The Storm King took a forceful breath. Even if he was deeply annoyed. He glaring down onto the map of the world, his gaze going over his island and many others near it. Ever since the Overlord’s ‘great escape’ things had been going slow. For one, a good portion of his ships were damaged, or destroyed. And replacing or repairing them had taken a good chunk of time. He was sure half of the home fleet wouldn’t be ready for another half year.

At least he had a number of other small fleets at his disposal. But it was a pretty large hit to his military and trading power. The next issue however was more irritating, as most of his industry was sabotaged, resources stolen, or destroyed. Especially his merchandise!

That was going to set him back even further than he would like. He growled a bit as while But what was far worse, oh far worse-- was that his prized ship. His own personal ship? The Disaster of Storms was stolen! Stolen by that damned OVERLORD!

He spent good money on that ship and security for it, and it was stolen by a bunch of toad-shaped imps!

It was just as bad as the fact that they stole artifacts his army had combed and found over many lands and over the island. Even those strange crystals full of magic-- Magic he hadn’t even gotten the chance to try or test out!

So yes, he was not a very happy Storm King. But, he was just as much a businessman as he was a conquering warlord and setbacks like these, as irritating as they were? Were just margins in the overall profit that was his kingdom. It was why he invested in so many avenues of business. No invasion or conquest goes off without a hitch when you don't have backing. And things like merchandising or trading goods was very good business. More so if the goods were from a foreign power that you just conquered and had something rare that no other nation had.

Still, I need to deal with this Overlord and his hoard. He’s gotten to my island before and we don’t know how. Mused the large ape creature as he got off the table that the map was on and began to walk in the large expansive room he was in. trinkets, odd and ends and even some finer magical artifacts were all around on display. Some to further his power. Others because they were expensive rarities.

Stopping by a window and overlooking his fortress city he carefully mused on his plans for Equestria. It was a frozen waste at the moment and the ponies were nowhere to be seen. Tempest seemed so sure that the Alicorns were the key to getting what he wanted most-- power over all the weather itself.

Looking to the side, he eyed the staff with a cyan crystal in the middle of two metal prongs. It was some ancient relic that could take the power from specific scores of magic. And the broken-horned unicorn was certain it would be the key to getting that power he so lusted for.

But… it was just a wall decoration until they got the four alicorns. Which was annoying. But Tempest in the meantime was very useful. She was a highly competent soldier and got things done. I’ll just keep hanging that horn recovery over her head until she either runs out of use or dies. shrugged the tall storm beast as he walked amongst the spacious room. Stroking his chin in thought.

hmm… Equestria is abandoned. There’s no airship patrols, no beasts to contest frozen land… I’m sure I can import heavy coats and armor from… from, oh what was that one place with all the white-bear people called again? He shook his head. Whatever, I’ll just make a few trade deals, get plenty of winter gear from them and set up forward positions in Equestria and start digging up its riches for a quick cash grab. Not like anyone will notice. Which made him grin and nod to himself. He would of course need survey teams and maybe a few explorers. But he’s got money and resources. Just had to find the right people to grab for that money.

The Storm King gave a look to the map that oversaw his island and internally, he knew he had to deal with the Overlord at some point. For now? I will prepare. I’ll be ready for whatever diabolical plots he’s cooking up, even at this very moment.

---

“Alright, alright people,” said Jerry as he looked over the table, with his O&O cover, dice, papers and notepad before him. Looking at the players as he grinned. “Welcome to session zero, where we’ll be making your characters.” going on to tell as he looks at Shining, Cadence, Twilight, and Jasmine. As the filly looks curious to play as she looks over her sheet. “Now first off, since we have Jasmine as a new player? I’m going to let you all be bumped to level 3 to get yourselves started, make things manageable.”

He went to explain to Jasmine. “Now Jasmine, the simple thing for this is to roll the dice when you either want to perform an action, or if I need to tell you or the other players what to do. And anything can be changed with the roll of the dice.”

Jasmine gave a nod, she scrunched her face a bit, looking at the sheet and seemed to be working over it as she asked. “What does it mean if I get six’s in total with my d6 for a stat?”

“It means you have gained a stat total of 18 in that category. This turns into a high modifier that can help you do actions.“ explained Twilight as she was already working on her character, as were Shining and Cadence. The lavender alicorn was glad that Jerry offered to host a game in a private room for them all to play in. It was nice to enjoy something simple and fantasy-like compared to what was going on. The princess asked curiously. “What class are you going with, Jasmine?”

“Warlock!” respond the filly with a bright smile as she told on. “I’m having my patron as the Archduke Fiend.” and while given looks, it was Shining that asked.

“Don’t you want…something different? Maybe a…warrior or a ranger, something simple to start out with?” Asked the stallion as he thought her going for a warlock with an obvious nefarious patron was worrisome. That and magic could be tricky in this game now and then.

Jasmine in turn told. “Nope,” she continued with a wide smile. “Besides, this is where we can act out as characters, and be fun.” Causing Cadance to let out a giggle at how adorable the filly was being.

Jerry was given looks as he raised his hands up. “Hey, I had nothing to do with this, this is all on her.” and while there were ‘mhm’s from the ponies? Jerry rolled his eyes as he looked at Jasmine and said. “Alright, finish up rolling for your warlock, and go over what you want for spells and gear.” turning his attention to the rest of the players he went on. “After you’re all done, we can begin the game for session zero.”

“Sure thing.” Cadence smiled as she scooted over, “here, let me help with some of that Jasmin.” Knowing how tricky it was for her when she first started learning this game.

Grinning widely as Jerry told. “And be prepared, for the world of Arthus, and for all there is to be seen of this world.”

---

Heavy work and construction happened all around the docks as Tempest half oversaw the restocking and repairs of her ship. It wasn’t severe damage, but they had hit a rather rough patch of rogue winds that nearly tore off one of the rutter’s at the aft. The storms near Equestria are starting to get worse. Those Spirit horses are going to be a problem later on if they’re not dealt with. She reflected a little grimly.

The search for the Overlord, and the Equestrians, had not gone well. There was that one anomaly some weeks back, but Tempest hasn’t been able to locate it since. She did notice the artifact she used to track the Alicorns had a weak pull on one such alicorn in that area. But the mare felt that it needed some tuning because it was pointing down for hours.

just more things to add to the list. Irritable thought maroon mare as she took a deep breath. As she took that moment to relax her mind, her ear flicked at the sound of wadling claws. She didn’t look back and said, “what’s the situation, Grubby?”

Seemign to much on some snack, the hedgehog told, “Fella’s said it’s just some rust and cracks, replacement will be in soon. Hour or somthin’.” And made his way next to her to watch. “So… what’s the plan? Storm King’s been pretty mad since that Overlord guy ran off.”

Tempest herself felt pretty angry herself and made sure the idiots that were doing guard duty were properly given punishment. Still, it didn’t fix the fact they lost the Overlord. “For now? We continue patrols and wait for the Crystal Ball that tracks Alicorn Magic to get returned by the Sages we have under our employ. Once the ship is repaired we’ll resume our original objective, while keeping a lookout for the Overlord.”

Tapping his chin, Grubby asks, “why not wait here?” and got a sharp look from Tempest. He shifted, but said, “well, just sayin’, he found a way on the island before. Wouldn’t he, well, try again once he’s back up to strength?”

Considering that, Tempest nodded, “you have a point.” letting her ire simmer down. “We’ll do a few sweeps of the island. Then resume our original task. And every time we need to restock we’ll return and do more passes.” Then snapped to attention. “Forward orders to map out a course to search the Islands going north-west from here. We’re expanding our search. Make sure we’re well stocked for a month’s trip at most.”

Salutting, Grubby said, “Aye-Aye, Tempest!” And dutifully waddled off to do just that.

Nodding, Tempest looked back to her ship. The hedgehog was obnoxious a lot of the time. But he was dutiful and far more observant than most gave him credit for. why he stays on my ship I’ll never know. But I won’t discard those skills. Mused the mare to herself. Her mind working out on any other tasks and missions she might have in the upcoming weeks. She wasn’t sure what the Storm King planned to do, but it was no concern of hers until he needed her services.

---

“As you are traveling deep into the lands of the forgotten forest, where the remnants of the dead linger. Their spirits wander in repetitive motions and are stuck in time of when they were alive. You managed to reach into the ruined temples of the decaying and corrupted forest. Where there was once a goddess of great worship there, now forgotten by all.” Jerry said, as he was recounting their earlier campaign, as the now level 5 members were focused on Jerry, as while Shining felt he could do a better job DM?

He couldn’t deny that Jerry was adaptive, if not quick with DMing everyone. Even causing a few surprises to his sister, as while Twilight was a quick learner? The Overlord caught them off a few times now and then. Twilight was enjoying the game, though half wondered where this ‘world’ Jerry made originated, or half the creatures Jerry spouted out now and then.

Cadence was enjoying herself, and she could see Jasmine was enjoying herself too, even if the filly was the only ‘chaotic’ member in their group of mostly ‘good aligned’ characters. With Twilight being a wizard, herself a cleric, and Shining a paladin.

Regardless, as Jerry finished up recounting and asked, “what, do you all do?”

“I roll to investigate for any traps.” told Jasmine as she rolled a die.

Jerry leaned over, seeing the dice roll to a 15, and adding with her modifiers, he said in a simplistic tone. “You do not detect any traps in the area.”

“Are you still looking for traps?” asked Cadence in mild amusement to the filly. “I know you’ve been doing it since we got through with the halflings town.”

“Better to know if there's a trap than not.” said Jasmine with a light shrug as the filly told. “Better to assume there’s some trap in this ruined temple of an ancient civilization.”

“She does have a point.” brought up Twilight as she gave a slight annoyed look to Jerry who grin wide. “He did spring a trap on us with what seemed to be a normal door” adding in a huff. “I still think you broke the rules with that mimic trap.”

“Ah, ah, ah!” brought up Jerry with a raised finger. “I told you things are going to be a bit different,” then added. “Besides, we’re working on a limited edition edition.” then soon continue on. “Now who is going to do what?”

Twilight sighed, and soon said. “Swirlstar the Bright will have a look around to see if she can locate any text or information off the temple. Structure.”

“Hagar will just keep an eye out for trouble,” told Shining, as he took a drink.

“Perwink is going to look around for any treasure.” add in Jasmine.

“While Maybell will keep close to the paladin.” finished Cadence.

“Well, roll a history for me Twilight, and Jasmine roll investigation.” said Jerry as he took a drink as he doubted she would find anything--

“NATURAL 20!” shouted Jasmine in glee, as she looked at Jerry with an expected look, and Jerry lowered his goblet as he rolled his dice, to see if she found anything….

And Jerry puff as he said. “Well, it seems Perwink, through some reason, managed to find under some rubble some gold, some artifacts, and some enchanted items. Though if you want to learn what it is, then you’ll either need a high arcane roll to know what the items are, or someone else with that roll.”

“Swirlstar, look what I found!” told Jasmine as she used a more different pitch tone, though it was more or less, her enacting her character, which was a foal warlock as she came over with the items. “Look, look, look!” and as she was making motions with her hands, Twilight went to shift her tone to a more gruff tone.

“Yes, what is it, little hellion?” asked Twilight trying to play a slightly snotty tone while she moved to pick up her dice as she went on to say. “Oh, you want me to look at this stuff? Fine, let's see what you have.” and made a roll. “23 total.” She announced, while Jerry took a moment to look over his things. He thought for a tick before making a few rolls himself as Jerry said.

“There’s a few artifacts, mostly old silverware, some rings, a few enchanted. One of them actually is a rare and powerful artifact, said to allow three wishes. But once those wishes are used, it becomes a common ring.” and he added after being given looks. “The roll was high. And this civilization tends to craft powerful tools of magical usage.”

“Dibs.” proclaimed Jasmine as she began to write it into her sheet.

“Wha, hey!” started Twilight. “Why do you get the ring?”

“Because I called dibs, rule of dibs.” responded Jasmine again, as she asked Jerry. “Do I need to make a roll whenever I use it?”

“No, but word to word, you have three charges of it. And they are altering effects that are permanent. So be mindful of what to wish for.” explained Jerry, as he was writing down something as to make note of Jasmine having the ring of wishes, and while Twilight said her character was back in looking at ancient texts? Jasmine suddenly says.

“I wish for a cup that has an endless amount of hot cocoa.” and at the looks of the other ‘party members’, Jasmine gave a light smile and said. “What? Hot cocoa is good.”

Jerry contemplated that…before saying. “Alright,” then cleared his throat. “As you made the wish, a steel cup appeared before you, with light steam coming out. The flavor you smell is of hot cocoa, like the kind you had from your home.” and added to Jasmine. “Add an infinite hot cocoa cup in your inventory.”

And while she did? Shining shook his head as he remarked to Jasmine. “Why did you waste a wish? That thing is important.”

To which the crystal filly glanced up and told. “Hey, any foal would wish for a sweet to enjoy.” Jasmine finished this by sticking her tongue out as she added. “You’re just mad because I call dibs on the ring.”

“No,” said Twilight with a sigh as she took her dice. “Just wished you kept those wishes preserved for a while.” then rolled as she asked Jerry. “I got a 26. What did I learn from the walls of ancient text?”

Jerry chuckled as he took his goblet as he said. “Oh just a brief description of their civilization, how they prospect, and then them going to war with short people over some old grudge from a long time ago.” then took a sip as he lowered the goblet. “And from what you can gather the civilization was losing.”

---

Florian was…annoyed. He was annoyed that ever since Fay brought them all here, and even of these other magical beings, he had to work more. Sure he used that excuse to attempt to reach the Glorious Empire but…he was certain that the connection was going to be closed up soon. He attempted to try to get some of his forces here-- but it was all difficult due to the complicated magic.

Yes he had planned things to work without him for his Empire in the meantime, but he also was annoyed that he was being cut off from it, and the well of magic he built up over the years. What was more, is that the Overlord was here. Florian didn’t know how or why, as the Overlord disappeared with his Tower. It was rather shocking, as once upon a time he considered gaining magic from that artifact in the Tower.

But then it vanished when they were sent out into a small forested location, and he had to consider another way of gaining magic. Hence him building and growing the Empire with those humans. And while there were some upsides to it, there were also some issues. Like magical creatures refusing to die so they were harvested of their magic. Even more so with him having to play the role of the foppish and exaggerated hand to Fay.

The fairy had no idea who he was, as she was oblivious to the real things going on. So focused on being Good and benevolent, even ignorant of what goes on in her court-- it was all too easy for him to manipulate things. However, it was also annoying. As not only were they stuck on an island with the Overlord here, but it was clear the Overlord spotted something off with him.

Florian doubted it, as he played his act well, but every time he tried to get into ‘Home’ and the Dark Castle? The minions seem to eye him, and refuse entry without a proper reason. It was clear that the Overlord wasn’t going to let any of the Light-kin in. well, with the exception of Fay…

Which irritated him.

Though Florian was patient. He knew that it was a matter of time. Even if he didn’t have his magic? He was still an elf. He had centuries to live. And the Overlord was just a mortal. It was just a matter of time. For now however? He just had to be patient, find a way to get the technology of what his Empire made to drain magic and resume operations. Even more so, with a new resource of these ponies.

So far they seem friendly, and seem welcoming. Well most of them. He knew that Cadence, that pink ‘alicorn’ knew something was up. Florian just didn’t know why yet. Maybe he was exaggerating too much with his acting. He also knew that she was more politically inclined than Fay was. So he had to be careful around her. He knew there were other ‘Princesses’ that were mortal gods. And they could just be more politically inclined.

So he would need to play his game carefully.

Overall, if he wanted to get this new ‘harmony magic’ out of these ponies to give himself magic, he would need to be careful. And need a way to not have a trail leading to himself. Thankfully…he had ways to smuggle means of taking magic. As equipment is more easily smuggled than people. It was just a matter of time. All he needed was a few good excuses, a bit of attention pulled away, and overall just something to distract everyone.

And then he could begin his operations once more.

---

Straightening up a few papers with her magic and placing them aside, Cadence gave a smile and a nod to Fay, “I think that just about does it, Fay.” And gently took the papers into her hand to give to the fairy. “Agreements for trade between your people and Equestria concerning common goods.” Then spoke with a small smile, “Celestia and Luna wanted to also give their apologies for not being available for these talks. Given how complicated things have been? They’ve not had much time to make these talks personally.”

“It is no trouble,” assured Fay as she gave a brief nod. “I understand a bit about managing refugees far from home.” though the fairy queen furrowed her brows slightly, looking at the papers as she admitted. “Though I still find the concept of these agreements…difficult at times. Back home, one word is usually good enough between Light-kins. Only those of Evil would tend to use these…written agreements. That and humans as time progressed.”

With a laugh, Cadence spoke, “I’m sure Aunty Celestia would have loved the idea that people could make a vocal agreement and keep to it.” and shook her head. “Sadly, that’s not how this world works. The written agreement helps keep people on the straight and narrow, a reminder there's consequences.” and soberly told, “the sad fact is? Everyone is all capable of doing as much good as they are evil. It’s not a nice truth, but that’s what we live with and we’re not all immune to corruption.”

Smiling brightly again, Cadence told, “but, that’s why we have the ideals of Harmony. It helps keep us rooted and stable.” then amended, “well, unless we stray or reject it. There will always be something that causes someone to fall.” And sighted sadly, “even we Alicorns are sadly subject to it. Aunty Luna fell to her jealousy a long time ago and became mad. And while she was to blame to fall to the temptation? Aunt Celestia admitted that she could have done more, been there for Luna and maybe prevented it…”

While Fay knitted her brows and worked this over? Cadence spoke, “we’re not proud of our shortcomings, but we try learning from them. Aunty Luna’s gotten better since then. And we have Twilight and her friends to thank for that, since it was the Elements that saved her in the end.”

Fay recalled the elements, as it was part of the discussion she had with Twilight on harmony magic. And the fairy remarked. “Yes, those artifacts. Twilight spoke of them briefly.” and went on. “Such strange things, even more that…this Harmony never killed.” glancing at Cadence as she explained. “In our previous world…usually a Hero, or Hero’s of Good, kills those of Evil to preserve balance over the world. Or to make sure Evil was put down as to stop the reign of Evil-- usually the Overlord was removed.”

Nodding, Cadence told, “we have similar magical artifacts in the world. But they all have those similar issues I mentioned of being so one sided and uncompromising.” Then continued to explain, “the way Celestia explained it to me was that the Elements seek to balance, not destroy. To harmonize not shatter.” Then made a set face. “The only exception is when it comes into contact with something that refuses to change.”

Her eyes searched towards Fay, who seemed confused. With a giggle, Cadence told, “you see, the Elements don’t ‘force’ something to be good, or to stop being what it is. It flowers into someone and gives them the chance to be better, to be harmonized.”

“Does that mean…did you all use the elements on the Overlord?” asked Fay, as she thought that could be a possibility on why the Overlord seemed so…different from previous iterations.

“Actually, no.” Spoke the Princess of Love. “Jerry’s naturally the way he is. He hasn’t come into direct contact with the elements as far as I’m aware.” yes he came to the Tree itself, but Cadence didn’t think he actually got hit by it’s magic. “Anyways, because of this? It’s always a conscious choice for anything that’s aware and sentient. While inanimate objects get purified or brought back into balance. But when it comes to something that refuses to change?”

Breathing out, Cadence told, “that’s when they start getting more sterner. When Discord was still free and causing trouble? It would seal him into stone. Not kill him, but punish him for his deeds nonetheless.” and thought on. “When it hit Nightmare Moon, the name Luna went by in her madness? It removed the darkness and allowed Luna to break free of the magic that overwhelmed her with jealousy.” And shrugged. “Luna and Celestia even said that it would seal other evils if they were uncompromising or just refuse to let go. Alive, but being punished all the same.”

Fay nodded slowly, being rather thoughtful. “An odd way of punishing someone. It is rather an odd aspect, I must admit. To keep someone alive rather than removing the threat altogether.”

“It’s just one of the few aspects of Harmony.” Cadence smiled. “Mercy in kindness. Grace in Generosity. And forgiveness in Laughter. All in hopes that someone can be a better person.”

“An interesting concept,” said Fay as she said with a slight nod. “Normally I try to be merciful unto others, but there are times when my hand is forced to protect the many. As Evil is as cruel and ruthless, we can’t let it go free forever.”

Nodding, Cadence spoke, “Celestia would agree with you on that. She used to tell me that there would be times that I would have to choose between mercy and action, because sometimes? The ones aiming to harm our Ponies won’t give us the chance at mercy.”

Fay gave a brief nod, knowing that there will always be times when one is forced to do drastic measures. And while Cadence was putting away the papers, the Queen spoke. “Cadence, there is something I am…curious about. The Overlord, where exactly did he come from?” going on to tell. “Because, I am troubled by a thought that has persisted for some time, as before we left here? Our world's previous Overlord wasn’t killed by a Hero, but…vanished.”

Turning to that, Cadence spoke, “well, we’re not sure where he came from.” And thought on. “He just… appeared one day according to what I’ve heard.” and thought on, “I’m sure Twilight would have a better answer. She’s been spending some time here on the Island to learn more about the minions and even history. So I’m sure she could give you a full detailed answer.”

While that only made the Fairy Queen wonder and even worry a bit more? Cadence smiled, “actually, how would you feel about a break, Fay?” something that made the queen blink. “Myself and some others, like my Husband Shining Armor and Twilight herself, are running a small game for fun.”

The pink alicorn smiled on. “We’ve been doing it every night, and we’re planning to run it for a week. Something to break up the work and monotony and relax a little. Would you like to join? It would be a good chance to socialize and let worldly worries just… drift away for a little bit.”

Fay gave a contemplating look, as she spoke. “A small game?” and look at Cadence. “Do you mean a game of chess?”

Giggling, Cadence said, “not as simple as that, I’m afraid.” and went on. “It’s called Ogres and Oubliettes. It’s a fantasy game where you imagine a world of adventure-- be someone else in a sense. Play out ideas and have fun just doing things you normally wouldn’t have the chance to.” And raised a finger. “You get to make your own character, their own stories and have a variety of spells and skills you can use in both combat scenarios or socal ones.”

While the Fairy Queen tried to get her head around this? Cadence said, “I know, it’s weird. Shining got me into it when we were just teens. At first it was a little odd, but it’s actually a lot of fun.” and smiled. “It also helped me later on in life, if you can believe it.” surprising the Fairy women.

“Really,” said Fay, as the woman muse over this, but asked. “But…what is the point of this game of pretending? You said it is fun but…I don’t understand why.”

Nodding, Cadence said, “it depends on the Dungeon Master-- think of them as the person that manages the game. They help give the rules the lands and situations. Typically they give you a ‘Quest’ to complete. Like saving a town or serving a King from far away. And the ‘game’ can last as long as the players like. But we’re running just a week-long ‘Campaign’ as they’re called.”

“The goal for this campaign?” asked Cadence, “our characters are to investigate an evil presence that’s been infecting the land. So our task is to find it and deal with it.” and shrugged, “how we deal with it is up to us.” and told onward, “but, that’s sort of what makes it fun. Seeing how things play out.” and nodded, “and that’s ironically what helped me learn how to be a proper Princess.”

“It put me into these made up situations where I had to make choices.” while Cadence shook her head, she told, “while they’re pretend and not real? Well, if you took a grain of salt and asked yourself ‘what do I do when an ally is about to die, but to save the King I must leave them behind’ comes up? Well… it really puts you into the spotlight on hard to make choices.”

“It’s not perfect.” went on Cadence. “There is a fair bit of chance that happens in the game. But Celestia told me that life can be like that. Unpredictable. You can do everything right, but something as small as tripping could mess up everything and you have to live with those consequences.” And soon finished with a nod. “Ruling is never easy. And while these little fantasy games are pretend? Well, you can always look at them as ‘what if’ things that could happen in real life.” And bobbed her head. “Every fight, every encounter, every discussion-- they could end up being situations you might find yourself in one day.”

Fay thought it over, and while she was still unsure…she also considered it would be a nice pass time. Maybe something for her to do as things have begun to settle. And it will be a while until the last of her people arrive. She gave a slight nod and said. “Perhaps I will join you in this ‘campaign’,” though Fay asked curiously. “But is your husband going to work with a new player as the ‘DM’ was it?”

Shaking her head, Cadence told, “not this time. As much as he would love to? He’s going to be one of the players.” And went on, “like I said, so is Twilight. And Jasmine is one of the new players we’re helping along.” Then told, “no, our DM is Jerry.” And smiled at Fay’s long look. “Turns out he’s just as much as a nerd as my beloved is.”

“I….” started Fay, taking a moment to just…let that sink in. As not only the Overlord was running the game…but was making the campaign where the heroes succeed? It was…a bit mind-boggling for the Queen to hear. Though she took a brief moment to gather her wits and said. “Well…let's hope the Overlord is able to adapt with a new player.”

Laughing, Cadence told, “don’t worry, I’m sure he will.” and as they left the office, the Princess asked, “if you want? We can work on getting you set up. I think Twilight will be available soon, we both were going to go and visit ‘Home’ to have a small lunch outing.”

The Fairy Queen could only nod. This was all very strange, but as much as she would not otherwise? A break did sound nice. And while she was uncertain of Jerry and what he might do in the game? Well… she supposed that she could give it a chance. The idea of this being a slightly good learning experience like chess was a fair enough reason to try this.

---

Sitting in the cold throne room that was Canterlot, the Necromancer let out a board humm while tapping his fingers away on the armrest of his chair. He was bored out of his mind, mostly trying to figure out what to do. He thought about searching out new land to conquer-- but the icy tundra was going to be old and that town he found had nothing of value.

He thought about getting those pretty and sexy mare’s to entertain him. But most had fallen ill with that strange disease. While others were trying to survive off of what little food and heat he could give. Not that he thought too heavily on it, but he didn’t want to lose his remaining sex slaves. maybe move them to that desert place with the ruined town? He nodded to this and put it on the backburner for tomorrow's project. Maybe make a subjugated town that gave him tithes in maidens? That sounded appealing. He was going to live forever and needed something for himself.

Ugh… if only that Overlord would show up already! He got up and began to pace the large throne room. Arms crossed and becoming agitated. He had no idea what the OVerlord was up to and he was itching for a second round. He hadn’t had that much fun in, well, months! It was boring to fight ghostly horse thingies that ran away when enough power was shown. And there were no more of those deer-people to slaughter and terrorize.

Should I start looking south? it was a thought, but he groaned aloud, “that will take forever.” and rubbed his face. Then he turned to a nearby undead and asked, “Still nothing?”

The creaking skellington with barely any flesh left, seemed to light their horn. After a moment, they hissed and shook their heads. No sign of the Overlord's strange presence. This made the Necromance huff in annoyance. So, he began to march his way out. Sex as fun as that was, didn’t appeal to him right now.

hmm… there was some weird arcade in this city… the necromancer mused in thought. maybe I can see if I can get those machines working. Give me something to do. and soon shrugged. He could conquer, raid, pillage and have more sexy time with the pony-ladies later. He needed something semi-entertaining right now and he wasn’t getting it sitting on his butt. Or, not until something more interesting came up for him to fight and deal with. maybe I can see about resurrecting Hydra’s. Those are a thing here, right?

---

Fay gave a narrow and hard glare to Jerry. Looking at him across the table, as she spoke in a restrained tone. “Overlord, you are the most ruthless, evil, manipulative cur. A monster with the darkest of hearts, and the greatest champion of Evil as like all Overlords are.” Fay tries to ignore the giggling of Jasmine, the filly holding her hands over her mouth. As Cadence, Shining, and Twilight were doing their best to not laugh, but were holding wide smiles.

Jerry snorted as he retorted. “Well, what did you think was going to happen when you let that woman get off scot free? She was the succubi queen in disguise! If anything, that’s your own fault for not talking it out with your team!” looking at Fay, who was playing a cleric and sorcerer mixed class. As to fit with her magic and Light side naturally as she chose ‘lawful good’.

Though Fay turned to look at the other's as she spoke. “But she was the victim, she was along with many other women trapped in that cell, and that disgraced paladin had them all there for his cult of lust.”

Cadence calmed herself and nodded, “and I don’t blame you. I probably would have done the same given the split-second situation you were in.” Then went on to think. “In hindsight, it probably would have been a good idea to wait for us to regroup to escort them out… but it’s already happened.”

Twilight soon nodded in agreement. “You’ll find stuff like this can happen all the time. That’s why it’s important to try and investigate or try observing people before making an action.”

“And because of Fay unforeseen consequences, the succubi has taken over the entire town, caused a plague of the undead, and are draining all the life energy within the town and castle that they reside.” spoke Jerry as he look over to the players. “And while you all could try to handle this, you all are outnumbered, need a moment of rest, and used up a good portion of spells during the fight with the former paladin. So you all need to come up with a plan to either risk camping nearby, or leaving the town for a time.”

Thinking, Twilight said, “I’d hate to leave the town, but we do need to regain our strength.” Pondering on the situation.

“Going in right now would be risky.” Shining agreed with a nod while looking at the others. “I’d vote on finding a semi-secure location to get a long rest in and plan things out from there.”

Cadence however shared her concern that Fay also had. “But there’s probably a lot of people that could use our help now. We don’t have to fight immediately, evacuating people should also be an objective.” An idea that Fay nodded with, liking this thought. Save who they can then deal with the rest once they have the strength.

Jasmine thought it over, as she spoke up. “Jerry, I still have my ‘request aid’ boon. Could I ask my patron, the Archduke, to aid me in handling this issue?”

Jerry hummed, and said. “Well tell you what. Give me a charisma roll. With the difficulty of…25.” knowing her modifiers could help depending if she rolls close enough.

Fay gave a look, mostly of the filly actually having a ‘archduke devil’ as a patron for her character. She felt Jasmine wasn’t making the right choice of her character being a child with a devil for a patron. Cadence smiles as she says. “I would like to Cast Guidance on Perwink.”

With Fay getting the idea, repeats. “I too would like to cast Guidance on Perwink.”

And as the filly made the rolls, getting a 11, and with the added aid from her modifiers, and the spells? Jerry muse as he asked. “What's the request?”

To which Jasmine spoke in character. “Oh please, oh please Dark One of Wraith. Please cleanse this town from the succubi and the undead roaming in it. As we can’t do anything to stop them.”

Jerry nodded… then spoke with a slight grin. “Well, your patron has heard your request, and granted the boon.” seeing Jasmine perked up, before he added. “However, due to the roll not being high enough? He takes your words quite literally. As you asked for the town to be saved…and soon there was a large blast of fire from below the grounds. Burning everything around as to remove both succubi, and undead as to ‘cleanse’ the town from the threat.”

As they staired, Twilight looked at Jasmine and spoke, “you forgot to be specific again, little Hellion.” both playing character and just stating facts.

Jasmine looked sheepish, as she spoke in character. “Well, I did say cleanse…he thought I meant to burn everything to the ground.”

Fay looked admonished as she asked both in character and as herself. “Why would you ever make a pact with something so evil and dark, small one?”

“He promised me cookies.” answered Jasmine.

Cadence couldn't help it. She began to laugh and giggle and the silliness of it. While Shining armor bemoans, “Cookies, why is it always cookies?”

Jerry smirked as he answered. “Because the dark side has cookies.” and clear his throat as he said. “And so, as the town screams and burns alive. You all witness the power of the Dark One of Wraith. And inevitably, destroy and save the town at the same time. You all managed to stop the succubi and remove the plague of undead. But you also destroyed the lives of whoever was left, as after a few minutes pass? All that is left is the smoldering ruins of the town, the castle, and the bodies turning to dust.”

And with a pause of silence, Twilight sighs out. “Well…” and looked at the party, “at least the succubi is dead…” and thought, “ we should…go and make sure though. Just to be safe.”

Jasmine agreed. “If there’s no bodies found? They aren’t dead.”

“How could the succubi, much less their queen-- could survive that?” asked Fay, as she tried to keep in tone of her character.

Thinking about it, Shining told, “it’s possible she could have been under a protective room. It could happen.” and told, “with my ability to detect evil? I can see if they’re still around. And if they are? We might be able to smite them and end them without their forces to hamper us.”

Fay nodded, as she said. “Then perhaps we shall go and make sure the succubi queen is gone for good.” and added with a look to Jasmine. “And perhaps, convince the child that she should be more specific…and perhaps change patrons to something more, lighter?”

Jasmine proclaimed with a pointed finger. “Never! You can never deny me my cookies!”

With a small smile, Cadence giggles, “n-not sure what you were expecting, Madam Ray. You know how devoted she is.” trying to get back into character. But she couldn't help it. Jasmin was just so adorable.

“That's right, I shall never give up on the Archduke-- because he gives me cookies! Unlimited cookies!” said Jasmine with a more upbeat tone. “And they go perfectly well with my infinite cocoa!”

Sighing ruefully, Twilight enacted out, “this hellion was a mistake.” Getting a few laughs and one exasperated sigh from one Light-kin queen.

---

It was gone.

The Crystal Empire, HIS Empire was GONE!

He had searched the frozen tundra for far too long. And the wispy shadows known as Sombra, could only come up with one conclusion. The Empire was gone. Buried under ice and snow. And that infuriated him to no end. The dark wizard-king eventually skulked away, heading more and more to where Equestria’s ‘not so frozen’ lands were. And as he reformed on the peak of a mountain to look to the once lush lands?

The fanged unicorn could only give a near contempt sigh. Windigos had taken over more or less, and that meant that the ponies either were back to their old ways… or they weren't there at all. Either was annoying to think about. But in the end? Sombra figured that he could regain his rightful place as King after dealing with the annoying hate-filled spirits here.

As for the Equestrians… The once-more living King hummed while moving over to sit on a nearby rock. His mind is heavily contemplating his next set of moves. Hands together and fingers tapping away on the other. I need to gauge the power of the Princess. Their youngest, she wasn’t that powerful. She was nearly ready to collapse last I battered at the barrier she held over the Empire. in a duel? He would have to be careful, but Smbra was sure of victory over her.

Celestia and Luna I’ll have to be very careful of. I may have outmaneuvered Celestia in our last bout, but she still caused plenty of damage. And her sister… He nearly gramanced. best I don’t cross swords with Luna without a plan. My magic doesn't matter against an Alicorn who’s magic is of the Darkness that I too wield. That was his own ego and folly. Facing an Alicorn who embodied all that was night and darkness.

He wouldn’t make that same mistake twice.

Still, besides those two? Sombra was very sure he could attain a second victory if and when he found the ponies. they might fight hard against a foe, but they all have soft hearts. Put their loved ones in the way and the fight leaves them. So busy saving they can’t always save themselves. making the dark unicorn nod to himself.

Then, his ears picked up wailing. but for now? Pest control. And turned his eyes up at the ghostly horse like forms that carried clouds of cold with. With a savage grin, Sombra rose and spoke, “Kneel before your King.” and with eyes wisping with green dark magics, rising like a smooth smoke, did his horn bubble with dark purple magics and burst out. Laughing as the first Wendigo was overcome by dark magical induced Fear.

The other’s to the side wailed in shock, and furthermore in terror as the shortly began to upheave with black spires of dark crystals. The magical corruptive things battering and bashing the just as magical spirits. Those there in the pack turned to flee.

Sombra simply walked to the edge of the mountain and stepped off. Dark crystals forming under armored hooves and letting him casually slide after them. Chasing after the same same spirits his ancestors once feared would return. And now? He was fear incarnate, and all things feared him.

---

Fay had…noticed a trend during the game. While she didn’t recognize it at first? She noticed hints and bits that made her rethink things. At first, she didn’t think too much. But she noticed and heard from the other's of the previous parts of the game that made her…think. As the fairy recalls events of the past of her world, where seven heroes of greatness, began to decay and corrupted into forsaken people who took in their own Evil.

It was even more apparent by each one that was a mirror version of the Heros. The Halfing consumed by gluttony, the elf by sloth, dwarf by greed, three humans by envy, wraith, and lust. Yes the details were altered, and even to the point the campaign was similar.

Even as she played with these ponies, enacting her character and working off the other's? They reach the final boss of the ‘game’ as it were. Breaking into the tower of the dark lord, and starting to confront him as they were all at high level. And as Jerry was going into detail of the threat, describing the area?

Jasmine called out. “I used my second wish on my ring! I want to wreck the final boss!”

Jerry paused, as he was going to tell something, but huffed as he said. “Well…the wish was cast, and the dark lord suddenly got a heart attack as he knelt over and died.” though told on. “However, because of your rush action? You all activated his trap, and a teleportation rune activated under you. Teleporting you from one plane to another. As you all came upon the demonic planes, as you activated the Dark Lord trap.”

Going on to add. “And because of it, you are all stuck for the rest of time in this demonic realm.”

“Hey wait-- that’s pushing things!” started Shining with a look to Jerry.

Shrugging, Jerry said. “Well, if you all did ‘trap check’ one of you would’ve noticed the rune under you all. The Dark Lord wasn’t playing fair so…”

Twilight seemed to think and said. “First I want to ask my party to hold hands to form a circle. I want them to trust me on what I’m about to do.”

“Eh,” started Jerry as he looked over a few things and said. “Well, you’re going to let Swirlstar cast the spell on you all?”

“Swirlstar hasn’t deterred us yet,” said Fay.

“I trust whatever plan the wizard is making.” nodded Shining.

“It’s better than us being stuck in a demonic realm.” brought in Cadence.

Jasmine seemed to think, before sulking and said. “Well, this isn’t where the Archduke is at…so I’ll go with.” playing in character already.

Jerry nodded and said. “Alright Twilight, what are you planning?”

Smiling, Twilight tells, “I would like to cast the seventh level spell ‘Plain Shift’ and my target is the mortal plain at my tower where I have a mail circle already set.” Making Jerry pause at that. And took a monet to take a book and search up the spell and its effects. Then he felt his eyes widen a bit, seeing it’s function, particularly that it could take up to eight people that link hands in a circle to a different plain of existence-- or more to point, a magical circle that they knew the sigils to. He recalled Twilight wanting to have them go to her tower in the past and get a few things and what not… and she did say she was making a magical circle back then…

That sneaky minx.

He let out a huff and said. “Alright, I’ll allow it.” then clear his throat. “As you perform the magic spell of plane Shift, targeting into the tower of yours, all of you appear into Swirlstar’s tower. And you managed to escape the demonic plane.”

“Well that seems to be the end of that.” said Shining with a gruff.

“Does this mean we win?” asked Fay curiously.

“Yes, you win against the final boss.” indicated Jerry with a slight smile.

And while Fay looked confused at his wording, as did Jasmine? Shining, Twilight, and Cadence look at Jerry, and it was Twilight that asked. “Wait…the Dark Lord wasn’t the BBEG?”

And instead of answering her, Jerry cleared his throat as he spoke. “And as the door opened within your tower, a friendly greeting of your guide, and mentor Swirlstar entered. As he spoke with slight cheer.” and shifted his tone to a elderly man. “Congratulations, Swirlstar. You managed to defeat the Dark Lord. I am so proud of you.”

Twilight with a blink. “Wait… how did he know we came back?”

Jerry then said. “He raised a hand, showing a gemstone full of magic, then crushed it as he spoke in a more clear and authoritative tone.” then spoke in that tone. “Thank you for clearing the way for me.” and then added. “Roll initiative.”

And as the ponies rolled, Fay asked in confusion. “What's going on? I thought we defeated the villain?” she wasn’t sure why Swirlstar mentioned showing up like that.

Twilight chose to explain, “Apparently, that wasn’t the real Villain we ‘beat’, just a distraction to try and get rid of us.”

“Got to admit, I didn’t expect a twisted villain from you, Jerry.” told Shining as he added. “Especially it being the Mentor all along.”

“Well…he was a Hero after all.” started Jerry, and told with a grin. “Now,”

“I cast my last wish!” told Jasmine.

Though Jerry raised a finger as he brought up. “Now hold up. First, you didn’t call out your roll.”

Jasmine huffed and said. “13.”

“13.” told Shining.

“8.” said cadence.

“14.” said Twilight.

“6.” finished Fay.

Jerry nodded, and rolled his die. Then he looked down and said, “Well, BBEG got 13, Jasmine. So we need to re-roll.” And as the two rolled again, Jasmine rolled and said.

“Oh come on!” as she got a natural 1.

Shining rolled his, and huffed. “10.”

Jerry rolled his dice, as he said. “16.” as he looks at Jasmine. “Sorry Jasmine, you can’t use the Wish yet.” then he said. “The wizard focuses on you, as he knows you still have the wish ring. And cast Word kill on you.”

Twilight spoke up. “I use my reaction to Counterspell, 9th level.”

“Lemme just roll that,” said Jerry, and as he did? Jerry huff and said. “Well, it deflected back and the Wizard managed to move out of the way with a reaction. Then called out to you,” and changed his voice. “It seems I have taught you well, perhaps too well Swirlstar. A pity I must kill you instead of my initial plans.”

“Why?” called out Fay, being in character. “Why are you doing this? Aren’t you supposed to be a hero?”

To which Jerry gave a mocking laugh. “Oh, you really think so? Perhaps if you didn’t kill the Dark Lord-- you would’ve realized the truth, foolish one.” going into character more. “As your precious ‘mentor’ went to strike at the Dark Lord long ago, he fell into my trap-- and it was such a wonderful trap. It’s rather predictable how you ‘heros’ are, isn’t it?” and while Fay took a brief moment, her mind taking in that?

Jasmine called out in her character. “I knew there was a reason you look funny! It wasn’t your hat at all!” going on to tell. “You’re just a big meanie who refuses to let go!”

“Whelp, I am more than a ‘big meanie’--- I am the Dark Lord!” proclaimed the Wizard. Then Jerry cleared his voice, taking a sip as he said. “Alright Twilight, what are you going to do?”

She smiles a bit too much for Jerry’s liking and tells, “I will cast my 5th level spell, animate Object, and use it to animate ten swords I have hanging on the walls of my home.” Once more making Jerry pause.

Did she trap her own house? Is that why she kept so much of their ‘junk’ around? “And as my bonus action, I have the ten blades to attack my former Mentor.”

“Roll.” told Jerry, and as she did? He saw that each blade would be a +6 to hit, and he knew that it all add with a d8 +2. So he made multiple rolls. After a while he said, “He got about half damage, some of the blades hit. Other's managed to miss by inches.” and told on. “And as he managed to evade, he cursed out,” changing his voice. “Smart pony-- always keeping worthless junk. Guess I should’ve expected this!”

Jerry then said. “And that ends your turn, Twilight?” and at her nod after looking at her notes, Jerry began to get something as he told. “He took a look around, knowing that this is your home, and had many defenses hidden away. So he cast a dimensional plane on all of you to teleport you all out of this tower.” going on into detail, “and as,”

Fay spoke up. “As a reaction, I too cast Counterspell. 7th level.”

Jerry took a breath, grabbing the die to roll, as he said. “It works as the spell fizzled. But the Mentor did not give up, as he cast Mind Silver onto Perwink. Roll an intel save.”

Jasmine rolled-- and whined as she told. “I got a nat 1!”

“Sorry, Jasmine, but your mind is being assailed by mental projections.” told Jerry as he said with a glance. “What are you currently seeing in your mind?”

“I…am…being….denied….coookies!” called out Jasmine in her character voice, as she said. “I went down on my knees, wanting to have the cookies, but cannot as I was told no in my head.”

“Evil.” told Fay with a look to Jerry.

Jerry shrugged, and soon told. “Well, this is the big boss.” Jerry then said. “Alright Shining. your turn.”

Shining nodded as he declared. “I charge with grapple.” and rolling as he told with a proud smile. “I got an 18, and with my bonus? That’s 23.”

Jerry rolled, and said with a nod. “As you charge towards the Mentor, he tries to move out of the way, but you grab him tight against your armor. What are you going to do?”

Shining seemed to think, looking over his sheet, and said. “I call out to the other's.” going into character with his gruff tone. “Somepony, get the ring from Perwink! We need to put him down now!” and made a motion. “I move to keep a hand on the Mentor mouth, ensuring he couldn’t speak out another spell.”

Cadence spoke up. “I rush over to Perwink, take the wish ring and call out for the death of the Mentor.”

Jerry sighs, but nods as he says. “And as you use the last wish, there was a scream of death as the mentor, body crumbling in black smoke, as he was tossed by the paladin. His body lay on the ground as the Mentor shouted out.” and shifting his tone. “You think that just because you kill me? That it is finished? No-- this will never be finished. As long as Good arises-- there will always be Evil. Be it a Dark lord,” and gave a motion of his eyes to look around. “Or from those who used to be Heros.”

And let out a decrypted laughter, as Jerry spoke in the Mentor voice. “Because no matter how much you try, how much you do….” and weakly spoke out. “Evil always finds a way.” then said in a more calmer tone. “And with that, the final villain, the final threat of the world was vanquished. His body disappearing in black smoke into nothing, as you all stood there, with Perwink recovering and all of you seeing the remains of the Mentor.”

“Nothing but a robe of someone who you all knew and trusted…turning out to be the last villain of who used to be heroes of the nation. And with that you wonder, you wonder if he was right, that no matter what happens…that there will always be evil. And despite all attempts, it will always come up.”

“All you can do is try to help ensure there is still plenty of good left in this world of yours as you have a brief victory of finishing the fight.” Then after a bit of silence…Jerry let out a long drag of breath and looked at them all. “That was a good game-- but nothing personal-- I hate you all.”

Jasmine giggled, as she asked. “Are you just mad because we took out the big bad boss easily?”

Raising a finger at her, Jerry told. “Only because you got lucky on finding that ring! The dice was in your favor at that point, Jasmine.” going on to add with a huff. “But as a DM? That was a good game.”

“But…I don’t understand.” started Fay with confusion on her face. “Why would the Mentor be the ‘BBEG’? I thought the Dark Lord was the apparent evil.” looking unsure as to why this happened at all.

Deciding to take this, Shining told, “it comes down to personal interest.” And leans on the table. “It’s happened before. Someone on your side getting too greedy for wanting something they can’t have and deciding to turn on people to get it.”

“It’s like that discussion I had with you the other day.” Cadence nodded in agreement. “We all can do our best to be good people. But we all have that little tiny bit of evil just waiting to take advantage of us. Even if they’re good intentions, they can have consequences if done without the correct use.”

“But the Mentor half raised Swirlstar,” brought up Fay as she looked at Twilight. “Why would he betray them all? Why would he even be the real villain? It doesn’t make sense.”

Getting up to come over and pat Fay’s shoulder, Twilight thought it over and spoke. “Because Mentor wasn’t the real one, the one with us was just taking advantage of his student.” And spoke, “it’s like Uturo once tried to tell me. Evil using kindness to get themselves into better graces.”

“Plus.” added Jasmine with a scrunch face. “Remember what ‘Mentor’ said? He said the mentor struck the ‘dark lord’. Meaning that he and the dark lord switch places…” then pause, and slowly look at Jerry and ask. “Was that why the Dark Lord didn’t kill Swirlstar?” recalling an encounter where the Dark Lord fought them all in the forest of the ancient civilization.

Jerry nodded as he said. “That’s right. Even if he was full of evil-- he couldn’t bear the thought of actually doing the deed against his actual student.” then added with a roll of his eyes. “I was going to have that reveal but…someone jumped too soon.” giving a look to Jasmine who looks sheepish.

“Still, I’m a bit surprised you went that route.” said Shining as he leaned back, while looking at Jerry. “Having the former heroes become corrupted and causing problems? Not something that's common.”

Twilight nods and smiles, “it was an interesting narrative. Dark, but still good story telling with how you had it crafted.”

“Yes….” started Fay, her mind thinking of the ‘heros’ in the game…and the parallels of history. “An interesting…narrative.”

Cadence soon asks while getting up, “So Fay, how was your first true run through an O & O campaign?” and used her magic to grab and pull over some drinks for them both. “I have to say, you did pretty well for a first time player during combat scenarios.”

Fay thought on it, and soon smiled as she looked at Cadence. “You know…I think I understand how this is fun now.” finding it rather exciting. Able to see what could happen or what happened with their choices. It wasn’t all perfect but…it made her learn a bit about the ‘gray’ area that this world seems to go off of.

Jasmine looks at Jerry as she grins a bit. “Don’t sulk too much bro. I’m sure Shadow and the other's can cheer you up.”

Jerry snorted as he told while packing things up. “I’m not sulking.”

“At least you hate us all equally.” cheeky said Jasmine.

Which made Jerry think back to his ‘harmony song’ or villain song…and snorted with a grin. “You’re right. I do hate you all equally.”

Twilight giggles and says, “alright drama-king, and hellion.” moving a hand to pat Jasmine's head. “We still have an hour of free time and a table full of snacks. I say we spend it relaxing while we can before we have to get back to work.”

“Motion to follow Twily’s suggestion to chug and munch junk food?” Asked Shining with a raised hand.

“Aye!” called out the other ponies, with Fay adding, ‘yes’.

Jerry added with a sagely expression and nodding along. “The King-Tyrant approves of this action.”

“You are never going to drop that, are you?” teasingly said Jasmine with a look to Jerry.

“Nope. It’s my title and my title alone and nobody will take it away from my cold hands!” proclaimed Jerry.

Fay could only roll her eyes. The Overlord was such a, as Twilight put it ‘Drama King’.

Next Chapter: Temporarily raid and surprises. Estimated time remaining: 1 Hour, 5 Minutes