//------------------------------// // Chapter 12: A Cycle Ended // Story: To End a Cycle // by Obsedian_Flame //------------------------------// Chapter 12 A Cycle Ended Juline 2, 3672 7:00 AM Dear Diary, I do not know where to begin with this entry seeing how many major events transpired yesterday. I suppose the best way to do this is to summarize every event in chronological order and connect them all. Yesterday was my wedding day to my Lord Sombra. I had never been more nervous for any other occasion in my life before and I doubt anything else shall ever compare to how I felt when I awoke that morning. Thankfully, I was not alone. With help from my parents as well as my best friend Luster, it managed to relieve some of my stress, even if only a little. I was visited fairly early in the morning by Miss Rarity as she presented my completed wedding dress. I have worn many dresses before, whether to the Grand Galloping Gala or to other momentous occasions, however, I had never seen such a perfectly crafted outfit before. The impeccable colors and the flawless textures alone were simply divine and I was overjoyed when I got the opportunity to see myself wearing it. However, as organized as I was, nothing could prepare me for walking down that isle. There were so many eyes on me in those moments that I could hardly think. The only thing I can remember is taking in Sombra’s appearance. He was very well groomed, and had went to an enormous effort to look as dignified as possible. Miss Rarity had also done an incredible job with his suit. Although fairly simple in design, it complemented his features very well. I can not deny the feelings that I felt in those moments. Then came the most difficult part of the wedding. The vows. I’d practiced this part with my Mother days before, however, it was much harder in Pony than I’d ever imagined. As I stared into Sombra’s crimson eyes, I made my commitment to him once and for all. Shortly thereafter, he did the same to me. There were moments in this process where I could tell Sombra was pondering if this was truly what he wanted to do. I then presented the ring Princess Celestia graciously gave me. It felt strange to present a ring to him that had originally belonged to somepony else, however, what was stranger was the look on Sombra’s face when he saw the ring. Before I could even think about it further, he presented his own ring to me. It was a very well crafted Black Opal ring with white gold. I am currently wearing the ring as I write this entry. After the ring presentation, came the final and most important moment in the entire event. I can hardly recall the moments before our kiss. I only remember that my heart beat incredibly quick and that time seemed to slow to a standstill. I’d kissed Sombra before, but never in such a manner and much less with so many Ponies watching. But in that moment I did not think of anypony else. In that moment I felt compelled. Like this was my destiny. And so I did it. I kissed Sombra once and for all. I do not even recall how long our exchange lasted. What still puzzles me was how intent the both of us were. I had no hesitation nor regret for my actions. If somepony had told me I’d be in this position years ago, I’d have branded them a lunatic. But there I was, kissing my now husband and as embarrassing as it is to admit; enjoying it. Once we separated, I noticed just how loud the crowd around us was. Seeing the looks of happiness and glee on the Crystal Ponies faces alleviated all the pressure the wedding had brought. When I had first arranged this union with Sombra, I feared the Crystal Ponies would never accept Sombra as their King. However, our moment of happiness was short lived as we were then forced to meet the evil entity that I’d searched for all these weeks; Countess Omni. Her unexpected arrival left me in near disbelief as did it the rest of the Ponies in the crowd. She was an ominous, cruel, and vile Umbrum Shadow Pony with an even more sickening grin than Sombra’s. She then revealed that Sombra was her own son and that he had deceived us the entire time. I did not want to believe this revelation, however, all the pieces fit. Before we could stop her, Omni caught us off guard and permanently destroyed the Crystal Heart, leaving the Crystal Empire vulnerable to the cold encroaching north. She then summoned an army of her Umbrum minions from seemingly nowhere. We were quickly overwhelmed and I knew I had to stop her before things escalated. To my surprise though, Sombra stepped in and front of me to intervene. I wanted nothing more than to cast him away for betraying us, but he then did something I never could have expected. He rebelled against Countess Omni. I vividly remember what he told me in those moments. “Go, protect our Ponies.” I had no reason to believe him after his treachery, but some instinct of mine told me that he was being sincere. I still cannot explain my rationale, and I don’t believe I ever will. All I knew is that he was right. I rushed off to help my Ponies who were being overwhelmed by the Umbrum Warriors leaving Sombra to confront Countess Omni. While helping my subjects, I glanced over at Sombra who was in an intense battle with Countess Omni. However, even with his immense power he was no match for her. After she gained the upper hand, she begin to use a deadly spell on her own son as though he were little more than a pest to her. I could not stand by and watch any longer, and so I interceded. I managed to save Sombra just in time by using one of my most powerful spells on Countess Omni. However, to my dismay, my spell seemed to have no effect on her. Still, everypony has a weakness, and I was determined to find it. As we fought, Countess Omni used many lethal attacks against me. I could feel the malice and evil energy from each spell and I then understood why she’d been one of the members of Grogar’s order. Our fight lasted a long while, but after using all of my greatest techniques and abilities, it had hardly even phased her. I had been so focused on the fight that I hadn’t even noticed my subjects’ struggle. When I briefly looked their way, I was horrified to see that they had been overpowered by the Umbrum army and the vile shadow creatures were feeding off their fears. Sadly, I could do nothing but watch as Countess Omni’s power overwhelmed my own. Before I knew it I was trapped in a dark void. It was here, however, that something strange happened. Omni attempted to feed off my own fears, however, her technique inexplicably failed. But even with her technique failing, Omni soon resorted to brute strength as my own magic did not work in this realm. Just when all seemed lost, I was rescued by Sombra. He was also somehow able to communicate with me telepathically as he proceeded to apologize for his grave mistake. I could only focus on defeating Omni so we could save the rest of our Ponies, however, with the Crystal Heart destroyed, evil could thrive in its absence. Sombra then reassured me that we did not need the Crystal Heart, and that I was the key to stopping Omni. I did not believe Sombra at first, however, only a moment later, Omni’s power finally trumped Sombra’s. Seeing him in such a weakened state struck a nerve with me and I then pleaded for Omni to stop. She, however, had no intention on listening, much less cooperating. Omni then uttered a series of words that I cannot forget. “You are not a Princess of Love, nor are you a Princess of Friendship. So tell me, Alicorn. What are you a Princess of?” In that moment I instinctively thought of a single word. Almost finishing her sentence. I can not explain what prompted it, nor can I explain what happened next. All I knew was that one word. Hope. In that moment, the void around me disappeared. And as I stood next to the shards of the Crystal Heart, I looked up at Omni who for the first time had a look of concern. I cannot recall what happened next apart from feeling a very warm, virtuous energy surrounding my entire being. Moments later, I felt changed. It felt as though I’d absorbed the power of the Crystal Heart. It felt like this was my destiny. Omni attempted to destroy me with one of her most powerful offensive spells, but to everypony’s surprise, the attack did no damage to me. I then gave Omni a final chance to leave the empire and pursue a life of peace. But if there was anything I’d learned from fighting her thus far, it was that she was as relentless as she was cruel. She then ordered her army of shadow creatures to converge on me. However, with my newfound powers, I was able to protect myself and even repel them. I then felt another instinctive urge come over me as if the Crystal Heart itself was commanding me. With a strong spell, I was able to grant a portion of my powers to everypony else in the Empire. After having unified everypony, we managed to turn the tide of the fight. But as I dispelled numerous Umbrum Warriors, I was ambushed by Omni who looked much angrier than before. I managed to hold my own against her and even began pushing her back before she was hit by another spell from Sombra who had managed to recover some strength. But before I could finish her off, Omni made a last ditch effort to destroy us using a spell that merged all her shadow creature subordinates with her own essence. She was willing to sacrifice everything to destroy us, but now was not the time for fear. I quickly amassed my own energy and called upon the magic of all the Ponies in the Empire. Without any hesitation, they obliged and offered their power of friendship, of love, and of hope to combine into one all powerful shield. I then used the combined energy to defeat Countess Omni and her acolytes once and for all. We had finally won. Subsequently, the cold tundra around the empire had halted altogether and Aunt Celestia’s sun shone upon the land once more. The Crystal Ponies were overjoyed and proceeded to celebrate before my parents approached me. I was so relieved to see them safe as well as the rest of my friends. Everypony congratulated me before they gave me the news. I had ascended. Even now, coming to grips with this news is difficult. Every Alicorn must overcome a great obstacle in order to ascend. I am reminded of my change every time my mane begins to wave in my face. Truthfully, it is quite annoying and it will certainly take some getting used to. My magical abilities have also been amplified tenfold. It was then that my Auntie Twilight took a knee in respect. I wanted nothing more than to protest, however, she was quickly followed by the rest of our Ponies in the Empire. Everypony but one. Sombra looked on at me as if he were in deep thought. Moments later though, he too lowered his knee in respect. It was this action that made up my mind. This victory was not only mine, it was everypony’s. Without Sombra’s aid, we would have fallen to Countess Omni. I then brought Sombra up and stared into his eyes. But this time I did not see hints of malice or of greed. I saw guilt and humility. I knew in this moment that I had finally ended the cycle. But more still, I knew that I’d finally found a feeling I’d missed for so many years. True love. I then kissed him. Unprompted and for no reason other than affection. As she prepared to finish up the latest entry of her Diary, Flurry Heart heard a knock on her door. She rarely if ever got knocks on her door this early in the morning, but that could only mean that it was likely very important. “Just a minute!” She stated as she put down her quill. After opening the door, Flurry was treated to the sight of her best friend Luster. “Hi Flur, I know it’s really early but I just wanted to stop by before I head back to Canterlot.” The Alicorn smiled but raised a brow, “You’re already heading back?” Luster nodded, “Yeah. Princess Twilight wants to return home to write a book about these recent events…” Flurry chuckled before glancing back at her friend. There was a brief pause as she contemplated what to say. “Thank you Dawn.” The Pink Unicorn raised a brow, “For what?” “For everything. For helping me plan the wedding. For helping in the battle. And for being the best friend anypony could ask for.” The Alicorn stated with a sincere expression. These words touched the Unicorn’s heart as she shed a single tear, “Well, I don’t know about ‘best’ friend-” Before the Unicorn could finish her sentence, she was embraced by her Alicorn friend. “You are Dawn. I couldn’t ask for a better friend and ally.” Flurry answered simply. Luster could not seem to find any words as she was overcome by her emotions. Without saying a word, she returned the embrace with her Alicorn friend. The hug lasted nearly half a minute before Flurry released herself. As the two friends looked at one another, Flurry spoke up, “Well, I suppose this is goodbye for a while then?” Luster nodded, “Yeah. I’ve been away from my studies so long it’ll be difficult to catch up.” The Alicorn chuckled, “You never change do you?” The Unicorn smiled with pride, “Nope! By the way! Before I go, promise me you’ll write! I wanna know how things are going!” Flurry nodded, “Of course! I was going to say the same thing to you!” “You can count on it Flur. Now take care of yourself! Don’t let Sombra take over the Empire while I’m gone!” Luster jested as she began to trot off. Flurry once again laughed before calling back, “Will you get going already!?” The Unicorn glanced back one last time and winked before heading down the hall. Flurry watched as her friend left her sight all the while smiling and shaking her head. ‘Goodbye Dawn. I’ll miss you.’ She thought as her smile gradually faded. Flurry sighed before returning to her desk to finish her diary entry. As she raised the quill out of its holder, the Alicorn paused in thought while staring up at her window. She knew when her friends were joking, but even so Flurry worried for her Husband. They hadn’t spoken very much since Omni’s defeat as she’d felt it best to give Sombra some space and time to process everything. Even though Omni had been a terrible Mother to him, Flurry could tell that it was hard for Sombra to turn on his kin. After another moment of contemplation, the Alicorn returned the quill to its resting place and prepared herself before setting off to find Sombra. While trotting through the halls, Flurry Heart had to make an effort to keep her new wavy mane out of her eyes. Though her Alicorn ascension had brought many perks, Flurry envied her previous mane as it rarely troubled her this often. She supposed she’d get used to it eventually, but for the time being it was nothing more than a bother. As she neared a corner, Flurry heard several voices conversing further down the hall. The nature of the conversation eluded her, but she could instantly identify the two familiar voices. After rounding the corner, Flurry spotted her parents. Cadence was the first to notice her daughter and smiled warmly, “Good morning Flurry. You’re sure up early.” The white coated Alicorn nodded and replied, “Morning Mom, morning Dad.” Shining raised a brow, “You’re not usually up and about this early. You know there’s no guard training today right?” Flurry chuckled, “I’m not up for guard training Dad… I just had something else I needed to do.” The two parents looked at one another before shrugging. Cadence then took a warm sip of her tea before asking, “Something else?” The young Alicorn hesitated on whether to tell them or not. “I… I wanted to talk to Sombra. About what happened yesterday.” Both parents remained silent as if correctly anticipating Flurry to continue, “I know him and I reconciled. And that we forgave his mistake… But I just…” As she looked away, Flurry felt the warmth of her father’s hoof on her shoulder, “We understand Flurry. Your mother and I couldn’t be more proud of you. Of the excellent leader you’ve become.” Flurry smiled warmly as she took the compliment. “By the way, what were you both talking about before I got here?” Cadence glanced at her husband who nodded, “Your Father and I were thinking. We would like to leave the Crystal Empire in your Hooves Flurry.” The young Alicorn’s eyes lit up in shock as she took several steps back in realization. She knew that being a Queen had now given her many more responsibilities, however, this was completely different. “Flurry?” Shining Armor asked after noticing his daughter’s apprehension. The young Alicorn stared at the floor as she came to grips with this revelation, “You would really entrust the entire Crystal Empire to me?” “There’s nopony we’d trust more Sweetheart. You are ready for this.” Cadence confidently affirmed. Flurry Heart looked out a nearby window to the Empire surrounding her. The thought of being fully responsible for such a vast kingdom was daunting, but after thinking for a good moment, she realized that her parents were correct. Everything she’d done had led her to this point. And everything had happened for a reason. “Thanks Mom. And thanks Dad. I don’t know what else to say…” She replied. Shining nodded once more with a proud grin. “You’ve earned it Flurry. And besides, we needed a good vacation after all this chaos.” Flurry Heart chuckled at the last comment before shaking her head, “I think everypony could use one after what happened yesterday.” Her parents nodded before Shining once again spoke up, “If you ever need advice or help, never hesitate to ask us. We’ll always be willing to guide you.” “Thanks Dad. I hope I can be as good a leader as you both are.” Flurry replied. “You will be Flurry. And you won’t be alone either.” Cadence affirmed as she now placed her hoof on her daughter’s shoulder out of pride. As touching as the moment was, her Mother’s statement reminded the young Alicorn why she’d ventured out here in the first place. “I’d love to talk later, but I think I should find Sombra now.” Both parents agreed and gave their daughter her space. “Very well, take care sweetheart.” Shining added. Flurry nodded before heading off and leaving the two Ponies behind. With their daughter out of earshot, the white coated Unicorn glanced at his wife, “Are you sure?” He asked as if rekindling a prior conversation. “Yes Shining. I could sense it with my magic. They both love one another truly. I could never have imagined he’d ever bond this much with anypony. I’m just so proud of Flurry. She knew somehow that Sombra still had a heart beneath his cold exterior. She saw in him what nopony else could.” Cadence replied with satisfaction. Shining Armor sighed, “She proved us all wrong… But I’m glad.” Silence had filled the room for many hours as the Umbrum had been glued in position like a motionless statue. Sombra had stared through his window into the star filled night sky without averting his gaze. He’d watched as the former Princess Luna’s waning crescent moon had risen and set only for Celestia’s sun to take its place in the morning. Though most if not all of Equestria’s residents would have slept through the night, Sombra had remained awake in deep contemplation all night long and now all morning long. As he remained in thought, however, a series of knocks on his door finally broke Sombra out of his trance. The Umbrum rarely had visitors at his door, much less this early in the morning. He skeptically made his way to the door and used his magic to open it. Once open, Sombra was graced by the presence of his newly wed wife, Queen Flurry Heart. He did not know what to say as he stared into the beautiful Mare’s eyes. To only make the moment more awkward, the Alicorn could not seem to form words either. A long moment of embarrassing silence ensued as both parties stared at the other. Finally after nearly a minute standing in front of his door, Flurry Heart mustered her courage and spoke up, “Uh… Hi.” The Alicorn immediately cursed herself for her lack of subtlety before hearing the Umbrum respond just as awkwardly, “Hi…” The Mare turned her head away from him as a small tint of red overcame her cheeks. But after composing herself, Flurry looked back and continued, “Can I come in?” Sombra nodded, “Yes, you may.” The Umbrum stepped out of the way as he motioned for his wife to enter. Flurry strangely hesitated for a second before gathering her courage and stepping forward into her husband’s room. Sombra shut the door behind her and the two made their way to the center of the atrium. This new room had been given to Sombra after his fight against the rogue Crystal Guards had ruined the first. Though slightly smaller, it had still been up to the Umbrum’s standards, though oddly, Flurry noticed that the large bed in the far left corner appeared to have been unused. It was Sombra’s turn to speak first this time after clearing his throat, “So, what brings you here so early in the day?” Flurry waited a moment before breathing a sigh and cutting to the chase, “I wanted to check in with you, Sombra. I know yesterday was tough on everypony, but I wanted to make sure you were okay.” The Umbrum’s expression soured as he turned his head away from her, “I see.” The Alicorn remined concerned as she watched her husband avoiding eye contact. She wasn’t sure how to broach the subject as she knew how sensitive it was to the Umbrum, but after a few moments of consideration, she made up her mind, “I know you may not want to speak of how you’re feeling about it, but I wanted to let you know that I’m here for you and I will listen.” Sombra lowered his head and looked at the floor below, “I appreciate your empathy, Flurry heart. Though I doubt speaking about it will ease my conscience.” Flurry stayed silent as if expecting the Umbrum to continue. Moments later, he did just that, “In all my years I had only ever had one goal. I wished only to fulfill my destiny and free my kin. But now I realize, that was never my destiny at all.” Sombra sighed with a dim expression. He looked prepared to say more before he shut his mouth and looked away once more. A minute went by without a word being ushered by either Pony. Flurry Heart knew Sombra wished to say more, but figured it best not to pry. Before she could speak up, however, the Umbrum turned to face her, “I’m sorry Flurry Heart. For everything.” The Alicorn knew without a doubt that Sombra was being genuine. “I forgive you Sombra. But… Why did you not just tell me? Surely we could have stopped her sooner?” Flurry Heart asked as she walked up closer to her partner. Sombra once again looked away without saying a word. Flurry Heart raised a brow before repeating, “Sombra? Why did you not tell me of her?” The Umbrum still looked apprehensive to answer, but seeing his wife’s concerned expression, he figured it best to be honest, “She threatened to destroy you if I sided with you. I could not let that happen.” The Queen of Hope was speechless at this response. Hearing Sombra open up about his feelings, Flurry began to understand just how conflicted Sombra had been for the last few months, if not the last few centuries. The air in the room became quiet once more as both Ponies avoided eye contact with one another. Moments went by as Flurry Heart thought of a possible response, but try as she might, she could not form any words to reply. It was at that moment, however, that a thought struck her mind, something that had puzzled her since her confrontation with Countess Omni the day before. “This ring you gave me… You enchanted it, didn’t you?” She asked as she pointed her hoof at the black opal ornament on her horn. “Yes. I did. It was meant to conceal your fears from Madam Umbara.” Sombra answered. ‘I knew it. That’s why she couldn’t use my fears against me.’ The Alicorn thought. “Why?” She asked simply. Sombra looked hesitant to answer but knew Flurry heart was unlikely to let up, “Every creature has a fear of some kind. But some fears are stronger than others. As an Umbrum, I can sense these fears and even feed off them to give me strength.” The King paused for a moment as he turned to face his partner, “When you first found me in the cold north, I looked into your mind to find what you fear. I expected you to fear losing your friends, or losing your subjects like most rulers do. But you feared something else entirely.” “You were afraid of never being truly loved for what you are.” Sombra stated. The air in the room went silent again as Flurry Heart finally began to understand. Sombra continued a moment later, “Your fears are much more powerful than others’ which is why I could not risk Madam Umbara using them against you.” The silence continued as both royals stared at one another. Flurry Heart’s mouth hung open slightly as she finally realized why Countess Omni had been unable to defeat her so easily. Sombra had protected her without her even knowing. “You’re right. I was afraid. I know my parents will always love me, and that my friends and extended family will as well. But I feared I’d never find somepony who would truly love me for what I am. And I’m sorry Sombra. I lied to you.” Flurry Heart stated as a tear escaped her right eye. The Umbrum raised a brow as if waiting for her to elaborate. Seeing his reaction, she continued, “I lied to you about Caspian. He and I were in a relationship many years ago. And he was not the first either. When I was younger, I constantly tried to find love just like my mother did. But everypony was only ever interested in dating a Princess. They only wished to use me to climb up to royalty and abuse my status.” The Queen of Hope stomped her hoof on the floor in anger before sitting down on one of the soft sofas of the room. “I shouldn’t have withheld the truth from you Sombra. You deserved to know.” “I do not blame you, Flurry Heart. I knew you had a good reason for concealing the truth.” Sombra stated in an understanding tone. This statement brought a small degree of solace to the Alicorn, but did not fully rid her of her guilt. Regardless, Flurry knew it was fruitless to dwell on the past so much and decided to change the subject. “I must say, I do really like the ring.” A small grin found its way to Sombra’s face, “I should hope so. Finding a black opal was not an easy task.” For the first time in the conversation, Flurry Heart let out a small chuckle. Even stranger, the Umbrum himself followed suit with a chuckle of his own. After they each composed themselves, Sombra rekindled the conversation, “This ring of yours… It feels familiar.” Flurry nodded, “It should. Because it was meant as a gift to you by somepony else.” Sombra immediately connected the dots, “Hope. This was a gift from Hope, isn’t it?” “Yes. It is.” She answered. Sombra used his magic to remove the ring and inspect it more thoroughly. His eyes then fell to the small inscription on the inside, ‘There Is Always Hope’ Though he would never admit it, seeing these words made his chest feel tight. They reminded him all too much of his sole childhood friend. “Thank you.” He stated plainly before levitating the ring back onto his horn. Flurry Heart nodded again before the air grew silent between the two once more. After a few quiet minutes in the room, Flurry Heart stood up from the sofa, “So… What now?” She asked. The Umbrum glanced her way, “There is something I wish to do. Would you care to join me for a short walk?” Flurry was now curious but nodded and followed her partner who had made his way to the door. “Lead the way.” She stated. After a short saunter, the two had made their way to the Crystal Castle’s throne room. It was currently empty and unused which only made Flurry heart more confused. “Sombra? Why did you bring us here?” The Umbrum looked at Flurry Heart with a neutral expression, “Do you trust me, Flurry Heart?” This statement made Flurry Heart even more puzzled. Regardless, she nodded, “I do, Sombra.” After hearing her response, Sombra ignited the dark magic in his horn and blasted a beam of violet energy towards the gemstone on the top of the throne. Within moments, the floors of the center of the room opened to reveal the secret staircase below. Flurry Heart trusted Sombra now, but worried what he was intending to do. Before she could speak up, however, the Umbrum cut her of, “If I am to move on, I must remove her influence completely.” The Alicorn finally began to understand what Sombra was implying. Before he could act, she placed a hoof on his own. “Wait. Are you sure about this?” Sombra looked down at his wife’s hoof before glancing back at her, “Yes. I need to rid myself of her. Starting with this.” Without warning, the Umbrum cast a spell that collided with the first few stairs of the chasm. In an instant, the stairs at the top began to crumple and fall down the crevasse. Soon nearly the entire staircase had transformed into a pit of debris. Sombra then used his magic to break off the top gem from the throne. After being severed, he levitated the gem up above the collapsed staircase. Sombra closed his eyes and sighed before dropping the stone into the chasm. Once it fell through the hole, the entire secret path vanished completely. “It is done.” He stated. “Do you feel any better?” Flurry heart asked in response. “A little. But large wounds take a long time to heal. I am sure I will recover, in time.” Sombra answered while looking at his wife. Flurry smiled warmly, “And I will be here to help you through it.” The Umbrum continued to stare into the eyes of his partner. His despair and anguish somehow faded as he remained enthralled with the stunning Alicorn’s features. “You… You are beautiful.” Sombra accidentally blurted out. Flurry Heart’s large wings perked up just as her cheeks instantly went red upon hearing this. Sombra shook himself out of his trance a second later and cursed himself before looking away sheepishly. A very awkward moment elapsed between the two before Sombra cleared his throat, “Forgive me…” The Umbrum looked away from his wife as if angry with his impulsive nature. After collecting herself again, Flurry Heart began to chuckle at her husband’s behavior. Sombra’s expression only grew more humiliated hearing her laughter. After settling herself down, Flurry Heart placed a hoof on Sombra’s and brought herself closer to him. “It’s okay.” She stated. Despite still feeling flustered, Sombra did not distance himself. As if by instinct, the Umbrum neared his muzzle with to wife’s until the two were nearly touching. The two Ponies could almost hear each others pulses as their faces remained just inches apart. The suspenseful moment was broken when Flurry Heart leaned forward and pressed her muzzle against Sombra’s. The kiss was small and subtle but nonetheless passionate and lasted for many moments before the two broke apart for air. While regaining her breath, Flurry Heart’s eyes remained locked on her husband’s. “I wanted to thank you Sombra.” She stated abruptly. Sombra raised a brow, “Thank me?” She nodded, “For taking away my fear.” Sombra was puzzled for a second before realizing what the Alicorn meant. The Umbrum grinned, “Glad I could be of service, Flurry Heart, Queen of Hope.” Flurry chuckled before planting another kiss on the Umbrum’s forehead. “I love you. King Sombra.” She stated simply. Her partner remained put while admiring the Alicorn’s stunning features. The one who reminded him of his first ever friend. The indigo coated Unicorn who’s imagination rivaled his own, and who would give anything to make him happy. “And I… Love you. Flurry Heart.” The End.