In the morning of the island, as both groups were ready and eating food...Shadow and Spree took the initiative, deciding to speak to the Overlord than waiting for him to come...problem is, it was a big castle. Thankfully Shadow knew a bit of the Castle, at least enough to get to the throne room. She ignored Gnarl, as she rather not let Spree and the old minion bicker, turning to see Quaver doing some flips. She felt she could at least somewhat trust him.

As she asked to the Jester. “Quaver, do you know where he is?” getting the irish accent Minion to look to the mares as he said with a wide grin.

“Ah, of course madams! The Master is currently in the Dark Castle room in the Private Quarters!” Shadow bit her lip some, not recalling where that was as she asked.

“Can you..lead us to him?” the minion saluted, as he was moving to lead the two to where the Master was.

Spree glanced around and sighed, arms crossed while looking to her friend. The earth mare slightly glanced down, unable to stop at zeroing in on how the too-small-dress hardly hid the thestrals legs or flanks-- even the white panties that starkly showed like neon lights against her fur.

Looking back up, Spree walked up to be next to her friend and told, “You know, when we find him, we really need to talk to him about real cloths.” And patted her own revealing cleavage to say, “I mean… not that I’m complaining we’re sexy looking-- even I find you hot in that.” Then shook her head, “But we really do need some decent cloths. Maybe a nice dress or a blouse with jeans?” Juggling a few choice cloths to have.

Shadow nod in agreement as she admit. “While I am glad I have something modest to wear-- we do need more than these.” glancing to Quaver as the bard was leading up the stairs, and taking a left turn, as she recalled this area, but never really came around it to see the rooms in it. However when they got to the end, there was a...shine in the left room, sparkling things coming out as Shadow curiosity got the best of her…

Her mouth just gap at the amount of gold just lying there, all the way to the ceiling...filled with chests, some with gems...it was like a treasure trove!

Spree had to turn with her friend to see what distracted her, and just like her, looked on with wide owlish eyes. She wanted to say something, but really had no words. All she could register was this guy was loaded-- very much loaded. Loaded that he was practically set for life!

The two just stayed there...until Quaver rattle his Jester stick, gaining their attention as the Jester told. “Now, now ladies! The Master Treasury room is impressive, but come over here!” motioning them to the opposite side, as the doorless entrance lay before them. Taking her eyes off the gold, she followed Quaver, entering in to see a circle thing, with a exact replica of the Dark Castle. Glancing to moving wheel around the thing as Quaver spoke.

“Master, the miss’es wish to speak to you!” the thestral looking to the side, seeing her former Master in a chair, wearing bright yellow robes as he was reading a scroll. He glance up, surprise as he rolled it up and said.

“Oh, thank you Quaver, you may go.” the Minion bowed, leaving off as he soon asked, full attention at them. “So Shadow, Spree. What can I do you for?” and while Shadow was looking at him, she noticed a..bit of tiredness in his eyes, a sort of pain of something-- but whatever it was, it was push aside for whatever the two needed from him.

Spree wasn’t as attuned as her friend though, and while noting something off in his tone, dismissed the tiredness as his exhaustion from tapping the created mare’s ass like no tomorrow. “Well, first off… could you tell us your name?” Moving a hand to slightly pull her braided blue main over her right shoulder and tell, “We keep hearing ‘Overlord’, but that sounds like a tittle. You know our names, so… what’s yours?”

Putting the scroll on the side, he contemplated...before answering. “Jerry, my name is Jerry.” Shadow blink a little, she was...honestly expecting a bit of ‘villainous’ name like Doom, or Rager….not Jerry.

“Jerry…?” said Shadow as he nodded.

“Yep, I know it's not impressive, but it's my name.”

There was a moment of silence before there was a slight snicker, then a bubbling amount of giggling as Spree held her stomach and said, “Jerry.” Giggling out at the name. And, despite herself, Shadow felt her lips curl up and had to put a hand to her lips to try and smother her giggles too. “I-it sounds… it sounds too cute for a Overlord.” Continued to laugh Spree.

The mare held up a hand, trying to calm down, “Sorry, sorry, it’s just…” Going back to giggling with a bright smile, “I-I don’t know, it sounds…” Why did ‘Jerry the Overlord’ sound so nonthreatening? It sounded more cute or harmless than anything!

Rolling his eyes in amusement, he said. “Yes, yes, laugh it all up.” then look at them. “But you know why I don’t give out my name and instead my title. Doesn’t do much to bring fear and terror to my enemies, now does it?” Shadow giggle more, as she tease.

“M-Maybe die of laughter, then you’ll be feared for it.” Jerry chuckle with a smile going up as he joked.

“With my Minions looking so harmless and comedical, adding my name to my title might make them afraid to laugh whenever I come around.”

Calming down some and letting the giggles dissolve to shallow laughs, Spress breathed in and said, “Oh… oh I needed that.” Looking up with mild amusement before letting her smile ease down some and told, “We also wanted to ask when you’ll be getting real cloths.” Fully calming down as she motioned, “These are… okay-- but they’re just too revealing. A few real dresses would be appreciated.”

A grumbling and frown came on his face, as Shadow didn’t knew why he was acting like this-- until he said. “I know. I actually got some threads-- but the Minions are still trying to make the dresses. And it's more tricky than it seems.”

Shadow soon spoke, “you got threads? If you give them to me, me and Spree can make some clothings from it…” Jerry blink, giving a relief breath and said.

“Thanks...maybe when you two do get clothes, maybe teach some of the Minions how to sew? That way we’ll have more clothings to have for you two to wear.”

Crossing her arms over her chest to that, Spree gave Shadow a glance before saying, “Well… I guess we could try.” Then slightly nodded, “Might as well… It’s not a bad idea to have spare cloths around.” Then gave Jerry a look and breathed in and asked, “What’s going to happen to that mare?” Making him tense some.

Spree went on, not noticing his tense body, “I mean… Listen, I’m not going to ask you let her go or anything. I know that… whatever you… well, did, there’s no changing it. Shadow and I know that… that whoever they were are gone. I’m just…” She sighed and looked at him and told, “I’m just concerned, okay? After what’s been done to us mares, I’m just a little concerned for her well being. I just need to hear it from you that she’ll be treated right.”

Shadow noticed a few signs of Jerry when spree started to ask about the mare. His tense form, the way his hand gripped on the chair...the mixture of guilt, of slight anger, even concern. For Shadow...it was like Jerry was thinking Spree was judging him. But when she noticed he heard the concern and want of the truth from him, he relax some as he took a low breath, then look to them, mostly Spree in eyes as he told.

“I am going to treat her right, treat her like...my treasure.” being honest and upfront on it, as Shadow was getting a idea of that undertone that even if he said ‘my treasure’...there was a deep meaning to it.

For a moment, Spree’s eyes seemed to judge his own, weighing his words and figuring their worth… before giving a nod and a slight smile. “I’ll hold you to that then, alright?” Then frowned and sighed. “Listen. I know you said you’ll treat her right… but I think we both know, she’s your slave… your property.”

She bit her lip, glancing away to think before shaking her head. “I really don’t have anything to say. It bothers me, but as long as you don’t mistreat her… I have no reason to judge you.” Then looked up and asked, “Can you accept that? I might not… really feel comfortable with it, but I’m not unfair about it. I’m willing to give you a real chance, Jerry. Starting today.” Then gave an almost weary smile, holding a hand out, asking in a slightly shy tone, “Deal?”

He thought over that...thinking as he soon got up, moving his hand to shake hers as he respond. “As long as you give me a benefit of the doubt as me being a Overlord...I’ll accept it.” Shadow look over him, seeing him...slightly sagged when he mentioned his title, like it was a painful reminder. She then asked.

“Why are you a Overlord?” getting Jerry to pause as she went on. “When you still had us as your...property...I was starting to think that..that you seem like you don’t belong in this job.” giving her reasons. “You gave us actual food, water, some modesty...it's like you aren’t even a villain in a sense.”

She noticed that sagging a bit more, as once he let go, that tiredness came in his eyes, moving to sit down as he let out a long sigh, thinking on how to say it...before telling in honestly.

“You’re right. I was just...a nobody who was minding my own business, before I was thrust into this job and was told to be a villain.” being quiet as he thought more and went on. “I was tossed here from my home, my..few friends and loved ones and was expected to lead the Minions. Expected to be a villain just because I’m a Overlord.” Thinking as he added as he look in a far off distance. “Expected to do things that were, ‘normal’ for villains to do.”

A frown came over her face to that, and Spree said, “That… hardly seems fair.” Then shook her head and asking, “So why are you still trying to be the Overlord if… well, you don’t sound too… happy about it.” Not sure how to take this. She shifted on her legs, trying to figure out his male. “Wouldn’t it be easier to just… switch sides?” Though this only got a bitter laugh from him in return.

Shadow was a bit confuse on why he laughed, as he shake his head and told. “I can’t.” as he motioned his arms around as he told. “This Castle, the Gates, the Minions-- they all served one thing. Evil leaders. And if I did change to ‘good’,” having a bitter expression as he asked. “Where do you think they’ll go to find a evil leader to follow like loyal dogs?” letting it hang there for the mares to figure out what he meant.

A fist balled up and Spree looked down with a slight resignation. She knew what the next most common evil was-- or at least felt like it. The Caribous. Any of them could maybe fit the mold. She sighed heavily and said, “I see your point.” As much as she didn’t want to. It was right there and in her face.

Still, she looked up and said, “Even if you have to be… why are you helping us?” Motioning to herself and Shadow, “Why are you risking this ‘evil’ you have for… helping us?” Then shook her head, “Not that I don’t appreciate it. I’m thankful, honestly, that you’re letting us free-- giving me a chance to help my best friend. We’re just… a little confused.”

Thinking some as Shadow saw him struggling to thinking of a good way to say this...before he responded. “Because even if I have to be the bad guy, even if I have to be evil, even if I have to do many questioned and maybe even tainted things...I am still a reasonable being. I am still a person with some morals that...that I would be sickened with myself if I broke them,” looking at them as he said. “Because if I have to be the villain and promote evil...I rather be a villain with a skewed morality-- than a villain with no morals and cruel like what Gnarl wants me to be.”

While hearing this greatly concerned Shadow, a lot actually, she wasn’t sure how to take that idea. That thought. Why take that up? Why try and trudge through such a idea? Wasn’t it more harder to just… wading through all the pitfalls of being a villain with shaky morals?

Grimacing, Spree admitted, “You… you have…” Thinking it over before giving, “You’re… really gutsy doing that.” Which was a bit surprising for both thestral and human to hear. “I mean… that can’t be easy. Making that choice I mean.”

He gave a low smile and said. “I know it's not. But if I’m going to be a villain that's going to be a tyrant? I at least want to be a tyrant that has a bit of good, even if its as small as a mustard seed.” taking a breath and admit. “For someone like me...its so easy. Easy to just...give in to the evil acts, to the corruption of villainous. Easy to be what you hated, Spree. But if I did give in? Did allow myself to have no morals?” giving a low smile as he said.

“Well… I might as well be a villain that will die the moment you ponies take back your nation.”

“We don’t really like the idea of killing.” Told Spree, “But I’ll be… honest. That’s almost hard not to think after what the Caribou did to us…” Dragging off into a lull of silence, both sides unsure what to say.

Well, for a while. The sounds of tapping hooves could be heard as they glanced up to see Lovely, once more in her maid uniform, walking in with a bright cheery smile and a tray in her hands full of food and drink. She only slightly paused, taking in the sight of her Master’s somber state, before resuming her speed.

The tray was placed to the desk on the side, and not a moment later she walked up to her Master, arms around his broad from and pressing up to him, delivering a tender lick and soon kiss to his lips, holding it before backing off with a bright smile.

Spree and Shadow had to blink and shake their heads at the… tender action, sexualized or not. It look honestly caring and loving, and not intentionally sexual.

He gave a low smile, as he said. “Thank you.” as Lovely smile more, as she was glad that he was a bit cheered up. As she move to the side, Shadow look to Jerry, unsure of the tenderness between him and the created mare as she asked.

“Why did she..?” he look to her, as he said with a somber tone.

“She’s my precious treasure Shadow. When I came to...Dodge Junction, and when I made her? I made her to fully serve me and tend to me. She gets a good understanding how my mood is and it’s only getting better now.” as he internally know that she understands him and knows what to do...although how she's doing it? He just assume it was the machine doing the work, and not sure what else it was.

Lovely giggle softly, as she knew that she’s learning of her Master sweet or soft spots. Like that tender kiss, it showed from last night how much he liked it, and she actually reveled in it, since he showed his approval by making her feel so good. Shadow thought and soon asked.

“Why did you make her in the first place? Why couldn’t you…” trailing off and finishing. “Buy a mare?” feeling a bit of bitterness for asking that as Jerry sigh and admit.

“You two might ask for that mare freedom. And I...feel bitter as all those mares didn’t ask for this.” looking at Shadow with sad eyes, which made her look in..surprise as she heard him saying. “I honestly thought you wanted to willingly to be mine….not forced to and being broken and abused…” having a slight mixture of anger and bitterness. “I hated that fact, the mistreatment and forcing of slavery, even if Gnarl doesn’t mind it...I did. So I had really one option to do.”

Gulping, Spree finished, “You found out about the machine and decided to get a mare from it…” Nodding some and sighed, “We get it. And… since you didn’t know about the whole truth about it, I don’t think we can blame you.” Then looked to Shadow for a moment, concerned about the confusion in the mare’s eyes.

Scooting a bit, Spree reached a hand out to grasp Shadow’s own. The action slightly snapped the mare from her thoughts, glancing at her hand that was firmly held and squeezed to give a unspoken comfort and support. One that was reinforced when she followed the yellow limb up to her friends eyes and slight smile of assurance that they could talk about her feelings later after this.

Shadow gave a brief nod, as she refocus on Jerry and soon asked. “You...thought I was willing wanting to be yours?” seeing him nod as she thought over...and asked. “Jerry...if you knew of all of this now, and knew of that machine...would you take any slaves as your own? And any mare you come across...be free?” Jerry was silent...thinking some as he thought hard and heavy as he took a deep breath and look to her with a nod.

“I do. As many as I could…” then sag a bit as he added. “But the thing about being villains, Shadow? Everyone will celebrate with the hero's, cheer for them, praise them-- want to be around them because they represent all that's good. Villains? All alone.”

Frowning, Spree spoke, “She’s not asking if you stay villain or hero or any of that, Jerry.” Keeping her hand linked with Shadow’s, “She’s asking if you’ll help. That’s all.”

He look to them...and told. “I will. I’ll help as much as I could Spree.”

Giving a firm nod, Spree told, “Then let Shadow and I talk to them. Let us try and help them.” Then glanced down in thought before looking up and saying, “There’s…. Also something else.” Breathing in and telling, “I used to hear rumors. Real glance passings about a Rebellion. That there are ponies still trying to fight back.”

“I don’t know if they’ll trust you, at all.” Spree told honestly, “But, maybe keep an ear or eye out. If you really don’t think you can help ponies without it bothering this Evil… masquerade you have-- maybe you can find a way to contact the Resistance, let the mare’s reach them safely and get better.”

She then looked to Shadow for a moment, then nodded mostly to herself. The yellow mare then told, “The Resistance might be just a rumor… but if they do exist and you do contact them?” She paused in hesitance before taking a deep breath and told, “I want in with them.” Then held her friend’s hand tight. “After Shadow makes her choice… stay with you or be free… I’m going to the Resistance. I want to do something. To actually stop this nightmare.”

Thinking some...knowing that if...if Shadow do leave or not...depends on her, nothing he can do about that. Spree however? He thought long about it… as he soon said. “If you are going to fight….you’ll need training. Armor and a weapon…” then gain a thought...and soon got up.

“Follow me. I know just the place for you to get started on how to fight.” moving around them as he said to Lovely. “Follow if you wish Lovely.”

She nodded and without much more prompting, moved to pick up the tray and bring it with. Both Spree and Shadow gave the other a glance, but turned and began to follow the Overlord out of the room and down the halls. It was here that Shadow thought about what he said, and decided to inform him a little about Spree. To point, why she wanted to fight.

“Spree want to fight,” getting Jerry attention as he glance behind. “Because her dad was a former guard that went retired. She has some training, mostly in martial arts. She's technically ready to apply the military...but with the Caribous, that didn’t happen. She knows how to fight, but no way to use it.”

Jerry thought some and asked to Spree. “What weapons could you use? How much armor can you hold up?”

Figuring weapons first, Spree told, “Spear was my best weapon. But I also knew how to use the sword and a buckle shield. Bow too, but my Archery’s only so good.” Then went on to give, “I can work with heavy armor. I’m strong enough, but back then I only had weights to work with-- I haven’t actually tried on armor yet so… maybe a medium set?” Giving out her guesswork. Yes, she was trained, but no formal training, just what her dad taught her over her life.

Thinking that over, he figure he could get Giblet to craft a few things, as they were moving down the stairs, and in the throne room, Gnarl spoke. “Greeting Master, how may I-,” then gave a look to Spree and snort and said to Jerry. “-going to toss these two out, Master?”

“No. Just for Giblet to see them.” Gnarl huff as he told.

“Sire, Giblet can only make armor to suit for you-,”

“I’m the Overlord and he’ll obey. Your argument is invalid.” interrupted Jerry as Shadow couldn’t help but snicker of how Jerry just put down the old minion like that. As they were heading down the stairs, making their way more down. Shadow felt a slow rising heat, as the air became hotter around them, with slight scents of ash beginning to tickle the nose and dryness sapping the air of moisture all the further. Lovely did he best to show she wasn’t bothered by it, as Shadow glance to see Jerry seem used to such change of the heat and dryness as they went down more.

Taking a deep breath, Spree admitted, “It smells like a forge.” Only familiar with it as she had visited quite a few while accompanying her father to refit his armor, repair broken tools or get new ones.

“That's because it is.” said Jerry, as once they reach down the steps, the mares saw a armory of armors, weapons-- and a Brown Minion in blacksmith clothing, as Giblet soon asked.

“Master, armor?” Jerry corrected as he motioned to Spree.

“Armor for her, medium size, weapons are spear, swords or buckle shield.”

“And a few combat knives.” Spree quickly added, much to Jerry’s questioning glance. She gave a shy shrug and told, “Dad used to say it’s a good idea to have a few on you incase you lost your main weapon.”

Jerry shrug, as the Minion moved up, looking at her as Shadow slightly moved a bit off, as the imp move around Spree. Examining her as a blacksmith, viewing everything as once it was before he gave a sound. Then turn to Jerry as he asked. “What armor for her?”

“Steel for now, just to get her a good basic.” Giblet then asked.

“Sacrifice?”

All three mares, including Lovely, gave questioning looks to Jerry at the question itself. And while he knew Lovely won’t be bothered by his end choice, he knew that the two mares might not react as well. And admittedly, who would react well to the idea of sacrificing your people-- or rather your troops, to help further your weapon or armor gains?

“What...does he mean by that?” questioned Shadow as she was trying to understand what the Minion asked, as Jerry explained.

“My Smelters are...unique. They craft the metals needed, but if you want a boost of either weapon or armor...I sacrificed my Minions of specific Tribes to gain that boost.”

Spree gaped her mouth, and for a moment it looked like she wanted to say something before clicking her mouth shut. She took a deep breath, looking away for a moment before turning back and asking, “C-can… can you make the armor without needing to… Sacrifice lives?” Feeling a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach.

“I can, usually I can just get Giblet to craft the armor,” as Shadow gave a relief breath of the answer-- before he continued on. “But, here's the thing. With just the armor and weapons made? There's no boost to them.”

“And what are these boosts, Master?” asked Lovely as Jerry thought as he explained.

“For armor? Defense, regeneration-,”

“I’m fine without any.” Spree was fast to cut off. She gave a look to Jerry and took another breath and told, “I’m… fine without any boosts. The armor and weapons are fine without them.” Form how she was breathing, it was clear that the idea of casting lives into the furnace bothered her a lot.

Jerry shrug, as he look to Giblet and told. “Just used up my old armor and weapons to craft her the stuff.” the minion moved as Shadow glance to ahead, seeing the source of the heat as there were three large things. All standing as they each look different, as she grimace of seeing a...doorway, supposedly for the Minions to come and jump in. she shiver as she never thought that he would used his Minions lives like that.

But a part of her reminded that Jerry was...well, evil. And evil people don’t care the lives of their own forces. As Giblet got to a switch, as they saw some Minions moving as Jerry said. “It’ll take time for Giblet to craft what you need.” then motioned them to follow. “Come on, lets head back up.”

Spree and Shadow cast one last look to the Forge, both mares looking to the other with a slight unease of what they found out and the slight callous Jerry had about his Minions worth in life.

---

Going to the upper and to some thanks to the mares, slightly more cooler levels of the castle, the group moved around and headed to a new room. This one having a table for them to use, and one for Lovely to place down her tray and start serving her Master upfront with his food.

Both mare’s had taken to sitting on the side, mostly to let Jerry enjoy his food and drink some. All the while, both had to glance to Lovely now and then. The mare smiling off to the side and happily waiting for any order he was ready to speak.

When Jerry noticed them again, he decided to have Lovely go and fetch them food too, and with a bow that flashed her cleavage nicely his way, she gave a “Yes Master.” Before dutifully leaving. It wasn’t even five minutes later she returned with more food for the two, setting the tray down and placing the drinks and meals before them before moving to once more stand at her Master’s side.

Both mare’s had to agree, if it wasn’t for the sexulized maid outfit that did nothing to properly cover her-- Lovely might as well had been a maid. She certainly act like one more than a blank mare made to be a sex doll for their owner. Then again, both knew otherwise from last night's loud sex-filled moans and cries.

Spree looked to the food before her, all completely fit for her consumption…. Except maybe the fish. Where Jerry got fish, she wasn’t sure, but she grimaced at the mere thought of eating it. She glanced to Shadow, and with a tapping fork, Spree conveyed she was willing to trade the more carnivorous mare her fish-- for something her pallet could handle. Particularly the salad that was on her friends plate.

She grin, nodding as she let Spree slide the fish on her plate, while she soon gave most of the salad to Spree. Jerry glance at this as he thought. So, some ponies can eat meat, and some are pure herbivores. until he noticed the eggs in the egg salad didn’t bother Spree as he added. Well, okay so maybe protien things like eggs ponies can handle. But not actual meat.

As Shadow enjoy the meat, Jerry soon asked. “So do ponies eat only vegetables and fruits with a few proteins? No offense, but I thought you were omnivores.”

Taking more of her egg salad and chewing for a moment, Spree soon reached for the provided glass of water to down the food and pause to make sure her lips and mouth were cleared of food. With a nod, she said, “We are, but it’s mostly Pegasi and Thestrals that like meats. Other ponies… well, we can eat it, but it doesn't always settle in our stomachs.” Then gave a weird look to how Shadow next to devoured her fish, saying, “Personally? I find it kind of gross…. And even slimy with fish.”

Okay...so they can, but it might give them stomach aches? he glance to Lovely, as realization set in...that he automatically assumed she could eat the meat in her meals as he asked. “Lovely, are you bothered that I fed you meat for breakfast?” getting surprised looks from the mares as Lovely said.

“I accepted any and all meals you give, Master.” as Shadow corrected what Jerry asked.

“He means, is your stomach handling what he feeds you?” Lovely thought a bit as she admitted.

“It was weird to taste chicken for the first time, and my stomach was acting funny for a bit,” then assured Jerry as she saw the concern on his face. “But I’m fine now Master, no need to worry.”

Sighing some, and seeing that maybe she should be concerned-- only because Lovely’s Master was apparently completely unaware of her diet needs, Spree told, “You shouldn’t give her too much meat, Jerry.” Giving him a firm look and telling, “She can have it, and really… no harm if she likes it. But even ponies that like it can get a little… sick to the stomach with too much.” Then went on, “Try keeping her on a full green diet. Fruits, veggies-- nuts and maybe eggs to give her the protein she needs.”

He nodded to her advice, as he thought a bit as he finish up his meal and realization showed on his face. Crap...not enough ‘green’s around. Note to self, when I head out, grab loads of fruits, vegetables, maybe produce...maybe see what I can use for ‘cold boxes’ since there's no electricity here. he then thought over something. Which reminds me, I know they were invaded...and their rulers were under the ruler of the Caribous...How did the Caribous beat them?

“You mention the Caribous invaded. Was it military strength? Waves of troops hitting at you all? Or was it some sort of advancement of science or magic?” trying to get a idea of how these Caribous work beside ‘fuck and rape’ from what he saw. Really to him, it seems they focus on one thing and that was sex. Shadow thought and said with a bit of sadness.

“They were at the Crystal Empire, they...corrupted the Crystal Heart somehow, made all stallions into...well, what they are, even some colts who were teenager. Made any mares who weren’t strong in will…” then frown. “And as far as we know? The caribous just have corrupt magic or anti-magic armor.”

Going on, Spree spoke with a bitter tone while messing with her food. “They didn’t fight us. They just snuck in like they were friends… corrupted the guards, the stallions-- broke the mind of mares to be their sex slaves before one day-- they just revealed themselves. No pony was ready, how could we be? They… they didn’t fight us upfront, they just cheated their way in by… by forcing the same ponies we trusted to capture us. Leash us, even some got raped by their friends or loved ones… It… it was bad.”

Jerry was silent, getting a good idea that they use trickery and deceit, they didn’t even try to fight, they just use the population to do their own work while they add in. with their ‘corrupt magic’ and anti-magic armor-- no one could handle them face on. Shadow look to Jerry...and asked with a bit of concern.

“How are you going to fight them?” getting him to glance as she said. “I know you will fight them...but they can just corrupt you somehow with their magic-- or even corrupt your Minions somehow.” Jerry however grin as Shadow was wondering why he was smiling as he told.

“The joke would be on them at this point. I’m immune to corruption. Because evil and corrupt power an Overlord.”

Ears pricking, Spree snapped her gaze up with wide eyes. “Power? You mean…. You could just… walk straight at them and for each corrupting spell they cast, they’ll only...make you… stronger?” At first it was a slightly horror filled realization… before she cracked a grin and laughed.

Shadow gave a concern look to her friend confused, before Spree said while hitting a hand to the table, “O-oh that’s funny! They not only make you stronger-- but you can actually punch those cowards in a real straight up fight because they keep helping you!”

“Even more funny, they have no idea and assume my armor is anti-magic like theirs!” agreed Jerry, however while this was a revelation to Shadow.. She asked.

“But what about the Minions? I mean they are evil and are loyal to you...but couldn’t the Caribous use their magic on them and make them attack you?” Jerry snicker as he calm down and soon explain.

“Well, that is true,” getting the mares to cast worry looks to the other's, before he told. “Until I tell the Minions otherwise.”

Blinking, Spree started, “But you just said…?” A tad confused.

“When I was in Dodge doing my...well bluntly saying, destruction of that machine, the Caribous tried to get my Minions to serve them. Succeeded...until I took my left gauntlet up, and made them come back to me. Was funny a few times, even more when they couldn’t affect my Blues at all, since the Blues are magic resistance.” as he then pointed out. “Despite them being susceptible to their magic and are idiots-- the Minions instinct is to follow the Overlord. No one else.”

Sighing to that, Spree speared more of her salad and said, “Well… that’s a relief. It would of been bad if you couldn’t stop that from happening.” Though while she took a bite and chew, Spree had to wonder how that worked. Was there a sort of magic that Jerry had over the Minions that went with his whole overlord title? It sounded like it. But then again, she wasn’t a unicorn, she had no idea what could be the thing to give him this power.

Shadow asked this question. “Where do you get your magic to control the Minions? Its nothing I heard before.” Jerry was about to answer, but paused...and shook his head.

“Sorry can’t tell.” getting looks, as Shadow asked.

“But, why?” Jerry thought of a way to appease their slight curiosity and answer.

“Precaution. Let say if and when I do find this Resistance, and when Spree or possibly you too, Shadow, talk to them and they start asking questions about me...to them I might be a possible threat, and they might want to know what magic I can use...so they can put me down with all that they know.”

Looking up to this, Spree thought about it and told, “Then maybe before that happens, you actually try and make friends with us.” The declaration make Jerry’s mind halt and look up to the mare’s face, the only real difference with her being that white strip that went from forehead to nose.

She gave a smile and told, “I’ve been stuck here for over a week. And… my stay hasn’t been great….but you’re making a effort.” Sitting back in her chair and saying, “Maybe, if we can… well, actually understand the other, we could be friends.” She shifted some and told, “And you don’t betray friends. Even if we might be on the wrong sides… I'd still rather be friends.” Then sighed out adding, “Though it does sound… ridiculous, in a sense.”

“You mean as ridiculous as a male from another place, in command of a horde of imps that suppose to be a bad guy-- isn’t one at all?” pointed out Jerry with a grin.

With a scrunched up face, Spree said, “Hey, I’m trying to be nice!” Then poured in place while pointing to Shadow, “I mean… not that it’s going to ever happen, but if Shadow did stay and I went to the Resistance… even if I knew what your weakness was, you… well, uh, would have her hostage… so, I couldn't do anything to you or mention it, right?”

The situation almost making Shadow laugh, knowing that it was just a excuse for Spree. Once the mare made a friend, she was much too loyal to rat out their secrets. A giggle still manage to escape the thestrals lips.

She place a hand on her lips, giggling to her friend as Jerry grin as he soon said. “Well Spree, with a offer like that, how can I refuse to be your friend.” then thought. Going to be weird having friends...never had many to begin with. he then said to the two mares. “But anyway, since we’re friends now-- then that means I need to make sure your stay are comfy as my guests more.” as he went on. “I was thinking of heading to Ponyville to do some, ‘shopping’ of food, cloth-- anything I can get you two?”

Shadow pause, considering something...and look to him and asked. “Can you do revenge?” he look at her and soon said.

“Sorry if I just blank out...but I didn’t expect a request like that.”

Sighing some, Spree held a bitter look and said, “I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I’d agree with Shadow.” Flicking the leaves on her plate around and telling. “Exceptional Rule was this jerk we knew when we were still going to school. He always harassed Shadow and a few times could have gotten in trouble for sexual harassment but always got away. I never liked the guy.” Then looked up telling, “He got his hands on Shadow and became her Master when the Caribous came. I wouldn't toss out the idea if he joined up with them on his own free will-- but I don’t know.”

Looking down, Spree admitted, “I don’t want revenge on him… I want justice… but I know that’s not happening soon, so.. Revenge will do. I want payback for what he did to Shadow.”

While Jerry look like he was thinking, Shadow noticed a few things of his body. The tenseness of his hands on the chair, the slight scrunch face on his expressions...and a near conflicting matter?

If I do this..I’ll be killing more than Caribous. Do I have the right? Just take a life that isn’t a Caribou? but he was reminded that he was a villain. Killing was the norm. But...another part of him want clarification. “When you say...revenge. What sort of revenge? Like losing a limb, or his balls…?” then added. “Or me killing him?”

Blinking, Spree shook her head, “A-ah, no! No, nothing that drastic.” Then breathed out and admitted while scratching her head, “But.. well, at this point he’s pretty close to executioners row… if he mentioned that he was responsible for helping the Caribous willingly, then killing him would be on the table because he did treason to our people.”

“He admitted to me in my abuse session that he enjoy what the Caribous gave.” told Shadow flatly, gaining their looks as there was...anger in her eyes as she said. “Jerry...I want you to kill him.” there was a somber sigh from Spree, but a nod in agreement as Jerry noticed there was a steeled sight in her eyes that shows she wants justice to be done. Just not the one Jerry does.

The man nod, as he asked. “What does he look like?”

“Brown unicorn, silver mane, dark blue eyes.” told Shadow as she went on. “Around my age.” then sighed...and admit. “This is petty from me...but if you do get him...can you tell him that I wish I could see his death before my eyes?” Jerry nodded to that, finishing his drink as he motioned Lovely to take his tray and walk out of the room. As he soon asked.

“Do you two want to ask anything else?”

Taking this chance, Spree told, “Some sketch pads.” She was sure there was going to be some odd look form him as she went on, “Pencils. Maybe find some more fabrics and threads…” Then admitted almost lowly, “And… maybe get a few… well, maybe I can make a list for you. Like getting better shampoo or some hygienic stuff for us mare’s.” Knowing those were actually pretty important needs.

Thinking some, he nodded as he said. “A list might do well, just in case.” and knowing that it would be embarrassing to admit it out loud what the mares would need for themselves. As Shadow was nearly finished with her food...she look outside, to the volcanic landscape...and soon asked to Jerry.

“Where are we exactly? I know we’re not anywhere near Equestria...but it’s nothing I seen before.” As Jerry shrug and admit.

“I have no idea.” as he motioned with his fingers as he explain “I know we’re on a island of volcanic activities...but beyond that? Got no clue where I am.”

Blinking to herself and slowly chewing her last bite, Spree slowly gulped down her food and said, “You mean… we literally had nowhere to run, even if we ran? That besides this volcanic rock… there’s only ocean for… miles?”

“Yep. Why else do you think I use the Gates for? Being lazy?” asked Jerry with a raise brow. “They're my only source of transportation to get off this island.” They just blink owlishly as Shadow asked.

“Don’t you...have a boat?”

“Nope, and even if I did, I don’t know which direction I’ll go to, for all I know, I could be so far from Equestria, it’ll take me months or years to reach there by sea.”

Spree seemed to only add to this with a grimace, “Assuming we’re not in the middle of the ocean.” Knowing that they essentially were in the middle of nowhere. Whether this was good or not… She wasn’t sure.

Signing, Spree got up and collected her plate and turned to Shadow saying, “Maybe we should go and talk about our mare needs.” Looking to Jerry adding, “You don’t plan to go anywhere for a few days… right?” Knowing that his travels had left him aggravated. She had seen him come back ranting once. The week of travel was not smooth, and the later fight he went on didn’t sound pleasant either.

Shaking his head as Lovely came back by his side, standing at attentive as he spoke, “Nope, just going to take a few days off from all of this. Rest up some-- and head out when the week is done.” shrugging some. “Really, I could leave to Ponyville when I please-- or anywhere else I set up Gates.” Shadow soon asked.

“About these Gates...no one else...can use them, right?” he shook his head and told.

“No one but me, they can be used by me-- and whoever I give permission to. And if anyone tries to use them? Well it won’t work in the first place unless I allow it.”

It was good to know, and it set both mare’s at ease while they collected their plates and moved out. They gave their quick goodbyes, deciding to leave Jerry alone with his sex maid while they went to clean and put their dishes away. It took a while to find the kitchen, but as soon as they had Minions were there and waiting to take the plates and silverware to wash.

This left them to leave and wander the halls, not sure what to do with their free time. But after a while of wandering, Spree spoke up, “Do you want to talk about it?” Making Shadow look to her friend who said, “You looked confused form before. When Jerry mentioned and explained Lovely and what she meant to him. Did you want to talk about it now?” Tone gentle just like before whenever talking about something sensitive.

She sighed...and admit. “Yeah,” she thought on how to say it. “When he said...his treasure, it sounded like there was another meaning to it. I know you might of thought she was his possession in a way...but it sounded like...like she meant so much for him..” thinking some as she admit. “Spree...I think..I think she means a lot to him than what he just said.”

Watching her friend carefully, Spree admitted, “She’s literally his perfect mare… I don’t think anyone can really dispute that, Shadow.” Then went on saying, “She has the coat color he wants. The mane he wants. The eyes, the curves… even personality…”

“But...she also lacks something a mare has.” said Shadow with a shake of her head. “I look at her and Jerry, Spree. And as much as there was a tenderness in that kiss...it was like she wanted to do more, but didn’t know what.” looking at her friend as she told. “She was missing what all mares inherently have. Empathy.”

There was a sharp wince to that, as Spree looked down. “Yeah… I… sort of feel sorry for her when you bring it up like that.” Then looked back to Shadow going on, “I mean… I can tell she, like… looks at him like he’s her world. Probably has some ‘I love him only’ thing in her head. But… I don’t know what to think if she can’t… sympathize with him.”

Shadow nodded as she said. “And it’s even more harder to do more than just give a good show for him, when he wants comfort.” getting her friend to look at her with slight confusion, Shadow explain. “Before Lovely came in and kiss him...he was looking tired, and not the exhaustion of last night, but actual emotional tiredness. It made me...just want to go over and hold him and give hushing words to make him feel better.” glancing away as she thought more...and added in worry.

“I think I’m still thinking as a red still. But at the same time...with what he told us, about how he’ll have to be a villain…” arms crossing as there was confliction within her, either being a free mare with Spree, remembering the past of Equestria and enjoying being her own mare...or being a red slave under him, comforting and being close as to give what Lovely couldn’t in terms of emotional relief.

Feeling that same firm hand of her friends on her shoulder, Spree held a soft look and said, “You’re not still thinking like a Red.” Then lightly laughed, “Shadow, you’re a good mare. A… to be honest, you have a really kind heart. I think that’s just your soft heart wanting to make his boo-boo’s go away.”

She gently patted the black mare, mindful of the wings and assured, “Remember when we were little? I was still just 5 when we played around.” Then laughed, “Every time I got a cut or scrape, you’d be right there to make sure I was alright?” Then shook her head, “Your mom always said you’d make a good mom yourself. You… you just had that sort of heart, even when we got older. You loved to just baby those foals you babysat.”

She smile to that, as she nodded. “I did, it help showed I can be a good parent when I get a litter…” then held a frown as she look to Spree and said. “But…despite me thinking as a red-collar or a free mare...I am worried a bit about him. We know that he wasn’t prepared for this life, being evil...and yet he’s expected to do evil things, expected to be like most villains we demonize...and the only comfort he could get is here with a mare that doesn’t even fully sympathies him in the emotional need?”

Thinking to that, Spree said, “Maybe she just doesn't know how to.” Then went on, “Maybe you should talk to her… explain to her how to understand his feelings. I mean… Lovely didn’t even exist until a day ago-- she’s a foal in a mare’s body. Maybe she just… needs to grow up herself before she actually understands.”

“But who can teach her?” asked Shadow, as she saw Spree giving a deadpan look, as Shadow sighed. “Right, Jerry.”

“No, duh, you.” Told Spree while pressing a finger to a breast on her friend. “I don’t know about Jerry, but you’re more empathetic than I am. And you know how to talk to younger ponies-- mostly foals.” Then went on, “I know she isn’t one, but I think you… almost have to think of her as one and lead her by the hand to know what to do.”

Shadow thought for a bit...and said. “Well, I can do something with my time here beside staying in the room or walking around the castle.” she thought more and nodded, as she smile and said. “And if I do...be a free mare? At least I know that Jerry will have a mare that can help him with his emotional needs.”

Smiling to that, Spree told, “I know I said that it won’t happen… but whatever choice you do make, Shadow?” She sighed, “Please just make it as yourself. Not because I said so or that grey told says so or if Lovely says so-- I honestly want you to make the choice and believe in that choice.”

Spree hugged Shadow again, reminding the mare of the earth pony’s very grabby protective nature. “I’ll support you, either way. Like always.”

She smiled, hugging her and said with a nod. “I will. Don’t you worry, I will.” but even if she was assured...she still wonder on her actual choice. Freedom...or servitude?

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