To say that there was shock, could of been a understatement. All of the resistance sat still and almost stiffly as they stared at Celestia and Luna, their patrons for day and night. And they were not the only ones that had heard of their announcement. Earlier during the past few days, days they had used to visit the Overlord for some ‘talks’, they had gone to the trouble of picking up Grain, a sort of de-fiasco leader to the undersea base that headed the primary safety of Refugees.

The pegasus looked somewhat surprised, well, surprise wasn’t the word. She was taken aback, but was apparently expecting what the two Alicorns had said. Unlike them. The five heads were still trying to get their voices back, and Pearl was the first to do so. “C-can you please say that again, Princesses?” Trying to just work through her shock.

“I said, Commander Pearl.” Began Celestia, “That since we are back and that both Cadence and Shining Armor are going to be shortly cured of their problems, we will be re-establishing how things work here.” Then nodded to Stonehooves, “The Quartermaster will be reasgined to full time with the barracks and supplies for the weapons of war and making sure our forces have the needed gear and supplies.”

She looked to Screech and said, “Screech will be spending more of her time training a new informant to take her place as well as oversee the network more thoroughly herself to keep us constantly updated.” Her eyes then pinned to Periodic. “Periodic and his cohort, Magic, will be reassigned to Alpha Base with their research. We have it in good knowledge the faculties, while tight and limited in space, offer more seclusion and even facilities to further any research being done by them both.”

“For you, Commander,” Luna picked up, “You will be remaining here and beginning the marshaling of our forces. Preparing them for the fight to come. You will also be working under Captain Armor to begin preparing assault plans once our moment has come to bare. I myself will be coming to oversee such plans when time is given.”

“And Grain.” The lunar princess gave the mare a measured look before telling, “She has shown to be more invaluable than she may make herself out to be. We see fit that she will be overseeing the Alpha Base for the majority of her time and making sure to direct these Expeditions from the safety of the base itself as much as she can afford.”

Speaking up, Stone hooves told, “Princess Luna, I don’t want to be too bold--” Then motioned to the standing mare that was currently off to the side, arms crossed and even absently chewing on some stiff plant material like some bumkin’, “But she’s not military, under qualified-- she has nothing to show for this!”

“She had proven herself by actions alone, Quartermaster Stone Hooves.” Luna told curtly, “While she has no standings or even a proper ledger to show for her stance to be qualified, I and my sister see her fit enough to do this task.”

“And may I ask why she is fit to do this?” asked Screech as to figure out what the Princesses were thinking, as Periodic roll his eyes and remarked.

“You mean beside knowing everything under the water, been exploring around more, and know how this base works top to bottom that makes her qualified?”

Speaking up to this for the first time in this meeting, Grain said, “I don’t know every creature in that giant swimming pool.” Seeming to make sure she was loud enough to catch their ears. “I know the base nearly from top to bottom, sure. And I know most of the expedition crews by name and even could tell you what color they hate.”

She lifted a brow and cocked a hip, the movment all too easily seen with her from fitting hardsuit. “I can even tell ya how many we currently have in the base, how well stocks are going and what more we’re going to need and why the kiddies are being given a quickie in Survival class 101 every so often.”

Jabbing a finger their way, Grain told, “I’m a survivalist. Always was and always will be. Used to go out in the most meanest places in equestria to camp out for a week before packing up and going someplace else.” Then lowered her hand to place on her hip, “I’m doing this so no pony does something stupid like eat something they shouldn't and die to food poisoning.”

“That.” Began Luna, “Is why we feel she’s best, Informant Screech. While crude, Grain has a… passionate and clear understanding of the risks down there and what needs to be done.”

As Screech took this in, Periodic glance to the alicorns and asked. “If me and Magic are going to stay down to research, may I ask...the ‘limit’ of our researching methods?” wanting to get a good idea of how ‘safe’ or ‘legal’ their work is going to be.

Giving him a look, Celestia told, “I would urge you to make the morally correct choices and precautions in what you reserch and bring into development, Dr. Periodic.” Then held her breath before adding, “However, I have a deep feeling that we will need to allow you to do… possibly questionable experiments. Some things may be needed once we begin our preliminary strike for our home.”

She let that sink in place before resuming, “As for risks? I would advise you be careful and mindful of causing any hull breaches. That will be one risk you must be aware of.” Then continued with, “And while down there during your stay, Albert has cleared both yourself and Magic to use his facilities to conduct your research. He says that he… sometimes rarely uses the rooms there as much as he wishes.”

He nodded as he thought over, knowing that he and Magic will be doing many questionable, but mindful things. He was slightly glad that Crisp and Zealous were allowed to be with the stallions, he doubted Magic could last without the pegasus. Although he heard a small scoff from Stonehooves as the earth stallion smile and prod. “Feeling unnerved that the Dark Arts Mage is going to be among the presence of the many? Especially with his wife?”

The mare wanted to glare at him for that barb, she really did. But keeping as professional as she could before the rulers was… important. Still, she felt a little peeved at this, and voice, “If I’m not mistaken, your highnesses, but what you're suggesting would break down the five of us as the leadership that keeps the Resistance functioning.”

“It’s a unfortunate need, Stonehooves.” Told Celestia simply. “With the resistance and Alpha base acting so independently, it’s causing an imbalance and further complications. We’re bringing both groups under one banner, like it should be, and clearing out any tangled messes in between.”

Taking initiative, Luna pressed on. “We have also come to understand that the Resistance as it is, can not pursue their tasks while being busy in debates that last much too long due to indecisions. It is with this that we, as Equestrians rulers, break up this possible stagnation before it get’s worse and get everything back on track and balanced.”

Turning to Shire, Luna then spoke, “Diplomat Shire? You yourself will have a task, but it can not be given until we have properly corralled your cohorts into their respective positions. So excuse us if we seem to be forgetting you in this discussion.”

“I understand your highness,” Said the mare as she admitted. “I am pretty useless at this stage…” Then amended. “Unless, you need my expertise to...speak with the Overlord when you will re-negotiate with him on trade?”

Smiling some, Luna gave a nod, “That you will. While it’s not the primary task we would be giving you later, it will be the first thing you will be doing. Myself and my sister have already talked to him about it. We have plans as to what to do, and once they are finished, we may send you with the documents of the agreements in our stead to secure them.” Then raised a hand to say, “Do keep in mind, this is if myself or Celestia are too busy to make this meeting ourselves.”

She gave a understanding bow of her head. “Of course your Highness.” Periodic hum and admit.

“You know...this is actually a good thing.” Getting looks as he continue. “With Princess Luna and Celestia back, we can finally focus on what we need to do, than simply decided what to do. Honestly it was getting boring with the debates we have all the time, granted not our fault, we have parts that conflicted the other.” then said. “I’m just glad I can get back to researching full time than be drag back to the room when I’m on important research.”

Stonehooves rolled her eyes and comment. “Or spending time with your wife.” he shrug and told.

“Can’t be working all the time.” Grinning some. “And Crispy does make a good lab assistance in my work.” Then asked to the alicorns. “I know this will be nagging us a bit, so I might as well ask to laid it to rest for now. Will we have a problem with the Overlord after we succeed?”

Knowing that telling the truth might not be the best move here, Celestia only told, “It will remain to be seen, Dr. Periodic.” Not all of them could be trusted to keep a cool head or understand their reasoning. “As of now, we and him have an accord. And I’m afraid what had taken place there has been, temporarily, placed under classification.”

Luna was fast to make sure to keep them all from questioning. “As it stands, our subjects, we had to make some very difficult and very trying deals to ensure not only our safeties, but his further cooperation. We have sworn the guard you had provided us, to utmost secrecy on the topics mentioned.” Then told pointedly, “We do not wish for a riot to rise up now that we are at our weakest and most unstable state in government which is next to null.”

Keeping herself from grumbling and not pressing, the Commander spoke. “Very well ma’am.” then asked. “Do we at least have access to his gold and supplies to help supply ourselves? We would need to find ways to get armor, weapons, and supplies.” But before the two answer, Periodic reminded.

“May I remind you Commander, the Overlord lend us his gold? I am certain he will want to be reimbursed back, but with interest?”

Taking this, Celestia nodded, “Exactly the reason the trade agreements are being changed. If anything, we will not be surprised if we will have to pay a form of tribute to him after Equestria is taken back.” Looking over her subjects to add, “As much as we all wish to place him on trial for whatever reasons-- we would also have to repay all the riches he lent us to make it possible. Justice isn’t blind, and we would be in the wrong to not pay him back afterwards in some from.” Then added on, “There is also the treaty you have made that is being considered.”

“Your Highness, no disrespect,” started Pearl as she told. “But he was the one who gave the infection to the Crystal Empire, no one ordered him, no one was higher ranking over him, he did it within his conscious! He practically killed any we couldn’t save.”

To that, Luna spoke, “And yet you keep it secret to the populace.” Making them quiet. “And we all know why. Because as much as you may point the blame to him, the Resistance had a part to play in the plagues plot. If word even gotten out that you gone along with his plan? Then questions will rise. Questions that would only prove self destructive at this time.”

Sighing, Celestia spoke on, “I understand your feelings, my ponies. But as it stands, we must play by his rules for now and wait until we have space to move. Until then, we must be patient and tolerable.” Looking them all over for a moment, she soon told, “Diplomat Shire. Dr. Poreotic. You both may be excused with Grain. The rest of the talks we have are military sensitive.”

She gave the red stallion a look and informed, “Be sure to pack your things and inform your co-worker and both your wife and his. You will be departing for Alpha Base within Grains Ship, Sunrise, within a couple of days. Grain will remain on this island with her crew until then before leaving.”

He and Shire gave respectful bows with their heads. Moving up with Grain to head out, as Periodic gave a respectful head bow to Shire. “If you pardon me, I must leave with the captain.” then said to Grain, “After you, Captain.”

Snorting some and rolling her eyes, Grain said with a smirk, “None of that Hon, just call me Grain.” Slightly moving the oddly stiff plant she chewed on to the other side of her mouth and kept moving along down the hall. She moved her arms up and folding her hands behind her head, almost lazily resting her head on them while walking.

“So…. Dr.?” She began, giving him a glance while unintentionally pressing her chest outwards with her laid back posture, “You got a Mrs., huh?” Then went on to ask, “She a thinker like you or something? PHD in some fancy subject I don’t know?”

He laugh some and shake his head. “No, she’s an artist. And please, call me Periodic.” moving his hands up to take his glasses off and wipe them, the red stallion went on. “And yes, a Mrs. Table you can say. Her full name is Crisp Image, Crisp for short.” placing his glasses on over his muzzle after a good cleaning.

Nodding some, Grain said, “Well, maybe she can do something to add some color to the place.” Then chuckled, “Not that I mind, but Alpha base is all the same. Mostly white with a dark blue stripe here or there. Looks all smooth and furturistic like-- but it kinda gets… boring to look at after a while.”

She then thought on it and asked, “Who’s this Magic, too? Not sure I know ‘em…” Though moved a arm forwards to scratch her cheek, “Then again, I don’t know nothing about the smart-cookies of Equestria. Like I said, I was a survivalist that spent her time out in the wild more than anything. My calling in life.”

He nod and explain. “I’m not surprise, Magic usually stay in Canterlot. He’s a researcher in a sense like me. A noblemen to be exact-- but not like the snobs, he's more calm and collective. Not to mention scowls a lot. He is a practitioner and knowledge seeker of all form of magics.” he did however decided to warn her now. “But I should warn you of something. Just so you won’t assume or anything of him.

“Magic wife, Zealous Need...is far different than any mare alive.” and continued. “She is a literal zealot, doing anything, and I mean anything for him...Like getting ‘special cases’ marriage document certified by Princess Cadence herself before the Caribou invasion. Meaning she is Magic wife...and property of him.”

Trying to not trip at that, Grain slightly turned on hoof and placed one hand to her slim hip and use the other to take out and hold her gress-like-stem to say, “Hold on. Are you telling me the mare just… up and did some tricky legal BS to legally become the guy’s slave?” Not sure how to…. Take that.

Recalling the wedding, he said. “If I recall right? When he gave her the ring to propose to her? She practically shoved the documents and collar right into his hands. Said that the ring wasn’t good enough to show that ‘she is the only one for him’.” seeing the look as he chuckled and added. “Shocked Crispy too, since my wife is her best friend.” Rolling his eyes some. “The scandal that happen afterwards on the wedding…”

Shaking her head, Grain dragged out, “Daayyyym.” Giving a huff that sounded like a disbelieving laugh, “I mean… geeze.” Rubbing the back of her neck in thought while saying, “That girl is either completely insane, or got real gut’s to do that. I mean, if I’m hearing you right, she just upped and signed away her freedom and will to this guy!”

“I did say that she would do anything for him.” said Periodic dryly, as he went on with a roll of his eyes. “And when the Caribous did arrive in invading? It made things confused for them as he showed them the documents he already owned Zealous…” Then gave a low chuckle. “But when they suggested they clipped her wings...I dare say he made his point rather thoroughly that no one touches her. Not even Dainn himself if he so risk Magic wrath.”

Snortling to that, Grain said, “You know… he don’t sound half bad when you put it like that. Sound’s like a real badass I’d get a drink to!” Then grumbled, “Well, if only Albert would allow for stiff drinks in the base.”

“Don’t expect him him to drink much or much of a talker.” said Periodic as he explain. “He has this ideology that if you give respect to him, he’ll give respect to you. He honestly doesn’t give any respect to many except for a few like me, Crispy, his wife, and to the Princess’s. Everypony else isn’t worth his time.”

“Well then I’ll let you to be the one to warn him.” Started Grain, “You might get leeway to get your projects worked on, but don’t expect a little work to be tossed your way. Mostly in moving supplies. Sometimes we need extra hands to make sure things are gotten done in short time.”

She gave him another look and added, “We won’t try and be pests, but expect a call for some help. Nothing big, just moving water from this place to that. Maybe helping a returning expedition team get metals or something inside. Just menial stuff a monkey can do.”

He nod, and said. “I’ll be sure to warn him...but I should also warn you and possibly pass along to the other's, that since Zealous is literally his property, expect her to wear her ‘wedding ring’ and dress ‘inappropriately’, beside wearing the diving suit which is already inappropriately in a sense. And as a further warning? Don’t underestimate her, she may act like a ditz, but she's willing to kill any mare that try to get close to Magic.”

“Hon?” Started Grain, “Next to all us mare’s got ourselves tied to posts or some shit before being fucked dry-- I don’t think too many will be eyeing him like a piece of meat for years to come.”

Blinking some, he clear his throat and said. “Sorry, so used to saying that every time I have to warn of Magic and Zealous.” then continued. “In either case, expect Zealous to have no shame in using her body for him.” thinking some as he added. “In short, like a Pink.”

Rolling her eyes, Grain used a hand to lift one of her firm breasts and told, “Get a good look, Doc. Everypony’s going to be dressed like this down there while on work-- even you and your wife are going to be wearing these most of the time.” Then let go to go on, “As long as they don’t go and play adult games in public areas were fillies and colt’s are playing around? I don’t really care and I doubt most others will. Hell, they can go nude in their place if they want!”

She slightly waved her hands around before telling him more, “Really, as it is? S’long as they don’t do sex in too many open places, especially for the kiddies to see? I think we’ll be square.” Then shook her head adding, “Mostly saying that since Lush brought up a ‘teenager curiosity’ problem. You know, when fillies start turning mare with first heat and teen colts got that urge to stick something over time. Add in limited space, and what do you get?”

Rolling his eyes, he saw the problem. “Cabin fever with loads of hormones swirling in the air and bits of drama to cause problems.” sighing as he said. “I’ll be sure to warn them both of the situations...and of what they’re allowed to do.” then saw the Sunrise ahead as he wonder if he should mentioned Magic and his ‘morality’ or the fact he cloned Zealous more than once? He doubt she would understand, not many ponies do. But he decided to warn her of something else.

“I’m afraid I need to warn you of something else. A medical condition I have,” looking at her as he explain. “It's nothing too deadly or serious but it might cause some concern. I’m on medication of a prescription, and I have to stretch the pills, and when I don’t take my pills? I become a, ‘mad genius’ who only love to build explosions by the name of Pyro.”

Giving a passive look to that, Grain said, “I’ll forward Glint and Albert on seeing if we can make more of those pills things then.”

Looking to her ship, the mare soon told, “I’m heading out and getting your dive suits ready with air tanks and rebreathers.” Making strides for the beach and it’s waters, “I’ll be leavin’ in couple of days, think you can get your butt with the others here by then?”

He nod and said. “Can and will, Grains.” then headed to the direction to speak to the other's of this situation.

---

After he brought them up to speed, as the four were already moving their things in boxes, most of them were still taped, Magic concluded what Periodic told them. “We will be working and doing near questionable things,” horn glowing to waterproof all of the boxes he needed for his testing and work. “Working in private labs and work for as long as we like, leave out to work or aid the ponies in moving or doing some tasks.” then finished as he look to his friend.

“And no one to fully bother us as we can actually do something more than annoyances?” Seeing the stallion nodded, Magic thought it over...and said. “At least I have peace and quiet most of the time.” Then glance back to the three Z-clones as they were gathering boxes, all having runes over their bodies, each a different age ranging from 16 to adult, each a different pigment with a simple pink collar with a number on them as he asked to Zealous. “Zealous, do you got what you need in terms of boxes? We have limited space to deal with.”

Moving a few through the place that was going to be their home-- well, now going to be a place to store most of their things, Zealous said, “Yup, just some cleaning stuff, just a few ‘toys’ and the food and water.” Then placed the boxes down for a moment while looking over her ‘sisters’ that continued their tasks.

She glanced towards one side of the room, where still stacked and packed boxes of baby supplies sat unchecked and unused. She internally sighed and slightly scrunched up her face in slight irritant. Ever since they left, they didn’t have time to get it on. So, she didn’t get her forced heat and wasn’t filled to the brim with babybatter.

Not that it was a bad thing, she had decided. It was probably for the best, since they would be someplace that would of been a nightmare, or at least a huge inconvenience on her husband, to take care of a pregnant mare.

Plus she didn’t want her little precious babies to get born under some ocean! She wanted them to be on land where the was sun, grass, open space to run and play!

Pushing that aside, Zealous smiled back to her beloved husband and master while saying, “We should be good with what we have!” Then blinked at a thought and asked, “Say Periodic, I gotta ask. When we do get to this place, what will Crisp and I be doing?” Then went on, “Or the Triplet's here? Form the way you said it, it sounds like this Grain expect everyone to be doing something.”

Thinking some, Magic said. “To be truthful? Perhaps simply help move boxes, maybe harvest plants or water-- or even doing tedious tasks.”

It was like there was a sudden light bulb in the mare’s head, as the pegasus jumped excitedly in place, her luscious breasts bouncing all the while. “Oh, oh, oh! What if me and the triplets be your sexy lab assistant?!” It wouldn’t be the first time, and despite her ditzy nature-- Zealous was a expert in gem’s, their magical properties and some geology.

“You were already all my lab assistance.” Then gave a low grin, as he moved by her and place a hand to her under her sexy lingerie to squeeze the breast as he added. “Or sometimes my ‘lap assistance’.” Periodic rolled his eyes as he continued moving boxes, knowing this was the norm for those two.

Hearing some clops of hooves, the stallion gave a slight glance at the stairs as his own lovely mare came by. She carried a box of her own and carefully set it down, reaching her hands back to work at her lower back and say, “Ugh… your books can be so dreadfully heavy dear.” Giving him a glance-- right before it turned to Zealous moans and coos and Magic nipping and kissing at her while feeling and exploring the mare’s funbags.

With an exaggerated sigh, the rosy mare spoke, “Alright you two teenagers, break it up before this turns into another sex-fest on a wall.” Moving towards the mare shooing her hands. It made Zealous glance and giggle, and Magic roll his eyes at the mare-- but did as asked anyways. Mostly because he knew how carried away they could get.

As soon as they parted, and were far enough nothing too steamy would happen anytime soon, Crips turned towards her husband and told, “There’s two more boxes of projects and one more of your research notes up stairs, Dear. I’ll be getting them in a moment, but I thought to first let you know that we might have to consider leaving some of it behind.” Then motioned to all the boxes they had. “I’m not sure how much our hostess will be able to carry with us.”

Thinking some, he recalled the devices the Princess’s held and said. “Perhaps once we gain those Tablets, we could ask somepony to go through my notes so I could copy them and keep them with me in it.” Magic glance and comment.

“Which remind me to ask for one, so I can do the same with my more ‘safer’ notes.”

“Why not just leave most of it here and have Regal copy it all when we come back instead?” Asked Zealous out of the blue.

“Can somepony get me out? Its getting bonely in here!” said a muffled undead butler, as he was within his coffin...among the boxes that were over said coffin.

“That can work.” Agreed Magic, ignoring the voice as he water proof another box, as Periodic move by Crisp, giving her a kiss on the cheek and said.

“I appreciate all you done for me, and I hope you’ll won’t be too embarrassed with the dive suits we all have to wear, only way to move around I’m afraid.”

Sighing and twirling her fingers in her short mane, Crisp admitted, “I’m not thrilled at the concept to be honest, Periodic.” Her cheeks flushing at the mere thought of how…. Easy it will be for everyone to notice her curves, her rear, legs, the slight bulge of her lower regions or the embarrassing body reaction of her nipple going hard from the cold water. All through the suit!

“But, the Princess’s orders are absolute.” She steeled herself, despite the redness on of her face. “If I have to bare a little humiliation… well, at least I can, somewhat… rest in mind that my husband can get a free show out of it.”

He wrap his arms around her, pulling her into him as her back laid against his chest. Hands around her stomach as he kissed her cheek gently as he said with a amuse smile and tease. “Don’t I get a free show always from you, Crispy?”

“Not with others around.” She rebutted slightly before pointing at Zealous, “That was always a kink my overachieving friend did.”

Smirking back, Zealous told, “Well there’s nothing more powerful than the feeling of jealous stallion wanting something they obviously can’t have.” Then sent a knowing look at Magic, “And watching them wither in place when the real deserving stud shows them up while breeding his broodmare~”

His horn glowed as he ‘flick’ her breast as he reminded. “As much as I enjoy you stroking my ego figuratively, you do know there aren’t much stallions down there. Not to mention we’ll be in our diving suits most of the time, meaning I won’t be able to go under the suit to touch. Mostly over it and not in front of foals or teens.” Then added with a low smile. “But in our lab? Another story, as I recall we can be nude as we wish.” Moving another box into the ‘to go’ pile with them with his magic, the three Z-clones were simply moving the boxes that weren’t going on the side, simply to organize thing...and make sure the undead skeleton was ignored more.

Sighing at the two once more, Crisp decided to remind, “Don’t forget we’ll not be the only ones in that Lab.” Turning to give a quick and chaste kiss to her stud before wiggling form his grasp and continue to move boxes. “This Albert fellow is also going to be there, and he’s the one that owns the lab like a second home.”

“Meaning we may need to be ‘SFW’,’ said Magic in slight annoyance, as he look over the boxes they were bringing, as he mused. “Maybe either be naked in our beds? Or perhaps light playing when there’s no foals around and not might to do? Wonder what divesuits feel with touch…” Then glance to Zealous as he said to her. “I might need to test you when you got the divesuit on, Zealous.”

Smirking, she asked in a innocent, “While I’m wet, Magic?” Lifting another box to put aside.

Sighing, Crisp turned to her husband and said, “As much as I love these two, sometimes I wonder about our living situations.” Seeing as it wasn’t uncommon for her, or Periodic, to find Magic and his Zealous, or the clones for that matter, having sex somewhere in the house. Something they both put up with.

“Believe me Crispy, sometimes I wonder how we managed to put up with it.” But admitted. “Although I will admit, I’m glad I’m use to it, it was already awkward enough when they tried a ‘shared’ sex session in the same room with them.” Then added. “But I will admit...it was rather thrilling for us to have sex in the open, Crispy.”

In response, the mare’s face went red with embarrassment and she rather quickly move to get back to work. The sight made Zealous giggle as she said, “Aw come on, we know you also enjoyed it too Crisp!” Watching her friend move just a touch quicker. “And really, I have to admit, getting peeks of you getting rutted by your stud was a bit hot.”

She looked to Magic and said, “I mean, sure he’s not as bold as you are, Magic. But you have to admit, he performs pretty good. And we should know, we watched sideshows of it all the time back in Canterlot.” Placing down a box and giving an affirming nod, more so stating fact than trying to make the situation awkward.

As the earth stallion clear his throat and assist his wife, Magic hum and agreed. “Yes, Periodic may lack the magic, but he makes up for it with his endurability, and his rather impressive size. Big as me really, then again his was naturally, and I just grew mine more.”

“Don’t sell yourself short, Magic.” Told Zealous as she paused in her work to turn to him. “It’s hardly your fault, all earth stallions get a bigger package. Kinda like how it was bound for Crisp to have better legs, slightly more firmer boobies and a more tighter ass than me-- it’s just genetics!”

He nod in affirmation, but gave a grin as his horn glowed, teasing the pegasus by briefly fondling her basewings. “But I’m sure you don’t mind my magic on you, Zealous?”

With a shiver, she squirmed in place, wings flutter out and a almost dreamy face on her while her eyes slightly rolled up and mouth hanged open with pleasure. “Haawww~ Not at all, Master~” Sounding a bit excited before shaking her head and told, “But… Crisp is right, we do need to get moving this stuff.” Sounding disappointed at this.

“Oh buck up.” Sighed out Crisp, still feeling the warmth on her cheeks. “You two can have a moment to yourselves once we reach this base.” Then said off to the side, “And admittedly, I think Periodic and myself might need one ourselves. All this stress, work and moving has left us tense.”

“Shared season!?” Asked a perked up and excited pegasus.

Sighing, Crisp told, “No promises, Zealous… but I won’t doubt that it’s… possible…” And while she wouldn't admit it-- it was a slight turn on. Also, it was with her closest friend. She trusted both Zealous and Magic to not mention anything about her and her husbands sex lives.

He smile as the earth stallion move by with a chaste kiss on her cheek and said. “I’ll be sure to clear our schedule if it does happen, Crispy.” But glancing to the ready boxes, he asked to Magic. “Ready?” the stallion nodded.

“Mostly. Just a few more, waterproof spell, simple levitation on them all, and we’ll head to this ship.” Then glance to Zealous and added. “We may need to put ties or leashes on the clones when we swim, I admittedly never thought that swimming would be needed for them.”

Nodding to this, Zealous said, “Like we would have known we’d be going to some super-secret underwater base during a occupation by enslaving deer people that have nothing but dicks for brains to fuck all mares in sight while we fight to reclaim our freedoms and homeland?”

With a look, Crisp said, “Yes…” Pausing for a moment more, “Something as… specific as that is hard to plan for...”

Magic nodded, as he admit. “Admittedly I was more focusing on my magic or you than plan for that.” Periodic glance and remark.

“Still wonder if you’re sarcastic or serious with that tone of yours.”

“Why not both?” Asked the unicorn, as he waterproof the last of the boxes as he said. “Ready to go.” As his horn glowed, lifting all the boxes in a neat pile as they heard a muffled sound.

“Please let me out, I want to see the sunshine, the sand, the marrows all over!”

“Did you heard anything?” asked Magic as he acted he didn’t heard it.

Shaking her head, Crisp said, “Let him out Magic.” Pointing to the coffin, “As fun as it is to ignore him, you need someone to keep this place clean, guarded and your research looked after.” Knowing they still couldn’t bring it all.

Snorting, he opened the coffin by magic, as a undead unicorn stallion popped up, wearing a butler suit as Regal spoke. “Oh thank you master! For allowing me to be out! The sun is shining, the sea is lovely-- the puns are many!”

“Make any and he might decide to stuff you back in there.” Teased Zealous knowingly.

“Egad! You know I wouldn’t make too many puns! I am a bonified stallion after all!” getting up from the coffin to stretch some.

With clapping hands, Crisp said, “Alright you two, break it up. We have a important arrangement we can not miss.” Turning to her husband and giving a nod to show she was ready. Though would she took his arm and began to move, she tossed back, “Regal, if possible keep an eye on my Husbands left-behind projects!”

“But of course miss!” Then bow. “Have a lovely day being under the sea!” Then turn to began cleaning up, as Periodic comment to his wife.

“I wonder who I should pity the most. Regal for being stuck in there-- or the ponies who will face a undead butler who make puns?” Magic snort as he remark with Zealous close to him, hand fondling her breast some.

“We should pity the ponies, they’ll probably wish for me to put him in his coffin again.” then glance to the clones, all having leashes connected to their collars as they were held by Zealous hand as he add to her. “I do wonder, what the ponies reaction will be once they noticed your ‘sister’s with us.”

Smiling to him, Zealous told, “I think we already know.” Giving a glance around at a few of those in the place the Resistance had settled-- and their looks were of mostly uncertainty, some rare few shock for not knowing and others having disgust or confliction at the sight of a mare leading leashed others.

In turn, Zealous gave a upturned nose as if they were not worth her time and peeked an eye to her beloved. “You know that there’s going to be a few naysayers. Happens all the time.”

“Very true,” agreed Magic, as he move the hand from her breast and move it down to rest on her ass. “And if they have a problem? They can take it up with me, or the Royal sisters-- and the later know of me and what I do.” he hum and add. “I should ask for donations of manes or anything from mares. I think the genetic supplies I have are running thin if I want to keep making clones as precautions.”

With a quarry look, Crisp spoke, “I thought Zealous was more than happy to supply you with that?” Giving her friend a look and adding, “I mean, we already know that you have her whole body to yourself. Why would you need more?”

“Variations.” Told Zealous. “I’m just a pegasus. And most of my previous heritage was just pegasus only. My Magic needs more different kinds of genetics to work with for different projects-- which I sadly can’t always give him.”

With a kiss to her cheek, he cheer her up. “You can always provide me with other things, Zealous.” then squeeze her ass. “Like being my test subject for magic usage.” then added slyly. “Or in relieving your Master from stress.”

While she giggled to this, Crisp rolled her eyes and said, “Well, now that’s answered…” Turning to Magic and asking, “So why do you need different strands? I can’t claim to have the same intellect like you or my husband. What would you want with more?” Then grimaced, “And to be honest, I don’t know if you’ll find too many volunteers. I might be willing to part with a bit-- but even I have limits to lay down.”

Thinking of how to explain this, he answered. “Despite having the 3 clones to work with, either in relief or test-- not many of them managed to endure my testing. And yes my beloved slave is willingly to provide, I need confirmation of each tribe to know if the results are the same. I can use Zealous template-- but change the species with the donor genetics, be it mane, fur, or spits. Anything they provide, I could use to add in for what clones I could make for questionable testings.”

Sighing some to this, Crisp said, “My mane will be needing a trim soon. I think I can part with that and let you figure out the rest.” Then screwed her face up some and told, “Just as a bit of courtesy? If have any clones of me, please do the more… well, darker tests out of my sight, would you?”

“I’ll be sure to keep that sort of thing in a private room.” assured Magic, as Periodic sighed and asked.

“Do I need to donate too?” Magic thought and said.

“A bit, just as precaution.” he noticed a large thing near the water and the beach as he asked. “Is that our ride?” the red stallion glance and confirm with a nod.

“Yes, the Sunrise. Grain should meet with us soon.” then added. “And Magic, try not to ask her until we’re there.” knowing his friend might ask sooner or later to be ready.

For a time it was just the sound of the wind and the waves from the ocean. The four, and three clones, waiting in place before a from could be seen in the water before pulling out. At first the sight was just a bit out of the ordinary enough to garner a few stairs-- right before Crisp took a slightly quick breath in and Zealous looked a touch sad.

It was mostly at Grain’s wings, which for those that had met her, knew about their pucked and next to burned raw state by being poured on by oil. The sight was something painful and sad to see to most, and for Zealous, her heart went out to the now wingless pegasus.

Though, from the looks of it, Grain hardly looked at all bothered, and marched on forwards with a bag-- before halting and looking at them all. She just stared before screwing her face up and looking to Periodic and saying, “The hell Doc? I thought there was just four of you!”

He sighed and said. “I honestly thought it was going to be us four, but Magic felt the need to bring in the other's.”

There was a grumbling before the mare put the bag down and opened it, getting four dive suites out and tossing them their way, telling, “Get those on.” Pointing towards a sort of shack that was built by the now islanders some time ago. “And get changed. I’ll be back with three more.” Getting the empty back and closing it before rushing to the water and diving in.

Crisp blinked some at just the… quickness the mare went at before sighing and reaching down to get a dive suite, holding it before her with scrutiny and feeling it. The material wasn’t… that bad, was sort of soft and foam like. If she was right, fairly insulating too. It was thankfully dry form being transported from inside a bag.

Periodic took his, as he look it over and sighed. “Best do it now.” moving inside the shack, Magic and Zealous followed as the unciorn left the boxes down in the sand, the three clones waiting by the door as they all started to undress, as Magic note a few things. It wasn’t like most diving suits, and with a scan of his horn, he noticed it wasn’t native to Equestria. Weaving was small that he had to focus in the scan to go deep to see the weaving...after he stopped he spoke.

“Very interesting. Advance as well. Nothing like we got.”

Periodic glance, getting his dive suit on, as he look at himself, noticing it did cling to the body, it's more comfortable and match his body temperature well. He look to Crispy, as he gave a whistle to her, seeing how the suit clung to her body.

Despite all they had been though, Crisp still had the modesty to flush while she finished zipping the suite closed over her bare body and feeling how it hugged her from. She almost shyly hugged her arms over her chest and gave a glance to Periodic before giving a slight smile and a wink, wayving her hips a bit at him.

Zealous giggled at her friends antics and the red stallion enjoying the sight before she herself felt up the suite. The material was smooth, and she could easily feel though it. She shivered a bit in thought of the teasing and fun she would have with her stud. Sure, he can’t feel her skin or really bang her in it-- but them just rubbing on the other in them would be exhilarating.

Still, she placed a hand around her mounds and felt them-- less to feel her boobs but slightly play with how they were held. The suite firmly held her chest up, almost like a bra-- but had enough give that the said breasts bounced or jiggled on their own-- just not wildly as they would without a bra. “You know, as sexy as I look… this isn’t half bad.”

Glancing, Crisp nodded, “You’re right. My chest is supported and the material does not rub too much to feel uncomfortable, awkward or accidentally arousing. If it wasn’t so… clingy to the body, I think more ponies would like this.”

Periodic look over his wife, as he agreed. “It also does make you more appealing, see those lovely curves you have.” then tease her as he gently pinch her butt. “And feels good too.” seeing her eep as he grin, giving a kiss and said. “Sorry, couldn’t help it, it was too good of a chance to do it.”

While his wife gave him a reproachful glare, Zealous giggled into her hand in amusement and soaked in the funny sight. The door was soon knocked, as they heard Grain tell, “Alright I got three more. Get these three dressed and put your cloths in the bag. We can leave after that.”

Periodic open the door, as Magic spoke. “Come.” the clones obeyed as each took the diving suit, as the earth stallion glance, noticing the small pile of boxes was gone, presumably moved to be on the ship or somewhere else, as once he and Crisp exit out and the door closed. He noticed Zealous didn’t follow out. Guess she probably want extra time with Magic. thought the earth stallion, as he look to Grain.

And while he may not know her fully, he can easily summarize she got questions. “You’re probably wondering who the three are?”

She gave him a fairly flat look and told, “Yeah, but I’m more annoyed you didn’t tell me there might be a three plus riding along. Making the dive sites on the fly is a bit of a tedious thing to do on the side. I was expecting to be nearly ready to go or already gone.”

He sighed and admitted. “I honestly thought he would either put them in sleeping stasis or simply stay with someone back where the stuff were. Admittedly I should of seen it a mile away.”

Having her arms crossed, Grain said, “Uh, huh….” Then sighed and told, “Listen, once they’re all prepped and dressed, we should get moving.” Glacing some to see two of her crew back out of the water and grabbing some more boxes. “We’re putting the things away now, but I want to get moving before it get’s dark.” Turning back and adding, “I got a new chunk of responsibility as the sole mare in charge of Alpha base, so… yeah.” Hands on hips and shrugging.

“Of course, of course.” then look to Crisp and back to Grain as he continue. “This is Crisp, the wife I mentioned to you,” then look to Crisp. “Crispy, this is Grain, who you already heard from me.”

“Of course.” Crisp nodded before holding her hand out, “A pleasure, Grain.”

Reaching out, the pegasus clasped the arm a bit more and said, “‘course. Nice to meet ya.” Giving a firm shake before letting go and said with a raised brow. “Alright, what is it?” Getting a confused look from the mare. “What’s with the unsure glances?”

Blinking a bit, Crisp cleared her throat with a fist near her lips before saying, “Well, Grain. I don’t mean to be bold, but…” Taking a moment to try and put it lightly, “Your, erm… wings are…”

“Oh, those?” Asked the mare, flaring out the more bare like appendages that looked almost like stubs. “Yeah, I was a pain in the ass for the Caribous. Being a survivalist made me more trouble than they expected-- took them almost half a year before they could catch me. Thought washing my feather’s off with oil would rile me down.”

She smirked, “Instead it just pissed me off and I found a moment to make the camp stink up and attract a hydra to come waltzing along. Didn’t escape, but I got payback to more than half the camp.”

“Very impressive.” comment Magic, as the two glance, seeing the unicorn coming out with the three clones all suit up. “Very determined and strong will. Add in using the animals to cause harm and destruction on them.” musing some and said. “I can see why you are the most experience mare to lead Alpha base.” then asked. “Shall we leave? We have a long way to go if I am correct.”

Snorting a bit, Grain said, “Oh, you got no idea.” Then turned and motioned them to follow. “Come on, we got sunlight burning and time wasting!”

While the mare walked on ahead, Zealous remarked, “She’s confident. And self assured.” Looking to the others and telling, “I don’t think the Caribou's would have broken her in, maybe just go insane and become a even bigger hassle.”

Slightly moving, Crisp asked, “Body language?”

With a firm nod, Zealous told, “The day she breaks, is the day she completely goes insane and because a real threat.”

Periodic thought over...and nodded in confirmation. “She’s right. She would do everything until her last breath to cause the Caribous true pain.” as he glance to Magic, and to the clones as he asked. “Did you really have to bring them?”

“The statsis pods weren’t fully up, and we are pressing for time.” said Magic, as he held the leashes this time as he added. “Plus, Zealous might be busy elsewhere and I do require testing and relief now and then.” the earth stallion rolled his eyes as they more or less followed the pegasus. As the Earth stallion was glad he somewhat learn how to swim, he couldn’t help but feel slightly amuse of Magic having some difficulty in swimming as there was a scowl on the stallion face.

---

Traveling from island to base took almost a full day, 18 hours of constant driving by the captain and her crew before they reached the submerged base. Hearing about it and actually seeing it were two different experiences to be certain. And knowing they were fairly deep underwater to boot was also something of an amazement in itself.

Moving the boxes was, surprisingly easy with Magic’s assistance-- though the unicorn found himself needing to add more magic to the boxes, if not to keep the more flimsy cardboard form crushing so deep down. Granted, it wasn’t anything too serious, considering that 100 meters wasn’t anything threatening.

Grain lead them in a swim all the way to the place they would be living-- and consequently working. Apparently the scientist allowing them to work in his Lab had added extra living spaces for them to use, and it was all prepared and refurbished for them.

Though upon getting inside and going about unpacking, Magic had found that because they didn’t know about the three-plus clones, the beds available were a bit less. A double for Crisp and Periodic, and a double for Magic and Zealous. It was also worth to note, everything was compressed to save room. So in this case, they shared the same room, not that was a real problem.

There was thankfully a area for a kitchen, a slight living space and a few other little things. Like for one, a room that processed the outside sea water into pure water. But once all was unpacked and done, did they get a real look around.

Just past a bulkhead, and into a hall that had hanger with, of all things, pre-made and prepared black lab coats with protective padding for four people --Presumably for the expected guests-- did they investigated the lab. And was it a sight to see for them. While the Clones were left behind to do their tasks, the four walked through and investigated the place-- not touching anything for the time being to just know what was going on.

Aquariums housing many a specimen could be found, all even given a slight mini-ecosystem for themselves. Lockers labeled with many materials could be found in one of the many rooms. Tools set aside for later use. Medical lockers and cabinets scattered about in case of emergencies. A couple of Moonpools could be found, some having a few vehicles in them apparently being worked on or modified. A few scattered labs with projects on hold--

They even found a slight relaxation room in all of it, with a young 15 year old mare having a snack and looking through a Tablet. Apparently she was given access by Albert to come and learn a few things, even do a few scant projects herself when she had time. Anymore information that could of been gained was put on hold as she had to leave a few minutes later to get back to her chores around the base.

That left the four to once more wander and eventually settle into one of the labs, one that let them look out and see the glowing Alpha Base and it’s little undersea town, possibly turning city, one enough time passed.

“I’ll admit…” Began Crysp. “My breath is taken away. This place is… well, it’s amazing, nothing like I’ve ever seen before.” Looking to the desks before the window, full of so many different controls on a smooth surface. “I’m not sure how to take it all in.”

“I know, right?” Asked Zealous as she sat on a mostly cleared off counter, hooves swinging over the edge like a child. “This place is pretty big-- I mean, not as big as some places or labs-- but for the stuff we can see out there? Pretty big and all for research!” Hands being raised up and over her head.

“It is a truly remarkable sight.” Agreed Periodic, looking all over as he was closed to his wife, hand around her waist as he remarked. “Going to be a while to get use to this, but I will say that it's going to be a lot of work.”

Magic just look over, thinking some of the amount of work, including the advanced technology as he soon spoke. “We may have to learn quickly on how this stuff works before doing our jobs.” Looking to them as he went on. “There's much we don't know how to operate and need to catch up to speed before we do our researching and testing.”

He frown some as he added to Zealous. “I think I may need to place the cloning and testing on hold for now. Mostly for the limited space we have.”

“You can't set up the things around here?” Asked Periodic as the unicorn shook his head.

“No, mostly because unlike home, we have limited space, limited areas for me to conduct my darker works-- and not a clear idea to put the bodies that failed elsewhere. Or rather not enough space to hold up any undead.”

With a thoughtful humming, Zealous said, “Yeah, the space down here is pretty tight, kinda. We’d have trouble storing too much stuff.” Then looked to the others saying, “Is it just me or is everything here tight?” And named off, “The room space, the halls, the ships, the body suites-- it’s all just…”

“Saving space?” Tossed out Crisp, “I don’t know where you were going with it Zealous, but if I understand the pattern going on here, it’s to maximize the use of what limited space is down here.”

Periodic thought some and agreed. “With us being underwater, there has to be limited amount of space, as anything could happen from predators hitting the glass, to sudden leakage. Maybe even prioritize security and usage than comfort and pleasantries.” he couldn’t help but joke. “The nobilities would hate living here.”

“But it would mean I am cut back on my darker works for a limited time.” mused Magic, moving by Zealous in her spot as he lean against the counter as he went on. “I might need to make a transportation rune to make a space or use the house for my testing lab. Maybe create a disclose location to not make ponies unnerved of the amount of work I might do.”

“Or, not do work with the extra clones or any dark arts for the time being.” suggested Periodic as Magic took a low breath and respond.

“If the Princess will need of me to conduct questionable tests or studies-- I would need to have a space for me to fully use my research to the full extent. And with us sharing the lab with this Albert and limit space, my options of such are limited.”

Thinking to that and fixing the admittedly odd ‘labcoat’ as it were, Crisp spoke, “Well I’m not sure how much of you work in magic you’ll be able to do until we learn more about how most of this equipment works.” Feeling the need to point out his last point. “Periodic the only one familiar with it, seeing as he had that tablet for use for a bit.”

The earth stallion nodded, thinking some as he said to Magic. “I think we need time to adjust to what's around us before we start researching.” then added. “And again, if you do need to make a ‘dark arts lab’, you should bring this up to either Princess’s that you’ll need a bit wider space to store bodies of the clones.” thinking some and asked. “Are you able to make clones? I recall your devices were stored away in that hidden research lab you had before you left Canterlot.”

Magic thought and scowl even more than usual as he spoke. “Yes, I didn’t bring it because I wasn’t sure the situation. But now I do? I think I’m not able to make clones for such work. Annoyance.”

With a raised brow, Crisp asked, “If you couldn’t make any new clones yet, why did you ask about getting samples that you wouldn’t be able to use?”

“So I can get a quick study on the genetic strands,” admit Magic. “See if they were suitable to clone or not. As well as preserved them so when I am able to make new clones, I can get started instead of collecting samples from donors.” he glance to Zealous by him, looking over her in both the diving suit and labcoat. As he soon added to her. “If you wore that pair of glasses, and we weren’t in a public place? I would ravish you of how sexy and appealing you are.”

Smiling to that, Zealous told, “I would have wore the glasses, but I didn’t want to lose them.” Then told with a more smoldering look, “But… I could wear them and let you get a ‘test subject’ later on when we’re not near any windows here~”

“Zealous, act your age.” Told Crisp with a serious expression, thought slightly internally smiling.

“But I am acting my age!” Exclaimed the orange pegasus, “I’m acting the age of a mare with a very healthy sex life!”

Any rebuttals to be given were placed on hold as one of the bulkheads leading to the room they were in was being opened. The depressurizing sounds drew them all to glance it’s way as it was opened. In a sense, Periodic had never seen or met this Albert in person-- despite everything he heard.

And while Shire’s descriptions were close, the actual sight of the infected male, and now in his lab coat while moving back his slightly black hair that nearly hanged all around his face almost gave him a odd impression of a male more devoted to his work than anything. Coming in with tablet and seeming to focus on nothing else.

Yet as soon as he glanced up to them, those green eyes once focused and sharp on work-- snapped into intake and interest before a smile broke out on his lips. “Oh, hello. You must be the new researchers that the Princesses wanted to work down here.” Turning from possibly detached to friendly in moments.

“We are,” said Periodic as he introduce. “I’m Dr. Periodic Table, Researcher of Elements, Transmutation, and Chemistry.” he motioned to his wife. “This is my wife and sometimes lab assistant. Crisp Image.” he glance to Magic as the stallion spoke simply.

“I am Magic. Archmage, Researcher and practitioner of all known magics, Dark Arts Master, Genetic and rune crafter.” then motioned to Zealous. “This is my wife and legal property. Zealous Need. Geology, magical attunements and Gemstone expert, as well as my lab assistant.”

With a fairly swift nod, and moving past them, the male told, “Albert. You can call me the primary researcher to this whole facility.” Then began to ramble off while he began to empty his pockets, placing vial samples in varying areas. “Genetics practice. Aquamarine researcher for both fauna and flora life. Exploration. Geologist. Engineer. A bit of programming when I can dabble in it. Chemist. And possibly a few other things I haven’t thought about.”

Placing the last vial away, he turned towards the four and told, “My experience and expertise range in a number of areas, but I’m hoping you can expand what I have here even further.” Then raised a hand adding, “Magic isn’t a subject I know that well at all. Mostly due to the mere fact I have rarely if ever came into contact with it from where I was for most of my time.”

“So any and all research projects on magic is something you’re going to leave to us.” Surmised Crisp, slightly closing her lab coat's front a bit more, feeling a bit self conscious of another male being able to see her body so easily.

“In short?” Asked Albert, “It would help.”

Magic took that in and spoke. “I can help you understand magic if need be, however there are many variations of magic, just as there is many variation of science.” he then said in interest. “You know of genetics? Perhaps we can speak of it at a later time, as I do have interesting ways to use genetics.” he push that aside however and continue on. “But let's start of what we will be researching or working on? As of right now, we don’t know what we’ll be working on, and it's best to know now so we can get a idea of proceeding.”

Rolling his eyes, Periodic said. “What my friend is saying, is that if we have a idea of what we’re working on, we can start at it right away.”

Thinking some to that, Albert told, “I will only be working part time with you four.” Getting slight looks to that as he told, “As you know, I had made a large majority of Alpha Base, and am a expert in dealing with it’s sea life-- even more so in extremely hostile environments.”

“Because of this, I stretch out my work in quite a few areas, sometimes helping train a new Expedition crew and Captain to go to such areas.” The scientist than took a moment to think and add on, “I also try to keep an eye on the status on all the habitats, being the buildings down here, and their states. If there is a problem in their systems the ponies can’t fix, I get on it. A few are being taught on how to handle such problems, but they are understaffed.”

Stopping her kicking legs, Zealous piped up with, “So it’s mostly going to be us our doing the work around here, right?” And watching him give a swift nod.

“What you research will be mostly up to you, and whatever you are given by those higher up. I’m merely the host and in a sense, part-time partner or worker here. If you do need help and I’m around, let me know.” Then added, “But I do have a few projects myself I try to work on.”

“We’ve noticed.” Nodded Crisp. “Not to be rude, but we were told we needed these… tablets or--”

“Ah yes, hold on while I go fetch them.” And rather quickly, Albert rushed towards the ladder in the rooms center and climbed his way up-- and form the sounds of it, rushed arcrossed the room and up another ladder.

As they waited, Periodic remark. “He seem odd looking, especially the infection on him. But he seem a rather decent fellow.” Magic hum and comment.

“His species remind me of when I visit the Overlord with Zealous before the hysteria of the plague.” which caught the red stallion off guard.

“Wait, what?!” Magic glance and explain.

“I left Canterlot before things became too big, decided to visit the Overlord. Met him in Canterlot too when he wanted to set up the Gate. Reasonable being, and gets straight to the point at times when he’s not showing the guise of a villain. Earn a bit of my respect.”

“And you...didn’t tell me this...why?” asked the earth stallion as there was a faint smile on Magic as he joked.

“Wasn’t really important in the grand schemes of things, was it?” then motioned to Zealous. “Beside, Zealous here enjoy talking to his property much.”

Giggling some, she told, “While they don’t have that many ideas, there was a few we came up with while in bed.”

Sighing, Crisp remarked, “Of course you did.” But flicked an ear when hearing the male coming back, and doing so by slightly sliding down the ladder.

They watched as he took up a thin white wand like stick and began to hand them out, telling, “These will be your Tablets. I already updated them with most of what is being researched here, where you can find supplies for your work, equipment and there is a databank pertaining to the usage of all equipment you may be needing.”

“That's… quite a bit of information.” Noted Crisp while reaching out and taking the one offered to her.

While she looked it over and began to toy with how to turn it on, Albert said, “That’s the main stuff you would be looking over. It also holds any basic rules, some information about the base, heads up messages of any new situations that might pop up around the base… it’s your window to a number of things here.”

While Periodic look it over, Magic hum, looking over a few things as he comment. “I may need to look up this later.” he glance up to Albert, looking him over and soon spoke. “Normally I wouldn’t tell this, but you seem like a person I can work with well. You’ll probably hear of this later on in gossip and such. I have three extra mares, all of which are clones of my Zealous here.”

He stopped, at the others waited for a moment in anticipation of what his reaction would be. Confusion, they at least expected. But the confusion that was on Albert’s face when ehe turned around turned to pure interest. “Clones?” Then repeated, “Fully stable and completely grown clones capable of cognitive thought process and actions from their donor?”

“Yes and no.” said Magic as he explained. “Yes they are fully stable and completely grown clones. But they are not fully ‘sentient’ as they mostly follow orders from me or Zealous, mostly me, and are able to hear and understand my words. They don’t speak, but they are able to do the least basic of tasks or things.” then added in teasing to Zealous. “I would of made them almost like Zealous, but I don’t know if I could handle more than one feisty mare like her.”

She only smiled back in turn, “I’m sure you could handle it.” Then continued to tease on, “We’d only want to jump your bone and fill us with lot’s and lot’s of seed for babies~”

Albert raised a brow, but otherwise said, “Still, that’s a interesting development. One that could be useful.” Then thought to himself, “Granted it’s debatable on how useful with limited thought process and only the most basic…” Then seemed to gain a thought as he asked, “Magic, is it possible for you spare one of those clones?”

The question was something both Periodic and Crisp knew might not go well, though they didn’t know what the male had in mind at all. Though, they did get their answer in just a moment later, “I’ve been wanting to procure myself a seed, or a few seeds, form Seeker Vine plants.” Making the two now slightly alert, “I wanted to test on and even examine them within some personal space-- but finding a willing volunteer mare to gain and carry the seeds for me was unlikely.”

Magic was quiet, thinking of the pros, the cons and benefits and repercussions as he spoke. “Possibly, with how the clones are made, they can be easily ordered back by me and are mostly unaffected by the pheromones of the Seeker Vines as a test I did.” then quickly told. “But I am trying to not waste clones as of now, as I don’t have the equipment I usually have due to limited space. I could lend you one, but it's hard to get a clone back as most likely they’ll be taken by Caribous and I lose the clone.”

With a slight twitch that could be only seen as slight annoyance, Albert told, “I was asking if you could spare a clone to procure and carry the seeds from the plant. To have them get the seeds but not make it back would only be a waste of resources. I would have someone, possibly the Overlord, guard the clone until they do their task and then make sure they return to this faculty where I can gain the seeds and deposit them into their containment unit.”

He hum some...then said. “You can borrow Z-3. I’ll make her obey temporary orders from you until you are done using her for gaining the seeds.”

“I’m surprise you’re letting him, you usually a bit antsy with lending clones.” said Periodic as Magic told.

“Yes, but a clone away, means another mouth to not feed much. As well as saving space.” then he look back as he asked. “Albert, if its possible, since you seem the most trusted, can you ask mares for donations of genetic samples? Manes, bit of blood, or spit can do.”

“Glint.” Spoke up Albert, “She’s the head medical physician here. If you want samples, she might be willing to part with a few and even find volunteers for gaining samples from.” Then paused for a moment and said, “You mentioned lack of space?”

“For magical stuff.” Told Zealous. “Magic needs to have specialized rooms for magical work, crafting with his necromancy arts and even just dealing with runes.” then motioned about, “And there’s hardly enough for that-- not even for his cloning if he wanted to make more sexy me’s!”

Blinking to that, Albert got out his tablet and muttered, “Find more titanium to make more habitat space for special projects…”

Blinking some, Crisp spoke, “You’re not bothered at adding more space for… what Magic does?”

Not going taking his eyes off his work, Albert told, “When making scientific endeavors, you often breach the line of ‘questionable’ to learn things other’s won’t.” Then paused to tell, “In admittance? Personally I wouldn’t bother with necromancy only because the sea life, and the amounts of water, would dissolve the body in a short amount of time.” Then added, “Also, dead bodies can be used as fuel in a Bioreactor. More productive that way.”

“At least I know where to place the failed clones now.” mused Magic as he continued on. “Thanks, it makes things less troublesome as to conduct any researching if I need to use my magical expertise-- or the dark arts without clones to use as test subjects. Hence the reason I ask for donations of genetic samples.” he then thought a bit as he remarked. “I think when the space is made, I can get my cloning equipment and set it up. So I can start what work to be done..”

“But aren’t the ponies here going to question why there's unknown ponies suddenly showing up and around the area Magic is in?” asked Periodic.

To this, Albert told, “That depends if he let’s them roam around. Or how much supplies they consume.” Then shook his head. “With as much liberty as you have to do your work-- keeping yourselves stocked on food and water is your top priority and responsibility. If you want to support three more clones, you have to make sure you cut out time to get more supplies to support them and yourselves.”

Huffing, Crisp turned and told the purple stallion, “In short Magic? Try to not make too many at a time.”

He nods and said. “Of course, I’ll be sure to limit my cloning to spare resources for other's.” he then mused and admitted to Zealous. “I might have to use the main three clones as my test subject to save resources altogether. Might not make more due to the conditions here.” then thought more and added in a thoughtful tone. “But there may be days where you are not around and I might need of you. Might make a special clone to be almost like you.”

“Really.” said Periodic with a raised brow. “So you’re going to use up the three clones until they’re tossed into this Bioreactor, but create another clone of Zealous, that's completely like her?”

Hand and finger raised, Zealous said, “Almost like me.” Then smiled as she looked to her stud and told, “And really Magic? From what I can tell, we’re going to be spending a lot of time in the same place-- I don’t think you’re going to need a cheap knock off when the real thing’s going to be right in reach.” Using her hand to jiggle her breasts.

The mood was slightly killed when Albert told, “If you plan to mate inside the lab-- make sure you do it someplace that it won’t contaminate any samples.”

“I’ll be sure we’re far from the samples.” said Magic, as while he was assured that Zealous was going to be near him 24/7, and if he was careful to stretch the supplies for the clones, then they’ll survive long enough. He thought over something, and soon asked. “How soon do you need Z-3 to gain the seeds of the Seeker Vine?”

Thinking to this, Albert told, “Perhaps after I’m done getting you all set up.” Then nodding to himself, he went on, “Once I’m done with getting you all set up, I can then leave for the Overlord and take a gate with him to a plant to get what is needed and be back in a short time.”

Magic nodded as he soon look over the tablet, reading into it as Periodic look to Albert, knowing his friend was satisfied for now as he asked. “Is there anything else to bring up? No offense, but we do need to settle down a bit and get our bearings.”

Shaking his head, Alert told, “For now? No.” Then began moving out and telling, “If you need me, I’ll be working in one of the Moonpools. Getting a PRAWN suite ready for some deep sea mining.” Leaving the four to go about reading their tablets, Crisp finally being shown by her husband how to open it and start looking over it’s contents.

“Well…” Started Zealous while beginning her own reading, “He’s nice.. Not stiff… pretty open…” Then smiled, “And, Magic likes him!” Getting looks from the other couple.

“What?” said Periodic as Magic agreed with a flick of his ear.

“Yes, compare to most, he seem very likeable for me. Didn’t even blink of me and Zealous having sex in the lab as long as we didn’t contaminated something. He’s fine for me.” then glance to the two as he recall. “If I recall, Crisp mention you and her are feeling really tense and were considering sex. I say now is a good opportunity.” Periodic was about to argue why its not…

But consider that they were free for now...he soon suggested. “Why don’t we take this in our room?” then look to Crisp as he gave a low blush, hand moving around her waist and labcoat as he said. “He does have a point Crispy. I doubt we’ll have time later on when we’re start working…”

She flushed to this, but slowly nodded before they heard Zealous giggle, “You want handcuffs for that, Crisp?”

“Zealous!” Spoke out the rosy mare with red cheeks, “You might enjoy that, but I certainly don’t feel up to such a deplorable idea!”

“Isn’t it deplorable already you’re getting rutted out in front of your friends, moaning like a mare in heat?” Asked the pegasus in such a innocent tone-- but overall making the unicorn mare flush a deep red that made her giggle.

Trying to give a glare, Crisp told, “You’re lucky Albert didn’t hear that.”

Smirking, Zealous told, “But he didn’t.” Getting off the counter and taking up her stud’s arm and told, “But if you don’t want to be cuffed, then I might as well be.” Then gave a look up to her stallion and spoke, “Feel ready to experiment with these on for a bit~?” And pressed herself close and rubbed up his side-- she shivered at being able to feel all his body through the suites-- and the smoothness of how she rubbed on him was very much exciting.

Magic put his Tablet away in the labcoat, as his horn glowed. Bringing all four of them in the bedroom they shared, as he soon genlty push Zealous on the bed as his hands began feeling her large and plentiful breasts as his horn glowed. Bringing up some handcuffs as he asked. “Depends. How much should I tease you like the naughty filly you are?” Periodic rolled his eyes, as he then gently pull Crisp to him as he sat on the bed.

Letting her straddle him as he look to her with a smile and admit. “Its been awhile since we did have sex, Crispy. I think I might be a little pent up from all the work.”

Taking a breath to steady herself and glancing to be sure the room was indeed secured and door firmly closed still-- did the mare let out a breath and use her arms to shrug off the lab coat, letting it smoothly fall off her shoulders and down to the floor. She gave the stallion a half lidded look and used a hand to grip and tug at the zipper near her neck, slowly drawing it down her body as it began to show more and more, breasts slightly popping and bouncing out when it became open enough.

“Then maybe we should do something about that, Dear.” She told with a slightly anxious, but at the same time breathless voice before the zipper reached all the way down past her now exposed treasure. She didn’t bother shrugging off her suite, only placing her hands on his shoulders and leaning it with a at first, gentle kiss. One that progressively became more deeper and passionate as they held it for longer.

As Periodic hands move up, rolling her shoulders,feeling down her back as they went down to her ass, gently squeezing them as he managed to take more of the suit off. He pull back a bit to gain a bit of air, as he look into her eyes as he smile and asked. “A little help with the zipper? I think I’m going to be occupied by you, Crispy.” glancing to see Magic cuffed Zealous, teasing her with his hands on her breasts, labcoat already off of them as he was enjoying the feel of her body.

Smiling some, Crisp told, “Why of course.” Slightly wiggling herself and using her arms to strip more of the dive suit off. “It would only be unfair if I was the only one undressed for the situation~” Slender hands reaching up to grip that tab and ear flicking at the coo’s her friend was making. And if she was willing to admit-- the sounds of sex did turn her on. At least made her slightly… excited.

Smiling more, he began to move his hands to strip her divesuit, feeling her hands moving, hearing the two in their bed as he thought. Yep. Definitely enjoy this. knowing they will probably be at this for a few hours.

Next Chapter: When Jasmine's away, Jerry will play. Estimated time remaining: 34 Hours, 9 Minutes