Overlord Twilight: Friendship is evil.by SunflowerofwarChaptersEvil...always find a wayThe return to Ponyville!Ponyville mayhem!Evil...always find a wayThird/First person Pov: Twilight Sparkle. A weak groan echoed in the chamber, on a bed covered in poorly sewn furs, laid Twilight Sparkle. The young princess could barely open her eyes, her whole body ached and all she saw was darkness. Where was she? She remembers passing out unconscious after falling into a cave, was she at Ponyville Hospital? Had her friends managed to save her? She heard a gasp off to her side and soon she felt something scamper next to her. Soon her vision, blurry as it was, was filled with something that was decidedly NOT a pony. She saw a strange, almost imp-like face staring down at her with beady yellow eyes and a mouth full of sharp teeth. She wanted to panic and scream but couldn't, equal parts due to how dry her throat was, and, for whatever reason, she felt oddly at ease despite the frightening face. The creature was grinning down at her and she practically felt its excitement, "She's waking up!" She heard a voice say in a scratchy, almost high-pitched tone, and soon a second creature filled her vision. This time she had a better look at its body. It was brown in color, and its lower half was covered by a crudely made fur loincloth. Like its companion, it too was eagerly staring at her. "Rub some acid in her eyes! That'll freshen her up!" Wait what!? A clawed hand reached toward her eyes but was knocked away by a different hand, and soon her vision was consumed by a sponge. She expected sheer agony, but to her surprise, the acid only stung a little, and weirdly, she did feel fresher after the stinging ended! Her vision was now clear, she was able to raise her head, and she saw 4 more of the creatures gathered around her, each of them looking at her excitedly with their little sharp-toothed faces. These were her saviors? Well, not every creature is a knight in shining armor, these creatures even less so judging by their primitive attire, but she wasn't about to complain, they did save her after all. Slowly, she got up from the crude bed she had been lying in and stared down at the assembled creatures, clearing her throat, she spoke "Thank you for saving me. I am Twilight Sparkle, now, who are you little guys?" She said with a polite smile. The creatures said nothing and only giggled before running toward the door. Blinking in surprise, she shook her head and began to chase them "Hey wait!" She didn't go far as she saw them standing in a hall. They kept grinning up at her "Follow! Follow!" One of them said before it and its friends ran up on a small pathway, letting them bypass the debris in the way, she gazed up at the obstacle in her way, it was too close to the ceiling to permit flight but now what? "New Master would show magic!" One of the creatures said eagerly from the pathway. "Yay! Magic! Magic!" Making Twilight blink, part of her scolded herself for not thinking of that first, but another, much more prominent part hooked onto one of the creature's words 'Master?' Her mind echoed. She's never been called, master, before, but why did that feel...right? She shook off the question for now. She'd get answers later after dealing with this obstacle. Focusing her magic, her horn sparked and glowed, and soon, a magic blast shot out and obliterated the debris! She couldn't help but blink in surprise, she felt better physically but her magic still felt weak, yet look what she did to that wall! She heard cheers of raw excitement and saw the creatures applauding and cheering for her destruction of the wall! She rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly with a grin before focusing on the creatures before her, "Alright alright calm down. Now, can one of you tell me where I am? And what exactly are you?" She said in her best authoritative, yet kind, voice. It was pretty clear these creatures weren't too bright and a little overexcited, it was best to calm them down lest they run off again. Instantly, the creatures before her perked up, but instead of answering, they all ran behind her! She quickly turned, expecting another attempt to run, but instead, they all lined up before her, each eagerly gazing up at her "We minions!" One of them said, before being shoved away by his companion "We'z unda pony castle ruin!" She raised an eyebrow at what they called themselves, 'Minions?' She must confess, that didn't seem like a proper species name, so to speak, but weirdly for these imp-like creatures, it seemed fitting. Odd name aside, at least she knew where they were, pony castle ruin? She didn't need to be a genius to decipher that they meant the castle of two sisters. "Thank you for your help, can you lead me out of here now?" At that, the now-named minions cheered before rushing ahead, "For the master!" "Follow master!" They shouted all the while as they ran toward a staircase. 'Wow, talk about fast, and again, master?' Again, they called her that word. Why? Once again, it felt weirdly right. But that still didn't answer her question of why they called her master. With a groan, she shook her head and ran after them, she rather not lose these very excited creatures after getting them to listen to her. Following quickly, she emerged from a door and gasped in shock, in this hallway, were countless paintings and worn tapestries, but what struck her the most was that not one of them portrayed either Celestia or Luna. She slowly walked through the hall, gazing up at the portraits in awe, each of the portraits showed a pony-clad head to hoof in some of the most awesome and intimidating armor Twilight had ever seen. Their eyes glowed like fire, accentuating the darkness that hid their proper eyes. They all bared what seemed to be a personal weapon, some had swords, others axes or maces, and one of them even had a scythe! Yet what struck Twilight the most about these portraits was the raw power she felt from these portraits, not even magical power, just power general. The owner of each painting had an air of confidence and domination. What they saw, was theirs to take, and they would crush any who said otherwise. Each painting had a banner that portrayed the helmet that each of them wore, below it was what Twilight guessed was their cutie mark. As she stared at the portraits of these once-powerful ponies, she nearly tripped when she reached the stairs. "Follow master!" She heard one of the creatures shout and shook her head. When she sees her friends again, she is SO bringing them down here, and books, lots and lots of books. Who were these ponies? Why are they in...under? Celestia and Luna's former castle? She had so many questions! As her mind echoed with theories and ideas, she came to a halt at what she spotted at the end of the room, floating in the air before an old fountain, its water long since dried up. Was the same armor she saw in the paintings she passed, helmet and all. The minions stopped before it, (She noted there were 10 from the original 5). all of them looked at her eagerly as she approached the floating set of armor. Under normal circumstances, she would approach this armor with much greater caution. But this armor. It was calling for her. This armor was her destiny, like it belonged to her. Her mind went back to when she was walking through the hall of all those armored ponies, of their cutie marks. Nearly all of them looked like they related to magic in some form. Some of them...even looked like hers... With barely a moment's hesitation, she reached a hoof out and touched the floating armor. A bright light engulfed the room, Twilight's mouth was agape as her eyes glowed with power, magical strings reached from her horn and connected to the armor, and her cutie mark glowed as power long dormant finally awakened. As she floated in place, the minions around her cheered, uncaring of the bright light! After so many years, they finally had a new Overlord! Eventually, the light subdued, and Twilight fell back down to the floor with a metallic thud, her form was now encased in the armor she touched. Her left hoof now bore a gaunt that had an orange gem encrusted on it, along her back, the armor covered every inch in iron, with only her wings and mane sticking out. Her flank was similarly covered in armor but had a red/purple cloak covering her cutie mark, with only her tail sticking out. Speaking of her tail, was just her, but did it seem darker now? She looked down at herself in awe at the magical armor. Around her the minions cheered as she continued to examine herself, she noted she had an axe strapped to her back, where it came from she had no idea. But whatever the case, to quote Rainbow Dash, she looked freaking awesome! She not only looked awesome, but she felt awesome too! She felt stronger than before, and also noted she was now a decent bit taller than before, not quite at Celestia's height, but now closer to Luna if they were to stand next to each other. "I see you have taken to your new armor well my lord." A voice suddenly said from the darkness, it was much more eloquent than that of the minions she had met before and turned to see a new minion joining the still celebrating minions. This one was much older than the other assembled minions, a grey goatee hung from his face, and his posture hunched, unlike his companions this minion wore much more proper clothes, the kind to make rarity gag, but proper clothes nonetheless. And on his back hung a glow crystal, his face was that of a grin as he examined her. Third/first person Pov: Gnarl. 'HAHA! Eat it sunbutt! Try as you might, but Evil will always find a way!' Gnarl thought excitedly as he examined their new dark scion. He knew the last months they'd spent taking care of her didn't go to waste! It was a difficult task without the blues, especially when fixing her wings, but they did it! And now their efforts bore fruit, at long last, an Overlord has risen! "Who...are you?" Twilight questioned, and at that, Gnarl bowed. "I am Gnarl, my lady, minion master, and devoted servant of darkness." He said before raising his head. "I had wanted to escort you here personally when you woke up my lady, but SOMEBODY forgot to wake me!" He said, giving a pointed glare to Scratch, that said minion who was doing exactly as his namesake. Over a thousand years without an overlord must have taken its toll on him. An advisor to a lord of evil, and there he was still sleeping while the minions led her to who knows where! Thankfully the minions, stupid as they were, managed to remember what to do once she woke up. She saw the portraits and banners of past Overlords and he knew that their new master would feel it in her blood and soul that she belonged among their ranks. "I am sure you have many questions your evilness, and as your advisor, I will educate you on your dark and glorious legacy!" He grinned and he felt a dark, evil joy flutter in his heart when his new master leaned in closer, he could already see the maelstrom of questions getting ready to burst out! With a dark chuckle, he couldn't wait to see the look on Celestia's face when she learned of her pupil's new role as the master of all things evil! After all. Evil...always finds a way. Author's Note Enjoy lads! Its been a long time since I posted anything on this site, and well, I must confess, I've lost inspiration for the Warhammer greenskin story, but this, not this one! Watch in terror and awe as Twilight Sparkle rises to become Equestrias new overlord! The return to Ponyville!Third/First person Pov: Overlord Twilight sparkle. The camera panned into the Everfree forest. Its dark atmosphere and brambles would cause many creatures to feel fear, save for those who know its secrets—all save for one species, that is. "For the master!" a minion shouted with glee as it used its wooden club to bash open Timberwolf's head. The wooden wolf exploded into a shower of wood, much to the glee of its killer. Twilight watched from behind as her minions bashed, bit, and clawed at the timberwolves. For all the timberwolf's ferocity, it was found lacking when compared to that of the brown minions. The little creatures lived for combat, literally! As Gnarl put it 'Brown minions! They are your main fighters sire and positively live for the fight! In fact, it's quite difficult to get them to stop! Their policy is bash first, jump up and down on the carcass later!' Speaking of Gnarl... "Ahhh! It's so nice to see some proper carnage again!" the old minion said eagerly as he surveyed the battle. Twilight couldn't help but smile slightly. If what the old minion said was true, this was probably the best thing he'd seen in centuries. Gnarl had been a positive treasure trove of forgotten knowledge! Through him, Twilight learned many things that had long been lost to the annals of time, the most important of which was that of the Overlords, and of a family history she would never have known had she not been rescued by the minions. Apparently, she comes from a long time of evil rulers known simply as the Overlords, scions of darkness and masters of all things evil. If Twilight was being honest with herself, she couldn't admittedly see herself doing the whole "evil Overlord" thing. Well, maybe the Overlord part. The Evil part? Less so. Still, she saw the hope that flickered in the devious eyes of the minions and Gnarl when she donned her new armor and became the Overlord. Perhaps, under proper guidance, she can direct their more...destructive desires to more productive things, if Discord could be reformed...sort of. Then why not these little guys? She had a feeling Pinkie would like the minions! Speaking of her minions, the last of the Timberwolves lay dead and shattered, with the minions helping themselves to the wooden bits to wear as a form of crude headwear/armor. But most importantly, bring her life force. She felt power flow through her as she absorbed the glowing orbs, the minions cheerfully shouting "For you!" as they ran about and collected the life force for her. It was needed if she wished to raise new minions. The most numerous of these orbs was brown lifeforce, though there were specks of green here and there. Creatures all produced different colors of life force that were closely associated with their "element", brown life force for example gathered in creatures of the earth like sheep and earth ponies. Red life force gathered in creatures of fire and magma or in creatures with fiery temperaments. Such as dragons, phoenixes, and oddly, pegasi. When she inquired why, Gnarl shrugged and theorized it was because pegasi tended to smell like chicken when you set one ablaze. Part of her blanched at the dark joke, but her other half shamefully snickered at that. She's not proud of it, to say the least. But Gnarl seemed happy that she enjoyed his "joke" remarking happily that evil still had its sense of humor! Back to the matter of life force. Green life force gathered in creatures with strong connections to nature, such as bears and deer, both sentient and mundane deer. Oddly enough, it also manifested in creatures that smelled bad or were poisonous, such as skunks, spiders, and bufogren. Finally, there was blue life force. Blue life force gathered in creatures strong with magic, like unicorns, changelings, and centaurs. It also appeared in creatures connected to water, like frogs, kelpies, and boombo birds. Most creatures only dropped one kind of life force, but some dropped multiple colors of life force, such as the timberwolves they had just battled, who dropped both brown life force and small amounts of green life force. "If only we still had the green minions sire, then this green life force would be more useful!" Gnarl remarked as they continued their trek. Much like ponies, the minions all had tribes that specialized in something. Brown minions were the primary fighters of the tribes, able to suffer greater wounds than their cousins and were stronger too, but were lacking in any form of immunity, they weren't immune to fire or poison, and they couldn't swim or strike ethereal foes like the blue minions. Gnarl had explained why she could only call upon the brown minions and none of the other colors. In the centuries without an Overlord, the tribes gradually left for new places. Where they went Gnarl couldn't say. All the minions felt lost without an Overlord to guide them, and centuries without one took its toll on the minions, with only the browns and a few minions like Gnarl staying behind to care for the netherworld and what few relics of the Overlords remained. Twilight could not help but frown as she learned of tribes scatting 'They truly do need an Overlord don't they?' She felt sympathy for the elderly minion as while he may not have shown it, she could tell Gnarl missed the other tribes. 'Don't worry Gnarl, I swear as your Overlord I will find the lost tribes!' She swore and continued their trek through the woods, her mind filled with resolve as she began to think of the greens. Green minions were apparently her assassins and poison cleaners/checkers. They are master assassins and can kill even the largest foes with ease. They could also turn invisible! Leaving them completely undetectable! Well...that's if the enemy ignored the ever-present stench of rotting flesh and fish heads! Needless to say. Twilight was grateful she hadn't eaten anything yet, as the thought of such smell, even if only as an imagination, made her gag and wish to vomit. Thinking of the greens, she made a mental note to keep rarity away from them, her poor friend likely wouldn't be able to tolerate the stench in the slightest! But on the matter of her friends. She felt positively giddy! She couldn't wait to see them, it had been 3 months after their battle with Tirek and her falling into that cave. She hoped they were ok, especially Spike, she could only imagine how her friends felt when she was struck down. 'As one of my first duties as Overlord, I think I'm gonna throw a big party, the biggest party Ponyville has ever seen! Of course, Pinkie will be in charge of most of the preparations She paused her thinking and silently laughed 'Who am I kidding, she probably already has a big "welcome back Twilight!" party in store!' She grinned as her brain began to run through ideas and plans, and how to introduce the minions, they were devoted to evil after all, and well, so was she now. But her friends were understanding, hopefully, they'll be able to make friends, or at least, tolerate the minions! 'I hope the minions can eat normal pony food' She mused when a strange smell hit her nose. A scent that was quite familiar whenever she sent letters to Princess Celestia. "Hmm, I believe we are nearing Ponyville sire. My knowledge of more "modern" equestrian traditions is lacking my lady, but I can't seem to recall great bonfires in a village being one of them!" WHAT?! She looked ahead and she saw massive plumes of smoke coming from where Ponyville was! Horror gripped her heart and she quickly took off and soared high into the sky. Her minions and Gnarl trying their best to keep up with her! Ponyville burned. Not all the buildings had caught fire yet, but it was spreading fast! What's worst is she heard the sounds of shouting and combat! Rage filled her heart and she stared down malevolently, who dares attack her subjects/friends?! Just outside of Ponyville itself, she saw massive wagons with bars being loaded with ponies, their mouths muzzled, pegasi had their wings tied together, and unicorns had what Twilight guessed were anti-magic rings on them. She then gazed at her little pony's captors. Diamond dogs. The vicious canines prodded and forced Ponyville citizens into the wagons or tied them to harnesses to drag said wagons. Others were loading up stolen goods like bits, food, and especially jewelry into open-faced wagons. And that's when she saw it. Her friend Rarity in chains. With all the wrath of an Overlord, she descended onto the dogs. Third/First person Pov: Rarity. 'I think this is the second worst day of my life.' Rarity bemoaned internally. The title of the first worst day belonged to when that wretched centaur managed to strike down Twilight. And she and her other friends were unable to save her. They had won that fight but at the cost of a dear friend. "Rarity, are we gonna be ok?" Sweetie Bell whispered to her fearfully as she huddled closer to her. Rarity could only frown as she wasn't sure herself. Ever since Twilight's initial fight against Tirek had torn up the land, followed by Tireks defeat and his spiteful blow against her friend. Equestria has been in all manner of upheaval and danger. Such as the case with these diamond dog brutes. With one of the princesses missing or...dead. Plus Tireks attempt to steal all magic in Equestria. The many evils that long cowered in the shadows have decided to emerge to exploit Equestria at her weakest. Ponyville mourned the loss of their Princess/best friend. Slowly things returned to normal, well, save for the crystal castle. Given its iconography, it was no doubt meant to be for Twilight. It was a shame she could not have seen it. They built a statue in Twilight's honor in the place the Golden Oak Library once stood, while its remains were transferred to her castle at Spike's request, the poor dear took Twilight's loss the hardest, the two were practically brother and sister. He hung the Golden oak roots in a chamber that had a table that was surrounded by chairs that bore their cutie marks. They helped the little dragon hang gems that showed all the good times they had with Twilight before she was struck down. It seemed to bring a sense of peace to the baby dragon but they could tell he missed her badly, thus they endeavored to take care of Spike the best they could. Twilight would never forgive them if they left Spike out on his own! Sadly, the many evils that've long been hidden in the shadows of the world did not respect things like mourning. Barely a month had passed since Twilight's presumed passing when the first raids began to occur. At first, they were small, pitiable things that mounted to at most 3 to 6 dogs, intent on stealing anything they could. It had still shocked Ponyville however, Ponyville being attacked wasn't necessarily unusual, as living near the Everfree forest tended to draw the odd monster here and there. But never actual raiding from hostile creatures! And from then on it got worse and worse, the dogs showing up in greater and greater numbers, kidnapping unlucky ponies and stealing anything not nailed down! All eventually mounting to this day. The element of generosity couldn't help but quiver as she tried to think of what to say to Sweetie. She hoped the rest of her friends were ok, before being captured, she last heard the diamond dogs were besieging Sugar Cube Corner and Sweet Apple Acres. "Have yous heard wot happened to da boys that tried to attack dat cottage?" She heard one of the dogs say, that was Fluttershys cottage! "Uh-huh, da only one dat came back was all gibbering like and said dat his pack was turned into balloons and chickens!" The dog's friend said confused. After hearing that, Rarity couldn't help but snort. Say what you will about Discord, the spirit of chaos was serious about Flutter's protection. "Oi! What you laughing at stoopid pony!" One of her guards said with a growl and raised their club. Rarity's eyes closed and braced for the attack! Nothing happened... All noise seemed to stop. Rarity opened her eyes and they looked in shock at the pile of ash that used to be a diamond dog! Who had done that?! As if if beckoned by her unspoken question. They came. Something crashed in the center of the slave wagons, sending dust everywhere! Rarity coughed and covered Sweetie Bell the best she could as she tried to look at the shadow in the center of the cloud. "What the-," The diamond dog said no more when an axe suddenly shot out from the cloud and separated the dog's head from their shoulder! Rarity couldn't help but scream at the blood and made sure Sweetie Bell's eyes were covered! "What's going on?! Rarity?!" Sweetie Bell tried to look but Rarity made sure that didn't happen. A filly has no business seeing such gruesomeness! The dust cloud cleared revealing possibly one of the most intimidating figures Rarity has ever seen in her life! The Alicorn was covered head to hoof in spiked armor and their eyes blazed with a purple fire. Their horn glowed and a purple fireball emerged from their horn and set ablaze a group of diamond dogs, sending the mutts into a panic as their very flesh was roasted off their bones! "Get dat pony!" One of the dogs cried and a trio of them rushed toward the armored Alicorn. With a flourish of their axe, cleaning it of blood, the Alicorn counter charged the dogs, shocking the attackers and leaving them open. The axe split the first dog's head in twain before quickly swinging it toward the second one. The diamond dog attempted to use his shield to block the attack, but with an axe that big, it was like trying to stop a boulder with a cupcake. The dog howled in pain as he was sent flying back, his shield destroyed and his arm...missing. Said arm hung to the axe head like a dead fish before it was shaken off. The third dog whimpered and Rarity swore she smelt urine coming from the dog's trousers. The armored pony looked at the dog and took a single step forward. Never in her life has Rarity seen any creature run as fast as that dog did, screaming the whole way as he ran into Ponyville. She then saw the Alicorn turn toward her and she felt her heart stop. Why were they looking at her specifically?! She was beautiful she will admit but in her current state, she looked positively dreadful! The armored Alicorn opened their mouth to speak but was stopped by the sound of a warhorn. Over 30 diamond dogs rushed from Ponyville. Shouting warcries as they charged their knight in...well, Rarity would be lying if she added shining armor. Their savior's armor needed a shine up badly if Rarity was honest, as she noted that the armor while naturally dark had quite a few spots that didn't quite look right, as the town fashionista, it would be a small repayment till she could give something better. But armor shining later! Over 30 dogs were rushing at their savior! Rarity worried their hero may be overwhelmed. But if their savior was worried, they did not show any. Instead, a dark chuckle emerged from their...her mouth and the gem in her gauntlets hoof glowed with power. "For the master!" "KILL! KILL!" A series of voices shouted and Rarity turned to see some of the strangest creatures (outside of Discord) she's ever seen rush ahead of the armored pony. The diamond dogs were taken completely by surprise and many of them perished in the first few seconds. She watched as the creatures used a mixture of clubs and sharpened wood to beat and stab at the diamond dogs. A few of them even just used their teeth and claws! She was grateful she could move her hooves just enough to stop Sweetie Bell from seeing the action. She could no doubt hear the fighting, but at least she didn't see blood or any other such nastiness. The armored pony did not stand idle, she rushed into the brawl, her cloak and tail blowing in the wind. Time seemed to slow as Rarity watched her run past. Her cloak flying in the air to reveal their hero's cutie mark. It was that of a pink star. The very same cutie mark, as Twilight's. "T-Twilight?!" She stuttered out in shock, Sweetie Bell stopping her struggle to gasp and look at her big sister. Rarity felt her eyes water as tears of joy dropped onto the ground, a joyful smile stuck on her face even as it was dirtied by her mascara. Her friend has returned! Third/First person Pov: Twilight. Twilight paused and she turned to stare at Rarity. The Alicorn gave Rarity a small smile, her blazing eyes dimming to allow Rarity to see her true eyes. The newly crowned Overlord nodded at her before charging into the fray. Twilight smiled as she heard Rarity break into a joyous cheer, her chains rattling in the air as she celebrated. But unfortunately, a tearful reunion would have to wait. She had diamond dogs to kill... Her minions whooped and cheered as they battled the ill-prepared raiders. Their enemies didn't expect an actual fight to occur, having grown complacent in raiding otherwise helpless villages and towns. Of the original 30, only a mere five were standing. If Twilight had to guess, this was likely the leader and his guards of the pack her minions slaughtered. The lead dog, who Twilight identified as such due to his elaborate helmet. Knocked one of her minions away before nearly smashing another one who jumped back just in time. The lead dog seemed to notice her and he noticed how she didn't have any minions blocking the path toward her. The diamond dog barked out a challenge before rushing at her! ...He didn't make it 5-feet before a fireball impacted his face. The dog howled in agony as his fur was set ablaze and he ran around in a panic. Twilight stared impassively at the squirming mutt as he was charbroiled, before looking at her minions. The little imps helped themselves to the dog's former weapons and armor, ditching their wooden weapons for the metallic weaponry of their foe. Some of the minions have not gotten a helmet to call their own, and instead made due by taking the diamond dog's collars and wearing them like tiny crowns. Had this been the past, Twilight would've been horrified by the bloodshed and slaughter, but instead she felt...apathetic. Admittedly, a small part of her felt horrified at how she had casually claimed the lives of sentient creatures but the other parts of her...didn't care. It's not like the Diamond Dogs didn't have it coming! They were attacking her home! Her friends! And her people! She had to do something before the worst happened! 'I just hope my friends understand.' She worried, the ponies she rescued, while grateful, were also probably terrified! Rarity more so if Twilight had to guess, the old Twilight would never have done such bloodshed so easily... Shaking away her concern for now, she turned toward her minions and spoke "Free them from their shackles my minions! Be careful not to hurt them!" She said in her best Overlord-sounding voice, attempting to suppress the nervousness she now felt at the prospect of speaking to Rarity. The minions cheered at their master's command and immediately set about doing that. The minions bashed and cut at the chains eagerly, taking care not to hurt the ponies in them, their master would not be pleased if the prisoners were hurt! Twilight herself turned to Rarity again and approached her friend. Her tail unconsciously shying away between her. It wasn't long before she stood face-to-face with her friend. "H-Hey Rarity," She said shyly, her confident Overlord persona having melted away as she stood before one of her friends. "Twilight your back!" A tiny voice sounded and Twilight gasped as she felt a pair of hooves hug her leg and looked down to see Sweetie Bell hugging her. She couldn't help but be surprised by the gesture. S-Shouldn't she fear her? Not want to be friends again!? Soon a pair of big hooves wrapped around her, well the best they could, she was taller than Rarity now after all. "Oh dearie, you have no idea how much we missed you!" The fashionista said tearfully. "Y-Your not scared of me?" Twilight said in shock, after the blood she casually spilled, wouldn't Rarity hate her?! "Dearie how could you say that! Oh yes, you had to partake in some...unpleasant business. But if you think that's going to end our friendship you have another thing coming!" The unicorn mare said as she stepped back with a smile, Twilight couldn't help but smile in relief and she felt small tears well up in her eyes "Oh thank you!" Twilight said with a big smile as she scooped Rarity and Sweetie Bell into a hug. The two of them gasped for air as Twilight hugged them! "Oof! Y-Your welcome d-dearie! B-But-" She was stopped from what she was saying by her little sister "Y-Your squishing us!" Sweetie managed to squeak out, making Twilight gasp. "O-Oh! I'm so sorry! You ok!" As Twilight began to fuss over them. Rarity couldn't help but smile as she looked at her friend. Twilight may be huge and covered in armor now but at her core, she was still the friend she made she met that fateful Summer Sun Celebration... Now if only she could get Twilight back to her Boutique! The poor dear no doubt needs and her armor is in dire need of a polishing! Third/First person Pov: Gnarl. 'Ah, it's good to see the peasants already recognizing their new Overlord!' Gnarl thought happily as walked toward his master, he wasn't the minion he used to be and thus he was effectively left behind as his master and the minions smited diamond dogs! 'Could do without all the hugging though, it's bad for her image!'Twilight was an Overlord now! She can't just let random peons hug her! Now granted this one was apparently a close friend before his masters rise to Overlord. But still! If an Overlord desired to hug something or be hugged in question, it had to be away from prying eyes! But he'll let this slide, for now, every Overlord has to start somewhere, and slowly, Twilight will grow into her position as the master of all evil! Now he better hurry before his master and the minions run off again, he wasn't going to miss the next fight! Author's Note And boom, chapter 2 down! I think this might be the longest chapter for any of my stories that I've ever written! And I must say, it feels good! I'm open to criticism as while It looked pretty good to me, there are no doubt those who are better at spotting problems that I myself may have missed or have ideas on how to help make the fic flow better. Toward the end I hope I did well with the interaction between Rarity and Twilight, the remaining mane6 plus spike will appear in the next chapter. Again I'm open to suggestions on if the interaction between the two (Plus Sweetie Bell) could be better. I'll see you lot next time, and get ready for an epic fight as Twilight battles the leader of the raid! Ponyville mayhem!Third-person Pov: Ponyville. The sounds of battle echoed through Ponyville as minions whooped and cheered at the carnage! The Diamond Dogs were caught with their pants down as they helped themselves in looting Ponyville. "Go forth, minions! Make your Overlord proud!" Gnarl shouted evilly as the minions did exactly that, smashing and killing anything in their path of destruction with whoops and hollers as they ran about the place! "Twilight dearie. Where did you find these, and I say this in the nicest way possible, ruffians?!" Rarity questioned as she looked and cringed at the path of carnage and mayhem the minions were reeking as they battled their way to Sugar Cube Corner. "It's more accurate to say they're the ones who found and rescued me, Rarity. I'll tell you the rest of the story once we find the rest of the girls and Spike!" Twilight said urgently. She counted herself lucky to have saved Rarity in time; who knows what's going on with the rest of her friends? Looking back ahead, she turned to one of her minions. "How close are we to Sugar Cube Corner?" The brown minion, who was wearing the same helmet as the leader she killed at the beginning, looked at her eagerly and was about to say something when the sound of a cannon being fired was heard, followed shortly by an echoing scream. "AHHHHHH!" A Diamond dog crash-landed into the dirt headfirst, burying the unfortunate mutt halfway into the dirt as confetti fell around him, much to the amusement of the minions. Who cackled at the dog's misfortune! "Well, that answers that..." Twilight turned to look in the direction of the flying mutt and saw Sugar Cube Corner's roof...and heard Pinkie Pies's crazed laughter as her party cannon fired again. "Hahaha! I think I'm going to like this friend of yours!" Gnarl said with an evil grin, no doubt enjoying the mayhem that Pinkie was causing to the Diamond Dogs. They continued their march to Ponyville's bakery and saw that the place was surrounded. Pinkie Pie's party cannon popped in and out of the various windows, each shot firing destructive party goodness, sending the besieging dogs flying with faces full of confetti and cake. You would think otherwise but Pinkies barrage of devastating party favors was reaping a surprising toll on the dogs. Many of them, especially what looked like younger dogs, cowering behind hastily set up barricades, one of them even sucking his thumb! It just so happened it was the thumb sucker who spotted them and shouted a cry of alarm. "Well, there goes the element of surprise. Oh well, not like browns are very sneaky to begin with!" Gnarl remarked as the Diamond dogs decided to take their chances with the arriving Minions and their Overlord over besieging a bakery protected by a pink monster. It was over 80 diamond dogs charging the minions, each equipped with crude armor and weapons, versus 66 of Twilight's minions, most of whom were newborns who only carried clubs and wore nothing but a loincloth. Twilight couldn't help but wince at the advantage the diamond dogs had in both equipment and numbers. It goes without saying that more than a few minions would likely perish in the ensuing fight even if she helped. She felt physically fine, but her magic stores were getting worn out even with her boost in power. Fortunately, Rarity's magic felt fine once the magic suppressant ring was removed. She stepped forward with a haughty smirk befitting her noble-esque mannerism. "If I may dearie, allow me!" Her horn lit up and across the charging dogs, their armor and clothing glowed with her magic, surprising the dogs who foolishly looked down at their now glowing clothing. *YOINK* Now they were naked. The now barren mutts yelped in shock as they were sent flying through the air due to Rarity's telekinesis, the few who could look up felt fear grip their hearts as they looked at their now smirking enemy. What was once their clothes and armor was given to the minions, who cheered at their freshly stolen clothes and armor. With a savage grin, Twilight shouted with all her heart! "Charge!" Twilight bellowed out in a shockingly deep tone that startled Rarity and invigorated her minions who charged into battle, eager to please their Overlord! It was a one-sided massacre, the dogs struggled in vain to repel the minions, but with the sheer ferocity at which the brown minions battled paired with their stolen gear, all it amounted to in the end was all the diamond dogs laying dead and Gnarl clapping his claws with approval. "Ah, the old grab and stab! It is good to see that your friends aren't all goodie-goodie mi'lord!" Gnarl praised as Rarity chuckled awkwardly. Third/First person Pov: Rarity. One of the weirder things Rarity learned in her brief talk with Twilight before they rushed to save the rest of the town, was that Twilight was now an "Overlord" not a princess anymore. Well, technically she was still a princess, but according to Gnarl, Overlord was better than princess, but that wasn't the weird bit, but rather that Twilight was evil now. Rarity must say, she doubted the sentiment. Twilight might be a little more...violent, so to speak. But she would hardly call Twilight evil! If she was, she doubted that Twilight would have bothered with freeing her or anyone else from their chains. To Gnarl and the minions, however, Twilight was their "new master of all evil" and "scion of darkness". Rarity found the whole thing a little cute, seeing the minions cheer as Gnarl proclaimed Twilight's titles. Still, she'll keep an eye on Twilight, though she's confident her friend won't do truly dastardly things! At least...she hopes so... Third/First person Pov: Overlord Twilight Sparkle. As the new Overlord approached Suger Cube Corner. Three things happened in rapid succession. The first was an ear-piercing squeal, (which Twilight was sure broke whatever surviving windows there were). The second thing was her minions being scattered like bowling pins. And the final thing was her receiving the most powerful tackle/hug she's ever experienced. If it weren't for her new height and armor she was reasonably sure she would've been sent sprawling on her back. "OH MY GOSH TWILIGHT YOUR BACK!!!!" Pinkie shouted at such speed and with such joy that Twilight barely made out what Pinkie said and made Gnarl vomit on the spot! "I MISSED YOU I MISSED YOU I MISSED YOU!" Pinkie blabbered out as she bounced at such speeds that Twilight if she didn't know Pinkie would've been surprised that Pinkie hadn't made a pony-shaped hole in the ground. "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?! WHO ARE YOUR NEW FRIENDS?! WHY DIDN'T I KNOW ABOUT THEM!? TELL ME TELL ME!!!" At that point, the Overlord finally jammed her hoof into Pinkies mouth. "Calm down Pinkie!" Twilight sternly yet kindly said as she stared the element of laughter in the eyes, Pinkie nodded but still vibrated on the spot. With a sigh, Twilight smiled at her hyperactive, party-loving friend "Ok, come here" She removed her hoof and let her pink friend hug her. Unlike before, this one was much gentler but the mare still vibrated with excitement, Twilight returned the gesture before trying to remove herself. "Pinkie..." Twilight said in an annoyed tone as her friend refused to remove herself, they needed to save the rest of Ponyville! "We missed you..." The poofy main of Pinkie flattening a little making Twilight sigh. Before smiling, "I missed you too Pinkie." She let the hug go on till Pinkie was finally ready to let go, Gnarl said letting such things happen in public was bad for her evil image, but at the moment. She couldn't bring herself to care what the old minion said. Pinkie was one of her best friends, and that's that! She looked around as her cheery friend hugged her like she was about to vanish forever. Her minions were celebrating their victory, taking the opportunity to eat the sugary treats that Pinkie had been using as ammo, which they seemed to enjoy! Some of them went about looting the diamond dogs further, bringing her life force which she collected with her free hoof. Others decided to torment the diamond dogs left knocked out by Pinkies party cannon. Playing demented little games like wack-the-dog! In which the minions tied up a bunch of diamond dogs and whacked whichever one woke up! Others included pin-the-tail on the dog (blood included!) and one game was just them chasing a diamond dog up a tree, lamp post, or whatever was high ground and trying to stab at them like a dog trying to get a cat in a tree! Twilight couldn't help but release a dark laugh as she found herself enjoying the minion antics. "Wowie Twilight that's a good evil laugh! But it should be more like a MWAHAHA!!! Evil laugh!" Pinkie said suddenly, surprising the Overlord who looked to her side and saw Pinkie bouncing in place with a happy grin. When did she let go?!? 'Wait, why am I questioning that? It's Pinkie Pie...' Twilight shook her head exasperated as she stared at the cheerful party pony. The ponies Pinkie had been protecting slowly peeked out, which included Mr. and Miss's. Cake. Cheered when they saw that the diamond dogs besieging the bakery had been defeated, though they made sure to cover the eyes of any foals trying to peak out themselves. Foals did not have any business in seeing such carnage. Though speaking of said carnage. It was at that point that Twilight noticed the dead diamond dogs had what looked like black clouds coming out of their bodies, some of the bodies even vanishing outright! "I see you've taken notice of those black clouds rising from the dead diamond dogs, your Ladyship. That is called evil energy. It gathers in all us evil creatures. You will learn more of it in time, master." Gnarl explained with a sinister grin. Twilight nodded and looked at the vanishing carcasses one last time, yet more questions for her evergrowing pile... Third/First person Pov: Applejack "HEEYAH!" With a mighty buck, she sent a pair of diamond dogs flying into their own ranks, scattering them like leaves to the wind. Leaving them easy pickings for the dive-bombing pegasi. She growled as she looked around. It had been two hours since this blasted raid started, and from here, she could see the smoke coming from Ponyville as the dogs set it ablaze. The pegasai did their darndest to try and keep the flames at bay using rainclouds, but the dogs were an especially nasty sort, whenever a fire control team tried to stop the flames. Arrows, rocks, and whatever a dog had in hand would be shot/thrown at them. And the diamond dogs didn't discriminate with their fires, as she saw part of her family's orchard burn... Applejack is not the hateful type, not in the slightest, but at the moment, she hated diamond dogs! A LOT! "Applejack look out!" She spun quickly to see Rainbow Dash drive her hooves into a Diamond dog's face, knocking the mutt out cold. The element of loyalty stared down at the dog angrily before turning to her with an ecstatic expression! Applejack must say, but this is the happiest she's seen the rainbow-maned pony in a long while. "I HAVE AWESOME NEWS! AND GOOD NEWS! WHICH DO YOU WANT FIRST?!" She blinked. Awesome news and good news? "Uh, what's the difference?" At that, Rainbow scoffed and said, "Duh! The awesome news is AWESOME!" The eager grin returned, and it was about time she finally noticed something. The dogs were fleeing. What the? Did they finally give up? Had these hard hours of fighting finally paid off?! "Oh ho oh! Here comes the awesome AJ!" Rainbow Dash grabbed her head and turned it to where the dogs were running towards. The sounds of blades clashing each other echoed from the hill below, complete with mad giggling noises from a certain pink pony, but also the giggling and laughter of a ton of voices she did not recognize in the slightest. Suddenly a bright purple beam of magic shot through the air! Followed by the terrified yelps of diamond dogs who began to run back towards them! The dogs had a look of utter terror on their faces as they ran toward the Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The two ponies got ready to fight, only to watch as the diamond dogs literally flung themselves at their hooves and began to beg, "Please help us! We'ze sorry we attack you! JUST PLEASE STOP DAT MONSTER!!" Applejack looked down surprised. While Rainbow Dash looked down smugly as the few remaining dogs begged for mercy. "Applejack! Rainbow! I'm I seein' what I think I'm seein'?" Granny Smith called out. The old mare was wearing her soldier helmet, and she, along with the rest of the Apple family, could only stare in shock. What happened to these dogs?! What monster are they talking about?! As if to answer them, a Diamond dog suddenly crash-landed before Applejack! "And here comes the awesome!" Rainbow with all the eagerness of a filly being told to go crazy in a candy shop! And the surrendering diamond dogs screamed in a tone more befitting a filly. Applejack watched as this armored alicorn burst over the hill, their wings spread out, using the sun to cast their shadow over the remaining dogs. The dogs still fighting began to break and flee either towards the barn or into the orchard. Those fleeing to the barn soon joined their cowering kin. Those who ran into the orchard…well the screams Applejack heard were enough of an answer. “Strike them down!” The Alicorn shouted and Applejack watched as a horde of brown creatures charged up the hill and slaughtered whatever dogs remained fighting before rushing toward them! Applejack got ready to fight but instead watched the creatures stop before her and just…stood there. They had dumb, eager looks on their faces as they looked at the cowering dogs behind them. “Applejack! You're ok!” What the- Applejack watched the Alicorn. No…Twilight. Land with a heavy thump and the now larger Alicorn stare at her happily. “Twilight…is that really you?” She couldn’t help but question, but she knew with every speck of her soul that her friend had returned! Third/first person Pov: Discord. ‘Interesting…very interesting.’The embodiment of chaos mused as he spied on the new Overlord hugging it out with Applejack, “Oh gnarl my evil little friend you have your work cut out for you…” Discord cackled as his eyes snapped back into his head. “What was that discord?” Fluttershys quiet voice questioned as she poured a diamond dog grunt some more tea. “Oh nothing my dear, just watching some old pals.” Discord turned back to the impromptu tea party of diamond dog grunts and animals. Originally, he turned them all into balloons, but listening to their pleas and whining, Fluttershy asked him to turn them back to normal. He huffed and noted he should’ve made them silent, but he couldn’t refuse Fluttershy. At least he got to keep one authentic diamond dog balloon in the form of their captain. Said captain, squeaky his voice may be, was still making threats at him, Fluttershy, and of course, the pack that ditched him to get a better alternative than being balloons. When the raid started, these dogs were sent here in hopes of acquiring fresh meat for their clan. Thinking these animals were protected only by a singular, helpless pony. Discord will forever cherish their surprised faces when he popped out of thin air. Fluttershy wanted to rush to town and see if she could help, but Discord knew she would just be captured. Besides, he saw and knew exactly how this raid would end. He felt that ancient power awaken and knew who now bore the title of Overlord. ‘I wonder if sunbutts noticed yet?’ He can’t wait to see Celestia's reaction to her student becoming the champion of evil! Third/First person Pov: A diamond dog named Digger. “Would like some more tea Digger?” The shy pony offered to one of the grunts, a more grizzled member if his scars were anything to write about. "Thank ya kindly Fluttershy." The senior grunt said as he looked around. Things had taken quite a turn when he and his squad went to plunder this lone cottage for fresh meat. One second they were balloons, a little bit later, the kindness pony Digger ever met, convinced that draconequus to let them go and now they were having a tea party, their would-be prey acting as guests and waiters. Well...save for their "captain" who was still shouting angrily in a high-pitched voice, promising retribution and pain when he got free. He cast a glance toward the mish-matched devil who waved cheekily at him. 'Good luck with that.' Casting a look back to his balloon captain before drinking some of the freshly poured tea. He must confess, he feels bad about the raid, it was nothing personal! You can't just say no to the boss! ...Okay, you can, but it will likely result in your head being removed unless the boss really likes your idea. But even then... Just as he took a sip of his tea, that mish-matched abomination of a creature teleported in front of him! Spilling his tea in the process! "hehehe, your rude thoughts aside my houndish friend, I advise you to get ready, for you have company and your captain won't be a very good representative" Before he could question the chaotic spirit, he teleported again. Digger blinked as he looked down at the spilled tea, he looked around and saw his pack looking at him confused, a similar sentiment that was shared by the animals it looks like. Who on Equis was this "company" Discord mentioned? Third/First person Pov: Gnarl. "Well if it isn't my old drinking buddy!" The old minion said as he stepped off to the side to see his old "friend." "My my it's been too long Gnarl! Tell me! Is that a new wrinkle on that potato-shaped head of yours?" The draconequus said, pressing a thumb against Gnarl's head, making the old minion's face scrunch downward, making it look like he indeed had more wrinkles than he actually had. "I'm surprised this place isn't a wasteland of flying pigs and chocolate rain! What are you up to?" The old minion cast Equestria's sole draconequus a suspicious look, the old minion knew Discord was much more clever than he let on. And if the draconequus had plans to be supreme evil, he had another thing coming! "Oh don't you worry your wrinkly head Gnarl, I have no nefarious plans here my friend! For you see! I'm a reformed citizen of Equestria!" He said with an exaggerated bow. At that, Gnarl barked out a laugh, "HA! You? Reformed! That will be the day! Tell me Discord, what's sunbutt holding over your head to make you kiss her hooves and polish her royal buttocks?" At that, Discord frowned before smirking. "Why nothing at all, my glorified walnut, I simply learned a thing or two about friendship from your...*snort* "Evil" Overlord over there and her friends," he said with a smirk as he looked over at Twilight, who was currently questioning the diamond dogs Fluttershy talked down into surrendering. "Oi! Don't besmirch her evilness! Less you wish for a personalized version of the great draconequus war!" Gnarl stated in which Discord simply laughed, "I must say! I admire your faith in your new "dark scion" and how she'll be the next supreme evil!" Discord then leaned close to Gnarl. "I wish you luck Gnarl, your dark Overlord may just end up the Overlord of friendship and goody-two-shoes." Discord chuckled and smirked as Gnarl visibly gagged at the thought. Glaring up at the spirit of disharmony, Gnarl gave his own smirk "You wish you modern art masterpiece! The evil that lies in her blood is kicking into gear and she's already proved adept at slaughter and unleashing mayhem!" Discord merely grins. "Whatever helps you sleep Gnarl..." The chaos lord said before floating away to the disgustingly cutesy cottage. Gnarl rolls his eyes before turning back to his master. He grinned as she rallied her minions, with her friends and new subjects secured, it was time to march on the crystalline castle! Where the largest force of the remaining diamond dogs laid siege. If its origins were true, it was a little gift from the Tree of Harmony meant for Twilight to live in after her old home was blown up in the fight between her and Tirek. Which in turn meant a large source of magical energy! Once she's inside and imbues her Overlording magic in it. It will be enough magic to give the netherworld the kick in the pants it needs to accept her as the new Overlord! As he made his way to his master, he thought back on his little exchange with the chaos lord. He scoffed, before letting loose a dark chuckle and thought back to one of the Overlords of the past. "Heroes seldom know how close to evil they really are..." Author's Note And third chapter is done! I apologize for a lack of a boss...well, mini-boss fight, but as I was writing, I felt it wouldn't exactly blend well towards the end, so I decided to have Twilight do battle with the raid captain next chapter, which will be shorter than this one but it will be filled with action and an evil smiting! We will also see what the princesses are up too and learn little bits of the various lesser evils causing trouble for Equestria. Also I'm liking the comments from the previous chapter! The Kelpies will based on equal parts mixture of their mythical IRL counterparts and MLP's kelpies, with custom things here and there. I saw some of you mention the idea of Caribou appearing and I didn't initially have plans for them, this isn't a Fall of Equestria fic after all and there isn't any anthros to be found here. But after thinking on it for a while, I realized they could make for a good northern foe with an alliance to a certain dark unicorn, his name is up there in the tags after all. It must be noted that they are quite different than the sex obsessed pieces of manure they are normally portrayed as, if that was the case, the sex tag would be up there, here they are just asshole raiders storming down north (At least till Twilights wraps them in her iron-hoof) but Caribou and Kelpies won't appear for a good bit, for now this the "Diamond dog arc" if you will, Twilight learning the ropes of being an evil Overlord and slowly dominating Equestria under a proper evil! Also here is a map I'm using, for Equestria itself, you can ignore the other parts of the map for now. The only real changes is that the north part of the map will be expanded for the Caribou, most of the cities shown won't be a thing, and a certain city in the swamps from Overlord 1 will make its home in froggy bottom bog. Enjoy lads! https://www.deviantart.com/melongalaxy7/art/Map-of-Equestria-And-Beyond-790278917 (PS, I hope I did Twilight reuniting with her friends again well, save for Fluttershy and Rainbow, who I did off-screen, personally felt I perhaps did better but wasn't sure how exactly, still I hope you enjoyed it and will see you next time)
Evil...always find a wayThird/First person Pov: Twilight Sparkle. A weak groan echoed in the chamber, on a bed covered in poorly sewn furs, laid Twilight Sparkle. The young princess could barely open her eyes, her whole body ached and all she saw was darkness. Where was she? She remembers passing out unconscious after falling into a cave, was she at Ponyville Hospital? Had her friends managed to save her? She heard a gasp off to her side and soon she felt something scamper next to her. Soon her vision, blurry as it was, was filled with something that was decidedly NOT a pony. She saw a strange, almost imp-like face staring down at her with beady yellow eyes and a mouth full of sharp teeth. She wanted to panic and scream but couldn't, equal parts due to how dry her throat was, and, for whatever reason, she felt oddly at ease despite the frightening face. The creature was grinning down at her and she practically felt its excitement, "She's waking up!" She heard a voice say in a scratchy, almost high-pitched tone, and soon a second creature filled her vision. This time she had a better look at its body. It was brown in color, and its lower half was covered by a crudely made fur loincloth. Like its companion, it too was eagerly staring at her. "Rub some acid in her eyes! That'll freshen her up!" Wait what!? A clawed hand reached toward her eyes but was knocked away by a different hand, and soon her vision was consumed by a sponge. She expected sheer agony, but to her surprise, the acid only stung a little, and weirdly, she did feel fresher after the stinging ended! Her vision was now clear, she was able to raise her head, and she saw 4 more of the creatures gathered around her, each of them looking at her excitedly with their little sharp-toothed faces. These were her saviors? Well, not every creature is a knight in shining armor, these creatures even less so judging by their primitive attire, but she wasn't about to complain, they did save her after all. Slowly, she got up from the crude bed she had been lying in and stared down at the assembled creatures, clearing her throat, she spoke "Thank you for saving me. I am Twilight Sparkle, now, who are you little guys?" She said with a polite smile. The creatures said nothing and only giggled before running toward the door. Blinking in surprise, she shook her head and began to chase them "Hey wait!" She didn't go far as she saw them standing in a hall. They kept grinning up at her "Follow! Follow!" One of them said before it and its friends ran up on a small pathway, letting them bypass the debris in the way, she gazed up at the obstacle in her way, it was too close to the ceiling to permit flight but now what? "New Master would show magic!" One of the creatures said eagerly from the pathway. "Yay! Magic! Magic!" Making Twilight blink, part of her scolded herself for not thinking of that first, but another, much more prominent part hooked onto one of the creature's words 'Master?' Her mind echoed. She's never been called, master, before, but why did that feel...right? She shook off the question for now. She'd get answers later after dealing with this obstacle. Focusing her magic, her horn sparked and glowed, and soon, a magic blast shot out and obliterated the debris! She couldn't help but blink in surprise, she felt better physically but her magic still felt weak, yet look what she did to that wall! She heard cheers of raw excitement and saw the creatures applauding and cheering for her destruction of the wall! She rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly with a grin before focusing on the creatures before her, "Alright alright calm down. Now, can one of you tell me where I am? And what exactly are you?" She said in her best authoritative, yet kind, voice. It was pretty clear these creatures weren't too bright and a little overexcited, it was best to calm them down lest they run off again. Instantly, the creatures before her perked up, but instead of answering, they all ran behind her! She quickly turned, expecting another attempt to run, but instead, they all lined up before her, each eagerly gazing up at her "We minions!" One of them said, before being shoved away by his companion "We'z unda pony castle ruin!" She raised an eyebrow at what they called themselves, 'Minions?' She must confess, that didn't seem like a proper species name, so to speak, but weirdly for these imp-like creatures, it seemed fitting. Odd name aside, at least she knew where they were, pony castle ruin? She didn't need to be a genius to decipher that they meant the castle of two sisters. "Thank you for your help, can you lead me out of here now?" At that, the now-named minions cheered before rushing ahead, "For the master!" "Follow master!" They shouted all the while as they ran toward a staircase. 'Wow, talk about fast, and again, master?' Again, they called her that word. Why? Once again, it felt weirdly right. But that still didn't answer her question of why they called her master. With a groan, she shook her head and ran after them, she rather not lose these very excited creatures after getting them to listen to her. Following quickly, she emerged from a door and gasped in shock, in this hallway, were countless paintings and worn tapestries, but what struck her the most was that not one of them portrayed either Celestia or Luna. She slowly walked through the hall, gazing up at the portraits in awe, each of the portraits showed a pony-clad head to hoof in some of the most awesome and intimidating armor Twilight had ever seen. Their eyes glowed like fire, accentuating the darkness that hid their proper eyes. They all bared what seemed to be a personal weapon, some had swords, others axes or maces, and one of them even had a scythe! Yet what struck Twilight the most about these portraits was the raw power she felt from these portraits, not even magical power, just power general. The owner of each painting had an air of confidence and domination. What they saw, was theirs to take, and they would crush any who said otherwise. Each painting had a banner that portrayed the helmet that each of them wore, below it was what Twilight guessed was their cutie mark. As she stared at the portraits of these once-powerful ponies, she nearly tripped when she reached the stairs. "Follow master!" She heard one of the creatures shout and shook her head. When she sees her friends again, she is SO bringing them down here, and books, lots and lots of books. Who were these ponies? Why are they in...under? Celestia and Luna's former castle? She had so many questions! As her mind echoed with theories and ideas, she came to a halt at what she spotted at the end of the room, floating in the air before an old fountain, its water long since dried up. Was the same armor she saw in the paintings she passed, helmet and all. The minions stopped before it, (She noted there were 10 from the original 5). all of them looked at her eagerly as she approached the floating set of armor. Under normal circumstances, she would approach this armor with much greater caution. But this armor. It was calling for her. This armor was her destiny, like it belonged to her. Her mind went back to when she was walking through the hall of all those armored ponies, of their cutie marks. Nearly all of them looked like they related to magic in some form. Some of them...even looked like hers... With barely a moment's hesitation, she reached a hoof out and touched the floating armor. A bright light engulfed the room, Twilight's mouth was agape as her eyes glowed with power, magical strings reached from her horn and connected to the armor, and her cutie mark glowed as power long dormant finally awakened. As she floated in place, the minions around her cheered, uncaring of the bright light! After so many years, they finally had a new Overlord! Eventually, the light subdued, and Twilight fell back down to the floor with a metallic thud, her form was now encased in the armor she touched. Her left hoof now bore a gaunt that had an orange gem encrusted on it, along her back, the armor covered every inch in iron, with only her wings and mane sticking out. Her flank was similarly covered in armor but had a red/purple cloak covering her cutie mark, with only her tail sticking out. Speaking of her tail, was just her, but did it seem darker now? She looked down at herself in awe at the magical armor. Around her the minions cheered as she continued to examine herself, she noted she had an axe strapped to her back, where it came from she had no idea. But whatever the case, to quote Rainbow Dash, she looked freaking awesome! She not only looked awesome, but she felt awesome too! She felt stronger than before, and also noted she was now a decent bit taller than before, not quite at Celestia's height, but now closer to Luna if they were to stand next to each other. "I see you have taken to your new armor well my lord." A voice suddenly said from the darkness, it was much more eloquent than that of the minions she had met before and turned to see a new minion joining the still celebrating minions. This one was much older than the other assembled minions, a grey goatee hung from his face, and his posture hunched, unlike his companions this minion wore much more proper clothes, the kind to make rarity gag, but proper clothes nonetheless. And on his back hung a glow crystal, his face was that of a grin as he examined her. Third/first person Pov: Gnarl. 'HAHA! Eat it sunbutt! Try as you might, but Evil will always find a way!' Gnarl thought excitedly as he examined their new dark scion. He knew the last months they'd spent taking care of her didn't go to waste! It was a difficult task without the blues, especially when fixing her wings, but they did it! And now their efforts bore fruit, at long last, an Overlord has risen! "Who...are you?" Twilight questioned, and at that, Gnarl bowed. "I am Gnarl, my lady, minion master, and devoted servant of darkness." He said before raising his head. "I had wanted to escort you here personally when you woke up my lady, but SOMEBODY forgot to wake me!" He said, giving a pointed glare to Scratch, that said minion who was doing exactly as his namesake. Over a thousand years without an overlord must have taken its toll on him. An advisor to a lord of evil, and there he was still sleeping while the minions led her to who knows where! Thankfully the minions, stupid as they were, managed to remember what to do once she woke up. She saw the portraits and banners of past Overlords and he knew that their new master would feel it in her blood and soul that she belonged among their ranks. "I am sure you have many questions your evilness, and as your advisor, I will educate you on your dark and glorious legacy!" He grinned and he felt a dark, evil joy flutter in his heart when his new master leaned in closer, he could already see the maelstrom of questions getting ready to burst out! With a dark chuckle, he couldn't wait to see the look on Celestia's face when she learned of her pupil's new role as the master of all things evil! After all. Evil...always finds a way. Author's Note Enjoy lads! Its been a long time since I posted anything on this site, and well, I must confess, I've lost inspiration for the Warhammer greenskin story, but this, not this one! Watch in terror and awe as Twilight Sparkle rises to become Equestrias new overlord!
The return to Ponyville!Third/First person Pov: Overlord Twilight sparkle. The camera panned into the Everfree forest. Its dark atmosphere and brambles would cause many creatures to feel fear, save for those who know its secrets—all save for one species, that is. "For the master!" a minion shouted with glee as it used its wooden club to bash open Timberwolf's head. The wooden wolf exploded into a shower of wood, much to the glee of its killer. Twilight watched from behind as her minions bashed, bit, and clawed at the timberwolves. For all the timberwolf's ferocity, it was found lacking when compared to that of the brown minions. The little creatures lived for combat, literally! As Gnarl put it 'Brown minions! They are your main fighters sire and positively live for the fight! In fact, it's quite difficult to get them to stop! Their policy is bash first, jump up and down on the carcass later!' Speaking of Gnarl... "Ahhh! It's so nice to see some proper carnage again!" the old minion said eagerly as he surveyed the battle. Twilight couldn't help but smile slightly. If what the old minion said was true, this was probably the best thing he'd seen in centuries. Gnarl had been a positive treasure trove of forgotten knowledge! Through him, Twilight learned many things that had long been lost to the annals of time, the most important of which was that of the Overlords, and of a family history she would never have known had she not been rescued by the minions. Apparently, she comes from a long time of evil rulers known simply as the Overlords, scions of darkness and masters of all things evil. If Twilight was being honest with herself, she couldn't admittedly see herself doing the whole "evil Overlord" thing. Well, maybe the Overlord part. The Evil part? Less so. Still, she saw the hope that flickered in the devious eyes of the minions and Gnarl when she donned her new armor and became the Overlord. Perhaps, under proper guidance, she can direct their more...destructive desires to more productive things, if Discord could be reformed...sort of. Then why not these little guys? She had a feeling Pinkie would like the minions! Speaking of her minions, the last of the Timberwolves lay dead and shattered, with the minions helping themselves to the wooden bits to wear as a form of crude headwear/armor. But most importantly, bring her life force. She felt power flow through her as she absorbed the glowing orbs, the minions cheerfully shouting "For you!" as they ran about and collected the life force for her. It was needed if she wished to raise new minions. The most numerous of these orbs was brown lifeforce, though there were specks of green here and there. Creatures all produced different colors of life force that were closely associated with their "element", brown life force for example gathered in creatures of the earth like sheep and earth ponies. Red life force gathered in creatures of fire and magma or in creatures with fiery temperaments. Such as dragons, phoenixes, and oddly, pegasi. When she inquired why, Gnarl shrugged and theorized it was because pegasi tended to smell like chicken when you set one ablaze. Part of her blanched at the dark joke, but her other half shamefully snickered at that. She's not proud of it, to say the least. But Gnarl seemed happy that she enjoyed his "joke" remarking happily that evil still had its sense of humor! Back to the matter of life force. Green life force gathered in creatures with strong connections to nature, such as bears and deer, both sentient and mundane deer. Oddly enough, it also manifested in creatures that smelled bad or were poisonous, such as skunks, spiders, and bufogren. Finally, there was blue life force. Blue life force gathered in creatures strong with magic, like unicorns, changelings, and centaurs. It also appeared in creatures connected to water, like frogs, kelpies, and boombo birds. Most creatures only dropped one kind of life force, but some dropped multiple colors of life force, such as the timberwolves they had just battled, who dropped both brown life force and small amounts of green life force. "If only we still had the green minions sire, then this green life force would be more useful!" Gnarl remarked as they continued their trek. Much like ponies, the minions all had tribes that specialized in something. Brown minions were the primary fighters of the tribes, able to suffer greater wounds than their cousins and were stronger too, but were lacking in any form of immunity, they weren't immune to fire or poison, and they couldn't swim or strike ethereal foes like the blue minions. Gnarl had explained why she could only call upon the brown minions and none of the other colors. In the centuries without an Overlord, the tribes gradually left for new places. Where they went Gnarl couldn't say. All the minions felt lost without an Overlord to guide them, and centuries without one took its toll on the minions, with only the browns and a few minions like Gnarl staying behind to care for the netherworld and what few relics of the Overlords remained. Twilight could not help but frown as she learned of tribes scatting 'They truly do need an Overlord don't they?' She felt sympathy for the elderly minion as while he may not have shown it, she could tell Gnarl missed the other tribes. 'Don't worry Gnarl, I swear as your Overlord I will find the lost tribes!' She swore and continued their trek through the woods, her mind filled with resolve as she began to think of the greens. Green minions were apparently her assassins and poison cleaners/checkers. They are master assassins and can kill even the largest foes with ease. They could also turn invisible! Leaving them completely undetectable! Well...that's if the enemy ignored the ever-present stench of rotting flesh and fish heads! Needless to say. Twilight was grateful she hadn't eaten anything yet, as the thought of such smell, even if only as an imagination, made her gag and wish to vomit. Thinking of the greens, she made a mental note to keep rarity away from them, her poor friend likely wouldn't be able to tolerate the stench in the slightest! But on the matter of her friends. She felt positively giddy! She couldn't wait to see them, it had been 3 months after their battle with Tirek and her falling into that cave. She hoped they were ok, especially Spike, she could only imagine how her friends felt when she was struck down. 'As one of my first duties as Overlord, I think I'm gonna throw a big party, the biggest party Ponyville has ever seen! Of course, Pinkie will be in charge of most of the preparations She paused her thinking and silently laughed 'Who am I kidding, she probably already has a big "welcome back Twilight!" party in store!' She grinned as her brain began to run through ideas and plans, and how to introduce the minions, they were devoted to evil after all, and well, so was she now. But her friends were understanding, hopefully, they'll be able to make friends, or at least, tolerate the minions! 'I hope the minions can eat normal pony food' She mused when a strange smell hit her nose. A scent that was quite familiar whenever she sent letters to Princess Celestia. "Hmm, I believe we are nearing Ponyville sire. My knowledge of more "modern" equestrian traditions is lacking my lady, but I can't seem to recall great bonfires in a village being one of them!" WHAT?! She looked ahead and she saw massive plumes of smoke coming from where Ponyville was! Horror gripped her heart and she quickly took off and soared high into the sky. Her minions and Gnarl trying their best to keep up with her! Ponyville burned. Not all the buildings had caught fire yet, but it was spreading fast! What's worst is she heard the sounds of shouting and combat! Rage filled her heart and she stared down malevolently, who dares attack her subjects/friends?! Just outside of Ponyville itself, she saw massive wagons with bars being loaded with ponies, their mouths muzzled, pegasi had their wings tied together, and unicorns had what Twilight guessed were anti-magic rings on them. She then gazed at her little pony's captors. Diamond dogs. The vicious canines prodded and forced Ponyville citizens into the wagons or tied them to harnesses to drag said wagons. Others were loading up stolen goods like bits, food, and especially jewelry into open-faced wagons. And that's when she saw it. Her friend Rarity in chains. With all the wrath of an Overlord, she descended onto the dogs. Third/First person Pov: Rarity. 'I think this is the second worst day of my life.' Rarity bemoaned internally. The title of the first worst day belonged to when that wretched centaur managed to strike down Twilight. And she and her other friends were unable to save her. They had won that fight but at the cost of a dear friend. "Rarity, are we gonna be ok?" Sweetie Bell whispered to her fearfully as she huddled closer to her. Rarity could only frown as she wasn't sure herself. Ever since Twilight's initial fight against Tirek had torn up the land, followed by Tireks defeat and his spiteful blow against her friend. Equestria has been in all manner of upheaval and danger. Such as the case with these diamond dog brutes. With one of the princesses missing or...dead. Plus Tireks attempt to steal all magic in Equestria. The many evils that long cowered in the shadows have decided to emerge to exploit Equestria at her weakest. Ponyville mourned the loss of their Princess/best friend. Slowly things returned to normal, well, save for the crystal castle. Given its iconography, it was no doubt meant to be for Twilight. It was a shame she could not have seen it. They built a statue in Twilight's honor in the place the Golden Oak Library once stood, while its remains were transferred to her castle at Spike's request, the poor dear took Twilight's loss the hardest, the two were practically brother and sister. He hung the Golden oak roots in a chamber that had a table that was surrounded by chairs that bore their cutie marks. They helped the little dragon hang gems that showed all the good times they had with Twilight before she was struck down. It seemed to bring a sense of peace to the baby dragon but they could tell he missed her badly, thus they endeavored to take care of Spike the best they could. Twilight would never forgive them if they left Spike out on his own! Sadly, the many evils that've long been hidden in the shadows of the world did not respect things like mourning. Barely a month had passed since Twilight's presumed passing when the first raids began to occur. At first, they were small, pitiable things that mounted to at most 3 to 6 dogs, intent on stealing anything they could. It had still shocked Ponyville however, Ponyville being attacked wasn't necessarily unusual, as living near the Everfree forest tended to draw the odd monster here and there. But never actual raiding from hostile creatures! And from then on it got worse and worse, the dogs showing up in greater and greater numbers, kidnapping unlucky ponies and stealing anything not nailed down! All eventually mounting to this day. The element of generosity couldn't help but quiver as she tried to think of what to say to Sweetie. She hoped the rest of her friends were ok, before being captured, she last heard the diamond dogs were besieging Sugar Cube Corner and Sweet Apple Acres. "Have yous heard wot happened to da boys that tried to attack dat cottage?" She heard one of the dogs say, that was Fluttershys cottage! "Uh-huh, da only one dat came back was all gibbering like and said dat his pack was turned into balloons and chickens!" The dog's friend said confused. After hearing that, Rarity couldn't help but snort. Say what you will about Discord, the spirit of chaos was serious about Flutter's protection. "Oi! What you laughing at stoopid pony!" One of her guards said with a growl and raised their club. Rarity's eyes closed and braced for the attack! Nothing happened... All noise seemed to stop. Rarity opened her eyes and they looked in shock at the pile of ash that used to be a diamond dog! Who had done that?! As if if beckoned by her unspoken question. They came. Something crashed in the center of the slave wagons, sending dust everywhere! Rarity coughed and covered Sweetie Bell the best she could as she tried to look at the shadow in the center of the cloud. "What the-," The diamond dog said no more when an axe suddenly shot out from the cloud and separated the dog's head from their shoulder! Rarity couldn't help but scream at the blood and made sure Sweetie Bell's eyes were covered! "What's going on?! Rarity?!" Sweetie Bell tried to look but Rarity made sure that didn't happen. A filly has no business seeing such gruesomeness! The dust cloud cleared revealing possibly one of the most intimidating figures Rarity has ever seen in her life! The Alicorn was covered head to hoof in spiked armor and their eyes blazed with a purple fire. Their horn glowed and a purple fireball emerged from their horn and set ablaze a group of diamond dogs, sending the mutts into a panic as their very flesh was roasted off their bones! "Get dat pony!" One of the dogs cried and a trio of them rushed toward the armored Alicorn. With a flourish of their axe, cleaning it of blood, the Alicorn counter charged the dogs, shocking the attackers and leaving them open. The axe split the first dog's head in twain before quickly swinging it toward the second one. The diamond dog attempted to use his shield to block the attack, but with an axe that big, it was like trying to stop a boulder with a cupcake. The dog howled in pain as he was sent flying back, his shield destroyed and his arm...missing. Said arm hung to the axe head like a dead fish before it was shaken off. The third dog whimpered and Rarity swore she smelt urine coming from the dog's trousers. The armored pony looked at the dog and took a single step forward. Never in her life has Rarity seen any creature run as fast as that dog did, screaming the whole way as he ran into Ponyville. She then saw the Alicorn turn toward her and she felt her heart stop. Why were they looking at her specifically?! She was beautiful she will admit but in her current state, she looked positively dreadful! The armored Alicorn opened their mouth to speak but was stopped by the sound of a warhorn. Over 30 diamond dogs rushed from Ponyville. Shouting warcries as they charged their knight in...well, Rarity would be lying if she added shining armor. Their savior's armor needed a shine up badly if Rarity was honest, as she noted that the armor while naturally dark had quite a few spots that didn't quite look right, as the town fashionista, it would be a small repayment till she could give something better. But armor shining later! Over 30 dogs were rushing at their savior! Rarity worried their hero may be overwhelmed. But if their savior was worried, they did not show any. Instead, a dark chuckle emerged from their...her mouth and the gem in her gauntlets hoof glowed with power. "For the master!" "KILL! KILL!" A series of voices shouted and Rarity turned to see some of the strangest creatures (outside of Discord) she's ever seen rush ahead of the armored pony. The diamond dogs were taken completely by surprise and many of them perished in the first few seconds. She watched as the creatures used a mixture of clubs and sharpened wood to beat and stab at the diamond dogs. A few of them even just used their teeth and claws! She was grateful she could move her hooves just enough to stop Sweetie Bell from seeing the action. She could no doubt hear the fighting, but at least she didn't see blood or any other such nastiness. The armored pony did not stand idle, she rushed into the brawl, her cloak and tail blowing in the wind. Time seemed to slow as Rarity watched her run past. Her cloak flying in the air to reveal their hero's cutie mark. It was that of a pink star. The very same cutie mark, as Twilight's. "T-Twilight?!" She stuttered out in shock, Sweetie Bell stopping her struggle to gasp and look at her big sister. Rarity felt her eyes water as tears of joy dropped onto the ground, a joyful smile stuck on her face even as it was dirtied by her mascara. Her friend has returned! Third/First person Pov: Twilight. Twilight paused and she turned to stare at Rarity. The Alicorn gave Rarity a small smile, her blazing eyes dimming to allow Rarity to see her true eyes. The newly crowned Overlord nodded at her before charging into the fray. Twilight smiled as she heard Rarity break into a joyous cheer, her chains rattling in the air as she celebrated. But unfortunately, a tearful reunion would have to wait. She had diamond dogs to kill... Her minions whooped and cheered as they battled the ill-prepared raiders. Their enemies didn't expect an actual fight to occur, having grown complacent in raiding otherwise helpless villages and towns. Of the original 30, only a mere five were standing. If Twilight had to guess, this was likely the leader and his guards of the pack her minions slaughtered. The lead dog, who Twilight identified as such due to his elaborate helmet. Knocked one of her minions away before nearly smashing another one who jumped back just in time. The lead dog seemed to notice her and he noticed how she didn't have any minions blocking the path toward her. The diamond dog barked out a challenge before rushing at her! ...He didn't make it 5-feet before a fireball impacted his face. The dog howled in agony as his fur was set ablaze and he ran around in a panic. Twilight stared impassively at the squirming mutt as he was charbroiled, before looking at her minions. The little imps helped themselves to the dog's former weapons and armor, ditching their wooden weapons for the metallic weaponry of their foe. Some of the minions have not gotten a helmet to call their own, and instead made due by taking the diamond dog's collars and wearing them like tiny crowns. Had this been the past, Twilight would've been horrified by the bloodshed and slaughter, but instead she felt...apathetic. Admittedly, a small part of her felt horrified at how she had casually claimed the lives of sentient creatures but the other parts of her...didn't care. It's not like the Diamond Dogs didn't have it coming! They were attacking her home! Her friends! And her people! She had to do something before the worst happened! 'I just hope my friends understand.' She worried, the ponies she rescued, while grateful, were also probably terrified! Rarity more so if Twilight had to guess, the old Twilight would never have done such bloodshed so easily... Shaking away her concern for now, she turned toward her minions and spoke "Free them from their shackles my minions! Be careful not to hurt them!" She said in her best Overlord-sounding voice, attempting to suppress the nervousness she now felt at the prospect of speaking to Rarity. The minions cheered at their master's command and immediately set about doing that. The minions bashed and cut at the chains eagerly, taking care not to hurt the ponies in them, their master would not be pleased if the prisoners were hurt! Twilight herself turned to Rarity again and approached her friend. Her tail unconsciously shying away between her. It wasn't long before she stood face-to-face with her friend. "H-Hey Rarity," She said shyly, her confident Overlord persona having melted away as she stood before one of her friends. "Twilight your back!" A tiny voice sounded and Twilight gasped as she felt a pair of hooves hug her leg and looked down to see Sweetie Bell hugging her. She couldn't help but be surprised by the gesture. S-Shouldn't she fear her? Not want to be friends again!? Soon a pair of big hooves wrapped around her, well the best they could, she was taller than Rarity now after all. "Oh dearie, you have no idea how much we missed you!" The fashionista said tearfully. "Y-Your not scared of me?" Twilight said in shock, after the blood she casually spilled, wouldn't Rarity hate her?! "Dearie how could you say that! Oh yes, you had to partake in some...unpleasant business. But if you think that's going to end our friendship you have another thing coming!" The unicorn mare said as she stepped back with a smile, Twilight couldn't help but smile in relief and she felt small tears well up in her eyes "Oh thank you!" Twilight said with a big smile as she scooped Rarity and Sweetie Bell into a hug. The two of them gasped for air as Twilight hugged them! "Oof! Y-Your welcome d-dearie! B-But-" She was stopped from what she was saying by her little sister "Y-Your squishing us!" Sweetie managed to squeak out, making Twilight gasp. "O-Oh! I'm so sorry! You ok!" As Twilight began to fuss over them. Rarity couldn't help but smile as she looked at her friend. Twilight may be huge and covered in armor now but at her core, she was still the friend she made she met that fateful Summer Sun Celebration... Now if only she could get Twilight back to her Boutique! The poor dear no doubt needs and her armor is in dire need of a polishing! Third/First person Pov: Gnarl. 'Ah, it's good to see the peasants already recognizing their new Overlord!' Gnarl thought happily as walked toward his master, he wasn't the minion he used to be and thus he was effectively left behind as his master and the minions smited diamond dogs! 'Could do without all the hugging though, it's bad for her image!'Twilight was an Overlord now! She can't just let random peons hug her! Now granted this one was apparently a close friend before his masters rise to Overlord. But still! If an Overlord desired to hug something or be hugged in question, it had to be away from prying eyes! But he'll let this slide, for now, every Overlord has to start somewhere, and slowly, Twilight will grow into her position as the master of all evil! Now he better hurry before his master and the minions run off again, he wasn't going to miss the next fight! Author's Note And boom, chapter 2 down! I think this might be the longest chapter for any of my stories that I've ever written! And I must say, it feels good! I'm open to criticism as while It looked pretty good to me, there are no doubt those who are better at spotting problems that I myself may have missed or have ideas on how to help make the fic flow better. Toward the end I hope I did well with the interaction between Rarity and Twilight, the remaining mane6 plus spike will appear in the next chapter. Again I'm open to suggestions on if the interaction between the two (Plus Sweetie Bell) could be better. I'll see you lot next time, and get ready for an epic fight as Twilight battles the leader of the raid!
Ponyville mayhem!Third-person Pov: Ponyville. The sounds of battle echoed through Ponyville as minions whooped and cheered at the carnage! The Diamond Dogs were caught with their pants down as they helped themselves in looting Ponyville. "Go forth, minions! Make your Overlord proud!" Gnarl shouted evilly as the minions did exactly that, smashing and killing anything in their path of destruction with whoops and hollers as they ran about the place! "Twilight dearie. Where did you find these, and I say this in the nicest way possible, ruffians?!" Rarity questioned as she looked and cringed at the path of carnage and mayhem the minions were reeking as they battled their way to Sugar Cube Corner. "It's more accurate to say they're the ones who found and rescued me, Rarity. I'll tell you the rest of the story once we find the rest of the girls and Spike!" Twilight said urgently. She counted herself lucky to have saved Rarity in time; who knows what's going on with the rest of her friends? Looking back ahead, she turned to one of her minions. "How close are we to Sugar Cube Corner?" The brown minion, who was wearing the same helmet as the leader she killed at the beginning, looked at her eagerly and was about to say something when the sound of a cannon being fired was heard, followed shortly by an echoing scream. "AHHHHHH!" A Diamond dog crash-landed into the dirt headfirst, burying the unfortunate mutt halfway into the dirt as confetti fell around him, much to the amusement of the minions. Who cackled at the dog's misfortune! "Well, that answers that..." Twilight turned to look in the direction of the flying mutt and saw Sugar Cube Corner's roof...and heard Pinkie Pies's crazed laughter as her party cannon fired again. "Hahaha! I think I'm going to like this friend of yours!" Gnarl said with an evil grin, no doubt enjoying the mayhem that Pinkie was causing to the Diamond Dogs. They continued their march to Ponyville's bakery and saw that the place was surrounded. Pinkie Pie's party cannon popped in and out of the various windows, each shot firing destructive party goodness, sending the besieging dogs flying with faces full of confetti and cake. You would think otherwise but Pinkies barrage of devastating party favors was reaping a surprising toll on the dogs. Many of them, especially what looked like younger dogs, cowering behind hastily set up barricades, one of them even sucking his thumb! It just so happened it was the thumb sucker who spotted them and shouted a cry of alarm. "Well, there goes the element of surprise. Oh well, not like browns are very sneaky to begin with!" Gnarl remarked as the Diamond dogs decided to take their chances with the arriving Minions and their Overlord over besieging a bakery protected by a pink monster. It was over 80 diamond dogs charging the minions, each equipped with crude armor and weapons, versus 66 of Twilight's minions, most of whom were newborns who only carried clubs and wore nothing but a loincloth. Twilight couldn't help but wince at the advantage the diamond dogs had in both equipment and numbers. It goes without saying that more than a few minions would likely perish in the ensuing fight even if she helped. She felt physically fine, but her magic stores were getting worn out even with her boost in power. Fortunately, Rarity's magic felt fine once the magic suppressant ring was removed. She stepped forward with a haughty smirk befitting her noble-esque mannerism. "If I may dearie, allow me!" Her horn lit up and across the charging dogs, their armor and clothing glowed with her magic, surprising the dogs who foolishly looked down at their now glowing clothing. *YOINK* Now they were naked. The now barren mutts yelped in shock as they were sent flying through the air due to Rarity's telekinesis, the few who could look up felt fear grip their hearts as they looked at their now smirking enemy. What was once their clothes and armor was given to the minions, who cheered at their freshly stolen clothes and armor. With a savage grin, Twilight shouted with all her heart! "Charge!" Twilight bellowed out in a shockingly deep tone that startled Rarity and invigorated her minions who charged into battle, eager to please their Overlord! It was a one-sided massacre, the dogs struggled in vain to repel the minions, but with the sheer ferocity at which the brown minions battled paired with their stolen gear, all it amounted to in the end was all the diamond dogs laying dead and Gnarl clapping his claws with approval. "Ah, the old grab and stab! It is good to see that your friends aren't all goodie-goodie mi'lord!" Gnarl praised as Rarity chuckled awkwardly. Third/First person Pov: Rarity. One of the weirder things Rarity learned in her brief talk with Twilight before they rushed to save the rest of the town, was that Twilight was now an "Overlord" not a princess anymore. Well, technically she was still a princess, but according to Gnarl, Overlord was better than princess, but that wasn't the weird bit, but rather that Twilight was evil now. Rarity must say, she doubted the sentiment. Twilight might be a little more...violent, so to speak. But she would hardly call Twilight evil! If she was, she doubted that Twilight would have bothered with freeing her or anyone else from their chains. To Gnarl and the minions, however, Twilight was their "new master of all evil" and "scion of darkness". Rarity found the whole thing a little cute, seeing the minions cheer as Gnarl proclaimed Twilight's titles. Still, she'll keep an eye on Twilight, though she's confident her friend won't do truly dastardly things! At least...she hopes so... Third/First person Pov: Overlord Twilight Sparkle. As the new Overlord approached Suger Cube Corner. Three things happened in rapid succession. The first was an ear-piercing squeal, (which Twilight was sure broke whatever surviving windows there were). The second thing was her minions being scattered like bowling pins. And the final thing was her receiving the most powerful tackle/hug she's ever experienced. If it weren't for her new height and armor she was reasonably sure she would've been sent sprawling on her back. "OH MY GOSH TWILIGHT YOUR BACK!!!!" Pinkie shouted at such speed and with such joy that Twilight barely made out what Pinkie said and made Gnarl vomit on the spot! "I MISSED YOU I MISSED YOU I MISSED YOU!" Pinkie blabbered out as she bounced at such speeds that Twilight if she didn't know Pinkie would've been surprised that Pinkie hadn't made a pony-shaped hole in the ground. "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?! WHO ARE YOUR NEW FRIENDS?! WHY DIDN'T I KNOW ABOUT THEM!? TELL ME TELL ME!!!" At that point, the Overlord finally jammed her hoof into Pinkies mouth. "Calm down Pinkie!" Twilight sternly yet kindly said as she stared the element of laughter in the eyes, Pinkie nodded but still vibrated on the spot. With a sigh, Twilight smiled at her hyperactive, party-loving friend "Ok, come here" She removed her hoof and let her pink friend hug her. Unlike before, this one was much gentler but the mare still vibrated with excitement, Twilight returned the gesture before trying to remove herself. "Pinkie..." Twilight said in an annoyed tone as her friend refused to remove herself, they needed to save the rest of Ponyville! "We missed you..." The poofy main of Pinkie flattening a little making Twilight sigh. Before smiling, "I missed you too Pinkie." She let the hug go on till Pinkie was finally ready to let go, Gnarl said letting such things happen in public was bad for her evil image, but at the moment. She couldn't bring herself to care what the old minion said. Pinkie was one of her best friends, and that's that! She looked around as her cheery friend hugged her like she was about to vanish forever. Her minions were celebrating their victory, taking the opportunity to eat the sugary treats that Pinkie had been using as ammo, which they seemed to enjoy! Some of them went about looting the diamond dogs further, bringing her life force which she collected with her free hoof. Others decided to torment the diamond dogs left knocked out by Pinkies party cannon. Playing demented little games like wack-the-dog! In which the minions tied up a bunch of diamond dogs and whacked whichever one woke up! Others included pin-the-tail on the dog (blood included!) and one game was just them chasing a diamond dog up a tree, lamp post, or whatever was high ground and trying to stab at them like a dog trying to get a cat in a tree! Twilight couldn't help but release a dark laugh as she found herself enjoying the minion antics. "Wowie Twilight that's a good evil laugh! But it should be more like a MWAHAHA!!! Evil laugh!" Pinkie said suddenly, surprising the Overlord who looked to her side and saw Pinkie bouncing in place with a happy grin. When did she let go?!? 'Wait, why am I questioning that? It's Pinkie Pie...' Twilight shook her head exasperated as she stared at the cheerful party pony. The ponies Pinkie had been protecting slowly peeked out, which included Mr. and Miss's. Cake. Cheered when they saw that the diamond dogs besieging the bakery had been defeated, though they made sure to cover the eyes of any foals trying to peak out themselves. Foals did not have any business in seeing such carnage. Though speaking of said carnage. It was at that point that Twilight noticed the dead diamond dogs had what looked like black clouds coming out of their bodies, some of the bodies even vanishing outright! "I see you've taken notice of those black clouds rising from the dead diamond dogs, your Ladyship. That is called evil energy. It gathers in all us evil creatures. You will learn more of it in time, master." Gnarl explained with a sinister grin. Twilight nodded and looked at the vanishing carcasses one last time, yet more questions for her evergrowing pile... Third/First person Pov: Applejack "HEEYAH!" With a mighty buck, she sent a pair of diamond dogs flying into their own ranks, scattering them like leaves to the wind. Leaving them easy pickings for the dive-bombing pegasi. She growled as she looked around. It had been two hours since this blasted raid started, and from here, she could see the smoke coming from Ponyville as the dogs set it ablaze. The pegasai did their darndest to try and keep the flames at bay using rainclouds, but the dogs were an especially nasty sort, whenever a fire control team tried to stop the flames. Arrows, rocks, and whatever a dog had in hand would be shot/thrown at them. And the diamond dogs didn't discriminate with their fires, as she saw part of her family's orchard burn... Applejack is not the hateful type, not in the slightest, but at the moment, she hated diamond dogs! A LOT! "Applejack look out!" She spun quickly to see Rainbow Dash drive her hooves into a Diamond dog's face, knocking the mutt out cold. The element of loyalty stared down at the dog angrily before turning to her with an ecstatic expression! Applejack must say, but this is the happiest she's seen the rainbow-maned pony in a long while. "I HAVE AWESOME NEWS! AND GOOD NEWS! WHICH DO YOU WANT FIRST?!" She blinked. Awesome news and good news? "Uh, what's the difference?" At that, Rainbow scoffed and said, "Duh! The awesome news is AWESOME!" The eager grin returned, and it was about time she finally noticed something. The dogs were fleeing. What the? Did they finally give up? Had these hard hours of fighting finally paid off?! "Oh ho oh! Here comes the awesome AJ!" Rainbow Dash grabbed her head and turned it to where the dogs were running towards. The sounds of blades clashing each other echoed from the hill below, complete with mad giggling noises from a certain pink pony, but also the giggling and laughter of a ton of voices she did not recognize in the slightest. Suddenly a bright purple beam of magic shot through the air! Followed by the terrified yelps of diamond dogs who began to run back towards them! The dogs had a look of utter terror on their faces as they ran toward the Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The two ponies got ready to fight, only to watch as the diamond dogs literally flung themselves at their hooves and began to beg, "Please help us! We'ze sorry we attack you! JUST PLEASE STOP DAT MONSTER!!" Applejack looked down surprised. While Rainbow Dash looked down smugly as the few remaining dogs begged for mercy. "Applejack! Rainbow! I'm I seein' what I think I'm seein'?" Granny Smith called out. The old mare was wearing her soldier helmet, and she, along with the rest of the Apple family, could only stare in shock. What happened to these dogs?! What monster are they talking about?! As if to answer them, a Diamond dog suddenly crash-landed before Applejack! "And here comes the awesome!" Rainbow with all the eagerness of a filly being told to go crazy in a candy shop! And the surrendering diamond dogs screamed in a tone more befitting a filly. Applejack watched as this armored alicorn burst over the hill, their wings spread out, using the sun to cast their shadow over the remaining dogs. The dogs still fighting began to break and flee either towards the barn or into the orchard. Those fleeing to the barn soon joined their cowering kin. Those who ran into the orchard…well the screams Applejack heard were enough of an answer. “Strike them down!” The Alicorn shouted and Applejack watched as a horde of brown creatures charged up the hill and slaughtered whatever dogs remained fighting before rushing toward them! Applejack got ready to fight but instead watched the creatures stop before her and just…stood there. They had dumb, eager looks on their faces as they looked at the cowering dogs behind them. “Applejack! You're ok!” What the- Applejack watched the Alicorn. No…Twilight. Land with a heavy thump and the now larger Alicorn stare at her happily. “Twilight…is that really you?” She couldn’t help but question, but she knew with every speck of her soul that her friend had returned! Third/first person Pov: Discord. ‘Interesting…very interesting.’The embodiment of chaos mused as he spied on the new Overlord hugging it out with Applejack, “Oh gnarl my evil little friend you have your work cut out for you…” Discord cackled as his eyes snapped back into his head. “What was that discord?” Fluttershys quiet voice questioned as she poured a diamond dog grunt some more tea. “Oh nothing my dear, just watching some old pals.” Discord turned back to the impromptu tea party of diamond dog grunts and animals. Originally, he turned them all into balloons, but listening to their pleas and whining, Fluttershy asked him to turn them back to normal. He huffed and noted he should’ve made them silent, but he couldn’t refuse Fluttershy. At least he got to keep one authentic diamond dog balloon in the form of their captain. Said captain, squeaky his voice may be, was still making threats at him, Fluttershy, and of course, the pack that ditched him to get a better alternative than being balloons. When the raid started, these dogs were sent here in hopes of acquiring fresh meat for their clan. Thinking these animals were protected only by a singular, helpless pony. Discord will forever cherish their surprised faces when he popped out of thin air. Fluttershy wanted to rush to town and see if she could help, but Discord knew she would just be captured. Besides, he saw and knew exactly how this raid would end. He felt that ancient power awaken and knew who now bore the title of Overlord. ‘I wonder if sunbutts noticed yet?’ He can’t wait to see Celestia's reaction to her student becoming the champion of evil! Third/First person Pov: A diamond dog named Digger. “Would like some more tea Digger?” The shy pony offered to one of the grunts, a more grizzled member if his scars were anything to write about. "Thank ya kindly Fluttershy." The senior grunt said as he looked around. Things had taken quite a turn when he and his squad went to plunder this lone cottage for fresh meat. One second they were balloons, a little bit later, the kindness pony Digger ever met, convinced that draconequus to let them go and now they were having a tea party, their would-be prey acting as guests and waiters. Well...save for their "captain" who was still shouting angrily in a high-pitched voice, promising retribution and pain when he got free. He cast a glance toward the mish-matched devil who waved cheekily at him. 'Good luck with that.' Casting a look back to his balloon captain before drinking some of the freshly poured tea. He must confess, he feels bad about the raid, it was nothing personal! You can't just say no to the boss! ...Okay, you can, but it will likely result in your head being removed unless the boss really likes your idea. But even then... Just as he took a sip of his tea, that mish-matched abomination of a creature teleported in front of him! Spilling his tea in the process! "hehehe, your rude thoughts aside my houndish friend, I advise you to get ready, for you have company and your captain won't be a very good representative" Before he could question the chaotic spirit, he teleported again. Digger blinked as he looked down at the spilled tea, he looked around and saw his pack looking at him confused, a similar sentiment that was shared by the animals it looks like. Who on Equis was this "company" Discord mentioned? Third/First person Pov: Gnarl. "Well if it isn't my old drinking buddy!" The old minion said as he stepped off to the side to see his old "friend." "My my it's been too long Gnarl! Tell me! Is that a new wrinkle on that potato-shaped head of yours?" The draconequus said, pressing a thumb against Gnarl's head, making the old minion's face scrunch downward, making it look like he indeed had more wrinkles than he actually had. "I'm surprised this place isn't a wasteland of flying pigs and chocolate rain! What are you up to?" The old minion cast Equestria's sole draconequus a suspicious look, the old minion knew Discord was much more clever than he let on. And if the draconequus had plans to be supreme evil, he had another thing coming! "Oh don't you worry your wrinkly head Gnarl, I have no nefarious plans here my friend! For you see! I'm a reformed citizen of Equestria!" He said with an exaggerated bow. At that, Gnarl barked out a laugh, "HA! You? Reformed! That will be the day! Tell me Discord, what's sunbutt holding over your head to make you kiss her hooves and polish her royal buttocks?" At that, Discord frowned before smirking. "Why nothing at all, my glorified walnut, I simply learned a thing or two about friendship from your...*snort* "Evil" Overlord over there and her friends," he said with a smirk as he looked over at Twilight, who was currently questioning the diamond dogs Fluttershy talked down into surrendering. "Oi! Don't besmirch her evilness! Less you wish for a personalized version of the great draconequus war!" Gnarl stated in which Discord simply laughed, "I must say! I admire your faith in your new "dark scion" and how she'll be the next supreme evil!" Discord then leaned close to Gnarl. "I wish you luck Gnarl, your dark Overlord may just end up the Overlord of friendship and goody-two-shoes." Discord chuckled and smirked as Gnarl visibly gagged at the thought. Glaring up at the spirit of disharmony, Gnarl gave his own smirk "You wish you modern art masterpiece! The evil that lies in her blood is kicking into gear and she's already proved adept at slaughter and unleashing mayhem!" Discord merely grins. "Whatever helps you sleep Gnarl..." The chaos lord said before floating away to the disgustingly cutesy cottage. Gnarl rolls his eyes before turning back to his master. He grinned as she rallied her minions, with her friends and new subjects secured, it was time to march on the crystalline castle! Where the largest force of the remaining diamond dogs laid siege. If its origins were true, it was a little gift from the Tree of Harmony meant for Twilight to live in after her old home was blown up in the fight between her and Tirek. Which in turn meant a large source of magical energy! Once she's inside and imbues her Overlording magic in it. It will be enough magic to give the netherworld the kick in the pants it needs to accept her as the new Overlord! As he made his way to his master, he thought back on his little exchange with the chaos lord. He scoffed, before letting loose a dark chuckle and thought back to one of the Overlords of the past. "Heroes seldom know how close to evil they really are..." Author's Note And third chapter is done! I apologize for a lack of a boss...well, mini-boss fight, but as I was writing, I felt it wouldn't exactly blend well towards the end, so I decided to have Twilight do battle with the raid captain next chapter, which will be shorter than this one but it will be filled with action and an evil smiting! We will also see what the princesses are up too and learn little bits of the various lesser evils causing trouble for Equestria. Also I'm liking the comments from the previous chapter! The Kelpies will based on equal parts mixture of their mythical IRL counterparts and MLP's kelpies, with custom things here and there. I saw some of you mention the idea of Caribou appearing and I didn't initially have plans for them, this isn't a Fall of Equestria fic after all and there isn't any anthros to be found here. But after thinking on it for a while, I realized they could make for a good northern foe with an alliance to a certain dark unicorn, his name is up there in the tags after all. It must be noted that they are quite different than the sex obsessed pieces of manure they are normally portrayed as, if that was the case, the sex tag would be up there, here they are just asshole raiders storming down north (At least till Twilights wraps them in her iron-hoof) but Caribou and Kelpies won't appear for a good bit, for now this the "Diamond dog arc" if you will, Twilight learning the ropes of being an evil Overlord and slowly dominating Equestria under a proper evil! Also here is a map I'm using, for Equestria itself, you can ignore the other parts of the map for now. The only real changes is that the north part of the map will be expanded for the Caribou, most of the cities shown won't be a thing, and a certain city in the swamps from Overlord 1 will make its home in froggy bottom bog. Enjoy lads! https://www.deviantart.com/melongalaxy7/art/Map-of-Equestria-And-Beyond-790278917 (PS, I hope I did Twilight reuniting with her friends again well, save for Fluttershy and Rainbow, who I did off-screen, personally felt I perhaps did better but wasn't sure how exactly, still I hope you enjoyed it and will see you next time)