The doors slam open as the five Heads turn, surprising to see the Overlord back...in a more eviler of scorched black armor as he, for once, didn’t had his weapon on him. But soon threw scrolls at them and told. “Read it and get ready.” Periodic open his scroll, looking in with wide eyes as Shire looked shocked.

“T-This is!” appalled of such a thing as what Jerry basically toss at them was the ‘short version’ of the plans he discussed to the Alpha base mares as Jerry said simply.

“I don’t got time, and frankly neither do you all. So instead of arguing of moral, of right or wrong-- how about we get ready on the job, tell all your agents to get ready to leave-- and let me handle the Caribous while you all bunker down, clear?” tone suggesting he wasn’t in the mood for the usual bs that happens in these discussions.

Snatching up a scroll, Screech read through what she could, right before losing all composer. “YOU LET YOUR IMPS CONTAMINATE THE EMPIRES WATER WITH A LETHAL DISEASE!?” Outrage could not define her anger. Her voice was loud enough that not only did her cohorts hold their hands over ears, or Jerry hold his hands over helm-- but everyone outside heard the loud muffling. Thankfully, the words weren’t made out, but it was made clear.

Someone had really tipped off Screech's ‘talent’. Even Gnarl, who was watching over this situation, was given a shock of how loud the mare could be.

“By Evil that’s loud!” said Gnarl as he was rubbing his ears, Jerry let out a breath as he told.

“Yes. And it can be cured by Albert.” then said. “If we do it before it gets too severe-- so instead of arguing, bickering-- or shouting at me of how ‘evil’ I am-- why not just finish reading, get to planning-- and lets get down to business. Because we are on a time table.” as he added. “We got two months, less if we don’t make it fast and quick.”

“Why...why would you do this!?” spoke out Shire as Jerry look to them, then said in a simple tone.

“Because I’m the Overlord. And I’m doing this to not only get rid of the dong, but to get your princess’s back from Dainn.”

Slightly trembling, Pearl said while reading, “Y-you… you monster.” Looking up with the most rage filled eyes he had never seen before. “Do you know how many Crystal ponies live in the Empire? Thousands. We can’t move that many when the time comes-- thousands of lives are going to die.”

“Thats where you’re wrong.” interrupted Jerry. “Only a thousand will die, if you don’t follow the instructions on the paper to the letter. If you do, well only a partial will die, you’ll bring them back up to thousand in generation of breeding-- Empires yours and the Caribous get killed.”

Periodic look over the paper and said. “It starts off with a flu, coughing, running nose, then itchy skin…” looking more into it as he went on. “ after a few weeks, it breaks out to...boils and spots of yellow green cracks over skin. At...at this stage, the person has five weeks left to live, more if left uncheck and the systems occur if not treated. Failure of liver, kidney….heart and other organs failing as the immune system is negated…” looking up with a horrified expression as he finished.

“All body functions shut down by corrupted DNA in bacteria and continue even if subject died from organ failure…Body shuts down after five weeks and the disease will deconstruct body until nothing left to take...” looking to Jerry as he asked.

“Why...why did you do this?” Jerry look at them all, as he knew he was purposely making himself the scapegoat...and took it as he told.

“Because incentive.” looking at them as he went on. “You all wanted me to attack the Crystal Empire? Now I am.”

With a near wild look, Stone hooves nearly stood and was about to go into a long ranting tangent-- right before she watched the male lift a finger and tap his wrist.

“Tick. Tock. the more time you waste with argument and debates-- the less time the crystal ponies have to live.” and added. “And getting you all out of Equestria. Once I take the princess out of Dainn grubby hands? He’ll be hunting you all down. I suggest you do as I say and follow the instructions to the letter.”

The rage and anger in the room was pliable. The heat was a bit more higher than normal, and Pearl said, “When this is all over… I’m having you executed for putting so many lives at risk.” Then with a growling voice, told, “Periodic… send a message to that friend of yours…” Breathing in and trying to bite her own raging words. “If the Overlord wants a quarantine to happen… we might need him to emphasize to them it’s deadly and can’t be cured and needs to be closed off…”

“I’m sure he’ll say its a highly dangerous and incurable disease-- and tell them to leave him alone.” he said with a somber smile, getting up and leaving, as Stonehooves seeth at Jerry and spat at his feet.

“You monster. I hope the Princess’s will make your death slow.” Jerry chuckle as he told.

“Only if you managed to find me, much less try to get access to my gates.” then said in a amuse tone. “You know, this might be the first time I’m smiling, no arguments, no debates, quick, efficent, and down to business. And best of all, no headaches for me.”

“Get.” Began Pearl with a dangerous look, “Out.” Taking another deep breath to grind out, “We will. Do what you have told us here. On this list.” And as much as she hated it-- she knew… she knew she had no choice. Either they worked now, or they lose an entire people within two months time.

“Excellent! Better hurry, we’re going to be busy!” said Jerry in a cheerful tone as he walked out, but knew Stonehooves was cursing and ranting at him.

And he was right.

“THAT CELESTIA DAMNED MONSTER!?” Shire had shaky hands, trying to calm herself as she ignored Stonehooves… and was thinking of those on death row...mares, stallions, fillies, colts...unborn foals. She clench her hands tight, as tears came down her eyes as she knew...knew those poor unborn foals, and pregnant mothers won’t make it...she couldn’t help but spoke out.

“Does...does even the Caribou deserve a death like this?”

It made them all stop to consider, and while both Stone Hooves and Pearl look contemplating, Screech said, “Do they deserve it?” Then glared at the list, “They raped us. They caged us. They striped us of our modesty, collared us, leashed us, humiliated us and even abused us.”

She paused and said, “I don’t know Shire. Those bastards are sick…. But this?” She bared her teeth, “This… this is, this is just wrong. If it was just the caribous, maybe?” Then rubbed her face, the elderly skin slightly showing it’s age with a few tail-tell wrinkles. “I’ve seen some bad stuff when I was military… but this… this is going too far…”

They soon heard Periodic voice coming in. “I think we all knew that we had to remove the Caribous from the Empire…” grimace some as he said. “But we didn’t knew if this was what we wanted...and I’m honestly having a hard time to...prefer this than the alternative.” This made Stone scream out.

“WHAT'S BETTER THAN THIS!?” having a solemn look...he respond.

“Multiple unborn young fillies to be in this hellhole, fillies growing up and being Caribou property, toys, slaves and broken minds that will never feel love. Taken away at birth, all made to be just toys to fuck and please their masters…” then sighed. “You heard...what he said earlier on why he couldn’t attack the Empire. Even if we pitch in to help him...a lot of mares would be spread across the wind, and no way would we be able to save them all…”

They were quiet to that, Pearl looking over the paper and saying, “You know he’s wrong about one thing.” Looking up and telling, “I don’t care how confident he sounds. Even if we all went in when the time comes, even if he, us and this… Albert guy go in to get the Heart, get Princess Cadence, get the ponies-- there’s no way we can evacuate over a thousand! We don’t have the able bodies to do that, even more if some are ready to die on the spot!”

Periodic hum… and asked. “What If he knew something we didn’t?” then shake his head. “No...we would of notice it on the paper…” then sighed and admit. “I think...I think he knows that we might take priorities...on getting those not near that death area and get the near healthy ones.” then thought and said. “But...something is...off about this.”

“You mean with him basically telling us to do as he said and risk thousands of ponies to death?” he shook his head and said.

“No. It's too…heartless. Too calculated for him to make this plan.”

While she seethed for a while, Screech read on over the plan, going over it and… flicking an ear to what their research expert said. For a moment, she dropped her feelings and tried to just focus on the plan. There was outlines, time positions, expected places to be set up…

It was with a slow realization, the old mare said, “He’s right.” At first the others didn’t hear it, but Screech raised her voice, “Periodics right… this… this is too well thought out for the Overlord. He makes plans, but we’ve seen how they go, they blunder around with only rough ideas of what’s going on.”

She went on, confusion drawing onto her face. “Just look at this!” Hand hitting paper, “He first plans out to spread this virus first, then comes to us? He’s not smart enough to know how to put initial pressure on us in a argument or get the jump on us at the start of a conversation-- much less make a credible threat that forces our hand!”

Shire look over, noticing it more and said. “But why? Why claim he's doing it?” Periodic thought it over...before he realize it.

“He’s taking credit for this blow of a virus.” gaining attention as he said. “How did he get the virus in the first place? We know only one person who got this virus and it isn't the Overlord.” Shire blinked, realizing it and said.

“Albert.”

With a scrunched up face, Stone Hooves asked, “You think he’s responsible for this?” Pausing to think and soon shake her head, “You… no, the guy was some egghead, isn’t he? He’s not a military tactician or a political figure-- what makes you think he would of been able to think this up?”

“Who else has access to this virus, how it works-- and knows how to cures it?” questioned Periodic as he pointed out. “He’s also creative with what he has. We know he’s been at the sea on his own for years, surviving on his own and facing apparent threats that would kill most unprepared.” raising a finger and said. “He’s adaptable and thriving, and now he possess a sizable town size underwater base, and been able to make a, currently, functioning society. Within it.”

“The Overlord made himself to be the ‘mastermind’ because he want us and everypony who finds out about this-- see him as responsible and no one else. Meaning he’s trying to shift the blame on him and make everyone try to fear him and see him more stronger and relentless than he is.”

“But I thought he wanted to live longer.” Pointed out Pearl, and seemed to press on, “And we all know that he won’t do anything risky enough to get too big of a target on his back. And this definitely counts as it-- I would of thought he would of been happy to let someone else take the target?”

Thinking to that, Screech said, “But at the same time he’s taking a ‘credible’ evil action all for himself.” Getting a few looks as she said, “You heard him, he tries to make himself out to be evil as much as he can.” Then remarked to the side, “ Half of his attempts were jokes. He’s a threat, but some don’t take him as one at times.” Which… they had to all agree on.

“Like him trying to burn down a entire building of ponies.” snort Stonehooves, “Only to fail and realize that it had a upstair pool and put itself out.”

“Or the time he raided the Caribou warehouses, only to find out all the goods were past expiration dates and were more or less, cheap and easily confiscated goods.” added Shire as Periodic joked.

“I dunno, his most ‘evil’ is having a red and a created mare by his side. And to make the scientists we have make a coffee maker for him.”

With an eye roll, Screech said, “You mean besides the fact that most red collars latch onto masters anyways or the fact the created mare was already a blank slate?” Then shook her head. “Alright, a lot of his evil attempts are pretty sad.” But then patted the listed plan, “Still doesn't explain why he’s taking full credit. This is pretty horrible, even by his standards-- or whatever standards he has. Why take the credit?”

Narrowing her eyes, Pearl then questioned, “And why would this Albert, assuming he is the mastermind, would even suggest such a thing?” Then turned to Shire, “Wasn’t it your own report that said he was very fast on curing any sign of this… Cara virus before it even had a chance to hurt anyone?”

“He is.” nodded Shire, thinking more...until a thought occurred to her. “What if this plan had to get through with the ‘heads’ at the Alpha base? The list here say that the princess’s will be sent to a underwater place, and I have a feeling they will head to the Alpha base...what if the Heads there had to agree to this plan, as it was the most low casualty in terms of long terms?”

Scowling, Stonehooves asked, “And why would they agree to this? You heard Pearl, the casualties are going to be astronomical!”

While Screech agreed to that, she thought it over and said, “Not in the long run.” Making the earth mare next to glare at her-- but explaining. “Think about it. Even if we get a few hundred Crystal ponies, they can still recover and reproduce. The princesses will be in a completely unknown location the Caribou's can’t even find or reach.”

Taking a breath in, Screech admitted. “It’s a sound plan. We of the Resistance go into hiding too, possessing the other pony tribes. We, can stay out of the fight, rebuild our people. And the hundreds of Crystal ponies right there too.”

“While leaving the rest of equestria to the Overlord to take.” Pointed out a sour toned Stone.

Raising a hand and slamming it onto the table, Screech said, “You don’t get it-- if we’re away from Equestria, we suddenly have breathing room. Breathing room we didn’t have before.” Then went on, “The Caribou will be too focused on locating us within Equestria, they won’t be looking anywhere else for months, maybe a whole year after the hit we deliver. Imagine the amount of progress we can make in bolstering our reserves, building supplies and training troops!”

Stonehooves snort. “You mean if there's any Caribous left to fight. We all know that the moment we’re gone? The Overlord is going to attack the Caribous all over with those Gates, tartarus, I half expect him to be in Canterlot ruling it and waiting for us to return as Dainn head is on a platter.”

“Thousands of Caribou's, fighting hundreds or thousands of minions.” Told Screech. “The Overlord is doing us a favor. He can’t capture and hold a town or city-- I know this, Pearl knows this, HE knows this. He can raid it-- but not hold it.” Then explained on, “And the more fights he get’s in, without our support, the more numbers he loses. In the long term, he may suffer a decline in power, and the Caribou's will definitely suffer a decline in forces.”

Thinking it over, Pearl gave a slow nod, “I hate to admit it-- and I mean by hate, I loath it, but Screech is right…” Looking slightly resigned while looking to the rest, “On the long term… it’s too good of an offer or chance.”

“And a favor from the Overlord to us.” agreed Periodic. “He might of figured we won’t last forever, and decided to take things into his own hands, forcing us out with our rulers-- just so we can gain breathing room and time to grow, while he’s off raiding, killing and harassing the Caribous. All while gaining a ‘Evil rep’,” thinking some as he asked. “But here's a good question.” looking to them all. “Are we still going to try executing him now that we know his intent?” looking to Pearl as he went on. “You did say we were going to execute him when this is all over, remember?”

Snorting, Pearl said, “Don’t forget, he willingly went along with poisoning thousands of innocent lives. Planned it himself or not, he still did it knowing the consequences.” Which, they couldn’t fault. The Overlord was not a soldier carrying out orders. He did it on his own consent. “And if I have the chance? I’m going to do the same to the bastard or bitch that came up with this plan.”

Shire sighed and said. “We should bring this up to the Princess’s…” then grimace. “But we’ll lose the element bearers…”

“Unless the Overlord decided to sign his death by tossing them to us in his raids.” snorted Stonehooves. “For a ‘villain’ he really wants us to end his miserable life, doesn’t he?”

“We can discuss such thing at a later time, for now?” said Periodic. “I suggest we get to work. Now.” moving out to get ready.

---

Meanwhile…

---

Magic just look at this, reading over the information as he got a good understanding of this ‘incurable disease’ as he was laying in his sofa as apparently the Overlord was spreading this sickness and causing quarantine...however he frown. This doesn’t have the Overlord hands on it. It's too calculated. Too sadistic. Too thought out as well. glancing to Zealous below as he comment. “Apparently a deadly and incurable virus is going to be spreading, and Periodic want me to tell everypony it can’t be cured.”

Blinking some, the orange pegasus opened her eyes and only slightly shifted, just enough so her husband and master’s head could rest comfortable on her generous and soft chest. “Really?” Then tilted her head, asking, “I bet you could cure it, right?” Smirking in confidence to this. Though, that confidence slightly waned when he didn’t respond, reading over the letter.

“..No, not at first. This is purely genetic, and alien to any diseases I do know.” slightly shaking his head as he glance to Zealous. “I think it may be better if we secretly start packing. Be ready to leave these idiots to their fate while we group up with Periodic.”

To that, Zealous asked, “Are you planning to unleash the dead hoards?” Then paused for a moment more to go on, “Magic… is something wrong?” She was fairly certain he was worried for another reason. “It’s this disease thing, isn’t it?”

A brief nod as he said. “I think its already been spreading a bit here. Just to add in hysterical and fear.” glancing to the letter as he added. “It doesn’t say how it spread, or contact in the water…” trailing off as he couldn’t help but move a arm around her in a protective grip as he laid on her. “I can’t take the chance if a single infected spread before the signs are noticed.”

While she like the feeling of his strong arm protectively, if not obsessively held her waist-- Zealous began to understand. “You really think that… some infected people might have came off the train and might be spreading it without knowing?” The idea… slightly scaring her. “Do you think whoever thought of this… forgot to think about it?”

“I’m more worried that they were planning on it to begin with.” glancing to her as he said. “Think of how much panic it spread with the outbreaks show? Then realizing where it originated from? And further realizing how many could be infected from there to wherever the train leads?” being silent as he finally said. “Nation wide panic.”

With a slightly dry gulp of air, Zealous moved her wings slightly over them both, thinking in thought for a moment. “Should I get started now, Magic?” Hesitating for a moment before adding, “I know it might not reach us soon… but should we leave as soon as, well, people start to notice?”

“Yes...and I think I know a quick trip…” smirking some. “I did want to see how the Overlord is doing, check out his place.” then glance to Zealous as he tease. “And I’m sure you wanted to see who his other pets are, do you?”

Giggling to that, Zealous said, “Well it’s hard to find mares that are so willingly devoted to the love of their lives-- even my best friend doesn't completely get it, but she tries.” She smiled more and gushed, “Oh, maybe we can trade some notes on sex!”

Pausing to that, something seemed to click in the mare’s mind before she flushed and gave a slightly softer look, “Magic… if we do leave here… could we… could we possibly actually start a family?” The hope in her tone sounding so fragile, but also trusting. “I know I don’t ask much, and I know it’s too dangerous here for my babies… but, if we do leave, somewhere far from here…?”

He smile, turning to move over her, face to face as he kiss her lips gently, then said softly. “Of course.” then smile and said. “I’ll even promise that when we get to the Overlord Castle, I’ll force your heat on to get you ready for foals.”

Smiling, her legs came around his waist and her arms latched around his neck, holding a smoldering look and told, “You know I start feeling horny when you get all dominate and supreme over little ol’ me~” Reaching up to kiss his lips again, slightly sucking on his lower lip just for a moment longer before separating. It left them absent for breath, but she panted. “It might be scary with the idea of a deadly virus spreading… but I think I’ll be too turned on, wet and bothered to know you’ll be pumping me full of babies~”

“Careful,” said Magic with a smile. “Keep talking like that and I might decide to force start your heat now just to make you start having my foals.”

There was a lusty moan as she bit her lip and wiggled under him, “Oh, like you don’t enjoy it when I’m begging for you to stuff my flower with your wand~?” She giggled rather perversely. It was sometimes hard for him to believe she was this bad, way before the Caribou's came.

Snorting some, he tease her with a kiss on her neck as his horn started to glow as he ‘dared’ her. “The more you talk, the more I’m tempted to just make you in heat now. I might not even stop once I make you beyond horny, Zealous.”

“But Master.” She spoke, “I’m your loyal little pet of a bitch, meant to satiate all your sexual wants~” Looking more than willing to get him to do that… before she seemed to sadden and sigh. “I really want it, Magic. I do. But if there is a chance of… of one of us by chance getting sick, namely me?” She shook her head. “I want to make sure I’m not infected. My babies would be in danger. I don’t want to put them at risk.”

Horn stop glowing, he sighed as he nod his head. “Very well...I’ll hold until we’re at the Overlord.” although he couldn’t help but nip her neck, giving her a look as he added. “Although you made me really lustful with your teasing and moving. Shame on you.”

Smirking, she moved her hips up and ground on him, telling, “Then please Master, I was a bad girl. Punished me~”

His smirk only told he was going to do that and more.

---

There was a sipping of tea, as Magic sips in and relax in the Overlord 'Private Quarters', or in one of the room's at least, as the room where he sat across Jerry, who was just looking at him. The unicorn came a week ago, leaving Canterlot with his pegasus, his servants, his things-- everything and just showed up here. Mostly to lay low and away from the plague.

Something of which Jerry couldn't blame, as Magic soon spoke in a statement. "It seems that you're preparing well." then as he saw Jerry drinking some tea of his own, he asked. "Have you been gaining more Minions?" looking at Jerry who shrugged a bit and admit.

"Mostly to have as 'precaution' for the raid..." then look to Magic as he went on. "But...while I'm certain on the whole, 'absorbed' the Crystal Heart corruption and sucking it out...its the purifying part I'm having trouble with." then seeing Magic inquisitive look, Jerry sighed with a simple tea cup going onto a desk and explaining fully. "I know that the only way to fix the Heart is to purfy it, the problem is? I don't know how, Gnarl doesn't know how either!" then rub his face as he went on. "I'm grasping at straws, straws of which everybody is depending on me to fulfill my end-- but I can't do that if I can't fix the Heart!"

"I'm even thinking of seeing that big crystal tree to see if anything comes up, maybe it'll react to the Crystal Heart?" Magic nearly pause at the mentioned of the 'big crystal tree', almost looking a tad surprise at Jerry words. He debated if he should inform the Overlord...but soon spoke after a good half minute of debating.

"The 'big crystal tree' can and would," getting Jerry to look in surprise as Magic went on. "In fact, the tree itself is called the Tree of Harmony, the oldest and powerful source of Harmony Magic Equestria has. It itself could not only restore the Crystal Heart to what it was, but restore a pony harmony of themselves if able."

"Wait...what?" Jerry started as he nearly shouted. "You mean that thing that nearly killed me is the equivalent of a 'cure-me-all' for ponies!?" While Magic stoic face twitch of the...bluntness of what it does, in a way Jerry was correct.

"In a sense, the Tree of Harmony is the one that gave and was given the Elements of Harmony, harmonizing anything it touched and restore what is dis-harmonized. It also is a antithesis of evil, as it is a force of good in a way." then before Jerry could ask any more, the stallion told. "However, I suggest a pony to bring the Heart to the Tree, as they won't be harmed unlike you, perhaps your 'little sister'?" Getting Jerry to think as he soon nodded...and asked in confusion.

"But...how do you know of the Tree and it's effects?"

Magic simply took another sip of his tea, enjoying the warmness of it and soon told as he place it down on his cuptray. "I'm the Archmage and Dark Arts for Equestria, the Tree of Harmony is a national secret of the Princess's. If anything happen to them or the Element Bearers-- somepony had to know of the Tree in case something happens. I'm one of the selected few told, as well one of the few who could protected or hide the Tree if anything happened to our nation....like with the Caribous."

Jerry slowly nodded as he said. "That...sorta makes sense?" expression still full of confusion as Magic gave a solemn nod.

"Yes," then soon asked. "Now...lets talk about your things...starting with the Minion Hives."

---

Meanwhile in the Crystal Empire, 2 weeks later, a crystal mare of jade coat and dark green mane, was tied up as she glared weakly with her light green eyes. As the ‘modify’ mare in her sexy looking form, had her collar of black removed as her ‘master’ began to go all out, as she gave a pained sound, feeling him forced into her as she felt pain. Jade clench her eyes as bit by bit her resistance was slowly leaving her.

She tugged on her rope restraints, her wrists unable to pull free as she was roughly pressed tightly to the flat, cold surface of the table she was bound to. She felt a harsh slap to her overly sized chest, the large fleshy orbs jiggling and bouncing while the raw sting of pain laced through her body. She bit her lip, feeling that large meat in her folds more violently jerk in her, violating her insides.

“You like that, bitch?” Grunted the caribou, the bane of her life as he raised a hand and once more slapped her breasts, making her scream out in pain. “You like that?!” And then gripped her hips, nails digging deep into her skin, feeling almost as if they would start piecing it before he just rammed into her.

All she could give were pained cries, tears just slightly glistening at the edges of her eyes while her ears pinned back. She tried to jerk her legs, tried to move her thighs shut-- try to deny access to her secret place, and in response she felt that hand come down harshly. With a thwacking sound of flesh, she gave a slight howl of agony, biting her lip in pain while he roughly grabbed and twisted her stinging breasts tightly.

Even as she gave a whimper of pain, it was drowned out by her agony, by the wet slaps of wet flesh from perverted sex-- and the sound of even more all around her. It was a living hell, one she couldn’t feel like she could bare for much longer. But she didn’t want to, she wanted to find her sister-- find her little baby sister and run.

She was reminded of her plight though, harshly too when her breasts were grabbed and pulled. She could hear him laugh, laugh at her pain and feel that disgusting mouth of his latch to her nipple that was erect against her will. She hatted it, she felt his dick throbbing-- he was going to unload in her. Again, She trembled, she didn’t want it-- she was getting closer to her heat, she knew. She didn’t want to get pregnant!

And yet it only got worse. There was that itch, a body wide itch. One she had been feeling steadily over the weeks, but now? Now it… it was worse. For once her pain was fading, instead the feeling of the itch made her whimper and squirm, wanting relief… then, then she felt a alien feeling… Her skin crawled, something… wiggled under her body. And then, came the indescribable warmth and worm-like-wiggling over her skin--

“What in the five forges!?” She felt that meaty rod leave her-- but even at her master’s shock she still felt the odd sensation, the bubbling feeling. And yet, as she squirmed and thrashed in confusion, all others that were walking by, rapeing thier own mares or getting jerked off, watching on in muted and mortified shock as the sexy, drop dead gorgeous mare’s skin broke out with green boils that glowed green, glowing cracks flourishing over her skin-- it was no wonder the caribou had pulled himself out.

Jade slowly open her eyes, widening more at her body, at how...sickly she looked as she pant, still feeling that forced wetness in her snatch...but soon look to the Caribou, as she gained her resistance back as she spat at his hooves and told. “Look l-like your getting sick, you might of caught something from fucking too many mares, rapist.”

A look of rage crossed his face, and he raised his hand, purely intent on causing harm-- but paused and looked over her body. It wasn’t one of lust, but one of contemplating. Then, he slightly stepped back, and it didn’t take a genius to see why. In her vision, and even feeling it in her body, Jade watched as one of the green spots on her breast move. It moved like something was under the skin, and certainly felt like it.

She look at herself, shivering in uncertainty, not knowing how she caught this, this disease! Maybe the bastard gave me something? as she was clueless, or at least until a Caribou with the same boils as she got, shouting. “Outbreak! Outbreak!” causing more people to panic as Jade was left in her place, as she struggle with the ropes still tied to her wrists. She didn’t know how to feel admitally.

She felt scared she caught something, she felt a hint of relief she wasn’t raped to be a red, but she felt uncertainty. Uncertainty she might not make it alive to find her baby sister...of finding Jasmine and praying to Celestia she was still safe, still had her innocent left. Although as the the panic spread, she was free by a fellow black that wasn’t panicking. She hoped that she would be better…

However as the days pass, more and more infected showed up, from 3, to 6, to 12-- spreading wide and far as days later even her new friend caught it. As soon enough...no one in the city could leave, as it was on a full on Lockdown, a full quarantine. Mares, stallions, some foals and fillies-- even the bastard Caribous were getting it. Well except the ‘royalties’ as they left before the city was on a lock down. It seem that no one could leave or go…

Jade pray that a miracle would come...otherwise she won’t see her baby sister again.

---

Shining couldn’t believe it. How did this city get infected? He was sure that everything went smoothly. Even more, he felt agitated. He and his beloved pet couldn’t leave since they had to keep the city together! He snort as after a week, they caught it themselves. Wasn’t too bad yet, he did however felt concern for Cadence, as he noticed she was itchy, restless, and whatever made their skin crawl was like it lived under it.

Made them uncomfortable. With a calming breath, he look over the map of the city, trying to think of a way, of anything to handle this...but nothing came to mind. Nothing at all.

Blue eyes glancing towards a parchment, he felt like gripping his hands and balling them to fists. It was from Canterlot, the capital itself. Apparently, even Magic, one of the most greatest magical minds that was still around and able-- had blatantly told any and all that knocked on his door that it wasn’t curable, that HE had no idea how to even start a cure.

That was to say, this was before he all but vanished and more or less left. Being a stallion that grew up in Canterlot and had known the Archmage before he even gained the title-- Shining Armor understood the silent and unspoken message.

They were doomed.

If Magic, the calm and composed stallion that could stand up to and possibly rival Dainn with his dark arts if he really wanted to try, left and fled Equestria just days after being told of what was happening… then it was beyond bad. It was a nightmare situation they couldn’t fix and one of the smartest and most powerful ponies, bailed ship before it was too late.

He took a calming breath, as he turned, moving to walk out of the room as he sat down in a chair, rubbing his face as he commanded. “Cadence come here. I desire relief of all this stress.”

He didn’t even have to look up to know she moved to him, or bother focusing on how two slender and beautiful hands moved to undo his pants. He even ignored the, “Yes Master~” for a moment, up until he felt a muzzle began to nuzzle into his sack and the coolness of a inhaling breath took in his musky scent.

While the beginnings of a pleasurable blowjob began-- part of the stallions mind was still wracked with anxiety. What was he supposed to do? They had a epidemic going on and they had no clear idea of how to cure it. This was also not mentioning the riots breaking out, or the panic in the streets-- even property was missing from the males of the city!

But at this point, appealing to Dainn's laws and whims or thoughts was becoming less and less appealing, not because of him disliking the prideful new ruler. It was the point that the empire was on the brink of a collapse because of all the panic. And lie as he might to them-- there was NO cure. Already a few deaths were reported from those sick while having this disease.

And they found that their bodies just gave up-- and even then, the disease festered on. The body was dead and the disease persisted, the news spread before he could contain it, and now people were ready to rush the walls, the gates, climb rubble or anything to run for the hill!

Then.. just to top it all off, right as he felt his release nearing its brink and allow him to fill his pet with his essence… did he hear the Beats of drums.

Now what? He thought, turning his tired gaze to the window… and mutter out while leaning his head back over his chairs headrest, “I hate Tuesdays…”

As his eyes saw a far off black armored figure that was making its way towards the Empire, with a horde of imps...imps he recalled distastefully as the Overlord was here. It wasn’t enough for this outbreak to happen-- oh no! Now the damned Overlord is here to cause this city to collapse too?! With a annoyed breath, he lift his head to glare out, he noticed the Resistance was there too….and some new groups too...one with large golems as twice the size of any male.

And he brought friends. Lovely. sighed shining, as he pat Cadence head to remove off, before thinking for a moment...and thought. Fuck it. I’m staying here to get pleasure. then look down to Cadence and ordered. “Keep at it.” placing a hand on her head as he glance out, figuring the city was falling anyway, why bother fighting?

---

Jerry merely moved with the large group as he told. “Just like I said. Easy for us to get them out without even a pointless battle.” then glance to the rather large Gate, or rather 3 large Gates, as they stretched for large group of teleportation as he added. “And easy teleportation for sending them to the rendezvous area.”

“Just be sure to keep them busy.” Told Albert, whom surprisingly showed up for the fight. He was in that lab coat once more-- though it looked to have been padded up like his Hardsuit too, and showed with it’s orange paddings around most of the coat.

“With all the panic and the virus running it’s course, most of the guard should be more easily picked off.” Then looked ahead, regarding the current anarchy in place. “But, with all the riots going on, I don’t think that will be too much of a problem.” Then, with a motion of his hand, more or less ordered those in Prawn Suites to advance. “Get the Heart. I have the Royals. The Resistance has any ponies they can get.”

“And I do what I do best.” Said Jerry with a grin under his helm. “Be a Overlord.” as his armor was enhanced with more extra, mechanical ones mixed with the magic bits. With thick plates of titanium and air tanks? He chuckled to himself. I’m a total nightmare to anyone in my way. as he began charging towards the closed gates, as he saw the Prawn Suits forcefully open the gates, one using their drills to rip the hinges off and take the gates down.

As Jerry stop to see the large crowd of beings, all pausing as they look to him and the Prawns...Jerry shouted out. “IF YOU ALL WANT TO LIVE AND BE CURED, DO AS I SAY. LET THE RESISTANCE HELP, FAIL AND YOU’LL DIE HERE!”

This… had some uncalled for consequences. Almost like a title wave, bodies of many, many desperate people rushed at him-- ponies and caribou alike. None cared, all they wanted was a cure for this deadly plague, and they wanted out of the forsaken city as well!

“Pony only, Caribous? You die.” told Jerry as a few coming to a halt and turn away, as there were tall golems, horde of Minions, and the Resistance waiting to tear into them. Jerry just add on. “Ponies you keep moving and let the Resistance handle it.” marching on through as he grip his blade as he stretch out his left arm as the minions attack any Caribous that didn’t run away. As they jump on them, bash, or burn them, Jerry ignored the masses as Gnarl laugh in his helm.

“Look at the utter destruction and chaos, Master! Oh just like my old days.” Jerry moved on as the minion spoke. “Still, don’t know what you can find here, Sire. not much use beside killing fools attempting to harm you,” cackling some. “Then again, you're invincible, Master.” Jerry however heard Jasmine spoke in the helm.

“Big bro, she's here somewhere! I know it!” Gnarl growl out.

“Watch it whelp!” but before Jasmine retort-- she shouted.

“There she is! Right there!” Jerry turn to see a jade crystal mare, looking sick and on the ground, as Jasmine told. “That's her Bro! Differently looking-- but definitely her!” he put aside the blade as he moved to gently pick her up, she tried to struggle, but was too weak as he gently held her in his arms. Turning around… and walking away out to the gates as the minions followed the Overlord.

While he walked there, he could see a few questioning looks, particularly from those of the Resistance, as if questioning what he was doing. When Flush, who had insisted to come along on this chance to get payback, saw him, she also paused.

She shifted her large Prawn suite, the pink mechanized armor slightly moving enough to using it’s odd four-finger device to tractor-beam a piece of rubble and later launch at a Caribou, before turning and stomping it near the male. She opened the hatch, and called down, “Hey, what are you doing? I thought you were getting the heart!?” Getting up and out to see what was going on.

He glanced to her, and soon said. “I will…” then told to the Minions. “Get the Heart.” they obeyed as they rush back in the city as he said. “There, done.” as if that solved his job.

“No, not done.” Told the mare heatedly. “Get your ass back in there-- and pass the mare off to me, I’ll get her to somepony else.”

“When she gets the vaccine...take her to my Castle, Gnarl will put her in the guest room.” moving the sick mare into Flush arms as he moved back and turned to go back into the city.

While Flush questioned what was up with the guy, she snorted and brushed it off and called out, “Hey, I need someone to take over for my suite-- and someone get me to a gate!” Moving off to get this done. While she wanted to do more, she figured there had to be some reason for him to almost leave battle with this mare.

Well, she hoped it wasn’t because the mare had a good ass and pair of boobs and would make for a good lay. That rubbed her wrong, but Jerry wasn’t entirely heartless and selfish. Not form what she understood now. Doesn't excuse he nearly screwed up his part! She internally raged.

As a mare got the sick crystal mare into a Gate, Jerry was coming back into the city, bringing up his arm to call forth all his minions. It took a while, but they respond, “here I am!” “Regroup!” as they circle around him as he took his blade out, pushing to get the artifact, get to his place and drain it dry. He admittedly thought it was a semi-easy job. Considering all he has to do is kill any caribous and keep moving, right?

---

As Shining sighed out, looking over the ‘chaos’ in the city, slightly enjoying the attention Cadence gave him, he glance to hear the door opening. Turning his head as he saw a strange male, cover in the same sickness as he said with a exhaust breath. “You know, I would of demanded who you are, or why you’re here-- or if you were the one who planned this...but to be honest? I honestly lost any care of asking or demanding. You can say with everything going to near Tartarus, things haven’t been great for me with ruling the Empire…” then smile down to Cadence as he added. “At least my lovely pet helps with the stress from making sure everything hasn’t been blown over...until now that is.”

The male, in what shinning armor could relate to as a odd coat similar to that of a lab coat with extra protective padding, gave him a quarry look, looking more curious than aggressive. Almost reminded him of his sister, oddly. But as he entered, it was with a calm composure, hands behind his back and steps near mythical.

He watched with only a bare hint of weariness, reaching down to pick up and place his pet’s bare and beautiful from, one unchanged and what he found intoxicatingly perfect form the start. Making her rest on his front, and feeling his member slip to her wet flower, he wondered what this male was doing.

In silence, the male looked out the window, looking contemplating on something before saying, “You are Shining Armor.” Mostly stating a fact, one the Prince, or semi-prince knew himself. “On your lap, bare and naked is Princess Cadence. You’re husband and wife. You rule the Crystal Empire-- or, mostly rule it. You don’t have much say in it’s matters any more… do you?”

He gave a sigh as of both the statement being true, and bits of entering in his pet fully as he rested in her as he said. “Yeah. Not anymore, especially since the King took most control of how things work here.” then snort some as he fondle Cadence ass as he slowly pump her. “I think me being a Prince was a joke for him, I was more or less a governor really…” then asked. “Why are you here for?”

The male didn’t answer for a long moment, though he soon spoke, “Change. Prince Armor.” Seeming to say the title as if it had meaning, as mockingly as it seemed. But when he looked to the unicorn stallion, he asked, “One that you might welcome. Tell me… do you remember what it was like before Dainn?” Then glanced at the pink beauty in Shining’s grasp. “What it was like when your pet was also a Princess and wife?”

Pausing some...he thought on that...as he said. “...Yes.” slightly stopping Cadence movement as he said. “I remember when...we were happy, content...enjoying the happiness of our city…” then gave a growl as if reminded of something that angered him. “Until we foolishly allowed the Caribous to undo all of that with a open arms as refugees.”

The male remained silent, right before saying, “Would you like to have that happiness again?” Making Armor stop completely. “To hold Cadance like before? To feel her love you, embrace you… cherish you like before. Do you want to talk to her, laugh with her, look into those eyes with happiness again?” Each word picking at something.

“You used to be a strong protector, Shining Armor. I’ve talked about you with others. You would of protected this city until you fell.” The male looked back out the window and remarked, “It’s falling. On it’s own, weak, social structure. Your ponies… both yours and your wife’s people… they’re dieing…”

Green eyes with a slightly yellow sickly glow, the male told, “I can cure them.” Then pointed, “I can cure you… and her.” Making Shining glance down. “She’s in the more advanced stages. Given another week she'll start feeling the effects of her organs slowly shutting down. You and her only have so long to live-- like your subjects.”

A beat, enough for Shining to think… before the next words came in like a punch. “I can cure you, her, and the other ponies-- if… you willingly order all your subjects to go with the Resistance.” Making the stallion look up at the odd male. “The Resistance can’t gather them all in time. When we leave, unending winter will come. Everyone will either die of a frozen fate… or the virus. That’s thousands of lives. But… if you order them to heed the Resistance… we can save those thousands, and not just a few hundred.”

He was silent… and soon look to Cadence, placing a hand under her chin, making her look to him as he stared at those loyal and loving eyes...and limited gaze...he soon made his choice, as he took her off his member and lap. As he stood up and move to the window, horn glowing to make his voice echo as he called out. “My subjects! My ponies! I want you to willingly go to the Resistance! Go to them, let them lead you-- don’t resist! For your sake and the sake of those around you! They have the cure. They can help us!”

Much of the chaos below slowly stop, even as Shining spoke on. “By my command, as the highest authority of the Empire currently, you will follow my decree. Go to the resistance, obey their orders and directives. If you do not? Then know you’ll die by the plague that we have!”

It was after a paused moment, did they watch as a literal sea of ponies rushed for the resistance. If anything, mostly out of pure desperation.

With a nod, the male told, “I hope you don’t mind, but we should leave. With thousands infected, trying to cure them all before the infection takes them will be… difficult.” Turning and beginning to walk out of the royal chambers.

Shining took in a breath as...for the first time he felt a burden off of him. As he got his pants up and on as he said to Cadence. “Get your warm clothes on girl, we’re leaving.” knowing that they might not come back here for a good while. At the very least...his pet...his wife, might get better one day. For now, he needs patience.

---

Okay, you can do this Jerry… thought the Overlord, as the thing was floating before him, as he stretch out his hand as he thought. Just use your magic on it long enough until you can safely grab it. Just because you’re full of ‘evil energy’-- doesn’t mean that it's possible for game logic to not fully work. as lighting came out of his left hand, hitting the crystal dong as it reacted harshly. Trying to force him away or ‘persuade him’ as Gnarl spoke.

“Careful sire. This thing seem to trying to do its job on you-- and semi-resist against you. Ha! Guess its a different kind of concentrated evil, eh Master?” Jerry did his best to concentrated as well as trying to resist against the artifact working to want him to have lust and want.

Then again, the distraction wasn’t that bad. That is to say, it was near pleasant-- which possibly made it all the more distracting. The slight heat to his loins, the images of Shadow leaning half her body over a bed, bare ass high up-- Lovely sitting on a bed, legs wide and fingers splaying that cute and lovely pink honeypot--

The images were nice… but it was damn distracting from his work!

I think after draining this thing-- I need a bit of a moment with the two. Maybe a day. thought Jerry as he push back with the lighting pressing against it, as Gnarl spoke. “Sire, it seems you are doing well. The artifact seem to understand your position, I think it might be going at it even more harder!” Jerry already felt the effects as the heat grew more in his loins, more images of his slaves came in. His chest beating faster as his body sweated some. Rising need grew more into him, as his blood was pumping and boiling within him. The need to take one-- maybe two of them, take their lovely and supplement rumps in his hands.

And ram them into sweet, warm, wet, and slick folds as he make them yearn and enjoy relieving their Master's needs. The sooner I get this done, the sooner I get to tap their sweet asses! as part of him ‘realize’ what he should be doing-- but another part of him focus on his magic on it. As he felt that the sooner he got done with this job-- then he can rush back home and bang the bitches from dusk to dawn!

As his lust was driving him to push past and win as Gnarl spoke. “Excellent work Master! Almost done, and soon you can take the artifact to the Tower Heart and drain it dry.” part of him shook off the lust, as he recalled a bit. Oh right...had...to do that first...then the sexy bitches. As soon as it came down before him, and putting the blade in its sheath. He grab onto it--

And snatched the artifact and ran like a football player, arm out and one arm holding the heart under the crook of his arm, running over any Caribous in his way to get back to the Castle as the minions tried to follow their Master. As soon enough, BOOM! The Overlord crash through a light wall, and still running as one thing filled his head. Pussy, pussy, pussy, pussy!

More than once there was a yelp or a panicked scream as the Overlord, overloaded on too much lust, rushed back as quickly as possible. His body was burning like fire-- and he had the insatiable need to quench that fire BADLY. He was a man on a mission, a man on a mission that ran through any body, crushed any barrier, broke every door and destroyed any furniture in his path--

All in the name of getting his girls to bang!

To say Jerry had more or less forgotten ‘why’ he had to bring the Heart back to the Tower, only that he had to before he could take and rut out his two sexy mare’s until they couldn't think straight anymore.

Even the Resistance members had to dodge as the Overlord ran straight into the gates, as he went to another Gate-- and was in the throne room as Gnarl spoke. “Ah, welcome back Sire-,” seeing him toss the artifact aside as he force his armor off as he ran up the stairwell. “Hmm, oh dear, it seems the artifact did effect him some…” hearing the Overlord shouting out.

“Shadow, Lovely, I need to fuck you now!” as he more or less grab them and went to the Private Quarters bedroom...and didn’t bother stopping. Gnarl sighed, as he carefully grab the artifact as he went down to the Tower Heart, placing the artifact on the side as he used the giant orb to contact the Resistance through the Gates.

“Hello, hello? Testing one, two, three?” gaining a connection with one of the Heads, which was Peral. “Ah, hello commanding wench, this is Gnarl. I’m afraid the Master will be delay for a bit. The crystal artifact had a...interesting effect on him.”

There was a long silence before he heard the one he recognized as Pearl ask, “What sort of… effect?”

“Well, when doing his task of draining some of the magic to carefully bring it here, the crystal artifact was trying to encourage him with lust and semi-resisting him of his nature. The more he work, the more lust he gain, specifically to his property.” getting cut off by a long and moaning called.

“OOOOHHHHH MASTER!!! YEEESSSSSS~!” as he mused.

“Hmm, that was Shadow.” then went on as if that didn’t happen. “So the Dark Lord will be indisposed for a time to remove the effects of the artifact on him.”

The silence that followed was near deafening, but almost not as deafening as the second cry of pleasure they heard, this time being Lovely. Hearing a clearing voice, Screech spoke, “W-we’ll keep that in mind… call back later when he’s… done…” Then rather awkwardly, left the communication at that.

Gnarl snicker as he said. “Ha! Score one for Evil on making things awkward.” then muse and said. “Although the whelp isn’t here, off with that sister...well, perhaps that is a good thing. Eheheheh.”

---

The place the new and rather sizable amount of refugees were sent to was an island that was… in question, in the middle of nowhere. One would be challenged to find anything but water for miles around. It was also here, that a few buildings were erected, and Resistance members were working on giving the cure to every mare, stallion, filly and colt they could.

And they were burning through it quickly. Even after weeks of preparation, the vials set aside with the cure were being used up very fast, and at times, it almost seemed like they would run out before more was rushed in. By now though, a near day after pulling an entire empire out, the news had hit the Resistance that had been there.

The Crystal Empire was now a harsh tundra of ice. And they even doubted the Overlord would risk going there, the gates having been coated with so much ice they were slowly becoming glaciers. But while that was happening, they knew it would be days… maybe a week before the rest of the nation found out about the empire’s frozen fate.

In a separate place, one being a tent for what limited space they had, laid a mare trying to not squirm at the alien feeling of the sickness in her, or the uncomfort of her body. If there was one thing she was happy about, it was that the ground was soft… and warm. In fact even the air was warm of the tropic breeze.

How she had been moved to this island, Jade wasn’t too sure. Or what to make of the bizarre situation that brought her here. All she could do with her energy now was lay down, her bare body free to the world and looking at the ceiling to the small tent she was in.

Then, she heard something, something she didn’t believe. A young, girlish voice… one she could only recalled in her dreams. She didn’t dare want to look, but with the need to know, to find out, Jade lifted her head to see a sight she thought she’d never see again.

Her sister, her baby sister. She was here-- and…. And was pulling along a odd male, one that looked to have a slightly more severe case to the disease. Yet he seemed to allow her sister pull him by his gloved hand, a odd device in the other as she urged him to keep moving.

“That's my sister! Right here, like I said Albert!” smiling wide as tears of joy were twinkling around her eyes as she said. “I knew he’ll do it! I knew Big Bro kept his promises!” Jade didn’t understand who this ‘big bro’ was, but even if she wanted to ask-- focus on the strange male as to try to figure out what’s going on. She knew her sister didn’t wear a collar, she knew that she was somewhere else...so why was this male...here in the first place?

With a slight gentleness, the male removed his hand and told, “I’ll get to administering the cure then.” Moving forwards and looking her over. It was odd, it was a mixture of appreciation, of curiosity and with scrutiny, as if both approving of her body-- but also judging how it looked.

Whatever else he thought was apparently ignored, taking her arm and pressing the device to her arm before there was hissing sound-- and a sharp sting. The momentary pain made her wince, but also heard him, “Keep a close eye on her. The cure should do it’s work in a few days-- possibly a week. Make sure she eats a fair amount of proteins and get’s plenty of hydration-- water preferably.” Instructing this to her sister.

“Uh huh!” said Jasmine with a nod, sitting by her sister as she look to her, as Jade spoke.

“Oh sis...oh my baby sister…” tears of joy coming down as she asked. “How...how did you escape?” Jasmine look down, as she admit.

“I..didn’t at first.” then look up to her as she went on. “I was...caught and was in ponyville...I...I was going to be taken in the streets.” Jade gasp in, eyes widen in shock, horror, guilt, and even fear...but she noticed her sister smiling as there was a cheerful expression on her as she told. “But Big Bro didn’t like that, not one bit!”

“Who is...this Big Bro?” asked Jade as Jasmine grin and said.

“The coolest and greatest guy you ever met! Otherwise known him as the Overlord!” Jade felt her heart skip a beat at that, worry filled in her mind of what horrid, terrifying and cruel-- “But I know him as Jerry, and he’s actually a nice guy under that armor.” the crystal mare pause as Jasmine told. “He gave me clothes, he fed me, give me education-- even piggy back rides and play tag with me!”

If there was ever a time of utter confusion-- now was it. The crystal mare could only stare at her younger sister. It couldn’t be possible, could it? No, maybe the Overlord did something to her, maybe…

But whatever pretenses of doubt she had began to fade, her baby sister still talking, chattering on about him. About this two girls that adored him, about the things they did, about how even know Jerry is seen as a bad guy… he was just a male struggling with his own distorted morals. Morals that get tugged between this ‘Gnarl’ and her sister’s bickering.

Even more as she was starting to slowly understand that, even if Jerry did owned a red, did create a Blanke-- even wore the armor and promotes himself as a villain...Villains weren’t born, they were created. “--and Gnarl gets moody whenever I try to make Big Bro think another way, see things from a different perspective and how to be nicer on it.” said Jasmine as Jade croak out.

“Sis...why… why didn’t you go with the Resistance... or with...Celestia, somepony more safer than the Overlord...why stay? I know you say he has, mixed morals and come to question with this Gnarl...but...why?” asked the crystal mare, trying to understand why her sister would deny herself to be around other ponies. Jasmine was quiet...before telling her sister.

“Because he’s hurting on the inside.” gaining a look as Jasmine continue. “Despite him ensuring he can take the insults, the looks, the spits-- even being declared as a monster or cruel villain….Jerry just a guy. A guy who was normal like us...before being thrust into the armor, declaring to be evil to rule the Minions...He can’t leave the armor, the title Overlord itself. Because…” looking down. “Because...it's part of him now, and it hurt him that he has to do these things, that he has to endure it in the name of the Overlord. For putting himself in a unfair fight, a disadvantage as while everypony will cheer on for the heros or surround around them….no one would be near the villains.”

They were both quite, mostly in their own thoughts for a while. It was hard to really… grasp what had happened for one, while for the other, she struggled with the slight fear of her sister not staying around the Tower, the Castle itself, the place she had come to call home now.

All of that was soon interrupted, the tent flap being moved aside as Lush made herself known. The mare gave a glance up and gave a soft smile. “Hey, I brought some food.” Moving the tray of odd foods forwards in her grasp while saying, “Is this your sister, Jasmine?”

She nodded with a low smile and said. “Yeah this is Jade.” then introduce. “Jade this is Lush, one of the ponies who live under the sea.” then look back to Lush as she said with a bigger smile. “I knew my sister was in the Empire, it was a matter of time before Big Bro found her-- just like he promised me.”

Lush gave a slight smile to the fillies joy, but turning her gaze at the mare, she internally gramanced. While the mare was very voluptuous and beautiful, the form looked just too highlighted, the plump rear and large double D’s for breasts just too firm and self supporting. It only told her this mare had some… modifications.

Trying to shove those dark thoughts to the back of her mind, Lush said, “It’s nice to meet you, Jade.” Then placed the tray down on the ground, reaching by her hip where a black and familiar fabric could be seen. “I have something for you to wear-- it’s… not too modest, but it should be better than being stark naked.” And held out the black dive suite-- just like her own.

JAde slowly move up, moving to get it on, as while it was...embarrassing in a sense, and made her felt more naked than being naked-- it did help cover her body some. As she went back resting, she glance to Jasmine and asked. “Jasmine...now that we’re back, do you want to go with the ponies under the--,”

“No!” quickly told Jasmine, surprising the elder mare, as the filly look away...before looking back with flat ears and a frown. “I can’t leave Jerry...he needs me. More than ponies realize it.”

Looking between the two, Lush said, “I’ll just…” Backing up slightly, “Head out and, uh… continue my rounds-- let me know if you need anything!” And right there beat a hasty retreat, knowing that she had little to no part in the family dilemma.

As silence rang a bit...Jade spoke with a wondering tone. “Sis...I know he...he did good for you, he helped you and saved you-- and I’m grateful for that, really I am…” then asked with a more concern look. “But...why? Why not leave that island? Why...why do you say he needs you? Why say more than ponies realize it?” Jasmine was silent...before telling to her older sister.

“I told you. I’m there for helping him with his morals all distorted with Gnarl around. He’s hurt, and not physical...but mental. He needs someone to stand for him, to help him ease his trouble. Shadow and Loyalty...they can’t do it fully, they’re under him. He needs someone to help him stay together. Sis...he did more than save me, he kept what remains of my innocent left, let me...be a child again. With no worries, no fears, no pain. He...helped me saved what little childhood I had left. And Jerry?” shaking her head some.

“Jerry...he needs someone to remind him of his morals, to keep what hope he has left. To keep him, happy I guess.”

“But..he has his Minions...the two mares…” questioned Jade as Jasmine shake her head as she told.

“Even with them and the mares...would anypony ever trust a villain at all?”

That did make the mare close her mouth, and if not bite and chew on her lower lip. It was hard to really answer her sister. So far, the Empire had not the best track record with situations lately in the passing years. Just… a thousand years back, when she was a teenager, Sombra had conquered the empire-- enslaved them to work for him.

Then, after that and a thousand years of being ‘asleep’ and later woken up, they were nearly conquered again. Then came the time where the empire fell from another evil, or even now, how they were enslaved again, and this time around it was a whole different form of enslavement that was almost as bad as Sombra’s.

Her baby sister only remembered so much, she was just barely a toddler for Sombra’s reign, and just barely even in her teens now to just realize how… how much she just couldn't trust the idea so easily. As much as she was happy her sister still had her innocents, not having been touched or used-- at this moment… she almost wished her sister wasn’t also so naive.

“Jasmine...he’s a...a bad guy. Do you think that there’s any good in him? That he could be changed?” Jasmine scowl as she told.

“It doesn’t work like that for him.” gaining a quizzical look as Jasmine told. “If he doesn’t act like the bad guy, the minions will try to find a real one, like the Caribous.” that made her blood freeze some as Jasmine crossed her arms as she told. “See? That's bad from your expression, and its why Jerry is the Overlord. They might go to someone like Dainn to serve, and that's bad from not only having loads of Minions-- but of able to make Gates anywhere he goes. Anywhere.” adding that emphasis towards the older mare. As she went on with a raised finger.

“Jerry is protecting us in this way, he’s protecting us all by being the lesser evil, the evil we can tolerate or even mildly trust. It's like he said before, better the devil you know, than the devil you don’t know.”

While it wasn’t something she liked, it was becoming apparent her sister was not going to move on about this subject. It was possible she would fight almost tooth and nail to not leave this ‘Overlord’. But, then again… if her little sister trusted him so much… could she?

Well, there was no way to know. No way, unless she was willing to take the risk-- and see him herself. See his place, risk her person near his hoards, magic and might-- Jade knew she would be at his mercy. If she took one hoof step into his domain, there was a high chance she would be tricked and trapped as his newest slave-- her own sister as the bait.

But even if her sister was under his control… what could she do? Unless she was willing to risk it and just… give him a chance maybe?

Thinking it over, she sighed and said. “I’ll...I’ll give it a try.” gaining her sister intrest as Jade look to her and said. “I’ll give him a chance, since you trust him so much, I can’t leave wihtout you, and you aren’t leaving him…” then sighed. “So I’ll go with you,” then said pointly. “But I want cloths of my own, I won’t wear this...for long.” Jasmine giggle as she said.

“Don’t worry! We got extra clothes,” jumping and said. “See you later!” running off as Jasmine ran past a few mares, and paused to see Lush and Stonehooves talking as she come by and said. “Hey, just to let you know, me and sis are staying with the Overlord!” gaining Stonehooves paused look, as the filly left off, apparently searching for something as Stonehooves scowl. Turning and heading to the tent where Jade was in.

Feeling a impending problem, Lush called out, “A-ah, Warden Stone Hooves?” Rushing to catch up and reach out to get the stronger mare’s arm and said, “I don’t think you should bother Jade, it’s been a long day.” Hoping to pacify the mare.

“Nope. this I got to know now.” told Stone as she kept going, yanking her wrist free and entering in the tent as she look to Jade as she demanded. “What the tartarus?” gaining Jade to look at her as the earth mare went on. “Seriously, you are willingly to go to that bastard place? What is wrong with you!?”

Jade took a low breath, before looking to Stonehooves and said. “I’m thinking for my little sister safety and happiness, as apparently she’s taken a real shine on this Overlord. To the point that she’s willing to fight tooth and nail for him...and I know that I can’t change her mind so easily.”

Lush rushed in quickly during this, and was glad she had closed the flap just in time when Stone Hooves went, “I think you should try harder, you don’t know what he did, what he’s done to all of--”

“Stone!” Lush spoke with a surprising firmness, if not concern, “Watch yourself, we can’t talk about that!” Knowing that any mere mentions of the infections origins would be disastrous at this point.

Rounding on her, the mare gave a harsh snort, “Don’t tell me you’re fine with this idea, the guy shouldn't be trusted.” Then went on, “You want her to turn out like those two he has on a leash?”

While she tried to not be intimidated by the military mare, Lush said, “We both know that talking about what happened isn’t something we should be shouting about.” Then went on, “It’s a family matter-- let it go.” And while she wish she didn’t, Lush pressed on, “I’m fine with this. This is their choice. If they want to stay, that’s up to them. Not you or me.”

“I’m just saying that they have a chance to get the tartarus away from him!” told Stonehooves, as she continue. “He’s a grade-A bastard. The types you put on with Sombra or Nightmare moon!” Jade look to Stonehooves and replied shortly.

“If he was, my sister wouldn’t be free or as herself.” then told with narrow eyes. “I faced and endure Sombra tyranny, equestrian. You didn’t. So before you claim someone to be something...better know the differences. You were enslaved once, this is my third time.”

Hands up, Lush said, “I think we can both understand that.” Then said in a stressing manner, “Right Stone?” Feeling like she was suddenly getting too close to a possible brawl.

The snort and glare from the mare did not help the situation, nor how she spoke up. “Then you know he’s complet trouble. A red and a re-created mare? Do you know what you’re even thinking about doing!?”

“Stone, please.” Lush tried to calm the situation, but it seemed to only escalate.

“I’m thinking of my sister happiness and safety. And apparently, out of her mouth, the Overlord been protecting us in a sense.”

“Oh thats rich,” sneer Stonehooves. “Well what had he been protecting us from, hmmm?” Jade took a breath in...and replied.

“The Minions.” getting confused looks as Jade explain. “My sister told me that the Minions follow ‘bad guys’ and only bad guys. And if the Overlord didn’t do what he might do...they would left him and followed someone truly evil...like the Caribous, or specifically, Dainn.” Stonehooves cross her arms and said.

“Big deal, they serve the bastard. What then?” they soon heard Jasmine voice.

“What then is that Darius gains the Overlord abilities.” the mares turning with Jasmine with crossed arms as the filly told in examples. “Like say a large horde of 5000 each? Of each Tribe? Nearly all the spells and armory of the Overlord?” then twist the knife. “Or able to use the Gates anytime he please and make new one with simply him moving around?”

There was a clear tension, one being made by a military mare altered to be younger, a modified mare agitated by her people's unfortunate plight in being slaves. And a filly trying to make her point across of her beliefs. Lush wanted to cry at herself-- why couldn't things go the way she hoped? She was just glad it hadn’t gotten any--

“Jasmine?” Lush froze. The others perked, but Lush forze in slight worry and internally wailed that they had caught Albert’s attention. “Is something the matter?” The male’s tone calm and belying any annoyance Lush just knew he might be having.

It was with a slight nervous patter Lush said, “We’re fine!” Her voice a octave higher than she intended, “Everything's fine, just a.. Uh- a-a little spat, everything's fine.” Laughing all so nervously while the others gave her odd looks. “Itchy skin and… stuff, hehehehe…”

“... Alright then.” They heard the male before there was sounds of crunching sand, showing him leaving…

Before Lush gave a relieved breath, hand on her chest and breathing heavily like she hadn’t had air in minutes.

“Lush...what in tartarus was that?” questioned Stonehooves as Jasmine hum, thinking some and bopping a fist to the palm of her hand.

“Ooooh, right I forgot, Albert likes to end fight and keeps the peace.” as she added. “By giving people who start fight double shifts for wasting time on ‘petty squabbles’.” Stonehooves snort as she look to the filly and said.

“I honestly think what you said earlier about the Minions is bull. You should stay away from the Overlord, otherwise he might just kill you like he did like you're-,”

“You mean that thing planned for three weeks?” interrupted Jasmine with a raise brow. “Yeah, knew that already.”

“Seriously, mum!” Nearly panicked Lush, “We really need to keep that quiet!” Then looked between those all in the tent before looking at the tray not yet touched by Jade. Not wanting things to get any worse, Lush more strongly gripped the Quartermaster’s wrist and tugged at her, “Stone, please, we still have more work to do-- and Jade really needs her rest and food.” Being more insistent this time.

Snorting some, she gave in, for now. Moving by the filly as she left the tent, as Jasmine move by to grab the tray of food as she said to her sister. “I asked Gnarl for getting clothes started, there should be a clothes for you when we’re there sis.” as she helped Jade take her meals as she glance to Lush as she let her sister eat as she motioned Lush to follow out of the tent real quick. As when her sister didn’t hear, she spoke in a somber tone.

“I know you all think of me naive, trusting Jerry, even what he did...but I think everyone just forget that its so easy to demonize someone for their actions, even more when its a role they’re forced to play.”

Lush was quite at that while walking along with Jasmine, looking down and saying, “I’m… not really in the position to judge, Jasmine.” A hurt tinge in her tone. “I’m… I’m not guiltless. I’m just as guilty for what had to happen this last month.” Not sounding at all proud of it.

Glancing up, she said with a low smile. “I know...but some of the other mares, even the heads of the resistance-- sometimes forget that fact. That's it's easy to make other's into monsters easily with what they done.” then glance to Lush who spoke.

“It’s not entirely their fault, you know.” The words seemed to hit at the filly, who became a bit confused. “They have a job to be like that.” And it particularly wasn’t pleasing to hear. Had a job to continue and demonize her adopted big-bro?

But seeing Lush breath in with a deep breath, it was a familiar action. The tension in the shoulders, the tightness in the back, the way the chest, male or female, expanded to hold it as it too regain strength… stress. Stress, anxiety and a overwhelming feeling of pressure. “They have a image to keep… I… have a image to keep. If they didn’t have the image of being in the ‘right’, do you think the resistance would keep following them?”

Sighing some, she shook her head as she said. “No, it’ll fall into pieces...but it hurts sometime. Seeing Big Bro do what you do Lush. Like when he just hold his breath, or his face looking too stiff. It looks painful to just watch, knowing that somethings is wrong, but no matter how much I try to ease him...it never leaves. But comes back stronger with each big choice he got to make. Like recently.”

“That’s what happens when you grow up.” Told the mare in a near humorless tone, “Things just.. Get a bit more tougher…” Then looked down and said, “Jasmine… I know you want to help him, and to be honest… you’re a gem for being so good for him. I think you actually make a difference.” Then looked up and said, “But right now… right now the Resistance just needs someone to point their fingers at.”

She scowled and told, “It’s immature and… foalish. But I know why they mostly point their fingers at Jerry.” Using the name she had become very familiar with. “It’s because the Resistance needs someone to blame… the Caribou are a good target, but sometimes they scare them more than he does… and they’re also scared of after the Caribou are gone. Because if he’s still around, they’re scared something even worse will happen with him around.”

Stopping to turn and kneel down to be more level with the filly, Lush sighed out, “It’s… it’s a bitter truth, sweety. One I don’t like either. But the.. The fact is, they’re just scared. And scared ponies do… very hasty things without trying to ask why.”

She sighed and said. “I know...and I hate it...but it's bitter…” snorting some. “Doesn’t help Jerry wants them to point at him.”

“Maybe it’s because he feels too guilty.” Told Lush. “Like he doesn't deserve their forgiveness…” Then shook her head. “I… I’m not all that confident myself, he scared me… but for different reasons.” Looking away and going on, “Grain… tries to work past some of his choices. Glint tolerates him… and Flush… well, she’s only trying to look out for us.” Looking back to the young, youthful and more innocent eyes… Lush smiled.

“It’s mostly up to you to remind him that someone in his life still loves him. And.. maybe you can show your sister that is all he really needs. Love from a friend. Support… and acceptance?” Tilting her head and smiling some.

She nodded as she admit. “Thats what he needs the most. He's hurt and lonely. And just let the guilt hurt him, even though he tries to take responsibility for things he didn’t fully do.” sighing some as she shake her head. “I knew what he was doing before we did this, it was...scary at first...but while I knew it was going to be scary for everypony, it was going to be more scary for Jerry. Mostly because he’ll feel the want to be guilty and feel he deserved to be…” looking away. “To be killed for doing what most wouldn’t do.”

Placing a hand on the filly’s shoulder, Lush said, “When things get stable again… I might be too.” The statement actually caught the filly’s attention. “Jasmine…. I.. Grain and even Glint gave an ok to… well, you know what. And we’ll go on trial for it.” Then admitted, “We might get off easy… but it doesn't excuse what we… let happen. I’m trying to wrestle with the fact that when… or if, everything's back to normal… that I’m not going to live too long.”

Looking back to Jasmine, she told, “Jerry might have a better chance. Being ‘evil’ gives him that little wiggle room to run away. Be safe…” Then smiled, “Though I think you might have to convince him to run-- or at least run away and make him chase you while getting away from danger.”

She couldn’t help but joke. “You know, I could ask Jerry to ‘kidnap’ you just to give you a chance to run away too.”

Gripping her leg at the offer, Lush took a breath and said, “I’ll… think about it.” Then gave a measured look. “For now? You sister needs you. And so does Jerry. But mostly your sister-- she’s going to need you to help her recover for the next few days. And we both know Jerry will be too busy to visit you or her for a while.”

She nodded, as she recalled Quaver telling her to spend ‘quality’ time with her sister, as the Overlord was doing ‘booty call’.

Next Chapter: Save the Princess and restoring the Heart Estimated time remaining: 37 Hours, 6 Minutes