Undeath and Rebirth

It felt like days had passed since the celebration at the manor came to an end. Everyone that attended either settled down here or returned to their separate dimensions. Yet, for Beatrix Belladonna, the urge to explore the ever-expanding cosmos never ceased to itch. Especially after the multiverse was reforged.

The wayward witch sighed while studying the depictions of her many adventures that adorned the walls. The latest, of course, is a recent addition. A portrait showcased her and her allies standing up against the dreaded Burning King, who sought to end all of existence with his army of ignited demons and enslaved Vice Lords. It was a grueling battle, forever scarring those who survived the apocalyptic onslaught.

If not for the effort shared with her friends and former enemies, Beatrix wouldn't be standing here today. She was eternally grateful that she could plan more visits on the sidelines since various parallel worlds were still left to be discovered. A good section of her spacious foyer still had murals and paintings to be filled.

“So much to see, so little time to spend...” murmured the violet mare, looking over her shoulder at the couch, where her wooly lover resided while a fire crackled in the hearth, its warm light casting shadows about the interior.

Another part of the celebration was in honor of Lady Ewe’s pregnancy, carrying the fabled Child of Lightendark, Abadonna, in her womb. Oona had been a crucial part of her growth, always helpful and supportive. Beatrix couldn’t imagine anyone else by her side.

But now, with the little one safe inside her mentor’s belly, it meant the dream shaman couldn't take part in her next journey. It was too dangerous to risk the child’s life traveling between dimensions. Not after the struggle they went to bring Abby back. Her smile faltered.

“Are you sure you’ll be okay staying here?” asked Beatrix, sitting beside her. Her violet eyes were full of worry.

“A'm positive, Ceann Oga,” insisted Oona, who smiled and rubbed her swollen stomach. “Abadonna an' Ah are safest here in th' manor. Ah just hope we won’t become a burden tae our hostess. She’s been so generous!”

“I suppose it’ll be tough with the twins moving on,” the witch said, swishing her platinum locks. “Honestly, I'm surprised Bellatrix agreed to release them from her service! I know how much she loves being doted on by those two cuties.”

Speaking of the she-devil, her sister Bellatrix made her way down the double sets of winding staircases. Her scarlet skin reflected the warm glow, her black bondage bikini and heeled boots highlighting her curves. “Nonsense,” said Bellatrix, a hand on her hip. “I value their freedom as much as their servitude. Wet Nurse and Foal-Bearer have been good to me. And I think they’re way overdue for some R’n’R.”

“Aye! It was mighty gracious ov ye tae make them half-succubi,” noted Oona, who nodded when the shapeshifter approached. “Now they’ll be able tae finally leave these grounds!”

Beatrix then asked, “Yet even with that power, they'll have to occasionally return and refuel themselves on the manor's essence, right?”

Bellatrix nodded. “I'm afraid so. But it's not like what I offered didn't come with its own perks~” A sly leer crossed her, reminded of how she 'trained' the twin maids. “But you are always welcome here, Oona. Don’t be afraid to make yourself at home. And if you need anything, I’ll likely hear you.”

“Ah will, thank ye,” the azure sheep said with a gentle smile.

“Mhm. If you’ll excuse me, I better see them off.” With that said, Bellatrix strode towards the double doors, past the suits of armor on display.

“Ah hear mah brother plans tae take his vacation wit' his lovers in Ebony’s homeworld,” the dream shaman said, turning to Beatrix, where the couple held hands. “That should be exciting! A shame Ah can’t come wit'out imposin' myself...”

“Probably for the best anyway,” tittered the witch, well aware of how randy Sir Dion could be once he got worked up. No doubt the twins could keep those burly hands busy! “Wouldn't want you to be stranded while I'm away!”

Bellatrix paused just as the doors were creaked open. “That may not be a problem soon,” she proclaimed without looking back. “Not only does the mansion continue to heal beyond expectation, but I've found ways to enhance its abilities. Those depictions of alternate worlds you've left? We may be able to travel to them.”

The witch cocked an eyebrow. “Wait, are you serious? That's awesome!!”

“Yes, you can thank Moxxi for the idea,” murmured Bellatrix. “But everything has its price...” The couple looked perplexed before staring back at the self-proclaimed ‘Devil Queen.’ But she didn't elaborate and instead passed through the double doors, leaving them to ponder why an ominous chill ran through them.

Oona heaved to shuffle closer to the hearth's warmth while Beatrix cuddled closer, an arm wrapped around her maternal love, thankful for her bodily heat. Embers popped amidst the crackle as a low wail of wind filled the interior.

A clock chimed. Usually, this would signal dinner time, where the crystal maids would come to serve them. In their place arrived beautiful marionettes, tall and adorned in maid costumes. Trays covered in food and wine were set upon the dining table by the clockwork puppets, who took a slight bow before becoming stationary.

Beatrix swallowed when she met their blank eyes. “What creepy looking-”

“Gifts,” came a posh voice from the second floor. A thestral made her appearance, pink hair drawn in double braids that fell down her shoulders, her lithe physique adorned in a white dress. “I believe the term you were looking for was gifts. I believe a little thanks are in order.”

“Esmeralda!” exclaimed the witch. “What are you doing so far from the clockwork dimension?”

“Why I’m here to supplant this lovely establishment with help,” answered the lissome bat mare who made her way down. “I'm certain they'll come in handy while the twins are away. We've prepared dozens.”

“We?” questioned the pregnant sheep, her brow arched.

A taller and more voluptuous thestral stepped out from the dark corridor as if on cue. She was dressed in transparent black to contrast her pale fur. A black waterfall mane trailed after her, crimson eyes visible from the holes of her white mask, the cheeks adorned by scarlet teardrops.

“We’ve applied more than enough to maintain this entire manor while it continues to expand,” proclaimed the second visitor, Camellia, who glided down the stairs. “I trust they will appeal to your satisfaction?”

“Oh, very much!” Beatrix couldn't help but stare at the doll's flesh-like cleavage when she bent over to pour her steamy tea. “Erm, any particular reason all these puppets are...feminine?”

“We could make butlers if it pleases you,” noted Camellia, who pursed her lips. “Though personally, I prefer to stick with maids…”

Esmerelda smirked when they descended the stairs as a pair and shook her head. “Alas, dear Camellia. Unable to relinquish her vendetta against men after years of abuse by her ex's hand. A shame, really. I often miss being pampered by credulous chaps~!” She tittered at a subdued snarl from her partner before picking up a peculiar scent. “Say, Camellia,” the slender thestral paused, taking quick sniffs of the air. “Do my senses deceive me, or do you smell that too?”

Camellia's brows furrowed once she inhaled. “I do… the faint perfume of damned flesh and corpse blood. Miss Belladonna, did you have one of our kind stay here before us?”

“Yer ‘kind’...?” Lady Ewe studied the pair before realizing that these must be the ‘vampires’ that nearly succeeded in making Beatrix their thrall.

“Ooh! Do forgive us,” teased Esmeralda, who leered. “Perhaps we came on far too sharply.”

“We’ll have to investigate this strange odor some other time,” stated Camellia before shaking her head clear. “Anyhow, the clockwork automatons are also designed for combat. They can help defend the mansion whenever you are away.”

“Sounds wonderful…” murmured Lady Ewe, who continued to survey the vampires cautiously, uncertain whether they could trust these so-called ‘vampires.’ Camellia especially reminded her much of Countess Alma, the Baobhan Sith, a Vice Lord who had served the Burning King with horrific blood magic. Oona recalled the way that abomination leered at her swollen stomach like it was a snack and visibly shuddered.

With dinner set, everyone took their places where a steamed feast was served. Soon hands wandered to the silverware. The marionettes laid out scrumptious cuisine, the room filled with succulent aromata that made mouths water. Just then, another guest arrived through the double doors. A zebra huntress named Nyeusi, or in the common tongue, Ebony Ivory.

Upon seeing Beatrix and Oona, she rushed over to congratulate the couple, smiling broadly. “My tribe will be delighted to hear this wonderful news,” assured Ebony, who swept back her mane.

Oona giggled and asked, “Have mah brother an' th' twins left fur yer homelain?”

“They have,” nodded the zebra mare. “And I will be returning soon to introduce them to my tribe. It's a shame I couldn’t be there to confront the Burning King and his forces since they threatened all universes. Perhaps I might have been able to-”

“You likely would have been slain,” interrupted a chilling voice. Beatrix grimaced when Iclyn walked into the room. The icy deighdyr left frost wherever she walked, her expression a perpetual stoic mask. But those aurora green eyes bore contempt for the witch, just by staring at her long enough. For a moment, none dared speak.

Sensing tension between the three, Ebony rose up in front of the couple, frowning. “Such a bold claim, considering you know nothing about me.”

“Oh, I have no doubt you’re a skilled warrior,” rebutted the doe. “But numerous lives were lost trying to prevent the End of Days. We should consider ourselves fortunate to have survived.”

“Aye,” agreed the dream faun. “Two ov th' Mystic Guardians perished. Not tae mention soldiers under Penumbra an' Brutus. Many ov our friends are still lickin' their wounds…”

“But surely, having your child again was worth all the lives sacrificed, right Belladonna?” the deer woman sarcastically asked Beatrix, visibly soured. “Or are we ignoring the fact that calamity follows you wherever you wander?”

“I am not!!” glowered Beatrix, slamming a balled fist into the table. “I've learned to control my spacial powers much better than before! With enough time, I’ll be able to master this effect I have and stop screwing up other timelines!”

“Sounds like you’re making great progress,” scoffed Iclyn, who finally took a seat beside Camellia and Esmeralda, the duo more interested in the wine.

The pair of bat mares were openly amused by this scuffle before the masked mare asked, “Judging by your demeanor, are we right to assume you have a low opinion of men?”

“That’s none of your concern,” Iclyn brushed off without looking at them, chewing on her food, her snout contorted in restrained fury.

Her response made the slimmer thestral snicker, whispering to her colleague, “Oh, she’s definitely a lesbian~! I know her type all too well...”

The doe’s ears were pinned at the thumps overhead, hearing what sounded like Shadow Scythe and Zeloph, who shouted back at Moxxi and Mini-Trix. Though with the latter’s recent changes, she preferred to be called ‘Demi-Trix’ due to her similarities to the two demi-humans. Nonetheless, the newfound couple could not relax and cherish their partner's company thanks to constant interruptions. She bristled in annoyance, eyes pinned on her ex.

“Iclyn,” Lady Ewe began, staring back evenly. “Ye don’t have tae reside here if ye’re not comfortable.”

“Yeah, no one’s asking you to stay,” muttered Beatrix rudely between drinks, earning a scalding look from her lover.

The doe stabbed a fork at her salad. “You think I'll leave you in the care of this bimbo and the Nightmare Stag? Someone has to help you come to your senses, Oona. Might as well be me.”

“Nightmare Stag?” asked Ebony, who shared a bewildered expression with the two vampires. “As in the one from your tales?”

“A-aye,” confirmed Oona, who stared uneasily at her plate of untouched food. “His name is Omen, my counterpart in many ways. He's th' one who aided us in restorin' Abby’s stability usin' mah womb…”

“Ahh. That would explain the pregnancy,” commented Camellia, who took another sip.

Esmerelda joined in, saying, “I was about to say, unless Beatrix is hiding some sizable horse phallus beneath her leotard, you must have been knocked up by someone else!”

“And of all the suitors, you chose a monster to father your child,” reminded Iclyn bitterly.

“Iclyn, please! This doesn’t help anyone,” Lady Ewe stated with finality.

But the deighdyr refused to let it die, rebutting, “I did not come to Equestrian soil, hoping to find a solution to our Wendigo problem, just for you to disregard our laws by fornicating with one!”

“Hey,” fumed Beatrix, who nearly spilled her drink. “You don’t know that! For all we know, Omen’s a really nice guy who's just misunderstood.”

“Of course, you would think that. You probably encouraged her, you dirty monster fucker!”

That made Beatrix snap, almost throwing herself at the snarky deer before Ebony stepped in, keeping the snarling witch at bay with her spear.

“Fucking bitch!” spat the violet mare.

“Flussi!”

“ENOUGH!” bellowed the huntress. “There will be no more antagonizing each other at the table, or you will answer to me!”

“She started it!” berated Beatrix.

“And I’m ending it!!”

Sitting back down, the two continued to glare daggers before subsiding their hostility. Beatrix folded her arms tightly together while her lover tenderly massaged her shoulder.

“Now,” the zebra continued as she retook her seat. “What is this about, Iclyn? Why is Lady Ewe’s pregnancy a disrespectful act to the deighdyr?”

After a moment to recompose her icy mask, the blue doe exhaled. “If my sources are correct, Omen is responsible for the spread of Wendigo sickness,” she elaborated. “Many years ago, a terrible winter squall was cast over our home for several months. The night grew longer, resources became scarce. The threat of famine and starvation was growing unbearably real. So much so, one of our chieftains started a tradition that would forever stain our history. Cannibalism.”

The word was enough to cause everyone to put down their fork and stop eating. Even Esmeralda and Camellia, who had no qualms about drinking blood, were taken back by the statement.

Iclyn continued. “When more people started dying, our leaders rose up to stop the madness, laying down a new law. Any deighdyr who ate their own were banished and disgraced with the name Wendigo. And all Wendigos who refused to leave were sentenced to death. The first example was the chieftain who started the practice, set ablaze. Eventually, the long winter did die out, and normalcy returned to our land. Throughout generations, the tale about the Wendigos became a cautionary warning. A story to scare children who behaved selfishly.”

The icy doe’s eyes lowered to the table, staring coldly at her untouched food. “... but for the last three years, something has been plaguing the deighdyr. Some of us began to stand still or wandered aimlessly in circles. People just thought it ‘odd.’ But then the abnormalities became apparent. Fur malting. Lost eyesight. Black growths corroding their malnourished forms. Foam salivating out their mouths. And things escalated when the infected began biting at people…”

Beatrix held a hand over her muzzle, holding the puke rising from her stomach. She recalled facing three cervine creatures of similar descriptions. But they were nothing more than hollowed husks. Grey rigged corpses with exposed skeletons, what remained of their fur completely white. And the spine-tingling shrieks they hollered…

“The elders and shamans believe that the chieftain became a malevolent spirit in death, returning from the after to wreak vengeance upon us. Possessing many men, women, and children and turning them into Wendigos.” Iclyn cast a saddened glance to Oona, who stared back with melancholy. “That is why we’ve stopped coming to your homeland, Oona. We couldn’t risk spreading this pandemic to outsiders…”

“Sweet lucid dreams,” she whimpered, clutching at her belly protectively. “A'm sae sorry, Iclyn...”

Beatrix remained quiet, a tang of guilt washing over her. If she were in the deighdyr’s hooves, the witch would be just as upset!

“Most upsetting,” agreed Ebony, who spoke with complete sympathy. “And I take it the task of ending such a blight has been unsuccessful?”

Iclyn nodded and said, “The only way to kill a Wendigo is by setting its heart on fire. A daunting task when fire is easily extinguished if the winds are harsh enough. But I cannot return home until I’ve found a cure. Or, at the very least, the source. And when I heard about the Nightmare Stag… well. You have to admit, the resemblance is uncanny.”

Both Oona and Beatrix gazed worryingly at each other. It was hard to deny the stacking evidence. Omen was informative and knowledgeable, fitting attributes for someone who might have governed before. Plus, they had no knowledge of how old the Nightmare Stag was…

“We’ll take these concerns with us when we meet with him tonight,” announced Beatrix, trying to hold back her animosity towards the rude deer. “I-I know it isn’t much since we already went ahead with the decision. But-”

“Yeah, a little too late there,” shot back Iclyn, who narrowed her green gaze.

“Regardless,” the witch pressed on. “We don’t want Abby to be associated with Omen if he’s behind all that suffering. She will not be born a monster!”

Her declaration earned a stiff chuckle from Iclyn. “You speak as if you have everything under control. I’d like to believe you, Belladonna. But I’ve seen the results of the altered dimensions you've visited! You've meddled with stuff you don't understand and left a mess in your wake. Where does it end..?”

“I-I…” She thought long and hard to counter the deer’s point but found herself standing there awkwardly. In defeat, she admitted, “I don’t know…”

“It ends with you, Beatrix,” Iclyn answered once she stood up. “If you care about Abadonna's future and all the lives around you, you'd retire to this manor. Cease your needless voyaging before you cause another mass extinction event, hmm? Doesn’t that sound like a swell idea?”

Beatrix’s magical aura flared up, her violet eyes seething with anger. The urge to open a portal and shove this ungrateful cunt into the furthest reaches of space intensified, regardless of her plight!

Oona rose from her seat to pull the witch back, whispering, “Please, Ceann Oga. This isn’t worth it…”

Despite her reluctance, the unicorn powered down, her aura depleting. With a huff, Iclyn began to make her exit from the dining room. “You’ll learn one of these days, Belladonna,” she said. “Somethings are best left to the unknown.”

As the deighdyr made her exit, the couple cradled one another before leaving to unwind from the tense ordeal. Ebony shook her head before resuming her meal for her trip home. The thestral mares likewise said nothing, leaving the dining room uncomfortably quiet save for the clattering above.

Beatrix and Oona weren’t the only couple who were in need of fresh air. Shadow Scythe took Zeloph's hand and led him outside the mansion through the backdoor. Peace was obsolete with the latter's vexing sister always around. They found themselves in a closed-off graveyard, where many resided in the empty earth after the apocalyptic battle, reduced to mere ashes.

The reaper and her seraphic partner kept their distance from the family ahead. White Shadow Penumbra, adorned in a turban and white cape to match his tunic, stood with his head bowed in solemn silence, surrounded by his brother-in-law Midnight and the latter's herd. For several moments, none of them dared speak a word.

“You’d think he'd cheer up a bit after getting a cool new arm,” murmured Zeloph, who still felt guilty over partially crippling the pegasus.

With a heavy sigh, Shadow Scythe broke the silence. “Their souls are at rest, I promise,” she said assuringly on her approach. “Were they trapped in Pathos, I would've sensed it. Their bravery and heroism saved every universe.”

“I know,” muttered Penumbra before turning to the pair. “Lily's told me the same thing many times. I just need a few more days to grieve it all.” His wife was already sent home with his brother, Ashen Dunes. As well as Rheneas, the mare his sister had saved from the Vice Lord, Doppia.

Cerise Silhouette cast a pained smile at them. “They’re in a better place now,” she assured them. “You can come in if you want!”

“O-oh, we didn’t want to intrude,” the Fallen One started, earning a giggle from the princess before she shook her head. He and Shadow Scythe wandered over to the rows of new headstones which marked each fallen soldier. Zeloph’s grimace worsened, painfully reminded of the catastrophe he once brought to their homeworld.

Thousands had died between him and his lover. More than either could ever hope to make amends for. His hand was clasped by the reaper's, who stayed close by.

“So… what do we do now?” Midnight Blitzer asked when he looked at his wife. “Should we also return to your world? Maybe see if we can help with the borders?”

Cerise pursed her lips. “I don't know...” Her attention turned to Moonlight River, her thestral plumage reduced to nubs. The bat mare had been offered a decorative replacement by a minotaur, Moon Hammer, until he could attempt to craft another pair that allowed her to safely be airborne. “Oh, wait! What if we go to your world, Middy? Maybe we could visit there and see whether it makes for a nice vacation spot?”

Her herd mates shared a glance before Moonlight took a step forward. “Erm, it’s not the most hospitable place,” she stated, feeling the pain of her phantom limbs when she curled her metallic plume. “But I wouldn’t mind. Kinda miss it…”

“Yeah, same here,” said Midnight, who beamed at them. “I'm sure Shining Armor would be impressed to see how far we've come! I can hardly wait!” He punched the air in celebration.

“Guess it’s decided then,” mumbled Moonlight.

In their world, they shared a common loss. The Changeling invasion pushed them to the brink of extinction, many of their commanders left with scars to mark their service to their homeland. Shining Armor's leg had been crippled, which he considered a lucky 'break' compared to his friends' suffering.

The demise of Queen Chrysalis and the eradication of many hives had driven their enemy even deeper underground. Yet Midnight and Moonlight, who were trained into cadets from youth, were informed that another enemy was on the rise, and so despite peacetime, they relentlessly prepared for the war ahead.

“I think Dion had the right idea. I could use a vacation myself,” chuckled Penumbra, allowing himself a mild smile. “I'll return home and help Lily take care of the borders.” Like usual, he decided to lose himself in his duties, which always helped him deal with his losses.

“Take care, brother,” said Cerise, who embraced him.

“You too,” he said and returned her warm hold. “All of you.” He also smiled at the formerly villainous couple before making his way out of the graveyard.

“Poor Penny,” whispered Cerise, who frowned. “Will he be okay?”

“I think he will,” answered Zeloph. “Especially since Moon Hammer was able to replace his lost arm. I'm sure he's eager to see what it's capable of. You said the Eldritch was left by many massive mutated scorpions that bed at the borders? I'm certain he and Lily will cut down many before the season dries up.”

“I'm tempted to come help,” admitted Shadow Scythe. “I’ve been feeling a little cooped up and restless here, what with all the company. Besides, I've always worked best when I have a goal. Aside from Doppia, I couldn't claim a sole Vice Lord's head. Between us, we could easily have those scorpions dealt with in a week!”

“I'm sure brother would appreciate the help,” beamed Cerise before recalling that Zeloph was permanently banished from her homeworld.

Knowing that look, a bitter chuckle left his lips. “I don’t think your people would be ready to welcome me back with open arms. So you may have to venture there alone, Shadow Scythe.”

“And what would you do while I’m away?” asked the reaper, who studied his expression.

Zeloph stroked his chin in thought. “Well, I still have access to that heavenly void. I could see if Bellatrix could patch it with the mansion. It would provide Moxxi and I somewhere to stay. Oh, and Demi-Trix too, since she’s more like us now.”

“Oh, that sounds pretty comfy,” proclaimed Midnight in a chipper voice. “And hey! Maybe you could show us your world sometime an-”

“NO!” The angel suddenly shouted, all eyes glared with vermillion pupils, causing the pegasus to reel back in alarm. Realizing his outcry spooked the people around him, Zeloph turned away and apologetically stated, “I-I mean, no. I'm afraid there’s… no world for us to return to.”

“O-okay! Got it! Sorry, I asked…”

“Uhm, we’ll give you guys some space,” nodded Cerise, who took her husband’s hand and led him away, with Moonlight following after. Gates that enclosed the burial place creaked to a close.

With the couple now alone, the pale unicorn pulled her lover’s face to hers and cradled his cheek when she asked, “Are you alright?”

“I am,” affirmed the demi-human. “It was a traumatic event, and I would rather not recite it right now. Besides, we’ll be leaving here shortly.”

Offering a nod, Shadow Scythe traced an etched headstone, also reminded of her old comrades. Reapers she had betrayed and slain with her own hands. She shivered in her new clothes, which were now less plausible to hideaway in. Thankfully, her love was there to reassure her with his touch.

Sometimes, it felt like their past would haunt them forever. Like they were condemned to suffer for past sins. Was that what they deserved?

Rumor had it that something was sighted in Shadow Scythe's homeland, possibly another demi-human. Despite how many bridges she had burned there and all the painful memories, the pale mare wished to see her world once more…

The clink of chains sounded whereupon Bellatrix made her way to the mansion's basement, reminded of when the eldritch abomination that now camouflaged itself as her home had once imprisoned and fed off her. But now, it had a new demonic morsel to siphon fresh nutrients from.

Suggestive growls arose from her prisoner, who wriggled and squirmed in her enchanted chains. And upon seeing her warden return, a sly smile graced her full lips. “Aaaugh ahaha~! Come tae collect more masturbation material, mah dear?”

“You know better than to escape your detention,” Bellatrix responded, unphased by her comment. “Not that I blame you, but I can't let that lie unpunished. Please understand. I must maintain order here.” She snapped her fingers, and tendrils detached from the Baobhan Sith, leaving nasty suction tracks across her supple, pallid skin.

Bellatrix noticed some of the beast’s vicious tentacles were layered with bite marks. The she-devil’s gaze narrowed at the former Vice Lord, her mouth drawn thin. “That desperate, huh..?”

Countess Alma glared back at her before spatting, “Ye’re an idiot if ye think A’ll accept you as mah superior.” Her cruel smile spread wider before asking aloud, “Do ye hear me, beast? Are ye content tae serve this ‘pretender’ despite it bein' her fault ye’re sae malnourished? If ye unite wit me, Ah would never let ye go hungry." Her wicked smile spread. "A bountiful feast awaits if ye-”

“Silence!!” barked Bellatrix, her threat clear. She feared this would be the angle Alma sought. After all the hardship she had put the abomination through, it might be tempted to take up the auburn beauty’s offer. It had previously bonded with Shadow Scythe. And as an amoral creature, naturally dedicated to its own survival, there was always a slim chance her home could always turn on her...

The Baobhan Sith snickered. “As if ye could ever become a Queen of Hell. Ye’re much too soft fur that.” She cooed once her eyes took in Bellatrix’s shapeliness, sucking on her bottom lip. “Not tae mention delicious~! Speakin' ov, do ye have mah meal yet?”

“You’ll get your food when you’ve told me what you know about your cohorts,” argued Bellatrix. With the manor now strong enough to house multiple doorways to various locations, sneaking off to snatch a straggler to keep Alma quiet wasn’t so difficult. But with so many guests currently residing here, it draws too much suspicion. And the scarlet demoness wasn’t ready to explain herself, especially to her closest allies.

“A’m not th' one on borrowed time,” chortled Alma, whose scarlet gaze scanned over Bellatrix’s black bondage attire. Specifically, the many spots she left puncture wounds while feeding off the sultry shapeshifter. “Ye wouldn’t be at such risk ov discovery if ye didn’t dress like a skank~.”

“Shut your mouth,” growled the succubus, who slithered past the metal bars that stretched at her mental command to allow her entry into the cell.

“Or what? Ye plan on starvin' me tae death? Ha~! Face facts, Bellatrix. You have nothin' tae threaten me wit! Th' only thing ye’ll get out ov me is mah-uumph!?”

Alma’s taunts were cut off when Bellatrix met her lips in a deep kiss. The succubus drew back when she felt her sharp teeth, blood smearing both their lips. She huffed and heaved her bosom, her eyes hooded when she exhaled in the dim prison.

“Well, that was quite… curious,” noted Alma, who licked off the fresh blood that painted her lips.

“I don’t wish to keep you prisoner,” confessed Bellatrix, trying to keep a neutral face, thankful her crimson skin hid a faint blush upon her cheeks. “As my consort, I’d imagine you’d serve my court well. I only want your compliance. Give me that, and I’ll provide the freedom you seek.”

“Please,” scoffed Alma, who savored the faint taste on her lips. “Even wit'out chains, ye’d still treat me wit restraint. If A'm not allowed tae indulge in mah desires, A'm not truly free, am Ah?”

“But surely, the alternative is better than being a living battery?”

“A’ll take mah chances wit th' beast. Ye’re a cunnin' bitch, Primadonna, A’ll give ye that. Ye’d probably make fur a good fuck too! But th' Baobhan Sith submits tae neither man nor woman." She leered at her. "If anythin', darlin'? Ye’d be a lot happier servin' me instead~.”

“Don't toy with me, Alma,” Bellatrix sneered, seizing the vampire’s throat. “I’m not known to be patient. I’ve stated my ultimatum. You’ll either do what I say, or you’ll perish. I’ll give you a month to decide.” Against her better judgment, her other hand caressed her prisoner’s cheek, down the slope of her neck, tempted to sink even lower…

“A month’s a long time,” Alma whispered through husky breaths. “Long enough tae break you in, perhaps? Help ye forfeit all control. Ah can see it in yer eyes, Bella. Ye’re not a ruler. Ye’re a lost servant, lookin' for a proper mistress~.”

“Aaauuuh, fuck! That shite is so 'ot~!” A peppy voice interrupted. Bellatrix let out an alarmed gasp, snapping her head back to find Moxxi hovering outside the cell, her tail tucked between her thighs, rubbing at her crotch.

“W-what! How did you–I-It’s not what it looks like!”

“Caught ya red-handed, I did,” the imp mused, a knowing smirk plastered on her purple lips. “I knew I felt summit off when I took over the manor that wahn nickle and dime! Plus, ya bally reeked of wet bizzich ever since the party started. So this is your dirty lil' secret, eh?”

“Ah warned her it was only a matter ov time,” the vampiress tittered. “If not th' two thestrals A’ve smelled, then someone else. Care tae join us, little imp? Things were certainly gettin' interestin'~!”

Moxxi playfully considered it before saying, “Mmm, temptin'! But I 'ave a policy not ter get involved wif bloodsuckers. Just not me kink, lov.”

Her laughter was cut off when the succubus sized her by her cartoonish tail, holding her upside-down. “Moxxi, you can’t share a word of this to anyone,” warned Bellatrix. “I swear, dare breathe a peep, and I will personally eviscerate you!”

“Yeesh! Calm your titties, bella! I’m nah tattletale,” insisted the neon demon, who wiggled her tail free and drew an ‘x’ shape with her claw over her left breast. “I’ve withheld many secrets for a bunch of people. You’ve got nuffin' ter worry abaht.”

“Thank you.” The she-devil let out a deep sigh, slightly relieved. “Let’s leave before anyone else decides to snoop down here.”

The pair left the cell and remended the bars. But when they turned to leave, Alma abruptly called, “He won’t love ye th' way ye want!”

This made Moxxi flinch and turn around, forcing a cheeky grin. “Not even a day in the loonie bin, and you’ve started ter ramble off mad, eh~?”

But Alma shook her head and said in a sinister tone, “Don’t play coy wit me. Ah see th' way ye fidget. For a self-proclaimed secret holder, there’s quite a lot eatin' away at ye under th' skin~.”

Bellatrix glanced at her friend to notice she was trembling a bit, her pink claws bawled tightly.

The Baobhan Sith continued. “Th' walls have ears, y’know. All morning, A've been hearin' ye make quite a ruckus upstairs. Ye’ve been purposefully keepin' yer brother an' that reaper bitch apart from th' sounds ov it. What’s th' matter, dear? Jealous that th' love you covet is given tae another~?”

A metal slam nearly startled Alma when Moxxi propelled herself onto the bar. And despite the wide smile on the imp’s face, her eyes glowed hotly with scarlet. Her voice dropped to a growl as she threatened, “Let’s make wahn fin' crystal, ya saucy cunt. Just 'cause Bella's been crushin' on ya doesn’t mean I’m obligated ter 'old back me disdain. I’m sure she won’t mind if I came daahhhn 'ere and inflict sum real punishment should ya misbe-ave. Isn’t that wite, lov~?”

“N-no, of course,” replied Bellatrix, whose eyes held concern over the sudden shift in the little imp. "Perhaps she needs the discipline."

“Smashin'! Na keep your nose aahhht of me business, and shut your norf and souf. Otherwise? I’ll introduce ya ter me whippin' post!”

Satisfied with getting a rise from the demi-human, the countess nodded with a sly smirk. Moxxi followed Bellatrix out of the dreary basement with a huff, the prison bars notably bent from how tightly she was gripping.

Bellatrix was about to say something with pursed lips before the imp spoke up first. “Don’t,” Moxxi said flatly. “When I’m ready ter talk abaht it, I’ll come ter ya.”

“Very well…”

“Quite the risk you’re takin' 'ere, lov. Alma’s a crafty wahn. And she 'as a point. Wouldn’t blame the abomination wahn bit if it decided she was the better 'ostess.”

Bellatrix silently seethed, unable to deny it. Demons were amoral by nature, and she was no different. What kindness she had as a result of the friends she'd made. And like she promised, anyone under her house was protected.

Yet that didn't apply to a prisoner. One that most of her allies would have wanted executed on the spot. “Life is always about risk,” assured Bellatrix, more to herself. “Should this gamble pay off, I'll have one of the most powerful creatures at my beck and call…”

“Or you’ll end up back where ya started,” warned Moxxi, looking at the ground. “As a playthin' for someone’s amusement…"

Something was wrong. Shadow Scythe felt it when she and her partner arrived back in her homeland. Mainly because where she came from, the ponies there were feral. Yet she found herself still in her anthropomorphized shape when she touched down on a slope. "What the...?"

She turned to Zeloph, who also didn’t take on the form of a stallion like he expected. The pair of them were situated on the hilltops near her old home, which was visible by a cliff in the distance, curtained beneath the sun. Sensing what troubled her, Zeloph theorized, "It seems Beatrix’s Prima Materia affected this world, too."

"Of course, it has,” Shadow Scythe grumbled when she overlooked a camp far below a cliffside, where travelers settled around a campfire and cooked stew in a pot. “These ponies act like nothing has happened! Unaware that they originally walked on all fours. Some even looked at us like we’re the oddities!" She shook her head. "Honestly, Belladonna. You need to hurry up and learn to handle your anomalous power…”

"We’ll worry about that later." His hand rested on her thin arm. "I know you only wanted to look around for that creature. But… I think it’s time you meet your father once more.”

She flinched. “Zeloph, I already told you-”

“Atalanta,” he cut her off using her true name. “Nothing is beyond redemption. You are proof of that. There has to be a chance your relationship can be mended! He’s hurt, still mourning the loss of his wife. Your mother. But some time has passed. And you won’t have forever to decide…"

For a moment, the pale unicorn appeared to shrink in on herself before she steeled her resolve with a deep inhale. "...you’re right." Her hand clutched his own. "I don’t want to live with any more regrets. We'll do this as one."

It didn’t take long for Shadow Scythe to reach her old home. It had two stories but was otherwise mundane on the surface, save for the cracks and worn exterior, built by her parents for solitude.

They were forced to relocate it after Shadow Scythe betrayed the world, the ire of ponies brought down on their family, but aside from that, it was almost exactly how she remembered it.

Sucking in a sharp breath, she raised a fist and softly knocked. Then after a moment with no answer, the reaper rapped louder. “Hello? Father?? Please! It...it's me. Atalanta...”

"You said he was a hunter, right? Maybe he’s out," suggested Zeloph.

"Of sorts,” she explained. “He researched cryptids and such beasts of myth. My mother was one of the few at the academy who believed in him…”

Shadow Scythe lit her fractured horn despite her reservations and pried the door open. It creaked available to darkness, illuminated by her translucent aura, where the walls were adorned by various trophies from animals, awards, and weapons, one of which she approached.

"The Vorpal Blade," she commented once she took the needle-like sword from the wall, adorned by a ring-like hole on its end. "I was but a foal when I used it to make my first kill. A mythic creature known as the Jabberwocky."

“Heh. So even as a child, you were adept in the art of murder," he mused, earning a sour look from his lover. Celeste eyes scanned the area, noting how trashed the place was. Cobwebs decorated the corners, brass bottles littered all over the dusty table and worn floor. Depression and decay tarnished a once cozy establishment.

Shadow Scythe found a broken picture frame containing the portrait of herself, her father, and her mother, Quiver Bolt. Her hand trembled over the fragile glass, tears threatening to pour from her icy blue eyes, wistful for an abandoned past.

“Over here,” Zeloph’s voice called to her, drawing her attention to the second floor. “The stairs to the attic are out. Maybe he’s up there, and that’s why he couldn’t hear us!"

"Zell, wait!" she harshly whispered, but her love had already shot up the ladder. She swallowed and followed him until they arrived in the attic itself. Her seraphic lover used his radiance to illuminate the area, making her balk.

“Oh no…”

Rats scuttled across the wood, some of which was lined in dried blood. Yet, despite signs of a possible struggle, there was nobody nor a skeleton to mark the area. She paled. Did her father get blindsided by an assailant? Was he…

Zeloph brought a reassuring hand onto her shoulder. "We don't know for certain what happened here. Can you sense his soul?" After another deep breath, the reaper closed her eyes and took a moment to concentrate. After a minute of silence, she shook her head.

Frowning, he asked, "What do you think this means..?"

"I have no idea," she admitted, her voice barely a whisper once she sniffled and blinked away tears. But she shook them aside, her snout drawn. “But I doubt my father was so easily killed. No… Something else just happened. And we’re going to find out!” She floated back out of the attic.

Was this retaliation for what she'd done? After she betrayed their world and tried to conquer it, some undoubtedly held a vendetta against her family...

“I know we’re in the mindset that another demi-human exists in this world,” Zeloph said when he trailed her. “But there’s also the possibility it was something else. Could be connected to what happened here. Perhaps we’ll find more answers back in the manor," he surmised. "If need be, Bellatrix can always drop us off here again."

With a nod after their exit outside, she looked over the ancient Vorpal Blade before offering it to the fallen angel. "Here. Take it.”

He gazed back, appalled. “What? No, I can’t have this. It’s a family heirloom...!”

“Father often mentioned that this blade holds many untold secrets. I could never figure out how to unlock them. But maybe you can. Besides, you lost your sword during that skirmish with Varys. Think of it as a suitable replacement.”

Zeloph’s eyes shifted between the worn-looking weapon and his lover. Then, he accepted her gift begrudgingly and took a couple of swishes. The sword felt like a feather in his hand.

Once more, he asked, “Are you certain?”

A sad smile graced her delicate features when she nodded, her hands atop his own. “I can’t think of anyone more suited to wield it, my love.”

They shared a chaste kiss over the blade, her home a reminder of the innocence she once had...until boredom brought her down a darker path and into the service of Lord Grogar.

The couple left through the backyard, where a cliff overlooked a sea and a solitary headstone rested. A bouquet of flowers placed on it had wasted away, Quiver Bolt's name etched into the stone. The sun started to dip below the horizon.

Shadow Scythe knelt and closed her eyes. "Hey, mom,” she gently whispered. “I know this is… way overdue, but. I wanted to tell you how sorry I am. I know I can’t make up for what I did. But I will strive to do better. Believe it or not, I've finally found someone like you always wanted. I think you'd like him…” a slight chuckle escaped her lips. “He’s quite the charmer like you said father was."

Zeloph stood in solemn silence beside the reaper, thankful he could be here during her hour of need. The evening was arriving over the setting, reminding the demi of a similar cliffside with a valley of sunflowers. And of the human musician who gave him serenity before his life crumbled. It took him monumental effort not to openly sob.

Clearing his throat, he stated, "It's almost time for Beatrix to open a portal for us.”

Shadow Scythe rose and blinked away her tears. "Yes. We'd better hurry back to the point we arrived at. Goodbye, mother. The next time we visit, I hope it will be with father by my side."

The couple left the scene hand-in-hand, utterly unaware that the stallion in question had been observing them from a distance.