“How have things been handled with the Minions, Mortis?” asked Shadow, looking to the now robed Blue with a scythe, as he now handled all Minions related thing, well beside Gnarl. But the old Minion was doing something that she didn’t want to do. Organized the amount paperwork the new inhabitants gave. She was honestly glad she could pass stuff like that to Gnarl and he can’t say no to her.

She relax against the seat within the Private Quarters, sitting in Jerry chair as she and the Blue was within the room where the figurine of the Dark Castle stood. Mortis gave a slight bow as the ‘Minion Resurrector’ spoke in respectfulness. “The Minions have been keeping a eye on all the inhabitants and the new citizens are unaware of the Greens that keep a eye on them from above, Mistress. Browns are keeping watch and making sure none are entering in places they aren’t allowed as signs are posted up.”

“Quaver has also been delighted of telling stories to the young ones, especially of the Master journey against the Fallen Heros.” added Mortis as while Shadow was glad Quaver was occupying the kids with stories, she partially wonder why he was telling tales like that to kids? But she shook it off for now, as she was just glad that things were started to settle down with the people living in the Dark Castle.

Although she would feel better if Jerry was back here, as technically handling the paperwork was his job and handling the questions the people gave….which was a lot from the organized pile before her. She sighed as she had a hand under her chin, partially feeling a bit unease of most of the questions were...well about food supplies, crops growing, water management. Granted the last part could be handled easily with the Blues and the spring of water under the Castle, but the former parts?

For one they could handle the food supplies with some of the raiding from Jerry ‘work’, but crops growing? How could they grow anything within the Castle? Beside the park of course, but that was reserved for ‘outside’ activities. And they might have trouble making crops outside the Castle due to the volcanic activities moving around. They would need to figure a way to try to either shift the land to be habitable to grow food, or try to make land within the Castle-- both of which seems impossible.

There were also concerns of how some of the people could do their jobs, if they don’t have specific things? Like a few who were weather management, how could they make weather, if there’s hardly a cloud in the sky, or with sulphur in the air? Or some who were stonemason and blacksmiths, but could hardly do much with lack of tools and with no actual blueprints of the Castle! With lava coming out of it!

It was near madding for her as she decided to take a break, as she said to Mortis. “Keep up the work Mortis..I’m going to take some sleep.” the Blue bowed as he left the Mistress as she sighed out, eyes closed as she prayed. “Night-Mother, I need guidance, guidance of this whole situation, and guidance of how to aid my man when he comes into contact with these situations. It's already madding enough with me looking at this...but I know it's going to make Jerry stress so much as everyone is going to look at him for all the answers, some of which he might struggle with…”

Sighing out as she headed to the bedroom, feeling a slight exhausted and slightly wishing that Jerry was here. Cuddling with him was relieving, especially when he pamper her now and then when she was stressed. Moving through the steel doors, moving around the furniture as she nearly jump on the bed. Laying on it as she took in the stale scent of Jerry, slightly missing the silly and over thinking male as she rested on the bed, blankets coming on her body as Browns servants cover her body and allow the Mistress to rest within the bed.

For a moment she only laid in bed, lost in thought while her ears listened to the minions prattle off. Her hand drifted down her body, feeling the small tells of a rounding bump that had slowly became apparent over the weeks slowly passing by.

While the feeling made her smile, it also made a tingle of concern. When will Jerry be back? How long will he be away? Will he be alright? Was he alright? So many questions whirled in her head alongside her new duties as the Mistress of the Castle and everything in it. Never did she think she would be in this position in all her life.

She was no princess, but at the moment she was next to elevated to the same kind of position. A position to take the leading role whenever Jerry was absent. The one that others came to for answers and tasks. Shadow tossed herself slightly in the bed, feeling a lack of comforting warmth. She slightly wondered where Lovely was, and what she was up to. Possibly cleaning some laundry she felt needed to be tended to.

Shadow sighed and slowly closed her eyes. She felt tired after everything today. Getting ponies and Caribous and so many young ones organized. Getting them to understand a few... very few, but basic rules. There was just so much to do, and to be done.

Part of her felt slight amaze that Jerry could handle the stress...but then again, what he done out in the field and in the Castle was two different things. Still, sleep slowly came to her as while it was hard to sleep without Jerry warm body, his scent was able to help her lure into the comfort of the night. As while her body finally rested on the bed, as she began to sleep.

---

The thestral hum a tune, as she walked through a hall, hand slightly rubbing the bump as she was off to speak to some of the inhabitants of what answers she could give. Making her way down to the stairs as while she was heading down, she saw Quaver riding a unicycle as he sprouted out something about Jerry and neutrality. She wasn’t paying attention to that as while she headed down the stairs as while going down, she glance to see Quaver was gone, as she shake her head as she assume he went elsewhere.

That Quaver, such a silly Minion. thought Shadow, as she focus on her path and what she had to do. I do need to speak to Shine, about her and the other researchers if they got a idea on what they could make of a coffee maker. she honestly hope that they have a idea of what to create for one, as it was getting tiring to have medieval style coffee. Making a turn as Minions pass by, moving with things as they were given their orders to move stuff around for one reason or another.

The mare climbed up a stairwell, easily making her way up as she was heading to the dining area, recalling breakfast was being served for the inhabitants. She was glad some of the ponies were cooks, as they can easily teach the Reds how to cook much more better than ‘burn or cooked’ food half the time.

In hindsight, she was honestly glad she asked the cooks on teaching the Reds right away on how to properly make food, while she knew the Reds were decent cook, she didn’t knew how long she could stand near charred pancakes. And those were from the near ‘smart’ Reds.

After making a turn, she glance to see Gnarl moving at a slug's pace, seeing him having loads of paperwork with him as he was grumbling to himself, giving remarks about something. “In my Day of Evil, we didn’t do paperwork!” grumbled the old Minion as the thestral brush off the elder minion, figuring he was just cranky from all the work she push him to.

She still felt it was bit of karma of her making him do work she didn’t want to do, and she was proud of it. She saw Jasmine running past with both Haze and Marsh with paint cans, apparently all three enjoying whatever art Jasmine was making around the Castle. Seeing Jade running after them to make sure that they didn’t cause too much trouble as Shadow giggled.

It was honestly great to have things lively here, as it meant that this place was becoming more than some empty Castle fill of a few people and multiple Minions. Granted the Minions were still moving around, but they were more productive in excavating and expanding the Dark Castle. With a bit more time and work, the Dark Castle go grow more with the right amount of stones, cooling of lava-- maybe grow a town somewhere within a few generations?

But that was in the future, as of right now? They were just getting their footing here. Trying to just get everything working. It was honestly a near miracle that things are stable, especially with the digging and carving the Minions did. Shadow was glad that despite the Minions being a bit silly, they instinctively knew how to work right...most of the time.

However when she got to the dining hall, she came up to speak to a few people, answering a few questions, asking a few questions here and there. But when she came to Larson and Shine, she notice Larson was more shy, glancing away now and then as Shine was more doting and affectionate to the Caribou as she smile to them and said. “Sorry to interrupt your time, but how are things with the coffee maker now that you’re here full time?”

In a slightly panicked voice, Larson spoke, “We’ve gone over a number of things, but we can’t figure out how we’ll go about what the Overlord wants!” Then placed a shaky hand on his forehead and went on, “No magic or electricity-- the last I understand, but the first? I can’t conceivably see how we would make it possible!”

Gently patting his shoulder, Shine told with a gentle smile, “Honey, it’s alright. Shadow told me it’s fine. I’m sure we could use magic too.” Then went on with a thought, “Or maybe no magic at all! Maybe we can ask Kalvar later about transfer of lust to power.”

“Do you think that would work?” Asked a unsure caribou, the sight of a male that could tower over both Shine and Shadow herself made the thestral wonder how he could be such a worry wart over things. “How would we even gather the needed power?”

“By using a converter, silly.” Giggled out Shine, “It won’t be too difficult. The only hard part is finding enough fuel.” Then teased, “But I don’t think that will be too much of a problem.”

She couldn’t help but giggle as Shadow suggest. “Maybe use both magic and lust? I’m sure we could try something with that.” she then added. “After all, now that Jerry knows how magic work now, it can be easily done in making a coffee maker with magic. All you need to figure out is how to make it work with either magic or lust converted into power.” she then tease. “Maybe ask volunteers to try powering it with testing rooms? I’m sure they would be delight to help while enjoying each other~.”

Larson gave a slight flush, if not a large grin to the thought, while Shine herself rolled her eyes and gave a peck to his cheek. Though when the mare glanced back, she asked, “Oh right, what are you planning to do for today Shadow? Have anything planned with your day?”

“Beside overseeing what I need to do with questions and figuring out how to get the Minions working on expanding the Dark Castle?” remark the mare as she admit. “I was planning to head to the comms, see how long it’ll be before Jerry comes home,” glancing around as she further admit. “I’m a bit concern, and Lovely is feeling a little sad our stud isn’t home yet.”

Smiling, Shine said, “I’m sure he’ll be back in no time. You’ll see.” Then went on to tell, “Maybe you should get going to the throne room now? I’m sure there’s still questions ready to be tossed your way.” Lifting a hand to shoo the mare off.

Shadow nodded as she made a turn, heading to the throne room as she knew that some of the inhabitants tend to come to the throne to ask questions. Something of a instinct develop when under the Princess’s rule. But when she was making her way up there, she noticed there were more Minions moving about, as she wonder if Gnarl is making them work all the more, that more Minions were needed? After all, some places were dangerous to different Minions like lava pits.

But she push that aside, focusing on walking up the steps of the throne room as she saw her friend on one side of the throne, and Gnarl on the other. While Shadow saw the group of ponies and caribous before the throne itself. She took a steady breath, moving to the stone throne itself, thankful that there were cushions on the seat as she sat down as Gnarl spoke.

“You may ask your questions, one at a time!”

“How are we going to grow land with nothing to start with?” asked a mare as Shadow answered.

“We’re figuring that out the best we can, hopefully the Reds will absorb or move the volcanic areas to start producing land for crops.”

“Will the Overlord demand sex slaves?” asked another mare as Shadow shake her head.

“He won’t demand, if anything he won’t force former slaves from the Caribou Empire to be his.”

“What about food, how will we feed our children?” asked a stallion.

“We’re full of supplies as it is, and we’ll having fishing ships to provide meat to those who need it, and try to make land within the Castle until a viable solution is ready of the land itself.”

“Will there be more ponies and Caribous in the Castle?” question a caribou as Shadow said.

“That is something of the future, it is a slim chance, but its possible if some wish to come here as part of the Castle for a new life.”

“What about currency and taxes?” asked a mare.

“Something that is still being worked on, as we don’t have anything available yet, but we’re working on currency and on the chances of taxes are being in place or not.”

While patient, the onslaught of questions never seemed to end, no matter how simple. Will there be more safer places for the new foals and fawn? What are the equality rights of males and females. The slave rights the caribou or some stallions have to their mares or does. What will the currency be and it’s equivalent exchange. What is the status of their stay with the Overlord and the sovereignty that is Equestria’s remaining free people.

Something in Shadow began to feel a edge of trepidation, the questions never ending and never ceasing. What were they to do about heirs? Will the heirs be like the current Overlord? Who would teach them the most? What right did she and the overlord have to rule over them?

Could she do it? Would Jerry do it? Could they really handle this? Shadow nearly gulped down air and her throat was dry. “How can we be sure we’ll be treated fairly?” “What about the kids running around?” “How will I make a living when we don’t have what we need?” “How do you expect to grow your heirs to be proper leaders?” “Are you sure we won’t starve?” It never seemed to end, and part of the thestral felt concern fill her when one asked, “What if the Overlord doesn't come back?”

She gripped her hand on the stone’s armrest as the questions went on, “Who will lead if he’s not here?” “Are we to follow a female?” “How do you expect the heir to grow without a father figure?” “Who will be Overlord if he doesn't come back?” Mares, stallions, bucks-- all asking and never ending on that line of thought that sightly tore at her heart.

Shadow tried to calm herself, tried to focus on the question as she tried to answer. “I, I will try to lead my best.” but the questions just rose more as they asked.

“How can you lead us if you never lead?” “How can you raise the foals without their father?” “how can you handle it all without the Overlord near?” as it just repeated and repeated as she felt herself getting smaller, as she tighten the grip in the throne as she nearly screeched out.

“I DON’T KNOW!” looking at them all as she panted and told. “I...don’t know...I just….don’t know. This...this is all new to all of us…” but then someone repeated the question, as Gnarl look to her with a dark grin as he asked that same question.

“Who will be the Overlord if he doesn’t come back?” then look at her stomach as he cackle. “The heirs will have a proper evil tutelage, Mistress.” fear clenched her heart at that. Of the thought she would lose Jerry, the thought that Gnarl will get his grubby hands in teaching her foals...and the fact this was all too much. Too much for her to deal with. She was just a mare in Ponyville for Luna sake! Not somepony who was taught and trained to take leadership!

She wanted to scream at the thought. She wanted to run. Things around her seemed to darken, those words repeating by the many voices. “Who will lead?” “Who will be Overlord?” “Will he never return?” “What will you do?”

Shadow couldn't take it. She placed her hands on her head, ears pinning back. She didn’t know what to do, what she was expected to do!? She didn’t plan for this!

When the first sob escaped her lips, did things silance out. Shadow didn’t dare open her eyes, only hold them tightly shut and shiver and tremble. She felt so scared at the thought of doing it all alone. How could she do it alone? How could she be a mother, a ruler and a teacher and do everything expected of her?

She nearly flinched at the gentle touch of a hand, one that gently moved over her shoulder… no, shoulders. It took her a moment to open her eyes and look up in confusion, eyes looking into deep aqua ones. A voice aged and regal speaking out, “This is the first time you asked for aid, Shadow.” A gentle smile in place. “Do not fear. It is but a dream.”

She nearly blinked, as she look around her, seeing nothing but clouds...as Shadow realize that everything that happen… ”It...it was a nightmare?” slowly spoke out the mare, wiping the tears from her eyes as she let out a low breath. Looking to the night alicorn as she slowly nod her head. “It...it is Night-Mother. It’s the first time I ask because...because I’m worried. I’m afraid from being in this position, trying to answer questions, questions even I have no idea how to answer…” then added.

“And I’m afraid...that I might lose Jerry. He’s...he’s been gone longer than usual. I’m afraid he...he….” unable to fully say it as she held her arms together.

Gently, Luna began to tug and lift the distraught mare up and spoke, “He is well and alive, Shadow. In the care of Dr. Albert and the fleet they are apart of. We speak to them every so often for updates.” Using her hands to guide the mare along, the much taller alicorn motioned, “Please, sit.”

At first, Shadow was confused, but when she glanced to where the elegant hand motioned, chairs and a table, made of the darkest of obsidian seemed to from and become into being. It took a moment, but Shadow had to remind herself. It was all a dream-- she was in the Dream Realm, the place where Luna, her Night Mother, held such great power and finesse in control over a whole different reality.

As Shadow slowly sat in one of the chairs, she tried to relax as she rested against the stone. She look to the alicorn as while it amazed her that she was within the Dream Realm and with the Night Mother herself, she couldn’t help but asked. “Night-Mother, if Jerry is alright...is it..is it possible I can visit in his dreams?” glancing to the side as she admit. “I...I really missed him. Missed hugging my stud.”

Smiling gently, Luna told, “While it is possible, it can only happen while he dreams.” Then quirked her lips, “not that a slight shift in time would not stop this form being… but I feel that the true dilemma is not of his absence, but the fears you hold.”

Shadow look to the elder mare, as she asked. “Do you mean of the questions I’m not able to answer? Of the fears I have of not...having Jerry around with the foals? Of trying to rule-- when I have no idea how to rule in the first place?”

“All of it, dear child.” Told Luna in a more gentle tone, “A nightmare is the dark creation of your fears. Of your anger. Of the things you wish to run or hide from.” She moved a hand over the table, tea seeming to just from form nothing while the alicorn of the night spoke on. “You fear for the Overlord, your lover. You fear for your Foals. You fear of what they might be warped into. You fear the daunting task of leading many that are giving their lives to your hands.”

Shaking her head, Luna told, “It is indeed a daunting task. A responsibility not many are willing to take up, or too foolish to truly understand and rush in full long.” The mare paused to take the large pot of tea, pouring herself a cup and taking a gentle sip. She hummed at the pleasant taste, but then opened her eyes to Shadow. “You, are not the fool, but the one that worried if they are truly able. A good thing to have, as it shows you are aware of your situation better than some.”

Slowly taking her own cup of tea, tasting of sweet mint as she gave a hum of enjoyment. Feeling the taste as she missed the flavor of this tea, as she look to the ruler of the Night as she asked. “But what can I do? The best I can do is give some answers, but most of the questions, most of problems that are piling up seem near impossible. Especially since our lands are all volcanic activities. How are we supposed to provide things and place in laws-- if we’re still figuring that out?”

Giving a steady gaze to Shadow, Luna said in a more firmer, more royal tone of authority, “To do that, you must take a moment to place your hoof down and figure out what to do.” Then looked to Shadow, almost differently. It wasn’t like her gentle gaze before, it was that of her position as a Princess. “You must stop and look at this all as a mother, watching over her children. To be the adult when they begin to whine or argue over the most smallest of things.”

For a moment that regal mask cracked with a small smile, the alicorn telling, “Granted, such a task was more easy for myself and my sister. We have been around long enough we might as well be the parents to thousands of foals and acting as the two singular mothers to a constantly bickering nation that is our household.”

Shadow couldn’t help but giggle as she asked. “So I have to look at the inhabitants as children and tell them that unless they want to be treated like adults, they should stop acting like foals?”

Smiling more in openly, Luna told, “It is the most simplest of advice I can give. The Castle is your house, and the subjects are your family or children. You must treat them as such at times, and enforce the rules of your home on all. Fairness being the balancing point.”

“I will not lie, Shadow.” Told Luna in a more grim tone, “There will be times you will be lost, or confused. Complains may rise or a argument very serous will challenge your choices. To choose the right thing, will be difficult. At times, the choice you have to make may seem unfair, or even make your heart ache.”

Sitting in silence for a moment for Shadow to ponder this, Luna went on, “But you are not alone to do this all, Shadow.” An… assurance there in Luna’s tone. “You have a Prince, a king in a sense. Overlord Jerry, your lover. You are his Queen, and with that, you both can rule.” Then shook her head to tell, “He may have final say, being the true pure blood that rules, but you yourself have sway in his choices. To help him choose the correct path.”

Then, Luna smiled, “But most importantly. You have sway over two small lives that grow close to you, bonded by the blood of two people by their union.”

Surprise etch in her face, as a hand rest on her bump...then joy as she sniffed a bit. “T-Twins...I have twins…” wiping the tears from her eyes as she was happy that she knew how many foals she would have, as without modern medicine machines, it was difficult for her to know how many she was going to have. Shadow smile as she said. “Your right Night-Mother. I have Jerry to be with…” then giggle as she added in slight thoughtfulness.

“And I have my friends to help, Jasmine-- even the Minions and that silly Jester Quaver.” then admit. “Do you know it was actually his advice that got Spree into asking? He overheard our conversation about the inhabitants situation on the island and suggested of asking you if they could live within the Dark Castle.”

“Is that so?” Asked the ancient pony in thought, “perhaps there is something more to be thankful for then.” Smiling some, but dropped it to say, “Shadow. I must speak that you hold a very important role now. Not just to your Lord, but to all that are affected by his touch.” The way she spoke, made Shadow pause.

With a gaze and eyes having seen so much, Luna said, “Times have changed. The world will not be as it was before. You now sit next to the throne of a new power. While he may grow strong, your duties and traditions that have you as his wife hath become greatly raised. You and he will be responsible for not just grooming both heirs as rulers, but may have to make the difficult choice, of who will rule first and foremost. Just as my Sister was chosen to lead first and foremost before I.”

She couldn’t help but frown, as she placed the teacup down, as a hand instinctively came to her stomach as what Luna said concern her. Chose one to rule? But...how can I? looking to the Night-Mother as she asked. “How can I chose one of them to rule, if...if I don’t know-- if neither me or Jerry know how to chose which one is the right one?”

“You will know.” Luna told in a tone of certainty. “For I and my sister, Celestia was chosen first as she was first born. I the second. One Twin may come first before the next, but the true challenge is to chose the one that will rule truly as a ruler should.” She frowned and told, “Rivalry. Jealousy. Greed. Slothfulness. There is many a thing to watch for. Do not make the same mistakes I or my sister have made in our once mortal youth. If you let any disharmony come between the siblings, strife and anarchy will rise. And it will come to pass that disappointing one foal, may be the least of your concerns.”

That part, Shadow knew what the Night-Mother was saying, as the other foal could be tempted by Gnarl words, to be the ‘true evil Overlord’ that Jerry was worried of becoming...And while she knew she will try to make the foals have harmony and ask the ponies to keep a eye on them, she felt the need to ask. “But...how do I make sure Gnarl doesn’t cause disharmony among them?” looking to the ancient mare as she went on. “Gnarl is...is rather good at twisting words or planting seeds...how can I make sure he doesn’t interfere when we aren’t looking?”

Smiling, Luna told, “By teaching them some ways of our culture, Shadow. You will be a new nation upon yourselves with now culture but what is there. A new culture, a new way of life must be made. A new harmony for these people, must be established.” The moon princess took a sip of her tea before daintily placing it back down.

“Evil always finds a way, or so I heard the elderly advisor tell. But evil only finds a way, as it scurries off to try another day.” Then smiled a bit more, “Good, will always remain as long as there is a strong heart willing to hold on. That will be your true role, Shadow. Not as a singular ruler, but the mother and the teacher to those that will rule after you and your lovers passing. Your true goal, will be the growth, love and teachings to your two children. You are the beginning seeds, and they the fruits of your labors.”

“Do not push away your friends, or those you hold dear. They may be the key to making sure your foals become the strong heads needed in keeping harmony and unity in your new Kingdom.” The Night-Mother then gave a nod and told, “My involvement, I will keep only minimal to your wishes. I will promise to watch over them, and speak when needed. They are, after all, the children of a child to the night.”

“Thank you Night-mother,” thanked Shadow, as while that assured her...something bothered her as she said. “But if I am suppose to make a new harmony, to keep good in the hearts of the foals...what about the Minions? The Gates themselves?” she almost asked about the Tower Heart-- but hesitated, as that...that was something Jerry wanted to keep secret, and saying it outloud to Luna could...could complicate things.

With a firm nod, Luna told, “A compromise must be struck and made. My sister once ruled before I, before she felt the need to make myself rule by her side. We were two opposites, with different means of night and day.” Then lifted a hand, pointing to Shadow, “You too, must now make the same choices we have. To strike an accord between light and dark. Harmony hath always been a delicate balance between both. To find it, will be something that only you will have to discover.” Then smiled, “The Harmony will appear different, but it will be no different than the Harmony you once knew in the years before the chaos of today.”

As Shadow let that stew in her mind, to think on it...she recalled briefly, of weeks-- a month back, about Quaver… words. Of him saying a ruler of evil...to neutrality? Was...was that even possibly? “Night-Mother….do...do you think its possible that...that my foals, whoever would rule….be a ruler of not Evil….but of Neutrality? To have...both good and evil in them, but not taking either side? Its...it's something Quaver mention about but the way he said it was...too confusing to be honest.”

Sitting in place with a thoughtful expression, Luna told, “Allow me to tell you something, Shadow.” The black mare going silent while Luna spoke on. “As a ruler, you are no longer bound by the same rules of good and evil. To many, your actions will define you. But when times of strife come, then the understanding of good and evil become obscured by many.”

“When I would fly into battle, many would fear me, and just as many praised. To my subjects, I was but a angel that came down to bestow mercy and to strike down righteous retribution on those on the battlefield.” Then looked down to her tea in her hands. “To our foes, I was the nightmare they dreamed of. The demon that would rise in their darkest of the mind to rob them of any hope or chance to see another day.”

Looking back up, Luna continued, “I was the villain to the enemy. But the Hero to my nation. The same can be said for my sister, but since my absence in many a year? She later turned that image of a wrathful goddess of fire, into a benevolent light during the passing of many a godly level threat and spread out the hand of peace to many. She was seen as good by many, as she promotes a merciful hand when she could. Gave a warm smile to even the most strangest of people.”

“I remained the nightmare many knew, as that was my nature. To be stern and firm at all time. To be ready for combat, when my sister held out for peace as best she could. You ask if a ruler can be both good, yet evil?” There was a slow, but somber smile on her lips while Luna told softly. “Dear child of the Night. I believe you already know of a ruler to a nation that has seen both sides of the coin of being both good and evil and it’s delicate balance.”

A slow nod came to Shadow head, as she did knew that very well. Looking to the Night Mother as she took a sip of the mint tea, calming her nerves as she let her mind strew of what the alicorn told. That in a way...rulers aren’t bound the same, and will be seen by various people of the actions they done. Of either good or evil, the rulers will always be seen in different lights.

Maybe, maybe the same can be said of our foals? That the Minions will see them as great rulers...even if I teach them good, the Minions will see them in a different light? and while she gain much insight from the Night-Mother, she had other things to ask. “Night-Mother...do you think,” looking at her as concen fill her face. “Do you think...if, if we take Lovely to the Tree...will...will whoever she was be restored...or will she still be the same, but...be a actual mare?”

For a moment, Luna looked uncertain for a long while in thought. But, eventually she spoke, “If you took her to the Tree, then we may find out.” It almost shocked Shadow that Luna didn’t have an answer, but it became more clear when she spoke. “For them, they do not Dream. They are empty and their souls lacking of anything. They are lost and only have the illusion they are given to fulfill their life. To answer, I do not know what may come to pass, Shadow.”

Taking a breath, Luna did tell, “But one thing will be certain. If they are presented to the Tree of Harmony, it will restore that capacity to Dream. It will restore that spark to live. It will give that meaningful feeling of being a person once more with goals and hopes and many a gleam to what life has to offer.”

“Will they be the same?” Questioned Luna in near thought. “Possibly not. But it is unlikely they will ever be the same as they were before they lost themselves. To them, they might as well be newborns from the womb, taking their first steps into a world they don’t truly understand or know. They, are innocent because they have no understanding of right nor wrong.”

Slowly nodding, Shadow thought of the Blankes Jerry stored away, and slightly hoped that maybe they could be returned to what they were...but she look to Luna as she spoke. “To be honest, the reason I ask is because Lovely...Lovely is confuse on her own foal, and part of me...just want to take her to the Tree, to see if she can remember what a mare is suppose to feel like when they have a foal from their lover...but…”

Looking to the side as she went on with flat ears. “But another part of me is concern, concern that if I did, that somehow if whoever Lovely was returned...she might reject Jerry. She might leave him and never come back.” then look to the alicorn as she press a hand to her chest saying. “I love Jerry, and I care for him deeply, but I know that in a way...in a twisted way Lovely, even if made, cared about him. And if...if she does come back to whoever she was and...leave him, it might hurt him deeply.” Sighing as she held a hand to her head, wondering if she whatever she was saying was making sense anymore.

“What does your tradition say, Shadow.” Gently asked Luna. “Your beliefs in my ways, in what I stand for. The traditions of the Thestral way and all that it means. The rules that you and your Lover will now make. What does it say, about Lovely? Would it be fair? Does your heart, see it as fair? Does your mind, see it as fair?”

Being silent, she took the time to recall all of the traditions, all of her beliefs to the Night-Mother, of everything...and soon answered. “No Night-Mother. It’s not. It’s not fair for me to keep Lovely as she is, she...deserved to be healed by the Tree.” looking to her as she admit. ”I’m just...scared that if she is returned back to whoever she was and reject Jerry, it might leave him vulnerable and unable to do much while aiding Equestria, and those of the Castle.”

“Then this, may be the first true Trial your Lord must take.” Luna told in a distinctly firm and stern tone. “This, is but one of many choices he must make and choose. One can not be prepared for all the choices laid before him. If he fails, there will be none to merely correct him. Damage will be done. Reactions will be made. News will spread. Opinions will be taken. If you and he are to rule side by side-- then you must begin to take the first steps into the harsh fires that forge rulers. There is no escaping it by any.”

A silent nod was given in response, as despite it might hurt Jerry, sometimes mistakes have to be made, only for him to learn from them. To learn that he has to sacrifice his desires for the betterment of others. And maybe...just maybe learn how to be better?

“A warning to you, Shadow.” Luna soon once more spoke up, catching the thestrals attention. “If it comes to pass she chooses to leave, to reject her foals or to keep them…. They will pose a threat to the stability of your own foals futures.” A odd feeling streaked up Shadow’s spine at those words. “You as the chosen mother of his heirs, hold sway over which of your twins will rule. But those of the second mare’s foals? They will not have the same rights. They would be seen as the bastard children, the unintended offshoots but still retain the blood of the King. They will have rights to the throne, by blood. You must be cautious, Child. They can and will have the sway to cause chaos if not handled with the greatest of care.”

Being silent, she felt a heavy burden on her shoulders, a burden of Lovely foal or possible foals. And something she must keep a firm eye on, for not only Lovely sake, but in case Gnarl could influence them somehow. She slowly nodded to the Night-Mother, feeling the heavy responsibility if Lovely chose to leave with the foals, or possibly reject them somehow...they might grow up to be the enemy of her own foals somehow…

“Plots to steal the crown and to become king or queen will rise if measures are not taken, Shadow.” Luna continued to warn. “If she does reject them, then you must take haste to take them under your wing. To treat them as your own. The blood of the kingdom's rulers is a great risk. One that myself and my sister were always weary of. Any with a hint of the blood of the true ruler, will have a granted right to the throne. I have seen my fair share of those of the Platinum’s line try to overthrow those of their own bloodline, because they had the blood of the last queen and were next in line for the throne.”

Sighing, Luna then told more softly, “But do not be disheartened, Shadow. This is but a warning. A heavy one, but one you must understand. Risks were bound to come, and this is one you must be aware of if or when Lovely is healed of her own blissful entrapment. Your path, depends on this one choice of giving a right of life or not to her.”

Shadow only nod slightly, taking another sip of her tea as while it made things tense, it also made her more aware of what could happen. Nevertheless, she was going to talk to Jerry about Lovely, to get the earth mare healed...maybe do it herself? Just to get it over with? It was something to take into consideration as she look to Luna and soon asked. “But what if she desire to stay with Jerry? Even if she is healed from what was done to her, if...whoever she was doesn’t come back, what will happen then?”

Luna only smiled and told, “That will remain up to you and your Lover, Shadow. She is of your herd. Your sister in all but blood. That is something that must be worked out between you three. The question of the place of her foals will also be a subject you must go over, as they will be last heirs in line. They will not have the first priority choice to be the first ones in line. That, is only reserved for your foals, who have already been chosen to be the leading heirs.”

Shadow merely nod, as she was at least thankful that things might not be so bad, as she thanked her. “Thank you Night-Mother,” smiling to the alicorn. “You really helped me consider a few things,” but then asked. “But I am curious...have you ever been inside Jerry dreams?” having a concern look on her face. “He sometimes have nightmares, some he talk to me and Lovely about but...but there’s some...some he won’t talk to as easily. Its...it's like he’s too terrified to talk about them.” slowly taking another sip as she admit. “Or look to ashamed to even say it.”

Shaking her head, Luna told, “I may be tempted to look, but it is not my place to go into another's dreams without consent.” Then gave a long look to Shadow. “Only those under my rule or those willing to place a level of trust into my wisdom, gain this sort of visit. To intrude into another's dreams, is something of a risk. More so for the sake of trust between both parties. Ponies may hope for a meeting form I in their dreams, but not many others would be as joyful if I were to intrude into their most sacred of places.”

“I understand Night-Mother. It just...I worry for Jerry, even if he tries to help, even if we try to assure him…” looking down to her tea as she consider on telling her...but knew she could trust the Night-Mother with this, as she look up to her as she told. “Jerry...Jerry has been gaining...self-destructive thoughts, thinking that since he’s the ‘bad guy’...he feels he should be hated...shun, be told that he’s exactly what everyone is telling him, that he’s deserve all the spite and hatred-- simply because he’s the villain…That...that he deserve to be alone.”

“And do you think he should deserve it?” Asked Luna.

She gave a firm shake of her head. “No. Me and Lovely, especially Jasmine been doing our best to assure him he doesn’t. That he doesn’t deserve it. That he’s a good male. A good person, that even though he thinks he’s the villain? He shouldn’t be alone. He shouldn’t be hated and shun, he’s just...just need reminders that he’s loved by us.”

Smiling, Luna spoke, “Then I do not believe my wisdom is needed.” Taking a calm sip and adding on, “When you yourself, already have the answer before you, dear child.”

“Of course Night-Mother.” nodded Shadow, as she took a sip of her tea, frowning as she admit. “Now all that bothering me is the name of our island and whatever we’re suppose to call ourselves as a nation. Gnarl keeps suggesting we call it the Overlord Domain, keep it simple...but I think that’s hardly a name we should call ourselves, especially when we’re trying to be more of a place for a second chance than a place of certain doom.”

Silently, Luna told, “That is something you yourselves must choose to figure out. Seeing as it is the choice of those ruling it.” Placing her tea down and telling, “But, names and titles mean little if there is no substance to it.” Then folded her hands together, slender and long legs crossing over the other as the alicorn spoke. “You first must think of the need of your people first, and work form there. What is a kingdom, without its subjects?”

“A empty Castle?” slightly joked Shadow, as she admit. “To be honest, a lot of the inhabitants think Jerry is more than a tyrant than a King.” frowning some as she went on. “A lot of rumors are spreading around the island, it’s bothering me that most of the inhabitants think Jerry need to be paid with some tribute to ‘appease him’, even assume he was using the Blanks as maids for his ‘nefarious deeds’ from some rumors that are swirling around.”

Smiling some, Luna told, “That will be expected for a time.” Not seeming too bothered by this. “They do not truly know him. It will be a time before they do ease and understand, but even then it will be from a distance. The image the Overlord gives, will impact how all will act towards him. But for now, all he has to give assurance, will be actions to come. That, is the best one can hope for.”

Nodding some, she drink more of the tea, noticing it was starting to shift as she felt odd, as if she was...Blinking as she asked. “Am I...waking up?” being surprise that it was going to be morning soon, it honestly felt like she been here for 30 minutes...but then again, the Dream realm held different rules than the real world.

Looking up, Luna remarked, “I believe so…” Then thought on it and spoke in a sagely tone, “I believe you need to be swift and make your way to the nearest toiletry.” While at first Shadow was confused… the next few darkening and blurring moments… it began to make sense. Her stomach turned and flipped, an odd twisting feeling in her belly…

Shadow woke up and felt her gag reflex tighten in her throat. Something was trying to make it’s way out-- the thestral threw off the covers and rushed to the bathroom. It was not a minute later a sound of dry heaving and gagging was heard. While there was some joys of pregnancy she loves-- there were others the mare wished she could go without.

By the Night-Mother… thought out the mare, heaving and letting out whatever was in her stomach, as it was nearly five minutes of this painful moment that ended. As she cough and breathed heavily, panting some as she cringe of the smell below her, slightly wishing that they had indoor plumbing instead of ‘outhouses’. She consider asking the new subjects about. Getting real plumbing inside the Castle somehow.

She pull away, hearing the scampering of small feet as her eyes glance to the side, seeing the servants with a towel, a goblet of healing water on a tray, and a Brown carefully rubbing her back as the Minion spoke. “Mistress will be better! Water will aid you!” she smile some, taking the towel first to wipe her muzzle, removing any remains of puke as she grab the goblet. Slowly drinking down the water as it sooth her throat, helping her stomach settle some as she slightly wonder how the Blues does this.

She place the empty goblet back, smiling to them as she said. “Thank you,” then look to them as she asked with a curious tone. “You’re speaking much better now, have you been learning more words?” one of the Browns answered back.

“Master want Minions smarter! Learn more, teach other Minions!” Shadow slowly blink, as she didn’t knew of this as she asked.

“But...Jerry isn’t here….how did you know what he wants?” feeling confused as her brows furrowed, how did the Browns knew what the man wanted them to do, if he wasn’t here? The Browns themselves thought hard on how to answer, as they tried their best to think with their lower intelligence as one of the browns gain a thought and answer with pride in its tone.

“Master connection to Hives! We hear Master thoughts! Master quietly tell us to learn and teach other Minions!” Shadow nearly balk at that. As if that itself was near impossible. She slightly shake her head as the mare grip on the wall, pulling herself up as she asked to them.

“You mean, Jerry somehow...telling you all on what he wants...without him here?” The Browns thought hard, trying their best to answer the best they can as another Brown told.

“Master is Overlord, Overlord control all. Master connected to us, connect to Hives and Tower Heart! Faint to hear, but still hear!” The thestral had doubts to that as she wonder if they either believe that...or there's something lacking as she wonder if Mortis knew what they were talking about. But before she consider talking to Mortis, she scrunch her nose of the puke pile she made in the ‘toilet’ as she told.

“Well, why don’t you remove the puke where it goes. I need to see the subjects and talk to them.” they salute as while they did their work, she focus on not only talking to them if they could make plumbing, but on various other things. Like taking the Night-mother words in account of what she has to see them as. Children. It almost made her giggle to herself of the situation.

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