inflicted. Like the nephilim, Beatrix poured all her energy to overcome him, to make the bastard suffer for all he’d put her through.

Another threshold was meet as their swords pushed against each other, trying to overpower the other.

“What happened to all your sharp quips and taunts now?” Zeloph bellowed. “When did you become so serious?!”

“After you ruined my life!” She cried back. “Because of you, I’ve suffered for so long, searching for Abby in hopes she hadn’t faded into oblivion!”

“And who gave you the right to judge me?! You think you’re the only one who’s hurt?! I’ve cared for that little mare longer than you! You’re just as responsible for Abby’s disappearance as I am!”

“Yes, I am!” Beatrix mustered her magic to shove Zeloph back, launching a dark cosmic beam to slam him into a crystalline pillar. “I know I’ve hurt you too. But that doesn’t excuse how horribly you treated me, my sister, or all those people you murdered!”

“THEN WHY WON’T YOU LET ME REPENT!?” The false idol screamed, unleashing a solar projectile to force Beatrix down. “All I want to do is right the wrongs I’ve committed. I won’t ask for your forgiveness; I don’t deserve it. But you had the luxury of support from your friends and lover. I was left with nothing but bitterness and guilt. So why do I get labeled as an irredeemable villain? How is this fair?!”.

Anger boiled through Beatrix's blood, unwilling to listen or accept the fallen one's plight.

“I’m not the only one you cast out,” Zeloph reminded, his head looking down from the balcony, watching the distant fight miles away. His accomplice was on the defense now as the generals and Dion began forcing Shadow Scythe into a corner, the reaper struggling to withdraw. “What you did to Shadow Scythe was utterly selfish.”

“That’s not true!!” The violet unicorn stood firmly. “I gave her multiple chances to turn her life around. And every time, she would go back to her evil ways. I tried helping Shadow Scythe!”

The winged immortal laughed dryly. “You call altering her memories ‘help?!’ Trying to change her inner nature? Have you learned nothing from Lady Ewe?!"

"You keep Oona out of this!!"

"And what’s to stop you from wiping Abadonna’s mind if she turned out 'evil,' hmm? Going to clean the slate like it never happened?”

“Stop it, that’s enough! I would never do that to my daughter!!”

“Oh, I see! So when it comes to your blood, your sense of morality isn’t jaded. But everyone else is fair game to be prejudiced and altered to your liking?!”

His taunts and words drew bitter wetness from the unicorn’s eyes. She gripped her rapier with trembling hands, mustering all her stability to not sob in front of the fallen angel. Beatrix refused to shed more tears for Zeloph.

“Let’s cut through the bullshit, shall we? Like it or not, you and I are one and the same. We’ve both done many things we heavily regret. And we’re just trying to provide for our child. But since you so stubbornly rejected my proposal, I’m done trying to be civil with you. Know that I take no joy for the actions I’m about to be blamed for.”

He turned back towards the battle transpiring in the streets of the Crystal Empire before he conjured another small sphere of light, balancing it on his finger.

“Wait! W-what are you doing!?” Beatrix demand.

“Evening the odds by enforcing equilibrium!” Zeloph declared before sending the bright orb towards the brawl.

“NO!!” The witch shouted, rushing at her enemy to cross blades once more. Sparks of arcane magic went flying off their steel as their duel and hatred intensified.

“We’ve got her on th' ropes now, laddies!” Dion proclaimed as the burly warrior ran his blade through one of the reaper’s shadowy appendages. Shadow Scythe lashed out, only for her sickles to meet the impervious shield carried around his forearm.

Every attempt to push her adversaries back was thwarted, her broken bones below her bandages still healing. The wraps were stained in a rust color of dried blood.

One successful punch from Tirek caused her to spit up a mouthful of red, her battered body landing into a forsaken house. The pale unicorn felt her power fading, struggling to fight off pain coursing through her lithe form. Her icy eyes glared down her foes as they advanced towards her, likely about to finish her off.

“End of the line, reaper!” Tirek bellowed, his bovine horns shimmering with his aura.

“W-wait! Projectile at eight o’clock!!” Cozy suddenly exclaimed, drawing their attention to the hurling ball of light descending from the tower.

“Huh!?”

The orb halted right above their heads directly before it exploded, unleashing a blinding light that stunned the defenders. Dion, Tirek, and Cozy covered their eyes, crying out in alarm.

Arm shielding her vision, Shadow Scythe stood up with astonishment. Her partner had assisted her from far away; the harshly lit orb provided plenty of silhouettes to use Thanatos’ power. Nevertheless, the bloodied mare was unable to conceal her smile.

“So this is what it’s like to have an ally…”

With her opponents dazed, Shadow Scythe seized her opportunity and sunk back into the shadows, where her Onoma activated to launch four wriggling tendrils to restrict the staggered ram, centaur, and pegasus. They struggled to break free, only for the reaper’s hold to tighten, pressing the steel blades against their vitals.

“D-damn ye!!” Dion cursed.

Cackling, the self-proclaimed death goddess emerged from behind him, her archaic signature clinging to her tattered robes. Wiping some of the crimson away from her stained lips, she sneered down at the incapacitated generals with a vicious smile.

“Was that the best you could do?” She taunted. “And I thought you prided yourself as warriors! How disappointing.”

“Wily Bitch! A true warrior would ne'er rely on divine intervention tae win th' battle!”

“Pha! You outnumbered me three to one. I wouldn’t call that fair. But don’t worry. I’ll make sure to give you machoistic fools the ‘honorable’ death you deserve!” The pale unicorn pulled out her scythe, channeling her deathly energy through the steel, preparing to send them straight to Valhalla.

“Mom! D-dad!!” A young voice called, her crying echoing throughout the streets.

Shadow Scythe tensed up, her eyes wide in alarm. “W-what?”

“Mommy! W-where are you?”

The reaper’s guard lowered, her magic disappearing as her head turned frantically, trying to locate the frightened filly.

“Quick! She’s distracted!!” Tirek growled, charging up magic through his longhorns.

“Tirek, wait!!” Dion and Cozy tried to warn. But it was too late, the heated blast being hurled at the reaper, who reflexively deflected the projectile away. Unfortunately, she sent it crashing towards the lost child, clinging onto a post, screaming for her parents.

All three heroes let out a panicked gasp while Shadow Scythe stared aghast, covering her mouth. “No!!”

A glimmering spiral swirled open as the head of a strange pachyderm creature emerged, knocking the fireball away with its trunk. As it dissolved, Lady Ewe stood in front of the child, silver aura highlighting her body and dreamcatcher staff. Yet, the azure sheep appeared somewhat different.

The reaper noted that another pair of horns had sprouted from her head, the ones coiling either side having grown out as well. Her wool was more extensive, waving in the cold air like clouds. Her normally honey eyes now glimmered like gold, the sclera almost wholly black. Even the symbols on her cheeks glowed ethereally.

“What extraordinary power..!” Shadow Scythe marveled, sensing tremendous magic flowing off the sheep shaman. She knew little about Belladonna’s lover, only that Oona specialized in seals, defensive spells, and spiritual awakenings. But clearly, the dream faun could be an absolute powerhouse. So why did she harbor so much self-restraint?

As her mystical aura diminished, Oona panted heavily. One hand felt over the newly adorned horns as the other clutched the ornament that kept her wooly hair tied. Her ears perked up to the sound of bawling, turning around to scoop up the sniveling child. Gently, she hummed a lullaby to calm the filly, which slowly drifted to sleep. Shadow Scythe floated down her own archaic magic, disappearing, releasing Dion and the generals. Both ignored the threats and taunts they made, fixated on each other.

The reaper expected to see hatred, yet only concern reflected off those beautiful golden eyes. For once, an ally of Beatrix did not see Shadow Scythe as an enemy that had to be defeated. Just another broken person in need of a bit of guidance.

“I-I…. Oh, what have I done?” The pale unicorn stuttered, staring over the slumbering foal nuzzling into Oona’s chest. “I’m no better than Beatrix! I thought that by becoming more powerful, I-I could…”

The sheep woman shook her head, a sad smile gracing her snout. “A king can conquer as mony kingdoms as he desires. Bit without th' loyalty or love from his subjects, he is no true king. Thair’s more tao life than acquirin' power, Shadow Scythe. Ah only wished you an' Zeloph discovered this sooner. Maybe then, ye wouldn’t have become advocates of th' Burning King…”

The reaper lowered her snout, rubbing her seared forearm. “I think maybe you’re right…” She admitted before gasping in realization. “Oh no, Zeloph!”

“Go tae him,” Oona encouraged. “Convince him tao abandon this plight. An' whate'er ye do, stay wary ov Doppia!”

With a grim nod, the unicorn sunk into her silhouette, just as Dion, Tirek, and Cozy Glow were about to seize her. The male sheep looked to his sister in distraught. “Furfaxake, Oona, we almost had her! Why’d ye let her go!?”

“Because she is not our true enemy, Dion. Nor is Zeloph,” the azure sheep stated, standing firmly. “Ah realize that through hatred, th' Burning King an' his forces grow stronger! If we are tae prevent th' End ov Days, we must fight back through unity!”

“Ye better not be suggestin’ what Ah think ye’re suggestin’...”

But the determined look was unmistakable between the sheep siblings. Dion’s crimson orbs were fixated by the quadruple horns adorning Oona’s head. It had been so long since his sister allowed her horns to fully crown.

“Look around you, Dion! If she wanted to, Shadow Scythe would have slaughtered these innocent soldiers an' townsfolk. Yet she avoided causing any direct deaths!” Her gaze turned to the centaur general, who rubbed his neck sorely. Had Tirek not launch that attack, the child’s life wouldn’t have been in danger.

“Yer brain’s gone out th' windae,” the stubborn ram rebuffed. “Even if Shadow Scythe is against th' Omega Prophecy, there’s no way we can-”

“We have tae, brother!” Oona asserted, locking horns with him. “It’s the only way…”

The two said nothing as the filly whimpered in her sleep. Sighing, Lady Ewe turned away from Dion and the generals, more concerned with returning the lost foal back to her worried parents.

“A’m tired ov all this constant fightin'. Ah just want th' madness tae finally end. Everyone is hurt.”

As he watched Oona depart, Dion turned to the generals, who wore perplexed expressions. Unsure of what to think, he settled his gaze towards the illuminated tower, where Beatrix and Zeloph continued their personal skirmish. Dark and light arcane magic flashed against darkened skies.

Hard hits resounded through the dungeon corridors. Bodies and blood were littered everywhere, yet the rank smell didn’t deter the two stallions from beating the living crap out of each other. Their knuckles were bruised with how frequently their fists connected to their opponent. And while Shining Armor held greater experience, his strength had obviously waned with age.

Each blow Midnight delivered brought up more memories of his basic military training, as well as the more advanced tactics he learned from other cadets. The pegasus even recalled the fun scraps he and Moonlight would get into during downtime.

Yet one staggering punch brought him back to reality, snarling at the ‘father’ who molded him. He realized how considerably more muscular Shining suddenly was, notably familiar pulsating veins bulging out from his body and bloodshot sclera.

Moreover, the alabaster unicorn noticed the same enhanced body structure Midnight possessed. “Bullshit,” he growled through ragged breath, wiping off the sweat and blood from his brow. “How did a pissant like you become a fucking hyper-stallion?”

“I could ask you the same, ‘dad’!” Midnight huffed, panting as heavily. He hadn’t tapped into too much of his baser instincts, afraid of the consequence should he fully surrender to a berserker mindset. He wouldn’t become a cruel barbarian like the stallion before him.

“Get over yourself, kid. Even if I did have a son, he wouldn’t be such a sheer disappointment!” The white stallion rushed to tackle Midnight on the ground, pinning his arms against his massive wings to prevent their use. Then, with a free hand, Shining Armor bashed Midnight’s face with repeated punches.

“This is what a real hyper-stallion looks like,” Shining Armor continued. “If you were anything like me, you’d have a harem of whores by now, begging to get fucked daily!”

Midnight managed to pull an arm free to block his father’s jabs, but this left his limb exposed for the former prince to apply an armbar submission, muscles straining with pressure.

“A weak beta male would never survive in my world! It’s through ruthless domination and genetics that earned me the respect of the caribou. I even bagged a few of their does! But you? You’re a disgrace to our kind and a waste of genetics!”

With a sharp tug, he popped Midnight’s arm, the blue stallion bellowing in torment. Flinging his father off, the hyper-soldier clung to his dislocated shoulder, seething with rage. Shining Armor rose to stomp his foot onto the pegasus’ chest, leaning down to glare at him.

“Let me leave you with some advice, kid,” said the white unicorn, spitting at Midnight’s disgruntled face. “We don’t live long. The only reason I’m still alive is because of King Dainn’s will. Sooner or later, you’ll be dead. So better spend your miserable life taking everything you can…hmm?”

Something shiny caught his eye, spotting the silver wedding ring around his finger. A sick grin twisted his features.

“So you do have a wife, huh? Well, I bet she’ll look real pretty riding my cock, her belly swollen full of my children~.”

“D-don’t... You fuckin’ dare..!!” Midnight scowled.

“Like you’ll do anything about it,” Shining scoffed, kicking him back down as he began walking towards the entrance. Violence had reactivated his repressed hyper-stallion side, new ambition filling his lust-fueled mind. He would go on one last crusade, retaking the Crystal Empire and claiming Radiant Hope and all mares for himself. It was a glorious image, returning to his old world!

“Now, if I could just get this fucking thing off me!” He snarled, struggling to take off the inhibitor ring stuck around his horn.

An alarmed gasp escaped Shining’s snout as his body suddenly stopped moving, his limbs contorting behind his back in awkward positions. “W-what the fuck!? Gugh!? GAAAAAGH!!”

The pale rapist hollered as his bones snapped within his muscular arms, falling back down to his knees. More sickening cracks resounded from Shining’s body, his veins bulging out to the point of almost bursting.

Midnight looked upon his father, perplexed by his sudden anguish. With a pained breath, he forced his arm back into its socket, letting out a sharp yell while rolling it to make sure everything was in place. Then, favoring his left arm, the blue pegasus addressed Shining Armor by throwing one final punch to knock the screaming stallion out.

Midnight leaned his hulking frame against the bars, heaving for oxygen as his body started swelling down to normal size. Wearingly looking down, he was thankful Shining Armor’s musculature also begun to recede back to normal, the adrenaline wearing off. He didn’t want to think about how Shining Armor obtained such longevity, but he wouldn’t be surprised if an obscene amount of stallions were sacrificed.

More pressing questions raced through his mind. Why were so many inmates dead by his feet? What was the reason behind Shining Armor’s sudden collapse? And what became of Cadance!?

Shaking his head, Midnight limped his way out of the prison hall. He’d worry about that later, as the only thing that mattered was finding Cerise and helping her secure the Crystal Heart. “H-hold on, Cerise... I’m coming!” He wheezed, pushing through the pain that overwhelmed his body.

Yet, as he passed by the missing alicorn’s cell, he failed to notice the grotesque sounds coming from within. Something had been watching their brawl, mouth dripping in crimson as she swallowed the last of Cadance’s succulent flesh. The mangled alicorn corpse was barely recognizable, save for pink feathers and dirty clumps of mane hair.

The creature slowly swayed out from the cell bars, her eyes glancing at the soldier before he turned the corner. Then, licking her bloody lips, her reddish-pink eyes gazed back at Shining Armor, who slowly recovered from unconsciousness.

And when his eyes fell on the bestial beauty, they widened with dread. “N-no...! H-how did you find me!? Get away, you slut!!”

An amused hum purred from the woman’s mouth, her tongue lapping at the remains of Shining’s wife off her nails. Cat-shaped pupils narrowed as she spoke in a sultry tone.

“Intriguing! Even with yer mind warped by carnal desires, ye can still recognize me. A’m almost flattered~.”

A faint scarlet aura shimmered around her hand as the mutilated blood flowed into her palm, forming a small sphere that she sipped from. Leering down at the fallen hero, she flicked her wrist, Shining’s body responding violently as his chest started tearing apart. He cried in agony, wriggling to free himself from the demoness’s control.

“But clearly, ye’ve forgotten th' pact ye made back in yer Equestria. Foolish colt, thinkin' ye could hide from me in mah own homeworld! Oh, Shining Armor. Ye’ve become nothin' mair than another sex-crazed lunatic, obsessed with dippin' his genitals in whate'er hole he can find~!”

The stallion snorted, tears oozing from his bloodshot eyes as he felt his rib cage magically be pried open, his vital organs on display. The hemomancer strutted over him, smirking down before reaching to grasp his frantically beating heart. In utter defiance, Shining Armor slurred,

“Y-you bitch! You STUPID BITCH, I’LL FUCKING KILL YOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAGH!!”

“Pigs. They ne'er learn,” she sighed, shaking her head as her talons dug into his pulsating flesh. “None can escape a bargain with a Vice Lord. Still, Ah hope ye've enjoyed the last bit ov yer miserable existence. Ye belong tae us now~!”

A sickening rip echoed the violated halls. Shining Armor’s screams died down to pitiful wheezes as his life was painfully taken from him. The bitter old stallion’s dying moments were spent in utter agony, watching the demoness feast away at his heart.

In all of her life, Cerise had never contorted herself to this extent. Matching move for move with the enigmatic Madame Doppia, the pair of dancers twirled around the crystalline floor with grace and expertise. To any outside observer, they might find this ‘competition’ sensuous, maybe even a little ridiculous. But the charcoal batmare sensed something horrible would happen should she slip up. And she absolutely refused to lose to this twisted ballet dancer as her delicate feet glided across the floor.

Raising a shapely leg, she hooked it behind her neck, treating this battle as if in front of an audience. And for all she knew, they were. Lady Ewe never elaborated how deceptive Doppia could be. Only that Cerise shouldn’t trust her eyes.

What further raised her suspicions was that she flicked her ears at the music she swore swelled up from around them. It was as if the two clashing instruments represented their duel. Or was it in her head? She couldn't discount either possibility when such an adversary was involved!

“Not bad, amica~!” The Vice Lord complimented, landing on her feet after a gravity-defying pirouette, those malicious amber eyes taking in every curve Cerise’s body had to offer. “Such a fragile and delicate form!”

“I don’t understand,” Cerise began, performing a handstand before twisting back onto her feet. Despite her soft and curvy appearance, the daughter of darkness packed some athletic muscles beneath smooth skin and fur. “You’re a crystal pony! How could you betray your own people?!”

“The only thing I share with the Crystal Empire is heritage. It and its people can burn for all I care,” Doppia mockingly stated, swiveling to copy her foe’s patterns.

Yet, it was apparent the crystalline pegasus was a few steps behind Cerise and was barely keeping pace with her. Unlike the professionally trained ballerina, the princess was a natural, boasting a lifetime's worth of experience.

“People like you are scum!” The thestral cried, extending her wings to leap over towards the Vice Lord. Cerise blamed Doppia for all this mess. So overcome by sudden rage, she ignored how roughly she landed, given her left-wing hadn’t fully healed. Still, it was enough velocity to whirl around and deliver a swift roundhouse kick to the demon mare’s stomach.

“Gaaaagh!!” Doppia yelped, her back slamming into the mirrored wall with enough force to shatter the glass.

“Aaand stay down!” Cerise warned, preparing for another attack should the Vice Lord pull herself up, thankful for Bellatrix's combat lessons. “I don’t want to hurt you. But I will!”

“That’s too bad~” Doppia’s voice cooed behind her. Cerise gasped, turning around in alarm before being blindsided with a feather strike from the assailant’s wing, knocking the charcoal mare down. Shaking her head deliriously, she gazed upon another Doppia posing before her. The one by the wall slowly evaporated into dark green dust.

“Because I want to hurt you! Very badly, I might add~.”

“You bitch!!”

“Naawww, such a bocca sporca!” Another Doppia called over, stepping out from behind a severed pillar. Then another jaded Vice Lord appeared. Then another. And another.

Cerise rose to her feet, taking on a defensive stance as soon the whole room was surrounded by a dozen Doppia doppelgangers, all-dancing around in sync, cackling wickedly.

“Give up now, Cerise!”

“You’ll never figure out which one of us is the true Doppia~!”

“Should have let your husband handle this.”

“Should have just stayed home, instead of burdening all your friends~!”

“They’re better off without you!”

“Worthless cagna!!”

“Lowly sow~!!!”

Cerise tried to block out the crude taunts echoing around her, clutching at her large ears. “Shut up…just shut up! This isn’t real!”

The twisted ballerina began twirling closer, swarming around the defenseless dancer, continuing to call upon her insecurities and shortcomings. It took everything Cerise had not to break down then and there.

Slowly, she stood up, taking deep breaths to bury her emotions. Biting her lip, Cerise focused her attention on the crowd of twisted grins and littering feathers before striking a sensual pose.

“I really hope this works...” She muttered quietly as the room went dark, save for the flickering illumination of the Crystal Heart. Neon colors slid over the charcoal mare's nude contours, and her sensual silhouette flitted over the mirrored interiors. Her bared reflection danced below, causing the Doppias to back off, yet their eyes unable to tear from Cerise’s display of talent.

“W-what? How?!”

“What magic is this?”

“It can’t be!”

“No, this is impossible!”

“I-I can’t move!”

“I-It worked!” Cerise exclaimed, astonished that the Vice Lord and her clones were susceptible to her dazzling motions. She had always danced for a small group, so having an entire room of onlookers spellbound was incredible! Still, from what the princess understood, her ability to trance another depended on her opponent’s will.

So as long as they found her aesthetically pleasing, she could seduce them. She doubted it would work on someone like Shadow Scythe, but it made her smile, knowing a creature that preyed on desires was so easily paralyzed by her charms.

Summoning her spear, she swept and cut down each immobilized ballerina. One by one, they each disintegrated into dust until only one Doppia remained, bewilderment clear on her face.

“N-no! How dare you..!”

“You underestimated me, Doppia,” Cerise spoke with confidence, striking an elaborate pose that showed off her assets and power. “I may not be as powerful as Beatrix or any of my friends. But I’m still awesome in my own right. So take a nice long look at me, cagna. Because it’s the last you’ll get!!”

Without hesitation, Cerise soared at the Vice Lord and stuck her weapon straight through Doppia’s chest. A pained moan arose from her, volume increasing as the dark dancer twisted the spear deep into her black heart.

‘I did it,’ she thought proudly. ‘I took on a Vice Lord all by myself and won! I…I finally won!’

But her internal celebration was short-lived as the crumbling demoness wheezed out a chuckle. “I must admit…you are certainly skilled, Cerise. Had I not been a bit more cautious, you would have gotten me!”

“What are you talking about?! I got you right where I--I-huh!?!”

Cerise found her right hand shakingly lifting up on its own. And then her other hand released the spear until she clumsily moved away. The charcoal mare cried out in shock, finding her body acting involuntarily, her limbs twisting in odd positions. And no matter how hard she struggled, Cerise couldn’t stop herself from dancing.

“Aaagh! W-what’s happening!?” She demanded, staring at the grinning decoy before it too crumbled into pieces.

“Silly wretch,” Doppia’s voice announced around the chamber. “This battle was mine the moment you set foot here~!”

“N-no! Where are you!?”

Finally, Cerise’s body ceased its marionette-like movements, forcing her to take a bow. And upon looking to the side, the dark dancer was aghast to find her reflection missing.

Instead, Doppia had taken its place, smirking cruelly.

“A-aaaaaaahhh! No! Nooo!! What is this!?” Cerise screamed as her hand mimicked her reflections, only it revealed strains of the mare’s neon pink hair wound around Doppia’s fingers.

“A binding ritual,” Doppia explained. “Once I’ve acquired a piece of my prey, I can tether our souls together and take control of our movements.”

Doppia resumed to playfully dance from beneath to demonstrate, causing Cerise to mimic her steps until the two were in perfect harmony. Every muscle and fiber ached as she tried desperately to resist.

“Gnngh! Let me go!! I won’t let you get away with this!”

“But you already have,” the crystal mare cackled. “And through my Onoma, Apate, I can achieve something more significant than mere puppetry~!”

Doppia slowly emerged from Cerise’s reflection until the two dancers stood in front of each other, grabbing onto each other’s chins. Frightened neon eyes gazed into the demoness's, who was hotly panting in fatigue. Leaning their snouts close, Doppia gave a crooked smile before stating in her native tongue,

“Quello che una volta era tuo ora è mio~!”

Doppia's eyes rolled into the side of her head, her mouth opened unnaturally wide as dark smoke was vomited around Cerise, who coughed violently. Everything around her was black, the disembodied music becoming muffled until fully muted. Doppia disappeared into the mist, relinquishing her possession of the charcoal mare’s motor skills, much to her relief.

Yet somehow, she suddenly had a bird's eye view of the world. Her world. The desert kingdom appeared more prosperous than ever. Inside the pyramid that overlooked the capital, she saw King Sombra and Queen Inky Rose on their thrones, attended by their servants and her brothers.

“M-mom?! Dad!!” She exclaimed

“Welp! We did it,” yelled Beatrix, smiling loudly as she and Midnight entered the royal throne room. “Another world saved!”

“Well done,” said White Shadow Penumbra. “I must confess I had my doubts, but you all performed admirably.”

“Couldn’t have done it without a little help from my sister!” The witch winked, throwing her arms around Bellatrix, who slumped her shoulders with a smile. “We all played our part. Not too few, nor too many.”

“Guys? I-I’m right here!” The charcoal mare proclaimed, waving her hands to try and get them to notice her.

“Hmm. It’s times like these where I often wish I had a sister too,” Penumbra confessed while stroking his chin, causing the dark dancer to stop her motions, slowly lowering her arms.

“W-what?!”

“A shame, really,” his brother lamented, pacing around the throne room. “But I suppose it wasn't meant to be. Our lands couldn't be more peaceful, thanks to your help.” He looked over Beatrix, Bellatrix, and Midnight, who clung to either side of the burly pegasus. “Ohh! Have you decided to-”

Midnight nodded with a smile, blushing brightly. “Yep! And we couldn’t be happier!”

“We bagged quite the stud, haven’t we sister~?” Beatrix giggled while Bellatrix gave a nod. Wrapping her arms around Midnight, the two kissed deeply, much to the cheer and applauds of the servants and rulers.

“N-No…this is wrong! I’m here! I-I’m... I’m real…”

Yet as she tried to interact with the scene before her, everything continued without change. Her vision became impaired as tears steadily oozed from her face. This was a world that Cerise didn’t exist in. And from the look of things, the people in her life were better off. Far happier. Had she really held them back so hard, like she feared?

“I-if…that’s the case, then... Why was I even born...?” The words choked in her throat.

Cerise sunk to her knees, curling into a ball as she openly sobbed. The agony of the truth overwhelmed her, unable to conceal her wounded emotions any longer.

“So useless…worthless,” she blubbered in between sobs, hands over her face. “I-I should just… disappear… Midnight’s better off without... Midnight… Midnight...”

Midnight finally reached his destination, entering through the chamber, his heart pounding loudly in his chest.

“Cerise?! CERISE!!”

He spotted his wife sniveling on the floor, her naked form illuminated by the fractured Crystal Heart. Laying next to her was an unconscious crystal mare, whom he could only assume was the third assailant to Shadow Scythe and Zeloph’s legion. In the jade pegasus’ hand were strains of Cerise’s hair, the missing shard just inches away.

Slowly, Cerise rose her head to see the blue pegasus, face drenched with salty tears and snot, as she ran up to tightly embrace him.

“H-hey! It’s okay, Cerise! I’ve got you, babe,” reassured Midnight, clutching the charcoal mare tightly before whipping away her tears.

“I-It was so awful, Midnight! It was dark, t-then I was back home! Everything existed without me! You and B-B-Bea-Beatrix…w-were...” She buried her head into his chest, sobbing openly.

“Shhhhh,” he comforted. “It was just an illusion. Look! Madame Doppia is down for the count! You beat her!”

He pointed towards the demoness, causing Cerise to gaze weary. “I-I did..?”

“You’ll always be number one in my book!” Midnight smile. “I love you so much.”

Weeping, a sad smile traced her snout as she kissed her husband deeply. “I-I love you too… O-oh! The others!”

“We’ll back them up. But let’s bring back Doppia. We can interrogate her for information after we help kick Shadow Scythe and Zeloph to the curve!”

Nodding, Cerise leaned down to collect the severed Crystal Heart shard while the soldier lifted the lithe ballerina over his shoulder. “We need a fragment for the portal, right? Maybe they'll let us take this?” She suggested.

“We’ll figure that out with Ambros later. We have to hurry!!” Midnight urged as the pair rushed off through the catacombs, praying it wasn’t too late to join back into the fray and provide support.

“Wait! Let’s take this tunnel,” Cerise directed, pointing towards a particularly dark pathway leading upward. “We can reach them faster this way! C’mon!”

Midnight nodded, letting his lover lead the way as he trailed behind. Yet as they passed through the corridor, the pegasus’ ears perked up at a strange groaning coming from his shoulder.

It appeared to be coming from Doppia. And as he leaned closer to listen, it sounded like she was whimpering,

“...Mid…night...”

Chapter XI: Banquet of Battles (Part III)

With all the other battles having concluded, only one squall raged onward. It was amazing to find that the spire’s roof remained intact with all the immense power flying out. Both Beatrix and Zeloph pushed themselves to the absolute.

The cosmic cloaked witch cast her most powerful spells, her Onoma infused to increase potency. The solar winged angel unleashed fiery waves to blast through her attack. Even when the Demiurge uncoiled to bind around its target, the plasma armor was too intense to keep a stronghold.

Neither of them could obtain a true advantage over the other. And the effects of their duel were starting to wane on Beatrix. Slivers of Erebus began to unravel from her body, exposing more bits of her voluptuous flesh. And while Apollo’s light still burned brightly, beads of perspiration glistened on Zeloph’s torso that rose and fell heavily. It was clear that continuing to exert his Onoma would carry severe risks to his being.

Beatrix found solace in that nobody interfered, both for their safety and her own state of mind. If she didn’t defeat Zeloph with her own hands, the witch would never gain closure. Through large gulps of breath, she valiantly stared down her foe, swathed by radiant armor not unlike what her paladin father had worn during his crusades.

“Had enough?” The fallen one huskily panted.

“Never!” Seethed Beatrix, struggling to maintain her stance. “Not while you still walk and breathe like the vain piece of shit that you are! I don’t know what I ever saw in you!”

“Hatred has blinded you more than it has me. And yet, I’m the one who must be punished?” He muttered, shaking his head. “I only wanted a place made for Abadonna and us. A place where we could all live happily. I wanted to surprise you--”

“LIAR!!” She cried, launching into the air to decapitate her ex-lover. But in a swift motion, Zeloph disarmed her rapier from hand and stabbed her into the ground with a blade made entirely of light. Eleven more similar swords pierced through into her cloak, pinning Beatrix down as both she and the Demiurge shrieked in searing pain.

“...but instead, you tried to surprise me.”

Slowly, the demi ascended, channeling the last of his power into his heavenly zweihänder, which scorched red with heat and vibrant humming.

“I let you know me. See me. I gave you a rare gift, Beatrix. But you never wanted it…”

The cosmic witch struggled like a bristling animal caught in a trap. Venom spewed from her mouth, screaming at her opponent for all his wrongdoings and atrocities. Yet Zeloph remained hesitant, even when preparing to deliver the final blow. Each blade had purposefully avoided her vital points.

“I’m sorry it had to come to this…. You may wield the darkness of eternity. But the universe weeps in the light’s perfection!”

With a brisk pace, Zeloph descended to surge his sunlit blade through Beatrix’s chest. Desperate to survive the incoming blow, the witch forced herself out of the impaling light swords, her Onoma quick to seal up her open wounds as she launched cosmic rays of darkness, blasting Zeloph head-on. The nephilim felt his body straining to resist the raw deluge of force, slicing through the beam with his sunblade.

The pair bellowed before Beatrix let loose all the magic and might she could muster, no longer caring if the Demiurge entirely consumed her. The increased wave of spacial darkness was enough to finally hurl the fallen one back, slamming him into the roof. Zeloph screamed, feeling his body cracking under the weight of the crashing magic wave until the top of the tower collapsed inward.

The massive projectile obliterated the building’s roof completely, blasting through the cloudy night skies. Inky whips arose from Zeloph as his body fell back onto the spire platform. Scorch marks and bruises layered his body, his biker jacket heavily burnt. Molted feathers scattered around him, his many eyes squinting. He coughed up blood, struggling to rise up and call out his Onoma.

Beatrix dragged herself over to him, her own arcane signature evaporating, leaving her shapely figure almost visible, save for the tattered dress. Heaving, the witch shakingly lifted her rapier, tip aimed at his heart. Magenta eyes hazily gazed up at the fierce piercing violets that bore right through him.

“It’s over for you, Zeloph!” She wheezed coldly. “I.… I-I can’t let you live. I won’t let you endanger anyone else!”

“Beatrix…” He harshly wheezed. “Please…. Y-you mustn’t do this!”

“Shut up!!” She hollered. “You lost your chance to beg mercy from me! This is what you deserve!”

As the battered witch tremblingly raised her blade, all the fallen one could do was close his eyes and accept his fate, hopeful their daughter would survive after his passing.

“ Abadonna…f-forgive me…”

“S̴͢T̷̨̛͘O̡̧͢͏̷P̴̀͞!̧̕͡!̷̢̢̀͡”

Beatrix froze at the cry of a familiar voice as a small sphere formed between her and Zeloph. Then the orb grew to encircle the entire spire, inverting the colors within as reality distorted around them. Both of them gazed around in bewilderment until an image of the fabled Child of Lightendark glitched into reality.

“Abby!?” Both spoke in unison, watching the tiny unicorn stand between her father figure and her mother’s blade.

“Don’t kill him, mommy!” She tearfully pleaded, struggling to maintain her form.

“S-sweetie.… No, you have to understand! Zeloph has done so many terrible things. I-I’m-”

“You’re not a killer, mom!”

Beatrix’s eyes widened as her daughter’s statement ran through her heart like a knife. Her harrowed gaze locked with Abadonna’s, who shook her head while trying to hold back painful sobs.

“You don’t have to fight anymore. Zeloph...wasn't supposed to be my father,” Abby confessed, looking sorrowfully at the wounded angel, who returns the look through murky magenta eyes. “I kept him company during his confinement, and I wished for us to be a family…but it was clear that was never meant to b-b-b-beeeeeee̷͟e̶͜͜͢.̢͝.̶̛.̀”

“Abby!” Beatrix exclaimed, dropping her weapon to hang onto her daughter, only for her arms to phase through her incorporeal being.

“Enock is coming…. P-please, come get me soon, mom. I-I don’t k-k̷̷n̕͞͞҉̀ờ̷͘͜-̷̢̛́͢ǫ̴͟͟w̸̵̢͢ ̛͘h̶̴̸̨͜ơ͏̧w̴̨ ̵̕͠l̢̀o̶͝ń͜͞g̴̷̡̀ ̡̀͢͢I̷͘-̸̸̴̛͟Í̶ ̨҉̡͞c͠ą̢̀͠a̧̛a̢̡͜͠a͘͟͠͠a̴̵͞.̴.҉̕”

“N-no, wait! Abby! ABBY!!”

Abadonna flickered out of reality just as quickly as she arrived. Both Beatrix and Zeloph could only watch as the image of the child vanished like a lost signal, the null sphere fading along with her. Yet they both sensed their child still watched over them, from somewhere far away.

Realization settled inside Beatrix, having come so close to ending another’s life, much like Zeloph and Shadow Scythe had done. Resting on her knees, the poor witch was unable to hold in her pain, releasing an agonizing scream as all her emotions poured out. Her nude form hunched over, slamming her fist into the spire floor, jerking with each sob crying out her throat.

Through puffy wet eyes, Beatrix cast a sharp glare at her opponent once more before yelling, “Why did you do this? You ruined thousands of lives for a child that was never meant to be yours?! Think long and hard about it, Zeloph! This could have all been prevented if you hadn’t come into my life!”

“You’re right…” Zeloph admitted through bloodied coughs. “But then…you would never have know Abby existed.… Had I not done all of this... she would have been lost...forever…”

After struggling for so long, the Nephilim succumbed to his injuries and fell unconscious, leaving Beatrix altogether alone to let his words sink in. It was true. Had Zeloph not tried to sacrifice the many for one, Beatrix would have never encountered Abadonna. Likely wouldn’t have been made her mother. Had she not done a similar crime by wishing Midnight to be her half-brother and altered his fate completely?

Sadly sighing, Beatrix dispelled her blade and rose up on trembling feet, secretly thankful she didn’t have to take anyone’s life. But, nevertheless, her violet eyes remained fixated on her beaten foe. And while she would likely never forgive Zeloph, she did pity him greatly.

“Still…I have to take you in,” she decided, about to reach for the fallen angel until he started to steadily sink into his own shadow. Beatrix gasped in alarm, attempting to seize him until Zeloph slumped into the darkness, spotting a familiar pair of pale blue hands dragging the demi under.

“Shadow Scythe.… Damn it!” Beatrix muttered tiredly, her snout pursed with the uncertainty of what the duo would plan next. Her ears flicked at the sound of her friends calling for her, her head wearily turning towards their direction.

With what little strength she still possessed, Beatrix lifted off the tattered tower to meet with them and take care of any casualties.

It wasn’t the outcome she hoped for, but she was glad the battle, at least, came to an end.

Returning to the palace, the heroes pulled their bruised and battered bodies into the throne room. Splotches of red soaked the snow, where Beatrix spotted the occasional abandoned weapon partially buried by the snowfall. Many were injured, but none suffered any life-threatening injuries, much to the relief of everyone. Beatrix nearly tripped under the weight of fatigue before Dion caught her. The witch gave the burly ram a wary glance before the two wrapped arms around each other, holding tightly.

“Glad tae see yer in one piece, lassie,” he heavily sighed.

“You too…. W-where is Oona?”

“A’m hair,” the dream faun called out, adjuring her wooly hair to hide the extra pair of horns she severed. The process was always painful, her head aching terribly. But she was not yet ready to unveil this part of her life to her beloved traveler. Their mission came first. “Had tae make sure no ether citizens wair left behind.”

“Told ye she would come out on top!” Dion boasted as Beatrix pulled away to embrace and kiss her lover.

“I’d say we all handled ourselves well,” Tirek added in, who bumped fists with his fellow warrior.

“Yeah,” Cozy Glow chimed in, hovering around them. “We managed to evacuate everyone to safety! The King and Queen will be truly grateful!”

“B-but it’s not over,” Beatrix reminded bitterly. “Shadow Scythe, Zeloph, and this 'Doppia' lady remain at large. If they manage to get to Enock first, all our efforts would be for nothing!”

“Aye. This squabble won’t compare tae th' infernal storm th' Burning King will brew upon his return,” Dion agreed.

“Then your next course of action should be to find them,” a foreboding voice echoed as King Ambros emerged from the dark corridor. Despite his best attempts, not even the stone mask he wore could hide how frightened his crimson eyes were. Instantly, Tirek and Cozy bowed as the dark unicorn took his seat.

“How are ye an' th' Queen fairin'?” Oona asked with concern.

“I'm fine,” answered Ambros. “Radiant Hope has been grievously wounded. She's asleep, but she’ll recover once we replenish the Crystal Heart.”

“That’s a relief,” Beatrix sighed. “Forgive us, your majesty. We should have been better prepared.”

“No,” a low voice echoed from around them. “The fault is mine.”

Footsteps echoed loudly as the unseen assailant shimmered with an emerald glow. Hexagonal shapes blinked around her black webbed cloak, her jagged horn poking through the top. Her translucent wings buzzed behind her back, strains of stringy turquoise draped over her slender figure. Beatrix and the group were in awe as the changeling monarch revealed herself at last.

A disgruntled look rested on her face as she, too, bowed her head apologetically towards the unicorn king. “We were deceived, Ambros. I had my best guards tasked to protect the Crystal Heart. Yet none of them would have suspected to be blindsided by their own comrades.”

“A changeling went rogue?” He asked, puzzled.

Chrysalis shook her head. “What I saw was no changeling. Using my Onoma, Aphaea, to remain unseen, I was unaffected by the demon's magic. But to them, she was undistinctive. I believe this was that illusionist the dream shaman spoke briefly about.”

“Madame Doppia,” Oona presumed with disdain. She should have been more informative about their enigmatic foe.

“So you did nothing!?” Beatrix berated. “You just let her walk in and rip out the shard?”

This accusation earned a narrowed gaze from the tall changeling as she cooly responded, “I had to keep my cover, no matter how great the loss. Any information I could relay to the King and Queen was paramount! They understood the risks when they took their oath. The C.I.D. must never compromise.”

The witch begrudging backed down, still shaken from her dauntless bout with Zeloph.

“Luckily for us, your friend with the pigtails intercepted the Vice Lord within the chambers. I snuck in to see the two dance around until a veil of smoke covered them. Both were knocked out until the charcoal mare shakenly rose, just as the large pegasus ran in.”

“Ha! Well, kindle me kelts!” Said Dion, impressed. “Th' lass rangled with a Vice Lord an' won!”

“Hmph! Serves you right for giving her crap!” Beatrix mocked, playfully punching him in the shoulder, who sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck.

He admitted, “Aye…. Ah owe her an apology.”

Ambros, however, kept a darkened expression on his face. “So then, where are they? Surely, they would be here with the missing shard by now.”

Chrysalis folded her arms, her brows furrowed. “I watched them disappear into the tunnel with the demon and shard in tow. I…thought they would have arrived shortly before I did.”

Lady Ewe cast a worried glance at Beatrix and her brother. “Somethin’ is wrong…”

Just then, another changeling fluttered in, panting hoarsely. “My queen! A few of our agents spotted a charcoal mare and a pegasus racing out of the Crystal Empire!”

Beatrix, Oona, Dion, and King Ambros stared at each other perplexed before exclaiming, “What!?”

“Did you see anything else?” Chrysalis questioned.

“Yes, ma’am! They appeared to be following some kind of large shadow gliding through the snow.”

“They must be tracking down Shadow Scythe!” Tirek proposed.

“Yeah. And that means Zeloph is with her,” Beatrix nodded. “She snuck under to retrieve him before I could take him in.”

“Well, whit are we waitin' for! They’ll need our support!” Dion yelled.

“No.… I sense somethin' is amiss,” Oona proclaimed. “Why would they go efter them first instead ov returnin' here with th' shard?”

“We’ll figure it out when we get there, Oona,” the witch said, tugging on her tunic sleeve impatiently. “We can’t let Zeloph and Shadow Scythe roam free! This may be our only chance to get answers!”

“B-but Ceann Oga-”

“She’s right,” Ambros nodded, turning to his three generals before ordering. “Rally up the guards! I want everyone to back up my dau...ahem, Cerise and Midnight as they pursue those fiends! Bring them back alive!”

“Yes, your highness!”

As Tirek and Cozy Glow rounded up their troops, Chrysalis and her spies disappeared into the cold night skies as Beatrix and the sheep siblings raced out of the room first. All of them were greatly fatigued from their recent brawl, but it hardly mattered when their friends could be in trouble. This spoke personally to Beatrix, who still blamed herself for what happened to her half-brother. Perhaps this was what she needed to repair the damage she caused to Cerise.

Beatrix turned to her lover, who looked deeply troubled by the whole ordeal.

And while she was determined to end this conflict between their oldest adversaries, she couldn’t help shake off the feeling that something was terribly off.

Far beyond the empire’s gates where the blizzard had thankfully died down, Shadow Scythe reemerged out from the shadows, using the last of her archaic magic to drag Zeloph’s cold frame towards a massive tree. The shadowy tendrils dissolved as the reaper plopped down beside him, breathing heavily while looking over her partner. The nephilim looked far worse for wear, his chest rising and falling worryingly slow. None of the eyes studded along his crooked wings were open, many feathers denuded from his plume.

Her heart ached at the sight of him, the pale unicorn pulling herself up, gripping her sickle tightly. She could behead him and put him out of his misery. A favor for the mercy and kindness he’d shown her.

But as she raised her weapon with trembling hands, the soft sound of his voice halted her.

“Heh.… Dedicated to your craft. I’ve always admired that about you,” Zeloph dryly chuckled, one eye hazily staring up at her. “At least I’ll die by your hand, knowing it’ll be quick...”

But the self-proclaimed death goddess couldn’t bring herself to do it. With a frustrated snarl, she fell back onto her knees, dropping her blade into the snow. “No…the child still needs you,” she whispered, looking away. “...and maybe I do, too.”

There. She finally admitted it.

Despite everything he’d put her through, Shadow Scythe had come to care deeply about the fallen one. Whether it was her enforced empathy or not, she couldn’t forsake these feelings any longer.

A finger gently pulled her chin back towards Zeloph, a depressed smile on his lips before coughing. “Damn…even with our renewed powers, we still failed. And yet, strangely, I don’t mind being the loser.”

“It was my mistake,” Shadow Scythe admitted, crawling over and top of him without pressing too much weight. “The skank was right. I’ve become soft. And for so long, I loathed myself for allowing such weakness to slip through. That night, after you visited me and my memories resurfaced…I thought about ending my life. It would have been easy. One swift cut to my neck and all the pain and torment I’ve endured would pour out. And I would find serenity as I took my last breaths.”

She sniffled, gripping his shoulder tightly as a stream of tears oozed down her cheeks. “But I couldn’t do it…because now, I’m more afraid of dying than ever before!”

“Shhhhhh,” Zeloph soothed, adjusting his position to bring an arm around the reaper, one of his hands stroking through her white locks. He could feel her tears stain his torso as she continued to sob.

“If we die, we'll return to Pathos, where that skinless monster and his minions will ravage us.”

“Should we try again?” Zeloph asked the reaper, who shook her head.

“It’s clear you don't have the will for this anymore. And…I don’t, either.”

“Well…if that is our fate, I take solace knowing I won’t spend my eternity of damnation alone.”

Heat rose inside Shadow Scythe once she sunk further into his firm hold. His mangled wings managed to enclose around them protectively. Wiping away the wetness, her eyes locked with Zeloph’s. The winged immortal noting a hunger in those icy orbs unlike any he’d seen before.

“Shadow Scythmn!?”

Instantly, the unicorn locked maws with him, pressing him hard against the base of the tree. Her fingers clawed into his chest as her kisses grew hotter, her hips feverishly grinding against his pelvis. He muffled a pained moan as she nibbled into his bottom lip, pulling from his mouth with drops of blood smeared on her lips and teeth. Panting like an animal in heat, she lapped it away.

“S-Shadow Scythe, what are you-”

“Fuck it. We’re going to die either way, right?” She groaned, pulling off her hooded robe. While her body was layered in bandages, hardened nipples poked through the cloth. “Might as well rid myself of my virginity before those wretched creatures take it.”

“W-wait, this isn’t like yo-” But his protests were silenced by another forceful kiss, the lithe unicorn fully pressing her body into his. He shuddered uncontrollably; what remained of his feathers and wings unfurling on end.

But despite how badly he wanted to return her lustful advances, Zeloph knew this was only a result of her estrus and how unstable it made her, thanks to her constant self-denial. Hissing as Shadow Scythe tried to pry his jean pants off, he took hold of her wrists to cease her actions. She tried to wrestle out of it, causing him to lightly push her back.

“Shadow Scythe, stop!!” He cried through shallow gasps. “You’re hurting me...!”

The pale unicorn gazed with flustered cheeks, bewildered by her partner’s rejection. Her small breast heaved. “I-I don’t understand…. This is what you wanted, isn’t it? To fuck me and make my body yours? All this time, teasing me about giving in to my innate desires. And now you deny me!?”

“Not like this!” He tried to reassure her. “Not when you’re on the verge of breaking down. This isn’t you, Shadow Scythe. You would never do this, no matter how desperate...”

The cold wind howled through the pair as they simply stared at each other. It pained Zeloph to refuse her, but he would feel terribly guilty to take advantage of Shadow Scythe in such a state. Slowly, she got off the battered angel and sat back down, back turned to him. She shivered and crossed her arms, rubbing down her lean shoulders.

“You're right…this was a mistake,” she seethed, unable to hide the whimpers in her sore throat. “Let’s just…f-forget it.”

Zeloph sighed deeply, forcing his aching body to get up and retrieve her discarded robe. When he offered it to her, she cast a cold glare to his hand before yanking it, sliding the tattered cloth back on.

He couldn’t blame her for hating him. Still, he tried to comfort her as the fallen angel cradled his arms and plume around her.

“I do want you,” he reaffirmed softly. “When we’re both safe and ready.”

Shadow Scythe said nothing to him. Just laid in his arms with her head hung lowly.

“Found you!” A feminine voice exclaimed, causing the pair to raise their heads.

Cerise and Midnight arrived, flinging Doppia’s unconscious body before them while brandishing their weapons. The bat-winged mare leered at them with disgust. “Ugh! Should have known you two would have a thing for each other.”

The reaper ignored the comments and steadily rose back up, summoning her sickle back to her hand. “So even she failed? Pha! Useless whore,” she muttered, looking over the crystal pegasus before addressing the married couple. Zeloph narrowed his gaze at the Crystal Heart shard tied around Cerise’s neck, resting comfortably over her nude breasts.

“You’re both badly injured, and yet you still want to fight?” The dancer questioned while Midnight offered a grunt.

“I don’t want to fight you, princess,” Shadow Scythe stated with a curled snout. “But I will if I have to! Just leave us be, and we won’t cause anyone harm, I swear.”

Cerise giggled coldly. “Oh, please. I think we all know it’s far too late for that,” she scoffed before an unfitting smile slowly spread her lips.

“Isn’t that right... cagna~?”

Apprehension came too late for the reaper as Midnight suddenly lept into action, his eyes consumed in vermillion, and his bulk expanded. With fully widened plumage and a snarl, the pegasus pounded Shadow Scythe’s midsection, the unicorn doubling over and hurling, losing grasp of her weapon.

The berserk Midnight battered Shadow Scythe before knocking her down with a backhanded fist. Alarmed, Zeloph tried to rekindle his magic only for the soldier to uppercut his jaw, sending him hard into a tree. The false idol yelled in pain; his back arched as he rattled onto his front.

Shadow Scythe clutched at her fractured ribs, bloodied saliva spewing from her mouth as she stared wide-eyed at the couple. A ghastly green aura glowed from Midnight’s eyes while ‘Cerise’ swayed over to them, cackling in delight.

“D-Doppia!?”

“Ding~! You guessed correctly. Bravo, amica!” the Vice Lord taunted through Cerise's voice, clapping her hands together.

“N-no…” Zeloph wheezed, struggling to rise again as the demoness used Cerise’s body to kick her own with a laugh.

“It wasn’t that hard. Once poor Cerise surrendered to her bitterness and jealousy, stealing her vessel was child’s play. But, admittingly, I needed one key ingredient to ensure my spell worked.”

“T-the hair...!” Shadow Scythe gasped, earning Doppia’s sly grin. “T-then this was--”

“All part of my scheme to get rid of that frail body. Thanks to my Onoma, all of my magic transfers with my soul. And, might I say...” She sensually posed, showing off Cerise’s fit and supple form, filling up her larger bust. “I couldn’t ask for a more suitable body! And I have you to thank for it, amica~!”

“Y-you vile bitch! I’ll-gnnaaaagh!!” Shadow Scythe yelled as the demoness stomped onto her hand.

“Unfortunately, seeing as you failed your mission, I don’t see any reason not to kill you. Sorry, but I can’t risk you jeopardizing my plans. Mmm, you, however...~” She turned towards Zeloph before snapping her fingers. The brainwashed Midnight lifted him up by his head, the soldier entirely under a new spell conjured with Cerise’s power.

Not even an hour passed since swindling this body, and Doppia tapped into magic the princess wasn’t even aware of!

Grinning like a cat, the charcoal mare strutted towards the sore angel, sneering down at 'Doppia' below. “It’s not too late to join me, Zeloph~!”

“W-what…do you want from me?” He demanded through a strained voice.

“Only to give you the ‘glorious’ redemption you crave,” she sultrily whispered, taking his hands towards her breasts to give a tender squeeze, sighing with elation as supple skin squished. “Was it not Cerise who played a huge part in your downfall? So why not take revenge by inseminating her body, hmm~? Fill her fertile womb and make her carry your spawn... Hehe! Or should I say, make me carry your spawn~?”

“N-no…don’t!” Hissed Shadow Scythe, who crawled over and tried to light her horn, only for sparks to spit from her cracked horn. Nor could she conjured her Onoma to slip into the shadows. Her attempt was stopped as Midnight brutally kicked her away.

“Shadow Scythe!” Zeloph cried, wriggling as the Vice Lord pulled his face back to hers and stole a kiss from him. He shuddered with disgust, aware the body Doppia inhabited was an unwilling victim to her game.

Pulling away, she lustfully purred, “Forget her! Make love to me, and I’ll provide you with strong nephilim children we can raise to take on the Burning King~! Together, none shall defy us!”

The nephilim managed to shake his head, glaring defiantly at Doppia. “Y-you’re sick if you think I’ll ever give into you. The only thing you deserve from me is my pity!”

That smiled twisted into a sneer, visibly shaking, pointing a finger towards Shadow Scythe, who struggled to keep conscious. “You would reject me for her!? She’s a weakling!”

“She doesn’t have to steal another’s body to acquire strength. And deep down, you know that no matter whose face you wear, you’ll always be the Burning King’s lapdog.”

Snarling, the vile sorceress slapped Zeloph across the cheek. “Bastard! How dare you, after all, I’ve done for you!?”

“Deluded cunt,” the pale unicorn spat, forcing herself onto her arms.

Looking between the unloyal pair, Doppia's mouth spread into another vicious grin. “Midnight, marito~!” She called forth the pegasus soldier, who dropped Zeloph into the blood-stained snow. “Why not enjoy yourself with that cagna? A hyper-stallion needs to replenish his reserves, after all~.”

The reaper’s eyes widened as the hulking stallion grabbed at her leg to flip Shadow Scythe onto her back, tearing at robes with ease while she screamed with feeble resistance. “N-no, stop! Get off me! NO!! PLEASE!”

“You should be more grateful, amica!” The charcoal mare mocked. “I’m finally freeing you of your worthless chasity...unless someone has a sudden change of heart~?”

Those malicious neon eyes fell onto Zeloph, who watched helplessly as his comrade struggled to get Midnight off of her. Finally, with clenched fists and a chewed lip, the fallen one relented, hanging his head low. “... I’ll do it. Just don’t hurt her anymore...”

“Z-Zeloph, no!!”

“Heha! Knew you’d see things my way~” Doppia purred, waving her hand to call off her hulked puppet from assaulting the unicorn further. As her eyes noticed how erected his endowed stallionhood was, she held a finger to her lips to ponder. “Hmm… Still, can’t keep him pent up like this. He’ll expire too early!”

A different sound caused her bat-shaped ears to flick, turning towards her old body. It appeared Cerise was slowly stirring awake.

“Ahah! What perfect timing~! Midnight, sate yourself with that silly wench. And hold nothing back, hyper-stud! She needs all of your love~” Doppia cruelly ordered.

Cerise fluttered her eyes open, her mind still foggy after that horrid dream. Once her vision focused, the first thing to greet her was the hate-filled leer of her husband. “Mmm-Midnight...? W-what’s wrong?”

The hyper-stallion said nothing, breathing huskily, lips drawn back as saliva flowed from his jaws. She about to ask again until he tore off her black costume in one clean rip as if it offended him to hide ‘her’ body.

That’s when she noticed the horrible trick, blood running cold and eyes widening with horror. Her flesh was crystalline, green in color, her curves much slimmer. And the shredded garments Midnight finished casting aside were a ballerina’s tutu.

Cerise screamed as the stallion she loved pried her thighs open before he unceremoniously shoved his engorged member all the way to her core. She wriggled with agony, feeling like her body was tearing apart from having something so massive penetrate so deep. With brutish grunts, Midnight gripped her thighs and hammered away at the petite dancer, determined to beat her womb into submission.

“AAAGH! S-STOP! MIDNIGHT, PLEASE! AAAAAAAGH!!”

But no matter how she bawled or pleaded, it was utterly futile. This was no longer the kind soldier Cerise fell for and made passionate love with. Just nothing but a vulgar beast, using her current vessel like fresh fuck meat.

“You deplorable cun-naaaagh!!” Zeloph yelled, jolts of painful pleasure suddenly shooting up his spine. His magenta eyes glared down in dismay to find his own member growing to full length, light shimmering around his tip.

Doppia shoved him down and straddled on top, fingers digging into her marehood to lube up. The demoness snickered, revealing enchanted threads tethering them to Midnight and Cerise.

“Ragazzo sciocco! It doesn't matter if you despise me. I’ll still make you hard enough to mate!!” Doppia cackled with a sickening smile, rubbing the head against her dripping pussy before impaling herself down to the base.

“A-Aaaaaaugh~! Yess, so full!” She moaned, one hand groping at her breast as she started to ride on top of the whimpering angel, rolling her hips in quick thrusts. “F-fuck, I’ve waited so long to have this!! Mwah~!”

Not far off, growls and snarls emerged from Midnight, pounding deeply into Cerise’s slit. Betrayed by her flesh, she thoroughly soaked his groin and couldn't hold back her confused moans, her face afire as she quaked under him. His palms roughly kneaded her more petite tits so hard she feared they would bruise. He forced a drawn-out kiss on her lips, then slid lower to nip, suck, and pull on her jiggling mammaries.

Despite the horror of her situation, another orgasm crashed over her, to the point where over several minutes of his rough pounding, she lost track of her unwanted climaxes, reduced to nothing but his personal toy without any of his usual concern for her.

In her mind, she tried reminding herself this wasn't him, that this was the Vice Lord’s doing! Sniffles rose from her as she clenched down, pussy reflexively trying to milk his cock for its baby batter. Her slippery womb biologically primed by a need to take his seed deep inside her moist, tight cunt.

Except this wasn’t her womb. If he succeeded in breeding her, Cerise would be helpless to carry her foe’s unwanted child inside this broken, ravished body.

“P-please…d-don’t! Midnight, pleeeeeaaaaaaaahhh!!!”

Midnight cast back his head and howled, wings unfurled as he sheathed himself with one last, vicious slam that pummeled her. The head of his thick cock flared out and blasted her walls white, to the point where the excess swelled up her belly and drooled out the sides of his meat, down puffy pussy lips, and over her hot pink, puckered asshole.

Cerise twitched, becoming numb to the overwhelming mixture of mind-numbing pain and ecstasy. Her dull eyes leaked tears as she watched Doppia use her body to work Zeloph close to orgasm as well. Given that the nephilim was able to impregnate Beatrix, the same fate appeared inevitable for her.

With teeth clenched tightly, Zeloph restrained himself not to cum, much to Doppia’s annoyance as she smacked his face.

“Stop resisting! Give it to me~!!” She hollered, slamming her hips repeatedly up and down, his shaft coated in fem juices. Just a bit more force, and his crown would pierce through into her womb. “Come ooon! Fuck, I-I’m almost there~! Angh--GAAAAGH!!”

Doppia’s body arched as something sharp pierced into her chest, inky black blood oozing out the wound. The Vice Lord felt an invisible hand choke her while the crystal fragment was ripped off the thread in mid-air. Dispelling her Onoma, the cloaked assassin revealed herself as emerald slits glared into Doppia’s neon eyes.

“A-aaaugh! Impossible!!” She snarled, gripping at the changeling’s wrists. “H-how could you have--”

“I know an imposter when I see one,” Chrysalis scoffed, lifting Doppia off from Zeloph just as the false idol released a weak cry, ropes of glimmering seed splattering into the snow. Doppia gasped upon hearing commotion behind her, turning to see the ensemble of guards rushing towards the scene, Beatrix and her friends in front.

“Gnnnrg! Non è finita!!!” The Vice Lord cursed, unleashing a thick cloud of smoke to blast Chrysalis away before the plume enveloped her body. Wings buzzing, the changeling queen slashed through the veil of black, only for each swipe to clear the smoke altogether.

Her frown deepened, her hand enclosing around the stolen fragment as Dion bull rushed to knock Midnight down. The berserk pegasus roared as his friend applied a headlock, clawing at the ram’s bicep.

“That’s enough, lad!! Knock it off!!” Dion demanded, squeezing his arm hard until Midnight eventually passed out from lack of oxygen. Sighing, the warrior released his hold, chest heaving while turning to find Doppia’s body laying next to them. Her limbs twitched, cum oozing out of her abused hole.

“Huh...?! Middy, why were ye-”

“Dion!!”

Beatrix and Oona ran to Midnight’s side, both exhaling visible breath. The witch scanned the area, appalled to discover the crystal mare’s defiled form lying next to them. The guards swarmed around Zeloph and Shadow Scythe, the latter laying unconscious and the former curled in a fetal position, shivering violently.

“What happened!?” She asked, perplexed.

“Doppia has escaped,” Chrysalis answered with melancholy. “I was able to take back the missing shard, but by the time I arrived, the damage was done…”

“Whit?!” Dion exclaimed in bewilderment. “That doesn’t make any sense! Th' fiend’s layin' right thair! How did she-”

“Sweet lucid dreams...!” Oona gasped, covering her mouth as she knelt over the Vice Lord, waving her hand over to get a feel of her aura. And what she found made the sheep sage weep. “No…there’s been a soul exchange. The person right here…is Cerise!”

Both Dion and Beatrix stared aghast, tears flowing down her cheeks. Whatever hope she had to make amends with the charcoal mare died instantly. Now, not only had Cerise suffered by the witch’s hand, she became a victim to the Vice Lord’s duplicity.

Beatrix fell to her knees as Lady Ewe brought her arms around, the two clinging onto each other as sobs escaped their throats. Dion somberly looked towards the changeling general, sharing a look of unease with had befallen their comrades and foes.

“Wh…whit can we do?” The ram asked dryly, choking on his own sorrows.

“I don’t know…” Chrysalis admitted before ordering the guards to arrest the reaper and demi, cuffing them in chains before preparing to return to the Crystal Empire. Tirek hoisted Midnight’s body over his back while Dion carried the crystal pegasus housing Cerise’s soul bridal style.

Beatrix walked alongside Oona in defeated silence, hands squeezed together.

Horrible sorrow hung around the party as they tread through the snow, too devastated by the atrocious event to speak to each other. How they would all recover and continue with their quest would remain unanswered.

End of Act II

Author's Note

You like cliffhangers, right? I know I do!

For the rest of July and throughout August, I'll be taking another extended break from this story. IRL events have taken up a lot of time, and there are other things I wish to work on.

I'll come back to finish our story sometime in September. Thanks to all who have shown me and Sharaz support and comments about our tales. :heart:

Chapter XII: Of Vices and Virtues

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.

Chapter XIII: Dark Alliances

Bellatrix Primadonna took a deep breath and exhaled before making her statements.

“Sister. I’m sure you’ve prepared a reasonable explanation as to why you’ve allowed these two fiends into our home?”

Her burning glare focused on the reaper and demi-human, who cautiously distanced themselves from Beatrix and her friends. The maids, Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer, also hid behind Dion, quivering at the sight of their old foe, Shadow Scythe. Despite all their vigorous training, both crystal mares couldn’t hide how cowardly they felt before the pale unicorn, who had abused them, turned them into zombie slaves by necromancy, and carelessly swapped their heads, stitch scars still on their necks.

“Okay, I know this looks suspicious as fuck,” began Beatrix, who was still unsure about this whole ordeal. “But, long story short, our journey hit a major roadblock in the form of the Vice Lord, Doppia. We all got duped. So to better our chances of getting to Enock before her, we’re teaming up with Zeloph and Shadow Scythe. We’re pretty low on options...”

The witch gestured towards the emerald crystalline mare in their fold. Cerise, trapped in Doppia’s vessel, did her best to hide from Bellatrix’s gaze.

“Oh dear,” the she-devil lamented, looking over the distraught mare. “Soul exchange?”

“Aye,” Lady Ewe answered. “Among Doppia’s many tricks, stealin’ bodies ov th’ people she covets is her signature ploy. Such a horrible spell.”

“But a spell, nonetheless. So surely, we can find a way to reverse it?”

“Of course we can!” Midnight interjected. “We have to! I-I mean, i-it’s not like the spell is permanent…is it?”

Cerise tensed up with a tinge of dread. The thought of potentially spending the rest of her life as someone else only now crossed her mind.

What would mom and dad say? Would they still love her? Would they even recognize her?

“Ah don’t know, Midnight,” Oona confessed, snout scrunched up in frustration. “Th’ only way we’d know fur certain is when we’ll eventually confront Doppia again.”

“I’d say it’s possible to undo the spell,” Shadow Scythe weighed in, though sporting a nervous expression when all eyes fell on her. She pointed towards the twins. “It should be as simple as swapping their heads back in place, w-which I’m willing to do if you’d allow me...”

But Wet Nurse and Foal Bearer shook their heads in protest. “As if we’d let you anywhere near us,” one twin spat.

The other nodded in agreement. “Besides, I’ve grown used to the weight of my sister’s tits~!” Foal Bearer smiled, feeling up her ample bust. “Truth is, we’ve never felt more connected!”

“O-oh… I see. Understandable,” Shadow Scythe muttered.

“Good on ye, girls,” Dion snorted. “A’d stay wary ov that one. Whatever assistance she’d provided would likely involve a knife tae th’ back!”

“Hey, back off!” Said a defensive Zeloph, hands in his jacket pockets while the tiny wings on his ankles kept him afloat. “She was only offering to help. Is that not what allies do?”

“Pha! Ya think just because we share a common enemy that we’ll look past all th’ atrocities ye an’ her have committed?”

“Never asked you to. But I would expect a bit of chivalry considering the End of Days will be a thousand times worse than anything we pulled!”

“Ah only show chivalry tae mah friends,” the warrior ram proclaimed, looming over the cherub with piercing red eyes. “An’ ye’re not my friend. Sae why don’t you back off, ye overzealous midget!”

“Oh, ever the unwise brute, thinking he is stronger just because I'm outsized,” Zeloph snarked, his own glare highlighted with a vermillion glow. “But I wouldn’t underestimate me yet. I still have the power to send you soaring into the surface of the sun!”

“A’d like tae see ye try, wee man!” Dion growled, pressing his head into the snarky angel, ready to give him a walloping.

“Boys!” Moxxi called, getting between the two and shoving them apart. “We’re never garn ter get ter Enock's wif ya Bo-le Of Glue 'avin' a pissin' contest! Spoiler alert; I’d win by growin' the bigger penis! Na be-ave! We’re aw in this together, loike it or not!”

The two continued to glare daggers before turning their backs and folding their arms, offering a begrudging ‘hmph!’.

“Oh, brother,” both Lady Ewe and Moxxi grumbled together, which caused the two to giggle in realization.

“The imp is right,” sighed Bellatrix. “As much as I hate the thought of sharing a house with you two, it’s better than letting the Burning King roam free. Which is why we’re all going to work on our ‘teamwork’ skills tomorrow.”

The entire group collectively groaned and muttered a few objections but were hesitant to act on them. Ultimately, there was no better alternative than to learn to cooperate and respect one another. Less they let Doppia succeed in her nefarious plot and unleash the forces of Pathos using Abadonna’s potential.

“It’s settled then,” reaffirmed Bellatrix. “I’ll have the twins prepare the extra rooms for our new ‘guests.’”

Wet Nurse and Foal Bearer reluctantly nodded and bowed their heads, knowing they couldn’t refuse their nature as servants just yet. Then, with a sway of their hips, they walked up the stairs to search out bedrooms for Shadow Scythe and Zeloph, who began to follow them until Bellatrix yanked the demi by the tail.

“Ah! H-hey!! What are you-”

“I’d like to have a word with you, actually.” The shapeshifter marched off with the demi-human in tow before calling to the others, “I suggest you all rest up. We have a long day ahead of us.”

Shadow Scythe was about to protest but decided against it with pursed lips and continued tailing the twins from behind.

“I… I need some air,” Midnight said, spreading his massive plumage and flapping off towards the manor’s entrance.

“Ugh! This whole situation blows more chunks than a hippo’s arse...” Dion mumbled before making his way into the kitchen, knowing he’d need a strong drink before he could settle down.

“Oh, this situation is totally donalded! Imagine me! Playin' peacekeeper! Pha~!” Moxxi laughed as she vanished in a puff of smoke.

“I know tensions are high right now. But, Honestly? I’m looking forward to tomorrow,” Cerise admitted, rubbing her sleeve. “It’ll be a chance to get better acquainted with this body… as well as our former adversaries, I suppose.”

“Are you sure you’re feeling okay?” Beatrix asked with concern, but the crystal mare managed to muster a smile.

“Probably not. But I’m clinging to hope this will all work out in the end! It’s all I have now, really, so I might as well try...”

“That’s a wonderful way ov lookin’ at it,” Oona encouraged before wrapping her arms around the dancer, who returned her warm hug. “Have faith, Cerise. We’ll get through this!”

“Thank you, Lady Ewe,” Cerise sniffled as she pulled away. “Well… see you tomorrow!”

“Goodnight, Cerise.” Beatrix waved, watching her friend depart towards her sleeping quarters.

“Will ye be joinin’ me, Ceann Oga?”

The witch turned to her wooly lover before lightly objecting. “I-In a bit. I better check up on Midnight. Poor guy’s not been taking this so well...”

The sheep sage nodded with an assured smile. “Okay. Take yer time.”

With all said and done, Beatrix took to the stairs to look for the blue pegasus while her mentor went to their room, hopeful that by tomorrow, their shaky alliance would become more stable before they head back to Canterlot.

“Y’know. When you said you wanted to talk, I thought it would involve a little less… rope.”

Once again, Zeloph found himself tied up at the foot of a bed, a very unamused look on his face. Bellatrix stood before him, leering down.

“Think of this more as ‘safety precautions,’” proclaimed the she-devil. “I need to be certain you won’t try anything while under my roof!”

“If that’s the case, then how come Shadow Scythe isn’t here with us?”

Bellatrix shrugged. “I sensed a drastic change in the reaper. She’s a lot more docile and willing to repent. But, honestly, I always knew she’d come around eventually.”

“Really now? How... observant.”

“You, on the other hand…” She lifted one of her supple legs to press her heeled feet against the cherub’s chest, making Zeloph yelp as the sharp stub threatened to penetrate his abdomen. “... Are still an egotistical monster that I refuse to tolerate. I don’t care what form you take or where your allegiance is, Zeloph. What you’ve done to both Beatrix and Cerise is unforgivable!”

“Oh, don’t act like you’re so high and mighty,” the demi scoffed with a strained breath, staring up defiantly. “There was a time you loathed your sister and the princess as well. Hell, there isn’t a single person in this manor who wasn’t ego-driven… save for the twins, maybe. But, for the record? While I’ve indulged in many heinous acts, rape and body theft are not among them…”

“Nonetheless, I will be the one to judge whether you are worthy of our cause.”

“Then let’s be honest here, shall we?” Zeloph suggested, his magenta gaze narrowed. “What is this really about, Bellatrix? You don’t expect me to believe you’re interrogating me just because of a mere vendetta, do you?”

Hellish gold orbs studied the angel’s cooly. A sadistic smirk spreads her plump lips. “No, you’re right,” Bellatrix admitted, relieving some pressure off the cherub’s body. “My purpose for this is a lot more selfish. As much as I want to eviscerate you right now, that would be far too easy. So you deserve a more ‘fitting’ punishment~.”

Zeloph’s brow furrowed as the shapely demoness pulled off her lacy black bra, her tits bouncing slightly before she bent down to tug away at her panties. Heat rose in his cheeks as he said, “... y-you’re joking, right?”

“Do I look like I'm joking?” Bellatrix countered, her nails extended out to cup the demi-human’s chin. “Tell me, Zeloph. Have you ever had a dream about us? Because I had one. We went at it like predatory animals, fighting for dominance until I rose as the victor.”

“What?! N-no! I-I don’t know what you’re talking about,” He insisted, though his tone and refusal to properly look at her told another story, much to Bellatrix’s fiendish delight as she cut at his cheek. “Y-yaagh!”

“I thought we were being honest with each other~!” the shapeshifter purred. “Very telling that you would blatantly lie to avoid someone else’s control.”

“Neegh! O-okay, fine! S-so, what if we shared a wet dream together? You’re not actually going to follow through with it… a-are you?”

“My body has needs. And despite my loathing, you’re too much of a catch to pass up. So I plan to use your body until I'm fully satisfied, be it by blood or cum~.”

“Well, sorry to disappoint. You’ll find it very difficult to state your urges with someone of my current stature,” Zeloph scoffs. Though he found his circumstances utterly demeaning, he took gratitude knowing that in his cherub form, sex was unlikely to happen with him.

Bellatrix hummed thoughtfully while licking his blood off her nail. “That is true. It won’t be as fun to ravage you while you’re so small...”

The false idol almost sighed in relief until a crimson flash triggered around Bellatrix before she altered her form. Zeloph yelped as she straddled on top of him, now bearing an imp’s figure, not unlike his half-sister. Bellatrix cupped her still sizable chest and wiggled her hips against his groin.

“There we go! Now we’re of equal size~” Bellatrix mused, her voice slightly more high-pitched. Then, lapping her lips, she dug tiny claws into his torso.

“A-aaahhh! N-No please! Stop! D-don’t do this!” The cherub begged, wriggling like a worm to free his tied hands.

“Aww, getting uncomfortable? Well, that’s too bad! Your discomfort doesn’t compare to the heartache you caused my sister,” she reminded through her hiss.

“I-it wasn’t like that! I didn’t mean to... Aagh! I-I wish I could take everything back!”

This caused the red-skinned beauty to pause her actions, her brow raising. “Ohh? How so?”

Zeloph stopped squirming, sniffling as he turned his head away in embarrassment. “I was… desperate,” he admitted. “I wanted so badly to be a part of Abadonna’s life, after all the kindness and company she gave me. So the moment I learned Beatrix was her potential mother, I didn’t hesitate to seduce her. That being said… It was a terrible thing to do, and I never felt good doing it.”

She slowly pulled off the bond cherub, noting that Zeloph had no erection between his legs despite being naked and aggressively forward. Bellatrix asked, “Morally?”

“And sexually,” the demi added. “I never understood what was so special about sex. Ana always made playful passes. I met plenty of men and women interested in me, but… nothing really clicked. When Beatrix and I had our romp, I was only hard just for the sake of our… well, her child. The only time I enjoyed another’s touch was with--”

“Shadow Scythe,” Bellatrix presumed, to which Zeloph nodded with flustered cheeks. “I saw how quickly you stood up for her. Do you share a deeper connection?”

“Maybe. Had her mind not been unstable during this squall of emotions… I-I would have loved to explore these feelings. Even if she doesn’t return them...”

“And what do you feel now? Towards the very people you once sought to protect?”

Zeloph turned his gaze downward, recalling all the lives and people he ‘purified.’ “I once thought the world was plagued in shadow. That it should have been filled with eternal light. But I was wrong to conflate darkness with evil. For through my creator’s cruelty, my views were blinded by righteous hate. In truth? I would rather put my trust in mortals than any divine force…”

“Hmm.” The she-devil hummed, assuming her angelic shape and full size before her hand glowed softly. Bellatrix gently poured her magic over Zeloph’s face to heal the cut she made. “Very well, Zeloph. I’ll give you a shot to make amends.”

“What?!” The smaller angel gazed up at her, confused. “Why? I didn’t apologize or say anything abou-”

“Not necessarily,” She shook her head with a cunning smile. “But you have shown remorse for your actions. And judging from how you've recoiled from my advances, you’re very earnest about maintaining your relationship with Shadow Scythe. So consider this my personal welcome to our home… provided you’re willing to cooperate with the others.”

Zeloph gave a disgruntled look before sighing. “I can’t promise there won’t be any more difficulties between me, Beatrix, and her friends. But I’ll try to stay on their good side.”

“Excellent!” Bellatrix lifted the tiny angel and untied his hands, letting Zeloph rub at his wrists.

“I have to say. Your methods of interrogation, while uncouth, revealed some surprising results,” admitted the demi-human, adjusting his jacket.

“I suppose your sister has rubbed off on me,” the angelic shapeshifter said with pursed lips. “And, in a way, you have as well.”

“Ooh?”

“I must confess; I’m rather disappointed that, sexually, we aren’t compatible like I dreamt. For all your sanctimonious crap, I don’t fully hate you. You’d make an engaging partner, and I imagined a BDSM-style relationship would benefit both of our needs. But it wouldn’t be fair to get between you and Shadow Scythe.”

Zeloph’s cheeks flourished again. “I-I’m flattered you’d consider me like that. Truth be told, I bear no ill will towards you either. But I’d prefer we remain acquaintances. Perhaps even…friends..?”

Bellatrix let out a rare giggle. “You still have to earn that. But so far, you’re not off to a bad start,” she encouraged.

In return, the demi-human offered a genuine smile before he fluttered towards the door. But opening it revealed Moxxi had been peeping in, a cheeky grin on her face.

“...why am I not surprised?” Zeloph deadpanned. “The moment you respect someone’s privacy is the moment pigs sprout wings and learn to fly.”

“Awwww~! So me stoic lil’ brovwer 'as a crush on the death goddess? 'a cute~!!”

“Don’t want to talk about it.”

“Don’t worry, lov! Wif me 'elp, you’ll get through that White Mice Nellie Dean exterior in nah nickle and dime. Then maybe we’ll get through 'er interior as well!”

“Fuck you!”

“Ooh~! When and where~?” Moxxi purred, causing her brother to grumble with irritation as the pair hovered off down the corridor.

Bellatrix shook her head in amusement before preparing to merge with the manor and provide its sustenance for the night. It might have seemed impossible, but harmony between the former messiah proved likely. The devil queen just hoped her sister and friends could see it too.

The artificial moon graced Midnight’s form while he broods on top of the roof. He stood poised at the edge to overlook the scenery, aware that beyond it was the rocky planetoid where the mansion rooted itself. His emerald gaze drifted to the rune-inscribed wedding ring held in his palm, contemplating throwing the jewelry away.

And the pegasus almost went through with it had a voice not called, “...how are you holding up?”

Beatrix carefully trended on the tattered tiles, approaching her half-brother poised by the gargoyles. “I mean, after all, that's happened-”

“I feel terrible,” admitted Midnight, his head hung. “What I did to Cerise is unforgivable. If I had figured out the Vice Lord made the switch, I could have prevented this! But now she won’t even touch me, let alone let me hold her!” He sighed with dismay. “Not that I blame her…”

“We all know it wasn't your fault,” the violet witch reassured, patting his shoulder. “She just needs time. But the last thing she needs is you to do anything reckless, okay? Once you do or say something, you can’t ever take it back...”

She worried he'd jump off. And that despite his massive wings besting any gale, he wouldn’t use them and just plummet towards the ground.

“I know.” He forced a tired smile while she rubbed his fluffy feathers. “I also know you’re not to blame for my hyper condition. But, I mean, how could you have predicted this would happen when visiting my world? Damn… I can’t wait to leave that horrible place behind, honestly. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed life and my friends there, but…the changelings...”

Repressed memories were resurfacing. His kind trapped in cocoons, ponies driven to the brink of extinction. His mother and twin sister were lost in the confusion, his father nowhere to be seen.

Yet, were it not for Moonlight River's friendship, he might not have made it this far!

She patted his plume. “I understand that. I can relate to not wanting to stick to your homeworld. Most of mine was wiped out by the Cult of the Nemesis. I mostly return to see my family.”

“Do you think you’d ever settle down somewhere? I know you love traveling and all, but…”

Beatrix nibbled on her lip before answering. “I mean…eventually, I’ll have to, won’t I? As much as I cherish the thought of Abby joining me on my travels, I’d be putting her in more danger. I know Oona wants to partake in the Matanam ritual with me. And while that seems scary, I’m more than happy to spend my life with her. Plus, we have a permanent home now with the mansion! Technically it belongs to Bellatrix, but she considers it mine anyhow. But, either way, you'll always have a place here! As will all my friends, and…apparently, enemies too.” She snickered. “So please, try and cheer up for me, okay?”

“Yeah… I’ll try,” he nodded and embraced her in his massive wingspan. She returned his hug as they gazed at the stars.

Despite time being of the essence, there was little choice but to rest and recuperate since they needed all their strength to face the Vice Lords.

Not to mention the Burning King, who, from the sound of it, put all her past opponents to shame…

Alone in their shared room, Lady Oona Ewe was preparing for rest. She sat by the mirror cabinet, a silky nightgown clad over her round body. The azure sheep hummed a soothing melody while brushing her velvet wool.

Thoughts and uncertainties swirled around her mind. Just how strong of an alliance could they have against their foes? Could they genuinely put their differences and past actions aside for the greater good? Shadow Scythe, after enduring so much solitude and self-loathing, finally wanted to change. And Zeloph could reclaim his grace if he cast aside his inner turmoil.

But even with them in their fold. Even with the help of Bellatrix and the twins. Could they succeed against the overwhelming odds?

Cerise would walk away with mental scars and paranoia about herself. Midnight blamed himself for violating his wife. Her brother was becoming more foolhardy and brash.

And then there was Beatrix, who at times became reckless with seeking her daughter at any cost. Oona loved her dearly, but the violet unicorn couldn’t possibly understand how much of an impact she made on everything around her.

It was in loneliness that she made Midnight her half-brother and a hyper-stallion. It was in desperation she became a part of Abadonna’s prophecy with Zeloph.

How much more did Beatrix need until she was finally satisfied with her life? And even then, would she still want to share it with her?

Lady Ewe looked over the nubs sprouting from her wooly head. The second pair of horns was regenerating at a faster rate. It wouldn’t be long until her innate fae magic couldn’t be concealed. And her heart sank at the thought of Beatrix forsaking her mentor, should she discover all the secrets she'd been hiding, despite her promise.

Oona’s breathing grew ragged, trying to hold back her woes while rubbing her temples. “What must Ah do?” She asked herself. “What else can be done tae ensure Abadonna’s safety… an’ Beatrix’s happiness?”

Her warm honey-brown eyes drew towards the lone artifact present at the cabinet’s desk. The worn music box she received during a trip. And with it, the presence of an ominous creature she dreaded to think about. The slightest thought or passing memory would catch his attention.

But what other choice was left if not to call upon the dark force of the unknown?

The azure sheep cautiously glanced at the door, knowing her beloved could come in at any moment. But for her sake and the sake of her child, it was a risk Oona had to take.

With a gentle sigh, she opened the box as its haunting melody began playing. A torn piece of paper attached to the lid, lyrics to an old lullaby written, faded with time. Mustering her voice, Lady Ewe sang along with the music as quietly as she could.

The only candle in the room flickered as the light slowly drained and the shadows grew. Familiar chills ran up the dream faun’s back, ears perked at the sound of lost whispers. Her heartbeat rose, yet her song was unwavering.

That was until his voice joined hers, and her eyes widened at the reflection in the mirror.

Looming just a few feet from her was the Nightmare Stag, his great antlers nearly scratching the ceiling. Through the sockets of his gaunt face were pale eyes glowing brightly in the dark veil that almost swallowed the room. Twigs, leaves, and bonelike branches reached out from his shoulders and torso. His height was crippled, having to hunch down just to fit in the room.

Oona turned to face her twisted counterpart, cautiously crossing her arms over her breasts knowing the material was see-through. Yet, nonetheless, the dream shaman approached the lurking monster. “Ye’re here!”

“ꌦꄲ꒤ ꉔꋬ꒒꒒ꏂ꒯ ꊰꄲꋪ ꂵꏂ,” he said, politely bowing his head down. “ꄲꊰ ꉔꄲ꒤ꋪꇙꏂ ꒐ ꋬꂵ.”

“But it was so sudden! Have ye been stalkin’ us this entire time?”

“꒐ ꂵꋬꌦ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꉣꋪ꒐ꏂ꒯ ꒐ꋊ꓄ꄲ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꒒ꄲ꒦ꏂꋪ’ꇙ ꂵ꒐ꋊ꒯ ꄲꋊꉔꏂ ꄲꋪ ꓄ꅐ꒐ꉔꏂ,” the Nightmare Stag admitted. “ꃳ꒤꓄ ꄲ꓄ꁝꏂꋪꅐ꒐ꇙꏂ, ꒐’꒦ꏂ ꀘꏂꉣ꓄ ꂵꌦ ꒯꒐ꇙ꓄ꋬꋊꉔꏂ.”

“But ye have been followin’ us! Why?”

“꓄ꁝꏂ ꓄꒐ꂵꏂ ꊰꄲꋪ ꋬ ꍌꋪꏂꋬ꓄ ꒯ꏂꉔ꒐ꇙ꒐ꄲꋊ ꋬꉣꉣꋪꄲꋬꉔꁝꏂꇙ, ꄲꄲꋊꋬ. ꄲꋊꏂ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꂵꋬꌦ ꋬ꒒꓄ꏂꋪ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲ꒤꓄ꉔꄲꂵꏂ ꄲꊰ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲꂵꏂꍌꋬ ꉣꋪꄲꉣꁝꏂꉔꌦ.”

Lady Ewe walked over to sit down, never breaking eye contact with the Nightmare Stag. “Okay… an’ this ‘decision’ is solely mine tae make?”

“ꄲꋊ꒒ꌦ ꒐ꊰ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂ꒦ꏂ ꒐꓄ ꒐ꇙ,” riddled the fiend, his size shrinking to accommodate the room’s shape. “ꊰꄲꋪ ꒐꓄ ꅐꋬꇙ ꃳꏂꋬ꓄ꋪ꒐ꉧ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꃳꋪꄲ꒤ꍌꁝ꓄ ꋬꃳꋬ꒯ꄲꋊꋊꋬ ꓄ꄲ ꊰꋪ꒤꒐꓄꒐ꄲꋊ ꂵ꒤ꉔꁝ ꏂꋬꋪ꒒꒐ꏂꋪ ꓄ꁝꋬꋊ ꉣꋪꏂ꒯꒐ꉔ꓄ꏂ꒯.”

“How do ye know all this?” The dream faun asked.

“꒐’꒦ꏂ ꃳꏂꏂꋊ ꍌ꒤꒐꒯꒐ꋊꍌ ꒒ꄲꇙ꓄ ꇙꄲ꒤꒒ꇙ ꊰꄲꋪ ꌦꏂꋬꋪꇙ. ꋬ ꒒ꄲ꓄ ꒒ꄲꋊꍌꏂꋪ ꓄ꁝꋬꋊ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꄲꋪ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꒯ꋪꏂꋬꂵꅐꏂꋬ꒦ꏂꋪ. ꓄ꁝꄲꇙꏂ ꅐꁝꄲ ꇙ꒤ꃳꂵ꒐꓄ ꓄ꄲ ꓄ꁝꏂ꒐ꋪ ꊰꏂꋬꋪꇙ ꃳꏂꉔꄲꂵꏂ ꋬ ꉣꋬꋪ꓄ ꄲꊰ ꂵꌦ ꊰꄲꋪꏂꇙ꓄. ꋬ ꍌꋪ꒐ꂵ ꊰꋬ꓄ꏂ, ꃳ꒤꓄ ꄲꋊꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂꌦ ꉔꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꏂꋬꇙ꒐꒒ꌦ ꋬ꒦ꄲ꒐꒯ꏂ꒯.”

“Maybe in the dark ages,” Oona said with pursed lips. “But times have changed!”

The Nightmare Stag chuckled. “ꋬꁝꁝ, ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꓄ꁝꏂꌦ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ, ꂵꌦ ꊰꋪ꒐ꏂꋊ꒯. ꂵꋬꋊꌦ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꊰꄲꋪꍌꄲ꓄꓄ꏂꋊ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲ꒒꒯ ꅐꋬꌦꇙ. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꅐꏂ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꋊꄲ꓄ ꊰꄲꋪꍌꄲ꓄꓄ꏂꋊ ꓄ꁝꏂꂵ…”

“W-we?”

“꓄ꁝꋬꋊꀘꇙ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꏂꋬ꓄ꋪ꒐ꉧ, ꓄ꁝꏂ ꒒ꄲꇙ꓄ ꅐꄲꋪ꒒꒯ ꒐ꇙ ꇙ꒒ꄲꅐ꒒ꌦ ꃳꏂꉔꄲꂵ꒐ꋊꍌ ꅐꁝꄲ꒒ꏂ. ꋬꋊ꒯ ꇙꄲꄲꋊ, ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲ꓄ꁝꏂꋪꇙ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒ ꋬꅐꋬꀘꏂꋊ.”

“What ‘others!?’” Oona demanded. “Y-ye mean... mair like you?”

“꒐ꋊ ꋬ ꇙꏂꋊꇙꏂ,” the Nightmare Stag confirmed. “ꃳ꒤꓄ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꒯ꏂꉣꏂꋊ꒯ꇙ ꄲꋊ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉔꁝ꒐꒒꒯ ꄲꊰ ꒒꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ꏂꋊ꒯ꋬꋪꀘ. ꋬꋊ꒯ ꅐꁝꏂ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ ꇙꁝꏂ ꁝꄲ꒒꒯ꇙ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉣꄲ꓄ꏂꋊ꓄꒐ꋬ꒒ ꓄ꄲ ꊰꋪꏂꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꃳ꒤ꋪꋊ꒐ꋊꍌ ꀘ꒐ꋊꍌ.”

“What do ye mean?”

“ꉔ꒤ꋪꋪꏂꋊ꓄꒒ꌦ, ꇙꁝꏂ ꋪꏂꇙ꒐꒯ꏂꇙ ꒐ꋊ ꒒꒐ꂵꃳꄲ, ꇙ꓄ꋪ꒤ꍌꍌ꒒꒐ꋊꍌ ꓄ꄲ ꂵꋬ꒐ꋊ꓄ꋬ꒐ꋊ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꂵꏂꂵꄲꋪ꒐ꏂꇙ ꄲꊰ ꁝꏂꋪ ꂵꄲ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ. ꃳ꒤꓄, ꄲꋊꉔꏂ ꓄ꁝꄲꇙꏂ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꃳꏂꏂꋊ ꏂꋪꋬꇙꏂ꒯, ꇙꄲ ꓄ꄲꄲ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒ ꇙꁝꏂ. ꒒꒐ꀘꏂꅐ꒐ꇙꏂ, ꃳꏂꋬ꓄ꋪ꒐ꉧ’ꇙ ꒯ꏂꇙ꒐ꋪꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꁝꏂꋪ ꒯ꋬ꒤ꍌꁝ꓄ꏂꋪ ꒐ꇙ ꅐꁝꋬ꓄ ꀘꏂꏂꉣꇙ ꁝꏂꋪ ꇙꉣ꒐ꋪ꒐꓄ ꋬ꒒꒐꒦ꏂ. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꒯꒤ꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꏂ꒐ꋊꍌ ꋬꋊ ꋬꋊꄲꂵꋬ꒒ꌦ, ꒐꓄ ꒐ꇙ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂꊰ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꍌ꒐꒦ꏂꇙ ꋬꃳꋬ꒯ꄲꋊꋊꋬ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉣꄲꅐꏂꋪ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꋪꏂꋬꀘ ꋊꋬ꓄꒤ꋪꋬ꒒ ꒒ꋬꅐ.”

“Sae it's a case ov ‘Ah think… therefore, Ah am?’”

“ꌦꏂꇙ! ꏂꉧꋬꉔ꓄꒒ꌦ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄,” the Nightmare Stag mused. “꒯ꋪꏂꋬꂵꇙ. ꋊ꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ꂵꋬꋪꏂꇙ. ꁝꄲꉣꏂ. ꒯ꏂꇙꉣꋬ꒐ꋪ. ꋬꅐꋬꀘꏂ. ꋬꇙ꒒ꏂꏂꉣ. ꋬ꒒꒒ ꊰ꒤ꏂ꒒ꏂ꒯ ꃳꌦ ꁝꄲꅐ ꇙ꓄ꋪꄲꋊꍌ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂꊰ ꒐ꇙ. ꇙꄲ ꒐ꊰ ꄲꋊꏂ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂ꒦ꏂꇙ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉔꁝ꒐꒒꒯ ꄲꊰ ꒒꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ꏂꋊ꒯ꋬꋪꀘ ꒐ꇙ ꄲꂵꋊ꒐ꉣꄲ꓄ꏂꋊ꓄, ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲꉣꉣꄲꇙ꒐꓄ꏂ ꉔꋬꋊ ꋬ꒒ꇙꄲ ꃳꏂ ꓄ꋪ꒤ꏂ.”

A gasp left Oona’s throat as realization rooted her mind. “Sae if we were tae take away Abby’s potential fur world-breakin’ magic…”

“ꇙꁝꏂ ꅐꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꃳꏂ ꃳꄲꋪꋊ ꋬꇙ ꋬ ꇙ꒐ꂵꉣ꒒ꏂ ꒒꒐꓄꓄꒒ꏂ ꂵꋬꋪꏂ. ꓄ꁝ꒤ꇙ ꀘꏂꏂꉣ꒐ꋊꍌ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꃳ꒤ꋪꋊ꒐ꋊꍌ ꀘ꒐ꋊꍌ ꊰꄲꋪꏂ꒦ꏂꋪ ꃳꄲ꒤ꋊ꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꉣꋬ꓄ꁝꄲꇙ.”

“Sweet Lucid Dreams!!” Lady Ewe clapped her hands over her snout, shoulders shaking as emotion began to flood out of her through tears. It was a flimsy solution, but a solution nonetheless. Hope was sparkling in her eyes.

The Nightmare Stag laid a hand over Oona’s shoulder, pulling her attention back to his skull-like visage. “꓄ꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꒐ꇙ ꋬ ꉣꋪꄲꃳ꒒ꏂꂵ, ꓄ꁝꄲ꒤ꍌꁝ. ꋬꃳꋬ꒯ꄲꋊꋊꋬ ꇙ꓄꒐꒒꒒ ꋊꏂꏂ꒯ꇙ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꏂ ꃳꄲꋪꋊ. ꋬꋊ꒯ ꅐ꒐꓄ꁝꄲ꒤꓄ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꋬ꒐꒯ ꄲꊰ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꊰꋬ꒒꒒ꏂꋊ ꄲꋊꏂ, ꃳꏂꋬ꓄ꋪ꒐ꉧ ꒐ꇙ ꒐ꋊꉔꋬꉣꋬꃳ꒒ꏂ ꄲꊰ ꋬꋊꄲ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ ꉣꋪꏂꍌꋊꋬꋊꉔꌦ…”

“O-oh, ye’re right! Even if we rescued her, she’d be stillborn!” Horrified, she rose up to her counterpart, desperation written well on her face as the azure sheep held his hand. “Please… Ye’ve been sae generous wit knowledge. There must be some way tae aid in Abadonna’s rebirth!”

“꓄ꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꒐ꇙ,” the Nightmare Stag nodded. “ꃳ꒤꓄ ꃳꏂ ꅐꋬꋪꋊꏂ꒯; ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꒒ꄲ꒦ꏂꋪ ꂵꋬꌦ ꋪꏂꇙꏂꋊ꓄ ꌦꄲ꒤.”

“H-huh? But why..?”

“꓄ꁝꏂ ꉣꋪꄲꉣꁝꏂꉔꌦ ꒐ꇙ ꋬꋊ ꄲ꒒꒯ ꄲꋊꏂ. ꋬꋊ꒯ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꏂ꓄ꁝ꒐ꉔꋬ꒒ ꋪꏂꆰ꒤꒐ꋪꏂꂵꏂꋊ꓄ꇙ ꃳꏂꉔꋬꂵꏂ ꒒ꄲꇙ꓄ ꒐ꋊ ꂵꋬꋊꌦ ꓄ꋪꋬꋊꇙ꒒ꋬ꓄꒐ꄲꋊꇙ ꒯꒤ꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꋬ ꁝꋬꋊ꒯ꊰ꒤꒒ ꄲꊰ ꇙꉔꁝꄲ꒒ꋬꋪꇙ ꇙꏂꏂꀘ꒐ꋊꍌ ꊰꋬꂵꏂ. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉔꋪ꒐꓄꒐ꉔꋬ꒒ ꉔꄲꋊ꒯꒐꓄꒐ꄲꋊ ꋪꏂꂵꋬ꒐ꋊꇙ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꇙꋬꂵꏂ…”

The deer-faced creature brought the sleep shaman closer in his arms, his eyes almost twinkling. And when he next spoke, it was as if many voices empowered the bass of his own.

“ꅐꁝ꒐꓄ꏂ ꋬꋊ꒯ ꃳ꒒ꋬꉔꀘ ꂵ꒤ꇙ꓄ ꃳꏂꉔꄲꂵꏂ ꄲꋊꏂ ꊰꄲꋪ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉔꁝ꒐꒒꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꏂ ꃳꄲꋪꋊ ꒐ꋊ꓄ꄲ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꅐꄲꋪ꒒꒯.”

Color blushed all over Oona’s cheeks, her chest heaving. She understood the implications of the Nightmare Stag’s proposal.

This was the decision she had to make. One that would negatively impact her relationship with Beatrix if she didn’t tell her...

“But if Ah do, Abadonna’s memories will be--”

“ꇙꁝꁝꁝꁝ...” the fiendish deer hushed in a soothing tone, brushing his crooked fingers through her wool. “꒐꓄'ꇙ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꉔꁝꄲ꒐ꉔꏂ. ꃳ꒤꓄꒐ꊰ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꒯ꄲꋊ’꓄ ꒯ꏂꉔ꒐꒯ꏂ, ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉔꁝ꒐꒒꒯ ꄲꊰ ꒒꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ꏂꋊ꒯ꋬꋪꀘ’ꇙ ꊰꋬ꓄ꏂ ꋪꏂꂵꋬ꒐ꋊꇙ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꇙꋬꂵꏂ. ꄲꋊꉔꏂ ꇙꁝꏂ ꄲꉣꏂꋊꇙ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꍌꋬ꓄ꏂ, ꋬ꒒꒒ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒ ꃳꏂ ꒒ꄲꇙ꓄.”

A wave of emotions overwhelmed the azure sheep. Ultimately, this was the same choice Beatrix made when confronting Zeloph. And, like the demi-human, unseen motives were undoubtedly at play. But if this was the price Oona had to pay to ensure Beatrix and Abadonna were reunited, could the dream faun make such a sacrifice..?

“Oona?” Beatrix's voice called out.

Lady Ewe’s eyes snapped open, her body arching up in alarm as she spotted the witch through the cabinet mirror. And in her reflection, the azure sheep’s gazelle-shaped horns had sprouted entirely from her head, glowing alongside her curved ones. Her honey eyes shifted down at the music box, which had stopped playing. Sweat glistened her skin and wool, a telling sign she had drifted deeply asleep.

The Nightmare Stag was nowhere in sight.

“W-whoa! Are you alright?!” Beatrix rushed over, hands rubbing her teacher’s shoulders, her face drawn in concern. “A-and what are these horns?”

Oona rubbed her head in an attempt to heal the ache. “A-A’m okay, Ceann Oga,” the sheep sage assured. “Ah must have fallen asleep while waitin’ fur ye.”

“You sure? It looked like you were having a nightmare...” Her expression darkened. “Were you visited by the stag?”

The azure sheep turned to her lover, her lips quivering. In her heart, Oona knew she could no longer hide the truths she needed to tell. Not when her fae magic ran rampant in front of her beloved. With wet eyes and a deep exhale, she rose from the chair to take Beatrix’s hands into her own.

Gently smiling, she said, “Aye… Ah was. An’ he brought an omen.”

“I knew it!” The violet witch exclaimed. “Should have known he was one of your many secrets.”

Her statement made the dream faun tilt her head. “A-are ye not angry?”

Beatrix answered with pursed lips. “Yeah, more like a little annoyed, but it was clearly something you weren’t comfortable talking about. And I’ve been rather impatient lately, so it was wrong of me to force it out of you back with Iclyn.”

“Still, a relationship is only as strong as its trust an’ honesty. An’ Ah haven’t been fully honest wit ye like Ah should. A’ve been a terrible marefriend...”

“No! Lady Ewe, that’s nonsense!” She rejected the idea, wrapping her arms around the trembling sheep, their warm bountiful breasts plush against each other. “You’re a wonderful lover and teacher! You’ve been more supportive and meaningful than any fling I’ll have! So if anything, I should apologize if I’ve made you jealous!”

Oona’s only response was to hold Beatrix tighter, utterly grateful she still loved and forgave her after all that was said and done. Pulling away, the sleep shaman said, “Come, lay down wit me. There is much that Ah need tae share.”

Nodding, the violet unicorn allowed her wooly lover to guide them onto the bed, resting her head comfortably against Oona’s pillow mounds, listening to her steady heartbeat.

Sighing in contentment, Beatrix gazed up to her mentor and asked, “So, what did the Nightmare Stag do? What’s this supposed ‘omen’ about?”

“Well,” Oona began. “He may have given us a way that’ll spare Abadonna from th’ End ov Days.”

“What?! Really?”

She nodded, her cheeks flourishing while she bit on her bottom lip.

“...how would ye feel about sharin’ yer role as Abadonna’s mother?”

How long had Doppia been walking through these labyrinthine woods?

Days? Maybe weeks even?

All around her were nothing but twisted trees, some of which the Vice Lord was certain she passed by over a dozen times! And with the lack of mirrors or reflections, she couldn't easily travel into Canterlot. So Doppia was stuck trying to find a way out. And the more time she spent wandering aimlessly through the dense woods, the more unhinged the demented ballerina became.

Her neon locks looked unkept, strains twirling out the ends. Her once-glamorous dress had become filthy with dirt and leaves, a few tears in the faded fabric. Her expression was a livid one, teeth permanently clenched while breaking off twigs that blocked her path in audible snaps.

But the most infuriating thing about this whole ordeal was the blasted ring around her finger. No matter how hard she struggled, Doppia couldn't get it off. She paused for another attempt, this time biting the infernal jewelry.

"Come on! Come ooooon!!" She growled, gnawing irritant. "Get off, you piece of junk! GET! OFF!!"

But all the dark dancer was doing was causing more pain to her finger, bite marks indented around the wedding ring. Letting out hummed groans, Doppia gave up once more, glaring at the ring as if it mocked her with its presence.

It was a reminder that this body belonged to someone else, who was loved and cherished by her friends and peers. Unlike Doppia, who spent her entire existence being ridiculed by the other Vice Lords. And she despised herself for how badly she wanted to be like her peers.

The plans she could make if she had Varys' gift with technology. The raids she'd carry out if she were like Douglas and the kelpies. And she'd never body snatch again if she had Alma's beauty. But above all, Doppia craved the fear and power the Burning King commanded.

Yet here she was, frolicking in the woods like a mad mare, unable to remove a simple trinket. With angry tears streaming down her face, Doppia let out more shrieks while blasting all the trees and rocks out of her way in dark waves.

Her only solace was that once in Canterlot, the ponies there, as well as their enigmatic queen, would be the first to be subjugated. And after she laid waste to her foes and opened the portal to the temporal library, unlimited knowledge and the Child of Lightendark would be hers alone.

All the torment. All the suffering. All the humiliation Doppia endured would be their undoing once she vanquished the Vice Lords.

Chapter XIV: Training at the Manor

Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer walked out of the kitchen, carrying trays of snack foods and beverages in each hand. They walked around the table, which seated Beatrix Belladonna, her sister, her lover, their friends, and old enemies turned allies. Tension remained high as the crystal maids offered everyone their breakfast choice, focused on their renowned service.

Dion continued to glare bitterly at Shadow Scythe, who avoided the glance with her thin arms folded. Midnight sat across from Cerise, the two struggling to get over their self-loathing after what happened. When they locked eyes, both smiled slightly. Despite the vessel she possessed being the Vice Lord, Doppia, the chipper expression and softened eyes were still his wife’s.

But her glance turned harsh when cast over Zeloph, seated right next to the reaper. This pitiful creature was responsible for so much calamity in Cerise's homeworld, nearly driving her parents to madness and wiping out thousands of lives. And now, stuck in the body of a mere cherub, they had to work together.

The dark dancer knew it was for the best if it meant reclaiming her stolen form from the vile ballerina. But in her heart, she couldn’t overlook the destruction both the reaper and fallen angel caused.

Beatrix felt the same way. Her mind was shrouded in doubt and uncertainty. Her former nemeses showed the willingness to help and were docile at the moment. But could they genuinely change for the better? Shadow Scythe practically perfected the art of betrayal the moment it benefited her. Zeloph was, ironically, the opposite. Blessed with a silver tongue and poetic words used to work his way into more favorable positions.

What were the odds either one would strike back the moment they let their guards down?

Lady Ewe was beside the troubled witch, who gingerly stroked her hand while swirling her spoon in her cereal. The azure sheep knew they could all find a compromise. They had to, for the fate of Abadonna and the world was on the line. She just hoped that the others could forgive some of the more critical choices ahead…

Once her tray was empty, Foal-Bearer approached Shadow Scythe and politely asked, “Can I get you anything to drink? Tea? Water? Perhaps some coffee to wake up the morning fuzz?”

Their mistress, Bellatrix, had asked them to ‘play nice' with the pale unicorn, despite how cruel she had been in the past. And while both twins had their grievances, they knew better than to refuse. Though this certainly wasn’t easy when Shadow Scythe cast her a soured look.

“I am a reaper,” she reminded firmly. “I have harvested over a thousand souls. That was all the nourishment I needed. Knowledge and power easily quench my thirst. You think simple liquid will--”

Before she could continue her rant, Zeloph interrupted with a light ‘ahem!’. Shadow Scythe turned to see him sipping his cup of orange juice, sporting an arched eyebrow. Then, realizing how pompous she sounded, she folded into herself, blushing, and muttered, “...coffee would be nice.”

“Dark or light roast?”

“Light. No sugar, please.” The coral pink mare nodded and returned to the kitchen to fire up the coffee maker, the air-filled by rich aromas.

When Shadow Scythe looked back to Zeloph and touched his hand, he gave her a short nod. Small steps were needed if they wanted to rebuild any form of trust with their former enemies.

“Pathetic,” Dion’s voice grumbled, his stern maroon gaze now fixated on the Fallen One.

Taking his mouth off his straw, Zeloph sighed. “If you’ve got something to say, you might as well say it! Better to get it off our chest before we start training together.”

“Ah think it’s absolutely pathetic that ye would drink orange juice in mah vicinity an' not include th' palp.”

Everyone turned to the warrior with a dumbfounded expression.

“I… I beg your pardon?”

“Are you seriously criticizing his choice of morning beverage?” berated Beatrix, who creased her snout. “Like, of all things!”

The white ram snorted, “Of course Ah am! Only babies would drink wit'out palp. Palp makes ye strong!”

“Dion,” Oona groaned, rubbing her temples. “It’s too early tae be startin' this…”

“Palp is disgusting,” Zeloph retorted, evenly annoyed by the male sheep’s heckling. “I refuse to be chastised over something so trivial as orange juice!”

“An' I refuse tae tolerate th' existence ov a palp hatin' sociopath! But look where we are?”

“Well, sorry that I enjoy my breakfast without my drink contaminated by flakes!”

“Can you two go thirty seconds without trying to tear out each other’s throats?!” hissed Bellatrix, standing up with a yellow glare and crossing her arms. “Or do I have to lock you both in a room together until you learn to play nice?”

“Pft! You do that; they’ll just mangle each other,” Shadow Scythe scoffed, sipping from her freshly made coffee cup.

“C’mon, guys! Chill!” Midnight tried cutting in. “This isn’t any way to start the morning!”

“Stay out of this, boy scout,” warned Zeloph. “This doesn’t concern you.”

“Ye don’t talk tae mah friend like that, midget!!” Dion scowled.

Cerise stepped in and yelled, “Will both of you knock it off!?”

As if to answer her request, the ram and demi-human were slapped by a military-style whip, causing them to sit down and rub at their faces, both yelping in alarm.

“That’s enough aahhht of ya maggots,” a peppy voice insisted. “I will not 'ave any more tomfoolery 'appen at the bloody table!”

Everyone looks towards the center as Moxxi appears, adorned in a drill sergeant’s lime-colored vest and hat. She began to goosestep in mid-air, accompanied by disembodied marching music.

Rubbing his sore cheek, Zeloph looked around for the source, brows furrowed. “Wait, where is that coming from..?!”

“Alwigh', earwig up, people!” Moxxi loudly called. “There’s only garn ter be camaraderie and friendship from 'ere on aahhht. We’ve got roughly twenty-four 'ours ter 'one our skills before we depart ter canterlot and brin' home Abadonna! We will not waste another nickle and dime muckin' abaht over machoism or past transgressions! Do ya 'ear me!?”

Midnight immediately shot up, saluted, and responded, “Sir, yes sir!” Whether this was due to his military background or the blue pegasus playing along was anyone’s guess. Beatrix and Cerise tittered at the silliness, while Oona and Bellatrix were glad the imp alleviated the hostility.

Dion grumbled, “This is stupid! Ye can’t just establish peace among foes by-”

Moxxi pulled out a megaphone and loudly repeated, “We will NOT be wastin' our time muckin' abaht over machoism or past transgressions! This is do or die, soldier! Do ya understand?!”

“Aaaaugh! Alright, alright!” The ram relented, holding his ears to block out the blaring screech. “A’ll stop bullyin’ th' twerp if it’ll get ye tae quit hollerin' like a banshee!!”

“Splendid~!” she snickered, tossing the device away and throwing a wink and thumbs up at her brother, who could only shake his head. Even Shadow Scythe couldn’t suppress a stiff chuckle. The reaper found the imp super vexing, but her antics always managed to serve a purpose. In this case, getting the stubborn ram to cooperate. No doubt the she-devil put her up to it.

“Now then,” continued the minor demon. “Once we’ve finished up breakfast, we’ll start wif re-establishin' our foundations! While most of us 'ave been weakened, two of our key players 're 'andicapped.” She pointed out Cerise and Zeloph. “The enemy may fin' they 'ave the edge, but this gives us a rare advantage of discoverin' new boundaries. Which is why I fin' ya two should work exclusively together~!”

“What?!” They both exclaimed, looking at each other with dismay.

“B-but sir,” Midnight tried to protest before Moxxi wagged her finger.

“Wif aw due respect, lov, it’s better this way,” she explained. “Fin' abaht it! Your wife is in a body that doesn’t belong ter 'er. Zelly’s been stunted wif lil' accessibili-y ter 'is powers. At least together, they 'ave a chance ter develop new strengf.”

“I… guess that makes sense,” the pegasus admitted begrudgingly. It was bad enough that his own wife didn’t want his company. But now, he had to watch her spend it with Zeloph of all people? The thought of the Fallen One anywhere near Cerise made his blood boil.

Sensing her husband’s distress, Cerise turned to the demi and, after taking a deep breath, said, “I never liked you to begin with, especially after you hurt my parents! But I’m willing to put our differences aside and make this work if you are!”

Astonished by the mature response, Zeloph replied, “O-oh! I mean, that goes without saying. Right! I will do my best to ensure you’re back in your rightful body.” He hovered over and cautiously stretched out his hand towards the princess. After a moment’s hesitation, she reciprocated and shook it firmly.

“Look at that~!” Moxxi clamored gleefully. “We’re already off ter a mother's pearly gate start! Y’kna, ya could learn a fin' from Cerise.” She motioned to the witchy unicorn and warrior ram, who both looked away in shame.

Zeloph returned to his seat, noting that Shadow Scythe avoided direct eye contact with him, sulking silently. Perhaps she was jealous?

Bellatrix said, “With that out of the way, I’ve employed someone else to help keep our raise our spirits while we train together.”

A display of fireworks went off next to her as a smaller version of Beatrix suddenly appeared, adorned in a similar outfit. “Lieutenant Mini-Trix! Reporting for duty~!” She saluted with a big smile.

“Oh no…” Beatrix groaned, trying to hide under her hat while Lady Ewe giggled beside her.

Shadow Scythe also cringed at the sight of the tulpa she ‘helped’ create. But no one looked more appalled by her than Zeloph, whose eyes widened and mouth fell agape.

“... What… is that..?!”

“Well, you see, Mini-Trix will be acting as our-”

“No, no, no! Time out!!” The cherub called, pointing at the startled tulpa. “What in the nine circles of hell is that thing!?!”

“Hey! I’m not a thing! I have feelings,” Mini-Trix pouted and crossed her arms while Moxxi patted her head.

“This is Beatrix an', to an extent, Shadow Scythe’s tulpa,” Lady Ewe explained between sips. “She was born from th' former's childhood an' th' latter’s desire during her stint ov amnesia. She can be a handful but also helpful in certain situations!”

“Aye! Sorta loike me… but less impressive~,” Moxxi chirped in, earning a raspberry from the miniature unicorn.

Zeloph stared between Beatrix, Shadow Scythe, and the tulpa before resting his face into his hands. “... She’s multiplying. We can only go downhill from here.”

“Hey!” The witch whined.

“I don’t know what’s worse. The fact that she exists or the fact that you helped make her!”

The false idol criticized Shadow Scythe, to which she defensively answered, “I had no conscious part in her creation!”

“Regardless,” Bellatrix came in, having been quietly eating her meal during the chaos before her. “Mini-Trix is helping us by setting up decoys and practice dummies.”

“We will also be sparring with you!” Foal Bearer offered when she and her twin left the kitchen, their pastel pink hands wielding axes.

“It’ll give us a chance to show Sir Dion how far we’ve come in our 'personal' training~” Wet Nurse tittered with excitement. The twins fluttered their eyes at the alabaster ram, who chuckled.

“Now that’s what Ah like tae hear!”

“It looks we’ve got everyone on board! Way ter lift their spirits, lieutenant~,” the imp whispered to Mini-Trix, who giggled childishly. Raising her voice, Moxxi went on, “Righty-o! Let me kna when everyone’s ready ter start! We’ve turned the bloomin' backyard into a drum that’ll 🅵🆁🅾🅶 the 🅲🅰🅱🅰🅽🅰 wite off ye-eeehh?!”

Moxxi recoiled in alarm, fingers covering her mouth. Then, confused, she testingly said, “🅰🅿🅴 and 🆃🅾🅼🅼🆈!?”

The rest of the room was equally perplexed, unsure what to make of this ‘predicament.’

“... Wot the 🅳🅸🆂🅲 is this?! Why can’t I say 🅵🅻🅰🅶!?”

“Hehehe! That's my censorship clause!” Mini-Trix explained haughtily. “See, as long as I’m around, I’ve forbidden the use of all bad words and dirty suggestions. Everyone gets way too distracted when adult ‘fun’ is on the mind!”

“... 're ya 'avin' a giraffe? 're ya 🅵🆁🅸🅴🅽🅳🆂 me 🅳🆄🅳🅴 wite na!? Ya mean I can’t say 🅿🅻🅴🅰🆂🅴, 🆂🆃🅾🅿, 🆂🅰🆈🅸🅽🅶, 🅱🅰🅳, 🅲🆄🆂🆂, 🆆🅾🆁🅳🆂, or anything of the sort?!”

“Eeyup~! Tee-hee!” Mini-Trix did a victory dance.

The imp’s left eye twitched as she descended onto her knees, clasping her head while breathing hysterically. “No… nonona, somebody wake me up! I-I refuse ter live in a world where I can’t joke abaht 🅲🅷🅸🅲 and 🅱🅴🅻🅻 🆃🅴🅰🅲🅷🅴🆁! That’s me whole MMO! Me entire vocabulary! Ya can’t take that away from me!! G-give it back! Now!”

“Sorry! My mind must remain pure to maintain my existence!” The tulpa snickered and snorted as the imp curled up in a fetal position, rocking back and forth, whimpering. Seeing his sister lose her marbles over the ridiculous censorship brought a smile to Zeloph’s face.

“Y’know, on second thought? I think I might like the tulpa~,” the cherub proclaimed, earning a growl from Moxxi.

“Meanie..!”

“Alright, enough with the theatrics,” Bellatrix ordered with a stamp of her foot. “We have work to do. Meet me down the west corridor, and I’ll take you to our new training grounds.” Snapping her fingers, Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer went to fetch the empty cups and dirty dishes while the rest stood up and prepared themselves.

In secret, Beatrix was thankful Mini-Trix and Moxxi defused the tension since their party seemed a lot more at ease with each other. But, of course, she found the imp’s misery over the inability to speak her naughty tongue utterly hilarious, snickering as she was dragged by her tail to follow the she-devil while having a hissy fit.

Taking Lady Ewe’s hand into her own, the pair followed alongside their allies through the manor, aware that time was of the essence. And aware they should use it sparingly if they wanted to reach Enock’s library before Madame Doppia.

The house hostess led her sister and her band of misfits into an abandoned courtyard, located just behind the manor, with a garden and hedge walling the perimeter. It was wide enough to be considered training grounds, with many dummies already in place.

“Wow!” Beatrix whistled, taking in the view. “I don’t remember seeing this before!”

“That’s because it’s our latest addition,” answered Bellatrix. “An expansion of my power over the mansion. With all the talk of training, I figured I’d create us some space without the risk of breaking the valuables inside. Unfortunately, it took me and the monster a lot of energy, so I’ll only be observing.”

Beatrix whistled. “Impressive!”

“The best part is the dummies! Go on, Beatrix! Throw a spell!” Her cartoonish counterpart encouraged, pushing one decoy in place.

With a shrug, the witch unleashed a simple lightning bolt that sizzled when it blasted the patched together target apart. Pieces of debris scattered across the floor before vaporizing completely. And, as quickly as it was destroyed, a new dummy assembled to take its place.

Sparks crackled on Beatrix's fingers. “Ooh! So they’ll magically put themselves back together?”

“Eeyup! Infused by the essence of your’s truly~,” Mini-Trix beamed proudly. “Just give ‘em a couple of seconds, and they’ll regenerate!”

“Not bad, mini-me~!”

“It's still a work in progress,” Bellatrix reminded them. “There are a variety of additions I intend to make. But for now, use these as you will.”

“Pretty neat stuff already,” Dion complimented, approaching another dummy before giving it a firm punch, the impact enough to break the decoration into pieces. And like before, the scattered fragments twitched with life and re-assembled like a magnet. “Bet this brings ye back tae th' days as a new solider, aye, Middy?”

“Y-yeah, a little…” Midnight nodded with a frown, his wings drawn close. It felt exactly like the training grounds from his world. And it was there that he learned what changelings did to ponies. Most prisoners were reduced to become living wombs, disregarding gender, after which breeders laid innumerable eggs inside—left to suffer until the grubs hatched and ate their way out of their broken hosts. Other times, they were used as a mere sport by the drones. The changelings inflicted every torture and humiliation imaginable on the slaves until their merciful deaths arrived.

It made him heave to think about what fate his beloved mother and twin sister shared.

“Midnight..?” Cerise asked gingerly, but he didn’t acknowledge his wife, lost in bitter recompense.

Instead, he muttered to himself, “Why didn't you save them, father? Why didn't you tell me the truth? Are you just a coward? Is that all I am, too?”

“Hell no,” assured Beatrix, who listened in and placed her hand on his shoulder, shaking her half-brother out of his haze. “A coward wouldn’t have come this far to help his friends. I doubt we would have beaten Shadow Scythe without you! ... Uhh,no offense~!”

“None taken,” the reaper retorted dryly.

Beatrix assured him, “Still, far as I’m concerned, you’re a good person, Midnight! Out of all of us, you and Cerise have the biggest hearts!”

“Now, if only his brain were that big,” Zeloph quietly quipped before Moxxi smacked him across the head.

She harshly whispered, “Hush, you!”

The witch rubbed one of his wings while her gaze drifted to Cerise, who she knew also needed a lot of support right now. But who was she to provide it after all that had happened? Beatrix wouldn't blame the poor princess if she hated her forever!

Surprisingly, it was Shadow Scythe who glided over towards the distraught mare. “You’ll overcome this,” the pale unicorn encouraged, hidden behind her hood. “It was your bond with Midnight that helped best me. I rejected friendship all my life until I had to realize the limitations of what one can accomplish alone.”

“I-I know,” sighed Cerise, doing her best to keep it together mentally. “I’ve been sheltered most of my life. I don’t blame my parents since I understand their reasons, but a lack of exposure has limited my potential for greatness. It’s one why I insisted on coming along on this journey. Not just to help my friends, but to help myself!”

“A courageous thing to do,” Shadow Scythe noted.

“Speakin' ov potential,” Lady Ewe, who had been tuning in, cut in. “Ah say it’s time we discover what ye can do wit this body.”

With a focused gaze, Cerise nodded and stepped up towards a practice dummy. She took a deep breath and started to dance around the target, landing several strikes and kicks. While Doppia left her without any magic, she found her lighter body to be much quicker. In addition, the smaller size in her nubile bust and hips made her feel more agile… and a little bit stiff in some areas. No wonder the Vice Lord could match her pace!

Not wanting to be left out, Dion ushered Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer to follow him, claymore and shield brandished. “Don’t hold back,” the alabaster ram insisted. “Ah want tae see how far ye lassies have come since our last romp!”

“We’ve been practicing every day, sir Dion!” Wet Nurse giggled, tightening the grip on her ax.

“I’d say we’ve ‘come’ a long way waiting for you,” Foal-Bearer flirted, wiggling her hips with a coy smirk. “If you manage to cut away our clothes, you’ll find a nice, juicy surprise waiting for-”

BONK! BONK!

But before either twin could provoke the ram with naughty suggestions, they each received a hard whack from Mini-Trix, who manifested a baseball bat. “No! There will be no such 'adult' talk here! Bad!!” The tulpa insisted.

Both maids pouted while rubbing their aching heads, all while Dion chuckled. Then, he looked to the blue pegasus, who was still sulking. “C’mon, lad! Ye’re not gonna let me fend off these lusty minxes by myself, are ye?”

Midnight gazed up before nodding, reaching for his spear. Training did always help distract the soldier from his feelings when things were rough. So taking to his friend’s side, he unfurled his massive wingspan and took a battle stance. The crystal mares did the same until the foursome launched at each other, whereupon their weapons and shields clanged and clashed.

“Say,” Zeloph approached Mini-Trix on winged feet, pointing towards the star-decorated wiffle bat. “Where can I get one of those?”

“Don’t even think abaht bonkin' me, 🅳🆄🅲🅺 waffle!” Moxxi sneered, face flustered with frustration.

“You’re taking this a little too easy for my taste, Zeloph,” said Bellatrix. “You need to pull your weight as well!”

“There’s a reason I’m loafing about,” the cherub started explaining. “The more energy I reserve, the quicker I can reinvigorate myself to full glory. Though, admittedly, that is taking quite a while since mental scars heal a lot slower.”

“Well, what can you do while you’re in that puny body?” Beatrix asked.

“My healing should still be intact.” To demonstrate, Zeloph floated closer to Cerise, who was panting heavily from all the attacks and movements she used on the dummy. Sweat drenched her figure while she glared at her shaking hands. Despite being much faster, her strikes and kicks did minor damage, a reminder of how frail Doppia’s discarded body truly was.

She nearly jumped when the cherub touched her but soon felt a radiant warmth flow through her sore limbs. A long sigh escaped her lips, fatigue slowly fading away. Then, feeling relaxed, she stood up stronger and turned to the cherub. “T-thanks…”

“Don’t mention it,” he softly chuckled.

“Okay, cool! So you can patch us up when we get tired. Big deal!” The witchy unicorn huffed with a hand on her hip, unimpressed.

“It’s a lot more than just that,” Zeloph assured his former flame. “I can rejuvenate any injury. I could even restore a lost limb if given enough time!”

“I’d have to sacrifice my precious life force to pull such a miracle off,” admitted Bellatrix. “And you can accomplish that with a mere touch?”

“That’s remarkable!” Oona exclaimed.

“There is a flaw, though.” Shadow Scythe stepped in and pointed at the scratch mark on his cheek. “While you can heal others of their afflictions, you can’t do the same for yourself. Which means you’re extremely vulnerable as you are.”

Cerise pursed her lips tightly. “So if you ever get put out of commission…”

“We're down a powerful medic,” Beatrix begrudgingly accepted.

“Which is why I’ll be sticking with you, princess,” continued the cherub. “For I have a way that’ll boost your attributes and, more importantly, keep me safe.”

Curling his tail, Zeloph took hold of the halo around the tip, showing that it was actually removable. Then, carefully, he placed it over the dark dancer’s head. Briefly, it flashed, highlighting Cerise’s lithe form in a golden aura.

“W-whoa!” She yelped, energy coursing through her veins while the demi-human took a seat on her shoulder.

“There we go. You and I are now spiritually tethered. Anywhere you go, I will follow, no matter the distance. But you should feel a lot stronger now!”

To test this, Cerise whirled towards the dummy and unleashed a flurry of kicks and chops while Zeloph hovered out of the way. And with a finishing ax kick, the dancer knocked the target’s head off, earning hyped applauds from Oona, Beatrix, and Moxxi.

“And ya said me brother wouldn’t be reliable,” the imp teased the witch, who grumbled in contempt.

“Damn,” Cerise panted, looking over her shimmering fists. “This feels pretty good! Maybe having you as my shoulder angel won’t be such a bad thing~!”

“Yes, the irony isn’t lost on me,” the demi snarked, resting his arms behind his head and crossing his legs over. “Still, with me by your side? There should be nothing but smooth sailing from here to Canterlot.”

“Now isn’t the time to get cocky, 🅰🅽🆃🅷🅸🅻🅻!” Shadow Scythe growled. “It’ll take more than empowerment to defeat Doppia and the Burning King!”

“She’s right,” agreed Bellatrix. “Not to shoot down all your hard work, Mini-Trix, but a dummy can’t compare to a living being.”

The cartoonish unicorn frowned but understood what she meant. It was probably why Dion, Midnight, and the twins were sparring together, dodging attacks with counter strikes.

“Then train with me,” the reaper offered, her sickle sinking away into her long, wispy shadow. She took to the opposite side, raising her wrapped fists up. “Remember, I can recover from almost any wound. So you won't have to hold back on me. Beat me senseless if that will make you feel better. I can take it.”

“Yeah, I like the sound of that!” Cerise accepted with a mean smile, taking another stance. Zeloph, however, sported a concerned look. He felt a surge of suppressed anger suddenly spike within the dancer. And while he knew Shadow Scythe could take a beating, the demi-human didn’t want to see her get hurt...

Nonetheless, the mares ran at each other with nothing but pure skill. A series of measured blows turned to a grapple once they collapsed and fought for dominance. Eventually, Shadow Scythe also noticed how aggressive and rage-fueled the dancer’s wild attacks were, causing her to become more defensive.

“This is meant tae be a friendly spar, Cerise,” Lady Ewe reminded cautiously, a hand curled on her staff. “Ye don’t need tae go at this hard!”

“Don't tell me what to do! I'm fine,” she yelled back in a brusque manner, landing a hit in the reaper's gut. The impact caused the pale unicorn to clutch her stomach, vomiting saliva.

“H-hey! Take it easy!” Beatrix tried interfering, only to pause when met by a death glare.

Cerise snarled back. “No! I can't afford to hold back! Not when I don’t have my powers anymore! I refuse to be the weak link!”

“Stop it, princess,” Shadow Scythe insisted through heavy exhales, clutching her weakened tummy. “Don’t go down that route. Self-harm won’t solve anything. It’ll only make you loath yourself even more. I should know…”

“Do you?!”

Cerise balled up her fists and huffed, barely able to hold back tears that filled her eyes. “What do you know about loss?! You weren’t the one who was body-snatched and violated! You didn't grow in a household with parents that undermined you! You're not the one who has to prove you're not just a worthless pile of 🆂🅰🅽🅳! I was stupid and careless! It cost me my friendship! It's costing me my marriage! It cost me EVERYTHING!!” Then, with a mournful cry, she slammed her fist into the ground below, belting her woes for all to hear.

It was enough to make the others stop their actions and rejoin the group, Midnight kneeling to his wife's side and offering his fluffed-up plumage. “Cerise, what’s wrong?! I-I’m here!”

The sobbing mare ignored her husband, continuing her meltdown as she repeated over and over, “I just want my body back! I just want my body back!!” No one was sure what to do. If there was anything, they could do. But, how could they comfort their friend in a state like this?

Zeloph hesitantly placed a hand on her, expecting her to recoil. But she just heaved her shoulders up and down with every cry. That’s when he noticed something, making his eyes widen like saucers. “I... I don't believe it!”

“What is it, Zeloph?” Oona asked. “Is there somethin' amiss?”

“Out with it! Tell me, what’s wrong with my wife?!” Midnight demanded in a threatening tone, his green eyes glowing yellowish.

“Pipe down, lad,” Dion insisted. Much as he disliked the winged twerp, he knew better than to start a brawl during this troubling time.

The cherub continued to stare down at the quivering mare before responding. “This vessel doesn't have a soul..."

Everyone exclaimed, "What!?" As Zeloph lifted his head and gazed into their bewildered eyes.

"... It has two!”

Chapter XV: Hot Tub Hijinks

Cerise sat in a nearby chair, shaken from her heartfelt outburst while Lady Ewe waved her dreamcatcher staff over her. Tears stained her cheeks, eyes puffy and red as whimpers and sniffles escaped her mouth. Once passing over her chest, the jewel embedded within the net flashed twice, much to the dream faun’s disbelief.

“Sweet lucid dreams,” she whispered, turning back to Beatrix, Bellatrix, and the rest of their comrades. “There is another soul housed wit’in her body!”

“I don’t believe it!” The witch blurted out. “How did this happen?”

“A-Ah don’t know,” admitted Oona, lips pursed. “When Ah originally checked her, there was only Cerise’s soul.”

“Is it Doppia?!” Midnight suggested, his nostrils flaring and teeth clenched.

“No,” the azure sheep dismissed. “There isn’t any trace ov her either!”

“T-then whose soul is inhabiting this body with me?!” Cerise asked anxiously. The dancer knew she was a partial reincarnation of her mother, Pacific Glow, and shared the same spirit. Did the Vice Lord somehow manage to split them apart?

“I think I understand,” Shadow Scythe spoke up, standing next to the distraught dancer. “A soul can’t randomly appear in one’s form… unless it’s always been there.”

“What do you mean?” asked Beatrix.

To which the reaper proposed, “This isn’t Doppia’s actual body. If the Vice Lord can possess other people’s shapes, who’s to say this mare isn’t another unfortunate victim?”

“Ooooh! That would make a lot of sense!” Mini-Trix gasped, smacking her fist into her palm.

“It must have been faint durin’ th’ hassle at th’ Crystal Empire,” Dion proposed. “We were strugglin’ tae keep ourselves conscious. Sae we couldn’t have noticed.”

“I sensed a great amount of turmoil during that little outburst,” added Zeloph. “Doppia has likely been suppressing the inhabitant through endless torment. It’s a miracle the original mare held out for so long! But with Doppia now gone…”

“The soul is steadily recovering,” Bellatrix presumed. “And this mare, whoever she is, will likely want her body back.”

“B-but… what does that mean for me?” the dark dancer said in a frightened tone. “I can’t just expunge myself! I don’t have a body to return to yet!!”

“Souls are not fragile things,” the pale unicorn stated. “I’ve harvested plenty for myself during my career. But if one contains enough willpower to persevere, my soul is at risk of being assimilated. It’s why I mostly stole from those weaker than me until I was confident I could take a more potent soul. Like a scavenger…”

Shadow Scythe said the last part as a form of self-beratement. A reminder of the many crimes she committed in blind arrogance. She nearly jumped when Oona patted her shoulder, offering a kind smile.

“All can be forgiven in time,” the sheep sage assured before returning to the matter at hand. “This is why th’ Vice Lords are sae dangerous. Th’ damage they can cause once a spirit is corrupted tends tae be irreparable.”

“Now, where have Ah heard that before?” Dion scoffed at the demi-human, who squeezed his arms together.

He also wore a guilty expression, recalling all the mortal lives and souls he nearly extinguished with zealous rage. “Yeah, don’t remind me…” He muttered.

“But even a broken spirit can heal from th’ deepest ov wounds,” Lady Ewe continued, her warm honey-brown eyes fixated with the amber orbs of Cerise. “Overcomin’ yerself is just, if not mair important than overcomin’ yer enemies.”

The jade mare took the faun’s words into deep consideration. Feelings of desperation and lingering spite continued to stirr. It was evident the spirit Cerise shared a body with was afraid. And the dancer knew she couldn’t get strong unless she addressed this issue.

“You’re right,” Cerise admitted with a weary sigh. “I-It would be selfish to use this mare’s body for battle. I’d be just as bad as Doppia! Is there… any way I could contact the spirit within?”

“Aye,” Oona confirmed, fishing into a pouch before pulling out a green elixir with sparkling liquids inside. “This should help ease yer mind an’ body when ye sleep. Sae take a spoonful tonight, an’ you should be able tae interact th’ mare’s soul.”

“Thank you, Oona,” Cerise smiled, accepting the potion before flinging her arms around the wooly shaman. “You really are the best~!”

The dream faun tittered affectionately while the rest of the party sighed in relief. Midnight especially was grateful to see his wife would be okay, a big smile spreading his snout.

The hyper-stallion settled onto the ground to rest, worn out quicker than usual since he hadn’t been able to fulfill his needs. A colorful plume spread around him as Mini-Trix appeared in his lap. “Is that a smile on your face, Middy?! Goodness, it’s been so long since I last saw you with one~!”

“That it has,” he replied and beamed wider.

“How about we play some chess later? You like that, don’t you?” She poked his snout.

“Sure do!” He touched his gold ring, assured that his wife would be okay. That’s what mattered!

“Alright, laddie! Enough mopin’ around.” the warrior ram called, patting his shoulder. “Back intae th’ fray. Th’ twins were in th’ middle ov kicking yer 🅰🆄🅽🆃 before th’ commotion started!”

Both Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer gave teasing giggles while they followed their lover back to their sparring corner, hips swaying with every step. The blue pegasus set Mini-Trix aside and nodded with flustered cheeks, his fist balled.

Aware he needed a better restraint over his hyper-stallion nature, Midnight made a silent vow not only to be a better warrior but a better husband. So, with a spear ready in hand, the soldier resumed his friendly bout with Dion and the crystal maids, winded under bodily strain.

“Don’t suppose you wanna continue where we left off?” Cerise asked the reaper, who studied her with folded arms before addressing the cherub hovering by her shoulder.

“Do you think it’s wise for her to try again?”

“Hmm. The soul seems to have settled for now, at least,” noted Zeloph, placing a hand over the mare’s slender torso. “I think she’ll be fine, so long as she doesn’t push herself…”

“Yeah, I’ll be sure to take it easy this time,” Cerise agreed. “Sorry for coming at you hard, though you probably deserve it for all the stuff you put us through!”

“Heh. That I do,” replied the reaper, casting a self-deprecating smirk. “I wronged you and Midnight, so I’m willing to do whatever I can to make up for it.”

“The same goes for me as well,” the demi-human reminded, dropping his sarcastic tone.

“Relax, It’s fine,” the dancer assured and clutched her upper arms, a little ashamed of how she acted. “You don’t owe me. Nor do you, Beatrix! I want to stand proudly beside everybody!”

“You will! You’re a heroine!” Beatrix smiled warily, giving her friend a tight squeeze before letting her, Shadow Scythe, and Zeloph resume with their little spar. “It’s hard to believe everyone’s acting so civilly! Maybe this can all work out!”

“Told you sae~,” Lady Ewe teased her lover, cupping her shoulders and planting a wet kiss on the unicorn’s snout. “Come, Ceann Oga. Ye’ve been slackin’ on some much-needed trainin’ as well!”

With colored cheeks and a sly smile, Beatrix allowed her teacher to pull her away to the opposite corner, where they proceeded to practice their spells and Onomas.

“Once again, another day is saved by the Great and Powerful Mini-Trix~!” The cartoony unicorn chirped happily, doing a victory jig.

“Yes, yes, we’re all very proud,” Moxxi chimed in, a false look of happiness on her face. “Na, if ya would be so kind as ter TURN OF THIS RATHEAD CENSOR 🆂🅷🅰🅼!!”

“Nu-uh!! I won’t allow you to taint these poor kids with your potty mouth!” The tulpa proclaimed, leaping away to make distance from the angry imp.

“GET YOUR FAT 🅰🅿🅿🅻🅴 BACK ‘ERE, YA 🅵🅻🅰🅿🅿🅸🅽’ 🅳🅸🅲🅴 🆁🅾🅻🅻🅸🅽’ 🆃🆆🅸🆃!!”

The pair chased each other around the courtyard while Bellatrix observed with a slight smirk curling her lip. Nonetheless, she was delighted to see her family, friends, and enemies unite together. Even with the odds stacked against them, the group managed to forge new bonds that all of them considered improbable.

But now, the future certainly looked much brighter, whether they faced Doppia or the Burning King.

After vigorous hours of sweat and blood poured into strengthening themselves, the party earned the rest of the day to relax in the spa room. Bellatrix had slightly modified the tub to accommodate the new number of people. The women took one side, and the men claimed the other. Their clothes were piled on benches. The only ones not taking respite in the tub were Mini-Trix and the twins, ever dedicated to their service and work. Nonetheless, they wore matching frilly one-pieces that barely concealed their voluptuous assets.

“Aahhhh~!” Moaned a flushed Beatrix, accepting a glass of champagne from Wet Nurse once the steamy waters half-submerged her. “A chance to finally relax! It’s been way overdue!”

“Definitely well earned, Miss Beatrix,” Foal-Bearer agreed with a giggle while passing a glance to the other mares and women. “You’ve all worked so hard today! So, please, don’t be hesitant to ask my sister or me for anything you want!”

The coral pink ponies lined up and bowed in unison, “We live to serve~!”

“Of course,” the witch snickered. She slid her hands up to grope and massage her ample tits, nibbling her lip. “It’s nice to let the girls out like this~!”

“Oh, for sure,” Moxxi said, a wide-toothed grin stretching her painted lips. She had finally managed to scare Mini-Trix away, thereby nullifying her censorship clause. Grabbing a handful of her own perky chest, she commented, “I’m surprised your boobs don’t float ter the bloomin’ surface. Y’kna, bein' fake an all~.”

“Hey! They are not fake!” Beatrix exclaimed defensively. Moxxi and Oona, Shadow Scythe, Cerise, and Bellatrix gave her a skeptical look, causing the flustered violet unicorn to sink a little deeper before admitting, “Okay, so I slightly enhanced them. But they were naturally big before!”

“Weak~” The imp teased. “I’d sha off how big and beautiful me bristol cities are, but they’d look loike mere pebbles compared ter the absolute mountains bestowed upon our lydy lamb~!”

“P-please! They’re not that big,” Oona complained shyly, blushing madly while her ‘not so big’ mammaries were on full display.

“Oona, you’re arguably the most busty out of all of us,” Cerise snickered with sincerity.

“It’s alright to be proud of having large breasts,” Beatrix added, squishing her own alchemically amplified titties together. “I bet most men would kill for a handful of your pillowy chest~!”

“Ah have been told A’m quite motherly,” the azure sheep considered while she washed her cloud-like fleece, droplets cascading down her plump curves.

Cerise ran her palms over her own breasts, pursing her lips. “Man. Doppia-or rather, this mare’s chest is quite sensitive,” the dancer noted while pinching her nipples. “Still, as nice and slim as this body is, I prefer my own set of girls. These boobies are too small for my taste!”

It was then Cerise felt a chill run down her spine when she looked over to Shadow Scythe, who grimly stared at her own lithe chest.

“E-eep! I-I mean, not that having small boobs is a bad thing!”

The reaper huffed with annoyance. “I don’t see what the fuss is all about. Having breasts the size of boulders gets in the way of combat!”

“Spoken like a true A cup angst~” Beatrix tittered playfully and wobbled her tits to taunt her, earning a scornful glare from the pale unicorn.

Overcome by an estrus she hadn’t snuffed out that left her even moodier than usual, she spat back, “Shut your whore mouth, Belladonna!”

“Aww, don’t be so glum and edgy,” Moxxi reassured, splashing over to the reaper’s side. “Nuffin’ wrong wif bein’ flat as a board. In fact...” The imp leaned closer to Shadow Scythe’s right ear and whispered, “...I kna a certain someone 'oo prefers 'is ladies petite~!”

Her icy blue eyes followed Moxxi’s pointed tail towards the boy’s corner of the tub, where her cherubic brother was seated. And while she made no further comments, Shadow Scythe felt her heartbeat quicken and her face burn. Nevertheless, she couldn’t help the sly smile curling her lips.

As the girls continued to talk about boob merits and which overall boasted the best bosom, a similar conversation would stir between the guys. Zeloph and Dion, while no longer picking on each other, remained on unsteady ground. Midnight, however, was fixated with his wife, longing for the day he could hold her to his fluffiness again.

“Could we interest you in something to drink?” The twins offered the woeful pegasus. But he simply ignored them, leaving them to walk away awkwardly. The ram’s expression soured when he addressed the soldier.

“Awfully rude tae ignore a woman’s invitation like that, lad.”

“H-huh?” Midnight said as if waking from a daze, rubbing his spikey mane. “O-oh! Right, s-sorry. I’m just a little depressed, that’s all.”

“Oh, for heaven’s sake, will you get over yourself?!” Zeloph exclaimed. “You did one thing morally wrong. That’s a mere blemish compared to the list of atrocities I’ve committed. There’s no need to mentally punish yourself!”

“Ye’re steppin’ out ov line,” snorted the ram before admitting, “But th’ midget’s right. Sulkin’ over th’ past won’t make things better. We’re warriors, laddie! We stand back up when life brings us down!”

“...” Midnight warily sighed before turning his body towards his fellow comrades. “You guys are right. It’s just I feel like I’ve made myself weaker by trying to get stronger.”

“Well, instead of working harder, you should be working smarter,” suggested Zeloph. “Did it ever occur to you that your wings are valuable weapons?”

“M-my wings?” He tilted his head, spreading one plumage. His reaction made the cherub narrow his eyes.

“… You mean to tell me you’ve never once considered batting your foes with those massive pinions? So what, did you think they were only meant to fly you around places?!”

“Y-yeah?”

The angelic demi-human’s expression went deadpan before he slowly brought his face into his hands. “... This is a joke, right? Y-you have military-level training! You can’t be this dumb!”

“Hey, lay off th’ snark! Th’ laddie is many things…” Dion began protesting but found himself unable to come up with answers while Zeloph harshened his glare. “... okay, admittedly, he’s not that bright. But he’s got his heart on his sleeve! That’s what counts!”

“T-that’s right!” Midnight beamed. “And you know what they say about a stallion with big wings! We’ve got that big… wing energy!” The pegasus attempted to laugh off his own joke while his two male comrades stared blankly at him.

“... The sad thing is he actually thinks that funny,” Zeloph stated dryly.

“Yeah, actin’ machismo just isn’t yer thing, Middy. Ye’re not exactly alpha material.”

"What!?"

“Oh, and you are?” the cherub snorted.

“Ov course Ah am! Have ye looked at me?!” Dion rose up to flex his chiseled muscles. His biceps, abs, and back were scarred with battle prowess. His cock, semi-hard, throbbed over two bowling ball-sized orbs dressed in black wool. The ram flaunted his musculature through poses, much to the appreciation of the twins, who openly ogled the studly specimen.

“Women go fur guys who are both bold an’ confident,” Dion chuckled, arms behind his head to show off his torso. “A’m a pure-bred beefcake, lads~!”

“Alright, you made your point! Just sit down and stop waving your wand in my face,” Zeloph grumbled, his cheeks colored.

“Heh! Jealous, aren’t ye?” He teased before submerging into the steamy water.

“You wish I was jealous of you.”

“I-I can be an alpha male too!” Midnight insisted as he lifted his body from the water, attempting to strike similar poses. Both the ram and cherub gazed over the lean muscle and bumps that made up his stature. The ram found his maroon eyes looking over the large flaccid cock poking from his sheath. The pegasus wasn’t even hard, and his length almost surpassed his own!

“Well, those hyper-stallion genetics certainly gave you th’ bod,” Dion admitted, noting how well-hung his friend was. He chuckled, “Lucky bastard! Mah dick would ne’er go dry if Ah were in yer place!”

“Now, who’s the jealous one?” Zeloph scoffed before observing Midnight’s physique. “So, much like Beatrix, you cheated your way into gaining those arms and abs? Weak.”

“W-what? N-no, I didn’t! I was muscular before, just… not always this size,” Midnight bashfully protested, his cheeks flustered.

“Well, size alone isn’t the only factor of being an ‘alpha,’” the demi-human continued, deciding to play along. “You gotta have the mindset. And as far as that goes? You’re a beta male at best.”

“I am not a... w-well, actually…” Midnight sat back down to think it over. It was true. He wasn’t precisely assertive as Dion, nor did he possess leadership skills on a level like Zeloph. Perhaps he should be taking more notes from the two. The pegasus wanted to prove to Cerise’s father he was a worthy successor, after all.

“Pft! An’ where do ye stand on th’ social male ladder, O’ knowledgeable Fallen One?” Dion asked, arching an eyebrow. The vain angel gave a sly grin before snapping his fingers to summon a pair of sunglasses. Placing them on his face, Zeloph resting his elbows comfortably over the tub’s edge before answering,

“Sigma male for life~.”

“Yea, that sounds about right,” the ram shrugged, having to agree. “Well then, ‘sigma male.’ We both shared our proud packages. Where’s yer cock at? Or are ye scared tae show how wee ov a schlong ye’ve got~?”

His taunt was met with a hard yank of his beard, drawing his eyes into the narrowed gaze of Zeloph, who tranquility stated, “There is nothing wrong with my penis size.”

“Then quit yer stallin’ an’ show us!”

“I don’t have to put up with--h-hey! Let go! Get off me!!”

The two proceeded to wrestle each other amid splashes, the ram trying to seize the slippery cherub out of the water. Midnight watched before hearing Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer tittering at the scuffle. His emerald eyes were drawn in by the latter’s bountiful breasts and the former’s foal-bearing hips, as memories of the twin maids who once pursued him flooded back.

They had teased, sucked on, edged, and masturbated Midnight, yet never gave him the chance to fuck them. And the more sexual tension they repressed, the more strength and potency the hyper-stallion would achieve once he finally mated. The blue pegasus remembered his first, epic sexual session with Cerise, filling the hyper-stud with ambivalence.

His dick twitched when his eyes drifted back to the women on the opposite end. The way the soap suds and droplets ran down their nude forms made Midnight groan with need.

It was true many women couldn’t keep their hands off him, drawn by his scent whenever he grew aroused like they instinctively sensed he could pass his potent genes onto their offspring. Not to mention the unimaginable pleasure he provided when he serviced them! And as the ache tightened in his loins and muscles, he realized how long it’s been since his last romp with a mare! He needed release to stay sane!

His attention turned to Cerise, who was stretching out her limbs to puff up her petite chest. Despite the crystal mare’s body, his mind and hormones reminded him that this was still his wife. And Midnight had a natural duty to lay claim to her fertile marehood and pump Cerise full of babies. A duty he had sorely neglected.

A pained moan escaped his snout when he clutched over his raging hard-on, the white of his eyes flashing red. His moans turned into growls, which alerted everyone in the steamy tub.

Dion and Zeloph ceased their tussle and came to his aid. “Laddie? What happened?!”

“Huuugh! I-It hurts!” the pegasus groaned, his veins bulging angrily.

“Midnight!” Cerise called, splashing her way over with Beatrix, Oona, and Shadow Scythe following behind. Bellatrix stepped out of the hot tub as the twins dried her off with a towel, watching.

Moxxi shook off the water with gyrating hips before placing her claw over his shoulder, instantly quivering on the spot. “H-hoooohoho fuck~!” she said giddily. “This stud’s backed up wif so much lust, ‘e’s burnin’ up! The Cynthia. The pleasure! Hehehaah! Exquisite~!”

“Aww, shoot! We’ve been so occupied with the mission, we haven’t had time to settle down!” Cerise frowned, and her lip trembled, recalling how they were supposed to make love after the banquet before the attack interrupted them.

“C-Cerise, please! H-Haaah! I need you,” Midnight whined desperately, clutching her hand tightly.

“Oh, hubby…. I know you do, but I can’t! It wouldn’t be right for us to fuck with this body, knowing the mare inside can’t consent!” The crystal dancer turned to her friends and asked. “Could any of you girls help him out? Please..?”

“Ah know Ah said Ah would help, but it’s been a while since Beatrix an’ Ah had some quality alone time. So we planned tae spend tonight fur ourselves,” Oona said apologetically. “Sorry…”

“Normally, I’d offer myself, but I’m still recovering from creating the additions to the manor,” Bellatrix explained, her snout pursed. “Plus... you’re simply not my type, I’m afraid.”

Midnight gulped, casting an uneasy glance to Shadow Scythe, whose cheeks flustered while giving a deadpanned “No..!”

“Leave him to us!” Wet Nurse proclaimed, squishing her boobs into her sister’s and batting her eyes at him. “We can handle the stud~!”

“We’ve been longing to have a taste of that hyper stallion dick for some time now,” reminded Foal-Bearer, as they too recalled events at the manor.

“Then Ah hope ye don’t mind if Ah join you,” Dion interjected, licking his chops while eying the luscious, barely-concealed crystal mares. “A’ve been meanin’ tae get my dick wet as well.”

“Y-yeah! That works for me,” the hyper stallion panted, leering hungrily at both carol pink mares, too horny to argue. He was sure the burly ram wouldn’t mind the challenge of seeing who could satisfy their pinned-down partner first.

“Yeeess~! Finally, sum good old fornication!!” Moxxi cheered, rubbing her claws between her legs and bosom. “Aw this rabbiting about tiddies an dick ‘as got me aw hot! Ooh, I can’t wait ter shove a whole-”

BONK!

“Oww!” The imp yelped as her brother whacked her on the head with one of Mini-Trix’s starry-themed bats.

“Off to horny jail with you!” Zeloph proclaimed while taking swings to usher Moxxi out of the steam baths. Yet with each subsequent hit, he only provoked more lewd responses from his lusty half-sibling.

“Mmmmhfm~! Ya loike swingin’ that bat ’round, don’t ya, brother~? Well, c’mon! ‘it me ‘arder~! Bonk your naughty sister for bein’ the filthy ‘arlot she is!”

“W-will you knock it off? That’s disgusting!!”

“Then ’a come your cheeks’re gettin’ rosey~?”

Shadow Scythe finished drying off as the demi-humans flew off and retrieved her robes with a disgruntled look. “All this promiscuous prattle makes me want to puke,” she muttered, ashamed of her new desires. “I need to meditate…”

Not too far off were the twins, Dion and Midnight. The crystal mares played with the warrior’s scarred chest while he kept both hands around their waists, murmuring amongst each other.

He turned his head back towards Cerise as if to silently ask for her permission once more. She smiled knowingly and nodded while she toweled off, aware he needed this to survive.

The dark crystal mare disregarded Doppia’s black tutu, figuring Beatrix would conjure up more fitting clothes to wear. Instead, her focus was on the potion Lady Ewe recommended for her, swishing the contents around with a swirl. Then, with the bottle in hand, she took her exit as well.

“Sister, Lady Ewe,” called out Bellatrix, who crossed her arms. “While everyone is settling down, we should try to locate Canterlot soon as possible. You need to head out first thing in the morning.”

“Good idea,” nodded the witch, lathering her wet body with the towel before waving her clothes back on. Oona did the same when the pair followed the she-devil down into the basement, where the eldritch abomination awaited to rekindle its bond with its demon hostess.

Chapter XVI: Kindred Souls

Before they reached the door, the twins, Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse latched onto Midnight and Dion. Each mare planted wet kisses all over their respective stud’s muscular chest, brushing their bosoms against their chiseled abdominals and stroking their pulsating egos with skilled hands. The ram eagerly accepted each smooch, roughly groping Wet-Nurse’s jiggling coral pink rump with firm hands. Midnight was doing his best to remain restrained. But the primal urge of his genetics, plus Foal-Bearer smacking her bouncing, ample udders while double handling his flared cock, slowly got the better of him.

With stuff grunts, he humped into the maid’s hands, much to her delight seeing that milky pre ooze out his flat tip over delicate fingers. “That’s it, big boy. Let’s get you nice and worked up~!” She cooed as she worked up a bit of saliva to spit onto his vein-lined stallionhood.

“Mmmaawh~!” Wet Nurse sighed happily, her arms wrapped around Dion’s broad shoulders while rubbing her bikini-clad, heated, and moist mound into her lover’s thickened spear. “I’ve missed you so much, Sir Dion~!”

“As have Ah,” the warrior ram whispered back, his hands molding her rump like playdough while his cock pulsates between their bellies. “Not a day goes by where I don’t think about you and your sister.”

“Then let us make up for loss time!” Wet Nurse insisted, running her fingers along his sculpted chest, traveling down towards her side to untie the string keeping her bathing suit around her gracious hips. Smiling, Dion held onto the crystal mare’s legs to hoist her up and ease her down onto his shaft. The maid cried out in happiness, reveling in being stuffed once again.

Midnight made similar noises as Foal-Bearer bobbed her head along his fat horse cock, the sloppy suckling sounds she gurgled drawing out his hyper-stallion instincts. Her amethyst-like eyes never turned away, loving the reaction she received whenever hefty males experienced her lack of a gag reflex. She quickly swallowed the pegasus’ schlong whole, her snout practically buried into his soft, swollen scrotum.

Combined with the shared feeling of her sister's pussy getting bludgeoned out by Dion’s thick tool, thanks to their psychic link, Foal-Bearer was on cloud nine. And this only further escalated when Midnight grabbed her head and started thrusting his hips back, using her throat like a cock sleeve.

“Mmmgh~! Huumph~!!”

The blue pegasus stared down at her, salivating at the sight of his cock disappearing past the crystal maid’s precum-glazed lips. It was the twins who first awakened his sexual prowess back in the manor. Even when he’d bathed with his fellow cadet, Moonlight River, who had teased him in subtle ways and even wrestled with him in the nude, he’d never thought of her as anything more than a dear friend back then, raised beside the bat mare. He missed her just as much as he was missing his love, Cerise.

But it was hard to linger on regret when you were on the verge of climax. Snorting, Midnight face-fucked Foal-Bearer, the impact of his thrusts causing her heavy breasts to wobble between her arms, spit dribbling down her cleavage.

“Haah! T-that’s it, laddie! Don’t hold back,” Dion managed to encourage while Wet Nurse met his prominent thrusts with short bounds, hanging onto her stud while her heart-shaped ass smacked into his fat, swollen orbs. “Remember, if ye want tae help yer wife-”

“Gaagh! I-I know!” cried out Midnight as he kept her face locked and unleashed a torrents worth of cum down Foal-Bearer's throat. Her eyes widened with tears, yet she dutifully swallowed his load with thick gulps, refusing to let any of the stud’s virile seed go to waste. Once his stream ended, Midnight popped his cock out to give the crystal mare some time to breathe, which she spent by placing more hungry kisses on the veiny ridges. The soldier gingerly petted her mane, feeling some of the strain wash away. But he knew they weren't finished yet as his massive stallionhood remaining hard.

“Huurg! When Ah become chief, first thing A'm doin' is layin' you an' Amethyst down,” he huskily whispered in Wet-Nurse's ear, one-half of the twin's actual names that they shared with him. He gave short yet powerful thrusts into her uterus, focusing all his attention on bringing her to a glorious orgasm. “An' when Ah take ye.. m-mmn~! Ah don’t plan on stoppin' till ye’re both properly bred with mah children~!”

“Y-yes! Oh, please! Yeesss~,” the crystal maid whined needily, her pussy squirting all over his length as it continued to impale her cunt.

He palmed her bared tits. “F-fuck! C’mon, tell me how many foals you want~!!”

“All of them~! Give me many sons and daughters! Make me a happy mother, my stud~!!” She wiggled her ass atop him best as she could.

All the romantic breeding talk pushed the lovers over the edge. The ram grunted once his oversized balls pushed all the accumulated cum directly into the crystal mare’s foal factory. Foal-Bearer shuddered, feeling the phantom wave of her own dripping slit suddenly stuffed with thick ropes of white, rubbing her wet petals.

“Mmmnh~! He filled her up with so much!” She quipped, taking a couple more kisses off Midnight’s hefty breeder bag, his throbbing cock coated in love nectar as she nuzzled its entire length. “Mmm, bet you’ve got plenty of fresh swimmers packed and ready for me, yeah~?”

“Hooohh yeah,” Midnight groaned, his dick leaking leftovers to stain the cute maid’s bob cut.

“Well, don’t keep th' poor lassie waitin',” Dion encouraged, gently laying the other twin down, her fingers digging around her gushing cunt to lick off the residue. Then, getting behind Foal-Bearer, the alabaster ram helped her up, hooking each leg under his arm before bringing his hands behind her head. The mare quivered excitedly once her lover executed her favorite position.

The tip of Dion’s cock poised at her backdoor, leaving her drooling marehood on display for his comrade, who licked at his chops before slapping the maid’s exposed hole with his girthy dick. Then, on the count of three, both males pushed their cocks into Foal-bearer’s orifices, pinning the mewling, stretched female between their muscular bulk.

“H-haah! Wow,” gasped the pegasus, his tool bulging against her stomach before they started pumping into the double-stuffed crystal maid.

“Yes, yes, yes! That’s it, boys! F-Fuck me until I can’t walk~,” chanted Foal-Bearer, whose twin sister moaned alongside her through their bond, both their cutie marks humming.

Aware of how pliable she was, Dion and Midnight hammered away, forcing her hot pink holes to open wider each time she got speared. Their balls slapped against her bare skin as they nibbled and sucked on her neck and tits, landing spanks and groping at her meaty ass and thighs.

Her pussy audibly, lewdly sucked on the horse cock like it was a second mouth. Her asshole clutched around the ram’s shaft as if competing for space next to her slippery womb. Nonetheless, Foal-bearer worked her boys up with cries and praises, her elastic holes drooling down her legs and over their moist groins.

“F-fuck! Here it comes~!” Midnight bellowed as he and Dion gave one last shove inside and pumped her full. Foal-Bearer squealed to the rooftops, her belly rounding out from all the excessive cum flooding her birth canal and bowels, mixed with her womanly sliminess.

The pegasus and ram withdrew, pulling out their schlick schlongs out of her gaping ass and pussy, their seed practically pouring out like a waterfall. The foursome caught a breath before the twins tended to Midnight, polishing the layer of cum off his veiny shaft with long licks. Finally, they made out with his sensitive flat tip between their pouty lips, working more gentle moans out of the soldier.

“Heh! Ah guess ye should consider this part ov yer trainin' as well,” the warrior ram teased through heavy pants. “A’m sure your herd mates will appreciate these techniques~!”

“M-mmhm! Thanks,” Midnight nodded, his cheeks colored while he petted the twins, who batted their eyes at him. He smiled and relished the moment shared with his friends, knowing his wife would come around when the time was right.

And as the twins turned their attention towards Dion, lovingly smacking their lips around his cock while tenderizing his fat ballsack, the ram motioned for Midnight to tend to their dripping snatches. With a nod, he knelt and put his hands to good use, knowing Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse had plenty of rounds left in them.

Evening overtook the illusionary skies surrounding the manor. Everyone in the group split off to their rooms to prepare for the upcoming trip to Canterlot. All except Shadow Scythe, who wandered down the creaky hallways of the upper floors, looking for a particular room.

Her ears perked at the sound of conversation, poking her head to spot Zeloph hovering before Beatrix and Oona, a dismal look upon his face.

“Wow… I knew you wanted me out of Abadonna’s life. But to go so far as to erase me permanently from her mind? To think you'd stoop to such a low...”

“H-hey, take it easy,” urged the violet unicorn. “We don’t know for sure that’ll happen. And if it does, Abby won’t remember me either…”

The azure sheep stepped in, saying, “Ah know what it sounds like, Zeloph. After everything ye’ve been through, this is th' last thing ye’d want tae hear.”

“I appreciate the honesty.” He turned to address Beatrix. “But, come on! Your lover has been secretly contacting an extremely shady character, who proclaims to eat people’s dreams, and has a suspicious interest in your daughter? You're telling me you're not the least bit upset about this?”

“Of course I am!” Affirmed the witch, arms crossing under her bust. “But unlike with you, I trust Oona not to lead us astray. That’s why I’m going with her to contact this ‘Nightmare Stag’ tonight. Say if things do work out. I’d respect my promise to the Mystic Council by not disturbing Enock; we’d get Abby back, AND we stop the Burning King from raising armageddon! The only reason we’d need to go to Canterlot is to put an end to Doppia’s masquerade and get Cerise her body back! That make sense?”

Zeloph, folding his arms, rebutted, “That still sounds too far-fetched!”

“We’re aware,” acknowledged Oona. “Th' Nightmare Stag likely has a hidden agenda. An' whate'er is, we’ll figure it out.”

A sigh left the cherub’s lips as he turned away. “... a word of advice, then? Anything that claims to be a deity or higher cannot be trusted. I learned that the hard way…”

Beatrix scrunched her snout before approaching her former flame. “I haven’t entirely forgiven you yet,” she reminded. “But I can see you’re not actively malicious, like before. Underneath that arrogant asshole lies someone with a decent heart. And, even though things wouldn’t work out between us, I’d be happy to be your friend. You did bring Abadonna into my life, after all.”

She planted a soft kiss on the demi’s cheek, making them glow brighter. “Hmph…”

Oona took the witch’s hand and pulled her away into their room, leaving the fallen angel almost alone to his thoughts. He cast a glance towards the dim corridor. “Old habits die hard, huh?”

Hesitantly, Shadow Scythe emerged from the shadows, looking much more meekly than she’d prefer. “I-I didn’t mean to spy on you! I was just--”

“It’s alright,” Zeloph reassured, floating past her as he opened another room, presumably where he’s been sleeping. “Would you… like to-”

“Yes! I-I mean if it’s… Ugh! Why do these stupid feelings make everything so difficult!?”

The angelic demi chuckled gently before welcoming her inside. There wasn’t much outside a hammock far more extensive than the demi-human, an old cabinet, and an open window. The pair sat together, an awkward silence resurfacing. It had been a long while since they had time to spend together, both so focused on the mission ahead.

“Surprised your sister isn’t here to bug us,” Shadow Scythe scoffed.

“Probably too busy watching the other’s hump away like rabbits,” Zeloph retorted.

The pale unicorn offered a stiff chuckle into a sleeve. “Not surprising…” More silence passed between them, and then another question. “So, what’s this about a ‘Nightmare Stag’?”

“Another one of Oona’s well-kept secrets,” the demi stated with thin lips. “He's offered them a way that’ll not only save Abadonna but put an end to this madness. But the process will retcon her existence, thus removing Beatrix and me from her memories.”

“What!? That’s completely unfair!!” The reaper shot back up, wrapped fists balled. “Not just to you, but Abadonna as well!! How could they possibly think this is a good decision?!”

“I don’t think we’re ones to talk, considering our history...”

“That’s not the point! This is the exact reason why I’ve wanted to stop her! Such foolish ambitions will surely have repercussions.”

“Oh, more than likely. But... I can’t ignore the benefits either,” Zeloph admitted with a hand wave. “If what this stag said is true, we’ve essentially killed two birds with one stone. And we can focus all our energy on stopping Doppia.”

She narrowed her soft gaze at him. “And you’re simply… okay with this?”

“Of course not,” he sneered before sighing wryly. “But it’s not like I was supposed to be Abby’s father in the first place. It’s my fault her timeline was distorted. And if they can fix it, I won’t oppose it. I want what’s best for Abadonna… even at the cost of our time together.”

Sympathy and understanding washed over Shadow Scythe like a wave. Not everyone could make a hard decision like Zeloph was by allowing their former adversaries in order to proceed with their confrontation.

Cautiously, she scooted closer to him before confessing, “You know I wouldn’t have betrayed you, right? Back at the mountain, I mean…”

“Shadow Scythe, that’s in the past,” he dismissed with another hand wave. “There’s no need to be concerned.”

“No, it’s not merely that!”

The reaper pressed on, grasping Zeloph’s shoulders and turning him to face her. “Hard as it was to admit this once, I’ve grown fond of your company. You’re the only one I could tolerate during this whole endeavor. And… if not for your companionship, I might have ended myself…” She admitted this while looking away in shame.

His hardened look became tender, reaching a tentative hand to cup her cheek. “Of course. Likewise, you’re the only one with whom I’m comfortable. I feel like I can open up to you about things I wouldn’t dare say to anyone!”

Her snout moved closer. “Like...?”

Knowing where this may be going, Zeloph lifted himself to allow Shadow Scythe to lay in the hammock fully. The cherub then laid his back against her chest, gesturing her arms to hold him close.

“My mother,” the half-angel started. “She was Terran. And raising me beside her was a lovely man named Jonn. He taught me how, despite its simplicity, mortal life could be so beautiful. Hold so much more grandeur than anything heaven could replicate. It’s likely why my father took offense to humanity…”

Shadow Scythe nodded, recalling his minor spat about ‘god-like beings.’ “You were robbed of a good life because of your divinity...”

Tears began to stream down Zeloph’s cheeks when he continued, fighting not to sob in front of her openly. “How could I protect a world when they no longer lived in it? With people who didn’t share their point of view! Who only proved my father right...”

“Yeah,” she murmured, swallowing a lump in her throat. “It’s… ironic, actually.”

“Hmm?”

“My parents wanted me to have a similar life. But instead of some divine intervention, I pushed them away in pursuit of something much greater. They were hunters; Quicksilver Bullet and Quiver Bolt. Profound at the time. I think my mother would have liked you if she were still alive...”

Sensing the guilt in her voice, the cherub caressed her face and offered, “My father would have idolized how ambitious you are...”

The pair shared small laughter while they cuddled up closer. Zeloph’s feathery ears listened to how loudly Shadow Scythe’s heart beat in her lithe bosom. A tired groan left his lips. “It’s times like these where I wish I had a guitar.”

“You play?” The pale unicorn asked with a quirked brow.

“Nowhere near good as Jonn, but yes. Although I doubt I could reach the frets with my short arms and fingers.” Zeloph frowned at his hands.

A smile and soft blush appeared on the reaper before taking them into her own. “Mmm, yes. Such a shame you’re trapped in that form,” she whispered almost inaudibly. “You certainly knew what to do with those hands~.”

“A-ahh!? Are you... flirting with me?” He asked coyly.

“I find such acts redundant. That doesn’t mean I didn’t learn a few bold suggestions. I never counted on having such an elegant specimen by my side...”

“Well! Once I’ve shaken this cherub shape, I’d like to hear what you’ve learned. Maybe we can share a few notes~.”

The pale unicorn absolutely flourished. Being close to Zeloph again set her whole body aflame with need. Hopefully, he could return to his full shape soon! Nonetheless, Shadow Scythe was thankful to have his warmth as they began to doze off. The reaper was also glad Moxxi was nowhere to hog her brother’s attention.

But little did the couple know, the imp herself had been watching from atop a cabinet, laying her frame over the ledge like a cat. Her eyes glowed softly in the dark; magenta orbs widened over the sight before her. Moxxi rested her chin on top of her hands, grinning ear to ear.

“Sleep tight, lovedoves~!” She mused.

Cerise continued to stare into the liquid concoction within the green bottle. She knew what needed to be done but was hesitant.

Would the mare, whose body she currently resided in, be understanding? Or was she even more callous than the demoness that swindled her? With a deep inhale, the dancer pushed back her doubts and swallowed the bitter potion until the last drop. Then, just as she was ready to turn in, a subdued knock sounded at the door.

“Cerise? Are you…. still awake?” It was Midnight.

“Y-yeah. You can come in,” Cerise replied. Stepping inside, the blue pegasus wore only striped pajama bottoms. The candlelight from the hallway highlighted his abs, along with the sweat still staining his coat. Cerise felt her cheeks heat up.

Taking a seat by the bed, Midnight rubbed the back of his neck before greeting with, “H-hey..!”

“H-hello, hubby,” Cerise greeted back, a small smile to her snout.

“I just thought I would come by and check on you.”

“I’m alright, thank you,” nodded the jade mare. “Are you feeling better?”

“Y-yeah! Dion and the twins helped a lot. I should be able to handle myself better tomorrow.”

“That’s good,” agreed Cerise.

Midnight’s smile faltered when he reached a shaking hand, only for the dancer to intertwine their fingers together and touch his gold ring. “O-oh! I-I thought you were still afraid of me...”

“I’m… mostly over it,” she said with pursed lips. “Or I will soon, with your help.” She tickled his chest fluff. “When I first got this body, I was worried about, well, consent. I mean, it’s not mine, so what right do I have to do what I want with it? I’ve thought about just saying, ‘Fuck it! Why should I care about that bitch? If she’s going to use my gifts to get what she wants, why shouldn’t I?’” Her snout pursed at foul memories.

“W-well, because we know this body didn’t belong to Doppia either.”

“And because it wouldn’t be right,” Cerise continued, squeezing his hand tightly. “I’ve missed you, Middy! So badly, I’ve wanted just to tackle you down and make sweet love to you! Make up for all the damage caused between us! But... I can’t. Not when I know another soul suffers alongside mine.”

“I understand,” assured Midnight, tenderly stroking her cheek. “Just know that, no matter what it takes, I’m gonna get your body back, babe. I’m not losing the mare I love!”

Sniffling, she brought his big hand to her lips, silently delighted to find the rune-inscribed golden ring still glittering around his finger. “I needed to hear that, Middy… I-I love you!”

“I love you too,” Midnight whispered, his smile returning once he took his leave. The dancer held her hands close to her slender chest, more determined than ever to succeed.

And through the strength and support of her husband, Cerise would come back home stronger. This was her personal promise as she found sleep carrying her off to troubled dreams.

Everywhere around her was soon layered in darkness and mist. A single spotlight shone over her, causing Cerise to shield her vision with an arm. Her eyes widened to see the familiar charcoal coat. And, upon further inspection, realized that she was back in her own body!

She almost cried with joy before she spotted her reflection. A looming mirror revealed the reality of her situation. The crystal green coat, shimmering dully. A black tutu was clinging onto her lithe figure. Cerise was still a prisoner in Doppia’s old body.

And soon, her wicked cackle filled the dreadful void. The ballerina’s visage twisted into a mocking grin. Then, many more grinning faces began dancing around her, spitefully berating the princess for all her failures.

“Useless cunt!”

“Stupid whore!”

“Can’t run back to mommy and daddy now~!”

“You’d do your world a service by hanging yourself, little bimbo!”

Cerise guarded her face while the doppelgangers all battered and slapped her with their wings. Each heavy hit and the venom-laced word made her seethe inward. Yet, she would not relent to the ballerina’s repeated taunts or torments.

“I know… this isn’t who you are,” Cerise called out, looking around the flocking ballerinas with tearful eyes. “You’re not a Vice Lord! You’re not Doppia!”

Each of them cast hateful expressions, momentarily pausing their assault. The daughter of darkness continued, “Please… don’t cast me out. Let me help you!”

“Help me? You can barely save yourself! Get lost!”

“Shut up, you stupid bitch!”

“You were unwanted at birth!”

They resumed their dancing with a brisk pace. Feathers and fury lashed at Cerise, hissing from the stinging pain. But the princess endured, raising her voice, “I’m not going anywhere! Not until I speak with you. The real you. Not these hollow copies!”

“Shut your whore mouth!!”

“You worthless thot!”

But the angrier the decoys became, the more their forms deteriorated. Until they stopped dancing altogether, clutching their heads.

“Don’t become what she is!” Cerise pressed harder. “I know you’re not a monster!”

“S-shut up!”

“Stop it! STOP IT!!”

“Leave me ALONE!!!”

“Fight it! Don’t let your pain dictate you! REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE!!”

“GO AWAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!!”

One voice screamed as the illusion shattered like broken glass. Fragments of each doppelganger crumbled and floated around the air, the overhead light fading. Cerise was panting as her ears perked to the sound of weeping behind her. Turning around, the spotlight highlighted a mare hunched over, cracks depressing her crystalline coat, shoulders jerking with each wracked sob.

Cautiously, the princess approached the distraught dancer, dropping to her knees. And when she tried touching her, she recoiled.

“Why won’t you go away?” The crystal ballerina asked in a raspy voice. “I-I just wanted my life back. Please, leave me alone. I don’t want to hurt anymore…”

“I-I know,” Cerise affirmed sadly. “But I can’t just leave. Doppia took my body, too. I don’t have anywhere else to go… I need your help.”

With broken coughs and sharp inhales, the mare raised her head. Wetness ruined her make-up, dark lines running down her cheeks. But instead of the heated amber eyes filled with malice as she expected, softened indigo orbs gazed wryly at Cerise.

Gingerly, the princess cupped her cheek to wipe away a few of her sorrows, asking, “Who are you?”

She sniffled, “R-Rhen-Rheneas…”

“Rheneas? That’s a beautiful name!”

“Doppia thought so too...”

Cerise’s snout drew into a frown. “How did she take it from you...?”

A brief silence fell as the emerald ballerina focused on collecting herself.

“A-All I ever wanted to do was dance,” Rheneas began. “I started practicing when I was small. My mother was a strict teacher, pushing me to strive for greatness. But that was because she couldn’t achieve her own dreams as the top primadonna in the Crystal Empire. Any flaw in my steps made her hate me…”

Cerise felt her heart ache, reminded of how overprotective her parents were, spending most of her childhood in the palace. She couldn’t imagine the agony of having her beloved mother berate her for every minor mistake.

Rheneas continued. “I bent my ankles in bad places, threw up most of my meals. Yet, no matter how hard I tried, I could never please her, even when I won a few competitions. It made me resent her. Made me despise dancing. And it was that bitterness that attracted Doppia.”

The ballet dancer continued, “She promised to make me the best ballerina in Equestria. All I had to do was...let her in. And, for a while, things were great. I left my mother, found love, made a name for myself. I was finally a star...!”

The ballerina closed her eyes in reminiscence of those wonderful feelings, a small smile briefly appearing. “That’s when she started taking over. My consciousness slipped in places where she took up my identity. One moment, I’m having dinner with my beloved. The next, she’s having sex with them while I was trapped in the corner of my mind. I didn’t feel anything. All I could do was watch while she used my body for her pleasure.”

Sobs rose in her voice, gripping her bare shoulders. “For so long, I felt like I no longer existed. That at any point, Doppia would swallow up my soul entirely. And I would be nothing more than her shadow...”

“But you held out,” pointed out Cerise.

“Barely,” scoffed Rheneas. “I had to keep my spirit small so that she’d forget I was still there. Stop her from siphoning what energy I had left. But I spent so much time as a prisoner; I began to share her thoughts, her own insecurities. As monstrous as she is, Doppia fails to live up to her fellow Vice Lords. Especially the Burning King. She loathes them and plans to use your friend’s daughter to overtake him.”

“That’s why I’m asking you to join us,” the princess offered. “We can’t let Doppia ruin any more lives! If we work together, I can reclaim my body. And we’ll both be free, I promise!”

Her indigo eyes gleamed as if wanting so badly to believe Cerise’s words. “Why should I trust you?! How do I know you won’t-”

“Don’t you see?” She reassured her with a warm smile, placing a hand on her chest. “We’re kindred souls. And as a fellow lover of dance, you have my word. I will protect you.”

Tears built up in Rheneas’ eyes again before she flung herself into Cerise’s arms, hugging her tightly. The floating shards dissolved into water, cascading down into a pool around them. The overlight expanded, raining droplets as well.

“Thank you..!” The ballerina cried softly, burying her face into Cerise’s bust.

Likewise, the dancer stroked her back and sank into the calming waters surrounding them while brilliant light overfilled the dreamscape.

“Okay…so walk me through what we’re doing again.” Inside their shared room, Beatrix had finished brushing through her violet-tinged platinum locks with a brush, ready for bed. A pink see-through lace nightgown adorned her voluptuous figure, the only other garments being underwear. After a few more touch-ups, the witch walked over onto the bed and got into the covers, her lover already occupying the other side.

Oona replied, “Fur mah Onoma tae work, we need tae be touchin' as we drift tae sleep.”

“And the music box?” She pointed towards the worn artifact that stood bedside.

“It’ll draw th' Nightmare Stag with its lullaby. Then, if he’s near, th' dreamscape will become black an' white, everything swallowed in a dark veil.”

Beatrix remembered a few dreams that were described as such. One that came to mind was where she dreamt Zeloph had nearly taken Abadonna away to erase her mind.

Was that the Nightmare Stag’s doing?

With pursed lips, the unicorn confessed, “I still don’t know about this, Oona! While I’m relieved you opened up about this, I can’t shake off this looming sense of danger. I hate to admit it, but Zeloph’s right; we don’t know anything about this fiend! And to blindly trust he’ll show us the way to Abby could be disastrous.”

“Yer concerns are valid, Ceann Oga,” Oona spoke calmly, placing her hand over Beatrix’s. “This could turn out tae be a grave mistake. But we have tae try! Abadonna doesn’t have much time left. If we don’t hurry an' act fast, Doppia will force her tae complete th' Omega Prophecy! We must believe this will work! An' if not th' Stag, please have faith in me..!”

With an uneasy sigh, Beatrix offered her a nod and a kiss, to which she reciprocated. Oona felt her student squeeze her hand tightly. With everything set, all that was left was to turn the key and let the instrument’s eerie lullaby carry the two lovers into a deep slumber.

The next time her eyes opened, Beatrix found herself in dark woods. Crickets chirped all around her. A faint mist covered the ground. And gazing up towards the towering trees only revealed a pitch-black sky. She gasped upon realizing her hand wasn’t holding the azure sheep’s.

“O-Oona?!”

“I’m over here!” Her voice called back, stepping out from the darkened mist, her horns and wool glimmering brightly. Beatrix rushed towards her side, perked ears picking up a hollow gale that spoke incoherent whispers. Paying closer attention, she could make out a few faint words.

“...꓄ꁝꏂ ꓄ꋬ꒒ꏂꇙ ꄲꊰ ꄲ꒒꒯ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒ ꃳꏂꉔꄲꂵꏂ ꋊꏂꅐ…”

“... ꓄ꁝꄲꇙꏂ ꅐꁝꄲ ꒯ꏂꇙ꓄ꋪꄲꌦ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꏂꋬꋪ꓄ꁝ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒…”

“... ꉣꋪꋬꌦ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꍌꋪ꒐ꂵꂵ ꒯ꏂꇙ꒐ꋪꏂꇙ ꋊꄲ꓄ ꌦꄲ꒤…”

“The Grimm?”

“Hold on, Ceann Oga,” Oona warned, turning her head all around the area, perplexed. “Th' nightmare realm is usually melancholy an' without color. But somethin' has changed...”

The loud snapping of branches made the pair jump, Beatrix clinging onto the sheep sage’s arm. Then, footsteps perked their ears as someone shoved away branches, bursting out of the fog.

“G-get them off me! GET THEM OFF!!”

It appeared to be a stallion wearing a business suit, scratching and hitting his limbs before stumbling to his knees. Beatrix attempted to approach him before Oona pulled her back, shaking her head.

The fool appeared to be rubbing at his sleeves, scratching at his face, as if he was covered in a swarm of insects, trying desperately to get rid of them. Yet, there was nothing to indicate this. And all the witch could do was watch as the stallion sobbed and screamed.

“ꁝꋬꋬꋬꋬꋬꋬꋬꋬꁝꁝꁝ…” A famished voice sighed behind them, causing both women to freeze up. They dared not turn around as a looming figure brushed past them, addressing the frightened colt. “ꌦꏂꏂꏂꏂꏂꇙꇙꇙꇙꇙ… ꒒ꏂ꓄ ꍌꄲ!”

Violently, the colt’s cheeks swelled before his mouth vomited out large, spindly appendages that branched out. Beatrix cringed and covered her mouth as the black arachnid shape pulled itself free from the stallion’s maw. Then, after shaking off the saliva, the creature skittered into the trees, leaving the colt to wheeze frantically. And when his eyes opened wide, he yelled louder.

“ꇙ꒤ꉔꁝ ꇙꅐꏂꏂ꓄, ꒯ꏂ꒒꒐ꉔ꒐ꄲ꒤ꇙ ꊰꏂꋬꋪ…” The Nightmare Stag groaned, salivation dripping down its exposed parted jaws.

Oona urged Beatrix to turn away as the colt cried out, shuddering at the sickening sounds of tearing flesh and liquid splattering the ground. Only when the fiendish cervidae gulped down the last of its prey did they turn around.

A long tongue lapped at the blood coating its boney maw, cleaning the remains. He remained hunched before the couple, the body hidden behind its squatting limbs.

“ꌦꄲ꒤ ꉔꋬ꒤ꍌꁝ꓄ ꂵꏂ ꋬ꓄ ꋬ ꃳꋬ꒯ ꓄꒐ꂵꏂ,” the Nightmare Stag said apologetically. “꒐ ꅐꋬꇙ ꁝ꒤ꋊꍌꋪꌦ ꋬꋊ꒯ ꊰꄲ꒤ꋊ꒯ ꓄ꁝ꒐ꇙ ꇙ꓄ꋪꋬꍌꍌ꒒ꏂꋪ. ꒐ ꂵ꒤ꉔꁝ ꉣꋪꏂꊰꏂꋪ ꋬ ꂵꄲꋪꏂ ꉔ꒐꒦꒐꒒ ꂵꏂꏂ꓄꒐ꋊꍌ...”

Before Oona could say anything to defuse the tension, it was Beatrix who spoke first. “I… can’t say I’m not appalled. But it’s not like we haven’t encountered ponies or people who indulge in twisted stuff before. Hell, I was one of them! But you’re a whole new level of beastly!”

“꒯ꄲꋊ’꓄ ꅐꋬꇙ꓄ꏂ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꇙꌦꂵꉣꋬ꓄ꁝ꒐ꏂꇙ ꄲꋊ ꓄ꁝ꒐ꇙ ꄲꋊꏂ,” he assured, looking over the evaporating corpse. “ꁝꏂ ꅐꋬꇙ ꋬ ꓄ꏂꋪꋪ꒐ꃳ꒒ꏂ ꉣꄲꋊꌦ, ꓄ꋪꏂꋬ꓄꒐ꋊꍌ ꏂ꒦ꏂꋪꌦꄲꋊꏂ ꁝꏂ ꀘꋊꏂꅐ ꒒꒐ꀘꏂ ꃳ꒤ꍌꇙ. ꅐꁝ꒐ꉔꁝ ꂵꋬꀘꏂꇙ ꒐꓄ ꂵꄲꋪꏂ ꒐ꋪꄲꋊ꒐ꉔ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꁝꏂ ꅐꋬꇙ ꆰ꒤꒐꓄ꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꋬꋪꋬꉔꁝꋊꄲꉣꁝꄲꃳꏂ. ꋪꏂꇙ꓄ ꋬꇙꇙ꒤ꋪꏂ꒯, ꁝꏂ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒ ꋊꄲ꓄ ꃳꏂ ꂵ꒐ꇙꇙꏂ꒯.”

As the monster stood up, the witch found herself fixated on his appearance. The Nightmare Stag was a massive, ancient, unholy fusion of elk and tree. Branches and bones protruded from the feathery leaf mane covering his neck and back. He was lean in musculature with elongated arms. Unblinking crimson eyes glowed inside the sockets of his ivory skull, runes painted atop his forehead. White silk decorated his antlers. Beads embedded the webbing, almost like a crudely made dreamcatcher.

The witch immediately associated him with the Wendigos she encountered before the Crystal Empire, the resemblance nearly identical. Yet while they were ravenous deer husks made of cold and ice, the Nightmare Stag seemed to be a bit more resilient. A predecessor, perhaps?

The cryptid creature chuckled. “꒐ ꇙꏂꏂ ꅐꁝꌦ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꊰꋬ꒦ꄲꋪ ꁝꏂꋪ ꇙꄲ ꂵ꒤ꉔꁝ,” he motioned to Oona. “ꆰ꒤꒐꓄ꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꉔ꒤ꋪ꒐ꄲ꒤ꇙ ꄲꋊꏂ, ꏂ꒦ꏂꋊ ꅐꁝꏂꋊ ꊰꋬꉔꏂ꒯ ꅐ꒐꓄ꁝ ꉔꏂꋪ꓄ꋬ꒐ꋊ ꒯ꋬꋊꍌꏂꋪ. ꋊꄲꋊꏂ꓄ꁝꏂ꒒ꏂꇙꇙ, ꒐꓄ ꒐ꇙ ꋬ ꉣ꒒ꏂꋬꇙ꒤ꋪꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꊰ꒐ꋊꋬ꒒꒒ꌦ ꂵꏂꏂ꓄ ꌦꄲ꒤, ꃳꏂꋬ꓄ꋪ꒐ꉧ ꃳꏂ꒒꒒ꋬ꒯ꄲꋊꋊꋬ.”

As the creature bowed its head, the witch returned a short curtsy, a nervous smile on her snout. “L-likewise..! I notice you don’t speak with an accent. Am I right to presume you are not a native to this land?”

The Nightmare Stag nodded. “ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋬꋪꏂ ꉔꄲꋪꋪꏂꉔ꓄. ꂵꌦ ꄲꋪ꒐ꍌ꒐ꋊꇙ ꒒꒐ꏂ ꂵ꒤ꉔꁝ ꊰ꒤ꋪ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ ꃳꏂꌦꄲꋊ꒯ ꏂꆰ꒤ꏂꇙ꓄ꋪ꒐ꋬꋊ ꇙꄲ꒐꒒. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꒐ꇙ ꋬ ꒯꒐ꇙꉔ꒤ꇙꇙ꒐ꄲꋊ ꊰꄲꋪ ꋬꋊꄲ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ ꓄꒐ꂵꏂ. ꌦꄲ꒤ ꓄ꅐꄲ ꋬꋪꏂ ꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꊰꄲꋪ ꋬ ꉣ꒤ꋪꉣꄲꇙꏂ.”

Both the violet mare and azure sheep looked to each other before Lady Ewe approached the towering cervidae. “We know what must be done tae restore Abadonna. Two halves opposite ov each other must join together. One light, the other dark. An', where dreams are brought through hope…”

“ꋊ꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ꂵꋬꋪꏂꇙ ꋬꋪꏂ ꇙꄲꅐꋊ ꓄ꁝꋪꄲ꒤ꍌꁝ ꒯ꏂꇙꉣꋬ꒐ꋪ,” the slender deer acknowledged, turning his skull head towards Beatrix. “ꋬꋊ꒯ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋬꋪꏂ ꄲꀘꋬꌦ ꅐ꒐꓄ꁝ ꇙ꒤ꉔꁝ ꋬ ꒤ꋊ꒐ꄲꋊ?”

“I’ve slept with a ton of people. Most were friendly and kind, while others were cruel and corrupt. I’d be a hypocrite if I kept Oona from pursuing other partners as I do,” the witch admitted, rubbing her forearm. “My only grievance is that by allowing this, Abby won’t remember me as her mother. And all this time I spent finding her… All the wonderful moments we shared...”

“ꉔꋬꋊ ꃳꏂ ꉣꋪꏂꇙꏂꋪ꒦ꏂ꒯.”

“I-I beg your pardon?” Beatrix looked up as the Nightmare Stag’s shadow covered her form, his gaunt face drawn closer to hers.

“꒐ꊰ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꅐꏂꋪꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꄲꊰꊰꏂꋪ ꂵꏂ ꇙꄲꂵꏂ ꄲꊰ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꒒꒐ꊰꏂ ꊰꄲꋪꉔꏂ, ꒐ ꉔꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꓄ꋪꋬꋊꇙꊰ꒤ꇙꏂ ꄲ꒤ꋪ ꏂꋊꏂꋪꍌ꒐ꏂꇙ ꓄ꄲꍌꏂ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ. ꓄ꁝ꒤ꇙ ꉣꋪꏂꇙꏂꋪ꒦꒐ꋊꍌ ꋬꃳꋬ꒯ꄲꋊꋊꋬ’ꇙ ꂵꏂꂵꄲꋪ꒐ꏂꇙ ꄲꊰ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋬꋊ꒯ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꊰꄲꋪꂵꏂꋪ ꊰ꒒ꋬꂵꏂ.”

“Sae then ye would still be her mother physically,” Oona proclaimed, cupping her lover’s cheek. “B-but Ah thought th' prophecy specified two parents!”

“ꌦꏂꇙ. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꒐꓄ ꋊꏂ꒦ꏂꋪ ꇙꋬ꒐꒯ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꋬꉔ꓄ ꉔꄲ꒤꒒꒯ꋊ’꓄ ꃳꏂ ꉣꏂꋪꊰꄲꋪꂵꏂ꒯ ꃳꌦ ꂵꄲꋪꏂ ꓄ꁝꋬꋊ ꓄ꅐꄲ ꉣꏂꄲꉣ꒒ꏂ,” the Nightmare Stag countered. “ꇙꄲ ꒒ꄲꋊꍌ ꋬꇙ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋬꋪꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꋪꏂꉔꏂ꒐꒦ꏂꋪ, ꒐ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂ꒦ꏂ ꃳꏂꋬ꓄ꋪ꒐ꉧ ꒐ꇙ ꊰꋪꏂꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꉣꋬꋪ꓄꒐ꉔ꒐ꉣꋬ꓄ꏂ ꒐ꊰ ꇙꁝꏂ ꉔꁝꄲꄲꇙꏂꇙ.”

“Well, we are trying to change fate after all,” considered Beatrix, whose violet eyes fell back onto the fiendish deer. The witch slept with many warriors, monsters, tyrants, angels, and the occasional tentacle beast or two. But never in her promiscuous adventures did she imagine laying with a borderline god.

Not that the idea wasn’t super enticing. The Nightmare Stag’s body structure made the wayward witch nibble her lip, imagining what else of him might boast an intimidating length…

Beatrix gasped when he lowered his skeletal snout and pressed it into his neck, sniffing her scent. “꓄ꁝ꒐ꇙ ꄲꋊꏂ ꇙꏂꏂꂵꇙ ꂵꄲꋪꏂ ꓄ꁝꋬꋊ ꋪꏂꋬ꒯ꌦ,” he noted in a husky voice that made her shiver in shameless delight. “ꇙꁝꋬ꒒꒒ ꅐꏂ ꍌꏂ꓄ ꇙ꓄ꋬꋪ꓄ꏂ꒯?”

“W-wait!” Oona exclaimed, pulling her lover away. “What dae ye gain by helpin' us? If we are tae bear our souls together, Ah no longer want tae live in secrets!”

The Nightmare Stag sensed the uncertainty and replied, “꒐, ꓄ꄲꄲ, ꇙꏂꏂꀘ ꓄ꄲ ꉣꋪꏂ꒦ꏂꋊ꓄ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꃳ꒤ꋪꋊ꒐ꋊꍌ ꀘ꒐ꋊꍌ’ꇙ ꋪꏂ꒒ꏂꋬꇙꏂ. ꂵꌦ ꃳꋪꏂ꓄ꁝꋪꏂꋊ ꇙ꓄꒐꒒꒒ ꇙ꒒ꏂꏂꉣ, ꒯ꋪꏂꋬꂵ꒐ꋊꍌ ꄲꊰ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲ꒒꒯ ꅐꄲꋪ꒒꒯ ꅐꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꅐꏂ ꒤ꇙꏂ꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꉣꋪꄲꇙꉣꏂꋪ. ꋬ ꒒ꋬꋊ꒯ ꒤ꋊꋪ꒤꒒ꏂ꒯ ꃳꌦ ꂵꄲꋪ꓄ꋬ꒒ ꉔ꒐꒦꒐꒒꒐ꁴꋬ꓄꒐ꄲꋊ ꅐꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꄲ꒤ꋪ ꒒ꏂꍌꋬꉔꌦ ꅐꋬꇙꋊ'꓄ ꋪꏂ꒯꒤ꉔꏂ꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꂵꏂꋪꏂ ꂵꌦ꓄ꁝꇙ. ꋬ ꒒ꋬꋊ꒯ ꅐꏂ ꅐ꒐ꇙꁝ ꓄ꄲ ꋪꏂ꓄꒤ꋪꋊ ꓄ꄲ. ꋬꋊ꒯ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꉔꋬꋊꋊꄲ꓄ ꁝꋬꉣꉣꏂꋊ ꇙꁝꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꏂꋊ꒯ ꄲꊰ ꒯ꋬꌦꇙ ꉔꄲꂵꏂꇙ ꓄ꄲ ꉣꋬꇙꇙ.”

“Are you some kind of deity?” Beatrix directly asked.

“꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꅐꄲꋪ꒯ ꂵꏂꋬꋊꇙ ꒒꒐꓄꓄꒒ꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꂵꏂ,” chuckled the Nightmare Stag. “꒯ꄲꏂꇙ ꋬ ꍌꄲ꒯ ꓄ꋪ꒤꒒ꌦ ꒒꒐꒦ꏂ ꒐ꊰ ꁝꏂ ꒐ꇙ ꋊꄲ꓄ ꒐ꋊ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꁝꏂꋬꋪ꓄ꇙ ꄲꊰ ꁝ꒐ꇙ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂ꒦ꏂꋪꇙ? ꋊꄲ, ꒐ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꃳꏂꏂꋊ ꒒ꄲꋊꍌ ꊰꄲꋪꍌꄲ꓄꓄ꏂꋊ. ꒒ꋬꃳꏂ꒒ꏂ꒯ ꄲꊰꊰ ꋬꇙ ꋬ ꃳꋬ꒯ ꒯ꋪꏂꋬꂵ. ꋬ꒒꒒ ꒐ ꅐꋬꋊ꓄ ꒐ꇙ ꓄ꄲ ꒒꒐꒦ꏂ ꒐ꋊ ꋬ ꅐꄲꋪ꒒꒯ ꊰꋪꏂꏂ ꄲꊰ ꒻꒤꒯ꍌꂵꏂꋊ꓄ ꋬꋊ꒯ ꉔꄲꋪꋪ꒤ꉣ꓄꒐ꄲꋊ. ꒐... ꅐ꒐ꇙꁝ ꓄ꄲ ꒒꒐꒦ꏂ ꋬ꒒ꄲꋊꍌꇙ꒐꒯ꏂ ꌦꄲ꒤, ꄲꄲꋊꋬ.”

“M-me?” the flustered sheep meeped.

“꒐ꊰ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꅐꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꉣꏂꋪꂵ꒐꓄ ꂵꏂ,” he said, once more lowering his head. “ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋬꋪꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꄲꋊ꒒ꌦ ꄲꋊꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꇙꁝꄲꅐꋊ ꂵꏂ ꀘ꒐ꋊ꒯ꋊꏂꇙꇙ. ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋬ꒒ꅐꋬꌦꇙ ꊰ꒐ꋊ꒯ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꒒꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ ꒐ꋊ ꄲ꓄ꁝꏂꋪꇙ, ꅐꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂꌦ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꄲꋊ꒒ꌦ ꀘꋊꄲꅐꋊ ꒯ꋬꋪꀘꋊꏂꇙꇙ.”

Once more, he was referring to Beatrix, who had to admit, made a valid point. Lady Ewe had stood by her side, despite all the bad situations she caused or indulged in. it brought a genuine smile out of her whenever she gazed lovingly at the azure sheep. She slipped her hand into Oona’s as she turned those honey-brown eyes her way.

“I’d like to know you better first,” the wayward witch stated to the Nightmare Stag. “I’m not opposed to the idea, but I’ve been hurt before by someone who offered me a similar thing.”

“ꅐꏂ꒒꒒ ꓄ꁝꏂꋊ,” the cryptid deer murmured when he steadily shrunk in size to a more appropriate height. He remained taller than both of them, stretching out his hand. “꒒ꏂ꓄ ꒤ꇙ ꍌꏂ꓄ ꋬꉔꆰ꒤ꋬ꒐ꋊ꓄ꏂ꒯ ꋬꇙ ꄲꋊ꒒ꌦ ꋬ ꂵꋬ꒒ꏂ ꋬꋊ꒯ ꊰꏂꂵꋬ꒒ꏂ ꅐꄲ꒤꒒꒯.”

Oona gave an encouraging nod before Beatrix cautiously stepped forward. Chewing on her bottom lip, she shimmered her shoulders to loosen the nightgown off her body, letting it pool down her legs. Next, she removed her bra and panties. Her nipples hardened, feeling those burning red eyes take in her curvy shape.

“꒦ꏂꋪꌦ ꋊ꒐ꉔꏂ,” he noted in a husky whisper, taking her hand to pull her closer. “ꌦꄲ꒤ ꅐꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꃳꏂ ꓄ꁝꏂ ꊰ꒐ꋪꇙ꓄ ꅐ꒐꓄ꉔꁝ ꒐ꋊ ꋬ ꒒ꄲꋊꍌ ꓄꒐ꂵꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꄲꊰꊰꏂꋪ ꁝꏂꋪꇙꏂ꒒ꊰ ꓄ꄲ ꂵꏂ.”

“Well, what can I say?” The unicorn purred, body on full display, playfully running her fingers along with the fiend’s abdominals. “We witches have a knack for worshiping big, horned figures~.”

That definitely stirred a primal need in the Nightmare Stag, if the low growl was any indication. Beatrix began placing butterfly kisses all over his stomach, her bountiful breasts brushing against his furred groin as she felt a familiar shape growing from his sheath.

Oona watched her lover work up the primordial wendigo, her own breathing and body growing hot at the provocative display.

A delighted gasp left the witch’s lips when his semi-erect cock extended over her bared bosom, the tip narrow compared to the thicker base. Yet it was indisputably the longest shaft Beatrix had ever encountered in all her travels!

“H-holy shit!” She exclaimed, earning a dark chuckle from her skull-faced partner.

“ꋊꄲ꓄ ꋬꊰꋪꋬ꒐꒯, ꋬꋪꏂ ꌦꄲ꒤?”

“N-not at all! Just… nervous~.”

His raw musk was intoxicating. Her eyes hooded under half lids as Beatrix began to sample his shaft with wet kisses and thorough licks. She mewled when his long fingers petted and brushed through her platinum locks, the kneeling unicorn staring up at the beast with hazy violet eyes.

With half of his cock wholly slathered in saliva, Beatrix worked up enough courage to insert the narrow inches into her mouth, muffling moans once the tip tapped the back of her throat. Gagging slightly, she spat it out before trying again, bobbing her head in a steady motion, ears perking at feral groans emanating from the Nightmare Stag.

Embarrassed as she was to admit it, there was no way she could fit all of it into her mouth. So to compensate, she gripped the girthy base and stroked what was left outside her lips. Gakking and slurping, more spit drooled over his shaft, some of it dribbling over her oversized tits. Her marehood was drenched, a puddle leaking down her inner thighs. Perverse thoughts quickly flooded the mare’s head about how badly she wanted this monster to skewer her like a sow.

‘No,’ Beatrix chided herself, pulling off with a wet smack before tending to his leathery sack, suckling one swollen orb before tugging the other. ‘I need to warm him up for Oona.’

Beatrix looked back to watch her lover masturbate while her hands stroked his engorged shaft. Oona’s squishy legs were spread wide open, slit fully exposed. Airy moans left her lips, left hand barely able to fondle her plump tit. The azure sheep kept her eyes fixated on the unicorn; cheeks absolutely flushed.

Distracted by her lover’s alluring display, Beatrix yelped when she felt the Nightmare Stag pull her up with a single hand around her neck, her squishy rump bent towards him with a wobble. More elated gasps came from the witch once he rubbed his wet length against her cute pussy, using her thighs and mound to stroke himself off.

“꓄ꁝ꒐ꇙ ꒯ꄲꏂꇙꋊ’꓄ ꁝꋬ꒦ꏂ ꓄ꄲ ꇙ꓄ꄲꉣ, ꌦꄲ꒤ ꀘꋊꄲꅐ,” the wendigo cryptid murmured, grabbing a handful of her right boob, rolling it around in his palm while thrusting between her shapely legs. “꒐ ꉔꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꀘꏂꏂꉣ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꁝꏂꋪꏂ ꊰꄲꋪ ꋬꇙ ꒒ꄲꋊꍌ ꋬꇙ ꌦꄲ꒤’꒯ ꒒꒐ꀘꏂ. ꋬ ꉣꏂꋪꉣꏂ꓄꒤ꋬ꒒ ꒯ꋪꏂꋬꂵ ꊰ꒐꒒꒒ꏂ꒯ ꅐ꒐꓄ꁝ ꏂꋊ꒯꒒ꏂꇙꇙ ꏂꉔꇙ꓄ꋬꇙꌦ.”

“D-don’t threaten me with a good time~!” Beatrix groaned, squeezing her thick thighs together around his drippy, elongated cock. “Mmmgh~! You’ve still got to give me my daughter!”

“ꋬꋊ꒯ ꒐ ꇙꁝꋬ꒒꒒. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꊰ꒐ꋪꇙ꓄, ꒐ ꋪꏂꆰ꒤꒐ꋪꏂ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꏂꇙꇙꏂꋊꉔꏂ!” The Nightmare Stag picked up the tempo with a snort, humping away at the unicorn with abandoned thrusts. The witch let out high-pitched moans, her entire body jiggling against his force, feeling phantom hands fondle her bouncy breasts and gushing marehood.

“Haaah! A-Aaah! F-fuck~!”

“ꍌꄲꄲ꒯, ꇙꅐꏂꏂ꓄ ꒒꒐꓄꓄꒒ꏂ ꅐ꒐꓄ꉔꁝ... ꋊꄲꅐ ꋪꏂ꒒ꏂꋬꇙꏂ!”

On command, her magic flared into an aura, shadowy wisps of Erebus flowing off her curvature. Her eyes widened, staring blankly at the long nimble cock sawing against her crotch. It nearly reached the bottom of her breasts! And the thought of it pummeling her pussy to a pulp finally sent the violet unicorn over the edge.

Beatrix screamed into the dark void, a cascade of her sweet juices staining his rigid shaft. The fiendish deer’s mouth opened, feeding off parts of her aura while hugging her into his lean torso.

“ꅐꏂ꒒꒒ ꒯ꄲꋊꏂ,” he praised, his dexterous tongue licking a long strip across her tender neck. “꒐ ꒒ꄲꄲꀘ ꊰꄲꋪꅐꋬꋪ꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꄲ꒤ꋪ ꋊꏂꉧ꓄ ꋪꄲꂵꉣ ꓄ꄲꍌꏂ꓄ꁝꏂꋪ, ꇙꅐꏂꏂ꓄ꁝꏂꋬꋪ꓄. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꋊꄲꅐ, ꇙꁝꏂ ꋊꏂꏂ꒯ꇙ ꌦꄲ꒤.”

With a light shove, Beatrix fumbled onto weak legs before losing balance completely. Finally, she fell onto Oona, who embraced her wholeheartedly.

“Ceann Oga,” she whined, pressing her motherly form against the unicorn's. “A-Ah think A'm ready~!”

“I am too! C’mere~!”

The two lovers hungrily smacked each other’s snouts together, kissing with feverish intent. The witch felt how hot her lover’s moist pussy was, rubbing against her own. Their bountiful bosoms squished together, hard nubs poking at their shared valley of tit-flesh. And the soft caress of Oona’s warm wool brushing her naked body only made Beatrix deepen their passionate lip lock.

Both smitten females yelped and shuddered when an invasive tongue wriggled between their folds. The Nightmare Stag leaned over their plush backsides, lashing his wet appendage around their juicy flowers. And when he pulled away, Oona and Beatrix looked back over the pulsating veiny member erected from his loins; the latter’s magical aura faintly shimmered around the ridged edges.

“There’s no turning back if you do this,” the witch reminded with heavy pants, nuzzling her head into the shaman’s expansive breasts.

“An' A’d dae it again if it meant makin' ye happy,” proclaimed Oona, kissing the unicorn’s snout. Then, with calmed breaths, she focused her magic through her crown of horns. The rune around her stomach briefly glimmered before vanishing, her fertile womb no longer protected.

“Come,” she motioned the Nightmare Stag towards them. “Let us become one… Omen.”

Yet her statement made the fiendish elk pause in his track, his eyes pinpointed with alarm.
“… ꅐꁝꋬ꓄ ꒯꒐꒯ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꉔꋬ꒒꒒ ꂵꏂ?”

A curl to her lip, Lady Ewe replied, “Well, since ye won’t reveal yer true name, Ah might as well call you something.”

“Yeah, ‘Nightmare Stag’ is a bit of a mouthful,” admitted Beatrix. “Sounds more like a moniker!”

The antlered entity remained quiet for a few moments before muted laughter rose from his maw. “ꋊꄲ ꄲꋊꏂ ꁝꋬꇙ ꒯ꋬꋪꏂ꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꍌ꒐꒦ꏂ ꂵꏂ ꋬ ꉣꋪꄲꉣꏂꋪ ꋊꋬꂵꏂ ꃳꏂꊰꄲꋪꏂ. ꃳ꒤꓄ ꒐ ꓄ꁝ꒐ꋊꀘ… ꒐ ꂵ꒐ꍌꁝ꓄ ꉣꋪꏂꊰꏂꋪ 'ꄲꂵꏂꋊ' ꓄ꄲ ꅐꁝꋬ꓄ ꓄ꁝꏂꌦ ꉔꋬ꒒꒒ꏂ꒯ ꂵꏂ ꒐ꋊ ꄲ꒒꒯ꏂꋊ ꓄꒐ꂵꏂꇙ. ꌦꏂꇙ...”

Oona’s heart fluttered, racing faster when the tall stag lurked over the violet mare, its branch-like arms resting over either side of her head. The pair gasped when Omen inserted his pulsating length between their soaking wet pussies, as if he wasn’t already coated in enough fem cum.

“P-please! No more teasing,” whined Beatrix, her hips shaking to grind her cunt against the Nightmare Stag’s groin. “G-go on and take her~!”

“A-aaahh~!” Oona whimpered, feeling his cock slide down her tummy and prod its narrow tip into her velvety folds. Omen shuddered with how hot her little slit felt, almost trying to suck him in. Their eyes gazed longingly at each other, the azure sheep looking for any malicious intent or falsehood.

But then, what need would he have to lie?

For as long as she’d known him, Omen has always been truthful. Whatever stories of how the Nightmare Stag sowed seeds of despair to claim his victims were merely that.

And if all he wanted was to exist alongside her, who was Oona to deny such a request?

Shifting her glance to Beatrix, Lady Ewe cupped her cheeks and connected their snouts once more. Their heavy bodies pressed together, rubbing and grinding to stir the fire that burned within their loins as the fiendish deer slowly pierced through to Oona’s core, earning a heightened moan once he filled her entirety.

“Mmmaaaah~! Huuff! O-oh, sweet lucid dreams~! There’s so much~!!”

While not to an extant like Beatrix, the azure sheep had her own track record of bountiful lays. Fauns, satyrs, stallions, zebras, and even a few dragons all sought a handful of her generous flesh. Yet, no amount of skill could compare to the raw, animalistic passion Omen provided her. Each vigorous slam pushed his rod deeper, imprinting his shape thoroughly in her love tunnel. The witch squeaked, being sandwiched between her lover and the ravenous beast.

Thick ‘plaps’ echoed throughout the nightmarish void. There was nothing else visible but Beatrix, Oona, and the dark deer on top of them pounding the dream faun’s pussy into mulch. So enraptured by her mentor’s hot pants and airy moans, Beatrix failed to notice shadowy appendages drawing towards her own moist cunt, causing the witch to cry out once her womb suddenly became full.

“꒐ ꇙ꓄꒐꒒꒒ ꌦꏂꋬꋪꋊ ꊰꄲꋪ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꇙꉔꋪꏂꋬꂵꇙ,” Omen growled huskily, his antlers alit with an aura that caused the veiny tendrils to ravage around Beatrix’s hot pink insides. Feeling his impending climax, the Nightmare Stag pulled back to spread Oona’s legs wide and plow her thoroughly with reckless abandon.

“A-aaaahh! O-ooona! Oona~!!” Beatrix moaned, squeezing her hand tightly.

“H-Haaah! Beatrix, I'm! I-I’m coming!!” She replied with joyous glee, the lovers screaming into nirvana upon hitting her glorious shared orgasm. Omen bellowed shortly after, orgasmic pressure building up before unleashing a wave of baby batter deep inside her fertile pussy.

Oona’s eyes rolled into the back of her head, her body bathed in warm euphoria. Even after the Nightmare Stag pulled out of her glazed flower, their shared essence oozed out her puffy petals. The azure sheep hummed in the elation of her lover’s seed stored within her honey pot, her dreams of becoming a mother realized!

Beatrix laid tiredly over her lover, mindlessly kissing her bare skin, her marehood having been thoroughly used by the retreating tendrils.

The third member of their threesome rested against a tree, chest rising and falling with each breath. His flaccid member, stained in female lubricant, hanged limply between his legs. His piercing red eyes shimmered towards the witch and shaman, who returned a weary gaze.

“No matter what happens now, Ah will always love you,” Oona murmured softly, once more kissing her beloved on the horn.

“And I will always love you,” Beatrix sighed blissfully, cradled to her wool. “I really hope this changes Abadonna’s fate in all this…”

“꒐꓄ ꅐ꒐꒒꒒,” reassured Omen. “ꃳ꒤꓄ ꒐’ꂵ ꋬꊰꋪꋬ꒐꒯ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꒻ꄲ꒤ꋪꋊꏂꌦ ꒐ꇙ ꊰꋬꋪ ꊰꋪꄲꂵ ꄲ꒦ꏂꋪ. ꓄ꁝꏂ ꒒꒐ꃳꋪꋬꋪꌦ ꁝꋬꇙ ꌦꏂ꓄ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꏂ ꋪꏂꋬꉔꁝꏂ꒯.”

His statement caused the witch to snap her head up in alarm. “Excuse me?!”

“꒐꓄ ꅐꄲ꒤꒒꒯ ꇙꏂꏂꂵ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꒯ꋬ꒤ꍌꁝ꓄ꏂꋪ ꁝꋬꇙ ꉣꋪꄲ꒦ꏂꋊ ꓄ꄲ ꃳꏂ ꂵꄲꋪꏂ ꉣꄲꅐꏂꋪꊰ꒤꒒ ꓄ꁝꋬꋊ ꒐ ꃳꏂ꒒꒐ꏂ꒦ꏂ꒯...”

Lady Ewe shot up as well, asking with intense worry, “What do you mean?!”

Rather than explain, the Nightmare Stag vanished into the forest’s darkness, the shadow veil consuming the world around the two heroines. They huddled together until they found themselves in a new setting—one where clockwork, gears, and thousands of bookshelves made up a highly advanced structure.

But the moment to marvel left as quickly as it came when Beatrix spotted her daughter, her form entirely see-through and distorting rapidly, struggling to walk down the long corridor. Yet seem appeared to look slightly older, roughly around her pre-teens.

“Abby!!” Beatrix exclaimed, rushing to grab her child, only to phase right through her body. She stared aghast, trying once more to touch Abadonna. She was entirely incorporeal.

“What’s happening? Why can’t I..?”

“Omen has sent us to a premonition,” Oona proclaimed, watching the monochrome mare power through towards her destination. “These are events that haven't played out yet. O, Abadonna. Ye look so worn...!”

The witch was powerless to but watch as her daughter climbed up a staircase. A series of glitches caused her to stumble to her knees, but Abby was determined to reach the top, pulling her deteriorating body towards the top. And once there, the Child of Lightendark gazed at the ominous molten brimstone clock that ticked at a brisk tempo, glowing hellishly.

Beatrix shuddered at its presence, a familiar sense of mounting dread rising. “Wait… no, what are you doing?!” She reached out helplessly.

“STOP!!” A powerful voice boomed from Enock, who soared in front of Abadonna’s path, the owl’s star-filled eyes so wide, she could make out her own reflection. “Do not go any further, child!”

“Get out of my way,” Abadonna demanded, fists balled tightly. “I refuse to be your prisoner any longer!”

“You misunderstand. I only wish to prevent this outcome and restore your form. I’m trying to help you!”

“L̴̷Ì̷A̴̵̢Ŗ̸̛͠!͟͟͞” She yelled with enough force to distort the room a little, pushing the celestial owl griff back. “You never cared about me. All that matters to you is protecting your precious timeline! Keeping me here so that I would f͢-͏f̷̸a͏̶d̷e ̴̸͟aw̶-̡͢w͡-wáy̵̵ ̡f̶r̕͢ǫ̸͘m ̷r͡͏e̕ál̵̨͘it̀͡y̷..̷!”

The time curator’s melancholy deepened, briefly looking away in shame. “That... you are right about. I have been keeping you from the truth.”

“What truth!?”

Enock looked back to the troubled child and confessed, “You are the key to the Burning King’s liberation. I realized that the Vice Lords could not reach you and fulfill the Omega Prophecy if I confined you here. You would vanish in peace, thus sparing you from a wretched fate.”

Bitter tears streamed down the girl’s cheeks, more bent horns sprouting out of her black and white curled mane. “So all this time… you were slowly killing me? W-waiting for me to die as nothing more than a false m̷̕e̵̴̡͟m͟͠͡o̸̡͠ŕ̸y̵̛?̨̛͟!̡͢͡”

“You won’t be forgotten. It is your mother’s love that preserves you,” corrected Enock. “But it is also what's killing you. The harder Beatrix Belladonna holds onto you, the more exquisite your pain and reality becomes. Try as you might, Abadonna, you were always on barrowed time.”

Beatrix gazed at the monochrome filly, tears of her own flooding her eyes. While the witch actively refused to accept Enock’s actions as right, she knew they told the truth. By trying not to abandon her daughter, she was only prolonging Abadonna’s insufferable existence. And despite knowing this was only a terrible vision, seeing her daughter on the verge of total collapse weighed at her heart more than any sin she committed.

“I am truly sorry, Abadonna,” the celestial owl-griff apologized, lowering their head in apparent mirth. “This is the only way.”

But the monochrome filly glared deathly, static and black distortions emanating off her clenched fist. “No, you aren’t,” she seethed. “N̢̕͘̕͞ơ̕̕͜͞ţ̵̛͟͝ ̵̨͘y̢̕҉҉e̶̷̴ţ̡̨͘͠!̶̸”

Bolts of dark and white lightning wrapped around the owl-griff, who shrieked in alarm.

“NOO!!” Oona cried as she and Beatrix watched Enock succumb to the null powers that overwhelmed them. They tried to withstand, to conjure their Onoma. Perhaps reverse time to prevent this outbreak. But Abadonna refused to relent, infusing the celestial owl-griff’s body with her deteriorating energy. Fragments and glitches corroded Enock, his spacial blue shape saturating to match Abadonna’s lack of colors. Finally, all the stars glimmering within their body were snuffed out.

The filly violently coughed an oily substance, her figure flickering. Yet Abby held out, raising her hand to make Enock rise like a puppet attached to strings. Then, pointing a finger, she directed the owl-griff towards the looming Doomsday clock, which now ticked at an alarming rate.

“No… No! No! NO! ABBY, DON’T!” Beatrix yelled before sprinting towards Abadonna. She didn’t care if this was only a bad dream. She refused to see her daughter carry out her terrible destiny! “STOP! PLEASE! WE CAN STILL FIX THIS!”

And, to her surprise, the monochrome filly turned her face towards her mother, acknowledging her. Wetness stained her distorting face, frantically sobbing. “You promised, mommy,” she balled aloud. “You promised you would rescue me! But instead, you tried to erase me!?”

Her words made Beatrix fall to her knees, desperately pleading, “Baby, that’s not true! I’ve been fighting so hard to free you! It’s what I want most! Don’t do this! Abby, please!!”

“Abadonna, listen tae me,” joined in Oona, staring at the little mare with heartache. “We would never abandon you! Please, just allow us to--”

“Ş͡H̨́͠͡U̧͢T̨́͝ ͝Ú̵̡̨̨P͏̷̨͞͡!̸͢!̛̕” Abadonna declared, shoving the couple back with hidden force. “For too long, I’ve waited for my family. For someone to hold me. But it’s clear you never wanted me in the first place. And if you won’t have me... If the universe wants me to stop existing…” Her attention returned to the infernal clock, fire, and smog puffing out through filters. “...then let's erase è̸̶v̧̕͟͜e̵̛r̸̨͜͡y̶̡͠t̶h̢͜ì̴͜n̛͟g̷̢̧̨!̴̨͘͜͜”

“NOOOOOO!”

But the mare ignored her potential parents and psychically commanded Enock to unlock the gate with their temporal magic. The Doomsday Clock erupted, the entire library engulfed in a hateful inferno. Plumes enveloped the curator and child of Lightendark, traveling towards the horrified couple who could only bear witness.

“ABADONNAAAAAAAAAAAA!!”

Beatrix and Oona shot up from their beds with wide eyes, shallow breaths, and soaked in perspiration. Artificial sunlight-filled their bedroom through the window.

Uneasily, the couple looked at each other, the apocalyptic vision still vivid in their minds.

“Get the others! We're leaving! Now!”

Final Chapter (Part I): the Sovereign Witch

Beatrix and Oona rushed down the stairway, clothes hastily pulled back on. Their midnight encounter with the Nightmare Stag, Omen, and the revelation of Abadonna’s fluxing existence stirred panic. How much time remained before the Child of Lightendark fulfilled her end of the Omega Prophecy out of anguish?

The couple burst into the dining room, where their allies gathered for one big breakfast before departing back to the Lost World.

But before either the witch or shaman could call their attention, Midnight loudly boasted, “Checkmate!”

The soldier slid his queen in place to keep his opponent, Mini-Trix, unable to move without putting her king at risk. Upon realizing she had lost, the tulpa childishly declared, “YOU CHEATED!!”

“I would never!” defended Midnight, holding his hand to his chest as if to proclaim his honor. “You just never noticed where I was trying to put my queen by shifting all the other pieces. Better luck next time, Mini! Good game.”

But the stallion’s showcase of sportsmanship was met by the tiny unicorn flipping the chessboard with her magic. Steam visibly fumed out of her ears, stomping the air with the tantrum of a toddler.

“CHESS IS STUPID! AND ANYONE WHO PLAYS IT IS STUPID TOO!” She berated before vanishing in a puff of sparkly smoke.

“Maybe I should have gone easier on her..?”

“Don’t feel bad, lad. Th’ wee filly’s just a sore loser,” snickered Dion, drinking down his palp-filed orange juice while the twins, Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer, collected the empty plates. His brow rose as he spotted Zeloph attempting to drink the same, only to spit out the flaky liquid.

“Luugh! It’s so squishy against my tongue,” he muttered, staring into the drink with disgust. “How do you stand this stuff?!”

“Ye get used tae it after a week,” the burly ram assured, patting the cherub’s shoulder with a smile. “But good on ye tae start drinkin’ O.J like a man!”

“Take your hand off me, or I’m removing your cock and ball privileges…”

“Na that’s summit I would say!” His sister, Moxxi, fluttered by with her own penis-stylized chalice to drink with a bendy straw. “Warms me Horse and Cart, really. Knowin’ me lil’ bro is followin’ in me footsteps~!”

A disgruntled groan left Zeloph’s lips while they continued to tease him. Shadow Scythe and Bellatrix were not too far, who looked to be deep in discussion over something. Cerise was the one to notice Beatrix and Oona skipping over with a welcoming smile.

“Hey! What took you so long? You missed an awesome batch of pancakes and waffles!”

Beatrix shook her head in dismay. “We don’t have time for that! We need to be in Canterlot this very second!”

This got the group’s attention as they slowly gathered. Shadow Scythe said, “I mean, I agree, but what’s your hurry?”

“You both look quite pale,” observed Bellatrix.

“Our encounter wit th’ Nightmare Stag brought a most harrowin’ vision,” Oona started, going into detail about their future offspring losing control of her senses, lashing out at Enoch, and breaking the seal that kept the Burning King and his brand of demons in Pathos.

The cheerful mood was swiftly diminished as the party held a look of horror.

“No…” Zeloph said, shaking his head in disbelief. “S-she couldn’t!”

“Abby would never do that!” Cerise softly dejected, hands covering her snout. “W-would she..?”

I know what it’s like to be a prisoner, Rheneas’ voice spoke within the dancer’s consciousness. I felt alone and forgotten for so long, I’d take my vengeance on the world too if I could…

“Are you sure that’s what you saw?” Midnight asked, surprisingly skeptical to believe the vision. “It could be an illusion the Nightmare Stag wants you to believe?”

“Th’ lad’s right,” grunted Dion. “This… ‘Omen’ fellow sounds madly suspicious. Th’ fact that ye’ve kept him a secret from us is agitatin’, sister!”

“But not without reason,” Shadow Scythe interjected. “We all have our secrets and why we keep them. Lies can drive people apart, but wouldn’t you do the same if it meant sparing a loved one the painful truth?”

“Plus, seems kinda rude of your fiendish paramour ter zig-zag ya bof before trickin’ you,” noted Moxxi, claws holding her wide hips.

“If Ah were not prepared tae face th’ repercussions ov my actions, Ah would not have done what Ah did,” the azure sheep assured her friend. “A’m just thankful Ah won’t have tae dae this alone.” She turned to her lover, who softly smiled and squeezed her hand tightly.

“All of us want to be accepted for who we are,” the witch said. “I think that’s why circumstances brought us together. We were deemed monsters and failures, unwanted by social standards at one point or another. But now? We don’t need anyone’s approval or judgment. We can do what’s right for ourselves! And, whether it’s about saving Abadonna, giving Doppia comeuppance, or preventing the End of Days, deep down, I know we’ll succeed!”

Violet eyes wandered over every person in the dining room. To Beatrix, they weren’t just friends, family, or adversaries. They were heroes and heroines in their own right. And the witch couldn’t be any more thrilled to have them by her side.

“Well, I’ll be damned,” Zeloph quipped, a slight curl to his lip. “That was a very compelling speech.”

“You actually sounded mature for once,” agreed Shadow Scythe. “Not bad, Belladonna.”

“Well said, Bea!” Cerise chimed in, taking her husband’s hand in her own. Midnight and Dion shared huge grins, along with Moxxi and the twins. Even Bellatrix wasn’t immune to how touched she was, her own smile forming.

“Alright, enough with the sentiments,” the she-devil said, recomposing herself. “You’ve got a date with the Sovereign Witch.”

The violet unicorn nodded, turning towards a wall, and drew an oval shape to summon a swirling portal, confident this would lead her straight to Canterlot. Looking back to Oona, who wore a determined smile, the couple walked through without hesitation. Midnight and Cerise quickly went after them.

“Don’t come back with too many cuts and bruises, okay, love?” Wet Nurse insisted, clinging onto the alabaster ram’s arm while he prepared to depart.

“As much as we enjoy pampering you and your manly scars, we don’t want you seriously hurt!” Foal-Bearer added her own worries.

Chuckling, Dion wrapped his arms around the maids and pulled them close. “A’ll be careful, don’t ye worry. After all ov this is done, we take a small vacation. If yer mistress will allow that.”

Crimson eyes looked up towards hellish yellow before Bellatrix stated. “I don’t see the harm in letting them have some downtime. You two have done this house wonders.”

“Oooh~! Thank you, mistress Primadonna!!” They both said, bowing their heads before giving their burly lover a peck on both his cheeks, which flourished. Then, with a ruffle of their pink bob-cut manes, Dion leaped into the portal, leaving only the reaper and demi-human to say their farewells.

“You sure you can’t come with us?” Zeloph asked his sister, who gently shook her head.

“’fraid not, Zelly. I’ve got sum investigatin’ ter do regardin’ a rumor I’ eard.”

The cherub tilted his head. “What rumor..?”

“I’ll… tell ya when ya get back. Promise!” Moxxi crossed out her left breast with her finger. “’a long until you’ve returned ter full glory?”

“I think I’ve conserved enough energy, but… mentally, I’m not there yet.” Zeloph looked away, reminded of the humiliation and assault Doppia caused him. “I don’t know what I’m going to do. If I can do anything at all…”

“You’ve come a long way, lov. I ‘ave faif in ya,” Moxxi assured, pulling her brother into a tight embrace, which he eventually returned. It was the first time both demi’s held each other after so much strain in their relationship. And, as vexing as he still found her, Zeloph was deeply, truly happy to have his other half.

“You’re so warm, Zell. Fuck… I don’t wanna let go of ya just yet,” she confessed, her x marked cheeks flourishing. “Would it be wrong of me ter keep ya a little… longer~?”

“A-ah-eh?! Ana!!”

“Whaaat? Don’t I get a kiss goodbye too~?”

“Ahem!” Coughed Shadow Scythe, tapping her foot impatiently while staring daggers at the mischievous imp.

She released her brother with a playfully giggle and fluttered over to the reaper. “As for ya, lil’ miss murder. I expect ya ter take good care of ’im! ’cause if I find even wahn single scratch on ‘is face, I’m whippin’ aahhht the whippin’ post on your sorry arse!”

“I’ve suffered through worse punishments, imp,” the pale unicorn retorted, her glare softening a bit. “But rest assured, as the Goddess of Death, I’ll make sure Zeloph stays out of harm’s way.”

“You know I’m not entirely defenseless, right!?” The cherub declared annoyed, which earned a couple of snickers from the crystal maids.

“Good on ya! ’cause the only injury I’ll alla is the puncture wound ‘e makes ter your cherry pocket~,” Moxxi said with a wink, causing Shadow Scythe to fluster up.

“You cockney lipped–”

“Nevermind her! We’re leaving,” Zeloph cuts in, tugging his partner through the oval-shaped vortex before the shimmering rift enclosed on itself.

The lesser demon turned to the master of the manor, her concerns slipping through her expression. “Ya fin’ they’ll be alwigh’..?”

“Hard to tell,” Bellatrix confessed. “Their teamwork has greatly improved, but it might not be enough. We may have to prepare a backup plan in case things don’t fall into place.” The scarlet Queen turned to her maid garbed servants. “Disrobe and come with me. There’s something I want to do for you before the big fight.”

Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer gazed at each other perplexed but nodded, pulling off their outfits and presenting themselves nude for their mistress, crystalline curves on full display.

“And wot sorta kinky shenanigans ar’ gonna make them more palpable fighters?” Moxxi asked, intrigued.

“You’ll see,” was all Bellatrix offered before leading them towards the basement. No matter the trouble, the she-devil would find a way to aid her sister. Especially if the looming threat of the End of Days got in the way of her own plans!

The swirling rift formed before a large stone wall, layered with floral vines. The travelers stepped out one at a time, surveying the outskirts of the enchanted Everfree Forest. Cerise gulped while viewing into the darkened trees, half expecting Doppia to suddenly rush out, blood splattering from her form like a mangled corpse.

Her husband gently gripped her shoulder, saying with assurance, “At least we didn’t have to journey through there to find Canterlot.”

“But now, we run into a new problem,” Zeloph noted, head tilted up towards the top of the stone structure. “Something tells me this version of Canterlot doesn’t welcome outsiders…”

“Even a secluded kingdom relies on transport fur supplies,” Oona reminded, tracing her fingers over the bricks.

“Yeah! I’m sure the entrance is just around this corner. C’mon!” Beatrix waved her arm, leading her band of misfits along the towering stone exterior.

“We should keep our voices down,” Dion insisted through a harsh whisper. “Don’t want tae attract any unwanted attention.”

The witch nodded. “It’s a good thing Mini-Trix ran out of magic and returned to the Prima Materia to rejuvenate. No doubt she’d alert any guards lurking by, the noisy brat…”

“I’m sure she’ll pop up again when the time is right,” Cerise snickered.

“Maybe I should scout ahead?” Shadow Scythe offered, starting to lift herself with magic, her cloak lightly dragging across the earth.

“We can’t risk you getting caught,” the cherub considered with a frown.

“Aye. An’, not tae sound like a broken record, but Ah still don’t trust th’ two ov ye,” the ram muttered. “A’d rather ye stay where Ah can see ya.”

“Just when I thought we were finally becoming friends,” Zeloph sarcastically quipped.

“No, I understand,” the pale unicorn nodded, trying not to openly sulk. The party crossed a few more miles of stone bulwark, luminous flowers, and the wind whistling through the willows. Then, finally, they eventually found a graveled path that connected the Everfree forest to the mouth of the fortress. A few of Canterlot’s familiar towers peeked over the stone front. Beatrix examined the area, looking past the forestry to find snowcaps covering the hills. This would suggest that the Sovereign Witch expanded Canterlot to be closer to the Crystal Empire, despite the reinforced solitude. Not a bad choice considering what the caribou have brought to an Equestria brutalized into devastation and submission.

“So… Do we just knock?” Midnight suggested, half-jokingly.

“Shhh!” Dion shushed, his ears picking up a suspicious rustle coming from brushes. He took careful steps, unsheathing his greatsword and poised it over his head, crimson eyes glaring hard at the bush.

An eye opened within the leaves before tendrils lashed out to ensnare the burly warrior, dragging him into the ground.

“Dion!!” Beatrix cried out as the brush made a horrible screeching noise. It wasn’t long before the sound of boots drew near, and a unicorn approached the startled group. He was adorned with regal armor, lined by enchanted runes. His snout was visible under a helmet, pale robes weaved with gold accents cloaked over his chest plate and gauntlets.

“Intruders!” He declared and pulled out a horn, its brass sound calling for reinforcements.

Soon, the party was swarmed by a squadron of paladins. Reluctantly, Beatrix and company summoned their magic and weapons while the mage soldiers wielded their own magically infused chains. A skirmish broke out; the travelers were on the defense to avoid harming the unicorn knights. Midnight deflected each strike until the unicorns conjured whips to strike at his joints, forcing the soldier to his knees.

“Hubby!!” Cerise cried before her limbs and neck were shackled. Zeloph ducked behind Shadow Scythe, who used her Onoma to counter the paladin’s attempts with wispy sickles. She, Lady Ewe, and Beatrix were forced into the wall. One paladin seized Dion from the enchanted brush creature, frickles and thorns attaching his daunt muscles. The herald drew a knife from his holster and pressed it against the ram’s neck.

“Continue to resist, and your friends pay the price,” he warned, his fellow guardsmen pulling out daggers aimed at the other’s throats.

Beatrix sneered, ready to launch a wave of spells until Oona pulled her arms down, shaking her head. Then, begrudgingly, the trio stood down, dispelling their magic and placing their weapons on the ground, not wanting to invoke the wrath of the Sovereign Witch or her followers.

With a wave of his hand, the leader motioned his men to confiscate the azure sheep, locking her in ethereal chains as well. Beatrix and Shadow Scythe looked at each other, bewildered as to why they remained unshackled.

“Now then,” the paladin said, putting away his small blade. “State your business here. Who are you, and why have you come to our land?”

Gulping down her anxiousness, the violet unicorn replied, “B-Beatrix Belladonna. My friends and I are on a mission, and we’ve come to meet with the ruler of Canterlot. The… Sovereign Witch?”

“Why on Equestria would unicorns stoop so low as to share companionship with such… lesser creatures?” One mage noted with disgust, causing their captives to grumble in protest.

“Hey! Those are my friends!!” The witch insisted, glaring hard at the racist bastard.

“The only lesser creature here is you,” belittled Shadow Scythe.

The paladin was about to retaliate before his commander held his arm in front. “Forgive him. You are not familiar with our customs. Canterlot only welcomes unicorns and those with high enough magical prowess into its walls.”

The two unicorn mares looked to one another, perplexed by this development. Beatrix stepped forward and asked, “But why?!”

“After the Fall, Canterlot was in shambles,” explained the herald. “Our history was tarnished. Many mares were forced to give birth to unwanted caribou children. With both princesses dead and Twilight Sparkle unable to fulfill royal duties, the kingdom was on the brink of ruination and civil war. It would have been complete chaos had Queen Tatyana not come into power.”

“Tatyana..?”

The paladin nodded. “It is through the Sovereign Witch’s tremendous sorcery that restored our city to its very roots. Magic and life prosper here more than anywhere else!”

“So then why the exclusion of other pony races?” Shadow Scythe questioned.

“Because the Pegasi and Earth ponies held us back,” the young paladin cut in. “We are the ones imbued with natural magic. Yet, we repressed our innate abilities to live among the common folk over the years. Had we not, we could have prevented the caribou’s reign of terror instead of putting our blind faith in Twilight and her’ friends.’”

“What!? N-no, this all wrong!” Beatrix berated. “If the three tribes never formed a union on that Hearth’s Warming eve, we would have surely died out! Pegasi, Unicorns, and Earth ponies need each other!”

“It might have been so back then. But that ‘friendship’ nearly cost our freedom. Was it not the unicorn Sombra who freed all ponykind from the caribou regime and their deplorable King Dainn?”

“Ye mean th’ same Sombra Ah helped empower by awakenin’ his archaic signature?” Oona butted in, ignoring the unicorns who threatened to slit her throat. “Ah am Lady Oona Ewe. Ah came tae yer aid durin’ th’ caribou crisis. If not fur me, Sombra would have neve-” Her claims were silenced when the younger paladin struck her across the face.

“Not another word out of you, sheep!”

Beatrix’s horn flared up, her face seething. “You fucking prick! Touch her again, and I’ll-”

“Silence!” The herald demanded, looking down at his soldier. “Act out of line again, and I’ll report you for insubordination!”

“B-but these lowly worms dare speak out against–”

“Speaking against whom, gentlemen?” A baritone voice joined in. The travelers and paladins turned to a stout minotaur strolling towards them with a cane in hand. He was sharply dressed in a white tuxedo with pinstripe green vines, the buttons stretching to contain his broad frame. A second heavy coat rested over his shoulders like a cape. His wardrobe contracted with his denim blue fur and tuscan eye.

The most alluring feature, Beatrix found, was the wooden half mask that was seemingly fused to the right side of his face. It branched out to mimic the shape of his bovine horn, making his pair look mismatched. He paused and stamped his taurus-headed cane in front of him, a polite smile spreading his snout.

Instantly, the paladins dropped to their knees and bowed. “L-Lord Grimmwald! What are you doing outside the walls?”

Beatrix and Shadow Scythe motioned their friends to kneel down as well if only to avoid further complications. The bull-man chuckled as he replied, “Oh, I was just taking my morning stroll. Tend to the gardens, smell the flowers. When all of a sudden, I hear one of my mandrake shrubs making a ruckus.” Reaching into an inner pocket, Grimmwald tossed a few seeds into the rustling plant. His eyes then locked with the violet unicorn before drifting towards the imprisoned pegasus, bat mare, demi, and sheep.

“And who might these fine folk be?”

“T-Trespassers, my liege!” The younger unicorn soldier stated. “We spotted them sneaking around the bulwark. They claim to seek an audience with her majesty, the Queen!”

“And what were you planning to do with them, exactly?” Grimmwald asked, raising a skeptical brow.

“We were just informing them of the law,” the herald began reporting before the young upstart interrupted again.

“No need to waste your time, Lord Grimmwald! We will handle these felons immediately!”

But the minotaur’s expression soured as he calmly approached his men, his size casting a shadow over the squadron and captives. Beatrix and Shadow Scythe gulped while watching a few paladins tremble in their boots.

“That’s funny. Because it sounds like you’re trying to do my job…”

“Wh-w-what?! N-no, of course not!” The rookie protested.

“Really now? Last time I checked, you weren’t given the title and responsibility of ‘Warden of the Front’!”

Grimmwald quickly grabbed him, his hand large enough to fully grasp around his helmet. Then, lifting him by his skull, the minotaur’s horns lit up with pitch-black magic that sparkled purple bolts, an orb swirling into shape, the frightened pony squirming around.

“The next time you forget your place, you won’t have to worry about being on the unemployment line,” the dark bull threatened. “Because there will be nothing left of you once I’m done!”

“Y-yes, sir! I’m sorry, sir! P-please, forgive me!!”

With a grunt, he dropped his subordinate to the ground, turning to the fearful expressions of the party.

“Oh ho ho! How rude of me! Where are my manners?” He laughed, shaking off his anger. “I am Brutus Grimmwald. Warden of the Front and Consort to the Sovereign Witch.”

“Consort..?” Cerise noted the stylized ring around his finger, a red jewel embedded into the eye. It reminded her that Doppia still possessed her ring.

“Beatrix Belladonna,” the witch reintroduced herself, keeping her head low. “A p-pleasure to meet you..?”

“Forgive my soldiers. Work is hard to find these days,” he insisted, glaring down as his soldiers lifted the fallen unicorn. “Not to worry; he’ll be reprimanded. Now, let’s take a look at you!”

Bending slightly, Grimmwald peered over the violet mare, the eye socket of his mask glimmering briefly, his smile broadening.

“Oh my! What a vast well of archaic magic,” he praised. “Like an infinite black space, glittering with starlight! You are one powerful witch, Miss Belladonna!”

“O-oh! Thanks,” she tittered nervously. “Always knew I was something special~!”

Shadow Scythe groaned as the large bull-man scanned her next. “Mmm, misty spirals like a dark squall, ghoulish faces screaming into the nexus.”

“What are you even doing?” The reaper demanded.

“I’m looking into your aura,” Brutus proclaimed. “As the prime capital of all things magical, I have to ensure only the most gifted are allowed to enter Canterlot. You’re both unicorns, though, so, admittedly, this isn’t necessary. But I’ve always been fascinated by what kind of power each mare and stallion conjures.”

Moving on, the minotaur looked over Lady Ewe, who was rubbing at her bruised cheek. Upon inspecting the blemish, Grimmwald snapped his head to the group of Paladins, nostrils flared.

“Who laid a hand on her!?”

The herald outed the younger unicorn guard, shoving him forward. “He did, my liege.”

The stout minotaur shook his head, making a ‘tsking’ sound. “Today is just not your day, huh, boy?”

“M-my lord, please! This heretic was belittling our laws and status, spewing claims of being the famed dream faun that helped the resistance long ago!”

“Because she is the dream faun, you moron!” The violet witch unicorn spat.

Snorting, the dark bull observed Oona, who grew increasingly uncomfortable with how closely he gawked at her.

“Mhmm! That’s dream magic, alright! Cotton candy clouds over a field of imaginary flowers and animals. And… something else.” His brows furrowed in concentration, keeping his stare for a few more seconds before drawing back. “But no question about it. My sincerest apologies, Lady Ewe. Remove her shackles!”

The paladin knights dispelled the ethereal chains binding Oona, who gave a ‘humph’ in response as she patted down her sleeves and joined her beloved’s side. The unicorn gingerly rubbed at her swollen cheek.

“As for you,” Brutus addressed the cowering unicorn guard. “Exactly which hand did you strike her with?”

“His left, sir,” answered the lead paladin.

“Well then. I see no reason why you should keep that hand intact. Take him away!”

“W-what?! No, no, no! Please my liege! You can’t do this!!” The young lad protested as his fellow soldiers pulled him away, shouting in fear.

The warden looked back to the wayward witch, shaman, and reaper with a wry sigh. “Now then, I believe you have yet to state your business with Tatyana. I’ll answer any concerns you have about Canterlot. But for now, I’d like to know why you’re here!”

Squeezing Oona’s hand tightly, Beatrix stood up and cleared her throat. “Well, you see, Lord Grimmwald. We’re on a journey to access the library of Enock through a portal spell. We’ve gathered two key requirements, with the last being the blood of a pure alicorn. And, after visiting the Crystal Empire, we’ve learned that Flurry Heart is currently living here, yes?”

“Correct,” the bull nodded. “His majesty, King Ambros, entrusted us with her safety. The Sovereign Witch has been helping her grow into the rightful ruler of the Crystal Empire one day. But may I ask why you seek the coveted library of the Curator of Time?”

“We fear that th’ Omega Prophecy is close tae fulfillment,” Oona answered, clutching the silver ornament braiding her wooly hair. “We are headin’ there tae restore th’ Child ov Lightendark’s state ov limbo, as it threatens tae unleash th’ Burning King from his prison. Every minute that passes means th’ end ov existence draws near..!”

Murmurs grew among the squad of paladins, Brutus’ expression turning grim. “Mmm. I’ve heard horror stories about the Burning King. That one day, he might return and set the world ablaze. If what you say is true, then her ladyship must be informed! Come, I will take you to see the Queen.”

Beatrix let out a deep breath, relieved to be moving closer to their goal.

“Wait a minute, what about us?!” Dion interjected, noting he, Midnight, and Cerise were still in chains.

Briefly using his magical eye to peer into them, Brutus shook his head. “I’m sorry, but what magic you have does not live up to the potential of your friends. And, unfortunately, we must obey the law. So you’ll have to be escorted to the dungeon.”

Beatrix angrily objected, “But they’ve done nothing wrong!! It was your shrub that attacked us!”

“It’s not a personal bias,” the dark bull assured. “I’m just maintaining authority. But, you have my word; no harm will come to your friends.”

The purple unicorn turned away, aware they didn’t have a choice. Grimmwald motioned for his paladins to push the burly ram, soldier, and dancer forward with a nod of his head.

“Quit shovin’ me!” Dion growled.

“This is so unfair,” huffed Cerise.

“We need to go along just so things aren’t made worse,” Midnight softly reminded. “We’re getting close to rescuing Abby!”

“Hold on!” One paladin unicorn said, pausing the line as he pointed at each party member. “I remember spotting seven of you. What happened to the winged creature?”

“Actually, yeah! Where is Zeloph?” Beatrix whispered to Shadow Scythe, who shrugged as, last she checked, he hid behind her…

Then a surprised gasp escaped the reaper’s mouth; eyes widened as she looked down to find something shuffling inside her robes. She wriggled and squirmed until a pale serpent slithered out, wrapping his lengthy body around her shoulders like a scarf. Tiny wings unfurled from his head, body, and tail, flicking his tongue in the air.

“Oh, there it is!”

“My my!” Brutus laughed, hunching over to observe the snake. “I’ve never seen a feathered serpent before. Quite the familiar you have, my dear!”

“Famili-ooh! Uhh, ye-yeah! Yes, he is!” Shadow Scythe lied with a dry chuckle. “Silly thing must have gotten scared when the guards showed up.” She caressed his scales.

“He’s a charming fellow. There’s a dazzling light of elegance to him,” the minotaur smiled, scratching underneath the feathered serpent’s chin, who let out an appreciative hiss. “Anyway, we’re wasting time. The Queen awaits us!”

With the minotaur’s back turned and the guards once more removing the prisoners along, Shadow Scythe seized Zeloph’s throat and pulled his face to meet her flustered glare.

“What are you doing?!” She whispered.

“My magic isn’t strong enough yet,” the snake answered through a hiss. “At least in this form, I won’t have to be in chains.”

“Okay, but did you really have to crawl up between my legs..?!”

A smirk spread his snout. “I didn’t hear any complaints. In fact, I felt a particularly warm spot on my way up~!”

“Gaaagh!! You’re deplorable! Almost as bad as the imp!” The pale unicorn grumbled, cheeks blushing hotly as her ‘familiar’ nuzzled her cheek. Beatrix and Oona could help but snicker at the affection shared between the other couple before following the warden through the bulwark gates.

Compared to all the other worlds she visited, Canterlot was unlike anything Beatrix had seen before. As Grimmwald and the paladins had said, it was a sanctuary to all things magic. And despite the lack of pegasi and earth ponies, exotic flora and illuminative fungi decorated the houses and establishments.

The witch’s eyes swept all over the sprawling city while marching alongside her allies. Those of whom were still surrounded by paladins, their chains rattling behind them. Many magi, warlocks, wizards, and witches hovered between structures in a permanent state of levitation. Others sat in mid-air and meditated lotus-style, lost in concentration.

Odd statues were carved by spellcraft, in the likenesses of heroic figures and bizarre hybrids, some of which she saw wandering about on leashes. No doubt the work of skilled magicians who had fused the poor creatures together.

There were various academies and libraries they passed. Market stalls sold a variety of ingredients for alchemy potions, spotting a few homunculi and golems aiding their masters with supplies. The violet mare watched them fizzle and spit-up colored tufts of smoke that filled the atmosphere with a variety of rich scents.

“Wow..! The possibilities here are endless~!” She clamored giddily, earning a delighted chuckle from the dark bull.

“Impressive, isn’t it? Never before has the development of spells and alchemy reached such heights. As a result, resources for potions and brews have become nigh-infinite!”

“Yeah… But it’s such a shame so many are banned from this wondrous realm. Is it really too late to reach out to other factions..?”

“I’m afraid so,” Brutus nodded with a twinge of regret. “We’ve made a… contentious reputation, to say the least. Of course, it doesn’t help that some choose to flaunt their talents for self-inflation rather than strengthen our foundations.”

“You mean like your underling?” Shadow Scythe pointed out, her eyes narrowed while she too browsed the fantastical setting.

“Correct, but we do our best to handle the outliers.”

A loud scream could be heard in the distance, making everyone pause. Brutus cleared his throat with a sheepish chuckle before moving on. Beatrix noticed a few mares, stallions, and other species giving glances to her, picking up condescending comments that deepened her frown. It seemed Lord Grimmwald wasn’t fully honest on how many unicorns looked down on anything not horned or magical…

“Sweet lucid dreams!!” Oona exclaimed, pointing ahead. The party followed towards where the castle stood. A massive tree had grown out from the highest tower of the familiar palace once home to the alicorn princesses. Its branches and leaves clung over the structure like veins, light pulsating through runic shapes.

“Ahh, our crowning achievement,” the minotaur boasted with a smile. “That, my friends, is Vitam afferentem! Otherwise known as the life-bearing tree. Queen Tatyana sewed this beautiful specimen years ago to help flourish the old ways of magic gathering.”

“Come again?” Beatrix shook her head in disbelief. “But it’s already bigger than the castle!”

“You mean to say it’s still growing?!” Shadow Scythe exclaimed.

“That’s right,” Brutus confirmed. “I’d reckon by the hundredth year, it’ll reach high enough to touch the very heaven’s themselves!”

“Unlikely…” Zeloph hissed quietly.

“O-oh, wait! Is that her?” Midnight said, pointing towards the central fountain, which depicted a tall statue of a slender unicorn in robes and a large hat. Nodding, the bull-man brought the group closer for a better look. Beatrix examined the stone replica, hands on her hips.

“If you ask me, I’d say someone’s compensating for something~” She commented jokingly.

“Says the mare who altered her boobs just to feel more adequate,” the reaper reminded with a slight smirk. Her serpentine companion snickered.

The violet unicorn held her arms over her breasts protectively, pouting, “Rude~! I’m just saying, most statues depicting their idols are rarely accurate!”

“Do you dare mock the status of our proud and benevolent ruler?” A feminine voice questioned.

From around the other side came three hooded unicorn mares. Their robes were colored royal blue, sea green, and mauve, respectively, with a pattern of stylized eyes woven along the front in golden thread. The wayward witch’s gaze narrowed at the leftmost mare, spotting plantlife encased around her cheeks and jaw. It appeared to be the same botanic matter covering half of Grimmwald’s face.

With a bow of his head, the minotaur said, “Beatrix. Meet the Troika, the strongest witches among the Queen’s coven.”

“A pleasure to meet another prospering enchantress,” the right hooded mare greeted, though frowned when facing the imprisoned Dion, Cerise, and Midnight. “Is there a reason why these three are not locked away, Lord Grimmwald? You know the law…”

“I wrote the law,” he reminded firmly. “They mean no harm, I assure you. But, unfortunately, they will need to be taken in for further questioning.”

With a clipped salute, the Paladins began moving the prisoners away. But not before Beatrix ran over to hold each of their hands. “Hang in there, guys. We’ll get you out of this!”

“We’ll be okay,” Cerise gently insisted, smiling. “Do what you’ve gotta do!”

“We’ll be with ye in spirit,” Dion proclaimed.

“You’ve got this, Beatrix. I believe in you!” Midnight cheered.

“Let’s get a move on,” the herald urged before finally carrying their captives away, only four of their herd remaining.

Beatrix spun around to face the three witches that hovered before her with a snarl. “I swear if I find out you’re responsible for harming them, I’ll-”

“Please! We’re not savages, dear! We’re above such basic tactics like torture.” The mare with the floral jaw decoration spoke, stepping forward to observe the angry mare. The witch shuffled back until her cheeks were held, pulling her face closer. A gasp parted the hooded figure’s lips.

“What is it, sister?” Her coven mate asked.

“This mare, she… she looks almost like… me!”

“What..?” Beatrix pulled away, staring at the robed witch, conflicted. The other mare’s hand lit up to cast back her hood, revealing a coat of light blue and bright white mane that curled over her horn. Dark violet orbs shine brilliantly, matched by her trademark smirk.

The reaper’s eyes widened. “Trixie Lulamoon?!”

“Mom?!” Beatrix exclaimed.

This earned a perplexed reaction from the azure unicorn. “‘Mom?’ I am no one’s mother!”

“I don’t know, Trix,” the second-robed mare stepped in before flipping her hood, revealing the curious visage of Starlight Glimmer. “She does look a lot like you…”

“The resemblance is uncanny,” commented the final mare, who was revealed as Sunset Shimmer once her hood was pulled back. “Almost like she’s your clone!”

Both unicorns were also imbued with enigmatic plant accessories. It coiled around Starlight’s ears, some branches twisted into earrings. And Sunset had a wreath around her face, hiding her eyes.

“Hmm. Hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil,” Zeloph presumed, pointing to each with his tail.

“But why do all of them have botanical accessories?” Shadow Scythe pondered.

“Perhaps they’re enhancements from their sacred tree?” Oona suggested, gazing up at the colossal plant. A tree that size likely had roots that spread far beyond the kingdom!

Beatrix did not take in a word her friends said, far too fixated on her mother. A mix of pride and disappointment filled her face, both because her mother supported this system the Sovereign Witch ran and that Trixie wasn’t the ruler of Canterlot like she hoped.

“Explain yourself,” Trixie requested. “This is our first time meeting, so I know you couldn’t have copied my aesthetics. So why do you look like me?”

“This is gonna sound strange, but… I-I’m actually your daughter,” she confessed. The azure witch still looked unconvinced, making Beatrix groan, “Ugh! I know it’s crazy, but it’s true! I’m from another dimension! I badly want to explain, but I don’t have time! I need to find Flurry Heart!!”

“For what reasons?” Sunset asked, frowning.

“She seeks the portal to Enock’s Library,” Brutus confirmed. “It involves the Child of Ligthendark and the Omega Prophecy. According to her, the End of Days is almost upon us.”

“What?!” Starlight spoke, alarmed. “A-are you sure?”

“Positive,” Lady Ewe nodded. “A’ll explain everything. But please, we must see th' queen!”

The trio of mages looked at each other, considering the hero’s plight briefly before looking back. “Alright. This way!”

Sunset, Starlight, and Trixie directed the group and Grimmwald towards the main entrance to the castle, climbing the vast staircase. As promised, Oona began explaining their situation to the yellow unicorn while her coven mate observed Shadow Scythe and Zeloph suspiciously, swearing she heard the snake muttering something. Beatrix, however, kept a stern gaze on her mother, who only noticed it once they walked inside.

“What?”

“How could you support any of this?!” The violet unicorn berated, sounding like her old childish self. “I know the caribou were horrible, but dividing ponykind isn’t any better!”

Trixie sighed. “Look, it was a difficult time for everypony. Back then, I was never substantial enough to cast spells on the same level as Starlight. Nor Twilight! But I’ve been blessed with the magic and tricks I’ve always dreamt of performing as a filly!”

To demonstrate, the blue unicorn waved her hand to summon a swirling aura full of shimmering stars. The wayward witch watched in awe while they circled faster and faster as she closed her fist before exploding like fireworks when she released her grasp.

“If the great divide didn’t happen, I wouldn’t have awakened my Onoma, Hecate,” Trixie stated, facing her starry-eyed ‘daughter’ with a smile. “I’m more than just a show mare now.”

“And that’s great! But is such power worth it at the cost of embracing social racism?”

“I’ll admit, I wish more was done to stop outliers from using their talents to put others down. It brings up… A lot of bad memories. Believe me, I’d put an end to it if I could!”

Beatrix pouted hard. “...and do you believe me? About what I’ve said?”

Trixie looked away for a moment to think, their steps echoing through the massive halls. “I mean, I’ve heard some pretty out-there stuff about parallel worlds, but I thought it was mostly hogwash. But now, with you here… Gosh, you act and look how I would during my younger years…maybe you really are my daughter?”

“How curious,” mused Brutus, who had been eavesdropping on their conversation. “A dimension traveling unicorn who is as powerful as she is beautiful. Astounding…”

Both unicorns glared at the bull-man, finding his interjection both rude and dubious…

But her suspicions were put on hold as they entered the throne chamber, her eyes widening at the sight. “Whoa..!”

The life-bearing tree’s base pillared from the floor, smaller branches spreading around the higher walls and statues. Miniature waterfalls flowed from the maws of gargoyle statues, creating a moat around a long stairway that led to the throne. Tiny butterfly creatures fluttered around the leaves, outdoor light refracting their translucent wings. Archaic light waved through the bark and trunks in runes.

“Ceann Oga,” Oona whispered in a worried tone. “Listen…”

The violet witch paid attention to the quiet within the room… only to hear what sounded like large, rhythmic breaths. Almost as if they were inside the stomach of an enormous beast. Violet eyes stared cautiously at the giant plant, wondering how truly alive was…

Brutus ascended up the small stairwell before taking a stand beside the throne, which made him look like a dwarf in comparison. Then, with a stamp of his cane, he announced, “Please, bow your heads in the presence of her ladyship!”

Beatrix looked around the enchanted floral chamber and raised a skeptical brow. “What presence?”

Suddenly, the fluttering insects spiraled down towards the throne, swirling into a massive cloud of shimmering butterflies. Swiftly, the coven, Oona, and Shadow Scythe knelt down to a knee, the violet unicorn hesitantly following after them. The sprite-like creatures continued to swarm until they scattered, revealing the Canterlotian ruler in all her glory.

“N-no way..!” Beatrix gasped, shocked to find that the fountain statue from before did not greatly exaggerate Tatyana’s height.

The unicorn mare stood nearly eight feet tall, not counting the horn protruding from her head. A thin elongated tail swished behind her. A bright reddish-pink mane curled around her features, a white wide-brimmed hat depressed into the side with a decorative floral crown around the band. Like her coven, she wore a backless dress that showed off her statuesque figure and side cleavage.

A leaf collared cape adorned her shoulders, stylized to look like monarch wings. Finally, like all her followers, the botanic matter was embedded around her arms and legs, mimicking thigh-high boots and gloves. Turquoise eyes stared down under hooded eyelids. Shifting her gaze toward the minotaur, she smiled before extending her arm.

“My queen,” Grimmwald greeted, lowering his head to her hand before placing a kiss on her knuckle. One of her fingers wore a ring much like his own.

“Sweet lucid dreams, she’s huge!” Oona proclaimed in a whispering tone.

“No way that’s her actual height,” complained Beatrix, refusing to believe a mare taller than an alicorn naturally existed.

“Oh, she definitely dwelled in magical enhancements,” Shadow Scythe muttered under her breath.

“No, that’s not it,” Zeloph hissed in disagreement, his lengthy body shuddering over his partner’s shoulders.

“H-hey, your shaking. What’s wrong..?”

“She’s... unnatural! So much bizarre energy comes off her. Unlike anything in this world! There’s something off about this place…”

“Arise,” Tatyana commanded, having strutted down her throne steps to get a better observation of her guests. The trio rose to their feet, lifting their heads up to meet her curious gaze. She first stopped at Oona, battering her long lashes with a smile. “I’ve always wanted to meet the fabled dream faun who came to our aid during the caribou attack! I must commend you for your bravery, Lady Ewe. Truly, you’ve inspired us all~!”

“Ohh, a-ahh! T-thank you, yer grace,” she bashfully stammered, bowing her head.

The Sovereign Witch turned her attention to Shadow Scythe, who cautiously stepped back. Tittering, the slender unicorn said, “I can tell by your movements that you’re not used to being with such valuable company. Do not worry, though. Through them, your power and love will be restored~.”

“U-uhh... Thanks?” the reaper said, deeply confused.

“And you,” she pointed a finger to Zeloph, who coiled protectively around the pale unicorn. “There’s no need to hide who you are from us! Come on out~!”

With a curl of her finger, the serpent’s disguise was undone, revealing the cherub’s form, much to his panic. “A-ahh!? What the!? How did you..?!”

The Sovereign Witch merely held a finger to her snout, smiling knowingly. “Even the most experienced of magicians never reveal all their secrets,” she winked before finally resting her luminous eyes on Beatrix. The violet unicorn stared up cautiously as Tatyana reached for her hand.

Politely, she asked, “May I?”

With a hesitant nod, she allowed the Queen to open her hand and trace her finger along the palm, a faint glow around the tip. She hummed in thought. “So many adventures. So many wondrous worlds! And… Ooh~! So many people ‘met.’” Their eyes locked once more when she continued. “I’m impressed, Beatrix Belladonna! I’ve never seen such an exceptional witch before. Dare I say, your magic has eclipsed that of your mother’s!”

Trixie’s expression hardened, knowing the Queen likely referred to the mare’s actual mother from her world. Still, she couldn’t help stare at Beatrix with a bit of bitterness.

“R-really..?”

Tatyana nodded her head. “One does not simply defy their destiny that easily, dear. The fact that you’ve come so far for the Child of Lightendark is admirable. You’re a true heroine through and through.”

A smile formed on the witch’s snout as the Queen returned to sit at her throne, long timber-like legs crossing under her dress. “I’m sure you’re curious about all I’ve accomplished with Canterlot. Go on! Ask me anything~.”

Beatrix swallowed hard, looking around the royal chamber and the life blooming through the vines, flora, and runes. “I will say, your majesty, that I’m greatly enchanted by this place! You’ve truly transformed Canterlot into a utopia for all things wizardly and magical.”

The Queen lifted her hand below her chin and let out a noble laugh. “Oh ho ho ho ho~! Are you trying to butter me up with flattery? Because it’s working~!”

“T-that being said,” Beatrix pursed her lips. “I’d like to know your reasoning for why you thought banishing the other pony factions was a good idea! Surely, Equestria would thrive more if everyone else was included?”

Tatyana’s smile lessened, though she calmly replied, “Knowledge is power. It has been an essential resource since the dawn of time. And those who seek it have established great leadership. You might find it questionable to deny other races here, but that’s because they don’t share our ideals. If anything, they would hamper our enlightenment!”

“But that isn’t true,” Oona butted in. “Not e’eryone who seeks knowledge aspires tae become a leader fur people. Instead, most became conquerors or tyrants!”

Shadow Scythe and Zeloph remained quiet, reminded that it was their pursuit of power that trapped them in the Burning King’s clutches.

“You make an excellent point,” Queen Tatyana agreed. “For example, Celestia and Luna allowed their views of friendship and cultural acceptance to blind their better judgment. They welcomed the caribou regime with open arms when they first arrived! And look where that got them…”

“T-That’s not what A’m sayin-”

The Sovereign Witch waved away the sheep in disregard. “It doesn’t change the fact that because of their ideology, unicorns and other spell casters became too weak to stop the oppressers.”

“But it was because of Oona’s efforts and Sombra’s revival that Equestria won the war against the caribou!” Beatrix reminded.

“And we are forever grateful to them,” acknowledged Brutus. “But change was necessary if we wanted our land to prosper after the damages!”

“Which is why I stepped up when Twilight could not,” interjected Tatyana. “I helped return our kind back to their roots! For the key to our future lies in the seeds of the past.” The queen motioned to the botanic monument that towered above. “Through this tree, magic now flows more rampantly than ever! Sacrifices had to be made to ensure our survival. Even if it meant severing our ties with the pegasi and earth ponies...”

“This is getting us nowhere,” Zeloph muttered.

“Yeah, let’s just get what we came for and get out,” grunted Shadow Scythe.

“But my mother! She’s-” Beatrix started before withdrawing her protest. Abadonna’s life was at stake. And if they didn’t persuade the Sovereign Witch soon… Well, she didn’t want to remember that ominous vision.

With a sigh, the violet unicorn lowered to her knees. “Look, Queen Tatyana. I don’t want to argue with you about what’s right for Equestria. All I want is to get to the library and rescue my daughter from her cruel fate. And to do that, I need Flurry Heart. So please, great Sovereign Witch. I beg for your help..!”

Trixie, Starlight, and Sunset turned to one another with mixed expressions. The azure unicorn was the most conflicted, knowing that this unicorn was her daughter in another timeline. If not for her position, she would have done everything in her power to help Beatrix out.

After a long moment of consulting with her consort, Tatyana smiled down at the groveling witch and replied, “How could I say no? Of course, we’ll help you!”

Her response lifted both Beatrix’s head and hopes, a ferocious smile spreading her snout. “O-oh, thank you! You have no idea how much it means to me!”

“Think nothing of it! Just give us the other requirements, and we’ll open the portal together.”

What words of gratitude she was about to give died in her throat. Realization struck her face like water as she stammered, “... w-what?”

Her smile spreads wider. “It’s a rare opportunity to access infinite knowledge, my dear. And, despite my best efforts, our historians can only recover so much of what was lost. Think of the wonders that await us by accessing the library’s oldest books! Or even the stories that haven’t been told yet! That’s why I intend to join you!”

Oona, Zeloph, and Shadow Scythe looked to one another; anxiety increased over the Queen’s intentions. Their expressions were not lost on Grimmwald, who frowned.

“Is there a problem?”

“Y-yes!! I-I’m sorry, but I can’t do that. I swore an oath to the council of spirits not to allow Enock’s collective knowledge fall into the wrong hands!”

Realizing the words that left her mouth, the witch covered her mouth in alarm. The trio of robed mares gasped while the minotaur nervously turned to his wife, whose smile lowered into a frown.

“... what do you mean by ‘the wrong hands?’” Tatyana asked, raising her eyebrow.

“O-oh no no no!! I didn’t mean it like that! Honest!” The violet unicorn stated, attempting to salvage. But her anxiety grew worse when the towering unicorn stood up and approached her.

“You would deny my generous proposal?” The Sovereign Witch pressed on. “My kingdom of a potentially great future? After we offer you our hospitality?!”

“Hospitality?! You have my friends locked away in a dungeon just for being different!” Beatrix snapped back, returning a glare back at Tatyana. “You allow your people to bully and belittle anyone without magic! If this is the kingdom you envision to rule, then I will have no part in helping you acquire it!”

“She’s standing up to the queen!?” Starlight muttered to Sunset.

“No, no, what are you doing!” Trixie whimpered with tightened fists.

“How dare you speak to her that way!” Brutus bellowed, ready to defend his wife’s honor before she held up her hand, keeping him at bay.

Looking up at Tatyana, it was then Beatrix noticed that the sclera of her eyes was blackened, making them illuminate under her gaze.

“Think carefully of what you say next, Beatrix Belladonna,” the magical monarch warned, the friendly tone of her voice absent. “I was just starting to like you…”

“I don’t give a damn what you think about me!” She spat in open defiance. “I didn’t come here to let some upper class, racist cunt get in my way. I’m getting my daughter back, and If I have to fight you, so be it! I’m not scared of you!”

The Queen’s expression blanked, her eyes pinpoint. Her hand trembled with restraint before releasing her grasp. A new smile spread her snout, one that sent a shiver up Beatrix’s spine.

“Ooh~!” She cooed. “Not afraid to fight me, you say?”

“T-That’s right!”

“How bold..! Why don’t we put that to the test then?” Tatyana stepped away, stretching her arm out to let the swarm of butterflies gather around her open hand. The magical insects formed a lengthy shape before dispatching once more, revealing a wooden unicorn-headed scepter that matched the Queen’s height. Stamping, the staff made a loud ‘snap’ sound, causing her followers to kneel once more.

“If you want to save the Child of Lightendark, then beat me in a magic duel!” The Sovereign Witch challenged. “Should you win, I’ll give you what you need to unlock the portal without any intervention of my own. Hell, I’ll even release your friends!”

Beatrix narrowed her glare, nervously asking, “A-and if you win?”

“Then you will abandon your mission and join my coven! Your powers would become a major asset to my reign~!”

“Ceann Oga, No!” Lady Ewe cried out. “Don’t accept this! We’ll find another way!”

Beatrix turned to her lover, shaking her head. “We can’t turn back now! We’re so close!”

“This is insanity!” Zeloph exclaimed. “Don’t you realize millions of lives are at stake?! If we don’t get to the library now, Abadonna will release the Burning King!”

“All the more reason Beatrix should have accepted my offer,” Tatyana dejected. “But in selfishness, she insulted me. The blame will be hers if the world is undone by fire.”

Brutus and the mage trio gazed at her with conflicted emotion. Would she genuinely throw away the lives of many if it meant her legacy would endure?

“You bitch!! If you want a fight, I’ll give you one!” Shadow Scythe snarled, summoning her sickle, preparing to leap into the shadows. The pale unicorn did not care that they were outnumbered, seeing Tatyana’s coven and consort take a defensive stance.

“Don’t do it, Shadow Scythe,” Beatrix insisted, raising her hand to block her friend from recklessly attacking. Then, taking a deep breath, she glared back at Tatyana and asked. “... If I win, will you keep your word?”

“You might not believe it, but I value trust and honesty among my people,” Tatyana said with a nod. “I have no use for lies. Accept my challenge, and on my crown, I will honor the agreement.”

After a brief moment to think over what options she had left, the violet witch came to a decision. “... Then I’ll do the same.”

“Beatrix..!” Oona pleaded, her eyes teary.

The royal monarch smirked. “Excellent~! Brutus, arrange the court and have the entire kingdom gathered by the afternoon.”

“At once,” the minotaur acknowledged, departing from his lover’s side to carry out his task.

“You have until then to prepare, Beatrix Belladonna. I look forward to seeing how strong you are. That will be all!” At the double-stomp of her scepter, the trio of robed witches escorted the travelers away from the throne room as Tatyana took her seat.

“You shouldn’t have done that,” Zeloph berated, fluttering by the witch’s side.

“Yeah, I don’t like this,” whispered Shadow Scythe. “There’s no way we can trust she’ll keep her word. She holds all the cards. And from what we saw, she could be more powerful than all of us combined!”

“There’s too much on th’ line,” Oona wept. “If you lose, all our efforts to avoid this catastrophe will be fur nothing!

“You’re right, Oona,” Beatrix nodded with pursed lips. “We’re in the endgame now. Doppia is still out there. For all we know, she’s already infiltrated the Canterlot, waiting for the moment to strike. So we have to press on, no matter the cost!”

“And if Tatyana doesn’t keep her promise..?”

“Then we know who to thank when the Burning King runs free…”

As the group reached the castle gates, Beatrix turned back to glance at the Sovereign Witch, seated under the mysterious ‘life-bearing’ tree, returning her glare with a condescending smile.

Final Chapter (Part II): Duel Against Fate

Ten minutes remained until it was time for the magical duel. And during that time, Beatrix had spent it practicing and perfecting her most potent spells. Graciously, Lord Grimmwald allowed her allies on the courtyard to support her, albeit kept in enchanted chains that numbed their strength and magic.

They watched while she maneuvered out of Shadow Scythe’s swift swings, then retaliated with thunderbolts, spheres, and anything she could to push the reaper back. Sweat was already pouring down her form, Beatrix panting lightly.

“You can’t afford to pull any punches, Belladonna!” She said, using her weapon to deflect her former enemy’s blows before ducking into her shadow, reappearing right behind her. “If Tatyana wins, we’re finished!”

“I know!” The violet mare grunted, blocking the shadowy sickles with an invisible barrier. “I just wished I knew what else she’s capable of. If we weren’t on borrowed time, I’d have a better strategy to ensure I could win!”

“Well, she certainly seems strong,” said Zeloph, hovering on his foot wings. “She was able to unravel my shapeshifting with just a gesture!”

“Ahh. That explains why ye’re out in th’ open,” Dion commented from the sidelines. “But hey, that means ye can go all out, lassie!”

“Yeah, that’s true,” Beatrix said, snarling at the idea with far more motivation. “I’m going to hit that bitch with everything I’ve got!”

“Just be careful not tae let yer anger blind ye,” Oona gently warned, stroking her lover’s mane. “Tatyana is wicked, yes, but she is not our true enemy. This battle very well might decide if we stop th’ Burning King’s resurrection.”

“Let’s not forget Doppia’s probably lurking around,” Cerise reminded, shuffling around in her bonds. “Rheneas has been dreadfully silent. I think she can sense her presence...”

“You’ll have to keep your guard up at all times,” agreed Midnight, who nodded. “She could strike the moment you slip up!”

“Right…” Beatrix let out a wry sigh, rubbing her temple. “This is intense,” she admitted. “There’s so much to worry about, and I can hardly keep track! I don’t know if I can handle all this pressure!”

“You will,” assured the cherub, placing his hand to massage her shoulders lightly. Rejuvenation and light flowed through her back through his touch, her mind unwinding and body loosening up. “You’ve overcome worse odds than this!”

“You’ve defeated both Zeloph and me,” Shadow Scythe calmly chided, her weapon disappearing and her arms crossed over her chest. “It would be an insult to us if you lost to this overgrown harlot!”

“Ye’re not just fightin’ fur yer child an’ th’ multiverse, Beatrix,” added Dion with a broad smile. “Yer pride is on th’ line!”

Cerise chimed in, “Yeah! If you lose here, there’s no home to return to. Bellatrix, the twins, us… We’ll all be gone! And I’ll be stuck like this forever! I doubt we can beat the Vice Lords without you!”

“You’ve got this, sis!” Midnight cheered.

“An’ we’ll be right behind ye,” Oona said, cupping her student’s cheeks before placing a soft ‘good luck’ kiss right on her lips.

With teary eyes, Beatrix smiled at them. “Thank you, everyone! I won’t let you down!”

“Miss Belladonna,” a paladin herald called as he approached. “It’s almost time.”

She sucked in a deep breath before nodding, following the soldier towards the center of the courtyard. She looked around to find an audience had gathered, muttering about her chances of defeating their fabled queen. Of course, most would feel discouraged partaking in a duel within enemy territory. But this only filled Beatrix with more determination than ever to fight against the odds.

The dark bull-man was waiting there, the trio of robed unicorn mares behind him. Trixie cautiously avoided making direct eye contact with her supposed daughter.

“I hope you spent your time wisely,” Brutus said with a frown. “Our great sovereign will be unlike any foe you’ve faced before.”

“Oh, trust me. I’ve prepared,” assured Beatrix, who planted her hands on her shapely hips. “I’m well adverse in popping the inflated egos of spellcasters much more powerful than me~.”

The minotaur chuckled at her boast. “Cocky even in the face of uncertainty. I like that! I do hope there are no hard feelings between us. You insulted the queen, and we can’t take that lightly.”

The violet witch nodded with pursed lips. “I wish we didn’t have to do this. But I took an oath to protect the library’s secrets from anyone interested. No matter what intentions Tatyana may have, I can’t go back on my word!”

“If I can speak honestly,” Sunset said, stepping forward. “We should be helping you prevent the Burning King's resurgence.”

Starlight nodded. “The queen has done wonders for the unicorns of Canterlot. But this feels like a bad call of judgment. Our kingdom's livelihood should always be a top priority! I made that mistake when I governed over a small village…”

Trixie cast her magenta eyes towards Grimmwald and asked, “Is there no way for you to make her ladyship reconsider? You are her consort, after all!”

The bull-man sighed. “Believe me; I’ve tried. But the queen is very keen on making an example out of Beatrix.”

The castle doors opened as the familiar swarm of enchanted butterflies fluttered towards the courtyard. “It’s time,” Brutus noted before turning to Beatrix and offered, “Good luck.”

With that said, he and the coven moved towards where the prisoners were kept. But not before Beatrix and Trixie shared one more long glance. Her mother had been in two magical duels before, and she did not come out victorious the second bout. And while only knowing this mare as her child for less than a few hours, she prayed she would not lose her.

The wayward witch refocused her attention on her opponent, who arrived in a spectacular fashion. The magical incests spiraled away to reveal Queen Tatyana in all her glory, the crowd cheering loudly. She steadily floated to the ground until her heels clicked.

“Kick her ass, Bea!” Cerise heartened.

“Yeah, show her what you’re made of!!” Added Midnight, who pumped his fist.

With a wave of her hand, the audience drew silent as the Sovereign Witch addressed her followers. “My good people,” she began. “I have gathered you here today to show you what happens when fools dare to cross me. This young upstart thinks herself worthy of accessing the library of the Curator of Time! Infinite knowledge, histories, and events that have yet to happen. But, instead of aiding to our just cause, she would-”

“Blah, blah, blah! Can we get on with this already?” Beatrix cheekily interrupted, earning a cacophony of boos from the audience who demanded her head.

Tatyana sneered at the witch, keeping her snout upward. “Gauche little thing, aren’t you? Didn’t your mother teach you any manners?”

“Oh, she taught me plenty! Like how I should never hold back any details without a good reason. When were you going to tell your ‘adoring public’ that their lives are at stake because of your stubbornness?”

All the unicorns and magic users then began muttering with confusion. Beatrix continued, “I came to Canterlot with the sole purpose of rescuing my daughter from setting off the End of Days. And this oversized blowhard has the audacity to exploit my mission for her own interest! How can any of you idolize such a selfish cunt!?”

“Oh, I’m selfish? When was the last time you governed an entire kingdom?” The queen questioned, pointing at Beatrix with accusation.

“W-well, never, I-I-”

“Right. You haven’t. Because all you care about is traveling across dimensions for thrills and kicks. Never mind the negative side effects you enforce on the ‘friends’ you claim to care about.”

“H-hey! I-I’d never! That’s not true!!”

“Oh, isn’t it~?”

Tatyana turned her attention towards the prisoners, a cunning smirk against their glares. Then, pointing her finger at Midnight, the Sovereign Witch continued. “You made this young soldier abandon his post so that he could live out your fantasy of having a brother. But in doing so, you also turned him into a hulking brute who can’t live without a hole to fuck~.”

“Hey, back off! That’s none of your-” Cerise began to protest but was cut off when the towering unicorn shifted to her.

“And what about you? Who’s to say your ‘best friend’ didn’t manipulate the odds of your parents giving birth to you?”

“A-ah! W-what, I-I… no, that’s…” Yet the dark dancer fell silent, much to Beatrix’s growing dismay.

“Cerise, that’s nonsense! I-I wouldn’t–”

“And you, oh dear sweet Lady Ewe…” The sheep in question glared defiantly at the Sovereign Witch’s cruel smile. “... Are you even sure the love you two share is genuine~?”

This got her wool riled up, her honey-brown eyes fiery as she yelled, “How dare ye make such an accusation!”

“Then why has she avoided performing your sacred ritual?” Tatyana asked. “Why is she not your Matanam?”

“I-it isn’t necessary! W-we don’t have to–”

“I’ll tell you why Oona. It’s because Beatrix is an anomaly, reshaping everyone she meets just to validate herself. Surely, you knew how lonely Beatrix felt. Why else would she wander the cosmos and lay with so many strangers if not to fill that emptiness in her heart?”

“Shut up!!” Beatrix demanded. “Just stop talking and fight me!”

But the Sovereign Witch ignored her opponent. “So what would happen when such a person finds someone who has shown unconditional kindness and guidance without seeing her as a sex object? Someone who could give her the love she desperately craves? And had the power to bestow those feelings upon you~?”

“It’s not true! What we share is beyond yer twisted words, witch! Our love is real!! ... Ah know it is!”

Yet that brief hesitation was all Tatyana needed to hear as the dream shaman’s expression showed confliction. “Let us hope that is the case, my dear,” the unicorn mare mused. “Because if you ask me? Anyone who has to force people to love her is not only pathetic but insidiously cruel…”

The courtyard was once more filled with boo’s, the audience vocalizing how badly they wanted the violet mare’s defeat. Beatrix clutched her fist tightly, tears of fury streaming down her cheeks. Whatever confidence she built up was shaken. Not only did the queen sway the crowd in her favor, but Tatyana also managed to plant enough seeds of doubt to bewilder her friends and lover.

Despite her best efforts to keep her feelings in check, the Sovereign Witch had successfully gotten under Beatrix’s skin. And the violet mare was beyond livid.

“You’re in my garden, Beatrix Belladonna,” Queen Tatyana declared. “And I will not allow weeds to flourish among my flowers!”

“I’ve had enough of your GARBAGE!!”

The duel started when Beatrix threw the first spell, unleashing lightning, fire, and ice blasts infused with Erebus’s energy. The Sovereign Witch, however, did nothing to avoid the attack. Instead, an invisible barrier flashed around her figure to deflect the bolts that hissed about her. Tatyana’s mocking smile spread when she retorted, “If that’s the best you can do, then I don’t have to waste a single step from where I am.”

“Grrrrr!!”

“Here. Let me show you what real elemental magic looks like~!”

Her scepter began to emit a vibrant aura before she launched a pillaring beam into the skies, which quickly became shrouded by dark clouds. Sensing what was coming, Brutus stamped his cane twice as his guardsmen conjured a protective shield of magic around everything outside the courtyard, keeping the prisoners and audience safe from the incoming storm.

Beatrix gazed up before a flash of magenta lightning bolted towards her. Yelping, she spun away to dodge the surging energy. Burning hail began to rain down alongside the bolts, forcing the violet mare to erect her own safeguard. The moment the storm went away and her barrier came down, Tatyana blasted Beatrix with a projectile, sending her crashing into the paladin’s magical shield.

Undeterred, Beatrix shook off the pain and focused on her opponent, her hands and horn shimmering with archaic energy. “I’ll make you move..!” She muttered under her breath before launching a new wave of advanced spells, attacking from different angles.

But the queen remained untouched, her shield glowing brighter as her spells fizzled and sizzled into a mist. Giving a haughty laugh, she continued to taunt, “A small filly offers more of a challenge than you! How could you ever hope to save your daughter with such a mediocre repertoire of spells~?”

“Shut up!!” Snarled Beatrix, doing everything in her power to knock this bitch off her high horse.

“This is a joke!” Shadow Scythe called out from her stand, her slender arms folded. “You call this a duel? You’ve done nothing but stall! Throw some actual spells, you coward!”

“Don’t let her antics get to you,” Zeloph reminded, resting his hand over hers. “If Beatrix doesn’t get a grip, she’ll be drained of all her resources. As infuriating as it is, stalling your opponent until exhaustion is an effective strategy…”

Oona clasped her hands tightly, chewing on her lip while she watched her student struggle. “C’mon, Beatrix. Ye’re smarter than this! Think outside th’ box!”

“Eeaaugh!” The violet mare grunted as she stumbled back from another launched wave. Not even the spells Sombra taught her could penetrate through the sovereign witch’s defense. “Shit, this isn’t good! If I don’t find a way to breach that barrier, I’m dead!”

“Giving up so soon?” Tatyana asked with a sigh. “Surely, by now, you realize how out of depth you are! Before you stands the most powerful witch in all of Equestria! Oh ho ho ho~!”

“Out of my… wait a minute!”

A theory popped into her head once she got up on shaky legs. And if she could prove it true, then the violet unicorn might be able to damage Tatyana properly. Calming her shallow breaths, Beatrix concentrated on conjuring a particular aspect of herself, a hand on her Prima Materia.

‘ C’mon, you always show up when I least expect it. Please, I need you now!’

“What are you doing?” The regal unicorn asked, her brow arched. “Are you perhaps praying for some miracle to happen? Haha! You’re losing it, Belladonna! There isn’t anything that can save you~!”

“That’s where you’re wrong, tall lady!” A childish squishy voice proclaimed behind her.

“Wha– baah!!”

A sudden display of fireworks exploded right in her face. And while the fanfare did no actual damage, it caused the Canterlonian Queen to stumble back a bit. Then, shaking off her daze, she was shocked to find a miniature version of her opponent hovering there, striking a dramatic pose.

“Mini-Trix!!” The imprisoned party exclaimed.

“That’s right~! And I’ll always be there to save the daaayaaaah!!”

Mini-Trix quickly ducked out of the magical spell blasted at her while Tatyana waved her scepter to swat at the tulpa like a pestering fly.

“Hold still, you little,” the queen sneered, her expression contorted with annoyance. Each blast of magic missed while the cartoonish unicorn made provocative gestures and faces.

While Tatyana was distracted, Beatrix loosened her own arcane magic. Her costume vanished for a moment, left naked as the cosmic darkness flowed off her curves hardened into place, its cool caress on her tender skin. The violet witch lunged at the vain sorceress with her rapier in hand. But, as she expected, the impenetrable barrier was still active, the steel of her enchanted blade straining to pierce through it.

“Did you think your little friend would help?” Tatyana mused, leering over her shoulder. “As long as I have this shield, no magic you perform will ever touch me!”

Beatrix, however, smirked in response. “You sure about that?”

From the tip of her sword, the Demiurge wrapped its essence around the magical bubble concealing Tatyana, who tried to enlarge her sphere.

“Mini-Trix! Now!”

“What!?” The regal unicorn glared back at the tulpa, who cheekily pointed to the ground. It was looking down that she realized too late that Mini-Trix had tethered rockets to her feet, sparkles eating away at the rope. “NoooooOOOO-!!”

As the fireworks went off to lift the Sovereign Witch off the ground, Beatrix used the momentum and her Onoma to throw her foe into the fountain with her statue. Broken stone, water, and magic dispersed around the area in a crash, the regal unicorn lying in the rubble.

“Well, would you look at that,” Beatrix huffed, a cocky smile spreading her snout. “Got her to move~!” She turned to her tulpa, who giggled by her side. “Way to go, mini-me!”

“Told you you’d need my assistance one of these days~!” Mini-Trix beamed while the two high-fived. Their friends and allies cheered against the crowd’s uproaring boos.

“Yes,” Midnight called out. “Way to go, Bea!”

“Well done, lass!” Dion crowed.

“Knocked her down real good!” Cerise praised.

“Well... that’s one way to get past that insufferable shield,” admitted Zeloph, who clapped his hands. “Good show!”

“Hmm,” nodded Shadow Scythe, a satisfied smile born from watching Tatyana gets tossed around.

Lady Ewe sighed with relief that her lover managed to figure out an admittingly unorthodox way through her opponent’s defenses. Trixie also sported a relaxed expression.

“Don’t get too comfortable,” reminded Grimmwald, his brows furrowing. “It’s not over yet…”

With heavy groans, Tatyana pulled herself up from the shattered remains of her fountain, her dress drenched and torn in places. She glared down at Beatrix, who returned the heated look.

“Clever, Beatrix,” she admitted begrudgingly, brushing off the rubble with her magic. “Very clever.”

“Next time, don’t underestimate me!” The violet witch stated, taking a battle stance while her cartoonishly small partner raised her fisticuffs.

“Yes, I suppose that is my fault. A mistake I shall not make again!” Then, with a clean yank, she ripped away from her floral-decorative cape and hat, her scarlet pink hair waving in the wind. “Front this point on; I will use everything in my power to exterminate you! And since you summoned a familiar to aid you…”

“Hey! I am not a-”

“...allow me to show you mine! Through the power of Goetia!”

Tatyana spun her scepter in her hands, chanting incantations in an ancient language. Beatrix toughened her stance in anticipation, noting that the tree growing out the palace began to glow vibrantly, alongside the runes etched in the Sovereign Witch’s botanic horns, gloves, and legs. Then, she finished her spell with a cry and slammed her staff into the earth, a ghost circle tracing before her. Light flared out from within the center when a large shape crawled out.

Beatrix and Mini-Trix gasped at the sight of the creature. A mane of several bright red leaves shook against its dark, muscular body. Bat shaped timber wings with an autumn membrane between the branching joints spread from its back. Its long tail swayed behind its hind legs, barbed at the end. A horned lion skull covered its face, will o wisp-like eyes glowing through the sockets. And when it released a mighty roar, the unicorns could see its impressive canine teeth.

The crowd applauded the arrival of this beast while Beatrix’s party stared at it in horror.

“Whoa! What is that thing?!” Midnight demanded.

“A junction between life and magic in its most primitive form,” the minotaur said with a broad smile. “I call it a Grimm. Named after yours truly, of course.”

Shadow Scythe snarled at him with disgust. “You created that abomination?!”

“It is not in any pain, I assure you. Grimm’s are much like golems or anything made from alchemy. Reanimated to serve a higher purpose. A primal specimen loyal only to one who wields Goetia.”

But Oona refused to believe that statement. She narrowed her honey-brown eyes at the leonine monster, noting that it and Omen shared a similar composition, animalistic beings with floral features. The dream faun suspected there was more to these so-called ‘Grimms’ than Brutus let on. And the implications made her stomach turn.

“Be careful, Ceann Oga..!”

“N-nice kitty…” Beatrix said cautiously, backing as the animal moved closer with rumbling growls.

“Grimm’kahn! Bring me the small one’s head!” Tatyana ordered, to which the Grimm roared in response and pounced at the tulpa.

“AAAAAAAAH!!” Mini-Trix screamed before poofing out of the battle just as the creature snapped its jaws around the sparkly smoke. She reappeared a few feet away before breaking into a sprint once the botanic lion chased after her. “GET THIS HOUSE CAT OFF ME!!”

“H-Hang on!” Beatrix called after, only for her limbs to be trapped in magical vines sprouting from the ground.

“Oh, no, you don’t!” The regal unicorn said, waving her hand to hoist her captive up and slam her into the ground. The vines began to pull Beatrix towards Tatyana, but she swiftly severed their coils with a swing of her sword. Launching back up, the two witches resumed their bout, firing spells and tendrils to counteract one another’s offenses. The sovereign’s scepter blocked every swipe and thrust.

Meanwhile, Mini-Trix was doing her best to avoid becoming the Grimm’s next meal. She tried throwing cat toys, fireworks and spraying sparkly water to distract it. But nothing could stop the beast until it caught her by the cape with its teeth. Then, shrieking, the miniature unicorn unfastened the cloth to drop free suitable before the monstrous lion could take her down with its paws.

“Sorry, Bea! But I’m taking an early stage right! Good luck!” Mini-Trix quickly apologized, disappearing entirely in colorful smoke.

Knowing that she was now outnumbered, Beatrix slashed through Tatyana’s force blasts while aiming her arcane magic to push the regal unicorn back, binding her limbs in study black bonds. With her opponent struggling to break free, the violet witch could focus on the botanic animal hybrid that charged at her. Infusing more energy into her needle-thin blade, she parried each swipe swung at her, minding the Grimm’s claws, fangs, and scorpion-like tail.

‘Eegh! This cat is relentless! I might have to use that spell! I sure hope this works..!’

As she managed to back away, Beatrix layered the floor around the Grimm with Erebus, the creature’s limbs stuck in a tar-like substance. Then, with the leonine monster stuck, snarling as it tried to pull out, the space-cloaked witch drew a circle, forming the shape around the beast.

A purple bubble captured the creature, filling inside with a dark cosmos and glittering stars. And when the bubble burst, the Grimm began to rock and sway on its legs. Trying as it might fight off the growing drowsiness, the botanic lion eventually fell asleep, rolling onto its side.

Underneath the audience’s vexation, Oona was astonished by the spell cast, her heart fluttering upon recognizing her signature hypnosis bubble. Somehow, her student had copied it flawlessly! The two locked eyes momentarily as Beatrix sent a cheeky wink the sheep’s way, making her blush and smile.

A frustrated scream pulled the witch’s focus back to Tatyana, who finally broke free from her binds. Her luminous turquoise shined scornfully, her cheeks bulging with dark veins. “This is insulting! How am I struggling so much to take down this… lowly cow?!”

“Because, unlike you, I’m not fighting for my reputation, Tatyana,” answered Beatrix, who retook a stance. “No one stands between my daughter and me! And I won’t lose to someone pitiful like you!”

The canterlonian queen snarled. “Pitiful!?”

Beatrix looked back at the stands, where her allies stood behind Grimmwald and the trio of robed unicorn mares. “I accept that I’ve affected and ruined a lot of lives on a cosmic scale. But I’ve done nothing but try to remedy the damage I’ve caused. And unlike you, I cherish the love and respect I’ve earned from my friends. And the love I have for them is genuine!”

Each of her allies gave touched smiles and gestures. Dion, Midnight and Cerise continued to show support despite their chains. Shadow Scythe and Zeloph nodded, indicating they were thankful for this new chance to start over.

And no one had to speak for how proud and encouraging Lady Ewe had been throughout their entire relationship.

Beaming, Beatrix shifted back to her opponent, strengthening her resolve as the archaic magic of the dark cosmic flowered off her shapely body and thin blade. “I didn’t want to fight you. But the fact that you refused to help me for selfish endeavors, on top of endangering my friends… You’ve made this personal! And I will use everything in my power to cut you down!”

Her statement earned a mocking cackle from the towering unicorn. “Let me guess... Do you mean to tell me that you’ll best me with the power of ‘friendship?’ The same power that nearly doomed Equestria into slavery? Oh, I think not, Belladonna!”

Stamping her staff into the ground, she reached her hand out, beckoning her Grimm towards her. A vibrant aura surrounded the slumbering lion when its body levitated towards her. This action got an audible gasp from the minotaur, his eyes widening. “No… Don’t do it, you fool!”

“Do what?” Oona spoke up, noting his worrisome expression. “What is she plannin’!?”

“Impudent whelp!” Continued Tatyana, who glared down at her determined foe. “I am the Sovereign Witch! I am the ruler of Canterlot!” With her pet now facing her, the regal unicorn’s chest began to illuminate with her Onoma’s aura. “...and I will show you true power!”

“My lady, no!!” Grimmwald called out. “Do not perform that spell; it has not been safely tested. The side effects could be dangerous!”

But Tatyana ignored her consort. And even if she wanted to, it was too late. Her eyes lit up as her spell took hold. Magical tendrils whipped out to snare the beast and pull it closer until their bodies were tethered. Then, a bright flash caused Beatrix and everyone else to shield their eyes.

And when the light faded, the wayward witch gasped at the horrific sight.

The dress that adorned Tatyana’s slender figure became embedded with vines and tendrils that wriggled around. Her entire upper body was infused with the Grimm, large branch-like claws covering her arms like gauntlets. Its leaf-like mane concealed her own, its bat-shaped wings stretching out of her shoulders. She wore its skulled face over her forehead, her narrow horn protruding out. Looking over her new form, the queen let out another wicked laugh as magic flared off her body.

“Eeuugh! W-what did you do!?” Demanded Beatrix.

“She assimilated it,” Grimmwald explained. “It’s a junction spell, allowing her to fuse with the Grimm through her Onoma. I forbade her from casting it outside experimentation, but she never did heed my advice.”

“How did you allow such a lunatic the privilege of queenship?!” Shadow Scythe berated.

“We didn’t,” Starlight confessed, her snout down. “She took the throne for herself. And none of us were strong enough to refuse her.”

“Oh great,” grumbled Zeloph. “Another tyrant to deal with…”

“Right on th’ edge ov armageddon, too,” Oona nodded before turning to the bull-man. “Brutus! Ye have tae call this off! Look! Even yer subjects are distressed!”

Brutus scanned over the stands, noting that the audience was indeed frightened by what their queen had become. Sighing heavily, he responded. “While I agree that this has gone too far, Tatyana’s magical prowess has skyrocketed! The longer she’s merged with the Grimm, the stronger she’ll become. But the risk of losing her mind grows stronger as well…”

He turned back to the battlefield, his queen already on the attack. Tatyana launched a barrage of spells and incantations to batter away at Belladonna’s defenses. “If anyone can stop her now, it’s your lover…”

All eyes fell back to Beatrix, who pivoted and tried desperately to avoid the heavy blasts and massive branches swiping at her. Any attempt of offense was rendered moot as the mad monarch brushed it off with a temporary barrier. Angered growls layered her joyful laughter, lashing out with throned vines to ensnare Beatrix’s limbs. She yelled in pain; her struggling only dug the barbs deeper into her flesh, drawing blood.

“Oh ho ho ho~! When I’ve finished flaying you around, you will learn only servitude,” declared the botanic abomination. “But first, let’s strip away all that ‘power’ you possess~!”

Tatyana’s lush mane began rustling before enchanted butterflies flew out to swarm around the wriggling unicorn mare. Her anguished cries grew louder as she felt needle-like proboscis stab into her skin, siphoning what remained of her magic and energy little by little.

And when the insects despatched, the queen dropped the mare’s limp, nude body onto the ground. Crimson and inky black bled off Beatrix, a dense pool of obsidian spiraling underneath.

“BEATRIX!!” Her allies cried out, the dream faun falling to her knees, holding back her pained sobs.

Tatyana hovered over the violet unicorn’s feeble form, pointing at her while addressing her audience of frightened magic casters. “Let this be a warning to anyone who dares question my authority!”

Shadow Scythe seethed, conjuring her scythe. “Drop this barrier, and I’ll teach this tree-sized twat authority!”

“No, Shadow Scythe!” Advised Zeloph, who gingerly pushed her weapon down. “Our battle is not with her!”

“She just took down Beatrix like she was nothing,” Midnight yelled, fluffed up. “Priorities or not, I won’t allow that foul witch to get away with this!”

“Blast these chains,” Dion snarled. “If Ah weren’t restrained, A’d tear that bitch a new cunt!”

“Please, lord Grimmwald,” begged Cerise, whose fists were balled. “Let us out! She’ll die if we don’t stop the queen!”

‘ I’m afraid that’s not all, friend’ Rheneas’ voice spoke up within the dancer’s mind. ‘Doppia is near. She’s around here somewhere. Watching…’

Cerise’s eyes went wide like saucers, muttering, “O-oh no..!”

“So what will it be, Grimmwald dear?” Growled Tatyana, pulling the bull’s attention towards her towering physique, her eyes blazing under the lion’s skull. “Are you going to drop this barrier and be labeled a traitor to the crown? I’m almost tempted to allow it! So that Beatrix can watch as I tear all her friends asunder~!”

“You’re not thinking clearly, Tatyana!” The minotaur insisted. “You’ve been fused to the Grimm for too long! And even then, you were never this malevolent! I think we both made a horrible mistake…”

His tunson gaze shifted from his queen to the large tree in the background, its leaves and runic branches shimmering ominously.

A vicious sneer spread the queen’s snout as she retorted, “Oh, I’ve made a mistake, alright. I was mistaken to trust you would offer me meaningful advice! But I see that the only thing you’re good for is fucking an heir into me, assuming the little princess can’t prove her worth. Now be a good soldier and keep those pitiful dogs under-aaaagh!”

A sudden blast of magic stuck Tatyana behind, snapping her attention to the caster. Trixie was hunched over her daughter’, tears streaming down her cheeks while her horn and hands glowed. Her coven sisters and the bullman hadn’t noticed when she teleported outside the magical barrier.

“You treacherous tramp..!”

“Stop! That’s enough!!” The azure witch cried, lifting Beatrix’s limp body, holding her protectively. Her eyes struggled to open, the violet witch muttering weakly.

“..mm-moth..er..?”

“Oh, come now,” the mad monarch scowled in disgust. “Don’t tell me you’ve grown sentimental for her, Lulamoon. She’s not even your actual daughter! Just an anomaly from a failed dimension!”

“I beg you, your majesty! I don’t want her to end up like me! Let her go! Please!”

“SILENCE!!” Barked Tatyana, her horn flaring up with unstable magic. The plant-like accessories shimmered like the tree, causing Trixie, Sunset, Starlight, and Grimmwald to suffer from telekinetic migraines. All of them fell to their knees, clutching at their heads, screaming.

And it wasn’t just them. The party noted the crowd of wizards and witches collapsed, wriggling in pain as their botanic headwear glowed violently.

“You all serve under my reign!” She shouted, foam dripping the corners of her mouth. “Even if I have to eviscerate every single one of you-uh?!”

Light glowed beneath her feet, realizing someone drew another ghost circle. Her heated glare fixated on Oona, whose eyes were hooded under a dark veil while her hands glowed with her wispy blue aura.

A mocking smile spread Tatyana’s snout as she said, “You think that old trick will work again? My Onoma far surpasses your own! Oona, you-”

“You look tired, my queen,” the sleep sage muttered softly, an ominous voice overlaying her own. When she lifted her head, Tatyana stared aghast by the inky substance oozing out her mouth, her eyes without pupils. “I think it’s past your bedtime…”

The bright blue magic suddenly shifted into a darker spell, unfamiliar runic symbols lighting up as a pitch-black bubble, highlighted in a maroon aura, began to form around the queen. Before Tatyana could react, the world around her was swallowed by darkness. Forestry surrounded her; falling red leaves the only vibrant color.

“H-ha ha… w-what is this silly illusion?” The regal unicorn attempted to laugh off, though her body trembled. “Think you can scare me?! I-I am not to be trifled! I am–”

“ꌦꄲ꒤…” A voice murmured as if speaking right into her ear.

Tatyana jumped, turning around in every direction to locate the speaker. But when she tried to conjure her magic, nothing happened.

“꒯ꄲ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꋪꏂꂵꏂꂵꃳꏂꋪ ꂵꏂ..?”

Her panting accelerated, sweat pouring profusely from her skin. Frightened turquoise eyes look all over the place, only finding hidden shapes. “Enough hiding, coward! Show yourself!!” Demanded Tatyana, quivering at every creak of the trees. The sound of something rattling against the long branches sent further shivers down her spine.

“꒐ ꋪꏂꂵꏂꂵꃳꏂꋪ ꌦꄲ꒤…”

The trees parted to reveal the giant figure, his silhouette highlighted under the rays of a blood-red moon. Tatyana fell backward, scurrying away from the enormous shadow, only to realize she was no longer fused with her Grimm. Her eyes went pinpoint at the massive antlers adorning the fiend’s head, recognizing him instantly.

“Grimm’noir!?”

“꒐ ꋪꏂꂵꏂꂵꃳꏂꋪ ꅐꁝꋬ꓄ ꌦꄲ꒤ ꒯꒐꒯ ꓄ꄲ ꂵꏂ…” He continued, his hand reaching down to fully grasp the frightened mare. And as he brought her closer, his skull-like head became more visible. Tatyana couldn’t help but let out a scream, flailing uselessly in his grip.

“ꇙꁝꁝꁝꁝꁝꁝ…” The Nightmare Stag shushed, combing through her scarlet pink mane, enjoying the sensation of her violent shivering. The sound of her weeping was music to his ears. “꒯ꄲꋊ’꓄ ꅐꄲꋪꋪꌦ. ꒐꓄ ꒐ꇙ ꋊꄲ꓄ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꊰ꒒ꏂꇙꁝ ꓄ꁝꋬ꓄ ꒐ ꉔꋪꋬ꒦ꏂ…”

“P-please! I beg of you, forgive me... I’m sorry!!”

“... ꒐꓄’ꇙ ꌦꄲ꒤ꋪ ꊰꏂꋬꋪ!”

Omen adjusted his grip to hold Tatyana between his thumb and index finger, raising her above his head as his maw split open.

“No... N-NO! PLEASE, DON’T!!”

But the wicked monarch’s pleas fell on deft ears as the Nightmare Stag released her. Tatyana screamed, falling into the void of his mouth, reaching out once the pitch-black darkness closed around her once more.

In actuality, Tatyana had collapsed out of the dark bubble once it popped, yelling in her sleep while tossing around. Her words slurred, screaming through whispers. Resting beside her was the unconscious Grimm, their fusion undone. But all eyes were on Lady Ewe, who knelt down, breathing heavily while coughing up more inky bile.

“That wasn’t a dream spell, was it?” Shadow Scythe speculated, helping her up. “You placed her in a…”

“Nightmare,” Oona confirmed, her honey-brown eyes gazing in a worrisome manner at the collapsed queen. “A-Ah didn’t think Ah was capable! Ah don’t know where that came from, A-Ah…”

“So that’s where that small patch of darkness came from,” Brutus proclaimed, gingerly placing a hand over the sheep’s stomach. “I figured the child inside you was the likely source!”

“Child?!” Dion, Midnight, Cerise, and Zeloph exclaimed, the burly ram the most shocked. “Y-You mean she’s-”

“Pregnant,” nodded the bullman. “No real development yet, but there is a magical signature. It seems the prophecy for the Child of Lightendark will come to fruition!”

Zeloph stared over the sheep sage’s belly, his face pale. “But then, doesn’t that mean the father is..?”

“We’ll worry about that later,” insisted Oona, who turned to the denim blue bull. “Now… lower the barrier. The battle’s over! Please… let us help Beatrix!”

“Say no more,” Grimmwald assured, stamping his cane to instruct his unicorn soldiers to deactivate their magic. “Everyone return home. The coven and I will seek proper reprisal for the queen’s actions this day!”

Holding their aching heads, the unicorns and magic wielders did not hesitate to leave, thankful no one was seriously hurt. “Guards!” Brutus called, his men saluting in response. “Release them!”

With a firm nod, the paladins unshackled the runic chains binding Dion, Cerise, and Midnight. “About time,” grumbled the warrior ram, who rubbed at his wrists before following his allies to aid Beatrix. Trixie continued to cradle the withered mare in her arms.

Cerise’s ear flicked at the sound of Tatyana’s slumbering groans, shivering at her dismay. “Gosh, Oona, you did a number on her!”

“Pft! If you ask me, she deserves far worse than an overlong nap,” Shadow Scythe sneered, shedding no sympathy for the mad monarch.

“C’mon guys, now’s not the time,” insisted Midnight, his lips pursed. “Beatrix is severely wounded!”

“Allow me,” Zeloph offered, hovering close to his former flame before tracing over her stomach and shoulder, rubbing tenderly. His claws glowed with shimmering chromatic lines, the aura flowing over her shapeliness, mending punctures wounds and revitalizing her energy.

After the light dimmed and the cherub removed his hand, Beatrix released a light sigh and blinked open her eyes. The searing pain felt like a memory now, replaced by a gentle warmth she forgot her ex was bestowed with giving. Then, with a slight curl of her lip, she cheekily whispered, “You know, I wouldn’t be opposed if you massaged some other parts of me~!”

He returned the smile and retorted, “Heh! You’d like that, wouldn’t you~?”

They shared a small chuckle as Oona and Trixie helped the mare on her feet. The azure sheep hugged her tightly while addressing her angelic ally. “Thank ye, Zeloph.”

“Think nothing of it,” he insisted, pocketing his hands. “Just know that none of you would have likely made it this far withou-ooowowow!”

His boast was interrupted when Shadow Scythe tugged at his feathery ear. “ You’re the reason I’m even in this mess!” She reminded, her cheeks flushed. Then, she added quietly, “... though I suppose that’s not all a bad thing, given you helped me realize the value of having friends.”

“A’ll admit! Ah was ready tae just clobber th’ two ov you th’ moment anythin’ shady happened,” Dion confessed, fists on his muscled hips. “But ye’re really provin’ yerselves here!”

“Yeah,” agreed Midnight, smiling widely. “Maybe when this is done, and you’ve returned to your full power, you could spar with me? I’d like to learn more about winged combat!”

“You… you would?” Zeloph stammered, taken aback as the pegasus nodded.

“That can wait until after we’ve secured Abby,” noted Cerise, a confident smile present when she raised her hands. “And once we reclaim my body from Doppia! I’m going to need your help for that since you’ve traveled with her.”

Both the reaper and demi nodded. “We’ll do whatever we can to help,” assured Shadow Scythe, who bowed.

But before the group could make their next course of action, the rumbling sound thundered above them, making the earth shake. The parties stumbled to remain standing. “W-what’s happening?!” Trixie exclaimed.

The answer would come to them as the skies began to distort, a tear opening like breaking glass, light and quantum energy seeping through the hairline cracks that widened by the moment.

“A sky rift..?” Beatrix pondered until a sharp yowl caught her attention. Lady Ewe clutched at her tummy, feeling as if a blade had pierced through her midsection. “Oona!!”

“A-Ah thinks it’s Abadonna,” she managed to say through a pained cry. “She’s still tryin’ tae prevent this timeline’s correction. A-An’ with her now developin’ inside my body….”

“You’re effectively linked..!” Beatrix realized, holding her beloved tightly. “If this goes on, reality itself will collapse!”

“And the Burning King will get what he wants,” Brutus noted, offering his hand to help the panting shaman back up. “Come with me. I’ll take you to Flurry Heart.”

But before the group could head inside the castle, they found themselves surrounded by the paladin knights, who poised their magic-made weapons to box them in. A group of soldiers circled around Tatyana’s slumbering form as well. Behind them were the citizens, an eerie green glowing from their eyes.

“What is the meaning of this!?” The minotaur bellowed with rage. “Stand down!!”

“So sorry, but I’m afraid they’re under new management now~” An all too familiar voice cackled as dark foreboding clouds spiralled above the shattering sky, shrouding the entire capital. Cerise shuddered uncontrollably, hatred and fear burning in her soulful amber eyes.

“It’s her...”

One of the lead paladins stepped forward, wearing an unsettling smile. Little by little, fragments began to crack around him before the illusion shattered, revealing the Vice Lord in her stolen glory. Her grey metallic dress with the frilly skirt sparkled dimly while she stretched her bat-shaped wings; her neon pink eyes gleamed with malice.

"Doppia!!"

Final Chapter (Part III): L'ultimo Ballo

Final Chapter (Part III): L'ultimo Ballo

As the horizon continued to crumble apart, the ebb and flow of reality threatening to spill over, Beatrix, her allies, and the court of the defeated Canterlonian Queen glared at the perpetrator wearing Cerise’s visage. Using the princess’ entrancing powers, the Vice Lord had tangled the entire platoon, as well as a few bystanders, into her web. Their magically infused weapons kept the group at bay, some even summoning ethereal chains should anyone attempt to flee.

“I have to say, Oona. I’m impressed!” Doppia mockingly praised the dream faun. She then turned to the trio of Starlight, Sunset, and Trixie, guarding Tatyana, who was still locked in a nightmare-induced slumber. “I never would have expected you of all people to cast such a malicious spell! Molto bene~!”

The flustered shaman said nothing back, her heated honey-brown eyes lowering to the ground. Even if she wasn’t in control when conjuring the nightmare spell, a tang of guilt hung onto her heart. She would have never subjected anyone to that level of punishment, no matter how deserving.

“Don’t speak to her as if you’re alike!” defended Beatrix, who stepped forward. “She is nothing like you!”

“Oh, I beg to differ,” the demoness countered. “Underneath the skin, we all share the same goals and desires. Some are just better at acquiring what they want than others~!”

“Castin’ yer allies aside like worn tools is not strength!” Dion spat.

“You lied and cheated!!” Midnight growled.

“You stole my body!!!” Cerise berated, her fists balled, shaking with rage. “And I want it back!”

“N’aaaaaw, povera ragazza,” Doppia playfully pouted. “And just when I was getting used to the way these curves felt...” She teasingly felt up her hips, sides, and breasts before flicking her mane. Then she laughed. “Oh wait, that’s right! You have no real magic to threaten me with. I took everything away from you~!!”

“Your mind games end now, Doppia!” Beatrix declared, her horn flaring with archaic energy.

But the Vice Lord wasn’t faltered. Instead, her brow rose accompanied by an amused smirk. “Bold words, considering you’re still fatigued after your bout with Tatyana,” she said, noting the sweat pouring off Beatrix, her aura dim and flickering. “Seems that godly touch of yours isn’t up to snuff, Zeloph.”

Her attention turned to the cherub, who hardened his cold glare once his abuser strutted closer. “And to think I once fantasized about you! Oh, how foolish of me. How could anyone love such a vile creature like you~?”

Shadow Scythe protectively to a stance in front of him, scowling. “Back off, Babylonian whore! You know nothing about real love!”

“Oh, and you do? Please, cagna! The only love you’ve ever shown was for power. Quit lying to yourself!”

The reaper drew her signature sickle from her shadow, icy eyes swiftly scanning the guards that tried boxing her in closer.

Grimmwald remained stoic once he calmly replied, “That’s interesting coming from the weakest link in the Burning King’s court. Surely, you’re the most power-hungry out of all of us?”

She shrugged off his insult and affirmed, “Never said I wasn’t. Why else would I backstab those two dolts the moment I had an advantage? It is a natural law for the strong to take from the weak. To make themselves more prominent! And, while you were busy having your’ contest,’ I weaved my way through your subject’s hearts and minds until they only knew submission…”

Her neon pink eyes glowed as wisps of energy rolled from them, revealing energy threads that tethered the guards and civilians to Doppia. A crystalline spear erected from the ground made entirely of obsidian and sparkling jewels. The body really did belong to Sombra’s daughter, but Beatrix had never seen Cerise manifest anything like this before! And certainly not on such a scale!

Pointing her weapon at the bull-man’s throat, the possessed thestral continued, “...as you shall too. Now, if you want to avoid being my puppet, relinquish the Crystal Heart shard and the alicorn princess! I may even give you the privilege of watching me rearrange the cosmos to my image~!”

“I knew it,” muttered Shadow Scythe. “You were never planning to aid your fellow demons in releasing the Nuckelavee!”

“Doesn’t take much of a genius to figure that out,” the bat mare confirmed with a sneer. “You really think any of us want to bring forth the End of Days? No. We were brought into Pathos by our shared hatred for life. Made into instruments of pain and misery to fuel that monster’s cruelty. And so long as this mark persists…” She pulled up her sleeve to show off the singed sigil that carried over from her soul transfer. Shadow Scythe and Zeloph cautiously clutched their own forearms. “...we are bound to perpetual torment. The only way these come off is when the Burning King rises. And then, reality will be forever scorched.”

Doppia shifted focus onto Beatrix and Oona, eying them coolly before continuing. “But for that to happen, your daughter must shatter the artifact that keeps his infernal majesty trapped within his realm. So what if… I simply take what remains of the Child of Lightendark and use her power to destroy the Burning King? Rather fitting conclusion, don’t you think~?”

“Over my dead body!!” Beatrix yelled.

“Calm yourself, Belladonna,” Brutus advised, his tunsen gaze fixated with the bat mare. “Her plan is highly dubious.”

His statement made Doppia scoff. “Look at the skies, you cow. That is the result of the child challenging fate itself! If that level of magic can free the Burning King, surely it can bring his undoing!”

“Indeed… but what makes you so confident you can obtain her power?”

Her smile finally dropped, her brow furrowed with annoyance. “W-what a stupid question! Look at what I’v-”

“I am,” the minotaur acknowledged the eye socket of his half-mask glimmering. “Underneath that shadowy veil of neon-lit fog, sparkling like jewels is a small shroud of emerald smog. The magic you’ve stolen has done very little to amplify your own prowess. So even if we surrendered and opened the portal, You’d still be no match against the Child of Lightendark.”

“Preposterous! I-I would just-”

“I also wouldn’t recommend that soul swapping spell if I were you,” Grimmwald continued, predicting her thoughts. “Considering how unstable Abadonna’s body is, you’d only die in the process.”

“Stai Zitto!!” Demanded Doppia, pushing the tip of her spear at his throat. “You know nothing of what you’re talking about! I am in control here!”

“Do you feel in control?” the minotaur snorted, gently lowering her weapon with two fingers and a thumb. “Clearly, this devious plot of yours wasn’t well thought out. However, this does bring up an excellent question. If the Burning King knew Abadonna was powerful enough to release him, why would he send only one Vice Lord to ensure the Omega Prophecy?”

Doppia’s composure steadily broke down, her conflict and rage surfacing through clenched teeth.

“Actually, yeah,” Cerise interjected. “Why did he just send Doppia?”

“Didn’t you say there were three other Vice Lords?” Pondered Beatrix, who looked to her lover.

The azure sheep nodded, saying, “Aye…”

“Come to think of it,” Zeloph added in, stroking his chin. “There was no one else in Pathos when we arrived there. It was only her and the Burning King.”

“Unless… we never did meet the Burning King,” suggested Shadow Scythe, who recalled how Doppia hid behind while she and her partner had to withstand a bunch of demons. “Back then, she claimed her magic wasn’t working. But knowing her now, that might have been a lie…”

Their gaze hardened on Doppia, who couldn’t stand to look at either of them. Her entire form shook like a leaf, trying to constrain her frustration of being found out.

“You were lying!” the reaper accused. “You cast an illusion of your master to scare us into cooperating with your plot!”

“If that’s true, then that would mean-” the cherub’s eyes lit up before he turned towards Shadow Scythe. “Check your arm!”

Catching on, the pale unicorn pulled up her sleeve and unraveled the bandages covering it. And, to her surprise, she found no visible burn mark or scar on her forearm. “I-it’s gone! But how?! I thought-”

“We were never bound,” Zeloph theorized. “My touch can restore any injury. Our marks were still fresh. It might have been cleansed while we took shelter in the mountain.” Curiously, he checked his own forearm, the wicked-looking sigil still embedded in his flesh. “The only reason mine wasn’t healed is because I’m immune to my own effect!” His eyes narrowed back at Doppia, who was heaving heavily like she was on the verge of breaking down. “You used that knowledge to pull off your subterfuge!”

“S-so what if it’s true!” The panicking mare confessed bitterly, aiming her weapon at them. “I still managed to string you along like puppets on strings!”

Grimmwald chuckled, shaking his head. “I disagree. The real puppeteer has yet to reveal themselves.”

Lady Ewe gazed up at the minotaur with a perplexed expression. “What are ye suggestin’, Brutus?”

“Well, take a look at her! She can barely stand the thought of anyone seeing through her poor facade. Despite all she has done, Doppia is not as clever as she’d want you to believe. Someone so cowardly would never be brave enough to conspire against the Burning King. Which leads me to believe that someone else is behind this ploy.”

Beatrix and her entourage looked at each other, perplexed by this development. The bull-man’s smile widened when his proposal made the twitching Vice Lord visibly tense up, glaring daggers at him. This gave him all the evidence he needed to confirm his suspicions. “Why don’t you tell us who that is, dear? Is it a fellow Vice Lord, perhaps? Someone who needed your talent for distraction from certain eyes. I’m quite curious to know who sent you on this suicide mission...”

Doppia answered with a violent shriek, lunging to piercing the nosey minotaur through his stubborn skull. Little did she know that Trixie had been secretly channeling her magic to launch a teleportation spell the moment the bat mare decided to strike. The coven, Tatyana, Brutus, Beatrix, and Oona, disappeared in a flash.

“W-what!? No!! NOOOOO!!!”

Seizing her moment, Shadow Scythe conjured shadowy blades out from her allies’ shadows to repel the guards, giving the group enough time to summon their weapons and magic, backs facing each other while the possessed soldiers reformed.

“Whoa! Where did they go?!” Asked Midnight, who gripped his lance firmly.

Zeloph noticed a flash of blue light within the palace windows and responded, “They’re inside. Hopefully, that means they’re proceeding towards getting to the library!”

“Then it’s up tae us tae make sure Doppia stays outside!” declared Dion, whose Onoma blazed through his claymore and shield.

“Won’t be a problem,” agreed Shadow Scythe, a vicious smile on her snout. “About time we settled the score with this cunt!”

Cerise spoke not a word, far too focused on Doppia to make a witty retort. Instead, she took up a battle stance, her cherubic ally placing his halo around her head, linking their energy together, not once tearing her eyes off her prize.

‘Such an intense glare’ noted Rheneas, whose spirit manifested to view the entire ordeal. ‘Do you really think we’ll have what it takes to reclaim your body?’

‘As a matter of fact, I don’t,’ the princess responded internally. ‘I know we have what it takes!’

Doppia locked eyes with every one of Beatrix’s allies before letting out a deranged cackle. “You think you can oppose me? Very well then! I’ll make sure they listen to your wails as I flay your corpses all across Canterlot!!”

Her army of mind-controlled paladins and civilians powered up their magic, aura alit over their horns and hands. The chaotic mastermind pointed towards the travelers and cried,

“Uccidili!”

Swirling clouds of magenta fog exploded as Beatrix, Lady Ewe, Lord Grimmwald, and the Troika appeared inside the castle halls. The bull-man adjusts his tie before commenting, “A little sooner next time, please? A second off and I might have been butchered steak!”

“You do realize casting that spell as quietly as a mouse takes effort, right?” berated Trixie, who, along with Sunset and Starlight, carried their comatose ruler with their combined magic.

“Regardless, take the Queen back to the chambers and alert the guards! No one is to infiltrate this castle while the ritual is underway!!”

The trio of witches nodded and was off, the azure unicorn pausing to look back at her’ daughter’ and offer, “Good luck, hun! When this is over… I’d like for you to visit again.”

“I will,” promised Beatrix, who smiled sadly, watching her mother and friends exit.

“Wait here,” commanded Brutus. “I’ll go explain everything to Twilight.” The minotaur rushed towards a corridor, up a long staircase. Beatrix wondered what form Flurry Heart would take, her heart heaving at the thought that her half-sister was also a victim of Tatyana’s despotism.

Her ears twitched at the commotion outside, drawing her face towards the window to watch her allies battle the unhinged demoness.

“It doesn’t feel right leaving them to fend for themselves,” confessed the violet unicorn. “M-maybe I should-”

But her lover took her hand to pull Beatrix away, shaking her wooly head. “We can’t! We’re too close tae turn back now! Have faith that they will succeed. Ye need tae conserve yer energy. We’re goin’ tae need it when we face Abadonna…”

“Face!?” Horrified eyes found the sheep’s honey gaze. “A-as in fight?!? No! N-not that! I’m not going to hurt her!! I-I wo-”

“We might have tae, Ceann Oga,” insisted Oona, who bit her bottom lip. “You saw how distressed Abby was. Ah can already feel her-engaah!”

The shaman’s form briefly jolted with distortion, causing her to stumble onto her knees. Pain spiked through her abdomen, her hand clutching over her stomach. Instinctively, Beatrix knelt down to hold her close. Her expression contorted with conflict, unable to comprehend the idea of battling her own daughter. But if they didn’t, her beloved would continue to share that same anguish…

“She doesn’t look too good,” a soft voice came in. The witch raised her head to find concerned light opal eyes on her. Entering the hallway was Flurry Heart, adorned in a teal decorated gown as expected of royal lineage. Accompanying her was Lord Grimmwald and the former princess of friendship herself. Twilight appeared to have seen better days, with bags under her eyes, her mane pulled up into a messy bun, and the nub on her forehead where her horn used to be. A terrible reminder of the caribou’s carnage.

Helping Lady Ewe up, Beatrix bowed her head towards her half-sister. “I-I can’t tell you how grateful we are to see you. Thank you, your highness.”

“No need for formalities,” giggled the pink alicorn.

Twilight fixated her violet gaze on Beatrix, noting the similar shade of their coats. With an arched brow, she questioned, “I’m… noticing a lot of resemblance between you and me.”

“U-uhm, yeeeah! It’s a long, kinda unpleasant story…” Admitted Beatrix, who rubbed the back of her mane while eying her severed horn. “Though clearly not as bad as yours. I mean, to have the most important part of your identity taken? How deplorable!”

“Well, at least I can still fly,” shrugged Twilight, ruffling her wings. “And my magic isn’t gone, per se. I just don’t have a proper way to channel it. And I refuse to allow anything from that tree to attach itself to me…”

Her eyes shifted to glare down the corridor, where the ‘life-bearing’ tree stood behind the throne.

Clearing his throat, Brutus cautiously approached the pair, asking, “Are you sure you should press onward, Lady Ewe?”

“A-aye,” assured the sheep sage. “Once we’ve restored Abadonna, these minor glitches will stop. Besides… A’ll need tae be used tae this when Ah get further along wit mah pregnancy.”

“That’s the spirit,” Twilight offered with a smile. “We’ll need you to help set up the ritual. Flurry Heart, keep Beatrix company in the meantime. Tell us if anything happens with the intruder outside.”

“Yes, Auntie!” The younger alicorn nodded, watching as the minotaur escorted the dream faun and her aunt towards the throne chambers. Along with the violet witch, Flurry fluttered onto the window ledge to monitor the ongoing fight. “I heard a bit about what was going on. I hope your friends are strong enough to take out this Vice Lord lady…”

“You and I both…” Beatrix nodded, her snout down and heart racing as she observed Dion and Midnight handle the guards. Meanwhile, Cerise, Shadow Scythe, and Zeloph went after Doppia, dodging the combination of her shadow magic and geomancy. She clenched her hands tightly, silently urging, ‘ You’ve got this, guys!’

Both burly warriors blocked any attempt to apprehend the paladins and mages. Thanks to Ares’ magic nullifying effects, Dion quickly brushed off their infused chains and spears. He bashed his shield against one bloke to shove a wave of soldiers down.

Likewise, Midnight twirled his lance around, swiping unicorns and creatures off their feet. When some sent their familiars to attack, he batted them away with his massive wingspan. Yellowish veins pulsed through his musculature and eyes, his hyper-stallion instinct kicking in. But this time, the soldier was in complete control, careful to not pulverize opponents with enhanced strength.

Noticing his friend cutting down foe after foe, Midnight reminded, “We shouldn’t be too aggressive, Dion. Half of them are innocent bystanders!”

With a huff, the white ram retorted, “Yeah, well, th’ other half ridiculed us in chains. Ah ain’t pullin’ no punches, laddie!” One soldier tried to strike with an overhead swing, to which Dion responded by catching his arm, flashing a grin before pulling the poor sucker to meet his iron-like cranium. The paladin mage collapsed, a sizable dent in his helmet.

“COME ON! FIGHT ME, YE BASTARDS!!” The burly ram bellowed, rushing headfirst into another wave of soldiers.

“And he told me not to get carried away,” Midnight huffed before shifting focus back on the fight before him. The more guards and spellcasters they subdued, the fewer casualties the Vice Lord would make.

As Cerise and Shadow Scythe chased after her, more cackles erupted from Doppia, who pushed her stolen vessel to its limits. Every time the reaper struck with Thanatos, she summoned fragments to shield herself. And when the pale unicorn tried a different tactic, she’d manipulated the crystalline shards to reform around her.

“See what you’ve been missing, amica?” The Vice Lord hooted, tracing her charcoal breasts, belly, and thighs. “See how powerful this body is when in the right hands?! I pity poor Sombra, wasting his potential on a puny, pampered princess~!”

“My father would never let his power be used to harm innocent people. Let alone trick them!” Cerise rebutted, swerving around launched projectiles.

“Sort of ironic, considering who he was…” Zeloph added, managing to keep pace with the ballerina.

“Not helping!!” Shadow Scythe grunted, using her own weapon to slash through the dark beams.

Elated laughter echoed through the area while Doppia launched hairlike threads to tether more soldiers. Even preoccupied, she was able to send out more strands that wound about the wizards closest to her, bedlam quick to erupt as the ensnared puppets were swift to retaliate against Dion and Midnight.

“Inutile!” Doppia declared. “I will never run out of pawns. How long do you think those two neanderthals can hold out until-”

“Zeloph, now!!”

In haste, the small demi fired an orb that exploded right in front of her. Light so bright, the demoness was forced to shield her eyes. And, just like in the Crystal Empire, the reaper used the enhanced silhouettes to disappear into, emerging right behind Doppia.

Shadow Scythe cut through most of the threads with a single swipe, guardsmen, and magicians falling unconscious in heaps. Then, with half of the Vice Lord’s armor down, the two warriors had an easier time walling off minions.

Shadow Scythe’s snout was drawn in seething resentment, posing her sickle right over Doppia’s head. “This is where you die, cagna!”

“W-wait, don’t!” warned Midnight, his eyes and mouth wide open. “That’s still my wife’s body! If you harm her-”

The reaper’s grip loosened, understanding the consequences if she carried out her action. With a groan, Shadow Scythe resisted the opportunity to lop off the head of her hated foe. While she couldn’t deny her feelings towards her allies, the pale mare remained uncertain why mortals were so attached to the meat they were cursed to inhabit.

And the bitterness only grew worse as Doppia continued to laugh mockingly. “That’s right, amica~! Slay me, and poor little Cerise will have nothing to return to! Go ahead, Shadow Scythe!” The charcoal mare taunted, spreading her arms. “Carve me up into pieces! Rip out her tender little heart!! You know you want to~!!!”

“Shut your whore mouth!!” The reaper yelled, slamming the butt of her scythe into Doppia’s midsection, trying hard not to cause any permanent injuries.

More deranged laughter rose from Doppia, crimson leaking out the side of her snout as she bared a bloody grin. She endured a couple more strikes before launching her counterattack. Her lance broke into crystal shrapnel that struck Shadow Scythe from behind. She screamed as thousands of tiny shards lodged through her flesh, providing Doppia an opportunity to kick the reaper’s torso, sending her into the ground.

“Ha! Idiota! You don’t stand a chance against-oof!?”

A whoosh sounded by the Vice Lord as Cerise used the distraction to launch her sneak attack. Shimmer golden light sparkled off her form, Zeloph embrewing her with his power while attached to her shoulder. Her energized roundhouse smashed into the Vice Lord’s maw, spraying spit and blood.

“That’s a fractured jaw bone,” the cherub observed. “I thought we were avoiding doing lasting harm!”

The dancer’s flesh jiggled when she bounced in place, shaking her head. “Nu-uh! Can’t afford to hold off if I want to regain my body. Besides, you’ll patch me back up, right~?”

Her statement made Zeloph grimace with annoyance. “E-ehh?! What do you think I am, your personal first-aid kit?! I’m trying to return to my natural form as well!!”

“Well, the sooner you do that, the better. But until then, cover me!”

The side of his lips curled. “Hmph! Look at you, acting all grown up and bossy.”

“Better late than never…” Cerise muttered. She’d known the possible consequences of this journey and accepted the punishment of losing her form to the treacherous schemer. She even considered the likely outcome of not being able to reclaim her own flesh. But that didn’t matter to her anymore. Her friends accepted her.

Whatever it took, the dark dancer swore to put an end to this Vice Lord!

Doppia rubbed at her bruised cheek, sneering at her enemies. “You will pay for that, princess!” Her crystalline weapon reformed when she erected glass pillars from the cracked earth. Then, her reflections came to life, twirling out from the surface to aid the deceitful demon.

Cerise’s response was to lift up her hand and beckon her foe to bring it.

Doppia sent her doppelgangers to attack, the dancer and cherub sailed towards her opponent. She tripped every decoy in her path with precise strokes, swift kicks, and ballet-inspired steps. Each of them shattered into blossoms of dust while Cerise came closer and closer.

Infuriated, Doppia shattered the pillars around her and launched them at her foes. But Zeloph intercepted by activating his ring. An ophanim shield appeared, the turning wheels of topaz lined in eyes and wings, deflecting the projectiles before vanishing. And the Vice Lord reacted too late to flee, trapped between the assault.

With the distance now closed, Cerise laid into Doppia with a flurry of kicks and punches. Inside, Rheanas’ spirit resonated brightly, watching in astonishment. How long had she waited to see the demoness get her comeuppance...?

Shadow Scythe, Dion, and Midnight paused to watch their friend unleash a week’s worth of pent-up fury in a series of precise strikes and kicks.

The ram pumped his fist. “That’s it, lass! Get her! Wallop th’ lousy wench!”

“Make sure there’s plenty left for me!” The reaper called.

“Do it, Cerise!” The blue pegasus yelled. “Finish her off!!”

Cerise poured every last bit of anguish and rage into an uppercut with a loud cry, knocking Doppia off her feet and sending her into a wall, which crumbled upon impact. Blood, tears, and perspiration soaked the crystal mare’s form, breathing heavily, her lithe muscles tensed.

“We got her!” Zeloph proclaimed.

“It’s not over yet,” spat the princess as she approached her foe, who couldn’t stand up after enduring such a relentless assault.

Doppia gazed up, battered and bruised, trembling in Cerise’s shadow. More crimson splattered out her mouth when she tried to speak. “N-no, please! You can’t! If you kill me, you’ll never...”

The princess shook her head. “It doesn’t matter if I’m stuck in this body forever!”

‘What?’ the ballerina’s true spirit exclaimed. ‘But how will we-’

“We’ll find a way to coexist, Rheneas,” assured Cerise, who clasped her hands over her heart. “Unlike her, I will never try to overtake you.”

The mention of that name made Doppia snap. “Rheneas!? N-no, that’s not possible! I assimilated her! I-I thought… how can her soul still persist!?”

“You assumed a lot of things,” Cerise berated, her eyes fixated on the silver ring still wrapped around her finger. From the looks of it, Doppia tried desperately to get it off. “You thought you could tear us apart. But our love is stronger than that! It doesn’t change who I am!”

She turned back to flash a smile at her husband, who returned it once he and their allies stood beside her. Then, taking Doppia’s spear into her hands, leveling the tip to rest right over the Vice Lord’s heart, she hardened her face and continued. “You chose to live a life filled with lies and deceit, Doppia. And for that, no one is going to remember you!”

But before she could plunge the spear through her enemy, the demon let out a hoarse sob, slamming her fist into the ground like a toddler during a tantrum. “IT’S NOT FAIR!!” She bawled openly. “I DID EVERYTHING YOU ASKED! AND THIS IS HOW I’M REPAID!? YOU PROMISED!!!”

“Well… this is kinda silly,” admitted Dion.

“What is she rambling about again?” Midnight asked.

“That bull said something about this doomed plot not even being her idea, did he not?” recalled Zeloph.

“Oh, who gives a shit?!” Interrupted Shadow Scythe, who raised her sickle in preparation to take her head. “Just kill the bitch already, or I will!!”

“Hold on,” Cerise called, holding her arm out to prevent the reaper from fulfilling her claim. She narrowed her gaze at the sniveling Vice Lord and almost pitied her. She had never slain another creature who wasn’t a monster. And against her better judgment, she couldn’t help but feel curious about what Doppia was talking about. A trait passed over by Beatrix, she guessed.

With a sigh, the princess questioned, “What drove you to do all this, Doppia?”

“Like you would understand,” the charcoal mare whimpered. “You, who grew up privileged in a safe home with loving parents and friends. Why do you think I stole your body?”

“You were jealous,” said Cerise, who also felt envy, surrounded by those she once felt inferior to.

Doppia nodded. “You don’t know how hard life is being the lowest demon in Pathos. I was born tiny, only able to feed on leftovers like a scavenger. I assumed many forms to survive until I was finally brought before the Burning King himself. I became a Vice Lord. And I relished every moment of tormenting every soul I could claim. Making them suffer the same hatred and envy I felt!”

Her gaze lowered to her wounds, her palm completely red. “But it wasn’t enough. No matter whose face I took or which lie I told, I could never become powerful like the others. To them, I was a joke. Not even that fiery warmonger noticed my efforts when serving him. All he cares about is destroying everything!” She hissed. “Oh, how I coveted their annihilation. But it seemed like a day that would never come... until he arrived.”

Her eyes turned back up towards her towering foes, resting on the cherub’s bewildered expression. “He saw my curse as a gift. Offered to build me a body I could call my own. All I had to do was carry out this diversion, and we would all be free from the reign of fire.”

A broken chuckle left her throat, more tears oozing down her face. “It’s ironic, really. I’ve been a deceiver all my life, and yet I fell for a simple lie! I realized he had no intention of keeping his word right before I went through that blasted forest just to get here! I came all this way just to die for his cause. It was at that moment I learned a harsh truth. Life was the biggest deception of all…”

Impatient, Shadow Scythe seized Doppia by the throat, growling, “Enough talk! Who is this advocate of yours!? Tell us now or-”

Her accusation stopped as the deranged bat mare began laughing again, her form cracking into pieces before collapsing into dust. Another decoy.

“Oh, you’ve got to be kidding me-gaaaagh!!!”

A crystal spear pierced through her stomach from behind her. The party jumped back while Doppia yanked her weapon free, watching with sadistic glee as the reaper collapsed to her knees, clutching her leaking gut as blood dripped.

“Don’t worry yourself, amica,” answered the charcoal mare. “You won’t live to meet him. Consider that a mercy~!”

Dion and Midnight rushed at her, releasing a battle cry. But Doppia waved her hand as obsidian stones wrapped over their bulk. In little time, both warriors were encased in a crystalline chrysalis.

“NO!” Cerise cried as she and Zeloph ran to attack, only for stray guardsmen to secure them in their ethereal chains. Magical strings still tethered them to Doppia, who commanded her paladins to punch and batter the princess until she was driven down on her knees.

“Principessa sciocca,” Doppia chastised, grasping her hand around the cherub’s throat as she lifted him away from Cerise. He squirmed feebly, his halo disappearing from the crystal dancer’s head. “Look what you need to mimic a fraction of my power~?”

“Stop it, Doppia!” Sneered Cerise, who struggled in her bonds. “Y-you won’t… win!”

“Oh, I don’t need to,” the Vice Lord retorted, forming a crystal cage around Zeloph, leaving his head bare. “So long as I take you lot down with me, I’ll be satisfied with my demise.”

“You bitch!” The small demihuman gasped.

Doppia merely snickered, stroking his chin with her index finger. “I still don’t understand his obsession over you. I sullied you, and you’ve become so sensitive and pathetic. Your death will especially be satisfying since it will thwart whatever plans he had in mind!”

The Vice Lord sighed. “Such a pity, really. You could have been so much greater, Zeloph. But instead, you threw it away for love.”

She gestured towards Shadow Scythe, who shakingly lifted herself up only for a guard to knock her back down, digging the shards further into her back as blood pooled below her.

“Well, before you die, let me show you what happens to true love~!”

At the snap of her fingers, the paladin enforcers began to shred the reaper’s clothes. Panic gasps and hollers arose when she squirmed under their bulk, surrounded by the enthralled brutes.

“Noo..!!” Zeloph cried out, feebly trying to break out while Doppa strutted over to Cerise, who would suffer the same fate. His eyes stared at the broken mare, helpless to do anything to save her.

No. They both had come too far to fail here. They were given a fortuitous opportunity to redeem themselves for their past crimes. And Shadow Scythe, whether she realized it or not, had given Zeloph purpose to live. A reason to love.

And the Fallen One would not allow their future to be snuffed out so quickly by the wretched Vice Lord. His eyes burned vermillion, glowing brightly when he began channeling his passion and anger into ancient magic.

Cerise yelped as her tender breasts spilled free after the guard pulled at her top, glaring defiantly at her oppressor. “You won’t get away with this!”

“I already have, cagna,” Doppia grinned victorious, raising her hand to slap her adversary across the face. But something caught her attention. Her brows furrowed at the rising gleam reflecting off the guard’s shiny armor.

Her head snapped back, realizing that Zeloph’s entire form was shimmering with luminescence, the heat melting away his crystalline imprisonment. He was absorbing so much light, the area grew dimmer and dimmer. Neon eyes widened in alarm. “N-no! What are you-!?”

Everyone stopped as the warm illumination engulfed the demi fully, gently rising into the air. The essence swirled around, growing larger and brighter, threatening to blind all who looked directly. A cyclone of light funneled within the quart yard, pillaring into the skies. And once the sunlit tornado unraveled, Zeloph spiraled out fully formed, his six swan-like wings unfurled. The midnight coloring of his hair brightened into sky blue, a royal orange streaking through his bang. His eyes shined in celeste, what remained of the Necronomicon’s corruption having been cleansed.

The area was filled with jubilance, allies and enemies alike in awe of the seraphic creature. Streaks of sunlight poured from the dark clouds as if the very heavens welcomed his return. Cerise was especially taken aback by the scene, letting out an elated laugh. Before, the sight of Zeloph hovering above sent terror through her soul. Now, despite his crimes, she couldn’t be more relieved to have the demi on her side.

The same couldn’t be said for Doppia, who appeared appalled by her feathered adversary. The many eyes within his covert feathers stared intently while Zeloph looked upon her blankly.

“Sei un cazzo enorme!” She spat. “Bastardo! How dare you look down on me!! Don’t think that-”

The seraphic angel seized her by the neck, bringing her gasping face to his. Calmly, he spoke. But his words betrayed his fury. “You confused my love for weakness. Allow me to show you why it is your downfall!”

He tossed her into the paladins holding Cerise and Shadow Scythe at bay, the dancer rushing to help the reaper up to her feet. Icy eyes gazed at her heavenly partner, who touched the ground.

Doppia recovered onto her feet, commanding her stringed puppets to advance Zeloph. The fallen angel soared into the fray, using his plumage, hands, and kicks to topple the Vice Lord’s forces. One by one, they were thrown, knocked aside, or unconscious. Their numbers eventually overwhelmed him, forcing him down onto the ground, pinning him with bodies and chains.

That was until the aura of his Onoma shined brightly around his winged form, unleashing a nova of energy to scatter the mind-controlled soldiers off. The waves rippled over the crystal-sealed Dion and Midnight, weakening their bounds enough for both to burst free. Thanking their former enemy with a nod, the warriors leaped back into the fight, warding the rest of the guards and mages away from their allies.

Realizing that she was losing the battle, Doppia flapped her bat-shaped wings and took to the skies, only for Zeloph to pursue her.

“You won’t get away!” He proclaimed, flash stepping in front of the demoness, catching her with a left hook. The force behind it knocked the air right out of her lungs. “Not until you’ve paid for all you’ve done!”

Zeloph punched her upwards, soaring above to deliver a swift ax kick to project her downward. As Doppia fell, the Fallen One crossed his arms over her and increased their velocity, ensuring she hit the ground hard.

“NAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!!”

Gravel and stone erupted upon impact, leaving a cloud of dust in its wake. Zeloph emerged first, folding his wings when he landed next to his allies. Cerise had finished pulling the last bit of shrapnel out of Shadow Scythe’s back. Placing illuminated hands on their shoulders, he closed their wounds without leaving so much as a scar.

“Thanks, Zell,” Cerise smiled graciously.

“I-I am quite capable of healing myself,” complained Shadow Scythe, whose cheeks flushed.

Zeloph simply laughed in response. But the moment was cut short when a spear pierced right through his back, earning an agonized scream. Then, while her wings were bent in unnatural angles and struggling to stand on broken bones, Doppia twisted her weapon further into the demi.

“I-I told you, amica,” she heaved, blood gushing down her chin. “I-If I must die… s-so will you!”

Zeloph collapsed to his knees with a clean yank, yelling in anguish. With fearful eyes, Shadow Scythe clasped his shoulders, pulling her beloved into her arms, trying to seal off his wound.

“Zeloph, hang on! I-I can try to heal you,” she promised, her severed horn sparking with magic. She didn’t know if that spell could work on others, but she wasn’t about to let the demi die!

“Lass, watch out!!” Dion warned, still engaged with the resilient guardsmen.

SHLUK!

Turning up, the pale unicorn found the tip of crystalline a few centimeters away from between her eyes. Doppia almost succeeded in impaling her foes had Cerise not stepped in and shoved her own spear right through the demon's chest.

Pinpoint neon eyes wavered to discover not the amber orbs of her former vessel but indigo eyes.

“Y-you..!!”

“No longer will you torment anyone again!!” Rheneas cried, finally able to repay all those years of silent suffering with a single stab. The charcoal thestral threw her head back and let out a harrowing shriek, vomited out foul emerald smog before the abandoned body fell limp.

Midnight soared past to catch his wife’s soulless form, hugging it to his chest while staring at the mist with big green eyes.

In vain, the mist tried to hold a solid form, shifting through all the victims and faces Doppia had stolen. Limbs, wings, tails and grew out and dissolved in rapid succession, the demoness screaming madly, pitifully crawling away.

Giving Zeloph over to Dion, Shadow Scythe wasted no time to jab her shadow tendrils into the Vice Lord, forcing the monstrosity onto its knees and preventing her escape. Then, the reaper readied her swing with her scythe poised above Doppia’s nape. The two enemies locked eyes, the demoness stabilizing fused visage of Rheneas and Cerise with her sorrowful amber eyes. It almost made the reaper feel sorry for her wretched existence. Almost.

“Arrivederci,” Shadow Scythe coldly muttered before bringing her blade across the Vice Lord’s neck. And, during that brief moment, a happy smile appeared on Doppia’s lips as she closed her eyes and uttered her final words.

“Sono… finalmente… libero…”

SHLINK!

The demoness’ head lopped off as her body stopped constantly contorting and dropped lifelessly. Any eyes or mouths closed, blood pooling out the neck wound. The treacherous Doppia finally put out of her madness.

With the Vice Lord gone, her possessive threads severed into nothingness. All the guards, unicorns, and spellcasters shook off the effects like a hazy dream, wondering what happened and why there was so much collateral damage.

Rheneas dropped the weapon, sitting on her rump while breathing heavily. “It’s over… w-we did it!”

“Wait, what happened to Cerise!?” Midnight demanded, on the verge of tears. “Why hasn’t she-”

“I-It’s okay,” the ballerina assured, placing a hand over her chest. “She’s still here, ready to return to her body.”

“Better hurry,” coughed Zeloph, who leaned on Dion for support, almost spent after that display of power. “Her body will die if I don’t heal it!”

“Allow me,” Shadow Scythe offered, dispelling her Onoma before placing both hands over the crystal pegasus’ shoulders. “I’ve never used my abilities in this way. This may hurt a little…”

“I’ve been through worse,” joked Rheneas, who did her best to keep calm breaths. Then, with a nod, the reaper channeled her magic through the dancer and carefully extracted the extra soul, causing her to groan in discomfort.

“Almost there…” She said soothingly until tugging out Cerise’s soul, a baleful ball of hot pink color. The ram helped the wounded angel kneel next to the princesses’ body, waves of light rippling over her curvature while mending all the shattered bones and torn muscles. Once the vessel was fully healed moments later, Shadow Scythe gently guided the spirit back into her rightful body, phasing through her bare breasts to settle in.

With a gasp, Cerise lurched upward, eyes wide as she examined her own hands and feet. “I-I’m… I’m back! Haha!! I’M BACK!!!” She laughed, whereupon tears of happiness streamed down her cheeks. Her husband hoisted his beloved up and swung her around in powerful arms, met by happy squeals.

“You’re back!” Cheered Midnight with his wife, who clasped her to his fluffy chest. Cupping her hubby’s cheeks, she showered him with hundreds of long-overdue kisses. Then, pulling away, they noticed their rings, her silver and his gold, now glimmered to life once their fingers touched. “H-hey! How come Doppia never took this off?”

“She couldn’t,” answered Dion, who observed the wedding bands. “Th’ runes were empowered by yer love over time. Sae even with all her might, that ring won’t come off unless ye wanted it tae. It’s one ov th’ rarest forms ov protection spells available! Moon Hammer did fine work!”

“I’ll have to repay him for crafting them!” Exclaimed Cerise, beaming widely. Her attention shifted towards the crystal ballerina, pulling away from Midnight. “Rheneas! You’re-”

“Free,” she nodded, a bright smile stretching her snout, her eyes also watery as she trembled. “And it’s all because of you! Thank you, Cerise!!”

The pair of dancers joined together in a tight embrace, utterly relieved to be unburdened by the Vice Lord’s trickery. Midnight wrapped his arms and plume around his wife once more while Dion approached Zeloph, who fastened a bandage around his wounded back.

“Ah believe Ah owe ye an apology as well,” the ram confessed between pats on his shoulder. “A’ve been nothin’ but a hardass on you an’ th’ death goddess. But ye both came through when we really needed it. Sae… thank you.”

“I should be the one thanking you,” chuckled the Fallen One. “Had you’d not given me this chance at redemption, I would have rotted away in that ce-yeeoooww!!”

Their conversion was interrupted when Shadow Scythe smacked Zeloph across his cheek, glaring sternly. “You bastard! How long have you been able to transform back to your original self!?”

“I-I wasn’t sure if I could!” He insisted, rubbing his face.

“Oh, please! Like you wouldn’t hold back at the last possible moment to make your ‘grand’ ascension even more of a spectacle. We would have died, asshole!”

“I would never risk your life for that! I meant every word of what I said! That my love for you proved stronger than anything Doppia could conjure.”

Despite how weak she still felt, the reaper flared to life with a flustered look. “Ohoho! Trying to butter me up with sweet talk!? How dare you think me susceptible to your charms, you pompous, shit eating, megalomani-muumph~!?!”

Her icy eyes went wide when Zeloph silenced her mouth with his own, much to the crowd’s audible amusement. She felt every nerve in her body screaming to murder the son of a bitch for kissing her! But, fortunately for him, Shadow Scythe’s heart won that battle, and the reaper slowly wrapped her slender arms around his neck, pressing back into his liplock with fierce, unbridled passion.

“Looks like our resident ice queen finally thawed over,” teased Cerise, earning snickers from her friends who watched the couple.

They pulled away with hot breaths, gazing longingly into each other’s mirroring eyes. Realizing what he had done, Zeloph’s cheeks lit up, and he stammered an apology. “I-I am so sorry!! I-it was the heat of the moment, and I–”

Shadow Scythe placed a finger to the angel’s lips, shushing him. Then, in as serious of a tone she could muster, she playfully stated, “If you ever pull out of my kiss again... I will strangle you!”

The Fallen One let out a nervous chuckle before resuming to make out with the reaper. Their newfound allies cheered before they tended to those manipulated by Doppia’s influence.

Cerise collected the crystalline spear used to expel the Vice Lord. Just holding the enhanced weapon made her feel more substantial.

But her expression fell when she failed to locate the other spear used against Zeloph. The charcoal mare could have sworn she spotted it only meters away.

“Where did it go..?”

Final Chapter (Part IV): Reunion

“We have finished with the preparations,” announced Lord Grimmwald as he, Twilight, and Oona walked over towards Beatrix and Flurry Heart. The young alicorn leaped off the window ledge to fly into her aunt’s arms, excitement glittering her eyes.

Beatrix exclaimed, “You guys missed an amazing fight!!”

“Oh really?” The purple alicorn questioned. “Has the threat been neutralized?”

Beatrix turned to her lover and nodded with a reassuring smile. “Come see for yourself~!”

Everyone gathered by the windows, watching everyone clean up after the impressive battle. Dion and Shadow Scythe helped the paladins remove the debris while Rheneas and Cerise assisted the injured. Midnight and Zeloph worked together in restoring rooftops with the aid of flight. Whatever prejudice the citizens of Canterlot showed had all but been washed away, thankful for the heroes rescuing them from the Vice Lord’s mind tricks.

“Things were looking very ugly until Zeloph finally had his glow up,” noted Beatrix, who admittedly felt a tang of panic over the demi-human’s resurgence. But seeing him and the reaper looking genuinely happy together while engaging the townsfolk helped ease those worries.

Two of her biggest adversaries had finally turned over a new leaf. And she couldn’t be more ecstatic to call them friends! “With Doppia gone and Cerise back in her own body, things might be looking up at last!”

A loud rumbling overtops challenged the witch’s statement. Despite everyone’s efforts, nothing could keep the skies from splitting apart. The fissure had grown larger, hints of the cosmic realm peaking through the rends.

The dream faun momentarily fizzled out of existence, losing her footing and falling into Beatrix’s arms. “H-hang in there, Oona!”

“A-A’m tryin’,” she weakly assured.

“We must open the portal,” the minotaur said. “Quickly now! Not a moment to lose!”

With haste, the witch helped her wooly lover down the corridor until she could walk on her own again. The group hurried before reaching the throne room, where the heart-like beating of the life-bearing tree pulsated throughout the room. Before the throne was the ceremonial circle, tiny fractions of the crystal heart laid scattered around to resemble a clock’s face. All that was left was the source of dark energy combined with pure alicorn blood.

Brutus stood before the ritual, declaring, “It all comes down to this. Abadonna’s fate… The fate of life itself! They rest in your hands, Belladonna.”

“I’m ready,” replied Beatrix, who sucked in a deep breath and summoned her Onoma to support her. She briefly glanced back at the palace entrance. Everyone had endured so much for her to reach this point. Yet, everything felt different now from when they began. And now, in one final ritual, Beatrix’s journey, her promise, would be fulfilled.

Flurry accepted a knife from Twilight and winced when she sliced into her palm. The thin line of red bled steadily. Then, holding out her palm, she allowed scarlet droplets to dribble over the center, staining the shard.

Instantly, temporal radiance arose from the infused piece as the air before them twisted.

“Now, Ceann Oga!” Oona softly urged.

Beatrix concentrated her energy to strike at the inner circle; the massive archaic power waved through the shattered crystals. Slowly, they lifted into the air, spiraling faster and faster until a pillar of magic burst through the castle roof. The energy chimed upon reaching the atmosphere, waves pulsing out in rheumatic succession. The ripples caused the shattering dimension to halt. Beatrix held onto her hat as wind and sound flurried out from the cosmic portal, hearing a melodic tick echo around her.

“W-whoa… it’s so beautiful!” She exclaimed, her voice nearly drowned out.

Flurry tugged at her half-sister’s arm, wrapping a banged around her hand. “I wish we could have hung out a little longer…” She shouted.

Smiling sadly, the witch knelt and held the alicorn by her shoulders. “We’ll have more time when this is over. There’s so much I want to know about you!”

“Spare your goodbyes!” Brutus urged, watching as the rift started to shrink. “You have to go!!”

Pulling Flurry Heart into a short hug, Beatrix gazes back into the temporal gate. Her heart was beating erratically, wondering how she would help her daughter’s fragile state. From what the violet mare saw from the Nightmare Stag, Abby blamed her heavily. And deep down, she accepted it to be true.

While she never visibly showed it, Tatyana’s words flooded her mind with doubts. How many more worlds and lives would she unwillingly change just due to her anomalous nature?

Would Beatrix have been better off never forging any bonds with anyone? With her original purpose fated by the Necronomicon gone, was she meant to live her immortal life alone..?

The violet mare’s fears fled when a hand wrapped over her own. She looked into the warm honey-brown eyes and determined smile of Oona, who proclaimed once more, “A’m wit ye tae th’ end!”

“Thank you,” replied the teary-eyed witch, who squeezed tightly. “So long as I have the woman I love, my daughter, and my friends, I’ll always be able to find my way home!”

With nothing left to lose, the pair jumped into the time portal, disappearing into the arcane pillar as it collapsed on itself. Almost all of Equestria’s inhabitants viewed the phenomenon. From the cold conditions of the Crystal Empire to even distant shores that lead into unknown seas.

Everyone outside paused to stare in awe at the spectacle. Dion, Midnight, Cerise, Shadow Scythe, Zeloph, Rheneas, and all the people Beatrix and Oona had come across who knew of their quest, spiritually offering the pair their best wishes.

It was as if no time had passed when the couple appeared on the other side. One second, Beatrix and Lady Ewe were in Canterlot. The next, this mysterious new realm where billions of stars and cosmic essence decorated the blackness of space. Beatrix looked around to behold the breath-taking sight.

But her eyes widened most of all at the fabled library lost to time. Or… what remained of it.

Instead of the clockwork monument filled with books and passages like she’d envisioned, the witch instead gazed upon the distorted ruins of Enock’s home. Cogs, shattered glass, stone statues, and still ticking clocks orbited around the crumbling establishment.

Beatrix curiously grabbed one book to look at its pages, only to find writing rescrambling and glitching on itself. “Ohh, Abby…” She lamented, dreading the thought of fighting her daughter to undo this mess.

Oona released another pained gasp, collapsing as her entire body frizzled, static highlighting her delicate features. But the moment the violet unicorn got within a radius of her beloved, she found herself back where she started.

“H-huh? What the-!? No!!”

She tried again, only for the same effect to happen twice. Then thrice. Yet no matter how many times Beatrix tried, she always found herself back in her original position. “S-stop this!”

“I-it’s a time loop, Ceann Oga,” weakly brayed Lady Ewe, holding over her stomach while taking deep breaths. “Ye can’t brute force yer way out ov it!”

“I did not come all this way just to be beaten by some stupid trick!” Beatrix groaned in frustration, stamping her heeled boot on the rocky surface.

“Then you came for nothing,” a faint voice echoed, causing the mare to stop together.

Her head turned to at long last find the Child of Lightendark, floating alongside the legendary Curator of Time. And, just as her nightmare had prophesied, her daughter held a scornful expression. The celestial owl-griff was altered to her monochrome pallet, acting more a bestial pet than the wise spirit the mystics portrayed them.

“Because soon, there won’t be anything..!”

“Abby,” Beatrix openly wept, falling to her knees. “We don’t have to do this! I’m here now, I-I didn’t abandon you!”

“Oh, but you have, mother,” dejected the distorting filly. “You abandoned me the moment you tried erasing my existence!”

“No, that’s not true!” She protested. “We’re trying to help you! I-I know I’ve been careless, but-”

The child laughed dryly. “That’s the understatement of the century! You who have recklessly left a swath of destruction wherever you travel! Don’t try and deny it, mother. I’m a part of those results!”

“That may be true,” added Oona, who met her gaze while pressing her weight onto her staff. “But we’ve saved many lives too! We only want tae save yers… Please, Mo Leanabh!”

“I am not your baby!!” Abadonna shrieked, sneering at the shaman’s belly. “You’re just as bad, trying to make amends for your mistakes by giving yourself to a monster!”

“We’re far from perfect, Abby,” admitted Beatrix, who stood and folded her arms. “But we didn’t come here to fight. No matter what happens between us, even if you hate me. You are my daughter! And you will always be my daughter! So please…”

The witch opened her arms up towards her child, pleading from the bottom of her heart, tear-stricken. “... come home with us!”

There was a brief pause in the monochrome mare, her eyes filled with tears, wanting to believe her future parents. But she shook it off and turned her back, muttering, “It’s too late. There’s nothing back there to call home…”

The Child of Lightendark began to venture into the scattered remains of the library while Enock spread their massive wings and crept towards the two, blocking Beatrix’s way.

“Damnit, Abby, stop!!” demanded the violet unicorn, freeing her Onoma and launching over the spirit. But her motion came to a sudden halt, Enock channeling temporal magic to freeze time around her. Then, with a twist of their claws, Beatrix blinked back to her jumping point, where the owl-griff swooped down and raked outstretched talons into the mare’s shoulder. She yelled as a bloody strip of skin tore free.

“Beatrix!” cried Oona, swinging her dreamcatcher staff to launch a misty wave to bat the celestial back. Then, clutching her torn shoulder, she unleashed her spells at Enock. But the projectiles slowed to a stop before they flipped them around and returned the witch’s casts at a faster pace.

Beatrix barely had time to erect a barrier as one bolt struck through, zapping the witch. “Guugh! They are one tough owl!!” She yelled, her mane fizzled in places, singe marks staining her coat. She couldn’t help her pride in Abby’s skill.

“Enock processes one ov th’ most powerful Onomas, called Khronos,” explained Oona, who also wasn’t fairing well from the more frequent glitching. “Wit it, time is theirs tae command on a whim.”

The owl griff let out a loud screech, conjuring portals to try and suck the couple out of the realm. Using Erebus to lasso a floating statue, Beatrix tugged Oona away from the time rift as the owl followed, flapping their majestic wings.

“There’s gotta be a weakness, isn’t there!?”

“A’m afraid not,” Lady Ewe said, shaking her head. “No matter how fast we attack or how much we stall, we can not hope tae match their power!”

“So they’ll just toy with us while Abby destroys reality,” noted Beatrix, who watched her daughter steadily approach a cliff. And there, to her dismay, stood the prophetic doomsday clock, made from brimstone and fire, floating aimlessly. The Child of Lightendark struggled to conjure her powers, trying to change its course towards herself.

“No, worse. We’ll go through this pointless battle over an’ over fur th’ rest ov eternity.”

Enock looped them right back when he sank his claws into Beatrix as if to demonstrate this ability. The witch shrilly screamed anew once the owl-griff ripped the same hunk of raw flesh from her shoulder in a bloody spray.

“I-It is fu-u-utile, Belladonna,” the curator managed to say. “O-our end is i̸̷͢n̢͠e̵̡-͜͏į̷ņ͠͡e̢̛-̸͠i̴n̛͡evi͜t̴̀a̧̢͝b͡l͏̢̡ȩ͡-͢b̕͝ĺ͞é̵͟..!”

Beatrix winced and cradled her wound. “Like hell it is! I wouldn’t be here if not for my friends. My lover! I don’t care how powerful you are, Enock! I’m taking my daughter home!”

The witch continued to hold her ground, allowing the Demiurge inside her to unleash its unlimited potential. Before the great owl-griff could manipulate time, she altered the space around them, warping it into tendrils to secure Enock’s limbs, legs, and wings. The celestial screamed, struggling to break loose of their spacial bonds, when a wounded and battered Beatrix turned to her lover and shouted, “Now! Hurry!!”

With what strength she could muster, Oona conjured her own Onoma, her horns brightly blue. A bubble formed around Enock before bursting into dust, managing to knock the immense spirit out for a few minutes.

Abby fell to her knees, screaming as her control over Enock released, the curator of Time slowly regaining saturation while they slept.

“Hold on, Abby! I’m coming!!” Beatrix proclaimed, rushing past the sleeping owl-griff into the field of stone, clocks, and drifting books.

“B-Beatrix, wait-t-t!” Oona called after but stumbled down. The pain contorted her shape, making it difficult for her to breathe. “Aaagh! There must be a way tae get through tae her..!”

“O-Oona…” The Curator of Time murmured, their eyes opening slightly. Grunting, the sheep sage crawled over to the tired owl-griff, their starlight body dimly lighting up.

With wet eyes, she whimpered, “O-Oh, Enock… A’m sae sorry aboot all ov this.”

"Do not despair, Dream Faun. It is not your fault-"

“But it is!” insisted Lady Ewe, who held her hefty bosom. “Had Ah been stronger, wiser, none ov this wouldn’t hav-”

“No…” They reaffirmed. “I am the one at fault. Instead of believing in your cause, I selfishly sought to spare all existence from the Burning King’s wrath. Yet instead, I heralded his return by allowing Abadonna’s fragile state to continue. A poor oversight on my part, to believe everything can be dictated or controlled.”

Lifting their head slightly, Enock requested, “You must go; help your lover. Save your child!”

Tears poured down her face when the azure sheep bawled, “Ah am a horrible teacher! Ah do not deserve tae be her mother! A’m not a warrior like mah brother, nor a powerful caster like Beatrix! How could Ah possibly raise her?!”

“You are more than what you believe, Oona,” encouraged Enock, a small smile plastered on their beak. “Mistakes are an important part of life’s lessons. Had things have gone differently, you would have followed the path Grogar set out for you. But Instead, you repressed the fae blood floating through your veins to nurture others in need. You are generous, noble, and above all, kind. Gifts that can aspire the Child of Lightendark to prosper with goodness. You are her mother, Oona. You must give Abadonna the future she has longed for.”

Wiping her drenched sleeve, she nodded and replied, “O-okay…” The azure sheep leaned on her staff like a crutch, walking with renewed resolve towards her lover and child. She hated to leave Enock alone, but with so much at stake, she couldn’t afford to let woes weigh her down.

Their words rang clear through her mind when she struggled to pick up the pace, fighting the distortions hampering her physical body. Oona conjured the magic left inside, channeling it through her curved horns until a second pair began to sprout from her wooly head.

“Hang on, mah child,” Oona groaned, her brows furrowed and eyes glimmering with determination. “A’m on mah way!”

Pushing away from the levitating debris, Beatrix finally made it to where her daughter was, Abby, rising on shaking legs. Dispelling her rapier, the witch cautiously approached the weeping filly.

“Abadonna, come on,” the unicorn pleaded once more, thankful the inky darkness flowed over and cooly sealed her wound. “You can’t keep this up! You’re only hurting yourself. Let me help you!”

But once she reached her hand out, a wall glitched in front of the witch, who yelped from the electrical pain jolting her slender arm.

“Go away!!” She demanded, pushing her potential mother with unseen force, her physical form growing more and more unstable.

“No, I’m not leaving you! Not now, not ever!!” The violet mare insisted, rending the distorting barrier apart with the Demiurge.

“Then I’ll force you!” Abadonna spat, her horned appendages glowing while she threw the floating debris at Beatrix, who summoned her own shield to deflect them. But the moment her defenses lowered, glitching copies split apart from her to fly around and fire jolts of disorienting magic.

“A-aaaagh! A-Abby, stop!!”

“Not until you’ve suffered as I have!”

“N-noo, you’re not like that! This isn’t you!! Let mommy help you!”

“S͏̴H̢͢͞-̕͟S̨͘͟͟͠-̵̨̕͢S̕̕͟͞H̷͜͡͝-̵̀̀Ų͜͢T̵̀͞͡ ̴͜Ừ̕P̶̶͢͠-̸̀P̸͟-̶̢̛͟͝P̨̀͟-̨̀̀͞͠P̛͢͡͠!̸̨̢͟!͏͡” Bellowed Abby, whose clones spiraled around to form a distortion tornado until it enclosed her mother. Beatrix collapsed onto the rocky ground, limbs twitching as anti-energy sparked all over her.

While she had recovered from her previous skirmish, Beatrix refused to cast any spell aimed at the Child of Lightendark. She couldn’t. The agony the witch felt wouldn’t compare to the overwhelming trauma of hurting her only daughter. “I-I’m sorry,” she weakly whimpered. “I-I’m so sorry, Abby. F-forgive me…”

“You think forgiveness will make up for the time spent away?! That it’ll make up for all the anguish, I had to endure!?!” Abby conjoined parts of the library into a massive pillar, ready to crush her stricken mother underneath.

“N-noo... Of course not…”

“You want to make it up to me so badly? Then just Ḑ̷͢͠-̸̧͘͠D̷̀͞-̕̕Ḑ̶I͏̧̨̢S̸̀͝A̶̸͝͞P̴̕͜͠͠P͜͡͝E̶̕͢Ą̴̡̕͞R̨͘͟͞!̸̡͡͞!͢͜͡”

Abadonna cried out when she commanded the monolith to fall onto Beatrix, who closed her eyes and accepted her fate, hopeful her death would at least spare the multiverse and all those she had met. But before impact, a blast of mystical light obliterated the collection of building parts. The monochrome filly shifted to focus on Oona Ewe, who walked towards them. “H-huh!?”

Beatrix’s eyes opened in surprise before turning her head and gasping. “Oona!?”

The sheep sage wore a crown of extended horns protruding from her head, her eyes golden shining. Cloud-like wool shimmered white, covering her nude physique. Then, with a gentle, firm voice, she called out, “This has gone far enough, Abadonna.”

The child sneered when she launched a wave of anti-matter. Despite being forced back, Oona continued her approach through the blast, runes glowing off her horns and body. “Ah know ye don’t want tae push us away,” she intoned calmly. “Ah understand ye’re deeply upset.”

“You know N̡̧͟O̴̷̢̢T̴͘͢H̷̷͘͢Ì́N̕͟͡G̸͝!͏!̵̷̨” Abby yelled, firing bolts of distorted beams at the dream faun, who leaped out of range. She fired more projectiles, only for Oona to evade direct hits, jumping closer and closer to their child. “S-s-stay away!!”

“But why?” Questioned Oona, whose hands flared with runic energy, blocking her future daughter’s next round of attacks.

“Because… be-because..?” Abby clutched her head, her magic scattering around her, becoming more and more transparent.

“Because ye want us tae hurt just as much as ye are,” she answered, willing her magic to become stepping stones, each step bringing her closer.

Fearfully, Abby summoned more of the library remains to bridge closer towards the ticking doomsday clock. Beatrix watched from afar, trying with all her might to get up. “Ý̶͢O̵̧̕͝Ų͟͞͏͘ ̴͟͢ÁB̨͘A͢͞͏Ǹ̸̛̛͞D̴̶͢͟͝Ǫ̶̷͡͞N̵͘̕͘͡Ȩ́̕͝͝Ḑ͟͜͟͞ ̷͠Ḿ̨Ę̀͢!̸̧́”

Beatrix cried, “So it’s alright for you to abandon us back? After all, we’ve done to reach you?!”

“Yes! No… I-I mean! You deserve it! After leaving me alone for so lo-lo-long!!” In distress, the monochrome filly erected more glitching walls to distance herself from the pursuing sheep.

“Is this what ye want tae become, Abadonna?” Oona yelled, overwhelming each barricade with a touch to dissolve the distortions. “Angry? Spiteful? Just like the Burning King!?”

“N-nooo! I-I’m not like that! I-I-!”

“In solitude, ye’ve become mean an’ horrible, just like him,” Lady Ewe rebutted, closing the gap with one last bound. They now stood on the rocky area that held the final piece of the Omega Prophecy. She bit her lip. One wrong move now, and it would all be over! “You have tae stop, Mo Leanabh! It doesn’t have tae end like this!”

“Yes, it does!” She wailed as unstable energy pulsated off her incorporeal vessel. “Ev-everything feels so-so awful!!”

“That doesn’t mean you have tae be too!” She took Abadonna’s hand and pulled her into a tight embrace without hesitation. “Give me yer sorrow. Yer anguish. Let me bear all yer pain!!!”

“Ņ͠AA̷͜AÁA̕͝͞A̕A͘͠A͘A̛A͠A̷͜A͏̕͝AA̛AÁA̸H̢̕A̵͘H͟A͘͟͜H̛͝!!̡͡” Abadonna bawled, all the negative energy dispersing around them in an explosion of light and darkness.

“ABBY! OONA!!” Screamed Beatrix, shielding her vision with an arm when the lumination consumed the whole void.

In that brief moment, time didn’t flow, and space was entirely white. Opening her eyes, Beatrix looked around, lost and confused. Then, the sound of gentle weeping pulled her attention towards two silhouettes. With haste, she hovered over to find both her lover and her child cradling each other. Oona brushed her hand through the filly’s black curly mane while she buried her choked sobs into her warm, motherly bosom.

“I’m sorry,” she cried, gripping onto her wool for comfort. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry!!”

“Shhhh!” Oona soothed gently, resting her head on top of hers. “Let it all out, baby. Mommy’s here…”

“I just felt so horrible. S-so alone… I thought if I ended it all, the pain would stop…”

“Ah know, sweeting. Even now, ye still feel that ugliness inside, yes?” The filly nodded with a sniffle. “Do not fear, my child. That repulsiveness will fade eventually. An’ no matter what happens now, we’ll always be here tae protect ye.”

Turning to her beloved with a smile, she loosened her hold to let Abadonna shift her gaze to her other mother. Then, with watery eyes, she ran up to the violet mare, who dropped and pulled her child close into her own heavy, warm chest.

“Abby~!” Beatrix openly wept in happiness, running her gloved fingers through her wooly head. “I’ve missed you terribly!”

“I missed you too, mommy,” Abby cried, nuzzling into the witch, who opened an arm to bring Oona into the shared embrace. After so much time, the Child of Lightendark at last safe. Her figure shimmered, essence slowly being assimilated into the fae shaman. Abby gazed at her parents with dismay, clinging onto them tightly. “I-I’m still scared,” she confessed. “I-I don’t want to go just yet!”

“Ye’ll be okay,” reassured Oona, who placed her lips over her gold-colored horn. “Yer memories will live on through us.”

“And no matter how you turn out, we will always love you,” promised Beatrix, brushing her fingers through the young mare’s wooly mane. “I can’t wait until you’re born!”

Offering a sad smile, Abadonna closed her eyes and allowed the rest of her energy to be absorbed, vanishing completely. Oona let out a deep sigh, her body feeling warm while she rubbed her bare belly. Her head turned to Beatrix, who couldn’t hide the wide smile. The pair took their arms together and shared a long, passionate kiss, keeping the other close as the void returned to the crater floating through time. Pulling away with a breath, Beatrix exclaimed, “Oh, thank the heavens we did it!”

“Aye,” nodded Lady Ewe, who looked over to where Enock was still recovering. “Come, Ceann Oga. Let us go an-”

But she cut herself out as her ears perked, her eyes dilated when she heard a sound that made her blood run cold.

The sound of a bell chiming.

The couple slowly looked around to see the ominous brimstone clock, fuming with smog and hellish flames. Crimson energy pulsated, growing brighter and more extensive to envelop the area.

“W-what!? No, no, no, NO!!” Beatrix sputtered in disbelief. “We stopped Abby from breaking the seal! Why is it going off!?”

“Abadonna used what remained ov her magic tae undo all th’ distortions she caused,” explained Lady Ewe, whose honey-brown widened with unbridled fear. “But by restorin’ reality, she also undid th’ seals in the process!”

“But then that means--!”

The clock exploded after the final chime, knocking the couple onto their backs. They watched in horror when a wall of flames full of agonized faces screamed forth. The hot beam pierced the star-filled space, igniting the atmosphere with smoke and ash. The books disintegrated instantly, the stone remnants of the library scorched, a brimstone stench left to waft. Raising his battered body, the Curator of Time gazed up at the blazing skies with widened pupils. "Oh no..!"

And out from the closing portal came a terrible sight. Two sharp hooves dug into the rocky surface to pull out a skinless equine creature, whose cycloptic eye fixated on Beatrix and Lady Ewe. Releasing a horrible neigh, he pulled the rest of his body from the infernal pit. The rider with elongated arms and claws protruding atop his back came into view, a crown of fire engulfing his head.

The dreaded Burning King glared down at the two heroes with vicious glee, a rictus grin spreading his skeletal visage as he declared,

“T̶̛ͨͮ̃̀̓͊̒ͭh̢ͩ͌͐͠e̵͆̿ͥ ̇ͥẻ̉̈́͘n̸ͪ̀ͧͫ͆ͣ̎d͆̓͗̋…̸̸͋́ͦ̑̍͋ ͗̀i̷̢̽̈͊̇͊̅̐́̐ŝ̓̂ͪ͋ ̅ͤ̓̌̕h̶͐̌ͯͩͯ͂̉̂͜͜ē̶̃̾̄r̃ͭ̄ȩ̓ͬ͒͝!̡̡ͥ͋͗̀̚”

Final Chapter (Part V): the End of Days

The cosmos gradually grew heavy with red, every star and galaxy corroded in smog and smoke, ashes falling down over the rubbles of the library lost to time. Beatrix and Oona hurdled together as the skinless monstrosity leaped forward from the disintegrating rock. Every clop of his hooves left a scorched mark. His hook-like claws dragged along the rocky surface, making a horrible scratching noise.

The Burning King rode around the couple like a prowling predator, taking his time to figure out the best course of action. His steed head panted putrid breath, the singular eye fixated on unicorn and sheep, the former standing in front of her beloved while putting up a brave front.

But that didn’t stop them from rightfully trembling before the primordial horror.

“T̆͞h͊̃̎ͤ̎e̾̂̀ ͢w̴̐ͭ͋ͤ̉̈a̒̍y͗͞w͌͗͊͌ͣa̴͑̾̐r̴͑͐ͣ́ͭ̊dͦ̈͌ͥ ̾̓̔̌̑͋wi͠t̅͂ͬ̎ͤ͐̉chͧ̄̾̃̈́ ̍͆̎̌̄ͭ͏a͒̽ņ̌dͩͦ͛ͮ ̅ͤ͌̌t͐ͯ̈ͫ͌ͦ̀hè͒ ̾d̨͆ͧr̛̈̉̍eͣ̑͘à̉ͭ͐ḿͨ̒͡ ͨ̓̅̾͝ḟ̃̌̔̿̽a̓ͤu̔ͬn͒͆̕,͊͑̌̐̾ͣ” the Burning King presumed. “I̅̿͂̏̒̾ ̎ͪ̋̋͐ͥ́w̄͊̓̆̈́̕a̅ͨ̏s̾҉ ţǫͤ̐̍̊ͥ͊̚l͂̉̑d̍̉̒̀ ͧ͊ab̿̄͂͛҉o̎́̉͊ͭu̕tͣ̍̿̈́̉̃͠ ̨ͬ͋ͥ͋y͟o̵͊͊̾ͧ͂̄u̅̓ͥͩ̚̕ ́t̔͑́w̍̇͝o̵ͯͦͣ.̡̇̉͑̋̃̋ ̉̌̈́̅ͪ̆҉Hͫͭo̶͋̈́w̏ͣͤͭ̆͑͝ ͭ̉̊ͨ̊͝y̏̂õ̸ͦ̾͒ͨu̓ͥͩͨ̿’̍̋ve̸ ̔ͣ̀̍ͯcͪ̿̈́r̅̌̊̌͘ȯ̓͂̉̆š͂̄͌͟ŝ̾ͧͣͣ͐͝e͞dͣ̑̅ͨͪ͘ ̅̐̂ͪ̾̈́̄w̅ͨͩ̐̑̚ő͝ṙͣͯ͡l͞dͪ̋̏ͤͦ͏s͒̽͛̿͛ ̑͑̎̍tͭ̄̄ͨ̀ͬ̽͢oͦͦ̌̋̚ ͩ͌̎g̶̎̎͋̈̊éͥ̈́͌̕t̍̃͒̈͐̾͗ ̴͊̊ͪ̀̀̆ͫt̏ͣ̏̆o̍̽ͥ̍͛ ͗̄̍ͥ͆ͦtͭ͗̐̑̂̒h̍͂͊͆̓ǐͭͮ̉̇͞s̍̒̿ͩ̑ ̅̓̇͊ͦp͒̃̈́̾̓̑l̔ͯ̎̂̓ͯ̀͞ă̢̍ͣ̚c̒͋̓ͫ̄͠e͊ͨ͞.̓ ͧ̌͑͜B͆ͦͦuͪͦ͢t̔́ ̿iͮ̿̄̾͐͟n̔̍̔̎ͮͮ ̐̉̄͗ͫͬ͞d̂̌̎͂ͪ҉ǒͥ̽̐i̊̿͗ͮ͒̈́ͥ̀nͤ͜ġ̋ͩ҉ ͯͣso̵͂ͬ̀̐͋͑,͒ͬ̿̾̇͝ ̄͑͆̉̔̅ͩy͐̍́o͆̔u ͥ̃͌̂͑ͫh̐ͦͥ̿̈́a̽ͫ̋ͤ̓̕v̵͂͛͆e͋ͭ͞ ̶̄̀̏̃̃ͨ̊f͏u̡͛̐̑ͧ̈́l̛͒ͤ̄ͤ̒fi̡̽ͣ̓̒̾l̨̔ͩͩ̓le͊ͦ͌ͨ̉̈d̎̋ͪ̈́̑̈́̚ ͆ͪ͊ͨͮ̈́̑t̿̍̐͐̌̋h͟e͂ ͋p̸̒̍ͥ̀̋͆r͗̎̉ͪͪ̕o͂͑p̐ͬḧ̨̃ͥ̓̾̚ȩcy ̒̎̐̈́͗͒aͣͦ̃̓̃̈n̈́̆̽d̓ͪ͐ͬ ͣͪ̾ͭ͂r̡͗ͩ̏̉i̔̓̀s͏eͪͨ͋̈́̎n̵̅ ͬ̂͜ḿ͐̂͊e͒̓͌̒̌̈́ͭ ̨̽́̊̾̃f̆̇ͪ̐̈̋͘roͮͪͯ̿ͨ̏̚͠m͋̇́ͤͧ̐ ̃͑ͫ̉͠Ṗ̾̈̍ͦ̑͛ăͯ͗͆ͩ̾̅t͐̇͞ho̓ͯͭs̋̈́̓ͮ̊̇̚!̐̌ ͥW͐ͯ̈͘êͯ̀̂l͒͑͋͗͌̚l̸ͨ̌͌ͥ͗͒̂ ̾͗̀̂̚dͬoͭ̃n͑͂̃͊eͩ͌̒͋!̃̊̇́”

His horse-half let out a mocking triumphant whinny before continuing, “A͂̀̎ͨs̒ͧ ̃͊ͩfơ͌ͤͩͬr̨͊ ̄͊ͣ̾ͪy̸oͤ̾̎̎̐ü̡͂ͬ̊r͞ ͆ͤ̔̕r̷e͆͛̓͑ͯͭͫwͣͨ̓̌ͬ̽͘a͊̐̄̚ŗ̊̃́̅ͤ̇̈́d̔ͮ͐̿ͧ̃͢,̴ ̏ͥ̌̃̌̇͋y̔͠ŏ͑͐̀͠u͐ͦ̏̇̋ ̓̈š̔ͦ̒ͤ͛̚h̴̔a̒͘lͥ͑̿ͦl̶͐̽͋ͣ̉ͩ ͧͨ͌͌ḃͣ̒ͨ̉̚e̡͊ͮ̉̅ ̌̉̋̎̀t̸ͨ̀h͘eͬͬͫ͂͏ ̑̅̏ͤ͜fͩͯ̃iͨ͡rͥͮͧ̒̉s̢̈́̅t ͛̑tͪ̊oͬ̓ͩͭ̅ ̸͒̑̿̓d̾ͣ͌i̡̽̓̈̌͒̃͑eͣ̑ͨͧ̊!ͤ”

“No one is dying on my watch!” Beatrix spat, her fearful violet eyes turned into a glare.

Lady Ewe added in defiance, “Ye may roam free, demon. But ye will not see reality burn! Not while we live!!”

“D̷ͩ̽̔ͯ͛o͊ͧ͛̕n̋’̸͒̅ͦ̈́t ͩ͑b̎͒ͮ̆e͛͌ ̽͑ͬ̏n̂͒̄͐̊͊͘a͗̽ͮͫ͂ĩ͗͘vͭͪ͛̌̒̍e̛,̛ͥ͊” scoffed the Burning King, extending his claws out. “Ï̒̏͋͂̔͘ ͫͣͮͬ̔ͥ̒̀à̛̃ͧm̈ͭ ̉̓s͒̅̋͜p̃͌͑͑ͪ҉aͨ̾̕r̢̓ĩ̡ͭ̂nͪ̈́̌̓g̍̌̋͠ ́́̈̔̈ͭ͝y̧ͮ̋̂oͬͮ́̃̂̈ͤu ͫ̋ͭ̃̌f̏̑͒̀̋̆͋͝r̢oͯ̔m̽ͯ́̉͋̋ ͦ̓ͨ̐͂̃͛͘t̡ͫ̇̄̌̍̈h͛͆ͦͦ̍ͯisͤ̍ ̇ìnsͤ̀u̎͊̋͗ͭ͋̚f̑f̡ͪͬ̃͊ę̈́r͂ͬ̅̆ͧͪab̈́́ͯͤ̇ͣ͡l͒͐̿̀̈ͣẽ̶ͮ̓ ̷̆̔̍th̕i̶ͩ̆͆n͌̈g͊̿ cä́͊ll̄̔ͯ̇e̾̐d ̵l̅i͋́f̧͑ĕ̡̆ͩ͐.̽̃̆͐̓ͣ̃́ ̵̍I̓ͨ ̶̈́͌̆͋̈́wͤ̄iͧ͐̋̀͡l̂ͯ̊̔ͧ̆̓̀l͒̏̏̄̐̔ ͗l͗̑̔ͨ̀ͧ̀̀e̽̌͛ͬả͐ͫ̐ͯͣ͢d̔͝ ̾̊m̔̂͗̋͒̓ͤ͜y̒ ̀ͭ͋̏̈́͊ͯaͨ͛̆̆̓ͤr̽͐͑͗̿m̒͗͠ŷ t̃̒́o̿̋̿̍͆ͣ ́̒͒̓̄̐ͤ͘st͗ͯ̑ͯŕi̿͌de̸ ̛a͊ͧ̎̃̚͞c̒̋̌ͮr̸̐oͩ͝s̔̎͂ͬ͊̀s̋̆̍̔͗͊͡ ̉̃̒̈̌͂ẗͭ̌̂͂ͬͮ̀h͊e͌̋ͬ͗̾̉̊ ̉̑̓ͨ͐m̍̅͗̌͞u̵̓̍̎͊lͫͩ̚t̡̏ͣiv̽̓͑̐ȅ̓̂͠r̴̔ͬ͌͐ͣ̌s̈́͑e̸,̃ͦ͆ ̌ͭ̂ͦ́le̾ͧ̑̾͗ͨ͢a̚vͣͫ͐͂ͬ́̚i̾ͮ̽͛̊ͫͨ҉n̐ͭ̿͏g̏̑͗̎͞ ͩnotͦ̏͐ḧ́ͣ͑͑ͫ͟iͪn͐ͫ̄ͩͬ͂̇g̑ͮ̈̓͒́̓ ̢̑̌t̛̆́oͣ͂́̑ͤ̓͞ ͛̆̌ͨͯ̔ͪs̷̔̐uͨͯṙvͮ͐̄ͭ̉iͬ̐̽vͩ̐̍́͂̋ͪeͭ͊͂ ̶ͨi̊̊́n̨ͤ͊͗̓̍̈̅ ̔͘ṁ̂̍ͪ͋͠y͐ͧ̑͊͊ͫ͡ ̡̊ͮ̔ẘ̌̑̅aͨ̇k̵̆͆ͤͣͦe͆ͤ͌.ͮ̉ ̒ͥ̒̈́ͬ͐ͪ͡Ȩ̑ͥ̆̊ͪ̚v͛͒͐҉er͗͒͑͐̀y̵ͮ̽ͮť̂ͫ̾̚͜hͭ̔͋̽i͗̓̎̈́̉̎n̐̉͑͐ͪ͂͡g̿ͥ͐̒́̏́̚ ̆ͬ̈́̒ͨa̴̍͂nͧ͘d͂̋ ̸e̿v̷̇̽̽́eͫͤ̈ͦͣ̀r̂̆y̾͌̔oͮn̊͐̆҉ẽ ͜y̧o̓̏͒̂̈ͩ͞u̇ͯͥ ̎k͗͢n̐͛̐́͒̑ͤ̀oͣͤ́͑̓ͬ̌͡w̴̃̄ w̓i̎l̽l̈͊̆̅ ̿̃̅̅̊ͨ̄͢r̓ͤ̊̌̐̚ěͬͧ̊͒̑̊tͩ̔̆u͌r͒̇̒҉n̍ͤ̉ͦͧ ̴t͆̒͋ͮ̑ͯ͜o̅͌̈́͒ͧ̈́͠ ă̇ͪ͂̑̑s̶hͯ̊͒̌̇e̎̈́̈̽͠s͋͝.͆̑̅ͫ Ả̢̽̄̾͗̚nͥ̊̐̓͐̒dͣ͞ ̸̿ͬ͋ͦͯ̐̚â̸̾ͤl͘lͤ̉͗̾̃ ̨͂̐̒̒̍oͨͬ̓̿̔f͊ͣ̈ͤͪ̃̎͏ ͢eͧ̉͌x̉̊̾̔̂ͧi̔̂ͨ̋̿ͮs͗̆͆tè̐ͭ͐͆̈́͒̕n̨ͭ͑̈́̐ͨͣ͒c̷ͮ́ȇ̷̓,͏ ̸̒̆̄b̈́y̓̐ͪ͘ ͭͭͫͬ̀̽̚͜f̉̐i͢r͋͛e͋̀͡,̅̓͒̀ͧͣ̓ ̌̾̋̾̓w̛iͮ͑̈̿ͧͭ̚l̍̒ͤ̍ͮl̢̐̔͗̒̒ͦ b͑ͤͬ̊̅̈eͤ͂̎͋͋ ̓͛̾̀p͒ͪ҉ȕͥ̍̓͛ͧ̔r̐ͭ̏͌̋͐gͮ҉ȩ͑̉d̓̓ͮ!ͦ̿̈́̈́͏”

His curved brittle horns glowed with omega symbols, a fiery aura igniting around his muscular form as the nuckelavee roared, “Tͩo̧ͯ̌̆̔͗͗ ̇ͯ͊̑̍̈͢ṁe͋ͦ̿ͮ̌,ͮ͐͊͡ ͝mͩͫͭ̄͛͛͞ỷͤ͛͐ͣ ̨̎̐̒́ͯ̐l̿̏͌ͭͬ̂e͛̅̈̿ͧ͠g̢͂ͭ͂ͩ͋͋i̴̊on̷̆͋ͥ!̓”

The entire space rumbled as a vast vortex of flames spiraled beneath the ravaged library, forcing Beatrix and Oona to cling to each other to keep their footing. Out from the funnel came remnants of an ancient, vast colosseum that stretched out. And within the stands were countless numbers of twisted demons, gargoyles, and abominations. Harpies roosted on the rafters, shrieking loudly.

The violet mare gazed terrified at the surrounding forces of Pathos, slamming their fists to the rhythm of a war drum. Some were armed with weapons, dressed in worn armor. Others were disfigured by strange machinery. Even spectral victims of the Burning King’s reign wailed in agony while floating around the fiery tornado. All cursed to serve their demonic ruler in perpetual torment.

The call of his legion thrilled the Burning King, who sighed with ecstasy. “Á̇͛̿ͫh͒ͦ͏hͪ̓ͭ͗̎ͩ̅̕hͤ̿ͯ̈ͤͤ̂…̄̑ ͘C̓͒̉͝a̿r̉̌̃ňͤ̒ͤ̔̊̿aͬͭ̄͛̽̈́̚gê͑̎!̌̿̚ ͂ͫ̌͋̇͝Â̈̽̄̉̿s̄̃̉͐ͫͩ͡ ̧i̸ͮ͊̔t̨̓́̏͗ ̒wa͛s̨ ͫ̎̕m̧̔e̷̍̂̾͊͛̚aͭ̔̀̓ͩn̉͗͛͐t̆̋ͤ̊͢ ͦ͐̀͢t̉̉̽ͪõͨͩ ͮ̂b̐̐ͬ͌̇e͂ͪ̋̄!ͩͩ!ͭ̂̏̆”

“We’re severely outnumbered,” admitted Beatrix, who awakened her Onoma immediately and formed her rapier in hand.

“Ah know,” acknowledged Oona, whose fae form persisted, glowing brightly inside this darkening, bleak realm. "But we mustn't falter. Even in th' face ov our greatest enemy!" The couple intertwined hands, taking solace that they would at least be together no matter what fate befell them.

“My my, what do we have here?” An electronic voice echoed. Both girls tensed up as another portal formed next to the nuckelavee. And out arose an all too familiar figure, cloaked in a black leather apron over his mechanized body. Underneath the hood was a beak-like mask, vermillion visors glowing from the eye sockets. “If it isn’t my old friends.”

“Varys,” mouthed Beatrix, who recalled running into him in a world overrun by advanced technology due to his influence. She and Oona were lucky to foil his plot through banishment. But it was only a matter of time until their paths crossed again.

“I prefer Lord Varys, thank you,” he replied, studying the two with interest. “I must admit, I was hoping our reunion wasn’t so soon. But alas, here we are.”

“An' that pitiful failure is nowhere in sight,” a feminine voice echoed as a curvy silhouette descended down to the nuckelavee’s flank. The unicorn and dream faun recognized Countess Alma, the vampire-esque Vice Lord that butchered Shining Armor back at the Crystal Empire. She strutted closer, a hand planted on her wide hip. She eyed them with scarlet cat-like pupils, a tongue lapping along her curled lips and sharp fangs.

“Good riddance,” she mockingly mused, her other hand flicking her long, auburn curled hair. “Tae think she dared scheme against us. Truly unworthy tae be called a Vice Lord~!”

“Aye! Well, rumor has it, that whole convoluted plot wasn’t e'en her own!” Another Vice Lord added in, appearing beside Alma. He was a stallion drenched in seawater, his pale blond mane tipped with green algae. His eyes glowed an eerie cyan, dark veins bulging out his corpse's pale frame, covered in a captain’s overcoat and trousers. “Figures, th' treacherous cunt didn’t have th' stones. Question is, which one ov ye muckers was it? Ah reckon it was you, cyborg…”

Varys made no comment, keeping his arms folded behind his back.

“Douglas ov th' Kelpie,” called Oona, whose brow furrowed. “Didn’t take ye as a thrall.”

He shrugged and replied, “Wasn’t my first choice, love.”

“What do you mean ‘not your choice!?’” Berated Beatrix, who stalked forward. “You’re choosing the destruction of all life! Why the hell would anyone want to bring about the End of Days?!?”

The three demons turned to one another before Varys stepped forward. “You must consider us depraved for swearing loyalty to his infernal majesty,” the cyber demon began. “But in actuality, we're no more than prisoners. Tools to carry out his insatiable appetite for violence and death.”

Alma broke in, “There are some benefits, believe it or not. A contaminated soul causes th' blood tae darken. It is that corrupted essence that sustains us. An' wit th' Burning King liberated, we would be free tae devour an' consume tae our heart’s content~!”

The cybernetic doctor spoke up. “In a way, the multiverse will be 'balanced' once everything is reset to a more primitive state. The strongest survive, the weak perish. Exactly as nature intended. All we needed was that miracle child's logic-defying capabilities to undo the seal.”

The witch kept her frown, remembering that Doppia tricked Zeloph and Shadow Scythe into following her plan in pursuit of freedom. She then asked, “But why continue to serve the Burning King when you have your freedom?!”

They each looked over their forearms, the infernal mark no longer embedded in their flesh. But they cast a wry glance at the Burning King, who scowled at his followers.

Uneasily, Douglas explained, “Sure, we’re nae longer shackled tae th' brute. But what’s th' point in fightin' back? Everything’s comin' tae an end. An' if prolongin' mah sorry arse is th' only salvation, A’ll take it.”

“Ţ̐̓ͣ̈h͐ͫͥ͋ͯe̐̄͟y̧ͧ̉̊ ̋̀̀̆ͪ͂wͩ̅̉̆̂̍̆i̛ͨ̾̾̓̅͒l͂ͪ̓̕lͦ͆ͨ̃ ̉̃̈́̊̔̓̓s̎̾̃̈́̆͞ẻ̈́̃͐ͭr̶ͨ̇̄̅v̨̈́́̐e̿̂̆͏,ͬ̔ͭ̿̌͌ ̴ö̑͘rͤ̒̀̽̇̅ ̧͒̉̄t̎̑ͧͨͮ̾hͮ̓́̿͋̊ę͆y̓̆̄̍ ̨̔̇̇͛ͫw̾ͩ̀͆̃i̸̾̉̽̉lͪͬͧ̅́ļ͑͗̓̉̈͋̚ ̶̈́̔̈́ͬ̊͑d̉͒ȋ̇́̑ͭe,̓̚” the nuckelavee concluded, his horsehead snorting. “T̡̍̎̽̂h̒ȇi̋̓ͧͪ̀r̈͢ ̐̀҉c̸ͯ̃ḣ̇̑ͮ͑̌̆o̊i͌̃̔̕c͌͋ͩͯe̒̐̈́ ̶͊͊ͦ͌̿m̢̂a͗̎͗̀̓͂̚͟t̓ͣͧ̈́̅ͯͭ͠t̎ͤ̄̊̇ͫ͆e̢͐̊̃͐͛̓̇r̓̆ͫ͒̋̇s̾̒̒ ͝n̎̊ot̀ͮ̄̓͏.̓̉̆ͫ̒̍͘”

The violet mare sneered at the trio with disgust. “Spineless! All of you!”

“Oh, A’d like tae see ye say that when ye're made th' Burning King’s bitch,” the kelpie scoffed, leering at the witch’s semi-nude form. “That is if Ah don’t have me way wit ye~!”

“Ah was here first, lecher,” hissed the Baobhan Sith, who also eyed Oona with lustful intent. “If we’re all goin' tae die, A’ll take every morsel Ah can. Ah think A’ll start wit th' lamb. There’s more meat tae her now that she’s pregnant~!”

“I'll never let you touch her,” swore Beatrix, earning cruel laughter from the swarming demons around the area. Despite knowing the odds were hopeless, she made a flourish and proclaimed, “I'll take on everyone here if I have to!”

Varys shook his head and chuckled, “As bold and foolhardy as when we last met. How disappointing. Shall we dispose of them, my liege?”

“N̾ͤ͊ǒ̽͂̌̽̑͜,͊̋̋̍ͨͮ͑” the Burning King snarled deeply, stepping towards the pair, pure malice radiating off his skinless vessel. “T̔̑͋͝hͨ̏̍ͯ́͝ē̈́͆́ͨ͡y̛̐ͬ̽͡ ̴͌a̷͌̚̚r͗̅̏̍́͢e̿̄͑ͪ͛̔ͯ̚ ̸͂ͥ̔ͧ̍͠m̵ͤ͐ͯ̑̀̈́̏́͝i̵ͧͨ̀n̸̐̅ͥ̀ͯ̈́̊̕e̴̿̌̉̿ͯ!̅̇ͥ̅ͤ̾̊͡”

The two took up a stance as the arena howled with monstrous screams. The three Vice Lords took a step back, watching their master approach Beatrix and Lady Ewe, who tightened their stances. As the half-man half-horse atrocity closed in, the violet witch couldn’t suppress shivering in his presence.

Oona was equally afraid, holding her staff in front of her body. However, she was at greater risk due to Abadonna developing properly inside her belly. And the smell of fire and brimstone made the sheep sage feel nauseous.

Nonetheless, they had nowhere to run. And the Burning King knew this well as he towered over, heat emanating off his hook-like claws.

“S-stay back,” Beatrix warned, her palm sweaty when it wrapped around the hilt of her rapier. “O-or I’ll send you packing through a black hole!”

“S̉uͬͯ̃̆͊͞c̶͐̑̓̐̾ȟͬͫ̐ͮͯ̈́͏ ͪͫ̉̃̂ĩ̴d͛ͨ̂̓ͧ͞l̈ͦeͮ͑ ͧͥͩ͂ͦ͂t̢̾ͯ̅ͩ̅hͣ̐̓͛ͩ̊͢rèat̽̿̈́̊̄҉sͨ́ͪ͟,̋̊͊́̚” crowed the Burning King, his rictus grin spreading. “Y̒̚o͊́u͋̆ͦ̉͗͗͏r̃͌̐ ̸̅͒́s͂͛̓͊̚tr̸͊ȩ͗̇̍n̽̅̐g̨̒͊̾͂̿͆t̛ͩ̄̓̑̐͛̚h̎ ͠ả̆̈́ͤ̋̈͏n̅ͣ̿ͬͩͨ̈́͡d̐́̿͆̎ͧ͜ ͪ̾̓͌mͪ͑aģi̵ͦ̅͛c̎ ̃̒ͯ̈hͯ͑͐ͮͫͧ͑a̛͛ͬ̈́̈́̋͛̉vͭ͂̋ͤ̀ͥ͝ẽͩͩ͂͂͌̃ ͪ̇̈̉d̨ͤi̋m̵ͥiͤ̈́̓̀̓̐n̴̋̂͆i̸̍ͮ͌͒̒s̔̐̀ͤͭ̈́h̡̿eͣͦͦď̈́̌ͯ͋.̎̒̈҉ ̓̔͝Yo͑̎͡uͧ̓́̎́̎̚͜ȓͬ͆͘ ͏a̛ͯ̄̊ͪ̒̐͂bͭ̾ͫͨ͒͛i̕l̓̀͛ͯͥ̍̿͟i̽̒̑̍ͮ͑ͩt̉̈ͮ̊̑͗ͥy͝ ͤ̅ͯ́tͯ̍͗o̷ͭͭ ̸͑̿ͦͨ̈́ͤ̚ṡͫ̃̄ͫ̔ĥ̷r̆ͯ̒e̓͋ͥͮ̓̔͞d̃͟ ͬ̆̓̔̄̎rͩͩeͭ͒̓ͮͭaͩľ͋ͨ̓i̅ͣͭ̉̊̎͋t͋̌̿͋̾y̍̓̔̀ͧͤ ̵̔ͩͦi̴̾̔̌͛ͬ̋͐s̶ͧ̒̓̚ ̍ͮͭ͑ͧͭ̀uͧ̆̾͞sͫ̋̆e̢ͦ̌̎̽lͬ̄̐̈́̄͂e̋̈̅̈s̡͒s̒ͧ͗̉̐̕ ̑͋̉ͬḩͮ̾͛ͯ́e̐r̚e!̾ͯͥ”

“We’ll see about that!!” She yelled back with more boldness than she felt.

Immolation whooshed through the air with a hiss, Beatrix barely able to leap back in time, as the air swirled under heat so intense its mere presence threatened to immolate her. The arena broke into overpowering cheers as she hurtled skyward, trailed by cosmic darkness that crackled with coldness.

Her horn lit when she tossed dozens of spells. But the nuckelavee didn’t bother dodging, absorbing each projectile that fizzled off his skinless muscles. Her eyes turned to saucers as he took a swipe at her head, grazing off bits of her mane.

Oona tried to snare him with another bubble trap, but that only made the Burning King leap forward as his steed head vomited pumes of toxic smog, covering the rocky surface.

“Get back!!”

The duo quickly covered their mouths and ran just as the Burning King ignited the air with a fiery explosion, the force launching them further into the ruined remains of Enock’s library. The audience of Pathos cheered, coveting their demise as their infernal ruler proceeded.

In defense, Beatrix summoned a blizzard that whipped over the area. The stray bits of hail that managed to bypass his barriers harmlessly peppered his form, even when in desperation she formed one the size of an iceberg, and an avalanche rained down on her foe. The coliseum trembled under the impact, dozens of the onlookers buried instantly as it boomed in a sea of mist.

Steam hissed off the Burning King, unimpressed by her command of the elements as he raised; he scraped his claws along the ground, his horse half now galloping on searing hooves. The crown of fire raged into an inferno atop his head.

“Shit,” she cried, propelling herself and Oona backward. The violet unicorn tossed dozens of smoke bombs from the folds of her cape, only for him to easily follow her escape route as a useless colored smokescreen billowed around her. The horse half of the nuckelavee rose up to stomp its front legs at them. Only to be met with a barrier erected by Lady Ewe. The Burning King snarled, slamming his front hooves down with all his weight, each attempt causing the safeguard to crack.

Panic shot through Beatrix like adrenaline. Even if she conjured the most advanced spell she was taught, she doubted they would do any lasting damage against this ancient monstrosity.

The crowd below raised their fists and cheered for their death. Alma, Douglas, and Varys watched from afar, conversing.

“Ahh, buggar,” the kelpie sighed. “Ah was hopin' tae play wit that salem knock-off before she bit th' dust!”

“Ugh, please,” replied the vampiric demoness. “There are plenty more like her.”

“I beg to differ,” the cyber demon dejected. “She's quite the anomaly, actually. Unlike any form of phenomena I’ve researched, Beatrix Belladonna’s spacial disruption is a rare ability not bestowed upon any other unicorn. Truly one of a kind. A pity it shall go to waste…”

When the smoke settled, the couple cowered under the hateful gaze of the Burning King, who collapsed the barrier with one final stomp. “Ÿ̷̎̈́̎̐̑ö̅ͮ͢ùͨ͒ͭ̅ ̡ͨ̑m̀ủͨ͆ͦ̈s͌͞t͆͐͏ ͌ȑ̂ͥe̽̀͊̉̓a̍̆ͩ͌́l̚i̎̇ͫ̽̏z̓̕e ̡̌͛̋ͧ͂̑t͛̅͊ͨͭ̚h̔̄̌͞ë̓̾̽ͯ̄͝r̃͒ė̸̂ ̂͟i̧͋ͧ̑ͧ͛͒s̡͌ ̴̓͌͐̂͋n̓̍o̅ͭ ̐͗ȅs̷c̛ͫ̍ͪͭ̊͋ap̎̉͋̾e̛ͧ̇͋̔͋,̾ͤͫ͐̅̀” mused the nuckelavee, towering over his meek foes. "I̕n͜ ͌͋̽ͥ̈́ͮt̶h̏͐̅͑͜e̽̒͜ ͛͋ͦͬe̵ͣn̿̆̀d͆ͥ̏̽ͬ̏́̚,̌̓ͮͨ̎ ̨̃ͦͦͥͤ̒̅ål̢̂l̅̉ͭ ͟w̷͌ĩ̾̉ͦͯl̓ͤl̾̔͌̋͌̏ͭ ͗̉́̿̇ͬ̎s̑͒uͮ͊̏f̵͂ͣ̃̓̓f̶̔͒ē̏r̃͌ b̄̃ͨ̎̿̃ͫë̴ͫ͛͑͂̾̅f̧ͣ͌̈ͮ̿͐́ö́̓ͬ̂̔̓r̓͐e͑̄͛̄͆̚͜ m̿̓ͪ̿ê̈́ͬ̽̂!͒͗ͤͣͫͯ̀̕" He inhaled breath from both maws, preparing to incinerate his first pair of victims.

All Beatrix could think to do was wrap her arms around her lover protectively, ready to tear open a rift and shove Oona in it. The witch would sacrifice her own life if it meant her lover and child’s survival.

But the harsh flames never touched her as reality crawled into a steady stop. All the screaming demons had fallen silent, causing Beatrix and Oona to jerk their heads back with wide eyes. The Burning King stood motionless, hellfire only a few centimeters from engulfing them. And all around, his fellow Vice Lords and army were entirely still. Worse, they found themselves also immobilized.

Oona shakingly asked, “W-what going on? Why can’t we move!?”

“I've bought you a little more time,” a voice answered weakly. The pair turned to find Enock stumbling on tired limbs towards them. Their cosmic radiance flickered like a dying light. “Consider this my apology for prolonging Abadonna's suffering...”

“Oh, wise spirit, you’re fading..!” The azure sheep noted with a sad expression.

“Worry not,” they assured calmly. “I am approaching my incubation period.”

“Incubation?” The witch questioned.

The owl-griff nodded. “The Child of Lightendark didn’t just undo the damage she inflicted on reality. She reforged it, creating an entirely different timeline we settle in now. I have little presence here until I return to my origin and start over. What you see now are my remnants.”

“Whoa..!! So does that mean there are new regions and worlds to explore?!” Beatrix considered.

“Only if you can prevent the End of Days,” affirmed the celestial curator, who coughed. “But before I go, I will use the last of my strength to help you stop the Burning King. The fate of the multiverse lies in your hands, Beatrix Belladonna!”

“I-I... thank you,” the witch nodded, taking Oona’s hand. “I’m sorry things turned out this way, Enock.”

“As am I,” the owl-griff admitted with a bitter chuckle, bowing their head. “In my arrogance, I helped destroy the very history I sought to protect. But perhaps this was destined to happen. Who knows what awaits us now that a change of pace has begun? Heh… Only time will tell.”

Their form completely evaporated into light before launching into the sky. All the energy compressed into an egg shape before blinking out of existence, a wave of temporal energy rippling through the realm, washing over the wayward witch and sheep sage.

With Enock’s essence completely gone, time began to flow normally. The Burning King’s fiery attack proceeded towards their direction. Except now, something stood in the way. The flames were deflected off an archaic energy shield, its wielder grunting as the heat pushed him slightly back before the projectile was thrown off. The nuckelavee paused; his eyes widened with fury. “W̸ͧͪ́̽͂ͧ̃h́͂ͯ͑̄͝o͂͑̆̎ ̂ͫ̈͛̑d̛ͬ̓̉ͦͨa͐͒͆͂̇rͨ͗̍ͬe̛ͬ͐ͪͦ̍̚s̆ͭ͛̕ ̴́̒sͪ͂ͯt̸ả͐̾̽͆̋̐ņd͛͋͂̎ͬͤ̌ ͊̆̈́̓̋ͧ̈͘i͋̈̓̈ņ̓̐̓ͭͩͧ ͂mͮyͦͧ ͆͒ͥ͂͋ͮ̕w̎̌̒ͥ̈́ayͫ̎̈́̿ͪ̔͝!̉̅ͪͥ̊?ͧ͒ͫͩ́̃”

The onlooking demons gasped while the Vice Lords gazed in alarm. Beatrix and Lady Ewe were astonished and relieved to see the warrior ram stand before them, claymore and shield at hand.

“Dion!?”

He looked behind him to flash a grin. “As if A’d stand by while ye girls fought at world’s end!”

“How did he get here?!” Douglas demanded.

“This must be th' work ov that accursed curator,” suggested Alma, who huffed. “No matter. What’s one more lamb tae th' proverbial slaughter?”

“No,” Varys protested, rising from his spot. “I’m detecting other life signatures within this realm. More are coming!”

The atmosphere behind the trio twisted and rippled, similar to how Beatrix bent reality to travel between planes. Yet she sensed something oddly familiar about it and glanced back to see a massive structure slowly fade its way in. Cries of shock arose from the arena, unable to believe that somehow this eldritch abomination depicted as a gothic mansion had penetrated this realm.

The Burning King released a hate-filled roar while the double doors thudded and windows flew open. A mass of thick tentacles covered in eyes and razor-filled mouths lashed from the building, wriggling around while batting away onlookers.

“W-wait,” Beatrix exclaimed, her violet eyes wide like saucers. “I-isn’t that my house!?”

(Looks like we got here just in time,) a familiar voice resonated through the allies.

The witch gasped. “Sis!!”

Sure enough, the red-skinned she-devil waltzed out with a dagger in hand, eying the fiendish horseman. A sly smile spread her lips as Bellatrix nodded at the violet mare. “Glad to see you’re still in one piece.”

As the succubus came to their side, more of their fellow allies flew out from the manor doors to join the battle. Midnight and Cerise landed right next to Dion, wielding their specialized lances. Shadow Scythe emerged from the shadows, armed with her signature sickle and smirk. And descending next to her was Zeloph, his heavenly blade humming with sunlit energy.

Beatrix couldn’t hold back the tears of joy running down her face, eternally grateful to be surrounded by her friends during this brutal skirmish. But to her shock, they weren’t the only ones coming from the manor.

Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer ran down to assist their mistress, carrying heavy axes infused with part of the creature’s supernatural power. Dion was the first to notice the single horn and bat-shaped wings protruding from their foreheads and backs. He turned to Bellatrix and asked, “Ye turned them intae succubi?”

“Half-succubi,” the she-devil corrected. “It was the only way to unbound them from their restrictions to the mansion's radius.”

“Mhm! We’re way stronger than before!" One twin assured.

"And we have way more ‘benefits’~,” the other teased before striking a mirroring pose with her sister.

“Save the scandalous affairs until after we’ve won the battle,” a masculine tone commanded as White Shadow Penumbra landed in from the windows, his own men marching out the doors in an orderly fashion.

“Brother!” Squeed Cerise, who flung herself into his arms. “I’ve missed you so much!!”

“As have I,” the pale pegasus affirmed, squeezing the charcoal mare.

“Hey, now,” Moonlight River said once she dropped in. “Didn't you just say to save the sentimental shit for later~?”

“Moonie!” Midnight exclaimed, roping his best friend in for a hug.

“W-whoa! Easy with the squeezin’, big guy,” she laughed. “I missed you too, but we’ve got bigger problems!”

“Aye,” a voice thundered as the lumber spirit of Storbjorn emerged, alongside Gaoth and Suela. “Tonight, we end the reign of fire!”

Spotting the guardians, Alma seethed, “Th' Mystics are here as well!?”

“Did you honestly expect them to stand idly by while their whole world was razed?” Varys asked, earning more contempt from the vampiress.

Oona bowed her head to the spirit animals, asking, “Forgive me fur what A’ve done. Had we been more careful-”

“Ye did what ye thought was right,” reassured the selkie, who laid atop the bear’s vast physique.

“Waaat matters nigh is defeatin' de Burnin' King before he razes de galaxies,” snarled the white wolf.

“Couldn’t have said it better myself,” came the authoritative voice of Lord Grimmwald, who walked in with his squadron of Paladins on behalf of the Sovereign Witch. “We will mark this occasion for future generations to come. On how we took down the dreaded nuckelavee and stopped Armaggedon!” At the stamp of his cane, his battalion took a stance with a unified cry.

With an entire army of her own now formed, Beatrix turned back to the Burning King, who wisely took steps back as they marched forward.

But instead of fear or discouragement, the avatar of destruction instead cackled madly.

“Iͭ͐͋̈́̍͊ͥḑ̎ͮ̏̂i͘o̡ͦ̽͋ͭͯͬͫt̅҉s͒̒̋͜,̶̽̐̽ͯ̈́ͨ” he mused, scowling at every one of them. “Ŷ̶ͯ̄̔o͘u̽͛̄’̵vͨ̿͑̅̃͑eͮ̂ͧ̓ ̢ͧc̑ͣ̃̿͐̓̚oͬ͡m̡ͭͯͫ̔́e͂͋͡ ̇jͯͧ̀̉̿̂͊u͌̅̚s͌ͪ͑́t͒ ̡̃t͢o ̛̂̽d́̔̿ͥͧ̅͞i̢ȇ̾͟!̵ͨ”

At his thunderous roar, the legion of demons leaped down from the colosseum stands. Beasts, cyborgs, gremlins, hellhounds, harpies, and other twisted variants stood by their king in the growing tension. Alma revealed a thorned whip that snapped at each direction she cracked it, some of her followers coming to her aid. Douglas surrounded himself with murky water that steamed from the blackened earth. Varys summoned a drone to his side while telepathically ordering those infused with his cybernetics to engage.

“This is it, lads an' lassies,” Dion called, gripping his great sword firmly. “Time tae cut loose!” The twins nodded when the maids joined the warrior's side, ready to show him all they’d learned.

“Leave the lesser demons to us,” Midnight requested while he, Cerise, Moonlight, and Penumbra hovered above, the latter with his own battalion.

“Works for me,” nodded the reaper, who focused her attention on the trio of Vice Lords. “I want to carve those infernal bastards into pieces.”

“We’ll draw out the Vice Lords,” agreed Zeloph, who shimmered brilliantly in his splendor.

“Then our target is the Burning King,” the bull-man nodded, looking at Beatrix. “We’ll cover you with all the magic we’ve got!”

“Good. We need tae stay on th' defensive whenever possible,” reminded Lady Ewe, who hefted her staff as her wool rustled around her with arcane magic.

“Then we’ve got nothing left to lose,” Beatrix concluded, raising her sword and pointing forward. “CHAAAAAAAAAARGE!!!”

With a deafening cry, the defenders rushed towards the legion of Pathos as their wrathful leader bellowed, “K̛̄̆͛I̸̡̊̒̀̃͆̅͑̂L̶̶ͣ̐ͤ̎̍̋͜L̸̨̊̏̐͊ͫ͌ ̒͊̕͞T̷ͧ̅̉̒ͧͨͣ̂͘H͗̊͐̇ͪ̊͏̢E͑̔̓̓̍͝M̛̏̏ͧͯ͑̍ͩ ̨̔ͣ͋ͩͦÁ͑ͪ͜͝L̇ͩ̑ͩ͊̅́͠͡L̡̉́̓̍͞!̨ͫ̊̂͗!̛͗̏̋ͥ̃ͫ͝”

Utter war and chaos ensued once the opposing armies collided. Demons were bashed down by shields as limbs and heads were cut off. Soldiers suffered gashing wounds as some monsters piled up on top. Likewise, their winged forces battled the screeching harpies and imps that soared above.

Bedlam beset the ancient coliseum. Joined with the manor entity, it and Bellatrix fed off each other in a symbiotic manner, like a perpetual motion machine that was somehow able to hold off the Burning King himself...for the moment. Unfortunately, the succubus and her monstrous partner were forced to constantly divide their attention in order to protect the allies that swarmed about them.

The Nucklavee slashed and engulfed the confounding tentacles that ensnare him. Many wiggled, oozed noxious puddles, and thudded lifelessly when Bellatrix flew to meet him.

“I won't let you harm any of them,” declared Bellatrix, who pursed her lips in grim determination. She swiped at him with her curved devil's knife, cutting into his bare musculature until he openly caught her jab with his palm. She yowled, feeling his jagged claws dig into her forearm before the Burning King tossed her into the scorched black ground.

“A̴ͬ̄̆́̓ͣ̓l̨ͬ͂l̓̃̆͛̌̉͝ ̨s̢ͫ͐̈́̉̏o̊u̵̅̈̓ͭ̉l̄̏ͯ̔̍̉̒s̴̈́ ͊̾̅ȃrͣ̅e̵ͯ̐ f͗ͣ͆̌o̐̾̓̑̽ͬ̆r̅̔̋fͬͥ̐͋ͩe̓͗ͤͤͯͧ͟i̷͛t̓̊͌̍͑̈́̈!͆ͥͤ̈ͥ” The skinless horseman responded, trotting to trample the wounded she-devil until several ethereal chains shackled around his elongated limbs and horse legs.

“Hold him down!” Grimmwald ordered while his group of paladins struggled to constrain the wildly trashing demon. But a fiery aura burnt off his form as the magical leashes incinerated, lighting all the soldiers connected to him on fire. The unicorns cried in anguish before being reduced to ashes, their souls ignited by the Burning King's aura before being siphoned into the plumes within his chest.

“Mo̐̑ͣͮ́r̽̌̽è ̶ͦf̎͑̆̓̋u̸͐ͯ͛́͊ē̅͐ͬl̃̉̽͋̊̒̀ ̍͝f̊̓̈́ͯ̎̂̚o͢r͂̑̿̽̉̽̚͞ ͡t̒ͣhͪ̽̀ê͗̔ ̆ͯpͦ͢yͨͤ͂ͪ̓̑̓reͯ̂̈̍͂̑͡,̸͒ͭ́” the demon scoffed with a sickening grin. But his insult was cut short when Beatrix snuck under to re-tangle his limbs with Erebus and stabbed him through his humanoid torso.

“Gotcha!” The witch proclaimed, only to see her rapier quickly melt from the fire burning within the demon’s ribcage. Infuriated, the Burning King slammed his knuckles into the violet mare’s face, knocking her back and breaking her nose in the process. Blood sprayed amidst the crunch.

“Ceann Oga!” Lady Ewe rushed to her side. Beatrix whined while clutching her snout, crimson gushing out her nostrils as inky darkness flowed over her.

“Conserve your magic,” insisted Grimmwald, who through his half-mask saw that both were magically weak compared to their forces. “We can’t win this without your strength!”

“Then protect them at all costs,” Bellatrix ordered, who watched as more of the bull-man’s soldiers were slaughtered by their fiery adversary. She grunted, realizing that even with the manor’s tremendous power, she couldn’t withstand an entire fight.

Luckily for her, the Mystics joined the fray as the earth bear tackled the nuckelavee head-on, roaring as the steed head sank its jaws into his shoulder. Still, Storbjorn persisted and slipped the Burning King’s hind legs into stone shackles, allowing Gaoth to apply a stranglehold with his shillelagh. With their foe struggling to reach either target, the wind spirit brewed a whirlwind around the skinless monster, hoping to suffocate him.

Meanwhile, Suela tended to the scorched soldiers, healing their wounds with rejuvenating water magic. But the battle had only begun as more soldiers and allies faced the Vice Lords and their followers.

Dion, Midnight, the twins, and Penumbra tended to the ground while Zeloph, Cerise, and Moonlight fended off the harpies that swarmed in the sky. Shadow Scythe was in a tight skirmish with the Baobhan Sith, using her Onoma and numerous sickles to deflect and retaliate Alma’s whip strikes.

“This is bad,” muttered Brutus, whose eyes fell back to the dusty tornado around their foe. Inside, he could see the monster’s hulking form glowing with hellish red archaic flames. “So much power is emanating from him! How?!”

“Quite simple, really!” Douglas complimented mockingly before delivering a hard punch to send the minotaur flying. Before Beatrix and Oona could flee, the kelpie grabbed the pair with a watery grasp. “Th' more life th' Burning King takes, th' more powerful he becomes.”

“That’s his Onoma-aammuph!?!” Beatrix managed to sputter before her head was enveloped in seawater.

The sadistic stallion nodded. “Named after th' very Kingdom he led tae ruination, Moira increases his pyromancy wit e'ery scorched soul. An' if ye count those helpless saps ye sent tae die, we’re looking at over ten thousand or more,keepin' his belly warm! So congratulations, cunts! Ye’ve helped us ensure th' End ov Days!”

The witch and sheep sage clutched at their throats within their aquatic prison, the need to breathe rising. The kelpie licked his lips with anticipation. “But don’t worry. A’ll put ye out ov yer misery before that happens. Just let th' water fill yer lungs and-h-huh?!”

His smile quickly faltered when he detected a cold chill running down his spine. His body began to shiver before realizing snowflakes began to fall around him, swirling faster and faster. “When th' 'ell d-did it get s-so bloody C-C-COL-!?”

Douglas was instantly frozen in a block of ice, his aquamancy dispelled as Beatrix and Lady dropped into the puddle, coughing harshly. Their eyes found a cold aurora green stare with diamond-shaped pupils under snow-white hair. The cervidae walked towards them, wearing a winter coat over her grayish-blue figure.

“I-Iclyn! You came,” clamored Lady Ewe, who couldn’t hide her shock while accepting a hand up.

“You’re still important to me,” admitted the deighdyr, her brows narrowed at the sheep's stomach. “Even with that thing’s spawn growing inside you.”

“You know?!”

“H-hey!” Beatrix angrily rose up, wiping the blood and liquid off her face and hair. “I am not a-”

“Pipe down, hussie. I wasn’t referring to you,” said the doe brushed her off. “We’ll discuss this later.”

“Aye…” the dream shaman agreed as she weaved her own spells. “And thank you.”

Iclyn only nodded while she conjured a blizzard to flurry around the tornado. But her eyes widened as the vortex erupted with flames and terrible screams emerged. The wolf and bear spirit were repelled outwards, fire eating away at their bodies, both writhing in agony. The group watched helplessly as Gaoth and Storbjorn blackened and crumbled into dust. The whirlwind dissolved, the Burning King releasing a triumphant roar.

“NOOOO!!” Suela cried out, launching a wave at the fiery demon. But the water only sizzled as ashen smoke arose from his singed flesh. His attention locked on the seal woman and galloped at her position. Realizing the mystic was too petrified to react, Brutus quickly erected his magical barricade to block the Burning King’s warpath.

Enraged, the nuckelavee slashed his claws and smashed his body into the barrier, trying to break it down. The selkie spirit tried slipping out of her ally’s grasp, only for the warden to tighten his hold.

“Aaagh! Let me go!!” She demanded.

“Don’t be careless! We can’t afford to lose you too,” Brutus reminded. “You have my word, Sea Spirit. We will avenge their deaths!”

Suela ceased her squirming and instead curled up in the minotaur’s arms, bailing her grief while he cradled her.

The bull-man strained to keep the barrier up until the Burning King gave up brute-forcing his way. Instead, the skinless horseman unleashed torrents of flame to incase the magical barricade, planning to cook his victims alive. But shards of ice were flung into the horse-half's neck as Iclyn launched icicle projectiles to draw their enemy’s attention.

The Burning King chased after the snow doe, who created a pathway of ice and skated away while warding off pursuing monsters with glacial blocks. Beatrix and Lady Ewe aided Brutus and Suela, drenched in perspiration. The witch’s mind ran rampant with ideas on ensuring their victory.

But if what the kelpie said was true, how could they possibly hope to stop a monster fueled by over a thousand molten souls?

Elsewhere, the brawl raged on as Dion, Midnight, and the twins bashed and sliced off every demon grunt standing in their path. As suggested, the blue pegasus went wild with his berserker energy. Taking one monster impaled with his lance, they tossed it into its group that toppled down like dominos.

“Nice shot, laddie! Keep it up!” The burly ram praised while he and his lovers fractured skulls.

“Thanks,” he panted before letting out a loud cry while batting off the gremlins with his large wings.

Moonlight and Cerise fought off the winged creatures above, the military bat mare swiftly kicking one harpy down. With exhilarated laughter, she commented, “Man, it feels great to kick ass again! It’s been way too long since I got in on some action~!”

“Don’t get too excited now,” reminded Cerise, who impaled another scabby winged avian hag by the neck. “We can’t make any rash decisions, or else we might not make it out alive!”

“Well, duh! That’s the basis of all wars,” she grunted in the middle of an elbow block. “Relax, Cerie. Not only are we making it out of here, we're gonna win!”

“I hope you’re right,” the charcoal mare nodded before doubling her efforts in slaying every harpy that soared past them. It was such untempered emotions that nearly cost Cerise her body to Doppia. And the princess wasn’t about to lose it a second time to the fires of armageddon!

Down below in another section, Penumbra had scourged up his small army to tackle the cybernetically enhanced demons. Each trooper was armed with rune-enchanted weapons and armor to protect them against laser beams. The pale pegasus fought back to back with Zeloph, who launched solar rays from his fingers and sliced through projectiles with his sword.

“Gnnh! To think I would fight alongside you of all people!” Penumbra grunted, reminded of how the false messiah nearly wiped out everything in his world.

“The irony isn’t lost to me,” huffed the demi-human, smacking a gremlin away with his wing. “Still, I appreciate the comradery!”

He wiped his turban. “If not for you, my sister would still be trapped in a demon’s body. That’s the sole reason I haven’t removed your head yet!”

Despite their differences, the two performed a synchronized maneuver to split apart from one towering demon, its divided parts collapsing onto the more minor fiends.

Turning to his comrade, Zeloph offered, “Well, when this is all over, why don’t we settle the score? Just you and I.”

Penumbra couldn’t help the smirk curling his snout. “I’ll hold you to that, Fallen One.” His expression shifted as a rampaging ogre barreled towards them, aiming its blaster for an arm.

“Incoming!”

Both swordsmen readied their blades, but something sailed past them to intercept the lumbering goliath. The entity let out a high-pitched screech that disoriented the ogre, its mechanized arm shortcircuiting. Jumping onto and locking her legs around its neck, one sharp twist ended its lifespan short before flexibility, tossing the giant lug off the rocky surface into the infernal abyss below.

The sultry creature approached Penumbra and Zeloph with swagger; the latter instantly recognized her as Moxxi. Hand on her hip, she quipped, “Sorry about the wait, boys. I tend ter be fashionably late~!”

“Sister,” the angelic demi said, noting she had finally taken her identity as Anarchia. An electric blue leather jacket rode over her figure, a fishnet shirt concealing her bare bust and taped-out nipples. Cut jean shorts clung onto her wide hips.

“That woman is your sister?!” Penumbra stammered, his eyes unable to tear away from how voluptuous this creature was.

“Couldn’t ya tell by the good looks? Runs in the family~” Ana cheekily said with a wink. Her focus shifted to her brother, running up to wrap her arms around him. She sighed, “Good ter 'ave ya back, Zell!”

“Yeah…” he admitted before returning her hug.

Penumbra stood awkwardly before clearing his throat. “Ahem! We’re… in the middle of something..?”

“Oh, wite! End of the bloomin' world as we kna it 'appenin’,” the neon demon giggled as she and Zeloph took up a stance as more mechanized demons marched towards them. Smirking at her half-brother, she asked, “'ow long 'as it been since we danced together loike this~?”

With a slight smile, he replied, “Way too long!”

The demi-humans flew into the fray, fighting in complete harmony with each other. High on a rock, Varys quietly observed the development from afar while communicating coordinates for his zombified cyborgs to fight Penumbra and his men. The cyber demon’s drone was entirely locked on Zeloph, analyzing every aspect of him. His hand balled tightly at his side.

“Patience…” he told himself.

Alma cackled teasingly as she made her foe scurry around, avoiding each strike of her whip. “Run around all ye want! Ye’re only prolongin' th' inevitable. You were a fool tae seek this matchup~!”

“I've faced far worse odds,” panted Shadow Scythe, despite her claim not being valid. But she needed herself and her allies to remain confident. To think they were champions capable of the impossible if they hoped to survive this nightmare.

“Don’t delude yerself, wannabe reaper,” the Vice Lord hissed. “Unlike Doppia, ye face a true demon of Pathos! Before ye stands th' Baobhan Sith! Th' maker ov widows an' slayer ov men! An' before th' night is young, Ah will feast on yer heart~!”

A chuckle rose from Shadow Scythe. “Well, that’s too bad. My heart belongs to someone else…”

Her icy eyes briefly look to Zeloph, who unleashed a nova of light to blast away the warmongering demons while his sister and Penumbra toppled over them. The pale unicorn felt his warmth fill her with confidence even from a distance. He'd offered her another reason to live!

Glaring at her vampiric foe, she unleashed a storm of shadow sickles and propelled herself forward. Even with her abnormal reflexes, Alma couldn’t evade all the blades as parts of her flesh were cut off. Shadow scythe seized an opportunity to disarm her, slicing the thorny whip into ribbons.

Enraged, Alma leaped towards a stray group of soldiers and decapitated them all. Using her hemomancy, she directed their blood into herself, assimilating their life to replenish her fresh wounds. But that wasn’t all, as Shadow Scythe soon learned watching the vampire let out feral shrieks.

Her antlers grew larger, her animalistic features taking over her human appearance until Alma's face contorted into a hound-like snout with a flared nose and needle teeth. The Baobhan Sith shrieked at the reaper, who grimaced.

“A beauty and a beast,” she mockingly stated as she whirled her weapons around. But before she could attack, Alma was already in front of her, knocking the reaper away. Back on the defenses, Shadow Scythe was assaulted from all sides, the demonic beastess scuffling around faster than she could blink.

Alma’s sharpened talons secured the reaper’s cloak as she took flight, dragging Shadow Scythe into the rock and rubble before violently tossing her battered and bruised body into a pillar. Upon impact, she spat blood. Her eyes widened before she quickly blocked the vampiress’ next attack, her scythe’s shaft locked between the jaws of the beast.

“Give up already,” Alma snorted, her nostrils flaring at the scent of blood. “Sae long as th' Burning King runs free, ye will never be safe! At least when ye’re mah concubine, yer end will be far more pleasurable~!”

“That’s where you’re wrong, Baobhan Sith!” Bellatrix cried as she drove a hard kick into the Vice Lord’s head, knocking her aside. With Iclyn and Brutus aiding her sister and Lady Ewe, the she-devil focused her attention elsewhere. Roosting by her side were gargoyles straight off the manor’s roof, her personal sentinels.

Shadow Scythe managed to catch her breath and cracked her sore neck. Airly, she muttered, “Thanks…”

“Go help the others,” Bellatrix insisted, shrouded neck down in black leather. “I’ll handle this one.”

With a nod, she submerged into the shadows and rushed to her lover’s side, leaving the red-skinned mistress with the bestial demoness, who glared hotly when she met her cool stare.

“Ye should be on our side,” Alma noted. “Ye’re a fellow demoness, are ye not? Why dae ye oppose th' reign ov fire?”

“Because unlike you, I don't submit to anyone,” retorted Bellatrix, who flipped her dagger into her hand. “Let alone an omnicidal monster!”

Her declaration made the vampiress cackle wicked. “Don’t confuse mah compliance wit submission. Th' moment that bastard shows any signs ov weakness, Ah won’t hesitate tae rip his head off an' use his skull as a chalice!”

“Hmm. Cunning, insightful, and deadly. If not for that treacherous streak, you would make for a great servant in my growing court.”

Alma only laughed harder. “Fancy yerself th' Queen ov Hell, dae ye? Haha! Ye’re quite ambitious, A’ll give you that! But let’s see ye back that claim wit more than just talk!”

The Vice Lord jumped at Bellatrix, who lunged with her sentinels behind her, the two demons locking themselves in bloodied combat.

Sweat pooled down Iclyn as she continued to evade the Burning King’s claws. Aware she couldn’t keep this chase up forever, the deighdyr swirled around to start freezing the atmosphere around the skinless monstrosity.

Steam evaporated off his bare musculature, his horse head panting fowl steam. The Burning King stomped his front hooves into the ground with a frustrated snarl, sending a tectonic rupture to trip Iclyn off her course.

The doe tumbled until she caught herself with shaking limbs. Looking up, her green eyes widened as the nuckelavee steadily approached. Smoke fumed from his panting maws.

“Nͪ͏o͋wͩ͛ͣ̋̈́ͫh̡́ͪ̾ͭͤe͗͑͗̑͡rͧ̅̇̊ė̡̎̓͋ͦ̾ ͠l̔̒̂ͥͮ̕ȇ̡̉̑f̈́tͫ̾͐ ͛̕t͋͘o̎͂ r̨̉̄ŭͣͬ͋͠n̶ͨ́̾̏͒,ͣ̀” he said before vomiting flames. Instinctively, Iclyn conjured a flurry of snow to push back. Fire and ice struggled to repel one another, hissing steam wafting the air. But Iclyn felt the heat melt through her magic, hearing screams cry out from the immolation.

Thankfully, Grimmwald intervened to raise a reflective barrier that repealed the fire back at the source. The Burning King yelled in outrage when his magic blasted into his face, temporarily blinding him. This gave Oona enough time to bind his limbs with bands of light. Beatrix helped Iclyn up and, together, they unleashed a combined blizzard to whirl around the roaring monster.

The deighdyr’s eyes brightened with white, her horns shimmering with auroral light as she cast her freezing spell. When the flurry ended, the Burning King was entombed entirely in a glacial prison.

“Haaah… W-we did it!” Beatrix wheezed, holding herself by the knees while catching her breath.

“All we’ve done is stall for time,” reminded Iclyn, who narrowed her gaze at the droplets leaking down the frozen surface while heat still radiated from atop. “This won’t hold him for long…”

“Then we better use it wisely,” Brutus snorted, eying the violet unicorn. “You’ve reserved enough magic, yes?”

“I-I think I can pull off one big spell,” she considered. “Maybe if we blast him together, it’ll–”

“Won’t work,” Iclyn dejected. “The kelpie said he was empowered by all the people he has slain. Do you really think our abilities can withstand the might of thousands of tormented souls?"

“I’m afraid the deighdyr has a point,” the bull-man agreed. “Even with our combined magic, it wouldn’t be enough to obliterate the nuckelavee. We need a concrete solution, Belladonna! Or else we’re doomed!”

“Beatrix,” Oona spoke up. “Ye boasted about openin' a black hole tae swallow him up. Could ye dae it?”

The witch paled at the suggestion. “I-I mean, I’ve never done something that massive before! I don’t even know if I have the energy to try! What if I lose control, and it consumes everyone!?”

“Well, you better make a decision,” insisted the female deer. “Our problems only escalate the longer this battle goes on…”

Beatrix gulped once she observed their current circumstances. Suela held onto the remnants of her fellow mystics, Storbjorn’s stone helmet, and Gaoth’s woven cloth. The others made a valiant effort in confronting the legion of Pathos. Yet many of their own troops had fallen in battle, some reduced to scattered ashes.

And while the eldritch abomination warded off more attackers, the witch could tell by its movements the creature was waning in strength.

“... Alright, I’ll try,” ultimately decided Beatrix, who balled her fists. “Let me replenish a bit more mana. Then I’ll launch this sucker into the farthest depth of space!”

“I’ll keep the Burning King frozen for as long as I can,” Iclyn acknowledged while unleashing more flurries around the ice block.

Brutus turned to what remained of his soldiers and ordered, “We’ll surround Belladonna. Make sure nothing penetrates our defenses.”

With a salute, the paladins formed a barricade around their general, the witch, and dream shaman. “Focus, Ceann Oga. Ah know ye can dae this!” Oona whispered encouragingly.

Beatrix nodded, resting her head on her lover while concentrating on replenishing what was left in her spell pool into a spell that would turn the tide.

Another demon fell by Dion’s blade as the warrior panted heavily, sweat staining his daunt muscles. Wet Nurse and Foal Bearer were equally exhausted, resting back to back while sitting down. “Mistress–paah… really should have given us… haah… more supplements,” one sister complained.

“We haven’t fully settled with our new demonic urges,” confessed the other, who eyed her burly lover needily. “We hope this doesn’t disturb you, Sir Dion.”

“Nah, far from it,” he reassured, placing his hands on both their heads. “Ye both have gotten way stronger than Ah anticipated!”

The twins smiled, nuzzling his palm. “W-we’re… glad.”

“C’mon, guys, we can’t rest yet!” Midnight called while planting his spear through a gremlin's tiny chest, twisting it to ensure it died. The soldier was soaked in blood and perspiration, veins bulging out his arms and torso. He looked up to find his wife and best friend, still locked in their assault with the harpies. “Hang on! I’m coming-”

He yelped as a claw grabbed at his ankle, turning down to see one of the demonic corpses crawling up, letting out a sickening screech.

“Gaaah!?!”

Midnight kicked the animated torso away, only discovering other dead bodies suddenly rising back up. The twins instantly rose up, aghast. Dion muttered in disbelief, “Ye’ve gotta be fuckin' kiddin' me…”

Every single last demon the group had slain rose up anew. Some pulled together their dislocated limbs and appendages, revealing circuitry in places. Others couldn’t find the right parts and merged with different pieces, creating horrific amalgamations. And that wasn’t even the worst of it.

Penumbra froze when he witnessed his men raise up, their eyes lifeless as cybernetics started overriding their cadavers. His hold on his scimitar trembled as he rallied with the two demi-humans and Shadow Scythe.

Even the harpies and winged fiends Cerise and Moonlight had butchered began taking flight, wires crackling to reattach their wings, branding them in metal.

“Oh, well, that’s just great,” the teal-maned batmare groaned.

“No way,” Cerise panted. “We just finished slaughtering these assholes!”

“At this rate, we’ll be too exhausted before they take any lasting damage,” complained Shadow Scythe.

Ana added, “We're fucked!!”

“Not unless we take out the source,” observed Zeloph, who fixated his glare on the cyber demon watching from afar. Suspecting this was part of the Vice Lord’s Onoma, he spread his swan-shaped wings and took flight, yelling out. “Cover me!”

The zombified corpses let out a war cry and resumed their attack, forcing the defenders to fight. Cerise and Moonlight flew after to block off any pursuing harpies and give the Fallen One a clean path to Varys.

But as he soared closer, the drone levitating next to the plague doctor activated, launching a barrage of missiles at Zeloph, who spun and sliced through each projectile. When that proved obsolete, the cyber demon erected a hexagonal barrier to block his advancing foe.

But the demi persisted, and flash stepped right in front of him, forcing Varys to leap away from his swinging sword. It was Zeloph’s turn to square off with a Vice Lord, maneuvering around the drone’s laser blasts while keeping his opponent on the defense.

“Nice,” the reaper commented. “He’s got him on the ropes!”

“Go get him, Zelly!” Cheered the neon demoness.

But Moonlight noticed the demi-human missed one of those missiles, which headed straight for Cerise, who was distracted by the fury of feathers fluttering around her. Beating her wings, she rushed over crying out, “WATCH OUT!!”

The bat mare intercepted the blast before the princess could realize it, an explosion knocking away all aerial fighters. Moonlight’s body plummeted towards the blackened earth, the membrane of her wings disintegrating.

“MOONLIGHT!!” Both Cerise and Midnight screamed, the latter bulldozing through multiple demons, corpses, and zombified cyborgs to reach her. His green eyes widened to find gremlins on top of her, scratching at her wings, tearing at her back while she hollered in agony.

At that moment, memories of the changelings similarly swarming around innocents flashed before him as he roared in rage. He grabbed the little cretins and pulled them apart limb from limb. Slobber spewed from his mouth as he bellowed, launching at the rest of the demons.

Cerise flew down to aid her herd mate, her hot pink eyes watery at sight. Only broken bones stripped of muscle and membrane remained, blood oozing out the singed flesh. “N-no..!”

“MY WINGS!!” Moonlight bawled, eyes shut as tears streamed through. “I-I CAN’T FEEL MY WINGS!!”

Zeloph had witnessed what happened, and, enraged, he empowered his zweihänder with sun fire, slicing at the cybernetic doctor’s steel-plated body. Even when Varys tried retaliating with his iron tail, the demi-human caught it with glowing hands and tore it straight from his spine. An agonized metal screech echoed before the fallen angel delivered a flurry of punches, followed by kicking him through a pillar, the rubble collapsing on top.

Varys weakly staggered to his feet, wires and sparks crackling from his battered and dented body. The beak mask was significantly compromised, his visors flickering. Nonetheless, he calmly spoke to the winged immortal.

“Most impressive,” he complimented while clutching his malfunctioning arm wear. “Every bit as powerful as I had imagined. You are a magnificent specimen!”

“Flattery will not save you, Vice Lord,” sneered Zeloph, who angled his heavenly blade to deliver the finishing blow. “I don’t give mercy to those who prey on the meek!”

“How bold of you to say that, considering your ‘complicated’ history with terrans. Not that I blame you after all the trauma you’ve endured by the hand of your father.”

His celeste blue eyes dilated at the mention of his parental figure, causing him to tackle the robotic plague doctor. Grasping him by his coat collar, Zeloph yelled, “Don’t ever mention that monster! You know nothing about my father!!”

“On the contrary,” Varys coughed. “I know quite a lot. About him. About you.”

The respiratory filters on his mask unlocked, gas hissing through the canisters. He pulled the damaged visor off with shaking hands, revealing his face to the false idol. A face Zeloph recognized all too well. His eyes became pinpoints with shock, his sword dropping from his hand.

“... N-no… it can’t be… y-you?”

A raspy human-sounding voice spoke, “It’s been a long time, Zeloph. When last we met, you were but a boy. Now, look at you. All grown up.”

From the outskirts, the others couldn’t make out what was happening. Only that the reanimated corpses had all stopped. Dion managed to get a hold of Midnight to calm him down. The pegasus collapsed by Moonlight’s side, bitter tears running down his snout. The twins did their best to ease the pain, where Wet Nurse applied her medical expertise and Foal-Bearer tore strips off her skirt.

“What’s going on?” Penumbra asked with suspicion. “Why hasn’t he slain him!?”

“I’m not sure… but something is wrong,” observed Shadow Scythe, who narrowed her worried gaze.

“Well, don’t just stand there and gawk! After him!” Ana barked, pushing away to take flight while the two ponies followed after her.

Zeloph slowly backed away while Varys stood upright, removing more pieces of his broken metal vessel. He couldn’t believe his eyes, demanding, “I-I... don't understand. W-what happened to you?”

“The Divine Father’s kindness,” he crudely stated. “When I served as his acolyte, I was fascinated with the potential breakthroughs harnessing his divinity would provide for medical science. Back then, I was only a practicing doctor with a degree in robotic engineering. But if I could obtain that power, I could have done so much more! Every ailment that has plagued mankind wiped clean from the cell. All that I required was a small sample of his blood. And… well, you can imagine his response to such a request.”

Tearing off his long cloak and metal torso, Zeloph was hit with the strong urge to puke upon seeing what little remained of the Vice Lord’s humanity. Compressed inside a cybernetic rib cage was a pulsating heart and lungs, both black and sickly looking.

“For all my servitude and dedication to his glory, my reward was a flesh-eating disease and banishment from paradise,” continued Varys, who put on his mask. “Had I failed to reach my laboratory in time, I would have surely perished. Endless days of replacing my decaying flesh until only my vitals remained. Still, the sickness could merely be slowed before fully infecting my lungs and heart.”

“It’s a miracle you’re even alive,” stated Zeloph.

“No,” the Vice Lord denied. “Miracles are for terrans who cling to the idea of a higher power. I learned a valuable lesson that day. Gods do not care for anything that isn’t themselves.”

The demi-human pursed his lips, unable to disagree with that sentiment.

“But the same can be said about humanity. It still boggles my mind how terrans have survived when they have failed as a species. Talking apes that kill each other for such trivial things! Social differences. Religion. Economy. Equality. What was the point in becoming a doctor when your patient refuses to take their medicine?”

Zeloph clenched his fist tightly, having long considered those same questions. Even as he fought against that mentality, he couldn’t shake away those doubts thoroughly.

“That’s when I discovered my calling with robotics,” Varys opened up. “Unlike people, technology is pure and clean. No risk of contamination. No distracting thoughts or emotions to prevent progress. If there is an error or damage, it can be fixed and rebuilt! And then, I had an epiphany; what if I could merge organic tissue with bionic matter?”

The fallen angel’s glare deepened as he said, “You’re insane..!”

“Am I?” Varys countered. “Back in our world, mortals depend on technology more than ever. So not only is transmutation the next logical step in evolution; it is natural! Where man and so-called gods will wither, biomechanical organisms would take over and become the dominant species. And I was to herald that great age… until I mysteriously found myself in Pathos, where my allegiance was forced to the Burning King.”

Both men looked over to where the frozen Nuckelavee stood, clouds of steam hissing through the cracking ice while the Deighdyr tried to maintain temperature. Beatrix had finished recovering and, with Oona and Grimmwald’s help, began channeling her Onoma.

“Instead of fulfilling my grand design, I worked tirelessly into weaponizing his forces for the End of Days,” the Vice Lord stated with a hint of bitterness. “Everything I created would just be destroyed. I was beginning to believe my ambition would forever be unachieved. That is... until I heard that you were present, Zeloph.”

His attention returned to the fallen angel, who nervously took up a stance while asking, “Me? What do I have to do with any of this?!”

“Everything,” answered Varys, whose drone hovered close by, carrying something in its metal arms. His celeste eyes widened upon recognizing the missing crystalline spear from the battle in Canterlot, the head still drenched in his blood.

“For so long, I’ve experimented on various subjects to find the perfect balance of cybernetic and organic components. Regular mortal tissue has proven too weak for that. But your unique genetic properties of both terran and divine DNA might just be the balance I’m looking for! Of course, I had to ensure the Burning King’s resurgence so that I could remove his infernal mark on my soul. Doppia, desperate to usurper her fellow Vice Lords, became a valuable asset at my disposal…”

“So it was you who tricked Doppia into following this entire scheme?” Zeloph declared, “Just so you could get your hands on my blood!?”

“A risky objective,” affirmed the Vice Lord. “I couldn’t rely on someone that incompetent, and I still required the Omega Prophecy to be fulfilled. But fortunately for me, your involvement with Beatrix Belladonna helped push her into pursuing the Child of Ligthendark. Thus, bringing about the End of Days and, more importantly, my freedom. And now, thanks to you…”

Varys broke apart the shaft before holding the spear tip in his hands, aiming it directly at his exposed heart.

“... I can continue my work!”

“NOOOOOO!!!”

Without hesitation, the mechanical demon plunged the bloody edge into his exposed chest, emanating a painful yell. His withered form lurched over, black bile spilling out.

Yet despite the severe wound, Zell’s essence began to take effect.

On a nanoscopic scale, the demi-human's blood was transfused with the Vice Lord’s. The newly formed cells multiplied at an alarming rate, overriding his circulatory, immune, and respiratory systems. New biomechanical tissue replenished his withered organs and limbs. Sparks of lightning wrapped and crackled around the scientist's shape.

Zeloph lunged at the doctor, trying to prevent this transformation. But the high-pitched screech and erupting energy blew him away. The demi could only watch in horror as Varys’ silhouette steadily grew larger, his body reshaping itself. Even his detached tail grew back into place.

Down below, the zombified legion of Pathos stopped attacking altogether. The party stared perplexed as they jerked with sparks of electricity crackling over their limbs before dropping limply. And when Shadowy Scythe, Ana, and Penumbra reached Zeloph, an electromagnetic pulse was unleashed across the entire crater.

Bellatrix and Alma paused their battle to gaze at the pillaring beam of electricity.

“Aaagh!? What’s happening?” The she-devil demanded with a hiss.

The Baobhan Sith responded with a sneer. “That vile doctor! What is he doing!?”

Beatrix, Oona, Brutus, Suela, and Iclyn were also drawn towards the sudden energy spike, their concentration broken long enough for the Burning King to burst free from his icy prison. Flames spewed from his roaring maws.

“Shit!!” The doe cried, trying to reapply her spell. But the nuckelavee didn’t falter, melting every layer of ice wrapped around him. Grimmwald and Beatrix once more summoned another barrier. This time, trapping the Burning King into a magical sphere. Angrily, he thrashed about, growing more impatient with this stalling tactic.

“C’mon, guys,” groaned the witch, her violet eyes locked at the dimming light. “What’s going on over there?!”

Varys stood out from the smoke when the illumination completely faded, static jolting around his upgraded form. His cloak had been bleached white, the tail end singed while tron lines pulsated. His metallic armor darkened, his raven-like mask a new shape. Between joints, internal circuitry glowed a vibrant electric purple. He now stood at three point five meters tall. The cyber demon’s hellish visors scanned over his palms, which he squeezed a couple of times.

Taking a brief inhale through his respiratory filters, Varys sighed out, “Ahhh… I feel much better!”

Shadow Scythe helped her lover to his feet while Penumbra quietly snuck around. Spiteful, the neon demon demanded, “What have you done!?”

In response, he motioned for his drone, which struggled to remain afloat due to the static interference, and requested, “Analysis.”

A brief thin beam washed over Varys from the aperture before it responded. “Scan: complete. Biological and technological symbiosis: successful. All organic tissue: galvanized. Health: stabilized. DNA structure: Demi-human.”

“No,” denied Zeloph, who refused to believe the drone. “That’s not possible!”

“Then you have much to learn,” the cyber demon said as he rolled his wrists. “It is true that you and your sister are the only natural-born Demi humans. But that doesn’t mean others weren’t made.”

“W-what..?!”

Varys gave a cruel chuckle. “Alas, poor Zeloph. Always underneath Deus’ shadow. Your father hid so much just to keep his precious lapdog on a leash.”

Apollo's light flared off the false idol’s feathers as he flew at the plague doctor, throwing down a fiery slash. But Varys anticipated this attack and retaliated by extending an electrical saw from his left gauntlet. Sparks scattered off the opposing blades until they backed off.

The Vice Lord observed this new function before laughing ecstatically. “It's been far too long since I got to carry out preliminary testing!”

Varys took up the offense with his renewed strength and forced those embedded with his cybernetics to resume the attack. Once more, the legion of Pathos came back to life, striking harder and faster at Dion, Midnight, and the twins. Cerise had to fend off more aerial assailants from reaching the cold Moonlight.

Snarling, Shadow Scythe leaped into action, trying to split Varys apart with her blades. The Vice Lord deflected each strike with his circular saw blade; some of the tendrils he sliced through. Ana kicked her way into the fight, trying to keep their foe off balance while working with the reaper. Zeloph channeled his Onoma through his sword and launched solar waves at Varys.

Sensing the incoming projectiles, Varys caught one of Anarchia’s kicks with his claw-tipped tail before flinging her into Shadow Scythe. His buzzsaw glowed with electricity as he slashed through each of the demi-human’s waves. With his other hand, a cannon formed from its gauntlet. Energy particles were sucked into the spinning nozzle as he took aim and fired a lightning ray.

Instantly, Zeloph’s ophanim shield activated to absorb the blast. Thankfully, the electrical stream ended right before his barrier dissolved.

Varys fell to one knee, clutching his short-circuiting arm. His drone scanned him once more before giving another reading.

“Warning: Energy levels depleting due to extended use! Recommendation: Avoid prolonged combat and retreat!”

“Objection,” the cyber demon replied. “Not while the Burning King remains an active threat! All of this will be for nothing if-”

Suddenly, a curved blade sliced into Varys’ back, causing him to screech and jerk his head to find the pale pegasus behind him.

“I’d be more concerned with yourself, demon,” Penumbra grunted, cleaning the oil-like blood off his scimitar. “When I’m done with you, I’ll salvage your parts for sturdier weapons! You will pay for what you’ve done to my squadron!!”

With a battle cry, the commander furiously swung his blade, managing to dent pieces of the plague doctor’s exterior. But before he could deliver the killing blow, Varys clasped his hand around Penumbra’s wrists, twisting it to release his sword’s grip.

“Primitive mindset,” Varys sneered while his talons pierced through, injecting a strange fluid. “Vengeance will only breed more vengeance. Here, allow me to alleviate your burden.”

The pegasus screamed, feeling pain jolt up throughout his arm. His green eyes dilated as binary marking slowly corroded his flesh, turning it into a sickly gray. Then his limb began to rot, his bones and muscles melting to reveal new metal parts and wires forming.

Penumbra stumbled back, crying bloody murder as the pain increased tenfold. Realizing his impending demise, the pegasus grabbed his sword and sliced off his infected arm right above the elbow.

“GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUURGGH!!”

“Brother!!” Cerise cried before ducking another harpy swoop.

“Ooh,” Varys sounded while studying the departed arm, which fully became technorganic and tried crawling away. His visors locked back on Penumbra, who tore off his cape and covered his missing limb. “Outstanding tenacity! Most mortals lack the willpower to perform self-amputation in such a dire situa-guurh!!”

A swift kick from Zeloph shut the scientist up, sending him crashing through his drone. He glared at his adversary and, with ragged breath, muttered, “Serves you right for underestimating their limits!”

Quickly, he knelt down to tend to Penumbra, using his solaromancy to cauterize the wound and prevent further blood loss. The pegasus looked to the demi-human in gratitude before surrendering to unconsciousness.

“Don’t worry,” promised Zeloph. “I’ll restore your arm an-hnngh!?!”

But he was cut off by steel pincers securing his neck before being pulled away, hanging before Varys. “Ahh, yes. That superb healing touch. What a marvelous skill you have,” the mechanical plague doctor noted. “But how does it compare to my visceral effects?”

“Let’s find out!” The Fallen One spat, using his wings to slam his opponent back. The two demi-humans squared off in a duel once more, deflecting each other's projectiles and blows. Zeloph’s zweihänder hummed loudly, burning brightly in his hand. Delivering a push kick to the Vice Lord’s midsection, he flipped into the air to bring down his sword with all his might.

Forming his circular saw blade, Varys pushed back. Bolts of heat and electricity scattered around as neither opponent relented.

But the struggling force proved too much as the saw’s serrated edges began chipping away at the blade until the sword snapped in half, launching Zeloph into a crumbled pillar. Celeste eyes aghast at his broken blade, more shattered steel falling apart from the hilt. Before Zeloph could get back up, Varys stomped his foot onto his torso, pinning him to the ground.

“This doesn’t have to end badly for you, Zeloph,” the cyber demon offered. “You'd make such a compelling apprentice. Think of all the work we could accomplish together! The dawning of a brand new era! One where demi-humans and machinery can thrive in harmony!”

Varys extended his left hand and said, “Join me, and all who follow will look to you as-”

“Their savor?” The fallen angel cut him off. “No, I’ve been down that route. All I accomplished was heartache and ruin. I will not be the precipice of humanity. And I will not stand by as you corrupt more innocent lives! You’re not a doctor, Varys. You’re sick!”

The light in his visors narrowed, using his hand to instead grab the demi’s neck, holding him up.

“No, Zeloph,” he told him as he poised his right extended talons, transmutative liquid dripping down the points. “Humanity is sick! I am the cure!!”

With a schling, a sickle sliced through Varys’ hand. Outraged, he threw the Fallen One away before another wave of magic knocked the cyber demon off his feet. Weapon raised overhead; Shadow Scythe floated down to take a defensive stand in front of her lover and spat, “Cure that!”

Oily blood oozed from his missing limb as Varys formatted his buzzsaw blade. But his other arm became crushed under venus flytrap jaws when Ana swooped down, eyes glaring red.

“Keep your nasty claws off my brother!” She yelled before tearing the limb off. The Vice Lord stumbled back on trembling legs, jolts and fried circuits crackling from his gushing wounds. Then he saw the rest of their entourage climb up and rally behind, the warriors and twins covered in bruises, scratches, and demon blood. The reaper lifted the weakened demi over her shoulder while Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer secured Penumbra.

A harrowing shriek sounded as Alma was tossed next to him, reverting to her humanoid form. Bellatrix and what remained of her stone sentinels touched down, surrounding the Vice Lords. A colossal shadow rose behind them when the mansion emerged, the beast within having eaten Pathos’ army for demonic sustenance. Several tentacles severed from the exterior as discolored blood oozed and squirted from its wounds. Crunches sounded from its mouths.

“It’s over for you,” the succubus declared. “Surrender now, and I’ll-”

A thunderous scream drew everyone's attention back to Beatrix and her group. The barrier keeping the Burning King at bay shattered as the avatar of destruction bellowed with outrage.

“Yͨ̾ͦ́o̍̈̃́ù̇̍́̐͛͒͛ͩ̀’̛̓͂́v͋̔͌͋ͥ͊̑҉̸͠e͑̊̍̌͏̢͢ ͩ̒ͮ͌̈̌̉ͮ̃iͣ̈̄ͦ̓͟n̸̴̆̒ç̧̿̈́̽͗ͮ̑͗a̎̓͏̨͞r̅̌ͩ̆́̀̊̚͏̛c̵̢̆̒e̽́ͨ̾͆̇́͞ŕ͊̋́͠aͬͭͣͭͣ̉́͞tͫ̈͑ͫ͜͢͟e͑ͧͤ̇͒͟d̆͆͒͛͋ ͦͯͤ̅̿ͨ͊̓m̢͋̉̽͒ͬ͊̎e̡̓̑̓̈́ͧ̉ͪ͡҉ ̸̄̐̃f̡ͣ̈͛̃o̽ͣ̀͠͞r̷͒͊ͫ̒̇͞ ̴ͪ͐͂͞t̀̆̈ͣ̌͠ḩ̷̂eͬ̏́͗ͩ̀ ̶̡ͤ͛͊ͧ͞L̅͌͂ͯÄ́̑̿͢͢S̢̨ͧ̀̓͝T͒͋̋̎̓̂҉̸ ̢̉̋ͫ̂̿͋͛̚͘͠T̛͛ͮ̋I̶ͩ̃̔̀ͨ̍̀M̍̒͌̇͐͌̍̕E̐ͥ̿͆̀̄̉̒̍͠͠!̇̂͠” The Burning King declared, his crown roaring with a plume of phantasmal flames. “N̶ͣ̄̃ͪ̏̃̓̈́͘͡oͦ̎̚҉̸͏wͥ̍͑ͯ̽́̚͠.̷ͮ͌.̎ͥ͛̀́.̴́̽!͑ͣ ͦ͆ͨ͟E̴͊͋͂̇̐̊ͫ͒Vͪͭ͗ͯͮ͐ͦ̆Eͥ̾̎͆̌̀̔ͯR̵̶͋̓̈̀͑̅ͧY͊ͥͦ̑́O̧̎ͯ̑̉ͯ͡N͌ͧ̌͟E̒̓̒̑̈ͭ̏̈́ͩ!̈́ͫ̉͆ͭ͗̌̕!̧̊͜ ̷̓̌̋̿͟D̸ͥ̏̎͊̓͂̓ͥ͟I͗̅̈ͥ̈ͪI̶̷̽͌ͤ̓͗̓̃͡Iͭ̍̈́̓͠͝Iͭ͌̽ͩ̈̕Ïͫ͋̎̍͋́̚ȊͫI͐̆ͧ͡I̐̄̓̉ͭ̑̽̕Ȋ̚Iͧͯ͝Ǐ̴̆͡E̴ͮͩ͋̆ͦ̈́̈́҉E̽ͧ̚E̶ͫ͛͒Eͪ͛ͪ̂͐̐́͘Eͣ̔E̸͊̉̚E̛ͪ̐͋ͯĘ̢ͬ́́È̡̊̑̓̒̈ͤỀ̛̓ͫͮ͌͋S̀ͥ̿͑ͧ͂̿͏S̢ͦ̎̉̎̏͆ͯS̵̸ͩ!̡̾͒̓ͪͭͪ̂̇́!ͨ̂͌̄͏͠!̴̛̆̃̐͝”

A pyre erupted from the Burning King as he went ballistic. Ashe and embers rained from the immolated heavens. The scorching heat was hot enough to melt Douglas from his icy prison. The kelpie took in the situation, watching his ruler unleash his unbridled wrath in flames. Aware he was at a major disadvantage, the drowned stallion gave a reasonable response,

“... naw, fuck this!!”

And jumped into the infernal vortex in hopes it'll take him far away from hell’s reach.

Varys observed what remained of the legion of Pathos. Each of their vessels combusted as their ignited souls were sucked into the infernal vacuum spiraling around their master. His visors shifted to his foes, who clutched at their heads from the sudden searing pain. Realizing this was his only chance to escape, the Vice Lord made a leap towards his damaged drone and pierced it with the extraction from his tail.

The machine emitted an ear-piercing squeal before dissolving into particles, flowing through the cyber demon’s body. Varys managed to mend his broken arms with the salvage material, with the addition of bionic wings sprouting from his back.

“Varys!!” Zeloph strained as he attempted to run after him before tumbling down.

“Another time, Zeloph,” the cyber demon swore as he took flight. “Now go, and be a hero!”

“You cowardly swine,” came the angered shriek of Alma, who watched both her comrades disappear into the fiery cosmos, abandoning her. “Get back here or sae help me, A’ll-uuuaaah!?”

Her rant was cut off from the elongated tongue that wrapped around her and dragged the vampiress through the manor’s doors. Her screams were drowned by the sickening belch the beast let out, swallowed into the darkness.

“Can’t let all the demons escape,” Bellatrix stated. “Now hurry! We have to–GAAGH!”

Everyone gasped as the she-devil's chest was skewered by the Burning King, who pulled out her heart and crushed it mid-beat like a bloody water balloon, where it burst into a red spray.

“SISTER!!” Beatrix shouted when Lady Ewe, Iclyn, and Lord Grimmwald chased after the Avatar of Destruction. Bellatrix’s body collapsed, crimson juices seeping out the cavity in her chest. The nuckelavee rose on his hind legs, letting out a horrid cry while on a rampage.

All who were able jumped in to attack their final foe. Dion and Midnight yelled while grappling the skinless demon’s front, ignoring the burns scorching their flesh. Shadow Scythe, Ana, and Cerise lashed at his claws, ducking whenever the Burning King attacked. Iclyn launched icicle shards into his back, at least wounding the monster before her magic evaporated. Brutus erected one last barrier in front of their wounded should things go wrong. Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse guarded their fallen mistress, axes in hand, while Oona and Suela patched up Zeloph.

This left Beatrix to conjure their coup de grace, mustering as much dark and archaic magic into her hand as she could, aware that now was her only shot to take down the Avatar of Destruction.

“Aaagh!! Hurry, lass!!” The warrior ram yelled, straining to pin the skinless horseman’s front legs, aware he could buckle in an instant.

“We can’t hold him back much longer!” The pegasus soldier seethed as his veins pulsed.

“We’re dying here, Belladonna!!” The reaper screamed when she abandoned her white cloak that caught fire. "It's now or never-!"

“H-Hang on! We’ve got this,” the charcoal princess declared before plunging her spear into the cycloptic eye of the steed head. A painful screech emanated out its maw before Cerise was dealt a heavy blow from the Burning King’s talon, slicing through her midriff. She doubled over to vomit.

“CERISE!!!” Midnight bellowed before his hold loosened enough for the nuckelavee to kick both warriors aside. Shadow Scythe made a swipe at his arm only to get back fisted, knocking her into the deighdyr. The neon demon snarled, slashing at the Burning King’s face to blind him. But she, too, was dealt with brutality, her body raked and singed by his hand before collapsing.

“NO!” Beatrix screamed, watching with fearful eyes as all her battered friends lay motionless on the blackened ground. Then they fell on the Burning King, whose wounded body smoked and oozed with hot discolored blood.

“Y͋͑͡͠o͆͗͢͟u͛̊̊̂̒̆ͭ̚ř͞ ̨ͤ̾̓ͯ͠j́̽ͫ͆͂҉ơ̎̉̉͂ͫ͋̿̑́̕ų̢̓ͫ̃̕r̶ͣͣ͟n̈́̑ͬ͑̓̄ͯ͏eͬ̅̌͗͊͛̆̚͝ÿ̒ͭ̇ ̨ͤͯ̎͢e̶ͬͮ̈́ͬ̓ͤ́͞n̢̅̐͐̂̉̒̚҉̧ď̛̊ͮ̆̑́̚s͌̇ ̀̑̔̈̍͗̿͒h̒ͧ̄̄̽̒ͦ̚͡e͒ͣ͛̕͡r̡͆ͤe͌͊͘͢͝,̵̛ͫ͐ͤ̇͡ ̛̅̈͑ͧ̄͆͘w̵̡̃̽̀i̓̔̅tͥͩ͘cͫͫ͒̔͑͒́h̛̓͊̐ͮ̓ͩ́!ͭ́ͥ͐ͨͨ̆̕!͐͑́̄̿̒̚͏” The Avatar of Destruction roared when he made a beeline for her. Panic escalated once Beatrix prepared to fire her spell prematurely before a storm of prismatic fireworks exploded in front of his face.

Her childish twin floated in between them, crying out, “LEAVE MY FRIENDS ALONE, YOU BIG MEANIE!”

“MIni-Trix!? No! Get out of here! It’s dangerous!!”

“Nu-uh! You gotta give him everything you’ve got, or our goose is cooked!”

“F̈̔ͯ͒́Ǫ̐ͬ̅ͬ͗ͥͮ̕͢Uͫ̿͡L̢ͮ͊͑ͧ,͗̑͝ ̶ͥ̊ͫ͋͞͝L̡̈́ͪ́͡I̽̅̔͛̃̎̄̎̽́T̶̵ͭ̌ͭ̎ͯ͒͊͠T̢͂ͥ̃Ļ̵̑̎͑ͫ̑ͦ̃̚͡Eͧ̈҉͞ ̶ͤͫ͒ͣ̈C̴̨̔́R̆̐́͡E̛̓ͥ͡T̢̆́̃̇̈̀I̧̓ͤͯ͏N̴̐̔̅ͭͮͨ!͐̂͘!͌̈́́́͝!̆̐̽͐̔͐” The Burning King bellowed as the tulpa pulled his attention towards her, dropping an obscene amount of smoke bombs, rockets, and sparklers to distract him. The wayward witch gave one final push until she built up spell proved fully potent with short breaths.

“I-I got it! Now get out of the way, Mini-”

Beatrix nearly lost composure at the sight of the little mare trapped within the Burning King’s grasp, evaporating into ashes with shrill dying screams. Releasing the blackened dust, he turned his decrepit skull back to her, a rictus grin stretched while he sprinted over to finish her off.

Tears streamed down the witch’s face before she wailed like a banshee, her power fluxing as she unleashed the dark sphere at the nuckelavee’s chest. The Nuckelavee realized too late what had been thrown at him until an unnatural force began pulling within. The black hole expanded, bending the Burning King’s form as his musculature, bones, and flames were assimilated into the dark mass. Outraged, he desperately hooked his claws into the ground, wailing at Beatrix while his stretched flesh and matter were stripped piece-by-piece off his burnt skeleton.

Futilely, he reached to grab the violet mare, which cost him his grip. The witch witnessed the Burning King’s demise with righteous fury, watching the flames extinguish from his head and torso while his skinless body stretched until it dissolved into nothingness. His final drawn-out scream echoed throughout the timeless void.

With what little energy she had left, Beatrix dispelled the black hole before it could grow out of control. Her eyes rolled up into her head when the exhausted witch flopped into unconsciousness. The last thing to grace her ears was Oona’s soft voice, who cried out her name.

When next, Beatrix awoke, dizziness overwhelmed her. It felt like she was being pulled in many directions at once. As her dulled vision became less blurry, she found herself back inside the mansion, at rest in her dim bedroom.

And seated by her side was her beloved Oona, who let out a gasp seeing her marefriend stir. Beatrix was enveloped in warmth and wool, along with gentle tears dripping down the sheep sage’s face. “Oh, thank th' spirits,” she wept. “Ah don’t know what Ah would do if ye didn’t wake up!”

“A-auugh! E-easy, teach! I’m okay,” Beatrix assured, shuffling to sit up and return the hug. “My head is spinning a little, but I’ll be–”

“Not another word,” Lady Ewe shushed, laying the mare’s head down.

“B-but what happened after I blacked out?” She insisted, struggling to push back against her lover’s soft hands. “What about the Burning King?! And all the Vice Lords and his army? Are we still-”

“Shhhhhh,” the azure sheep hushed again before pointing towards the window, revealing a star-filled sky. “While th' prophecy came true, th' End ov Days has come tae pass,” Oona said with a smile. “Somehow, against all odds, the Burnin' King was vanquished during that final attack!”

“So then I’m not dreaming? W-we’re home!?”

Oona beamed a smile and nodded, patting her slightly swelled out tummy. “An' Abadonna’s safe an' sound inside me. We did it, Ceann Oga!”

“W-we did? Hah… w-we did!!” Happy tears streamed down her cheeks before the witch launched up to squeeze her wooly lover into a tighter hug, which she returned. The future parents cradled one another, laughing and sobbing simultaneously before sharing a long romantic kiss, cuddled close in her bed.

When Beatrix pulled away, she asked, “What about everyone else? Are they okay!?”

“They are,” confirmed the dream shaman, who lightly pushed the mare down. “A lot are recoverin' from th' grueling battle, an' only a few can help tend tae th' injured.”

The witch laid her head down, aware that the were many casualties. From the mystic guardians to the brave soldiers. As well as her own little creation being burnt to a crisp. And even then, no one came out unscathed, recalling Bellatrix having her heart ripped out and both Penumbra and Moonlight losing valuable limbs. She glanced at the walls, realizing blood seeped through the crevices. The eldritch creature was so weak it could barely maintain its house-like shell. Groans echoed throughout the labyrinthine corridors in low, eerie wails that sounded alien in nature.

“Fur now, Ah suggest ye rest,” Lady Ewe urged, running a hand through the witch’s platinum locks tinged in violet and placing another tender kiss upon her forehead. “We have much tae discuss once e'eryone is feelin' better.”

With a reluctant sigh, Beatrix conceded and relaxed into the bed. Watching the azure sheep walk away, she sang, “I love you, Oona~!”

“Ah love you, too, Beatrix. Ah always will,” she affirmed before gingerly shutting the door, leaving the adventurous witch to get a couple more hours of well-deserved sleep.

After all the hardships and certain death she and her band of misfits faced, Beatrix Belladonna felt like she rightfully earned a small respite at last.

Epilogue

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.”

𝒯 𝒽 𝑒 𝐸 𝓃 𝒹

Chapter I: Child of Lightendark & the Wayward Witch

Light footsteps padded in the darkness. The unicorn mare's ears flicked in response to each echoing movement, dulled only by the clocks that chimed around her. The pathways were lined by towering bookshelves, each one's jacket adorned by descriptions of various dates. She didn’t have time to slow down, echoing footsteps not too distant from her. Her eyes dilated, seeing a strange cyan light grow stronger along the stainless floor.

Abadonna had no clue how long she’d been in this place, but she wanted out. Now!

Clenching her teeth, the little filly picked up the pace, her lungs burning within her chest. It didn’t help that her form kept glitching without warning, parts of herself separating into small blocks that caused her to trip again. Yet Abby only got back up and fought through the distortions messing with her monochrome mass.

Abadonna hid behind one shelf, catching her breath as quietly as she could, the glow of the illuminated figure shimmering through each isle before passing towards the other side. The deformed unicorn sliding down, taking a moment to respite. Her head felt like it was splitting, straining to keep her hand from dematerializing, with little changing.

Her dwindling ability to maintain her presence didn’t happen until what she assumed was three days ago. What magic she could do had depleted, her horn too bent out of shape. Abadonna suspected this was because of the shift between her parents. They must have been far apart from each other, not just physical. She could still recall the look of shock and horror in her father’s eyes when he was banished. As well as her mother’s tearful promise of finding her.

“Mommy… D-dad…” The grey child whispered to herself, hoping one of them could somehow hear her.

Her throat tightened in dread as the familiar glow grew brighter. Frantically, Abby picked herself back up and ran across from the shelves. Huffing and nearly stumbling over her robes, droplets of sweat beaded her skin and dripped over a face partially covered by mottled scales, a cruel reminder that she was incomplete.

Despite his best efforts, her father could not help Abadonna properly maintain shape whenever she manifested in the physical realm. And because of their rift, she found herself lost in this ancient conjunction of gears, books, and clocks. Was it even possible for anyone to find this place?

“Huff...huff...” Abby wheezed, almost spent again. Her heart hammered, head-turning for any way out of this neverending labyrinthine maze. She glanced down, the ethereal blue glow stretching her shadow. It was right behind her!

She didn’t lift her head up in time to realize she’d reach a dead end. Abadonna slammed into a giant glass barrier, her form stumbling back onto her rump. Abby’s eyes widened to see the vastness of space moving along the window, many galaxies and stars brightening the black void.

If Abby didn’t feel small before, she definitely felt insignificant. Her head turned, back against the glass wall, the large ball of light growing more extensive as it steadily approached her. The filly flared her horn, small sparks of whatever energy she had left sprinkling out as she tried to defend herself. Her mother nor her father would go down whimpering!

“I-I’m not afraid,” she insisted, more to herself than the pursuing light, balling her fists up, eye squinching to adjust against the light’s glare.

Suddenly, large wings unfurled as a body formed. A large, cat-like body gently touched the floor; its front legs the hooked talons of a bird. Many layers of fur rested along its long neck, two long strains braided over its chest. Its head bore the face of an owl, Head feathers spaced out in a cross.

Abadonna gazed over the celestial creature in astonishment. Like her, it too was transparent, its form glittering with stars and light. And upon staring into those enormous eyes, the little mare could see a small galaxy within! Abby jumped the moment the being spoke; a calm, baritone voice arose from its beak.

“You have nothing to fear,” they said. “I have no intention of harming you.”

Their words, while comforting, didn’t encourage Abby to lower her guard. “Then why were you chasing me?! Can’t you see I-’m g̴͠-̢̨g͘͞á̡̧͡a̧̢̧̕͟à̛͘͞u̕͢g̴̵̶͘H̢͘͜H̶́̕͠!̧͟͞” She coughed out, her body glitching as Abadonna clutched her stomach.

The owl-griff sat its hind legs down, stretching their long neck to better examine her. “You’re suffering, yes. I wanted to help, but yet you kept running away. So lost and confused about where you were.”

“G̷̸n̡̡͢͝ń̴f̵̶̶̕f̛̛́̕n͘͠!̧͜ M-mhm!” She sniffled, curling into a ball against the glass. “W-well, where am I? And who are you!?”

“I am Enock,” the celestial introduced themselves. “And this...” All at once, light illuminates the once dark place, revealing how vast and pristine it was. Everything that wasn’t a book looked to be made of steel or crystal! Thousands of clocks, all different in age and shape, clicked away at different rhythms. “...This is my sanctuary.”

“Wow...” Abadonna marvelled, eyes lighting up momentarily before another glitch broke her amazement. The celestial beast sat down on their hind legs, stretching ou their neck to better examine her condition. Enock’s eyes were so wide, Abby could see herself clearly in reflection.

“Unbelievable,” Enock commented, stroking over her head with a claw. “I can touch you for one moment…” The filly yelped, another hiccup glitching her body, causing their talon to phase through her head. “... But not the next. It’s as if you’re in an endless battle to keep your existence! What is your name, child?”

“A̵͜-̧A̸b̀͞a̸̸͟.̛͝.̷̀͢.̶͜͡donna..” The monochrome filly panted weakly.

“Abadonna... Yes, I have heard that name before. Hmm...” The owl-griff stroked their mane in thought before turning their head entirely around, extending their neck towards a shelf of books, making Abby squirm a bit. Enock looked over a few covers before spotting the one that interested them. The celestial hooted before clamping their beak on it, pulling it out as their neck retracted back to ‘normal’ length.

The book opened, Enock licking one talon to scan through the pages before stopping on one. “Ahah! There you are!” The owl-griff presented the filly with the page entry, paragraphs going into detail about depicting a small creature, bathing in grey colors that split off from two entities; one white, the other black.

Abadonna did her best to remain stable, eyes sweeping over the picture of herself. “T-that’s me! W-hat exactly is this?”

“You are the Child of Lightendark,” Enock responded. “It is prophesized that a young soul, born from two opposite ends of fate. One parent is a beacon of hope, the other an avatar of darkness. Through their union, a child of unimaginable power will come forth. A power so awesome, they could change the multiverse's fate if given enough time to flourish!”

“Ww-hooa…” She wheezed, trailing her finger over the depiction. She recalled her father knowing about this prophecy, telling her she would be destined for great things. And this was actual proof! If only her mother was here to read this, she’d be so proud…

“But then,” Enock continued, head tilting to the side with a puzzled expression. “You’re not supposed to be here.”

“I-I agree,” Abby nodded, coughing out more distortions. “I-I got separated from my mommy and daddy. M-Maybe if you help me get back, I-I’ll be-”

“No,” the owl-griff cuts in, shaking their head. “That’s not what I meant. You’re not supposed to exist yet.”

“W-whaat?!”

Enock turned around, lowering their body and wings onto the floor. A slight jerk of their head motioned Abadonna to climb onto them. “Come. I will explain.”

With shaking steps, the little filly grabbed onto the cosmic entity’s form, surprised to feel the softness of fur and feathers on Enock’s otherwise incorporeal form. And with a couple of flaps of their enormous wings, the owl-griff took off, soaring silently through the further reaches of the establishment. Gripping tightly, Abby looked around as many clocks, shelves, and machinery passed by, her hair whipping along through the stream.

“Hang on,” was Enock’s only warning before they dipped down in a fast dive, Abby screaming in excitement as they descended below. She was thankful her glitching had momentarily stopped, or she might have fallen off!

Fixing their wings, the celestial beast slowed their declining speed, making big beats until they gently glided down towards a new section of the library, much more dimly lit. All around were small orbs of light, shimmering around in a globe. The grey filly must have been one of the few people to experience such a magical place!

“W-where is this library located?” Abadonna asked, hoping to come back with her mother once this mess was behind her.

“Everywhere and nowhere,” Enock answered. “I built this library to collect all the knowledge and history of the cosmos—a never-ending journey through the fabrics of time and space. Currently, we’re in the Mesozoic era of a sapient universe. But in a matter of moments, we’ll be at a different point in time.”

“Whoa! S-so this whole library essentially is a giant time travel device?”

“In a sense,” the celestial chuckled. “We’re not traveling anywhere in particular, but traveling through time itself. This ensures the safety of all things within the library. No malevolent forces can find this place, for they could learn something that might threaten the destruction of one’s timeline.”

Abadonna groaned, feeling overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of it all. “But if p-people aren’t meant to be here… H-how did I do it?”

“I believe you were meant to come here,” Enock hypothesized. “After all, what better place for one who shouldn’t exist than a plain of existence flowing through many timelines and events?”

Abby considered this theory as the celestial owl-griff found a spot to land, gently beating their wings. Once more, Enock pinned their body to the floor until the little mare slid off, her white orbs gazing over a massive sphere before them, small pillars of light spiralling around it.

But that wasn't what caught the unicorn’s attention. One pillar was devoid of color, weakly phasing in and out through distorted static, much like the monochrome filly was.

“That represents your timeline,” Enock explained. “Through some strange phenomenon, you were conceived long before you were meant to. And the universe is attempting to correct this grievous error. I fear it won’t be long until you cease to be all together.”

“N-no!” Abby trembled, frightened of the implications. How long until her body finally gave up on fighting reality? Would the pain get worse? She couldn’t comprehend the thought of disappearing. “I-I don’t wanna... I-I want my mommy! My daddy!”

The celestial looked over the sobbing filly, watching her pull her legs into her chest, tears glistening through her mutated cheeks. They examined the glitching pillar, reading into it a little before fully turning towards Abadonna.

“Normally, such things are inevitable. To mess with one timeline could threaten the complete erasure of others. However, your’s makes an interesting case. And while we are mere dust particles that make up the entire galaxy, each of us holds importance. Yes...” They nodded, lowering their head to nuzzle the sad filly, the two sharing a glance at each other, a slight curl formed from Enock’s beak.

“I will help you, Abadonna. Follow me.”

Rubbing the wetness off her face, Abby nodded as she waddled to follow the owl-griff up a large fleet of stairs. At the top, they reached a door. And inside was a massive roof of glass, more stars, and constellations passing by in an array of colors. Enock manifested a large variety of pillows, patting on for Abby to lay onto.

“Sleep, Abadonna,” Enock told her.“I will place this section under stasis. Time will not flow around you as long as you slumber.”

“B-but…” Abadonna yawned, realizing how fatigued she was in trying to fight off the glitches. Her body automatically started to curl into the pillows comfortably, clutching at her rags like a blanket. “Why are you doing this for me? I-Isn’t there some form of conse...con- quent..”

“Consequence,” they corrected. “There is. My entire library is at risk of being infiltrated due to your presence. At the same time, I find it remarkable that one girl is fighting fate itself for her right to exist. How is that not worth the risk?”

Tears welled her eyes once more, a big, grateful smile on her face before her eyelids fluttered shut. A low, “... t-thank... you…” was her last response before Abadonna drifted off, her glitching freezing in place.

Enock closed the door before they silently glided back down towards the globe of light, studying the other anomalies. One orb shined brighter than the others, while a smaller dot blinked from the other end.

“Worry not, dear child. You will be with your parents soon,” the celestial proclaimed. “I sense a great shift in the cosmo as two opposing forces race towards this establishment. Who will reach here first remains to be foretold? But like all wondrous things that make up our worlds... It’s only a matter of time.”

𝔼 𝕧 𝕖 𝕣 𝕪 𝕨 𝕙 𝕖 𝕣 𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕕 ℕ 𝕠 𝕨 𝕙 𝕖 𝕣 𝕖

𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒮𝑒𝒶𝓇𝒸𝒽 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒜𝒷𝒶𝒹𝑜𝓃𝓃𝒶

The pile of books continued to stack up as Beatrix tossed another after scanning through its pages. The section only had a couple left, the tired witch taking a long sigh before sitting down and picking up the next book. Her horn lit up to turn over each page, violet eyes slowly moving from side to side under furrowed brows.

Six Months had passed since Beatrix Belladonna began her quest for her missing daughter. Ever since her friend’s wedding, the spacial sorceress ventured into every library she could visit to find even a hint of where Abadonna could be. Today’s route brought her to a version of Manehattan, where monsters ran rampant through the busy streets. Beatrix fought a handful right before finding the public library. And since then, she’s been devouring every tome and grimoire this place had to offer.

Due to her portal hopping shenanigans, Beatrix remained unaffected by age, preserving her youthful appearance. Her platinum locks had grown out a bit, a tinge of violet highlights draped over her face while she read. Plump purple velvet clung tightly over her violet coat, a high-cut leotard amplifying her cleavage. Long-heeled boots did the same to her curvy thighs. Matching fingerless gloves draped over each arm, a wide-brimmed witch’s hat tilted to the side of her head. Beatrix’s cape tucked behind, held around her neck by the Prima Materia, a bauble shaped like a stylized eye. And each part of her sultry attire was decorated in fur similar to an Ursa Minor’s coat.

Beatrix took after her mother, a proud traveling magician. If she didn’t boast herself in both voice and body, no one would take her seriously. The opposite was right, too, often being labeled as some ‘slutty witch cosplayer.’ Not that she minds, all the more to tease and entice them before unveiling the big surprise.

But such an attitude was not present as she shuffled the thin pages of her current read, her frown growing more perpetual before she reached the end. Unable to restrain her mounting frustration, Beatrix chucked the book at the pile, knocking others aside.

“Damn it!” She cursed, rubbing her temples. “Should have known better than to think a public library would have anything on otherworldly endeavours. I was sure that one library in middle age Equestria would have something! Ugh, me and my rotten luck…”

A wry sigh escaped her lips, the back of the witch’s head hitting the shelf as her body slid down, legs tucked into her squishy chest. Doubt and dread took ample root within her mind, the thought of never finding her daughter harder to ignore.

For the first time, ever since dedicating herself to exploring multiple worlds, Beatrix understood how small she was in the endless vastness of space. It might as well take her eons to check every corner, and there’d still be unexplored worlds and galaxies. All she had to go by was Abadonna’s unique magical signature, which she could hardly detect anymore with how faint it was.

Beatrix felt the familiar sting of tears building, wiping her eyes. The witch promised herself she wouldn’t cry, that she wouldn’t give up. Yet what else could she do? Each day she spent searching, or reading was another day she wasn’t with her. Was she okay? How stable was she?

Beatrix shook her head, knowing worrying over Abby’s safety would only make her feel worse. “Okay, let’s take a deep breath,” She told herself, inhaling and exhaling slowly. “Sure, things look bad. But gotta think of the positives. Lady Ewe’s out there searching for her too! So is Bellatrix, Dion, Moxxi... Z-Zeloph… probably…”

The witch felt her heartache recalling the vivid memories of the false messiah. Practically a demi-god, Zeloph tried to purge the world of Equestria with ill intentions, narrowly succeeding. She met, loved, and feared him who would be known in infamy as the Fallen One. And despite everything cruel and merciless about him, Zeloph did show love for their daughter.

More concerning questions dauntlessly pressured her head. What if he already found her? What if Abby no longer knew who she was thanks to his influence?

Beatrix let out a loud cry, power flaring in her clenched fist before slamming it into the bookshelf, causing it to tremble. She hissed, clutching her hand. The shelf once more shook, causing her to look at it in confusion.

It rumbled again, this time accompanied by a low thump sound. Then another heavy thump, causing the remaining books to drop out.

“What the..?!”

Her ears twitched as the sound of screaming came from outside, the rumbling getting louder and thunderous. Beatrix looked over to the window, the entire building now quaking, almost causing the witch to lose her balance. A troubled sigh left her lips as she dusted off her cape and sleeves. “Hmph! Rarely is there any peace, no matter where I travel…” From the sounds of it, it was another monster, though a lot bigger than most?

Still, perhaps taking it down would help ease her mind and renew her vigor. Using her magic to quickly sort the books back into their shelves, though most likely in the wrong categories, Beatrix whisked her cape before walking confidently outside.

Upon making her exit, Beatrix was nearly shoved back by the crowd of ponies running away, screaming in terror.

This particular version of Manehattan had become a ‘monster magnet,’ attracting all sorts of creatures and cryptids for some unknown reason. Beatrix wrestled with a pack of Timberwolves on her way to the library. So surely, one more wouldn’t be a huge problem, right?

A thunderous quake pulled her attention towards the source of all the chaos, peering up the looming shadow blocking the sunlight. The unicorn’s violet pupils dilated, her expression pale.

“Oh… that’s really big.”

The monster’s roar echoed through the streets, enough force to shatter glass. It was easily taller than the highest skyscraper, most rooftops only reaching under its fat torso. It had dark green skin, tusk-like yellow teeth curving out its bottom lip, and one giant red eye taking up most of its skull. Along its bald head was a crown of purple horns. Each step it took caused its obtuse nude body to jiggle grotesquely, though thankfully, it lacked any genitals. That would have been horrifying!

Overhead, Beatrix watched as the Manehattan military force flew by, brave pegasus attempting to take on the cyclops. Of course, it was futile, as it quickly swatted them away like flies. Some flew into the rubble of collapsed stones, bones breaking upon impact. Others had the unfortunate fate of being caught and thrown into its mouth, harrowing in fear.

Beatrix stood still for a good minute before shaking herself out of it, putting on a brave face. “Okay… Nothing out of the ordinary for you, Bea! Just a really… gargantuan monster that could crush you.” The witch swallowed the lump in her throat as she looked around for something she might use as leverage. The violet unicorn then found one particular building high enough and quickly ran towards the fire escape. Another thud from the titan almost caused Beatrix to slip back before she reached the top. Catching her breath, she steadily approached the lead, cap whipping about in the wind as the monster drew closer. With a deep breath, she called out,

“Alright, ugly! Prepare to be dazzled, starstruck, and captivated by the all-mighty powers of wondrous and fabulous Beatrix Belladonna! Spacial sorceress of the… t-the... uhhh…”

Her proud declaration was ignored by the one-eyed titan, the massive creature continuing its path. The unicorn puffed her cheeks and stamped her heel, absolutely steamed by the audacity of this beast.

“HEY!!” She shouted louder. “DON’T YOU KNOW IT'S RUDE TO IGNORE SOMEONE TALKING TO YOU!?”

The cyclops momentarily stopped, as if it did hear her, before digging a nail into its ear and pulling out a ball of wax. The giant sniffed its finger before flicking the grimy glob away and continuing its destructive walk.

“GRRRAGH!! THAT DOES IT! TAKE THIS!!” Beatrix furiously yelled, firing off a lightning spell to electrocute the fat bastard. Despite the intensity and potency, her attack harmlessly bounced off its bulk, not even leaving a scorch mark. Clenching her teeth, she teleported to another building ahead, casting another spell to throw fire, yet doing little to damage the cyclops. Beatrix continued to hop around rooftops, launching flurries of different magic and energy to slow down the humongous beast or even divert its attention.

Yet nothing the witch threw at it stopped it, all her spells and tricks unable to do any significant harm to its leathery skin and overwhelming size.

“Blubbering walrus!” she spat in frustration, fists clenched tightly, aura steaming off her knuckles. If she didn’t do something quick, more lives would be lost. And the collateral damage would be too much to recover.

“Curse it all… Guess I have no choice. I’ll have to play my trump card.”

Best as she could among all the stomping and cries of terror, Beatrix closed her eyes and focused her breathing on slowing down, calling the power of the Demiurge that stirred within her. Once an eldritch evil, it now settled within her Prima Materia, only being conjured should circumstances like this prove dire. For all her time doing research, Beatrix had yet to properly master the arcane magic of Erebus. Sometimes, she could pull it off, only for it to grow more uncontrollable. There were a couple of days where the spacial sorceress couldn’t even muster it fully! But if she didn’t act now, thousands would perish.

So with a gentle exhale, Beatrix clasped the Prima Materia and whispered, “Oona, please be with me…”

As her eyes opened, familiar darkness enclosed her in coolness, a reminder that the abomination once wore her skin. But now, they fought in unity. The Demiurge settled around her figure before completing the merge, untapped power flowing off Beatrix like flames. The very cosmos itself trails around her as she lifts to the skies. It garbed her otherwise nude form, her starry mane swirling around her neck, eyes narrowed with determination.

That’s when the monster finally noticed her, its large, horrible eye staring with a widened pupil.

“About time you noticed me,” she huffed. “Now watch THIS!!”

Out of her palms shot beams of cosmic energy, blasting the titan in its face, the creature bellowing in pain. The force was enough to push it into a skyscraper, the building collapsing over the top of its head. Her eyes widened, surprised that she managed to pull it off. Beatrix couldn’t help but squee in jubilation.

“I did it! I DID IT!! YEESS~!!! Ah, if only my friends could see me now!” She chirped before she continued her pursuit as the colossus rose back up, glaring angrily at her. Oh yeah, she had its attention now.

It released another roar, spit launching out its mouth before it threw its fist towards her. Beatrix ‘eeped’ before zipping out of the way, landing on its shoulder. From there, she tapped on it with her foot, causing the giant to turn towards it, only to find nothing there. Then it received another tap on its opposite shoulder, where it was greeted with another direct blast in the face.

Beatrix lengthened her archaic energy to loop around its gargantuan body with the cyclops discombobulated, binding its limbs together while whirling around at neck break speed. The dizzy monster, unable to break her hold, was left struggling as Beatrix ascended, summoning her spectral sword. With a loud cry, she launched to strike the titan’s chest, using its own weight to finally bring it down with a massive thud.

Beatrix slowly descended before stepping onto the cyclops’ nose, flashing a smug smile at the giant’s glaring peeper.

“That’s what you get for underestimating my power, you ugly brute,” the unicorn declared, her snout up and swishing back her mane. “Maybe next time, you’ll--W-waaaaAAH!!”

The moment she started getting cocky, karma came back to bite her in the ass. The colossus’ iris widened as a glowing light began to emulate, heat slowly rising before a hot pillar of energy shot out, nearly blasting Beatrix off its face. The violet unicorn managed to teleport off in time, though not unscathed. Steam hissed off her shoulders, burnt marks breaking apart Erebus as her power tried to stitch itself back together. The earth shook as she tilted her head, eyes wide in disbelief.

“Shit! You’ve gotta be kidding me!”

The cyclops rose up once more, breaking through her bindings with ease, bellowing with so much rage, the air itself quivered.

“Damnit,” Beatrix groaned. How could she have been foolish to expect Erebus to respond to her appropriately with how weak the Demiurge still was? Despite all her times perfecting her ability to hope between realms, Beatrix still couldn’t grasp her arcane magic. She cast a glance towards the rubble and debris, a few limbs and bodies trapped underneath. In the distance, the screams continued to cry out. The weight of all the death she couldn’t prevent was suffocating.

Tears leaked down her cheeks as she stared back at the giant, its horrible eye fixated on her as it prepared another beam from its pupil. And once more, doubt came in. Could she even stop this thing? Would she die here, long before she could fulfill her promise to Abadonna?

“No! Don’t give in… get up! Get up!” She told her, struggling to stand, to keep Erebus from falling apart. The unicorn glared back at the colossus in defiance, ready to put up her most substantial barrier for the impending attack.

But just as the titan fired another visionary beam, something shot from the sky like a comet, intercepting the projectile's path, energy deflecting off in sparks. Beatrix shielding her face from how intense the blast was.

When the laser depleted and the monster was left grumbling in confusion, the unicorn lowered her arms, gasping. In front of her stood a figure, a green cape flapping behind his stature. Bright red energy flowed in the shape of a helmet and chest plate, with his claymore and shield enhanced. Broad horns protruded out from his head, Beatrix instantly recognizing her savor.

“Dion?!”

At his name, the helmet dissolved, revealing the ram’s face to her. Alabaster fur clashed with his black crest, a beard resting along his chin. Crimson eyes twinkled under his thick brows, a smile spread his muzzle.

“Guid day, Beatrix!” he greeted. “Hope ye don’t mind me droppin’ in. Ye looked like yer in a wee bit ov trooble.”

“Oh, not at all~!” She smiled back, fully glad to be with an ally, especially one so close to her beloved Lady Ewe. “How did you find me?”

“Wasn’t hard,” he shrugged, rolling a stiff shoulder. “A sudden surge ov arcane energy tipped me off ye were close by. Thank th' spirits Ah got here. Otherwise, ye might have bin deep-fried!”

“Pft! I could have gotten out of there,” the wandering witch protested with a pout, earning the faun’s chuckle until a thunderous stomp pulled their attention back to the behemoth before them.

“Alrecht, nae time tae lose! We’ve got lives tae protect, lass!”

“R-right! But how are we supposed to stop this thing? I could barely keep it down on my own.”

“Together,” Dion assured, rubbing a rough hand over her shoulder. “We push stoaner until our enemy has fallen. We stand sae that they cannae reach what we’re protectin'. 'at is th' warrior’s way.”

Beatrix felt her cheeks flourish, his words holding such motivation as his sister would. Smiling, she nodded, the ram’s eyes drawing towards one particular building before he pointed it out.

“See that skyscraper? Ah want ye tae go thair an' cover me wit all th' spells ye’ve got! An' make sure it ne'er makes it beyond that point. Got it?” With that, he turned back to the looming threat, his archaic helmet forging back over his face.

“But what about you? You can’t honestly think you can fight that!!”

“Oh, Ah don’t plan on fightin’ it, lass...” he assured, placing both hands on his sword’s hilt, taking a stance. “... Ah plan on killin’ it!”

At once, Dion leaped into the air, his archaic magic blazing off his cape as the monster swung another fist to him. The knightly ram intercepted, jabbing his blade into its knuckle to roll over its hand, ripping it out to ascend its arm.

Reinvigorated into action, Beatrix flew up to the vantage point and unleashed a storm of her most complicated spells, their potency enhanced through Erebus. Cosmic beams ripped into its mass, preventing the one-eyed titan from advancing further. Each time it tried to fire its glaring beam, Dion would block it with his magically enhanced shield, his cloven feet pressing into its skin until deflecting it off.

“C’MON!” He hollered, “IS THAT ALL YE GOT, YE WOMPIN’ THUNDER TURD?!”

The beast tried to smack the warrior sheep off its bicep, only for it to lose its fingers with one mighty swing. Blood dripped from its freshly severed digits, bellowing before it prepared to fire another eye laser.

“Oh no, you don’t!” Beatrix seethed, perspiration layered her forehead as she focused all her dark-infused magic into one beam, aimed directly into its eyeball. The titanic monster screamed in anguish, hand clutching at its blinded eye. Dion took the chance to bash his head into the cyclops’, staggering the brute further.

“Well done, lass! Now let’s finish it!” Dion commanded.

“Time for this bastard to fall!” She called back, grasped her beam to form her sword. The two launched to deliver the coup de grace, letting a warcry as violet and maroon energy mixed together, slashing across its face, hand and chest.

In dying agony, the cyclops collapsed on its backside for the final time, smoke rising from the crater formed. When the dust settled, the few citizens that survived slowly came out of hiding before the entire city of Manehattan erupted in cheer. The day was saved, and despite the massive amount of destruction the titan caused, they could replenish the damages.

The two warriors took respite at the rooftops of the skyscraper, panting heavily after the fight. It was likely they wouldn’t be recognized for their heroism, another urban legend to add to the city’s growing stories. And while she did adore praise, Beatrix was happy to have at least prevented a total disaster.

“Phew!” Dion sighed, rubbing at his arm, his magical armor and enhancements removed. “Bin a while since Ah took on somethin’ th' size ay mah granny’s funbags!”

“Ha! You mean you fought monsters like that before?” Beatrix asked in shallow breaths.

“Aye. Mostly brine monsters back home, but thair was th' occasional two-header. Hell, one dobber had a third head!”

“Damn… Well, that’s one way to put all those muscles into good use~” Beatrix giggled, momentarily admiring the charred physique Dion boasted, scars cherishing his broad arms and torso. “So that red armor and energy… was that your Onoma?”

“Aye,” he nodded, smiling. “Ares grants me mair protection when things get tough. Th' shield, in particular, deflects all forms ov magic. Haven’t bin hit by a spell that got past magically infused steel. Ye, however, haven’t gotten th’ hang ov yer Onoma yet, have ye?”

“Yeah,” the unicorn admitted, folding her arms underneath her bust. “I just can’t seem to control it for long. I think this was the closest I’ve held out before Erebus overwhelm me. That, and I’m still figuring out how to wield my sword…”

“Ye’re probably a two-hander,” Dion suggested, getting behind her, his large arms sliding up to hers and holding them out. “Ye manifest it like a fencin' sword, only usin' one hand tae fight. Sure, it’s effective, but ye lack proper strength tae back up those thrusts or jabs.” The warrior sheep mimicked those motions with their left hands before placing them back together.

“Now, if ye conjure a blade meant fur both hands, ye’ll fin' a lot mair power an' force behin' yer swings.” They made motions once more, swinging their arms forward through the wind. “Ye felt that, right?”

“O-oh yes… mmm, I did~,” Beatrix said in a softer tone, cheeks flustered. It had been good while she was this close to someone. And with Dion’s arms wrapped around her, feeling his chest pressed against her caused a fire to burn in her loins. Ever the tease, the violet unicorn purposefully arched her back, pressing her plush curves into his woolly crotch, gently wiggling her ample, thong-clad rump side to side. “Maybe you’ll show me how to properly wield that ‘sword’ of yours~.”

Her advances didn’t go unnoticed, Dion’s own cheeks coloring as a low chuckle left his throat, hands sliding way to secure her wide hips, a familiar hardness poking from underneath his furry loincloth. “Heh… Oona was right. Ye’re very distractin' when it comes tae instructin' you~.”

“Part of my charm,” she winked at him, bending forward more until her hands rested on the ledge. “Why don't we celebrate our victory, mmm~?”

The thought of them fucking right here excited her, her nipples hardening and marehood growing wet. Being bent over, supple tits popped out of her leotard, bouncing freely while her champion railed her from behind. Beatrix bit her lip, imagining the reactions of everyone looking up at her while shouting for Dion to give her more, without a single care in the world.

But her fantasy was short-lived as Dion pulled away, an awkward smile on his snout as he brushed the back of his head. “As much as A’d love tae pound yer brains intae mush, lass, A’m afraid Ah’ll have tae decline. Now is not th' time.”

“What!? Awww, why not?” she whined, pouting playfully.

“Ah didn’t just drop by tae help ye win th' day, Beatrix. A’ve come tae brin' ye back tae th' manor.”

The mention of her home base startled her. An ancient eldritch abomination disguises itself as a mansion, now acting as her home under her adopted sibling’s servitude. Gosh, how long had it been since she last spoke with her?

“I do miss home,” Beatrix lamented. “But I can’t go back yet. I need to find a lead on where my daughter is!”

Her statement brought a large grin to Dion’s snout.

“Well, that’s th' thing, lass. We dae have a lead!”

“H-huh?!”

“Oona’s waitin’ fur ye,” he explained. “She’s found somethin' that might be th' key tae locatin' yer lost dochter.”

Beatrix’s eyes went wide, hope shimmering in her violet pupils. “R-really!? Oh my… Well, what are we waiting for?! Let’s go!!” Her index finger traced a circle in mid-air, slicing apart the space between them as a rift opened. The nexus shimmered brightly, humming to beckon the pair inside.

As the portal closed behind them, a figure walked out from the stairwell, silently watching from afar. Shrouded in a ghostly white hood and cloak trimmed in black, resembling death itself. A white mane trailed over her pale blue coat. The unicorn mare's expression was neutral, her icy blue eyes underlined by dark circles.

With the sickle held in her sleeved arms, the blue mare walked to where Beatrix was lurched over, surveying the devastation below. The monster might have been killed, but who knows how many bodies were crushed under its corpse. Her teeth clenched together, fist balling over her scythe.

“Belladonna...” She muttered. "How many more lives must suffer because of your carelessness?”

Chapter IX: Glacial Path to the Crystal Empire

Beatrix arose with a scream, eyes wide open and mouth gasping for air. She arched her back and jutted her abdomen, a hand clasping over her breast to settle her beating heart. A thin layer of sweat covered her pale face. The witch moved her hand to stroke through her platinum locks; the images of her hallucination still lingered.

Beatrix was trapped in a desert, scorching sand stinging her skin as she cried for anyone, only to discover silver armor scattered over a bulky skeleton, blue feathers swirling around. As the horror of who it was settled in, she started sinking into the desert. Frantically, she tried pulling herself up, only to see Cerise looming over her, angrily shouting,

‘You did this! You took him away from me!’

While Beatrix begged for forgiveness, more of her friends and family formed to torment and remind her of all her faults and sins, condemning her to disappear. And so she did, her screams muffled until the desert had consumed her entirety.

As her bloodshot violet eyes looked around, Beatrix was relieved that it was just another bad dream, though this one was instilled by that mysterious mirror mare. She scanned her surroundings to find herself in a cabin of sorts, winter winds howling outside. Candlelight flickered over wooden shelves.

Ah yes. The witch recalled someone else had arrived during her daunting battle with Shadow Scythe. If Beatrix had to guess, this was that cyan deer’s place. She shivered, hands rubbing over her shoulders, the temperature still very low inside.

The sound of slurping caught her ears as her head turned to find her tulpa, sitting on the bed stand, downing a cup of hot cocoa.

“Mini-Trix?”

The sound of her name pulled the cartoonish mare from her drink, instantly placing the mug down to jump into the witch’s arms. “Oh, thank goodness you’re awake! You looked like you were having another terrible nightmare…”

“Y-yeah,” she chuckled wryly, patting her tiny double’s head. “Whatever that mare cast on me, it was very potent. But I think I’m alright…” Beatrix cast a glance to the cup the tulpa had, faint steam waving from the rims. “Erm, where’d you get the hot cocoa?”

“I made it.”

Beatrix meeped as her head swiped towards the low voice, finding her rescuer leaning against the door frame, her own cup in her hand. She gave Beatrix a judging look while slowly sipping her chocolatey drink, bright green eyes penetrating her violet orbs.

“Ah! H-hi,” the unicorn sheepishly said as she clumsily rose. “I’m Beatrix Bel-”

“I know who you are,” the doe coldly interrupted with a tinge of bitterness in her voice. “You’re that ‘wandering’ witch Lady Ewe speaks highly of.”

“O-oh great! You know Oona. Well, maybe you cou-”

“I’ve already sent her a message. She’ll be here in a few moments. And the sooner you leave my territory, the better.”

“Yeesh! And I thought Shadow Scythe was an ice queen...” Beatrix muttered before speaking up. “May I at least have the privilege of knowing your name?”

“Iclyn,” she answered flatly.

“W-well, Iclyn. I don’t suppose you’d have any more hot cocoa, do you? I would love a-a…”

But her request was quietly rejected as the icy doe took a long, loud sip while glaring down the stumbling witch. This made her tulpa giggle as she took another swing of her own mug, causing Beatrix to pout and stomp her boot.

“You know, you’re very rude! Where I come from, a hostess should provide her guest with-”

“You are not a guest,” Iclyn corrected with a snort. “And I don’t care where you come from. You don’t belong here.”

An irritated laugh sounded from Beatrix, hands holding her shapely hips. “Well, that we can agree upon. Fine! I’ll just wait outside until my friends show up. I need to return to my mission as it is!” She walked past the cyan cervid with a huff and a flick of her mane, approaching the door.

“You're way over your head. Your daughter is in more danger than you think.”

Just as she was about to push the door open, the ice deer’s statement made Beatrix pause. She turned back to her with a bewildered expression. “H-huh? Wait, how do you know about Abby?”

Iclyn took another sip before responding, “How did you think Oona knows so much about the Child of Lightendark?”

“What?”

A sigh parted her lips as the icy deer pushed off the doorframe. “Figures she wouldn’t have mentioned me. Probably hoped you and I would never meet.” As she walked into the bedroom, Beatrix was compelled to follow back inside.

“W-wait, hold up! What's your deal with Oona? Aren’t you friends?”

Iclyn paused, slightly tilting her head down, her snout scrunching as a look of dismay cracked through her stoic mask.

“For a time, we were…but that has long passed.”

“And yet, you still helped her in learning about Abadonna,” Beatrix pressed on, raising a brow.

“I have my reasons. Most of what we know comes from that book over there.” She pointed towards the desk, where a grey leather-clad book laid under the candle’s glow. A strange crest was embedded on the front cover. Needy for answers, Beatrix opened the weighty tome to look over the pages. Mini-Trix hovered over her shoulder, perplexed by the description and words.

“I can’t read any of this!” The tulpa grumbled. “Don’t you have a picture book or something?”

“That book came from the Deighdyr monastery,” Iclyn explained, looking out a nearby window, passively watching snowfall as she drank more cocoa. “It’s an ancient relic passed down from noble to noble.”

“What’s a… Die-deer?”

“You’re looking at one.”

Both witches looked back to the icy doe, taking in her unnatural features while also gazing over her curvy thighs and slender legs. Shaking off the flustered feeling, Beatrix returned to decipher some words.

Thankfully, Oona taught her a bit about the ancient tongue to make out a few sentences. Flipping a page, she found an entry about the Deighdyr and read aloud,

“We, the Deighdyr, born from winter’s breath, reign over the northern tundra to preserve tranquility. Those who trespass the frozen domain will forever be immortalized in ice to serve as warning…”

“Huh. So you can read our language. I’m almost impressed.”

The witch ignored Iclyn’s cold sarcasm and continued with another section. “To preserve our strength and hunger, we must siphon the warmth from others, may it be food, drinks, or…animals.”

Another loud slurp made the unicorn quiver as she skimmed through a couple more pages before finding one entry that looked vaguely familiar. The golden sigils were etched with white and black depictions, swirling to form a grey figure.

“Aha! Lightendark prophecy,” Beatrix beamed, reading the page. At first, the information presented was stuff she already knew, such as how beings born from darkness and light would meet to elope the destined child. But upon looking over again, there were crucial differences; it didn’t specify that the characters were immortal, nor did the translation actually say light or darkness, but instead hope and despair.

“This isn’t what I heard before,” Beatrix commented. “The text is different.”

“Such is the nature of myths,” Iclyn stated. “Not every translation is accurate, so some philosophers had to tell them differently. What matters is the meaning. And from what I gathered, Abadonna was not meant to be born yet; thus, she resides in limbo.”

“Yeah, I know! That’s why we’re trying to find Enock’s library and figure out how to restore her physicality.”

“Are you sure that is a wise decision?”

“Huh?” The witch turned back, Iclyn now fully facing her as she loomed over Beatrix, easily a couple feet taller than her, locked in a narrowed gaze.

“If you succeed, the Child of Lightendark will need to learn how to control her extraordinary magic. And I doubt someone of your caliber is suited for the task.”

“Yes, I am!” Beatrix insisted, teeth clenched, fist balled. “I have suffered for months looking for Abby. And I did not come here just to have some stuck-up bitch tell me I shouldn’t raise my child. I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure Abadonna grows into a loving, happy filly! So back off!”

Tension rose within the cabin as the two said nothing more. Mini-Trix looked between her creator and the icy deer, gulping nervously before stating, “Uh… I think I better make my exit on stage right…” With that, the miniature unicorn took her to leave.

Iclyn gave an infuriated sigh, shaking her head. “Damnit, Oona.… How could you have fallen for such a pig-headed hussie?”

“Excuse me?!”

Ignoring Beatrix, the indigo deer flipped over the page to highlight another entry of the prophecy. This part of the book showed demonic-looking figures dancing in what looked to be a snowstorm, the clouds bearing an angry face.

“Once born, primordial agents will come for the Child of Lightendark,” Iclyn read. “Through her awesome might, they can fulfill the dark prophecy and bring upon the End of Days."

“W-wait, what?” Beatrix turned back to the book, reading over the entry until there was no doubt that what the deighdyr said was entirely accurate. “Abadonna…is a part of the Omega Prophecy?”

“It's as I said; translations get lost, and things become inaccurate. In this case, one legend became two. But yes…the Lightendark Prophecy and the Omega Prophecy are one and the same.”

“N-no.… How can this be!?” The witch exclaimed, panic rising as she held her head. “Why didn’t Lady Ewe tell me this? Why would she keep this information from me? W-why, Oona? Why!?”

“Probably for this exact reason,” Iclyn snorted. “Oona knew you couldn’t handle the truth, so she lied. You must see her as such a sweet, gentle person. Maybe even flawless at times. But when it comes to tense situations or having to deliver devastating news to friends? She freezes up. Oona may be wonderful, but that sheep is far too kind for her own good…”

Beatrix hid her face, trying hard not to cry in front of the stoic cervid. But everything made so much more sense. Her lover had been reluctant to fully tell her about the Burning King or why they fought the Vice Lords. The witch clamored about wanting to see her world, yet it only happened under strict circumstances. Even when Trom brought up the topic of ‘soulmates,’ the dream faun was hesitant to talk about it. It hurt to think about what else Lady Ewe wasn’t telling her.

“You talk as if you know what that's like…” Beatrix sniffled.

“Of course I do,” the deer shrugged. “It’s part of the reason why we’re no longer together.”

Rubbing away and leaking from her eyes, the witch turned back towards Iclyn, her rude demeanor becoming a lot more understandable. Only now did it dawn upon Beatrix that she had been speaking to her lover’s old flame.

“We were close friends during our youth,” Iclyn explained, folding her arms under her chest. “Our clans benefited from each other during harsh times. The deighdyr came to their aid during Grogar’s tyranny, and they would help us defend against the caribou invasion. Every spring or winter, we’d visit each other to celebrate. Oona and I often played together. And as we grew older, we became…intimate.”

Beatrix watched her body language shift, a slight curl to the deighdyr’s snout as she fondly recalled her time together. But that warmth quickly disappeared, her perpetual frown returned. “She wanted to be my Matanam, a notion our fathers supported as a way to ‘unify the clans’.”

“But then?”

“Then…she became more distant. Took offense at little things or complained how I wasn’t as ‘compassionate’ or ‘loving’ like I was before. When in truth, I always was. Just not as outwardly as Oona wanted.”

“O-oh…”

“Eventually, we broke things off, and we hardly spoke. That was until she requested my help with anything relating to the Child of Lightendark. And, after prying it out of her, I learned about you.” The ice doe’s glare deepening. “This flashy, arrogant, show magician wannabe. Not only could you traverse the universe whenever you wanted, but you also charmed everyone you met. I had every right to tell Oona no. I wasn’t going to risk bringing an apocalypse to fruition that my people-- her people, fought valiantly to prevent! Just so she could satisfy you.”

“Then why did you?” Beatrix asked, conflicted to know the answer.

“Because, unlike you, I care about her. And despite everything between us, I’d rather throw away our romantic life if it meant our friendship could be spared. So I helped her, recommended she seek her mother or the mystics to help find out where your daughter most likely resided.”

“H-hey! I do care about Oona. I love her!”

“Enough to become her Matanam?” Iclyn questioned sternly.

Whatever words she wanted to retort died in her throat. Beatrix had been struggling with this concept ever since learning about it. As much as she did love her mentor, she remained unsure if she could make that commitment, especially given what she learned about Lady Ewe.

“That’s what I thought,” the deighdyr scoffed. “I can tell your type just by looking at you. Never in one place, always looking for a new adventure, sleep with whoever catches your fancy. Utterly careless of what happens afterward. Yeah, that’s not Oona. I can only assume she’s with you just so she has someone who looks up to her-”

SMACK!

Beatrix seethed heavily with how hard her palm stung after slapping Iclyn across the face. The icy doe remained unfettered, keeping her cool gaze while slowly rubbing at her sore cheek, a nasty red mark on it.

“Perhaps I’ve said too much,” she lamented. “Judging by what you were screaming in your sleep, you’re not in anyone’s good graces. I pity you, Beatrix Belladonna.”

The witch clutched her hand, looking back towards the book on the desk. How many libraries had Beatrix visited just to find this one book about her daughter and the prophecy around her? Another reminder that her lover wasn’t fully honest with her.

“Take it if you want,” the deighdyr offered. “Though I’ll expect it back at some point.”

“No, it’s fine,” Beatrix declined. “I only have a few questions about the prophecy…”

“Go ahead.”

Collecting herself, the witch clutched around the Prima Materia that kept her cape clasped, focusing her emotions on settling so that she can move forward on her mission. No matter what happened, she wouldn’t abandon her daughter.

“What is Abadonna meant to do?” Beatrix asked, looking weary at Iclyn.

She answered, “If the demons take her, they will use her power to break the seal that locks the nuckelavee in Pathos.”

Beatrix felt her skin crawl as the gruesome image of the Burning King came to mind.

“Once free, he will scorch the physical plane. Then, using the Child’s power, they will do the same to the next realm. Then the next one... And then the next... until nothing remains but the Burning King’s will.”

“But there has to be a way to stop him, right? Everything has a weakness! A way to kill him, perhaps?”

Iclyn shook her head. “The Burning King is destruction incarnate. To kill him would be following the very chain of violence he commands. The only way to prevent the End of Days is to make sure Abadonna never comes in contact with him or the Vice Lords. But based on the appearance of that mare from earlier, they’ve already begun searching…”

Beatrix gasped. “The mare in the reflection! That was a Vice Lord!?”

The icy deer nodded. “She didn’t seem too strong, but she was able to save that maniac before I could freeze her solid.”

“That means both Shadow Scythe and Zeloph really are in league with the Burning King! Grgh! Of fucking course they are…”

“Do you now understand how out of depth you are? You and your daughter will always be on the run. The Vice Lords will not rest until their king has risen and burnt everything he touches. Are you willing to put your lives on the line until the End of Days?”

The witch hesitated to answer. Of course, she would still pursue her daughter. And even with the context of the consequences, she had come too far to turn back now.

But how could she ask her friends or lover to do that for her, especially with the stacking mistakes she made? Perhaps her adversaries were justified in stopping her...

“Beatrix? Beatrix!?”

“Lass, are ye here?”

“Bea!!”

Distant voices came from outside; Beatrix turned her head to recognize her friends and lover. The Deighdyr signed, “It’s about time your friends showed up.”

Swiftly, the witch rushed out of the cabin, the door slamming open to alert her comrades. Locking eyes, Oona ran up and threw her arms around the witch, snuggling her into her warm wool. “Oh, Ceann Oga. Thank th' spirits, ye’re safe!” She cried, doing her best to hold back sniffles. Beatrix didn’t respond for a few seconds until surrendering to her lover’s wooly embrace, sighing happily.

“We were worried we wouldn’t find you!” Midnight added, hovering above as he didn’t want to drag his armor through the snow.

“Where’s Shadow Scythe?” Dion questioned, looking around, blade in hand. “Th' next time Ah see that deranged lunatic, A’ll- ”

“I-it’s okay, Dion,” Beatrix reassured with a wry smile. “She just took me by surprise, is all. I was about to win until--”

“Until Madame Doppia showed up,” Iclyn finished, stepping out of her home while staring stoically over her visitors.

“I-Iclyn,” the dream sage stammered, releasing Beatrix to approach her former lover. “Ah can’t thank ye enough fur all yer help. Ah would have bin lost if Ah had- ”

“Spare me your sentiments, Oona,” the icy doe cuts off. “The only reason I even helped you is because of what we had once. Though it's clear to me where your true feelings lie…” Iclyn cast a glance towards Beatrix, who lowered her head.

“O-oh! This is…pretty awkward,” the pegasus gulped, landing next to Cerise, who remained silent while keeping her arms folded into her bosom.

“Are ye sure 'twas Doppia, Iclyn?” Lady Ewe asked.

“Thin body, draped in a cloak, took this hussie out with an illusion spell. Yeah, I’m pretty sure that was her.”

“Oh, stoatin! Mair things tae worry about, ” the ram warrior grumbled.

Midnight insisted, “Then we need to head to the Crystal Empire. Pronto!”

“It’s just up north from here,” Iclyn directed, pointing behind her cabin. “There’s a straight path through the forest. But after a while, it’ll be nothing but a wide, open field. Just keep going north, and you’ll find it.”

“Right. Thank ye, Iclyn,” Oona bowed her head, a pained smile clear on her snout as she quietly urged the others to move on.

Beatrix momentarily stared between the faun and the deighdyr, who said nothing and walked back into her cabin, the door shutting behind her. Exhaling, the witch followed her lover as the reformed group made their way into the snow-capped forest ahead, a squall silently brewing within the party.

All was quiet in the woods. To travel through the cold weather, Beatrix summoned winter wear from her Prima Materia, giving the party warm cloaks with hoods and fur as they kept to the trail. Yet as things kept silent, the violet unicorn grew more anxious.

Beatrix could hardly look into Cerise’s soulful eyes, knowing she was still bitter about the revelation of her intervention. But if not for it, she and Midnight would have never met and gotten married. With her lips pursed, she cautiously approached her friend.

“Look, Cerise, I’m really sorry abo-” Yet the dancer increased the tempo of her steps, avoiding conversation with the witch. Her husband wrapped an arm around her, offering Beatrix a pained smile. Hopefully, they could all put this struggle behind them.

Yet Beatrix remained troubled, snow crunching under her boot as she waded closer towards the sheep siblings. Had she irreparably damaged her relationship with Cerise? Was this the deserved outcome for all the mistakes she made? If what Shadow Scythe presumed was true, each dimension she traveled to was in flux until it was observed. And with the Prima Materia’s power, it was shaped to a certain extent by her subconscious. Perhaps this was what the Necronomicon always intended for her; that by allowing the Demiurge to devour her, Beatrix would twist reality into some horrific realm before it was inevitably consumed..?

‘No,’ she thought. ‘It’s pointless to speculate such things. I have bigger problems to worry about.’ Beatrix cast a wary glance towards her lover, who had not spoken up at all since their departure.

And Oona’s lingering silence only made the witch angrier. When would Lady Ewe decide to tell them about the Burning King? Or the End of Days? Or did she plan to keep them in the dark until it was convenient?

The low wail of the winds proved a buffer they were thankful for, as she could feel tensions between all of them rising. Mini-Trix never reappeared, but it was likely not even she could crack a smile out of them with her usual antics. Snowflakes whirled as they trended onward into a maze of trees.

Finally, they reached the end of their path, snow completely covering the vast valley, stretching far into the overcast horizon.

“Looks like we’ve still got a long way ahead of us,” said Midnight, trying to ease the mood. “At least the wind's started to die down!”

“As long as we continue tae boost north, we’ll make it, ” Dion acknowledged, though he too sported a sour expression.

The heroes trudged onward, the snow deep enough to envelop their knees, walking becoming more complex. And halfway across the field, Beatrix could no longer take the unbearable silence. She marched in front of the dream faun, blocking her path.

“So you’re just not going to say anything? After all that?” She quipped, meeting Oona’s honey-brown eyes with amethyst orbs.

“'twas ne'er mah intention fur ye tae catch up wit Iclyn like that. Ah will gladly tell ye mair once we-”

“No!”

Oona was taken aback by the brashness of her tone. Her brows furrowed.

“Ah don’t know what Iclyn said tae ye, but that is no way tae speak wit me.”

“Oh yeah? Well, you sure don’t know how to communicate either!”

“Lassie,” Dion came forth, trying to keep the situation under control. “This insae th' time tae be picking argumen-”

“Did she tell you?” Beatrix snapped at the burly ram. “Did you know that my daughter is potentially an apocalypse maiden?”

“What?” The scarred warrior turned his head towards his sister, the married couple equally perplexed by this development. “Oona, what's she talkin' about? ”

“Beatrix, Ah wis plannin' tae! Ah just needed time!"

“Like you were planning on telling the rest of them about the Burning King!?”

“Burning King?” Midnight questioned.

“You mean there’s another threat?” Cerise huffed in dismay.

“Oh, it gets better,” Beatrix laughed dryly. “He’s the reason Shadow Scythe and Zeloph are after the library. So that they can free him to unleash armageddon on the entire multiverse! Using my daughter!”

“What!?” They exclaimed in unison.

“That’s enough!” Oona shouted, hands balled into fists as she quivered in rage. “Ah was goin' tae tell them. Goin' tae tell you! Th' last thing Ah wanted was fur ye tae learn th' truth from her ov all people!!”

“How could you do this to me!?” Beatrix spat, bitter tears running down her flustered cheeks. “For so long, I’ve been manipulated and used. Blindly offering my trust to people who didn’t deserve it. I was stupid to think I could save Shadow Scythe. I was naive to believe Zeloph. But you? My mentor, who I could count on to always have my back? The one I love from the bottom of my heart?! You lied to me, Oona!!”

“Ah only wanted what's best,” the distraught sheep shaman insisted. “Had Ah told ye sooner, what was goin' tae stop ye from rushin' off on yer own? Ah love ye, Beatrix, but ye can be sae heedless at times! Th' fact ye're still smitten wit Zeloph, after everything he's done, shows how unrestrictive ye are!”

“Sister, Ah think ye’re goin' tae far wi-”

“Ye stay out ov this! ” Lady Ewe snapped, sneering at her brother. “Ye're just as bad as her! Can't go one day wit'out catchin' ye eyin' mah marefriend like a piece of meat!”

So flustered with embarrassment and frustration, Beatrix senselessly spat, “Oh ho, that’s rich considering the mommy fetish bullshit you were feeding Midnight the other nigh-” The witch immediately clasped her snout, realizing too late what she said.

Both Midnight and Cerise looked at her in shock, the latter more appalled by this discovery. Oona cautiously clutched at her chest, wounded by her lover’s words as tears flowed from her eyes. “Ye were spyin' on us..?”

“I-It was an accident, I swear!” Beatrix insisted in half-truth. Sure, she had discovered the tiny hole by chance and only intended a brief check-in but wasn’t able to look away from the heavy mating session she found.

“Wow,” Cerise growled, marching up to the violet unicorn, scorn clear on her usually innocent face. “You’re so full of shit! You wanna come out here, saying how betrayed you are when you can’t even respect our privacy? Not only that, you purposefully withheld the truth as well! You selfishly changed my husband’s fate! You’re not just a hypocrite, Bea. You’re the absolute worst!”

“It’s not like that! I-I couldn’t have known this would happen!” Beatrix said defensively, flashes of her recent nightmare coming to her mind as she started to shake all over.

“Oh, yeah! Because everything must revolve around you! Not like any of your friends’ matter, as long as the ‘lustrous’ Beatrix Belladonna gets what she wants and has a good ol’ time!” Cerise said while mockingly posing as the witch would.

“That’s not true!”

“ENOUGH!” Dion bellowed, getting between the two mares. “While we're just standin' here, bickerin' like children, our enemy grows closer towards findin' Enock befur us! Ye girls need tae get yer act together!”

“Guys, come on now!” Midnight cautiously came in, attempting to play peacekeeper. “We’ve all made mistakes here, and that’s okay! We’re all doing our best.”

“Best?” The ram turned to glare at the pegasus. “We barely made it off that mountain in one piece! Best doesn’t cut it, laddie! A’m startin' tae think takin' a whelp like ye was a terrible mistake.”

“Hey!” Cerise snarled, marching up to the ram with angry neon pink eyes. “Don’t you dare talk to him like that!”

“Th' same goes fur ye as well,” He rebuffed, pointing at her wrapped wing. “We had tae hold back just tae protect yer sorry arse, princess. How about ye pull yer weight fur once instead ov bawlin' yer eyes when things get tough on ye?”

“Back off!” Midnight yelled, grabbing the ram by his collar, his eyes dripping into vermillion as yellow veins pulsed. “No one speaks that way about my wife! Don’t forget it was you who set Grogar loose trying to fight Zeloph!”

“Take yer hands off me, ye blueberried wanker! ” Dion bellowed, shoving the soldier off, ready to brawl with the pegasus.

"Make me," he shot back, prepared to defend Cerise's honor to the death.

Unity dissolved between the group, everyone accusing blame amongst each other, calling out their faults and insecurities. As they continued to squabble, the winds steadily picked up until another flurry of snow and hail whirled around them.

Their growing strife was interrupted by eerie howls, putting everyone on high alert as they realized how heavily the sleet fell. From the grey hue, skinny figures prowled around while the group huddled together.

“Gaah! W-what are those?!” Beatrix exclaimed and pointed.

“Wendigos...” Oona whimpered, the freezing temperatures causing everyone to huddle up as the twisted monsters prowled closer.

Unlike the ethereal versions Beatrix was familiar with, these Wendigos were physical manifestations, taking a more cervid form. Sickly pale fur bristled in the frigid wind, grey skin clung over their thin, starved bodies. Large antlers branched out from their heads. Their snouts exposed their skull and teeth, hints of dry blood splattered over them. Hellish orange eyes glowed brightly, continuing to let out harrowing cries.

“Can't...m-move...” Beatrix shivered, buffeted by the storm like her comrades.

Life and heat were being sapped from them within seconds, the carnivorous fiends feeding off their ripening anger and despair. It wouldn’t be long until they all passed out, destined to be eaten. Midnight wrapped his expansive wingspan around them like a shield, trying to withstand the cold gale and sleet peppering them with his fluff.

“F-f-furfuxake,” Dion muttered. “T-this is no way f-fur a w-w-warrior tae d-d-die!”

“D-don’t talk like that. W-we aren’t dying... N-n-not today!” Midnight assured through chattering teeth as he cradled his wife.

Beatrix tried tracing a circle in the air to summon a portal out of this mess, but the blistering winds and growing frostbite made it extremely difficult to concentrate. Her ears perked to the sound of sobbing, turning to Lady Ewe.

“It’s all m-m-mah fault,” she bawled. “Ah s-should have told y-y-ye all from th' s-s-start. A’m s-s-so s-sorry! This would have ne'er happened if Ah wasn’t af-f-fraid ov lettin' ye down!”

“Oona.… It’s okay,” Beatrix sniffled, wrapping her arms around the sheep woman, her ears flattening. “I should be apologizing! I’m the one who m-m-messed with everyone's lives. I didn’t see how m-m-much pain I was c-causing. Oona...Cerise…Midnight…Dion, I-I’m sorry for everything!”

The couple clutched together tightly through freezing tears, their emotions being sucked out while the Wendigo looms closer.

“I-I'm sorry too,” sniffled Cerise, nose runny. “I shouldn't have snapped! I-I was just so mad! I don’t want to lose my wonderful husband. Not while we’re s-still young!”

“As am Ah,” Dion coughed. “I-If we get out ov this, Ah owe each of ye a beer…”

“We’re getting out of t-this!” Midnight insisted, trying desperately to remain awake, eyes blinking rapidly. “I’m n-n-not losing anyone else!” Faint memories of a family lost to him stirred. A mother he'd never been able to meet due to an invasion. A twin sister who was also supposedly lost to him.

“M-Midnight.… I love...you…” The dancer murmured, her eyes closing as her body laid against his, unable to remain unconscious with how much strength was sapped.

“Cerise! C-Cerise!!”

At this point, the abominations hunched over their prey, salivating from boney maws. No doubt that once the rest of their prey succumbed to the cold, they would tear at their flesh and devour the supple meat.

A war horn sounded in the distance, pulling the Wendigos' attention away from the group. Something thundered towards their direction, enough to cause the ground to shake. Everyone’s ears perked up at the sound of galloping, growing louder until a hulking figure descended onto the creature, a wicked battle axe loping its head off through a single swing. It let out a dying screech in a red mist as its brethren gazed up at the massive warrior, a hellish glow glimmering off bovine horns, threatening to incinerate the monsters. Screaming, they scurried off, taking a portion of the blizzard with them.

The huddled group slowly stood up once the winds died down, looking up to their bulky rescuer in disbelief. His glowing yellow eyes peered out from his helmet, a haughty snort blowing from his pierced nose. White mane and beard waved gently against the gale, a heavy iron chest plate and arm braces adorning his muscular figure. His head tilted to the side as he surveyed the dream faun.

“Oona? Is that you?” He asked.

“Tirek!” Lady Ewe exclaimed as her brother approached the massive centaur. Beatrix, Midnight and Cerise turned to each other with concern.

“Tirek!? They know one of Equestria’s biggest enemies?” The soldier cried out, clutching his half-conscious wife protectively.

“We met another version during the invasion of Cerise’s homeworld,” Beatrix defended despite her reservations. “He didn’t live long, but he greatly aided in the defeat of the Eldritch. Perhaps this Tirek is similar.”

“Dion,” Tirek laughed. “You son of a bitch!”

The two brawlers clapped their hands together in a firm handshake, gripping down tightly as they exchanged shit-eating grins.

“Aren’t ye a s-sight fur s-s-sore eyes,” the ram proclaimed happily. “We would have been g-gobbled had ye not saved our hinds!”

“Just like old times, yeah?”

“Heheh! S-some ov mah greatest battles have been by yer side.”

Dion jumped to bump chests with the centaur before Tirek addressed his sister. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen you in Equestria. What brings you back?”

“We’re on an m-m-mission,” Oona explained through a shivering breath. Tirek looked towards her companions, who were still huddled up together, shuddering.

“Oh, dear! You’re practically icicles! Hey, Cozy! Get over here with that firewood!” The burly centaur bellowed in the distance.

“Cozy?” Beatrix lifted her head up in surprise.

And sure enough, struggling to pull her toboggan full of severed branches and logs, the tiny pink pegasus fluttered, wrapped in a bright purple coat, her curly arctic blue locks about her, teeth clenched in frustration.

“Geesh, Tirek! Could you warn me next time you plan on running off to fight monsters? You know I can’t carry this all by myself!” The little mare puffed, pausing to catch her breath. “What even made those noises anywa-”

Upon seeing the shivering group of ponies, she gasped before abandoning her sled to meet them. “Golly gee! Are you alright?!” She asked, noting how pale they looked.

“They were attacked by Wendigos,” Tirek explained to her, pulling the sled towards the group before igniting the chopped wood with his magic, a warm fire flickering to life.

“Heeey! I spent all day collecting that wood!” The pegasus pouted childishly.

“We can get more later!”

Everyone gathered up by the fire, thawing up any frozen limbs and rubbing their hands. Midnight kept Cerise’s sleeping form in his arms, brushing her mane, hoping she would wake soon. Thankfully, the blizzard had completely died down.

“Hmm.… You still appear to be too cold,” Tirek observed, stroking his long beard. Pondering for a bit, he straightened his back as he channelled his energy, a bright vermillion aura highlighting his physique.

A sphere of aura formed as the centaur pushed it towards the fire—the orb splits into five before phasing through each hero’s chest.

Beatrix gasped, feeling invigorated as her own archaic magic flowed from her hands. “H-holy! It's like I just woke up and had an amazing cup of coffee! What did you do?!”

“My Onoma, Atlas, allows me to share energy between things,” the centaur explained. “I gave each of you a small boost to keep you from catching your death. It’ll wear off eventually.”

“It’s how he an' I fought off marauders that pillaged this country,” Dion added with fondness.

“Guess that’s a step up from just draining magic from people,” Midnight scoffed, still suspicious of the two.

“Ahh, don’t be like that,” Cozy Glow cooed, sitting her marshmallow-soft plot onto the pegasus’ shoulder, crossing her legs over while sporting bedroom eyes. “We’ve all done things we’re ashamed of, and regaining trust has been hard. But it's worth the effort as it has benefited us with a better life!”

The surprisingly insightful words struck Beatrix as she tucked her head down. Thinking back to their nasty fight, it was unfair of her to lash out at her lover and friend. Cerise was also justified for her spitefulness. And even though they might forgive the witch, could she forgive herself?

Cozy sensually traced her finger over his chest plate, fluttering her eyelashes at Midnight with a coy smile. “If you want, I can show how much of a good girl I am~.”

Midnight's cheeks flustered before shaking his head as her backside wiggled. “Uhm, you really shouldn’t be saying stuff like that. You’re way too young to be wanting se-”

His comment earned him a harsh smack on the head, the little pegasus glaring hard, her snout scrunched up. “I am NOT a filly! I’m older than any of you three,” she yelled and puffed up. “It’s not my fault I’m cursed to live in this adolescent body!”

Midnight rubbed at his aching head, hissing, “O-owww..! S-sorry! How did that happen?”

“Cozy here has a rare genetic disorder,” Tirek said. “Ever since becoming fourteen, her body could not develop past that point. It has made adult life very hard on her, and she’s understandably sensitive about the topic.”

Beatrix casts a sympathetic look on Cozy Glow. “Gosh, I...can’t imagine how hard it’s been for you.”

The filly sized mare gave a sad smile. “It’s not so bad. It only really sucks when it comes to getting dates. No stallion wants to be caught with a filly wrapped around his arm. But it allows me the opportunity to prove people wrong when they underestimate me~!”

“Hey, now that’s forward-thinking!” Midnight beamed. “Do you have an Onoma?”

Cozy nodded. “It’s nothing special like Tirek’s, though. Mine’s called Odysseus, and it provides me with enhanced intelligence. For example, I’ve figured out about twenty-seven different ways I can apply pain to your scrotum.” The pink pegasus grinned slyly at the soldier, who cautiously covered himself and Cerise in his wings.

“Yes, fascinating,” Tirek sighed wryly, used to his partner’s pitiful revenge plots. “Now that we’re more familiar with each other, why don’t you tell us more about your mission, Lady Ewe?”

Oona hesitated to answer before feeling a hand touch her own, pulling her gaze towards Beatrix. The witch smiled encouragingly, a familiar, loving glow in her violet eyes that made her heart flutter.

“Yes, Ah…Ah have much tae tell e'eryone,” Oona nodded, smiling sadly.

Clearing her throat, Oona shared their plight to Tirek and Cozy Glow, telling them about Abadonna, the library of Enock, the requirements for the portal, and the adversaries that seek it.

Turning to her companions, she also explained the prophecy regarding the Burning King, the Omega Prophecy, and how Abadonna’s reality-defying magic was key to unleashing the dreaded nuckelavee from his realm.

“...sae that is why we must find Beatrix’s daughter. That is why we need tae head tae the Crystal Empire.”

She took a deep breath as she finished, her lover gently patting her on the back while whispering, “I love you.” Oona reciprocated by nuzzling her head to the unicorn.

“Holy cow,” Cozy said with astonishment. She turned her head towards Tirek. “Did you know about this ‘Burning King’ guy?”

“I’ve heard stories,” the centaur confirmed. “Although, they were mostly told to scare newly crowned rulers from becoming tyrants.”

“So this is…about more than just getting Abby back now,” Midnight states, taking in this harrowing information.

“Aye,” Dion nodded. “If a Vice Lord is assistin' Zeloph an' Shadow Scythe, we must reach Enock immediately!”

“Yes! Can you help us get to the Crystal Empire?” Beatrix asked the duo.

“Of course we can!” Cozy beamed. “As a matter of fact, we serve the king there!”

“Y-you do?!”

“Yes,” Tirek nodded, smiling proudly. “I’m head of the royal guard, and she’s the leading strategist. We will get you to the Crystal Empire safely.” His eyes turned to Midnight. “Here, load her on my back. It’ll make carrying her more easy,” he assured the pegasus stallion.

Despite some reservations, he lifted his wife onto the centaur’s lower body as he rose onto his beefy legs. His hand remained on hers, their rings nearly touching. After collecting their bearings and putting out the fire, Beatrix and friends followed Tirek and Cozy, leading the group over the large mound of snow that blanketed the land.

“So.… Mind if I ask who the king is?” Beatrix requested, doubtful that her father would ever accept these two into his ranks.

“King Ambros,” the burly centaur said. “Long ago, we were at war against a herd of caribou, looking to claim Equestria and convert everyone to their misogynistic way of life. He helped liberate the oppressed and restored glory back to the Crystal Empire.”

“Iclyn mentioned a caribou invasion,” the witch muttered, disheartened to learn that Shining Armor was not in charge. She and Midnight shared a troubled look with each other, concern over what their shared father’s fate was in this world. She looked to her lover, who gazed back with pursed lips.

“You know where he is, don’t you?”

With reluctance, Lady Ewe nodded. “Ah told ye; this world is much different than any Equestria ye’ve been to. A lot ov people have… changed. A’ll show ye whit Ah mean when we git thair. Ah promise.”

“That’s not really comforting, Oona…”

“Ah know, but Ah need ye tae trust me on this. Shining Armor is in th' Crystal Empire. Ah will take ye tae him…but be prepared. Ye will not like what ye see.”

The vagueness of her warning disturbed Beatrix. But she decided not to do anything rash. She didn’t want to argue after what transpired earlier. But judging by the way both Tirek and Cozy tensed up by his name, she could only imagine the implications.

After a mile's worth of walking, they finally approached the Crystal Empire’s gates. Upon first glance, Beatrix could tell things were different. The structures were made of stone, black crystals, and jewels, torches lit from topaz goblets. Guards stood at the checkpoint, saluting their commander.

“Lord Tirek! Lady Cozy Glow! Welcome back!”

“At ease, men,” Tirek huffed.

“We have urgency with his majesty,” the pink pegasus said, hovering over Beatrix, Midnight, and the sheep siblings. “By our authority, they are permitted to stay here for as long as they need. Understood?”

“Yes, ma’am!”

The guards stood aside, allowing the travellers entrance through the gates. Beatrix let out a sigh of relief, seeing that the capital itself didn’t look that different. The palace still remained erected at the center, though it had a few new adjustments added. Similar crystal ponies greeted them as they marched by. Some even approached to offer food samples or trinkets. Banners fluttered over the militaristic yet peaceful abode that brilliantly sparkled like crystalline.

Beatrix’s eyes dilated as they approached the pillaring structure, where the Crystal Heart luminously glowed over its pedestal. How were they to convince the ruler to relinquish a single shard from their power source?

“It’s a convincing decoy, right?” Cozy beamed, casually flying over to knock her knuckles against the sacred jewel.

“You mean that’s not the actual Crystal Heart?” Midnight questioned.

“Pft! As if we would leave the most valuable treasure visible for thieves to steal,” the pegasus snickered.

“It’s in a more secured location,” Tirek assured. “Only the king and queen know where to find it.”

“Queen?”

If her father was not the ruler, it was certain Cadance wasn’t in charge either. And if so, what became of Flurry Heart? Beatrix rubbed at her temples, overwhelmed by questions.

Just what happened to her family here? And if the court still stood, was it inhabited by another version of Foal-Bearer and Wet Nurse, as well? Or were they, too, casualties from this terrible war that ravaged the land? A familiar hand gently gripped her shoulder as Lady Ewe did her best to ease her lover’s woes while they ascended the castle steps.

Guards lined the halls, with butlers and maids stepping aside. Medical assistance arrived to take a look at Cerise before requesting they pull her aside, assuring Midnight that she would be in safe hands. The soldier reluctantly nodded, giving his wife one last kiss while watching them carry her away to be treated. Dion patted his back before following their friends towards the throne room as they crossed the corridors.

The exterior of the empire was only a hint of the radical changes. The interior was staggeringly rearranged, dark structures making up the room walls, lamps, and torches lit with ghoulish green flames. A massive chandelier hung over their heads, colored with many different stones and crystals that shimmered brilliantly. And standing over the staircase that led to two giant thrones was an ominous figure, his back turned to show a long blood-red cape.

“My liege,” Tirek respectfully called, kneeling on his front leg to bow his head. Cozy Glow landed on the crystalline floors and urged the others to do the same, everyone bowing before the enigmatic ruler of the Crystal Empire.

“I see you have brought visitors to my court,” King Ambros acknowledged, a deep baritone voice echoing the castle halls. Beatrix trembled under the weight and power he commanded. “For what purpose do they travel to the Crystal Empire?”

“They seek our aid, your majesty,” Cozy answered. “They are Beatrix Belladonna, Midnight Blitzer, Oona Ewe, and Dion.”

His ears perked up at their names. “Oona Ewe…and Dion, you say?”

The group gasped at the familiar sight of a dark grey stallion clad in platinum steel armor upon turning around, rubies embedded to decorate his gauntlets and breastplate. A spotted fur collar highlighted his cap, which draped over his pauldrons.

A curved horn that turned hotter in color peeked from his crown. A dark, rugged mane, curled at the ends, draped over his muscular body. And despite now sporting an impressive beard under his chin, the crimson's eyes and stern expression were unmistakable.

“Now, those are names I haven’t heard in a long time.”

“Wait…t-that’s!” Midnight trembled.

Beatrix almost couldn’t find her words, astonished by this new visage of the stallion who had helped train her.

“Sombra...!”

Author's Note

Just a heads up!

I will be taking a short break for the next few weeks to catch up on work, irl events, and artwork, including new cover art for the story. The next chapter should be published by June 14th.

Thank you to everyone who has commented and read our work! I'll see you soon~ :twilightsmile: