Overlord: Equestrian Minions

Chapters

Evil finds a way
Into Equestria
How does one pillage love?
Infiltrating Den Hollow
Raiding Den Hollow
This is my town you overgrown newt!!!!
Sweet Dreams
You have the right to remain silent
Revenge is a nightmare
She, is a nightmare

Evil finds a way

Equestria. One of the few places in the world untouched by evil, or so one would think. Even here in this pony paradise you can find the seeds of corruption if one knew where to look. Seemingly adorably innocent ponies who prance around with smiles on their faces have their dark side. Even in this utopian society exists greed and other forms of corruption. It's rather ironic if you think about it. For all their preaching of love and tolerance only to throw it to the side when it benefits them.

Then there's the villains. Equestria never has it's shortage of villains trying to conquer it or take over the world. A queen impersonating a bride, a king with a knack for crystals, a sister that got banished to the moon for a thousand years, that one is my favorite. While their effort is applaudable, their technique however not so much. Each one of them got defeated by a group of namby pamby ponies and the power of their 'friendship'. Ugh! Just thinking about it makes me pass little giblets. I guess I should explain where I'm going with this. Well I'll start at the beginning then.

My master had conquered an empire and was suffering from a severe case of boredom. You see, when you get to the top of the hill it gets rather dull trying to stay at the top. Like his father before him the master had destroyed all that opposed him and dominated all who defied his will. It's sad to say that the master went a little crazy in the helmet after many years of being in power. He went around saying that as long as he was in power no one would ever have the spine to raise up against him anymore. So in a spout of fury and madness the master sealed his own son in a tomb before vanishing completely.

We tried to free the young master but the seal would not break until the time had come for evil to rise again. So we waited, year after year hoping that the tomb would release onto us our next overlord but it was not meant to be. Ages passed and the seal remained strong as it ever was. Unfortunately much time had passed that the world had begun to change and entire species that once roamed the world had gone extinct. Sadly the time of the minions had passed as well. New species replaced the old and life continued on it's old merry way.

What happened to the young master? Well I was just about to get to that you impatient knave. Ahem! Now where was I? Oh yes! If there's one thing I have learned in my life it's that Evil finds a way.

Far outside Equestria's borders lie the inhospitable wastelands. A giant deathtrap devoid of life and water for miles around but the underground was bustling with changeling activity. By the orders of their queen they were digging out tunnels for their hive to use until one of them hit a solid object. Curious and confused the changeling called for help and dug out a huge coffin made of stone and metal seemingly untouched by the passage of time. News traveled from changeling to changeling until it made it all the way back to their queen of their discovery. Not long after the coffin was pulled along until it rested on the floors before the queen's throne.

"Open it. I should desire to take the riches within for myself." The changeling queen demanded.

With many grunts of acknowledgement the others all pushed the lid off the top of the mysterious box and revealed to all what laid inside. It indeed was a coffin that contained a lone figure within. The mysterious figure was shaped like a minotaur and armored all over while clutching a sword to big for a pony to wield comfortably. The changelings all presumed this creature was dead until one of them noticed a heartbeat. "My queen this thing is still alive!"

The queen was taken aback by the new revelation but soon pondered what to do with this creature. "If it is alive then perhaps we could put it in a cocoon and feed off it's love."

All eyes returned to the armored monster and one of the changelings spoke out. "No offense my queen but that thing looks like it would be the opposite of love." Soon after every changeling in attendance feverously nodded in agreement. There wasn't much time to debate the issue, for one of the changelings foolishly had place his hoof upon the helm of their mystery guest and awoke it instantly.

Everything became silent as the armor clicked and clanged as it scraped against it self. Eyes that could pierce your very soul gaze outward from the dark helmet, ever observant of the surroundings. The mini shockwaves produced by the boots crushing down upon stone. Until finally the dark figure stood tall at six feet with a bone chilling presence, that commanded both fear and respect. Heaving a large sword upon it's shoulders the armored creature just stared at the changelings as if it was waiting for them to make a move.

Many of the changelings took a step back instinctually, as it's very presence was unnerving. As the changelings started to fear this creature, ironically the queen did not. The queen actually was rather pleased with her current find. The armored figure was obviously a warrior of some type and probably was a dangerous one if it was sealed away. The queen thought that if she could gain the allegiance of this warrior then perhaps she could have her revenge a lot sooner than planned. She approached the dark figure while it just stared at her with those menacing eyes.

"Greetings Warrior. I am Queen Chrysalis, ruler of this changeling hive. Now tell me what is your name?" The queen spoke in a friendly matter, hoping to appeal to the creature's good side. However the dark one just stood there staring at her as if it didn't understand or didn't care. Chrysalis was hoping it was the former. That didn't stop her from trying to communicate with her guest. "You were found within my territory so which would make you my guest. You wouldn't want to be rude to your host now, would you dark warrior?"

Once again the warrior just stood there staring at her. Chrysalis was getting a little frustrated but she didn't let it show. She walked up the armored figure and placed her hoof upon it's breastplate, trying to elicit a reaction. The reaction however, wasn't what she had in mind. The dark one raised a gauntlet and severely backhanded Chrysalis right on the side of her muzzle, making her stumble backward dazed and shocked.

"HOW DARE YOU LAY YOUR DIRTY HAND ON ME YOU INSOLENT EXCUSE FOR A MINOTAUR!" Queen Chrysalis screamed in a fit of rage and fury. Many of the changelings started to swarm and charge their queen's aggressor. This didn't even faze the warrior as he just lifted up his left hand and lobbed a fireball right into the middle of the changeling wave. Several changelings fell to the hard ground smoking and burnt. Several more charge into the fray, hoping to avenge those that had fallen.

Severely outnumbered the warrior knew that he would loose if he dragged this fight out, so he looked towards their queen and began his charge. Chrysalis noticed the warrior's charge and ordered her bodyguards to defend her, they took up position wielding many weapons in their hooves or magic aura.

The dark one collided with the queen's bodyguards and his sheer size toppled over some of them outright. A bodyguard swung her sword at the aggressor but was parried by it's oversized sword. The warrior swung it's sword in a long downward arc and shattered the bodyguard's weapon. Another guard tried to charge but the warrior just kicked him to the side with it's oversized metal boot.

The armored figure didn't have any time to think as Chrysalis bucked her rear legs and nailed the warrior in the helm and breastplate.
This didn't knock it over as it just staggered the warrior. The left gauntlet went ablaze once more as the dark figure launched a fireball at the queen. Chrysalis was prepared however as she raised a green dome shield to defend against the attack. She didn't have much time to celebrate as the warrior swung it's sword at the barrier. The sword bounced off the shield but didn't break and Queen Chrysalis was pushed back a couple of feet.

The dark one instantly got an idea as it got behind the bubble shield, wrapping it's massive arms around the dome shield. With a mighty heave, chrysalis and her dome shield was picked up off the ground. Shocked that a feat such as this was even possible Chrysalis was unable to do anything. With a mighty throw Chrysalis and her bubble shield were tossed through the air and towards the oncoming changelings.

The changelings tried to scramble out of the way but kept running or flying into each other and then the shield smashed into them. Chrysalis and many changelings fell to the ground, either dazed or unconscious. It wasn't long until a metal boot stomped down on top of Chrysalis, pinning her in place. She looked up and saw the dark warrior holding the sword over it's head intending to strike her down.

Afraid for her life the queen tried to struggle against her attacker but she was firmly pinned in place by the large boot. She watched in terror as the warrior started to swing downward, she panicked and then started to beg. "PLEASE DON'T KILL ME! I'LL DO ANYTHING I SWEAR! I'LL EVEN PLEDGE MY ALLIEGENCE TO YOU PLEASE!!!!"

TWANG!

Chrysalis saw her life flash before her eyes right until the sword embedded itself in the ground near her head. The dark one grasped a clawed gauntlet around her neck, then stared into her eyes with a look that could only mean one thing. 'SWEAR!'

"I Queen Chrysalis here by swear my loyalty and fealty to you. For all eternity." Chrysalis choked out and begun crying as she was released. The changelings were in awe, their queen had did the unthinkable. She had sworn loyalty to this warrior and by extension the hive as well. They all parted way for their new leader as it made it's way over to the throne were their queen once sat.

The throne was a little different than the dark warrior was used too. The bottom of the throne was lower to the ground making it easier for those with four legs to be able to sit upon it. Clearly it wasn't designed for someone of his shape in mind. Much to the confusion of everyone else the warrior made it's way over to where Chrysalis still laid and pointed at her. The dark one pointed at her again and then to the throne. The former queen did not understand but complied after the warrior did it a second time.

Queen Chrysalis. The very same queen who had been strutting around in her throne room earlier like a peacock. Was now meekly making her way to her old throne. She looked back to the dark one again as it just pointed to the throne again. Chrysalis had a surge of hope that she would be able to keep part of her power and took a seat upon her old throne.

That hope however was crushed both literally and figuratively as the new leader turned around and sat upon her. Every changeling had only one thought after that.

"LONG LIVE THE NEW QUEEN!"

Author's Note

Overlord is best queen. :D
I'm just kidding. Well my fellow story lovers I have finally returned to the writing world and as you can probably tell I have overlord on the brain. I'm having an overlord a-thon by playing 1 and 2 on steam. Watching overlord the anime and now writing fan fiction about it.
Anyway if you want to leave comments or criticism, it's always appreciated. If you're gonna hate then could you at least tell me why so I can become a better writer.
Catch you later

Into Equestria

"LONG LIVE THE NEW QUEEN!" Every changeling shouted in unison. Afterward they looked more closely at their new leader then to each other. "I don't know about the rest of you but that doesn't look like a female at all." One changeling said.

"Our new leader is definitely a male." Another changeling said.

"How can you tell?" Another of the changelings asked.

"Well the warrior always kept a wide stance with his two legs regardless of what he was doing. If us males were fully armored from horn to hoof then I'd bet we would have wide stances too." The former changeling explained. There was a pregnant pause until many of the other changelings finally got it and let out a collective 'ah'.

"That makes sense. I bet having armor there chafes like hell. Still, we don't even know what species his is." One of the male changelings commented. Many of the changelings huddled together discussing the species of their new boss. Some believed that he was a minotaur but it was pointed out the lack of hooves, horns and a tail. Another thought he was a diamond dog but again lacked the tail and was again was disapproved. Meanwhile the said Overlord that sat atop queen and throne, was getting rather irritated. A lone changeling approached as his eye stated to twitch.

"Please forgive them my lord. They are drones for a reason." The changeling spoke with a hint of disappointment. The dark one gazed at the newcomer and noted her features. The changeling was obviously female, if it's voice was anything to go by and was more lithe than others. She definitely was older than some of the other changelings but she was still most definitely in her prime. This changeling politely bowed before the new overlord and introduced herself.

"My name is Emerald wing and I am the Queen's aid. Now I'll serve as yours unless you decree otherwise." The warrior just nodded and readjusted himself atop Chrysalis. The former queen herself had the wind literally knocked out of her and was uncomfortably fidgeting beneath her conqueror's 'presence'.

"Emerald Wing! Bring me some pillows or something, I'm getting crushed into this throne!" Chrysalis barely managed to yell as her breathes were short and labored. She looked to her former aid with hope for mercy but was crushed when Emerald replied with a cruel smile.

"I'm sorry Chrysalis but it seems you have been demoted to the royal cushion. I'm afraid I cannot take orders from a cushion, you'll just have to grin and bear it my lady. Besides our new King wants to tour his new kingdom." Chrysalis was shocked by Emerald's vile words and the Overlord because Emerald understood him. "Don't look so surprised my lord. That expression doesn't suit you. If you would follow me, I'll explain on the way."

The Overlord made his way over to Emerald Wing and every changeling parted way as if he was death himself. Emerald led him down a corridor which broke off into many different rooms that had been dug out and built upon. "Our race is called changelings and like our suggests we can change our form. Additionally we have the ability to detect emotions, so I was able to understand you by reading your body language and emotions."

The two entered a large room with small furniture and bedding. Littered among them were changelings that were hurt or too weak to move. "You see sire the reason why we can sense emotions is because we need it to feed upon love." The dark one stopped and just stared at Emerald as if she told a lie. "I swear it is completely true my king. Changelings can eat other things but to be truly healthy we require love. Love makes us stronger and powers our changeling magic. That's why we change forms because we need to harvest it from other races."

The King followed Emerald deeper into the room and she gestured with her hoof towards each of the changelings as she explained. "There are three common types of changelings that reside within a changeling hive. Regardless of type all changelings share the abilities to transform, fly and use magic."

"The first common type of changeling is a drone. These changelings are built more for strength, endurance and stamina than anything else. Drones are your typical workers or front line soldiers. They are usually average flyers and so-so on magic. Next are the infiltrators, they do exactly as their name suggests. These changelings are geared for speed and are superior flyers but lack strength. Their typical jobs are infiltrating and collecting love for the hive to feed on. Last but not least are the casters. A caster is a changeling who's magical ability is far above the other two changeling types. They are more like the jack of a trades and can do any job using their magic to compensate."

Emerald continued to explain to the Overlord about changelings until eventually Chrysalis herself recovered and caught up with the two. "Emerald left out the most important part my King. Each changeling hive is ruled by a Royal Changeling which has the best traits of each of the common types." Chrysalis said sardonically said while glaring daggers at Emerald Wing.

"Well then you can tell him about our problem yourself." The older changeling chided. The dark one's gaze turned to Chrysalis and she started to squirm under his stare. Until finally she sighed and started to speak.

"I'll be honest with you. The truth of the matter is, that we're all starving and it's all my fault. Love has always been scarce to acquire for changelings but we've always managed to get by. Until one day I decided to get greedy and try to conquer the capital of Equestria. We came close to actually winning but, in the end my gloating undid us and we got banished to the wastelands." Chrysalis explained and Emerald just shook her head while sighing.

"Your lordship, a royal changeling is supposed to be the strongest and wisest of us all. If the best of us fail then it often means the extinction of the hive. Ever since that wedding we have been low on love and our little altercation with you early hurt us even more. We've almost depleted our supply to heal all the injuries we've received. We normally wouldn't touch our stock when it's so low but some of our wounds would have been fatal without treatment." Emerald Wing interjected. The dark one just listened to their story and stroked the side of his helmet, thinking deeply.

Chrysalis and Emerald both suddenly bowed very low to the floor and shouted in unison. "Please find the hive some love! We're begging you!" This sudden outburst did nothing to help the scrambled thoughts of the Overlord. He already knew that a superior master took care of his minions because they are of no use to him dead.

While the dark one was deep in thought he didn't hear the pitter patter of tiny hooves approach him. A small changeling foal had wandered up to the one in armor, she reared up on her hind legs and rested her front hooves on the Overlord's leg. This got his attention and looked down to see the little foal staring back up at him. With the cutest face and the sweetest voice the little changeling spoke. "Love?"

For a split second Chrysalis could feel a desirable emotion within the dark one but it was quickly buried beneath a cornucopia of negative emotions. Every changeling watched in terror as the Overlord reached down with his massive hand and scooped up the little foal. Instead of crushing her like everyone thought he would the new King just walked towards the group of changelings. He just started pointing at many different changelings that weren't injured or weak. Emerald and Chrysalis quickly caught on and spoke for the dark lord.

"Our King needs able bodied changelings to assist him! He has decided to take care of the hive!" Emerald shouted for all to hear and then there was much celebration. Those that could be of use all clamored to their King and swore their loyalty. This was all well and good but Chrysalis thought that the Overlord could use a little more help.

"My liege before you leave there is something I would like to give you." The dark one proceeded to follow the former Queen and handed the foal to Emerald. Chrysalis led the Overlord to another chamber with only one entrance. The huge chamber itself was empty save for a lone crystal on the ground. The crystal itself was barely smaller than the Overlord's pinkie finger and was clear with a jaded glow. Chrysalis motion towards it with her hoof and magically handed it to her lord.

"This is called a changeling crystal, it is basically what crystalized love looks like. We store excess love in this form so we can save it for later use. It is a closely guarded secret of changelings for it allows us to communicate with each other telepathically. Other races think we are naturally born with a hive mind conscious which in fact we are more individualistic than they give us credit for. With this small crystal you will be able to communicate with us without words. Which is great because you don't speak to us at all. With your emotion you can command the 'hive mind' and use it to your advantage."

The Overlord gave it a once over before placing it in the center of the left gauntlet. The recent orange glow turned to dark green and every changeling felt his presence. Chrysalis nodded and said one last thing. "The drones have been digging out tunnels so you could use one of them to reach the outskirts of Equestria. I wish I could go with you but somepony needs to stay behind and protect the hive. If giving up my crown means the survival of this hive then so be it, I'm just glad it was to you."

There was no expression on the dark one's face as he turned to leave. With a wave of his hand his minions were summoned to his side and they departed down the tunnels. Love was mysterious and elusive for the dark lord but he was sure of one thing. He would get some love regardless whoever he had to smite to get it.

Author's Note

Overlord is gonna plunder some love :D

How does one pillage love?

All was silent except the methodical stomping of hooves and boots in the tunnels. Five changelings followed a tall dark figure as he marched onward with sword in hand.

"My lord can you hear me?" A somber voice rang forth out of seemingly nowhere. The dark one stopped in his tracks and looked around for whoever spoke.

"Easy sire! It's only me. Emerald Wing." The Overlord lowered the sword and dropped his battle stance. With there being no immediate threat the dark one continued his trek down the tunnels. The changelings that were under his command scrambled after him and his ravenous pace.

"Don't forget about me, I'm here too your lordship." Another feminine voice spoke that couldn't be any other than Chrysalis. However the armored warrior didn't stop his advance or even acknowledge the former Queen. "It would seem that you can hear us my King cause we can definitely sense your location, even in those tunnels. Your changeling crystal will allow us to see and hear what you do master. Even more so that it allows us to interpret your will without words or actions. A useful commodity for any ambitious Overlords such as yourself."

"Do not interrupt me Chrysalis! Besides it is my job to advise the leader of this hive and I will not have you trying to take my place you cushion." Emerald yelled over the hive mind for all to hear. It wasn't long until Chrysalis replied with a scathing retort of her own.

"I may be the royal cushion now but that just means I'm closer to him than you are! You may be the adviser but you have forgotten which one of us is the royal changeling here!"

"You are a pretty poor royal changeling because look at the mess you've gotten our hive into! Your mother would have never let this happen to her hive." There was a gasp and then a short pause. Chrysalis's temper exploded as she continued to scream at Emerald.

"Don't you dare bring my mother into this Emerald!"

"Oh I will indeed bring her into this Chrysalis! She is a better Queen than you'll ever be and I still regret the day I left her hive for yours!" Their bickering kept on escalating further and getting louder with each passing moment. The changelings that followed the Overlord were now covering their ears in an effort to drown out the noise. It wasn't long until the dark one himself stopped in his tracks, perturbed by their screams of anger. He literally started to shake with rage and lifted his gauntlet with a fiery green blaze. The effect was immediate as both changelings were silenced by an intense urge to kill.

"I am sorry my lord, such actions are unbecoming of a royal changeling such as I."

"I apologize as well. It would seem that the crystal has augmented your powers in some way because I don't remember your flames being green." The Overlord looked down to his left hand and confirmed that his ball of fire was indeed green. To him such modifications could prove to be useful, or hazardous. As his father once taught him, all magic was useful but deadly if not mastered properly. Extinguishing the flames he resumed his trek through the excavated caverns before him.

"Master. It would be prudent to inform you of your surroundings. Currently you are in the wastelands to the west of Equestria's borders. The tunnel you're currently in will take you to the surface which is a couple miles from an Equestrian border town. Brittlebuck lays on the edge of the wasteland and is barely within Equestrian territory." Emerald informed the Overlord.

"I should warn you that changelings aren't on friendly terms with ponies. Also I don't know how the ponies will react to your magnificent presence but I'd bet it will be hilarious." The dark one did not react to Chrysalis's warning and instead moved onward. Not long afterward the exit to the surface came into sight. The tunnel ended at the bottom of a mountain range overlooking a desert valley. In the middle of the valley was a single river with a town built up around it.

Brittlebuck would have looked like any other quaint little pony village except for one thing, it was on fire. Large black smoke rose from the many buildings that populated the town. A tower with a solitary bell rang in the distance, indicating the town's plight. The Overlord and his five minions wasted no time and ran to the ransacked town of Brittlebuck.

When the group reached the entrance to the town they noticed that the walls and gate had been broke into from underneath. Holes littered the ground and screams can be heard along with the sound of fighting. Further into the village they saw bipedal dogs pouring out holes in the ground and terrorizing the locals. They came with nets and all manner of weapons and seemed intent on capturing ponies. Some other dogs could be seen carrying off various items from looted houses and dumped down holes with captured ponies.

Those that had yet to be captured were fighting tooth and hoof to drive off the invaders and save their loved ones. Sadly the dogs outnumber the remaining ponies and without help would soon be overrun.

"Those are diamond dogs sire. They are another race that doesn't get along with ponies. My guess is that they are enslaving the locals to dig up gems for their pack. Gems are literally their food source and tend to take slaves to harvest gems for them." The dark one listened to Chrysalis's explanation until a scream grabbed his attention.

A pair of diamond dogs were trying to shove a mare and a little filly down a hole but were having difficulties. The mare struggled fiercely and screamed for help as if her fur was on fire. With a well placed kick to the dog's head it dropped the little filly and then the mare screamed at her. "RUN! RUN LILLY RUN!"

The little filly bolted as if a demon was chasing her. The mare unfortunately was finally dragged down the tunnel by the other dog while the first got to it's feet. After shaking it's head the diamond dog took pursuit of the little filly in an attempt to recapture her. The filly turned a corner to quickly and ran head first into the boots of the dark master himself. She looked up too see a tall dark figure blocking out the sun and immediately froze with fear. The diamond dog turned the corner itself and spotted it's prey but failed to see the hulking figure behind her. The Overlord stepped forward and kicked the dog in the muzzle with the heel of his armored boot. With a pathetic whimper the diamond dog was launched backwards and landed unconsciously on the ground.

The dark one looked back and saw five different ponies comforting the little filly he had just saved. They whispered soothing words as the filly openly cried into the coat of one of the ponies. For a moment he wondered where his minions had gone but Emerald quickly explained. "Don't worry master, your changelings just have taken another form to avoid suspicion. Changelings automatically take the form of something else when the time is appropriate." The Overlord just nodded in understanding and turned his attention back to the ponies still fighting off the other dogs.

Every remaining pony besides the filly was now encircled by a large group of diamond dogs, slowly closing in on them. A few ponies in armor were at the front of the group while those unarmored wielded make shift weapons, like pots and pans. The Overlord raised his hand and pointed to the group of dogs that he intended to attack. The disguised changelings nodded and formed up behind their lord except the one tending to the filly. With a silent war cry the Overlord and his minions charged the pack of diamond dogs. One of the dogs turned around only to get hammered in the face by a metal gauntlet. The pack itself was caught of guard and tried to fight back against the small group that charged it.

All of the diamond dogs turned to attack the Overlord but left their backs exposed to the ponies. The one armored pony in the center ordered the charge and soon they too joined the fray. Caught in a pincer the invading dogs were overwhelmed but still tried to fight back. The Overlord himself reveled in the thrill of battle and mercilessly attacked his enemies.

Almost every diamond dog fell to his attacks and could not deal damage in return. Their numbers dwindled as the dog pack was crushed between two forces. The leader of the invaders made his presence known as he let loose a terrifying howl, dogs whimpered in his wake and ponies backed away nervously. A giant diamond dog that stood eight feet tall and had rippling muscles all over, turned his gaze to the Overlord. This alpha was adorned with many animal skins and wielded a giant bone hammer that belonged to some giant creature. Rage was evident in his eyes as he snarled at the dark one. However the display fell short when he just raised his sword and charged the alpha.

The two clashed as sword met bone, as armor met fur. The alpha growled and snapped his jaws in an attempt to kill his opponent. The Overlord just head butted the overgrown dog and tossed him on his backward. The alpha landed on his back legs and swung his bone hammer downward, which was parried. Furious blows were exchanged back and forth and each one parried by the Overlord.

Getting frustrated the alpha tossed his weapon aside and lunged at the enemy. Without blinking the dark one intercepted the big dog and stopped him in his tracks. The alpha started to go feral as he tried to bite and scratch through the metal armor. The only thing it did was make a horrible screeching noise which only hurt the alpha even more. When the alpha pressed his ears up against his head the Overlord delivered a brutal punch to the alpha's face.

Such a brutal blow knocked the alpha off balance and he fell face first to the ground. Right before he landed the Overlord punted his boot forward and nailed the overgrown dog right between the eyes. Such force knocked the alpha unconscious and started to bleed from his head wound. The remaining diamond dogs started to flee now that their leader had been defeated. Those that weren't captured escaped back unground via the many tunnels that littered the town.

The ponies probably would be cheering right about now if it wasn't for the dark one's presence. They had no idea what to make of him and were still in shock of what he did to the alpha. Thankfully none of them had to do anything as the little filly from before ran up to one of the armored ponies. "DADDY!!!" She yelled with tears in her eyes as she hugged her father just a fiercely as he hugged her. The guard looked up from his daughter and approached the one who had saved their town.

"I would like to thank you for saving my little Lilly as well as our town. I'm Iron Scent the captain of the Brittlebuck guard, and this is my daughter. Lilly Scent. Forgive me for asking but what's a minotaur doing way out here?" One of the disguised changelings stepped forward and politely intervened.

"I'm sorry mister Iron Scent but our leader doesn't speak. We were heading to town for some supplies and saw your diamond dog incursion." The guard captain seems to buy it and looked at the now ransacked town. "Mister Scent we saw diamond dogs trying to foalnap your daughter along with another mare. It was because of this mare that your daughter got free from her foalnappers and over to us."

This new information sends him into a state of panic and worry. "Oh no they got my wife! By Celestia I've got to rescue Aroma Scent!" The guard captain rushed around asking for volunteers to go with him and rescue the captured ponies. The Overlord just watched emotionlessly until Chrysalis spoke to him with the hive mind.

"Your changelings seem to be more powerful now. It would seem that they fed off the love from that little family reunion the two of them just had. Just imagine how much of it you could get if you reunited the whole town with their families." There was a slight pause as the Overlord heard Chrysalis licking her lips as if she was a wolf drooling over a fresh kill. "Perhaps you should volunteer to go with them and get these ponies to like you."

The Overlord just remembered another thing his father had once taught him. It is always great to get others to fight for you. The dark one just looked at one of his disguised changelings and she nodded in agreement. "Mister Iron Scent. We would like to assist you in your endeavor." The guard captain looked at the mare then to the Overlord and then smiled.

"Thank you for all your kindness strangers." Iron turned to his group of guards and ponies and addressed them. "Alright everypony listen up! We are going into the diamond dog dens to rescue our family and friends! We cannot let these mutts have their way so we must teach them a lesson!" There were cheers of stomping applause as the captain gave his speech. "Let's go free our fellow townsponies!"

One by one and two by two the group of ponies entered the tunnels that the dogs left behind. Soon the Overlord's turn came to enter these dark caverns. Underneath his helmet he smiled sinisterly.

The real fun was about to begin.

Author's Note

I'm sorry it took so long everyone/everypony. I've been real busy with work, school and the girlfriend. Even though I was unable to write as much as I've wanted to, I've still been having a lot of ideas for this story. When I'm stuck at work I'll think of funny or cool things to have happen in this story and I'll just giggle randomly. So don't fear folks, the Overlord is far from done with Equestria.

Infiltrating Den Hollow

Rescuing the ponies from the diamond dogs was turning out to be quite the daunting task. They practically dug a natural maze of tunnels within other tunnels during their assault on Brittlebuck. With so many twists and turns, getting lost was almost assured. To make matters worse, the diamond dogs had taken to collapsing many of their tunnels behind them so following them became difficult. It was as if the dogs knew that they were coming.

Then the great and dark one had a moment of clarity. They did know that they're coming. Who wouldn't hear a brigade of twenty ponies stomping down through the maze. Every few minutes the ponies would come across a dead end and have to find another path. It was definitely clear that if the Overlord wanted to rescue the ponies he'd have to do it himself. So when Iron Scent led his militia down another tunnel the dark one did not follow, instead he went the other way.

Once the sound of stomping hooves faded in the background the king and his changelings moved on. Their path had taken them to even more labyrinth caverns and winding tunnels. These paths were unlit but the changelings seemed to be able to find their way well enough. The Overlord just followed his new minions through the tunnels and took note of their features.

Through the hive mind the dark one was able to find out the changelings' names, abilities, natures, likes and dislikes. Of the five changelings with him, three were drones. One was a caster and the last an infiltrator. The infiltrator was a female named Tear-a Heart. Quite the unique name, whether it meant she was a heart breaker or an assassin the Overlord did not care. She was definitely more lithe than the drones and quite determined to complete her current task. Tear-a had no problem leading the others and the master through the darkness, in fact she seemed to relish the dark abyss she was currently in. Regardless of her level of enjoyment there appeared a small beacon of light off in the distance.

The light emanated from torches placed methodically along the tunnel walls and following them led to an even bigger excavated cave. The entrance to the further portions of the cave were blocked off by a wooden palisade and gate. In front of the gate stood a lone diamond dog with a spear and all. It would seem this poor sod was placed on guard duty and had no idea he was about to be relieved from his burdens.

The Overlord pointed to the diamond dog guard and willed for Tear-a to take out the target. The infiltrator just licked her chops as if she was about to sit down to a meal and transformed. Tear-a had taken the form of a diamond dog but she was obviously more feminine than any others the dark one had seen so far. In this form she stood on her hind legs and walked upright like her master. Terra winked at him and then shimmied her way over to the guard with a sway in her hips.

The dog was to stupid to question why she was even outside the dens in the first place and followed his more primal instincts. It wasn't long until Tear-a had the poor guard wrapped around her dainty little paws and following her away from the gate. She led him to a dark corner where nobody could see them both. Not long after the dark one heard some shuffling and scuffling noises from the dark corner. A minute later Tear-a comes swaggering out of the darkness while twirling a key with one of her claws. Yep. Tear-a was definitely a heart breaker, but the Overlord still didn't know which kind.

When Tear-a reach her master she presented the key too him which he took without a second thought. The other changelings rolled their eyes while Tear-a returned to her original true form. The key fit within the lock smoothly and turned without much effort. Beyond the open gate was a large den of diamond dogs residing within many of the excavated tunnels. It would seem the dog community has made a city of sorts here underground and seem to be still expanding. One thing was definitely clear though, they were severely outnumbered.

Guards patrolled almost every path and workers fueling their industry. Pony slaves could be seen hauling large carts of dirt and gems every which way and dogs beating up on them. If the dogs were left alone they'd probably get more slaves and hollow out the wastelands at the rate they're going. Just by watching the ponies toil in strife gave the dark one an idea.

The Overlord pointed to each of his changelings and willed them to follow his command. Each of his minions transformed into a diamond dog of different varieties, Tear-a took the same form she previously used. Their lord inspected each and everyone of their features until he was satisfied with their disguises. After a moment of apprehension the great and dark one handed over his sword to one of his drones. With another wave of the hand he demanded that his will be done. The changelings hesitated but did as they were ordered. They encircled their master and restrained him from each side.

Even though the changelings were in diamond dog form they still could not compare to the master's height. In order to make their ruse realistic they had to tightly grasp the Overlord's arms and torso. Once everything was in order the marched their master straight into the wolves' den.

Naturally a small group of diamond dogs walking around with a mysterious armored figure would draw the attention of many a diamond dog. The chatted amongst themselves and pointed to the dark figure being dragged inside. It wasn't long until diamond dogs clad in scavenged armor pieces stopped the group in it's tracks at spear point.

A dog with more armor pieces than the others step forward an practically yelled at the group with improper speech. "Stop! What you doing?!" One of the disguised changelings stepped forward and spoke in an equally impaired dialect.

"We capture creature outside. Big strong and make good slave." The dog leader looked over the would be slave an agreed with that statement. Then it suddenly hit this pack leader that if they captured this creature then why was it still wearing armor.

"Good. But why you no take armor?"

"We can't get off with claws or paws." The dog was definitely suspicious but was more excited to have such a good find. If they could not get the armor off then the smith dogs surely could.

The whole time the other changeling was conversing with the pack leader, the Overlord was shaking with anger. He did not mind being restrained because it was all part of his plan, but Tear-a was being more than a little adventurous. She was the one who restrained his left arm and while the others conversed she hung on his arm like a floozy. Tear-a would draw little hearts in the Overlord's arm or hug it close to her body affectionately. Oh the dark one wanted to smack her so bad, but if he did that then his plan would have been all for nothing. So he just silently endured. Plotting his revenge.

The pack leader was about to wave them through until he suddenly realized something. He did not recognize any of their scents. "Get them!" He yelled. The other guard dogs were startled but did as they were told. As one of the guards got close to the group he recognized a familiar smell emanating from one of the females.

"Hey boss! I smell Gubbin on this bitch!" The guard dog was talking about Tear-a, the others closed the distance on began to smell for themselves. Tear-a was irritated by the name the other had called her but she was more disgusted with the dozen of diamond dogs pressing their wet noses on her body. The Overlord just watched in amusement as her personal boundaries were invaded. It wasn't the revenge he had planned but he'd take it.

"Ya she does smell like him alright. If you were in Gubbin's pack why you no say so?" The dog leader asked.

"You never asked." The disguised changeling replied. Amazingly the pack leader bought the excuse while the changelings stared at him like he was the most stupid animal on the planet.

"We take slave now. You all go get food." The leader said while his guard dogs surrounded the dark one and apprehended him. His minions watched as he was forcibly taken away down a separate corridor. Eventually the guards had taken him to a different section of the city which was just a glorified word for a refurbished mine.

These mine tunnels were narrow and long with railroad tracks in the middle of each one. Mine carts littered these tracks and were pulled along them by ponies. The ponies were hooked up to metal harnesses that pulled one or more of these carts behind them. Each slave was more diverse than the last. Some had shiny coats of many a color while others had dirty fur. The majority of those here were fully grown able bodied ponies so there had to be others being held elsewhere.

The guards brought the dark one to a blacksmith workshop in the secluded portion of the mines. A lone husky diamond dog stood over an anvil, pounding away at whatever metal that lay atop it. Whatever the blacksmith was working on stopped as he turned to greet the other dogs. They told him that he needed to remove the armor from their new slave so he could be put to work. The guards ended up strapping the Overlord to a table with leather restraints and left the blacksmith to his work. If there was one mistake the guards did was leave him alone with this husky dog.

When the blacksmith turned to the table with tool in paw the Overlord's left gauntlet burst into green flames, incinerating it's restraint. Before the husky could react he was caught within the dark one's vice grip. The dog then panicked in an attempt to free itself while the Overlord just leisurely escaped his bonds. Hanging on the wall were several racks of mine cart harness and fixtures, the dark one plucked a couple of them from the rack. While it would be easier to kill the mangy mutt, it's always more satisfying to torture and dominate it. Without a second thought the Overlord placed one harness on the dog and another on it's head. With some effort he was able to bend the harness until it fully bound the dog's head like a muzzle. To top it off the great and dark one hooked a chain to the harness and tossed the husky on all fours. Before the poor diamond dog could catch his breath he was dragged down a dark tunnel by the most evil creature he'd ever seen.

The Overlord knew what his next objective was. He had some worshipers to save.

Author's Note

Oh my God./Oh my Celestia. This chapter hit me like a freight train and wouldn't stop until I've published it. So many ideas and so many chapters to write. Hopefully it will be worth it in the end and you guys enjoy it. Until next time.

"Giblet don't chew that!" Gnarl - Overlord 2

Raiding Den Hollow

The dark lord knew that navigating through the tunnels would be the quickest way to get caught. So what better way to go unnoticed than to have your own personal diamond dog dig you a path. Sure the husky tried to escape a few times but a few punches and kicks quickly squished that notion. So the Overlord and the diamond dog had come to a little understanding of sorts. If the husky digged where ever the dark one pointed then he would not pound the poor beast into the ground.

While the dark one was being carted away by the two legged hounds, he was able to identify several areas. The diamond dogs were estimated to be somewhere in the hundreds. The Overlord knew that he may be a superior warrior but even he could be overwhelmed by large numbers. So the he had to make their downfall precise and methodical in order to bring these dogs to heel.

The group of ponies from Brittlebuck have yet to find this den but if given enough time they will. Still time was of the essence so the dark one commanded his changeling minions to lead the group here. Even with those reinforcements they still will be outnumbered so the dark lord will need to tip the scales in their balance. The pony slaves would surely riot against their captors if they were freed from captivity. An attack from the inside as well as outside would surely catch the hound dogs severely off guard. But even then there still would be one more problem. The Overlord did not see many mares and no foals in the mines so it's safe to assume they are being held captive separately from the others. During an uprising the dogs could use them as hostages and quell this whole rebellion and even enslave the rescue force.

A plan was a well and good but it does nothing if the dark one goes in blind. So there he was in a side tunnel with the poor husky sod, digging a back entrance into another mineshaft. Luckily it exited into a dead end where a guard dog was beating a collapsed slave. The pony was gibbering on about water only to be struck over and over by the boxer dog. Seeing a golden opportunity in front of him, the Overlord hog tied his husky dog and exited the side tunnel. The guard was too enthused by his current activity to notice the large shadow looming over him until it was too late. Ironic justice was brutal and swift as the blunt end of a sword found it's mark. The downward arc of this massive weapon caught the dog square on the head and knocked him off his paws. Before the guard could even comprehend what was going on he got the ever living abyss beat out of him. Garbled calls for help and incomprehensible pleas for mercy, neither helped this poor fellow. With one final punch, the Overlord knocked the diamond dog unconscious.

While the guard dog would live, he would obviously be in so much pain when he wakes up. After looting the poor sod and tossing him into one of the mine carts, the dark one made his way over to the fallen pony. Judging by looks it was definitely a stallion, tan coat and an ivory mane with a horn. His breathing was shallow which meant he passed out some time when the dog was assaulting him, which was probably better because the stallion would have less reason to fear the Overlord. The dark one picked up the pony and went back to dragging the husky behind him in the side tunnels.

Eventually the Overlord brought the stallion to a secluded tunnel, the husky just whimpered as he was tied up once again. That other guard dog had a flask of water on him which was looted along with a bag of bits. Flicking the top lid off the flask, the dark one poured some of it's contents on the pony. Having water dumped on you is a sure fire way to be woken up, as it definitely stirred the poor beaten stallion back to life. Before the pony could get up the dark one shoved the whole water flask in his face. Not needing to be told what to do the guy guzzled the liquid life as if he was about to die, heck maybe he was.

"Ahhhhh!" The stallion sighed in satisfaction. His thirst having been quenched and now began to survey the surroundings. It didn't take long to notice the hulking armored figure that was standing in front of the exit. His pupils shrank to pinpricks and ears laid flat against the top of his head. The size difference was indeed noticeable and very prominent as the two stared each other over. The poor guy started to step a hoof back but only for the dark one to make a step forward. This pattern repeated itself over and over until the stallion was backed up against the cave wall without any escape. All he could do was cower and close his eyes, waiting for the end to come. But it never did.

The only thing that could be heard was a small whimpering sound. Opening his eyes the stallion finally noticed a diamond dog chained and muzzled on the cave floor. After a moment of confusion it suddenly dawned on the cowering pony that he hasn't been harmed yet. Gulping nervously the stallion struggle to find his voice and barely squeaked his question out. "Are you here...... to help... us?"

Whatever the big armored warrior was just nodded in acknowledgement, which calmed the poor guy's heart rate. Many more questions rose in place of the previous but he never got a chance to ask them. The pony was confused by the dark one's actions as he started to draw a detailed map in the dirt. Several tunnels and points of interest were correctly marked on the map by crude little drawings. The locations of the enslaved ponies and many diamond dogs littered the map. It was definitely clear this metal stranger did intend on helping the ponies. The stallion smiled to himself at the new hope that just rekindled in his heart.

Again before the pony could ask any questions the warrior pointed to a picture on the side of the map. There were several drawings of little foals and sickly ponies beside a giant question mark. It took a moment for the guy to get it but he eventually realized what it meant. "You'll find them here." The stallion said and pointed to a cave on the map. Afterward the warrior turned to leave and motioned for the guy to follow.

The poor diamond dog was not thrilled at the warrior's return and let out a fearful whimper. Once again under threat of a grinding boot the husky worked feverously to avoid it. Moments of digging and sneaking around the three eventually reached their destination. It was a solitary cave with a natural hot spring within. Originally there was only one entrance/exit but thanks to the husky a small side tunnel found it's way into the cave.

Luckily the stallion was indeed right about the occupants residing within. Dozens of ponies littered the cave and were seemingly unable to pull mine carts. Majority of them were foals, pregnant mares, old or sickly ponies. After scanning the crowd the Overlord spotted Lilly Scent's mother that helped her escape, she also was indeed pregnant. With only one exit the guards didn't feel the need to supervise their prisoners and were not within sight. The dark one pointed towards the prisoners and the stallion rushed towards them. Not needed to be told twice.

"Everypony! You need to get up cause we're here to rescue you." The stallion shouted while running amongst the others. Moments later one of the pregnant mares got to her hooves and shouted.

"Chump Change! Is that really you!" The stallion which was now identified as Chump Change faced the mare and ran to embrace her. The reunion was touching as both broke out into tears, as they both kissed and nuzzled each other. While it was all well and good for their moral, the Overlord had a schedule to keep. With a little nudging and pushing the entire group was finally on the move. After the ponies had vacated the cave he tossed the husky into it as he left.

With the one weakness the diamond dogs could exploit taken care of, it was now time to free the others. One by two like a domino effect, the slaves were freed. Each pony released armed themselves with whatever they could find and fought to free their friends. Every guard was overwhelmed by the sudden uprising and failed to sound the alarm. The process repeated itself until an army of angry pony slaves mobilized for revenge.

Life was pretty good if you were a diamond dog right now. It would be even better if you were the king of every wasteland pack, at least the Pack King thought so. Because of his above diamond dog average intelligence he was able to bring opposing packs under his banner recently. This king had taken to lounging on a couch with many female servants tending to his every need. Feeding him gems, fetching him water or perhaps something of a more primal need.

Whatever this Pack King was doing halted when an awful racket reached his ears. This irritated the dog as he yelled at the others to keep it down. "Stop making that noise you stupid mutts! I'm trying to enjoy myself in here!" Unfortunately no one seemed to hear him and the noise kept on growing in volume. Soon enough the king got extremely irritated and had to vacate his favorite couch. His servants begged him not to go but he just brushed them off. The Pack King made his way over to the balcony overlooking his underground domain. "Oi! Didn't I just tell you fleabags to shut up!"

No one heard him however. It was then this mutt king realized his kingdom was under attack and crashing down around his ears. Scores upon scores of angry ponies charging diamond dogs from the mines. Normally a few zealous ponies were not a problem, but every one at once was a different story. To make matters worse they were extremely organized. The pony mob was being directed by an armored figure at the front. With this creature's direction the ponies were countering every attempt the diamond dogs made. The Pack King could only watch on, baffled by this occurring atrocity being directed by this creature.

At this moment the armored monster stopped his actions and looked up towards the balcony. Both Kings locked eyes and stared into the other's soul. The only thing visible behind all that armor was two dark orange eyes. Great evil, so much malice. Such eyes could only exist on a predator, and this one had found it's prey. It was at this point another group of ponies appeared from the den gates. Led by a pony captain they charged and caught the dogs in a pincer. The diamond dogs were definitely outmatched now and the Overlord knew it. He wasted no time and lobbed a green fireball at the Pack King. Time seemed to slow as the jaded ball of fire soared through the air until it hit it's target.

The ball exploded in a great puff of fire and magic. The Pack King now aflame, dropped to the ground and rolled around feverously. By the time the fire was put out the dog had part of his fur singed off and skin peeling. It probably hurt like tartarus but the dog did not have time to lick his wounds. A giant metal gauntlet reached up and grabbed the balcony railing. Moments later the rest the creature was hoisted up and onto the balcony. Clad in armor from head to toe, this monster could give a minotaur a hard time. But the Pack King was furious and the small logical portion of his brain was overwritten with anger. "You jerk! Do you have any idea what it feels like to have your fur burnt off! You have a lot of nerve coming to my kingdom and trying to take it from me!"

The creature just walked towards the would be dog king, uninterested in his complaining. Several of the female servants cowered on the couch praying to whatever deity to save them. With each step the Pack King got more nervous. Such fear was inspired but anger was greater as the dog grabbed a sword from a treasure pile. "What's the matter with you!!! You think you're too good to talk back to me huh!?! Well I'll show you how to respect me!!!"

With a crazy war cry the dog charged in an attempt to catch the invader off guard. But the Overlord wouldn't be having any of that. The attack was intercepted as the two blades interlocked themselves inches away from their owners. The diamond dog clearly wasn't the strongest of his breed and was overpowered. The dark one practically threw him across the room but the dog landed upright.

Closing the distance the Overlord began his attack without mercy. Each swing greatly empowered and so precise the diamond dog barely parried each one. This war dance continued with each swing. With every thrust. The diamond was beginning to become frustrated at his own inability to defeat his opponent and started to get sloppy.

The Overlord made sure to punish each mistake the Pack King made with a cruel attack. When he would expose his side too much the dark one gave him a punch to the ribs. If a paw was too far forward he'd crush it with his boot. To the Overlord this wasn't a fight. Because for it to be a fight it would mean that both fighters had a chance of winning. It was definitely clear on who was dominating who and both sides knew it. However the diamond dog could not accept the fact that he was outmatched and kept attacking.

A feint was made by the Pack King in an attempt to kill his opponent. But the Overlord intercepted it and punched the dog right in the muzzle. Crimson red liquid flowed from the broken jowls of the dog. Such pain had never been felt before and the dog went over the deep end. He saw red. He felt red, and he would cover this invader with red for what he had done. "You belligerent buffoon! You'll be the death of us all! I am King of these diamond dogs and I will not be defeated here! I must not be defeated here! AHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!"

With one final primal roar the diamond dog charged with sword point. The Overlord just silently scoffed and just stepped to the side. Their battle had taken the two of them back to the balcony but only one of them had noticed. Unfortunately the second noticed a little too late when he found himself midair. The Diamond Dog Pack King had charged passed the Overlord and ran right over the balcony rails. His momentum propelled him far enough from any surfaces to grab onto. With a shrieking scream the poor sod fell until he landed with a sickening thud.

The fighting had come grinding to a halt as all turned to see what happened. It was now clear to all who had won as the Overlord stood watching from the balcony. The effect was immediate as the diamond dogs panicked and escaped into whatever tunnels they could. Cheers could be heard echoing clear across many tunnels and caves that the ponies had won. The dark one looked behind him to see his changeling minions standing behind him. It was time to return to Brittlebuck.

It took awhile to navigate the tunnels back to the surface with many ponies but eventually the setting sun became visible to all. Those that stayed behind in the town were waiting at the tunnel exits, praying to their princesses that their loved ones would make it back alive. They could not contain their happiness when the other ponies started to exit those damned holes. Families and friends rushed to embrace each other. Tears of happiness and cries of joy that their loved ones made it back.

The Overlord's disguised changelings rushed off into the crowd. Gathering much of the ambient love radiating from these ponies like a steam engine. The dark one remained motionless and emotionless as he watched the town reunion. He would have remained in that state if it weren't for a hoof tapping on his leg. Looking down he saw a little filly looking back up at him with tears in her eyes. Lilly Scent.

"Thank you very much Mr. Warrior sir. I was scared. I was so scared that I wouldn't see my mama ever again. Thank you." Lilly barely choked out while crying tears of pure happiness. She gave the Overlord's boot a firm hug and galloped back to her parents who embraced the filly fiercely. Iron Scent and his pregnant wife Aroma Scent were crying just as much as their daughter. The three of them hugged each other and said their affections repeatedly. Family. Such a concept was foreign to the dark lord as he tried to understand what was happening in front of him.

The Overlord didn't have much time to think about it as a sharp pain hit his left hand. At first he thought he'd been attacked but that theory was disproven as he looked at his gauntlet. Green crystal shards covered the once shiny gauntlet like a bad rash. The original crystal had exponentially grown from it's original slot and shortly after the pain vanished.

"Very intriguing. Master it would seem that you can also harvest love, but since you do not have the capacity to store love it automatically turns into changeling crystals. Perhaps it has augmented your magic even further. If it does not then at least you have an easy way to gather and store power." Emerald said to her lord.

Before the dark one could inspect it further he was brought out of his thoughts by a lot of cheering ponies. When he was distracted it would seem that the city had gotten some more visitors. Ranks upon ranks of ponies poured into Brittlebuck, armed to the teeth with weapons and golden armor. it was definitely clear they were armed for war but against whom was yet to be seen. Many of these new warrior ponies had fanned out into the city with supplies for the weary ponies. Their sudden appearance was well received by all except the Overlord. He viewed them as more obstacles in the way of his plan and silently cursed their arrival. The dark one thought he should cut his losses and leave but he stopped in his tracks when every townspony pointed their hooves at him.

A white unicorn with a regal helmet and matching armor made his way over to the dark one. Even with this stallion's big frame he still was dwarfed by the Overlord. While this mystery stallion was smaller, he was in no way shape or form weak. His very body sported many defined muscles that he probably got from his job. Whatever the case this stallion had his eyes on the dark one and seemed dead set on getting to him. Before the two of them met, Chrysalis finally spoke up.

"Oh no please don't be him! Those flowing blue locks. The shiny white coat. That shield cutie mark. Oh by the hive it is him! Run my lord! You need to get out of there now!"

Too late. The stallion had reached his mark and was now removing his helmet. Blue striped hair fell free from the metal and framed his face. "Hello there. My name is Shining Armor and I would like to personally thank you for saving Brittlebuck." This Shining stallion said while extending his hoof for a greeting. The dark one hesitantly grasp the hoof and gave a solitary shake. "We don't get many minotaurs in Equestria often. What's your name?" Shining got no response as the dark on just blinked at him. The guard captain was a little taken back but still tried to break the ice. "That's some nice armor you've got there friend. Where did you get it or did you make it yourself?"

Shining armor was frustrated by this stranger's refusal to talk, but he decided to be the better pony and let it go. He was about to walk away until his first Lieutenant came galloping up to him. "Captain! We have discovered trace amounts of changeling magic in the area!"

"Quick! Use the anti changeling counter spells we've developed!" Shining ordered all his soldiers to do. Before the dark one could react, a giant energy wave washed over him and every pony nearby. The spell apparently did nothing to him but his minions weren't so lucky. Several shrieks and screams littered the air as the changelings among them were now revealed. The guards wasted no time in pursuing the changelings in an attempt to capture them. The Overlord used his crystals to call them to his side and they quickly hid behind him.

Many of the guards ran into the dark one and he personal kicked each one away from his changelings. Shining Armor was confused by this stranger defending the changelings. Perhaps he believed them to be innocent and defends them like a gallant warrior. As much as Shining wanted to believe that excuse another more plausible one popped in his head. He protected the changelings because he was their leader.

While this stranger did risk his life to help the townsponies, the fact that he commands changelings was more worrisome. With no other choice Shining had to deliver his ultimatum. "Under the order of the Equestrian Tetriarchy you and your changelings are to accompany me to Canterlot! Stand down stranger! We would prefer not to have to hurt you!"

The Overlord just raised his sword and widened his battle stance. He would not back down and nor will he bow down. Still, no matter how steel his resolve is he was outnumbered. Unicorns and earth ponies encircled them on the ground while pegasi patrolled in the sky. Blocking any aerial escapes. Their circle got smaller and smaller as the guards stepped forward. Shining hoped to avoid violence so he would give them one more chance to see reason. "Are you sure you wish to do this?!"

His answer came when the Warrior lifted his left gauntlet, which ignited in a green infernal blaze. The changelings hissed and bared their fangs. The power that emanated from the dark one gave Shining Armor pause but he then ordered their arrest. Every guardspony began to charge until they were halted by a primal roar.

The roar echoed over the mountains and through the valley. Such a sound could only belong to a creature of immense proportions. A dark figure appeared over the mountain peaks. It grew bigger and bigger as it drew closer until it's size was unmistakable. The dark figure was a dragon, a large one at that. This dragon came so close to Brittlebuck that his very size blotted out Celestia's sun and cast a shadowy darkness on the town. Ponies began to panic as the dragon let loose another terrifying cry. After lapping the town a couple times, the dragon descended from the heavens and let loose his fiery wrath.

Flame rained down upon Brittle buck. Igniting anything unfortunate enough to be in it's path. Buildings burning. Ponies screaming. Such a sight was indeed familiar to the Overlord but he knew this dragon was a problem to him too. The captain and his warrior ponies forgot about the dark one and turned to engage the dragon. The wingspan of this giant drake created severe gusts of wind and knocked many pegasi out of the air.

After taking a deep breath the dragon wrought fire down atop the city hall. The bell tower was ringing within the burning hall but was silenced as the dragon landed on top of it. With scales black as the night, horns long and gnarly as spears. The dragon bellowed forth his anguish. "Where is my tribute!!!!!!"

"WHERE ARE MYGEMS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Author's Note

"They have the loyalty of potatoes my lord." Gnarl - Overlord

This is my town you overgrown newt!!!!

The Overlord recollected an old lesson that was once taught to him by an even older Gnarl. Such a cranky decrepit brown minion he was. Sure he was a bit harsh and might too bitter with his silver tongue. But Gnarl never steered him wrong and his teachings even more so. Even in the midst of battle the dark one could envision what it would be like to have his creaky voice calling out to him.

"Remember master! You may be the big bad Overlord but there are things even bigger than you! Dragons for example are one of the biggest and meanest things around. They may resemble overgrown newts but their hide is tougher than any weapon your magnificent form could wield. But lucky for you dragons have a superiority complex. They think they're better than any other creature so it makes them cocky. Such arrogance can be used to bring their downfall. How you do that is up to you. Remember! Evil finds a way!"

This obsidian dragon was indeed massive and had scales that could probably deflect any attack. It was a fearsome foe to be sure. After it's fiery entrance the guards all seemed to have forgotten about the dark one as they tried to contain the dragon. Unicorns fired magical bolts of energy which just bounced off the charcoal scales. Ponies hiding behind shields of magic and steel, trying to whether the attack. The pegasi were the most useless as they were unable to keep the dragon out of the air.

While it was true that the dark one and his changeling could make their escape easily, but it would mean loosing the town. To save or not to save Brittlebuck. That was the question that weighed heavily on his mind while the dragon continued the fiery aerial assault. He was about to turn and leave until a sobbing shriek caught his attention. A mare carrying a newborn foal had run out a burning building only to crash head first into the dragon's side. The sudden impact caused the obsidian nightmare to turn and look down to the small pony snack. The mare screamed in terror and the foal cried as the dragon lunged his maw towards them both.

The white unicorn captain from before tried to save them but he was whipped away by a dragon tail. With a thud and a skid he landed after a brief sudden flight. Every other guardspony failed and the dragon would not be denied his meal. It was clear that if a choice was to be made then it had to be now or never. With a heaving grunt, the Overlord tossed his sword overhead. His choice, chosen. His enemy, had been made.

Ponies everywhere watched in horror as the dragon began to close his jaws around the mare. Right before teeth punctured flesh, a huge sword arced downward out of nowhere and dragon clear across the snout. The weapon did not hurt the dragon but the sheer force of it's impact jostled the brute. Sadly the sword did not survive the encounter as it shattered into many shards of metal. All of this caused the obsidian drake to recoil in momentary pain and when he reopened his eyes the mare was gone.

A couple changelings had used the distraction their lord had created and rescued the pair. Enraged at being assaulted, the dragon turned his spiteful gaze towards his attacker. Beast stared at Overlord as the two locked their insidious eyes. The obsidian dragon growled and gnashed his teeth, but his opponent showed no emotion.

"Who are you to attack me!? I am fear realized and wrath incarnate! I shall sear your flesh before I tear it from your BONES!!!!

The dragon bellowed before inhaling a deep breath. With each passing second his belly began to expand until his lungs reached their capacity. With fire flaming at his maw the dragon opened his jaws and let loose the tide of fire. Infernal flames soared through the air towards the dark one at a quick pace. Just as he was about to dodge a pink dome shield manifested around him and repelled the inferno. When the fire had run out the shield vanished to reveal the same white unicorn from before.

"I don't know who you are or why you have changelings with you, but it seems we have a bigger enemy to fight. If we work together, then maybe we will be able to defeat this dragon. What say you?" Shining armor said as he trotted over to the dark one. The dragon wasted no time in inhaling for another flame attack. Instead of giving the unicorn an answer the Overlord just jumped on top of Shining's back.

Shining Armor was surprised by this sudden action but had no time to think as boots were kicked into his sides. Instinctually the guard captain took off in full gallop, as if it was the most natural thing in the world to him. The size and weight of his rider was great but adrenaline counteracted the sudden change. If they were not fighting a dragon then perhaps the others would find it comical to see a warrior ride into battle on a pony almost half his size.

As the pair charged into battle the drake had finished his breath and let loose his fire. Shining was still galloping towards the dragon with his passenger as the blaze approached. The Overlord just flicked Shining's ear and he reacted by conjuring another pink dome shield. The pink ball cut through the fire like a rock in a waterfall until the dragon ran out of breath. As the shield faded too the warriors reached the obsidian drake. He snapped his jaws but caught only air as the pony and rider passed underneath.

The dragon turned to try and bite his foes only for them to dodge again. Once more he'd try only to miss. He tried his flames once more but were blocked again. Over and over the dragon would attack, only to miss or be blocked. This started to piss off the dragon and he turned to attack again but collided with their shield face first. This left the obsidian dragon fuming, literally.

Overlord knew Shining was getting tired so his gallop was grinded to a halt. Before the dragon could reach the pair, five changelings rushed towards their master and steed. With collective grunts they lifted both into the air at their master's request. Soon they soared high into the sky, away from the dragon.

"You think the skies will save you!? Think again!!!"

Unfurling his massive wings, the dragon took to the skies with minimal effort. He gave chase to the changeling bundle just as they tried to evade him. Climbing higher and higher into the sky the drake tried to burn his enemies. Every time the insects would weave in and out of his attacks. Not long after they reached the cloud line and just stopped.

The dark one ordered his minions to drop them both. Tear-a and the others hesitated to comply, as it would be suicide to do so. With the dragon rapidly approaching the Overlord had no choice but to rip him and Shining from the changelings' grip. Without the others to support them the pair began to fall towards the dragon.

Shining screamed loudly and clung to the dark one as they both fell. The obsidian drake exhaled another fire pillar up at the warriors. Overlord just placed Shining in front of him as said pony raised another shield. When the attack had finished the dark one took Shining by the barrel and tossed him off to the side. On the way down he could hear Shining Armor yell.

"YOU BUCKER!!!"

As the dragon closed in on his prey he opened wide his maw, dead set on devouring his enemy. When the Overlord came close to being chewed on he rolled to the side and tossed a fireball. This green ball of flame left his fingertips and soared downward. It's size diminutive to the drake but not it's potency. Passing the sharp teeth and down the throat it went. It had reached it's mark and exploded deep within the dragon. The sudden internal impact left him wheezing and out of breath, unable to breathe both combatants started to free fall.

The Overlord had grasped one of the obsidian drakes many horns and held on as they both fell into oblivion. Ponies below watched as a smoking dragon fell from the heavens. During their descent the dragon tried numerous times to catch himself but the Overlord would not have that. For every attempt the dark one would attack a weak point or make a target of himself. Every time the wings tried to unfurl he attacked their joints. For each attempt to roll over he attacked the eyes.

Soon the obsidian drake gave up on trying to fly and instead tried with all his might to catch the little pain in his tail. Some attempts were more successful than the others but he still failed to get a firm grasp on the warrior. Not long after he felt a pair of metal boots jump off of his head. When he looked up he saw his nemesis airborne above him. The armored warrior just waved his fingers at him as if he was trying to say goodbye.

When the dragon looked downward he saw the rapidly approaching pony town and tried to stop his descent. It was too late as gravity had a hold of him and was determined to reunite the drake with the earth. With an earthshattering thud the dragon crashed into the already burning town hall. The shockwave cause a couple other buildings to topple over as well. Burning or not. Thankfully the guardsponies did their duty in evacuating the local population while the others engaged the dragon head on. So there were no more casualties to be had because of the impact.

Right at the last minute the changelings caught their master mid air. After the crash they brought him back down to the ground while he surveyed the damage. The Overlord had gone through extreme measures to save the town, his town. However. There is no town left to be saved because most of it was destroyed or burned to the ground.

Murmurs and cries of sadness pervaded the air as many of the townsponies surveyed the wreckage of their destroyed homes. The dark one looked back to see many of them glaring at him with anger. Those that did not stare were hiding out of fear. Even the mare he had gone out of the way to save cowered and clasped her foal closer when his gaze met hers. Ungrateful ponies.

Just as the Overlord was just about to cut his losses and retreat when he noticed the guards surrounding him. As they closed in on the dark lord and his minions he could hear the crowds behind them shout insults.

"You destroyed our homes!"

"Demon!"

"Jerk!"

"Meanie!"

"Get him!"

Hundreds of ponies surrounded the dark one on the ground while pegasi encircled them from the sky. At the head of the guards stood Shining Armor, it would seem a Pegasus or two caught him and boy did he look pissed. The gap between both groups got smaller as the guards kept approaching, spears and horns at the ready. Shining stepped forward and yelled at the top of his lungs. "AREST THEM! AREST THEM ALL!!!"

Just like that the wave of ponies came crashing down upon the group. Spears, horns and hooves every where as they tried to take down the dark one. He was severely outnumbered and would be overwhelmed if he did not act quickly. With some quick thinking he started to lob green fireballs everywhere. Some of the ponies started to panic but most of the unicorns raised their own shield variants. Those that did not stand their ground created an unintentional path for the group which led to one of the tunnel entrances from before.

Without a second thought the Overlord commanded his changelings to rush to the tunnels post haste. As they entered the dark one did not follow. No he used his might and magic to collapse the entrance, ensuring his minions' escape. However he himself was not so lucky as ponies started to tackle him.

One or two ponies would be nothing for the dark one but twenty or so is a different story. Soon he was toppled over with many armored ponies atop of him. He continued to struggle while the poked and prodded him with spears and horns. Soon after his energy started to wane. Unable to keep his eyes open he started to fade from consciousness. The last thing he saw was Shining Armor standing over him. The last thing he heard was. "Take him to Canterlot."

Sweet Dreams

Author's Note

Here you are. Another successfully completed chapter. Once again I apologize for the publishing early incident. I'm still embarrassed from it.

Sweet Dreams

Again. Just like every other time in his life the Overlord found himself walking the creeping darkness that is his dreams. He could recognize it instantly because he spent an untold amount of his life here. To others the enveloping nothingness would be frightening but to the dark one it was better than any dream he could ever have. Benevolent or malevolent.

The dark one would have wandered endlessly throughout the dark if it were not for a disturbance. An unknown force parted the veil of darkness and made it's entrance into his domain. Like a star in the sky the shadows gave way to a brilliant light. The sudden brightness garnered the Overlord's attention as it drew closer to him.

The light began to shape itself until it gave way to a another form. Manifested before him stood a regal dark blue pony with both horn and wings. Accenting her form were silver slippers upon her hooves and a matching tiara above the horn. A mark of a crescent moon adorned her flanks as well as the pendant around her neck. This mare stood taller than any pony previously encountered and was comparable in height to Chrysalis herself. Her eyes shone of the lightest blue and her hair resembled the night sky, as it was blown by a nonexistent breeze. Truly it would have been a beautiful sight to behold if anger did not mar her facial features.

This mare was indeed angry and circled the dark one as if he was prey, all while maintaining eye contact. Clearly she was making a show of force to be intimidating but he thought otherwise. A pony trying to be scary was amusing. Adorable even. Still it wasn't everyday that one has a guest in your dreams so the Overlord thought he should at least humor his visitor. It didn't take long for the mare to speak, though from her tone she was less than pleased.

"Warrior. Our name is Luna, princess of the night and Equestria. We art here to pass judgment for thou's crimes against the ponies of Brittlebuck. What say you?" Luna was met with silence and a stare. Which she returned with equal vigor and continued. "Mayhaps thou does not undertand the gravity of his crimes? Not only is thee responsible for Brittlebuck's destruction but thou was seen accompanied by changelings. Thy companions art responsible for Canterlot's ransacking and thus art criminals."

With a flick of Luna's horn the darkness surrounding both of them was replaced with a different environment. Halls of grandeur were filled with battle cries and combat. As far as the eye could see ponies were fighting with changelings. Either side refusing to give up and fought on, trying to gain the advantage. The Overlord became battle ready only to realize that this was just a vision and nothing more. Luna just motioned for him to follow as she began to walk down the halls.

"Thou sees before him the changeling invasion that almost crippled Equestria, also almost ruined our niece's wedding." Luna narrated while the dark one followed closely behind. The battle was indeed brutal and there was no doubt of how bad the aftermath was. Ponies and changelings phased right through the pair as if they were not even there. Eventually the alicorn led the dark one to a large set of double doors. With another flick of Luna's horn the doors opened to reveal what it was hiding.

A highly decorated room lay beyond. Ponies were dressed in a variety of fancy suits and dresses. Changelings subdued all these little ponies, even another alicorn was sealed in a green pod on the ceiling. Atop the alter stood Shining Armor in a trance like state. Though it wasn't Shining Armor that really caught the Overlord's eye. It was Chrysalis. The changeling queen pranced around the alter like she owned it. Chrysalis kept gloating about her victory and how she fooled even Celestia.

The whole time the dark one was watching Chrysalis, Luna looked back and forth between him and the queen. Princess Luna then had a startling realization. He knew Chrysalis. He'd have to know her in order to get changelings to follow him even though he isn't one of their kind. Changing gears the alicorn wasted no time in warming up and prosecuted the dark one. "Thou knows were the changeling queen is! Tell us! SPEAK!!!"

Clearly the Overlord was not amused anymore by this Luna's presence so he turned around and walked away. He ignored the yelling of the pony princess and longed for the darkness to return. The further he got from Luna the more the memory began to fade until it was no more. The dark one kept walking and would have continued to do so if it were not for one thing. A giant hoof materialized beneath him and scooped him up like an insect. The Overlord stood atop the backside of a hoof looking up at a now giant Luna. To say she was pissed would be a severe understatement.

"Tis futile to run from us little warrior! Thou art but a little plaything in our hooves and thou will give us what we want!" Luna shouted with a now booming voice. The sheer shockwave from the shout sent the dark one flying off her hoof with great force. Right before he landed the alicorn lit her horn and shot it's light at him.

The process was painful for him as it felt like bits and pieces of him were being pulled apart. Agonizing it may be but it still failed to compare to the torture he went through in his younger years. Then the Overlord had an idea. If the pony princess wanted him to show her something then perhaps he should comply. Clearing his mind of pain and everything else. He willed forth the netherworld from which he grew up. Soon the darkness began to shift once again until it revealed the familiar dark halls. Luna ceased her probing and took in her surroundings.

Statues of demons and other evil devices littered the rocky walls of the netherworld throne room. Little impish creatures patrolled and guarded various doors and stairways. Luna was awestruck by the sight she was witnessing. These creatures were clearly not changelings but seemed to be nasty in their own right. An older worn looking one with a lantern atop it's cloak approached the warrior.

"Young master! It warms my blackened heart to see you alive!" The Overlord just stared at him like he seems to do with everything else. Surprisingly the old imp creature seemed to understand the armored warrior. "I know you are the master now but old habits die hard you know."

The old minion turned his gaze towards Luna and looked her up and down. "A dream walking pit pony. I thought I've seen everything but I guess I have now." Luna of course did not take to well to being insulted and retaliated in turn.

"How dare thee insult us! We art Luna! Princess of the night and Equestria!" The wrinkled minion just yawned in disinterest until he heard the word Equestria. Which then he started to gag.

"Equestria? Uuuugh! It sounds like a miserable place with lush green fields and trees. Blegh I can just imagine it now."

"Thou art an insufferable gnome!"

"Gnome? I am not a gnome you four legger! I'm a minion, a brown to be precise. My name is gnarl." The minion now known as gnarl sneered at Luna. "So why is a namy pamy pony like you doing here anyway?"

Luna raised one of her hooves and pointed it to the dark one while saying. "Because this one is responsible for destroying a town while fighting a dragon. Among other things."

Gnarl looked at the dark one himself and seemed to overflow with pride. "Oh the young master is all grown up and off pillaging villages. I'm so proud."

This seemed to agitate Luna even further as her patience began to wear thin. "Then can thou tell us his name because he refuses to speak?"

Gnarl just chuckled to himself before responding. "Oh my dear little pony. It's not who he is you should be concerned about. It's what he is."

"What is he?" Luna queried.

"He is an OVERLORD! He comes from a long line of conquerors and pillagers. Make no mistake you will all fall before him and tremble as he passes by. All hail the Overlord!"

Every minion nearby all shouted hail the Overlord as well. Soon the princess was surrounded by these gremlins from all sides. The dark one just sat on the dark throne while Gnarl continued to rant.

"Now princess of pony land you've worn out your welcome. MINIONS!!! Show this pit pony the door!" In a blink of an eye Luna was swarmed all over by these minions. She found that her magic was ineffective and her strength not enough to resist the horde. Piles of rope were tied around her, pinning her wings and hooves to her barrel.

"Oh and by the way pony. You've just lost to a memory." And just as easy as she entered. The minions tossed the alicorn down a pit until she hit lava.

Gnarl turned to face the Overlord one last time and said. "I do hope everything works out for you dark one but I'm sure it will. Cause Evil always finds a way." Then like smoke from a fire the netherworld and everything else faded back into darkness. Once again the Overlord was alone.

You have the right to remain silent

Sleep did not clutch at the Overlord much longer as he was jerked from it's darkness. Someone or more accurately, somepony had tossed a bucket of water on the dark one.

"WAKE UP! The princess is here tah see you prisoner!" A gruff voice shouted to him.

As the dark one opened his orange eyes he was met with another bucket of water drenching his form. The liquid had been chilled to a point where anyone who came into contact with it would catch a cold and now this cold water was running down any gaps in the armor. Tattered rags rapped around the armor were now stained with it's moisture. Now dripping and wet, the Overlord glared venomously at the shaggy guard pony. He lunged at guard only be yanked back. Like a dog on a leash but with several more chains.

"You'd better behave boy or I'll skin yur hide and mount it on mah fireplace!" The guard yelled again before taking a cudgel in his mouth and hitting the prisoner with it. It impacted against the metal armor with a resonating 'thud' but did little more than agitate the dark one. Before the situation could escalate any further a better sounding voice called out to the guard.

"That's quite enough warden. We don't need to agitate our 'guest' any further do we?" The warden just huffed and walked away while muttering to himself. "You'll have to forgive the warden. He's been at this job for twenty years and it doesn't do good things for a pony"

A taller white alicorn had entered the prison cell. It was clearly female and towered over the many guards that accompanied her. Even with her taller form her horn just barely was eye level with the dark one. She had regalia similar to the other alicorn from before and had sun emblems on her flanks. Multi-color hair flapping in the fake breeze. Magenta eyes taking in his impressive form. Regardless what she thought of him this warrior was an great sight to behold.

"I am Princess Celestia. My sister told me what you like to be called. So until you present a name for us then you shall be known as Overlord. I must admit you do have some rather impressive armor. Neither tool or magic could remove it so we were forced to take drastic measures." The dark one just stared at Celestia while water continued to drip down his armor.

"Ah yes. Luna also told me your preference for silence. Which is good because you really need to hear what I have to say." The alicorn mare spoke while assuming a royal posture.

Celestia took one of her fore hooves and pointed it to the several chains binding the Overlord. "Those shackles are magic resistant and more durable than a dragon scale. Currently you are our prisoner in the Canterlot dungeons which never has been broken out of before. Your current situation is not favorable indeed."

"Several ponies are now refugees because their town was recently destroyed. Most of them blame you for their misfortune and are crying out for your punishment." Celestia said and then paused for effect.

"I am well aware of the diamond dog incursion and the dragon attack. Which you are at fault for neither one. However because of what we know now, I cannot in good faith turn you free. Changelings accompanied you during these events which are still hunted for their invasion. Also there is the matter of what Luna has seen while walking amongst your dreams. I'm not going to lie Overlord. With everything presented before me I have every right to punish you in any way I see fit.

Celestia walked closer to the Overlord and locked eyes with him. Magenta to his orange. "It does not have to be this way. Should you consent to our terms then all charges against you will be dropped or annulled. You must lead us to wherever Chrysalis is and assist in her capture. Afterward you would have to be reeducated to better fit society. I'm sure you could be a great force for good just as much as you can evil."

The whole time Celestia was talking the dark one just stared at her with his unnerving glare. Eventually the Princess's demeanor changed and she used her magic to yank his chain towards her. Overlord was forced very close to Celestia's face, which was now seething with fury hot as the sun.

"If you wish to remain evil then their is something I must tell you. I will not tolerate you harming my little ponies or those I care about! Are we clear!?" Princess Celestia shouted with a booming voice that probably was heard from Ponyville.

Once again she got no reply, which in turn caused her to sigh. Celestia released the chain and the dark one returned to his original position.

"I take it your silence is a refusal. Very well. Your trial shall be held at noon tomorrow." The Princess said before heading to the door. She looked back to him one last time and said.

"At least think about my offer because everypony deserves a second chance." After that sentence she turned to leave.

However, Celestia was stopped by a smaller pink alicorn. Standing behind her was the same white unicorn from before. Shining Armor. The dark one could make out parts of their conversation and intently listened in.

"Please auntie. We'll never know unless I try. Please just let me talk to him." The pink alicorn said while pleading to the white alicorn. There was another sigh and then Celestia replied.

"Alright if you strongly feel the need to then go right ahead. I have other prior engagements to attend to so you'll have to do it without me."

"Oh that's alright auntie. Me and Shiny can talk to him by ourselves." The pink alicorn said while Shining Armor's eye started to twitch. With some polite bows the groups parted ways. Celestia teleported while the pair entered the dark one's cell. He stared at them just the same as the others while they both situated themselves.

The alicorn mare was pink with almost the same features as the last two. While she had wings and a horn, her hair did not flap in the air. She was obviously royal because of the crown and slippers she wore. A glass heart of some kind was tattooed on both side of her rump just like any other pony the dark one had seen. Out of the two of them this alicorn seemed to be the most enthusiastic while Shining Armor definitely did not want to be here.

"Hello Overlord. My name is Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. You've already met my husband Shining Armor. If you want you can just call us Cadence and Shiny." The pink alicorn now known as Cadence said. Shiny was a bit upset that she told the Overlord that. Anything he could of done to intimidate this mare would not work and only seemed to put Shiny on edge. After a brief silence Princess Cadence began to speak again.

"Despite what everypony says I know there's good underneath all that scary armor. When the town Brittlebuck was attacked, twice. You chose to save the townsponies. No bad pony would ever choose to risk their life to save others and that's why I believe in you. In fact I believe a certain somepony owes you an apology." At the last part Cadence looked to her husband who was watching disinterestedly. She gave him a little hoof tap and got his attention. She shook her head in the dark one's direction and his face scrunched in rejection. Shiny refused to do as his wife asked until she finally convinced him to do it. So very dejectedly he walked up to the Overlord and apologized.

"Overlord, I'm sorry for calling you a bucker." The moment he said it his wife tackled him with a hug. She then proceeded to wing hug both Shiny and the Overlord while beaming over her success.

"See Shiny. Was that so hard? I bet if it wasn't for the changelings or dragon, the two of you would be friends."

"Yeah. Friends." Shining said sarcastically monotone.

Then for the next few hours, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza proceeded to speak to the dark one while her husband just listened. It did not matter what the subject was. She would talk about herself and Shiny. Whatever she knew about the Overlord. How the changelings ruined her wedding but yet somehow she forgave them. Insignificant things like how and where she grew up. She even told a story of her foalsitting a little filly called something sparkle or whatever.

At the end of her one sided conversation the sun began to set in the background. Cadence was interrupted by her husband wanting to be elsewhere. Cadence finally realized how much time had passed and blushed with embarrassment. She turned to the Overlord one last time to say her goodbyes. "Wow. You really are a good listener Overlord. You'll make a mare really happy one day. I'm sure of it. Alright come on Shiny let's go."

Cadence waved goodbye while Shining closed the solid cell door with his magic. While the dark one's vision of the pair was obscured. His hearing of them was not. Cadence and Shining Armor stood right outside the cell door, talking.

"Cadey. Did you really have to spend hours talking to the guy?" The masculine voice of Shining Armor came through the door.

"Why yes Shiny. I was trying to get to know him." The feminine voice of Cadence echoed as well. Shining was heard scoffing and relied.

"Get to know him? He's evil! You shouldn't be getting to know him."

"But he's not evil. You told me yourself Shiny that he jumped in to save a mare and her foal from that dragon. Now would any evil pony do that?" Princess Cadence rebuked.

"Well no." Shining eventually replied.

"Then my point stands." A sigh could be heard after Cadence replied with her reasoning. After a pregnant pause, Shining Armor could be heard speaking again.

"Honey, I'm just confused why you are so interested in this Overlord in the first place."

"He knows Chrysalis and changelings seem to trust him. I was hoping that through him we could find Chrysalis and the other changelings. If possible I want to resolve this peacefully." Princess Cadence replied.

"I thought you hated changelings just like me." Shining asked.

"I did at first shiny. They took me prisoner and imponyated me. Worst of all they almost made me loose you. I was just as furious as we all were dear but then I calmed down. They could have been starving and had no choice but to attack us. That's why I want to resolve this peacefully to where everypony benefits." After the Princess finished speaking. There was another deep sigh.

"You always were the better pony Cadey but then again you are not the Princess of Love for nothing." Shiny replied.

"Hey Shiny I have an idea. How about I take you to that restaurant you like so much and then we go see a movie. Then afterward we can do all the stuff you like in our room." Shining Armor seemed to really like Cadence's idea.

The two of them continued to talk about mushy stuff and what they were gonna do. They were probably both hugging and kissing because there was the sound effects to accompany them. Eventually the two love birds started to walk away until their hoof steps could not be heard. The dark one was rather indifferent to all this until he started to feel something. A feeling that he had not felt since the pony reuniting with their loved ones at Brittlebuck.

This was still alien to the dark one but he could definitely feel it's presence. The air was saturated with love left behind by his recent visitors. It felt so enticing to him that the Overlord couldn't help but soak it up. The love he gathered was so potent he could literally feel it change him.

The dark green changeling crystals on the left gauntlet began to expand and grow. Like ferns on a tree. Bit by bit it inched it's way up the left arm until the shoulder stopped it's expansion. Several more ominous green crystals had formed all over the dark one's left arm, at least six to ten inches in length and sharp to a point. The only places they did not form where the joints of his arm and fingers. Their sudden growth had shattered the shackle restraining his left hand.

Surging with power and strength, the dark one ripped every other restraint off of him like it was tin foil. While it was a little jarring to have his entire left arm covered in changeling crystals like a second armor. The feeling was not unwelcome. With his sudden empowerment he could feel the presence of changelings. Even this far away. It didn't take long for them to notice his appearance as well.

"My lord can you hear me? it's me Chrysalis. Thank the hive you're still alive. Stay put, we are on the way." With the hive mind restored Chrysalis was able to communicate with the dark one. He was furious. Everything he had done was thrown in his face. Well, the dark one was done playing nice. If they want to be ungrateful ponies then he'll show them no mercy and give them no respite. He had a nasty plan just waiting to be done. But there was one thing he had to do first.

The Overlord steeled himself and summoned his wrath. He had a warden to find.

Author's Note

This chapter has been haunting me ever since I finished the last one. So please take it so I can be done with it and move on to the best part.

Revenge is a nightmare

The hour was late as the sun began it's descent from the sky. Everything was routine as normal except for the Warden that approached the doors to the Canterlot throne room. Guards that stood watch did nothing as the Warden had a sufficient rank to enter undeterred. With a mighty push the doors gave way to reveal the hall's grandeur. Both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna stood by the thrones, discussing something undoubtedly important.

The sun princess had taken notice of the Warden's presence and wondered why he was here. Usually the Warden never visits the throne room because he's always preoccupied with his work in the dungeons. It was then that Celestia realized something was wrong with him as his eyes were unfocused and strides uneven. Even as the matriarch approached her concerns grew when she heard the Warden speaking to himself like a crazy pony.

"Warden? Are you alright?" Celestia inquired. The pony in question did not stop his advance until he was uncomfortably close to the sun princess. Upon closer inspection she could she his fur was severely matted and reeked of a horrible stench that nearly bowled her over. Crimson liquid dripped down one of the Warden's legs until it splattered on the finely buffed marble floors. That smell was undeniable now, it was blood. Before anypony could react the Warden raised one of his front hooves in the air and brought it down upon Celestia.

THWACK!

A thudding sound rang out as Celestia recoiled in shock. She sat there in disbelief that one of her subjects and guardspony had actually struck her. Other guards quickly charged the warden until he was firmly pin on the floor where he once stood. Princess Luna had the poorest reaction out of everypony present. She screamed with rage and writhed with unmatched fury. If it was not for Celestia coming to her senses then Luna probably would have gored the offender. Shackles were quickly clamped on all over the Warden, effectively restraining him or protecting him from Luna depending on the point of view.

"Heheheheheheheheheh! Hahahahahahahahahah!" An ominous voice came forth from the Warden. His voice sounded as if he had a swarm of insects buzzing around his voice box which was rather unnerving to all present. "Such a pretty face ya have there Princess! It's such a shame that Ah didn't have more time to mess it up!"

"SILENCE KNAVE! THOU HAVE COMMITTED HIGH TREASON FOR LAYING A HOOF UPON OUR SISTER!" Luna shouted in her thundering canterlot voice.

Luna's outburst caused many ponies present to cringe but the Warden did not. In fact it just made him smile so terribly that it unnerved Celestia further. Plus those unfocused eyes of his was not helping either. The Warden turned his attention to Luna and addressed her. "Oh don't worry princess. Ah'm sure mah master has big plans for ya too."

"your master?" Celestia inquired.

"Why yes mah master! Ya should know him since he is one of your guests. In fact, he's so upset at y'alls hospitality he's checking out early."

Before the Warden could continue his rant, sharp whistling sounds filled the room as magic sparks erupted from the horns of Celestia and Luna. Looks of panic quickly marred their once pleasant features. "If those alarms are going off.........." Celestia began.

"Then the Overlord must have set them off." Luna finished. "ALL GUARDS TO THE DUNGEONS AT ONCE! TIS A GRAVE EMERGENCY THAT MUST BE MET WITH GREAT HASTE!"

Halls upon halls of the palace were filled with thunderous sounds of many hooves hitting marble. Shouts of emergency were accompanied with the clinking of armor and weapons. At the front of these stampeding guardsponies were the Princesses themselves, running as if Cerberus itself was on their tails.

Escaping the confines of his cell wasn't to difficult for the Overlord. Any pony guard he encountered was easily defeated so nothing could deter him from revenge. Eventually the dark one found his way to the Warden's office. Without a second thought he kicked open the door, which splintered to many pieces upon contact. Warden looked up to see the Overlord's hulking figure standing over him. No mercy was given as Warden was assaulted in the most brutal ways possible. Even to be slammed through the wooden desk a couple times.

Once Warden was reduced to a sobbing pile on the floor the Overlord grasped his face with the left gauntlet. The green crystals that encapsulated the Overlord's entire left arm pulsed a sickly green over and over again. Until finally it ceased, leaving the Warden with a pale complexion and unfocused eyes. With a wave of his gauntlet the Overlord commanded the now enslaved warden. Without pause or delay Warden left to do whatever task that his master had given him.

During the whole confrontation the dark one failed to see the quivering figure in the dark corner of the office. Closer inspection revealed a griffon that was clad with shackles and chains. Each chain was bolted to the wall which prevented this griffon from ever leaving this corner. The griffon in question was slender and had purple highlights on some of the feathers so it was presumably female.

As the dark one approached, her shaking only got worse but was attempting to put up a brave front. Since the griffon was a quadruped, her size was greatly dwarfed by the Overlord's hulking form. The dark one kneeled down while reaching an arm out to her. The griffon closed her eyes while thinking 'this is it'. Chains rattled as her shaking became full on quaking and yet, the end never did come.

SNAP!

The griffon immediately opened her eyes as she realized what just happened. The metal collar that shackled her was split in two by this armored behemoth which proceeded to snap another. One by on the metal restraints were torn asunder by this mysterious warrior until freedom was once again hers. The griffon sat there in disbelief at what just happened until the heavy footsteps of her rescuer snapped her out of that daze. She quickly stood up and scurried after the warrior's retreating form.

More guards fell before the might of the Overlord as he journeyed through the dungeons. The she griffons he had saved earlier was following him. To be honest he did not care either way so he mostly ignored her. Once the other prisoners realized what he was doing they shouted from their cells to be set free. Naturally their escape would end up benefiting the dark one in the end so he complied with their requests. The halls soon became cramped with prisoners as they helped each other escape from their cells.

Wards of magic littered every inch of wall space within these dungeons. It took naught but a moment for the Overlord to realize that these were anti teleportation wards. Preventing anything from teleporting in, or out. Eventually the dark one returned to the corridor that housed his prison. These cells had no windows or bars to see through. Upon exploration, many of them were empty, unused or unperturbed. Unfortunately a couple of them housed beings that were bereft of their sanity long ago. Their demise was quick as the Overlord smited each and every single one of them.

One cell's occupant however did not attack. Or more accurately, couldn't. It was a pony with tattered charcoal fur. The pony was suspended in mid air by several chains and had a large bit protruding from it's mouth. It's form was bulky and had a bigger muzzle which identified it as male. He took notice of the Overlord and the griffon following the armored one.

With not much delay the pony was freed from his bonds only to chuck the infernal bit that silenced him. "AHHHH! Such a relief it is to hear my voice again!" The pony screamed out in satisfaction before turning his attention to his rescuer. "Forgive me, where are my manners! I'm Ardent Slickwick, rouge extraordinaire at your service."

Ardent then turned his attention to the griffon behind the warrior. "Why hello hello. What have we here? What's a beautiful hen such as yourself doin in a dank dungeon like this?"

"Stuff it dweeb! I'm not in the mood for this." The griffon practically shouted at Ardent.

"Ooo fiesty. Surely you must have a pretty name to match your beauty." The pony continued.

"I'm warning you." The griffon growled.

"Oh come now. All I did was ask you for your name." The pony slyly countered.

"It's Gilda." The griffon reluctantly answered.

"See. Now was that so hard?" Ardent nonchalantly asked while he lifted Gilda's claw and kissed it. Gilda's reaction wasn't what he was expecting as she punched him in the face with her other claw.

The Overlord wasn't amused by their little squabble and proceeded to leave the cell. Both Ardent and Gilda heard his heavy foot steps and moved to follow him. The rest of the cells were empty until the hallway ended at a wall. Normally it would be a dead end but the wall was adorned with a big locking mechanism. A vibrant sun was etched on the lock and a small hole lay at it's center. When the squabbling pair caught up to the dark one, Ardent took one look at the lock and whistled. "That is a really snazzy horn lock boss. I don't think even I could pick that little beauty."

That didn't deter the dark one as he charged up his arm of crystals. Upon releasing their power a dark green beam hit the keyhole. A magic barrier surrounded the mechanism and both magic forces met head on. The Overlord was forced to channel more magic into his attack to even break through the obstinate barrier. In a great display of power the dark one shattered the magical ward and in doing so, the lock as well.

The resulting destruction caused an powerful shockwave to surge forth through the hall. The blast knocked both Gilda and Ardent Slickwick prone while the Overlord remained upright. However even he was slouched over while holding his left shoulder pauldron. Several crystals that once adorned his arm fell to the ground, shattering upon impact. Little more than half the crystals were lost as their shards littered the floors.

Once the brief respite was over the dark one easily broke through the walls that once denied him entrance. Dark fog permeated through the air once the wall was removed. With neither hesitation nor fear the Overlord entered the darkness.

Unable to see what lay beyond the dark one heard a menacing voice bellow forth.

"Who dares to disturb Nightmare Moon!?!"

Author's Note

Edit 3-31-2022
Hello everyone/everypony. It has been a long time. I am currently writing the next chapter and plan to release it soon.

I've gone back and changed a little details to better suit the coming chapters. For example there only being 1 lock instead of 2.

Stay tuned for the next chapter and I wish you all the best.

She, is a nightmare

"Who dares to disturb Nightmare Moon!?!" A thunderous voice bellowed out of the misty darkness. While sounding monstrously dangerous, yet it still carried a regal feminine charm.

"Tis naught but fools." The Nightmarish voice taunted while tendrils of shadow spill forth from within the dark. Each one making its' way over to everyone in their path. Ardent and Gilda froze instantly as their own shadows met with these tendrils. Gilda bowled over into a ball while incoherently screaming about something traumatic. The former started to apologize repeatedly for something he seemed to deeply regret.

When the tendrils reached the Dark One, He did not have the same reaction the others had. Instead, he ignited a green ball of flame and threw it into the cell. Upon its explosion it was revealed that nothing was in the once sealed prison. Afterwards a part of his shadow twisted itself in the shape of a large pony while still on the ground. The Dark One looked down and met its gaze while it moved about the room.

"Yes. Thou will do nicely." The shadow commented as it pulled all other tendrils within itself. The others gasped in relief as their terrors had ceased.

"What the cluck was that!!" Gilda yelled with frustration.

"Don't you listen? Obviously, it was Nightmare Moon. However, I agree it certainly the most horrific thing I have ever experienced." Slickwick replied.

"Silence Knaves! I have no use for your useless prattle! Nightmare bellowed and then turned her attention to the Overlord. "We must move quickly. Tis most assuredly that our escape has not gone unnoticed. If thou shalt assist us in our escape then thee shall receive our boon."

"I strongly advise against this. Nightmare Moon isn't somepony you'd like to mess with. Coming from me, that's really saying something." Chrysalis warned through the hive mind.

"For once I actually agree with the former Queen. However, it would be best not to make an enemy of her. Make your way back to the hive before you are swarmed by guards." Emerald Wing spoke.

The Dark One did not respond and started to make his way towards the exit. Many of the other prisoners started to follow on the way out. Breaking a few doors along the way, soon the group reached the entryway of the dungeons. The guards there were nowhere to be found and a tower bell could be heard ringing in the distance.

DING! DONG! DING! DONG!

"Alright fellow guardsponies! Smoke em out!" A voice shouted from outside the entrance. Then little balls of iron burst through windows and open doorways. Noxious smoke spewing forth from each one. Many of the escapees started to cough violently. Unable to breathe they unwittingly made their way outside.

Several armored earth pony guards awaited outside, armed with shields and billy clubs. Upon exiting the building, the prisoners were set upon by the guards. Attempting to bludgeon them into submission.

A shield wall of guards met the incarcerated with clubs raised. They did not stand much of a chance from the smoke rendering them breathless. Soon after, a large hulking form burst forth from the smoke and smashed into the guards.

The Overlord had managed to toppel many enemies with his mighty charge. After he broke their line, he picked a shield off of the ground. While of decent size, it still was diminutive compared to the Dark One's form. He grasped both handles in one hand and started bashing helmets with it.

The guards lost focus on the Prisoners, which allowed them to regain their composure. Instead of joining the charge they tried to escape to the side. Before they could get far, a volley of small darts rained down on them from above. A bunch of Pegasai fired upon them using small crossbows. Any who were hit started to get drowsy before hitting the ground.

The Overlord took notice of the winged assailants and threw a fireball at them. Partway there it was intercepted by a blast of energy. Exploding it prematurely. The Dark One looked back down and saw a contingency of Unicorns in the back. It was clear to him which side was more effective. However, he was not going to let that deter him from escaping.

The Overlord threw his shield like a Frisbee towards the Unicorns, arcing it through the air. They panicked and quickly raised multiple magic shields. A metallic clang sounded as it bounced off and clattered to the ground. The Dark One then hoisted two of the earth pony guards right off their hooves. Then He charged at the unicorns with both of them in tow.

Pegasai took notice and started firing upon the Overlord. The two guards started shouting for them to cease fire but it was already to late. The Dark One placed both ponies in-between himself and the oncoming darts. Howls of pain resonated through the courtyard as both guards were turned into pin cushions. They both quickly passed out from the large amounts of tranquilizer in their systems.

Amongst the Pegasai reloading, Nightmare Moon spoke to the Overlord. "We will offer our assistance, fierce one." Dark tendrils sprouted from the Dark One's shadow. Stretching out towards the others. The full moon above made the Pegasai cast shadows on the ground and surrounding buildings.

With such large shadows, it was easy for Nightmare Moon to catch them in her net of tendrils. Soon the squadron of Pegasai began to panic or flee in terror. A few crashed into each other or buildings. Some outright froze and plummeted straight down.

With the Pegasai demoralized, the Overlord turned his attention back towards the Unicorns. He dropped the unconscious guards he was carrying and charged once again. A few quickly teleported out of the way. The one in front kept his magic shield raised and dug in his hooves. Metal met the ward and a clang echoed outward.

The Unicorn struggled to stop the Dark One's charge. Before coming to a complete stop, he wrapped his arms around the shield itself. It's size smaller than the one Chrysalis had produced before. With a mighty heave the Overlord threw the unicorn, shield and all towards the earth pony guards. Upon collision they were knocked over like bowling pins.

"Retreat!" An officer yelled as they were being overwhelmed. Whatever guards were still conscious, turned tail and ran. The others were relieved of weapons and valuables by the prisoners. Which in turn took this opportunity to flee.

Gilda had just managed to make outside and out of the smoke. It took a few moments for her to stop coughing. Once composed, she surveyed her surroundings.

Multiple guards and prisoners lay motionless on the ground. The rest were running for their lives as a single figure towered over the carnage. Slowly, this armored creature turned his gaze towards Gilda. The orange pupils staring back at her, while multiple shadow tendrils retracted into his own.

DING! DONG! DING! DONG!

The creature looked up to the bell tower and unclenched his hand. Green flame gathered in the palm of his gauntlet. When the fireball doubled twice in size, the creature lobbed it upwards. It sailed through the air with great speed and collided with the bell tower. It exploded, sending debris flying everywhere. The top of the bell tower had been completely blown off and only distant bells could be heard now. A feeling of complete terror washed over Gilda. This wasn't just any creature. He was a monster.

Gilda began to back away slowly until she hit something behind her. It was that sleazy slickwick pony from before. He had a look of utter shock and fear. Ears flat upon his head. Eyes the size of pin pricks. Gilda was just about to slap him until he violently shook his head. Afterwards, Ardent spoke to Gilda. "We have to get out of here now."

"There is no clucking way I'm going with you!" Gilda shouted while unfurling her wings.

"Are you mad!? You'll be spotted by aerial patrols! They'll restrain you faster than you could possibly fly!" Ardent shouted back while trying to keep her from taking off.

It was at this time Gilda noticed many figures in the sky. A group of pegasai being spearheaded by the Princesses themselves. They were flying towards the courtyard at breakneck speeds, weapons at the ready. Princess Luna was dive bombing directly down in front of the creature. Princess Celestia was giving orders while remaining airborne. "Fan out and create a perimeter! I want no prisoners to escape!"

A chorus of 'Yes ma'am' resounded through the night and they did as ordered. Before Gilda could think about how royally screwed she was, a hoof started pulling her claw. "If we move now then we should be able to evade them." Not wanting to end up back in the dungeon, Gilda reluctantly followed Ardent.

Princess Luna landed in front of the Dark One, brandishing her old warhammer with magic. He had indeed broken out of the dungeon and left such a mess. Luna began vowing to bring the hammer down on him, both literally and figuratively. "We will give you one chance to surrender peacefully. There needn't be anymore bloodshed."

The Overlord shook his head no. "Fine. Have at thee!" Luna bellowed as she charged, warhammer raised. The Dark One rolled to the side just as the her overhead swing came down. He tried to follow up by attacking her exposed flank. As soon as he got close, a few gold magic projectiles flew down and collided with him. Celestia was providing ranged support from above.

Luna smiled wide as she swung her weapon with ferocity. It had been too long since she felt thrill of a true battle. Even longer since Celestia had joined her. It was like old times, when such conflicts were common. Before the Overlord could recover, they continued their attacks.

The Dark One could not escape and was forced back on the defensive. Luna made sure to keep on the offensive, never giving an inch. Her sister's volleys of magic made his movements much more predictable. As he dodged a group of projectiles, Luna struck fiercely at his side. Metal bent from sheer force of the impact, staggering her foe.

Trying to follow up her attack, Luna swung her hammer again. The Overlord threw a green fireball towards her. In order to dodge she had to cut her attack short. The Dark One tried to counterattack but was stopped by the other Princess. Celestia fired a beam of raw magical energy down at the Overlord. He in turn, fired a green one back up at the white Alcorn.

Both magics collided midair with a violent crash. Spraying sparks of gold and green. For a time they both were evenly matched, until Celestia unleashed more power. The Dark One could not match her output and was pushed back. All of the green crystals on his arm shattered, except the one slotted in his gauntlet. Celestia's magic knocked the Overlord off his feet and several meters into a building. Stone and brick cracked upon impact.

Princess Luna looked up to her sister with admiration. Celestia had not lost her warrior's spirit after all. Both sisters shared a nod before returning to the battle. The Princess of the night readied her weapon, then charged forth once more. When she reached the Dark One, she swung her hammer at his head. Moments before impact, Luna lost all momentum, dropping her weapon.

Paralyzed and confused, Luna watched as the Overlord picked up her fallen weapon for himself. She was only able to move her head and looked down. Her shadow had twisted itself into a sinister version of its form. Suddenly a dawning realization came to Luna. "No! This is impossible, it surely cannot be!"

"Rejoice Luna. We are reunited once more." The sinister shadow spoke.

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MY SISTER!" Celestia screamed with utter rage and she dove down towards them. The Overlord ran to do battle with her while Luna continued to suffer.

The tips of Luna's hooves began to change before her eyes. Dark blue coat darkening to a midnight black. All while the shadow danced around with glee. The night Princess could only look on in horror as her nightmares were coming true. "This cannot be. The elements destroyed you for good."

"Nay. The elements merely separated us. Since that fated night we have been imprisoned once more by our treacherous sister. Now that we are together again, we can finish what we started. "

"Please, stop. We spent 1000 years in isolation as our penance. Please don't destroy the progress I have achieved since returning."

"All the progress, 'you' have achieved? Don't be such a fool. All that you have accomplished, is demonstrating your subservience to Celestia."

"We were wrong about her. She is not the monster we made her out to be and our actions made us into one. If we had only talked to sister, then things would've been different."

"It would have been for nought. Such social battlegrounds is our sister's specialty. The fields of battle is ours. Celestia would have misdirected and manipulate as she always does. Especially when it concerned 'our' ponies."

Luna found herself unable to retort. The transformation had reached the bottom of her barrel, continuing its path upwards. Moments after, Luna still struggled to intelligently reply. "Thats...not true."

"Then tell us. Why does our written story tell differently?" The shadow quiered Luna. Nothing but the sound of a raging battle could be heard in response. After no reply the shadow continued. "It is because history was written by the victor. Celestia got to hide the atrocities committed against 'our' kin. While painting us as the unjustified villain who tried to usurp the throne."

"You're.....lying." Luna gasped between breathes. The transformation started to make Luna grow taller. Her wings began to metamorphosis into a leathery membrane. Coat darkening even further.

"You cannot lie to yourself Luna. No matter how much you wish it weren't true, it still happened. 'Our' thestrals suffered because other ponies thought they were superior and Celestia enabled them. So tell us that we are speaking falsehoods. Tell us it isn't true. Tell 'ME' it isn't true."

Luna couldn't answer. So she wept while sorrow overtook her. The transformation progressing, hope dimishing. Her shadow glared at her with anger. "TELL ME!!"

Tears fell upon the ground, numerous and without end. Thunder rumbled while the moon turned blood red. The wind shuttered from a monster's return.

"YOU WILL NOT KEEP ME FROM LUNA!" Princess Celestia shouted while firing a beam of magic. It directly hit the Overlord, sending him flying into another building, collapsing it on top of him. Celestia quickly rushed over to check on her sister. "Luna talk to me. Are you alright?"

'Luna' turned to face her sister, slit eyes staring with absolute hatred. "We are not Luna. WE ARE NIGHTMARE MOON!!!"

Author's Note

Hey everyone/everypony. I have returned after 6 long years. I will definitely be continuing this story. It wasn't worth the wait but i hope you enjoy.