.............................
I am the companion of seconds, yet I hold back the tide,
The curves of a serpent, where secrets can hide.
To the left, a ring finger rests on my crown,
To the right, a great cross keeps the underworld down.
Above me, the monarch of questions is cast,
Below me, a visual mirror is passed.
I am the start of the end, and the end of the space,
Strike my spine to unlock this impossible place.
What am I?