It would be a while until Sombra was discovered, having bled out all over the grass as color drained from his haggard features. Having sensed something was wrong, Somnambula went looking for him until finding him laying cold on the ground. In a panic, she summoned the rest of his concubines to the cove before immediately patching up his wound the best she could; hoping the smeared gel she applied would speed up the healing.

While the others offered their help, Inky Rose was the first to notice the unconscious, nude form of Fleur de Lis in the opposite corner. A few feet away was the bloodied knife. Inky's eyes filled with hatred before scooping it up and approaching the luscious unicorn, blade raised and ready to drive into her heart.

“Halt,” commanded Somnambula. “You are better than that, do not follow the same road she has chosen. She will give us answers and she will face justice for her actions.”

A scoff was her only response before she discarded the blade, the weapon dropping with a clatter. Inky squeezed her eyes tight and released her pent up anger into her palms, falling to her knees. Pacific Glow went to comfort her friend as she openly weeped while Tree Hugger calmly helped tend to their master. Diamond Tiara kept her distance, arms folded under her breasts as she couldn't look at the scene. Her head perked up at the arrival of Beatrix Belladonna, greeting the magician with a glare. "Took you long enough..."

But Beatrix ignored her before gazing on Sombra; nearly trembling at the poor state he was in. “No.... Ugh, damn it! If only I had some of Sunburst's healing elixir,” she muttered to herself while desperately rifling through hidden pockets in her inner cape for anything that might prove useful. “Or maybe if I still had the Smooze to help...”

Yet she couldn't rely on stuff from her home dimension. For a moment she considered taking him there, as he'd survived the last trip between dimensions, but whatever might aid him wasn't there anymore. Sunburst's secrets were lost with him, and even if she could replicate his masterpiece, she'd never come across the rare ingredients even with her travels across planes.

Likewise the Smooze had sacrificed himself to help her. She'd relied on him for a good part of her life, to what he'd realized was an unhealthy degree as they had formed a symbiotic bond. No, she decided dusting herself off. She had to stand on her own!

“Hey...” She turned to the living entities woven into her hat and cape, the eyes popping open and the mouths breathing. “I know you can understand me.” She sucked in a heavy breath, wondering if she was about to do something incredibly stupid...again. But if she didn't act he'd likely be lost. “You know some of the Necreonomicon's secrets, don't you? Then...then teach me.”

She brushed aside a tear on the back of her arm. Learning the black arts would take her a step closer to being the dark messiah the Eldritch desired; delve too deep and she'd lose herself forever, becoming the wretched abomination she truly was below her cute facade. For a moment there was no response, but then a few alien voices started to ring about her throbbing skull.

“A-ah,” she gasped holding a hand to her temple as veins popped up atop it. Forbidden nowledge was rapidly being force-fed to her, the kind which could potentially destroy a normal person, but this was supposed to be her purpose, after all.

For a moment, her frame shimmered and crackled. Reality blurred around her; or more accurately the illusions were temporarily stripped, the monstrosity underneath making Diamond Tiara shriek and jump back, barely able to look upon Beatrix's true self.

“Whoa,” muttered Hugs. “Wicked vibes, man...”

“Not just familiar, but in a way beautiful,” said Inky who struggled to focus on the shifting void with mesmerized eyes. “Reminds me of master...”

“It's freaky.... She's freaky,” mumbled Pacific who couldn't stop shivering.

Moments passed before Beatrix settled back into her usual self, now sunk to her knees. Looking upon her true form for too long could drive others mad. She wept blood, hiding beneath her wide-brimmed hat and drawing her cape tighter. However the entities had taught her enough for her purposes...at a price. Her heart and soul were no doubt scarred by corruption, part of her sacrificed to feed the beasts.

Wasting no time, she stalked over to Sombra and laid hands upon his midsection. Thanks to being the key to the Necronomicon she could heal him without making him her thrall, her palms radiating with electrical crackled of darkness as his gash closed.

He wheezed and opened his eyes wide, shooting to a seated position and panting. “Inky Rose!”

“A-ahh! Yes! Master, I'm here,” she cried rushing to his side and kneeling while she embraced him; holding his head tight to her chest. “I'm here, Master.... Oh, thank goodness you're well..!”

Belladonna's bosom heaved, veins popping up across them and the rest of her figure, threatening to pop as they pulsed. Her heart hammered like it was ready to explode, the monsters embedded into her living costume twisting about. She sniffled and calmed her mind, until the entities woven into her fashion followed, her wrecked body returned to normalcy.

A moment of understanding dawned between them when their gazes locked. She was surprised as he was at her actions. “To be honest, I didn't think I could do that.... Tee-hee,” she laughed sheepishly; rubbing the back of her head before leaning down to take her hand to his. "But I guess I never could without such a fantastic teacher.... So thank you..."

“No...” He rasped straining to speak. "...thank you. You saved me..."

His harem gathered to help him to his feet. But before the tender moment could continue, a voice rang out from the entrance and broke their celebration. “Sorry to cut the moment short, but the Dragon Lord will take it from here,” said Twilight Sparkle who was all business. She walked past glaring mares before using her aura to lift Fleur's body and lock it with magical chains and a heavy padlock. “Attempted murder is a serious crime. As for you, Sombra, he wishes to see you soon as you're able.”

“Never took you for spying on your own allies,” noted Inky bitterly.

“Oh, please. Don't try to act so disgusted when you've all been doing the same thing,” she countered, shooting her own glare back at the grey pegasus. “All that proves we have no reason to trust you.”

“Who fucking cares about trust,” yelled Pacific, huddling by him protectively. "He's badly injured!"

“I appreciate your concern," murmured Sombra; gently pulling out of her hold. "But this is one issue I can't ignore, given how much strife it's caused everyone." With that, he turned his gaze to the former princess. "Tell him I'll be there shortly. He and I have much to discuss on trust," promised Sombra darkly. She nodded before turning around to leave the area with her prisoner in tow. Sombra waited until her departure to relax his tense muscles, nearly collapsing again before Beatrix caught him with an arm over his shoulder.

“I can vouch for you,” offered Beatrix with a somber smile. "Surely there are many who understand you're a naturally gifted leader, even with-"

He shook his head. “They've already made their decision. This is merely a formal notice. It was inevitable that we would come to this.” He covered his mouth, breaking into a fit of coughs, his insides churning. “I ask you all to accompany me. I fear that the result of this decision will effect your fates as well...” With all that said, they helped him redress and out of the cave; uncertainty clouding their heads.

For a moment her frame shimmered and crackled, reality blurring around her; or more accurately the illusions were temporarily stripped, the monstrosity underneath making Diamond Tiara shriek and jump back.

“Whoa,” muttered Hugs. “Wicked vibes, man...”

“I think it's beautiful,” said Inky who struggled to focus on the shifting void. “Reminds me of master...”

“It's...she's creepy,” mumbled Pacific who couldn't stop shivering.

Moments passed before Beatrix settled back into his usual self, now sunk to her knees. Looking upon her true self for too long could drive others mad. She wept blood, hiding beneath her wide-brimmed hat and drawing her cape tighter. However they'd taught her enough for her purposes...at a price. Her heart and soul were no doubt scarred by corruption.

Wasting no time, she stalked over to Sombra and laid hands upon his midsection. Thanks to being the key to the Necronomicon she could heal him without making him her thrall, her palms radiating with darkness as his gash closed.

He wheezed and opened his eyes wide, shooting to a seated position and panting. “Inky Rose!”

“I'm here,” she cried rushing to his side and kneeling while she took his hand. “Thank goodness you're okay...”

Belladonna's bosom heaved, veins popping up across them and the rest of her figure, threatening to pop as they pulsed. Her heart hammered like it was ready to explode, the monsters embedded into her living costume twisting about. She sniffled and calmed her mind, until the entities woven into her fashion followed, and her wrecked body started to return to normalcy.

A moment of understanding dawned between them when their gazes locked. She was surprised as he was at her actions. “Tee-hee. You do have lots more to teach me,” she said squeezing his hand and trying to play it off like a joke.

“Thank you,” he rasped straining to speak.

But before they could speak further another voice rang out from the entrance. “The Dragon Lord will take it from here,” said Twilight Sparkle who was all business. She lit her horn and locked Fleur's body up in magical chains and a heavy padlock. “Attempted murder is a serious crime. As for you, Sombra, he wishes to see you soon as you're able.”

“You've been spying on us,” noted Inky bitterly.

“Don't play innocent. I know you've been doing the same,” she countered. “Face it, we're right not to trust you.”

“He's badly hurt,” said Pacific who protectively huddled by him.

“I appreciate your concern, but it's not necessary. I'll be there soon,” promised Sombra who met the interloper's stare. He waited until she left with the prisoner in tow lifted by her aura before his tensed posture relaxed.

“I'll speak up for you,” offered Beatrix.

He shook his head. “I suspect they've already made their decision. This is simply a formality. I suppose it was inevitable.” He covered his mouth, breaking into a fit of coughs, his insides churning. “However, you all should come with me, as I suspect this will affect all of us.” With help from Beatrix, Inky, and Pacific he stumbled back to his feet, and they helped him redress.

Spike sat on his throne shrouded in shadows, head bowed. Ponderously he considered his latest decision and the rippling effects it might have on the alliance. Would everything he built now fall apart? He refused to even entertain the idea. He'd start over if necessary, somehow build another paradise like the Pleasure Gardens somehow, despite how unlikely it all seemed.

He looked up when Ember and Smolder entered, a thin cloaked figure held between them. “She wanted to see you,” said Ember who tossed back the girl's hood. “Claims she's an old friend of Sunset Shimmer's from the other world.”

“Fetch her,” commanded Spike and Smolder bowed before she flew off to obey.

“My name is Wallflower Blush,” said the freckled pegasus. “I want to seek refuge here.”

He nodded. “She's mentioned you to Twilight a bit.” A few moments later Smolder returned with Sunset who gasped.

“I'd heard the portal was open for sometime after I crossed over,” said Sunset who ran up and hugged her, wrapping her wings around her and letting out a sob. “Not sure if it was due to the Eldritch's influence, but-”

“I'm sure they regret smashing the mirror. They could have had a whole other world to annihilate,” said Wallflower who embraced her back with her own wingspan and slender arms. “Oh, and I wasn't the only one who crossed over, either.”

“Who...?”

“The Dazzlings. They've been turned into monstrosities by the Eldritch. Adagio's dead, but Aria and Sonata are probably still out there, somewhere. Oh, and Bellatrix Primadonna wanted me to tell you she didn't betray you. Of course she doubted anyone would believe her, but she only pretended to side with Chrysalis until she could back-stab her. I came to advocate for her.”

“I see. It's a lot to take in.” She turned to Spike with her lips drawn. “My lord, can I bring Bellatrix here? I know she has that affliction that let's the Eldritch track her, but since they already know where we're based anyhow...”

“Sure. I'll want everyone here when I call the latest meeting,” he replied still distanced with troubled thoughts.

Within a couple hours horns sounded to summon everyone around the Pleasure Gardens. By now a portion of it had clearly started to rot and a swarm of flies buzzed around the stinking sludge. The cloaked bodies were still placed in lines, preserved by potions that Twilight and Sunset applied, until they were finally ready to put the dead to a final rest.

Spike stood flanked by his closest followers. Mobs gathered and muttered among themselves until they cleared a pathway, spotting the approach of Sombra and his entourage. Fleur stirred awake before becoming aware of the cage that bound her, immediately flying into a frenzy of curses in her native tongue. She was absolutely hysterical, shrieking while she wept.

He extended a scaled hand to calm her, only for her to snap at him like a wild animal. “Release me! You have no right to keep me detained,” she finally stated.

“And you had no right in attempting murder to one of our own,” reminded Ember with a huff. "He is the Dragon Lord. His gardens, his rules. And breaking any rule is punishable by whatever means he sees fit."

“You ignoramus! An alliance with him was a mistake from the very beginning. He sought to control us, manipulate us! Made me trade away my dignity! I warned my beloved...and look what it's brought upon us. Nothing but misery and death," she wailed.

“Your husband may be dead..." Sombra stated. “But his blood is not on my hands. I considered him a rival, but I would never wager his life to seize power. I held no animosity towards him. Nor to you, Fleur de Lis. I shouldn't be at all surprised you'd try something like this. It was only natural given who I am and what I've done...” His attention then turned back at the dragon, eyes burning red. "What surprises me more is that none of you have tried to assassinate me yet."

"As Ember has already expressed, Sombra. We do not try to murder our own allies here-"

"BULLSHIT!" He barked, silencing the people gathered around as all eyes were on him. And every direction he turned, Sombra glared. "To say we are allies is to say we are friends; which is a false assumption. I know for a fact you hold no kindness or sense of comradery with me, so why don't you be honest with me for once and admit it! Admit you want me gone from your 'so-called' alliance..."

The Dragon Lord's face hardened as the two stared daggers into each other before he responded, "I do.... But only because I believe it's best for everyone."

Sombra let out a mocking laugh. "Don't try to sugar coat this! The moment you remove me, everyone here would just come running to your feet since you wouldn't have anyone to oppose your rule. You are a noble and wise warrior, I'll admit it. But I never considered you to be such a shameful coward."

His claw tightened on the Bloodstone Sceptre as his voice rose. “I am no coward! You have the wrong idea, this isn't just personal grudges or competition! This is about survival, and doing what's best for Equestria! Look at the gardens, life is dying and people are suffering! The last thing anyone needs to feel unsafe being in the presence of a former tyrant! What have you've done, Sombra? What have you done to earn back or gain any trust amongst us?"

"DON'T YOU DARE TALK TO ME ABOUT TRUST!" Sombra roared, the whole garden darkening as shadows swirled around the place. Many clutched to each other as Sombra walked to got right into Spike's face. "I've been treated as an outcast since I was born! All I've every wanted was to have trust and people I could depend on. All I've ever done was fight for my place in Equestria. I never asked to become a tyrant! I didn't ask to be a villain. I was left with no choice but to become the monster you all make me out to be! I was never given a chance then and I wasn't given one now. Not even on the brink of extinction has anyone given me a chance.... Except for her..." He turned to look softly as Beatrix, who could only look at him with anguish while her father and mother hid her from him.

"Why should we?!" Twilight dropped her demeanour and let her fury for the dark unicorn be known. "All you've done is spy, scheme, and have mares sacrifice their dignity in order to serve your selfish ego! I see no reason why anyone should give you a chance. All you do is destroy and taint everything around you!"

"And with that, Twilight Sparkle, you have proven my point," he muttered. "Out of everyone here, you've infuriated me the most. And I'll tell you why," he said approaching her as she flared her wings and horn defensively. "You were once the famed Princess of Friendship, going to great lengths to help ponies who were lost or lonely; showing them that the magic of friendship could lift up hearts and save lives. Now look at you; trying to hide behind such a calm and caring face when you're just as lost ever since your teacher bit the dust..."

Her breaths became heavier as her glare deepened, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I think you and I both know the truth," he continued. "That the magic you believed in, the power that guided and made you all strong is no more.... And with your assessment that I am beyond a redemption, validates this truth..."

"W-What truth..." She sneered.

"That the magic of friendship is dead!"

"THAT'S ENOUGH!" Spike roared, grabbing Sombra by the collar and holding him up; fury in his eyes. "Look around you. You have frightened everyone here and shown no one consideration. You may have a point, but mine still stands. You've brought nothing but mistrust and darkness to this alliance and I won't stand for it any longer.... Which is why I must ask you to leave." His expression softened. "I am sorry, I truly am.. maybe Beatrix was right to believe in you. As much as I dislike you, you have proven to be a strong capable leader and a reliable warrior. If not for who you are and how you act, I would consider you a true friend.... So please.... Leave quietly.... Do not do something both of us will regret..."

Sombra heaved in his breathes when he took one look around, the fearful and frightened expression of the mob, even to those of his beloved harem who looked at him anxiously. He wheezed, insides burning with pain as he felt Spike release his grip on him. He kept his glare on him, but his expression softened. One may have even detected sadness in his eyes.

"Just when I was beginning to let myself open up..." He sighed tiredly. "I'll leave. But not because you asked me to. I don't need your worthless pity." He scoffed before turning around to the ponies and creatures among the garden; the darkness that hung in the air giving way to what light was left in this world. "The Eldritch are probably planning to invade the Pleasure Garden again soon. If anyone wishes to leave before it happens, you're welcome to join me..." His eyes scanned the countless mobs; looking for anyone that understood.

“We're with you to the end,” announced Inky who stepped forward and took his hand. Pacific wrapped an arm around his waist; securing herself to him.

“Count me in as well. I shall help lead the exiles somewhere safe,” assured Somnambula who clasped her ankh. "Thank you for everything, Spike."

“I'm down for a trip, man,” said Tree Hugger who shot him a crooked smile and shrouded herself in a leaf bikini. "Let's see where this crazy train's headed!"

“I suppose I'll come too,” said Diamond Tiara after a moment's hesitation with an inpatient tap of her foot. “Not like I have anything else here.”

As they all gathered to him, Sombra casted a glance to the magician. Pained by his expression, Beatrix shook her head. “I.... There's lot I want to learn form you, but...but I can't abandon my parents. Or Flurry Heart, come to that. I'm sorry, Sombra...” She sidled closer to her parents, unable to meet his eyes.

The look on his face was one she had not known any Sombra from her previous adventures to hold. He appeareded genuinely hurt she wouldn't be joining him. He looked away as a dry chuckle left his throat.

“I understand.... I'm a dangerous influence to you after all.... Take care, Beatrix...” With goodbyes out of the way and no other takers, he stumbled with his group through the pathway before turning back towards Spike. "You won't believe me when I say this.... But I wish you the best of luck against the Eldritch. You'll need it..." And with that, he continued to make his way out from this so-called paradise, climbing back to the surface.

With a heavy sigh, Spike questioned if he'd made the right choice. After all, despite how much he disliked Sombra, it was true he'd helped them. And by exiling them he perhaps condemned them to death. He wasn't certain himself where they were headed from here; yet Twilight assured him she had a few ideas.

Worse still, he was forced to punish Fleur, uncertain what to do after this unprecedented turn of events. But what to do? Imprison her for a time? Banish her, too? Treat her too lightly and he risked losing face.

Former Dragon Lords wouldn't have been so lenient. They might have eaten her alive without a thought, or perhaps stripped her of all rights and forced her to become their love slave until they finally broke in the prideful mare, but both ideas made his stomach turn. For now he'd keep her tucked away, relatively comfortable until he decided what to do with her.

After the pariahs crossed onto the surface of the Badlands, Sombra wandered across the ashen earth. Lava bubbled and smoke rose around the mountaintops. He knew if the Eldritch attacked now they'd be nearly helpless to resist. Perhaps there wouldn't even be any evidence left, he and his harem reduced to spare parts after the invaders picked them clean for more fuel.

He turned to gaze over the mares following close behind him. Had they come to regret their decision to follow him? He knew Inky at least would follow him anywhere. Somnambula too as whatever was on her agenda still involved him. Pacific was practically helpless on her own, so there'd be little choice. Tree Hugger was now blindly loyal to him; a fact he wasn't quite comfortable with for once. He felt guilty? He'd felt much the same seeing Fleur's current state, the sensation odd and unfamiliar.

It only looked as if Diamond Tiara was having some doubts. And yet she turned to him and offered a reassuring smile that she was committed to him. He nodded and continued his way until a voice echoed behind them, more insistent by the moment.

“H-hey! Wait for me!” Everyone turned to see Cozy Glow struggling to pad her way up behind them; still in a thoroughly battered state even after she'd been tended to. "You're all so fast.... Just give me a minute," she huffed; catching her breath before she cleared her throat She strutted her way up to Sombra before placing her hands behind her back and rolling her ankle in a cutesy fashion. "Gee golly, Sombra! It sure was so unfair they've turned on you, after all you've sacrificed! Now I don't know about you, but I think that's real leader material right there. Maybe even somebody who would allow someone as villainous as me to join them; seeing as they were giving out second chances?” She batted her thick lashes at him; looking up at him with the most innocent expression she could manage.

“You can cut the innocent act, Cozy Glow. I'm well aware of your treacherous nature. And even then, it doesn't work so well considering you're grown mare now,” stated Sombra with an eye roll.

Her pleasant smile revealed her frown as she groaned. “Alright, fine, you got me! Not my fault puberty decided to screw me over and delay my growth until late," she stated planting hands on her hips. “But you gotta admit, we are alike. Not like they'd give me a chance to change too. Look, I've got nowhere to go with Tirek dead. So won't you please let me join you?” He remained unphased, turning to his followers as they too were uncertain. The pegasus growled in frustration; her face growing flustered with anger. “Ugh! Okay, what do I gotta do to convince you? You want me to suck your dick, cause that seems to be the right of passage with all you dames!” She sighed and lowered herself to fish out his manhood before he lightly pushed her. "H-Hey!"

“Trust me, as much as I'd want to, I'm in no shape to try to sit down or lay with anyone. The last time someone offered me sex for servitude, it almost killed me," he grunted helping her back up. "You can join us. As treacherous a you are...I believe it's something Tirek would have wanted."

“Works for me! You don't gotta worry about me, I won't try anything funny. But the moment you're up to it, I wanna taste of that. It's been too long since I'vr been laid!” She whistled and skipped up beside them, falling into step despite how sore she was. He just stared at her with a blank expression; wondering if she was this messed up before or after becoming an experiment for the Eldritch.

But before they could get a move on, Tree Hugger placed a hand outwards to stop him while smiling. She turned her lazy gaze towards a boulder near by. “You can, like, stop trying to hide from us, babe! I know those sweet sensations anywhere~” After a moment, a pale yellow pegasus popped out from her hiding place; anxiously stroking her long pink mane. “C'mon, hun. Don't be shy, now~"

“I mean, it's in her name" Diamond muttered before looking towards the intruder. "What do you want? Out with it, we gotta get a move on!"

Fluttershy chose to ignore her and walked up towards the green earth pony; her leaf bikini barely able to hold in wobbling assets, areola so wide they peeked out. “I...I-I just don't understand, Tree Hugger. Why? W-what's happened to you? Are you really still you or has Sombra taken you over completely? Oh please, why won't you come back to me?!”

“Mmm...I dunno." She shrugged. "I just...can't stop thinking of him, even if I wanted to. It's like he's my everything now or somethin'.” Hugs grinned as she pulled the Pegasus into her arms, her ample breasts squishing against Flutter's larger pair as her hands idly played with her plump backside. “You should totally give him a try, babe! I really think you'd dig it~”

“O-oh no, I...I couldn't! You and I were supposed to be part of Spike's harem...” She hid under half her mane. “I know you may like Sombra, but I can't trust him! He used to enslave and ravish his own subjects!”

Sombra was about to object before Inky rose a hand to cut him off with a sly grin. She had an idea as she slowly made her way around the pair. “That may be so.... But given your current...situation, I don't see why you shouldn't join us. Hugs could use your company. And think of it this way; you'd be making sure she's safe and getting to see who Sombra truly is.... Isn't that reasonable," she suggested; now firmly behind Flutters as she wrapped her arms around her pregnant belly and playfully nibbled on her neck.

“E-eep!” Shy's face burned, still sensitive to any touch after all this time, and her plumage flexed.

Pacific follow along as she took to her left side. "Yeah! You're both heavily pregnant. You really shouldn't be going too far; especially from each other. I think you're best bet is to stay with us," she grinned, licking up the side of her ear lobe while Hugs placed a deep smooch on her friend. All Flutter's could do was melt into a kiss while the mares molested her supple flesh.

Sombra watched as his own cheeks flushed at the display. Even though he said he was in no condition, that didn't stop his loins from firing up and making his stallionhood hard. Cozy caught eye of this as a lecherous smirk spread her lips as she 'accidentally' fumbled her footing to let her hand rub at his crotch; causing him to hiss. "Oops! Sorry, I can such a klutz," she said through a not so innocent smile as her hand slowly rubbed in circles. He groaned, not really having the strength to stop her advances.

“I-is this what Sombra puts you through? O-Oh my~.... I-I MEAN! I'll have no part of it,” insisted Fluttershy through her pants. Milk leaked from her inverted nipples and streamed down her top. Her loins burned and her slit moistened as her pussy meat swelled. “I-I only came to retrieve Hugs.... A-ah! A-and to bring some food and water! Spike said you could take all you could carry!” She whimpered, pointing behind the boulder as the overbearing need to relieve herself became more and more prominent.

Using this as an excuse to break away from Cozy Glow, Sombra looked to the burlap sack left behind the boulder which overflowed with fresh fruits, veggies, breads, and a large jug of water nearby. He realized the Dragon Lord must have felt guilty after banishing his group. This showed him that he did care. Pain hung heavy in his heart.

Despite her reservations, Shy was slowly melting between his concubines. No matter how she squirmed or half-heartedly tried to break free, they seemed to know exactly how to touch and tease her.

“Hey, how long do you think it's been since Spike last properly fucked this cow~?" chirped Pacific who squashed Shy's milky tits together. "Surely a while considering the many ladies in his harem!"

"Indeed," whispered Inky whose hot breath fell inside Shy's ear. “So why don't you stop resisting and join us. Think of it as making new friends. You were all about making new friends, weren't you~?”

“Oh, You don't know the half of it! She and I made lots of friends way back, man,” said Hugs; giving her lover one more kiss before she drifted towards Sombra; drawing his attention to the shaking Pegasus. “Ever since getting preggers, Fluttershy's been so sensitive,” she purred to her master. “She gets cranky if she's not laid often. Incredibly needy~! She just loves it when she's the center of attention and pampered. All part of her mommy kink~”

“T-TREE! NOOOOOooo~” Fluttershy exaggerated; her face went from a furnace to nuclear red.

He chuckled. "Oh? Do tell~"

"You see, she's been wanting to have a child before those alien dudes came. Just loves the thought of young feeding off her tiddies and getting her belly full of cream. Not to mention," she whispered this into his ear. "She's a total butt-slut~"

"Heh.... Important details to consider for later."

Hugs giggled before swaying back to Flutters; her breasts squirting out milk whenever Inky and Pacific squeezed or lifted her milk bags. "Relax, babe. Spike's got plenty of company. But I'll only have one you. You don't wanna leave me by myself, do you?"

“N-No.... Mmm, I couldn't! O-oh.... Oh fine!” Shy surrendered, wiping away some tears while trying to catch her breath. “I'll come with you, Tree Hugger. I'm sure our friends will understand...”

“Welcome to the fold. And thank you for the gifts,” greeted Sombra, offering his hand to her. Hesitantly, she shook it before she and Hugs went to collect the food. Inky and Pacific affectionately patted each other on the ass for a job well done. Cozy was left grumbling at being denied, while Somnambula and Diamond Tiara talked with each other; discussing some bitter feelings Diamond's been having lately.

He felt so overwhelmed, never expecting to have this many people with him. In time, he was sure Fluttershy would come to warm up to him. For now though, their main concern was finding a new home. Their only lead was to trust in Somnambula's instincts while she guided them onward.

They fell back into step with him in the lead beside the priestess. Navigating the rocky, uneven terrain of the Badlands, they crossed a couple of miles before they started to come upon the outskirts which led into the endless desert wastes.

What he didn't expect was to see the succubus waiting for them; far more slender than he remembered but no less comely. She smirked exposing little fangs and flicking her tail at his approach as she pressed herself into him. “Master,” she whispered fondly with a cup of his cheek.

“Bellatrix...I am pleased to see you are well.” He drew her closer while she draped herself upon him.

“Oh quite! I'll miss Wallflower and it's a shame Beatrix can't come with us, but my place was always by your side. I was made to serve you andonly you,” she purred; guiding one of his hands to cup one of her plush scarlet buttocks. “I do have a request... Perhaps you can remove this little curse they placed on me?”

“When my strength as returned, I'll do what I can," he promised with a smile. "You've always been so transparent when you want something.... Not that I mind. Though until then, you'll be a beacon that will draw the Eldritch to us. Normally I wouldn't risk it and would simply abandon you, but...I suppose a part of me wants to prove I can change.”

It felt odd to say it aloud. And stranger still, he did cared about the demoness. He'd helped create her. She was partially his responsibility. And she had taken quite a risk to help him and Beatrix in her own twisted way, like a wild animal they'd partially tamed.

She hovered beside him when they set off once more into the vast expanse that appeared to continue forever. The future appeared bleak, yet strangely with his companions close by he felt an unfamiliar twinge of hope, which allowed him to press onwards.

After a moment of silence and prayers to whatever deities might watch over them, Spike signaled to his dragonesses, who sounded the horns. Having collected all the resources which hadn't spoiled they could, the Dragon Lord sucked in a heavy breath, his stomach a raging inferno which he loosed in a crackling blaze that ignited the wrapped up corpses.

The funeral pyre smoked and crackled. With his followers they watched from a cliffside, Twilight and Sunset forming a magic barrier to keep them from inhaling the twisting smoke while the Pleasure Gardens were set ablaze. It was the best sendoff he could think up, weeping sounding from all around him. The dancing fires reflected off his misty eyes.

“Beloved,” sniffled Fleur who was restrained nearby.

Vinyl Scratch stroked Octavia's cheek who was laid out on a blanket. She still hadn't awoken despite all they'd tried.

“Farewell old friends,” said Limestone who saluted the sea of flames below.

“Wouldn't have lasted much longer without Tree Hugger's help,” said Sunset to try and comfort him.

“Yeah, probably not.” Spike forced a smile.

“We'll make it work...somehow,” promised Twilight who took one of his claws.

“I'm with you until the end,” said Shining Armor who looked back at where Beatrix was watching over Cadance and Flurry Heart. Fired gleamed off his white armor. “We've driven off the Eldritch once, so we can do it again, no matter where we're headed.”

“You can always count on the Great and Powerful Trixie too,” she boasted with hands planted on her hips. “Would it be too inappropriate to pop some fireworks? Well, I suppose it's not a celebration, but the mood's a tad too mournful...”

“A song wouldn't do either,” said Autumn Blaze who twirled her curled mane. “But maybe some music?”

Vinyl nodded enthusiastically and went to fetch Tavi's well-preserved double-bass. While it wasn't her instrument she'd seen Tavi play many times, and set the bow to the instrument, doing her best to recreate her meticulous movements. She winced as a scratch sounded, but readjusted and continued, slowly falling into a rhythm which filled the air with a subdued tune, and her head bobbed to the sound.

“Not bad,” said Limestone with a loud clap of her hands. “It's pretty. Kinda reminds me of the yaks!”

After a few moments Octavia's ears started to flick. She writhed and pursed her snout. “U-urk...so amateurish...”

Vinyl's eyes shot wide open. She played more erratically, until her old friend stirred back to awareness, groggily sitting up and blinking. She dropped the instrument, which made Tavi hiss, rushing to catch it before it crashed.

However the DJ choked on a cry and threw her arms around her. “O-Octavia! Octavia,” she rasped out with a high-pitched squeak.

“Vinyl? You spoke,” said dumbfounded Tavi who returned her warm embrace with one arm while she carefully placed aside her stuff.

She looked just as surprised. “I...I did,” she whispered massaging her sore throat. “Cool.” She laughed despite her tears and wiped her face. “Still hurts like a mother, though. But at least we're back together. Shame about what happened to Fancy.”

“Indeed. He shall be missed.” She shot a sympathetic look at his still distraught widow.

Shining Armor furrowed his brow. “But where do we go from here? Nowhere's really safe anymore.”

“Underground again,” suggested Limestone. “I'll help the Diamond Dogs carve us a path! Of course, we'll have to be careful since the Eldritch are probably still tunneling all over the place, but I'm sure my pals will be able to sniff 'em out!”

“Sounds like a plan,” said Spike who honestly didn't have any better ideas. Twilight was still searching out alternatives, and maybe they'd come back to them later, but for now it would have to do. Once the funeral was over, he led his entourage out, following Limestone, her team of miners, and the Diamond Dogs to a spot they indicated in the Badlands.

Fortunately the Eldritch tunnels left behind meant they'd already done most of the work for them. It was quite a relief to him, especially since he hated to move anyone still so badly wounded like Cadance and Flurry. At his request Sunset and Wallflower had went out to search for Fluttershy, only to learn she'd decided to go with Sombra's party, no doubt to look after Tree Hugger. Silently he wished her luck and hoped she wasn't making a terrible mistake, again his heart gnawed with guilt.

Within the hour they made their descent into the fissure. Steam rose around them, the atmosphere twisted by heat waves, while Twilight and Sunset enveloped them in a bubble to keep their fellow ponies comfortable and able to breathe. Limestone assured them they'd be out of this area in less than another hour, and that the caverns would be much cooler beyond.

Clangs sounded when pick axes were taken to stone. Working alongside the miners the Diamond Dogs bored through weak spots Limestone located in the walls. Further and deeper they ventured, and like she promised the air soon cooled.

For a moment Spike feared they might eventually burrow all the way to Tartarus itself. But at this point was it really any worse than the surface? Maybe, if more Eldritch had set up shop there.

However like promised they were sniffing out traces of where they'd recently been, his team taking special care to avoid potential contact with the enemy before they were ready.

Eventually the diggers were so worn out Spike called everyone to stop and rest. It wouldn't do to keep a tired and in some cases wounded party on the move, and besides, by now they'd found a spacious cavern he hoped was relatively safe. Most of his followers broke off to do their own thing, but he kept an eye out in case anybody strayed too far from the group.

Again he considered his recent choices. Were Ember and Smolder right whenever they called him too wishy-washy? He'd feared several of his mares would side with Sombra when their confrontation arrived; but aside from Hugs who obviously wasn't her normal self and Fluttershy who'd left to watch her, they'd all stayed beside him, whatever their private doubts.

“Thank you for taking me in,” said Wallflower who bashfully stared at her feet.

“Don't mention it.” He waved the idea away. “Sorry that your friend didn't decide to stay.”

“She wouldn't really fit in anyhow. She's better off with Sombra. But at least I'm reunited with Sunset now.” They traded a smile. “I hear pegasi are pretty rare now, so maybe I can help scout ahead when needed.”

He nodded. “Sure. Just relax until then.” His eyes trailed to where Shining Armor and his family were gathered. “Hey, Beatrix? Are you busy at the moment? I'd like to talk a while, if that's okay.” He waved her over.

“Uh, sure.” Shooting them an awkward smile, she took her leave and strutted over. “So, what's up?”

“I'm sorry about what happened. With Sombra, I mean. I didn't plan to send him away, whatever I think of him, but his presence was going to cause more problems. Especially since he was spying on everyone and scheming his way to take over.” He met her eyes which had dark circles under them. “You're worried about him, aren't you? Be honest.”

“Maybe a little.” She looked away and kicked a heeled boot. “But I have to look after my family first, don't I?”

“Yeah, I feel the same way. As the Dragon Lord all my subjects are like my family now. Of course there are some I'm much closer to than others,” he admitted with a grin at Twilight and Sunset. “Sometimes I think back and wonder what might have been...” This time his gaze wandered to Rarity who was chatting with Sweetie Belle. “But I know it won't make a difference.”

He'd spent too much of his life on what ifs. What if the races had united earlier? If Celestia and Luna were still around? If Starlight hadn't vanished at the height of the war? If he hadn't lost a close friend like Throax, the changeling being one of the few who'd united with the ponies, and aside from Chrysalis had been slaughtered to the last by the Eldritch?

“I...I'm sorry.” She choked on the words. “I shouldn't have come to this dimension...”

“Whoa now, I'm not blaming anyone. Other than the Eldritch, that is. We're all in the same boat.” He brushed away a tear on her cheek and smiled. “Who knows? Cadance was quite powerful at her height, and from what Twilight tells me, could be many times more so if she practiced advanced magic. To say nothing of Flurry Heart, who supposedly has the highest magic potential ever seen in Equestria! Maybe if they recover, we can set this right once-and-for-all?”

“I want to believe that. I saved Sombra when Fleur stabbed him,” she confessed. “I want to believe I made the right decision.”

“Hey, there's no way that helping someone could be wrong. Even him.” He relaxed his scaly muscles with a heavy breath. “Well, didn't mean to take up your private time. Just wanted to make sure you're okay.”

“I'll be fine,” she assured him with a wry smile. “Oh, and...I knew another Spike in my world. Flurry Heart and I were pretty chummy with him, actually! He started as a dog in the human world, and I'm not sure how much it was due to the potions we fed him or his own subconscious when he crossed over to Equestria, but he became a sort of dog-dragon hybrid?”

“Weird. You lost him, didn't you?” She nodded. “Sorry to hear about that.”

“Oh, and I'm long over it. Of course I'll always care about him, but he didn't spend much time with us after he discovered Equestria's Rarity...” She grinned and wiggled her eyebrows with a nod towards the fashionista.

“Yeah, I could see that.” He scratched the back of his neck with a blush.

“There's more. I don't know the details, but I can see why you'd be hesitant to become a greater dragon. I'd like to say there's an alternative, but it's doubtful I could pull it off without Flurry Heart's help. Ingest the right alchemy concoctions and you'd multiply that power many times over...with the downside that it could destroy you if you push it too far...” She lowered her voice to a muted whisper. “Like what happened to my Spike, who burned himself out to save his loved ones...”

“Well, if you can figure it out, I'm willing to try!” He refused to butcher anyone he loved and eat their heart, even if it meant Equestria might be doomed. It wasn't worth saving if they had to become monsters in the process.

“Thanks. I'll see what I can do. I don't know much about this Flurry.”

Watching her leave Spike knew she was putting on a front. But weren't most of them really, in these desperate times? As the Dragon Lord he wasn't ever supposed to show vulnerability.

It was rather tiresome, really. Screw tradition. He wouldn't make Wallflower couple with anyone if she didn't want to; even if a ruler like him was supposed to make every mare he could his concubine.

And if Ember and Smolder thought that would make him look weak, well he'd deal with whatever that entailed. He needed to remain true to himself.