Lively. That was the only word Jerry could use to explain the Castle as it was. With a near 30 or so ponies being taken into his Castle-- possibly more, it was bustling with life. Mare’s were moving around constantly, wearing some of the most basic of dresses. Fillies ran about like crazy, minions having to keep an eye on them and clean up after the messes. Shadow was plenty busy with the foals, and Spree was just as busy with keeping the mare’s calm and assured.

Lovely’s appearance and alignment as his created red mare did not help sooth any of them. If anything, Spree had to get out her spear and get all military on the mares to keep a sudden revolt from happening. But, after all was said and done… things were calm. Noisy and sounding like a small village was visiting him-- but calm.

Jerry himself, was just glad that he had enough food to feed them all, he looked over the raided storage room, and knew that if he stretch food, it would last for a good 5 months. Maybe 4 if some more mares came here. But as Jerry had them in his Castle, Gnarl cracked down with Spree on the mares forbidden in key areas. Having the Guard Minions acting as security for the entry ways to them.

He may of tolerated the original mares and filly to wander in them-- but not these newcomers. And it was starting to give Jerry a bigger headache over the idea of a possible rebellion in his very home. Not to mention that it could actually happen, as the Blues healed all the mares of their horns and wings. Meaning that if they did fight, then it could cause him to lose Minions to hold them down. and its only been a week. thought Jerry in annoyance.

As while he knew Spree and Shadow was doing all they can to keep them calm, he knew it was a matter of time before those few naysayers who were so stubborn to keep the fire lit and keep him in the bad, or in the wrong and this all as some front. While a part of him wanted to keep this as to ensure his villain guise, another was starting to get antsy as it was going to be a problem soon enough.

He was in the Tower construct room, as he glance to see Gnarl coming in, having the most satisfied look on his face as he told. “Master, good news. It appears the Resistance does exist.” he blinked some, as he asked.

“Really, where did you find them?” he saw Gnarl laugh and the old minion replied.

“They’ve been searching for you, Sire. apparently the little chaos you did in Vanhoover managed to gain their attention. I believe now is a good time for them to meet you.” as he continue on. “I propose you’ll be out in the open with Spree, that’ll get their attention.” Jerry frown as he asked.

“Who’s going to keep the mares from causing a rebellion.” Gnarl cackle as he said.

“Me Sire, I’ll be sure to not harm them. Just...remind them who is the Lord around here.” Jerry contemplated that...and said.

“No lasting damage.” Gnarl bowed.

“Of course Sire.” as Jerry began moving, as Gnarl himself went to meet with Spree, as he moved through the Castle and came upon one of the rooms Spree was with as she was keeping a eye on the mares as he spoke. “Hello wench, the Resistance is trying to find the Master. I suggest to him he bring along you to meet them, to show he is worthy to be near enough.”

For herself, Spree had been occupying herself by leaning on a wall and in full armor, spear by her side to just help deter the mare’s from getting any off ideas. But as soon as Gnarl spoke up, she-- and a few mare’s listening in, turned to him. While the mare’s did well to show they hadn't noticed, Spree was very vocal, “You found the Resistance?”

“Oh yes, they’re trying to find the Master as we speak, so I suggest you go with him, in the open as they’ll bring their agents to greet him.” then added with a grin. “And don’t worry, I’ll be keeping a eye on this lot in your steed, making sure they don’t cause any trouble for the Master.”

A spear tip found it’s way before his eyes, and Spree told, “You better not hurt them while I’m gone, or I’m going to ask Jerry for a personal spar with you.” Leaving the threat to hang there before she raise dht spear back up and moved around him.

He chuckled, as once she was gone...he look to them and said. “Now, I’m sure most of you will agree to behave and stay docile until the Resistance coem to pick you up...but for the naysayers? I highly suggest any thoughts of rebellion will need to be removed immediately if you think this is the chance.” A mare snort, standing up before the small creature as her horn glowed.

“Oh, and what a old and small thing like you is going to do?” Gnarl gave a low laugh.

“Me? Oh well nothing….but if you forgot my title, I am called Minion Master. Do you know what that means, wench?” giving a malicious grin as he threaten. “I can order the Minions here and hold you down, cut off the magic in your horn-- and make you wait as the Minions hold you down-- until you are to be dropped off. With but a flick of my hand.”

Many actually shifted away to this, and while not really intimidated by the old looking minion that was practically pail to all others-- none had expected the elder to have that power. And form his growing grin, he was confident he could do this. “Y-you wouldn’t try it.” One mare said, “Spree--”

“Said that I don’t hurt you. But she never did mention the Minions hurting you, now did she?” told Gnarl.

She glared at him and hissed out, “You conniving bastard.”

“Why thank you,” taking it as a compliment as he said. “After all, I do serve evil.” then asked with a malicious grin. “Are you going to back off like the prey that you are-- or do I need to give proof that I could be more conniving than I really am? As I’m sure you are well aware, Spree may thought I would do physical harm...she never mention mental harm~.” and while they shifted more, Gnarl was enjoying every bit of this as it was a good way to do evil.

---

As the two waited...in the open near a field, Jerry patiently waited, his horde around him as he wore his Arcanium set, mostly as a precaution as he glance to Spree. Looking her over as he asked. “Nervous, excited, or cautious?” knowing from her body language, she was feeling either one of these things-- or all of them as this was a big thing, since they all thought the Resistance were just rumors. Not the real thing.

Trying to not shift too much, Spree said, “All of it.” Relaxing her grip some on her spear before looking around and saying, “I mean… the Resistance. A group of free ponies that’ll get our home back. It’s… well, them looking for you has me a little anxious.” Then muttered, “Either that or it’s actually a trap. I’m really hoping it isn’t.” Trying to keep fully alert.

He nodded as he was about to say something-- before a teleport spell came before them. He ready his axe in case it was a trap, as he saw Spree ready with her spear. But what surprised them, was that it wasn’t a caribou...but a blue mare unicorn...without a collar. She was sizing them up, looking at the two as she spoke.

“Well shit. Look like it was true. I honestly thought you took all those mares as sex-slaves or something.” then focus on the Minions, narrowing her eyes as she look to Jerry and told. “Get rid of them. I can’t carry them all in the spell.” Jerry gave a brief glance to them...and motioned his arm to the Spawning pits near by, letting them all through as the mare nodded, but told in a threatening tone. “Try anything? And we’ll kill you.” Jerry couldn’t help but remark to Spree.

“What was that for not liking to kill, Spree?”

“She’s military!” She defended, slightly easing up while looking the blue unicorn over. Corporal ranking badge. A battle mage… a couple combat knives. Spree breathed in and said, “He won’t. The Overlord’s been looking for you.” Deciding to use his title for this, “And been wanting to get the mare’s to the Resistance.”

She look him over, as to judge and soon told. “We’ll be the judge of that. Where's the mares you took?”

“Somewhere safe.” told Jerry as before he let her demand on the location, he asked. “Could we perhaps meet the Resistance? So we can talk?” she snort harshly, giving a scrutinizing look...and told flatly.

“Fine.” horn glowing as they all teleport into a rocky surrounding, as Jerry glance around, noting….mares with crossbows, a few stallions with more crossbows...and unicorns pointing their horns and ready to blast him as Jerry comments.

“You know, as a villain, this is actually complimenting.”

Spree sighed to that and said, “Focus.” Then looked around and felt the need to grip her spear some. She did not like this. “Corporal?” She soon asked, “Could you possibly have them come at ease? I understand the security, but we’re here to make an alliance-- not cause trouble.”

“We’re not taking any chances.” told the mare flatly. “We don’t know who he is, we don’t know what he is-- and we don’t know how he’s beating back the Caribous.” then told. “The Heads will come to you, with all these ponies pointing our weapons at you until we deem you safe.” Jerry rolled his eyes, putting his weapon into a ‘sheath’ to let it rest as he asked.

“Can I at least have a chair to wait?” She snort and told.

“Denied.” he sighed out, as he simply waited. Seeing five ponies eventually approach, he could make out some of them elderly looking, coming with added security as they stood a few feet from the two. All looking at Jerry, then to the mare by his side, as one of them, a white unicorn mare ordered to Spree.

“Who are you, what rank are you, and were you followed?” as they already knew she wasn’t influenced by magic with subtle scans...however they didn’t like what they scan of Jerry and his ‘magic’.

Straightening up, Spree told, “Storm Spree, ma’am. I have no rank and I was with the Overlord, so I doubt we were followed.” Then went on, “I’m not a guard or a reserve unit in the military. I never got a chance to apply. Dad trained me, used to be a Royal Guard and even drill instructor before retirement. He trained me.”

Giving a careful look up and down, a elderly thestral mare remarked, “Well he must had done good. You stand like a green and ready recruit.” Then asked, “Why are you with the Overlord?”

“Circumstances, ma’am.” Spree responded. “He got me out of a shop I was being used as a display item. Let me stay with him and get my hooves back. I told him about rumors of the Resistance, and told him I wanted to join up if he ever found you.” Then breathed in asking, “I still plan to-- but we have mare’s that we want to move here where it’s safer for them.”

They glance to each other, as a young earth black mare spoke up with crossed arms. “How do we know that they aren’t under his influence? That they could be his new spies to infiltrate us?” Jerry merely cross his arms as he told.

“Why would I try to ruin a good first impression with you all by doing that? Its counter-productive, a waste of time, conversation-- and damning a agreement.” the earth stallion perk his ears as he asked.

“What agreement you speak of?” looking intrigue as Jerry answered.

“A agreement between me and you all. I was hoping to have a sort of business deal with you all.” the tan mare snort and told.

“Why would we want to deal with the likes of you?” Jerry hum...and soon answer.

“Because I’m the one that’s doing heavy damage against the Caribous and the one to get more mares and fillies away from them in larger numbers.”

Knowing they might need more convincing, despite the earth stallion and earth mare that seemed to have a touch of interest-- Spree spoke up. “He has resources.” Making sure her voice was strong and heard. “He has numbers. He has force. He has funding and he has safe means to get newly freed mare’s out. He’s something the Caribou don’t know how to fight yet-- and will have a harder time if you help him know where to hit them the hardest.”

As they glance to the other, the white mare look at Jerry as she question. “What resources do you have?” Jerry thought on how to sway them as he spoke.

“Like Spree said. I have numbers and force, I have ways to get mares free and funding to keep fighting,” and told. “And to provide for you.”

The stallion asked in curiosity. “You’re willing to give us resources?”

“I’m willing to lend you gold and supplies.” told Jerry simply. “I am able to gather resources and supplies more faster and quickly, and there's too much for me to hold, so why not lend it away?” the earth mare snorted harshly as she glared at him.

“You stole those things from other's in towns or cities.” Jerry reminded.

“I’m a Overlord, it's usually what I do.” but refocus as he took out a coin from his money bag, and toss it at them. The closest was the stallion, examining it, humming and inspecting it. Eyes widen as he look up as Jerry nod his head and told. “I have more where that is from. I can lend you the gold until the Caribous are gone and your leaders are back in power.”

“Periodic?” questioned the white unicorn as the earth stallion, dubbed Periodic spoke.

“This is gold is pure, more purer than our own bits. In fact, I say this is worth maybe 20 bits-- maybe more if I’m seeing this right.” gaining surprise from the leaders, as the thestral mare questioned.

“Where did you get this?”

“From my treasury. And I can lend you the gold you need for your operations.” the thestral look at him, trying to gauge him as she asked.

“Why are you doing this?”

“Because I am a villain who hates wasting resources, time, usefulness and opportunity when I see it.” told Jerry, keeping up the guise. “Now, I will lend you gold, supplies, a way for mares and fillies to get here without using anyone of your group to be detected-- and keep the Caribous off your back, in exchange in aiding me with my endeavors.”

Looking among the others, the white unicorn spoke, “What do you get out of this?” Not liking the lack of endgame angles left unmentioned. They would be getting a lot out of the deal-- but there were things greatly left unsaid. Things she didn’t like being left out.

Chuckling some, as Jerry told. “What I would get out of this? Well, for one? To remove the Caribous for their incompetence.”

“What do you mean by ‘incompetence’?” questioned the thestral sharply. “Do you mean as some sort of enemy or maybe as a group?”

“Let me put it in perspective of a villain, the Caribous are short sighted, yes they have conquer your lands, enslaves mares...and pretty much did nothing but fuck and waste away everything around them. Resources. A stable land as they produce things, even their so called ‘Empire’, is nothing but a shaky foundation waiting for that piece of stone to be pulled out and fall down.” as he told.

“They are incompetence, because as supposedly ‘villains’? They. Waste. Everything. They rather do what they done, not tending to the land, not providing a way to keep everything balanced-- and not even making sure that they will advance as a society. So in short? They are stagnating themselves with their selfish desires, and as such they deserved to be removed.” white glowing eyes looking at them all, as a few of the ponies tensed, not knowing what he would do, but Jerry stood in that spot. Mostly in keeping it silence for theatrics and to cement his reputation as he then briefly added.

“Not to mention, even I have my boundaries as a villain. I pride myself of having standards of how to do things. These Caribous? Make even me disgusted of their very nature and society.”

Spree gave the man very odd look, wondering what he was going on with these theatrics, but waved the thought away. She took a breath and spoke, “I know you don’t really trust him. I didn’t at first either.” Once more gaining their ears. “But if I could speak freely? He’s the lesser evil here. And maybe the better option overall. Just give him a chance.”

They all glance at each other, as if talking about it, as Periodic look to him and asked. “These things you make, the magical constructs all over Equestria. How do you make them? And better yet, who can use them?”

“I make them out of a unique system.” told Jerry as it was a half truth, yes Grubby place them where he wants them-- but in another sense, they do come up with his presence. “As for who use them? They are used by me and only me. Unless I allow another to use them, no one else can or could.” Crossing his arms as he asked.

“I am guessing that you will not give me a chance and a way to work together?” the military unicorn snort and told.

“We don’t know you, we need to discuss the pros and cons of even agreeing.” Jerry mentally rolled his eyes, as he asked.

“Can I at least create a Gate here, so I can drop off the mares and fillies from my home, and way for you to contact me?”

With a hardened glare, the elderly thestral spoke, “You want us to allow you to place a backdoor to our base?” Sounding almost imposing with her tone alone.

“Less of putting a backdoor, and more of keeping the peace.” Spree told in turn, “Ma’am.” Adding that as a precaution to how the mare looked to her. “The mare’s are restless. They’re not sure what to make of him, so it might be better to get them here where it safe-- and out of the way. The Overlord's forces slightly scare them, and I can’t keep the peace over there all the time.”

With a frown, the white mare of the group stared at the two for a long moment before sighing and told while jabbing a finger at Jerry, “You build that gate-- and we’re going to be posting guards all around it. If any of those… imps come through, they’re shot on sight, along with you.”

“Even if there’s only one and sending a message that I might be busy?” asked Jerry as he added. “Or do you want to wait for who knows how long until I come?”

“They’re talking about right here, right now.” Spree told a bit lowly to him, “They think you might send in a rush of Minions as soon as the Gate’s up.”

“Paranoid, but sensible.” muttered Jerry as he said to the five. “If it will appease you, fine.” then motioned his hand as he asked. “Can you at least move so I may pass through and set it up?”

“Why can’t you simply send it here right now?” questioned the younger earth mare as Jerry motioned to the aimed ponies.

“I need the space to make it, and everyone here is around me and pointing their weapon at me.” they glance to the other's, as the white mare sighed, and motioned the ponies to allow him to move. There was some hesitance, as they stood for a while, before allowing passage. Jerry took his time, moving through the ponies as he saw their glares, their suspicious looks, their thinking he shouldn’t be here.

Good. Should keep a good reputation of sorts, and make the Caribous think I don’t work with the Resistance. thought Jerry as he glanced around, seeing it was a wide cavernous area full of makeshift buildings, or huts as it seem the ponies had a way of life-- or a sort of temporary home. He didn’t knew where he was, but at least knew he was somewhere underground or in a mountain.

He saw a good clearing, nothing near it, nothing over it, and above all, against the wall. So when he got near it, he merely lift his left arm up for dramatics. With the sounds of aimed ponies right behind him. He didn’t even need to glance behind him, knowing they were all aiming their weapons at him, waiting for him if he was going to backstab them. He sigh, but raise it up, as the Main Gate drilled itself up, settled in place, and it glowed blue, showing it was active…

And nothing happened. They were all tense for a bit, waiting, expecting something to happened...but nothing as Jerry lower his arm, and turned to look at them as he spoke. “Now with that out of the way, I will be dropping off the mares and fillies.” glancing to Spree and said to her. “You might need to come with me, Spree.”

“For what reasons, why does she need to go with you?” questioned the thestral sharply as Jerry told.

“To tell the other mares and fillies that the Resistance is real and to be ready, to gather what she needs to gather, and to make sure that everything will go along smoothly.”

Signing, Spree also added, “They’ll want proof it’s safe, and the mare’s at least trust my word.” Then firmly nodded, “I will be back, and I hope to be part of the Resistance.”

With a sigh, the white mare said, “We’ll screen you when you come back then, Storm Spree.” Then gave the gate a near weary look, telling, “We expect mare’s to come out of that, and only mare’s until we can accern what to do about this… alliance.” Looking at the Overlord tensely.

“Very well. If you and your co-members had make a decision of a alliance? Let me know.”

The black earth mare snort and asked. “And how are we supposed to do that? Send a message?” Jerry couldn’t help but grin as he told simply.

“Just let someone be on the Gate, I will know soon enough.” then as he made his way up, he glance to Spree who followed with, as the two teleported back into the throne room. As Jerry said. “Well Spree...it was nice having you around. I hope you’ll be safe and well in the Resistance.”

Looking to him, Spree smiled, “I’m not gone yet, Jerry. I’m still here for at least a while longer.” Moving with him for a moment before telling, “I need to tell Shadow that we really found the Resistance. Figure out what to do.” Though she already knew her friend's choice. “I have a lot to do. Why not you go and figure out what you can do to secure this alliance?”

Jerry gave a groan. “Yeah,” sighing out hard as he shake his head. “Never thought playing some of those diplomatic games would work well.” moving towards the Private Quarters as he glance to Gnarl and told. “Come on Gnarl, I’ll need you for giving pointers on the alliance.” as Jerry was continuing his trek, Gnarl was glancing to Spree as he gave a grin.

“You’ll be pleased to know that I haven’t touch them with a single claw, just like you ask.” although despite him assuring her, that grin said he enjoyed something during his time in ‘guard duty’.

“We’ll see about that.” Spree shot back before letting the two leave and then turned away herself. She made her way through the castle, eyes searching for the black thestral. There were quite a few thestrals in the mare’s that came, though thankfully none with Shadow’s black coat.

It took longer than she liked, but when she spotted the mare with a few others keeping a eye on the fillies, Spree brightened. “Shadow!” Causing her and a few others to look. “I got great news-- we found the Resistance and have a gate straight for their base!”

Blinking in surprise, as Shadow gave a laugh to that as she said in joy. “I can’t believe it-- they actually exist! They actually exist!” then turn to the fillies and said. “Pack your bags fillies, it's time to go!” a few mares moved to move with the fillies, although one pause to look back and asked to Shadow.

“Aren't you coming with us, Ms.Daze?” Shadow giggle and replied with mirthful eyes.

“I do need to talk to my friend after all, now go on.” seeing her nod and leaving, as once they were out of hearing, Shadow turn to Spree and smile as she told. “To be honest, it’s sad that they’ll learn that I’m not coming with you all.”

Nodding some as she came to a stop before her friend, Spree admitted, “I’m a little sad you’re not coming with if I was honest.” Tapping a hoof before glancing up and rushing the thestral into a hug. “Be careful, alright?” Despite what she said, she was still worried. Concerned. Maybe just a bit scared. “I’m not going to be around to make sure you’re alright.”

She giggle and assure her friend as she gave her a assuring hug. “I’ll be fine, after all Spree,” a wide smile on her face as she told her. “I am going to be with Jerry, and we both know he’ll keep a good eye on me and my well-being.”

“I think he’s going to eye more than that.” Joked Spree before giving a quick peck to Shadow’s cheek and telling her at arm's length, “I think you already know that Jasmine’s staying. Maybe consider visiting the Resistance now and then-- if not so she can see other fillies every now and then… maybe to visit me too?”

Shaking her head, Spree almost snorted, “Duh… what am I saying? I’m probably going real busy…” Then smiled up softly and told, “I’m going to miss you.”

“I’ll miss you to, and I’ll try to visit if you’re around, you’re my friend after all.” she however sigh as she admit. “But I have a feeling that if I do visit, I’ll be scrutinized by my choice by the Resistance.” then shrug as she said with a smile to Spree. “I can’t really fault them, but it's my choice.”

Nodding, Spree assured, “Just let me handle them. As long as I’m with you, I’ll make sure they won’t bother you.” Then glanced to the side where the others left, and told, “I should… probably pack too.” Then glanced back and told with a smile, “Remind Jasmine that she get’s my bed while I’m gone. It’s all her’s now.”

“I’ll be sure to do it, and I’ll make sure the Minions will watch over her,” flushing some on her cheeks as she giggle. “As I’ll be busy with Jerry tonight.” letting go as she told. “See you later, have fun putting down Caribous and spreading justice.”

“I’ll try.” Smiled back Spree, hand holding on the thestrals shoulder, but seeming unwilling to let go. It seemed with effort that Spree lifted her hand up and away before turning and trailing after the mare’s. Shadow could hear a heavy breath from the yellow mare as she left, leaving Shadow herself to stand and watch them leave the now empty and fairly quiet room.

Its going to be hard on her, mused the mare, as she began moving to a path of her own, feeling a bit of sadness of seeing her friend goodbye, and a bit of heartache of knowing those fillies will be sad that she won’t be coming with. But...she knew that she had to stay, not because she want to be with Jerry, but because she knows, that he needs her, just as he needs Lovely, and especially needs Jasmine.

As the ponies, they were the closest thing he had to family and loved ones here. And she knew that even if she did leave to be with her friends and as a free mare...a part of her...a part of her would feel heartbreak to know that Jerry won’t have somepony to help heal those emotional needs, as while Jasmine and Lovely could help...one was a filly and the other was a created mare. So it was up to her as she knew that even if she chose to stay with him...she didn’t regret the choice she was about to make.

---

As the ponies watched carefully as the Gate was activated, all tensed as in a flash of blue, there were mares and fillies. All having some sorts of bags, dress’s on them, and while it relieve them that none had collars….it surprised many that their horns and wings weren’t removed or defeathered. In fact...they look like as if they weren’t forced into slavery in the first place.

However when they all were coming down, one of the fillies noticed something. “Where’s Ms.Daze?” at first there was some confusion...until a few mares notice that the thestral wasn’t among them.

“Did she forgot?” “Maybe she needed more things to pack?” “Hey wait, where’s Jasmine?” confusion and uncertainty arose as one of the Resistance mares glance to find Spree, but didn’t find her. However the Gate activate again, as they all turn to see Spree alone...but no Shadow or Jasmine with her.

They watched the mare step on along, spear almost being used as a staff to walk along as she looked almost… sad. One of the mare’s from the rescue, quickly walked up and asked, “Spree, where’s Jasmine and Shadow?” Concern flowing through her voice.

Blinking and looking up, Spree smiled and shook her head, “They wanted to stay behind.” Many becoming alert and giving sounds of surprise while she herself went on, “They told me themselves. They’re staying. I wanted them to come with, but it was up to them to stay or leave.”

“You left them with Him?” Questioned out a mare, unsure of why Spree would do that. “I thought you planned to get them both here where it’s safer!?”

With a pointed look, Spree told, “Shadow made her choice a long time ago.” Making sure she made herself pretty clear. “I talked it over with her before all of you were rescued. She wanted to stay. We didn’t tell you anything because you probably would have tried to drag her and Jasmine here when they already made their choice.”

“Spree, you should have told us.” told a mare. “It's one thing for that, that thing to stay with him. Its another with a mare and a filly who has no place with the likes of him. You know what kind of a monster he is?”

“I do know what kind he is.” Spree shot back, “If I didn’t, did you think I’d leave my friend behind?” Slightly challenging the mare that, while wanting to speak back, was hardly given a chance. “If he does her wrong, I’m coming for him.” Stamping her spear down to make a point. “But I expect him to keep his word to me. He at least keeps his deals.”

While they gave murmurs to that, one of the unicorns, one who spoke back to Gnarl while Spree was gone, snorted and told. “And what of those things? You may think that male can keep his word, but those two are around with a lot of males around them.”

But another mare spoke up. “But, aren’t those imps stupid?” gaining a few more murmurs as another added. “Yeah, not to mention those weird blue ones gave us back what the Caribous took from us. I think we can at least give some benefit of the doubt right?” the unicorn gave a comeback.

“He’s EVIL!”

“That’s enough!” Spoke a much louder voice, a white mare Spree recognized form before as one of the five heads walking up. “If you’re all done, I want to start organizing you all out and possibly locating any family you may know here and enlist any and all willing bodies.” She then placed a hand to her chest, “I am Commander Pearl, one of the Five heads to the Resistance. Behind me are ponies that are going to get you all fixed up and looked over.”

“Any and all that think you can or want to apply for the fight? Come with me.” That, for Spree, was her cue to move out and get moving with the Commander. She realized that this was going to be a long fight, and she might not get sent out to do anything soon… but it she could now finally do something. She just hoped Shadow, Jasmine, Lovely and Jerry could hold out without her around now.

---

My God… thought Jerry as he was rubbing his face, partially out of the headache of writing up a alliance with Gnarl….and how complicated it was as it was like a contract of some sort. He glance to Gnarl, seemingly to enjoy making the alliance ‘fair’ with Jerry giving much, granted he wasn’t at first. But when Jerry mentioned he was lending the supplies and his gold?

Gnarl decided help, knowing that when these ponies have their nation back-- they would have to pay the Overlord anything, and well...who knows how long until he just takes the throne for himself. Jerry was partially wondering if the Resistance was going to talk to him. But then again...I think they might give out pros and cons, maybe debate a bit. thought over Jerry as he sigh, as he said to Gnarl. “Gnarl, can we call it a night? Any more and I think I might just lay my head on the table.”

The old minion hum, as he said. “Very well Sire, I suppose after the wenches left and those whole alliance, you do deserve to have some peace and quiet.” then hurump. “Although the Minions will have to work harder to clean, and you Master need to raid to refill your supplies.” Jerry wave his hand as he said.

“Right, right.” getting up as he was heading to his bedroom, as he idly thought. Maybe get Lovely to back rub me? Maybe just snuggle with me too? although maybe I can enjoy some ‘dessert’ with her since we didn’t have much with guests coming around. chuckling some as he enter in his room...and just stopping. Seeing Shadow on her knees before him, in that...bondage clothing...and her collar before her with her eyes closed. For a brief moment, Jerry mind paused.

It didn’t just pause at what was before him, but also just the mere sight. Before, when Shadow was still his slave, having her in the bondage clothing was… admittedly a large power trip for him. Right before he had to let her go, and got to only use it with his sexy maid a few times. Now… now he really couldn’t help but stare and wonder.

Spree had told him to make sure Shadow was taken care of. He thought her words were a little funny, with how she phrased them-- and right now he couldn’t recall how she said them or phrased them. And part of his mind couldn’t stop but stare at the tight dark cloths and the bare sex and breasts that were next highlighted.

Lovely was more sexy. That was a truth. But it was hard to not also find Shadow’s more younger looking, more perky and leaner body something to feel hot about. And, the collar? What was that about-- wasn’t Shadow a free mare--

Then it hit him. The deal he made with Spree some month back? Months back? Time was hard to recall with all that happened… but seeing her ears flick and her striking yellow eyes open to look up at him… there was something different about her gaze. It wasn't so full of lust and need and want. It… it looked, almost… warm.

And while she kneeled there, next to mostly bare with her body practically on display and the corset like bondage clothes showing off her body and assets so sharply… she gave a soft smile, slightly tilting her head and almost gave the look of trust and… and something he couldn’t discern, something more… meaningful he just didn’t know how to interpret.

Shadow look at the man, as she asked. “Are you alright?”

“Yes, no,” stumble Jerry as he told. “I don’t know! This is...I…” trying to understand as she giggle softly, and something about that tingle his heart. As she replied in a sincere tone.

“Well, it’s quite simple. I want to stay with you, I want to by your side,” then flush her cheeks as she glance away, hips slightly shifting as she added with pinned back ears and eyes looking at him with a bit of shyness on her face. “I...wanted to be your slave of love.”

“Shadow, no offense, but I honestly thought you would….go?” said Jerry as he glance away, and while there was a disappointed look on her face, it shifted as it was more a gentle look, as she took the collar into her hands and got to her hooves. She walked up to him, having that gentleness persisting in her gaze before standing before him and hugging him. It was, comforting. Assuring. Loving. And Jerry, was about to speak-- before Shadow told gently as she nuzzled in his chest.

“I know you hurt. I know you seek comfort. I know that you just want to be loved.” looking up to him, as there was a gentleness in her eyes. “Lovely, is a nice mare, but she can’t love you like a real mare can. Hold you, with the same care a real mare can. Sooth you while in distress...like a real mare can.”

“But...if, if you do want to be with me...why as..my slave?” trying to wrap his head around that as she giggled, as she lean on him, arms holding around him as she told.

“Because maybe, just deep down...I find the idea a slight turn on.” then look up to him as she went on. “I like a dominate male, one can dominate me...but not hurt me wrongly. I want to be loved too, you know….and I think...I think I can trust you to have my body under your will.” she then gain a amuse expression as she joked. “Beside, if you mess up, you’ll have Spree coming after you.” He snort some as he told.

“Yeah, considering she’ll do it? I know that my ass is grass.” Shadow then move her hands up to his head, gaining his attention as he look down to her as she spoke.

“And if I was honest? I sort of, missed those days. When I was first under you. I was confused and scared,” looking away at that part...before looking up with a smile as she said. “But seeing how you treat Lovely. I know that you are a loving and kind Master…” then move the collar before him and asked sweetly. “So please...let me be yours?” He look to her...then to the collar...then to her...then move a hand to the collar.

As he move it around her offered neck and let it click on her neck.

The smile she gave… it was different. Despite the collar and the promise to be bound to all his wishes, whims and wants, to do anything he commanded her to do...

Shadow still smiled like a Free Mare.

---

Commander Pearl took a deep dragging breath and looked over the reports of all the mares and fillies they had gotten into their base. With them all accounted for and ordered out, she and the others now began to figure out what to do next.

She gave a glance around, taking note of each of the heads. She herself, being that for their military might. Near her was Periodic Table, the red stallion and only stallion in their headship that was in charge of all research and development projects. To her left currently was a rather close friend, Stone Hooves. Their Quartermaster and main supplier for most of the Resistance. Past the dark coated mare was Shire.

A mare that looked to be in her 20’s and having a very lovely green coat-- and also their sole diplomatic negotiator and slight voice to the people. Her use while not as prevalent, also helped them all keep cool heads in stressful times. And just to the other side and near Periodic, was the oldest mare there. Screech Call, a former Lunar guard that re-initiated herself as their spymaster informant. Besides Pearl herself, Screech was the single most experience mare in the room.

And even with all of them, it was hard to choose what to do next. Mostly pertaining to the Overlord. While the many freed ponies was a good boon, and a fairly agreeable gesture of good faith, only two of them were willing to give a benefit of a doubt.

For Pearl, she took a moment to go over the few mare’s that would be part of their military force now. Particularly Storm Spree. The mare, once questioned, gave a fair outline of the Overlord’s might-- and to say it was staggering. Staggering to the point that it explained why he was causing so much damage to the Caribou’s. In Spree’s words, she just made out he had a small personal armed force and has some raw power to power through some or most problems.

This wasn’t the only thing Pearl asked, of course. She was happy with how forthcoming Spree was, telling bits of information to gain a good idea of this Overlord. The fact he had a created mare by his side. The fact that he has made himself out to be a Guardian to Jasmine, and explaining why the filly had not come with. And lastly, to Pearl’s cringe, the news that her ‘friend’, Shadow Daze, was now his red collared mare slave. She didn’t like that, and had a feeling that Spree underestimated this dark male, possibly not even knowing that he possibly did something to Shadow to force her to make that choice. Still, she tried not to groan out when Periodic spoke.

“Guess this Shadow decided to be with this Overlord guy, you know it reminds me of Magic and Zealous a bit.” then chuckle. “Only less extreme.”

“I fail to see how this is funny, Dr. Table.” told Shire, as she folded her hands before her face. “It’s one thing with a created mare. Its another with a free mare turning red-collar.” the earth stallion shrug as he replied.

“I’m just saying, she reminds me a bit on Zealous want to be with her stud.” but then told. “But I’m still putting my vote in. We should continue with making a alliance with the Overlord.” Stonehooves scoff.

“You’re only saying that because your friend is a Dark Arts user.” Periodic reminded simply.

“I’m placing my vote in, because I see the benefit for allowing someone else to fight and give us time to have breathing space. He is a useful distraction.”

Nodding, Screech spoke, “Agreed. This should take a good amount of attention off my own sources and give them more space to do their work.” Then glanced up and told, “I’m in-- but only after we know what his full out terms for this alliance.” Then pointedly told to them all, “Spree was forthcoming in information-- but we don’t know how much he held back from her. He knew she was leaving for us. I have a suspicion she doesn't know certain things.”

Shire agree to this. “He would make sure certain information regarding to his abilities or how he is able to not be affected by the Caribou magic would cause certain members here shock and outrage.”

“Like how he gains these ‘minions’.” add Pearl. “We know that they’re his personal army, but she didn’t knew how many they were, and how he keeps getting them. Or where the location of this ‘Dark Castle’ is.” glancing to the other's as Stonehooves snort and told.

“I’m out. We don’t know what he may want, for all we know? He may want more created mares to build for his needs,” then sneer. “Or maybe gain ‘special slaves’ of mares that Screech needs for her ‘male informants’ to have a easier time blending in.”

The elderly thestral gave a hard glare and told, “Don’t get out of line of expertise, Stone Hooves. As much as you don’t like it, Pinks are needed to keep my male informants as safe and under the radar as possible.” Then went on to tell while relaxing back, “And Created mares? I don’t think there will be any problems about that. As long as he doesn't sacrifice a living, thinking mare that’s still a person.”

Slightly raising to that, Stone Hooves said, “You’re going to let the bastard just take them and make them into whatever he wants?!”

“They’re already dead in mind, Stone.” Screech reminded, “Even with us ‘restoring’ them with that machine,” Voice slightly dripping in venom at the mere mention of the thing, “They are still just shadows of their former selves. Whoever they used to be. We can’t do anything about it.”

As Stone Hooves glare to the older thestral, Pearl glance to Shire, who sighed and spoke. “The ponies are distress, some are fearful, some are concern-- and some are wondering if we’re trading one evil for another?” taking another breath as she went on. “While on one hand, it could work with a alliance and getting a full understanding of the terms he wants and what we want-- but on the other hand?” looking to them as she told.

“On the other hand, we might be his stepping stone to gain Equestria for himself. You all heard his little speech of the Caribous being ‘incompetence’?”

With a turn of her head, Screech, “I don’t think we’ll have a choice in the end, Shire.” Folding her hands on the table after placing the reports down. She focused on them than the eyes on her, while telling, “Our funding is on a constantly thin line. Our attacks are only so effective. We’re constantly being probed with sleeper agents disguised as normal mares. My agents can’t move as much without causing too much suspicion.”

Pearl furrowed her brows and asked, “You think that we’re going to have to accept his offer?”

“I’m saying that if we don’t? Him taking over Equestria is the better result than us losing to the Caribous sooner and having our asses turned into their personal pleasure toys.” Told the older mare simply. “We’re slowly getting backed into a corner-- one that we slipped out of when he popped out of nowhere and started causing trouble.”

“And him popping out of those Gates of his.” Mused Periodic, as Stone Hooves questioned.

“And you think its better with him in charge? You’re basically saying that we’re removing the Caribous and placing the Overlord in charge of our nation.”

“I’m saying that if he does take over Equestria-- he would be less focus on sex across the nation, and getting the nation back on its hooves.” told Screech. “Despite his little speech being flared, he seems like a being who hates time and resources wasted for frivolous reasons.”

Sighing, Pearl rubbed her face and said, “Damn it… Either be eternal sex slaves to those Caribou Bastards… or be with a new Overlording dark master that makes us into a workforce.” She wasn’t sure which was worse-- it was a living hell as it was for all mares and fillies. Was the other option any better?

Arms crossed, Screech told, “Like I said. My vote for this will only account-- after I know what we’re dealing with. Because as far as I am concerned? Trying to accept any deals right now, before we know the full terms, will only result in problems for us.”

Pearl glance to Shire, who sigh and admit. “I’m with Screech on this one. We don’t know anything of him, we don’t know how he operates-- for all we know, he’s pulling a front and is using us as a advantage for our homeland.”

One vote in, one vote out, and two unbiased until the terms are… then said with a long breath in and out. “In the morning, we’ll get the Overlord here and get him to tell his full terms. That way, we will know what his plans are. All in favor?” seeing their nod heads, as she nod, but glance to Periodic and asked. “Have you discover more of the Gate workings and elements?”

A annoyed look on his face as he asked. “If my friend had no idea with his reports, how could I know?”

With a pointed look, Stone Hooves asked, “Because you apparently have a full in depth mastery of all known elements?” Then waved a hand at him, “How could you not know?”

“That thing does not come from any known elements, period. It’s entire structure is unknown, the making of the stone, the fact it's not even stone at all, or glass, or-- anything I come across. In fact it's not made of Mercury, its not made of Erbium-- it's not even made of Zirconium!” then said. “So yes Stone Hooves, I don’t know, because I never seen anything like that Gate before. For all I know, it's a new element and something we simply haven’t discovered yet in science.”

“And magic?” Pressed Pearl, “I thought your friend was one of the top experts in the field?”

“Of course he is, he didn’t earn his title for nothing.” defended Periodic as he told. “But even he can’t find anything, Zealous provide a theory with her own knowledge of Geology and magical influences-- that it’s possible this material of the Gates isn’t identifiable. Because it's simply not part of our plain of existence.” gaining looks as he push. “She theorize to my friend, that it's a summoned construct-- because of that, could work on completely different principles. And considering what I discover? I say I have to agree with her theory.”

With a twisted face, Screech asked, “What are you saying, Periodic?” Then rolled a hand in the air, “That whatever the Overlord has at his disposal, comes from… some either realm or something out of a fiction novel?” Not sure what the younger generation called it-- but she knew it was over their heads.

Breathing in, he explain. “What I’m saying Screech, is that what we know of magic knowledge, logic, science-- and even our innate nature of magic? Is worth nothing to whatever the Overlord has in terms of his Gates, his location-- even his own magic. His magic might as well be on a different rule and system of magic that even if try to learn or understand-- will go horribly backfire on us.”

With a frustrated sound, Pearl rubbed her face and said, “Which means you need better facilities to figure it out with more eggheads-- which we can’t do because we’re going to be straining our resources as it is!” Realizing that they would need more funding, more supplies-- more ponypower! Able bodies they were both limited on and also had too much of at moments with those unable to fight, unwilling to fight or too young to fight!

The earth stallion merely nodded. “Exactly. And until that happens? We might as well be ignorant and gain information from Screech’s information's from 2nd hand or 3rd hand sources.” Pearl sigh, as she soon told.

“Fine.” then look around her as she told. “Everypony get some shut eye, because tomorrow we’ll be discussing with the Overlord on his terms.” while Shire, Screech and Periodic nod, Stone Hooves snort and they all split for a good sleep.

Next Chapter: A facility of new discoveries Estimated time remaining: 45 Hours, 36 Minutes