> Fall of Equestria: Throes of Winter > by NotaPonyPerson > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > โ„‚๐•™๐•’๐•ก๐•ฅ๐•–๐•ฃ ๐•€: ๐’ถ ๐’ฎ๐‘œ๐“‚๐’ท๐‘’๐“‡ ๐’œ๐“Œ๐’ถ๐“€๐‘’๐“ƒ๐’พ๐“ƒ๐‘” > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Horrible... Hopeless... Ruination... Despair... There were not many words that described the feelings all felt when the Fall happened. Though nothing was more accurate than the cries of horror when the caribou invaded Equestria, taking all they saw away from its people. Their homes were tarnished, with every last family member and lover captured. No pony of the female gender was safe, not even children. All mares are reduced to serve the greater sex as their obedient slave, less they fear a fate worse than being raped daily. Any stallion that resisted the caribou's cause would share the same fate, as all who resisted male superiority were abused and beaten, sometimes to their deaths. Some male oppressors suffered a humiliating loss of their rights, transformed as female livestock to be brutally fucked until they submit to their new masters. Any hope for the conquest to end perished. All Equestrians would kneel before the terrible might of the caribou. Zebras, Griffons, not even changelings, could escape these ludicrous laws or face torture. Only a few managed to escape to aid any refugees. And within a year, Equestria was fully under the Caribou's grasp. Harvest and crops grew scarce, profits and marketing declined to produce more sex toys and torture devices. The caribou cared not for the destruction of the land they plundered. Only that their sows understood their place in life; to worship their manhood, bare their linage, and obey their laws Laws made by their glorious leader, King Dainn the Indomitable. It was he who stated what collar a mare was given based on behavior. He who inforced the mindset mares and stallions alike should have under caribou rule. As he claimed all four alicorn princesses for himself and soiled them in his tainted seed for all to bear witness, the last glimpse of freedom vanished within their imposing darkness. There was nothing anyone could do but accept this cruel reality as life. No more heroes remained in Equestria. Only the rebels and refugees left to fend for themselves... ๐”ฝ๐•’๐•๐• ๐• ๐•— ๐”ผ๐•ข๐•ฆ๐•–๐•ค๐•ฅ๐•ฃ๐•š๐•’ ๐’ฏ๐’ฝ๐“‡๐‘œ๐‘’๐“ˆ ๐‘œ๐’ป ๐’ฒ๐’พ๐“ƒ๐“‰๐‘’๐“‡ Ri-Riiiiiing Ri-Riiiiiiinng Ri-Riiiiiiiiiinnng Ri-Riii-- He must have passed out again. When he promised to lay back down to rest, fatigue got the better of him. And once more, he was brought back to the world of the chime of a bell. He did not know the bell's meaning, nor who was its ringer. All he knew was that it was the reason he breathed the harsh cold air of life. So here laid Sombra, under an Idlewood tree in the middle of a forsaken forest. Gentle snowflakes fell to the white blanket that covered the ground. Only his hoofprints trailed back to a cave he came out from. The dark stallion stared hard into the gloomy gray clouds above, dimming the world of any light it could need. Groaning, Sombra forced his body to rise from the base of the tree, knowing he would doze off again should he keep still any longer. The former tyrant didn't have time to waste. Torn rags and leather were his only form of protection against the blistering cold. If he didn't find shelter soon, he would die. And then how would he enact his revenge against those fools who opposed him? His muscles ached with each step he took through the heavy snow. Sombra hadn't felt good since his resurrection; His body a household of pain and anguish. Every bit of movement hurt. Every breath burned his throat. It was like he wasn't whole, as if he were a separate being in a body trying to keep itself from crumbling to pieces. Sombra looked back at his arm, noting the cracks in his skin had yet to heal fully. He was sure more depressions formed with each step; a stream of dark smoke seeped out the crevises. Still, this pain was nothing compared to the agony he suffered during his first demise. Sombra could remember everything like it was the day before. He came close! So close to claiming the Crystal Heart, he could taste the dread ascending from his subjects. But the chess pieces were not in his favor. Sombra did not count for that lavender unicorn to have an infant dragon with her. Nor did the tyrant count for the princess, weakened and exhausted, to be flung at him. Had that desperate attempt to stop him missed, victory would have been his. Sombra would have been the king of the Crystal Empire, relishing in the torment and suffering he would inflict for those who prayed for his undoing. Instead, he felt the blast of a thousand suns as the entire Empire joined together to cast him into oblivion, their light penetrating his body and shattering him into pieces. The angry unicorn clutched his fist tightly, hissing over the burning sensation his body fought under. They would pay. He would make them all pay dearly. But not much could be done in this weakened state. Not even his mind was safe from the strange essence that hung in the air. That was one of the first things he noticed upon awakening. The air of Equestria felt different. It smelt... musky. As if the whole wide woods were the mating grounds of some filthy animal. Nonetheless, his focus was to regain strength. Time would be the key to his revenge. Sombra had taken for granted how advanced Equestria had become. Internally, he admitted it was foolish to attempt a full-scale assault was in the modern age. Making the mistake of underestimating the ponies that got the better of him. He would not let that be his downfall this time! Sombra would adapt to the situation to reclaim his power. When his magic replenished, the dark unicorn would perfect his darkest spells to full potential. And once he was ready to take back his throne, there wouldn't be a single being alive that could oppose him. 'I will be invincible,' he promised to himself. 'All of Equestria will bow before me!' "Egh! Buurrgh..." Sombra growled as a harsh wind blew against his body, arms rubbing against his shoulders to keep himself warm. Reality had a cruel way to bring him out of his plotting. It made him almost forgot that he had nothing to protect his body from the declining temperatures. Even with the torn cloak and crudely knitted leather pants, he was practically naked. No power to defend himself, no shadows to hide him from the bitter weather. He was exposed. Oh, how he hated this feeling of weakness. Unsuited for a pony of his stature. Sombra would have to remind himself to sentence at least ten slaves to a frozen grave the next time a blizzard rolled by. But scheming and promising torture wasn't going to stop this wretched cold. The dark unicorn wasn't going to conquer anything if he didn't live long enough to see the fruition of his plans. He had to find someplace warm and fast... The land had darkened considerably as time went on. How long had he been walking for? A few hours, perhaps? The shivering form of the former King Sombra felt like it was days. The snow was starting to fall more heavily, the wind blasting against his path. His legs were screaming at him to stop and rest. His fingers were growing darker than natural, a sure sign he caught nasty frostbite. He lost all feeling to his groin. Anyone could come up to kick him so hard in the balls that they'd shatter, and he wouldn't even flinch. That's how frozen his crown jewels felt. Sombra was certain his end this time wouldn't be swift if he didn't find a way out of this accursed forest. His mind was growing as mad from the cold as his body was numb. Was surviving this night even a possibility? Was this all just a cruel joke by fate to bring him back; so that he can die a second time? No... He would keep pushing forward. He bit his lip hard, drawing warm blood over his mouth. The former tyrant smacked himself a couple of times to keep awake. If he were to pass out now, he wasn't getting back up. His body was at civil war with itself, constantly fighting to move until his bones ready to snap at any minute. He was.. horny? Yes, even though he lost all feeling in his genitals, something about the air was making Sombra questionably lecherous, filling him with unwanted thoughts to find the closest mare and rut her brains out. The dark unicorn remembered all the mares he had forced into serving as his concubines. He would bring them to his chambers to torment and fuck them until he was satisfied. Sombra shook his head, shaking those thoughts away before he almost passed something that caught his eye. 'There...' The dark unicorn narrowed his eyes to look further into the distance. Something was there. It looked like... someone was walking towards him. Quickly, he picked up the pace. If this was indeed another pony, surely they didn't live that far. He knew well that ponies were kind creatures, easy to have mercy on someone lost in a storm and take them in. Surely, this one was not different, right? But wait... What if they knew who he was? No... If they did, they would leave him to his death for sure. A sharp pain pulled Sombra out of his thoughts before he collapsed into the ground. His legs had finally given up on him. And soon, so would his body. He could already feel life slipping away again. Grunting, Sombra forced his arms to pull him forward, desperate to reach whoever was now running towards him. He refused to let death take him a second time. Not like this! Not when he was given another chance at retribution! Yet Sombra couldn't ignore the doubt and fear taking hold as the figure grew closer, sharp branching horns adorn while a furred cloak flung about from the winds. A hollow mask hid the creature's face, with only two black holes peering down at the frightened, delirious stallion. As the world began to blacken and the figure loomed over him, many questioned formed in his head. What brought him back? Why was he here? What was the point of his revival if he were to die all over again? But even those questions began to fade as darkness swallowed his vision, a thin hand reaching for him the last thing he saw. Within the realms of oblivion, Sombra felt warmth. A warmth that was absent the last time he came here. It had been years since the dark unicorn felt this relaxed and comfortable. Oh, how he longed for this feeling of serenity. No longer was he in constant agony. No longer was he cold. He felt... safe. Safe to ease into the warmth emanating from his crotch. 'Wait... No, something's not right.' Where was the bell that rang for him to wake up? The only sound that graced his ear was a wet, slobbering, muffled moan, almost like sucking. And the more Sombra felt warmth in his genitals, the more they grew wet. His stallionhood stood erect within this moist embrace, something long and soft batting along the underbelly... 'Is someone..?' Slowly, his eyes opened wide to the sight before him. In between his legs was a mare, bobbing her head up and down while her lips overstretched to take his whole erection. No... Upon closer inspection, she had long brown fur and short flat ears, one of them tagged. Her muzzle was a different shape as well. Clearly, this wasn't a mare fellating him. So then what was she? A jolt of pleasure interrupted his wondering mind as her flat tongue slide further down his base to lick at his balls. She managed to stuff his hard cock deep in her mouth, feeling her throat clutching around his girth, trying to swallow his stallionhood. The sensations forced a gasp out of his throat, clutching the bedsheets under him. This caught the female's attention, big blue eyes staring up into his red orbs almost innocently. She even managed to form a smile around his cock. Disgusted with this transgression, he quickly grabbed her head to pull her off and away from him. She yelped before hitting the floor on her round rump. Sitting up, he quickly notices his body was no longer on the verge of falling apart. A few of the cracks and crevises seemed to have healed. He had made a full recovery! Yet, for how long had he been unconscious for? Sombra peered around to take in his new surroundings. The stallion found himself in a small cabin of sorts, made primarily with wood. One corner had a table with a small kitchen, composed of a fridge, stove, sink, and a cabinet of glasses and plates. In another, a couch stood before an animal rug. A fireplace was at the opposite corner from his bed, a small fire burning up the gathered twigs and small logs. The bed he currently resides in held a mattress; a bedsheet draped over to which Sombra used to cover up his softening dick. A soft coo brought his attention back to the creature before him. Like him, she was naked, her small body curvy with full breasts and dark nipples. She kneeled in a bed that looked better made for a pet; hands folded neatly in her lap. Even more demeaning was the bright red collar around her neck. 'What sick fantasy is this?' he wondered. She tilted her head, a look of concern and anxiety written on her face. "I-I don't understand. Were my cocksucking skills not to your liking, M-M-Master?" she asked, drool dripping down her chin from her aforementioned efforts. "Master?" The word struck Sombra with the feeling of unease. He hasn't been called anyone's 'master' for years. And if he were, it was demanded of his slaves to call him such. They would always do it bitterly, forcing the words out with venom and hatred. This one, however... Her tone was the exact opposite. She spoke the word as if it was her natural right to call him 'master.' For somepony who had forced many mares to be his courtesans with the purpose only to state his lust, he couldn't help feel... concerned at being addressed so willingly. Why was this all so concerning? Yet another one of the thousands of questions would go unanswered. Before he could ask her anything, the door burst open. A flurry of snowflakes blew in as a larger creature of the same species came through. In his burly arms was firewood, freshly chopped. He wore a faded brown leather shirt and pants, laced fur boots over his hooves. His large cape flowed behind him, whipping at the wind. A pair of large antlers adorn his skull, nearly scraping the ceiling. As he dropped the wood before the fireplace, he turned his head to Sombra, a wide smile spreading his large muzzle. "Oh, ho!" he crowed. "Look who's finally up and at 'em. Normally, I'd punish this bitch for not staying put as I told her, but It pleases me to see her fulfilling her rightful duty." Sombra pulled the covers up to gaze over his lower half, some of the sow's saliva staining his flaccid shaft. Disgusted, he used it to clean himself. Judging by how he spoke so lowly of the female, this beast was her real master. The sense of uneasiness grew within Sombra as the situation became weirder. For the first time, he found the act of power against the weak to be wrong. "Haha! No better way to wake up, right?" the burly beast bellowed cheerfully. "Train 'em right; they can milk your balls right out of your dick like a straw! Bet it felt great to cum right down her throat, yeah?" Sombra didn't know how to respond to this debaucherous behavior. So, finding his voice, he replied simply with, "No..." "No? What do you mean no?!" he growled, leering down at the female, who started to crawl away before he yanked her by the collar to face him. "A-Augh!!" "You useless pair of tits! Not only are you disobeying my authority by sucking off strangers, but you don't even do a decent job? What the fuck am I keepin' you around for!?" "Gak! P-Please, master! I-I only wish to serve him while-" SMACK! Sombra's brows rose as he watched that meaty hand smack across the lowly female's cheek, nearly sending her across the cabin. She trembled while rubbing her face, tenderly. "Stupid cunt! I didn't pick you out of your whore sisters just to have you slack off on your cocksucking skills! Now get on your knees and apologies! Beg for me not to throw you out of this house right now!" "M-My master, please, I--" "Do not harm her." The beast-man froze, turning his fury towards Sombra, who the offended look on his face, as if what the dark unicorn just said was forbidden. Sombra himself was a little astonished by what he said. Where in the world did that come from? That was his voice saying those words, but what urged him to defend this creature? "The fuck did you just say to me?" "Surely, there is a brain between that thick skull," Sombra retorted. "There's no need to harm her; she did nothing wrong. She woke me up, and I pushed her off. That is all." He blinked before bursting out into laughter. "Seriously?! Who just wakes up to their slut sucking them off and refuses?! Oh, please! Please tell me you're not one of those idiots who think females 'deserve' to have equal rights! Bah ha ha!" Sombra could respond with a confused glare, mostly with himself. Did he not, moments ago, relish the thought of enslaving Equestria? What about this form of slavery, not sit right with him? Surely, there was a reason for this outlandish behavior. Maybe female species committed an atrocity that forced a new rule in males to those who disobeyed? Yet, the female wasn't even given a chance to explain herself, and he swiftly smacked the upside of her head. For some reason, Sombra had a conscience about punishment and justification. Something within his mind was screaming, 'this is not okay' while he wasn't that different from the beast! He didn't understand... "Nothing that you've said makes any sense," Sombra said truthfully. "The fuck does that mean?" the beast chuckled, taking in deep breaths to calm his laughter. "Idiot males? Female rights? What creature bothers with such--" "Creature?! What are you, some kind of racist?! You tryin' to telling me you've never seen a caribou before?" "Caribou... The eastern cousins of the deer." Ahh, so that's why they looked familiar. Sombra did read a book about them, though it never interested him to learn more about the races outside Equestria, where he was preparing to do battle with the alicorn sisters at the time. He did read that they classified as brutes who cared about one thing; pillaging countries and forcing their policy of 'male dominance' on other creatures. And with another clear view of the male and female before him, they truly did fit the text's descriptions. Did this mean Sombra was no longer in Equestria? If so, how was he to carry out his vengeance if he was in an entirely different country? And how would he return there? "Where am I exactly?" he asked, fearing for the worse outcome in mind. The question made the burly beast's brow raise slightly. "You're not from around here, are you? You don't act like any stallion or pony I've encountered near Ponyville or canterlot." Ponyville. A wave of relief washed over him. So they were in Equestria; that much was good. But fridge horror slowly crept in as Sombra realized what that meant for the land if caribou were running amuck. "Oh, I get it!" he said as if an epiphany came to his head. "You must not be a native of Equestria! Oh, that makes so much sense now! Bah! Why didn't I see this before? You must be an immigrant from another country, right?!" "... Yes?" "Phew! And here I thought I was gonna crack open your skull for defending this dumb cow. You're just not accustomed to our way of life!" 'What?' That's when Sombra noticed something close to the door. Something he didn't see clearly until now. Hung up were a sword and shield. Poorly made, he noted, as the blade wasn't forged correctly. The steel would dull and break if used constantly. But what the shield bore was what caught his attention. The emblem in the center was a fusion of Celestia and Luna's cutie marks, wrapped in chains. That horrible feeling of reprehensive ness grew tighter in Sombra's chest. Something happened in Equestria while he was dead. Something that wasn't supposed to happen. The caribou noticed his line of vision and bore a proud smile. "Impressive, isn't it? My shield and sword, forged to carry out the duty and service to our great King Dainn. This just happens to be my week off being such a talented soldier," he boasted. "King Dainn?" "Yeesh, you sure are a clueless one! You look so lost, with no idea what's going on! I'd find it pathetic if it weren't hilarious," the caribou chuckled, taking a seat on his coat. "Got a name, friend?" "Som--err. Hmm... Ambros. It's Ambros," Sombra lied, not willing to state his name just in case the caribou knew who he was. He had to be careful while in his weakened state. "Ambros," The burly bull snorted. "Sounds something out of a fantasy book. Name's Stein. Since you're new here, I'll tell you everything that's happened here. About how King Dainn the Imdomniable leads us to victory in conquering the stupid mares and established our order." Finally, some answers. Though answers, he wasn't sure he wanted to hear so eagerly anymore as Sombra leaned his tired body over the edge of the bed. A look of discomfort showed as he watched the bull starts unbuckling his pants. 'He not going to...' The dirty look Stein gave the kneeling caribou doe proved his assumptions correct. The caribou removed his pants; his half erected schlong pulled out. At the snap of his fingers, his slave crawled between his legs, licking and feeling up his heft sack while stroking his appendage to its full mass. Sombra wrenched before turning to look away, a hand raising to shield his vision. "Dumb cunt needs to be fed her daily dose of dick," he explained with a smug smile before grabbing at her head and roughly tapping his dick against her cheek. The whorish sounds she made caused Sombra's skin to crawl as the doe made sloppy kissing and sucking sounds along the edges of his length before opening her mouth wide. Stein shoved every inch down her gullet, muffling her cries while her eyes rolled up into her skull. From there on, he raised both arms above his head to relax while letting the sow bob her head in a steady rhythm, serving her meaty master. "Ahh, that's the stuff~ You'll get used to it, trust me! The moment they get accommodated with your cock, life just gets better." Sombra leered between Stein and the whimpering whore between his thighs. The former tyrant would only force violence upon mares should they not do as commanded. Not have them come so willingly to suck him off. This misogynistic mindset disgusted the dark unicorn. Still, he kept quiet about it, if only to silently urge this lumbering beast to tell him of their conquest. "Mmmng... So it happened like this," Stein began, trying to speak over the lewd sucking coming from his slut. "We hadn't discovered the existence of Equestria until one of our scouts returned, reporting a land where mares ran freely and were lead by a bunch of princesses! Fucking heresy! But even then, we required more breeding sows as our numbers had dwindled over past wars. We needed to find land to rebuild our homes and expand our rule. So this was an opportunity our noble leader couldn't pass. We set sail, plundering the major cities as our king went to conquered those alicorn bimbos one by one. And under a few days too! Truly, no one could even hope of measuring the power and rule King Dainn commanded. Once the princesses fell, the rest kneeled like dominosโ€”one of the greatest conquests in our ancestor's history. Sombra closed his eyes, taking in his words while imagining this harrowing tale. While one tyrant was slain, another took over and succeeded. Not a question as to why Sombra didn't like this. What would have happened if he was resurrected sooner? Back then, he would have been able to deal with these lumbering idiots with no trouble. Now, however, he had very little magic to aid him in a fight. He just barely survived a few hours of harsh snow. And he wasn't even sure if he was strong enough to fight a creature naturally bulky like Stein. He could despise them all he wanted, but the caribou had physical prowess that he lacked. "Male supremacy is the key to--Aaagh! Yeees, right there, good girl~! Mnf, ruling a nation," the caribou murmured, singing his enjoyment to his whore, polishing his balls with her tongue while his cock bulged and throbbed deep in her neck. "It's a universal truth, you see. All females are born to be bred. They should only be allowed to live in servitude to their masters. They get any sort of idea about this 'equal rights' bullshit, and they're punished. Gang rape, torture, death, you name it. Hey, it's not like we want to do it, but bitches need to know where they belong. And that's below our feet, on their knees, taking dick and swallowing cum." That just infuriated the unicorn more. It was waining his ability to mask his emotions. While Sombra was guilty of raping many mares, he thought all ponies were beneath him. And even then, he witnesses unicorn mares cast some of the most powerful spells; pegasus mares fly far faster; the strongest of earth mares do incredible things. He fought against Celestia and Luna to a duel to the death! And while they never saw eye to eye, he had respect for their battle tactics. To hear that they lost against a bunch of female hating beasts was a very depressing thing to hear... Yet also a suspicious and infuriating thing to hear. He assumed this 'King Dainn' fellow had to cheat his way to claim a victory like that. The caribou would pull on the collar to his female, yanking her and causing her to choke his schlong moreover. "You see this collar? That's how we label them. The red collars are for sluts who've accepted our way. If you spot a black collar one, that means she still dumb and resistant. It's a pain in the ass when they escape, but good for the sack once you catch them. As for purple collars... Mmm, totally brain dead. Mares were stupid before for thinking they were equals, but once you bash their brains in enough time, they can't think without a dick plowing their plots." Stein released her collar, causing her to pull back and cough as tears streamed down her cheek. "Hey, HEY! I didn't say stop. Get back to sucking that dick before I take it out on your asshole!" he ordered, pushing her face deeper into his crotch while she muffled her cries but continued to bob her head. "Graahh~! That's Better. But yeah, that's how this all came to be. Mares and females do whatever you say. And if they ever show the slightest bit of defiance, you threaten to flail their tits off. They need to know their place. Doesn't that sound like the ideal way to live life? You come back from work; you see your filthy sow doing what she should; cleaning, making dinner, taking care of your young. Or even better! She's waiting to suck you off after a hard day or offer her cunt to dump your load into. Doesn't that sound amazing?" he asked. That did it. Sombra was now visibly shaking with anger. He didn't know what the caribou said first that made him so angry. He didn't know when he was ever this mad. He returns to life, planning his revenge against all those who oppose him. He only finds himself in a future where all mares were slaves to another race that beat him to the punch in securing Equestria. Sombra's plans couldn't fall through now. Not with this Dainn character on the throne. So why was he brought back here? Why this future? Just.. why? "Hehe, you're shaking with so much excitement, you can hardly wait, can you?" the caribou exaggerated. "Who am I but a humble servant to the Indomniable one's will to offer a fellow male his passage to the sweet life? Whore!" He barked, causing her to stop slobbering all over his dick and looked up with watery eyes, a thread of drool connecting her lips to his cock. "Go on, give this stud a good time. If you do, I'll look past your mistake earlier and give you my yummy cock milk as a reward." He said, smearing her face with his spit covered dick and the pre-cum oozing from the tip. "Y-Yes, master!" she said excitedly before turning around to crawling towards the unicorn, her breasts and hips jiggling with each motion. "Go on, Ambros," Stein insisted while stroking his wet appendage. "Let's make you feel right at home in Equestria~!" "..." Sombra quit his shaking, eyes lowering to the caribou bitch now between his legs, once again rubbing at his sheath to bring out his cock. And the longer he stared into her eyes, the more they unnerved him. He didn't see life in her teary blue eyesโ€”only the need to please anything with a penis. The land of Equestria was now a dying nation, drowning in the tainted spunk of these twisted creatures. Sombra closed his eyes, lost in his thoughts, feelings, and questions of this whole fucked up situation. What was here for him now? His plans for making his enemies suffered were completely obsolete. What was left for him to do here? He couldn't live like this; he was far greater than this! Why was he here? Why? Why..? ... 'Why didn't I see it before?' The answer was right in front of him. He wasn't here to enact vengeance on the ponies of Equestria. He was here to take back what was rightfully his. Equestria itself. And it was currently being soiled in filth with these verminous caribou, stealing away his kingdom. His subjects. And if he weren't a stallion, this caribou would treat him no different than he did the poor brainless slut trying to coax out his arousal. The once called 'King of the Crystal Empire' had found his reason for being here. He would regain his power and then wipe out the caribou plague that infested his dying empire. He envisioned it, the caribou king's head held high for all to see. The many expressions of horror his subjects would give as he claimed Equestria's throne. That would be the beginning of his revenge on the ponies. But for now, Sombra needed to dispose of the caribou. "P-Please, sir! Please bless this filthy sow with your big juicy cock~" she said sultry to try and coax out his arousal while burying her face into his crotch. And she would be the first to go. Gently, Sombra's placed his hands on both sides of her face, pulling her face away from his genitals... before ending her life. CRUNCH! "W-WHAAAAAUUUUUHHHHHHHH!!" Stein bellowed in horror, rising from the couch in alarm. The doe's body fell limp to the wooden floor; her entire head twisted around to look dead straight at him, mirroring his expression. The dark unicorn rose to his hooves, cracking the joint in his neck to mimic the same sound. "W-What the FUCK!?" he stuttered angrily. "Y-You just... You just killed my cum dumpster! The fuck is wrong with you!? I save you from catching death; let you rest here! I even offered you my cock sleeve to fuck! And this is how you repay me, you piece of shit?! Do you have any idea how much that cunt cost me?!" "..." "Answer me, you bastard!!" he yelled at him, looking ready to beat the living crap out of the unicorn. However, Sombra ignored his demands and took a stance, a hard glare on the angry beast. He knew this wasn't a good idea. It had been a long time since he physically fought. Honestly, he wasn't ready. Sombra just recovered from nearly freezing to death. He pissed off a beast physically stronger than him. Worse of all, Stein was the closest to his shield and sword hung on the rack. There was only one thing for certain he had an advantage over the caribou. Sombra was prepared to fight for his life. The caribou would be too focused on killing him even to consider his life at risk. "Fine! You're a dead horse anyway!" Stein roared before charging at him with a head full of antlers. With no time to waste, he pounced out of the way of the caribou's path, crashing into the bed. Now was his chance to grab the sword! He rushed to the rack and placed the shield over his right hand, and held the sword with his left. It wasn't cumbersome. It must have been made for intimidation rather than combat. No wonder the sword was so cheap. The caribou rose, shaking off the pain before spinning around to see Sombra with his weapons. He snorted with a look of annoyance rather than caution. As they circled one another, the unicorn made a false attempt to strike just to make him flinch. He did not like Sombra having that sword in his hand. Taking a deep breath, he kept his focus on the caribou. Any wrong move or miss would surely end in his body being beaten into the ground. Exhaling, he took a step forward to swing the blade upward. The caribou stepped back, though it still managed to cut into his arm. Caribou blood stained his sword. Letting out a battle cry, the beast swung his left fist at him, only to be blocked by the shield. He swung with his right. First, Sombra turned to block that. The beast continued to launch a barrage of punches into the dull shield. The pain was coursing through his arm from each blow. It wouldn't be long until he was forced to drop it. Quickly, the unicorn pushes his whole body into the shield to block the next hit, effectively shattering the caribou's knuckles. The beast shouted, favoring his hand. 'Now!' Dropping the shield, Sombra gripped the handle of his sword with both hands and focused his strength on delivering the killing blow. The unicorn rose high to strike, only to be met with an effecting hit to his abdomen. All the air in his lung pushed out before he fell through the floor, coughing. The sword slides out of his grip, right where the caribou was. 'Move, damnit! Move!' "Heh. That would have been a good fight.." the burly beast commented as he picked up his sword. "... Had you not been just a stupid pony. Even with your magic, you're not even on the same ground as us caribou. And even then, what do you think killing me will achieve?! No one can stand up to the might of King Dainn!" 'Magic..' As much as he despised the notion, Sombra was well aware of his weakened body. He knew any spell he cast could have dire consequences. He could barely keep himself stable without worrying over his magic; a blast alone could send him back to Tartarus. And if that attack were to miss, Sombra was surely dead. He needed to store as much as he could until stability was no longer an issue. However... Groaning, he struggled to get back to his feet, the shadow of his foe looming over him. If he didn't risk using his magic, he was surely going to die under the fists of the caribou. Grinning angrily, Stein rose his sword to strike Sombra down. 'Please!' Sombra focused all of his energy, focus, and strength into his horn, a glowing red aura emanating around it. Just as the caribou swung down his sword, he fired a beam of magic right into the beast's face. The next thing he knew, his sight went from red to black. The caribou let out a cry of pain, dropping his sword in favor of clutching at his face. "GRAAAHHHHHH! M-MY EYES! MY EYES!" he screamed, blood dripping out of his eyelids. Sombra struggled to stand without falling over, the blast draining him. Already he felt his body beginning to crumble apart. But his eyes were locked on the kneeling filth, clutching at his face. Not letting this chance slip, he grabbed the antlers and, after placing his hoof to push down on his head, pull on them until they snapped clear off his head. "NOOOOAAAAHHH!!!AHHHHHHHH!!!" the beast continued to cry, arching back. Sombra lets out a roar of his own before shoving said antlers through his eye sockets, effectively penetrating his brain. It took a few minutes until the blood gurgling cries went silent before the caribou dropped dead on the floor, a small puddle of blood spreading. Sombra fell to the floor soon after, the last of his strength diminished. All of his mental focus went to keeping his body from crumbling into a million pieces, smoke evaporating from the cracks. Sombra felt like he was dying. But if he hadn't pulled off that literal miracle of magic, he would probably be dying for real. 'No... I will live to fight another day,' Sombra assured. 'Another day to reclaim what is rightfully mine!' Since that time, Sombra took residence in the cabin. Every day, he trained to fight in hand to hand combat, now that his body could keep physical form without magic stitch him together. Never had he once resorted to physical exercise, but Sombra was limited in resources until he could cast spells safely. Once his vessel was nourished into a healthy shape, he would resume using magic; starting with simple projectile and defensive spells. When he wasn't training, Sombra spent that time rest or ate any leftovers in storage; food NOT with the label 'kunt kibble.' But the time did come. After three full weeks of respite and healing, Sombra felt confident in his ability to fend off caribou during his journey. Eating the last bit of food in the cabin, he took the leather pants, boots, and shirt of the slain Stein. He even removed his flesh and turned it into a long fur cloak to keep warm. A little morbid, but a tactic to instill fear into the hearts of all caribou who stood before him. The dark unicorn picked up the sword and sheathed it into his belt. The dull weapon wouldn't last after a couple more hits, but it was a better alternative than leaving empty-handed. Fully dressed and prepared, Sombra gave one last glance in the dark empty cabin. He threw the carcasses of the dead caribou outside to rot. There was no point waiting any longer. The sooner he left to take Equestria for himself, the better. Still, his mind was plagued with unanswered questions. What was the meaning behind the bell? Who was its ringer? Why did they bring me back? What was that thing? Sombra recalled the horrific visage of the horned entity before he was taken in. A shudder crawled up his spine, that bony hand reaching out to him. Perhaps it was behind his resurrection? Still, Sombra couldn't fathom any other reason to bring back the infamous tyrant from the dead outside of his own. But he wasn't going to get any answers remaining here. Sombra turned away to walk out the door and leave behind the cabin, greeted by the light of the sun rising over the trees. The sun rose from the south. That's where Ponyville should be if what Stein had said was correct. And from there on, Sombra's quest to reclaim Equestria from the caribou began. > โ„‚๐•™๐•’๐•ก๐•ฅ๐•–๐•ฃ ๐•€๐•€: ๐’ฉ๐‘’๐“Œ ๐’ฒ๐‘œ๐“‡๐“๐’น, ๐’ช๐“๐’น ๐ธ๐“ƒ๐‘’๐“‚๐’พ๐‘’๐“ˆ > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ๐’ฏ๐“Œ๐‘œ ๐’ฒ๐‘’๐‘’๐“€๐“ˆ ๐ฟ๐’ถ๐“‰๐‘’๐“‡ "Meeeeerke! How much further is this stupid town!?" A high pitched voice whined through the snow. "Will you stop asking every thirty minutes, Kobber!? We're there until we get there!" A much gruffer tone rebutted. "But it's so fucking cold! Why couldn't we do this after winter?" "The next auction is scheduled just a few days before the parade, and we can't afford to be late. Unless you want the lieutenant to mounted your fat ass on the wall?" "F-Fuck, the lieutenant! He ain't as tough as he claims... I-I could take him!! Easily!" "Pft! Say that to him the next time you're face to face. Then we'll see how confident you are!" On and on did the two caribou bickered with each other. If one mind-boggling topic were finished, another would arise to talk about before going straight back to the first. The weather wasn't making this any better. Though really, she shouldn't be complaining, for she got the 'privilege' to sit in the carriage while the others were forced to walk in the snow. Along with nine other mares, the blue mare was one of the luckier groups to be picked for a new town auction, where the wealthiest of stallions or caribou would purchase them as their latest cock warmer. A chain attached to the rear of the carriage tugged on each handcuff. In the front was a war beast, a large foreign animal of bulk and fur, letting out occasional grunts as it pulled the carriage. Fortunately, all the mares wore cloaks to at least give them some warmth during the cold season. Though it was likely one of them would catch hyperthermia given they've been traveling for four hours. Four hours of this blabbering tard of ass constantly bitching about something to his superior, whether not being able to stick his dick into something or just their general life in Equestria. It was insufferable. The caribou was never satisfied with anything. What more could they want? After invading their land and, through some form of luck, successfully took control of the country, you'd think they'd be content to soak up in their 'glory.' But even after enslaving anyone with a pair of tits and a pussy, forever bound to their carnal desires, they still have to gull to call their lives 'hard' or 'unbearable.' For all their claims of superior will and intellect, they were ignorant to the fact they were the reason life was unbearable. The caribou was a simple animal race with only three primary motives; hunt, rape, and control. Stallions had begun believing in that mentality, no thanks to the manipulations of King Dainn. All in the name of survival. Disgusting. And what disgusted her more were the ponies who had given up. Those who lost their will to fight back and resist the caribou oppressors. Not her, though. She was far too stubborn just to lay there and take these monster's dicks anymore. She would rather die than give in to become a mindless fuck hole. The blue mare turned her head to look at the line of mare's behind them, being yanked on the chain to keep up.FOur mares with black collars, five others with red collars. They all whimpered in exhaustion from the long walk, probably freezing to death. They were even lucky at all to be wearing anything, as most caribou regimes wouldn't allow robes or coats to cover up the sight of her forcibly erected nipples on their bosoms. The fucking idiots. How could a race of brutes care only for the next pussy to stuff their spunk into? No consideration or empathy to the lives of others, not even to their own! If this cycle of destruction kept up, Equestria wouldn't be long from become a barren wasteland. "So... Y-You heard about those stories, right?" Kobber asked, finding yet another useless topic. The blue mare could only drown out so much bullshit. "What stories?" the elder caribou snorted, uninterested. "A-About that... thing in the woods!" "What 'thing'?" "Y-You haven't heard? There've been multiple reports and sights about a dark figure lurking around the woods, causing so many disappearances of soldiers and scouts!" "Oh, don't be such a tit," Merke leered. "Do you believe every report you to hear? Until there's proof that something's out hunting us, I'm more likely to believe it's just a story to scare you, rookies, into stop acting like children. Besides, would you dare propose that there exists an entity that could oppose the rule of our King?" "O-Of course not! The Indomitable one is far greater than any ruler. He'd smite down any creature or monster that dare stand in his way!" "So there is a brain somewhere in there! And here I thought you were just born retarded. Now quit your useless yappin'! We've still got miles ahead of us. And if you're still pissin' your pants, just remember the wise words of King Dainn; the only thing those bitches should fear is us!" And there they go, praising and worshiping the filthy hooves of their bullshit leader. If there was ever a contest to see who would suck King Dainn's dick the most, these two could give any mares a run for her bits. "Y'know, Merke, I just had a thought," the fat caribou continued. "M-Maybe, that thing is somewhere in these woodlands, watching us as we speak!" Merke let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples. "Kid, If you're this scared about a fucking rumor or fairy tale, you don't deserve to be a soldier. If it were me... if there is anyone out there, thinking they can pounce us!" he said loudly, looking around the trees to look for said entity. "I'd make it regret the day it crossed my path. Unlike you, I am a proud warrior of King Dainn. I fuck the weak, not get fucked. Savy?" This bold proclaim shut the rookie soldier up as he meekly nodded. And for once, the pair partook in something the mare thought she'd never heard again. Silence. Finally, some peace of mind to consider her options. Though, if she were honest, the chances of running into something supposedly worse than the caribou were pretty high. Something about these rumors spoke true to her, and life was horrible as it is. Anything could only get worse from here unless, by some miracle, the caribou caught some weird disease, and they all dropped dead. "Halt!!" Kobber cried out, grabbing the leash from the older caribou to yank the war beast. With a low bellow, the animal stopped in its tracks, causing the mares behind the carriage to stumble into each other. The sudden stop jolted the blue mare in alarm. What was happening? "The hell are you doing, Kobber?" Merke demanded. "Why are we stopping? Did you see somethin'?" "No, I... I can't take it anymore! I'm freezing my nuts off. I need a warm, juicy cunt!" Merke immediately smacked the junior soldier upside his head, making him yelp. "Are you fucking my dick right now?! We don't have time for this shit! I told you we'd fuck all the useless cunts in town after we delivered the hoes in the back. If we get behind schedule, the lieutenant will take it out on my ass! And then I'm gonna take it out on yours!" "Awwww, c'mon, Merke! What's the harm in fucking just one of these whores? They're probably all loose; no one would tell the difference if I went in. Like..." he turned around to point at the hooded blue mare, who gave a low growl. "Why can I just pound this pussy in the back?" "I told you why!" he yelled in frustration. "This one's speculated to have a disease thanks to some dumb fuck who forgot to wash his cock! So until we have her looked at by a doctor, she's off-limits. Unless you want your dick to get infected and developed boils or something." As they mentioned her possible condition, she looked down at the chastity belt wrapped around her waist, protecting her normally exposed marehood. Any mare would feel lucky to have one of these on their crotch. But in truth, it was more an expiration date than a luxury. Mares, who wore chasity belts, told any males that she couldn't perform her tasks. And if you couldn't provide for your master's cock, you didn't deserve a home and were left to die. As if life wasn't already unfair. "It'll be a quickie, I promise!" pleaded the fat caribou like his life depended on getting this one fuck out of his system. "Just give me five minutes, and I won't complain about anything for the rest of the trip!" That was highly unlikely, given that the fat slob had continued to pester his commanding officer every time the urge rose. Only this time, Kobber's actions wained on his partner's nerves before he gave in with a weary sigh. "Alright, fine! Go... You have eight minutes before I leave you behind." "O-Oh, finally!" the caribou said with glee before jumping out of the carriage to select the 'lucky' mare to be his cock sock. Merke leaned back as he waited, muttering, "Why do I always get stuck with rookies..?" Kobber looked frantically over the menagerie of frightened expressions before choosing the one furthest from the group, yanking her cloak away to expose her fully while uncoupling her cuffs from the chain. Her coat a turquoise green, her mane silver, and her eyes sea green. What she lacked in breasts she made up for in wide hips and a large round rump. She let out a fearful yelp as she was pulled and flung to the snowy ground as her capture got behind her, unbuckling his pants to pull out throbbing erection. It was defiantly shorter compared to what most caribou had, but it was extremely thick and girthy. "N-No, please! Don't do this! Somepony help! Please, help me!!!" she begged, looking back at the others with tears flowing down her cheeks. Some couldn't stand the sight and looked away, while others looked at her with pity and sorrow. "Shut up, dumb cunt!" the caribou barked, grabbing her head and shoving it into the snow while raising her ass high. Once his cock was hard and ready, he pressed the tip to her vagina and pushed in until all of his fat girths were deep inside her, causing her to yell out in agonizing pain. "Be grateful I'm even giving you my cock. That I'm fucking your loose pussy!" he grunted, hips jerking into her hips at a rough pace, thick balls smacking into her overstretched mound. "Fuck is your pussy warm, though! Hoho!" The mare continued to holler and sob as Kobber penetrated her, defiling her in the cold night, crying out for anyone to stop this madness. Each thrust inside her felt like a sword piercing through her core and twisting even deeper, causing her pussy to clutch up and try to force out the invading cock. This only gave the caribou more pleasure in fucking her faster. She even tried to crawl her way out from under him to no avail. His grip on her flank only pulled her ass into his sharp thrusts, pushing him deeper inside her. "That's it, bitch! Take it! Take my dick and warm it like the cock sleeve that you are!" he panted harshly, hands smacking at her ass cheeks to make her jiggle more upon every pump of his hips. Any deeper and the caribou would have breached her womb. The mare could only bawl in agony from how hard the caribou skewered her behind. Her cries took sharp inhales as she felt his shaft twitch inside, his shaft growing bigger and his thrusting growing more desperate. He was going to cum soon. "A-Aww shit, here it cums! Take it! Take it, you stupid G-GAUGH!!" SLISH! "AHHHHHHHH!" screamed one of the mares; causing everyone to turn their heads in alarm. Merke dropped out of the carriage to rush towards the back before gasping. The mare in the carriage had her own eyes wide with shock at the sight before her. Blood rushed down the chubby caribou's neck before his head rolled into the snow, body falling onto the mare beneath. She screamed in horror before shoving the body off her and scurrying away, cum leaking out of her abused pussy. She would gasp before staring up at the one responsible for the caribou's sudden death. Before the lot stood a cloaked figure, his cape the hide of caribou. In his hand was a blunt sword, covered in the blood of Merke's fallen comrade. Two menacing red eyes pierced through the darkness shrouding his face. The white of his eye glowed a faint green as purple haze evaporated from the sides. He only gazed at the raped mare momentarily before it cast over the startled caribou commander. "F-Fuck! The rumors were true!?" he exclaimed before fleeing back inside the carriage, grabbing the leash and yanking at the war beast to start moving. It bellowed before starting to run, dragging the mares through the snow as they lost their balance. The dark stallion's horn glowed, a violet aura emanating from his red horn. Out from the ground emerged jagged crystal rocks, impaling the beast to stop its path. Letting out a dying roar, the animal caused the whole carriage to flip to the side, launching the caribou and the mares out and onto their backs. The mare below Sombra hurried to her feet before fleeing the scene, limping away into the forest. The dark unicorn ignored her as pain pulsated from his horn, causing him to his and clutch at his head. The spell was taxing, but it was enough to prevent the vermin from escaping. Shaking it off as best he could, Sombra approaching the carriage, dropping the now useless weapon next to the headless corpse. The hooded blue mare struggled to lift herself, gazing over the groaning and painful faces of the other mares. Her eyes widened when seeing that the dark stallion coming towards them. Quickly, she looked around for something to defend herself with before looking over to the caribou, knocked out with his sword still sheathed into his belt. The mare crawled towards him to pull out the sword, gripping it tightly in her hands. If she could cut off the chain, they could escape! But just as she got up, she came face to face with the dark unicorn, staring her down with a vicious sneer. Instinctively, she pointed the sword at him, about to tell him to back off. But as she looked more into those murderous red eyes, a wave of nostalgia washed over before realizing the looming threat before her, letting out a gasp of disbelief. "Y-You?! N-No... No, you're supposed to be dead!" Sombra's glare softened over her voice. This one... recognized him? Before he could even utter a response, the mare turned to her side and slashed down onto the chain cutting it. She reached down to help one mare up, shaking her out of the dizziness of the crash. "Go! Get the others up and go!" she urged. It took her only a few minutes to realize what she said before nodding, going to help out the other mare's chained. Sombra watched as all of the mares, freed from their shackles, grabbing whatever clothes they could and fleed into the darkness of the woods. That one mare stopped, turning back to give Sombra a cold look before disappearing as well. Maybe it was a coincidence, he thought. Surely she couldn't have... "Ugh... What happened?" came the groan of the fallen caribou soldier. He rose to his hooves, rubbing at the pain in his shoulder before his eyes fell onto the empty chains and the dead body of his subordinate. "Wait; what?! No! NO! NO NO, NO! WHERE'D THEY GO!?" He spotted the massive trail of footprints and began to run after them. "HEY! GET BACK HERE, YOU BUNCH OF BITCHES-OOUGH!!" His curse was cut off by a connecting fist to his muzzle, pushing him back into the tilted carriage. His eyes then fixed a glare onto Sombra. "You... You did this. You must think you're so strong getting the drop on us," Merke spat at him, blood pouring out of his lip as he cracked his neck. He chuckled, "I bet all you've been doing is killing rookies like that sorry sack. You have yet to fight an elite among King Dainn's rank!" A confident smile spreads Sombra's muzzle before he took an offensive stance. "Oh, I'm gonna enjoy wiping that smile off your fucking FACE!" he yelled before charging at the unicorn; the two engaged in a fistfight. The two slammed their fists into each other's jaws, guts and shoulders, determined to beat the other to a bloody pulp. Fortunately for Sombra, his body had grown harder and causing the caribou to suffer more pain with each hit. Unfortunately for Sombra, his usage of the spell left his body to warn and drained of energy. And it only took another fist to the face before Sombra was onto one knew, panting heavily. 'Damn it,' he cursed himself. He didn't realize how much casting that spell drained him He yelled out in pain as the Caribou grabbed his horn, trying to crush it in his bare hands. Sombra gripped at his arm, trying to push him off to no avail. "Stupid pony," He laughed. "What are you doing this for? Do you think these dumb cunts will be impressed if you stand for them? Pah! You're just as weak and pathetic as the mares that suck my dick daily! All your race belongs to us!" Sombra growled, his eyes glowing once more as he stared fury into Merke, who just spat into his face and squeezed down on his horn harder, causing him to yell out in sheer pain. "Let this be a lesson as I take your magic! In the glory of King Dainn!" he declared, prepared to sever his horn from his skull. "G-GUURRAAGH!?!" His entire body arched back as sheering pain coursed through his spine. Eyes wide, he turned to see one of the mares had returned to stab him with his own sword. She yanked it out, causing Mewke to slip onto his knees before Sombra yanked free of his grip and delivered a headbutt to him, knocking him down for good. Really not the best move to do after your head felt like it was put into a head crusher. Still, it was effective as it was painful. He glared over the dying caribou, blood pooling into the snow, much like the others that came before him. If Sombra was going to take back Equestria for himself from these idiotic beasts, he needed to get used to fighting this way. Thankfully, this little brawl only proved that he was getting better without the need for his magic. Sombra's attention then turned to the mare that had saved him, posing the blade at his neck once again. She glared harshly at him as if his very existence disgusted him. A look he remembered receiving from the many he enslaved. Her cloak whipped widely in the wind, allowing Sombra to look at her more thoroughly. She was cyan blue, sporting an impressive athletic build. Her petite breasts presented dark hard nipples, no doubt from being cold for so long. Around her waist to cover her crotch (much to his surprise) was a chastity belt. She must have been exceptional if she was shielded off from other males. Her back was two numbs of pink flesh used to be her wings, presumably removed to prevent her from flying. But what caught his attention was her mane. It wasn't just one color, but a multitude of them. 'Why was this mare seem so familiar?' "Don't come any closer to me," barked the mare; her cheeks flourished. "Gawk at me all you want. But the moment you take another step, I'll sever your head, Sombra!!" His name. So she did realize who he was. Or, more accurately, she remembered who he was. A low chuckle emanated from his throat. "Even among the carnage of the caribou, my name still strikes fear and wrath in the hearts of ponies. I should be thankful my legacy remains intact." "Trust me, we wish we could forget about you.." she scoffed. "For fuck's sake, whatever deity above Celestia must really hate if you're back and kicking. Speaking of which, How is it you're alive? Last time I check, it was impossible to survive being blown to fragments." Ahh, that's why she looked so familiar. She was one of the friends of that purple unicorn who assisted in thwarting his return. "It'll take more than the power of love and friendship to be rid of me," he boasted. "My return to Equestria was inevitable, my dear. It was only a matter of time before--" "I call Bullshit! This is the caribou doing! It only makes sense they'd bring back another megalomanic among their forces!" "Yes, because I didn't mercilessly butcher my two allies just now. Totally an accident," he sarcastically scoffed with a roll of his eyes. "Honestly, even if the caribou were responsible, I wouldn't be caught dead working with them. If anything, girl, they'd be better off under my command... as would the rest of you." "As tyrannical and evil as ever. Just perfect," she growled back at him, grip tightening while ready to lunge forth and pierce his wicked heart."I should just cut you down now and be done with you." "You can certainly try, but it won't be easy," Sombra challenged. "I have no intention of letting life slip through my grasp a third time." "Life shouldn't have come back to you a second! For what purpose would someone bring you back?!" The evil unicorn frowned, looking away from the fisty pegasus towards the woods. "I don't know... I woke up here weeks ago, feeling like rubbled pieces trying to glue themselves back together. All I knew was that I lived again in an Equestria overrun with eastern barbarians, proclaiming male supremacy. Let me ask you something, girl; How did you let this happen?" Rainbow's stance became less tense before she lowered her weapon and stared down into the snowy ground. A look of shame crossed her face. "It's... A long story." "Do tell," Sombra urged. "We're in the middle of nowhere with little to keep us safe and warm. The least we can do is help each other, if only for survival." The pegasus' glare returned to him, teeth clutching together. "I'd rather freeze to death than allow myself to 'survive' with someone so vile and cruel as you! You're just as power-hungry and evil as the fucking caribou! So give me one good reason as to why I shouldn't shove this sword down your throat and send you packin' back to Tartarus where you belong!!" She barked, raising her sword higher with the urge to lunge at him rising. "Do it then!" he challenged, opening his arms out to expose his chest. "You're a heroine or Equestria, aren't you? This is your duty, right?! Show me, girl! Show me the power of friendship and strike me down! Now!!" Quite the risk-taker, wasn't he? First, using magic would do him more harm than good, now taunting one of Equestria's heroes to slay him, knowing full well the Pegasus would do it. And from the look of focus in her magenta eyes, she was about to... before her grip on the handle loosen, and she lowered her arm once more, muttering to herself in defeat. Sombra folded his arms over his chest, smiling smugly. "Just as I thought. For all your clamor about my villainy, you can't bring yourself to kill me. And I'll tell you why," he proclaimed while approaching her. "If it weren't for me, you would be on your way to becoming the cock hound of some welp. Admit it, girl. Like me or not, I'm a much better companion to share a night with~." "Go fuck yourself," She seethed at him. "A lot of talk for someone who was bested by a baby dragon." "Oh, ho!" he crowed. "Got a lot of fight in you! Haha, I like that! Perhaps fate would have been kinder, and we could fight properly in our prime. I might have even offered you a role as my lieutenant." "Pft. In your dreams." While the smell of burning flesh was repulsive, the warm fire made from the corpses was well worth the stench. Using one of the lanterns to start the fire, Sombra and Rainbow Dash sat across from one another, staring into the flickering flames while warming up their hands and bodies. The wingless pegasus sighed, clutching on the caribou coat around her Sombra generously gave to her. Like the bodies, it smelt awful, though it was a better alternative than remaining practically naked in the cold. She looked up at the dark unicorn, studying him. While she despised this stallion, she had to admit it; it was nice to be in the company of someone not interested in fucking her brains out. The fact that he even gave her his coat was astonishing. The same could be said for Sombra. After wandering the woods for weeks now, slaughtering any caribou he could find, the dark unicorn was grateful to be with another pony, regardless of the mutual hatred they shared. Nonetheless, many questions kept bombarding his mind as the silence grew more uncomfortable than the smell of singed flesh. "I asked this earlier, and you didn't respond," he said, breaking the long lingering silence between them. "How did this happen?" "That depends," she grunted, not bothering to tear her gaze from the fire. "How much do you know?" "Only a little. Most I got from a caribou was how great life was having mares cradle to your cocks and how great their king is. Apparently, the invasion was a complete success." "Successful? Is that what they're calling it?" she scoffed bitterly. "We would have wiped the floor with them if it weren't for Discord." "The Spirit of Chaos?" "Yeah, the bastard was manipulated by King Dainn just to get an advantage over Celestia and Luna's forces. After that, they locked him away into an inescapable dimension of sorts. As stupid as they are, they knew better than to let the draconequus roam free." No wonder Sombra found it hard to believe such simple-minded creatures could defeat the alicorn princesses as 'effortlessly' as they claimed. It was sad to hear how such powerful and respected rulers were beaten by such tactics, fated to spend their days drowning in caribou spunk and excess. "It all started with the Fall," Rainbow began. "Ships sailed in with massive bulky creatures, armed with swords and shields, boarding the shores and breaking into homes for goods and mares. Upon reaching Canterlot, their king demanded that all of Equestria submit to the Caribou lifestyle and put all mares on leashes and serve as their slaves. Naturally, my friends and I confronted King Dainn. And we were winning too... until he overpowered us with this... strange magic." "Strange magic?" The pegasus' nodded. "It was a power I've never seen. This... lighting pulsing through my body, rendering me unable to do anything. Twilight took the most of it. And he was about to finish her off before Celestia and Luna surrendered. They managed to influence and trick every stallion into believing their lives were better this way. I don't know what's more sick. The fact that they were so easily tricked.. or so willing." Betrayal. A very dark and powerful emotion that can change one's perception of reality so suddenly. Yes, he recognized this emotion very well; he was guilty of sparking this emotion in a long lost friend... "They ganged up on us, held us down, and raped us, fully relishing in this new lifestyle. Nothing we could do or pled stopped them. All of our brothers, friends, and lovers were using us like we weren't even ponies; It was unbelievable! But not as unbelievable as the sight of Celestia and Luna worshiping Dainn's cock while he sat on the throne." Sombra couldn't even begin to imagine the fury and despair that she and her friends must have felt when hearing their beloved idols fallen and soiled in their tainted seed. It made him almost... empathetic for them. Almost... guilty that this was something he would partake in if he was invading Equestria for the throne. Well, minus the 'all mare's as sex slaves' and 'using Discord to swindle the guards' part. Either way, the more he learned about King Dainn, the more enjoyment he would feel slicing that bastard's throat. It was probably for the best that he hold back from mentioning his plan around the former harmony element. So far, she proved to be incredibly useful to him and didn't want to ruin this opportunity. And for as much as he boasted saving her life, she saved his near the end. He would have to pay her back somehow... "Some of us managed to break free," Rainbow continued, bringing Sombra out of his thoughts to pay attention to any details he might have missed. "We were among the first to build resistance camps. With Pinkie Pie and Applejack by my side, we gathered as many other mares we could find for fighting back. We needed to plan accordingly if we were going to take back our home. A lot of us were determined to die for Equestria. We started small, rescue stranglers to help build up numbers. And eventually, we got in contact with other creatures of Equestria, fighting for the same cause. But one night, I was tasked to help Pinkie and her sisters before they captured me. And then... they... t-they.." Her voice was trembling now, almost on the verge of breaking into a sob. But her pride refused to cry, especially in front of Sombra. So she angrily spat, "They took my wings! They tore them right off my back! They pinned me down and fucked every hole in my body while waving my detached limbs around like banners!" she panted, angry seething out of her words as she glared at the corpse burning away in the fire. She probably didn't get a chance like this to vent and unleash her emotions. That privilege is not being granted to her thanks to the perverted scum. He said nothing, letting her vent while he considered the information given. The resistance camps. If what Rainbow Dash said was true, they should have plenty of ponies and creatures. And if their numbers were high enough, perhaps they could form an army to fight the caribou with. An army he could potentially lead, though that was dependant on how trustworthy they found him. A task he knew that wouldn't be easy, given his stature and reputation. Still, it meant that his chances of fighting against the caribou would be much greater than he originally thought. Admittingly, it would be a grave error of overconfidence if Sombra truly thought he could take them independently. "And like that, I was chained up and set to be auctioned off to some pervert before you came along," she concluded, looking back at him with puffy red eyes streaming bitter tears. "That's how the Fall of Equestria happened. And, thinking back to it now... I don't think I've had any time to vent this out to anyone properly. And for how horrible I think of you, you did save me back there... so thanks." The pegasus sighed, a wave of relief washing over her filthy body. "Your welcome," He said, noticing the awkwardness in his voice. He never thought he would be an emotional rock for ponies to come crying to about their problems; least of all, one of the mare's responsible for his death. Tonight had proven to be quite eventful. His ears perked up as he watched her stand from her seat. "Look, Sombra. I don't like you, and I'm sure you don't like me. Frankly, I don't give a fuck about what you do or how you came back. That's not my problem. I need to get back to Ponyville and help the resistance take back Equestria. I wish you luck, Sombra..." And with that said, she turned to leave towards the direction she came from. "Wait..." His voice made her pause before turning back to him. The dark unicorn got up from his seat and followed her. "Let me come with you." "What!?" She exclaimed, arching an eyebrow. "Like hell, I will! I'm not gonna bring you to a group of ponies you can manipulate into doing your bidding!!" "You don't have much choice in the matter," he stated confidently. "What makes you think you can slip back to your little resistance without being caught again? You can't fly, and they'll overpower you easily. You may be very fit for a mare your size..." Her cheeks flourished as she covered her perky breasts in crossed arms, growling at him. ".. But think of it this way. With me to accompany you, I can grant you safe passage among the caribou. Besides which, girl," Sombra said, walking in front of her. "You owe me more than a story for getting you out of that auction where your pussy will be sold to the highest bidder. Just as I owe you for saving my arse back there." Rainbow continued to be defiant and resilient to the idea of being around the former tyrant, but he stated facts. She needed him just as much as he needs her, even if the other did not want to admit it openly. And he was the only one who could help her back to her friends... "Alright, fine!" she sighed, staring up at him with reluctant cerise eyes. "You help me back to the resistance; I'll put in a good word about you to the resistance leader. Knowing her, you'd probably be a good use to us in the fight. BUT!" and she empathizes this next point by she grabbed him by the collar to pull him to her face, "If I see or even feel that you're scheming a plot that condemns us to your will, I'll make you regret saving me. You got that?!" Sombra kept his smug little grin as he followed up with her threat, "Trust me, rainbow mare. I think you'll find my approach in handling the caribou a lot more appealing than whatever plan your resistance leader has cooking up. But if you insist, You have my word as a king; no dark influences on my part." "You'd better not if you want to keep your balls intact.... and it's Rainbow Dash." "Yes, quite... Now, let us make haste to Ponyville." She released Sombra's collar and lead in front of him towards the path back to Ponyville, leaving behind the burning bodies and broken carriage with a humph. Thankfully, this evening looked to be less snowy than the other night. If there was an Inn or motel nearby, the two could book in, get some food, and sleep. And while Rainbow felt nothing more for Sombra than an enemy working with her to stop a bigger evil at play, Sombra was deeply considering the potential of having her as a loyal soldier, leading his army to reclaim Equestria. The pair ventured towards the cold trail that would lead them back to Ponyville, not noticing a figure with a hollow mask and fur cloak looming in the trees, watching them from afar. > โ„‚๐•™๐•’๐•ก๐•ฅ๐•–๐•ฃ ๐•€๐•€๐•€: ๐‘…๐‘’๐“ˆ๐“…๐’พ๐“‰๐‘’ > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ri-Riiiiiing Ri-Riiiiiing Ri-Riiiiiing "A room for two, please," Sombra requested, tapping the service bell upon arriving at the tavern. "Under the name Ambros." It had been a three-day journey for Sombra and Rainbow Dash to find anything that wasn't more snow, trees, and Caribou guards out on patrol. Ever since the news about his crossing with the two traffickers, the caribou regime sent more forces to look for him in hopes of putting these 'caribou killer' stories to an end. After many cold nights of laying low, the rebel's fortune would smile upon an old inn in the woods. They could bathe, gather food, resupply, and hopefully finding directions to Ponyville. And from there on, the nearest Resistance camp. A dime light was shining through the cloudy veil. At least, it was as far as the old tyrant was a concern. His cohort would heavily disagree. Sombra had grown a beard over his muzzle, mane wild and messy. He looked almost like any other stallion, minus how grim and dark he looked. He ditched the caribou cloak to avoid suspicion. And while he was free to walk around, the same could not be said for Rainbow Dash, glaring daggers into the floor and muttering to herself. She forced herself to accept being up on a leash by the accursed collar around her neck, playing the 'pet' to Sombra's 'master.' It was the only way she was going anywhere without the Caribou coming for her ass. The tattered cloak covered most of her face, body, and cutie mark to keep her identity secret. That didn't stop stragglers or bystanders from randomly groping her well-toned behind. The fact that the chastity belt once protecting her was off as well made her feel more exposed. The purple mare with cloudy white curls for her mane was standing there with an anxious look on her face. She wore nothing but a bow tie over her red collar, glasses over her stout muzzle, and many degrading words decorating her breasts, arms, and flanks. "I-I'm sorry, sir! Could you repeat that?" she asked, twiddling with her fingers nervously. He arched an eyebrow. "What wasn't clear with what I said before? I'm requesting a room for me and my whore to sleep for the night. It has been a long, tiresome journey from the south; nothing but snow and trees. So if you can be so kind as to hurry up and fetch us a room, I would highly appreciate it." Rainbow too silently urged the dumb bimbo to hurry up with the order. The further away she was from the lecherous eyes of the stallions and caribou here, the better. "O-Oh no, I understood what you said perfectly, sir! You can have your room... But we humbly insist your whore be left to the back. Under the policy, all mares and females must earn their keep by offering room service to the other guests. Otherwise, she may be left to one of the pins down the hall," She informed, desperate to avoid the deathly gaze of the tall unicorn. "And I humbly refuse," Sombra retorted. "The slut stays with me. She is my property, and I will not another to have his way with her... less he is willing to part with his head," His eyes leered at the group of stallions, catching their attention with a flash of his blade. Despite their grumbling and comments, they backed away and resumed to converse amongst themselves. A smile of content spreads the dark unicorn's features as he resheathed his sword. This was proving to be far more fun than he expected. The intimidator's role was not lost to him, having long been used to such dirty looks like Rainbow Dash was giving him. A shame that this influence over others was limited to a facade, especially considering the 'flowery' words the caribou often used to demean their sows and servants. He never considered the terms 'cumchugger, dick licker, ball gaggler, or baby factor' to be apart of his vocabulary. Such a filthy language was not needed to invoke dominance over a pony. The mare looked in panic, her body constantly fidgeting while sweating bullets. "P-Please, sir! Y-You must understand! I--" "No. You must understand," he interrupted with a growl while grabbing the bumbling whore by her collar, bring her under his commanding glare while she choked and struggled. "A-aaahah! Gaahk!!" "Have you forgotten your place, you useless, disgusting twat? Who are you to telling me what I can and cannot do? You; whose only role in life is to worship filthy cocks and birth bastards? Did you even think of the repercussions of arguing with me in such a tone? You lost that right when you willingly gave up your body! I have every right of mind to contact your owners and demand you be replaced." "N-NOOO! O-oh, please, no! I-I'm sorry, sir! Please forgive me! I'm just trying to do my job!" She bawled. "Then DO your job and give me a room! Now!" he ordered, releasing her neck before she scampered to the back of the desk. He gave a troubled sigh before turning back, surprised to find that his little scene attracted the other travelers' attention. "Yeah! You tell that bitch her place! Male superiority!" "Go back to suckin' cock, ya filthy slut!" Rainbow glared harder at him, unnerved of how... natural the words came out of his mouth. Sure, he gained some sick satisfaction in playing his chosen roleโ€”a further reminder that Equestria had no heroes anymore, only villains. The whimpering desk worker returned, placing a key to room twelve nineteen in his hand while sobbing uncontrollably. "T-This stupid slut is sorry for causing trouble with you, sir. P-Please, enjoy your stay. I-I can provide you with personal service to make up for the--" "No, that will be all, thank you. Do try your best to remember where you stand next time," He snorted, taking the key and yanking the lease to Rainbow's collar. "Come along, Slut." The former pegasus yelped before following Sombra, giving one last look at the sobbing mess that was the counter mare... and the male customers getting up with bulges present in their pants, lecherous leers at her direction. "Oh, For fuck's sake..." she whispered harshly as she followed the dark stallion, trying to drown out the coming cries before they turned into screams... This room was boring. No other word could best describe this space upon arriving inside. The one bed had bland brown sheets and pillows, and the bathroom looked plain with its white walls, sink, and shower. The floor was entirely made of rough-looking wood. Seventy bits a night was not worth this. It seemed whoever built this tavern had little care or joy in creating it. Just to meet the satisfactory goal of building a resort for weary travelers to come in, sleep, have breakfast, and then leave. Depressing. "At least the bed is soft," he muttered as he laid down, stretching out his tired limbs with a heavy sigh. After days of sleeping against trees and rocks, he would gladly take this boring old bed any day. His attention turned to the blue mare who had been silently glaring at him since that whole ordeal down at the entrance. His, in turn, would return the gesture in narrowing her eyes at her. "If you insist on gawking at me like that, at least give the reason to why I've earned your wrath," he told her. "How... How could you do that?" "Do what?" "What you did with that poor mare! You had her sobbing over the counter before those mongrels picked up the scraps!" She said seethingly. "Keep your voice down; you'll attract unnecessary attention!" "I should have known better than to bring you along? It's just as I said, no different from the caribou." Her statement earned a chuckle from the former king. "Contrary to what you believe, dear Dash, we couldn't be further from each other. The difference? I know what it takes to properly break down a pony's psyche, physical and mental. The caribou are clueless into believing they hold any actual control. And need I remind you that if not for me, you would be in a kennel, ready to be ordered by someone who'll have your arse on a silver platter." "You both have zero regard for the value of a pony's life," Dash retorted, arms folded under her bare bosom. "Just how low will you stoop just to hold power over someone?" Sombra's smug smile diminished into a frown, turning his head to the side. Her question remained pending for but a moment. "Low enough," he responded. "To me... Power is everything. And I alone know what it takes to secure it from a pony, regardless if they give it willingly or not. And unlike those barbaric imbeciles, I know what I'm doing. The mental strain, the techniques required, the side effects, the understanding. The preparation for what needs to be done. The emotion... Enslavement is an art form to motivate and inspire the most worthy of rulers! The caribou?! Pha! They do not understand the instruments they use to state their restless desires. When they look to a slave, all they see is a hole to be filled and nothing more. Wherever I look at you ponies, all I see are weak-minded souls, unable to appreciate the life they were given. Do you want proof? Look at what has become of us; what became of your princesses and champions! What became of you." Rainbow Dash was astonished by the words that came out of his mouth. The imagery that he painted over his explanation. She couldn't have imagined there'd be more to this tyrannical unicorn than what appeared. The way he described his practice with such dedication was fascinatingly sick. "You're a psychopath..." "I'm no psychopath," he argued, chuckling. "I'm more of a high-functioning sociopath. You should do more research." "Whatever... My point remains valid, regardless of how you spin it. You can't be trusted, and you know why? You've done nothing to prove you won't take Equestria for yourself!" "Should I?" he questioned. "It's not some well-kept secret, my dear. Only I have the ambition to rise against these idiotic brutes and misogynists. That being said, I lack the power to back up my goal. As cruel and arrogant as I am, I am not above realizing where I stand in this battle. Therefore... I believe unity is in order. When I reclaim my power, I'd like to invite other nations to join forces and establish a new order of rule and prosperity; so that we can become stronger together. Think of it as an offer of 'friendship,' if that makes you feel better," Sombra added teasingly. "I'm sure you've heard many stories of all the atrocities I've committed. All in pursuit of power and glory. You look at me as an absolute monster, willing to sacrifice the lives of many to fulfill his dark motives. It's not like he could have any other objectives outside of conquest, nothing that could be used to lead this damned country to a better future, right? No, of course not... When you see darkness, you immediately think of evil and malevolent. Not a pathway you can take that may lead to somewhere brighter." Rainbow's glare softened, watching the dark unicorn's expression change to one resembling sorrow. This was not a side of Sombra the former pegasus saw before. Every villain that she fought against wanted the same thing; power. The power to rule, the power to be stronger, or in the case of the caribou, the power to control. But Sombra made it all sound... different. As if it was necessary to venture to the dark at the cost of love and compassion. It was something she couldn't picture herself doing, even in the direst of situations. "I... I guess, in a way, we both want the same thing," she responded with a softer voice. "We want what was lost to us. We want our home back." A low sigh left his lips as his eyes remained locked on hers, nodding at her sentiment. "Call me as you see me, Rainbow Dash. A villain, rapist, monster, tyrant... It matters not what anyone thinks of me. What does matter is that Equestria is brought back to salvation from the vermin filth that corrupted it. As my powers slowly return and I have become stronger, I will correct the wrong that has fallen upon Equestria. Alone if I must..." Rainbow Dash could do nothing else but nod her head in understanding, awestruck by how noble his claim sounded. For all his heinousness, Sombra spoke the truth. Equestria needed a savor. And if it should fall to someone as dark and wicked as the former tyrant, then so be it. Admittingly, it made him sound... awesome! The cyan mare almost felt relieved to have such a strong and confident ally on her side in this weary battle... Sombra's nose twitched at a certain smell before he reeled his head back. "Mmm, perhaps you should take a shower first. It's been days, and you reek of dried cum and dirt," the unicorn slyly remarked with a coy smile. ... That still didn't change the fact that he was a massive asshole. Rainbow felt a lot of stress leave her body as the water poured down from the showerhead, finally able to scrub all the filth and dried semen off of her. How long had it been since she was able to shower like this? She had been tossed back and forth from caribou handler to male master to even one of their dumb war beasts! She never had a chance to herself; it felt too long ago to remember. But by Celestia's plot, did it feel great to get clean again. Scrubbing the soap and lofa over her back, hips, legs, and arms never felt so refreshing. So euphoric. So.... vulnerable. Yes, even in this small moment of bliss, a larger part of paranoia plagued her mind. It unnerved her how exposed she was. That at any moment, she was expecting some stallion or caribou to barge right in, slam her into the toilet and ruin her body more while robbing her small glimpse of freedom. Or worse, having Sombra come in to do just that... 'Damn them' she cursed internally. She shouldn't have to feel like this! The constant fear that something normal as showering could go wrong. A linger dread thanks to the caribou's corruption. Better to enjoy this while she could. It hopefully wouldn't be the last once she and the other rebels got into action to get rid of these bastards once and for all. Turning off the showerhead, she stepped out to wipe off some of the fog on the mirror to get a better look at herself. Aside from the few bruises and dark circles under her eyes, she looked alright. It looked better compared to the makeup they put on her so that it could smear from the tears whenever they forced blunt objects or dicks down her throat. "Nuugh," she shuddered, wrapping the towel around her body before brushing her mane. She shook her head to flick her multicolored hair into its natural messy state, just her style. She noticed a few strands of her main stood out, probably from all the pulling and tearing whenever she took it up doggy style, some of them forcing her to look at herself in the mirror. Grinding her teeth while rubbing her head, she longed to get these degrading images and events out of her head. "Room Service!" Well, as Rarity would put it, 'Nothing better to relax the mind with tea and a bit of yoga.' Rainbow Dash poked her head out to see Sombra thanking the maidservant for bringing them dinner. He then abruptly dismissed her when she offered her vagina or tits to use, slamming the door in her face. That was another thing she admired about Sombra. The dark unicorn was one of the few males left that didn't just freely cram his dick into everything that walked. She assumed it must be taking a lot of mental restrain, considering the major bulge present in his tight leather pants. However resilient he may be, Sombra was still a stallion... with a rather large member by her estimation. 'Gah! What am I doing!?' Averting her eyes from below Sombra's belt, Rainbow popped out from behind the bathroom door, eying at the tray of food instead. Her mouth instantly watered over the cup of freshly cut lettuce, some breadsticks, and two cups of tea. The food was nothing special, much like the rest of this sorry excuse for an establishment. But compared to the shit and stomach-lurching food she had to gorge on, it was a well-crafted dish by a master chef. She looked up at Sombra, almost about to ask if she could have a piece. In return, he gave her a confused look. Blushing, she would take a piece of the romaine lettuce and eat it slowly and thoughtfully, savoring the taste of real food. Boy, did it taste good... "What's this?" His voice interrupted the moment of satisfying hunger, causing her to gulp her mouthful down to answer him. "Huh?" He was reading a newspaper, having requesting one with the room service. He pointed to the headline of one article; "PREPARE! FOR THE GREATEST DISPLAY OF SLUTS THIS SEASON AT THE PONYVILLE WINTER!! WINTER IS CUMMING!!" "Shit! the Ponyville Winter Parade... Ugh, didn't expect to be happening so soon!" "Winter Parade?" "It's an annual parade the caribou do. Every year before Hearth Warming's Eve, King Dainn 'graces' Ponyville with his presence to celebrate the holiday with a parade filled with mares in lingerie, snow outfits, and other stupid shit. They get their hottest cattle together for all the men to get off to while on floats. At the end of the parade, he'll be on the last float with the royal princesses, allowing all his subjects to fuck them in honor for their 'glorious' victory," she explained, on the verge of hurling out each sentence. Sombra's expression narrowed as he gazed at the picture associated with the article. It showed a lean caribou with a crown on his head holding a sword, while beneath his hooves were lewd depictions of Celestia and Luna. Lightning glowed from his blue pupilless eyes; his head held high to display his neck and chest, hefty fur covering his cloak. 'This is their leader?' he thought, questioning the drawing's accurate depiction. Even with how godly they drew him, Dainn still looked rather frail and small compared to the other caribou he's encountered. How in the world did such a scranny thing rule over a herd of warmongers? And what were these glowing auras of electricity from his eyes and hand? Was this truly a display of his power, or was he that far up his ass to boast ones that didn't exist?! Something about him was definitely misconceived here. This was just a portrait for a newspaper, after all... "Sounds like the perfect opportunity to assassinate him..." He commented. "That was the plan," Rainbow Dash nodded, anger raising her voice. "King Dainn rarely leaves Canterlot. Too busy living up in the castle, jerking off and using whatever cumrag was available. The parade is our only opportunity to slay him and rescue the princesses..." "Until they caught you.." "Yeah yeah, don't remind me," she flustered. "Things could have changed, and the resistance may have a new plan in mind. Last I remember, there were only a few of us. Applejack, Pinkie, Maud, and I were going to be the ones to do it. And we could have done it too! We were scouting the perfect rendevous point until that one fuck-twit stallion spotted and reported us! Now... now I just really hope I was the only one they captured." The rainbow maned mare took a sip of her tea to calm her nerves. "But hey, suppose the leader allows you into ou regiment. How do you plan to assist us? It's been like, what? Three weeks since you popped out of the ground? Surely, some of your magic has replenished." Sombra nodded. Before, he could barely hold himself together, too cautious of casting a spell that might break his body apart. Even his mental stale resembled that of a feral animal, desperate for food and shelter from the harsh winter winds. Now, he felt like he could start an onslaught with the caribou soldiers and immerge victoriously. The dark stallion couldn't recall the last time he was this invigorated. He felt stronger, wiser, far more capable. It's like he had retaught himself how to walk again after suffering a vigorous injury. Why he figured with even more training, he could surpass the magical prowess of Celestia in her prime! Still, he suspected a gap between himself and the caribou king; what with his supposed 'outlandish' magic. Sombra had a timeframe to meet before bringing the pinnacle of his spells to battle. Should the resistance provide aid in vanquishing this usurper, Equestria would be fully within grasp. "Hmm," he murmured in thought while finishing his cup of tea. "It would be unwise to request my allegiance without establishing trust. I'm sure you still have your doubts," the tyrant noted, making the pegasus shift her head to the side. "If you have any suggestions on how best to approach your comrades, do tell me." "You're asking me? Look, even if I go into great detail on why allowing you in would be a huge advantage, it's not gonna stop everypony from viewing the tyrannical overlord that once tried twice to impression an entire empire." He scoffed. "Well, if they want an actual chance in survival, they'll let this 'tyrannical overlord' show them the path to victory." "Mmm, I don't know. I don't think we have enough space for all that inflated ego there, Sombrero," Rainbow mused, earning a light snicker from the former king. "Oh, I'm sure you'll find ample room within~." The two shared a rare laugh before continuing to finishing their meal. Sombra remained silent while his thinking over this small moment of peace. How long had it been since he last enjoyed the company of another? For all his time commanding subjects and fighting foes, the dark unicorn never had a chance to settle down like this. Was it... possible he could- 'No,' he reassured himself with a shake of his head. 'It's too late for that possibility. This is but a rare moment of respite. Thing's will only get tougher from here. We need to be careful, not hopeful. And hope is rare to find as it is...' 'Grruagh! I should have known the fucking cunts would lace the tea!' Rainbow mentally screamed. This wouldn't be the first time the caribou spiked her drink with an aphrodisiac, considered a more 'efficient' way than just straight up injecting her bloodstream with the drug. It was the only way they got her wet enough to provide lubricant for their invading cocks. Though most didn't care and used her dry. Damn those cuntwhipped cocksuckers! Her loins were burning, thoughts intruding her brain to leave and seek a male to hose down the fire with hot, disgusting spunk. She bit her lip hard, using all her strength to keep her twitching hand from going anywhere near the scorching itch between her legs. The voices were the worse part. The corrupted taint in the air had a nasty effect in compelling her to listen to all commands of the caribou. To give in and submit to male supremacy. How it would feel good to be a dick obsessed slut to drown her brain in thick semen. Visions of various scenarios where the caribous gangbang her, using whatever orifice was available to rub and pump their shafts into. The lewd imagery, the feeling of every inch, girth, and flesh of their manhoods, forcing their way into her throat, cunt, or anus. The pain of being absent from long, pulsating flesh reshaping her womb for its purpose. And even worse, the drug made her body think she liked it. That she enjoyed becoming a cock gurgling whore to these burly monsters. Her fingers kept fiddling around in the bedsheets, trying to maintain her grip and power through this torture. Think up any solution than reach down and stroke her throbbing clit. Hot fem cum leaked out of her moistening pussy lips, her breathing hot and heavy. She took a glance at the shower door. Sombra was taking his turn in the shower, humming to himself. No... Fuck! she thought. Sombra would notice the smell of wet mare. Rainbow could already see him teasing her like the smug asshole he was, maybe even make her beg for his cock. Her kneeling before the former king, lavishing his scepter with her mouth and tongue until she proved her worth in taking that big, meaty cock into her-- 'Fucking damnit!!' she cursed, chewing her lip raw. 'Why did I get such a big douse of this shit!?' Rainbow took slow deep breaths, trying her best to distract herself from the aching need to go stick her ass up for any takers. 'Gotta think back to when life was good; back when I could race through the skies, hang with friends, hanging with friends, babysitting Scootaloo, joining the Wonderbolts! Anything but-' The sound of the running water disappearing caught Rainbow's ears. Sombra must have finished, stepping out to dry off and groom himself. The mare's fingers gripped onto the sheets tighter, her chest heaving on every breath. She clung her legs together tightly, rubbing friction against her wet cunt. She didn't know what was more unbearable; the raging heat of her sex or the sounds coming from the other rooms. The sound of other male residents enjoying their 'room service' while the horrified cries of mares echoed throughout the walls. The bathroom door opened, and out came Sombra, clad only in a towel covering his lower region. Her eyes took in the sight of his masculine physique: that well-toned torso, a patch of fur fluffing up his chest. The many scars coating his arms and back. His freshly shaven muzzle, save for the bit of fuzz on his chin. The way water dripped down his long mane and brows. Needless to say, Sombra was a fine specimen of a stallion. Just the mere sight of him made the pegasus whimper needily. The anticipation of letting this magnificent beast have his way with her grew insufferable. The exaggerated panting and small noises caught the dark unicorn's attention, the sight of her trembling form under the pale moonlight shining raising concern. Before he asked what was with her, something else caught his nostrilsโ€”something... musky. His eyes lit up in comprehension before that familiar grin spread his features. "Oh my," he chuckled, his voice lowering to a husky baritone. "Seems somepony has gotten rather antsy waiting for me to come out of the shower. Tell me, does the sight of me make you squirm... or shiver~?" "Fuck you!" she hissed, face flourished in embarrassment and rage. "Keep asking nicely like that, and I'll consider it~." "Shut your piehole, pervert! You'd be a whimpering horn dog too if you drank aphrodisiac tea," she snarled, her eyes fighting to tear down to the bulge in his towel. "Ahh, yes... The air is tainted to make even the saintly of fellows converge to sinful delight," Sombra acknowledged, staring at his erection with dismay. "Nugh! Every time those service mares come in, I get the pulsing need to ravage them into a wall, slamming them into other furniture until I broke them into accepting my stallionhood." This promoted a squeak out of the mare, helpless to imagine taking part in that vivid scene. "Remind me what the source of this foul atmosphere is again?" "Part of a spell King Dainn cast once he secured the Crystal Empire," she explained as best she could while keeping her hand from sliding into her honey pot. "They replaced the Crystal Heart with a diamond dildo, apply dubbed the 'Crystal Cock', that emanates the lewd vapor all over Equestria. It's how most of the other mares and stallions fell. The more you try to resist it, the stronger it gets. When you give in to those aching desires, it weakens your resolve and makes it easier to agree with the caribou's logic. Y-You can those voices, right? Compelling you to pin me down and fuck me to the ground..? Mmnngh~!" Sombra nodded, red burning his cheeks while his eyes wandered all over the mare's nude body. Even without this terrible influence, he had been secretly admiring how athletic her figure was for quite the petite mare, hints of suppleness to her small but curvy breasts and hips. "So it's a doomed situation," Sombra concluded begrudgingly. "We either resist long enough for our minds melt or get it over with and fuck each other, at risk of losing our senses." "Sucks to suck, huh? Hehe... You give in once; you'll be taking slaves just like the good old days, aye, Sombra? Except you'll be fucking them mindlessly. Hard probably, giving you've got a cock the size of a.. Mmnnf~ FUCK!!" Rainbow moaned furiously, ending her futile resistance and burying her hand deep into her soaking marehood, stuffing her juicy slit full of her fingers, trying to dig deep and touch all those spots burning inside her. Soft moans and curses escaped her mouth. The former king glared at her, his fists tightening. "How degrading! There must be some other way to get a hold of ourselves!" Sombra's eyes leer lecherously down to watch her unwillingly masturbate in front of him. The sight of her legs spreading, almost invitingly, made him lick at his lips. "Mmm... A-Agh! Well, either call up a slut to suck you off or give me that dick to blast my cunt with. Otherwise--Mnnagh! You're gonna have a restless night with that sticking up, m-mmmng~!" Her eyes glared hard at his bulge, hating how much she wanted it. Sombra sneered back with an offended look. The nerve of her to demand such a course of actions from him. He had brought the most resilient mares, and stallions fall before him. But this mare, panting like a bitch in heat, had the gall to ask him to fuck her. And the taint of the air compelled him to do so, to show this slut her place. The anger and lust fueling his brain went straight to his crotch, making the towel feel tighter around his waist. With a troubled groan, the stallion conceded. "Very well... h-here." Before Rainbow could react, Sombra walked towards her and shoved her further onto the bed, crawling in between her open legs, her dripping flower spread in full display. "Gah! H-Hey! D-Don't just fucking stare at it, you fuck! Either do something or--MMNNAGH~!!?" He ignored her, fingers tracing along her inner thighs while feeling the damp stickiness of her fur. The moment they reach to prod and poke at her gushing pink insides, the mare trembled and squirmed in place, panting madly from finally having physical contact made outside her own dripping fingers. Judging how widely her hole spread, it had been abused by a lot of forced entries. Her clitoris winked at him, throbbing for him to do more than just rub and squeeze over her sensitive bud. After his thorough examination, Sombra lowered his face to her heated crotch, his fingers tracing around the outsides of her legs. The sudden contact of something long and hot lapping away at her folds sent jolts of pleasure up her spine, causing Rainbow to spasm uncontrollably under his tongue. She could hardly keep her voice from moaning hoarsely as the tip wiggle over her clit before dabbing into her pussy hole. "G-Gah... F-FUCK! T-That's it, right there! Right! Fucking! Theeeroooh~!" she whined. Her praises filled his ears and ego as he continued to lick and nibble at her pussy lips, spreading them apart to get a better view of her pink insides. His tongue continued to tease the poor mare on the brink of insanity. Her hips bucked in attempts to bury his face further into her needy slit. "Agghh! C'mon! Just stick it into me already, d-damnit!" "Stick what in?" he mused. Her eyes snapped open, glaring daggers over the smug smile present on his lips. "Don't you dare play this fucking game with me!" "You're not in a position to demand anything from me, girl. I don't have to do this for you. I can easily call upon of those hookers to--" "Graagh! Fine! Just... Tongue my dripping cunt! Hurry, I need it!" She called out, ashamed at how desperate she became to beg her former enemy to eat her out. "Stupid tea! Stupid Sombra... Fuck life! Fuck everything SO much!!! Fuck meeeee, damnit!" Sombra snickered victoriously as he finally lashed his tongue deeper into her wet, quivering hole. He wriggled it around, tasting her juices, finding the taste to be rather delicious. It had been a long time since Sombra even laid with a mare, let alone serviced one. So while his bedroom skills may be rusty, it brought him no more joy than to see his former foe squirm with lewd and gracious expressions at his tongue game. It was then that he remembered something from earlier that made him pull away, cautiously staring at her slit. "H-Hold on... Aren't you transmitted with some sexual disease?!" "W-What!? No, you fucking moron!" She groaned flustered. "The guy just said that to scare the dumb shit from fucking me. It was a tactic to restrain young bucks from raping important pieces of merchandise. If you get bought, no one's allowed to thrive off your property. I wouldn't be begging you to eat me out if I had a disease, jackass!" "How funny," Sombra snickered. "The caribou proved to be more idiotic and greedy, even among themselves. One might say it's an achievement in natural stupidity. How fascinat-mmngh!?" His pondering was interrupted when he felt Rainbow's hand shove his face into her crotch, grinding her heated pussy against her muzzle. "Stop talking and start licking my clit off so I can wear off this stupid drug!!" Rainbow barked. He pulled away, panting hotly with a hotter glare. "Mind your tone when addressing me, girl. I just started to like you, and I wouldn't want to leave you to hangniiigh!!" Even without wings, she proved to be still strong and quick as a pegasus. So fast, she quickly grabbed at his throat to shove him down and pin the dark unicorn. All while glaring daggers at him while her hips feverishly humped and grind into his bulge. "The only thing hanging will be your head, with your dismembered dick shoved down your throat if you don't shut the fuck up and fuck me right now, you cocky motherfucker!!" It was Sombra's turn to be astonished. Never had he met a more aggressive mare in his life! How clueless was the caribou to think they could bring this defiant pegasus to her knees? She was feist, brash, and determined. Sombra couldn't have been more impressed... or aroused. Her hips worked magic into making the cock lying dormant in his towel stiff as stone. Rainbow's actions and words invoked a challenge. And challenge her, he would! With a large grin, Sombra shoved the mare back onto the bed, his own hand wrapping around her throat, applying a bit of small pressuring to force a gasp for air. The other pulled the towel away from his hips, showing the mare how hard and erected she made him, much to her subtle delight. "Care to back up your bark with some bite, bitch?" he growled huskily, his fat black stallionhood resting over her mound. The sheer size and weight making her shudder while the confident mare snickered with a playful smile. One she hadn't worn for quite some time. "You're on, dickweed~!" The two of them were at it for what seemed like hours. Both of them fought for control of the other, whether it be shoving their tongue down their throats or pinning the other to take their thrusts. Currently, Rainbow was winning in this little struggle as she rode Sombra, bouncing her well-toned ass on his lap. In their kiss, she nibbled his bottom lip, tugging it while her hands clawed at his shoulders. Sombra muffled his grunts against her lips, hands squeezing and gripping her firm cheeks while trying to sync up his thrusts with her bounces. His nails dug into her flesh, drawing thin red lines to match the ones she made over his back. Whatever allegiance or animosity they had for each other couldn't compare to how good it felt to fuck each other up. It was Sombra's turn to take back control. The dark stallion shoved her off, pinning her front onto the damp bedsheets while securing her arm behind her back. She muffled, struggling to break free from his grip, though she kept her ass up high. Going as far as to wiggled it, taunting him to come and get it. This earned her a swift smack to her behind, red stinging her rump while his girthy cock rubbed up and between her pressing ass cheeks. Rainbow bit into the blanket, trying to muffle down her moans while the dark unicorn continued to spank her, his one hand spreading her flank away to brush the tip of his dick against her puffy pussy before diving back in; pounding her body into the creaking bed. From all the mind-numbing pleasure her drugged brain was absorbing, Rainbow managed to note the difference between the caribou and Sombra. The caribou were wild, just quick to pin down a helpless mare and stuff her hole with their dick, repeating jabbing it in and out until they hit climax. With Sombra? He would take his time and fill her pussy full, molding it into the shape of his stallionhood, ruining her for anyone else after him. Their pillow talk was much more engaging than any filth that came from caribou's mouths. The burly bullies just demeaned and enforced their laws, making her feel how weak and disgusting the sex with them was. But when Sombra taunted her, it was to invoke her stubborn nature, to get her to fight back and prove she was more than just a tight slit to slam into. That she was a mare; a strong mare. 'Shit... big-dicked bastard may be right after all,' she thought amongst the hot passion. Speaking of that big dick, she felt it pulsate against all the right spots in her greedy pussy, making her wail sharply once she felt it's flat tip hit the cervix of her pussy. Each push threatened to break into her womb, her pussy coiling around his girth as she moaned louder. Sombra pressed his weight against her, his muzzle leaning near her ear. "Sorry, is this too much for you," he huffed with a mocking concern. "Do I need to hold back a little~?" "Augh! P-Pft!" she resorted, backing up her hips to meet his thrusts and push his schlong farther up in her cunt. "I've been fucked h-harder by -- uuff -- filthy war beasts with cocks the size of logs compared to your limp dick. This ain't -- ahh~ nothing!" "Oh ho, really?" he crowed, panting hot and heavy against her ear as he raised his hand over her sore flank. "So then this.." Smack! "Is.." Smack! "Nothing?!" Smack! Smack! "Graugh!" She yelled out, feeling the stinging pain increase in those red cheeks. If this kept up, Sombra might as well have turned her into a masochist. "Is-- Grah! That--Ugh! All you-- Ugh~ Got!? W-What's the matter, Stud~? One stuck up bitch too much for you to p-punish?? Too much for your k-king sized cock!? C-C'mon, Stop pussy footing here and fuck me like a real stallion~!!" Oh, That did it. That drove the former king to show this sassy little cunt who properly owned her. Growling, he leaned back to hook one of her legs up over his shoulder, forcing them on their sides while giving him a better angle to slam his cock harder into her. With a hand groping her small breast while he nibbled and tugged on her ear, Rainbow was stuck panting and moaning lewdly; nothing more for her to do but taunt him and take her pounding. Her cunt was squeezing down tightly on his member, trying to milk the bastard for all he was worth. And judging by the many pulsations his member twitched, he wasn't that far from climaxing. "HHeh!! Gahh fuck~!!" she cooed. "Tiring you out, huh, old-timer? I knew you... mmmmgh~ wouldn't last long!" she taunted, trying to keep her eyes from crossing into her head. "If I'm coming soon, I'm taking you -- augh!.. with me!" he hissed before he picked up the pace, roughly drilling his hips into hers to finally push his cock past her cervix and bottom out into her womb. Rainbow's mind went blank from how hard the pain and pleasure hit her senses with each push in and out; her moans nothing more now but silent screams. The feeling was too overwhelming. Her pussy was spasming all over his throbbing dick, mare cum splashing everywhere below them. Sombra released a loud groan before he hit climax just after her, hot thick ropes of semen painting the walls of her womb before filling her up. Panting heavily, trying to catch his breath, Sombra pulled out of her before laying on his side, exhausted. His body felt strained, his cock core and flaccid as it retreated into its sheath. In the afterglow, he began to regain himself and lay flat on his back. With the desires stated, the corrupting voices were no longer singing in his ear. Hopefully, it would be a long while until he needed to relieve himself of this burden again. Rainbow Dash took longer until she could roll over onto her back, chest rising and falling, making her breasts jiggle slightly. She stared down at her, leaking crotch. No longer did she feel the burning fire of the Aphrodisiac, but the warmth of the former king's essence. She felt many things. Sweaty, disgusted, tired, sore, and warm. Never had her sex life, before and after the Fall of Equestria, become so intense. She scooted herself closer to Sombra, allowing an arm to drape around her shoulder and pull her into his warm fuzzy chest. Resting her head, she listens to the sound of his heart, each beat slowing down with each breath. "Fuck..." She sighed. "Did I really get my pussy plowed by one of Equestria's greatest villains?" "Mhmm," he confirmed, exhausted. "And you liked it~." "Pft! So what? You enjoyed tapping my ass just as much." "Who wouldn't? It's a fine arse." The pegasus chuckled wearily, curling her form more into his broad chest. "Well, don't think this means anything. The last thing I want my friends to know is that I let a thousand-year-old dictator hammered me into the floor. Ehhh, wait, I just realized... Isn't this technical necrophilia?" He snorted. "Do I look dead to you?" "Fair enough... You certainly feel alive and breathing. In fact, If I listen closely, I may even hear a heart beating under all that robust dark fur and needless ego~." "All things have a heart, girl," Sombra yawned. "Whatever sentiment you're trying to milk from me is not there. I can assure you." "Mhmm, sure... But, if there was any sentiment or empathy in you... would you show it to me?" "..." Her question held his eyes open, gazing at the ceiling in thought. What if there was? And all this time, he buried it down to defend himself from growing hurt. To justify his actions and crimes against the ponies he discriminated against. And during these hard times, would he allow himself to open up to this mare? A mare not moments ago despised and thought illy towards him before they shared an evening of intense passion. Things have changed. He had changed. He was no longer the tyrant king of the Crystal Empire, enslaving everything under his control to build a better empire for Equestria. No longer the king returning from a frozen grave to exact his plans. No longer... King. He was just Sombra now. Until he overcame Dainn and reclaimed the throne, he could no longer call himself a king. Maybe... It was better this way? "... It's a possibility." But his reply was met with the soft snoring of his lover, comfortably asleep for the first time in months. She clung to him tightly, like he was some stuffed toy to protect her from this wicked nightmare. Had he grown softer during his time spent with her? Or... did he grow stronger from it? The more his thoughts pondered, the more questions formed. And as the more questions formed, the deeper he fell into sleep. Tomorrow, the two would find her group of rebels to fulfill their plan to defeat the vile caribou. And put an end to this madness once and for all. Ri-Riiiiiing Cฮฑษณ แƒงฯƒฯ… ิ‹าฝฮฑษพ ฮนฦš? Ri-Riiiiiing Cฮฑษณ แƒงฯƒฯ… ฯาฝาฝส… ฮนฦš... ฦˆฯƒษฑฮนษณษ  ฦˆส…ฯƒส‚าฝษพ? Ri-Riiiiiing Yฯƒฯ… ษฑฯ…ส‚ฦš ฦ™าฝาฝฯ ษ ฯƒฮนษณษ . I ษฏฮนส…ส… แ‚ฆาฝ ฦšิ‹าฝษพาฝ ส‚ฯƒฯƒษณ Ri-Riiinnng Kาฝาฝฯ ษ ฯƒฮนษณษ ... Sฯƒษฑแ‚ฆษพฮฑ At the sound of his name, Sombra snapped awake, panting heavily as he had before. Looking over his surroundings, he let out a low sigh, thankful he was still in the room and not in the cold forest. 'Another dream' he thought to himself. 'That voice... The bell... I want to know what they mean!'. It took him a moment to realize his companion was not by his side. His head quickly drew up to the sound of the running water is turned off. It looks like Rainbow Dash got up much earlier than he did. Which was fine; she said she wanted to use the shower first. Sombra then noticed how.. sticky and wet the sheets were. It almost made him feel pity for the maids that were going to clean up their mess. Though given the labor their masters forced on them was already dirty, it wasn't that much of a hassle. The dark unicorn's eyes then laid onto the newspaper on the table, giving him one last glance of the front line about the upcoming parade. December 24th. Nearly a few days away from now. Hopefully, he'll have time to train and prepare.. whether he'll be accepted within the resistance or not. Though he'd never admit it, a part of him was hopeful somepony would look over his actions in the past to help secure Equestria's future. And if he learned anything from his steaming hot night with the former pegasus, they were not to be underestimated. A fatal mistake the caribou would soon regret. Still, the idea of leading the army of rebels against the barbarian's regime was one he would reach for. Just as his mind kept wondering over battle plans for things to come, the door open and out came his potential lieutenant. Dash whipped her wet mane back as she wrapped the towel around her before casting Sombra a sly grin. "Well, look who finally woke up. You were sleeping like a rock; I thought I might have knocked you out cold last night~!" Sombra grumbled a yawn, not fully awake to deal with the mare's crude antics. "You'd be best not to boast so loudly, Dash," he insisted. "We don't want the caribou here to know I've given you more freedom then they deemed necessary. Which is to say none." She rolled her eyes before tossing him a towel to use. "Yeah, yeah, I know. I just wanna enjoy the last few minutes of not being chained to a collar. The shower should still be warm for you." "Sounds like somepony's a little worried about my safety. And here I thought you didn't have any sentiment in that big black heart of yours~," Dash teased with her tongue poking out at him. Sombra chuckled. "I don't. I'd just hate to lose a valuable asset, is all. Now hush and prepare to leave. The sooner we leave, the sooner we can get to find the resistance." And with that, he heads into the showers to get freshened up. Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, brushing over her mane a couple of times before fetching her cloak. "Whatever you say, ya big softie." "I heard that!" "And here's the key," Sombra said, handing back the room key to the mare at the counter, the very same one who gave him trouble last night. And she looked just as pitiful as before. Her glasses were bent, her right eye swollen black. Bruises and bite marks were imprinted all over her soft flesh, with longer marks indicating a whip was involved in brutalizing the mare. "Thank you, Mr. Ambros," she said weakly, almost too soft to hear. "W-We hope you enjoyed your stay. "Yes, it was quiet.. refreshing. We better get going. Come along, slut!" Rainbow just grumbled before following him. "O-Oh! A moment please, sir. M-My masters wish to speak with you." Sombra paused to stare back at the mare with an annoyed look. Before he could give her some more parting words of wisdom, she stepped back to allow two large caribou to make their way. Each dressed in business suits, one plump-purple, and the other greenish-yellow. Instinctively, his arm held out before Rainbow Dash, trying to keep them away from her. "Good morning to you, sir," the light brown beast greeted with a smile."And thank you for spending a night in our luxurious hotel! We understand you're on your way out, but if we could borrow a bit of your time, we'd like to... settle some affairs that happened last night." 'Never fails to amaze me how bloated these brutes are in trying to speak intelligently. And Dash says I have an exaggerated ego.' Sombra sighed, looking up to both caribou. "Alright, what about it?" "Well, you see," his partner began. "We applaud you in demonstrating your authority over these weak-minded whores! But with that being said, you were insistent to you bring your slut in the same room with you. As we said, we commend you for making an example out of our staff, but we do have rules to oblige to make sure our other customers leave satisfied." "Yes, the biggest being that any customer can request a mare of his choosing," the purple suited bull added. "We've recently found our supply of mares on the low side, given how frequently we need to toss them out for failure or trying to escape. So until then, we've established that rule that encourages other stallions and caribou to share." "How stupid." "I beg your pardon?" "Look... Gentlemen. I'm sure you do a fine job running this... lovely tavern. But you have to understand; it's a personal preference of mine," Sombra steadily explained while inching Rainbow and himself closer towards the exist. "I get jealous easily; I can hardly stand to have stallions trying to mooch off with my property. And as much as I would like to share and help out to your cause, my whore is off-limits. Now, if that's all you wanted to discuss, I'll just be on my way. Thank you and--" "Now hold on a minute, young stallion," the yellow suited caribou interrupted, grabbing at Sombra's shoulder. 'Oh, c'mon'. "We understand the sentiment. I'd keep my cum-guzzling whore to myself if I could! But rules are rules. And we expect them to be followed. We don't want mares and sows to get the wrong idea that they could choose to fight back after all." "Preposterous!" "Heresy! Life is much better for them under our hooves! So what makes you so high in might to ignore our rules, if I may ask?" "Well, you see-" "Wait a minute.." The purple suited caribou pushed Sombra to hold Rainbow up by her arms, causing her to squirm and struggle before he unveiled her hood to reveal her face and multicolored mane. "That's... That's one of the elemental bearers!" he gasped. "By the might of King Dainn, you're right! The reports said she went missing after the traffickers got attacked... What is she doing here with you?!" Both large brutes glared at the unicorn suspiciously, Sombra returning their hard looks. 'Shit!' Quickly, Rainbow swung her leg to kick the caribou hard in the stomach, the large mammal bellowing in pain as he dropped her. Sombra would follow up to elbow the other caribou, shoving him over his partner. Just as the two ponies were about to make a beeline to the door, their path was blocked by the other male taverners. Stallions and caribou circled them back into a corner. Rainbow and Sombra kept their back to each other, taking a stance while eying down the distraught expressions. The tavern owners rose, dusting each other off while sneering down the former pegasus. "Stupid bitch! I'll have your ass lashed before handing you over to King Dainn!" he yelled, clutching his stomach. "Now, now, brother. There's a more simple solution to this." The yellow suited caribou turned back to address the males of the tavern. "Gentlemen. Seize this bastard! Once the fool is disposed of, all are welcome to a free room tonight; with special service from the bearer! For male supremacy!" "YEAH! MALE SUPREMECY" cheered the crowd, all ready to tear open Sombra and skewer Rainbow Dash until something broke through a glass window. It landed between the growing mob, the caribou, and the pair of refugees. One stallion bent down to pick it up. "It's just a rock... Wait, why is it ticking?". BOOOOM! An explosion burst out of the rock, blasting the mob apart. Rainbow yelped, bracing herself for incineration, but did not feel her flesh being torn off. Opening her eye, she saw a dark crystal barrier protecting them. Sombra managed to get a shield up before the grenade went off. Sounds of groans and grunts came from the other side as silhouettes of what looked to be others fighting each other on the other side of the crystal barrier. What on earth was going on? Soon, the sound of bodies dropping was met with silence... and then hoof steps coming towards them; a large silhouette looming over the barrier. The figure placed their hands on their hips before shouting out, "Listen up in der. Y'all got to da count of three ta drop this here barrier before Aah breaks it down!" "Wait, I know that voice!" Rainbow gasped, looking up to the dark stallion to follow that command. Slowly, his crystals cracked before the shield fell apart, revealing an angry-looking orange mare with a western hat on top of her head. Her green eyes burned deep into his red ones. Around her neck was a black collar, exactly the one Rainbow had. She wore a dark green jumpsuit and boots. His eyes then noticed two other mares behind her. One being grey with a straight purple mane void of any expression on her face. The other a pink mare, with a mane out of control who waved a friendly 'hello' at him. And behind them, all were the unconscious (or dead) bodies of all the males and the caribou. The counter mare stared with wide eyes before she slowly shuffled her way towards the exit before bursting out, bawling loudly. "F-Free! I-I'm FREE!" "Applejack! Pinkie! Maud!" Rainbow Dash cried, running up to give the pink mare and her sister a tight hug. "What took you guys so long?!" "Ah! Sorry there, sugarcube," The earth mare, Applejack, said sheepishly. "We would 'av gotten here sooner if Pinkie here didn't git us lost." The pink mare offered a big smile while shrugging her shoulders. "But enough about me. I wanna know da whole deal 'bout him," Applejack stated, glaring down at Sombra, who remained on the floor, eying the mare skeptically as she loomed over him. "So Sombra lives after all... And here Aah was hopin' them be just rumors. But don't worry, Dashie. I'll take care of him quick." "W-Wait, don't!" Rainbow Dash insisted, getting in between her friend and the dark stallion. "Sombra helped me escape from the traffickers! I-It's a long story, I'll explain on the way back. But he wants to join in our fight against the caribou." "Oh really now," AJ scoffed, pushing Dash aside to grab at the dark unicorn's throat, Sombra gasping and choking while trying to loosen her grip. His horn flared up to cast a spell, but this only made the earth mare's hold tightened. Sombra had forgotten how inherently strong earth ponies could be. Any more force, and she'd snap his neck in half! "And just why does the former tyrant of da Crystal Empire want to help the resistance?" "A-Augchh! T-To save... Equestria... from the caribou's grasp!" Sombra wheezed out. "Hmph.. we'll see 'bout dat. Gals! Round up every mare in this place. We're takin' em' back to camp!" "But what about Sombra?" Rainbow asked while the Pie sisters urged her to come along. "We're takin' him too. Aah'm sure Lady Ewe will have plenty of questions for his royal highness here." As Sombra watch the rebels take to the other rooms to free every mare in the tavern, the last thing he saw coming was an orange fist knock the daylights out of him. Everything went black. > โ„‚๐•™๐•’๐•ก๐•ฅ๐•–๐•ฃ ๐•€๐•: ๐ธ๐“ƒ๐‘’๐“‚๐“Ž ๐‘œ๐’ป ๐‘€๐’พ๐“ƒ๐’น > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ri-Riiiiiing Sฯƒษฑแ‚ฆษพฮฑ Ri-Riiiiiing Wฮฑฦ™าฝ ฯ…ฯ, Sฯƒษฑแ‚ฆษพฮฑ. Iฦš ฮนส‚ ษณฯƒฦš แƒงฯƒฯ…ษพ ฦšฮนษฑาฝ แƒงาฝฦš! Ri-Riiiiiing Hฯƒษฏ ฮฑษพาฝ แƒงฯƒฯ… ษ ฯƒฮนษณษ  ฦšฯƒ ส‚ฮฑส‹าฝ ิ‹าฝษพ, Sฯƒษฑแ‚ฆษพฮฑ? Ri-Riii-- "Wake up, ya idgit!" Sombra's eyes snapped open, gasping for air as more water poured down his face. The dark stallion coughed out spit, and liquid accidentally inhaled. "'Bout time ya woke up. Ya must have been out for about four hours now! Guess Aah knocked ya out real good," the southern voice chuckled. As he catches his breath, Sombra's eyes strained to adjust to the misshapen figure in his blurry vision. The first thing in view was the smug, satisfied grin of the orange earth mare responsible for his aching head back in the tavern. A couple of jerks told him his limbs were restrained behind his back, his tired body against the wall of a tent. He grunted, testing how tight the rope around him was by trying to break out with little strength. A minor setback, seeing as woven rope held no strength against any spell in his arsenal as he began to conjure such a cast... ... Only for it to send a surge of electricity through his neck the moment he thought about magic, a roar in pain out of him. A small, giggling sound caught his attention as he glared at the pink mare sitting on a stool by the orange one, winking at him while waving a little black remote control with two buttons to press into. He glared begrudgingly at the two mares. The nerve of them to place a shock collar around him, even if it was to prevent him any access to magic. Silence filled the tent as the Sombra and Applejack glared judgementally at each other before the unicorn spoke up with the first question. "Am I to assume you've taken me, hostage, at the rebel base?" "You'd be correct," AJ confirmed. "Lucky for ya, we found y'all before any caribou reinforcements came stompin' by dat tavern. Dat one mare runnin' like a maniac alerted a nearby squad. Once they apprehended her, they went to de Inn to investigate da ruckus." So they had made it to the resistance least. That much was a relief. So then... "Where is Dash?" "Aah'm not obligated to tell ya that," the earth mare snorted, walking towards him before taking a seat on her stool. "Right now, yer being interrogated, yer majesty. Aah'll be da one askin' questions around here. Got it?" Sombra growled lowly in response. As much as he was amused with this little contest of staring daggers with the orange earth mare, this wouldn't get anywhere. Not when the caribou's parade was in a matter of days. So he gave a slow nod. "Good," AJ huffed, snapping her fingers as the pink mare bounced up to the side of the tent before bringing out a big lamp to shine over his face. He hissed, squinting his eyes from how harsh the light was shining closely to his face. "Now, first and foremost, how are ya alive?" "If you ask pointless questions like that, we'll be here all day--oomph!" he grunted, a powerful boot kicking the air out of his diaphragm. "No, if you refuse to cooperate, we'll be here all day. Now answer me, varmint!" she repeated, digging her heel into his sore rib. "Gruaagh!! I-I don't know!" he growled. "All I remember is waking up under a frozen tree in the middle of nowhere; cold and alone." "Would 'ave done everypony a favor if ya just froze ta death," she muttered. "Now, how did ya git so acquainted with Rainbow Dash? Plannin' to mind rape her into doin' yer biddin'?! As if she hadn't been through enough already!!" "On the contrary, I saved her from being sold to a fat slob in a traffic accident." "Better some 'fat slob' than another tyrant tryin' to twist Equestria into a desolate wasteland!" "Do not confuse me with the caribou so easily! What I want for Equestria is far more inspiring than the filthy fuckpen of those mongrels!" "Shut up!" She snapped, planting her foot firmly into the stallion's chest. "Answer da damn question less ya want yer chest caved in from collateral damage!" The old black unicorn chuckled. "Such empty threats.." "Wanna try me, partner?" "Kick the shit out of me if it pleases you. It will not change the fact that I hold more of an advantage over the caribou than your camp of rebels and refugees." That definitely struck a nerve as the orange mare kicked him harder before grabbing him by the throat and holding him by his neck, the battered unicorn choking and struggling in Applejack's grasp. "Listen here, ya son of a bitch! The only advantage ya have is the time I haven't spent pantin' you back in the ground to push up daisies! We've been fightin' a long time to put an end to da caribou and their abuse of power! And da last thing anyone needs ta worry about is you! So gimme one good reason not ta send ya packin' back to Tartarus, Sombra!" "Applejack, that's enough!" Both ponies turned at Rainbow Dash's familiar raspy voice entering the tent, now in her black jumpsuit with silver buttons and zippers. The tyrant was dropped back on the ground, wheezing for breath while Applejack confronted her friend. "Aah thought Aah told ya to stay out of this, RD," she said firmly. "You're back with us, safe and sound! There's no more need to be anywhere near this black-hearted bastard." "Applejack... I appreciate your concerns for me, after all that we've been through together. But there's more at stake here than holding grudges against beaten foes," Rainbow insisted, walking towards the orange mare. "I know this is a bad idea, but we need all the help we can get. Sombra has every right to be with us to fight caribou domination as we do." "Are ya fuckin' kiddin' me!? I ain't gonna let walk around freely just for him to backstab us later! Aah, see no real justification for keepin' this evil fiend alive! Look at him, just as twisted and conniving' as those monsters." "He is not a caribou! He's a pony! Yeah, he can be a real shady bitch at times..." Sombra softly glared at his 'friend' before shrugging. "... But he's still a pony! I've seen it; He wants Equestria freed from the caribou's clutches just as much as we do." Applejack scoffed. "Aah can't believe how stubborn ya are sometimes, RD. How foolish can ya git trustin' the lies and temptations of a rattlesnake! He'll use ya, Rainbow Dash! Hell, judgin' by your smell, he already has..." This caused the blue mare to look away, blushing madly while rubbing her arm. "Yea, don't think Aah don't recognize da smell of a mare whose been rollin' in the hay!" "H-Hey! What choice did I have? I was drugged! They laced my tea! He was the only one I trusts to get rid of the itch! No way could I have lasted the whole night!" "A whole night of passionate hate sex~" The black stallion chimed in cheekily. "Will you shut it?!" Rainbow snapped at him. "You're not helping your case!" "And why should I pretend to be something I'm not? I am a king, given a second life to reclaim this land in my name. I will not deny who I am!" He exclaimed, his glare shared with the three mares. "You and I share a common enemy; that is where the similarities end. But if you want to give your resistance the best outcome possible in taking Equestria back from those idiots, you'll do as I say and release me!" "Got a lot of nerve thinkin' Aah'll just stand by while you run amu--" the hands of Dash caught her voice as she gave an assuring jerk. "Applejack, Please!" She said, a little more softly. "I know he's far from trustworthy! I know he's a villain. But he might be our only powerful ally left..." The mare was shaken, furious beyond recognition. Her green eyes burned hatred for the dark unicorn as tears began to pour from her cheeks. With a weary sigh, she lowered her hand and turned to the fallen pegasus, trying to keep the sobs in her throat from escaping. "A-aah just..." she sniffled, rubbing the leaks from her eyes. "Aah thought Aah lost ya for good, RD! And ta hear dat ya were with our old enemy, going as far to sleep with him... That's some scary stuff ta take in, Rainbow! In a world losing life and freedom... Aah don't wanna lose any more friends!" Rainbow would pull the quivering strong mare into her arms, embracing her. "I know... I missed you guys too. I was so scared that I wouldn't see you again," her voice cracked, trying her best not to cry before reaching to pull her friend into a tight embrace. The two stayed like that for what felt like minutes passing by slowly, lose in the warmth of each other. Then another set of arms wrapped around them. They turned to Pinkie Pie, who smiled sadly with tears flowing down her puffy cheeks as all three pulled close to each other. For once, there was safety in the arms of the former champions of Equestria. Sombra wisely kept silent while his glare softened, seeing the three rekindled their former strength. Despite his own distaste for sentimental value, unity would be the key to their survival and retribution. Only together would they pose a greater power against their true threat. His ears twitched at the sound of hoof steps entering the tent. The grey mare with the light purple mane in a greyish green jumpsuit made her entrance. "Lieutenant Applejack," She addressed dully. "I'd hate to interrupt this touching reunion, but Lady Ewe is asking for your presence in regards to Sombra." The three mares would pull away from each other as Applejack regained her early authority, whipping the tears from her cheeks. "Alright... Tell her we'll be a few minutes. Almost done with our interrogation," she said, casting a narrowed gaze at Sombra, who arched an eyebrow at her. It wasn't much an interrogation as it was her getting her hands on him to release all that building tension within her. Still... Lady Ewe? Was that the name of their leader? His pondering didn't last long as he was brought up to his hooves. Rainbow began to untie the ropes binding his hands to his back. Once his arms were free, he catered the rope burn around his wrists, rubbing tenderly. Before he could mutter any word of appreciation, Applejack approached him with her less than harsh gaze and her voice far less aggressive. "Alright, Sombra. Seein' as ya did saved Rainbow and kept her from harm's way; Aah'll level with ya. Aah won't ever trust ya, that's for sure. But it's clear as day yer not against us. So that's enough to let ya stay here. But make no mistake..." She would pull his collar once more, her eyes narrowing into his burning reds. "Da moment Aah see ya tryin' ta pull a fast one under us, Aah'll find dat ditch ya crawled out from and bury ya twelve feet deeper." Sombra let a grin spread his bruised face. "Very well, then... Let us be enemies of mine over the singular goal of crushing the caribou regime. You have my word that I won't act out of my own accord. But I would love to see you try and murder me in cold blood with your brute strength, earth mare. I am much more formidable now than the last time we met~." A sly chuckle left the orange mare. "Aah'd certainly hope so. Be a mighty shame to defend our resources and lay our hopes to a unicorn king who got bested by a baby dragon." His horn flared up in anger, a low growl escaping his throat before a quick jolt shocked the rising force of magic out of him; his glare shifting towards the snickering pink mare before the three of them turned to leave the tent with Sombra in tow. Rainbow would lightly jab at his shoulder playfully. "Don't take it personally," Rainbow Dash grinned slyly. "You weren't getting in here any other way. Now try to be nice, won't you?" Low grumbling was his only response as he followed the three mares out from the tent. If one could listen carefully, they might hear him mutter something about driving every dragon to extinction when he reclaimed power. Outsider. That was the best word to describe his position in the resistance camp. He felt alienated from the many glances he received as he walked behind AppleJack and Rainbow through the camps. The day was cloudy, with light snow falling over the grounds. From the few mares talking or working with each other, he could estimate that over a hundred had managed to escape and reside here. And at least a couple more were giving him a variety of looks. Some mares glared death in his direction; others fear his reputation while muttering his name to each other. And some seemed to be looking at him lustfully as if he were the last stallion alive in a world barren of decency. If not for the dystopia they were all forced to live in, Sombra was confident this would be the most uncomfortable position he's been put through. Not only would he be expecting these ponies to believe in him to bring back their fallen country, but they had to be willing to follow his lead. This would have been so much easier just to break their minds in. "Gah!" he yelled, feeling his backside suddenly receive a very rough smack. He turned his attention to the bubbling pink mare behind him, looking innocent and pretending to whistle. He narrowed his eyes at her, "What was that for?" he demanded. She gave a flirtatious smile and shrugged. "She likes you," came the boorish tone of her sister walking beside her. "She's thrilled to have you as an ally rather than another enemy." He huffed. This one was the more ecstatic of the bunch. What impressed him was that she manages not to lose the bounce in her step despite the circumstances. His staring caused her smile to widen and even to make her bounce up and down more quickly. "For such a childish mare, you'd expect her to be bursting with enthusiasm or at least singing for all to hear," he muttered. "She's mute," Maud responded. That made him do a double-take. "What?!" Pinkie Pie stopped her bouncing to open her mouth wide and stick out her tongue... or what was left of it. It looked to have been severed off. He gazed at it with a somewhat disturbed expression. "When the caribou captured us," Maud began to explain. "They were having complaints about how much she was 'talking their dicks off' and how it 'killed the mood.' So they silenced her permanently by removing her tongue. She was sad for many months... But knowing my sister, she bounced back." A small smile appeared faintly on the grey mare's lips. "Even during the harsh times, she wouldn't allow others to remain so sad." Pinkie would bob her head rapidly in agreement before resuming her bouncing. Sombra would rub the back of his head, sheepish about his previous comment. "Still, that is terrible! I'm deeply sorry." "Don't be," Maud assured, returning to her default expression. "She's glad to express herself in... other ways." It then drew his attention that Pinkie had pulled the zipper of her black jumpsuit further down to show off cleavage, her bust jiggling with each bounce she made. And to say the mare wasn't stack compared to Rainbow or AppleJack wouldn't do justice to how bountiful her breasts were. His eyes found her big wide blue ones, caught in a sultry gaze while she wiggled her eyebrows playfully. Sombra felt heat rush to his cheeks before he turned away from her and shuffled closer to Rainbow, whispering to her, "You'd think that in a dystopia where rape and misogyny ran rampant, it would be absurd to see all these mares looking to pounce on me with such lecherous expressions..." "It's mostly the influence of being with the caribou for too long. Most of us can't help our loins from burning up, and masturbation doesn't always cut it. So while you're a wicked stallion with evil intentions... You're also kind of a hottie with years of experience in how to lay with a mare. So take it for what you will. Just don't get caught ogling over Pinkie too long, or you might give them the impression that you're an old pervert looking to bed all these fragile mares in need of a strong stallion to protect them~" Rainbow whispered, a knowing smirk spreading her muzzle. "I wasn't--" "Pipe down, will ya!" AppleJack cut in, her face flustered from the chatter. "Aah don't need to hear da details. Aah'd like to 'ave some decency in this mad ridden world!" Sombra rolled his eyes, muttering to himself. He glanced back between the three and only now noticed the different colored collars. Around the necks of Applejack and Rainbow were black while Pinkie sported a bright red one. He would lean forward to the blue Pegasus' ear. "The collars... They hold some meaning, yes?" he asked. He thought back to the caribou back in that cabin he crashed in, remembering vaguely about he mentioned something about the collars and their importance. "Yeah," She whispered. "It's a caste system the caribou have. Black collars are for mares that constantly fight and need 'attitude adjustments'" she shuddered over the implications, recalling the many methods they used whenever she refused to submit. "Red's are for the mares that behave and do as they're told. Whether they're just going along to live or have given up varies. Then there are the purple collars.." "Purple?" He glanced over to the many mares, still watching. Not a single shade of violet or purple around their necks. "For mares who are too broken from so much abuse," She continued. "Because the caribou are reckless and gluttonous, some mares can't withstand getting fucked over again and again. To the point where they can't function or think properly without something shoved into them. If you ask me, killing them would be a merciful fate than that..." Indeed. A mind was a fragile thing to break. It was his favorite tactic to demonstrate what would become of all his opponents. Though he never took it as far as to destroy their psyche beyond repair, let alone by 'fucking them to death.' "Can you take them off?" "Pft. You'd think I'd still be wearing mind if I could? They're bond magically around our necks, thanks to that magical dildo acting as a beckon in the Crystal Empire." The Crystal Empire. It felt like ages since he last heard of that place. His former kingdom. And it seemed that a majority of power was placed there. He noted this in his mind for when the time would come to put their rebellion into action. Oh... what had become of his empire? How much has it suffered from the caribou's tainted influence on the land? "What became of the Prince and Princess of the Crystal Empire? Are they not your allies?" he asked with a hint of loathing in his voice. They were responsible for usurper his throne. But to his surprise, Rainbow Dash returned a similar tone when she was addressing them. "Cadance and Shining Armor... Those filthy traitors!" She seethed lowly so as not to draw attention from the rest of the mares in the camp. "To this day, I'm in denial that such wonderful, caring ponies betrayed their own country in favor of... this!" She curled her hands into a fist. It was a rather unbelievable thing to expect, but at the same time, Sombra couldn't help but find it ironic how the very beings that took over from him would turn their backs against their fellow countrymen. "They sold us out! Gave up the Crystal Heart and everything when Dainn showed up to enslave their subjects as mere toys!" 'Huh. Doesn't that sound familiar,' He pondered sheepishly. "And their daughter... God's above knows what they would have done if she had not escaped," She wretched, looking as if she would vomit at the possibility. Sombra, too, felt nauseated by the thought of their daughter-- no... the mere thought of children having to live in this land of barbarians and rapists filled the dark unicorn with rage. He never believed it was right to subject foals to harsh environments or any of his torturous ways. If they were strong at their age, they would grow up to be proud warriors in his name, at the very least. But no one so young should suffer such heinous actions. "How fortunate," he agreed darkly, fueling his disdain for King Dainn and the caribou swine, as well as his apparent hatred for the current rulers of the Crystal Empire. "Where do you think the young Princess ran off to?" Before Rainbow could reply, AppleJack held out her hand to stop them. "Enough talk, ya'll! We're here." Before all of them stood probably the tallest of the camp's tents, it looked as if it were made from the very forest itself. Long branches and roots formed the poles while plant life and leaves waved against the wind. One flag was raised on the tent's highest part, a banner showing what looked to be the same logo the caribou used except the Alicorn sisters' symbols breaking free of the chains. Two mares stood in front of the tent's entrance before both saluted to Applejack. "Lady Ewe will see you, Lieutenant Dash and Sombra now," the tallest instructed. The orange mare nodded as the two guards pull back, the tent's fold opening. The three ponies would walk inside while the Pie sisters stood with the guards as the meeting with Lady Ewe was underway. To say that the interior of the tent was even more enchanting than the exterior was an understatement. For the first time since his return to the world of the living, he saw... life. A blue flower glowed above in luminescent light, serving as a ceiling lamp. Only a single bed made of leaves and plant light was shown in the corner as the main desk took the entire tent's center. And sitting at that desk stood a robed figure. She hummed to herself in a language unheard of, seemingly not noticing the ponies as blue light poured from her fingertips. Sombra gazed at the staff in her hand, shaped like a dreamcatcher from carven wood. Strange runes seemed to give off pale light, beckoning every few seconds. This was magic he had not seen nor studied about. Who was this creature? "Ahem." AppleJack coughed. "Lady Ewe?" The humming stopped, and the glowing diminished as her head turned to gaze at the three ponies. Sombra's eyes lit up in astonishment, noting the curved horns sticking out from her hood and slanted warm eyes staring back at them. "O-ohh!" the figure quipped. "Ye startled me thaur, Applejack! Forgife me; Ah was havin' anither dwam, askin' th' spirits fur onie guidance fur these troobled lain. Ahh, but Ah see ye brooght uir unexpected guest... Stoat!" With a giggle, she turned fully around to address the three ponies before her. For a pony, she was not. Her muzzle was much shorter with a broad nose, matching the features of a sheep. Light blue hair curled in front of her forehead, with a braid held by a silver pendant before her chest, her cheeks painted in blue markings. Similar symbols were etched along the curves of her horns. Honey brown eyes shimmered in the light, wide and almost childlike. A green tunic was worn under her deep blue robes, draping over her round figure, almost hiding her wooly legs and goat feet. Sombra stood there, dumbfounded. How was such a cute and majestic looking creature the leader of the Equestrian rebels? "Fร ilte," she greeted, bowing her head while clutching her staff tightly in her hands. "Ah am Oona Ewe, Faun ay Dreams an' Shepherd ay Hope. Whit a strange pleasure it is tae meit somepony like yerself, Sombra." It took the unicorn a moment to break his trance from the ethereal beauty. He cleared his throat before responding, "Strange does not truly describe this, I admit. I would never have suspected a small goat of being a leading figure against a world of ravenous caribou." While the two mares gave a glare at him for such an insult, Oona only scoffed at the comment. "Ooh, really noo? That's rich comin' frae a stallion knoon only fur his cruelty an' prejudice aw his life. An' yit haur ye stan befur me, askin' tae be apart ay oor cause. Funay hoo things wark, hmm~?" The dark stallion lowered his head down, his tone much lower while keeping its aggressive edge. "My apologize, your ladyship. it was not my intention to insult you." "Bah! Hink naethin' o it," She giggled. "An' Lady Ewe will suffice. Thocht it is guid thon yoo're an honest fella. It's a strang trait tae carry in a leader; it helps give folks th' confidence ye want tae inspire shoods ye leid them towards prosperity." "W-Wait, so then you know tha--" Her smile spread wildly while nodding her head. "Aye, Sombra. Ahm awaur o who ye r an' whit yoo've accomplished. An' whit ye want tae accomplish noo. Normally, eh'd refuse th' help o someain wi' mirk ambitions an' darkness in his heart, but these r tryin' times. An' we're all haur fur a reason, arenae we?" "The caribou's destruction," Rainbow responded bitterly. The dream faun shook her head, losing her smile. "Nae destruction, Rainbow Dash. Equestria has faced sae much o 'at awreddy. But come th' cariboo's defeat; we'll make swift in th' land's recovery. Thes warld needs tae heal, nae commit mair acts ay violence." Oona sighed sadly. "Thocht Ah feel that's jist me as Ah sense others yearnin' fur th' cariboo's death. Haur, Sombra. Hae a seat. Ahm sure thaur ur mony questions ye wish tae ask me. Ah have plenty o mah own if ye dornt min'?" He nodded before taking a seat into the opposing chair while Applejack stood by the side of Lady Ewe, taking her seat. Rainbow took to Sombra's side. This all felt... weird. Outside, it was cold, almost barren land where danger was ready to strike at the moment. In here, It was comforting, a warmth he hadn't felt since his resurrectionโ€”a warmth emanating from the goat in sage robes. "This entire tent feels so serene and peaceful," Sombra began. "A sharp contrast to the real world outside. Why the pleasant atmosphere?" "It's nae tae delude frae th' terrible conditions in Equestria, Ah assure ye. Th' cariboo, motivations aside, is a serioos threat tae oor livelihuid. Ah feel it's important tae remin' ponies whit thes ance magical lain was befur cariboo dominance asserted itself," Ewe explained. "Admittingly, mah magic in th' wakin' warld is limited. But it's help tae sprin' forth hope in those wishin' fur a brighter future." "Waking world?" "As Ahve said, Sombra. Ahm a dream faun, a spirit, ye main sayโ€”A guide tae those wi' terrible nightmares an' lost wills. Ah am tae floorish their dreams an' heal their minds sae they can coopon their darkest days wi' th' brightest ay smiles," She illustrated with her fingers drawing a smile over her muzzle. "Ah am also a teacher tae those in need, whether it be self-discovery ur th' ways o arcane magic." Sombra arched an eyebrow. "Arcane magic?" The dream faun held her hands together and summoned forth a surge of energy, the painted markings on her face and horns glowing as her eyes shimmed in white light. The three ponies shield their eyes from how bright the faun's power was. "Magic as ancient as th' existent ay times itself. Pure an' powerful than onie magic ye ur other unicorns coods hiner tae achieve ben research an' practice. It shares mony names, but it is abune labels teachers try tae gie it. An' it is beyond spells ur incantations 'at woods require thooght ur a commain. Nae e'en th' wisest ay alicorns hae bin able tae comprehend th' unlimited potential a body can hae wi' it fully. Arcane magic is universal tae aw things an' creatures tae use." "Whoa... so you're saying anyone could use it?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Even me?" "Mhm!" She dimmed down her aura, her eyes returning to normal. "It comes in mony forms tae different users. But it exists in aw ay us. Pegasus, earth pony, unicorn, alicorn, fain, changelin', dragon, it disnae matter whit ye ur! Aw can access it in a body shape ur f'rm." Ewe focused her attention on a chalice full of clear water as a small bubble emerged for further demonstration. But then it grew bigger, more spherical before glowing gold. "Tak' a swatch, an' teel me whit ye see." As instructed, each pony peered into the magical bubble. Rainbow was in awe to find herself, soaring through the skies again with fully healed wings. Applejack sniffled upon seeing her old home, her family safe and together. Neither of them knew that this was what the faun was capable of. Sombra, perhaps, was the most enchanted. He saw himself looking down over the Crystal Empire. But it was not as gloomy and miserable as his previous reign. All of the crystal ponies cheered for him, praised him for being a wonderful king. He gasped before pulling away, uncertain of what he saw as the bubble popped. Never in his studies or his time ruling an empire did he think power existed like arcane magic! Even the oldest form of dark magic he had spent years perfecting did not compare to the almost alien energy Lady Ewe boasted. The faun smiled, offering the cup to him. "Deoch," She encouraged. "Ye main be thirsty frae hoo limited pure water is in cariboo territory." The dark unicorn stared into his cup, his reflection crystal clear in the waters. Slowly he brought the cup to his lips to take a sip. And... for something as simple as water, it was the most delicious thing he's tasted ever since coming back from the grave. He began to drink more of it, gulping down the glass until it was empty. Once more, his gaze fell under the dream faun's radiant smile. "I'll tak' 'at as a yes~." He cleared his throat, placing the cup down on the table. "Thank you," he responded. "So tell me, Lady Ewe. If you are a caretaker of dreams, what are you doing in Equestria? Leading a resistance against warmongers, no less? You're more at home with a pacifist than a war leader." Her smile faded at his question, hands resting into her wooly lap. "Aye, it's true. Ah hae nae business haur. Mah brither woods ken better whit tae dae abit th' cariboo than Ah dae. But alas, he isnae haur," she sighed deeply before looking among the party. "If ye aw hae th' patience fur mah tale, Ah will teel it tae ye." The stallion and two mares looked among each other before nodding their heads. Oona took a slow breath before holding up her silver heirloom, gazing at it fondly. "Whaur Ah come frae, th' spirit warld is much different frae Equestria," she began. "Yit we coincide wi' a body anither, enaw fur use tae physically manifest. When Ah was a yoong nighean, afair Ah acquired th' dream shepherd's duties, mah faither raised me alongside uir physical relati'es. Fur mony years, Ah grew wi' brethren, learned tae jink, an' sang uir ancestors' ancient tongues. We lived far frae Equestria, in a lain whaur nature was untooched, an' magic floorished ben everythin'. Mah faither stuid proodly as chief, teachin' aw fa sooght th' blacksmith's trade while mah brither an' Ah played amang th' kids. Those waur sic' orchid days," Oona sighed, recalling the exact faces they made before her frown returned. "'En a body day, ships frae th' far eest sailed tae uir lain. Large horned beasts approached frae th' shores. Th' cariboo hud arrived." "And then they took yer land and made all the does their slaves, right?" Applejack interrupted, struggling to believe all the mythic nonsense the goat shepherd was describing. Ewe would shake her head. "Believe it ur nae, thaur was a time th' cariboo werenae jist a boorichie ay warmongerin' rapists." "Say what now?!" Sombra and Rainbow stared at her in disbelief, questioning her how the caribou were anything BUT rapist. The faun continued. "A fierce race ay warriors, och aye, but they ance waur noble an' kin'. Their leader, Goudin th' Giant, was th' wisest ay sools. He explained tae mah faither 'at they cam tae uir lain in hopes ay findin' paradise, awa' frae their nations, whaur civil war raged onward fur years. They brooght us gifts of scran an' guids as a sign ay peace, bowin' afair mah faither in th' hopes they coods bide, tae which he accepted." Sombra stared down at a loss of words to what was described. It was tough to imagine that their enemy once had dignity. But by looking into the faun eyes as memories flooded her amber orbs, it was clear she was telling the truth. "Was it all a big lie to gain your trust?" Rainbow cut in, a look of fury in her expression. "There's no way these bastards just came in looking for peace. They had to be lying!" Ewe shot a scathing look at the pegasus. "There's mair tae someain than jist their appearance ur actions, Rainbow Dash. An' Ah can assure ye 'at despite whit they hae become noo, th' cariboo wisnae a misogynistic race ay barbarians." Her tone held a gentle yet firm tone to keep the pegasus quiet. "No... That all changed when Goudin's son usurper the throne." "His son?" Applejack raised an eyebrow. "Who was his son?" "Dainn." It was not Ewe who had revealed it, but Sombra. Much to the surprise of the dream faun. "Y-yes... Hoo did yoo--" "It wasn't hard to figure out," he shrugged, eying the goat with glowing eyes. "Given the information you've told us thus far, I suspected you held some ties to the caribou. Why else would you be aiding ponykind if not because of your mistake?" Both mares were about to smack the tyrant upside the head before Lady Ewe held her hand out, halting their actions. The other handheld her pendent defensively as she nodded her head. "Thaur is some truth tae it, och aye. Ah kent Dainn. A scrawny hin' he was. Barely onie muscle tae heem an' quite wee compared tae th' warriors Goudin armed himself wi'. He was... an unusual fella, hud a twitch in his yak an' lookin' at everythin' wi' paranoia. His faither tauld us 'at war hud nae bin kin' tae heem an' 'at hopefully, by livin' a life ay peace, it woods heal his min.'" Sombra stroked his chin in thought, recalling the depictions of that newspaper highlighting the winter parade. Even with built up his minions spoke of him, they couldn't deny how short his stature was, so it seemed. "Wait... You said he usurped the throne from his father. How did he do it?" Ewe held her pendent more tightly as she recalled her homeland, the caribou, and the one responsible for this disaster. "Goudin learned 'at mah faither was a legendary weapon forger an' arcane master. He, alang wit other cariboo, grew interested in uir magic an' requested 'at he teach them. Mah faither agreed but warned 'at teachin' them 'at power woods nae be easy. One main discowre th' truth tae their bein' afair tappin' intae th' foo prowess ay their connection tae th' arcane. Th' cariboo waur interested in uir magic an' wanted tae learn frae themselves. Ye see, th' only way fur ye tae tap intae arcane magic is by discoverin' th' cair ay yer power. Ben it, ye discowre yer 'Onoma." "Onoma?" She nodded. "Onoma is th' nam ay yer arcane magic, based oan th' user's personality an' emotional state. It comes frae th' ancient deities ay auld. Mah Onoma, fur example, is called 'Morpheus.' It's whit allows me th' ability tae donner ben dreams an' pull tint sools intae safety," Oona explained shortly before returning to her tale. "Amang th' mony students mah faither took under his win', Dainn was a body ay them. An' fur whit he lacked as a fighter, he gart up fur in terms ay brilliance. It ay th' cariboo, he was th' a body fa coods easily tap intae th' arcane. He didne discowre his Onoma, but he was certainly th' talented laddie. But his newfoond prowess in th' field ay magic was th' catalyst tae his mirk ascension. See... He grew a fondness fur me durin' mah later years spent oan th' isle." She coughed, clearly uncomfortable discussing this part of her story, much to the concern and suspicious glance given by Sombra, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. "He thooght Ah was th' most bonnie fain in th' strath an' gart it clear he desired me as his queen ance his faither passed ower. Dainn believed he coods captivate me wi' his talent fur magic, but whit Ah saw in his yak wasnae onie affection. Merely loost, as if Ah waur a trophy tae be won. Sae when Ah refused, an' efter mah faither scolded heem fur sic' behaviur... Weel, it shattered his fragile masculinity, tae say th' less. 'But aam th' most gifted ay mah race!' he tried tae argue. 'My magic will exceed th' loch ay mah faither! Ah am th' superiur choice in a mucker! Hoo daur ye reject me!!' an' th' mair Ah refused heem, th' angrier he grew, swearin' it slurs an' promisin' me eh'd rule th' day fur defyin' heem." The sound of laughter interrupted her story as all eyes led to Sombra, who could barely keep in the loud amount of wheezing escaping his voice. "W-wait! Nonono, Hold on," he gasped, trying to breathe. "You mean to tell me that this whole mess started because one insecure fuckwit couldn't handle being denied your cunt?! That is amazing! That is both the greatest and most pathetic reason to conquer a nation. Like, who would have thought?!" "Sombra!" Applejack yelled, glaring at him hard. "For fuck's sake, show some level of respect?!" "Oh, come now, you can't deny how absurdly amusing this is!" he sighed as his laughter finally died down while a huge grin remained plastered on his face. Lady Ewe gave a soft glare to the dark unicorn. "As funay as 'at main seem, Ah can assure ye, Sombra. Whit happened next was nae laughin' matter. Coz loch ye ur noo, Ah didne tak' dainn's threats tay serioosly either... Until he discovered his onoma. As th' nam suggests, 'Zeus' was a powerful Onoma tae be bestowed wi', as it allowed th' user tae overpower onie magic ur power in th' f'rm ay lightnin'. It's hoo he used it tae subjugate his fella cariboo intae stagin' a coup d'etat against his faither. When Goudin died, Dainn claimed his birthrecht as kin' ay th' cariboo. Drunken aff th' power, he declared war against us, intendin' tae claeem every lest female tae serve cariboo as they deserved. Nae aw waur alongside Dainn, as mony waur enraged ower their king's death an' fooght alongside us as war broke it. Mah brither an' faither fooght valiantly tae defend th' lain, but nae level ay magic coods withstain th' raw power dainn unleashed frae his fingertips." Oona clutched her pendant even tighter, starting to tremble a bit in her chair. "We waur losin'. Ance Dainn hud gart his fellaw cariboo submit tae his will, we waur next," she seethed. "Aw ay th' cariboo, willin' ur nae, woods tak' each ay us; strip awa' uir clase an' defile uir bodies. Aw fauns, mah friends, mah fowk... Aw raped by a once noble an' prood race. Twisted by a paranoid coward, fa we gae power tae intact oan his self-entitlement. He woods hae claimed mah body an' maidenhuid if faither an' Ah didne retreat..." AppleJack placed a hand over her shoulder in an attempt to comfort the poor faun as Oona did her best to remain composed while going through the horrible memory. Sombra empathized with her. He felt it. The horror, the fear. The power of over following strength Dainn commanded. All too familiar emotions he felt when he chained the Crystal Empire's ponies and forced them to kneel under his hoof. "Ah escaped th' ance bonnie an' peaceful lain ay comraich, noo th' workin' groonds fur trainin' camps an' breedin' stables. Uir stoatin temple... Built tae brin' cheers an' worship tae th' ancients ones afair us... Noo th' thrain room fur Dainn an' his concubines. Day. Nicht. It did nae matter. Aw fauns waur forced tae partake in his desires until bloated wi' bairns, bred tae brin' warriors an' future wi'es dependin' oan gender. Dainn ushered in his age ay male dominance, an' onie tae oppose heem woods suffer endless agony." "But why," Sombra cut in. "How could your father abandon them?! Even for your own safety, he left them to their fates!" "Thaur wasnae much choice," the dream faun insisted, rubbing the tears away from her cheeks. "It pained him tae leave behin' aw th' friends an' famlae he gart tae th' cariboo's debauchery. Mah brither, Dion, fooght wi' heem coontlessly, hoo cowardly it was tae lae th' fight. It ended up splittin' us aw apart. Mah faither woods seclude himself somewhaur while mah brither ventured tae fin' his ain callin'. Ah was left tae fend fur myself, carry it th' wishes an' help as mony sools an' ponies Ah coods come athwart if only tae penance myself fur whit becam ay th' cariboo an' uir haem." The shepherd gave a weary sigh before taking another drink from her own cup of water. "Efter a while, Ah discovered 'at th' cariboo woods be comin' tae Equestria, plannin' tae conquer mair lain an' expain their rule. Nae wantin' them tae suffer th' sam fate, Ah physically appeared in Ponyville, pleadin' fur them tae prepaur fur invasion. Yit, aw waur wrapped up in their safety tae 'consider th' existence ay sic' horrid beasts.' Nae a single pony listened tae me as th' cariboo's impendin' arrival drew closer an' closer. An' nae a body coods prevent th' inevitable, nae e'en th' champions they praised." She eyed Rainbow Dash and AJ, both of them lowering their heads in guilt while the dream faun patted the earth pony's hand. "Ah needed tae tak' action. Ah needed tae prepaur myself fur 'at fateful day. An' when Equestria feel... Ah wood be ready." Oona stood up, causing the dark stallion to raise along, their eyes locked with each other. "Ah, sooght tae redeem myself by callin' forth th' powers blissed by me tae protect those fa hae fa'en victeem tae Dainn's madness. Help them escape captivity tae hide haur," Ewe explained, her voice sounding stronger than it was a few minutes ago. "Ah, amang other beings ay Equestria, formed a resistance 'at woods wark tae defeatin' th' cariboo an' retakin' thes lain. Ah tint mah haem. Ah tint mah fowk. Ah wulnae see th' sam happen fur th' ponies an' mares haur." Lady Ewe walked around her table as she stood closer to Sombra, honey eyes never leaving his crimson orbs. "Despite yer crimes, heinoosness, an' similarities tae dainn, ye ur a pony ay admirable ambition, Sombra. Ah see deep doon ye wish fur th' sam things we dae... e'en if it is fur personal gain. But fur now, ye are welcome tae stay here an' assist how ye main like," She decided, bowing her head to him. The dark unicorn nodded in return. "I thank you for your hospitality, Lady Ewe. It is much appreciated. But I can't help but grow more curious about this... Arcane magic." AppleJack cast a worried glance at Rainbow, who shared her uneased about Sombra's statement. An all-knowing smirk spread his lips as he continued. "You said any being could access this magic, correct? And even more, once they've discovered their 'Onoma' of sorts..?" Ewe nodded with a raised brow. "Ah tak' it ye wish tae learn this magic fur yerself. Ah'd figure ye might..." Her eyes scanned his own, staring deeply into his soul, much to his unease. "Mmm, yes. Ye hav such high potential tae unlock sae much magic within ye, Sombra. Magic far darker an' mysterioos than any o th' shadows ye cast." "Is that so," he mused, a rush of excitement and intrigue coursing through his veins. "Then you must show me! Tell me how I can unlock this magic!" She shook her head. "It's nae 'at simple, Sombra. Arcane magic isnae loch a speel ye spend years practicin' tae perfect. It main comes naturally. Furthermair, ye act under th' impression Ah woods teach ye th' ways in discoverin' yer Onoma. Tae which I'll respond; will Ah be makin' th' same mistake twice in allowin' anither tyrant access tae archaic magic?" His horn sparked in its dark red aura, his eyes fixed in a deep glare. "The sooner you throw away these similarities between Dainn and me, the easier that decision will be. I won't deny how monstrous I am, but I will not stand to have Equestria under the rule of some paranoid Incel!" He placed a hand on her shoulder, nearly causing Applejack to come in between the two, though the resistance leader stopped her from taking any action with the raise of her palm. "You're not a fool. You know very well that this will give our side a much better chance of winning. I will ask you again, Lady Ewe. Tell me your secrets and how me the power of Arcane magic! Please... If not for my sake, for theirs..." he muttered the last word while bowing his head. If he were in his previous mindset, begging would be the last thing he'd do. But times were desperate, and he needed a way to best Dainn in combat when the time came. Before Ewe could retort his bold claim, the two mares from outside the tent came in. All eyes turned to them. "Lady Ewe!" one saluted. "Apologies for interrupting, but our recon group is returning to base." "Oh, taing dha na spioradan!" She sighed in relief, pulling herself out of Sombra's grasp. "Ah will come tae greit them shortly. Hae they foond onie mair mares ur stragglers?" "Yes, but that's not all, M'lady," the other mare said. "Oh?" "General Spike is with them as well." > โ„‚๐•™๐•’๐•ก๐•ฅ๐•–๐•ฃ ๐•: ๐’ถ ๐ฟ๐’พ๐‘œ๐“ƒ ๐’œ๐“‚๐‘œ๐“ƒ๐‘” ๐’ฎ๐’ฝ๐‘’๐‘’๐“… > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "H-Hey! It's General Spike!" "Lord Spike? He has returned?!" "Yeah! He and his soldiers are entering the camp!" So went on the commotion amongst the rebels as Sombra quietly walked alongside the two mares and the enigmatic leader. At least tension was no longer on him for the time being, providing some comfortable room to think. Normally, the former tyrant would thrive off the fearful expressions of everypony below him. But now wasn't the time to admire their terror. The Ponyville winter parade was a couple more days away, and he'd yet to hear a single plan of action from the dream faun. What would they do? Where would he be placed? And what of the arcane magic she was talking about? How was he to obtain it? As always, his questions were put on hold as the cheering and commotion resonated strongly at the camp entrance, as a group of fellow resistance members. While most of them were different races of ponies, they were led by two large reptilian figures. One much smaller, slimmer inbuilt with hints of curves while wearing a loincloth, chest armor, arm bracelets, and a helmet. Her scales were tangerine in color, with her tail spaded in orchid. The other was a massive juggernaut, wearing proper pants, a silver pauldron that carried a heavily damaged red cap over his body, and a connecting bracelet. His bright violet scales and lime green underbelly showed scares against his magnificent physique. In fact, this dragon looked oddly familiar to Sombra. Where was it he saw him before..? "SPIKE!" The dark unicorn rose his head as a dash of different colors ran by. Rainbow rushed to greet the dragon, with Pinkie Pie hopping along. Applejack remained by Lady Ewe's side. "Rainbow Dash! Good to have you back!" the dragon exclaimed happily, removing his helmet to greet his friend with a smiling mug. Upon revealing his face, Sombra instantly recognized this dragon to be the same dragon that helped secure the Crystal Heart. Back then, he was only a baby. Now he had matured for the better as an adult, much to Sombra's internal dismay. "You..!" he growled lowly. "Duh! Of course, I'd be back," Rainbow boasted, rolling her eyes with her hands on her hips. "What, you think I was gonna let those fucktards break me? Not a chance~!" The large dragon bellowed with laughter. "Haha! If that were the case, then the mare before me wouldn't be Rainbow Dash. She would have been another unfortunate victim... But I'm glad to see you're safe." Rainbow's guise dropped as she smiled happily before giving the big lug a hug, to which Spike returned. This moment of embrace was interrupted when Pinkie fly right into his arms to cuddle and nuzzle into his chest. "Oof! Gahaha! Happy to see you too, Pinkie," he chuckled, earning a kiss on the snout by the bubbly pink mare. Placing her back down, he looked through the crowd before spotting Applejack, offering a friendly wave. She smiled in return, tipping her hat to him while she and Ewe moved forward to greet him. "Tilleadh sร bhailte, friend," the shepherd bowed her head while smiling kindly. "Glad tae see yee make it haur unharmed an' withit casualties. Hoo is Laird Ember fairin' durin' thes feel winter?" "Her highness is eager to prepare her troops to set off and slay the filthy caribou," hissed the female dragon accompanying Spike. "She grows impatient with the excessive scouting missions, goat!" "Aye, we aw ur, Lieutenant Smolder," Ewe rebutted. "Rest assured; we'll be weel prepared afair th' parade begins." "Sounds like you've figured out a plan," Spike said, kneeling onto one knee, so he was more head level with her. "Och aye. A body 'at Ah believe will speel th' end tae th' cariboo regime," she nodded before a look of uneasiness followed. "But afair we discuss anythin', there's someain at hain we shoods address..." and with that, she pointed out Sombra, who had been doing his best to hide both his presence and his bubbling fury over the dragon. A low gasp of murmurs came from the pony troops behind the dragons as Spike narrowed his gaze to the dark unicorn. "... Ah, right," he grunted with flared nostrils. "I was told beforehand that an old foe had miraculously returned from death. As if we didn't have enough problems with the caribou." Sombra returned a sharp glare before approaching slowly. Spike clutched his claws, a bright yellow aura briefly glowing before a hand stopped him. "Now hold yer horses, partner," Applejack reassured. "Aah know this looks bad... really bad!" "I'll say! We've got caribou stomping around Equestria, taking every last mare and pony insight to render them as mindless fleshlights! And now you mean to tell me this vile piece of shit has somehow magically returned?! How is this possible!? Why isn't he imprisoned!? Or better yet, dead!?" "Look, Spike, it's complicated," Rainbow chimed in. "We're not sure how he's come back to life. Not even him! And we understand where you're coming from; he's far from the nicest pony. but we're in dire need of as many allies as we can get!" "Are you fucking kidding me?!" Smolder snarled. "He enslaved an entire country!" "Y'all need to calm down--" "HE NEARLY DID IT AGAIN THE SECOND TIME!" Spike uproared. "Now you're telling me you're going to allow him a third chance to try again?!" "Spike, please!" "NO! I refuse to let this stand by! Step aside, I'm cutting this bastard down where he stands!" "SPIKE!!" "Oh, by all means, try," Sombra chimed in, standing his ground before the furious dragon. "I have a bone to pick with you, dragon. I've been eager to remedy the humiliation you caused me all those years ago.." "The only bones you'll be pickin' are the ones I've broken off your limbs," Spike snorted, slit eyes burning with hatred. "Bring it, you misogynistic bitch!" "Save the speech for the caribou! I've grown sick of the comparisons as I will prove to be a far greater ruler than anyone occurring that throne!" "Over my dead body, you--" "KNOCK IT OFF!" Rainbow shouted, doing her best to halt the brewing fight between the dragon and stallion. Her gaze fixated on Sombra. "Why do you antagonize everyone!? Can you try not to be a dick for ONE damn day?!" "It is because they are the ones who antagonize me!" Sombra retorted. "I see no reason to change my demeanor when everypony is hard stuck on treating me like a monster. If that's how the world wants me, then so be it!" "But what's th' point in joinin' us if yee refuse tae commit tae changin' yer ootlook oan folks?" Oona asked curiously. "Hoo can ye expect unity if we aw cannae wark together?" "Oh! So change wasreally up to me? Really?" He fixed his glare to the surrounding crowd, taking in the mixed emotions of concern, fear, and offense. "So if I were to say 'I've changed my ways for good, guys! I believe in the power of friendship! You can count on me!'..." he proposed with a mockingly high pitch tone. "... You would all believe me? You'd give me the chance to see how I would progress to your standards? In this day and age?" The low murmuring and uneasy aversion of eyes proved his point as he returned to glare at the dream faun and Rainbow Dash. "I'm not the one who needs a change in perspective. You are! Your ponies and your view of what's good and bad are why monsters like the caribou and me exist. When there is no light to offer us sanctuary, darkness is all that's left for us. And the only reason I'm even aiding you is because of the simple truth." "An' whit truth is 'at, Sombra?" Ewe asked once more, furrowing her swirled brows. "That I am the only one with the power and ambition to restore Equestria to its former glory. To fight the oppressors you cowards can't stand up to!" "Bullshit!" His deathly glare turned to Applejack, stepping in with a look of disdain. "Cut da bullshit, Sombra! Yer not as morally grey as ya believe. Ya come here, claimin' ya got no problem acceptin' yerself as a monster, but Aah think yer too much of a coward ta try and turn yerself around. Why else would ya proclaim yer villainy if part of ya didn't want to be seen as apart of somethin' good?" Sombra seethed at the earth pony, his inner turmoil spiraling to the surface. "You know nothing about me, nor the hardships and discrimination I've faced in pursuit of power!" "I know a lot more than you want to admit," Rainbow Dash added in softly. "You wouldn't be trying so hard to separate yourself from the caribou's mindset if you didn't want to change. C'mon, Sombra... I know this isn't the road you want to go down--" "SILENCE!" Sombra growled, his horn lighting up. "That's enough out of you! If it weren't for me, you would've been sold off to some fat grotesque bastard, pumping out babies for the rest of your days. Do not forget that, you arrogant little--" "HOW DARE YOU!" Spike roared, his body overflowing with golden energy before he flung himself at Sombra, dragging him through the dirt and snow. Sombra clutched at the claw, struggling him while Spike went wild in producing his face with his bare fist. "Spike! Stain doon thes insistent," Oona ordered, stamping her staff into the ground. "Uir fight is wi' th' cariboo, nae each other!" "And that makes this shadowy scumbag such a reliable ally in comparison, right?!" He shouted back at her. "It disgusts me how you allowed this bastard to talk for so long!" "He's a pony!" Rainbow Dash insisted. "Just like us! He's willing to help us! This won't erase all he's done, but he can make a start making up for it by lending us his power! We need him!" "N-No... NO! There's gotta be a better way!" His voice strained, angry tears oozing down his scaly cheeks, trying his best not to show his sorrow to this fiend. "I refuse to let another villain get away with murder... with more rape and heinousness. I refuse to lose more people in my life!" "Spike, I know how you feel... Really, I do! but--" Weak chuckling came out of Sombra's crushing throat as the former tyrant made eye contact with Spike, his hands gripping onto the dragon's claw. "Be careful with your line of thinking, dragon," he wheezed. "I can feel your rage... your unbridle wrath! So pent up with frustration, driven mad by the caribou's corruption. You don't want to hurt me just because of who I am... I'm a scapegoat to unleash your righteous fury onto, aren't I?" "Shut up!" Spike sneered, pupils razor-thin slits as his breath heavied under thin. A sly curl of the stallion's lips only fueled his burning anger. "It's okay to pummel me into a bloody mess because I'm evil. That's what makes it okay in your mind... But what's to stop you from going beyond that, though, dragon? For if you can accept murdering a pony, whether they deserve to die or not... What will that make you?" "Grrrnngh! I said SHUT UUUUUUUUUUUP!!" Just as the dragon's fist broke free and ready to cave in the stallion's skull, Sombra's horn flared up to blast magic into the dragon's face, pushing Spike off of him to gain some distance. Sombra struggles to get back onto his hooves, rubbing away the blood oozing out his muzzle while Spike shook off the dizziness of taking that blast to the face. The yellow aura around him persisted as the dragon glared him down with golden eyes, wings unfurling as he took a stance, preparing to lunge at the dark unicorn. "Spike, please stop!" Rainbow begged. "Stay out of this, Dash!" Spike demanded as Sombra took a stance as well, powering his own body with shadowy magic around him, lifting him off the ground. "Show me your rage, dragon," he challenged. "Show me what it feels like to be helpless! To lose everything precious to you. To feel it slip through your grasp... So that I may throw it back at you for denying me my right as king!" "You are no king, Sombra," He spat. "Not then, not now, and not while I LIVE!" The dragon lunged once more. Sombra would form a barrier of dark crystals to intercept the charging golden bullet... Only for Spike to punch right through his defenses. Spike took in the look of disbelief and astonishment before Sombra's face met his fist, burying the former king into the ground once more. Spike towered over him, tightening his bloodied knuckles as he prepared the finishing blow. "Sguir!" A voice called forth as the faun leaped in front of the dragon's warpath. With a wave of her dreamcatcher staff, Lady Ewe summoned out bubbles to pop in front of his bruised face, strange mystical dust clouding his face. Spike almost instantly lost all sense and fatigue over his body before succumbing to the goat's arcane magic. His golden aura depleted as his large body stumbled to the side, entering a slumbering state. The goat shepherd commanded everypony's attention with her staff's stomp in the ground, eying the two combatants with disappointment. "Thes place is meant tae be a sanctuary an' fortress tae uir allies an' friends. Nae a battlegroond," She proclaimed bitterly while looking over the sleeping dragon. "Dornt ye see? Thes is th' reckless behaviur th' cariboo thrive in! It cost us uir beloved general. It nearly cost us Rainbow Dash!" At her name, the blue pegasus looks away in shame while Smolder kneeled by Spike, pushing him to wake up. "Ah kin yer state ay min'. But loch it ur nae, Sombra is a valuable ally in uir fauld, an' it woods be a grae errur ay judgment nae tae consider his potential amang uir ranks." Ewe cast her glare towards the stallion himself. "Ye shoods be huir uv a thankful we've allowed ye a safe passage haur. But dinnae hink Ah willnae stain fur yer a bampot behaviur. An attitude adjustment is in order if ye want tae remain haur. Sae micht Ah suggest ye start changin' hoo ye approach folks, yeah?" Sombra stood up, rubbing his bruised cheek while solemnly nodding his head in regret. "Understood..." "Guid," she huffed, turning her attention to Spike. Gently, formed another bubble, this one shimmering in gold before blowing it towards the dragon. As it popped, he quickly snapped his form up awake, panting hotly. "What! I! Where is... Grrugh," he yawned, stretching his limbs before wearily meeting the unamused gaze of the goat. Shame washed over him as he let Smolder help him to his feet. "I... I lost control of myself..." he stated, rubbing the back of his neck. "Jist a wee bit," Ewe sarcastically retorted, placing her hands over her round hips. "A general doesnae lit his anger dictate his actions in battle, lest he wants tae lose th' war early." "I-I know, I'm sorry... I'll try better to keep a calm head." "Ye can start by settlin' a truce between the two of ya. Or, if ye must settle ye differences, take it off campgrounds," the dream faun ordered. Sombra and Spike nodded, gazing wearily at each other as the dragon walked back to consult with his troops. "Lady Ewe," he started asking, the faun turning her head back to him with a softer expression. "That power... That fury the dragon wielded... This was archaic magic, yes?" Rainbow Dash and Applejack turned to one another before glancing back at Spike, who said nothing while rubbing over the soreness in his neck. "Ye woods be correct," Oona confirmed. "'At was th' Onoma, Heracles. Triggered by th' intense urge tae barnie an' protect diz hen tae heem, Spike can manifest his anger intae enhanced loch an' speed. Th' mair anger th' dragon, th' hotter ay flames he breaths." "Spike... When did you..?" Rainbow began to ask before Spike addressed his friends, sporting an awkward grin. "It started shortly after I joined the resistance under Lord Ember. All I could think about was how... angry I was for failing to save Twilight or the others. So, she sent me to climb a mountain to meet with the fire spirit, Amanda. There, she taught me about channeling that anger into power and.. well, I discovered what arcane magic was. Since then, I've been training to make the most of it." Spike lowered his head, fists clutched. "But It's been hard to control properly. This whole situation and, now, Sombra returning... Everything about this just infuriates me! I-I wish I could just..." A clawed hand held him as Spike turns to his lieutenant, pulling off her helmet to look at him clearly with a comforting smile. "Relax, big guy. Nothing's perfect. You'll get the hang of it when you can! Just be glad no one else got hurt because of it..." "But there isn't much time!" Spike insisted somberly. "The parade is our only real shot at rescuing the princesses! What if something goes wrong, I get angry and then--" "You take it out on the ones responsible," Smolder concluded. "Just don't let them get to you. You're better than them, Spike. You're the softest, kindhearted dragon I know." Spike would huff out a large sigh before returning his smile, nodding to his friend. "Thanks, Smolder. You know I'm lucky to have you by my side, right?" She snorted, turning away to try and hide the blush forming over her cheeks. "Please! You're just lucky Ember made you her general and not me. I would have whooped into shape a lot faster!" "Enough of this!" The moment was cut short as Sombra approached the faun, his gaze fixed with impatience. "The dragon speaks true, Ewe. There is little time left before the parade arrives, and King Dainn makes his public appearance. The dragon was given knowledge about the secrets of arcane magic. I ask the same for me!" "Affa bauld ay yee tae demain sic' a hin' frae me," She huffed coldly, her frown deepening. "Do not play this game with me, faun! Don't think I haven't noticed the severe lack of impact my magic has! If I were a betting horse, I'd assume that the Crystal..." And he hesitated as he felt disgusted for calling it as it was. "... Cock... doesn't just influence everypony into a frenzy of over-sexualized emotions... It also nullifies the magic from all other sources." "A valid theory, Ah dae admit. it's possible." "And yet arcane magic flows unaffected by the caribou's corruption, hence my desperation to unlock new powers if I am to fight and defeat this brutes! Please..." he growled, really hating having to resort to begging. But there was no real-time left. And he needed power. So he sucked up his ego and bent a knee before her; his head hung low if only to hide the embarrassment on his face. "Please.... Teach me arcane magic, Lady Ewe." Murmurs began to rise as everyone eyed him cautiously. Among the whispers was Rainbow Dash, sporting a soft smile upon seeing him submit his bravado. Lady Ewe held her chin in thought, considering the dark unicorn's proclamation before a gentle smile spread her lips once more. "Hae ye heard whit becam ay mah general abit?" She asked him, to which the dark stallion shook his head with furrowed eyebrows. "No, I have not," He admitted. "We tint heem abit a week ago. He went it scootin' fur recruits afair th' cariboo's caught heem. He pit up a valiant effort, but he was ootnumbered. An' th' cariboo's overwhelmin' loch persisted until he mit a tragic end." As Ewe explained, Sombra noticed that Applejack struggled to hold in her voice, her entire body wriggling with fury through tightly clutched fists. "I've yit tae entroost somepony new wi' th' renk afair we heed back tae Ponyville tae secure th' parade. An' luckily fur me, ye drapped in," her smile became much coyer as Sombra put together what she was referring to. "I'll gladly provide ye th' knowledge tae grant ye th' gift ay arcane magic... Oan th' condition 'at ye serve as general tae th' resistance camp, fur th' time bein'." A loud commotion broke out among the rebels, voicing complaints about this ultimatum and whether this was a good idea. "Sombra? General?! Unbelievable!" "Is that really wise? What if he becomes more powerful!? What's going to stop him from enslaving us all!?" "Pft, Look at him now. He's on his knees, begging. Surely he's not as strong as before, is he?" "Y-Yeah! If the elements beat him before, we can do it again... R-Right? !" Rainbow, Applejack, Pinkie, and Spike shared a look of conflict over this proposal. The dragon general found his voice to address the situation. "Lady Ewe... With all due respect, are you sure that's a good idea? To let someone like him have that kind of power?" "'At decision isnae mine aloyn tae make," Ewe replied, her eyes locked with the equally conflicted expression of Sombra. "Will ye accept th' responsibility?" Never before had Sombra felt so much pressure. Never in his years of tyranny and cruelty had he felt this much weight on his shoulders. Not even in the face of death when he fought Celestia and Luna. And yet now, here he was, on his knees, being given a rare and powerful gift with everyone focused on what he would do. This feeling was terrible. To accept would mean to change his motives around. No one would take him seriously for his past command. He was now aware of every individual presence of their lives, all of them ruined by the invading caribou's that now took their land. Their home. 'It's my home too'. He remembered himself saying. Slowly, the ancient unicorn rose and looked over to everyone around him, from the camp residents' curious and fearful expressions to the conflicted looks of concern and angry from the former element holders and their dragon companions. To finally, the waiting gaze of the strange faun who promised the return of their home. He took a deep breath before giving his answer. "I accept." For once, there was silence since his arrival at the resistance. His journey was often loud, whether screaming or yelling from fighting off enemy caribou or the sarcastic quips he and Rainbow Dash would share. Sombra would admit; it was nice to listen to nothing ever since the commotion between him and the drake, Spike. Ewe was bringing them away to a sacred path, giving the ponies there some time to absorb the bombshell that was Sombra's acceptance to becoming her general. What happened to the old one, no one would say. But judging by Dash's hesitation and the blunt refusal and death glare given by AppleJack, whatever happened to him was not good. Nonetheless, everyone was not prepared. Sombra especially was not prepared. Sure, he knew he would rise within the ranks as he outright commanded the authority to lead an army. But to be given the title of general? Surely, these times were so desperate, were they? His eyes remained to the ground as he followed the prints left behind the enigmatic faun. She, too, had been quiet, though just simply enjoying the weather around her than being dragged down by thoughts much like Sombra. "It shooldnae be much further," came her voice, breaking the cold silence between them. And indeed, it wasn't. After a small hill to overcome, the two of them found themselves running water. Threes were spread far enough to allow what little light to reflect in the river. Sombra gazed over the wintery scenery, entranced by how mystical the frost-covered plants and trees all shimmered. It wasn't often to find something so elegant looking and glorious during the bitter season of war. "Thes is whaur we shaa awaken th' arcane magic within ye," Ewe explained, standing beside him with a soft smile. "It's th' lest remainin' place untooched by th' cariboo's corruption. It's a miracle thes much life was preserved" "Indeed... remarkable," Sombra agreed. "A fitting place for me to train in ways I am not familiar with." "Train?" The faun questioned while tilting her head. "Ye main nae kin 'en. Ah wulnae be trainin' ye. Ah am teachin' ye." "Teaching me?" "Yes," She giggled. "Thaur is somethin' yoo're nae graspin'. Arcane magic cannae be taught th' sam way a speel can. Ye cannae learn wi' th' reit words ur emotions tae harness its power. Tae first use it, ye main discowre it... within yerself." "Myself?!" Oona nodded. "Ben understandin' an' acceptin' th' nature ay yer bein', th' archaic energy within ye will come. An' wi' it, th' discovery ay yer Onoma. Consider, fur example, th' arcane magic Spike wields. Dae ye recaa whit Ah said abit Heracles?" Sombra felt the urge to protest against her, demanding she gets to the point. But, then again, this was a lesson, and he couldn't afford to act so childishly. If he were going to succeed in being her general, he would have to start somewhere. He let out a sigh and thought back to his brawl with the dragon and the golden aura boosting his hulking form. "... That it triggers if a lover or friend is threatened. And through his anger, his strength increases. So, if I were to understand the meaning of his core, he values those around him... and would give his life for them." He answered softly, a feeling of unease over discussing the values of 'friendship.' "Och aye, huir uv a braw!" Ewe beamed enthusiastically. "An' whit abit Zeus, th' Onoma ay Kin' Dainn?" "Magic to overwhelm and dominate through the sheer display of raw power... much like how he enforces his will onto others. He desires to control all beneath him so that they can understand his might," Sombra continued, looking to his own reflection in the water. "So it's like a mirror. My arcane magic will reveal upon looking through the core of who I am." The dream faun nodded. "But that's th' question, isnae it? Fa is Sombra? Dae ye ken?" "W-what? Of course, I know! I'm me... aren't I?" "Ahh! But there's th' hesitationโ€”the doobt within ye. Ye main hink ye ken fa yer ur. But yer nae fully certain if that's fa ye want tae be." He growled. "Quit confusing me with your zen riddles, goat! I don't have time for this!" "'En make time," she laughed. "Otherwise, ye wulnae learn a proper hin'. Impulsiveness an' arrogance blin' ye, Sombra. Unless ye can lit gang an' swatch ben th' darkness cloodin' yer heart, ye cannae unlock th' power ye wish." His horn glowed to strike magic as his teeth bared; a sharp glare stared straight at the goat woman's serene expression. And through her smile and relaxed gaze, Sombra found himself become less tense and frustrated with her. She was... so calm. A certain level of mindlessness, yet aware enough that should he strike, she would be ready to counter. And so, as he slowly took a deep breath and hung his head; magic disappearing from the glow of his horn, he began to close his eyes and think more about her question. 'Who am I?' 'Who is Sombra?' Ewe would slowly take a few steps back, giving the dark unicorn a bit of space. "Guid... Listen tae mah voice as ye ponder yer min', Sombra. Whit dae ye feel aroond ye?" "Cold..." he scoffed. "Whit else..?" "... The wind... Blowing around me... The snow beneath my hooves... The light rays of the sun against my back... but otherwise, cold." "Noo... Whit dae ye feel inside?" Whatever trance she was putting on him, it was working. Because Sombra's world right now was oblivion. Outside, he could still feel the cold winds of winter push past him, carrying flakes of snow through his main and clothes. Inside, he was left alone to his feelings, his thoughts. His insecurities. Still, the question kept calling to him, demanding him. 'Who is Sombra?' He was a tyrant. A black-hearted stallion who practiced in the dark arts and enslaved an entire empire under his iron hoof. He did horrible things to so many mares and stallions. He struck them, murdered them, raped them. He was just as bad, if not worse, than the caribou. 'Is that true?' Of course, it was! He wouldn't deny he didn't do any of it. He did! And he took pride in his acts. He worked his way from being a poor foal, with everyone rejecting and casting him into the shadows. The very shadows he would use to take his revenge. He was justified! He was proud of what he has done. 'Are you happy?' His facial expression softened at this question that appeared in his mind. Happiness wasn't an option. The only times he could remember being happy was in his foal hood; playing with a long lost friend and going on adventures together... until she betrayed him. Until she fled from the mere sight of him during that night... Visions began to flash before his mind now. The mortified look on her face, the sadness in her crystalline eyes. His shadow loomed one her like a dark omen. And just like that, she fled the scene, his hand reaching out to stop her... the very same hand now clutched into a fist through harsh breath. "Thaur it is," Ewe whispered. "Th' unhappiness in yer sool. Th' pleadin' greit o release frae th' destiny yer boond yerself tay. Go tae it, Sombra. Confront th' feelings ye've bin rejectin' fur sae lang noo." Sombra couldn't believe he was doing this. Years upon years of scheming and anger, ready to lash out at the world and give in to the hatred and fear he brought out in people. And yet here he was, meditating under the counsel of some weird goat person with who he shared no relation. A spark flashed before his mind. A spark of red that made him gasp. "That's it!" she quietly urged. "Cรนm a 'dol!" Along with the flashes of red, the images and memories got worse. The many faces of worry and screaming from the people he ridiculed. The vicious glares and judgmental sneers from Celestia and Luna as they fought from his castle. The burning light of the crystal heart being charged up before rejecting his presence. The bell. The sound that plagued his mind ever since his awakening; now visualized before as it rang over and over. The flashes of red now began to swirl around him; a tornado of faces and magic everywhere. His body trembled; his hands clutched tightly together as his breathing became heavy. Never had he felt so much immense pressure inside him. How long had he been storing this much raw emotion and power? Focusing in now, he felt one last question, possibly the most important one of all. 'Are you evil?' Sombra had been called many things; evil is the most common. His deeds back then were defiantly selfish, destructive, and despicable. But was it also not for the good of the kingdom? He remembered back how the former ruler had tricked him about his origin, how he was merely a pawn to an expedient in 'rehabilitating his kind.' Sombra was an outsider from the very beginning. And that outsider would later become the very monster they claimed him to be. And any that opposed him would suffer his wrath. Yes. He was evil. He was evil in the means that he had to be evil. Good ponies offered him no place, no home. And now those very ponies had lost there's. How ironic that he was now the one pony with the capability to bring them back to light. The one who surely imprisons them again should they try to oppose him. They feared him, as they should. But they also needed him. Sombra's body began to emanate the swirling black and red vortex of power inside him, causing a gust to lift him off the ground slowly. Ewe stared with wide eyes as the dark stallion ascended. His eyes finally opened; the once smoky haze and green now extinguish as a pure white glow lit his sockets. This was Sombra. He would become above the concept of good or evil. He would reclaim Equestria and raise a new era of his own, whether he had the ponies' loyalty before him or their hatred. But above all, he would command their respect in defeating the usurper that was Dainn and his caribou. A smile lit the faun's expression. "Mealaibh ur naidheachd, general! Ye hae discovered th' potent arcane magic within ye! An' as predicted, it is enormoos!" Sombra gazed over to his hands, taking in this newfound power. It felt incredible. It felt strong. It felt... like himself. The smile on his face was similar to a Pegasus discovering the joys of flying for the first time. With a deep breath, he released the energy before landing on his hooves. The arcane magic vanished as his eyes returned to their familiar red slits. He was still looking over these hands, light red smoke emanating from his fingertips. "I've never felt so much power! I couldn't fathom I was capable of wielding so much magic. I-I..!" He paused as his gaze soften to the faun before her. Without any hesitation, he bowed his head before her hooves once more. "... I thank you for this gracious lesson, Lady Ewe. With this newfound energy, I will ensure that the future of Equestria returns to its people... And to its rightful ruler~" he added in with a sly smirk to his lips. Her expression did not fault in the slightest, only chuckling as she turned around. "Woods nae hae it any other way... general Sombra." He rose back to his hooves, following her away from the running stream. "So now that I've unlocked this power, do I know of my 'Onoma'?" "That is fur ye tae discover," She said. "Aw Ah coods dae fur ye is give ye th' pathway. Whit ye fin' oan 'at path will be yers an' yers aloyn. Arcane magic is naturally vague, but it is th' purest way ay understandin' th' responsibilities an' gifts ye'll acquire." Sombra considered her words carefully before nodding. His mind did feel much clearer now that all the burdening emotion and thoughts had quiet down a bit. There were many questions left unsolved, he knew. But for now, he would focus on discovering the true potential of his power. "I see..." "Sae, general," Ewe resumed while casting a gleeful grin in his direction. "It woods seem ye'll require a new lieutenant. Applejack has wished tae step doon fur a while noo. Dae ye hae anyain in min' 'at coods tak' 'er place?" "LIEUTENANT!? ME!???" "I did say you would make a grand one, have I not?" "Okay, that was back when you were gloating on the whole 'taking back Equestria for myself' shtick. I didn't think you were serious!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, walking alongside Sombra as she gave him a proper tour of the campsite once he returned with Lady Ewe. "How could I not be?" He said with a raised brow. "I find you a capable mare to aid me in this upcoming siege." "B-But like... I can't fly. There are like... tons of stronger Pegasi here that can--" Sombra let out a sigh before pulling her around to face him properly. "Dash... Do you not think that If I wanted a strong flyer, I wouldn't have singled them out. Any Pegasus can fly. No... What I value more out of you than anyone is your sense of stability. You stand firmly by your comrades and friends, carrying the will never to surrender." Dash could only gaze up with widening eyes at the tyrant's words. She knew he was blunt about her being replaceable for any Pegasus, but to come out in telling her how her loyalty was valued; It was... so unlike him. To say that Sombra of all ponies could say something not so condescending and empowering was a trait she thought had long since died elsewhere from the small group of rebels. "I... I don't know what to say, but... Thanks... erm... Ahem!" She cleared her throat, struggling to hide her bashfulness and gratitude as she peered away. "I mean, I've always known I was an awesome and inspiring role model. Course I'd be perfect for the job!" A soft chuckle managed to escape the former king's mouth as a sly grin spread his features. "As long as you know your place, my lieutenant, and do as I command. The caribou won't have a leg to stand once we're through with them." "Fucking bet!" She laughed, lighting, punching him in the shoulder as they continued. They would continue as she showed him to the different tents and stations mares were working at. They were still unsure how they felt about an ancient evil stallion now put into a position of power from the looks of it. He could tell by the wary glances and nervousness in their voice when responding to him. This was going to be a lot more challenging than he expected. "Word to the wise, Sombra," Rainbow whispered as they moved around the section. "Maybe you can show a more... how we'd say... friendlier side to you. That way, it'll help look over your previous actions a little so they can trust and depend on you. I'd start with Spike and Applejack as they're going to be your most prominent allies in this war." The cyan mare suggested. "Unless... y'know, you think you can't be a condescending asshat for more than two minutes when talking with ponies~." A steady glare was pointing at her confident smirk. "Off to a fantastic start, aye, lieutenant? And after I decided to raise your morals a bit too." "Oh, you just decided now, hmm? Meaning you only said that so that you can make yourself look good and have me cooperate?!" "But of course," He mused, tilting his head up to show off his superiority. "I'm general now, and I say whatever I want to have these ponies look up and respect me, as I am deserving of it." "The only thing you deserve is a swift kick in the ass, General Dick Wad." "Hmph!" he smiled slightly before turning his gaze towards the large dragon, currently enjoying a drink with his soldiers and mares. The light-hearted laughter coming from him helped take away the ferocious beast; he was a few moments ago. "... I've ruled a kingdom and managed my subjects with an iron fist. Making... friends with a dragon and an earth pony shouldn't waste too much of my time." Rainbow's grin brightened as she crossed her arms under her short bust. "Well, when you put them like that, you're going to need all the time in the world to get those two to agree with you. Good luck, General Wafflecunt!" And with a playful salute, she went off to see if any scouts had returned about any information towards the parade. The dark unicorn's grin slowly disappeared as he stared off at the group of rebels a few feet away from him. It had been a long time since he seemed a friend. Such a silly thing to consider at a time like this; making friends with beings who hated his very guts. Yet it was those very same beings that foiled him years ago; all through unity and the trust and love they shared. Could he really earn that much from them..? He let out a sigh. No, of course, he didn't deserve that. He didn't even want that. He found no use when they needed to counter-attack the menace holding their kingdom captive. If anything, he needed the time to figure out his trait. The arcane magic within his vessel was potent; he could feel it. But there was much-untapped power he needed to dig into. He briefly looked to the dragon again, remembering their short skirmish. The intense aura surged around him as he fumbled and broke through his dark crystalline magic. As much as he disdained in acknowledging someone else's power, Spike certainly held a firm grasp over this arcane magic, if not for his temper. The little dragon that kept away his destiny had grown to be quite the warrior. Perhaps, playing nice with him would help Sombra unlock the power swirling within him... Any motive to move towards the dragon general was halted when he felt something soft and squishy press against his back. He also found that his arms were unable to move until he realized he was locked in a tight hug. Startled, he turned back to find the pink mare having wrapped herself close to the stallion, a big smile on her face and wide blue eyes staring deeply into the slitted reds of Sombra. "O-Oh... It's you! Ahem. Good day, Miss Pie," He greeted awkwardly. She nodded her head and squeezed tighter in her hug. He could feel her ample bosom squishing more and more into his back. He cleared his throat, turning away. "Y-Yes... This is... Very nice, eheh... Mmm, could you please release me?" he asked, and not a moment did he find breathing room as the earth pony happily skipped in front of him; curves, and hair jiggling with each bound. It was just... so bizarre to see such a childish display of joy in such a bleak and horrible predicament. "Is there something I can help you with?" he asked, to which she nodded her head before taking his arm and pulling him away. He reluctantly went along as he watched as the group of dragons grew further and further away. It would seem that tapping into his newfound magic and discussing strategy would have to be put on hold for now. "Where are you taking me? Why must we leave the resistance grounds?" he asked, to no reply. From the looks of her motions, Pinkie would be humming if such sweet sounds were possible. They had ventured into the forest, though not too far where the camp wasn't out of sight. Soon enough, Pinkie stopped in her tracks... before slamming Sombra up into a tree, a vicious glare replacing her once happy expression. The sudden mood switch caught him off guard as he struggles to move. Was this all a ruse? How long was she keeping this act?! Good lord, was this mare strong! "What is the meaning of this! We're allies, aren't we?!" He growled, glaring in confusion. She tilted her head with an arched brow, giving an expression that said, 'are we?'. To then, he understood. This mare wasn't going to allow him close to her friends unless he were willing to become on himself. He was on the verge of ranting, biting her head off for holding such a stupid ideal over the fate and lives of survivors! Yet... He couldn't ignore how close the bones in his arms were to breaking. "A-Aghhfft! Alright, what is it you want?! I'll do it! Ill... Ugh... I'll be more friendly to you and your comrades... Will that suffice you?" He asked teeth clenched as the pressure kept pushing... and pushing... until finally, it released as Pinkie backed away, a confident smile on her lips as she nodded. Sombra panted as he rubbed his bruised wrists while gazing over the sturdy mare. "Has anyone ever told you how monstrously strong you are?" he asked. Pinkie shrugged her shoulders before she kneeled to cheek over his arms before providing a small kiss to where it looked bruised the most. His cheeks flourished a bit while the silly-looking pink mare stuck her tongue out of him. "You seem so... chipper for someone who lost both their life and their tongue. How do you do it?" he questioned. Her smile slow pulled downwards as she sighed. Narrowing her gaze, she stood up with her chest puffed up, fists to her hip while the other pounded her torso in salute. Sombra could only grow more confused at what she was trying to communicate. "I'm terribly sorry. I'm not... Understanding," He confessed. Pinkie rolled her eyes before she yanked him up to his feet before positioning his limbs to do the same as she was, beating her chest once more. Her other hand than gestured to the woods; how dead the trees look among the pale snow and the hazy grey mist that hung the air; a reminder of the caribou's influence affecting the land before pointing back to the resistance camp before pointing back to her. After considering the directions, realization washed over Sombra before he gave a small nod to what it was she was getting at. "I see... You're right. This place is unfortunately looking, and the hardships you and your friends must have faced were horrifying. You're trying to keep to the bright side of things... And actively encourage yourself and others to make the best of your situation, as bleak as it is. That's why you're bouncing for joy and sharing so much affection..." The smile on her face was one he had yet to see. The pure joy and happiness that tingled from her body sprang up as she flung herself onto him, taking them both into the ground. Grunting, he managed to let out a weak chuckle as she constricted herself to him once more to give Equestria's villainous savor a tender and crushing hug, this time being able to return it. It really was hard to be mad at someone so determined to help ponies bounce back on their feet. Her eyes widened before she pulled up before checking down... And then rolling her head up with a much more seductive expression. It took a few seconds to realize that between their joined hips was a growing bulge in Sombra's uniform. It seems time had passed for the atmosphere to take influence. And judging how quickly the two of them became aroused, it was growing strong by the days... "O-Oh my..." That was all he could muster to say as his eyes began to travel along Pinkie's curvaceous figure clad in that tight jumpsuit. As childish as she was, she was still a grown mare... A big, well endowed mare. She took notice before she leaned in to steal small peaks and kisses over Sombra's muzzle, easing into the feelings inspiring between them. His hands would reach for hers to hold her still, pulling her away. "W-Wait!" he insisted, a heavy gaze looking over her. "A-As much as I would... love that kind of company, we really can't be doing this! There's only so much time before..." She pulled her arm free to place a finger to his lips, shushing him. She fluttered her eyes at him and tenderly smiled as she leaned closer. At this moment, the dark unicorn knew he wasn't going anywhere until she had her taste of the scrumptious piece of baked meat pie that was Sombra. And who was he to deny her a taste? He allowed her to resume kissing him, feeling her lips suck and pluck over his own. The more she spent sucking on his face, the more wet and heated the kisses became. His bulge stood tall in his crotch, pressed between her squishy thighs while he felt the heat of her loins grind against it. His moans muffled loudly over hers; the feeling of her fingers trace over his broad muscles and torso before tugging down at the zipper to reveal his dark grey skin. His own hands got to relish in feeling the weight of her stacked chest, thumbs pressed and digging into the hard nubs that appeared in her own suit. Once the zipper was down, Pinkie would begin to pull down her own zipper; teasingly slow to give the baffled unicorn some suspense as he watched glimpses of her pink body begin to reveal itself. Throwing in a cheeky little wink, Pinkie would slide it off her shoulders before her large breasts jiggled out of their containments, hard rosy nipples on display. In all his intimate adventures, never had Sombra seen such rounded, natural mammaries. They must have been at least an E cup! The mare cupped his hands to approach her two mountain peaks before gasping slightly from how rough, and big his hands were, wiggling in her place while Sombra massaged and caressed her tits around as if they were dough. While he was busy playing with her chest, the pink mare brought her hand down to try and fish out his cock; a bit of drool dripping from her lips at the thought and feeling behind how big he was. Finally, she backed herself away to properly take out Sombra's dick, leaving the stallion a little upset that he couldn't continue to grope at her tit flesh. By now, his erection was at full mass, thick veins bulging out from his black cock. She marveled over it, eyes and wide and curious as a cat as she measured it up to be as long and thicker than her forearm. Licking at her lips, she helped spread the tyrant's legs out to get herself more comfortable, her pillowy breasts pressed against his hefty sack. Sombra could only moan and pant at the euphoria of feeling how soft and squishy Pinkie was while she showered his fat cock with small tender kisses and licks. "Gods..." he groaned, briefly closing his eyes to surrender to the working mouth and lips of the earth mare. That tongue of hers was licking up his girth like it was her favorite flavor of ice cream, eventually sitting at the tip to lick up any pre-cum he was building. Once his eyes looked back to meet the sapphire blues of Pink, all that stared back was an intense hunger. The same hunger an animal gives when they have starved for days and finally came across food. And there was no doubt in his mind; Pinkie was going to devour ever last inch of his cock. In one motion, nearly every piece of black horse cock had vanished in her maw; the sudden impact striking Sombra deep in his loins as he loud cry escaped his voice. 'Holy mother of... her throat's so tight!' He could feel his member twitch happily in the back of her throat, her muscles contracting to hold him in place as she focuses on breathing through her nose. Then... she began to bob her head along his length, sucking and gurgling over his meaty stick. Never in his life had a mare taken him so deep down her throat in one swoop. Even the concubines he forced to deep throat, he couldn't manage his shaft without choking. And yet here Pinkie was, slobbering and drooling over his groin while stuffing her face with his dick like it were a popsicle. The 'gawking' noise muffled from her only served to keep him nice and hard, leaking his potent fluid directly into her tummy. His mind, however, was growing to a dark place as memories of his actions came to play. He remembered one night, one of his guards forced a farm mare to his bedroom. From there, he forced her to service him as a king righteously deserved. Voices were whispering in his mind, slithering thoughts to enact those same impulses onto Pinkie. His hand-shaped, hovering towards her head as the imagery became more vivid and real. The feelings of someone so helpless to do nothing but submit to him and take his licking like a good little sl-- He felt his hand got smacked away as his cock was left open in the cool air, dripping in spit. His eyes snapped open as he stared down at the narrowed gaze of Pinkie. She shook her head, quietly telling him to keep his hands to himself. Gulping down his regret for the loss of control temporarily, he nodded. A coy smile returned as she let some of her salivae flowed down into the valley of her ample titties. Once they were all nice and slick, she hugged her breasts together around his schlong, stroking them around to resume her oral play. Sombra lost himself once more to the warmth and softness her breasts gave when enveloping his cock inside. The small licks and suck from the tip of his dick made him shiver all together as the pink mare played with her treat. Sombra was in heaven. The cold, brutal world outside slowly drifted away as he was left to feel the warmth and marshmallowy texture of his lover's breasts. Continuous circles of flesh messing into his rigid member while her mouth sucked and slurped up that sweet, creamy pre-cum; hoping to coax the real meal out of him. And soon enough, her efforts were rewarded as Sombra let out a hefty moan as she milked his cock of thick ropes of white-hot spunk to feed her. Gulping soon replaced her grunts as she drank straight from his tap before pulling off with a wet 'pop.' Pinkie let out a sigh. She licked up any cum that dripped or missed from her mouth before giving his dick one more smooch, thanking it for the yummy supply of stallion milk. Her lustful gaze returned to Sombra, eating up his expression and heavy breathing, the near gazed look in his eyes. She began to tap his cock lightly against her jiggly tit as if to test how hard he still was before she climbed her way back up to straddle on top of him. Before his vision could come to refocus, his world was overtaken in pink as she pressed his face close to one of her fat boobs. It would seem it was his turn to feed. Lapping at his lips like a hungry foal for breast milk, he latches onto her puffy nipple before sucking and nibbling onto it, hands reaching to keep her twin from feeling left out. If Pinkie could speak, she would be moaning sweetly, he bet. He could tell by how she held and stroked through his black flowing mane and very soft pants she was making that she was enjoying this. He even heard a high pitch squeak as he tugged on her tit to stretch out before release it to jiggle in place, proceeding to pamper her other breast. Was this what it was like to make others happy? To be happy yourself? It was a strange new emotion Sombra wasn't familiar with. Never had he'd thought he'd be so... comforted and free in the embrace and arms of another pony. It felt so soft... and wet... and tight! Very incredibly tight! He muffled in shock before realizing what was happening. In the middle of losing himself to this feeling, the chubby little minx managed to sneak his throbbing member into her wet little hole, gyrating her hips around while squeezing down on his cock. It felt like she was trying to keep him trapped inside her with zero intentions to release him. And then she began to bounce. Pinkie arched her back in a curve to keep Sombra's face mushed into her tits while riding the stallion in loud, thick bounds. All he could really do was muffle and moaned into her cleavage. The pleasure his body was going through was intense. His cock felt like it could snap from how tightly her cunt was sucking him in. His hands would slide away down her hips before finding an overflowing feel of flesh that was her luscious ass cheeks. Sombra had been so distracted by the mare's bosom he didn't realize how undoubtedly thick Pinkie was. All he could do was dig his fingers into her flanks while she hopped happily on his pogo stick. Soon, the elation spiked up as Pinkie clutched hard onto her dark lover, silently screaming out before Sombra felt a rush of mare juice splash into his groan, causing him to hit climax once again. While not as powerful as the previous, the lower amount of cum shot deep into her love tunnel was received much to the earth mare's delight. Her mare hood let up to allow his cock to slip out and finally begin to grow soft as the two ponies laid close together in the warm afterglow of their lay. This was the first time Sombra was not in control. How could he? Pinkie asserted her authority and led him to pleasures; he never thought he'd experience. He felt... fulfilled, for once. Like his endless hunger and thirst for power and control was finally stated by having another take charge. His heavy eyes looked to see the pink beauty catching her breath while nuzzling her head softly into his chest. She, too, looked secure in his arms... A smile managed to creep its way over his muzzle. Not a cocky, sadistic or sarcastic grin he was known for. He was genuinely smiling, simply... enjoying his time with her. 'Perhaps there were things I could learn and appreciate from these ponies after all...' Sighing, he would gently lift the two of them before placing the groggy mare back on her feet, wobbling for balance as they both struggled to put on their clothes. Just as she adjusted her boobs back into her jumpsuit before zipping them up, she looked up to see Sombra, a cold look returning to his face that made her tilt her head in concern. "This was very risky, Miss Pie," he stated. "The enemy could have been around and catch us right outside. Such mischief and recklessness will not be permitted among my troops." He leaned his head closer, a sinister smile spreading his lips as he whispered. "See to it you don't do this again... Otherwise, I might have to punish you~." Pinkie would smile brightly before nodding, offering another wink before stealing one more kiss from the stallion before the both of them hurried back into the camp before anyone could discover where they were. Sombra was very thankful they had a showering stall. Otherwise, the scent of musk and fifth would have brought a lot of concern to the many mares that would often stare at him. Drying out his mane, the dark stallion exited out of the entrance while zipping up his clothes... only to find a large purple dragon standing in front of him. His eyes drifted up to see the hard press glare while he offered a dull gaze. "Sombra." "Dragon." "Spike," he corrected. "Just making sure we would be on a first-name basis. Now, how may I help you, Spike?" he asked. He grunted before tilting his head towards the front of the camp. "Walk with me." Sombra agreed, and so the two of them began their walk in silence. They dare not look at each other, not giving the other acknowledgment outside of gestures. "So... Lady Ewe decided you were worthy of knowing archaic magic." "That she has." "Figured out your Onoma?" "It's a working progress." "Hmph." "Surely, this isn't the only thing you wish to talk to me about. It makes for very... awkward conversation if you haven't noticed..." Spike let out a sigh before finally stopping to look at the stallion properly. "Look. Let's not beat around the bush here; I despise you and everything you stand for. It also puts a bad taste in my throat that Lady Ewe would even suggest allowing you to lead her fraction." The more he spoke, the more his fist squeezed tightly before releasing. "That being said, I see the reasoning and... I do want us to be on civil terms. So... truce?" he suggested, offering his hand in front of him. Sombra looked back between the large scaly paw and the dragon before he slowly took out his own hand and shook it briefly. "Truce... At least until after I've secured the kingdom under my rule. You've become a much more capable fighter... I wouldn't mind another go at you~." Spike growled before he pulled him closer, staring down the shadowy unicorn into the eye. "I want you to listen carefully, Sombra. These aren't just pawns in your own little mind game. These are people. Actual lives with value in their own way. My friends. And they're looking at you to help build them a better Equestria than the one the Caribou took away from us." Sombra narrowed his own gaze. "I am very much aware of the consequences. I was a ruler." "A vile one at that! One who threw away the lives and hypnotized the weak into doing his bidding through fear and violence. That's not what Equestria is going to become again. Not while I live, you hear me. So whatever plot you've got scheming, I suggest you drop it." His voice lowered to a rumbling growl as his eyes glowed a brilliant emerald. "Because I swear to you... So help me, Sombra, if I find out you're responsible for any of my friends getting killed or captured... I will bring the wrath of go--" "SOMEBODY HELP! WE'VE FOUND MORE REFUGEES!" Came a loud cry from the gate. Both of them tore away from each other before rushing towards the commotion as everyone's attention was called to the entrance. Shoving his way, Spike looked through before finding Smolder, standing still with an expression of horror on her. Sombra slowly moved his way through the crowd, the murmuring and whimpers growing louder. "Smolder. The report, what's going on?!" "S-Sir..." She said hesitantly, pointing a finger towards two robed bodies lying into the ground. Sombra could make out a familiar stylized mane, colored in deep blues and purple. The other unmoving body held long, messy hair in a shade of light pink. Both had lavender-colored collars clasped around their throats. 'Wait... Don't tell me these are--' "N-No..." He turned to see the look of despair written on Spike's face, tears streaming down his eyes. "Rarity... Fluttershy... What have they done!?" > โ„‚๐•™๐•’๐•ก๐•ฅ๐•–๐•ฃ ๐•๐•€: ๐’Ÿ๐“Š๐‘’๐“ ๐‘œ๐’ป ๐“‰๐’ฝ๐‘’ ๐’Ÿ๐‘’๐“ˆ๐“…๐‘œ๐“‰๐“ˆ > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Trepidation hung in the frozen air over the harrowing sight of Fluttershy and Rarity. Each mare's defiled form was drench in dried cum and crudely written marker labeling the most profane of statements over each limb and asset. A short look to their overstretched genitals didn't leave much to the imagination as to how thoroughly stretched out they were. But perhaps the most unsettling was the fit of giggles from the unicorn, eying her old friends with a derange twitch in her eye. "C-C c c cock? So much! Cock! Whore get... C-cock!? Heheahah!! Hahahahaah~!" She struggled to lift her once cherished form to pull her stuff up against Spike's pants, the dragon staring incredulity. His body flinched away when she tried to tug down his pants, fist-shaking in unbridled fury. "No... Rarity, not you..!" Spike said softly, reaching to pull his old crush to his arms. Rarity responded by pressing and rubbing her body into his armored chest, shivering from the cold winds whipping. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, and Applejack clutched over their hearts, absolutely devastated to see what had become of their friends. Sombra, too, was shaken up. His gaze fell onto Fluttershy, trembling like a leaf while clutching her pale body. Her eyes remained wide and sunken, almost unblinking. The smallest of whimpers escaping her lips. Staring up at the imposing stallion reported in the yellow pegasus to fearfully shrink herself closer into her arms and legs. The dark unicorn had never seen anypony rendered catatonic to such a horrendous degree. Not even the lowly whelps Sombra tormented into servitude were abused this badly. The dark markings around her wrists and legs showed how tightly she had been bound up for the caribou's sick pleasure. Oona Ewe knelt to urge the frightened pegasus into her arms gently, yet she remained unresponsible through the goat's comforting gestures. "Aon bhochd," she lamented with a sorrowful expression. "Th' cariboo's damage might be too severe... Ahm not sure Ah can help them." "What!?" Rainbow Dash cut in, defiant to believe the faun's words. "No, that no true! You have to help! These are our friends!" "Rainbow, please--" "NO! Work up your arcane magic or whatever and heal them!!" "Rainbow Dash!" Oona silenced her with a stern tone. "Mah magic can only help those within th' dream realm. E'en if Ah cood, th' constant trauma an' sufferin' they've endured cannae be erased. It woods tak' years fur their minds tae recover ..." her head lowered, shame clear on her face that there was nothing more she could do. "Ah am sorry... but Ah fear Rarity an' Fluttershy ur tint forever..." Silence struck the young mare before she collapsed to her knees, eyes filling up with tears as she hunched over. The will to hold back the sobs in her throat vanished with the realization that her friends were too long gone. The arms of Applejack and Pinkie Pie pulled her to their embrace while allowing their sadness to flow bitterly. Spike held onto Rarity, afraid of letting go of the last precious memories he had with her. Every one of the resistant members openly cried and hung their heads low over the tragedy. Of all the casualties they had suffered at the hands of King Dainn and his forces, the near-death states of those who wore purple colors were universally the most horrifying state. Sombra backed away, his eyes shutting tightly as the burning memories of the faces he saw while practicing his lethal methods in corruption. He could recall how they would cry out for a parent or loved one to save them, how desperately they held onto hope before she stripped it clean from them. The disgusting elation he felt seeing the strong crumble before his feet. And yet, not many days ago, he would consider this justice against his transgressions. For all the times he assured his would-be allies that he and the caribou were nothing alike, the once radiant unicorn and compassionate pegasus before Sombra stood examples of the cruelty he once indulged in. And the overwhelming guilt, an emotion he would have rejected during his reign over the crystal empire, ran through his system like a sickness. Like the cold winds of winter blowing the snow over them. The reality of the situation did not matter to Sombra, for in his mind, he did this. And there were many others just like the two-element bearers rendered braindead from the caribou's endless indulgence of control and pleasure. Opening his crimson orbs, with fists clutched tightly, Sombra took a couple of steps towards the yellow pegasus, silently ushering the goat to step aside. Furrowing her brows at the stallion, Ewe nonetheless did as obliged as Sombra held Flutter up, holding her cheeks by his fingers to scan her unblinking teal eyes. Something as missing, he sensed. Staring intensely into the ridden mare's pupils revealed absolute darkness within. But within the void and lifelessness of her eyes, a small glimpse of life flickered. A choir of overwhelming voices, commanding her to listen to male demands and worship masculine power. And trapped within the dominating chorus was a whimpering cry for help. Sombra jerked his head back in alarm. 'What was that just now?' he questioned. 'Clearly, I was sensing... something? It was fear, but not like before.' "Sombra..?" Ewe's voice cut him out of his thoughts. "Whit did ye see?" The dark stallion rose back, feeling the conflicted and interrogating looks among the allies. "I'm not sure," he answered. "There was darkness... voices, compelling me to submit and obey. And underneath, I heard her voice... she's so afraid." "Fluttershy? Y-You heard her?" Rainbow's strained voice spoke up, wiping away the tears staining her cheeks. He nodded. "I think there's more to this than the trauma of being raped relentlessly. This feels like sorcery was involved to ensure this one's mind is bombarded with the caribou's mantra of misogyny. I would... often place a similar mind-breaking spell during my colder years," he admitted, regret evident in his tone. "But if it is a form of brainwash, there may be a way to break it. And if your friend's plea is anything, she's still fighting in there. Somewhere..." "So what you're saying is," Spike added in, stroking Rarity's mane while the oblivious unicorn was trying to pry open his armored vest. "We find the source; we can save them?" "Perhaps," Sombra stated considerably. "But to do that, we must go to the source. And it's not hard to figure out who is responsible." Everypony nodded in agreement before Sombra turned to address the crowd of rebels before them. "This madness ends with the death of Dainn. It may seem that the odds are stacked against us, given how outnumbered we are. But it is through my will that victory shall await us in Ponyille!" The looks of uncertainty were not lost on him, given that moments ago, he cursed them for holding him accountable for his prior actions as an enemy to the Crystal Empire. But deep down, Sombra understood that he needed to show these struggling survivors a leader they could trust. "Your concerns are not disregarded; I know I am the last pony you want as a leader. I have brought so much wrong to Equestria in my pursuit of power. I've committed crimes that could rival the caribou in abhorrence. I will not ask for forgiveness nor respect in that regard. What I am asking is for you to fight alongside me, to show these putrid barbarians that their time in Equestria is over! The caribou only see you as weak, breakable things that are better off in chains, tending to their every wanton need." Sombra marched around so that his voice may carry over to the rebels in the back, staring into each troop's eye. "Before me are not the slaves of caribou, but the warriors of Equestria. This is our land, our home! And the time has come for us to reforge our once magical and powerful country into greater glory. The Ponyville parade comes within two days. This is our only real shot to strike at their king and lay down vengeance! Ponies of Equestria, I ask you once more; will you stand with me? Will you fight with me!?" The tense silence hung in the cold air like fog. It took the dark stallion every fiber to not falter under the weight of doubt growing. And just as it seemed Sombra's speech failed to inspire the rebels, a new voice spoke behind him. "I will fight!" Rainbow Dash stood up, a determined gleam in her eyes while nodding at the dark unicorn, a knowing smile shared between them. "Aah'm fightin' too," Applejack added in, tipping her hat. Pinkie bounced up with renewed swagger, nodding her head. "I will fight with you," Spike accepted, turning to his small forces, which saluted. Smolder nodded her head. Ewe bowed her head while cradling Fluttershy's shivering form. "I-I will fight!" "Me too!!" "I'll fight!" "Yeah! Let's put an end to those pigs!!" Soon, a chorus of brave rebel soldiers rose their arms, adding their voices to the cause before. Sombra was in disbelief that nearly all of them took a salute before his command. Something swelled within him, a new feeling he had not felt before. And that emotion burned as he rose his fist into the air. "Then follow me! Gather everything we have to ensure the caribou's demise is at hand! At the winter parade, we take back our pride and dignity! Together, Dainn will fall! Together... EQUESTRIA WILL RISE!!" The rebels bellowed in unison, their pain and misery brought out in a mighty battle cry. Sombra could help but smile boldly at the strength and power he had motivated in the camp's mares and refugees. Casting a steady glance to his comrades and the enigmatic leader, he could see hope return in their eyes. And though their hope, he would carry this strength and unleash it upon Dainn and his forces. "Soldiers! Assemble your weapons and prepare for the raid!" "Yes, sir!" Daylight rose over the snow ridden ground, the falling of flakes having ceased. Yet dark clouds swirled closer towards the sun, impending to cover the skies in grey once more. Sombra stood still on a ledge, making out the small number of houses making up Ponyville in the distance. Adorning his physique was brand new armor he forged, using crystalline and steel material to forge braces, a chest plate, and leg guards over his clothes. A new red cape flapped around in the wind, a remnant of his old regal wear. To say that the dark stallion was heavily equipped for the battle ahead was an understatement. Within the long hours before today, he wasted nothing to figure the best vantage points to access the town, formations should the fight start unexpectedly. Making sure every one of the troops had a weapon of some kind to arm themselves. Nopony was allowed to leave until the plan was finalized. All that remained was Lady Ewe's command, to send the resistance forth and scout the small town held firmly in the grasp of caribou soldiers. And yet, he was to stay behind? The dream faun did not explain her reasoning, only that it would be a tactical advantage that the general remained here until a scout returned with a single. Then he would lead the rest of the party to secure Ponyville and purge it free of Dainn's tyranny. And something about the look she gave him this morning told Sombra it was important he hold back in camp. "You look about ready to fuck shit up," a voice complimented behind him. The brooding stallion turned to his lieutenant, wearing a modified jumpsuit. The former pegasus offers a smile while approaching Sombra. "A shame you won't be joining us on the frontlines until later." "It is not my place to disobey the orders of Lady Ewe, though I am free to voice my discontent with her decision," he commented before staring off into the distance. "I should be fighting alongside you..." "I mean, when you think of it, it makes sense. You're our trump card; we don't want to play it too early when we have the element of surprise. Chances are, Dainn doesn't know a thing about you." "No. I suspect there's an explanation as to why she wants me to remain here. I've yet to discover the Onoma to my arcane magic through all my vigorous training and strategies. Maybe she's found a way to help me awaken it before joining the raid... Still, something could go around. You all might be in trouble if I am not there." "Hey, now, that sounds like doubt! What, you think we can't handle ourselves out there? We've been fighting these numbskulls for months on end!" Rainbow rebuffed, shaking her head. "This is our shot in returning peace. We're not gonna waste it. We'll hold them off for as long as we need until you come to back us up." The insistent and confident smirk on the mare's face caused a similar curl of his lip. She was right. How dare he doubt the ponies of the resistance. Doubt would lead to their downfall, and that was not an option. He would believe in his lieutenant and their cause, as they would believe in him. "General Sombra," Spike's voice called to them, drawing the ponies to the dragon and his troops, forming a line at the entrance. "We're about to head off. The parade should be starting at any moment. I urge you to finish up your preparations quickly." He offered a small grin moving forward to the stallion, reaching his claw, which he accepted in a firm shake. "Good luck out there," Sombra nodded. Rainbow would wrap an arm around him for a quick squeeze, causing the stallion to momentarily freeze as she joined between Smolder and Pinkie Pie along with the soldiers. Everypony pulled out a hood to hide their faces as Oona and Applejack stood by the gate. The dark stallion approached the pair; an eyebrow rose at the earth mare's presence. "You're not joining them?" She shook her head. "Aah trust them ta handle themselves against da caribou. Somepony's gotta stay behind in case any scouts are around, lookin' for our location," Applejack explained before turning towards the doe. "Though Aah really doesn't git why ya don't send Sombra ta lead them." "As much as it is traditional fur a king tae fight alongside his comrades, Ah must object tae that notion," Ewe shook her head, staring knowingly at Sombra. "Thaur is somethin' Ah need ye tae dae first. Somethin' 'at will unlock yer hidden potential an' show ye th' power ye seek." "And what might that be?" Before she could utter a word of her plan, a loud boom echoed from a distance. "It's starting! A firework went off!" one scout exclaimed loudly. A few more 'bangs' followed to signify the start of the celebration. Oona pulled away to draw attention to herself, summoning as much authority she could muster with her voice. "Th' parade has started, everypony. Th' time is noo tae secure th' parade an' bring these strugglin' times tae an end. Dรจan sabaid air! Fur Equestria!" "For Equestria!!" the resistance echoed before Spike leads his troops onward. Sombra watched as the last mares in the rear disappeared into the forest before the gates sealed themselves. He dug his fingers into his palm, beyond nervous for the worst to happen without his guidance. Yet he swallowed down more doubt, determined to see this through before Oona placed a hand to pull him towards her direction. "Come, Sombra. We must go an' discover yer Onoma quickly!" Festive music played throughout the main district. War banners waved high above the roofsโ€”a cacophony of moans from mares, some clamoring for more and others pleading for mercy. The Ponyville winter parade had just begun. A crowd full of caribou and ponies gathered around the streets as platforms slowly moved through the village, hosting plenty of eye candy and lewd displays. One float had many mares clad in skimpy holiday clothing, showing off their breasts and marehoods in see-through lace. They dance provocatively for the leering gazes of their male dominant audience, much to the delight in their cheering. Another had two mares make out and fondle each other while tied down against a large, rubber phallus. And then were the participation floats, where four or more mares stood secured in pilloried. Once the parade came to a small stop, stallions and caribou could climb aboard to take part in the celebration, taking either side to stuff their slut's full. Many would cheer while some became busy slamming into their own slave, weakly crying and struggling to break free from their arms while their bare asses got pounded harshly. So enthralled in the ecstasy did not one of the caribou regime notice Spike's silhouette gliding through the skies before roosting behind a roof. Riding with him were Rainbow Dash and Smolder, observing the fetish festival as the gloats began to move again. Pinkie and a few of their troops remained hidden in the alleyways, waiting for the moment their commander to give orders to attack. "Rotten bastards," the former pegasus muttered quietly, staring with disdain over the shivering mares dancing involuntarily. "I swear if this isn't the day these chauvinist pigs aren't put down..." "It will be," Spike assured with a firm gaze. "They haven't realized we've infiltrator the perimeter. While they indulge in their rampant lust, we seize this day and bring Equestria to liberty." "Just because we hold the element of surprise doesn't mean things will go accordingly. Something could go wrong, and then what'll--" "Quiet," Smolder hushed Raindow harshly, glaring off towards the distance as the crowd grew louder and rambunctious. "General... He's here." Spike followed the female drake's glare, a brief flash of gold in his angry eyes. At long last, the final platform was carried in by war beasts, easily the largest. It looked like the main deck of a ship with a quarter-deck intact. Chained down to their knees, arms folded behind, were the alicorn sisters, Celestia and Luna. The princess of moonlight defiantly struggles in her bonds while the princess of daylight remained docile. Both their manes had been shaven off to better show off the nub of their severed horns. Behind them stood an enormous cage, a velvet curtain covering the contents. Four massive guards stood at arm at each corner of the float. But the real attraction sat in the large throne embedded to the quarter-deck. Twilight Sparkle came into view, nuzzling and lapping at his hardened member below a seated caribou. There, in all his infamous glory and hubris, was KIng Dainn. The caribou ruler sat adorn in royal blue robes, a fur collar wrapped around his shoulders, jewelry shimmering in the hazy sunlight. Even his antlers were decorated in riches, bracelets coiled and hanging off his horns like ornaments. His icy blue eyes leered over his loyal followers, soldiers, and the petrified mares beneath him. "Dainn..." The purple drake growled softly, doing his best to calm the fires that burned in his chest. Or quell the urge to lunge at him here and there. The war beast bellowed before laying down, ending the parade as the float dropped to the ground with a thud. The caribou king rose steadily while tucking his wet dick back into his pants while petting the cumdrunk alicorn affectionately. He rose an arm up to silence the thunderous crowd, a haughty smile spreading his muzzle. "Citizens of Ponyville," he began. "Thank you kindly for your warm and generous welcome. It is not every day such a small town is graced with magnificence!" The caribou and stallion rose their voice in a unanimous cheer before settling down. "Every year, we celebrate this occasion to the day we rid Equestria of its ludicrous tyranny! For it was here that our uprising began before total domination sweep through the entire Equestrian nation. And as appreciation to those of you who have embraced the ways of male supremacy, I'd offer a reward for your endeavors. These lowly alicorn harlots, who so foolishly thought they could offer a kingdom of equality and peace..." The crowd of mare-haters collectively booed the once-proud princesses, tossing snowballs and half-eaten fruit at the oppressed alicorns. "... When they should have just offered their cunts and mouths to worship their male subjects. This is why, traditionally, I offer these pathetic ponies to the public; for all to ravage and take out all your pent up frustrations with." Another clamor of cheers echoed off the buildings and houses, earn Rainbow Dash's scowl. Once more, Dainn rose his hand to cease the uproar. "But that's not what's going to happen today." Everyone turned to each other, collectively confused and muttering amongst themselves over this strange decision. King Dainn began to walk down the steps as he continued. "For you see, there still exists a small group of rebels that oppose my rule. That refuses to submit! That dares to believe they can break the chains we've placed onto our sows and breeding stock!" Once more, rejective boos and angry bellows resounded from the gathered horde of male chauvinists. "But heed me, brothers! The only thing that will break is their resolve; once those insufferable sluts are captured and brought forth... to this!" Pointing his hand towards the cage, his guards pulled away the cover to unveil the bulking, muscular form of a monster, awakening from the sudden exposed light and letting out a loud screech. Every mare gave a terrified scream upon sight while the others gazed with awe. It looked like a bulked-up caribou, but the green pulsating veins, overly proportioned arms, and lifeless unblinking eyes revealed a crueler substance was at hand. Pulsating between it's smaller when compared legs was a penis longer and thicker than anything normal. A stream of pre-cum constantly drooled out of the flat tip. The sheer size of this behemoth caused Luna to stop fighting against her chains, gazing, worrying at it and her sister. "W-What the fuck is that?!" Rainbow stammered, her eyes wide with terror. Spike and Smolder shook their heads in disbelief. Never would they had suspected the caribou capable of crafting such an abomination against nature. Dainn sported a cruel smirk while gingerly petting the bicep of his creation. "This... caribou hulk, as I'll call it, was made with magic and alchemy. A volunteer so willing and devoted to our cause has become something greater than before. And with it, we end the pitiful plight of the resistance! Any mare or stallion that opposes us is sentenced to serve as this magnificent beast's broodmare as punishment. And thanks to the magically enhanced sperm swelling within its sack, even the most barren of broads will sire its offspring!" Dainn's loyalties bellow their praises, fists, and weapons high in the air as the caribou hulk curdled in bestial rage. Dainn steps closer to the two alicorns before nodding his head to his soldiers, who roughly pushed both princesses forward to raise their ample backsides. "Gnngrh! Thou won't get away with this!" Luna decreed, glaring healthy at the smug ruler of warmongers. "As long as we resist, thy shall never conquer Equestria!" Her declaration was met with a harsh smack over her luscious ass cheek, earning a sharp gasp. "Oh, you stubborn little pony. Why don't you follow your sister's example and stay quiet? Accept the facts; This is Equestria now! And no one is coming to save you," Dainn said mockingly before turning to address his rousing regime. "Perhaps a demonstration is in order! Let us celebrate the downfall of these feeble mares by defiling their beloved rulers. Guards, open the cage! Show them what happens to those that defy the caribou way!" With a nod, his men took the front of the iron cage housing the massive brute, snorts of hot air flaring from its nostrils while it's blank eyes stared over the rumps of Luna and Celestia, it's cock throbbing in anticipation. "Spike, this is bad!" Smolder whispered, looking towards her general with distraught. "Yeah, we can't just sit here!" Rainbow Dash urged. "Celestia and Luna are goners if we don't act now!" "There's no other choice," Spike snarled bitterly before unfurling his mighty wings. The aura of Heracles shimmering over his scales and pupils. "We attack NOW!" Bellowing a thunderous roar, Spike took the skies as the rebels appeared out from the crowd, joining their general's war cry. Caribou guards couldn't react fast enough before Pinkie slammed her hoof down. The forces of the resistance powered through the caribou dominion as steel clashed with steel. And for all the boasting they proclaimed, male onlookers hide behind their stronger oppressors while cradling their mare. Smolder took Rainbow by the arms as they dived into the fray, the former pegasus swiftly kicking a brute's head before making a solid landing. The orange dragoness joined her female troops in holding back the enraged crowd of mare haters. Some troops managed to take out a few guards on the floats and free the performers from their cuffs. The cyan mare jumped and swept her hooves across the caribou forces, a flurry of punches and kicks to knock down anyone who tried to apprehend her. "I-It's Rainbow Dash! She's come to save us!" One mare boldly declared. "Equestria can be saved!" "SILENCE!" A caribou enforcer demanded. "Shut those bitches u-ugghnah!" Another burly idiot brought down by the claws of Smolder, placing her foot over his head to level herself. "The caribou's reign comes to an end! Rise! Fight for your freedom!" She howled, her fellow troops yelling as they fought valiantly against the barbaric soldiers. "Up in the sky!" "H-Hey, LOOK OUT!!" A flash of yellow caused the clouds to part as Spike hurled his body towards the parade of floats, causing the onlookers to flee for covers. Upon impact, the abandoned floats burst into splinters and pieces as the drake rushed into the heat of battle, swiping his large claws and tail at the oppressors, cutting into their armor and flesh while roaring in rage. "Mnnghm~! S-Spike!" Twilight obliviously called for, eyes lidded and smile wide while reaching out to her former apprentice. Dainn, having calmly watched this sudden attack, sneered at the lowly purple alicorn before smacking her head, a surprised cry calling out that alerted the dragon. His slit pupils dilated as his sharp teeth bared an irate grin. "DAAAAAAAAAAINN!!!" He called out, flexing his wings to bat away the guards before rushing towards the large float. "Stop him! Protect the king!" A commander declared as troops of caribou stood before the dragon's warpath, shields raised high to guard themselves against the curious swipes of talons. Puffing out his chest, Spike unleashed his wrath upon them in a breath of fire, immolating their defenses until molten steel poured down into the cold earth. Each caribou soldier screamed before the dragon launched his massive frame like a bowling ball, knocking every caribou side. "Yeah! Go get him, Spike!" Rainbow Dash urged before stealing a weapon of one guard to bash the helmet on another, his body dropping to the stained ground. The wingless pegasus snarled while pressing the halberd's shaft against a long sword of another caribou bruiser. But before the draconic general could act, bolts of lightning wrapped over his body, roaring in anguish. Dainn's blue eyes glowed with power, unleashing his arcane magic upon the dragon with one hand. The jolt of electricity penetrated through Spike's brilliant aura, Heracles' power fading. Yet he fought to power through the pain of pure energy ripping through his scales, smoke and flame pluming from his mouth. But his guards slashed at the dragon's legs, cutting him down to his knees. The caribou tyrant stopped channeling his magic, snapping his fingers to command his forces to subdue the electrocuted dragon. "SPIKE!" Rainbow yelled, wrestling her way towards her fallen friend until a few guards secured her arms and punched her hard in the gut. The pegasus yowled before she, too, was forced down onto her knees. And it wasn't long until Smolder and the rest of their troops were subsided, much to the amusement and laughter of the male supremacists. "Yeah, that's right! This is what you get!" "Stupid whores! What did you think was gonna happen!?" "Rip their clothes off! Let's fuck those bitches raw!" As the crowd of stallions and caribou swarmed over the battered resistance, Rainbow Dash panted, teeth clutched to mask the agony in her body from how hard the caribou roughed her up. Her narrowed eyes looked up to Dainn, a smug smile clear on his snout as he grabbed a fistful of her mane to yank her head up. "Did you honestly think I wouldn't expect a sneak attack? You stupid whore," he spat, smacking Rainbow's cheek with the back of his hand. "I knew that sniveling slit, Oona, would be behind this uprising. In a vain attempt to restore hope, she has doomed you instead. I knew today would be the perfect opportunity to stage a coup d'etat. So I decided to use your stubbornness to my advantage; To fully break your spirits! The power of Zeus flows through me like blood, unmatched by any magic. Not even your best warrior could withstand my divine wrath!" Dainn pointed to the smoldering form of Spike, who weakly struggled to get up. "And with it, I will tear through your resistance once and for all!" "N-No..!" Rainbow growled defiantly before receiving a kick to her stomach. "Guards! Gather these weak-minded fools to my float. Let's make an example out of them to the rest of their cock serving race!" "Yes, Indomitable one!" Briskly, the unicorn general and the resistance leader secluded themselves within Oona's tent, Applejack guarding outside to ensure no one was to disturb them. Inside, Sombra freed his arm from her grip, irritated at the goat. "Enough delays, Ewe! Tell me what it is you want," he demanded. Unwavering, the dream faun took a step aside to reveal the stricken forms of Rarity and Fluttershy, dabbling madden mumbles and clutching onto the makeshift sheets. Sombra stared with bewilderment as Ewe placed her hands over the startled pegasus. "Ye said ye cood feel thes one's sool fightin' within 'er broken state, correct?" Oona asked, to which Sombra nodded. "Ah believe ye hauld th' solution tae breakin' them it ay th' cariboo's clutches an' steer awa' frae their traumatic fate." "What?! You think that I could...?," he paused, flabbergasted. "I... I've never had to undo psychological damage, let alone a maddening mantra. What if I make it worse? I could send them further on the brink of... I shouldn't! I can't..!" For the first time in his extended life of egoism and tyranny, Sombra felt a twinge of fear strike through his moral soul. Not fear for his own life, but another. "Ye'll ne'er know unless ye try," Ewe urged. "Sombra, ye're th' only one wit knowledge an' th' proper power tae handle this sort o thing. Aye, there's a risk 'at yer efforts will worsen their sorry states, but Ah hink 'at by doin' this... by tryin' tae sae another's life, ye main unleash th' full might ay yer arcane magic. Was it nae ye who said darkness wasn't inherently evil?" "I was... But not everypony chooses to believe that!" "Weel 'en," Ewe took a seat between the two beds, offering a challenging grin. "Ya'll jist hav tae prove them wrang, won't ye?" The dark stallion remained unsettled with this predicament before him. Rarity eyed him, trying to beckon him closer by pushing up her luscious chest while giggling without care. Fluttershy remained coiled in a fetal position, continually shivering. Despite his protest and uncertainty in being of any help to them, he knew that he couldn't leave them in this. 'At least, should I fail, they won't have to suffer long,' he concluded, resigning himself to the yellow pegasus' bed and inhaling deeply. Closing his eyes, Sombra concentrated on the vast black ickiness swelling within Fluttershy. Once he had a firm hold of her presence, his conscious slipped away from the waking world into the lascivious energy fuming from the pegasus. His enter body shuddered, mindfully gazing into a sea of darkness. Sombra's mind was assaulted with whispers and lecherous phrases, chanting incoherently, 'Obey cock! Serve Cock. Live cock!' 'Stupid, fucking whore! Shut up and suck dick!' 'Male supremacy! Caribou rule! Hail King Dainn!' Sombra clutched at his chest, the urge to vomit rising within his throat. The wailing went on and on; he could feel his soul drown under the oppression. Still, Sombra kept searching deeper, the world around him growing colder. Until finally... 'I've found her!' Dimly glowing was the nude form of Fluttershy, her whimpering and sobs echoing through this phantasmagorial plain. The darkness around her formed simple shapes of phalluses to rub and smack her with, the caribou's mantra screamed at her. 'You love dick! That's all you're good for!' 'Be a good little slut and choke on cock!' 'Open your legs and take our children!' 'No, please!' The trembling Pegasus pleaded, a neverending struggle to pull out of the inky bodies pulling her under. 'G-Go away! Leave me alone! I..!' 'Fluttershy! ' Sombra called to her internally. 'Fluttershy!' Yet each time he reached further, the frightened soul pulled farther away. The walls of oppression prevented any sound from reaching her, the caribou's magic overwhelming to both the dark stallion and trapped mare. The voices only grew worse. 'C'mon, fuck her already!' 'Be a stud and fuck that bitch up!' 'Make her worship your cock like the king that you are!' "No, I'm not a..! Shut up! Get out of my head!" he growled, clutching over his temples to try and silence and bombarding profanity. Ewe quickly rose to comfort him, tightly gripping his shoulders. "Dinnae falter, Sombra," she encouraged. "Don't lit their words sway ye! Keep fightin'!" Letting the goat's words guide him, he pushed through the senseless commands and pressure to submit. Vigorously, Sombra dug deeper into the imprisoned mind of the pegasus, drawing closer as the compelling voices grew more assertive. And then something resounds within Sombra, making him shudder. An emotion faintly surfacing from Fluttershy's being. A familiar feeling Sombra recognized all too well. Loathing. Pure, unadulterated hatred. And the dark unicorn understood how to free this tormented pegasus from her stupor. A way only he could know-how. 'Fluttershy! ' Sombra spoke again, directly to the part of that held disdained. And this time, Fluttershy responded. 'What was that? W-Whose there?' 'Heed my voice,' Sombra instructed. 'Embrace the conflict within your heart. Us it, and turn that fear against them. Make them pay for what they've done!' 'N-No, I can't! I'm too weak,' she whined. 'I-I could do nothing to stop them... I can't even stand up to these horrible voices! I-I should just--' 'Do not submit!' he bellowed, whips of dark energy glowing around his form. Upon seeing the flow of magic, 'Are you going to let them get away with discriminating you and your friends? Are you content with being their puppet!?' 'N-No... No..! No!' The hatred began to show itself from Fluttershy's body, wrapping over her limbs like cloth. Her clutched expression tightened, trembling violently at the new wave of power flowing out. Sombra pushed her onward, the shadows bending and warping into a more intense red hue, the aura glowing as bright as the anger they shared. 'Then show them who is stronger! Make them fear you! Hate you! Just as much as you hate them! Show them, Fluttershy! Show me!' Sombra urged, allowing his own emotions to overflow. The whimpering of the pegasus turned to strained groans, teeth clenched together as her body jerked up, unleashing her fury with a loud cry; "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoo!!!" The shadows she cast began to rise with her, manifesting her shape and figure, causing the goat to jump back in alarm. Her honey eyes gazed widely as the shadowy doppelganger continued Flutter's elated screams and growls. Oona then turned to Sombra, standing tall as his archaic magic hazed around him like Tartarus's flames. No longer was his aura dark and violet, but an ominous blood-red, significantly shown in the glow of his eyes. Fluttershy laid her body back, panting heavily while looking over her surroundings before yelping over the sight of her shadow looming over her menacingly. "Yaaaah! W-What is that thing?! Where am I?!" She frantically demanded, clutching the sheets for comfort before a hand took her shoulders. "Gabh air do shocair," Lady Ewe, pulling Flutter's face to hears, a slight smile on her snout. "Ye're safe now. We thooght we tint ye due tae aw th' abuse ye suffered frae th' cariboo's corruption. But, thankfully, he saved ye fr'm a grim fate," She pointed the pegasus towards Sombra, much to her bewilderment. "S-Sombra?!" At the sound of her voice, Sombra broke free of his trance, looking to his palms at the dark aura unconfined from his form. His crimson eyes turned to the pegasus and goat, and then resting on the dark silhouette attached to her shadow. "I don't believe it... I create this?" "Yes!" Oona confirmed with astonishment. "Ye awakened th' anguish an' anger within Fluttershy's sool an' conjured it intae a shade, an incorporeal bein' ay darkness 'at has lang existed within each o us. Sombra, thes means yer Onoma... yer archaic signature... is Hades!" "Hades..." The dark stallion stared at the phantom-like being in disbelief. Within his vessel was a power to summon forth a ponies' inner turmoil and shape into a servent? The shade lowered down and bowed its head. His muzzle cracked a genuine smile, a small chuckle of rare happiness slipping past his lips. His focus turned to the quivering Rarity, channeling his newfound power through her. "I-I don't understand; I thought Sombra was dead!" Fluttershy stammered at the kind-looking shepherd. "Why is he... helping us?!" "It's a lang story, mah friend," Oona giggled. "But know that th' stallion befur ye is far frae th' tyrant 'at once sooght tae claim aw 'at he saw. This Sombra... will be th' catalyst 'at ends thes dreadful era ay Equestria!" Fluttershy remained in disbelief, looking towards her friend, who suddenly shot up from the bed with a harrowing scream. After a moment of silence, Rarity woke in a panic, clutching at her ruined mane and stained fur, her sunken eyes looking anxiously around herself before spotting Fluttershy before tears resume to leak down her face. "F-Fluttershy?! Oh, thank heaven... You're okay!!" the pale unicorn bawled, rushing to hug the pegasus tightly, shoulder hunching with each sob. Flutters returned the embrace, openly crying alongside her. "We're okay, now... I think we're finally safe!" she exclaimed softly. "Not yet," Sombra disagreed, looking over the newly manifested shade of Rarity, joining Flutter's to loom by his side. "No one is safe while Dainn maintains control over Equestria. Hopefully, our allies have--" "Lady Ewe! General Sombra!" Came the voice of Applejack outside, flinging the tent capes open. She was about to make her statement before her eyes widened at the sight of Rarity and Flutters, huddling together under the covers, free from their catatonic state. "M-Mah stars, ya... Y'all are alright?! How'd ya..!?" "Turns out your friends aren't as bright and colorful as they seem," Sombra answered in summary, dispatching the shadowy figures as they phased into the ground. "Now, what is it?" "A scout came back! General Spike, Rainbow, and da rest of them got captured. The parade was a trap!" "What!?" "A trap?" exclaimed both mares in their beds. Ewe rose, a look of horror on her face. Applejack nodded, her face scrunched up. "Accordin' to reports, Dainn planned public defilement of da princesses to draw out the rebels. He was prepared for our coup d'etat..." "Sweet lucid dreams," Oona murmured. "Dainn... that bastard!" Sombra growled, fist clutched with fury. To think that the caribou king could convey a scheme so clever. He sorely underestimated what the caribou were capable of. But now... Sombra held up his fist, a flourish of dark power emanating over his hand. His steely gaze turned to the dream faun. "Gather the rest of our forces. We're moving out! Now!" "Sombra, wait! Ye just discovered yer trait! Ye need mair time to-" "We don't have time!" The dark stallion argued, his gray haze steaming out the corners of his eyes. "I refuse to stand by while my comrades are out there, risking their lives to bring this nightmare to an end! Lady Ewe, we must act before we suffer more casualties." Lady Ewe was taken aback by the look in his eyes. Behind that wrath was the determination to succeed, no matter the cost it might have on him. A look only shared by another close to her life. Resigned, she nodded her head. "Huir uv a weel. Go, Sombra. Ah will remain haur tae ensure hope remains high amongst th' resistance. But promise me this; promise me ye will return victorioos." And, without a shred of arrogance or misplaced confidence that the former tyrant was prone to spewing, Sombra nodded his head and said, "... I will!" With that, he left the tent to address the concern and panicked faces, looking to their commanding general for orders. But within each of these fearsome mares were small hints of swelling anger, repulsed by the news their allies were in danger. "Soldiers! Gather all our resources and come to me! We leave for Ponyville at once!" "B-But sir! There's no way we'll make it there in time!" A confident scowl spreads the dark general's features, the hellish power of Hades glowing from his eyes. "I know of one way." Rainbow Dash grunted, the caribou commander shoving her beaten body into the wooden float. The pegasus yelled profusely, thrashing about in the chains coiled around her as the entirety of Ponyville gathered to watch. She looked over to where Smolder and Pinkie Pie were held, growling at the guard touching and groping through her armor. Some soldiers went far to rip their troops clean in their molestations, their futile pleas ignored in favor of humiliating them. Rainbow looked over to Spike, his defeated body clad heavily in chains. And any attempt he made to rise was met with a swordsman jabbing his blade into his body, earning a howl of pain. Her gaze looked over to the many mares in the audience, whimpering and sobbing lightly while their owner's berated and raped them. The many lives she failed. "Is it finally sinking in yet, harlot?" Dainn's condescending voice asked, his leer met with the pegasus' deathly glare. "Has this miserable attempt at regicide opened your eyes? Your life before has long since ended! A mare's purpose is to bear children and obey their superiors; nothing more or less. Come to your sense, you stubborn whore. You lost!" The cyan mare yelled as Dainn's hoof pressed over her cheek, rubbing his victory directly into her face. The caribou king bent down to one knee, a cruel smirk on his snout. "It's not too late to admit your faults. I can spare you from the crimes that await you, young mare." He removed his hoof off her head and unbuckled his leather trousers before presenting the aggressive pegasus with his hardening cock. "Accept my rule by suckling my cock, and I will pardon your crimes~." Rainbow's cerise pupils dilated at the repulsive sight of slimy noodle pulsating before her nose. With pained breaths, she spat at his member while keeping her glare fixated on him. "I'd rather die, you pompous fuck!" she seethed. Snorting, he delivered another harsh kick to the pony's bruised face. "That can easily be arranged then. Guards, dispose of this slit!" Rainbow growled as Dainn's men lifted her wriggling form. Yet despite the bleak predicament, she would fight against her oppressors valiantly. Sombra would come. And once he did, the wrath of Equestria would lay upon the caribou like wildfire. Astonishingly, somepony's voice came forth to share this sentiment. "We'll... not... give up..!" Everypony's head turned to the direction of Celestia, who had been silent for the entirety of the parade. Dainn looked especially taken aback by his broken pet's refound voice. The princess of the sun rose her head, her pale magenta eyes glaring at the barbaric ruler with renewed spite. "We will never give up," the pale alicorn spoke delicately. "I... I may have failed my subjects, allowed my home to fall into disarray, but they will succeed me. As long as hope exists, Equestria will forever be beyond your reach, Dainn!" "Phah! Such empty words," Dainn scoffed, hiding his surprise under furrowed eyebrows. "You think you can threaten me? You, who kneels before my hooves like a groveling mule? And here I thought you finally learned your place. A shame I'll have to punish you once we head home-" "THEN PUNISH ME!" Celestria cried out, causing the caribou to jump at the power in her voice. "Flay me! Defile me! Behead me if it fulfills your puny ego! But even in death, I will defy you. They will forever defy you!" "She... She's right!" A mare spoke out, which caused a chain effect of murders to erupt from the crowd, defiantly growing louder. "We will never accept you as our king!" "We will be free! The caribou's rule means nothing!" "Equestria will rise!" A small smirk spread Rainbow's face as more mares, and even stallions, rejecting the caribou's rule. Even as guards snarled at the crowd, threatening to butcher them where they stand, they continued to speak against the male chauvinists. Whatever composure Dainn maintained quickly faltered as he violently yanked Celestia by the nub of her horn, teeth clenched with rising fury. "SILENCE, WHORE!" "Thou shall not win, villain," Luna added into the commotion, smirking triumphantly. "Thou may take our bodies and treat us like dirt, but thou will not have our souls! This is our land! And the likes of thee will never prevail!" Dainn casts his glare between the two alicorn sisters, unable to hold back the swelling rage brewing in his chest. The nerve of these bitches to speak up at him, to spark rebellion within these miserable. To continue to reject him as their rightful king! Electricity sparks in his fists as he placed his palms over each mare's face, his eyes illuminating with energy. "YOU INSUFFERABLE SLUTS! I'LL TEACH YOU TO TALK BACK TO ME!" He declared, surging his power forth from his grip, lightning wrapping over Celestia and Luna's face as each screamed in muffled agony. "I AM THE KING! I AM EQUESTRIA! AND I'LL SNUFF OUT ALL HOPE FROM YOU AND YOUR PATHETIC RACE!" The crowd was stunned to silence, each pony watching in terror as pure bolts of arcane magic zapped through the alicorn's bodies. Even the king's own men stared in disbelief that he would go that far. Rainbow Dash had to close her eyes with how intense the flashes of light were. But as the crackling of lightning stopped, her eyes opened to a horrific sight. Both alicorn's slumped forward, their faces charred and flesh pulverized. Their eyes glazed lifelessly over. An outcry of panic broke out, ponies trying to push out from each other until the caribou guards shoved the butts of their weapons to knock out any fleeing prisoners. Spike roared, his Onoma shimmering, enraged at the death of his aunties. Yet the weapons and chains holding him down subdue any attempt to burst free. Dainn stood over the singed corpses of the former princesses, panting heavily. His eyes wide with rage before looking over to the pegasus. He grabbed her by the throat with a grunt, choking her as he lifts her restrained body. All she could do was wriggle uselessly in the king's grasp. "Look at what you've made me do!" Dainn spat. "Those were my trophies, you tart! Because of you, my celebration is entirely ruined! Do you feel proud, knowing that your wretched kind will suffer dearly for the grievance? I should have your head... but I think a more suitable punishment is in order. Guards! Free the caribou hulk! Let it ravage this bitch into a proper broodmare." "N-NOO!!" She yelled, the caribou tyrant dropping her, ascending back to his seat as the guardsmen clasped over the lock keeping the mutant beast imprisoned. "Let this be a warning to all who dare oppose me! THIS shall be your fate!" Once the lock was uncoupled, the caribou hulk broke out of the cage, snarling madly before setting its sights on the iron-bound pegasus. Frantically, she tried with all her might to break out before the lumbering giant grabbed her with one meaty hand. Rainbow stared dreadfully into the lifeless, pupilless eyes. Everything the caribou demanded and stood for manifest into this abomination. Salivated from its unhinged jaw, it grabbed the bottom of her jumpsuit to tear it away, leaving her crotch and thighs exposed. "No! Fuck, no! NONONONO!" She cried, her legs flailing about to kick the brute away, only for it to slam her into the float. The caribou hulk continued to bash her back into the wood until she could not keep kicking. Her legs dangled helplessly as the monster grabbed onto its heavy slab of meat before pressing its tip against her tiny slit. Rainbow's eyes went pinpoint over how wide and thick the monstrous cock was against her labia. "N-No, stop! I can't take that! It'll kill me!" she pleaded, staring past the hulk's shoulders to the curious eyes of Dainn, who stared back remorselessly while having Twilight slurp and bob her head along his rigged length. All the mare could do was close her eyes and brace for the unfathomable amount of pain of having this creature skewer her until something distracted the mutant from generating her core. The sound of a war horn resonated throughout Ponyville, causing every pony and caribou to halt their actions, heads raised in the direction of that sound. King Dainn, too, rose his head, perplexed over the ominous bass echoing. The earth began to tremble. Many lost their balance, tumbling down to their knees and rear ends. The guards clung onto their weapons to hold them steady. The violent quaking grew stronger until the main street of Ponyville cracked apart. Ponies scrambled to the sidelines, the wreckage of floats falling into the gaping abyss. Caribou guards, far too close to the edge, lost their footing and plummeted down screaming. Slowly, a dark spire of black crystal emerged from the enormous fissure, rising out from the ground to tower over many of Dainn's floats. And standing on the tip, red cape and dark mane waving in the wind like a war flag, was Sombra. Rainbow Dash could hardly believe the amount of joy pounding in her heart upon seeing him, half smiling. "Took you long enough," she murmured. "Who is that?" "Wait... isn't that Sombra?!" "No, it can't be! I thought he died!?" "It's a bad omen! We're doomed!" Many mares and stallions commented to themselves, eyes bewildered over the sudden arrival of the Crystal Empire's former tyrant, conflicted with his appearance. Everypony nearly jumped as a hand popped out from the split earth, a resistance fighter pulling herself up. Then another climbed onto Ponyville's tattered tiles. And then another. And another, until the remaining rebels stood before the caribou guards on either side, swords, and bats raised to their head. "C-Cunts! Get back!!" A commander barked, earning him a hard blow to his helmet that sent him hurtling into the crevice with a thud. Below was solid ground, where more resistance fighters waited to handle the ruthless barbarian. The rebel mares subdue the troops molesting Smolder and her forces, giving them something to batter the caribou with as they stood on defense. Once Pinkie Pie was free, she swung her leg to bash a guard's balls into his taint, the bastard crying out before his legs inwardly collapsed. Dainn could hardly believe his eyes. Today was supposed to be his crowning achievement. With the caribou hulk's release, he would finally end the resistance and make all these stupid mares submit to male reign. He even drew out a general and bested him in combat! But now, both his prized possession died martyrs. And now, this looming threat stared down at him, his icy eyes meeting the fiery crimson orbs of the dark stallion. "And just who in Tartarus are you?!" Dainn demanded, tightly clutching Twilight's main, causing the mare distress. Sombra swishes his cape with a snort to reveal his arm, a smoky black aura emitting off his palm before answering the tyrant. "I... am Equestria's reckoning." The dark stallion dropped to the ground in one bound, placing his hand onto the crystalline pillar. Infusing a section with magic, he slowly pulled out a steel handle before tearing out a blade made entirely of obsidian. Not once did Sombra look away from the caribou's disdain expression before marching over. "Gnnngh! Don't just stand there, you idiots!" Dainn bellowed. "STOP HIM!!" At once, Dainn's armored soldiers rushed at the unicorn, blunt axes and swords aimed to cut him down, only to be met with a loud clang as Sombra's obsidian blade broke through the dulled metal, stabbing one guard in the chest. The wounded soldier lowed down, gasping in pain before Sombra kicked him off the strike at another attacker. All those weeks, fighting off brutes with weak weapons, paid off tremendously now that he forged a proper long sword. One caribou commander secured Sombra from behind, hooking his arms under to apply a full nelson around the former king's head. Grunting, Sombra shifted out of a physical form to shroud the mistaken general in darkness so thick that no one could make out what he did to cause those terrifying screams. Instead, the shadow's pulled away to return the dark stallion, the caribou commander a shriveling mess as he collapsed to the frozen earth. As their general made his move, the other rebels commenced in the brawl. Weapons and shields bashed with each other as the mares fought against the caribou oppressors. Smolder joined in the fray, repaying the lecherous brutes by spitting fire into their faces and swiping down their chests. Rainbow Dash watched in awe as the battle pressed on until a sharp pain spiked between her legs. She howled as the caribou hulk resumed to try and spear its overgrown penis through her folds. "YAAAAAGHNAAAH!!" The mare's cry alerted Sombra, once more phasing through the guards with umbral speed. Out from the shadowy wisps, the dark general slashed at the brute's arm, causing it to screech and released its captive. Sombra caught the shaking pegasus before firing a small blast of magic to melt the chains, freeing her limbs as Dash stumbled to balance herself. "You alright?" He asked, holding her up by the shoulders. "I was about to get impaled and become the baby factory of a mutant freak! Do you think I'm alright?!" she yelled with an annoyed glare. Before Sombra could cheekily retort, the monstrous bulk of flesh and muscle drew the bickering ponies as dark blood oozed out from its severed hand. More caribou guardsmen swarmed around the pair, broad swords pointing towards them. Sombra and Rainbow leaned against each other's back, surveying the best tactic. "You handle ugly. I'll keep the guards off our arses." "You'd better," she teased before they bounced off each other, Sombra flying at the guards to slash his obsidian blade into the armored thugs. Rainbow would divert the hulking brute's attention, swiftly ducking and doing its blow it made in trying to hit her. "Stop!! You'll destroy my float!" Dainn demanded, yet his creation was lost in blind desire to pummel the mare, slamming both fists overhead to cause the entire platform to collapse. The caribou soldiers wavered, allowing Sombra to knock aside his foes and bash their steel helmets with his crystal sword. Snarling, Dainn shoved the lavender pony away from him to jump ship, Twilight screaming out as Rainbow jumped to catch her friend, the two tumbling into the snow. Once more, Sombra held another swordsman to a stalemate, both struggling to push the other off. Unlucky for the caribou, Sombra's horn emanated a bright red glow before unleashed a blast of raw magic into the poor fool's face, his screams melting along with his flesh before his body slumped down. Sombra's attention returned to the caribou hulk, charging at Rainbow Dash. Quickly, he summoned forth a wall of sharp stones to block the brute's path before concentrating another magical beam to finish off the creature. To his surprise, the caribou hulk was resisting, snarling in agony while blocking his power in its remaining hand, flesh leisurely melting off its bones. Sombra persisted, swear rolling of his brow to maintain his flow of magic as the monster got closer to him. Fortunately, Rainbow Dash recovered to jump back into the fray and deliver a swift kick to the monster's hideous mug, staggering it to a knee. Ending his projectile, Sombra ran up to shove his black crystalline blade through the throat of the caribou hulk. In a dying gasp, the misogynistic monstrosity tried to reach for the dark stallion, only for it's head to lobe off its neck. Sombra stepped away panting, fatigue starting to settle, his head ringing from how long he held up that energy beam. Turning around, he looked to his comrades to see how they faired. And to his relief, many of the caribou regimes struggled to hold back the rebel troops and soldiers. Smolder, and her entourage was busy trying to unshackle Spike and get the large dragon back up. But their numbers remained small, as many of the onlookers were too afraid to join the fight. Slave mares and cowardly stallions, the ones who weren't abusive, clung to each other, yearning for their freedom. But Sombra knew that deep inside; they wanted to return the violence and heinousness the caribou projected onto them, especially when their beloved princess died at the hands of their cruel king. "HnnghaaAAAAAGH!!" Sombra bellowed, wraps of electricity surging through his armor from behind. He turned his gaze towards Dainn, unleashing bolts of arcane energy through his fingertips, matching Sombra's fury. Unable to withstand the overwhelming pain, Sombra collapsed to his knees and arms. "SOMBRA!" Rainbow yelled, rushing to aid her general before an injured caribou grabbed at her leg, keeping her from going any further. Upon seeing another warrior fall, Smolder strained her arms to lift Spike, their troops circled by more enforcers. Satisfied, Dainn discharged his Onoma while directing his guards to stand over Sombra's smoking body. The fabric of his cape smoldered with burnt marks, Sombra's arms and face singed. The dark unicorn struggled to hold his body up while tilting his head at the bladed tips aimed at him. The caribou king sighed wearily before chuckling, leering at the crowd. "Have you learned nothing? It doesn't matter what you do. You can fight all you want, and I'll still come out as the victor. We caribou are naturally stronger, superior, smarter! Did you honestly believe you had a chance against me?" The crackling tyrant looked over to the dark unicorn. "I'll admit this one surprised me. I wasn't expecting such a brilliant fighter to exist among you putrid ponies. A shame he chose to waste his strength because I could use such a stallion in my fold! But alas, another disappointment." He turned his back on his would-be foe and began to walk away. "I've had enough of this accursed day! Caribou, kill this mongrel and bring me his head. I'm heading home." "Pathetic..!" That word caused the caribou to stop in his tracks, turning to the fool that muttered it. Sombra rose his head, chuckling lowly. Dainn's brows furrowed once more. "Care to repeat that, colt?" "You're so pathetic," Sombra rebutted, louder. "Never have I met a more yellow-bellied lunatic, thinking he commands anything just because he decorated his horns like a hearth's warming tree." "Bold words from a dead colt," the tyrant scoffed. "I'd be insulted if you weren't about to be mounted on my wall." "It's funny... how much you think your followers look up and respect you," Sombra panted, his laughter wheezing. "When in actuality, they've come to fear you." Dainn's confidence wavered, the unicorn's words getting under the caribou's skin as his scowl returned. "Enough of this nonsense! Quit twiddling your thumbs and behead this fool! Now!!" Yet the guards did nothing. Frozen in place while staring down into the ground, trembling in their armor. Dainn was about to decree another order when an intense pressure weighed over him. Gasping, his eyes widened as a blood-red aura lit over Sombra's body. "I'll let you in on a secret, Dainn," Sombra said, his hands clutching into tight fists. "All the fear and hatred you've brought upon everypony doesn't end with mares and stallions. These caribou, your fellow brethren? They despise you! Loath what you've become!" Darkness emerged out of his knuckles, flowing into the shadows around him, archaic energy glowing from below the caribou's hooves. "Hatred is all you've brought to Equestria! And in hatred, you and your forces will FALL!" With a loud below, Sombra rose back to his hooves; eyes blazed in hellish light before the shadows of the caribou took form, blocking off Dainn's commanders from holding down the former tyrant. Each brute stammered back, startled by their doppelganger shoving them back with their own weapons. Dainn jumped, eyes widen in disbelief. "What!?" Sombra rose a fist to the sky, commanding the caribou shades to attack their counterpart, swiping their armor and shields with shadowy steel. The enforcers, too frightened with the manifestations of their disdain, were pushed further back until their shades sliced through to their arms, drawing blood and yelps of pain. Rainbow Dash, the dragons, and the onlookers couldn't believe the sight before their eyes as Sombra looked back towards them. "Citizens of Ponyville! The time has come for you to fight back against the oppressors. Give them your hate. Your fear. Make them suffer for what they've done! Show them the might of Equestria and RISE UP!!" He pointed to the lifeless bodies of the alicorn sisters. "Are you going to let Dainn get away with this atrocity!? Will Celestia and Luna's deaths be in vain!?" "No... No more! NO MORE!!" One mare sneered, the overwhelming emotions becoming too much to bear inside as she let out a harrowing yell. From behind, her shade materialized to strike at the stallion that tormented her for months on end, knocking him down cold. Soon, more and more ponies bought into Sombra's speech, letting their darkest emotions manifest into shadowy phantoms to fight back against their abusers. "Oh yeah, let's get mad!" Rainbow grinned angrily, glaring down at the caribou as a shade of her own burst out from beneath her to tackle down the caribou soldier. Disarmed, she smacked his face with her hoof before leaping up to resume their fight. Shortly, the entire crowd spawned dark transparent copies of themselves that double their numbers. For once, ever since their arrival to Equestria, the Caribou's height and bulk meant nothing. They were the ones outnumbered. Spike had to hand it to Sombra. The unicorn talked a big game and definitely had the power to back up his bark. The dragon unleashed a might roar with returning energy and led his troops to resume the attack, joining the ponies and shades in battering the barbaric soldiers into the ground. "What's happening?!" One enforcer exclaimed, trying to shield off the weapons. "How did these bitches get so fucking strong?!" "I-It's a trick! Don't buy into that crap!" A commander snarled, battering down one shadowy figure with a club. "They're just lowly bitches! We're the superior ones! We're--GAAAAAGH!" His speech was cut short as a caribou shade impaled him from the back and tossed his burly body into a squad of soldiers, sending them over the edge of the fissure. "Even our own kind is attacking us!!" "What do we do? WHAT DO WE DO!?" "I didn't sign up for this!" "Shut your mouths," A caribou captain shouted, struggling to keep the mares and rebels off him. "This is not how warriors act! Dainn chose us to carry out his rule of supremacy! Keep these hoes in line, for fuck sake!" "But sir, there's so many of them!!" "These ghost things are passing through our armor and shields!" One yelled, the arm of a shadowy stallion phasing through to jab a blade right through the caribou's neck. And as much as the captain wanted to refuse that ponies had gotten the better of them, the odds were stacked against them. There was no way they could win now with the dragon, mysterious unicorn, and these dark phantasmagorial beings. "M-My liege! May I request a tactical retreat?" He called forth to King Dainn, only to be distraught to find that the caribou tyrant was no longer where he stood. "D-Dainn?!" Sombra followed the troubled look on the caribou's face, rushing forward to find the fleeing coward running over the hillside, far away from Ponyville. "Damnit!" Rainbow growled. "He's on the run!" Sombra's glare deepened as his form dissolved into his umbral essence, disappearing into the earth while uttering a leaving statement. "He won't get far!" "Huuhhf... Guugh, fuck!" Dainn cursed as he struggled to run through the deepening blanket of snow. He paused to catch his breath, panting hysterically. His heart pounded loudly in his chest, his thoughts rampant with disarray. How was this possible? How on earth did those meek, feeble ponies bring forth a warrior, who unleashed Tartarus to slaughter a full regime of his best soldiers?! it was inconceivable! But he managed to escape certain death. He fixed his glare at the distant village of Ponyville, a dark haze streaming through the sky like smoke. "I'll make them pay for this transgression, those deceiving cunts!" the caribou king swore. "I'll head to the Crystal Empire, rally up more men, and return with a swift vengeance! Those bitches will regret the day they dare get the better of me!" Dainn, with retribution on the mind, marched on through the snow until the ground started to shake beneath him. He gasped, losing balance from the raptured as jagged crystal pillars erected from the ground, forming a cage to prevent him from going any further. "What!? No!!" "And where do you think you're going?" The caribou rose, startled as the looming dark unicorn stood behind him, dark red energy wisping off his form, staring deathly at the shaking tyrant. The tip of his obsidian blade glowed in power, warping the cold air around him. Like the coward he was, Dainn shot himself at the jewel barricade, slamming his fists to futilely break free, sparks of electricity jolting from his fists. "You have nowhere to run," Sombra growled. "Your regime has fallen, most of your troops are dead, and now you stand before me, trembling like a frightened animal trapped with its predator. It's over for you, Dainn. You've lost!" The caribou king glared bitterly over at the stallion, his head twitch, brows furrowed with fury. "Never! I am not the weak one here, you are!" Dainn accused with a snarl. "You allowed those slits to mess with your head! Only a simp allows the likes of females to fight for them. But I refuse to surrender my rights as a buck to the likes of you stupid ponies! Equestria is MINE to command! You ALL will kneel and lick the ground I walk on!" Lightning flowed out his arms, his eyes lighting up as energy crackled through his fingers, his body on end and unhinged. Sombra let out a hardy chuckle. "What's so funny!?" "Oh, nothing... You remind me of a younger version of myself; less impressive and more pussy whipped than he'd care to admit," Sombra commented, tightening his stance while gripping his blade with both hands. "You're a truly delusional fellow if you believe you can win." "I've already won, wretched stallion! Once I return with your head, whatever hope they have will perish, and I will cement my reign as a grand conqueror, just like my ancestors. I am Dainn the Indomitable! I! AM! KING!" Sombra sneered at his opponent as archaic energy erupted around him like fire, his eyes alit with crimson fury. "Those who spout 'they are king' will never be true kings. And I refuse to lose to the likes of you!" With tremendous force and a loud war cry, the two launched at each other. Dainn forged a spear with his archaic lighting to clash with Sombra's obsidian sword, striking with ardor as energy sparked upon each thrust and swing. The caribou king attacked like a hound with blood rage, yelling in exasperation upon failing to connect any real damage to the dark unicorn. Sombra grunted and growled, returning his foe's ferocity with relentless stabs overhead strikes, failing to penetrate through the electrical sharpness of Dainn's weapon. Strategy and cunning had long been thrown out of the window. Sombra and Dainn refused to give in until the other's head was decapitated. The two despots were locked in a duel to the death. Crystal blade and thundering energy meet once more, a standstill as the to pushed against each other in a contest of strength, crimson eyes gazing hatefully into the electrical blue that mirrored his disdain. The struggle for an advantage end as Sombra pressed all of his weight to make Dainn bend down to his knees, starting to tower over the angry caribou. "Grrraaangh!" he bellowed, pressing his might back against the dark unicorn, static sparking onto the ground as he prepared to channel his magic through his horns. But before he could strike, Sombra's own horn glowed in hot red before firing a beam into his sword. The weapon ignited with pure power, unleashing a massive blast of hot light to slide Dainn backward into the ground. But the caribou king was unrelenting, surging his magic into a single large bolt, the contrasting energies interacting with one another. Sparks of blue and red flew everywhere as the rays of arcane magic pushed against each other, the users straining and aching to move ahead in the contest of power. Eventually, Dainn's trait began to overwhelm the fiery red laser, slowly pushing more and more energy back towards Sombra. "It's futile!" Dainn declared through clenched teeth. "The power of Zeus is invincible! Not even your Onoma can measure to the sheer force of lighting!" "Ggaangh... Perhaps not," panted Sombra, beads of sweat pouring off his brow as he concentrated on keeping his magic flowing. "But power alone will not spare you from the darkness that surrounds you!" At the last second, Sombra ceased his magic to duck out of the surging bolt before sending a flow of magic into the snow. Just as Dainn discharged his power, the crystal pillars began to expand in size. Before the king could continue his attack, Sombra disappeared into the darkness as the cage enclosed over them. Not even the glow from his archaic aura could pierce through the pitch-black surroundings. "What is this?! Show yourself, coward!" Dainn snarled, igniting more electrical currents from his fingers to lash out the moment his nemesis figure was spotted. But instead, a hand would grab onto his arm. And then, another pair of hands latched onto his leg. The caribou stammered, before discovering the crystal chasm, allowed more shades to emerge. The many shades of all the countless victims he defiled and tormented through his reign of Equestria. "Gaagh! L-Let go of me, filthy swine!" He demanded, ignoring the harsh whispers and screams they echoed while blasting each that held him. But their numbers overwhelmed him, new pairs of hands replacing each shade he struck down until they clasped his throat. They clawed at him, tearing away his royal garb like he had the princesses. Leaving him bare and exposed to the cold like he had so many mares. "N-No nononono! Don't touch me! Leave me alone!!" he pleaded as hands roughly clutched onto his genitals. His eyes widened, agony pulsing through his loins as he felt the tug and pull at his member, then fear exhilarating as another pair clutched over his leathery ballsack, squeezing tightly. The caribou king feebly squirmed, trying everything in his power to break free. "S-STOP! GAAGH! NO, PLEASE! DON'T!" The shades stared mercilessly at the frightened coward before, in a steel grip, his balls burst under pressure before being town off his scrotum. "GRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUGH! AAAAAUGHAHAAAGH!" Dainn screamed with fury and horror, his form wriggling in anguish as blood splattered the snow-covered ground. But the worse had yet to come as another shade took hold of his limp dick, opened its mouth before biting into his foreskin, the caribou wrenching out in shock. And in a swift tug of its head, the shade pulled back to tear his penis off, completing the dismemberment of the once-proud king. "NAAAAAAUGH! NOOOOO! MY BALLS! MY COOOOOCK!!!" Dainn bawled as his legs folded inward onto the ground. "How does it feel to be stripped of your dignity?" Sombra's voice whispered insidiously before the dark stallion walked towards him. "Can you hear the outcry of fear you've inflicted? Do you feel the pain of all the souls you've raped and tarnished?! Embrace their agony, Dainn! And suffer as they have!!" With a mighty roar, the dark unicorn lifted the sniveling welp by his neck and smashed his face with his fists. Each blow he struck into the caribou was dedicated to all ponies and creatures who suffered at his hands. The battered and bloodied king of the caribou leaned against the crystalline pillar, spewing hot liquid from his mouth while struggling to stand upright. But his weary eyes focused on the angry stallion, and small bolts of static wrapped around his form. Through heavy pants, he spat out, "You... lowly, mongrel! To think, gaah..! A stupid unicorn could cause me so much pain. Because of you, my legacy is forever in shambles," He berated, eyes alit with arcane magic. "But If I must perish... THAN ALL OF EQUESTRIA WILL PERISH WITH ME!!" Thunder roared from above before an enormous bolt of lightning struck the crystal cage, shattering the jewels to pieces, daylight burning the shades away. Sombra flinched as the weather grew rapid, a storm cloud brewing over the howling winds. Dainn ascended to the sky, leering down at Sombra while channeling his Onoma to its full prowess. Blood dripped down from his legs, the caribou shivering before firing a hand of electricity at the stallion. Without his blade to defend himself, Sombra collapsed onto his knees, yelling as the bolts wrapped and penetrated his flesh. "My power is unlimited," the caribou king crackled. "Now die, wretched pony! Die knowing you and your kind will be eradicated! All will know my wrath! ALL WILL HAIL DAINN!!" He rose his arm into the sky, a nexus swirling in the clouds as volts of nature flashed in the wintery sky. Sombra gazed into the furious snarl of the thunderous caribou, gathering all of his archaic energy into one enormous bolt of crackling lightning. Sombra willed himself to channel Hades' power, but he could not manifest a shade without a source of darkness. Unless... "WITH THIS, I SMITE YOU DOWN, STALLION! YOU AND AL--Aaaaaagahcaagh!? WHAT!?" Before the furious Stormbringer could finish his declaration of his opponent's demise, he felt weight pulling down. A hand once more clasped around his throat and cut off his oxygen. The archaic magic vaporized from his wide eyes as he turned back to stare at another shade. His shade. "W-What!? No! NOO!!" "As I said before," Sombra groaned, steam hazing from his singed flesh, a patch of his fur burnt off his arms and face. His obsidian blade returned to his hand as he stared down at the struggling caribou with utter animosity. "This battle was mine to win, given how reckless and vile you are. The darkness in your soul is immeasurable. It's only natural that it would be your undoing." "NOOOUGH! N-Not like this!!" Dainn spat, being brought onto his knees once more as his shade held his head in a vice lock. The trembling coward stared up into Sombra. And even though his spirit fought, the stallion detected resignment in those icy blue eyes. Deep down, the caribou knew; there was no escaping his death. "E-Equestria... Gnnaagh! Has no future without me!!" He insisted through choked words, loathing the stallion with every last breath. Normally, Sombra would show respect to a noble warrior who would fight until the end. But Dainn was nothing but a stubborn fool who refused to admit defeat. "No..." Sombra sighed, holding his blade to the side as it pulled with archaic energy, igniting the light in his eyes. "... There is no future with you!!" Muster the last of his strength into one final cry, Sombra lunged at the battered caribou before piercing the stone edge through his chest. A sticking sound of flesh tearing and blood spilling was backup by the Dainn's dying yowl, his shade vanishing with a harrowing scream. More of the buck's blood oozed from his mouth, staining the blade. His eyes nearly rolled over, staring unblinkingly at Sombra before the stallion placed his heel into the handle to push the sword further through the caribou. Weak, desperate breaths for life left his foul mouth, the wretched tyrant unable to do anything but watch his enemy grab onto his antlers and start pulling his head painfully up. Dainn wept pathetically while staring up into the ruthless visage of Sombra, the last thing he saw before... SCLUNCH! The battle in Ponyville was drawing to a close. With their king having gone awol, the caribou were left to fend off against the resistance themselves. Even with the mysterious shades disappearing, the prolonged wrath from the mares they violated and tortured was unwavering. And with the dragon general and lieutenants bringing down the regime's top commanders and captain, defeat was inevitable for the stubborn race of warriors. All the soldiers, battered, bruised, clips of fur ripped and armor dented, had their backs cornered. Defiantly, they held their weapons as the crowd of angry ponies closed them in. In turn, Rainbow Dash rose her dulled blade at neck point, glaring daggers into each caribou brawler. "Checkmate," she declared. "No... This is impossible!" "We couldn't have lost!" "We own you cunts!!" "This isn't over," a commander spat. "There's still plenty of us around Equestria to put you ungrateful sluts back in line. A-As we speak, our king has left to call for back up! And he will return with a great army!" "Y-yeah! Canterlot is still under our command!" "Just you whores wait! When King Dainn comes back, he'll..." But all arguments died down as a figure marched forth from the haze. Everypony and caribou turned head as Sombra emerged, lumbering with exhaustion. The unicorn cast a wary glare over to the oppressors before lifting something in the air for all to see. Everyone gasped, the caribou's expression pale in comparison. In the stallion's grasp was the severed head of Dainn, blood dripping out his throat, his neck bone dangling. Lifeless eyes glazed over, his tongue flopped to one side of his snout. The look of pure horror clear on his face. The sight was too much to handle as many caribou's bellowed in alarm. Sombra unceremoniously dropped the tyrant's head to the ground, approaching the quivering cowards to respond in a calm, worn out demeanor. "Your king is dead. Stand down, or join his fate." Fear in their eyes over the menacing crimson gaze of the once cruel tyrant, each buck felt to their knees and lowered their heads to the ground, surrendering. Soon, all weapons fell to the ground as each mare and stallion shakingly collapsed, tears of joy streaming from their eyes. "It's over... It's finally over," one mint-green mare sobbed, clutching her friend tightly, comforting each other. Stallions, who were forced to inflict grueling pain to their spouses and loved ones, hesitantly pulled a mare into his arms, brushing her messy mane. "We can go home now... we don't have to hide!" "No! NOOOOOOOOOOooo!! YOU TRAITORS!!" One voice cried out. Each head turned to Twilight, the former princess of friendship, now reduced to a blubbery mess while spitting spite at the subjects who trusted her. "How could you do this to our masters!? You should be groveling at their hooves, begging for mercy! And YOU!" She pointed at Sombra. "You've ruined everything!! How dare you come back and kill our glorious king!? Kill him!! KILL HIIIIIIIIM!!Baugh!" Everypony stares at the deranged alicorn with pity as Spike gently held up the wriggling mare, tightly holding her despite how much she snarled demanded him to drop her, pounding her fists into his shoulders. "Shhhhh, It's okay, Twilight. I got you... We're gonna help you, I promise," he assured, carrying Twilight away to calm her down. Smolder took the initiative to step onto the remains of Dainn's float, drawing everyone's attention to her. "Citizens of Ponyville... Let this day mark the beginning of our liberation! With Dainn's downfall, the rest of the caribou will follow. Mares and Stallions... This is our victory!" At the raise of her fist, everypony exploded in an uproar of jubilation. A wave of elation flooded the entire village as Pinkie Pie grabbed as many mares into a hug and leaped with jow. Rainbow Dash did all she could to fight back the proud tears leaking down her face. Her head perked over to Sombra, who placed his hand over the crystal pillar that brought him here, lowering it back into the ground. His head turned to the wingless pegasus and shared in her smile of triumphant. Then suddenly, she rushed over to urge Sombra towards the crowd, raising his own fist in the air. While innately, everypony looked nervously at the dark stallion, imposing stature not lost from the record books. But that dread melted into joy as they all began to chant his name, recognizing Sombra for his actions that lead to their freedom. The stallion himself was at a loss for words. He stood before a crowd of ponies that celebrated him as a hero. Sombra was out of touch with elation, having expected a fearful and vile monster. There was no doubt they didn't see him that differently. But perhaps the relief of no longer being bound to caribou chains overshadow his horrible reputation. So for the moment, Sombra quietly embraced this wave of positivity, shutting his eyes, allowing a broad smile to appear on his snout. 'So this is what heroism feels like,' he said internally. 'I must admit... It feels good.' "You're leaving?!" While resistance members and Spike's troops remain in Ponyville to cauterized the damage, Sombra, Rainbow Dash, and others returned to camp, sharing the news of Equestria's victory and Dainn's demise. But once the jubilee settled down, Sombra went into deep thoughts about everything he had experienced. What did he learn from this? Had he truly changed for the better? Was he to be a hero that ponies wanted. The answer, he decided, lead to him proclaiming this statement to Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Lady Ewe, who reacted distraughtly. "I have too," he insisted uneasily. "But why?" The orange mare asked. "Isn't this what ye've wanted? The folks of Ponyville will surely open up to ya after savin' their lives." "I did what needed to be done," Sombra rebutted, turning away. "I may have saved a few mares and stallions from a life of imprisonment. But that won't make up for all the pain and death I brought before me. One good deed does not define me in any better light. Besides, it's only one village. There are many places still under the caribou's influence." "Aye," Ewe nodded, understanding. "Ah can sense the sins of the past weigh heavily on ye, Sombra. But they can be forgiven, as long as ye can furgive yerself. Ye've taken the first steps towards redemption, friend." "Even so," He looked over to his palm, a shimmer of archaic aura glowing over it. "The power to manifest ponies worse emotions and use it against them is too deadly. If I wasn't careful... If I were still like Dainn..." "But you're not. And you didn't," Rainbow reminded him, tenderly rubbing his shoulder. "For all I care, the Sombra of old stayed dead. This Sombra... You used a gift only you could give that rescued folks from the caribou's clutches." Sombra gazed back to his lieutenant, unable to tell her how much her words meant to him. After so much hate and accusations of him only sought Equestria for him, Sombra was finally seen by somepony admirable. Though the mention of his name made his chest swell up, a deep sigh leaving his lips. "Sombra... Is the name of an evil overlord that enslaved innocent ponies for his own gain," the dark stallion lamented. "Let that name be buried, and remained attributed to tyranny. I want a name more meaningful to ponies... Something that'll inspire strength and respect in the hearts of those who hear it." Ewe tilted her head curiously. "An' whit name 'ave ye've chosen?" He looked back to the ponies, gently smiling as his crimson eyes burned brightly. "... Ambros. I originally used it to hide my existence. But I've found myself grown fond of it. Let that be the name I use to bring forth a stronger Equestria with." Both mares turned to one another before nodding at his choice. Rainbow gave the stallion a knowing smirk. "So then, Ambros? Where will you go?" He chuckled lightly before turning his head towards the horizon; the skies slowly darkening as the hidden sun peeked out from the clouds. "By now, Word will have gotten out that King Dainn was slain. I suspect the other caribou factions will retaliate. I want to study and get a further grasp of arcane magic so that I may use it to liberate the Crystal Empire." "The Crystal Empire? Why there?" Applejack asked. "If memory serves me correct, Shining Armor and Princess Cadance remain loyal to the caribou's way of life. I have a score to settle with those two," he admitted bitterly. "But there's a place I want to visit. There's a secret hidden there that I think will be crucial in Equestria's liberty." "Well, let me come with you! There's no reason you have to go alone..." "You are needed here, Rainbow Dash. With the princesses gone, that only leaves your friend to take command of Canterlot." "But how can we--" "Let him go, Rainbow," Lady Ewe cuts in, a warm smile on her muzzle. "This is a journey only he can take. Once we've healed Twilight's mind, we'll have more than enough help to secure Canterlot. And from there on, the rest of Equestria will rally together to end the caribou's reign." Rainbow remained conflicted, knowing that it was for the better that the dark unicorn travels on his own path. It was still hard to believe she had grown attached to him. With hesitation, she secured her arms around Sombra for a tight hug, one he slowly returned. "When this is all over... you better come back and visit me, asshole," She insisted, pulling away with a bitter smile. "If you don't, I'll find you and kick your ass! You hear me?" He let out a loud chuckle before shaking his head. "Wouldn't have it any other way... but we will meet again, my friend. I promise." With one more squeeze, Rainbow released the unicorn before Pinkie bounced over to bring him a nap sack. In it was food and water that should last him a week. As Sombra straps it over his shoulder, the pink mare quickly kissed his cheek, flustering the dark stallion. Applejack approached to offer her hand as the two shook. "Safe travels, partna," she encouraged with a bold grin. He nodded before lastly addressing Oona Ewe. The doe placed his hand into hers, her warm honey-colored eyes glowing under his gaze. "Good luck on your journey, Ambros. May th' spirits guide ye." "Good luck to you too. And thank you for bringing hope back to me," he said in gratitude, placing a gentle kiss on her knuckles. The faun blushed before yanking her hands away, giggle nervously. With a broad smile, Sombra marched through the camp before exiting out from the gates. Turning back one last time, he waved goodbye to the friends and comrades he made. As the gates closed, the dark unicorn began his long walk through the forest, much as he did nearly a month ago. It amazed him how much time had passed since then. How much he had changed. No longer was he the same power-hungry villain that yearned for vengeance. Now, he came to the aid of ponies he once prosecuted as an unlikely hero. And thanks to the mystic arts of arcane magic, new possibilities opened to him. Though it troubled him that some questions remained unanswered. He never did figure out what that bell was in his dreams. Nor whose voice beckoned him from the brink of death. How long until he found the one responsible for his second chance in life? Sombra paused, turned his head around him. He could swear he was being watched. And though he couldn't see it, he felt another presence close by. But outside of the sound of cold wind brushing through the bare trees, no other sound was heard. Skeptical, he pulled out an apple from his given nap sack and took a bite before resuming his path. He wasn't going to get to the Crystal Empire quicker like this. 'I will find the truth... in time' He concluded, looking up to the grey skies as snowflakes fell to the soft blanket covering the earth. Readjusting his back, the dark unicorn carried on his way. It would be dark soon. He would need to gather up twigs and branches for a fire. After the well-fought battle today, he figured he deserved some rest. Tomorrow, Sombra would venture back to Ponyville for directions and more supplies. After all, the journey was far more important than the destination itself. Sombra only hoped that whatever his path was, it would lead him to somewhere warm and safe. Someplace where the throes of winter would never follow him.