Letting out a breath and nearly sagging inside the room that would be hers, Starlight nearly flopped down on the bed and just laid there. Her mind was trying to get over what had just happened. Her ears flicked at the slight clopping hooves of one of the ponies that were from her town walking around downstairs. must be Double Diamond taking stock of things again.

She liked Double Diamond. He was loyal and kept to the ideals she had made with the town and was once of the few that seemed to be most entrenched in them. And it looked like he still was, having shown a lot of anxiety and worry about how he now felt.

I can start over. Starlight thought to herself. She would have to talk to the townsfolk. Get them unmarked once more and reform her town… someplace that wasn’t here. But she had a few problems. Firstly she needed to find a way off this expanse of land that was under the ‘Overlord Jerry’s claim or at least someplace quiet enough to restart their peaceful little corner once more.

But, more importantly… how to do the unmarking. Without the ‘Staff of Equalization’, going about unmarking the ponies once more was not going to happen. How was she to explain that to them? She was already getting a few uncomfortable questions about how she used her magic so well. Not that a little lie that I got my mark the same as them didn’t work.

Slowly breathing in, Starlight sat up and looked to her bag that was now laying beside her. Lighting her horn, she gently unzipped a bit of it just to peak inside. Whereupon she saw a glinting light of Rarity’s mark, inside a specially enchanted jar that kept the mark contained. That purple magic stuff that surrounded it seemed to have died down finally. But there were still a few wisps and the mark still shifted around in an agitated way.

First the Cutie Mark acts up. Then Rarity returns barley a few days later, wanting it. What’s the connection? Starlight pulled a face, her mind working overtime while she zipped her bag back closed. It had something to do with that odd purple magic that surrounded the Mark, but the pink unicorn couldn’t figure out what. Only that it was radiating a large amount of magic. Magic that she couldn’t quite analyze, not in just a few days.

With one final deep breath, Starlight decided that she would sleep on it. It had been a long day. From harvesting the crops of her home. To organize a few teams. The appearance of that Albert man. Of Rarity and her friends…

She would sleep it out and figure out what to do in the morning.

Or, that had been her plan before the door to her room knocked. Dragging another sigh out of herself, she got up and almost tiredly put on a happy smile. She had to keep appearances and it would do anyone good if she appeared the image of cranky unfriendly pony.

So, forcing herself up and walking to the door, Starlight spoke, “Hi, how can I help you…” almost slowing down when she saw Twilight Sparkle. The Princess of Friendship. She stood there with a sort of strange firmness about her, and was now looking better after overtaxing herself. Though still relatively tired.

“Starlight.” Twilight spoke with a hint of exhaustion. “Can we please talk?”

Refraining from flattening her ears back in annoyance, Starlight smiled, “of course.” and motioned a hand, “would you like to come in?”

With a small smile, Twilight said, “yes, that would be nice.” and walked in. Starlight closed the door behind the alicorn then moved to straighten things out. More importantly, place her bag elsewhere in the simple room. Thankfully, Twilight took to walking to a small table that was in the small space and sat herself at a chair.

There seemed to be a moment of the lavender mare taking a deep breath, organizing her thoughts. Starlight half were regarding the alicorn. She seemed more tired than Starlight herself. But nearly pushing past one's magical limits and trying to later organize the ponies into some living spaces? Well, it was a lot for one mare to do.

“Do you know where Rarity’s Cutie Mark is?” The one question nearly made Starlight pause. And the unicorn did her best to make sure nothing slipped past. Instead she just smiled and looked patiently towards Twilight, who seemed worried. “She didn’t get hers back when everypony else did.”

Nodding, Starlight walked over to take her own seat and spoke, “of course, I understand. It’s a concern that her’s is missing out of everypony’s.” and soon sat herself down. “By the way, what happened at the vault?” Trying to keep her frustrations down at how it was more than likely destroyed--

“With the threat of the Necromancer, Albert didn’t want to risk the Cutie Marks falling into their hands.” Told Twilight in a sort of simple manner. “He had no means to transport them, so releasing them and hoping they returned to the ponies they belonged to was the next best thing. According to him, the potential of someone magical exploiting them was too great a risk.” and shook her head. “He didn’t want to risk a small portion of someone’s soul near the Necromancer.”

For a moment, Straight considered this fact. There was a possible risk of a necromancer, a manipulator of dead and souls gaining a small portion of someone’s soul? alright, maybe that wasn’t such a bad idea. it was very… logical. But that still didn’t mean she wasn’t angry at things being ruined so badly.

Still, the Town Leader got her focus returned to the situation at hand and spoke, “well, that is… reasonable, extreme, but I can’t fault his reasoning when you put it like that.” it was spoken with a hint of begrudging agreement. But this was the better solution given the situation.

“Still, there’s nothing I can do if Rarity’s mark wasn’t in the vault, as odd as that is.” Starlight went on to tell. “I’m not sure what you’re expecting of me, Princess.”

Hand up, the lavender mare spoke, “Please… just Twilight.” there was a small smile and an attempt to show more familiarity. But the unicorn could see the slight exhaustion still in the alicorn. “And I’m asking because she needs help in getting it back.” And gave a worried look over to Starlight, “she’s hurting.”

Blinking at the absurd statement, Starlight spoke with a near laugh, “Oh Twilight.” And waved off, “the Equalization process brought on by the Staff of Equalization is completely harmless! No pony ever suffers from the freedom of their Cutie Mark.”

Despite this, the princess shook her head, “I-I don’t know anything about this.. Staff.” A trace of doubt in her voice. But she continued, “but you’re missing context.” And breathed out. “Maybe using it on a pony is mostly harmless. But using it on a pony that had their memories missing?” Starlight went to say something, but Twilight went on. “Or on a pony while under magical influence? One under past trauma? Then further mentally altered under a medical spell to try and heal those trauma’s and undo the former spell's effects?”

For a moment Starlight sealed her lips. She couldn’t help but ask, “she had missing memories before she came to my Town?”

Nodding, Twilight told, “Someone named Magic, an Archmage noble from Canterlot. To keep certain state and government secrets safe and secured? He secretly took the memories of a select number of ponies. Rarity was one of them.” and looked to Straight with concern. “I don’t understand your reasons to go about Equalizing ponies, and personally I find it wrong to take away something that makes them truly special and unique.”

Then with a sort of strength that did not show on the tired Alicorn's tired body, did Twilight tell, “but, right now one of my closest, dearest friends is suffering. Unable to recall her memories properly, feeling empty inside and finding everything hollow. To the point I’m starting to worry something horrible is going to happen to her mind if this keeps up.”

It was all very extreme, and Starlight again doubted this. All the same, that tone of voice spoke with such resolve and… fear. For a moment, an exhausted Starlight considered these facts. Considered the possibility of someone of Rarity’s position actually being greatly affected. Yes, she knew Rarity’s mind was a bit warped when found, and she undid most of it and even used a spell to mute the bad parts but…

Missing memories on top of that? And done so by an Archmage at that. could there have been a… a drastic change in the spell with these other effects going on? Would it have really caused something like this? it filled her with an uncertainty and Starlight wasn't sure how to address it. Not at first anyways.

So, with a deep breath, Starlight said, “we’re both tired, Twilight.” Blinking her eyes to keep awake. “Why don’t we… meet in the morning and I take a look at Rarity?” She partially didn’t, but if the mare was suffering…

Biting her lip, Twilight looked not so sure. But she nodded, “Alright. In the morning.” and slowly rose up from her seat. “It’s been… a long day. You’re right. We need to sleep and rest.” And gulped down dry air to tell, “just please… don’t take too long.” And excused herself. Leaving out the door and allowing Starlight to stew in thought.

The unicorn did not want to believe her spell was causing harm. It was never made to cause long-term issues. But what if something was causing issues because of these unaccounted for alterations. Some of the medical spells she put on were never really taken off, in fear of something resurfacing…

Again, Starlight looked at her bag and wondered what she should do.

---

Next morning, Starlight woke up relatively bright and early. She didn’t want to get out of her bed, plagued by the thoughts from the prior night. But she forced herself up and went for breakfast. Double Diamond, being the goofy sweetheart that he often was, had prepared breakfast for herself and most of her town's people. They gave nervous, half-hearted morning greetings to her, and Starlight could already see the cracks forming in them.

Confliction of if this was good or bad. Confliction on maybe using their talents once more. There was just a lot of conflict all around. Starlight could tell, she needed to address this somehow and soon before it got away from her. But now really wasn’t the time. So instead, as she sat to have an, admittedly, really nice breakfast? She said, “Double Diamond?” getting his undivided attention. “Can you please gather everyone later in a nearby square to say…” and thought it over, “ten hours from now. I have an announcement for everyone later.”

Blinking, the rather white stallion said, “sure thing, Starlight.” seeming to almost half wince at his accent that had slipped out. Just a bit. “I’ll be, like, getting that done.” Ear twitching as he did it again.

Nodding with a smile and trying to not show her own stain from showing through at how quickly the cutie marks were influencing the ponies once again, Starlight said, “thank you. I have a few things to do this morning, but I’ll be sure to help alleviate any concerns once I’m done.” and finishing breakfast off quickly? Got up and left.

Leaving the hotel-like building, Starlight began to walk the semi-empty streets of this city. Looking around, she could only take in the half gothic architecture. Only made all the more odd when she would spot stranger architecture mixed in. such as the blocky and orderly buildings she would cross now and then. Or the more flamboyant, colorful and creative housing that would look to be of pony craft.

She could spot a few of her town's people around. Even a couple Caribou. Though they seemed to be in deep discussions with caribou that were, apparently, from here. Starlight stopped to actually take in the sight of a Caribou and mare standing side by side. The taller male has a near possessive arm around the mare’s hip. And the mare herself holding a hand near a small bump, clearly with foal. Both were talking to a couple Caribou from her town, seeming curious and deep in discussion.

Shaking off her slight surprise, Starlight resumed her walk. Trying to wrap her head around that a Caribou and pony were together, without needing a little mental nudging to suppress their more baser and savage wants to dominate the opposite sex like animals.

I need to understand how this place works and fast. If this place is anything like that finicky idiot… She wanted to narrow her eyes in the thought of the Overlord. She remembered him, he looked different than he did now. But she recalled him. Mostly at how much he shouted and threw a tantrum in her town.

She would deal with that later. For now? Starlight focused on her path to the castle. It wasn’t where she wanted to go, but it was, as far as she knew, where Twilight and her friends were. She walked up the winding steps that lead to the castle. Passed the admittedly silly looking minion guards in their slightly oversized armor and much-too-big polearms by their sides. A single question to a pony servant got her pointed in the right direction.

Soon enough, Starlight was before the door that was to Twilight and her friends. And a corner of Starlight’s mind wondered what made the other five so important to be right beside a princess. It seemed… odd. But starlight placed those thoughts aside and knocked and waited. The door opened in a moment. She gave her smile and said, “Hello! Princess Twilight said Rarity hasn’t been feeling so well and I came to see her.”

Before her was that very pink mare-- one that seemed to regard her with an edge of suspicion. Still, she said, “sure thing!” and Starlight got the impression that this mare was just trying to be nice. It was the little things. The slight tightness of her smile. The near unblinking gaze that peered into her very soul…

Repressing any shutter that wanted to surface, Starlight walked herself in. The room was rather nice, and spacy. Not super luxurious for what she would expect for royalty, but it was clearly made to house a few people at once like an apartment. Then she looked to a couch and found Rarity.

To say, Starlight felt a little… shocked. There was no smile on the mare and Starlight swore that Rarity’s coat was a more muted ash-gray than a pial white. She looked more exhausted than the day before and looked almost… broken? And when Rarity’s eyes turned up to her? Starlight really felt her body shiver. Those eyes looked almost dead as they were tired.

Still, while Rarity’s friends tried to comfort her? The unicorn tried to smile and say, “Hello, Starlight.” sounding soft and just drained.

With an almost uneasy smile, Starlight spoke, “hello Rarity.” and walked towards her. Feeling the need to gulp. She could see a pony or two from the friend group eyeing her a bit. None more so than the cyan pegasus, Rainbow or other.

Sitting up straight and hand rubbing Rarity’s back, Twilight asked, “did you have a good sleep?”

Clearing her voice, Starlight said, “good as one can get after everything that’s happened.” It was truthfully a little rough. But she managed with what sleep she could get. “Now, Rarity, how…. How are you feeling?”

Pressing her lips into a thin line, Rarity spoke, “I-I’m not sure.” and shifted a little. “I know I feel… devastated, honestly. But I also just feel so… so…” dragging off to find the words.

“She’s had a rough night.” Fluttershy said while trying to gently soothe her friend. Rubbing a shoulder, massaging the back. “She has been off balance all morning.”

Again, Starlight tried to not think too heavily on this. So instead she asked, “may I perform a medical scan, Rarity?” figuring that would help determine how bad it really was. Because it couldn’t be so horrible.

Blining, Rarity shook her head and spoke, “I-I suppose that won’t be an issue…” and with that consent, Starlight started up her magic in her horn and began to bathe Rarity in her magic. Reaching in and feeling around.

The equalization was still in place, which was obvious. And so was her old medical block on Rarity’s person to keep any lust and extreme emotions down. But she did notice that the strange magic that caused Rarity to have that lust and extreme emotions was… gone. Completely gone. And more to that, there was a strange… disjointment. Magic trying to flow but not doing so rightly.

Starlight pulled a face and dug deeper. Mostly into the sections of her own spell effects on a pony and felt what could be called ‘stretched strings’. Like parts of Rarity were… pulled thin. Misplaced. Only partially in place. She tried to make sense of it all but… in admittance, she wasn’t sure what she was looking at completely.

And because she didn’t know, Starlight wasn’t sure how to fix it subtly to make Rarity realize she didn’t need her mark. Because there was something wrong and Starlight just had no idea what it was. maybe just undo the medical suppressor? She doesn't need it anymore… I think… clearly it was having an impact on Rarity’s emotions. Suppressing too much. But was Rarity ready for that? there’s no other spell in place so…

So, before she did anything, Starlight said, “something is wrong, but I think it’s my previously made medical suppressor. The one to keep the bad memories away.” And gave a worried look to Rarity. “Removing it should let you feel right again, but you’ll remember the bad parts of your past. And I don’t think it’s smart to remove it.”

Breathing out, Twilight admitted, “we felt something similar.” Gaining Starlight’s attention. “The Archmage I mentioned? He had similar reservations that we need to undo it bit by bit. But with Rarity’s emotional state as it is… it’s been difficult to. He thinks she needs a full reharmonization for that.” Then flicked her wings. “But… the equalization has been… making that hard.”

That… was concerning. Starlight knew that the Equalization made re-harmonizing happen far less. She was sure that was because those that were Equalized didn’t require harmonization anymore. But if Rarity needed it and couldn’t… No, no they must have gotten this wrong. My Equalizing spell makes things perfect for everypony!

“In my experience.” Starlight spoke in a steady manner, “ponies that have been Equalized no longer need to harmonize themselves.” and gave a smile. “They find that they are content, happy and don’t need to sing out any worries or problems because they don’t have any.”

Bristling, Rainbow spoke, “you can’t be serious!” Though was stopped when Applejack grabbed her shoulder. Catching the cerulian mare’s attention. The farmer shook her head, persuading her friend to be silent for now.

Starlight watched out of the corner of her eye, while she heard Pinkie tell, “you’re wrong, you know.” and looked at the overly pink mare that looked sad. Somber. “Rarity’s hurting a lot. She tried to harmonize days ago.” and moved to nearly squish between Twilight and Rarity, hugging the gray tinted mare and nearly squishing her body into the unicorn. “You didn’t hear it like we did. It was so empty and painful.”

Troubled, Twilight scotted away to give room and nodded in agreement. “We had to join in to help. And even after we did? It quickly began to drain away.” and looked at Starlight. “And now it's getting worse. Every day Rarity’s getting worse and we’re scared for her, Starlight.”

She tried, she really tried. But when Starlight looked into Twilight's eyes? She didn’t see any tricks or lies. The princess was truly scared. Her eyes glistened with a sort of pain one felt when a loved one was slowly dying. But she didn’t want to give up Rarity’s mark, to do that would be giving up on the way of life that worked just fine for all. The Town was proof of concept!

granted one or two were a little difficult and needed reminding or correcting to properly be inducted-- but it still worked! Mentally amended Starlight who clamped down on herself. Even if her chest was clenching a bit. She ignored it, brushing aside her other feelings to remain realistic and confident in herself. She couldn’t doubt herself, not after all the time and effort she put into this.

“I…” even then, a reluctant word could barely form in Starlight’s mouth. Her mind takes a moment to furiously search for something to say, something to counter with. She had to take a breath to steady herself and tell, “I’m not sure what I can do.” trying to be as detached as possible.

“You could tell us where Rarity’s mark is.” Rainbow once more pitched in, seeming to shift in agitation. “We heard that Albert busted the Vault and that Rarity’s was the only one to not show-- so you gotta know where it is, right?”

The confrontational tone gave something for Starlight to focus on as she asked in return, “and what makes you think I would know anything?”

Sighing out, Applejack spoke with a slight dryness, “Rar’s talked all about stuff from that town of yours, Starligh’.” And went on, “even told us how ya’ll used that Staff thingy to move her mark into the vault. Who else would we be askin’?” Going on, “why, ya were gonna take us to the vault where it was t’ begin with!”

That made Twilight fidget. Her eyes darted to the side in thought. Ignoring the Alicorns actiones, Starlight continued to say, “I’m not sure what to tell you. It was there before.” seeming to shrug almost nonchalantly.

Then, Twilight spoke with an almost solemn tone, “Starlight, what was your real reason to bring us to the Vault?” Those in the room looked at the Alicorn. Blinking a bit when she continued to ask, “You’re saying Rarity’s mark was there, and make it sound like it was always there and never moved. But we know it wasn’t, the vault was blasted to bits.”

Looking up at Starlight, Twilight asked, no, demanded firmly. “What was the real reason you were bringing us to the Vault, Starlight? If it wasn’t to get Rarity’s mark, what was it?”

Nearly stepping back, Starlight said with a cheery smile, “Now Princess, no need to be like that, who said I wasn’t going to give you her mark?” and took a moment to think to herself. Mostly to search for an excuse that would make sense.

An excuse she began to frantically think of as Twilight seemed to say strongly, “it’s the fact that despite us coming to your Town, it’s Rarity’s mark only that’s missing.” When Starlight began to open her lips, Twilight told on. “I know this because I read health reports of everyone from the town after they got their share of the Khara cure. Everypony’s mark, except Rarity’s, is accounted for.”

“So tell me Starlight.” Twilight went on. “Tell me what reason you think that Rarity’s Cutie Mark has gone missing. Tell me why you wanted us to follow you to get it when it’s clear it’s never been there. Tell me the truth of what’s going on.” Standing up to be more eye level and her wings flaring.

Again, Starlight wanted to take a step back. But instead she decided to stand her ground. She leetred back at this alicorn princess with annoyance. “Tell you?” She began, “how about you tell me why you decided to twist Rarity who was completely content in my Town with this idea that she need her mark to be happy?” going on, “who says that returning it would make her happy-- everypony that’s gotten theirs back has been in a state of confused chaos-- it’s anarchy ready to happen! They were content the way they were!”

“No they weren’t!” Pinkie spoke up from her spot near Rarity. “I’ve seen those smiles, they weren't real, they weren't happy.” The party pony going on, “they’re the smiles that you put on to lie to everyone and yourself everythings fine-- which means nothing is fine at all!”

Feeling a touch annoyed, Starlight felt a vein in her head throb a little and her eye wanting to twitch. “And it’s prideful remarks like this that split up friendships and cause problems. Something that nobody, pony or Caribou, has under the flag of Equalization!”

“Equalization is a lie.” That one statement made most of the room blink. Mostly in shock at the dull tone of it. When eyes turned, they took in Rarity, hugging herself and looking just dead tired. “There’s no such thing as ‘truly equal’. If there was, then there wouldn’t be a reason for things to be different.”

Turning her tired gaze up, Starlight felt herself want to shiver at the almost dead look in Rarity’s dull blue eyes. “Someone told me… if everything was the same, we would be dead. Because life wasn’t worth living, if everything was the same.” She gave a small laugh, almost sounding hollow. “I… I didn’t get it. Until I did.” and shuttered. “I… I understand, Starlight. Your dream, it’s nice. But it’s a lie. A horrible, horribly sweet lie that we all wish was true.”

Shaking her head, Starlight said with frustration, “but it is true!”

“No it’s not.” Chuckled Rarity with no mirth or humor. “We just wish it was, because if it isn’t? We just… wasted all our time on a sweet little lie…”

Concerned, Fluttershy spoke, “Rarity… are… are you okay?”

Shivering, Rarity spoke, “I’m… I’m not sure Fluttershy, I just feel… very tired.” her head almost veering away, as if she couldn’t figure out where to look. “Maybe… maybe I should just… lay down for a bit.”

Twilight’s hands balled in worry as she told the girls, “M-maybe you should help her lay down for a while. Maybe she’ll have more energy later.”

Fluttershy quickly nodded, and Pinkie was right there to help. Both taking Rarity by each arm and helping her up. All of them watching the mare seem to almost shuffle along aimlessly. The sight of it made Starlight want to shutter again. There was clearly something wrong with Rarity and her mind wanted to deny that there was one by her own hand. It just didn’t seem possible.

But when the door closed? Twilight seemed to breathe out. “Please.” Getting the unicorn to snap to Twilight again. “At this point? I don’t care if you were trying to trick us to the Vault to do something to us. I don’t care if you have a warped sense of friendship.” and said with desperation. “But please… if you do know where Rarity’s mark is, just please… give it back to her.”

Opening her mouth, Starlight tried to say something. Though she found her voice rather empty. She wasn’t sure what to say. Denial was on the tip of her tongue, but the look Twilight held with her… she was desperate. For a moment. Starlight thought that over while closing her lips. She thought it over. “I…” She spoke with a slow hesitance, “I… need to get back to my people, they’re expecting me to give a small speech. They’re… a little stressed.”

She could see it. A sort of disappointment. But Twilight nodded, “alright.” and breathed in. “but please… don’t wait too long.” and waved her hand. Allowing Starlight to be dismissed.

Turning on hoof, the mare rushed out the door and nearly let out an anxious breath. Uncertain what to do for a moment. Think later. You have a lot of ponies to calm down. And nodded to this and rushed in a fast walk back towards the Castle’s front door. She could figure out the whole thing with Rarity and Twilight’s desperation for her mark later. For now, she needed to think.

---

Jerry looked between the two mares, as Shadow and Lovely were relaxing and focused on the mare in the lab coat that had her horn alight, a Minion beside her ready to assist. She was Doctor Positive Health, and was one of the few ponies who transferred into Nowhere in the earlier days. Mostly due to being ‘married’ to a caribou from the facility long ago, and now worked as a doctor for the Dark Castle.

Right now, as Jerry stood between the two mares as his hands held theirs, mostly as support for their check up, and while he knew they were both fine? It was mostly to ease their nerves, especially more so as to see what gender their kids were and how many Lovely was going to have now that they were more developed for one to scan. He gave reassuring looks, as both mares squeezed his hand in a mixture of uncertainty and excitement.

He was glad he could endure the squeezing grip of an earth mare. Because if he was in a weaker form, he was sure his bones would be crushed. He gave a light squeeze back to both mares that grip his hands, as Positive finished her scanning as she said with a light smile. “Well Overlord,” looking at Jerry in a bright manner, “I say right now they’re both healthily growing into the fifth month period.”

Seeming rather bright while she continued. “Right now, I see two colts from Shadow, and a filly from Lovely.” Her tone filled with congratulations, mostly towards Shadow herself. The thestral herself looked on in deep surprise.

“Two colts?” Shadow said in surprise, glancing down to her belly as she moved a hand to gently rub it. The thestral knew she was having twins, but she didn’t expect twin colts.

Lovely look down to her belly, looking amazed as she said. “A filly.” she sounded happy, felt happy too as she was having a filly, the earth mare was also wondering how she could have a single foal. She knew Jerry went at her more during their heat. But on the other hand, it also meant that Shadow was lucky. She couldn’t help but giggled a bit on the news.

Shadow glanced with a slight smile, feeling glad that Lovely was giddy on the news, though she focused on Positive as she asked. “Doctor, is there anything we should know?” figuring to see if they need to take any extra steps.

The doctor seemed to think that over, before the unicorn shook her head as her horn ease its glow. “Besides that, just take it easy, eat whatever you can, and take breaks every now and then.”

Jerry gave a nod, as he helped both mares onto their hooves, and walked them out of the medical room. His hands still in both of theirs, as he let them both lean on him. He saw Sonata outside waiting, as she came by their side as Jerry said with a slight smile to both mares. “Well, look like we’re going to have rowdy kids when they’re a bit older.”

Shadow smiled as she leaned on his shoulder, letting her head rest a bit as she said with a fond smile. “That entirely depends on what kind of foals we might have.” though she became thoughtful and spoke. “Still, me having twin colts... That’s honestly rare.” she knew that while having more than one foal wasn’t a big thing for thestrals? Having multiple colts was quite a rarity at times.

Usually it was more fillies than colts in a pregnancy. It was rather surprising to hear she would have two colts.

Lovely said in thought more thoughtfulness, “perhaps its a good thing we’re having small serving of foals, as I doubt we would be able to handle more than what we have.” she moved her other hand fondly onto her stomach, as a low smile grew on her face. As while she enjoys serving Jerry as her Master? She also was happy that she would be carrying his seed.

Jerry looked curious between the two as he asked. “Is it that big of a deal for more than two colts?”

Shadow nodded her head as she looked up to Jerry. “It is. Usually a mare has more fillies than colts. Usually it's either a single filly most times, a colt and a filly, or two fillies. Having more colts doesn’t happen as often.”

Jerry was thoughtful on that, even as he was guiding them both back up to the Private Quarters as they walked along the stone halls as he asked. “You two have been doing okay? I know I tried to check up on you two while I went out, but nothing too stressful happened, right?”

“Well, it is starting to become harder to work as a maid,” admits Lovely as she glances down at her body, as while it was still as hot, her stomach was developing more and it was harder to bend down. And she couldn’t wear her outfit due to her already large breasts growing, and becoming more leaky. “My chest began to grow heavy, and a bit more tighter.”

“You’re probably lactating,” said Shadow, as her own breasts were starting to grow a bit, and get heavier. “It’s happening to me as well.” and while Lovely gave a glance? Shadow explained. “Mothers start producing milk in their breasts for our foals to have. It’s naturally Lovely.”

The earth mare nod…though smiled a bit as she asked. “Then maybe we could go up and let Master drink from us, I’m sure he’ll enjoy tending to us more.”

Shadow flicked her ear, and while she wasn’t going to say no, she glanced at a blushing Sonata on the kinky suggestion, and the crystal mare suggested. “M-Miss Lovely, you should probably consider, erm, milking yourself so that when the foals arrive? They have spare milk to have. You only produce so much at once. Better to save it for your foals.”

“And we do have that new fridge.” added Jerry, as while it was rather hot at the idea of drinking milk? It was also likely better to save it. Though he added in thought. “But…maybe I can help milk you two with a few bottles at the ready.”

Shadow giggled at the slightly pervy idea, and glanced at Sonata as she added. “Maybe Sonata could…join in and help milk something of yours, Jerry?” Sonata blushed more deeply, but didn’t say anything. Bare making a small sound that only her thestral ears could pick out. Shadow was determined to get her handmaiden laid, as over the time the crystal mare was around her? The thestral wanted Sonata more intimately with Jerry.

However their various thoughts were pulled away, as down the hall a clopping of hooves could be heard, and Applejack was seen coming up. The farmer looked mighty worried, as she half stopped by the four and asked, “is Doc’ Positive Health still in?”

“We just got done, so yeah, she should be.” respond Jerry, and asked with furrowed brows. “What happened?”

“Hopefully nothin’.” Spoke Applejack while rubbing the back of her neck. “But Rar’s ain’t feelin’ too well and we’re gettin’ a bit worried fer her. We figured to have the Doc’ come down and check up on her, see if she caught sumtin’ or not.”

“Do you think it could be Khara?” asked Lovely in slight worry, as she recalled that they went to that Town previously, moving a hand on her stomach in concern.

“An’t the freaky plague stuff.” Applejack shook her head, “Twi’s sure of it. None of them symptoms. It’s somthin’ else.”

Jerry looked at Applejack, a light frown growing on his face as he asked. “How is Rarity condition?” He didn't have time to check in, mostly because yesterday was full of work. As well as sparing training, and after that rest.

Sighing, Applejack said, “tuckered out, tired, ‘lethargic’ as Twi’ puts it. ‘Shy think’s that Rar’s body isn’t gettin’ enough of somthin’, but despite Twi’ being a fancy princess? She wants t’ be on the safe side an’ make sure all bases are covered.”

Shadow wasn’t sure what it could be, though she said. “Hopefully Positive might figure it out, and if she can’t? Maybe it's…a magical thing?” she wasn’t sure herself, as she wasn’t well versed in magic sickness.

“Tha’s what got Twi most worried, honestly.” Breathed out Applejack. “Iffin’ so? Well, she says she migh’ know how to fix it. But wants a professional opinion first.”

Jerry nodded as he said. “We won’t take too much of your time then, go on ahead Applejack.” and shift a bit to let Applejack have some room to get past them.

The apple mare tipped her hat to them before half speed-walking away. Sonata watching with a slight concern herself. Turning, Sonata spoke, “We should return to your chambers, M’lady. We still have some exercises to put you and Lovely through.” nearly making Shadow want to sign in amusement.

“Exercises, hmm?” said Shadow in slight amusement, even as the four began to walk, with Shadow turning her head as she held a slight smile as she teased. “And would those exercises include our stud watching his two pregnant mares, and for you to show off your body to said stud?”

“T-that wouldn’t be necessary.” Sonata began while trying to keep her pois. “It would be.. Inappropriate of me to do so as well, M’lady, he has you, and his concubines. I would never dare impose!” nearly squeaking the last bit out.

“That’s not a no~.” giggled Lovely with a growing smile.

Jerry raised a brow and glance between the two pregnant mares as he asked. “Should I be concerned that you want Sonata to be pulled in?” he wasn’t sure if this was just hormones talking, or if it was something else entirely. “I mean, I get Sonata is attractive, she really is-- but isn’t it also,” he was trying to find the right word on that.

“Nonsense,” said Shadow with a shake of her head. “I’m just thinking that with Sonata being trusted over these past few months, I’m thinking she might enjoy being closer to you is all.” and added with a glance to Sonata. “Since it’s not exactly uncommon for ‘special maids’ to become concubines to their lords.”

The dark mare wanted to smirk at the continued and deep blush the crystal pony held. Her lips sealed tight and unwilling to say anything. It was hard to tell what she was trying to not say, though Shadow had a very good idea that Sonata was not against the idea. Just was concerned for causing Jerry unduly harm if she were to be hurt.

Something Shadow found silly. Spree would be part of the herd and she was going to get hurt plenty in her line of work. There was no reason for Sonata to dodge out with that excuse. The only question was how to do it?

Shadow thought on it, even as she turned her head forward, the four of them were walking into the throne room, and going up the stone stairs. Both mares are supported by Jerry as they lean against him. And Shadow thought it over, as she knew Sonata was ‘sent to protect’ Shadow and her offspring, and to an extent Jerry. And Sonata didn’t reveal any kinks she would have, trying to be professional.

Shadow thought over the months and realized that Sonata had been keeping things professional. Sure there were small moments where kinks or sexuality were mentioned, Sonata would get fidgety and even blushes. Didn’t matter if it came from a male or female mouth. And Sonata became even more flustered when Shadow mentioned to her to be with Jerry as a concubine. Anything sexual seems to rile her up a bit.

Even though she kept professional as best she could.

Which made Shadow think…and a mischievous idea grew into her mind. Even as they came up the stairs into the Private Quarters, and were heading to the bedroom, as Jerry seemed to think of having some privacy for whatever exercise Sonata mentioned earlier. There were the sights of Minion Servants cleaning, or even the maid clones dusting around.

Lovely glance as she saw the maids more lively, and half wondered if they were given more than ‘directives’ to move around. It almost felt like they were actual ponies. She knew that they did their work, and while other ponies were becoming maids or servants? It still felt odd that the clones were a part of the sight in the Private Quarters. She was just glad that Jerry had time to spend with them more, she knew why he had to go out, being the Overlord meant doing things.

Still, it was nice he was here to spend time with them all, and likely doing work on his growing nation.

Jerry himself was wondering if he needed to keep an eye on Shadow and Lovely. As while he knew mood swings were a thing, this seemed rather odd for Shadow. He half wondered if this was a thestral thing. Because from what he gained in understanding, thestrals seem to want to ‘expand the pack’. Granted he could be wrong, but it was the only reasonable thing he could think of at the moment.

When they did reach inside the living room, where one found an array of couches, sofas, bookshelves, and other nice pieces of furniture. Shadow motioned to Lovely to let go of Jerry as when both pregnant mares let go, Shadow enacted her plan as she asked. “Sonata, can you come over here? I think Lovely might need a bit of help for our exercise.”

Curious, but doing as told, Sonata walked right along. Hand on Lovely's arm to make sure she could help the earthen in case something did happen by chance. Jerry half doing his best not to eye the round behind the handmaid’s modest uniform. A little hard to do with the natural sway that the tail gave.

And as Lovely began to carefully bend down, moving her hands down as low as she could to her hooves, she pulled herself up, and did her exercises as normally. Though gave half glances to see Jerry trying his best to not look at Sonata form. Shadow motioned to Lovely, with both Jerry and Sonata too occupied to notice the thestral hand motions. And Lovely didn’t respond openly, but had an inkling on what Shadow wanted.

The earth mare went to stretch, but accidentally ‘bump’ back Sonata with her elbow as to make the crystal mare stumble. And while Sonata got bumped, the maid was rather composed in raising a hand to block the bump with a hand and made a calm step back. “Careful Lovely, I’m still right by your side.”

“Of course, sorry Sonata.” said Lovely, and while she moved her arm back?

Shadow thought to herself. Damn. I forgot she has insane reflexes. she wanted Sonata to bump and have Jerry grab her. But if Sonata had those reflexes? She might need to plan another way to get Sonata intimate to Jerry. And with a glance to the man, even as he moved to sit down on the couch as he kept a watchful eye on the two mares? Sonata began to go over what yoga stretches they would be doing from here on and moved to get the mats.

Shadow figure this was a long process to do.

---

Breathing out, Twilight walked herself to the nearest balcony and looked out over the city just at the foot of the Dark Castle's slight rocky hill base. From here she could make out the few citizens that made up the future ‘natives’ of this island. And just past the walls could slightly see both ‘Good-kin’ and ponies working out in the fields. Part of Twilight wondered when the two sides would fully begin trade in earnest, though knew that might be months, maybe years off until more trust could be had.

These little thoughts slightly helped the alicorn get her mind off her worries. But only for a little bit. Because she knew, just inside the castle walls and in a bedroom graciously given to her and her friends? Rarity lay in bed, exhausted and looking dimmer and dimmer. Twilight shuttered to think about it, but it almost was like Rarity was giving up to live. maybe that’s an extreme prognosis. Twilight amended, but it sure felt like it.

Positive Health gave a verdict that all but told Twilight that it might go that way. Rarity’s magical balance was completely skewed and was only getting worse. And she needed to harmonize in some shape or form. After that she left, and Rarity, even if she needed it? Couldn’t seem to pull up the will for it. Or rather, lacked any inspiration to sing out and reharmonize with the magic around her.

With a deep gulp, Twilight knew she had to do this sooner than later. Because her options were slimmed down to two things. Take off the medical inhibitor for Rarity’s emotions and hope, hope that she would be fine without her mark to balance out any possible lashback they knew little of. Or… confront Starlight and see if she truly did have Rarity’s mark with her.

It wasn’t certain, but with the theories Albert forwarded her, the evidence given and events that transpired? it’s possible she was luring us into the Vault to steal our marks and force us into whatever her following was. And there’s a chance that Staff is indeed, just a stick as Magic suggested. Taking a deep breath, Twilight opened her wings and took off from the balcony.

it’s a risk. To confront Starlight outright. But Rarity needs me, needs us, to help her. Either I convince Starlight… or I confront her head on. Something that the alicorn wasn’t looking forward to. But she felt that she was out of options. Part of her wondered if this is what Celestia would do?

Sighing, Twilight thought as she neared the ground, she would probably have an answer that would guarantee no conflict. And gently landed her hooves to the brick ground before walking the streets in search of Starlight. She glanced around and kept her eyes peeled. Then B-lined for a pony to ask, “excuse me, but have you seen Starlight glimmer by chance?”

---

Sitting in her room, hands half folded together, Starlight looked at the jar that held Rarity’s mark. It had finally settled now, and gently floated in place. Whatever magic had possessed it long had dissipated. The unicorn watched it, observed it… tried to understand it. And the situation that Rarity was in. She fidgeted and tried to get over everything that had happened in the course of two days. Or would it count as three days by now?

Shaking her head, Starlight narrowed her eyes at the cutie mark. Trying to understand what was up with it. Why it had calmed. And also wondered to herself if it had even dimmed or not. It was hard to tell. But more to the point was what to do with it.

No, she didn’t want to just ‘give it back’ and show that her way couldn’t work. But from what she understood? Rarity’s condition had begun to deteriorate and removing the medical suppressor on her emotions could have unforeseen consequences. Part of Starlight doubted it, but given that Rarity was in this mess to begin with because of multiple spell effects on her to begin with? Well, Starlight wasn’t sure if she could live with the guilt of ruining an innocent mare’s life.

Yes she was annoyed that Rarity left. Yes she was angry Rarity had a change of mind about things. Yes she was furious that Rarity would have the audacity to call her whole plan and ideal a total lie! But was Rarity really at fault? Or was this a long time coming and just happened faster with the little trip outside the town?

Sighing and lighting her magic, Starlight picked the jar up and floated it before herself. Turning and twisting it in thought. Letting it go would mean that she was admitting there was something wrong with her plans. Keeping it would possibly result in a mare that is… Starlight wasn’t sure how to define Rarity at the moment. But looking at her was making her feel all sorts of off. It was very disconcerting.

So distracted, Starlight almost didn’t catch the knock on her door. She looked up with a near snap of her head, and felt her eyes go wide when she heard Twilight’s voice. “Starlight, are you in?”

“Just a moment!” Rushed out the pink mare, using her magic to grab her bag, stuff the jar within and move it to the side where she zipped it shut. She plastered a smile on and opened the door with her magic, maybe opening it with a touch too much force as the alicorn stood at the doorway a little surprised at how fast the door swung open.

Clearing her voice and cutting out her magic, Starlight spoke pleasantly, “yes Princess Twilight, how can I help?” trying to not over do her smile and making it as sweet and soft as she could.

For a moment, Twilight regarded the mare before her. Then with a breath in, she said, “Rarity’s getting worse.” Making the unicorn almost go still. Twilight invited herself in and closed the door. Her eyes flicked to the bag at the side of the room. Then she looked at Starlight. “Do you have Rarity’s cutie mark, Starlight?”

Shaking her head, Starlight began, “Twilight, I’m not sure what makes you--”

“Yes or no, Starlight.” Twilight spoke with a sort of firm authority that Starlight herself hadn’t heard since days prior. The Alicorn took a deep breath and told, “Rarity’s not doing well and I’m worried if she doesn't get her mark back to help stabilize her person, before we undo the Medical induced suppression.”

Then, Twilight pinned the unicron with her gaze, one Starlight met with just as much confidence in herself. “I just want to know the truth, Starlight. The truth on a lot of things, but right now? I want to know the truth if you have Rarity’s mark or not because she’s not getting better.”

Starlight debated on what to say, almost stuck in indecision. Once again, she took a moment to think over the possible desperation in Twilight to be talking in such a manner. And with a drop of her happy facade, she crossed her arms and asked, “and what if I did?”

Sighing deeply, Twilight asked, “then I would want to know why you’re so stubborn in keeping it to yourself.”

“To myself?” Starlight spoke insured, “I’m not, or rather wouldn’t, keep it for ‘myself’.” Told the pink mare, corrected herself. “I would be doing Rarity a favor if I did. She was much happier without it.”

Shaking her head, Twilight said, “she didn’t know what she was giving up. And now that she does, she wants it back.” and told firmly, “you don’t have a right to take and hold something like that from anypony.”

Firming her stance, Starlight asked, “and why not?” And went on, “I’ve been the gatekeeper for every pony’s mark. I used the staff to put them in the vault for safe keeping, freeing them from their talents that forced them to be something above other ponies. Having,” and made air quotes, “preset ‘destinies’ that put them in front of other ponies. It’s not fair to anypony that a mark dictates everything about their life!”

Waving a hand, Starlight went on, “Every pony as a colt or filly hopes to find their mark, and when they do they have to hope it’s something they either like or something that can help them in life.” and went on with a roll of her eyes. “Talent in skiing? That’s not getting them anywhere in life. Talent with Pinball? Well, they’re out of luck when there’s no pinball machines.” She went on, “Talent in horseshoe tossing? What’s their destiny? To forever work at a low end carnival to out do foals in a simple game?”

The words came out near spiteful, angrelly. And Twilight wanted to flatten her ears. When put like that? She could understand how that could be unfair. Not every pony’s tallent was made to do things past their expectations. But Twilight steeled herself and said, “that doesn't mean a pony is restricted, Starlight.” And told on, “I might have a talent in magic itself, but that doesn't mean I’m limited to just that.”

“And you would know better?” Asked Starlight in response. “You’re a Princess, you have access to more chances than any pony could!”

Twilight was going to rebuke that, but took a moment to think. “Then don’t take my word for it.” And felt more confident in this new argument. “Take it from my experience while watching someone that had zero talents to use.” making starlight want to blink.

“Zero talents?” Starlight started off. “You’re talking about the Caribou?”

“No.” Twilight denied with a shake of her head. “I’m talking about Albert. About Jerry. They’re Humans. They don’t have anything like we do.” And began to name off. “They don’t have cutie marks. They don’t have an earth pony’s strength and endurance. They don’t have a pegasus’s flight or weather manipulation. No unicorn magic. No Caribou endurance-- they are, by definition, completely and utterly average and not naturally magically capable.”

Slowly, Starlight began to say with bilding speed, “but… Jerry-- he’s the Overlord, he has magic!”

“Not naturally.” Twilight told with a shake of her head. “He only gained it after becoming the Overlord. Human’s, as far as I know, aren't born with it.” And while she paused to let Starlight mull that over? Twilight told on. “They had to both work through raw effort to get what they wanted or needed. They innovated and adapted. And Albert showed how much you can innovate and adapt.”

Hand raised, Twilight told, “I know this because I lived beside him to see what can be done. I’ve seen him suggest changes and possible ways to further our advantage.” She soon said, “you said a pony can’t use their marks for anything more?” and told, “He took a young colt who’s only tallent was in games and showed him the console controls to many amazing bits of technology.” and shook her head. “Now there’s no pony better at controlling heavy machines and automated machines than that colt.”

“You say a pony whose talent is to only spot out oddities is never going to get farther than eye-spy games?” Twilight began again. “Albert showed them that they can use their talent to scan an environment and notice patterns so that teams of ponies can avoid being attacked by ambush predators or know likely locations to find certain flora and fauna.”

The princess emphasized further. “You say a pony that learns the periodic tables could only take jobs that include only being a chemist?” this time, Twilight smiled. “I happen to know a brilliant scientist that has a talent for elements. And he uses his talent to not just learn how to make explosives, but with Albert’s help? Learned how to use that same know-how to become a half-competent mechanic and engineer, understanding how the chemical make of metals and components would work with one another.”

“No, we’re not equal. No pony is ever equal. I know this and Albert even agrees on this.” Told Twilight with a nod. “But that doesn't mean we’re any lesser than the other. We’re different, but together? We make something bigger, greater-- as Albert likes to put it?” and breathed in to recite, “Nature is made up of thousands of different things working together. If one too many things fail? It all fails. That is the natural order, to me that is what Harmony is.”

For a moment there was a silence between the mares. One half leering at Twilight in thought. The other, regarding Starlight carefully. “Albert and I, we don’t always agree on everything. For him? Everything has a place in the natural order and the sacrifice of the selected should be made when necessary. For me? We can all work together, become friends and become harmonious by growing together with our differences.” and breathed out, “we don’t sacrifice each other, but even I admit that self sacrifice is needed for the better good.”

Flicking her ears, Starlight asked, “and what makes you think this would change anything?”

Breathing out, Twilight thought it over. “Because I know, if you had Rarity’s mark, and if you complied in returning it to her? That we would be willing to forgive you. That we might be able to even compromise with your ideals.” Then focused on Starlight. “But Jerry’s made it clear, he doesn't agree with your ideals of Equality at all. And while Albert might compromise? I also know that if you willingly withheld Rarity’s cutie mark? I have no doubt he will act out to return it by whatever means he deems necessary.”

“Like what?” Asked Starlight. Doubtful that a human with, by Twilight’s words, no magic and nothing special could be a threat to her.

“I don’t know.” Admitted Twilight. “But honestly? Whatever he would do might be worse than anything that anyone else might come up with.” and shook her head, “and I definitely don’t want to find out what that might be.”

Snorting, Starlight asked, “you’re seriously more scared of a… scientist more than what an ‘Overlord’ like Jerry might do?”

Gramancing, Twilight told, “trust me Starlight. You don’t want to find out the lengths Albert is willing to go to get the job done. You can laugh at the idea now, but I understand better than most why a warning like this shouldn’t be taken lightly.” And looked at the pink mare almost pleadingly. “So please…”

Pressing her lips tight and thinking it over, Starlight considered how she was in a tight position here. She was aware of how Jerry was leery of her, even would have some minions eyeing her when she happened to spot them. They were not welcomed here and she, as well as some others, knew it.

And the Princess is willing to forgive me for… well, trying to trick her. She knows I was up to something and I think she… knows I have Rarity's mark. She can’t have any real proof, but she has made the connections. Thought out Starlight. I still doubt that a sickly male could do anything. But I know the Overlord can. Giving up Rarity’s mark is… annoying. But if I can be forgiven and moved someplace else…

It was with a deep and exhausted sigh that Starlight regarded the alicorn. Moving a hand to run over her face, she said flatly, “Fine.” Making Twilight perk her ears. “I still don’t agree with all your points but… fine.” and used her magic to pull her bag over. She grabbed it and unzipped it to get the jar out. Twilight’s eyes focusing on it.

Holding it out, Starlight told, “don’t think I’m believing any of your words, Princess. I still think Equalization is the right path.” then breathed out, “all the same… I don’ want the guilt of Rarity getting worse on my conscious. And if there is someplace else for me and the others can go? I’m willing to take it. Since we’re not really welcomed here.”

Taking the jar, Twilight tried to keep her hands from shaking in excited joy. She held it in her arms and nodded, “I’ll talk to Albert. I’m sure he’d be willing to do something to give you all space.” Then smiled, “and while you’re not in agreement on our ideals? I still want to say thank you for coming around.”

Fidgeting, Starlight told, “just… just go. I have a lot to think over.” not sure how to feel about the grateful look in the mare’s eyes, or the honest smile. Still, Twilight nodded and headed out. Though paused at the door.

“Starlight?” Spoke the lavender unicorn once more. “I forgive you. For trying to deceive us from before. I hope we can become good friends later.” Then opened the door and left. Leaving Starlight standing still in her room. Unable to grasp those words in her mind.

They made her feel… guilty.

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