You must wonder why it's taking so longer than usual to write these out...Two words.

College and family.

Some guy: thats three-,

Correct me and I will use the Overlord Axe on you! *glance to audience and sighs* college stress.

EDIT: Please refresh your page, as this chapter has been edited to what it was intended.

Jerry was in a rather good mood, he dare say a really good mood as while a week had pass and he was doing his best to care for Lovely with Shadow-- he was just glad Lovely still wanted to be close to him in the bed to sleep with. Help things like the anxiety about Jerry relationship situation with the earth mare.

He was glad that not only they got veterinarians and a dog trainer from the Equestrians-- granted temporary since they were unease with working with wolves. In all honesty, Jerry was a little dumbfounded on how the Browns just made wild, hungry, and untrained wolf….

Into a big pile of domestic fluff and taking orders without a problem!

Who knew all he had to do, was bring a Brown up to a wolf and suddenly had a bond between them. The man had to get the wolves re-located into that large cave near the park, but make sure the Browns were with them to be sure they ‘listen good’. Sure he had to jump around in Equestria in wood-filled areas, make sure he had to use his Browns to find the wolves and bring them to him for transportation.

But with how the wolves were happy by being around the Browns? He was just glad he could managed to get a few packs in that large cave-- but he was certain the Browns would not only learn from the dog trainer, but can easily docile the wolves around other's. Jerry was so glad that the game logic from Overlord 2 was working really, really effective.

I dare say my plan to have wolf mounts is working rather well. having a wide smile on his face as he was walking along a hall, as he couldn’t help but hum to himself, thinking of the amount of progress they’re doing.

With not only the communal baths having plumbing, but on also the Tower Heart being used to try alter the land to be more livable, granted he might need to get it working right with Gnarl, but overall? Within a few weeks to possibly a month or two, they might be able to have clear skies and the volcano might become inactive to lessen smog in the air. He couldn’t help but be happy as he thought to himself. With so much good that’s being done around here….how bad can I be? As he began to hum a bit, Jerry hadn’t even notice the music that started to play as he began doing abit of a dance as he sang out.

“How ba-a-ad can I be? I'm just doin' what comes naturally,” strutting along as the Browns Servants turn their heads, seeing their Master in a good mood as they stopped their tasks and were dancing around him with smiles on their faces. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be? I'm just following my destiny.” Look to his Minions as he went on to sing. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be? I'm just doin' what comes naturally,” shrugging his shoulders some as he grins wide. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be? How bad can I possibly be?”

Coming down a set of stairs as Jerry rolled his hands around his sides as he sang out. “Well, there's a principle of nature,” he didn’t even notice his Minions sang in the back ground, ‘principle of nature’, and singing in tune with their Master. “That almost every creature knows, called survival of the fittest,” Minions adding ‘survival of the fittest’ as they seem to take hold of chorus. “And check it this is how it goes.”

“By the Darkness, what sorcery hold the Master!?” nearly shouted Gnarl, the old minion heard the music by chance, looking in shock and horrified as he was sadly ignored by both man and set of Minions as Jerry went to ‘explaining’ to his Minions as he was making his way to the dining hall.

“The animal that ends gotta scratch and bite and claw and bite and punch.” Tsking some as he shook his head to his listening horde, “and the animal that doesn’t?” with the Minions adding in, ‘well the animal that doesn’t’, “winds up,” then once he waltz in the dining area as he pointed towards the kitchen. “Someone else's lu-lu-lu-lu-unch!” Reds popped their heads out of the kitchens as they sang.

“Munch, munch, munch, munch!”

Then Jerry added with a shrug. “I’m just saying.” The Overlord began doing that odd dance, nearly everyone that was in the dining room had their jaws drop in the sheer shock, stupefied, or just dumbfounded of the sight before them. Even with Jerry unaware of it all as he sang on with a shrug to the people. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be?” Before he motion to himself as he skid backwards.

“I'm just doin' what comes naturally,” then turned to face what was before him as he stretch his arms out as he asked out. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be? I'm just following my destiny.”

Starting to walk on ahead as the caribous were trying to wrap their heads of what they’re witnessing as Jerry sang as slide to the left and right in rhythm. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be? I'm just doin' what comes naturally. How ba-a-a-ad can I be?” Then turn his head to the group as Jerry smile to them all as he asks. “How bad can I possibly be?” then making his way toward somewhere else out of the dining room, the music faded with the man leaving...as Gnarl came rushing as he shouted.

“Someone do something! The Master is possessed!” But Jerry was gone, as he was heading towards the throne room, as Jade was walking with Shadow, Lovely, and Spree as they paused in their place in the halls to see Jerry singing as he spin around and music around him.

“Well, there's a principal of business,” Minions coming in abundance as they sang out. ‘Principal of business!’, it nearly made the mares stopped to look in near surprised or blinking at the sight of Jerry singing. “And everybody know his sound,” then pause to look to the mares as he grin and sang out. “He says the people with the money,” Minions popping out to add in, ‘people with the money’ with Jerry digging into his robes to bring out a bit as he flipped it in the air sang out. “Makes the money-lovin' world go 'round!”

Then while Jerry made his way to the throne room, the mares seemingly to watch the human as he stood in the middle of the throne room. Jerry stretch his arms out, unknowingly to both man and subjects within the Castle, deep in the Spawning Pit did the Tower Heart reacted to the harmony musical magic Jerry was giving out as he sang.

It began to glow brightly in its place within the room it was in as it was spinning in a clockwise motion. “So I bigger in my construct, I bigger in my Castle, I bigger in my influence size!” Then quickly move around the mares, to grab both both Shadow and Lovely as he hugged them to his body as he said. “Everybody out there take care of yours and me?”

Smiling wide as he pull them to him closer to the point their body hugged against his. “I'll take care of mine, mine, mine, mine, mine!” Holding the mares before Jerry gave quick kisses to their lips before he let go, spinning around in the room as he spread his arms out. With Quaver dance around with a dollar sign on a post as he waved it around as the bard sang out.

“Shake that bottom line!”

Jerry soon slides back to his throne as he called out with the room being filled with Minions. “Let me hear you say, ‘smogy-less smoke!’” There was a wave of energy from the Tower Heart, pulsing as if it was forcing the smog to be pushed away in a wide spread area as the Minions all sang out around the throne room.

“Smogy-less smoke!” There was a large breeze outside the Dark Castle itself, spread the smog more across the island for more fresher and cleaner air.

“Schloppity schlop!” told Jerry as he pointed to his Minions, as they repeated what he said, but the Heart reacted again, spreading its energies underneath the land of the island, forcing out spring water in various parts around the island as the song was slowly raising higher in its mood with Jerry. The man pointed to a panting Gnarl who tried to keep up with the Overlord in his ‘bewitching’. “Complain all you want, it's never ever, ever, ever gonna stop.”

With the Minions all singing all ‘stop’ together in chorus, with Jerry laughing as he asked as he sat down in throne. “Come on how bad can I possibly be?” He suddenly jumped up on his feet as he sang out. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be? I'm just building the economy,” with gold coming down from the ceiling as the ponies looked up, seeing it coming from nowhere as Jerry slide across the throne room as he asked. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be?”

With him crouching down as Jerry pet a wolf on its head. “Just look at me pettin' this puppy!” Moving back with the wolf being lead elsewhere by a Brown, Jerry motioned his hands for the Minions to start collecting the gold from the sky. “How ba-a-a-ad can I be?”

A Minion Servant coming up with a paper and a pen for Jerry to write as he continues on. “A portion of proceeds goes to schooling!” Moving his hand to write ‘okays’ to papers to add in education needs for the kids and on getting school necessities. As the Minion left, Jerry turned to the audience as he grins wide as he asked them.

“How ba-a-a-ad can I be? How bad can I possibly be?” then place a hand under his chin to think as he grins and said with a snap of his fingers. “Let’s see!” Thrusting out his arm as the music was growing higher and bigger as it spread throughout the Dark Castle. “All the Minions are working!” With the Minions echoing out that same question ‘how bad can I be?’, with said Minions were working all over the Castle in building, crafting, or other things they were assigned to.

Power was growing in the Tower Heart, throbbing with energy from the harmonious magic as all around the Dark Castle things were progressing faster than usual as Jerry sang louder.

“All the money's multiplying!” Gold coming down faster and faster as it was piling larger and larger piles around the throne seat, even large satchel bags of gold was appearing. “And the RD people are supplying!” The moment he sang that, the scientists and researchers within the Castle were getting solutions of problems they couldn’t figure out before.

“And the accusers are denying!” chuckled Jerry as moved back to his throne, sitting down as he gave a dark laughter. “Who cares if the Empire is slowly dying?” as he shouted out in glee. “This is oh so gratifying!” then demanded out with a wide grin. “How bad? How bad can this possibly be?” Laughing to himself as the Minions laugh along with him as there were large piles of gold around the throne, as Gnarl cautiously moved to the mares as he spoke in a cautious tone.

“I believe the Master been bewitch! We should get the Blues to see what has happened to him!” While Jade slightly felt disturbed of the sight of Jerry in a good mood, around sudden gold and chuckling to himself so off, Shadow sighed as she told.

“He’s not bewitch Gnarl, I think Jerry got his first taste of harmony magic…” then frown as she amended. “But I never heard that song before...or think it was a really ‘happy’ song.” seeing Jerry chuckling dies down as he glance around, pausing as he asked in confusion now that he wasn’t affected by harmony magic.

“Wait...where did this gold come from?” As Jade slowly ask.

“You didn’t notice? You mention gold multiplying in your harmonious song…” then scrunch her face as she asked. “But I’m more concern on what sort of song that was, because...Shadow’s right, that wasn’t a happy song you sang.”

Lovely thought a bit, as she glance to the Minions grabbing the gold, putting them in bags or buckets as they carry them towards the Treasury—even a few carrying the large satchels of gold as she suggested. “Maybe the song was, something he prefer to sing?” Jerry blinks as he asked.

“What did I sang anyway?” Quaver gave the answer as the Minion cheer.

“How bad can I be, Sire!” which made Jerry blinked again. Wait...that song from the Lorax? But that's a villain song, why-- oooooooooh. thinking a bit as Shadow saw the realization in Jerry expression as she spoke.

“Jerry, what did you found out?” To which, Jerry glance as he had a sheepish look.

“Well...what ever happened with me, probably either being around ponies or near something harmony like...gave me the chance to, well do that musical thing you ponies do. Just...with a villain song.” Making nearly everyone balks at that statement.

Spree gave a groan and said, “Was bound to happen sooner or later I guess.” Pausing to notice the looks before Spree ask, “What? It’s not like any of you haven’t done it around here too!” Giving a particularly long look around. Ponies, harmony and music seemed to always go hand-in-hand. Even she wasn’t exempt and had done a verse or two while around the Dark Castle.

“She’s right, we done it now and then.” admitted Jade as she glances to Jerry as she asked with a furrow brow. “But, why did you sang a...villain song?” then shake her head and question. “Do villains even have songs?”

“Well, usually no,” admitted Jerry. “But most of the time with magic, villains usually get a song number.” thinking a bit as he added. “If I recall, Joy did mention that spontaneous song did mention on mood and things…” Shadow sighed, as she glances to the ever decreasing horde of gold as Minions were transporting gold to the Private Quarters as she said.

“At least all we have is increase funding from that song…” then glance to Spree as she admitted. “But I never seen anything like this, spontaneous songs are one thing with someone moving but…” motioning to the gold piles. “Nothing like that.”

Shrugging, Spree said, “Beats me. I don’t do magic, I’m a earth mare not a unicorn.”

Shadow slightly nodded, as she was about to ask Jerry something, before they glance to a pegasus flapping her wings, coming down as she spoke in hysterical. “You all gotta see outside! It's a near miracle!” they gain looks as Gnarl spoke in a grumbling tone.

“Miracle?” then Gnarl grins wide. “Did the Archmage decide to come here early?” Jerry motioned a hand as he asked with slight confusion.

“What are you talking about?”

“There’s clear skies everywhere! Not a single smog in the sky!” exclaimed the mare with a wide smile. “And better yet, some are reporting spring water are popping all around the island!” Gnarl made a sound as he spoke.

“Master, I’ll see into the Tower Heart, something like clean water or clear skies shouldn’t be possible without the use of powerful magic. It’s possible that something must have happened during your...singing.” Jerry thought over what needs to be done and soon told to the pegasus.

“Go ask for volunteers, check around the island of how many springs there are, with luck we could have new supplies of water for the land.” the mare nodded, quickly turning to head out as he turn to Gnarl and told. “Find out what's been going on with the other Minions once you’re done checking on the Tower Heart, see what’s been done.”

“Of course Master.” bowed Gnarl, making his way to the steps down to where the Tower Heart rests, as he glances to Quaver as he asked. “Can you get more Minions to get the gold here?”

Quaver saluted, as he said with cheer. “But of course Master!” Jerry nod, as he looks to the mares as he said. “If you excuse me, I need to check on the scientists, I think I recalled something of ‘RD people are supplying’.” Shadow nodded, as once they saw the man walking down the steps, Jade admitted.

“I never thought I would be creeped out when Jerry does his first time singing.” Lovely glance as she asked in slight naivety.

“Was it really that bad? It was odd, but it wasn’t bad. I honestly thought he had a good singing voice and we got a good show out of it.” Shadow had to agree on both accounts, as while it was a little odd for gold to appear out of nowhere...She had to admit it was nice to see Jerry sing well. She sighed as she told.

“For now? It’s something out of our hands, we should be glad it wasn’t something big or terrible, right?” She honestly hoped that if Jerry was going to sing, it was going to be a brighter song next time.

While another week slowly passed on, with improvements going on with Castle from Jerry song. As there was large improvements around the Dark Castle, larger space, plumbing was actually placed in, it was amazing. Even more with there being spring water around, granted there were spread out and aren’t large in forms of lakes-- but it was still clean water. All that was needed was to get the Reds working overtime on the lands to move the magma around and keep an eye in case the volcano went active again.

Another thing was the researchers and scientists finding new solutions, solutions which helped improved not only the Castle itself, but on when they would need to create weather for the island. Not to mention that Lovely seem to have a footing in terms of emotional status. Granted she still didn’t know where her place was with Jerry, but on the other hand, she at least knew she wanted to stick around with him.

However Shadow noticed the bit of turmoil Lovely had, as while she wanted to help the mare, she didn’t had the expertise when it came to emotions…however she knew that perhaps Cadence could help, if she wasn’t busy with watching over the ponies and those of the crystal ponies. So Shadow felt like Lovely should meet the pink alicorn, as she sent a Green to deliver a message on meeting Lovely and helping the earth mare.

Admittedly while Shadow wouldn’t want to impose the pink alicorn, the thestral felt that a little push might be needed, mostly because of noticing Jerry being uncertain of said earth mare. As while he did his best to help Lovely and give her some comfort and time, she knew that he didn’t knew how to approach Lovely as either free mare or under him while Lovely was recovering emotionally.

In Alpha Base’s labs however, was Magic. Placing in a call to the Dark Castle as he gained a answer. “Who's this?” A Minion voice spoke out as Magic frowned in slight annoyance.

Let this be a Blue, any other will make this annoying fast. as he soon told. “This is Magic, I’m placing a call to the Overlord. I have a message for him.”

“What message? Me tell Master!” Spoke the Minion as Magic told.

“Is coming over with the maids Jerry requested.” Hearing a ‘oooooh’ sound as the Minion said.

“Okay, me tell Master you brining maids!” Hearing the sounds of the comms turning off as Magic shook his head, he slightly wonder if Jerry needed the Blues for something else than comms?

Still he made a call in to the Cyclopes crew. “This is Archmage Magic, is there a Cyclops crew able to take me and four mares to the equestrian island in a transfers?”

There was a slight pause before the comm’s once more became active. A mare on the line soon telling, “The Sea Liner is available for transport. It leaves in two hours and has the room needed.” This was good news, considering he wanted to get there shortly. “Please go to the Central Base for pickup.”

“Of course.” Ending the call as Magic made his way with the four clones as they stand there by the side; all four were of different types, being earth, Pegasus, unicorn and thestral. They were the ‘first generation’ for Jerry maid force, as well the first ‘breed’ that wasn't of Zealous.

As he walked through there, he passed by Peridoic and Crisp as the earth stallion paused and glance as he asked. “Magic, who are they?” Never seeing the four-- but soon blink and added.

“Are they, the new clones you mention last week?” Magic nodded as he told.

“Freshly made too. I'm in the process of transferring them to the Overlord.” Glancing back to the four divesuit mares as Magic adds. “I'll admit, this is my first attempt of clones that aren't Zealous.” Periodic slowly nod, looking at the different colors the mares had...as well body type as he admitted.

“You really outdid yourself Magic...they almost look real, well...except for their, near empty eyes...”

This was one fact the mage was more than aware of. Even his clones of Zealous didn’t have the same ‘life’ like look in their eyes. It didn’t seem to matter how real he made them, how much he could get them to smile or speak in their simplicity. The fact was, they were pretty lifeless. Only having the bare minimum of ‘social cues’ to act like they were alive.

Giving a simple nod to his friend, Magic glance back to the four and back to his friend he said. “I am still learning how to improve my cloning, it will be a long while until I make clones that are ‘real’. If you pardon me, I must be on my way.”

Giving a goodbye nod to his friend, he made his way to the Central base as he swam there with the four. He was certain that Jerry would appreciate the stallion in programming these four to swim well if he ever came down here with them.

Yet even as he got into the Central Base, he let himself dry off with the mares with a quick heat spell, mostly to remove the salt water on their forms as he began leading the four to the Sea Liner, as well start making ready for the four ‘uniforms’ for when he reach the island. He also considers feeding the four, mostly to make sure they have enough to eat. He also partially thought on requesting for more donations if possible, mostly to work on the next batch when he returns.

Glancing around, he could see the hustling and bustling of ponies going about their lives. The central base to the whole Alpha base had since become a very busy area. With Grain overseeing things from it, to comm’s being directed and patched through many operators. To even a large area meant to welcome newly arriving ponies that wanted to come to the base.

It was all very much busy, and the place had only grown because of it. Meaning it was fairly packed with ponies walking about. It was almost hard to keep track of everyone at once.

Turning his focus forwards though, Magic chose to just seat himself, and the mare’s, by some benches. All five sitting down and proceeding to just wait. It would be some good two hours before the Cyclops would leave, so he had time to just take his tablet out and go over both recent works, tests, needed supplies or any other minor problem.

Which reminds me, I need to gained Z-3 back from Albert when I return, he should be finished with her extraction with the Seeker Vines. Especially with the large amounts of ‘seed’ the clone acquired. working into the tablet as he overlook the worked he still needed to do from the Celestial rulers. Mostly on applying runic workings for these buildings to expand space, which...was tricky in a sense.

He also had to work over with his minor projects with Periodic on some things, minor things that can be dealt with...or until Pyro ‘comes back’. As much as he didn't mind Pyro...he knew it was a matter of time until Pyro is fully around and explore the avenues of bombs.

Maybe make a new sort of explosive for Albert to use?

“Hi.” The single word seemed to shatter the focus Magic had, getting him to turn his head to look at a athletic looking pegasus and a slightly nervous looking crystal mare. With a wave and a cheerful grin, the Pegasus asked, “You heading for Equestria's Island too?” Taking a seat next to him, not at all seemingly bother by his uninterested glare.

“You can say that.” Spoke the bland tone stallion as he look over the two and remarked. “You two must be waiting for a specific Cyclops or seemingly wanting to come by me for a reason.” Giving his full attention back to the Tablet as Magic spoke. “I'm assuming you two have relatives on the Island to visit?”

Shaking her head, the pegasus told, “Well, no. I’m just tired of being underwater and in all these confined spaces-- I’m getting cabin fever!” Her tone becoming a touch louder and exasperated--

Then was swat on the head. The much more voluptuous crystal mare giving her friend a look and telling, “Knotful, act your age. I know you’re getting tired of all the water, but really, try to be patient. We’re only going to be here for two more hours.”

Turning her attention down, the mare said, “I’m sorry about her. Knotful just… is a little tired of being under the sea for so long.” Then introduce. “Sotana. Sotana Tune. You’ve met Knotful Fun.” Then sighed out, “But in all reality, we’re just trying to find a bit more better living space than down here.”

Glancing to the two, Magic said. “Considering all the underwater dangers and constant work, its slightly understandable…” then soon click on his Tablet for future works to do on asking Jerry simple questions for next batch as he introduces himself.

“I am Magic, you probably heard of me by now.”

Thinking some, Knoftful said, “Aren't you the creepy guy with the pink--” Then once more got a swat to her head form Sotana. “Hey!”

“Rude.” Reminded the mare with a peridot coat. “Try to be nice.” Then said after clearing her voice, “It’s nice to meet you, Magic.” Giving a nod of her head and eventually seating herself. Arms slightly crossed over her chest as if to try and keep some modesty, though it seemed to fail with just how highlighted her body was in the drivesuit.

Rolling her eyes at the action, Knotful turned and spoke to Magic, “But yeah, we heard of you. Sorta… kinda…” Then tilted her head, wings shuffling, “Mostly from others. We didn’t really mind, you just worked with Albert on nerdy stuff, right?” Getting her ear flicked at by her friend, “Oh come on!” Trying to swat the offending limb away.

“It's a lot more than ‘nerd stuff’ as we tend to work on improving or progressing things for her, the Island, and on a whole for Equestria.” However he soon said. “However I am heading to the island for a whole other reason. One for a repaying favor of sorts…”

Moving to glance at the four mare’s sitting by Magic, and just staring on without much response, Sotana asked, “What… about them?” Looking a bit bothered at how quiet and still the four were. Smiling, sure, but wholly… unresponsive.

“They're with me and are the ‘favor’ themselves, clones really.” Not really bothering to look at the two mares expression as he knew that most would find it unatural, or even wrong with what he just said. Especially in a time like this.

“Clones…?” Started Knotful in a slightly muted manner. But when Magic didn’t bother saying more, she looked away and gave an stink eye to Sotana with, “Creeeeepy.”

With a exaggerated sigh, Sotana said, albite a bit put off, “Clones… and part of a favor?” Darting her eyes about and saying, “That’s….nice?” Trying to give a smile, though it was horribly awkward and unsure.

“Don't bother pretending to play nice, it's very antagonizing. I know you one of you are trying.” Hearing a quick ‘sorry’ from Sonata, glancing to see her ducking her head down with flat ears and hands together as he glance up going on.

“But it's doubtful you two are interested in me, or where I'm going, even more on the fact once we get to the island? Our paths will separate as I am certain you wouldn't like where I am heading.”

Arms crossed, Knotful said, “We’re just trying to talk and be nice. Geez.” Then turned to Sotana saying, “Creepy and off putting? It’s like the guy likes antagonizing ponies”

“I don’t ‘antagonize’ ponies nor do I like it. This is simply how I am among others, even more as its expected of me to be ‘creepy’ as I am a Dark Arts user. The only reason I sound off putting is due to the fact I hardly care of you, or anypony within a few exceptions.”

“Creepy, antisocial and empathetic.” Said a disgruntled Knotful, or right up until she was giving a quick nudge. “What? He admitted it!” She told to her friend in defense.

“No reason to be rude.” Pointed out Sotana in a diplomatic like tone. Though she did add, “And I’m not defending him. He could use a little courtesy.” Then added to Magic in a concerned tone, “I know you said it’s how you are… but an attitude like that… well, some ponies like us are just trying to be nice. It wouldn’t hurt to be… somewhat respectful in return, right?”

“I am respectful for those who deserved my respect. The only ones who have earned my respect fully are Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadence, Periodic Table, his wife, my wife, and a bit on Albert.” seeing the slight look of pity on Sonata face as he told simply. “You may pity me, but its how I am and how I keep myself at a distance stance. Especially more on what I used to do for the Resistance and even before then.” then look down and add a bit more few things on the Tablet as to ask of Glint of ‘Sonata Tune and Knotful’ genetic samples for him to acquire once he returned. They seem quite useful for potential cloning-- plus something new for Jerry to have later on.

Giving a slight look to that, and having a frown, Knotful said almost bitterly, “With how you sound and think? I can see why you respect nobody. Who would just give you respect for no reason at all. Talk about egotistical.”

“Knot.” Started Sotana.

“Oh no, Sotana.” Rounded the mare. “We came over here just to visit, and he’s up and being all…. Prickly?” Then shrugged, “He’s being kinda like a jerk. It’s rubbing me wrong now.” Then went on in thoughtfulness, “He’s making that Overlord sound preferable.”

“Funny. That's who I’m meeting.” remarked Magic dryly. “And who I owed a favor too.”

Turning, Knotful asked, “Yeah… so?” Looking like she wanted to say something witty back, but failed to come up with anything good.

“I was just remarking that the Overlord-- the one who caused so much trouble and started the plague on the Empire-- is more preferable than me. It’s a funny thing in a sense.”

Shrugging, she told, “I’ve talked to him.” Making Magic pause. “I mean, he does come down here time to time… and he was a lot more nicer than you.” Then went on, “For some dark lord, he’s pretty nice, and friendly. You being some Dark arts guy?” She snorted, “Excuses for being so rude I say.”

“Unlike me who was born in Canterlot-- the Overlord is more of a ‘affably Evil’ sort of being. I however choose to be more of the one who works and research for Equestria without caring who likes me or not as a whole.”

“Excuses~” Sang out Knotful before being swatted by her friend again. But it didn’t stop the pegasus form grinning.

Snorting, he remarked. “If you like the Overlord so much, why don’t you two just work for him?”

“Oh yeah?” Started Knotful, “Well maybe we will!”

“Knot.” Tried to start Sotana, but couldn't seem to get through the pegasus.

“It’s our life, and he’s pretty decent, so maybe we will just march on over and say we want a job!” The Pegasus seeming to preen some with a grin. As if she made some point.

“The only jobs he seems to have are of maids.” told Magic in simplistic. “Most other jobs that are there are full, and it’s doubtful he has any pegasus weather machines-- so the only jobs that could be possibly gain is something new, or maids. Although I highly doubt you wish for the maid job as my clones are going to be filling that spot bit by bit.”

Rising to that, Knotful asked, “You think clones can do a better job than me?” Wings flaring a bit and also feeling her friend placing her hand on her shoulders.

“Knot.” Sotana tried to say more firmly, but it was obvious her friend wasn’t listening.

“Well I’ll have you know, I’m pretty good at getting work done, buster.” She told while poking his shoulder. “Why, I’d say even Sotana could do double the work your clones could do! We’re the real deal type of mares!”

“Even being requested as concubines too?” dryly asked Magic. “Because that's what these clones are as well. Maids and concubines for the Overlord.”

That made the pegasus stumble, blinking and seeming to process. It also made Sotana freeze in an odd manner, possibly shock. Yet, be it from stupidity, or more likely pride, Knotful said, “Y-yeah, we could totally outperform them even in that!” Not at all noticing her friends shocked look.

“I don’t think you understand what I just said, so allow me to say it more clearly and more simpler for you to get it.” told Magic.

“I’m not stupid!” Raised the mare, getting a few looks, though went on more normally, “Concubine. I’m going to be a maid and concubine, a mare going into the guy’s bed to have a bit of fun under the covers. What’s there not to understand?”

“You’re basically saying that you and your friend are fully aware, fully willing, and fully accepting that you two will be the Overlord playthings, his property, his to use and play with as his alone. You are basically stating that you and your friend are giving up any chances to leave, as once you become his concubines-- there is no going back and no ‘do over’. You are his for good.” then furrow his brows as he added.

“And I doubt your friend is so accepting of this idea, as I am certain only the crazy, the love-strucked types fools, or the careless would make that statement. Or even thinking of doing it and basically putting yourselfs back under control of another in a way.”

Then finish off. “So yes, I’m saying you’re stupid.”

Glaring all the more, Knotful shot back without pause. “Well news flash, I’ve read history. Concubines aren't slaves, they’re like lower wives! We’d be maids and concubines. We do some simple cleaning stuff and rough around in the bed, but we get payed, right? We still got rights. And I’ve seen the guy in person, he isn’t that bad.” Then smirked, “Why, I don’t think Sotana would mind--”

“Knotful!” This time Sotana spoke up with a heavy blush and a more stern glare. “Finish that sentence, I will do something about it.”

Snorting, he told. “Doubtful you two could, especially since even if he’s isn’t that ‘bad’, he also is very possessive in a way. Almost like a thestral, once you have sex with him? You’re as good as his. Not to mention you would need to convinced that you two are able to do both things,” then added. “Not to mention you two might be biting more than you chew.”

Hand up, Knot made it ‘talk’ as she said, “Talk, talk, talk, yabber, yabber, yabber-- all I’m hearing is ‘scare these two off with fancy words’.”

“Very well, in ‘laypony’ terms-- even if you’re ‘lower wives’? You’re still his maids and concubines. There's no leaving the Dark Castle without his knowing. Especially with him needing relief more often due to events I will not say with ears around.”

Smirking, the pegasus leaned in and asked, “Hey genius? Did you ever go to think that we don’t have to be his concubines?” Then seemed to get an idea. “Sure, it’d be nice.. But if he’s got your four ditzy dolls walking around? Then he still needs real ponies doing actual critical work.” Then crossed her arms going on with that smirk. “Which, we can totally do. And if he is a good enough lay? Well by Celestia, we just give him the go ahead and we’re concubines.” Then jabbed a finger his way, “Boom, I just gave out a straight out good reason!” Making Sotana facepalm.

Raising a small bit of his brow, he remark to Sonata. “I believe she doesn’t realize that the Overlord can technically make laws to state that the maids can be concubines as that's all the clones I will be given him to be as. As he is in a sense, a self-imposed ruler of his little domain and as close as a King as he is.”

Looking up almost tiredly, Sotana said, “Maybe if you didn’t challenge her, this probably wouldn’t have happened.”

“Challenge? I was merely stating the obvious.” told Magic dryly, seeing the blank face the mare had, as if question how he didn’t notice as he looks to Knotful and told. “If you want to try you're luck in being his potential maids and concubines-- then you may need to wear the uniform once we reach the island.” then glance down and added as he kept typing. “Although consider this as a warning. Once you do somehow become maids, expect much work. And consider leaving much less plausible if you two somehow become his concubines, that part I mention where he’s like a thestral Dom in possessiveness? Is very much true.”

After the transportation from Cyclops to Equestria Island, he let the four clones, plus two mares to change into their ‘uniforms’ as it were, as once he heard the door opening, seeing the four clones in the same outfit Lovely used to wear with the long dress like of a maid-- as well the dark pink collars to indicate of their position as ‘concubines’ which was Zealous suggestion. Although Knotful and Sonata chose to wear dresses that weren’t of the maid outfits-- but more likely carry them in bags ‘if’ they gained the job.

He soon remarked to the two as he had the four clones follow him. “Not too late to change your minds.” then glance to the four as he thought. Hrm..maybe try to make it six for the next one. Mostly to help assist Jerry...although with how spacing is right now? Four is the best I can give.

“Ha, like I’m going to be scared off like that!” Laughed out steel-blue pegasus with confidence. While her friend, being pulled along by the wrist, gave Magic a flat and slightly annoyed look, as if questioning what he was thinking. More than once, he had heard her question him about knowing anything about mare’s on their trip here.

To which he stated that the only mare’s he honestly cared? Was Crisp and Zealous, being one a wife to his friend and the other his mare. Although part of him thinks in hind sight, mares are much more...complex outside of those examples. Considering that for some reason outside his logical understanding? Knotful sees this as some big challenge and no matter what he says can’t seem to deter her.

Still he made his way to the magical construct of the ‘Main Gate’, or ‘Mare Gate’ as some seem to call it as the large bulky construct stood in position, claws like shape forming around with blue ethereal light coming within as there were a small series of steps towards the blue ethereal light in the center. He ignored the looks of passing mares, as he saw his destination up ahead and knew that the sooner he can deliver these four with the plus two and explain to Jerry-- the faster he can return to Alpha base for the next bunch and discuss with his fellow friends and research on what needs to be done….maybe have a time with Zealous alone, she seem to be nearing her heat week soon.

Once Magic regained his bearings from the sudden transportation and dizziness of magic of the Gate, the stallion glanced to see the maids getting settled in, as well as the two getting over their dizzy spell as he focus his attention to Jerry. Who was blinking in slight surprise of the clone maids...and how different they looked. Jerry admitted that he thought Magic would come later-- not now of all things as he was in his throne, looking over papers that Gnarl gave to him of recent activities as the old minion was by his side.

Seeing that there were a few each pony types. Unicorns, earth, pegasus, and thestrals. Jerry was currently in his spot in the throne seat, as he was looking over some papers given by Gnarl of recent activities. Looking to the mares as they were either 5’5” to 5’6” feet, or rather up to 5’7” for at least one of them.

Jerry looked to the unicorn as there was a pink coat with blond mane, noticing marigold eyes and her lean form showing underneath that uniform of hers. He guessed her size a possible C-...and her looking 19-- in fact her and the pegasus were 19, the earth and thestral seem to be in their twenty...and the last two seem to be in their twenties as well. He focuses back to the earth mare, being of azure coat with dark purple mane and light green eyes.

He noted that she seem to have longer legs, as well as a bigger asset on her chest of a D+, granted not as big as Lovely-- but noticeable enough. He noticed that the mares seem be smiling pleasantly to him, part of him wonder if it was part of programing from Magic? He shook that off as his focus on the pegasus.

Seeing her having dark brown coat, with a brown mane and tawny eyes. While she lacked in chest area with her B+, she seem quite slim enough and was possibly one of the many genetics volunteers Magic gained to use.

He notices the thestral having a green coat with forest green mane on her, with pistachio eye color and pear color wings. Having a sexier look in terms of having a hourglass form, a good D size breast on her.

However he nearly blinked of the other two as they...didn’t had the odd dark pink collars on their necks, nor seem almost like the four mares behind Magic. They seem to be actual mares than anything else. As to his surprise and slight unexpected expression of the pegasus and crystal mare who were long dresses of modesty.

The pegasus having a steel blue coat, dark sapphire blue mane-- seemingly to have interested gleam in her light blue eyes. He could see she had a C+ chest on her, and didn’t seem to fully mind he was staring at her firm like body of small muscles.

The other was a bit surprising too, as the crystal mare held uncertainty in her emerald eyes, her chrysolite mane glisten as it add in with her peridot coat. In a way...she seem to shift a bit as she seem to hide what's down the dress, beside the wide hips that still easily showed off even in her modest dress. Yet her arms squeeze her DD chest to try and hide them-- only make them bludge bigger in a way, in her vain attempt to gain what modesty she could get.

Jerry just stared at each mare during that moment, feeling a slight arousal in him of their beauty...and slight confusion of the latter two as Quaver gave a laugh of amusement, as the Jester commented to his Dark Lord as the sound of his feet moved up by the throne chair.

“Look Sire, all the sexy mares for you!” Quaver spinning his rattle around as Gnarl look over the maids as he gave a low grin as he look up to Jerry as he told.

“I must agree they are very fine ladies, in fact I dare say appealing to the eyes!” While Jerry just stared on, slightly taken aback as he heard hoofsteps, glancing to his right to see Shadow walking by the Overlord side, focusing on all the maids as she look to Magic, a hand over her bump of a stomach as she asked in a calm manner.

“Magic, I would thought that since they’re clones, that they would look the same.” noting the different physics as she added flatly. “In more than looks and body types.”

Magic reply in a simple manner. “It was Zealous idea, give a variety to Jerry of different looking, but appealing mares.”

“So why 4?” question the pregnant thestral as she added with cross arms over her chest. “And what can they do?”

“I made 4 because I wasn’t sure of what might happen in term of food supplies, as well as lack of space in the chambers I use to make clones. I wanted to make 30 in my old work lab, but with how things are? I thought 4 will be a safe number. As for what they can do? Clean, cook, do chores-- simple maid things really. They also have a average intellect of most ponies, speech usage too of responding of orders that are given to Jerry or to you-- or anyone with the authority within certain rights. But they are talor to Jerry in both obedience and loyalty.”

“So they fully answer to him?” asked Shadow as Magic nod, as he ignored the two other mares, while Quaver seem to motioning to the two mares with a ‘shh’ hand motioned to let them be quiet for now.

“Yes. And the reason they are collared, is because you not only lose track of them, but are also assigned as concubines. The clones are also barren, so if they become in heat, you won’t worry of pregnancy of them.”

“What?” spoke Shadow in a slightly agitated tone. “I know Jerry warned me of these clones and warned me you were bringing maids...but concubines as well? You better have a good explanation for this, Magic.”

“Simply being, Zealous and I reasoned that with you and Lovely currently are having the Overlord foals, he will be more sexually tensed in the months to come, and we figured that he should have a means to relief. Granted the clones aren’t ‘real’ mares, they are able to help in other ways. Especially more if Jerry is unable to focus with pent up needs.” Jerry just silently facepalming, knowing that Magic was digging his grave a lot more deeper, he knew it was better for him to keep silent when Shadow goes off.

“They are also multiple clones that will be sent here, as to give variety to Jerry if he prefers a different mare to take in his bed, something of which I did mention earlier.” then added. “As well it might improve his mood that having sex with a slim and non-pregnant mare would be more enjoyable to entertain Jerry with sex of any sort, such as the usual handjobs, boobjobs, or even blowjobs that he tends to enjoy.”

Jerry in all his wisdom, wiped his hands clean and backed off of this soon to be shitstorm, as he will not confirmed a single thing to Shadow, his first mare of these ‘explanations’ as he rather have a happy wife than a enrage wife busting his balls with a hoof. It didn’t even help with Quaver humming out a tune. Shadow herself looked utterly pissed off as she took in a breath and began saying in a calm, but angered manner.

“So you’re saying that I can’t help relief my husband, nor Lovely can’t do the same-- even we have the means to please him with our very hands, our breasts-- even our damned mouths to excite him?! Even more, assuming your clones are much more better than his actual mares, who of which loves him for who he is despite what he is?” stepping up close to the neutral face stallion as she jabbed a finger to his chest as she glare at him with flat ears in agitation.

“And to add in insult-- you’re saying neither me nor Lovely aren’t appealing enough for our stud, that we ‘apparently’ don’t have enough feminine form or charm to be pleasing to our male? Even to the point we’re too ‘fat’ for sex and being fat we’re not sexy-- we barely show any signs of fatness beside the bump we got!”

Gnarl would admit to the Mistress that the stallion was thinking later on down the line-- but he rather not gained her ire too soon. He still felt sore after all the paperwork he was put through. Magic just stare at her as he stated.

“I meant no insult or jabbing of anything. I was merely saying later on when you two develop more-,”

“Oh so we’re going to get more fatter and unbearable for our stud because we’re pregnant?” nearly hissed Shadow as Magic noticed the hint of feminine rage as Jerry clear his throat as he told.

“Yes, yes-- but maybe you should of...warned us fully on the clones. For less complications” then soon glance to Shadow and added. “Please Shadow calm down, Magic was being...oblivious to certain details.” then asked to the other two mares. “Now who are these two that came with Magic?”

Clearing her voice, Sotana was about to speak-- but Knotful beat her to the punch with, “We’re looking for a better life and Magic the oblivious said you were going to take maids that might be concubines.” Crossing her arms and going on, “We were thinking of just being maids. I mean, even if we got a job on the Island Celestia's got, we still need jobs. And form the sounds of it, being concubine's isn’t a need.” Then said to Magic with a pointed finger, “In your face--”

She was abruptly shut up by Sotana, who slapped a hand over her friend's lips and said with embarrassment, “We-we’re just… here for a possible job.”

Shadow stares at the two, looking them over as she took a low breath and gave a pleasant smile with a nod. “Ah, looking for jobs here at the Dark Castle?” then soon admitted. “I don’t know how much the Archmage mention, but the only way to gain a job is to live here….and swear fidelity to my husband.”

“It's how the peasants know who they are serving after all.” add in Gnarl ‘helpfully’ as he went on. “No need for those who won’t work willingly and fully for the Dark Master.”

Carefully, Sotana asked, more pointedly to Shadow. “So… you’re highness?” Speaking in a questioning tone to the thestral, “We would have to be willing to swear loyalty to your husband, the Overlord, as our new King or… ruler, before thinking about a job here?” Hand still firmly on her friend’s mouth.

Sighing, she soon nodded as she explained more clearly. “Yes, you see, most of the inhabitants here? Are ponies who either don’t fit the ‘norm’ of Equestria, those who are in a relationship with a collar like a few with their guys-- and those who adopted young Caribous. For them its all a new life of sorts, and a certainty that they won’t be bothered by...ponies who still hold hate in them for Caribous or anything that represent them.” then motioned to Jerry going on.

“My Husband here, while willing to give any a chance here-- has to be certain that any stays here are working for him, I mean...while we could try to make ponies or anyone of Equestria work here in the Dark Castle? It would be difficult to ask of them to serve two different rulers, especially more once Equestria is taken back to the ponies for good.”

Nodding to this, Sotana slowly took her hand off her friend’s lips and said, “That… that is informative.” Giving Magic a glance and said, “All we were told was that the only jobs available were for maid positions and that being a concubine was a need.”

“Well...he wasn’t fully wrong on that.” admitted Shadow, giving a annoyed look to Magic as she went on to the two. “You see, most jobs here are, different from the ones in Equestria or the Empire. Especially more as despite there not being too many people, we have the Minions to work as workers, laborers, and basically anything if taught right. The Minions are more or less...the bulk of the workforce, and while we can spread out for more job opportunities for a possible town in the lands-- that’s going to take time with...lacking of resources as of now to build a town.”

There was a slow nod from Sonata, and Knotful thought about this a bit and said, “I won’t mind.” Getting a surprise look from her friend, but going on while cup her chin in thought. “Well, that is… maybe after I thought it over a bit more.” Then went on chuckling, “I mean… I like Equestria and all but… my home’s gone.” Then shrug. “The small village town I lived in got burnt to the ground by the Caribou. We wouldn’t go down without a fight, so they took extreme measures. I got near no place to go. And I think even Sotana would agree-- the empires in ice.”

She shrugged. “We’ve been living in Alpha Base, so we’re not strangers to work.”

“B-but,...the princesses.” Sotana began.

“They won’t mind, Sotana.” Waved off Knot. “They want us to be happy? Well, take a look. This is a good start. Alpha Base was nice… but I hated all the water.” Then pointed to her, “And you hated the suit and how it rubbed you.” Smirking at how the mare blushed deeply. “Do you need me to--”

With a sudden embarrassed shout, Sotana nearly cried out, “NO!” Then paused and cleared her voice in a stutter, “N-n-no… that, it won’t be needed…” Eyes flicking about and looking very self-conscious.

Jerry blinked at the sudden shout, and Shadow took noticed, seeing the mare was trying to keep herself calm, and looking utterly embarrassed as she figure it was something personal as she decided to help Sonata as she changed the subject. “If you two want to think on it, you can head back to the island and take some time to consider it, because admittedly? There's no going back once you swear fidelity to Jerry.”

Giving a jerky nod, Sotana said, “Yes...yes, if you please, Ma’am... S-sir…. We’ll… just find a place to stay and, talk it out on the Island before coming back in , uh… few days?” Unsure if they would be fine with that.

Smiling, Jerry nod. “Sure, a few days is fine-- should be good enough to handle other things,” then rub his chin in thought as he admitted. “Although I don’t know on how to quickly gain uniforms for maids…”

“Master, why ask the Archmage for 100 of them maid outfits the clones are wearing, to be given as a means of apologizing for insulting the Mistress?” suggested Quaver, as he spin his rattle with a wide grin. “After all, he did insult the Mistress with his lack of tact!” there was a gleam in Shadow eyes as she nodded and agreed.

“You are right Quaver. He should make 100 of them for us.” Magic snort, but with a glow of his horn and ‘copying’ the maid uniforms as there was a large bulk of folded outfits on the ground as Gnarl snort.

“I’ll be sure the Minions will get them,” then glance to the clones as he asked. “Mistress, I mean no disrespect or insult to you, but the Archmage makes a...slight point of potential concubines, even if you are against it and wish to please the Master, there may be times where you are wishing of rest when he is unrestful.” Shadow glare at him as while Minions gather the outfits, Gnarl went on.

“Perhaps reconsider having these four around, mostly to work as maids, until you allow them to come close to the Master?” Shadow glare at him even more, knowing he was suggesting of another mare, a ‘pink’ for Jerry was still in the old Minion mind. She didn’t want another mare around Jerry who won’t love him. Especially if these four are just ‘toys’ to use. However...they will work as maids. For now.

“I won’t let them get too close. Not without my say so.” told the thestral as she soon questioned to Magic. “Did you made names for these four?” Seeing the two mares leaving to the center, and with Jerry focus on the transportation, the two headed to the Equestrian Island in short notice.

“No, I left them nameless for Jerry to name them.” told Magic with a shake of his head as it made Shadow glance to her stud. Getting Jerry to think and named them one by one.

“The unicorn is Patty, the pegasus is Slim, the earth mare is Sweet, and the thestral is Luxury…” then gained a annoyed look from Shadow as he asked. “What?” seeing her take a deep breath and thought out. He’s just not good at naming things at times. Don’t get too annoyed at him… although she did told in flatness.

“I’m not letting you name our kids.” Getting Jerry to sigh as she ordered. “Quaver, can you get these four helping the Minions?”

“But of course Mistress!” said Quaver as he told to the clones. “Follow me, follow me pretties!” leading the four away as they followed silently and as they were walking off, Shadow shake her head, looking to Jerry with a smile, moving to kiss him on the cheek and said.

“Thanks for not saying too much, I know part of you is thoughtful of the idea of those clones,” then added with a grip on his robe. “But I’m you’re first mare, no other mares are getting close to my stud without my say so.” Jerry smile, then kiss back and complement.

“Which is why I let you do the talking a bit, I figure you should reminded Magic of your status.” then added mentally. Not to mention I didn’t want your mood swings of anger focus on me. although as she giggle with a smile and a nuzzle as she tease.

“Keep that up and I might ease your needs later on~.” to which he told with a hand scratching her chin as he said in amusement.

“Don’t you always ease me?” gaining a chaste kiss on his lips, she move back and said with a tail rubbing by his hand as she told.

“I’ll see you later stud.” walking off as Jerry shake his head, looking over back his paperwork, knowing that there was a lot of work to do...and trying to figure out how to make the land grow in food.

Shadow took a long sip of tea, sitting in her chair as she sat across her friend in the balcony of the Dark Castle, looking across to see Spree fillies playing around and having fun, while overlooking the landscape of slowly green landscape as she look back to her friend and told in annoyance. “Sometimes I wonder if the Archmage is a idiot in social understandings. I mean, really? All that stuff he mention in his ‘logical’ manner?” scoffing some as she rolled her eyes. “How does Zealous deal with his attitude so much? She must be driven mad to hear all of that nonsense coming from his mouth, Tartarus it's a wonder how she liked the stallion in the first place!”

Giving a careless shrug from her seat, Spree said, “I wouldn’t know. He never really visited the Resistance.” Then scratched her head to add, “At best, all I know is the mare he has is a pink, a pink that was a pink before the Caribou’s came.” Then shuttered, “Real strange.” Then gave Shadow a look and asked, “at least you asserted your place to the Toad. Even more Magic.”

Snorting, she took another sip and told. “Yeah...but I know Gnarl is going to make some sort of plan,” then rub her stomach some as she glance down and told. “Still, it felt really...insulting that I couldn’t relive Jerry, or even Lovely-- even if she’s still getting a stable footing.” then sighed as she shake her head and look to Spree with a flat look. “I mean, by the Night-mother-- that old minion thought Jerry needed a Pink with me and Lovely being pregnant now.” then added flatly. “It’s like he assuming that my stud might want a Pink to enjoy himself while me and Lovely are growing.”

“Probably because of how he just is.” Began Spree. “I mean, for sun’s sake Shadow, you’ve told me how he get’s in the sac. All Dom and bold-- and I definitely recall what he was like when we were collared.” Then breathed in before sighing. “I think the Toad’s just trying to bring out the worst in Jerry as best he can. Since, you know, we’ve been getting in the way. And since you and Lovely are knocked up? He thinks he can do it like this. With a new mare.”

“Yeah well, I’m not making it easy for him.” snorted Shadow as she took a sip… then let out a defeated sigh and admitted. “but...I think Gnarl might be partially right, I mean, don’t get me wrong, I’m against what the old minion is suggesting so willy nilly…but in a way? Once me and Lovely do develop more...we won’t be able to do much to help Jerry relieve when he gets rowdy-- or wound up after a large fight.” then breath out with a roll of eyes.

“Doesn’t mean I’m going to accept the whole concubine thing so easily, especially with those clones Magic brought. Seriously, how could he suggest them being concubines if they’re not even fully there?”

Nodding, Spree agreed, “It’s wouldn’t be really fair. At best, they are just… life-sized ‘toys’ for his amusement. IT’s not like they care for him.” Then frowned on. “And… to be frank, it would be bad if he just took them as concubines. He’d get it in his head it’s fine to just… take a mare form her work and just do it whenever he felt like it.”

“Thank the Night-mother I manage to curb that thought.” agreed Shadow. “I think Jerry understands that taking a mare from her work and doing whatever he wants is a no-no-- especially with foals around.” then frown and admit. “But even with the four working here? I think Gnarl might suggest to Jerry that since they’re not even mares, but more like ‘toys’? They’re like...well...you know.” not wanting to fully say it out loud, mostly for the chance of the girls hearing...or the awkward fact of what Lovely used to be like.

“I know.” Breathed in Spree. “I know.” Relaxing back for a moment before going on, “I’ll be honest. While I’m not into Jerry as I am into you? I think I’m willing to join if it keeps the Toady form making a suggestion like that again.” then ran a hand down her face. “I mean, really Shadow. You need to start thinking about putting your hoof down. It’s what I’d do in your position.”

Rolling her eyes she told. “Oh believe me, I’ve put my hoof down on Gnarl. But I think even if I do? He’ll plan for something else.” then sighed and shook her head going on. “And you don’t need to force yourself to be in a relationship with Jerry, Spree. I know you’re not fully into him, no need to try putting yourself into a position that won’t fully work well.” then admitted.

“Not to mention...I think Jerry has a, well hint that you see me more than a friend and see him just as a friend. It might send the wrong message to him if you just...decided out of the blue to get closer to my stud.”

Giving a long sigh, Spree gave a slow nod. “You’re right.. I just…” Then gave a tired sound. “Sorry. I guess it’s just… a little hard to not be as close as I used to be.” Then gave a slight laugh. “But… at least I can still be close. Even if it’s as the ‘Queen's left hand’ or whatever Quaver says I am.”

Giggling a bit, she said in amusement. “I think its the ‘Mistress left hand’ if I recalled it.” then shake her head and said. “But, you are right on something Spree. I do need to figure out how to fully handle Gnarl. Especially with a third mare for the herd. As much as me and Lovely love our stud? I know that Lovely is...doing the best she can with help from Jade on her choices-- which is making Jerry be uncertain.” then added with a hand motioned to herself. “And while I can tend to his needs? I know when my foals fully develop? It will be harder to get into the mood.”

Then gave ragged breath and took a sip of tea as she went on. “I just...want the third mare to actually love him, not have him for sex, not because he’s their owner, not because of some anti-social Archmage creating them-- but a third mare to actually love and care for Jerry. Not...use him in a way. He’s already have enough problems with his work here and his...issues.”

Considering this, Spree told, “Then let me help.” Crossing her arms and nodding in affirmation. “You want a good mare for him? Well we have possibly fifty mare’s wandering around the castle right now. If we both take our time to talk some, even look them over, we might find someone that can fit the bill.” Then gave a smile. “I already know a few that won’t be half bad, and don’t look half bad.” Then wave a hand, “But… I’m still iffy if I was honest. They just are good mare’s is all I’m saying.”

Giving a tired laugh, Shadow told in exasperation. “I’ll take my chances in seeing if they’re good or not for Jerry.” shaking her head with another sip as she went on. “Maybe we’ll be lucky in getting the right one, especially more if they do have feelings for him.” then snorted in slight amusement. “Although I will say this, we may have a few who, like you say, are a bit ‘iffy’. A troubled stallion is one thing for them-- a stud like Jerry who has to be on that balancing line of good and evil might be too much for them.”

Spree wanted to say more to that, but both mare’s flicked their ears when they heard, “Miss Shadow?” Turning, they could see the two girls, Marsh in particular in front and speaking. “You’re looking for a herd sister?” Then glanced and asked, “Spree likes you, why can’t she help?”

Sighing to that, Spree shook her head and told, “Because I don’t like her stud in that way, kiddo.” Then rolled her eyes. “I thought I explained that.”

Shifting, the brownish filly said, “But… won’t you like him over time?” Then went on, “You’re friends… but can’t you be more if, well… you get to be with him more?” It made Spree want to sigh at the filly.

“Marsh, it’s not that simple.” Began the yellow mare. “I’m alright with him-- as a friend. But Jer honestly needs something, like… more. Something I can’t just give to him over time.” Though was unsure what to say when the more shyer white filly, Haze, spoke up.

Peeking around her sister, the young thestral ask, “But… isn’t that how most mare’s start out with a stallion?” It made Spree want to groan.

Shadow however knew what was going on as she explains in a gentle manner. “Imagine Spree as a unchallenged girls, and imagine her not having any interest in challenging Jerry, as he isn't well. He’s not sick, he’s not hurt-- but he’s unwell, and even if Spree challenge or gets challenge by him, she can’t fix it, even if she can try-- she can’t.”

While it wasn’t something they didn’t want to hear, Marsh spoke, “Oh…” Ears folded back and down before asking, “So… does that mean, she won’t try because of that?”

Shaking her head, Spree told, “Sorry girls. I can’t. Jer’s a good guy, but… we just don’t mix yet.” Watching them nod some before she told, “Go on and keep working on those bracelets.” Then smirked, “I’m sure those minions will like some gifts.”

Haze seemed to smile at that, and urgently, tugged on her sister’s arm. “Come on Marsh, we should finish them up. Gloop said he wanted some!” The sight made both mare’s smile. IT was good to see fillies being.. Well, fillies.

Still, Spree’s smile faulted and she sighed out. “You have, like, no idea how hard it’s been to tell them that I’m not into Jerry.” Then turned to add, “They know all about my love for you. But for the longest time, I couldn't get it through their heads I can’t join the herd-- how did you…”

Rolling her eyes in amusement she told simply. “Thestral culture.” looking to her as she went on. “They’ve been raised by thestrals, who gave them knowledge, understanding, and nearly everything of thestral ways. To them, they saw you as a unchallenged female thestral, one who hasn’t been taken by a ‘hunter’ and has a interest in another.” then glance to the missing girls as she look to Spree adding. “Plus they know that a Dom female usually challenge other female’s that's on Sub level. But since I’m under another Dom-- you would have to challenge Jerry to be a ‘hunter’ for position.”

“Then if you did? You would be the head mare as since I couldn’t hold my position with you being a Dom-- thestral hierarchy is a pecking order really.” then added flatly. “You're welcome that I explain the most simplest thing of thestral instincts and culture dynamics.”

Hands up, Spree said, “Hey, I try to remember all I can, but it’s been years since I’ve ask you or your folks about the subject!” Then paused and sighed out. “Listen, Shadow…. I don’t know how to think about Jerry yet. It’s… like you said, he’s just not all there and I don’t know how much I can help as a wife.” Then went on to tell, “And there’s another reason. The girls.”

Looking up, Spree went on, “Sure, he makes a ok big brother for Jasmine when it happened. But a full on dad for those two?” She shook her head. “Even more, thestral daughters? I’m having a challenge raising them right, and I can’t always remember your ways right. I could use your help if I was honest… but we know you have bigger issues to deal with.”

Giving a nod and a annoyed expression, Shadow admit. “You’re right on that, with the foal developing, getting things done-- and getting the Castle fully set up more and more as ‘just in case’ and making things, I got a lot of work to do. As well as finding a third mare for the herd.” then look to her friend and went on. “but...I think I can help make things a bit smoother, let me talk to them, give them a couple of hours-- and by then they should be fine...or at least until 15. Then you got to deal with the ‘talk’, only for this part for thestral it's with the ‘how to tell a ‘hunter’.’” rolling her eyes some as she went on.

“And believe me-- it’s a lot more harder for you to do it without me to add in….” then thought and admitted. “Annnd maybe get them practicing hunting abit...maybe asking some of the more ‘expert’ minions on that too…”

She heard a groan, and watched as Spree rub her face at this. “Hunting. Instincts. Urges. Biting. Gnawing. Screeching.” Looking up, the mare told, “These girls are good fillies, Shadow. But I sometimes don’t know how I should be helping them. It was bad enough they had to see their folks offed.” Then shook her head, “I’m sure they still nightmares of that and seeing their sis getting caught.”

She frown some at that, knowing it must of been a utter nightmare...although she did asked with a scrunch face. “Sister? I thought they were twins?”

Shaking her head, Spree told, “Haze and Marsh are part of a Triplet set. Said they had a third sister before they had to keep running without her-- said she insisted. Something about her being the ‘eldest’ or first one out born or something.”

Thinking on this older sister, she recalled...something about Jasmine friend had some sisters? It was admittedly hard to recall with how fast the filly said it. She looked to her friend and asked. “What was their sister name?”

Thinking on that, Spree said, “I’m pretty sure it was….” Then snapped her fingers, “Right. Dew Their sister’s name was Dew--”

“Dew!?” nearly shouted Shadow as she got on her hooves, wings flared in shock as she looked at Spree. “They’re related to Dew?!” then pause and soon facepalm as she sat down in her chair, the two sisters pausing and looking at the older mare as she said. “Oh...oh wow…” then soon put her hands down and told. “Dew been living in Alpha Base for a long while with the other mares. Jasmines actually friends with her.”

Blinking and staring, Spree said, “What?” But at that moment, Shadow found herself crowded by both thestrals, Marsh fluttering next to Shadow, and Haze nearly crowding her from her other side.

“You’ve seen Dew?” “She’s been in the water tower?” “Is she okay?” “Did the Caribou hurt her?” “Is she sick?” “Was she taken?” The two continuously adding more and more questions.

“Girls, girls!” Spoke up Spree, getting up and out of her chair and trying to ease them. “Calm down, let Shadow talk!”

“No, no, she’s fine, she’s actually been in the Alpha Base for months. Yes she was captured-- but she’s safe now with other mares, a few stallions-- living underwater.” smiling some to them as she went on. “In fact...we can see if we can get Dew through the comm relay,” thinking of the one by the sea. “We can go by the small shack...although I should probably send a request for a comm relay to be built inside the Dark Castle somewhere. Make it more easier for us.”

“Can we go now?!” Both said in utter excitement, though Haze was the first to speak. Concern and worry dripping out from her voice. “Please, it’s been two years…. We haven't seen Dew for two years, we’re worried.”

Moving to gently tug Marsh back to the ground and reaching to pat Haze, Spree told, “Relax you two, we’ll make sure she’s told and brought here.”

Shadow nodded, although a part of her thought over. Well...technically Jerry made his promise. Granted not in the way Jasmine thought it would happen… then again...technically it was her who found out and Spree who founded them...buuuuuut it doesn’t fully matter, right? All that matter was things were going to get better. So with a hand motioned she said with a smile. “Follow me, its a bit long on the walk-- but we’ll get to the comm relay soon.” then finish the remains of her tea as she began leading them through the Dark Castle to their goal.

Spree leaned on the side of the habitat and watched with crossed arms. At the moment, the two thestral girls were chattering away with the strange mechanical device that let them and Dew speak. Apparently both sides were worried for the other, and plans to get Dew to them would be made during the next supply shipment that Jerry planned to do.

After a while though, Spree remarked, “Who knew their sister was that close.” Then shook her head. “One… what was it? Cyclops ride away?” Trying to recall the ships used. “It’s… shocking. I think this will help those two. Dew… meant a big deal to them.” Then went on, “Being a… fev vadzee?” Then scratched her head, “Or… something like a big sis I guess. Whatever they called it.”

“Dew is fej vadász... the head hunter-- or head to the household.” said Shadow, leaning on a Brown Minion who help provide his strength as the thestral explained. “Dew is basically the one who gains the rights, the best stuff from the family-- and the one who push other males away from challenging the two of them. She’s, basically a sort of the ‘head huntress’ for their remaining family, the strongest of the litter. They rely on her a lot than siblings Spree, and she would probably moved here if it meant it was getting closer to them.”

Blinking at all of this, Spree turned her head and said, “Alright… this is obviously a big deal.” Then paused to ask, “But.. what does this mean for me, Shadow? I’m… well, they don’t got parents, I’m their adoptive mom now. How… what does this turn up to with me around?”

Thinking on it...Shadow soon told. “Dew is going to evaluate you, see if you’re good. She might hear from her sisters...but she's going to test and challenge you in a way. See if...you’re able to make it as the new huntress in a way.” then admitted. “Dew is going to be very protective and defensive of her sisters, to the point if she sees you as not good enough to take care of them? She’s going to try to find someone else to take care of them-- or try to take care of them herself.”

“She...well, it's her rightful duty to take care of her sisters in her household.” then think over it as she remarked. “It would make sense on how she was more mature than other fillies at her age, or how she was good at her job at Alpha base. She was, or rather is the rightful heir to the family and whatever they had left. She was groomed to be a Dom for her sisters, as most are usually leaders or head of households in thestral families.”

Shifting to that and watching the two girls she could almost call daughters later down the line, Spree asked with shifting arms. “How do I prove to Dew I’m just trying to help them? To help her?”

Thinking some, and wanting to sit down to think, the Brown told cheerfully. “Sit Mistress, sit!” using his back as a means for her to sit down, she glance to him, then carefully sit on him as he surprisingly held her by strength alone as she remarked.

“I sometimes forget how strong they are…” then look to Spree and admitted. “The best way to prove her? To prove you want to help her and her sisters? Thestrals...well, we’re practical, if the hunter can’t prove a show of strength, then they aren’t worthy of anything. This also adds in hunting and other skills. If you wanted to prove her? Show her your strengths, your skills, your means to fight. Sure love is a way to show it….but to us?” Shaking her head some.

“Strength shows it can get things done, like hunting for food or to protect,” then added with a low smile. “Why do you think I jumped at Jerry when he got me out of that ‘vine’ situation? even if I was a red-- my instincts knew a good hunter when I see it.”

Signing, Spree nodded… then asked, “Do you think she’d be fine with a training season or a Spar?” She might not be a huntress, but she was a soldier.

She thought on it, thought on it heavily and admitted. “It would.” nodding more and said. “While you aren’t a thestral or a huntress-- you still know how to fight, how to use you strength…” then asked in a teasing manner. “But try not to push my stud around when training? Otherwise she might get the wrong idea and get my herd pecking order all mixed up like with Marsh and Haze did for a good while.”

Giving a slight snort, Spree told, “How do you expect him to get stronger if I went on him easy?”

Rolling her eyes, she told. “And you wonder why those two thought you were being odd with you not being in the herd.” seeing the confused look her friend gave as she told simply. “Thestral show love by improving their other.”

Staring, Spree said, “Whaaa?” Befuddlement on her face.

Laughing some as she shook her head, Shadow told with a grin. “Yeah, once a thestral couple hitched? Constantly. Improve. The other. Why you think my folks always batter at the other, trying to one up the other? Thats their way of improving themselves with their wit. And showing love at the same time.” then shrug some. “But I think Dew is smart enough to know that you and my stud are just friends, even more with Jasmine being friends with her and telling about the three of us in the herd.”

Nodding some, Spree turned back and said, “The last thing I need is fillies trying to mess with my love life.” Making Shadow laugh all the more.