Waiting for Spree was rather easy, as Shadow got to relax, enjoy her tea, and let the Minions come and grab the thestral anything Sonata might not get...then again the crystal mare could easily get said things herself. Yet she had one of the Servant Minions go and tell Spree that Shadow wanted to talk to her. Mostly to get this matter out of the way as she also was waiting for the news for Albert to arrive, as she planned for Sky to be sent for Glint for...professional help.

That was another thing Shadow had to talk to Jerry over. Spree was going to be one thing, but telling him one of his concubines-- and in a sense his ‘bitches’, as Sky put it, would be away for a while? Well, thinking on it now, her stud could use the cool-down on sex. She and Lovely might have spoiled him some on that front. But with kids on the way and more work being focused on the castle…

It was probably a good time to think about placing Sex as a ‘after activity’ when a good deal of work was dealt with. Doing it every other day was… not helping curb the paperwork and new tasks Jerry constantly has to do. And thinking about it, as much as Shadow loathed to think about it-- she had to consider helping with picking up the slack. At least in keeping order while the man was away, or… doing paperwork…

Maybe I should tell Jerry that he should do the sex less and focus on the castle and paperwork. Tell him it’s not too bad of a thing, but with the foal on the way he should start ‘training’ himself. Maybe let Sea assist Jerry with massages, but Sea would be helping me and Lovely with the foals when they’re born-- as will the triplets. Granted Spree will be busy with her own thing...but there’ll be additional help.

Another thing to bring up to Jerry was Spree joining with three adoptive daughters… She was hopeful that he’ll handle it. She prays to the Night-mother that Dew will give some mercy to Jerry. Shadow also knew that Jerry was sorta...suspicious of Spree in a sense, since he somehow managed to figure out Spree was into Her really early on. Granted she could reason to him about the pros…

Maybe add in that it would help with the foal raising in the future? Although admittedly that was a stretch. She knew she could handle Spree in discussion as it was obvious the earth mare was still head-over-heels for whatever Shadow tossed at her. Could probably seduce her easily even with foals showing-- although it wasn’t what Shadow was planning.

Jerry on the other hand? Well if he wasn’t another race with a whole different mentality, adding in a can of worms of his near death experiences, and his position?

Shadow had a pretty good idea that despite trying to give a long talk with him-- it will be really, really hard for the man to overcome in a sense. Especially with Sky being sent away for psychology aid and telling him to lessen the sex for the castle needs. Then again he will be rather unhappy...but she’s certain he’ll use that extra energy for other things. Maybe extra energy in training?

Whatever the case, it was all something Shadow realized she had to work out. It made her sigh and almost wonder how her life got so complicated. Once upon a time? She just wanted to be Jerry’s love slave and maybe have a nice good life, some nice hot sex, a littler and just… live things out with her and him-- with Lovely on the side.

But now?

Well, now she wasn’t sure how she was at this point. Overlady to a hoard of Minions. Queen to two young twins that would be the successors to a raising Kingdom. Wife, to whom was slowly becoming the next Warlord King hidden on his secret island and magical gates and slight potential for world conquest.

It made her want to shake her head of the sheer craziness that was now her life. It made her wonder if this was how the six element bearers felt when they became Equestria's heroines. To have so much on your shoulders all because of one little thing. Mind boggling.

“Stabby-pony here, Mistress!” Called the servant minion, Spree followed right behind him.

Smiling, Spree waved, “hey Shadow, what’s up?” Her confident strides seem to slightly hint at a fairly good workout. “Goob’s there said you had something important to tell me.” And soon offhandedly added, “hey Sotana.”

Glancing up from her work, the mare bowed, “Miss Spree.” And returning to her task without much else said while Spree took a seat.

Nodding, Shadow took a sip of the tea as she waved the Servant away, letting him get back to...well, apparently hoof polishing. She was surprised the Minions would even do this for her as they were cleaning and rubbing her hooves with a rag. Still she focused on Spree and said. “Yeah, I did. I thought over our conversation a week back...and after giving it some time?” taking a breath in and looking at her as she said. “I think you should join us Spree. For the foals sake if anything.”

Half backing in her seat, Spree said, “what?” A little surprised at Shadow being… forwards about it. “But, what about what I said? How it’s not fair for you and Jerry--”

“You won’t be a ‘full status’ herd-member. But you won’t be a concubine either, you’re like...halfway.” Interrupted Shadow, then told to Spree with a focused look. “Plus, I need you to be there with me for the foals.”

Scratching her head and thinking on it, Spree said, “it’s just… I mean, I tried to think it over and I don’t know how this could work out. I’d feel like I’d just get in the way with what you got with him and…” Tapping the table in thought a little to go on, “and I’d love to help with the foals, but as a… half-wife?” Looking a little confused.

“Seasalt herself would be helping as well.” told Shadow as she looked at Spree, deciding to explain. “Did you ever wonder why Sea volunteers to be a concubine, Spree? She’s like you, somepony with a realistic view and knowing things. She’s doing this to repay Jerry as she can’t have her old life. She also knows that he isn’t evil. And the more time she spends with the herd? The more she understands that Jerry is a guy...that was put in a difficult position.

“She isn’t doing this for sex, riches, or position-- but because the stud needs her help to ease his grief.” then let out a lament sigh as she went on. “We all know how hard Jerry gets on himself-- especially with his self-destructive thoughts or views. So Seasalt is willing to do this because both me and Lovely need her when the birth happens. Especially with Sky and Lovely not ready to raise a foal fully.” then gave a small smile.

“Even raising foals that aren’t her own is a bonus to her, she might not love Jerry like me or Lovely would-- but it’s a life she’s willing to live because it’s a stable one. In a way? She’s getting a life most mares would’ve wanted. Kids. A family, a husband that’s at least decent. And with her being barren? She would need to adopt, or join a herd to have those...and this herd is the only one she saw was the closest thing of ‘normal’ she could have.”

Looking down to that, Spree thought that over and asked, “what about Sky?” A uncertainty inside her tone. “What about her? How does she fit into all of this with her…”

A low sigh escaped as she told Spree. “Sky is like the young, love-school-struck filly. No idea of the full impact as herd-mate or real responsibilities. She’s a young mare, acting like a high-school love-sick puppy looking for attention-- which is Jerry at this point.” a frown on her face as she went on. “She hadn’t any real love to be given to her as an orphan, and was tricked to be purposely dumbed with more issues than she thought.”

A sad look on Shadow's expression as she said. “She isn’t ideal, that’s true...but I allowed her in, because Sky wants what any mare wants. Someone to give back love and cherish her. And with hope, from us with Sea help? Will make her see there’s more to being in herd, than sex, supposed love and tending to Jerry need like bed warmer. She needs to grow up-- but it’ll take time. Especially with how the situation is now…”

Sighing out and half biting her lip, Shadow watched the yellow mare slightly chew at it. A bad habit in the thestrals opinion, but it was clear that Spree was thinking about it hard. “What about your traditions?” voiced Spree in concern. “I mean… we’ve talked about it, I’m… you know, the whole ‘in sex, dom leads’ and stuff?” A clear worry there. “You know I’m not one to… you know, just roll over. How would…” It was a concern that was… sweet.

It made Shadow smile and recall just how concerned Spree could be over her person. Especially now her position as both Head mare and Overlady. And while tradition was important…. It was clear this whole love-affair going on needed compromises.

Thinking it over, she said. “Outside the bedroom? You will have to defer to me, since I’m the first mare. Even more with the foals.” then told simply. “In the bedroom? Well… you will be Jerry equal in a sense. And while I may not fully love you like I do to him? I do care for you, Spree.” then joked with a smile. “Just remember if we do get frisky? Jerry get first before you do.”

With a half smile and a little tease, Spree poked back, “you sure I can’t join him too? I might not like to share, but I’m sure you might like two dom’s on you.”

Keeping her expression still and showing no signs, Shadow reminded. “I won’t be in the mood for months now, so let's not get carried away.”

“Right.” Sheepishly chuckled Spree, “head out of gutter, right.”

“Although speaking of sex, you do know that you’ll have to go with him now and then…” then joked in a knowing look. “Although from what the triplets say? I think you do like him more than a friend sometimes with that body.”

Blinking, Spree said in defiance, “do not!” Then huffed, “seriously, the dork might have a good body, but that doesn't mean I like him like that.” Crossing her arms and flattening her ears.

“Masturbation's in the shower. The three confirm it.” responded Shadow.

“So?” Countered Spree, “since the whole rape thing, it’s been a problem to not get a little horny now and then, I can’t help it when it just happens!” trying to apparently defend herself to some extent. It amused Shadow to no end, it reminded her of when Spree was going through puberty with her and the yellow mare constantly said no to their classmates there was nothing between her and the thestral.

Blinking for a brief moment, Shadow thought back when Spree had a crush on her when they were in school...but it was gradual as it was from friendship to a slow affection. And with plenty of denials as it took a while for their experiment sex before it turn to a full-on want from Spree. To which Shadow reminded. “You know Spree...the more you try to deny it, the more obvious it will be. You said the same thing to me back in highschool-- and now you are hooves over heels over me.”

Blinking, Spree spoke dumbly, “say what?” Making it clear that, yes, their old schoolmates were right. Spree was clueless. And apparently, from Shadow’s experience, the only way that will undo… was when Spree eventually did something that would make her realize how she felt.

She was more of a tom-boy in that head of hers. Maybe, just maybe, Shadow shouldn’t be so surprised her Bi friend was just as dense as a guy at times.

Rolling her eyes, she simply. “Nevermind.” figuring it will happen eventually. Even more plot on how to get Jerry and Spree closer...with her own Minions-- filly minions. She was certain Jasmine wouldn’t mind helping either. Still she was certain that the triplets, even if Dew might ‘test’ Jerry, she and her sisters saw he was a good mate for Spree. “In either case Spree, are you in?”

Pressing her lips together again, Spree half fidgeted and soon said, “you know if any other pony asked, I’d probably shut them down, right?” It almost made Shadow laugh at how Spree caved a bit to just being asked. “But, before we do anything… big, two things?”

“And those are?”

“Well…first...” Started Spree, “I get you won’t be in the mood, I totally understand. And I agree-- but after that, you sure you’re… alright with the whole… duality thing?” Raising her hands to spin them over the other. “I mean, I don’t mind it. I can follow order and stuff, you’re sort of like the Queen around here. I might as well be the head of the guard. But in bed, are you sure you’re alright with me going… all dom?” Babbling in her concern, “I mean, your traditions and all--”

“I know. And admitally? It’s a very...huge deal.” sighing out Shadow as she interrupted. “All I ask...is that you just...just remember that while I do love you? Most of my love is for Jerry too….He’s my Alpha first and foremost.” Looking to Spree as she went on. “I know technically you would be the Beta-- but I trust you enough to not step over your boundaries with my position. Especially in both the bed room and outside…”

“Plus? You could easily make sure another mare won’t try to use traditions to usper me.” then jokes. “Although I don’t know if they’ll be able to try with both you and the Minions.”

“We protect the Mistress from all!” told Goob from below as she motioned him to finish his hoof cleaning.

Smiling a bit, Spree said, “I… kinda feel a little flattered you trust me that much.” And Shadow was sure there was a little blush there. But it was gone pretty quick as Spree said, “well, anyways. Second thing is… you know that I’m not just going to let Jerry stick it in me, right?” Which… Shadow understood very clearly.

By both their admission, Spree was a Dom. By nature, at least for Thestral standers, she was not just going to give into Jerry. If anything, their relationship had to be… almost carefully done.

Spree seemed to even underline it. “I know it’s kinda a big thing, but… it’s something I just can’t do, you know?” Shifting a bit to continue on. “It’s something… we need to work out-- and you definitely need to talk him over on it too. I have a job to do, I can’t just… up and spread my legs because he feels like he needs to bang my ass like a rabbit. I have responsibilities to both guard troops, train guards-- and even take care of the triplets!”

And right there… was the responsibility that, ironically, their little herd needed.

Giving a nod, SHadow told. “I will let Jerry know-- even give a long talk to him as he will need to focus his energy on the castle and his duties more than his needs.” then adding. “Plus in all honesty? This is something I can tell he’ll understand quickly too. Granted he might be a little...unsure, but then again he isn’t a pony. He doesn’t think like we do most of the time.”

Adding on to assure. “But I think he’ll get the point across, especially when the foals come.” rubbing her stomach a bit as she glanced at the mare and soon asked. “Which...remind me. Did you ever ask Giblet for that Arcanium armor set?”

Nodding, Spree said, “I told him. He seemed onboard with the idea.” Then rolled her eyes, “took a good half hour or something to convince him not to add spikes or claws, or stuff that would make me look like a conquesting invader.” Then pinched her nose, “and don’t get me started on the sacrifice stuff. I gave up on trying to talk sense to him after that part.”

“Did...he mentioned what Minions he was sacrificing?” asked a slight concern Shadow.

“I didn’t ask.” Honestly told Spree. “I said I’d rather not, but I think he’s gonna do it anyways. So I didn’t ask, because I don’t know if I could wear the armor if I knew.”

“Would it be still strange for me to say I’m still creeped out on that?” asked Shadow as she told her. “I know it’s been a year since we’ve been here-- but still! It’s creepy that Jerry could sacrifice his Minions like that.”

Snorting, Spree told, “Shadow, it’s dark magic. I don’t think that stuff is ever, not creepy.”

Nodding a bit, she sipped her tea and soon said. “Well Spree...As much as I want to talk-- I do need to talk to Jerry…” then furrowed her brows as she looked at Sonata as she asked. “Did...Jerry ever come back from the mines?”

Moving to stand before Shadow, Sotana said, “He hasn’t returned yet, Milady. He might be gone for the day.”

Shaking her head, Spree added to that, “I bet. Whatever he’s doing, he took one of his armor sets and went with a hoard of minions. My guess is he’s dealing with something on the island.” then waved, “he’ll be back eventually. Not much trouble he can get to here, right?”

Smile eventually going away, Spree got up and said, “anyways… Thanks for the offer, Shadow. It’s not… how I pictured it… but I can at least do that much for you.” Eyes up with a slight hope that something more would grow between them-- but seeming to also understand to an extent, it wasn’t going to happen soon.

Giving a nod, Shadow said. “It was good talking to you too, Spree.” letting the earth mare leave soon enough as she waited till Spree was gone in both eyesight and out of hearing range as she let out a sigh. “Well...that went better than I thought...now to wait for Jerry.”

Feeling two hands on her shoulders and thumbs working back and the base of her wings, Shadow gave a slightly surprised squeak, before it developed more into a relaxed moan. “I know that you said she loved you… but it looked like Miss Spree was also completely concerned about how things would go if she joined.” Doing a… surprisingly great job of helping the thestral relax.

Giving a relax sigh, Shadow said. “yeah….Spree tend to focus on others or things before her own feelings sometimes. It was how she was raised.” then felt Goob left from under the table, carrying his hoof cleaning kit as she waved him off, before moving to take another sip of her tea as she went on. “In any case? I’m glad things might work out. Now we just need to wait for Jerry-- and probably from Albert once he arrives here.”

Nodding, Sotana kept all focus on massaging Shadow’s back and a bit on the tense wings. “If I may, Milady? You should consider just relaxing. The stress won’t be good for the foals. After I’m done massaging your back, would you like me to draw up a warm bath?”

“That...would be great. Please make sure that the Servants get the right bath salts this time? And some privacy for myself to enjoy the bath too.”

“I will see to it myself.” Sotana fully agreed with a smile. It was a little odd, in some ways. Shadow wasn’t sure how to feel about the mare’s total loyalty ever since the Pink incident.

Even as she relaxed back, with the slight knowledge of the buxom mare behind her being something… more, Shadow felt honestly at ease. Yes, it was true, her mind still thought back to how Sotana was sent and was to be her bodyguard…. Jerry’s bodyguard-- even her foals bodyguard. And this added loyalty to do her whims…

It was maybe something to think about later-- after all the rest of the Drama with Jerry, Spree, Sky and whatever else was going to happen was done and over with. But for now, having a loyal handmaiden to help her with her every need was… nice. Oh so very nice.

Part of her mind slightly wondered if this was going to be common even more when the foals were born? She just hopes that there won’t be anything drastic like anytime soon.

---

“You broke it.” There were many things Jerry hoped to hear from Albert. And this… was not one of them. Seeing the Scientist before the in-shambles armor, it’s many scorched areas stubbornly clinging on the metal and the scientist working on the pieces… it was just not what Jerry expected to hear once Albert got in the forge to look at the Prototype.

“Okay before you blame me-- I was fighting against a ‘Caribou Hero’ that was using a magic system of Order with a magic blade-- his magic and mine didn’t agree.” defended Jerry, he however took a deep breath in as he asked. “As for broken...how bad is it? Like...we gotta scrap it broken-- or something worse?”

While he asked, Jerry watched Albert reach into the helmet and, try rather hard, to remove something. The overlord guessed it was that red chip that recorded the data Albert presumably used to learn about the Prototypes mistakes in the field. The problem? It didn’t seem to want to come out.

Albert resorted to taking out his Scanner, moving the helmet around and going about scanning it. PDA on the ground and other hand working away to look at the data. After a moment, Albert said, “we can melt down the materials, but the armor isn’t fixable. Salvageable to recycle, but we’ll have to make new armor.”

After a moment more, he said, “data’s corrupted. Not sure if I can get anything out of it…” And, moving a bit on the ground, searched the armor bits. Jerry was a little surprised to find that, in another part of the armor, there was apparently another chip… but in a lot worse wear.

After one look, Albert said, “crushed…” And went back to searching, fishing out a semi-burnt chip and seemingly downloading that to the PDA… and saying, “Corrupted…” And look at Jerry with a look alike to bemusement. “Did the warning system malfunction?”

“No...it worked. I just couldn’t move. Said potential vaporization and critical failure-- and told me to have a nice day…” said Jerry as he sighed out. “Really...I’m sorry Albert. I should of tried to retreat...but...well..something tells me that this Dulsion guy wouldn’t give me that chance so easily.”

Staring for a bit, Albert soon dropped the bits and pieces and stood up. Scanner in hand once more, he used it to go over the remains and waited. After a bit, he placed it away and went right to the tablet, telling, “it was a prototype, Jerry. It wasn’t complete and we just found one of its limitations. It was bound to break sooner or later-- like with the lightning. It has weaknesses and they need to be found out. Now that a lot have been found, I can at least improve and make your next armor, not have those same weaknesses.”

“Which means it’ll take longer until the armor is ready.” said Jerry as he nodded with crossed arms. “At least I can use the other sets again….” then glance at Giblet, who was busy hammering away something as Jerry told Albert. “I found a way to improve my horde...among other things.”

Tilting his head, Albert quizzed, “new armor, better weapon work?” Tossing out a few things apparently at the top of his head.

Shaking his head, Jerry told. “No...remember when I told you about some of my artifacts and their uses? Well...let's just say that I found their ‘predecessor’.” using the word mostly due to Giblet being around to overhear anything the two gamers had to say.

“I see…” Began Albert, slightly slowing his work to think on that. It wasn’t long before he was once more typing away and telling, “if that is the case, maybe I can speed up the production of that armor.” Which was a slight surprise to hear.

“What? Albert, I thought you need to prioritize the Citadel-1 and your own things before the armor?”

“Citadel-1 is mostly managed by Grain and Twilight.” Swiftly told the Scientist. “And I can place some of my projects on the side. You don’t have the prototype armor, and you might have found an advantage.” Stopping to further add, “you’re also going to be entering hostile territory with the Storm King’s borders. You’re going to need it sooner than later.”

Taking a moment to think, Albert went back to work, nose to Tablet. “I’ll bring a Plasteel ingot here for Giblet to work over. Get used to how to mold it. I need to send a message to the Citadel and tell Magic and Pyro to get ready, I’m going to need their help on speeding up the armor process some. I’ll bring it here so Giblet can help us finish up it’s final parts and hardware.”

Sighing some, Jerry wondered how it would be done all quickly...but he did however say. “Albert, there’s something else you might need to know.” making a hand motioned to giblet to move the pieces elsewhere, as the Brown moved each piece bit by bit to a corner as Jerry explained. “The totem that I found? There’s six of them. There’s also two other sets of health and mana for five...and while it’s confirmed that those things are around? Especially possible new mounts for the Reds?”

A grimace expression on his face as he went on to say. “It also means they’re spread out...and it’s possible anyone in power could either have them...or try using them. Especially the Dark crystals.”

With a slight nod, Albert said, “well, all the more reason to finish up that new armor, huh?” Having a slightly whimsical smile in place.

Giving a short laugh, Jerry told. “It also doesn’t help that those caverns I’ve explored on the island? Got some of the enemies appearing there. Apparently it’s some side-effect from the Tower Heart magic.” then admitted. “But I was surprise when a larger Salamander appeared out of nowhere...I think those caverns are the ‘dungeons’ for me to explore and conquer through.”

“Better start setting up patrols and consider making walls.” Told Albert seriously. “If mobs from that ‘place’ are appearing here? You need to consider making things to keep your citizens safe. They won’t know how to deal with threats, or threats they don’t realize are threats before it’s too late.”

“It's the big threat I can handle and tell them…” then scowls as he said. “It’s the damned Gnomes they’ll be unsuspecting to that’s the problem. Especially if they can get in easily.”

Pausing in his work, Albert turned his head to say, “Gnomes?”

“Second ‘place’ I told you about, the one the Spell Catalyst came from? They got these small, annoying, thieving-,” going on a small rant as Jerry started to move around. Sounding utterly despising of the Gnomes, to which Albert gave a flat look, going back to his work and half-listening to the tangent of Jerry’s spite of the Gnomes. After Jerry finished nearly 5 minutes of ranting, Albert turned his ears back in. “--small no good little PESTS!”

Taking a deep breath in, Jerry was back on topic as he told. “They just spread everywhere, easy to sneak in-- easy to kill that’s true, but take the Life force, the Fairy gems-- even gold and runoff before I have to send my forces to kill them and take the stuff before more knick it off! They’re harmless sure-- but can easily invade into homes and take what they want! And they come with fire hats to burn you if they latch onto you!”

“Sounds like you need to invest into getting some mousetraps.” Remarked the scientist.

“Mousetraps? No, I need full time pest control!” then snorted. “With the Salamanders, I might get that. They easily burn in a gnome home and kill the little buggers.”

“What about cats?” Asked Albert while pausing in his work. “I’m sure they’d hunt them.”

“Last I checked, no cats lived on the Island, plus I doubt there’s much were the Equestrians are at. I would need to visit the other nations to check if they got cats there too.”

Lifting a brow, Albert shrugged it off and told while turning his focus to the PDA. “Anyways. I’ll get to work converting one of your armors into arctic wear for your next trip. Pinkie Pie will be getting ready in a couple of weeks. I’ll be here for most of that time to work on it, and hopefully during that time Magic can bring the new Armor around to be finished here.” then mused to himself, “should make a note of supplies to make a small lab here temporarily…”

“Pretty sure we got enough space for it. Especially with that large research wing we made for the other scientists.” told Jerry as he added. “And with the added new mineral deposits from that first area? We’ll see a surplus…” then frown...and waited as Giblet walked off to keep doing his work as Jerry soon told. “I found something else from the other place while down there. A Netherworld Shard.”

Albert peaked over his tablet, the question left unsaid but easily seen through the man’s glowing, sickly yellow eyes.

“The Netherworld Shards are...shards from the Netherworld. A place where that other thing I told you reside. And they allow me to...gain control of a Minion and basically be in their body…” rubbing his face as he went on. “But they are...inactive. My best guess? I didn’t accomplish the ‘conditions’ the Netherworld has....if it’s actually around.”

“And the point of this being…?” Slightly dragged out Albert curiously.

“Netherworld Shards are spread out. You can find them nearly everywhere in that other place. And where’s there one? There’s more shards all over. Made out of the same material as my Gates.” Rubbing his face a bit as he knew that while it may not be much for Albert-- Jerry knew that with more signs of Overlord 2 things around? Something tells him that things might change fast.

Finger up to stall Jerry, Albert reiterated, “Let me try again, why would you need to control one minion, you can naturally command them all?”

“...in the other place, you tend to need a Minion to sneak through an area-- while commanding Minions at the same time. A mean for...subtly if that makes any sense. Or to control a Minion while commanding other's to infiltrate and allow me to enter in the place if need be. Like say... I control a Green with a horde to sneak in and open the entrance and sabotage it’s defense.”

Shaking his head, Albert questioned, “is that even needed anymore then?” Which made the man at first, confused. But Albert seemed more than happy to elaborate. “Your minions aren't like before. They’re intelligent, able to plan and cohesively cooperate with one another to do tasks you give them.”

“Before, when you just spammed them to fight with only one focus, something like that would've been useful.” Admitted Albert. “But now, they have enough intellect, no matter how small, to do more advanced jobs on their own.”

“...honestly you’re right. But...I can’t help but feel...scared.” admitting this fully as Jerry crossed his arms to explain. “If the Netherworld Shards are revealed after so long...it’s a matter of time before we might find out the Netherworld is here-- and if it is...will either the Storm King find it...or that necromancer?”

Seeming amused, Albert said, “the netherworld is equivalent to hell, correct?” Then rolled his hand, “there’s a place called Tartarus here. It’s in Equestria-- and guarded by a mortal Cerberus dog that, from what I understand, can’t die to anything. And while the Khara can kill a lot of things, Magic is sure that it won’t even cause the dog to so much as sneeze.” Half smiling, “apparently it guards creatures and things so horrible, that even their flesh can spread unspeakable diseases. And this dog has to be completely immune to them all.”

Thinking it over...Jerry chuckled as he nodded. “yeah...I’m being silly. Guess I’m thinking of the worst when it’s not there.” then soon told. “Which reminds me. If you are going to make one of my armors into winter gear? Best do it for the Durium set. It’s not as strong as Arcanium-- but it’ll do for the most part.” then thought over and asked. “That also...made me think of something else…”

“Is there any more info that is needed for the Storm King? All I got from Pearl when I contacted the Island that he was, and I quote, ‘Dangerous in terms of military might, lots of influence, and has a means to spread his forces all over if given the chance.’. Which...means he has an armada of airships to throw around.”

“Plenty.” Agreed Albert. “I touched up on the subject with both Magic and Celestia. The Storm King has a large force and a good percentage of them are troops just as tall as Minotaurs, and almost as strong. But for certain are much tougher. Armor’s part of the finest line and apparently they were the ones to come up with anti-magical armor.”

“If anything?” Went on Albert in thought, “the caribou tried copying it. It only resulted in a metal that diffused magic, not completely reflecting it back like the Storm King’s forces.” Which did cause a little concern for Jerry. “He’s also economically sound, surprisingly. Apparently he has a fleet of ships dedicated to making trade to keep the military going smoothly. It’s a surprisingly effective dictatorship with a constant income of funds to continue creating ships, weapons and armor.”

“....how he hasn’t taken over the world yet?!” nearly shouted Jerry in dumbfound.

Smiling, Albert told while lowering his tablet, “to put it simply, while they do have a lot of military power, they have a limited amount of magical potential.” Which… subdued Jerry some. “They can enlist magical users, and know how to make magical weapons. But the fact of the matter is, that while they can make things resist or counter magic? They have not that many magical users. So when it comes to people like Magic, or even Celestia? They can’t contend.”

Then turning back to his PDA, Albert went on. “Also, while it’s ‘possible’ to conquer the world, they can’t just do that. Conquering land also requires converting it to his system. Re-elect leaders, mayors, headships and basically re-stabilizing everything. They gear and prepare to attack just one nation, because they know that they can’t just overtake it by sheer force. They employ very sound tactics and study the enemy before actually acting.”

“....you know, that theory of Screech hoping I get killed is a lot more sound now.” said Jerry as he rubbed his forehead. “I mean...economical strength? Military might? Strategy and anti-magical armor-- while employing magic users? I mean sure I could use hit and run tactics...but if what you’re saying is right? They’ll learn, adapt-- and kick my ass hard or probably manage to kill me. I mean...sure I can cause damage but…”

Sighing as he looked at Albert. “I think we both know that I am a very poor, poor tactician.”

Sighing and placing away his work, much to his dismay, Albert turned to face Jerry fully. “They might have better odds, but you have advantages they don’t.” Holding up a finger to tell. “One. you have Gates. Hide them over his land and jump from location to location-- you can easily evade them and they can’t get in. You can also place up dummy gates, cause their forces to watch those, while you use your hidden ones to easily slip by. You have a mobility advantage.”

“Two.” Rose the next finger as the scientist explained. “Intel. Greens are surprisingly effective. Give a few a mission, a single mission. Learn. They take document’s, letters, data-- anything available, even the metal they make. You can learn and adapt first. Learn where to strike, how to strike.”

“Three.” Albert gained a odd smile to this part and pat Jerry’s shoulder. “You have something that no one in this world has.” motioning to himself, “Altera technology. To be more to point, galactic level technology. They will think it’s magic, and try treating it like magic. But that will just work to your advantage, because not all spells work on technology. And I can cover those more glaring weaknesses.”

“Don’t forget four!” told a voice, both men glanced at Giblet, the smith finishing as he told. “Four! Minions! Lots of Minions. Smart Minions. Willing Minions. Loyal Minions! They have few bodies. We are legion!”

Tapping his chin, Albert nodded, “when employed right, quantity can easily beat quality.”

“Plus I do have a way for them to be revived back-- or get more forces.” agreed Jerry with a nod. Although he did admit. “But it still doesn’t help that my magic might not do much to them. Even the Target spell…” thinking a bit as he added. “Although the hardest part is stealing an Airship and somehow getting it back here…”

Shaking his head, the scientist said, “for now? Getting information, planning attacks and learning about the enemy should come first. Taking their technology or weapons should come later once you know how to get away with it.” Then jokes, “also, you can’t shout to them you're a villain, unless you make a dramatic escape. And that takes careful planning.”

Laughing a bit, Jerry gave a grin as he said. “Like stealing their airship or teleport away in a Gate as I give some villain speech?” feeling a bit amuse as he never did much of the ‘villain monologue’, mostly since that was, (in his opinion) a really stupid cliche to do. Granted it was little more than bragging...but cliche in real life. He had to add in with a slight thoughtful tone. “Although I might need to check up on making some groups of Greens when I have time. Mostly to start infiltrating the Storm King lands once I made those hidden Gates you mention. Start learning how much Intel they got and how I could use it for my advantage?”

Already thinking a bit, Jerry could see if Mortis can find the ‘smart’ Greens among the Tribe, maybe the Elites to be ‘leaders’ of each small group for their own mission. Gather what they can for materials and information. Maybe send out various groups and make sure they won’t get caught easily? Already Jerry's mind was thinking of ways to start building a means to steal from the Storm King, or in this case ‘borrow’ it.

“One step at a time.” Advised Albert before turning his focus away. “Now, if you don’t mind? I need to patch in a call to Magic and give him a list of materials we’ll need. While your lab offers nice, we need more specific conditions for your armor project.”

“Fair enough.” said Jerry, as he considered checking in on those caverns-- probably after he checked in on whatever work he’ll need to do. He knew by the time he reached the private Quarters in his work area, there would be a large amount of things to do….although part of him somewhat wondered as he left the Forge, that his enemies were still dealing trouble?

---

“Damn you Eyes of Fate. Damn you to Tartarus.” cursed out Dainn, as the last safe place in the lands was Canterlot, and already it was hard enough to push back the Wendigos. Add in the salt in the wounds of being infected as he had to deal with the cough, the itchy skin-- even the sense of crawling skin and irritated boils that now appear. He couldn’t even enjoy a bit of sex now-- not without hacking and cough.

Despite his all given magical powers and fortitude? It’s not enough to push the sickness aside.

Even more so, is the damned necromancer that is now terrorizing on what remains of his army. Taking the many dead and using them against his own. Add in insult to the Wendigos attacking his forces instead of the necromancer's own! Giving another heave of breath, Dainn knew that trying to summon the Eyes was pointless. Especially he doubted he could pay to remove the sickness from him-- or to deal with the constant threats.

Yes he dealt with the Overlord, but three more things replaced him.

Eyes narrowing, he cursed even more, “Damn it. Damn it all!” already moving to the room, not caring for subtle anymore as he went into the secret room. Taking the book as he slit his hand a bit, repeated the passage, not bothering to keep this room hidden much longer as he waited for the Eyes to appear.

Not that it took long, he could never seem to finish the passage fully or had time to watch the blood soak into the book. It seemed that whenever he looked up, Fate was there to meet him. And the male was indeed there, looking for the world amused. And it boiled Dainn’s blood. “How are you, ‘Emperor’ Dainn?” Half cocking his head to the side and adding, “you’re looking a little green. Caught a bit of something?”

Snorting, he accused. “You did this. You deliberately sent not only the Wendigos-- but the necromancer to replace the Overlord to cause havoc on my lands. Didn’t you?”

Waving a dismissive hand, Fate told, “I did exactly what you asked. The Overlord stopped intruding, and there is zero chance of him ever killing you.” The smugness there made the emperor want to grit his teeth. “I follow through my deals, always have and will.” Then polished his nails against the shirt under that trench coat of his. “It’s not my fault you’re not satisfied with the means to those results.”

“You mean you twisted the deal to cause me more trouble.” snorted Dainn as he said. “However,” coughing a bit as he glared upwards. “As of now, I have more important things to be focused on. Like my health. You cure me in exchange for the Overlord life.”

There was loud, amused and even mocking laughter to that. “You don’t have the Overlord's life to give, Dainn!” Grinning with his blackened and inverted teeth to go on. “You can’t make a deal when you don’t have the goods. I will set the price, like always.”

“Then what is it? What will it be for me to be rid of this sickness and in full health again, Eyes?” demanded Dainn.

Walking from right to left, the Eyes of Fate hummed and tapped his cheek ever so thoughtfully. “Well… that depends. Do you want me to just make you completely immune to it so it can no longer affect you at all?” Then grinned, “I’ll want something pretty hefty. That virus is a persistent little thing.”

“What. is. It?” snapped Dainn in agitation.

“Your soul.” Idly told fate while looking over the room. “But, you have to die for that. So no pressure on just giving it to me right now at this moment. It will come later.”

Doubtful, since I’m immortal. thought Dainn as since he took the former rulers magic and powers-- he became immortalized. And not many things could kill him as before. Looking to Fate, resisting the urge to scratch at himself as he told. “Deal.”

Grinning in an almost malevolent manner, Fate told, “a pleasure doing business with you.” Turning and outstretching his hand. Similarly, Dainn reached out and took the male’s hand, shake-- and feel the pain. The magical surges that pulsed in his body and stressed his magical pathways like before to bind the deal.

In a swift, fast motion of a hand, Dainn felt something prick his arm. A glance down showed that the Eyes had injected some… vile of liquid into his arm. It was only a moment later he felt magic, dark, writhing magic, course through his being. It made him fall to the ground after the male let go, and after a moment… breathed out in a sort of… peaceful way. No pain, no coughing, no itching.

One look at his hand showed it, he was cured. He was no longer ill. He felt empowered, and grinned. He was invincible once more. But any celebration was cut short, the Eyes of Fate telling, “you should be going, little Emperor.” Making Dainn glance up. “Something’s about to make your little kingdom here tumble into near anarchy~”

Eyes widened, he immediately thought of the necromancer, quickly turning to walk out. Although in his haste...he forgot to close the door to the secret room.

The Eyes watched with amusement, allowing himself to slip away and letting time once more resume. Walls once more gained their natural hues and the dark shadows once more took over. The room sat there, the book still open and it’s many glyphs shifting in place.

Slowly, clopping hooves echoed out as a mare, bare, bruised, and barring a red collar, made her way down the hall with a bucket and rag. Her eyes were heavy, and any light in them seemed to be gone. She looked up, measuring her distance to the next turn, and stopped upon spotting the open room.

She glanced left to right, unsure of where this room came from, or if she should enter. Her master would surely punish her if she intruded into a space she was not allowed, and thought to move past the room, eyeing it carefully. Before she could even cross the hall, her eyes landed on the most peculiar of books.

It lay there, pages wide open and words indescribable moving on their own accord and will. ”Come.” her ears perked, looking intently at the book while the many symbols seemed to dance. ”See.” Her hooves moved, a strange… feeling radiating from the book itself. ”Look.” something about how the letter’s shifted, became and changed… her master’s wouldn't mind if she just peeked, would they?

She gulped and moved closer, her tattered and painfully burnt wings shifting while peering into the pages, bucket placed down. Inside those pages, she saw… so much. Things that had been. Things that could be. The promise of her desires fulfilled. Her hands reached, touching the pages, a power… a huge, horrible yet undefinable power rushing inside her being, crawling along her naked body. Her mind, deciphering the words she needed… to get what she wanted.

“By past to future, by seen and unseen.” She started an odd feeling in her chest. “I call on the one where all that is goes according to time and has already been.” Finger tracing the edge of the page. “Hear what has been heard and see what has been seen. I call on you, watchful one of all fates and ends, come before me, and my current request.” Finger, fiddling with the edge of the book. “For I, the messenger of my desires, wish to make a bargain, oh Eyes of Fate.”

She half yelped, a little papercut being made on her finger for not being careful. The little drop of blood touching, and being tasted by the book that soaked it. And like that, did the room no longer look normal, and the colors invert. With a chuckle, she looked up startled at the male before her, having also been inverted with a ware of a leather trench coat, and the appearance of an anthropomorphic cat.

“You’re here for a deal, little pony?” He asked, a large cheshire grin in place, poofy tail flicking in place.

“W-Who...are you?” spoke the mare, fear gripping at her of the sudden feline...just appearing out of nowhere and looking off-putting.

With a large grin that showed many teeth, the male moved. Almost stalking to the side like a predator while saying, “I have quite a few names. But I’m best known as the Eyes of Fate.” Moving a bit closer, unnerving the mare of what he may do to her body. “And by my sight, you came here. You were fated to get something. Something you deeply desire.”

The mare glanced away to that, uncertainty filled her as the mare felt the bindings on her back of where her wings used to be. The mare slowly looked up and felt something….something in her heart, her being of that small voice. That small voice calling out for one thing. Revenge. A small fire arose in her eyes as she slowly asked. “Desire? What...what I wanted so much?” feeling that growth slowly swelling more and more.

Fate smiled. “You want vengeance. You want justice. You want to get back at the people that took so much.” Idly saying, speaking in a way as if he knew. “They took your wings. They took your dignity. They took what little purity you had.”

When he cast a look over his shoulder, he pushed on, hitting places that hurt her the most. “They killed your husband. They stole and raped your lovely little daughter. They razed your home. Robbed you from ever bearing children.” Then looked away, idly looking at his nails. “You became their slave of sex and hard labor. They took everything from you, so they could walk all over the little remains like kings…”

“What I offer.” He told his back to her, “is a means to get back at them, with full retribution. To cause them pain, suffering, whatever you wish… for a price.”

Head lowering down...she soon looked up with a sign of slight determination in her eyes, a bit of life that was once gone-- now slowly filled as she said. “Yes. I want revenge...I want Dainn dead. I want him to die in my hands when I tear his heart out.” giving a slight spat of anger as she finished. “I’ll give anything for that moment. Even trade my life if need be.”

Turning, the Eyes of Fate smiled in a manner that seemed very dark. Something, the mare completely glanced over in her anger and hate. “Then for a price, to kill what is almost a god? I’ll ask only this.” Turning around and sauntering towards her. “Once he’s dead and dying, go to the wilderness to the east. Take a coat, it’ll be cold.”

Hand raised, he seemed to spin it and in a instant, a dagger unlike any she had ever lay eyes on was in Fate’s hand. The blade, round and curved in a natural way, red as could be and looking to be made of bone. Held by unusual silver metal. “You will find a male in the wilderness, with an army. You will tell him, Dainn is Dead.” Handing her the dagger… then adding, “oh… and maybe one last act of seduction? Make the last thing the Emperor sees, is his supposed slut, stabbing his heart dead.”

Looking to the dagger, she then looked up to the Eyes as she asked. “And the male in the wilderness, what then after I tell him the news?”

“You may do whatever you like.” Told the Eyes, holding out his right hand for a shake. “You may leave him and try and survive… serve him, be his toy, look for a new living-- that is up to you.” And motioned down, “so… do we have a deal?”

“...yes.” told the mare as she took his right hand to shake.

The next thing she felt was pain as her arm burned with inscriptions, the deal burning itself into her arm. While she gave a scream of pain, the Eyes of Fate chuckled out, “Then please, don’t let me keep you waiting.” and vanished. Vanished once her screams died down and she was on the floor, half tired and with a dagger possessing a curved, red bone of a dagger. One look down at her arm, then the dagger… she knew what she had to do. Drive, unlike anything she had before, making her rise despite the pain and took the dagger with her. Vengeance shining in her eyes.

Taking a breath in, she turns to leave to give one last act of seduction...before glancing at the book….and returning back to take it. As she had a feeling that if she wanted something next time? She would call on the Eyes once more for a deal. Perhaps even find her own means...of a new life, one that seems bleak of a future, but one she can decide for herself for once.

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