When the six entered into the town, they were met with not just a weird and uncanny sight, but a equally as strange response. “Welcome!” Came a cheer from one mare passing by. “Welcome!” Spoke a stallion also making his rounds. “Welcome!” Grinning a caribou moving some buckets of water towards his cottage. “Welcome!” Greeted a group of foals with who they only assumed was the teacher leading them.

The ponies of Equestria remaining free ponies gave… uncertain looks all around. The utter sight of the calmness, smiles and overall welcoming voices were… mixed. On one hand, it was nice to see everyone so happy and peaceful-- but on the other… something just felt off. It made them uncomfortable-- Ash herself looked a bit on edge.

Ash sign towards Azure, telling the Pegasus that everything feels...wrong, as if there was a sickness around here.

Seeking himself felt on edge to, but kept it hidden as he noticed that while everyone said their hellos...no one gave slight glances or suspicious looks to not only him, but even to the Overlord.

Warning bells rang in Seeking head as something was very wrong.

Jerry himself felt a little unnerved, as it made him questioned why they were so happy, even Gnarl voiced this in. “Hmm, Master, there is something aloof here, and something that makes me feel….off.”

yeah, it almost like we’re part of a weird cult...like Nicholas Cage was with the Burning Man. thought Jerry, as it was giving him that slight vibe of cult-like sense around him, with all these ponies and Caribous….all happy and smiling.

“Welcome!” One final pony, a pegasus herself, spoke with enthusiasm before saying, “Sorry, but I couldn't help but notice you’re all new here.” Looking utterly delighted to see them, “We don’t get too many new faces around here.”

Ash almost found herself wanting to hide behind Azure, while the mare herself gave a as-friendly-enough smile she could while saying, “We’re passing through. We noticed this town and, well…” Trying to find the right words to say, “We didn’t expect there to be a town all the way out here.”

Laughing some, the pegasus assured, “Not many ponies seem to know about our little town.” Then motioned, “You’re welcomed to look around. We hope you stay for at least a bit, we love making new friends.” A sincere tone to her voice while smiling at them all.

Seeking carefully asked to the Pegasus. “We were searching some ponies around here, Rairty and the Flim-Flam Brothers? Did they past by here?” Carefully examining the mare for any hints from his question. As despite the sincerity in her tone and happy smile about making new friends….this all felt wrong.

She hummed a bit in thought and said, “Well, I don’t know anyone named Flim-flam…” Then smiled, “But I know a pony named Rarity.” Then smiled on, “She came to our town nearly a month ago and found our little town just delightful with others.”

Hiding his surprised, Seeking asked. “Really? Can you lead us the way to Rarity? We have something to tell her, and it's rather important.”

“No Flim and Flam? But this wench? Very curious….be on guard Master, something is amiss.” advise Gnarl as Jerry himself couldn't help but wonder if the brothers were possibly imprison...or scammed this town for something in their intrest, it was odd to hear Rarity was here...even more without the brothers. He thought the two stallions regard the mare highly, so why she was here, and they weren't?

“I’d be happy to.” Nodded the pegasus, motioning them to follow as she asked, “Are you friends with her?” Then went on, “I don’t mean to be intrusive, but I just have to ask because, well, I’m just surprised someone like yourselves know about her.”

“We know her well, ma’am.” Evade Seeking as he slightly glanced around as he asked. “If you don't mind me asking, how did this town came to be? It must be hard to provide food in a environment like this, even more with no fertile ground to grow crops.”

She gave a small giggle and told, “The ground’s a little hard in some places, but it’s not all that horrible.” Then smiled, “In fact, we had a nice field of crop not too long ago.” Then waved a hand, “I haven’t actually been around for it, I was indoor sick, but with how conditions are here? We can grow crops all year around.”

“That sounds useful.” Admitted Azure while glancing up. “Even more with the lack of clouds. How do you make sure rain keeps around to water your crops?”

Glancing, the pegasus told, “They don’t need too much water. They are pretty hardy plants and seemed to thrive around here.” Then went on happily, “We even have other places we get food from. Our little corner of Equestria is our little spot of paradise.”

Paradise? thought Jerry in a question mood. i can see Gnarl saying it like that...but to these ponies? What so great of this place? glancing at the Caribous, seeing at their eyes as part of him felt a chill, a sense of familiarity as they seem...a bit empty within those eyes.

Seeking flick a ear, but didn't speak more, as he asked. “Heard anything recently of around Equestria? I'm sure you must've heard a few things from ponies who pass by here.”

There was a moment of thought, the mare slowly nodding and smiling back, “Well, from our new friends we heard there’s been a slight problem happening in Equestria.” Then waved a hand, “Some odd thinking and a lot of arguing and disputes.” Then went on, “But not much else besides that. As you might tell, we’re a little out of touch with the rest of the world here.”

Seeking slightly nod, keeping his expression neutral as he asked. “Who's in charge around here?”

Passing some three completely identical houses that stood side-by-side, their current guide told, “Starlight Glimmer.” Then gave a wide smile, “One of the nicests ponies I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. She loves to welcome every new visitor with open hands, like the rest of us.”

She stopped by a door and told, “If you would like to meet her, I can introduce you later.” Then reached her hand up, knocking as she called, “Rarity, are you home?” Standing in place, hands folded before herself and waiting.

The door opened, and for Seeking, he had to blink. The mare that opened the door held a similar smile, the same blan dress that most any mare in the town had, and more notably, held a very simple man style that was of the single braid varent.

“Plume, nice to see you again dear.” Then glanced up and saying, “Oh, Welcome! Are you new travelers too?” And motioning, “Please come in! Can I get you all anything?”

“No thank you Rarity.” Told Plume, “But our new friends seem to know you.”

Turning her head while walking in, Rarity asked, “Really now?” Looking the six over and admitting, “I’m sorry, but I don’t recognize any of you.”

“Let just say we know of you, Rarity.” Said Seeking, as he asked. “Miss Rarity, We have something to inform you in private.” Warning bells ringing as something was very wrong. As Rarity would never have anything ‘simple’, or wouldn't recognized his armor at glance…

Or even the fact the entire town lack collars, even more as he glanced around there was no decorations, no glamorous things...just plain like everything else.

“Of course.” Rarity smiled, “Plume? Why not you go on ahead and let me talk to our new guests?” Then smiled, “Perhaps I can get them some nice cloaks, they are in season this year!” Which caused a few looks to be exchanged by the six.

Plume herself gave a nod and said, “Sure thing Rarity.” Turning and leaving out the door, leaving them all with the unicorn that hummed and went about to some hangers that held, what could only be described as roughly made brown cloaks.

Leaning over, Lance asked, “Are we sure this is the lady? I thought Rarity was some… fashion genius?”

Azure screwed up her face and agreed, “She doesn't seem to be the right mare… but she is named Rarity, how many ponies have the same name?”

Ash signed to Azure, as everything felt wrong, like this town didn't had the same….harmony feeling like back then.

Seeking glance at Rarity, as he told lowly to the other's. “It's her….but something is wrong. Very, very wrong…” motioning them to stay, he walked up by Rarity and clear his throat.

“Excuse me, Miss Rarity, but we’re here to inform you that it's time to go. We’re from the Resistance, and we have Applejack, Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash waiting to see their friend again.”

For a moment, Rarity seemed to almost stumble in going through the cloaks, her tail nervously twitching before she turned and asked, “M-my friends?” almost looking lost in thought, “And… the Resistance?” She paused some and remarked, “So… Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash are away from the dreadful place…?” Looking up with a slight look of wonder.

“Yes, and so are Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Cadence with her husband, all cured and wanting the element bearers together once more.” Nodded Seeking, noticed the rather oddness from the mare, it almost look like she was….dazed.

“Cured?” She soon voiced in a slight confusion, “I-I’m terribly sorry but, I’m.. not quite sure if I follow…” Looking almost confused. She glanced from the cloaks before back to them, giving a smile slightly strained, “Maybe we could sit down for a moment? I think you need to help clear a few things up for me, my memory is a little… fuzzy at moments.”

“I'm saying they're free of the corruption the Caribou gave.” Told Seeking, feeling the red flags waving in his mind, trying to find what was wrong, what was going on with Rarity as he carefully added.

“And your sister is waiting for you with the Resistance. She missed her big sister.” Although this was a surprise to Jerry, Gnarl spoke.

“Look carefully Master...I dare say she is afflicted with something.”

For a moment, Rarity seemed to focus on that last part and say, “Sweetie…. Sweetie Belle.” Lifting a hand to rub her face almost tiredly, “R-right… my sister…” Then shook her head for a moment.

Mist shifted, her wings shuffling as she asked, “Are you alright, you… sound tired?”

Waving a hand, Rarity assured, “I-I’m fine. I… just suffer from some… slight problems.” Then rubbed her forehead explaining, “When some of the Townsfolk found me, I wasn’t… exactly all here.” Then went on, “I suffered from a bit of something, or, until Starlight helped me out.”

The mare smiled and told, “My mind is still a little fuzzy at times, but I’m much better.” Then bit her lip, looking around, “Still feel a little lost from time to time. But the town makes sure I’m helped.” Then sombered asking, “How is my… sister.” as if trying to recall who that was. “I’m sorry, I… I sometimes forget things, or my memory seems… hazy at moment's.”

A smile was on Seeking face as he said in assurance. “She's fine, she's safe,” then added with a somber look. “But she missed you very much. Please ma’am, come with us. It's time for Sweetie to see her sister again.”

“Master, perhaps you should inform goody-two-shoes with the Minions of this...situation. As much as I despise her...this Starlight is giving me the suspicion that something is amiss with these happy go lucky lot.”

With a simple mental command, informing Spree through his Blues, that something was up. Jerry gave a slight glance outside, wondering a little of why things seem cheerful, with everything being so...plain.

“Go with you?” Questioned Rarity, “You mean, as if to leave?” then shook her head, “Oh no darling, I… I simply couldn't!” Then motioned around, “This is such a lovely little place I’ve come to call home. It’s be hard to just… leave it all.” Smiling some in content.

“Would you deny your sister a chance to see you again?” Spoke Jerry. “Would you want us to tell her that you didn't come back, because you wanted to live here, away from her? Do you want us to tell your closest friends that you wanted to live here and never see them again? Seems a bit…selfish for the bearer of generosity.” While some the ponies question why he was saying this, Seeking noticed something from Rarity.

She gave a few blinks of the slightly dulled blue eyes, and muttered, “Bearer… Bearer of Generosity..” Arm crossed to hold a elbow and hand up to her chin. She slightly paced and asked, “Why does that sound familiar?”

Squinting her eyes, Azure asked, “Don’t you remember?” Watching as the unicron glanced at her. “You’re one of the six Element Barrier to Harmony…” Watching with concern at the confusion to Rarity’s eyes. “Don’t… you remember at all?”

Slowly, Rarity shook her head, “I-I’m quite sorry. But it’s like I said, I.. have been having trouble remembering things since some townsfolk found myself and others. I’m not the only one, a few… others have a bit of memory trouble.” then thought for a moment and explained, “Starlight said it was a… something to do with traumatic experiences.”

Snapping her fingers, she said, “Maybe Ganzu can help!” And told them with a smile, “He’s this nice Caribou just across the road. Whenever I try to recall something that tickles at my mind, he sometimes knows and helps explain it to me.”

Frowning some, Seeking said. “Miss Rarity, we simply don't have the time. We need you back with your friends.” Trying to reason her as Jerry saw the dull eyes of the mare…

And for some reason, it made him think that while it was tired, unfocused and restless, it held a small gleam of content and happy. But yet...it bothered him. He didn't know why, but it bothered him.

“Nonsense.” Waved off the mare, “Ganzu can maybe help clear a few things up for me.” Moving to pass them up and reaching for the door. “And he’s a nice fellow too.” Then admitted, “Though he’s a little stiff, but really that’s only because of some stiffness. Likes to go out and work the fields a lot.”

While Rarity left out, Mist said, “Anyone else feel… a little creeped out with how she’s…” Trying to find the right word.

“Mist, I think we’re all getting the feeling something isn’t right here.” Assured Azure, “Ash has been feeling creeped since we got here.” Then moved to follow Rarity out, “Maybe this Ganzu might know something.”

“But here's something I'm about worried.” Said Seeking as he said while looking at them. “While there plenty of ponies here who may not know us, not a single Caribou either ran from the Overlord...or came to me at all.”

“Sir, what are you suggesting?” Asked Lance as Seeking glance out to where Rarity left and told the group.

“I'm saying the Caribou would of noticed my armor on sight and would definitely know the Overlord just by looks.”

Screwing up her face, Azure said, “I thought most of the Caribou that went missing around here happened before the Overlord was around?” Then motioned out, “Maybe they just don’t know-- those at Alpha base didn’t know him at one point, right? Maybe they’re the same.

Giving a glance to that, Lance said, “What makes you think that’s anything better?” Though off to the side, Ash elbowed those near her and motioned to Rarity who had stopped outside and was waiting for them.

Mist sighed and said, “Maybe we can figure that out, after we see who this guy is?” Then looked to seeking, “Because I don’t know about you, but maybe asking someone that actually knows what’s going on, is better than just guessing.”

Sighing, Seeking nod and motioned them to move out, as they were exiting the house, Jerry mused on what was said. While it was true that nobody would know him...the Caribous here should of at least noticed Seeking armor. So why didn't they?

then again, maybe I'm thinking too deep. Everyone was smiling at us as they stared at us...still creeps me out and think this is a cult. thought the man, being the last to exit the house as while he tried to dismissed his bothered feelings, they just kept coming, it was as if there was something entirely wrong for him. Like everything was just a false idea or like the townsfolk were hiding something.

The cottage Rarity mentioned wasn’t too far off, and was only a few blocks to the side. She walked right up and reached up, giving a good knock and called out, “Ganzu? Are you home dear?” Then waited with the rest on place for a while. Rarity shifted from side to side before knocking again, asking, “Ganzu?”

When no response came, she gave a slight sigh of disappointment and spoke, “He must be out in the fields again.” Then perked right up and said, “Not a trouble, we could maybe visit him there or just wait, nothing too big of a problem.”

Frowning to that, Azure said, “We don’t plan to stay here long Rarity.” Glancing up and going on, “We have other things we need to do, like getting you back.”

Sighing, Rarity said with a smaller smile, “I know you said that, but this has been my home for a majority of, well, my currently clear memories.” Giving a light laugh, “If I had the choice, I would ask my friends and little sister to come here and see if they felt like living here.”

“But what about your actual home?” Questioned Seeking. “What about Ponyville? Or that store you had?” Recalling files on Rarity that she used to own a business, he was quickly trying to recall the name of the shop.

Jerry himself recalled a bit, remembering from talking with Spree and Shadow as he asked. “You mean Carousel Boutique?” Getting a glance from some of the ponies as shrug. “Shadow and Spree told me about Ponyville a lot. It was their hometown.”

Laughing a bit, Rarity said, “That was a long time ago, a faded memory really.” Giving a small smile. “They were the days, I suppose. Though, a bit blurred, I do sort of remember them a bit.” Then shook her head, “But really, it’s nice here. I can’t say I’m any more happier than I am right here with all my friends surrounding me!” Having a larger smile in place.

“Huh...so you're saying you want to leave behind your former friends, Applejack with her farm, Rainbow with her bravo, Pinkie with her parties, Fluttershy with her ways of animals, and even Twilight with her love of books?” Jerry looking around adding. “And give up that passion of creativity Spree and Shadow kept mention about?”

Smiling somberly, Rarity told, “Ponies move on dear, nothing wrong with that.” Then waved a hand, “And I certainly won’t judge the others if they want to stay in Ponyville, oh no, not at all! They are completely free to stay where they like.”

“Well...are you going to force Sweetie to never see her friends again?” Asked Jerry. “I mean while she might be happy being with you...do you really want her to never see her best friends again?”

Rarity’s smile faltered some, almost becoming conflicted by that line of thought. She let her eyes wander about, not sure how to really respond. Could she do that to her little sister? It didn’t sound too fair in a sense… But it was also so nice here, she could have so many friend here too.

She nearly jumped when a new voice entered the mix, this one almost filled with a go lucky cheer befitting the place they were in, “Welcome there!” All heads turned to a smiling unicorn mare in the same dress as most, though it seemed a bit more well tended to. “You must be the new visitors I’ve been hearing about.”

“Oh, Starlight.” Breathe out Rarity, “You popped out of nowhere just now.”

Giving a small laugh, Starlight said, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you all.” Then looked to the six and spoke, “I just heard from some of our friends some visitors came around, I just had to come and see.” Looking them each over and saying, “And I have to say, I’m surprised. There’s plenty of diversity, it’s almost uncalled for!”

She walked up and held a hand out, “I’m Starlight Glimmer, it’s a pleasure to meet you all.” Unlike those of the village, the mare’s smile was much more nicer, pleasant and not a giant grin. If anything, it was familiar and set them a bit more at ease with it’s more softer nature.

“I don't trust her, she seem...too pleasant.” Spoke Gnarl as suspicious filled his voice, as Seeking gave a slight nod to Starlight, the thestral spoke.

“Hello, we’re simply here to ask Miss Rarity to come with us. It's time for her to come back with her friends and family.” Keeping things simple as he kept his guard up, as while the mare gave a pleasant smile and more at ease, he was on edge with how everything is off with this town.

Clearing her own voice, Rarity spoke, “These fine people have been telling me all sorts of… interesting things.” Then smile, “I apparently also have a sister, I don’t recall it clearly, but…”

Almost nearly beaming, Starlight spoke, “You have a little sister? Well that sound just wonderful.” Then looked to the group adding, “Tell me, why do you feel insistent on Rarity leaving?” Then moving up to lay har arms around the mentioned mare, “We’re all quite fond of her, and she absolutely loves it here.”

She considered that and asked, “Unless you wanted to leave, Rarity?” Starlight looking to the white unicorn with a wondering glance.

“Oh no, Starlight.” Told Rarity with a laugh, “I’m a little confused, but I simply adore this little town too much!” Then went on, “Why, I was thinking of maybe inviting my friends and family here to give our little home a try.”

Smiling, Starlight told to her, and the others, “Well, they are certainly welcome to come and visit-- or stay if they like it here.” Then told, “Though I find most seem to want to stay for one reason or another. Our community does love to show the true meaning of friendship to all that come here.”

“I don't know, would seem kinda odd that ‘true friendship’ would be wide creepy smiles, lack of anything creativity and seem more like everyone is going to suffer sore muscles on their face for having such wide grins.” Said Jerry.

Giving him a look, Starlight said, “I don’t mean to be too forwards, but… I’ve never seen anything quite like you.” Looking him over with a contemplating glance. “You seem to be something else entirely, to be honest. Not to be rude, of course.” Holding up a hand to forestall any sort of rebuttal.

“Eh, its fine. Better to something new and different than anything else. Helps remind me I'm still me.” Shrugged Jerry.

With a almost dissapointed smile, Starlight said, “Well, I’m sorry, I think I understand if you don’t want to tell me as to what you are.” Then beamed once more, “But the smile’s aren't creepy in the least! It only shows how much we appreciate our little corner of Equestria.” Then told to them, “And try to please understand, it’s not the fact we lack anything that makes us lack creativity.” Then motioned around, “It’s that we’re all the same and no one has anything over the other.”

Rarity gave a solid nod, “We’re all equal here, dear. Nothing different from each and every one of us.” Then went on, “Why, we even share the same sort of tastes, likes and decorum. It does wonders with keeping a strong friendship going.”

oh crap….I'm in a communist town! Tread carefully. thought Jerry as he asked carefully. “But isn't it a lie to yourself to limit your tastes, interests, even with your cutie mark suggest otherwise?”

“Oh, you misunderstand.” Started Rarity, “There is no lie about it, because it’s what we wanted.” Then went on, “And Cutie Marks and everything about them isn’t a problem in the least, because we don’t have them to flaunt in the first place.” Making all six just stand in place, stock still.

“I'm sorry….but what?” Said Lance. “What do you mean….you don't have cutie marks?”

Jerry had to agree with that. Aren’t cutie marks suppose to be...part of you? How could you ‘remove’ it?

Shaking her head, Starlight told, “Not in the least!” And turned slightly, Rarity miming her as they showed the shoulder to their dresses were a equal sign was printed in. “We ponies all share the same mark, no differences with any of us. Even the Caribou have come to love this philosophy and do the same with their own cloth to show they are like all the rest of us!”

The utter amount of cheer in the mare’s voice made Gnarl gag in Jerry’s helmet, though at Starlight’s wondering glance, she smiled and told, “Maybe I could give you a small tour of the town while I explain things to you?” Smiling as she turned. She seemed to march on ahead, calling out, “Head’s high everyone!” A odd… feeling taking hold of the air. And for a moment, Jerry was sure there was a sound of light drumming, follow by a whistle, Starlight’s cheerful and almost consoler-like-voice ringing out, “Marching Proud!”

Rarity smiled and moved, her hooves marching in step with those of the town. The six watched as both ponies and caribous responded to the call, a musical ting filling the air with a magical vibe while Starlight continued to call, “All together now! Every one of you!” Even stopping to call out, “Nobody left behind!” And like some musical cue, making a few doors open as inhabitants came out to join in.

“Why am hearing music?” Asked Jerry as he was slightly ignored as Starlight sang.

“Life is so grand in our town.” Motioning around with a smile while ponies and caribou's marched in nicely organized lines. “We’re always filled with cheer. We never have to look around.” Motioning to the inhabitants. “To know that we’re all here.”

And like a near thunder, the towns folk sang out, “In our Town! In our Town! We don’t have to wait.” Off to the side, Starlight had to pause, seeming to nod in beat with them all with the most pleased of smiles, “To find our destiny, is to emulate!”

Smiling and taking up her own que, Starlight moved forwards before many of the townsfolk, calling out, “Let’s see those big, Happy smiles!” Those she passed plastering on even bigger grins or smiles.

Ash shifted back with Azure some, shuffling her wings in slight agitation a bit before Starlight moved to them and continued, “Life is a smile in our town.” Reaching up to pat her shoulder to seemingly tell, “Our shared marks are all the same.” Then used that hand to explain with a raised finger, “Because we do not separate, ourselves by more than name.”

Hand motioning behind as she sang with the town. “In our Town! In our Town! We dare not compete.” All of them shaking their heads as if disagreeing with that. “Winning breeds the worst, ego-filled conceet.” Crossing their arms as if rejecting such a concept.

“You see? Now everybody wins!” Told Starlight with a wide smile, hands in the air as she spins around telling out. “Life is a joy in Our town.” Motioning her ‘cutie mark’ as with a cheer telling, “We’re all equal here.”

“No one is superior.” Moving by Seeking as she smile with hands on his shoulders, he refuse to move as she look to him telling. “And no one shakes in fear.”

“In our Town! In our Town!” Called out all the townsfolk as they move in a circle around the group as they held their hands giving wide smiles to the newcomers. “We work as a team.” Mist tried to not show her agitation as her wings shifted, while Ash kept close to Azure. Lance look in befuddlement as the town folk sang. “You can‘t have a nightmare, if you never Dream.”

Seeking felt nearly disturbed, mostly at the last part. How could one not dream? How could not one have creativity? It was...a affront of Luna teachings and even make him question why these ponies would enjoy such a thing?

Starlight gave a sigh as she told in a saddened tone. “Other people argue.” Motioning to the two foals as they had a bear between them as she asked. “Do you ever wonder why?” Shaking her head with a sad undertone, saying. “When you think your talents special. You don’t see eye-to-eye.”

Motioning to the foals as she added. “There’s just too many differences, that leads to disarray.” Then gave a beaming smile as she showed her marking on her shoulders along side everyone else as she proclaimed. “But when you learn to act as one, it’s like a holiday!” Getting the foals to smile and join in the singing.

“Gah my ears! Make it stop! Make it stop! It's too cheery! Too happy! It's making me want to puke my innards!” cried out Gnarl.

“In our Town! In our Town!” Told the townsfolk as they stand around with their hands all holding still, head bobbing to the tune. “We don’t complicate. When you learn to simplify, life is oh so great!” Then two Caribous held a large equal sign as they sang loud and proud. “Join in our utopia, come out of the dark.” All the townfolk standing as one as they sang out. “Banded by equality, by our own shared marks!”

There was a bout of silence, as Jerry spoke out. “That makes….NO SENSE!” Getting looks as he told on as while it may ‘made sense’ to them, his human mindset didn't compute. “How can one be happy with no dreams? How can one not desire if they don't be different? Yes there is a thing as working together, but if you deny uniqueness in differences, you deny creativity, deny progress.” Thrusting his arms up in the air.

“You're stagnating yourself to the point you're more or less mindless drones with nothing to add in and are merely existing for nothing! At least Communism allows its people to be slightly different, you all just want to stop being you and just be the same! It's like you're killing yourself to the point you're just being slightly different on the outside in appearances, but on the inside you're trying to turn yourself into the same person!” Then asked. “And what in gods name was that? A musical just came out of nowhere? How does that happen? What do you all got a musical band? Because if you do, then you're being hypocrites in sameness when you got people making music!”

Feeling his shoulder tapped, Azure asked in a near whisper, “You never seen magical harmonics happen around ponies before?”

Lance slightly leaned in and said, “Yeah, everyone knows when ponies start singing, a magical harmonic resonates and starts up. It just happens.”

“Well with all the near depressing and situation with Equestria-- I never seen it!” Told Jerry.

Clearing her voice to bring their focus back to them, Starlight spoke in a saddened tone, “Well, we didn’t mean to offend you, not at all.” Then told with a small sad frown, “You don’t have to accept our way of life. You can leave any time you like.” It slowly turned to a smile as she went on, “We just found the light in not have to worry about the fears or terrors of being different-- it’s liberating to be the same, not worry about a argument to break out by just the smallest of differences!”

“But in having arguments, it's just mean you have your opinion, you're being you and someone else being another person-- like right now.” Mist gave a blank look to Jerry as Lance didn't look agreeing to the Overlord words.

“Keep telling yourself that.” Mist said in a slightly flat manner. She still wasn’t going to agree the guy was all that great. She still held some detest for some rumors she heard about him.

Starlight tisked a bit and told, “And this is the problem we all once had.” Then gestured to him, “We have such different opinions, and they conflict so badly.” Then went on, “Here we are, trying to be welcoming to you all.” Then pinned her ears back, “But you don’t seem all to happy with us at all even when we’re trying to not at all judge you.” Making those behind her mutter and nod along.

“What he is saying,” started Seeking as to smooth things out. “Is that he thought that ponies were suppose to be different from one another, having the ideals of love and tolerance the Princess taught to us. For him, to see this, is….unsettlingly to see.”

Smiling, Starlight asked, “How so?” Then moved back to be apart of the large assembly of the town, “We love and Tolerate each and every one of ourselves-- even new guests!” Then went on, “Why, the Caribou used to only think mares lower than themselves, but ever since they came to our little town, they’ve come to understand mare’s are no different from them and have the same rights.” And much to their surprise, watched many a caribou nod.

Even one of them spoke, “I used to believe in the Emperor's teachings, before coming here with my patrol.” Then smiled, “I haven’t had a more fulfilling life than being here and spending my days with so many respecting people. I can say with full confidence, I am a modeled citizen to this fine small town of equality.” Then went on, pointing to a house, “I and the town even worked together to make my home here. No squabbles or bickers or complaints. Just friendly, united community.”

“But here's my question,” asked Jerry. “Wouldn't someone want to have their cutie mark back? Or at least want to help improve the town with their talent, sure you say you all enjoy the ‘sameness’, but there could be some improvement with having cutie marks, right?”

There was a chuckle as a stallion said, “Don’t be silly!” Then went on to explain, “We always have town meetings at the end of the week.” Then went on with a cheer, “We of the town come together to think of new ways to make our town more secure, grown nicely, crops get cared for and even plan new celebrations or changes to keep the community happy as a whole.” To which they all nodded to.

Jerry took a low breath then question. “But what if,” trying to think of anything, anything at all as a Caribou sighed and told to Starlight.

“Perhaps we should ask them to leave?” Then gave a look to Jerry. “Or mostly the armored one. He seems too different.”

“Now Dirnes.” Starlight said in a patient tone, “There is no reason to be rude and judge him like that.” Then smiled, “Remember, we don’t judge anyone that comes to visit our little town. Different or not, if he want’s to stay and be apart of our community, than that’s his choice. If not? Then he’s free to leave!”

“I got a Question.” Lance asked. “If anyone wants to stay, where do the cutie marks go?”

To that, a mare told, “To a vault of course.” Then went on, “We all had ours removed at one point to join in with this nice community of our own violation.” Then smiled on, “We’re free to always look back at the dark days of when we struggled with even having them, trapped to be what we had to endure.” Then brightened, “But no more!”

“But it's part of life to endure! To not endure, to not try to overcome challenges with your talents is just saying you gave up.” Said Jerry as Seeking gave a look to Jerry to shut up.

Smiling, Starlight told, “It’s the fact we don’t need to endure that makes things so pleasant!” Then went on, “Why endure it alone when you have an entire town at your back, ready to move as one to overcome any problem set before you?” And while the six wanted to disagree, part of them had a odd niggling feeling… that would be nice.

Nice to actually not worry about having to do something alone, or in some cases not have to worry about others looking down on them for a slight difference. Maybe things would've gone a tad better if others were just a bit more cooperative and not argue over so many things?

“No, it doesn't!” Spoke out Jerry. “Who said you have to endure alone with challenges? It's why you can have friends to help support you.”

“So you agree with what I say?” Asked Starlight with a happy smile.

“What I'm trying to say,” Emphasizes Jerry. “Is that being different, while having friends can still work-- hell Rarity and her friends became the Element of Harmony, were different in so many ways-- but made it work by working together as they save Equestria more times than I know! They stop two god like beings, save a entire civilization, and what they endure together made them stronger with their friendship and talents!”

Starlight turned and looked into the crowd, and asked gently, “Rarity, is this true?” Waiting for the mare to move out of the crowd and into the open.

She gave a slight shake of her head, and told, “Well, I suppose some of it is true.” Then rubbed her head, “Though, I can’t be certain how much. As you know, my mind is… still a little muddled at times.”

“Don’t push yourself, just take your time.” Encouraged the unicorn that was the town's leader. “Just tell us what you can remember.”

Nodding, Rarity said, “Well, I can say I did have friends.” Siling some, “They were pleasant, in their own ways, that is for sure.” then scrunched up her face, “But… Elements, that makes… something come to mind, a few hazy things.” Then frowned, “Still, it’s not like the town here.” Shaking her head and arms crossed. “We would sometimes squabble over the most smallest of things, the littlest of details. It honestly felt frustrating some days.” then smiled, “Not at all like here, I can’t say I ever had a bad distasteful day once. I almost feel relieved with how pleasant it is here.”

Seeming pleased enough with that, Starlight turned to Jerry and asked with a quirked brow and small smile, “Anything else you would like to ask, good sir?”

“....what about your sister?” Asked Jerry. “You two argue, you two have fights, but yet you forgave the other and Care for each other, right? Doesn't family fight and Care each other?”

This time, the whole town gave a laugh at Jerry, one mare saying, “Excuse us, but fillies and colts are rambunctious at times. Spats are bound to happen as they grow up! It’s completely normal.”

“But isn't that a disagreement?” Pointed out Jerry. “It's normal for kids, but not as adults?”

“Do you blame a foal that just don't know any better?” Asked Starlight.

“People also don't know better.” Replied Jerry as Seeking breathed out as he told.

“Starlight, we just need Rarity help, Princess Luna and Celestia themselves request Rarity to meet them. We are on a time limit.”

Starlight shook her head and told, “That isn't up to me.” Then turned to ask, “Rarity, would you like to go and see what these fine people need you for?”

Rarity hesitated some, but twiddled her fingers and told, “Well… I’ll admit I am curious on where my old friends are and about who my little sister is.”

While Starlight sagged some and her smile faded a touch, she let out a breath and smiled more gently and gave a nod. “Alright, then please, go on right ahead.” Motioning for Rarity to go on. “Hope your trip turns out nicely.”

Rarity gave a smile, one that grew as the whole town began to give, “Hope to see you soon!” “Do you need help packing?” “Please take some muffins with on your trip!” And so on about other things.

“What about her cutie mark? She might need that with her.” Asked Lance.

“Oh don’t be silly dear.” Waved off Rarity, “I don’t need it anymore. I’m perfectly content the way I am.”

Jerry didn't believed that, as he sent all he learn to his Blues to tell Spree with a mental command. As even if she say she didn't need it...he had a feeling, that while he might not know much of these marks… Spree should have a idea since she lived in Ponyville.

While a few caribou and ponies moved to help Rarity pack, Starlight turned to the six and said, “Well, I’m sorry to hear you’ll be leaving so soon.” Though soon told, “Do come back to visit though. Maybe you’ll see why we’re so happy in our little corner of equestria. Not all understand our way of life on the first day, after all.” Then turned, walking away for presumably her house or to some other task that called for her attention.

Sighing some, Mist said with crossed arms, “You had to make a fool of yourself, didn’t you?” Then motioned ahead, “She had a point, they were being hospitable.” Then muttered a bit, “Creepy, but they were at least polite. There wasn't a reason to badger them so badly.”

“I thought that’s what guys like him did anyways?” Spoke up Lance, “Badger and bully others.”

Groaning, Azure spoke up, “Can you two please not get on his case, the Overlord was just speaking his mind, I’m sure.”

“I was,” nodded Jerry as he told. “And as much ‘nice’ as it was? It felt wrong.”

Seeking glance and said. “It felt disturbing to me, but there was no reason to be rude.”

Taking a deep breath, Jerry told. “It felt like we're were in a cult.” Gaining looks as he went on. “Everything was wrong in it, the looks, their thinking, even the way the song is. As much ‘nice’ and happy it was? It just felt wrong. Like a nagging feeling in me.”

“But they supported each other, sure it's weird, but I don't see the problem.” Said Lance as Jerry question.

“Was that what you ponies preach of Harmony?” The ponies gave blank looks as he told on. “I may be dense with ponies and I might not understand everything-- but I don't have the sense of ‘unity’ you all have as you ponies. But I do know cutie marks are big thing for it all.” Then asked. “But did that town held the same harmony like ideal with their ‘Equality’?”

Ash screwed up her face and began to sign her hands, Azure having to glance and traslate, “Even if I find it strange and off, that doesn't mean you have a right to judge them so badly. It they are happy, then who are we to judge them when they won’t judge us in the first place?”

“Even if it means they're literally removing part of themselves in the process? They all,” trying to figure out how to say it. “They all, didn't had the same spark of life like most ponies had. It was...was like they simply removed what was special about themselves and just...just gave up and pretend everything is fine.”

Arms crossed, Mist said, “Oh, now you suddenly have sort of ‘right and wrong’ idea about all of this?” Then asked, “Or are you just annoyed that mare was able to turn down everything you said?”

“Mist, I think that’s enough.” Azure told, glancing around and seeing a few ponies looking on in concern. She could see a few parents going as far to place their hands over their foals ears and usher them away. “We can continue this later-- maybe when it won’t cause a scene in the middle of their town.”

She snort, but kept quiet, Jerry himself kept quiet, as Gnarl spoke in his helm. “What they fail to forget is possibly the most basic of lessons. Even the road to Hell is paved with good intentions.” Cackling at that as Jerry frown, doubting that even if he said hat...that they won't believe him one bit.

Although Gnarl added in disgust. “But you should leave Master, being in a cheerful place ruins your evil presence and thinking.” Feeling rather disgusted of all the good and told. “I never seen things like this, Sire. This is...something new, but I do see something out of this. Perfect Order, something that no one attempted to do, mostly because Overlords always conquer, or someone always try to be ‘above’ another…. but Equality with no difference, no one over the other and all the same...I dare say it's stagnation like you say?”

“It bothers me Sire. Because this is against something I'm used to. Something I know well..” troubling Gnarl and for some reason...that troubles Jerry. Troubled him very much, he just hoped Spree managed to this vault or gather Rarity Mark with the Minions…

Gnarl began to think as he could rile Jerry up with this ‘Equality’ and bring it down. After all...what's the point in the Evil vs Good-- if everyones the same?

Next Chapter: Mixed feelings Estimated time remaining: 26 Hours, 49 Minutes