Okay, I got this ship…this nice, big ship, with apparently a lot of stolen stuff… thought Jerry, as he stood there by the wheel, with Mortis to help make sure they could fly the ship as the Minions-- or most of the minions that got on. He knew another portion left by Spawning Pits, so it was just him, and all that was left. And he was trying to figure out how to get the ship back to the Castle. As he had no idea where to go.

He honestly wasn’t able to think this far ahead. Even more now that he was more calmed down…in hindsight, he should’ve left by Gate. he would owe up to that…he would need a way to get back home, and more importantly… how to land this thing. Jerry was debating on just having the ship land…somewhere on the island. But he heard the jingling of bells, and turned to see Quaver coming along as the jester spoke.

“Greetings oh Master!” The Fool bowed his head, before raising up as he grinned widely. “What seems to be the problem?”

“Well. We are unable to get back to the Dark Castle as I have no idea where we are going. We can’t land because I have no idea how we’re going to land, and odds are we are lost. Unless we have a means to teleport back to the Dark Castle? We’re fucked.”

“Oh relax, oh great Overlord!” assured Quaver as the jester seemed to be in a jolly mood. “For we are following a direction!” Giving a questioning look, as Jerry looks to Quaver, the minion continues on. “Why, we should be meeting someone right about now!” and with Quaver motioning to his stick? Jerry glanced over, at first he didn’t see anything at all. Jerry's eyes squinted and saw something coming out of the water below.

A Seamoth, and it made Jerry blink in realization as he turned to Quaver and asked. “Wait so, was the distraction part of Albert's plan? And for you all to take this airship?”

“No,” spoke Mortis, as the Blue Minion was keeping a hand on a wheel. “The plan was by us, Overlord.” the moody creature continues on. “We procure the airship for you, as we intended to have it as a means for you to take our stolen goods away. As well as what we have found in the domain of the Storm King palace.”

“Found? What did you guys find?” asked Jerry, and with Quaver moving to take a roll of paper, unrolled it and offering it up to the man. Once Jerry took it, he look over the paper…and slowly began to laugh. “Hehehehe, hehehehe,” slowly growing in his laughter. “HaHahahaha, HAHAHAHAHAHAHA,” and growing more louder in maniacal laughter. “MWHAHAHAHAHAHA!” and lower the paper as he shouted.

“Some of you Minions are getting BIG PROMOTIONS!” And did the Minions cheer in rejoice. As Jerry learns that his minions stole not just the airship, but weapons, armor, alloys of what the storm king uses for anti-magic, as well as supplies, gear…and better of all? Artifacts of minion totem poles, a forge stone, mana stone, fairy stones and the most important thing of all?

Ten dark crystals.

Oh yes. He was promoting a few of his minions to high ranks indeed. And he got a good idea of a few in mind. As well as upgrading a few others of their status.

---

It took about a few hours, hours for the galleon to be guided and landed safely somewhere on a little desert island. As the mares that were guiding the ship were slightly impressed with Jerry able to take a ship this large, if not annoyed they would need to move it. But with a little thought and aid? Jerry was able to teleport the ship onto his island. Granted he had to use a bit of magic from the Tower Heart, and focus really, really hard with his original helmet back on.

But Jerry managed to teleport the airship onto the island in its landed state and figure to handle it once he went back. The ponies left with their Seamoth, as to inform what happened as Jerry left into the temporary gate as he teleported back within the domains of his Castle.

It was still late, and Jerry didn’t want to wake up anyone and felt rather tired as he didn’t get much sleep being tortured. So he went to his throne, moving to the stone chair and turning around to settle down on it. For some reason the throne seems to mold around him, growing and shifting for his new armor size as he settles in place. Having taken back his new helmet head, and letting his eyes closed, as Jerry figures to catch a bit of rest.

Figuring to get some rest as the adrenaline left his body and settled in the throne for a while as his eyes closed and head tilted down…

It was then, rather abruptly, that he was woken up by a voice calling out. “The Overlord has returned! The Overlord has Returned!”

“Mer-wha, what?” started Jerry, eyes opening up as his head raised. Looking up to see one of the mares, a servant he recalled calling out. He was waking up and becoming alert. And while the pony left off to let everyone know, he moved to slowly stand up as he thought. Well…better go assure everyone I’m here. But first…I need to remove the armor….can’t be hugged with it on. thought Jerry as he tirelessly began to move.

Heading down the stairs to the armory as Jerry took himself out of the armor, Giblet seeming happy again and working over the new armor and calling out. “Minions, time to be sacrificed to the Forge!” and while Jerry wave his hand, letting Giblet work, the man took on a robe to cover himself and tightly wrapped it as he paused and glanced at Giblet as he asked.

“Hey Giblet, what time is it?” wanting to know what to expect as he wasn’t sure what time it was.

Giblet turns his head, and answers in a happy tone. “It’s 10 A.M., Overlord!”

okay not that early. thought Jerry as he headed back up the stairs, the walk helping him get his energy back-- but what he needed more than anything right now? Was coffee. Coffee, cuddles…and lots and lots of food.

It was while he was thinking this and reaching the top step’s that lead to the forge, that a body collided with him. Jerry, still half asleep, did not have the mind to get his balance back as he fell over. Sky shouting, “You’re alive!” And nuzzled into his neck as he fell over. “You're alive,you're alive,you're alive!” Repeating her words at an ear blurring pace.

“Jerry!” he heard as Sea came rushing in, “Sky, stop that!” And tried to remove the overly clingy and affectionate smaller Pegasus. “You could have hurt him.”

“I’m not letting go!” Sky denied, glasses half askew from her nuzzling and seeming to cling all the more tighter. “He’s been gone for almost four days and he could have died!” Going as far as to wrap her legs around Jerry. Refusing to let go at all.

“Its, okay,” started Jerry, slowly pulling himself up as to fight off the tiredness and slight aching pain that Sky unintentionally aggravated. He managed to get on his feet, and while he patted Sky head. “I’m alright, I’m fine,” and move to give an assuring arm hug to Sea. “I’m here….” though he did add. “But Sky, you can let go now. I just need a moment.” managing to finish his words as he was glad that the Tower Heart was giving him just enough energy to keep him upright.

Otherwise he doubts he could’ve been up at all with what he went through. And while Sky refused to let go, and Sea accepted the arm hug, his attention turned to other hooves as his head turned and this time he was expecting it. As Shadow and Lovely, each added by Sonata and Spree alike, moved themselves into the larger hug with him. Sea was able to shift aside in time and let both mares nearly leap at him. Both pregnant mares were squeezing tight, hugging him as Shadow said in relief.

“Thank the Night mother-- you’re back.” the thestral wrapping as much of herself she could onto Jerry and nuzzling him with kisses on his face and wings wrapped around him.

While Lovely whined, her ears lowered and arms squeezing not only him, but Sky and Shadow as the earth mare told. “I’m happy you’re alive, Master.” though flick her ears as she looks up to him, her eyes blinking as she looks, before she half tug him as she said. “You need to sit down!” and while Shadow eased up on her hug, the thestral noticed the slight bags under Jerry's eyes.

Seeing how tired, and likely exhausted he was as he was guided by both mares to sit down in his throne. The man didn’t bother to fight on this as he was guided to the throne, once he sat down in his seat? Did he relax a bit, as Shadow turned to say, “Sea, can you find a Blue? Get him to Jerry and get the special waters.” she didn’t like how Jerry looked, and giving a glance over with what she could under the robe? She noticed a few burn marks scattered over his skin under the robes.

“I--” Started Sea, though was surprised with the other’s when Sky jolted off Jerry and passed both Lovely and Shadow. The smaller pegasus taking flight.

They just caught, “I’vegotit,I’llbeback,youwaitrightthere!” and was away and down the halls before they could even ask more.

Spree shook her head and watched the herd move Jerry to the nearest place they could sit him down, the three dotting on him in concern. Sea moving some of his robes to get a better look at a few small little burns and bruises. Lovely worriedly massaging his side. Shadow trying to scan over every inch.

Sighing, Spree walked up and said, “get him to bed as soon as you can.” getting the three to turn to her. Spree went on, “he looks like tartarus and probably needs a good night-- or days --worth of sleep.” and waved a hand, “I’ll go and give everyone the new’s Jerry’s back and still kicking.”

Turning, Spree soon asked the nearby voluptuous maid servant, “Sonata, you think you got things covered from here with Lovely and Shadow?” The two mares might be able to move on their own, but they knew how stairs were a pain for either one.

“Of course, Corporal Spree.” Bowed the crystal mare. “I’ll be here to make sure the Lady and her herd-sister get whatever help they need.”

The handmaid was nearly knocked over when Spree gave her a strong pat on the back. The golden earth mare walking by and telling, “good, I’ll come later once all the hullabaloo has been settled.” And moved to leave. Though paused to look back and told, “Good to have ya back Jerry.” A slight smile in place before she completely left.

“Thanks Spree, good to be back.” said Jerry with a low smile, watching her leave. His attention refocused on the three mares close to his side, as he was again checked over by the three as Lovely was doing what she could to massage his muscles. Sea and Shadow both look over his body as they slip open the robes a bit.

Shadow asked with concern. “Jerry, what happened? What did they do to you?”

Jerry tries to ease their worries with a light smile, but lets out a sigh as he relaxes his head against the stone throne as Jerry told. “Beside some torture with magical lighting, food and water denial. Being locked up in a dark cell with no idea of what time, and being a complete pain in their ass.”

“Denial of food and water?” started Lovely with a slight frown, and while she didn’t see any signs of starvation? She didn’t like the fact her master was starved, and denied water.

“Yep,” responded Jerry as his eyes slightly blink a bit. “And I am running on fumes and energies right now in keeping myself up.” that made Shadow furrow her brows, and the thestral considered that they should bring their man to bed. She highly debated on just moving him now instead of waiting for Sky.

With drawn brows the head mare looked up to him and asked. “Do you want to get some sleep first, or need some food?” the mare wanted to know what exactly he needed, as while she wanted him to sleep? It was possible he was starving.

“Right…right now?” breath out Jerry, as he looks at Shadow and smiles slowly. “I just want coffee, some TLC with my herd….and to rest. Much as I want food and water-- I want you all more.”

Shadow gently smiled, and soon pulled herself away, with Lovely moving with her as both mares helped him stand. Shadow soon told her herd-sister. “Sea, can you come over and help? We’ll need to get our stud to bed for cuddles and sleep.”

“Of course!” Sea spoke while moving over to help. This allowed Sonata to drift over and help whichever pregnant mare needed her most. The group together headed for the bedchambers of the overlord so he could get some rest. Sea seemed to even tell while helping Jerry along, “Spree did say that he should get some rest first and foremost. And if he’s been starved? Maybe something light to start him off with.” trying to mentally prioritize the man’s needs.

Jerry was able to walk as he went up the stairs with the mares. Lovely herself needing a little by Sonata’s assistance climbed up the steps. While Shadow was using her wings to keep herself up in the air while she helped hold up Jerry. Or be ready if he tripped. The thestral held a worried look as they were escorting the man up the stairs. She soon asked. “Jerry, how did you escape?” while she was glad, even happy and assured he was back? She didn’t know how.

“Oh, well….apparently my minions decided to save me.” chuckle out Jerry, as he was moving along the stone steps. “Turns out they spring me out. But it took a while for me to get back.”

Which made the mares glance to one another, as it did explain why some of the minions were gone. Mostly the ‘smart ones’ and a good chunk of other's. Still, they now figured out where they went, apparently went to save Jerry…somehow. The mares reached up to the Private Quarters, where the servant minions who were tending to everything, along with the clones Magic kept sending over time.

Jerry glanced over, as he didn’t see much change and went along with the mares to the bedroom. The man not even bothering to show decency as he stripped his robes, and went to lay down on his back. Letting out a breath of relaxation, as he glanced, seeing Shadow, Lovely and Sea moving to come by the bed. Shadow glanced at Sonata as she said. “Can you go and make sure Sky knows we came back to the bedroom? Something tells me she might fly around trying to find Jerry with that goblet of water.”

Sonata gave a respectful bow once she was sure Lovely was relaxed. Then quickly she turned away and headed off to do as asked. Turning, Shadow watched as Sea coaxed Jerry to get on his stomach so she could start working on his back. Seeming to decide to try and relax his no doubt tense and tired muscles. Possibly even hoping to lull him into slumber.

Jerry let a sigh escape from him. His eyes blinked slowly as he felt not just Sea rubbing his muscles, but Lovely going over to work over on his back and arms. The earth mare having a troubled look, seeing the rope marks around his wrists and arms. Lovely moving a hand to gently rub the rope marks as he let out a huff. But the tired man slowly closed his eyes.

Feeling Sea massages on his back with her hands, while Lovely works on his arms, and Shadow massages his legs. Letting him relax as his eyes closed finally as his mind retreated into slumber. His body relaxing more as he let himself be reminded he was home now, he was able to lower his guard and relax fully in his domain.

---

After a near day of sleeping, Jerry woke up the next day. Surrounded by his herd, and their sleeping forms. It took a while to get up, and for them to get up. Though each showed how happy they were with him back. With Shadow kissing him and hugging him, Lovely hugging him tight and nuzzling against his neck. Sea hugged him and gave light kisses, Sky was just hugging him tight with lots of nuzzles, and Spree gave a kiss on his cheek before leaving to get some training on the minions in.

Jerry was glad he could just relax, and while that drink of water filled with Blue magic helped? They heard a knock and Sonata’s voice as she called, “M’lord? Albert wishes to speak with you in the forge if you have the time and strength.”

Jerry glances at the door, and breathes out as he figures to see what Albert wanted. Likely the armor he ‘test run’. As he motioned to the mares. “Come on, I gotta get up and see what Albert needs.” and while none of them were happy, they also understood as they let him go. As he went to get his robe on, and walked out of the bedroom.

Sonata meets him outside his chambers, giving a bow as she added, “if you allow, I also have some things for Lady Shadow.”

Jerry gave a curious glance and asked. “What sort of things?” he didn’t knew what happened while he was ‘away’ but he wanted to make sure if Shadow could handle it.

“Some personal issues that she has been dealing with during your time away. Mostly dealing with the masses, M’lord.” Sonata respectfully said. Standing up straight and shifting her dress to try and lay properly down over her curvy frame. “As well as some things from Princess Twilight and her friends.”

He glanced back to Shadow, as the thestral smiled at him, as she was glad that their husband was concerned for their being. But assured him. “Nothing too big on our part, Jerry.” going on to tell. “I can handle it, and odds are Twilight just needs to go over any updates.”

“Go on ahead, Master. We all have things to do.” added Lovely.

Jerry nodded, and stretched a bit and with a bit of a crack of his back, he groaned. “Damn. Gonna be a while before I stop feeling sore….” and shake his head as he said. “I’ll see you all later. Better see what Albert wants.” and headed off. The man walked out of the Private Quarters and down the stairs.

He couldn’t help but feel glad to be back in the Dark Castle, being among his herd, his people…his minions. And he felt an odd sensation as if the Dark Castle was…brighter with him being here. Like it felt things were set back in proper form again. Maybe he was thinking too much about it, or assuming something changed. For all he knew, he could just be feeling giddy on coming back home with a stolen galleon airship with a lot of stolen goods of alloys, armaments, and supplies. As well as anti-magic alloys.

It didn’t take him long to reach down to the forge, coming down in the warmer underground room. Seeing the new addition of the forge stone that was added to the first, the two magical relics softly hover in the air. And while he wanted to know what secrets were hidden in them? His attention turned to the side of his other armors. The man took in the sight of what looked to be a whole rig to hold up his newest armor.

Both Giblet and Albert were conversing to the other, one seeming to look over the armor in thought. While the scientist himself was working on his PDA and checking the inside of the much more mechanized armor. When Jerry came closer, Giblet turned and bowed his head. “Master-- finished modifications of magic-- stronger now!”

Albert seemed to nod in agreement, “the Dominator Armor V2.3 seems to be fully operational now.” and stood up and closed out a few windows presumably. Closing the PDA down, the sickly man looked to Jerry and said. “I wanted to see if you were up for running a few system checks. There’s a lot of features I added into this armor that greatly outpace the prototype.”

“Sure,” nodded the man, as he came up close, though glance over the armor as he added. “Though, I’m a bit surprised you brought it over…I know the minions brought it to me.” his mind recalling during his break out.

“When you got captured? I decided to put all my time and effort into finishing it up. It was already near completion.” Albert seemed to tell him. “I just haven’t been able to put it through its full paces just yet.”

Jerry nodded, as he asked. “So, what changes is there beside it looking more badass compared to the prototype?”

Albert chuckled and told while moving over to some side terminal of the setup. “Well, the first thing is this. An inbuilt terminal to help do diagnostic checks when your Dominator Power Armor is not in use.” Jerry perked to the ‘power armor’ tidbit. But Albert continued to explain. “Besides some color modifications? It also tells you the status of the armor, what sort of damages it might have, can be used to do diagnostics and even more easily switch out any modifications that you can switch out. For any possible mission parameters.” then added, “ah, yes, it also acts as its charging station.”

“Has there been any issues with the magic additions to it?” asked Jerry curiously as walked over to Albert side to look it over.

Shaking his head, Albert moved over and told, “I worked with Magic to allow space for enchantment enhancements. And have been working with Giblet beforehand on how he applies them. I made sure they would work together cohesively.” and soon gave a quick rundown of the interface and how to operate the touch screen controls. And as Jerry works over the color options, seeing the armor shift in shade and color…

Jerry shifts the black to red, and then purple, then pink-- and as he plays with the colors? Albert said. “While it’s mostly cosmetic? I would suggest using the color features before going places.” and shrugged. “The armor isn’t made for stealth, but if you know the environment you’re going to? You can shade it the same colors as the environment to give a little camouflage.”

“Nice.” said Jerry, as he pulled away and looked at Giblet as he asked. “Did the sacrifices go well in applying the magic?”

“Yes, yes,” said Giblet in happiness. “But more than sacrifices, more variable magic! Forge stones reveal additional enchantments, while limited, improved armor to be more capable.” the smith tells on as he uses his hammer to tap the armor foot. “Made connections with the helmet-- now works like a proper helmet!”

“Alright-- and how has the stuff from the galleon been going?” asked Jerry.

Giblet let out an annoyed sound. “Anti-magic gear is annoying. Won’t bend well. Gave alloys for sick-man and necromancer to look at. Think they work better.”

Albert chose then to pick up with, “I’ll be able to use them for later projects. The issue Giblet has is that the forges here are semi-magical, making the work around the ingots highly difficult.” and smiled a bit. “But, given their state? I think I can make something highly useful out of them.” Smiling in slight excitement, “they’ll be a part of your line up of later modifications.”

“Nice.” said Jerry with a grin, though perked as he added. “Oh that reminds me.” and looked at Giblet as he asked. “Did you all take the stuff out of the galleon?”

“We did, we did!” Nearly cheered the smith. “Brought all stuff into Castle for other Minions to work on.” continued Giblet in pride.

“Mind tossing me a fairy gem?” asked Jerry, and as Giblet went, moving to grab a glowing, pink and large gem as Jerry turn to offer it to Albert. “So, while I was locked away in the storm king, with nothing to do but think? I was letting my mind wander and think of solutions, and I thought, if you could use these to help with the whole windegos things. Maybe use them to suck up the ghosts.” and muse a little.

“I mean sure, they don’t seem much, but maybe we can use the crystals as a focal point to drag in the windegos in a container for me to drain out? Make more dark crystals or at least let their energies be used to add on in the Tower Heart.”

Taking the gemstone, Albert began to turn it over in his hands. Half humming in thought. “Well, I’m not a magical expert. I might have been working and doing research into understanding magic better and have a deeper grasp? I’m more of a novice. At most I can make theoretical and creative ideas around the main concept.” and looked at Jerry. “You would be better off asking Princess Twilight or Archmage Magic on utilizing these gemstones.”

“I’ll be sure to ask them later,” said Jerry as he put the gem away, and glanced at the armor as he asked. “So, Dominator Armor 2.3? What does it have?”

Nodding and moving on, Albert told, “well, at base it’s outer armor is built using Plasteel. Much stronger than traditional titanium. Greater heat resistance and can keep it’s shape much better.” He continued, “the inner lining has Arogel, mostly to help in heat resistance and the systems can run hot enough to act as heating. An AC is also included.”

“I’ve also lined it with copper to be immune to EMP attacks and wired it to even be highly resistant to electrical attacks. It might take something akin to a highly magically empowered lightning bolt to actually strain the electronics.” Proceeded to explain the scientist as he moved to the other side of the armor.

Tapping a gauntlet, Albert told, “while your initial gauntlet used for the minions is here? It’s also designed to be under the armor’s own gauntlet. Which you can later swap out for other modifications.” And went on. “At the moment they’re not complete, but I’m working on a repulsion cannon variant, a launcher that is akin to the Torpedo launcher the PRAWNS use, grapples and other possible tools that I’m converting from the PRAWN suit options.”

Pointing at the helmet, the scientist said, “like your last armor there’s air tanks installed inside and it’s sealed as well. Meaning you can submerge into the water and not worry about getting soaked or harmed. There’s been a rebreather added to help recycle air, and a new set of LED’s have been installed so you can see in dark conditions.”

“In addition there’s now a thruster system.” Albert informed Jerry with a smile. “You can’t swim, but they’ll help you ‘swim’ in aquatic conditions. And on land they’ll help give you a little more lift when making jumps, but not by much. They’re more designed for aquatic conditions.” And spoke in thought, “right, it’s important to note that due to the mechanical nature it enhances your strength greatly, and it has a crush depth rating of 600 meters on its own.”

Humming a bit, Jerry said. “That’ll be really good for later.” knowing that he could just go over areas and could go deep enough. Though he asked with a side glance. “What about modifications? I know your stuff tends to have mods for things.”

Nodding and moving around to tap a set of pouches, Albert told, “the armor comes installed with some storage around the sides here. And the back of the waist supports four modifications. Altera technology makes these modules that can be plugged into the systems directly to make the needed changes. The one’s not installed are the Thruster modification for improved thruster use, and a depth module that would allow your suit to dive up to 1,000 meters.”

“The one’s currently installed however?” Asked the sickly man as he stood up straight. “Well, the one’s I prioritized was a hardening modification that acts as a defensive measure. Whenever you get attacked or are about to hit something? It greatly increases density and allows the armor to take more damage.”

“Additionally, there’s a thermal generator mod. I figured that when on the field and if you get low on power? Find the closest intense source of heat and it will help recharge the battery.” Which sounded damn useful in Jerry’s mind. “The other two are more proactive. A re-worked perimeter defense that on low settings can surprise attackers. But on higher settings can be lethal to most smaller life and be painful for most others.”

Waving a hand, Albert shook his head, “it has a good range in water, but outside of it? It can only shock a person that’s either touching you or a few feet away. Better used to get people off you or if able? Sending a jolt down a metallic weapon.” then warned, “just remember it uses power and the higher the charge the more power it’ll draw from the suit.”

“Speaking of power constraints.” Albert moved on quickly, “I also took the liberty of modifying a Cyclops shielding mod and shrinking it down to size for the suit.” then told, “just don’t rely on it. It takes a lot of power to run, while you’re nearly invincible while it’s active? It takes from your reserves greatly.”

Jerry thought and asked. “Do you think we could use my Gates to help charge up the ion-cells? Help recharge and keep power on?”

Shaking his head, Albert said, “these aren't made to work off magic Jerry. And I didn’t want to play around with what could be a miniature nuclear battery.” Going on, “it’s why I installed a thermal generator. If you’re low on power? Have your reds burn or melt something to the point of being molten rock. That should give more than enough heat to help recharge the suit.” then said, “even still, if your Ion-Cell does run out of power? I put a spare Power Cell into your storage as a backup. Less power, but enough to get the suit back running in an emergency.”

Jerry thought and mused lowly to himself. “If only I had the salamanders….” knowing those mounts of the red would’ve done the trick on ‘charging’ with their fire breaths. Though he knew that dungeon had the salamanders…and thinking it over it? He wanted to grin a bit as he remembered that dungeon…and with his armor upgraded? Oh yes. He was going to dive into that dungeon. Not now…but he was going to jump into that dungeon.

And he was going to get a lot of new salamanders for his Reds.

Shaking his head and waving this off mentally, Albert told, “I’ll have more modifications to add later once I’ve had more time to research and figure out how to make them work.” then told him, “but for now? That is what you have to work with.” Then smiled. “And, I wouldn't worry about the power constraints too much. If you ever face a Pyromancer? You should be covered in power use.”

Jerry chuckled, agreeing with a nod, though puffing a bit as he said. “Speaking of power use.” glancing at Albert. “I may have given us some breathing room, as I think the minions destroyed a good portion of the airships the Storm King has. So we might have some time for a while.” though sighs as he shakes his head. “Although, that does leave me with a galleon with no one to pilot it, and a crew of minions to manage it….”

Albert rolled his eyes and told, “I say that you put it in the drydock and think about renovating it before even considering using it.” raising a finger to go on. “Train a crew to use it, properly armor it with what you have and think about using it for Castle Defense. Because using it in assaults will be too much trouble. Because trying to move it from location to location is not worth the effort right now.”

Jerry was going to say something-- but paused and said. “Do I even have a dry dock?” thinking about it as he didn’t recall if it was ever made.

Giblet informed. “We built one.” which made Jerry turn his head as the brown smith told. “Minions built a drydock. Used of stone and metals, it's in dock right now.”

“When did this happen?” asked Jerry in confusion and surprise.

“When the Overlord was sleeping for the entire day.” responded Giblet.

Both men gave long looks to that. Mostly in slight shock that the minions got a drydock made in such a short time. Albert recovered first and spoke on as if this wasn’t a shocking turn of events. “I suggest taking the armor out for a test run and trying out all the systems. Even doing some aquatic runs by the beach and getting a good feel for how it functions in a safe environment.”

Jerry shook his head out of the shock, and soon said. “Right, right…” and thought to himself. Note to self. Upgrade two minions to general…hrm…gotta figure out who though… and glance at Albert as he asked. “Do you need anything while I do the test run?” figure to ask if there was anything more to talk about. Although Albert nodded. “Well, what is it?” asked Jerry.

“While you were in the Storm King’s nation.” Albert started, “did you see any signs of Khara infection?” Taking Jerry a moment to reflect back and consider that before blinking at the… Well, he had seen the virus in action. And yet the island as a whole was in… perfect condition as far as he knew.

Thinking about it, Jerry admits. “Well…as far as I knew from where I wandered? The nation and its people were…in perfect condition. No outbreaks, no burnings beside…well what I did.” and thought it over. “In fact…I wasn’t questioned about the virus I caused. Instead I was questioned on where the ponies were.”

Humming, Albert tapped his chin. “They wanted to know about the Equestrians?” finding that an odd thing to ask.

Jerry nodded, as he said. “Tempest, the Lieutenant or, commander-- whatever? She kept asking me where I moved the Equestrians, and was trying to figure out where they were. Even how they seem to vanish.” going on to tell in thought. “In fact…before all of this, she was after that one mare with the horn of Sombra with Celestia and Luna magic…” furrowing his brows. “I think…there’s a reason besides just conquest for it.” crossing his arms as he went on.

“But, my best guess? She’s asking because it might be tied in with whatever the storm king is planning."

Considering this, Albert said, “I’ll have to talk to the Archmage about this. See about his impute.” And spoke on, “either they’re after powerful magic, or something specific like the two sister’s magic. Since it’s already been proven that magic can be stolen, even near-god like magic.”

Jerry nodded, even as he began to strip his robe and went inside some clothes, “hopefully we’ll figure it out. Maybe I could drain whatever they got to be useless. Or maybe we could use it against the wendigos?” humming a bit but shrugged, before he went inside his larger armor as he added. “Food for thought.” and waved. “I’ll talk to you later Albert.”

And while he walked off, leaving the forge and heading up the stairs? Giblet waited until Jerry was away and out of ear shot. Before Giblet digs into his apron, the minion smith takes out a scroll as he passes it along to Albert. “This is what we gained from intelligence. Including personnel of the army. Plans too.”

Reaching a hand out, Albert took the scroll and gave a nod, “I’ll scan it over and add forward any suggestions I can think of.” and stowed it away somewhere on his person. “I’ll be waiting at the Laboratory for a portion of anti-magic ingots. I might be able to spend enough time to finish the Shield modification for Jerry’s armor.”

“Will be delivered.” though as Giblet turned, as he went to smash onto something, as he was focusing back on his work. And on the many plans of the Dark Castle, as well as the discovery of the Netherworld…and its growing connection to the island itself. Though it wouldn’t be prudent to inform the Master just yet. No, no, better let Master unwind, focus on other things. Master needed time to relax.

No need to make him overthink of Netherworld influence growing on the island.

---

Okay this is…is rather interesting. thought Jerry, as he was doing light jogs around the beach. Moving along as working along the suit system. As long as he could use the thrusters on land? They were less effective compared to using them in the water. Still it allowed him to ‘run’ fast with them boosting his speed, or more impressively let him leap and bound nearly thrice the distance. Unlike his previous prototype armor, the armor itself was far faster. And when he went into the ocean? He could go deeper than normal, even move more easily.

He wanted to laugh, as he explored the island waters depths and just ran around. Sure in the water he was a bit slower, but still! It was a bigger improvement than he ever thought. And when he ascended from the watery depths and went on land? He let out a deep breath, as he was checking over the system hud, and the suit systems of power. From what Jerry can tell of the Hud? It was rather improved, and it seems to…fit with his own system of game logic.

Which helped a lot, as he was half worried there were some issues still. But his thoughts of game logic were pushed aside as he flexed his fists as he thought to himself. Okay, so I can run, I can jump high, I can go deep. And I will be able to move well…all that’s really left is to have it in combat. Hrm…wonder if I could check the forge stones to see if I could make any interesting gear…though I doubt I could use any Albert tech, as that stuff is ‘non-violence only’ gear.

Plus, from what he gathered from the modifications in the suit system? There wasn’t much in it beside some water, rations, extra power cells, and some grenades. The latter was a surprise as they were dubbed ‘Pyro Grenades’. Something told him that they were sneaked in somehow. He took a stop as he muse over, and realized. Huh…I got a inventory….not a big one. But…better than nothing.

It was strange, him having an inventory. But not unappreciated. He took a moment to look over the ocean. He never thought too much about it…but he half wondered where he was in terms of the world. Or even more, if ‘Fate’ was ever going to show up.

He hoped not. He really did. But, he did fill his ‘end’ of the bargain. And Jerry would rather not ask for more if he could help it. The man checked the time in the suit system and paused a bit. wait, it’s been 3 hours? already? he didn’t really notice the time, mostly as he was, preoccupied in running around and testing the suit movement. That and deep diving.

Jerry huffed a bit as he figured it was best to return back to the tower. As he raised his hand, forming a small gate as he walked in and was teleported back into the throne room. The transition was quick, as Jerry headed off down in the forge as there wasn’t much fanfare.

However after he took off his armor, and got his robes on with him climbing back up to the throne room? One of the minion servants came along to speak. “Master, your presence, required in a hall!” Jerry gave a raise of a brow, but nodded. Walking along to follow the servant, as the brown scurry off, leading Jerry out into a section of the Castle and with the servant opening the door into a dark room?

Jerry paused, eyes scrunching in paranoid as he was reminded of ‘dark + rooms = traps’. Though the minion stops, and turns to Jerry as the man called out. “Mind turning on the lights? You know so I don’t freak out?”

As he demanded the lights came on, and almost blindingly so. But that wasn’t the only thing. “SURPRISE!” Came the roar from the room, kazoos sounding, confetti flying, cheering heard-- when his eyes adjusted the whole room was decorated with black-and-red streamers. Fake cut out swords and dancing minions. Party hats with little maces, swords or axes tucked in a manner as if they were stuck in said paper hats. He even caught sight of a fairly large cake with four layers. Going from brown at the bottom, to red, then green and ending with a blue top layer.

Besides that there was a whole table full of food and punch, and all about the room were Caribou and ponies. Most of which had those morbidly silly party hats. He could see Jasmine even holding the remains of a confetti popper. She and a number of other foals were with their own. They almost looked like cartoony cannons. And overhead was a banner that ‘simply’ said, ‘Welcome home and not being held captive and escaping the Storm King!’

Taking a moment to adjust his eyes --as well as being thankful that he didn’t react harshly-- Jerry entered in with a glance around as he remarked. “A party eh?” figuring that would be the reason the room was oddly dark. Boy was he glad he didn’t ruin it.

“Of course a party!” Cheered out the hyperactive pink pony well known as Pinkie Pie. zipping by his side as she snapped a party hat on his head. “And you’re the main attraction!”

“Aw, that just makes my dark heart feel so tender and warm.” joked Jerry with a slight grin.

“Don’t you mean your big dark heart feeling tender and warmed to the touch?” playfully asked Jasmine with a wide smile, as she half pranced over to hug the man she loved to call her big brother.

“Hey, now, let’s not assume too much.” respond Jerry in an amused tone as he pat her head. “My heart is many things-- but big? Well, that implies a lot of things.”

Half flapping over the others, he heard the rainbow speedster call out while waving a hand dismissively, “yeah, yeah, you’re a big bad stud.” then pointed, “now we getting this party started or what?” Grinning in slight excitement.

Jerry rolled his eyes, and said. “Alright, let's get this party over with. You all did a lot of work for this, so we might as well enjoy it.”

“Que the music!” declared Quaver from a nearby table as he began to motion to a band of minions on an overhead balcony to play music.

Jerry shakes his head in amusement, and pat Jasmine's head. “Go on kiddo, go and have some fun.” Jasmine pouted at him, as he looked back down as he told. “Your pouts have no powers over me, young one.” she pouted harder, and he remained impassive. Before she let out a ‘raspberry’ at him and let go, though held a cheeky smile as she pranced off. Jerry shook his head, as he glanced up to Rainbow as he asked.

“So, I’m guessing you and your friends helped make this shindig?”

With a half laugh, Rainbow said, “yeah, well.” and played with her hands, “we were originally planning on a way to break you out from the Storm King’s prison. Buuuuut, the minions totally ditched out on us before we could make a plan and left us here to sit on our butts instead.” and crossed her arms to shrug. “This was the next best thing we could think of.”

“Well the thought counts, that’s for sure.” said Jerry as he shook his head. “But it was probably better for you all to stick here. Less trouble and all.” knowing that with how insistent Tempest was in learning of the Equestrians? It was better that none of the elemental six, or anyone else got captured somehow. In an attempt to break him out. He glanced over and asked. “How’ve you been, Rainbow?”

He didn’t talk much with her, but it was mostly due to him being so busy, and with her just flying around and teaching some of the fliers on cloud management.

Landing on her hooves, the prismic manned mare told, “eh, could be better.” and said almost flatly, “as great as it is to stretch my wings? There’s not much to do around here.” and snorted with a grin, “which is like, a complete 180 back at Citadel-1. That place is so… tight and busy with stuff, I swear I’m never allowed to have a break!” then motioned an arm out, “here? Lot of space and so boring that even taking naps get’s tiring after a while!”

“Ya’ll could always come down to earth and help with the crop.” They heard as they turned their heads to see Applejack come over. A cup full of punch and right by her side, Sea watching on curiously. The blue unicorn herself gave a smile and walked over to Jerry, holding a hand up where she held a second glass filled with punch.

With a long, “yeeeeah….” Rainbow says, “no thanks. I want something exciting, not even more boring, AJ.”

Sea Salt gave a glance to the cerulean mare, even as Jerry took the offered punch. “You were just complaining about there being nothing else to do past weather duty.”

Waving a hand, Rainbow said, “yeah, but I’d rather do something that involves more wing power and less leg power.”

Taking a sip of his punch, Jerry offered. “Well, if you’re focused on flying around, maybe you could take a look around in the air for anything off? I know from the reports that there hasn’t been much change on the land, but there’s likely some things that change on the island around the beaches? Maybe if there’s time you could train Sky with maneuvering? I know she used to be a fast speedster.”

He figured that with Rainbow here, he could have Sky learn more-- granted he would’ve asked her far earlier, but he was preoccupied with work over in Storm king land, development here, and overall Sky possibly would like to fly and race like she used to. Not to mention he figured that it would give her more to do than what the herd had planned for her.

“We’ve raced.” Rainbow waved off, “she’s not bad, really. Could really be a wonderbolt if she worked for it.” then made a face, “but, she’s a little…” And seemed to think on it, “well, not all there. And ditzy. And maybe a bit on the dumb side.”

While Applejack gave a deadpanned glare at her tactless friend? Sea just sighed out with, “she did not have good influences in her life.” then seemed to say, “still, I’m glad you’ve spent time with her. Sky has enough trouble trying to make friends with others as it is.”

Right, she has trouble with the other ponies for being a ‘klutz’, and she interact with the herd…and minions, but not much else for ‘friends’. thought Jerry as he glance to Sea, before looking to the other two mares as he said. “Well, I’m glad that she’s hanging out with some other people. Nice for her to spend time with more friends.” and glance at Applejack as he asked.

“What about you? How have things been going with helping the whole ‘make crops’ with some of my people and minions?” Jerry knew of the progress in reports-- but he figured to hear from the farmer's perspective, especially since she’s volunteering to help.

“Well.” spoke the apple mare in thought, scratching the back of her head and making her hat shift about. “We ain’t so much as makin’ crops as we are tryin’ to make sure what ya got grows.” Giving a shake of her head, Applejack told, “I’ll tell ya Jer’, ya’ll got a good stretch of land. Be better if ya can get yerself more earth ponies to help keep the dirt fresh.” Then jerked her head to the side, “Already told a few folk what to do to keep the farmland in good shape. Sure they’ll tell ya all the bit’s an’ pieces iffin’ ya ask’em.”

“I figure to ask from a farmer's perspective,” lightly shrugged Jerry as he took another sip. “I don't do much farmwork, even less of making crops besides basic knowledge.” then amended. “That and from what I gather Browns apparently are decent farmers.” knowing most of any ‘farm growth’ was of the browns planting seeds and working on the fields.

WIth an amused snort to the side, Applejack smirked, “they are hard workin’ farm hands, decent ‘nough. But I recon those lill’ feller’s could really use a good farm lead to keep their heads straight.” Going on to say in thought, “like I said, real hard workin’ sort. Bu’ ain’t too tender around some crops that call for more attention than most.”

“Well, I did sent a request to the Princess’s if there are any farmers that might be willing to move, but well,” tsking a bit as he shake his head. “There hadn’t been any volunteers from what I gather.”

“It’s them lava flows.” the apple farmer seemed to tell in confidence. “Ain’t many ponies much likin’ the idea tryin’ to farm near them things.” and huffed, “hay, even I get cold hooves when them red ones are makin’ a river of the stuff flow by.”

“Hrm…I thought I had most Reds removed a good portion of lava flows to a certain extent.” said Jerry with furrow brows in though, he knew he had them drain the lava and redirected most of it. Mostly to make more land and farmland built, he figured he needed to check if there are still some lava flows close to certain areas of the land.

“Twi says it ain’t all a bad thing.” shrugged Applejack. “‘Parrently, lava’s got bunch o’ good stuff fer the soil.”

Thinking back, Jerry did say, “I did recall that the ash from the nearby volcano was good for the soil, supposed to help give nutrients to keep it fresh.” recalling something about that from one of the earlier papers he got in reports. The only issue is it covering the crops. Maybe he could build green houses? Keep them safer?

“I’m sure there’s sum technical scincy stuff Twi could talk ya ear off about that stuff.” Chuckled the orange mare. “Doubt we got much books on stuff like that anymore’s.” a slight joking, but hollowness there. “Bu’ I know fer a fact Twi could tell ya a bit o’ sumthin’ about it.”

“Oh she would.” agreed Jerry, as he had gotten through one ‘discussion’ on science. “How have you two been handling living on the ‘big bad overlord’ island?” asking this in amusement as he took a sip of his punch again. “I’m sure you two had your fair share of dealing with baddies over the years as element bearers.”

With a laugh, Rainbow said, “are ya kidding?” And motioned around, “this is like, way better than what we had to put up with.”

Taking a slight chug of her punch, Applejack agreed, “I’m with RD, ya’ll been downright neighborly compared with what we had t’ deal with.” And shuttered, “Even if we got Discord turned around, I still get the hibby-jibbies thinkin’ back to when we had to face him.”

Scrunching her face, Rainbow said, “yeah… that really sucked trying to deal with him.”

“Right, chaos god.” said Jerry with a puff, taking a long drink as Jerry imagined that the ‘fight’ between the element bearers and Discord was harrowing. Most of the fact one couldn’t predict chaos itself, still he was partially curious of a baddy fight, as he lowered the now empty cup and asked. “So, how did that fight go? Probably took a few weeks due to Discord being a chaos god and all.”

With a harsh snort, Applejack said, “I wouldn’t rightly call it much of a fight.” looking a little annoyed at the memory.

“You kidding?” asked Rainbow to her friend, “the guy practically convinced us into losing.” Making Jerry want to blink in… shock?

Similarly, Sea spoke while half nursing on her own punch, “what do you mean?” going on to say, “I thought you and the other’s fought Discord head on when Equestria was being turned on its head?”

Shaking her head, Rainbow said, “as if. By the time we got to Canterlot to get the Elements? Discord already stole them away and hid them.” Again, making Jerry blink. “Then he showed himself and gave us some lame riddle of how to find them-- made it into a game.”

“Darn varment tricked Twi int’a thinkin’ they were in the nearby castle garden maze.” Spoke on Applejack. “We ran right over an’ next thing we know, Rainbow an’ Fluttershy lost their wings, Twi and Rar’s had their horns zapped off an’ he’s given’ us rules on the ‘game’ on this goose-chase he set us up on.”

“....okay, so he was playing ‘that’ sort of bad guy….” said Jerry with an insufferable sigh and shook his head. “The manipulative and ‘whimsical’ kind.”

Half growling, Rainbow said, “yeah, well, he did more than that.” and told on in some agitation. “He got in our heads and basically brainwashed us into acting against our elements-- we didn’t even realize it until after Twilight figured it out and zapped us back to normal.”

Nodding, Applejack confirmed, “there wern’t no fight. We got beat before we even had a chance.” and smiled a little before looking to the pegasus beside her. “Ya know Rainbow, iffin’ I recall, ya were the most difficult one.” and chuckling, “claimin’ a tinny little cloud was Cloudsdale.”

“Hey!” Shouted Rainbow, “I thought we agreed to never talk about that again?”

Snortling, Applejack said, “nah, Rar’s got the other’s to promise not to talk about how she got tricked inta a giant rock was a ginormous diamond.”

“Oh, okay, he did that sort of mind shittery.” said Jerry in realization, as he was half wondering what this ‘brainwashed’ was-- but apparently it was more of a ‘ironic and twisting’ brainwashing to make them eccentric. Like imagining a giant rock was a diamond. Although he did ask in slight wonder. “Wait a minute,” glancing between the two. “How did you all beat him if he mind warped you?”

He knew a bit from what was talked a bit from Shadow and Spree-- as well as a few other's, but not all of it.

Breathing out, Applejack said, “well, like I said. Twi had to zap the sense back inta us. After tha’? We get the element’s back on since, well, Discord didn’t take ‘em away. He kinda broke us, an’ they wern’t doin’ nothin’ with us bein’ the opposit of what we were supposed to be.”

Nodding, Rainbow told, “even then? When we were going to finally send a giant rainbow beam at the guy, he used his magic to just juggle us for a bit just to make a point how strong he was-- Twilight had to pull our tails out of the fire a second time so we could have a chance to blast him into stone!”

Jerry muse over that, and thought about it. so basically, he assumed he would win, spread them out, and Twilight had to keep them together to fire their orbital friendship cannon.

Nodding, Applejack said, “only reason we won was the fella was so confident we were still fightin’ and not bein’ ourselves. Kinda lost cuz’ when he realized we had our heads back on our shoulder’s, was too late.” and tapped her chin. “Ya know… it’s strange. Guy didn’t even try to run when he realized we had the Element’s workin’ again.”

“My guess is that he figured if he was going to get stoned again? He might as well wait it out,” said Jerry in thought. “Sure his pride and self assurance got him beaten, but if he could get out in a thousand years? He could easily do it again…” though internally he also knew with so much chaos around in Equestria now? Discord likely was out and about…and only didn’t interfere due to other reasons.

Huffing, Rainbow grumbled, “guy’s still like, super dangerous.” and went on, “I mean, sure, his magic’s nothin’ to scoff at. Guy was juggling the sun and moon at random for…” and looked to Applejack, “A week?”

Shrugging, the farmer said, “I ain’t gatta clue. Pretty sure nopony could keep track of the calendar. Could of been days, could of been a couple weeks. There were no way to tell time durin’ all that.”

Shaking her head, Rainbow went on, “anyways, sure his magic’s like super powerful. But it’s those stupid mind games that really made him dangerous.” half shouting, “I mean, ponyfeathers, he basically beat us just by tricking us and didn’t even need to use his magic on us!”

Nodding firmly, Applejack agrees, “fella darn came near close to doin’ it a second time when the Princess asked us to reform the guy.”

“I’m sorry what?!” Jerry nearly balks as he looks at Applejack. “Reforming. A chaos. God?” then turned to Sea and asked. “Sea, please tell me my drink hasn’t been spiked, because that sounds stupid. Like really stupid.”

Waving a hand, Rainbow spoke, “yeah, you heard me.” and rolled a hand, “He used to be ‘Discord, Lord of Chaos and Disharmony’.” and shrugged, “now it’s just ‘Discord, Lord of Chaos’. Fluttershy did a pretty good job getting him on our side.”

“Not that ya can tell half the time.” Flatly added Applejack. Taking another swig of her punch as if to draw out this fact.

“And…okay I’m going to need a moment to mentally process that.” started Jerry as he glanced down to his cup. “And get a refill….because wow….” if Discord, a literal god…was reformed…then how the FUCK hadn’t he showed up at all during all of this!?

“You think that’s something?” Asked Rainbow with a grin, “you should listen to how the Canterlot Wedding went.”

Moving to cover her face with her hat, Applejack said, “dear Celestia, don’t remin’ me.” Sounding rather embarrassed and pretty ashamed. “Tha’ there was just a disaster.”

Sea flattened her ears and asked, “that was when the changeling invasion happened, wasn’t it?” and spoke on, “I heard it was one of the first times you actually physically fought a threat.”

Puffing up, Rainbow said, “yeah, we were pretty awesome and totally kicked flank.” then faltered, “well, uh, right before we got dogpiled by a literal wave of changelings.”

Sighing, Applejack admitted, “we could of done better. Twi was the one t’ notice somethin’ fishy goin’ one when we first got t’ canterlot an’ we just brushed her off.” And looked to the cerulean pegasus. “We were more lucky than a four leaf clover tha’ Twi found the real Candace right before the Changelin' swarm broke through the shield.”

There’s luck…and then there’s being a Hero. thought Jerry, as he knew that while it was a bit of a stretch? He knew how common the trope was for everything. And for a Hero? Or a set of Heros? They get extremely lucky. Especially when facing the Big Bad…it was admittedly something he was still afraid of, even if he was assured a bit the element bearers won’t cause a fuss with him.

But it didn’t mean other Heros won’t be the same. Even the likes of Dulsion were, in a way, a ‘hero’ too.

“If I remember right.” RAinbow seemed to pip in, “didn’t we get our butt’s kicked first, before Cadance and Shining Armor did our job?”

Snorting and bumping her friend’s shoulder, Applejack said, “I think it don’t matter who got the job done. S’long Equestria got saved, I don’t think it really matter’s who did the savin’.”

Thinking it over, Rainbow said, “yeah, alright, you gotta point.” Then snickered, “I mean, I guess it was practically 20% more hilarious that Chrysalis and her Hive got blasted out of Canterlot by a blast of Love Empowered magic, since they originally came there to suck the Love out of us or whatever.”

“And who knows where she is at this point.” agreed Jerry, and thought as he added in thoughtfulness. “You know, maybe I should expand the invitation of people joining me more than just ponies or caribou. Maybe if I’m lucky, I’ll get some changelings. They could help with things too.”

Both Applejack and Rainbow shared a look, before Applejack said, “maybe talk t’ the princess’s about that. Since they know other nations pretty well.”

“As for changelings.” Rainbow added, “ask Twi about it. She’s been dealing with them lately herself.”

Note to self, have some minions send that request to the sisters, and talk to Twilight later on that. thought Jerry as he gave a nod, and glancing at his empty cup he said. “Well if you two don’t mind? I’m going to get a refill, and some food.” then corrected. “Actually a lot of food, I’m still hungry.”

“Sure thing, sugarcube.” Waved Applejack. She smiled and said with a waving hand, “there’s plenty to go round, and ya’ll take ya fill, ya could use bit more meat on those bones.” A teasing smirk there.

Sea gave a small laugh and looped her arm around one of Jerry’s own. “I think I’ll make sure he get’s his fill.” and nodded her goodbye to two of Eqestria’s heroes. And as they left, weaving around caribou and pony alike?

Did the blue unicorn glance up and say, “you seem to like them.” mostly in observation of how casual he was about the two heroines to her home nation.

“Well, I figure if I’m having the Hero’s being my guests, it wouldn’t do much harm to be casual with them.” said Jerry as he looked to Sea as he went on. “Plus, they have been helping, so I figured to chat a bit. Get to know them and the other bearers. Since I now have some time to relax and focus on things for, a good while.”

Sea regarded him for a moment, then said, “you know you don’t have to see them as ‘heroes’ and you as ‘villain’. I think it’s become pretty clear that we’re just people, and they don’t see you as someone to think of as an enemy.”

Jerry looked at her…before sighing and looking ahead. “Yeah, yeah I just…can’t help it.”

“Bad habit?” she half joked with a smile.

“I am the Overlord,” said Jerry with a low smile as he glanced at her. “Even if I want to be friends? Being bad is my thing.”

With a slight giggle, Sea said, “well, you do know how to play the part.” And looked ahead to the table that was filled with food. “Here, let me help you get a plate made.” and rolled her eyes. “We don’t need you choking on another alfalfa loaf like last week.”

Looking over the food and scowl a bit of the reminder, the man said with a low huff. “Yeah, I'd rather not eat anything pony related ever again.”

“I’m sure Pinkie made sure to label them.” Sea pacified him. “She knows about your dietary differences.” and took a moment to look over the plates and platters… then smiled, “and looks like she did.” and reached a hand out, using a finger to lift a tag that had a very cartoony drawing of him in his spiky armor.

Jerry laughed lowly as he said. “Well, at least I’ll enjoy the food.” and as Sea was making his plate? He couldn’t help but lick his lips, as he was really hungry. He hadn’t had any actual food since he woke up, no wait. He hadn’t eaten at all. Though he glance to Sea and jokingly ask. “So, think I should open up a ‘kidnapping business’? You know, have me kidnap rulers as clients for a vacation here on my island? Would keep in the spirit of me being the big bad.”

With a look, Sea Salt stared and soon said, “I honestly can’t tell if you’re joking or really serious.”

Grinning a bit, Jerry told her. “Well, maybe I am serious. Since if I’m going to be the Overlord? I might as well ‘kidnap’ the princess or any rulers for time off, and get paid doing so.”

Slowly, Sea shook her head and took a moment to just collect his food. But soon enough she had a plate made and handed it to him, “then maybe pitch it to Twilight. I’m sure she’d have some kind of input on that crazy plan.”

“Well, I’m sure I’ll pitch it when I meet her, and with the whole changeling immigration if I’m lucky.” said Jerry, and glanced around as he smiled a little. Seeing everyone cheerful, happy, and enjoying themselves. He also felt…happy. Seeing everyone here enjoying themselves.

Maybe he could make it work, the whole ‘kidnapping thing’, since if he was going to be stuck as an evil overlord…might as well make it a means to pay the bills.

Next Chapter: Dungeon Delving Estimated time remaining: 6 Hours, 4 Minutes