The call, was sudden. Jerry had minded his own business in his castle and thankfully had caught up on a large amount of work. The Dark Castle, (which he swore was looking more grey than black these days), had finally evened out with all it’s base needs. With so much done, Jerry found a bit more time to relax and take his time on the papers, and not scrutinize them all so much.

But that had ended when a minion told him that Albert had an update for him and the sisters on the island. Which was a good thing to know, since he had some good news to bring in. Granted the Princess’s knew about the Pinks being dealt with.

Still, he left for the forge to get his armor and went towards the gate to leave. Though on the way, he came across a waiting Lovely, as the mare wanted to go out with him for once. Both eventually going through the gate and into a fairly developed civilization the ponies now had. To some thanks, when he reached the home of the sisters, the guards let him right in, apparently expected. Even better? There was a nice table with chairs all set up in the large room. Already Shining Armor and Cadance sat at attendance with both Celestia and Luna. Pearl was present too, along with Screech.

When he was spotted, Celestia gave a customary smile and nod and greeted, “Overlord. Nice you see you once more.” Motioning him to take a seat while telling, “I think you should be happy to know that our Pink problem might be over with. Our local expert in mind based magic has found a number of possible pinks and is now sorting through them.”

“That is good to hear.” told Jerry, moving to his seat as he tried to not set too much pressure with it as Lovely move by his side. As much as he knew Shadow was curious on the island, she figured she would learn from him when he returned…

Although he was sorta glad that Quaver was ‘distracting’ Gnarl from this meeting through his helmet. As much as Jerry knew the old Minion wanted to ‘comment’ on things, Mortis was overseeing Jerry meeting so Gnarl could ‘do his job as per ordered’ and the fool making sure Gnarl was kept getting distracted. Finally settling in, with Lovely moving by and dainty sitting on his lap a bit, she held a smile as she wanted to enjoy being close with her Master.

Mostly in terms of letting everyone see of her position with the male and spending some time with him outside of the Castle. Jerry merely held a hand on her lap as he told. “Then you should be grateful to hear that we finally caught all the Pinks within my domain, although that unicorn spy was found dead. Tried to make another circle and drained her dry.” letting out a sigh. “Such a waste of life and usefulness.”

Lovely turn her head to him as she reminded. “You still have that other spy in the cell, Master. I’m sure you will figure something out for her soon.”

“Eh true enough.” agreed Jerry as he added to the Princess. “Also I think I can safely say that things are stable in my domain once more.” then jokes. “Although the treasury still hasn’t been filled up lately.”

Scowling, Pearl remarked. “You still are waiting for us to repay you back with ‘interest’ are you?” Jerry shrugged as he replied.

“I got people with jobs now-- I need economy!”

While that made Cadence laugh a bit, Armor was the one to ask, “Do you know what’s been going on with Albert’s side of things?” A question that Jerry sometimes wondered himself. “He contacted us earlier today and said he would be arriving in some 3 or 6 hours to give some updates… but nothing else than that. That was a couple of hours ago”

“Honestly? I think Albert either discover something, want us to bring an update...or something really, really scary just happen.” admit Jerry as he knew that Albert wanting to meet them all in person meant that whatever he was going to tell them? Was going to be bad….

And something tells him it’s connected to his ‘vision’.

“Hrm, be open minded, my Master. But be ready for the worst case.” spoke Mortis as it was...odd for the Blue Minion to be in the voice in the helmet, and not promoting evil talks or suggestions.

Nodding a bit, Screech did say, “I’m more curious about this Citadel-1. We haven’t heard much of it or if the move was completed, or even it’s state.” All things she didn’t like to not know about. “It was bad enough to find out almost too late about the Pinks.”

“Then you’ll be happy to know that they have been found and dealt with accordingly.” Some of the table shifted to see Albert striding in, PDA in hand and finishing up a few things before shutting it down and walking up. While he began to walk for the last chair, he told on, “Citadel-1 is fully operational. No losses of lives so far and all libale spies have been found to the best of our skills.”

Nodding to each, he added while sitting down and taking out a scroll of all things from his padded lab coat, “Twilight is also doing fine. She arrived at the base safely with her friends. This letter is for Celestia and Luna.” Letting go as the sun princess took it by magic.

Folding his hands, he said, “there’s also something to bring to your attention. We’ve found a Changeling. A Queen changing.” Which caused a reaction in them all. “She’s with us now and we’ve taken all necessary precautions of her being there. But at this moment in time? She might be the last of her species and I’m planning to preserve that in any way possible.”

While Lovely blink at that, never hearing a species named that, as Jerry thought back on where he heard it...and asked. “Are changelings those...bug-pony things that sorta tried to conquer Canterlot and got hit by a love wave from Cadence there?” recalling some snippets he heard from the ponies and from his mares on them, granted not that much since they didn’t know much either. Although his question wasn’t answer as Pearl spoke up.

“A changeling!? A Queen changeling!?” taking her breath as she tried to calm down, but question heavily to Albert. “How can she claim to be the last of her species? For all you know, she might be lying through her teeth.” suspicion filled her as she doubted this changeling was speaking the truth, they rely on deception of all things! There's no way that they’re...all gone but her, this had to be a ploy of sorts! The military mare refuse to consider it was anything but a ploy, especially since their failed invasion attempt.

“I said, possibly the last.” Albert strongly reminded. “She doesn't know herself. She was found by an Expedition team near dead by both starvation and the Khara virus in its final stages. She’s lucky to be alive. No others were with her. If there are others? She thinks they are in deep hiding or hibernation to wait out what’s been going on.”

Placing his hands together, Albert continued. “Which brings me to the second point. Intel. She’s been running out of Equestria because it’s become too dangerous. The Khara is spreading faster than the Caribou can contain it, and the Windigo’s have turned nearly 69% of Equestria into a winter wasteland. Dainn has placed all military on high alert and is using everything he can to hold ground, but is losing it fast.”

Grimacing, Pearl sat back in her chair as she looked to the Princess’s and said. “If the bastard is losing ground to Wendigos...do you think he might use something in the vaults, your Highness?”

“You mean, if he can get in. They are keyed to our horns and magic, Commander Pearl.” Told the Princess of the Night, as Jerry frown under his helmet, not liking to hear of the frozen wasteland and Khara spreading more...but he had to stay in place, due to Gnarl and settling his domain. Lovely held a worried look, as she look to Jerry and asked.

“Master, do you think he will try to invade us again?”

Unexpectedly, Albert answered her. “He might not get the chance.” Which did get a few glances. With an odd focus in his eyes, Albert said, “Aria, the Changeling Queen that told me about this has informed me that a new threat has come. One that’s not being stopped by either Khara or Windigo’s.” Which made them all seize up. “She said they are a Necromancer mage, and they’ve been raising a legion of undead as an army to take whatever's left of Equestria.”

oh...oh no, no, no, no, no! thought Jerry, freaking out on the inside as he could tell Lovely was scared, shifting backwards to get closer to him, hand on her develop stomach as Jerry knew that this being, this necromancer...was the one.

They were his replacement of Evil.

“Did you...inform to Magic of this?” slowly asked Pearl with gritted teeth to Albert. (done)

Nodding, he told, “he knows. He says that the Undead army he planned to use should be safe from being used. But the point stands that he agrees with me. This undead army won’t be hindered by the cold or the virus and definitely isn’t vulnerable to conventional means of injury and death.”

“Meaning they aren’t able to be affected either by Wendigos...or Caribou magic or fighting.” told Shining in a grim tone, as he could see that for every death of Caribou, it would be another soldier for this Necromancer...and with so many dead in Equestria? This mage had an unlimited force.”

“Master, this is troubling. Very troubling. It is good that Gnarl is not here. Would betray you for sure with this being.” spoke Mortis in the helmet as while Jerry try to ease Lovely with a gentle hug, Pearl glance to the Overlord and took a deep breath. Not liking to ask...but spoke to Jerry.

“Overlord, do you think you are able to-,”

“Let me stop you right there.” told Jerry, interrupting her as he said. “I know what you’re going to ask. You want me to see if I can fight this mage...let me remind you of one problem. Wendigos.”

There was an agreeing nod as Screech said, “they’re too much of a threat to the Overlord and his forces. Even if he was viable to fight this new threat? The windigo’s are a problem.” Which meant they were at the moment, stuck off Equestria.

Thinking some, Albert told, “it’s probably for the best.” Not caring at the looks he gained. “Tactically, if we waited and let this new threat deal with Dainn? Then the Windigo’s might start to run out of food, or target this necromancer and any that are captured by him.” Telling pointedly, “the cold might not hurt the undead, but even dead bodies will freeze at the right temperature.”

Thinking some, Albert mused on. “I would also suggest finding a way to allow the Overlord to have more numbers on field during a battle. We’re in a position where we can wait most of this out and develop our own arms, armor and magics. If there’s a way for Jerry to summon more minions in Equestria? Then our chances go up. Same if your Ponies are better equipped.”

Yeah ...trying to go against the game logic of summoning minions...is troubling. thought Jerry as he didn’t know how to do that, as he muttered to Mortis. “Can we get the Main Gates to close off for now?”

“Been closed, my Lord.” assured Mortis as Jerry thought on how to expand the minions in his horde...and was coming up with nothing...although he heard Armor asking to him.

“Jerry, how many Minions do you have? Have you lost much since the attempted invasion on your home?”

Glancing to the white unicorn, Jerry thought to his restored forces, and the added boost of more Minions he added in the Dungeon Harvesting as he shook his head a bit. “Hrm? No...not really. Rather small amounts to be honest. Build it back up in a few days.” then joked in amusement. “I think the Caribous invaders realize just a tad too late that were more than just 50 or so ‘rats’.”

Giving a slight nod, Shining said, “just making sure. Because even if we did follow this… idea Albert has brought up, then it would give you time to recover numbers if you lost any.” Though said a bit more lowly, “but it looks like you don’t even have to worry about that.”

Looking at those at the table, Celestia admitted, “the option to wait is the safest thing we can do.” Being clear about that option in itself. “But there are also still ponies that need our help. Ponies I don’t want to just leave behind if I can.” Turning her eyes to Screech and told, “Informant Screech.” Getting the Thestral to straighten up. “I would like you to find all available volunteers. I want them and any spies available to get what ponies they can out. I think we need to consider having the Overlord close the gates for a time for our collective safety soon.”

“The Gates have been closed for sometime.” informed Jerry as he explain a bit. “While I had to stay on my island, I had the Gates temporarily ‘off’, or at least in dormant in caution of spies and Caribou attempting to use them. But I can activate them again for Screech and her spies. The only problem is if the Windigos are attracted to them or not...or if this mage has one under guard-- or looked at.”

“You weren’t concern of anyone affecting the Gates before.” comment Pearl as she asked. “Is there a reason you are concerned now?” Jerry took in a breath, as he told.

“Before I was fine with any pony’s. Now there’s Pinks? They can slip right in without us knowing. The Gates doesn’t discriminate or view things. They are tools. The only reason the Caribou defects I have in my domain are allowed through, is due to me marking them as ‘allies’. While Screech and her spies can bring the ponies, and they can bring ponies...and so far, the only ‘enemies’ are pinks...which are hard to tell due to their species.”

With assurance, Luna told, “do not worry of additional spies, Overlord.” The night alicorn looking confident while telling, “we shalt have preparations in place to discourage spies from being present. If what my sister is intending is what I think it is? Then the gates will be only opened for a short time to take whom we can, before sealing them fully.”

Nodding along, Celestia told, “there are still spies of ours that are in Dainn’s forces. We can allow them to stay if they want, but with the new threat and what has been going on? We need to pull back who we can before it gets too dangerous for them. Possibly any other ponies they might have a chance to save.”

Nodding to this, Jerry assures. “I will have the Gates activated shortly Celestia…” then fell quiet as he thought. Okay...now to make sure Gnarl won’t find out about this necromancer...then again... thinking of the orders he told Gnarl to write down the most important stuff down worth noting as he said to them. “While you and your sister are planning on gathering the few remaining ponies to save? I am planning on spreading my Gates onto other nations, mostly to assist Albert in spreading the cure to the other species that has been infected at this point.”

While this did get attention from the others, Albert did tell, “it won’t be fast. It might take a couple of weeks to reach each location where Jerry can make a gate. It will be a few-month project to be sure. But I’ve expressed concerns about the other native’s of this world and how bad the Khara has gotten. If they are on the brink of collapse? Then I would highly suggest getting them moved to a secure location.”

Frowning a bit, there was a slow nod as Cadence said with concern, “we’ve been busy with our own problems, we really don't know what the state of the rest of the world. This virus has been spreading on it’s own.. Who knows how many it’s reached.”

“33% of the worlds waters by this point and 18% of all land masses.” Albert supplied rather quickly in thought. “At this point in time, the Khara is more aquatic oriented and has been spreading through all sea life. With how large the oceans are, I can make an estimate that 33% of the worlds waters are infected-- but this is only a guess as I don't know how large the planet is in total. The Khara also advance slower on land, since it can only be transmitted through water or by absorption of the body.”

Frowning, Pearl spoke with concern. “With the Griffons need of meat...I say they will be hit the hardest with the virus.”

“Which is why I am speaking of this now, so once Albert rent me a ship to use, I will be silent for a good while.” then added. “If you need any aid, request my wife, or Mortis and Grubby if it’s Gate-related.”

“Not Gnarl?” spoke Screech with questioning eyes.

“Gnarl is...busy writing down knowledge. I asked him to make a book of many things in it. He will be distracted.” informed Jerry. Seeing the slight suspicious in the room, bare Albert as Lovely glance to Jerry in slight questioning as Jerry heard Armor asked in cautious.

“Is there a reason why you have Gnarl work on something instead of his job as Advisor?” Jerry thought quietly on how to keep the whole ‘gnarl is going to betray me’ under-wraps...but didn’t come up with anything but the truth. Taking a deep breath as he told.

“I ask you all, even you Lovely to not inform any but those in the need to know.” looking at them as he told. “Months earlier, when the virus hit the Empire and I was...preoccupy? Albert came to my home, and Gnarl...propose a ‘new management’ with Albert as the new Overlord and me dead.” seeing the looks of everyone looking at Albert, even his mare in the thought of Albert being the Overlord.

“Albert rejected it, mostly because he had his own plans...and was able to corner Gnarl into seeing me as too important to kill off...However, with the news of this new threat? Well...Evil is known to back-stab at the right opportunity.”

Luna was fast to understand and told, “Gnarl is no longer trustworthy in any news for yourself. You have a snake in your own home.” Which was concerning to know, but now made sense. “You wish to dispose of him soon, but also are forcing him to give what he can before you remove him as a threat.” Watching as the man nod to her.

Still, the lunar monarch told, “I warn you now, Overlord. Strike him down sooner and not later.” A slight steel in her tone. “You might find the risk worth while, but he is a great liability. All it will take is one pony to accidentally tell the news, and he will be aware. He is cunning enough to know when something is off once it begins to show.”

“While I would agree with Luna.” Albert began, “I also agree to the point about getting what knowledge you can out of Gnarl. He’s extremely old and knows things that no one else does. It might be extremely useful later on.”

Turning her eyes to Albert, Screech asked, “and give him more time to find out what's going on?”

“It’s a calculated risk.” Albert told. “One that might have good results. But it’s still a risk and still only up to Jerry on what he will do with Gnarl.”

“While I would love nothing more than to remove Gnarl...Albert is right. Gnarl had served Overlords for a long time, he knew secrets and knowledge since serving the very first Overlord. What he knows now, might serve me and those of my children down the line.” gently rubbing Lovely stomach as she smiled and held her hand over his armored one. Jerry however refocus on the other's.

“But while it is a risk, there is a boon to this. Mortis already knows of Gnarl potential betrayal. And already knows that if an Overlord mistrusted his Minions, then that Minion is a risk to the Overlord. So he, and other Minions will make sure Gnarl is dealt with if I cannot make the final blow.”

“And can you trust your Minions to do it?” questioned Pearl with narrow eyes. “Gnarl is the ‘Minion Master’. Who to say he has control on them already?”

“The pony doesn’t know, but the Master revival of old Minions ensure loyalty to the Overlord, not to Gnarl.” spoke Mortis as to assure Jerry doubts.

“While it’s true he is Minion Master...He’s the Minion Master only to the young and newborns of the Hives. Most of my forces are of the old, the veterans, and those who served me long ago before their deaths.”

While each had their own regards of how good or bad that was, Albert was the first to say, “as long as we keep a very tight hold on the information about this new threat.” Giving pointed looks around, “then we don’t have to worry about Gnarl finding out. Control who goes to the castle and only tell what needs to be told. That alone, will minimize any potential risks and leaks.”

“It also helps that the ones who will know is Shadow, Spree, and Kalvar. Everyone else will be kept in the dark for the most part.” Well, except for the ‘bodyguard’ maidservant. I have a feeling she would be told, but in a more quiet manner. thought Jerry as he went on. “The official story to Gnarl is that I will be traveling to other nations to give the cure-- and a ‘message’ to the nations that Equestria is mine.”

“Message on proclaim control on our lands?” spoke in Pearl as Jerry raise his hand to explain.

“By this point, Gnarl is certain I am planning a ‘betrayal’ to you all, or put you all in my debt to the point I am ‘loaning’ my newly conquered lands for you all to live in. this will at least buy time until his uses are at an end.”

Frowning some, Celestia told, “I’m not sure how good an idea it would be to simply talk to the other leaders of each kingdom.” Though amended, “if they’re still standing. At some point, you might need either myself or my sister to smooth things out.”

“But for now, we must be patient and wait.” Advised Luna.

With a look though, Celestia told, “but, regardless of this, I think I may have a better solution.”

“A better solution?” asked Jerry, to which Pearl asked in slight surprise.

“What do you mean by that, your Highness?”

Looking around to those around in the room, Celestia spoke. “What many may not know, is that Equestria had allies. Allies to assist the nation if anything happened. The Yaks for one, are one of our allies. The only reason they had not shown up when the Caribous arrived? Is due to the lack of time. By then? We were conquered before we realized it.” the alicorn of the sun furrowed her brow adding.

“Arabia as well is our ally, but due to the distance from Equestria to Saddle Arabia? They might not be able to help in time as well.”

“So, any other ally you know that isn’t far away and could probably help with the whole ‘retake’ if it happens?” asked Jerry, as it felt like any ally Equestria had? Are either far away, or had their own troubles to deal with.

Giving the man a glance, Celestia told, “that is no longer the issue, Overlord. In our current position, we can call on both for aid. But even then, we would still need help. The Yak’s lack the magical defense needed with the Caribou’s corruption. And the same could be said for the Horses of Arabia. Who we need, are older allies of Equestria to join us.”

Huh. So I’m going to guess that with my Gates, getting said allies to a location will be faster when the time comes. thought Jerry as he spoke. “I can only guess that since with the use of my Gates, you want me to make Main Gates for said allies to transfer to at ease when or if I’m able to reach them?”

“No.” told Celestia, popping his bubble as she continue on. “While it would be helpful to have them travel easy, that is not the goal for now, Overlord. The goal would be finding our oldest allies, the Hippogriffs.”

While the ponies gave slightly surprise looks, Luna herself having one, Lovely only held a confuse one-- and Jerry blinked under his helmet. Hippogriffs? They’re a thing here!? Well...there are Minotaurs, Griffons, Caribous, Yaks and changelings of all things-- why not Hippogriffs? Next thing I know, there might be deer folk frolking in the forests!

“I did not realize that we had been allies to them, sister.” Luna spoke with an edge of confusion, seems to be a little out of the loop.

Cadence seemed to choose to clarify for the lunar monarch with, “we’ve been allies to them in the past. But some years back they went silent. We were never told the formal reason why. Celestia only said it was important that the Hippogriffion’s got to hold their needed silence for whatever reason.” Though she did cast an imploring look to the solar alicorn.

Breathing in and allowing a sigh to escape her lips, Celestia said, “they too, were attacked and nearly conquered by another nation under one known as the Storm King. They escaped, through the Queen to the Hippogriffion’s asked I keep their place of living a secret, until the Storm King turned his gaze away from them.”

“Uh, Storm King?” spoke Jerry as he asked. “Is he some sort of air like being that controls lighting, thunderstorms, and practically creates storms on a whim?”

“No Overlord.” Sighed out Pearl in slight exasperation. “The title mostly comes because he’s a Warlord that takes places by storm. Most of his airships employ some weather magic to hide in storm clouds, but for the most part, he doesn't control weather at all.”

Celestia did warn, “he still isn’t to be underestimated. He has a much larger military than even Equestria does. While we had better magic, better ships and stronger infrastructure, I have no doubt that if he ever felt bold enough, he could cause Equestria more damage than you ever could on your own, Overlord.”

Sweet damned. He could do more than I could with my Minions? Well...granted, he does have a large military, and got a ton of ships-- so he could actually do a lot more damage than I could with just 50 minions… Imagining the destruction as this Storm King was worse than the Caribous in terms of a fight, as he soon asked. “Would he be a problem if he decided to fight us? As of now? From what I gather he’s not a threat, but when he finds out eventually about us assisting your allies? Odds are he’s going to start turning his attention to us.”

Both alicorns traded looks, and it was Luna to tell, “at our height, before the Caribou invaded so soundly, we could contest with him and his forces if prepared. But now, we do not stand a chance. Not without our allies to aid.”

Thinking some over this news, Albert asked, “where are the hippogriffions?”

It was here that Celestia actually gramanced. “Only I know where they are, and to be honest, I am a little fearful for their safety even if they are hidden.” she didn’t wait, and told straight on. “They have a means of magic to change themselves, and done so to live in a place none could reach them. Under the waters themselves.” Though added on, “not as deep as Albert, mind you, but as you have all seen? An extremely effective way to avoid detection.”

A few frowns on faces as Pearl spoke. “The Khara by now would infected them all.” knowing of the disease that is spread out in all ocean life, as she asked. “Your highness, how come we haven’t gone to the Hippogriffs in the first place? Especially with Albert machines to take us there as soon as possible before the Overlord caused more damage.”

“Hey, it’s not entirely my fault! The Minions love breaking stuff, I can’t stop them! It’s like you and breathing air, the two can’t separate at all!” defended Jerry.

While looks were given to that, Celestia eventually responded to the commander’s question. “At the time I didn’t understand how server or spread the virus was. And I knew that if I involved them, I could potentially alert the Storm King to them. And as things were? I didn’t think inviting a power like his forces now was wise.”

“But now things have become slightly more desperate.” Albert summed up rather tightly. “And it’s our only chance to both gather forces and strike back thrice as hard against the Caribous.” Summing up their situation nicely.

“Which means time is even more limited.” spoke Screech, as she was trying to come up with a possible outcome with what she learned. Even more with the dangers of the Storm King being spurred into action...then look to Jerry as she asked. “Overlord...Remember all those time you bothered the Caribous and hit at them?”

“What you mean those time I’m looking over my Shopping List of Evil during shopping sprees?” replied Jerry as he was given stared looks as he asked. “What?”

With a blank stair, Albert questioned, “Shopping List of Evil?”

“I’m the Overlord, I have to use some sort of list.” told Jerry.

Shaking his head, Albert said, “no, no… there’s no problem about that.” Then mused, “I just didn’t take you the sort to actually put time into making a list of anything.”

“Same.” Pearl agreed.

“I feel insulted.” said Jerry as Lovely gently pat his shoulder in ‘comforting’ as he told on. “How else do you think I organized all the stuff I raided?”

“Can we get back to the point here?” dryly asked Screech as she went on. “I propose that we let the Overlord, instead of going around spreading the cure? We have him spread his Gates around-- and annoy the Storm King like he did with the Caribous.”

Jerry pause to this as he asked. “Wait, what?” to which Pearl questioned to her college.

“I agree, do you think that the Overlord could hit the Storm King? His Minions are...pitiful against actual soldiers.”

Pointedly, Screech told, “the same could be said about them fighting Caribou Troops. But we’ve seen how the Overlord come in and attacks as quickly as he does? It catches them off guard and he can take them down fast. The hit and run tactics he uses would work. The Storm King isn’t used to people going in to attack him, nobody’s insane enough to!”

Catching on, Albert mused out, “but Jerry can…” Slightly making Screech give the scientist a sharp look at being cut off. “With a Cyclops or even a Seamoth, I could make sure he can be deployed at the far side of their kingdom’s shores. Away from where we’re gathering and waging our own war. It would even help in a sense, to gather extra resources.”

“That’s not what I was trying to say.” Screech told with a bit of sharpness.

“But it’s what you were thinking.” Observed Albert. “You know the Storm King is a threat. Before, now and even afterwards. You’re hoping that Jerry will go in, cause a huge disruption, distraction and possibly destabilization to make Equestria safe now and later when you’re trying to establish its borders.”

With tight lips, Screech made no comment to that.

“Oh great, you’re thinking about using me again.” dryly remarked Jerry as he added. “But hey, at least you're not plotting to kill me this time!” and paused before turning to her, “….are you?”

“If only we’re so lucky.” spoke Screech, as she doubted it would happen with Albert’s help, and the Overlord ridiculous luck.

To which, Jerry remarked to the three Princesses. “Look like we have progress, they’re not trying to kill me anymore-- just hoping I die.” although he had to muse on the ‘idea’ as he went on with a hand petting Lovely head. “But...in terms of me distracting the Storm King? Well...he is a Warlord, and I’m a Overlord-- and technically it’s bad business for a villain to mess with another villain. Then again...he’ll be attacking you guys, or me later on-- and he’ll be attacking my new lands in terms of debt later on...”

“Just tell him that attacking him is nothing personal.” Albert stated. “It’s just business.”

“Yeah...it’s pretty much is. Since if he does attack Equestria? Well, how are you going to pay me back?” then hum a bit and nodded. “Yeah, I can work with this, even more get more gold, supplies, and resources. Maybe share the food with you all to ensure you won’t go hungry.”

“Oh thanks, more reason to put us in debt.” dryly said Pearl as Jerry told with a grin in his tone.

“You’re welcome.”

Despite all of this, Celestia still pointed out, “even then, the Overlord will be needed to help set up Gates for our allies.” making Jerry pause. “I would suggest he first get the Gate’s for Arabia and Yaks made first. Pinkie Pie will be needed for the Yaks to be certain, and I’m sure Cadence could talk peace to the Arabian’s.”

Breathing in, Celestia looked to Albert and told, “I must insist that I leave with Albert after this to find the Hippogriffions. At the very least, to be sure that they aren't sick and dying from this disease.”

“But how will Jerry reach the Arabian’s?” Armor decided to speak up. “That’s pretty far out, and over land. I don't even think Albert’s ships could reach far enough inland by water to get him close.”

Thinking of that, Albert asked, “well, perhaps Jerry could add an airship to his shopping list of evil then.” Looking to each pony to add on, “he is going to a place that may have them for sale. Or at least he could… ‘borrow’.”

“Hrm...never had an airship before ...Could see on if the Storm King would let me ‘borrow’ one...maybe one of his prized ships just to piss him off.” mused Jerry in thought.

Face palming, Screech said almost too lowly to be heard, “as if a grounded Overlord with minions wasn’t bad enough.”

“Do you know how to fly an airship?” questioned Pearl as Jerry responded.

“No, but it can’t be that hard can it? Just use the steering wheel and get the minions to act like a sea ship-- should be fine enough.”

“Ships don’t ascend or descend, Jerry.” Pointed out Albert. “Nor do normal sea ships have to worry about gale forces at high altitudes. Or flying through storm clouds.”

With a look, Luna said, “I thought you were versed in using sea vessels, Albert?”

“I’m a scientist, Princess Luna.” Albert said in a frank tone. “You can never know too much.”

Humming a bit, Jerry thought over the problem, as Lovely asked in nativity to him. “Master, why not just persuade one of the captains of the ship you ‘borrow’ to fly for you?”

“I think for now, we have to think it over.” spoke Shining as the voice of reason. “It’s too soon for us to discuss of airships and of...Jerry borrowing one from the Storm King.” as Shining reflected of the disaster of the Minions trying to fly an airship in the air-- and repressed the destruction of said ship ...with many other's ships falling to their doom of little imps being used as cannon fodder.

Jerry himself figured it was best to keep things simple as he asked. “So I’m guessing you want me to do the Griffons later on in terms of Gate making, Celestia?”

Breathing in, she nodded. “For now, if you can reach them and possibly convince them to aid us, it would help.” She looked to Luna and proceeded with, “I shall go and see to Hippogriffions and speak to Queen Novo. Luna will be in my stead to keep things in order.”

Thinking for a moment, Albert turned to Pearl and told, “it’s possible I can use a Cyclops to take Pinkie, as well as a few troops, towards the Yak’s territories. This can be done in a few weeks, hopefully by then Jerry would be done and can re-link with us to make the Gate for the Yaks once Pinkie has spoken with them. After that, I can coordinate with Jerry about distracting the Storm King’s own forces.”

“Agreed. For now we will need to prepare on our tasks.” said Jerry, as he was planning on making sure Mortis and the other veteran Minions keep a sharp look out for anything outside and within the Dark Castle, even more be prepared for not only traveling into other nations-- but be a distraction to the Storm King. In all honesty, he was a bit worried, as this would be the first time he would face against a ‘real villain’. Nothing like the Caribous, or anything he dealt with. He just hope he had enough minions to use, and harvest when the time comes.

Lovely herself, partially worried for Jerry. Both for him going into his raiding and distracting of this ‘storm King’, as well as traveling in far distances. If he was going to be traveling...would he be alright by himself? He may need her, but she couldn’t leave out while her foal was forming…

Part of her thought on talking with Shadow on...if they should allow the girls, or one of them to come with their stud? It’s something to consider at the very least. However, she focus back on the discussion as Jerry asked. “Now is there anything else we need to bring up?”

While they thought, Luna said, “one last thing.” Looking to Jerry and telling, “I believe I know a better solution in dealing with your unloyal adviser.” Standing to tell, “expect a visitor within a days time by Gate, Overlord. I believe we all have work to get done.”

Raising a brow under his helm, Jerry asked in mixed concern and curiosity. “A visitor? Like a temporary visitor, or a semi-staying visitor for a limited time until the adviser is dealt with?”

“If things go well?” She responded quickly, “than I don’t expect him to be at your castle more than an hour.” Then nodded to him, “if you do not mind, we have business to attend to.” Then acknowledged, “Armor, Cadence. It was nice seeing you both again.” Then with a slight nod towards the scientist, “Albert.” Turning and leaving from the table.

Sighing some, Celestia rose and said, “Commander Pearl. Informant Screech. Start your search for volunteers and have them ready within three days time. They’ll need the preparation for the last trip into Equestria for a long time.” Getting salutes from both mare’s that crisply stood and began to leave.

Gently moving Lovely with his hand, the maid got off his lap and stood on her hooves waiting for him to get up. Getting on his boots, Jerry gave a brief nod to the other's as he turned to walked off with his Treasure following with. Although Jerry mutters lowly, mostly to inform Mortis. “Mortis, when you are able, make sure to get the other's in a room to inform them of the...you-know-what issue when this mysterious being arrives. And keep Gnarl distracted.”

“Of course Master, will make sure Quaver bothers the disloyal Advisor.” spoke the Blue as he heard Lovely spoke in concern as he glanced back to her worried expression.

“Master...you weren’t surprise or shock of this threat.” ears flat as she added. “Or knew Gnarl would betray you.” Being silent for a moment, Jerry replied in small admission.

“I...felt that sooner or later something would try to either topple me or kill me. It’s...a occuring theme for an Overlord to face with. As for Gnarl...Albert told me all about it.” Seeing her slightly accept that, but kept close to him as Jerry knew that while Shadow would be heavily worry on this new threat...he had a feeling she and the other's were going to be a bit surprise of Gnarl potential betrayal…

As soon as this person will come to ‘assist’ them. Granted he didn’t know if he could trust them...but Luna wouldn’t backstab him…

At least...he hoped so.

A day pass as things resumed on as Jerry waited for whoever this guy was...however when he felt someone wanting access in his Throne room, he could tell it was from the Equestrian Island. As when the teleportation activated, he was honestly surprised to see Magic standing there, wearing some robes as he spoke. “Greetings, Overlord.” looking at the male in his own robes as he said. “I am here to assist your problems with the clones.”

Jerry blink at this, but glance around and figure Magic made a cover story of sorts. Giving a nod he said. “Yeah...just follow me.” getting up as the stallion followed the human upstairs. As Jerry glance back as he partially wonder why Luna sent for him of all things. As Jerry lead him to his ‘office’ of sorts with the upgrade station, he waited as while Magic horn glowed, activating a silence spell for privacy as Magic spoke.

“Princess Luna requested my need of aiding you.” looking at the human more as he told on. “I have a means to remove the Advisor, but keep his knowledge all the same. Just request him here and I will handle the rest.”

“That's...it. Just bring him here?” asked Jerry as the unicorn nodded.

“Very simple.” waiting for a brief moment as Jerry sent for a Servant Minion to grab Gnarl. They waited for a moment as Magic glance and asked. “How were the clones?”

“Eh...well...I haven’t really...touch them. They more...like assistance than anything else.” said Jerry as he glance to the side. “Not to mention I sorta...have actual mares who were willing to become...concubines in a sense.” Magic hum for a moment...and comment.

“So take some willing souls from the afterlife and put them into bodies to appease your tastes. You are a male that enjoy actual relationships than simple clones…”

Jerry stare at Magic, as he partially wonder if the stallion had poor idea on what others like, or was even worse in social than the human was? He figured it was a combination of both. Soon enough, they both heard the steps of Gnarl coming in as the Minion Master spoke.

“Greetings Master, I haven’t had enough time to write that book of Evil you requested, but with enough time, I'm certain I’ll fill it out!” then glance to Magic as Jerry swore he saw some sort of interest in the old minion eyes, but look to the Overlord as he asked. “Why my Lord, whatever brings the unicorn who gave such lovely presents to you?”

“Just giving another gift.” said Magic, taking out a large pink stone. Gnarl made a face as he said.

“Pink?! What in the name of Evil did you brought a pink stone for!?” To which Magic replied with a glow of his horn.

“This.” then push the stone onto the old Minion head, a sudden flash from the stone erupted as the stone that hung over Gnarl back glowed brightly. For a brief few seconds nothing happened ...before the stone that was with Gnarl suddenly died out, and the stone within Magic hand glowed brightly as he pulled it back. Allowing Gnarl body to fall and looking quite ...dead.

Magic then handed the glowing pink stone to Jerry as he told. “Here. All the knowledge, all the information, and everything Gnarl knew? Right in here. Your very own Memory Stone to look into everything he knew and could recall since his birth.”

“.....What?” Was the single shocked response Jerry gave.

Magic explain in short terms. “I stole everything from him and place it in this stone for you to use. That way you keep the info,and remove a threat at the same time.”

Jerry tries to take that in...but all he said was this. “...I’m still trying to wrap my head you could do that.” Magic nod simply, placing the stone on a table as he told.

“Take care Overlord. And if you need anything else, simply ask.” turning to walk out as Jerry move to sit down at a table and remark while looking at the stone.

“This is...one way to take care of the problem...I think?” he wasn’t sure how to feel this. Just when he thought he knew what he did, something happen to just screw with his mind. Like that pony village of communism. Or being on this world ...or the fact Minions were smarter when living longer. Truly he had much to learn of the world.

if anyone was wondering why I haven't post a chapter recently?

Its mostly because of college in the summer and getting books, getting adjusted to classes and it LITERALLY Starting next week? Yeah. No fun times. I'm lucky I got a chapter in...Let see if I can get another squeezed through.