A week after establishing a gate in Canterlot, Jerry was once more out and about, though mostly to explore. This time, he was even down a coast and next to leaving outside the borders of Equestria. For now, this was just planned to be a little lifeforce gathering, and getting a feel for the new unmapped area.

At the moment they just barely skimmed the desert region known as the San Talomino Desert. The only reason they had not reached said desert-- was mostly due to where they were had sheep.

Lots of them.

To the point that upon discovery, he had just let the minions go about and kill all they could kill without a care. And yet there was just all the more around the sprawling fields-- granted running around. It was almost a tad funny, mostly to when the minions would jump on the backs of a few of the herd animals and go on a wild joyride on their backs.

Before stabbing, bashing and effectively killing them. Or burning them with the Reds fire. And oh the lovely lifeforce Jerry gained. He was honestly glad he took his Harvesting Helmet with him, as it was the go-to helmet to use for Life force gathering. The Overlord stood as he wore said helmet and Arcanium armor-- mostly the latter in ‘just in case’ he find something dangerous and have to fight it. He usually wear his Arcanium armor whenever he goes to unmapped areas, better be paranoid for the unknown than assuming.

“Sheepies!” laughed out a Brown as one was riding on a sheep back, before stabbing it with a blade it wield. Never change my dumb minions. Never change. thought Jerry as this was the most entertainment he had for a while, he glance to the cliffside, seeing over the ocean as he slightly mused on the Submarine, and wonder if it a human was piloting it. Granted that thought was farfetch...but he was here, wasn’t he?

He glance to the Minions bringing him lifeforce, as his armor absorbed it, going around behind him. Only to get sent out as he motioned his left arm to more sheeps, as this was rinse and repeat in terms of harvesting. Just keep sending the Minions out and doing what they do until nothing was left. Jerry gave a low sigh, as he wonder if he should keep traveling south, or go to the south east? Maybe explore all over the desert until there's nothing to be found? With my body I could endure the heat and walk...and my Minions would slavishly follow after me. Wonder if there's anything to note?

Whatever further thoughts he held came to a near halt as there was a horribly, if not somewhat noisy, horn sound. It was deep, and almost was something like a fog horn with just how deep it sounded. Jerry next to whipped his head around and nearly felt his eyes widen.

There it was again, surfacing from the sea and moving at a fast pace for land-- it was the black sub again! While it could be debated on the chances of seeing it again, he could see nice and clearly where it was. It was still pretty far out in the sea, but it was moving in and setting itself up before coming to a complete halt. If he had to guess, it was about 3… 400 or so feet away from the beach? Closer than before. Maybe just a 20 minute walk-- or rush, down from the cliff they stood on.

“Master! There it is! Nows your chance to find this upstart!” told Gnarl as Jerry admit, it was a chance to meet whoever ran the submarine. Hell maybe find out more if they were possibly human or something else. He glance to the Minions as most of the sheep were running off as some were collecting lifeforce. So he raised his left arm high as a loud horn came, causing them to all stop chasing the sheeps and coming back to him.

As the 40 minions moved around him, the Overlord began his ‘jog’ towards the beach as to meet the owner and get answers.

Making his way down the steep side of the cliff slightly hampered his progress, but the rush and need to know spurred him to move all the more quickly-- even with the slight threat of falling face first and tumbling. Rocks, dirt and pits of uptilled grass tumbled down the side of the steep parts he rushed down, rolling on more flat ground upon reaching it.

Once was he on more even ground did Jerry pick up his pace, armor clanging loudly while his minions rushed right behind him. Small sapling trees and bushes were brushed aside to reach his goal, a few rocks being ignored all the while as sand began to meet his feet.

When he finally reached the beach’s location, he had to stop and look around, gain his bearings and know where the waters where-- where the ship was!

He paused when he noticed a person before him, standing in place with a shocked face. Jerry had to pause himself, looking over the apparent green mare in the most tightest body suite he’d seen in a long time-- hugging her slender legs and appreciable bust of perky C’s and highlighting that toned stomach. She was a earth mare, he could tell-- and now that he realized, had a diving suit and a lean and smooth air tank on her back.

They stared at the other for a long moment, with the mare being the first to apparently remember something and quickly reach to her side-- getting out a knife of all things and held it before her as if it would protect her. “S-stay back!” She warned in a nervous tone, blond tail flicking in agitation.

“Wait, wait, wait-- I just want to talk!” said Jerry, inwardly flinch on the fact his deep tone doesn’t sound like he was a ‘reasonable’ guy, but continued. “I just want to know, where you came from and how you got that submarine came from. That's all.” he was also internally glad he could place his weapon in a ‘sheath’ around his armor, knowing if he had it in his right hand-- it wouldn’t give him brownie points to show he means well.

“And I know I look scary, and I got a bunch of...creatures behind me, but I’m a reasonable guy, alright?”

“Master, what are you doing!?” nearly shouted Gnarl as he went on. “It's just a earth mare! Although...it is surprising to see she doesn’t have a collar on her. Very intriguing…” but added. “But Sire, please just get going on the demanding business, she does after all, have a knife.” I am so glad no one but me can hear him in this helmet. internally thought Jerry as he knew if anyone heard the old minion, chances are his own words wouldn’t mean much.

She gave a slow gulp, and stuttered out, “I-ah, wha-what are you talking about?” Eyes flicking from side to side, fingers restlessly moving over the handle of the knife.

He slowly and carefully moved his gauntlet arm, specifically his right one, to the sea and explain. “The ship, the black submarine right over there. I saw it and I just want to ask. That's all.” trying to assure her as he went on. “I mean you no trouble, no harm, just want to ask a few questions.” he heard Gnarl grumble.

“Master, just overwhelm her! She can’t be-,” before being interrupted. “Ow, blast it child, stop pushing me!” as his little sister voice in.

“Big bro~!” whine the filly. “When are you coming baaack?” Gnarl splutter out.

“Get back whelp! This is the Tower Heart! Not a toy!” there was a pouting tone and Jerry could easily imagine the crystal filly crossing her arms as she told.

“But you use it all the time for Big bro Jerry! Even see and talk to him, why can’t I do it? I done it before!” bringing her own ‘logic’ into this.

“Because I’m his adviser and minion master!” Jerry felt like face-palming as it felt like he was in a argument with kids...then again, one of them is a child after all.

During the argument over the helm, the mare herself was silent and looking Jerry over with so much worry and suspicion, it made him wonder. Was she an escapee and was just frightened he might be allied with Caribou?

Those thoughts were tossed aside when he could hear the minions slightly muddling about or talking behind him, and for a moment sight her unease at them. It was then he recalled-- she wasn’t just addressing him. She was fully aware of the deep-voiced and heavy armor male… and a fair fore of minions that easily outnumbered her.

But, he was thankful to gain an answer. “I-it’s not my ship.” Trying to keep her voice under control while telling, “I-I’m only here to gather… that’s all.” Seeming unsure how much to say to him.

“Okay,” started Jerry as he thought that over. So shes possibly one of the crew...so who is the owner of the ship? Probably won’t met them because well...I’m not exactly cover in anything that says I’m nice. Or my Minions for that matter. he then heard Gnarl and Jasmine argue on in the helm, and sighed. Looking to the mare as he said simply. “Could I at least, pass a message to the owner of the ship?” deciding that was the best he could do in this situation in a peaceful manner.

She bit her lip, ears pinning back in uncertainty before saying, “Alright… what’s the message?”

Having a relief breath, he respond. “Tell the owner of the ship, that I, Jerry, or otherwise known as Overlord-- means no harm and is a enemy to the Caribou and I simply wish to talk. That's all.”

Nodding slowly, the mare began to back herself away. Her eyes did not leave him nor his minions and, as soon as the first soft crunch of sand could be heard-- she bolted. She bolted and ran as fast as possible towards the sub and nearly dived into the shallow portions of the water to start swimming.

And all the while Jerry watched, did he also have to listen to two squabbling people over his helm.

“And I told you that I-- Sire did you just let her get away!?” said Gnarl as Jerry told in a rather flat tone as he turned and began moving back up.

“Yes Gnarl, I did. I let her go, pass my message of willingness to talk, and wait.” he heard Gnarl having a low sound as the old minion told.

“You could of easily let your minions jump her and take the ship yourself!” only to hear a raspberry from Jasmine as she told.

“Nuh-uh! Big Bro could easily talk to her! He doesn’t have to be mean and nasty all the time, he can be nice too!” Gnarl argue back as Jerry made his way back upwards to the cliff as he saw the remainers of the sheep grazing in peace.

“He’s the Overlord! Of course he’s suppose to be ‘mean and nasty’, he's Evil!” Jerry sighed as he motioned his minions to start harvesting as they charge ahead as Jasmine told back.

“There's more than one way of being Evil! Like diplomatic Evil! Like the time Big Bro gave all those papers to those Resistance to look through!” Jerry couldn’t help but snicker and comment.

“You gotta admit, it is a rather karmic retribution for all the stuff they put me through. Seems fair I put them through hours of looking through papers and being annoyed by it.”

While he resumed his post as a ‘sheep-slauting-harvester’, as well as deal with the two arguing over the helm’s line, Jerry next to not bother to look behind him. So, it was to be expected he didn’t see that the ship had not moved, or the fact that something had made their way up the steep side he had come up.

Though he was aware when he heard a male voice. “You wanted to talk?” Sounding so calm and near frank about it. Turning, Jerry was a little surprised, if not pleased, about the quick responce. Not even a half hour later and the captain had come!

Though upon the sight of the more diverse dive suit with slightly protective orange padding, clearly more set apart from the mare’s admittedly sexy one-- he was also given sight to odd shoes with tapered ends, almost like fins and explaining the T shapes form before. But what had him most surprised, and nearly stepping back, was that the human’s face-- as human as it was, had green spots that glowed a yellow-green, and held glowing cracks, all the while slightly pulsating on their own will.

Oh shit...a human...well that one thought out of the way. thought Jerry as Jasmine gave a sound. “Eeewwww! He looks sickly!” Gnarl scoff.

“Oh please whelp! I seen worse, it's not that bad!” Jerry quickly respond to the man as he said.

“Yes actually, you’ll have to excuse me, I honestly didn’t thought you would come so soon. Usually when I ask to talk, it would take maybe more than half a hour, days at least. Give me a moment.” turning as he move his left arm up to keep the minions going on sheep slaughtering as he went on. “You’ll have to pardon me, I’m in the middle of something, but yes I did want to talk.” looking back to the man as he went on. “As you know, my name is Jerry, and I wanted to ask how you got a submarine in a place like this, and if you were the one sinking ships for some time.”

Staring at Jerry, then glancing past him to get a look at the minions, the man turned his attention back to the Overlord and told, “Albert. And to answer your second question-- no. I’m not the one sinking ships. I haven’t bothered to do that yet.”

To the question that almost began to burn into Jerry’s mind, Albert told, “They were sunk because a recent oceanic predator thought they were food. I’ll make it simple, the sea has become a bit more hostile than before.”

So that explains the missing ships, and why things seem odd around the ocean on the island. thought Jerry as he glance to see Minions bringing him lifeforce as once gained, sent out again as he look back to Albert as he asked another burning question. “So how did you got here? I honestly thought I was the only one in this place, you know, human.”

“An accident.” Gave the sickly looking diver. “I was messing with, admittedly? Unknown alien technology I probably had no business tinkering with--” But then tapped his head, “But being lost at sea for nearly three… four… who knows how many years makes you really board for something new to do.”

“Understandable.” said Jerry as Gnarl scoff.

“Pah, aliens? No such thing!” while Jasmine said.

“Cool! Do they actually exist, huh Big Bro?” Gnarl snarl out.

“Would you stop contacting the Overlord in the Tower Heart!?”

Jerry himself mused a little. aliens...and him being lost in sea for x amount of years...interesting. he then spoke. “Okay, well that answer those questions out of the way...to be perfectly honest, I honestly wasn’t expecting much of a reply. Considering I look like something you should probably stay away from, you know deep voice, armor, slavishly loyal minions around me. Doesn’t exactly show ‘trustworthy’ to be blunt.”

To which Albert countered, “And I didn’t expect to suddenly find a new alien species that was in the form of ponies with nearly drop-dead gorgeous bodies adrift at sea with aliens looking like anthro deers chasing them through the waters of the sinking ship.”

The other human slightly smiled and added, “I also figured you wouldn’t want to be anywhere close to me-- I am infected with a very deadly and dangerous alien disease.”

“Deadly disease eh? Well for a near dead man, he seems kicking.” cackle Gnarl before being bopped on the head by Jasmine who told.

“That's not nice!” and once more another argument broke out, as Jerry respond to Albert.

“Strange things make good company I suppose. As for the ‘deer anthros’? Those are called Caribous, I’m guessing you know what they done to the place here.” glancing to the Minions finishing as they brought forth much lifeforce to him as they all move around him. He lower his left arm as he turn his full attention to Albert as he went on. “Nevertheless I did have a reason to talk to you, I was hoping for at best, non-aggression agreement with you. Considering you have a submarine and all, I sorta assume the worst.” then went on.

“But I’m honestly hoping for maybe a alliance, or trade agreement. Or something to be frank.”

“Master, I know you’re trying to be ‘diplomatic’ but there's no need to be subtle of using the ship!” told Gnarl as jasmine counter.

“Big Bro is just trying to be nice! Beside I don’t think he can fit in it at all!”

Shaking his head and rolling his green eyes that almost held the same sickly yellow glow as the virus in him-- Albert said, “I’m not a leader to a nation or something-- I’m a scientist.” Then glanced at Jerry, “Well, scientist, explorer, builder, survivalist and a few other things.” Slightly resting his hands behind his back. “Why would you want an ‘alliance’?”

“To be blunt? I know you got technology that could really help, mostly in searching things that could be useful. And I know on a island I inhabit, there's a lot of stuff there, stuff that I honestly can’t get. Mostly because the island itself is a volcanic active site, with some spots that are cooling or still got lava around it. And I’ll be honest...my Minions are idiots.”

“Master?” said a minion with a tilt head, as if confused of what the Overlord just said.

Slightly tilting his own head, Albert summarized, “So you need me, mostly because you need a means to have better equipment and a better means to gain materials, and you know this because I have access to technology. Correct?” Seeming to double check on this.

“A Overlord doesn’t ask, he takes!” told Gnarl as he got bopped again. “WOULD YOU STOP THAT!?” he heard Jasmine gave a stick out tongue at the old minion as Jerry admit with a small shrug.

“Pretty much, granted I don’t know how high tech you are, but I figure I could at least ask, beside I’m willing to share whatever is on the island I can’t used but you probably can for whatever reason, right?”

For a long moment, Albert seemed to consider the man before him, only slightly scrutinizing him. But, after some moments, Albert said, “Maybe.” Then went on to tell, “But I’m only one person. I can’t do too much. If you want to gain materials, we’d need something more.”

“Like what, a workforce?” asked Jerry. “Because despite my Minions being stupid-- they at least know how to do basic workforce and follow orders. And trust me...I got loads of them.”

“Can they stand next to lava flows?” Asked Albert.

Jerry motioned to the Reds. “They can. They can even walk on it.”

Albert considered them for a slight moment before asking, “Strength?”

“How much they lift, or how much they can carry?” asked Jerry.

“Both, they might be handling heavy metals.” Explained Albert for a moment before asking, “Why do you need the materials?”

“A single Minion can’t carry much,” started Jerry. “But the more Minions they are? The more they are able to lift and carry things. As for why I need materials?” thinking some as he said. “Armor, weapons, give my minions a edge when fighting Caribous, maybe add in gold in the treasury room, as well as probably fortify my place better when the Caribous attack it.”

Brow raised, the self-proclaimed scientist summed up, “You’re at war with the Caribous.”

“Yeah pretty much,” shrugged Jerry. “Part of the job as Overlord honestly, attack a big group to overthrow it, and conquering-- but really I’m at war because I consider them a waste of life, resources and pretty much are asking me to go over and kill them.”

For a moment, Albert seemed to be in thought before he said, “I’ll think about it.” And without much warning, pulled something from behind his back. It made Jerry almost do a double-take at the odd, oval like object in the man’s hands-- though Albert seemed to explain, “This is a beacon. The top button will deploy it and begin a broadcast. Set it up at your place, and I’ll be able to find you.”

Moving to take the object, Jerry joked. “Sure, just see the big looming, dark and evil building with lava flowing out of it and you know it's where I lived.” then said. “And thanks for hearing me out without pulling a weapon to point at me, really refreshing to be honest.”

Giving a slight nod, the infected-human told, “I’ll be looking for you later. But for now? I need to just think this over.” Moving away to leave down the cliffside and eventually make his way to the beach.

Jerry nodded, as he heard Gnarl grumble. “Master you are seriously making it harder for yourself to be a Overlord!” Jerry tsked.

“Gnarl, you seem to be forgetting one fact I tell you now and then. I don’t need to fight to win battles.” recalling that quote from Sun Tzu as he turned and told. “Now, let's get moving, we do got a desert to move around in.” Jasmine called in as she asked.

“Is Big Bro going to come back soon?”

“Let me get a Gate up in the desert-- then I’ll come back, okay sweetie?” assured Jerry as he heard a long and groaning ‘fiiinnnne’. And Jerry was thankful for the now peaceful silence in his helmet. At least for now, knowing these two will be at it again sooner or later.

---

After moving around the desert, which took him a few days to be honest, setting up Gates here and there, did Jerry return to the Dark Castle and activated the beacon, as he knew he had to wait until the submarine came...or at least wait until Albert made his choice. Which Jerry took the time to relax a bit, as he was out of his armor, resting in the Private Quarters as he was looking over reports in his red robes over a desk and scrolls.

Hmm, got about 2250 Browns, 1500 Reds, 1532 Greens, and 1678 Blues. Most of which were harvested in the Dungeon, need to move more around Equestria to get more materials… 4 Spell catalyst found... scowling some as he look at a ‘message’ of the Resistance. Let see, ah yes, ‘go and cause Caribou trouble over Dodge Junction. Give our members time to move from their base, free imprison mares in caribous, sighing some as he said.

“You know, even though I said I work with them-- do they really have to be pushy? I mean, I get it, they got the entire Resistance on their shoulders, but...really?” feeling two arms move around him on his left side, as he glance back to see Shadow, smiling in as her wings move around him. Nuzzling his side as she spoke in a soothing tone.

“Master, don’t be bother by their requests. They simply don’t understand you like we do.” Moving more on his left side as she rest some against him. The man took Zealous words to heart, as he’s been taking his time to know more of his thestral, and took the pegasus suggestions of tussles. To which, Shadow enjoyed very much.

And despite feeling glad that he was doing good, it didn’t help with his slight stress as Jerry sigh some, but soon felt another pair of arms on his right side, as a giggle came as he felt a kiss on his other cheek. Turning to see his other mare, wearing her ‘proper’ uniform within the Private Quarters as the tan earth mare spoke gently, nuzzling his right cheek with love and attention to his needs.

“She is right, they only see you as the ‘big scary Overlord’-- not our sweet, kind, and loving Master~.” then look to Shadow, in the thestral own clothing of that short dress as both red-collar mares gave each other a confirming look, as they look to Jerry as Lovely suggested. “Perhaps Master need to relax some? Enjoy more of his mares and be spoiled?” while Jerry wouldn’t mind that, at all as it could help him relax and maybe gain more time with his mares-- something else has plans. As a Brown came up and called out.

“Black Shippy here!” Jerry blink some as he said.

“Seriously? It's been...3 days. I honestly thought it would take a week.” the earth mare pouted, as Jerry said. “Lovely, Shadow, come on. Time to meet him.” they sighed, letting go as Jerry got up, moving as he told to the Brown. “Prep my Durium Armor, got to at least be in something.” moving towards the throne room as when Jerry was getting his armor on, the mares, filly, and old Minion moved towards near the Castle gates, awaiting the armored man to come down. As he carried his Durium Axe this time, as they soon came out of the gates, waiting as both mares stick close by Jerry, as they both wore more modest clothings of a dress and modest maid outfit.

While the crystal collarless filly stood by him. And Gnarl just stood on the side as he waited to see this infected human…

Each did their own thing while waiting, such as the filly fidgeting in anticipation. Or the elderly minion watching with a stillness, if not slight annoyance at the time it was taking. Or the mare’s slightly leaning on their Master, to at least entice him to consider their offer from before so they could have some form of ‘fun’ later that day.

But when the time drew near, did they hear a sound. It made ears perk, as a heavy foot-fall could be heard. They glanced at one another before looking down the path, a bright light illuminating the otherwise dark ground form the everlasting ash clouds.

It was then, form around the corner, a large and round body made it’s way around, stomping all the while and getting ever closer. The five slowly lifted their heads, seeing that the thing was… fairly big. In fact, it took a split moment for the to realize, this wasn’t a being-- and for Jerry, he wanted to gap a bit at the MECH. A mech that was easily twice his size and being piloted by none other than the scientist.

It also had a similar paint job like his large sub, being mostly black with stripes of yellow and slight highlight areas of aqua. This was not mentioning how one of the arms was given what looked to be a four-fingered hand.

Well...shit. thought Jerry as Gnarl spoke. “What sort of golem is that? Better yet, how dare he try to upstart you, Sire!”

“Cooool!” told Jasmine as she look over the thing, taking in the sights of the thing as Shadow muttered.

“I...never seen anything like it…” Lovely could only nod her head in agreement, as both were shocked by it. Jerry however, couldn’t help but joke to Albert.

“I guess you couldn’t help yourself but arm yourself with a giant weapon pointing at me, huh?”

They watched through the transparent glass front, As Albert let go of the controls and stood up, opening the hatch at the top to slightly pull out and sit on top of it. With a slight smile, the scientist said, “It’s a volcanic island. I thought it would be safer inside a PRAWN suit that’s made for hostile environments.”

“Eh, fair enough.” said Jerry as he motioned his arm around. “That's Gnarl, my adviser,” motioning to the elder minion who gave a scrutinizing look to Albert and his machine. Jerry motioned to Jasmine. “This is Jasmine, my adopted sister...which I’m honestly still surprised of.”

“Hi!” said the filly as she look over the thing as she told. “Your thing looks really cool!” then amended with a look to Jerry, “Not as cool as my Big Bro though.” Jerry rolled his eyes in amusement as he motioned to the two mares close to him.

“And these are my, well…” trying to find a ‘polite’ way to state that they were his property.

Albert, seemed to hold no tact, “Your slaves.” Seeming to be right on point while motioning to them, “I can see the red collars from here.” Then went on to tell, “In honesty, that might complicate things. Not for me, the situation as it is hasn’t changed. You need resources, and so do I. Your island, if it has what I need, might be someplace I will want to get working on.”

Seeming to tilt his head, Albert went on to say, “I could start pointing fingers, but I was told how some Red Collars are. So it can be debated on why they are with you.” Then looked to the filly, “But… if Jasmine, right? If she’s without a collar, than I think I can give a benefit of a doubt for now.”

Jasmine pout as she cross her arms and told. “Big Bro may have Lovely and Shadow as his slaves-- but he treat them well and they want to be under him.” then added cheekily. “He may be a ‘big bad Evil Overlord’, but even Evil got standards!”

From the looks of it, Albert was amused. “Oh, young, sassy and adorable?” Then seemed to grin, “Next thing you know she’ll be barging in your room and hopping on your bed to wake you up to do something fun-- or is that the norm?”

“She does.” told Jerry as both mares giggle with Jasmine grinning wide.

“You sound like siblings then.” Told the infected human. “But,” His tone quickly lost any trace of amusement to tell, “Being a ‘big, bad evil overlord’ doesn't tell me how good of an ally he is. The world is far from fair.” Seeming to look at her seriously, “We both know that we both can’t take chances in this time of age.”

He glanced to Jerry and said, “I’ve thought it over and I think I’ll be fine with the idea of being an ally. I might help, but until we know our boundaries, don’t expect too much help at first.”

At least it's better than him shooting at me and attacking me with missiles. thought Jerry as he thought on what Albert said and asked. “You mentioned complications. You mean for your crew to meet me by chance and assume the worst as they’ll attempt to kill me?”

Raising a brow, Albert said, “They’ll assume the worst because you have two of their people in a collar.” Then raised a hand to motion to them, “There is a forced occupation of their kingdom, by an invading force that’s turned their males against them. Forced their wants on mares to get raped anywhere at any time. Harming the female populus and stealing fillies from their mothers-- they have every right to be scared and angry.”

Sitting in place and crossing his arms, the scientist sighed and shook his head. “You can change that image if you want. But you have to prove it to them.” Then scrutinized them for a moment. “I don’t really have a say here. But I’ll say this, they might not trust you at all.”

He paused in thought, tapping the side of his cheek where one of the green spots seemed to slightly pulse in irritation at being tapped. Though, the human himself showed no duress at it’s action. “You mentioned you’re fighting the Caribou… are you helping the ponies become free?” Asking this to Jerry as he said, “Because I’ll consider making this alliance more permanent… if you’re willing to send them with me where I can hide them in complete safety.” Which, sounded almost silly. Even to Gnarl whom was realistic in mind.

“First those wenches in that Resistance want the Master to send mares to them, now you say you'll send them to a safer place? Rubbish!”

“Ignore him, he's ‘old fashion’.” Said Jerry as he told. “To be honest I have been sending mares I freed to the Resistance, granted most want to run from me since I do look evil admittedly.”

Tilting his head to this, Albert said, “Resistance? I’ve heard of them.” Though he admitted that he had no means to contact them. “But it’s good to hear some are getting out free, but I’m going to guess it’s not completely safe.” Going on to tell, mostly hinting at Gnarl, “Would they be willing to consider my offer about a place with greater safety measure against the Caribous?”

Jerry thought over to this, while Gnarl scoffed. “Oh they might, even though they would scrutinize you and think you're a fool, they might jump to it if it means getting whoever they got into a safe area.” Then told. “Although they will be highly skeptical of you and your offer. They were skeptical of the Master, generosity of aiding them.” Both mares by Jerry frown and agree with nods, as they hug the man arms in their place.

“They don't know Master like we do.” Said Shadow, knowing that while it seems pointless to try change the minds of the Heads-- she knew that the mares had to at least defend their stud some.

Lovely nuzzle bit on the Overlord, keeping close to him as the earth mare added. “He does not ask too much, he is a reasonable Master.”

“Big Bro can set up a meeting though, he got a way to meet with the Resistance easy!” Told Jasmine, Jerry gave a amuse sigh as he spoke in.

“They might listen, but like Gnarl said. Skeptical of a safer place. I can at least be able to get you and then meet up to talk over the details.”

Almost with a secretive smile, the scientist told, “I think I have something they might turn their heads to.” Seeming to be fairly confident about it. “But meeting the resistance might come later.” The man seemed to look over the group before him for a moment before asking, “What else did you have in mind for this alliance. Since one of my ideas can’t happen until I talk to the Resistance.”

“Materials, you get what you need, I get what I need,” started off Jerry as he went on. “Uses of my Minions of constructions, movement, carrying heavy things.” Thinking of what could be beneficial.

“There might be a slight problem on a few of those.” Albert admitted.

“Like what?” Asked Jerry as Jasmine asked.

“Is it because most of the minions are stupid and the only ones who swim are the Blues?”

Glancing to the crystal filly, Albert turned back to Jerry and said, “A bit of A, a good portion of B…” Then thought on it before telling. “And for the fact that besides working on land-- I’ll also be working under water… possibly hundreds of meters under said water.” Making them all pause.

“What, impossible, nothing can survive underwater that deep, maybe the Blues, but nothing else.” Gnarl told as the ponies just look on, Jerry hum as he said.

“A underwater base...yeah I can see how that's a problem…”

Holding up a hand and repositioning his legs from where he sat, Albert told, “It’s my ace in the hole for the Resistance. I have base, and multiple smaller bases acting like houses-- all around 80 to a hundred meters under the sea’s surface. If I can train a few and properly outfit others, I could take ponies at two hundred meters down.”

Glancing to Gnarl, Albert added, “And you’d be surprised on what lives in those depths. The oceans deep-- so deep that at some point, no light can reach the bottom. I try not going to too many extreme depths-- deeper you go, the more hazardous the area gets and the higher the crush depth goes. A hundred meters is a relatively safe and shallow area.”

While Gnarl gave a scrutinized and doubtful look, Jasmine gave a seeing look and asked to Jerry. “Is he right Big Bro? Does thing get crush when you go down more?” As she and effectively both mares look to the Overlord as he hum… and said.

“Yeah. It does, it usually happens with pressure and how the ocean sea level works I think.” Jasmine looked amazed at that, as both mares never knew that it could happened. They just assumed the water would just be fine the deeper you get.

With a fairly serious tone, Albert told, “It’s going to be one of the first things I warn anyone about before they consider going to my bases under the water.” Gaining looks. “The deeper you go, the higher the chances of the pressure crushing your body. A hundred meters it the absolute edge of ‘safe’ as you can be. Past that, and it starts to build.”

He motioned to his machine, and told, “Even this PRAWN suit can only handle so much. If it goes past its crush-depth, then there’s a very high chance it’ll decompress and get turned into pancake-- in a manner of speaking. And it goes deep, 1,700 meters.”

Pausing in thought, the man went on, “One way to look at it, would be stacking mares into a pile. The mare at the top won’t feel any pressure, but for each mare below her-- more and more pressure is felt. Because there’s more and more ponies with weight pulling down on them. Same goes for water.”

As the ponies were taking that in, as Shadow look to Jerry as she asked. “Master, do you think the Resistance might see this chance as foolish?” being a bit doubtful that they would believe this to be true, even she felt some doubts that this was possible, Jerry himself thought it over and nodded.

“They'll definitely need proof. To them and everyone else here? What Albert is talking is insane talk.” Thinking as he admit. “Really hard to sell what you're offering.”

“I have been lost at sea for years.” Noted the man idly, “I think I’m entitled to a bit of insanity.” A bit of humor sprinkled in his otherwise frank tone. “But here’s a question-- how much land is there, and how much Ocean is there?” Seeming to sit back more before adding, “I have ponies living with me already. They can bring their input.”

Jasmine look up to Jerry as she asked. “Maybe we can ask those Resistance members to come here for Albert to take to this underwater place, Big Bro?” Then added. “He does have a point, there's a lot of water here, those mean Caribous can't swim good.” She then consider and asked to Albert.

“But how can Big bro help you in this alliance? He doesn't have much.”

With a tilt of his head, Albert asked, “What about food? Water? Maybe normal fabric materials?” Naming off a vew nonsensical things. “I have a lot at my disposal. But the more people I start supporting underwater-- the more food and fresh water they are going to need. And I can only grow plants so fast and process fresh water only so quickly.”

Then added in with a glance over them. “Also… all I can make on fast demand are dive suites. They work fine, but I think the mare’s have more than once complained about ‘not having anything underneath’. Real cloths would be nice to them.”

Shadow spoke in. “Luckily we do have cloths, Master got some for us, and extras for Resistance to trade during his hits at Caribous. We mostly been using fabrics to make modest clothings” Smiling at Jerry as she gave a loving nuzzle to his side as she added to prove that Jerry could be trusted. “He is thoughtful like that, giving clothings to them with the supplies.”

Gnarl add in. “We also got food and fresh water, most are from hitting Caribou supplies, but plenty to have.” Humming some as he told. “We also do have many fabrics, most of which we have unused at the moment.”

Giving a single nod, Albert said, “Good to hear. I can exchange any and all things I find for those.” Then seemed to name off, “Gold, Nickel, Salts, Titanium, Copper, Lithium, Diamond, Sulphur, Aluminum Oxide crystals--” Mostly naming off the materials he could find or even mine if ever found. It was a fair amount.

Almost seeming to realize something, he added, “Oh, I almost forgot.” Giving them all a look and telling, “Specimens.” Making them give confused looks. “If you can bring me some specimens-- flora or fauna, I can take a look at them. Maybe find out something new I can exploit for use.”

Jerry thought over as he said. “I got some fauna around, a bit of flora. Granted not much since we lived in a place like this.” Thinking some as he said. “But I know some places you can get more.” He then said. “But anything you can trade will be appreciated, especially gold. I can use that for a lot of used.”

“Especially with your treasury low.” Teased Jasmine as Jerry rolled his eyes, but went on.

“But if you need water, food and fabric now, I can get the Minions grabbing them and bring them somewhere for you.”

Thinking that over, Albert said, “Later. Right now I need to first figure out what I can effectively trade off and what raw materials I can find around this island-- on land and under the water in it’s vicinity.” Giving a questioning look to Jerry, he asked, “How soon can you contact this Rebellion?”

“A couple of minutes admittedly.” Said Jerry. “I got a Gate at their HQ, think of it as a teleportation from the Castle to wherever I wish.”

Giving a slight nod to that, Albert moved to slip back into the large Prawn suit, and told, “I’ll be back. I’m going to get some mare’s that are familiar with the base. If you can contact them and let them know they have another ally, we can get it done and over with now.”

Jerry nod, as he said to the mares by him. “Go back to the Quarters, I'll see you back.” They gave unhappy looks that they won't spend ‘quality time’ but knew their Master need to do his business, as he said to Jasmine as the mares headed back in. “You'll stay in the Castle,”

“But Big Brooooo!” Whined the crystal filly. “I wanna go with you this time!”

“It's a quick visit.” Said Jerry as she pouted and cross her arms. He sighed and said. “I promise I'll take you along next time. Promised.” She relent as she headed back in as he said to Gnarl. “Keep me posted on anything.”

“Of course Master.” Bowed the minion as Jerry look to Albert and ask.

“When do you want me to bring them if they want to meet you and this underwater base?”

PAusing to that, Albert told, “Shoreline if they’re willing.” Then leaned on the opening of the hatch and told, “if they don't plan to come to the shore to talk-- send one of your little minions to tell me. I’ll be at the shore.” Then, set himself down inside. The hatch closed and once more taking the controls, the large mech began to stomp it’s way around and away back to the shoreline.

Jerry gave a thumbs up, as he went inside the Caslte, supposedly to meet this Resistance and inform them of the news.

---

Jerry sometimes wonder if he shouldn't take the mares offer before leaving. As he stood before four of the Heads, as Periodic was busy researching as the four mares were, more or less arguing on ‘their plan’.

And supposedly they need him around to ‘confirm’ their plan of this unknown male and his aid offer. Gnarl laugh in the helm as he said. “See how they squabble and bicker Master? It's like seeing who's more right in their ‘heroics’!” Jerry slightly wonder if the mares really want him here to just suffer and stand to hear them argue.

“I say we don't meet him, it's obvious a trap!” Told Stonehooves.

To that, Screech argued in return, “You heard Shire, we can’t just expect this place to remain hidden. The previous HQ’s we’ve set up over the years have been compromised a few times-- two of them actually being compromised successfully enough that we had to haul ass before said ass was taken and pounded.”

Giving a slight scaything look to that, Pearl told in return, “We can’t just trust this male either. I know it’s a risk-- it will always be a risk, but take a look at how it is. He comes from nowhere and offers a supposedly ’safe’ place?”

“Who says I trust him?” Asked Screech, “What I’m saying is that we only have so much room, and whoever’s not fighting is hold up in our bases and hoping to not be found-- and we do lose them. Even if the HQ is safe most of the time, the other bases aren't always so lucky.”

Shire gave a agreeing nod. “We also don't have enough supplies to feed extra mouths, even in the small bases there's not enough to go around.” Looking to her fellows as she went on. “We need alternatives, places the Caribous won't find and attack. I say we hear this male out. We don't have any other places to hold up the non-fighters. And even if we do? It's a matter of time till they are hit.”

“I'm saying we shouldn't, sure it's a risk, but who say it's not a trap to put us in a worse position. After all we are hearing this from our,” Stonehooves giving a glare to Jerry. “Ally who I rather we never let him in the first place. Who to say this one isn't lying to us?”

Jerry couldn't help but rolled his eyes as the white glowing eyes under the helm look to the mares and told. “I feel so touched.”

“Don’t be.” Told Screech simply before saying, “Then how about this instead?” Motioning to Shire and told, “We send our diplomat to take a look around-- with some agents.” Arms crossed and telling, “One head, a few guards and if it’s a trap? Minimal losses. If it’s not, we get a opportunity.”

Giving a glance, Screech added, “No offense to you Shire, but out of all of us, you have the least amount of influence in this whole fight. We can afford to lose a diplomate-- but we can’t afford to loose Pearl for her command over most of the troops we have, I’m working on intel, Stony there is keeping our weapons and equipment up to date and good--”

“I get it. I'm the sacrificial one to toss at.” Said the mare dryly, looking to them as she said. “Fine, I'll go,” but told quickly. “If, you all agree to finally send mares and fillies to our ally location from here on out. If things do work well? We need to send them elsewhere beside our bases and the HQ, and the Overlord has plenty of space for them to wait until this male comes.”

To that point, Stone Hooves turned to the Overlord himself to ask, “What do you know about this guy?” Suspicion still clear in her tone, “You said he’s got a safe place and will house our civi’s. But that’s ALL you’ve told us so far.”

“Considering you all wouldn't let me finish,” started Jerry in annoyance as he continue. “I know the guy sees things in logical point of view, more of a researcher, tend to explore and move around. Won't be interested in sexual appeals due to being in a suit. And got no tact and straight to the point.” He then added. “He also isn't like guys you seen. Sorta like me, but in terms of species and not occupation.”

While most gave looks to that, mostly pertaining to how they didn’t even know what he looked like under the armor, Screech probed out, “So he’s the same species like you?” Trying to recall the name, “Humon.”

“Hu-man.” Corrected Jerry, “and yes, just a few feet smaller than me.” Then added. “But he looks different, so when you see him, don't expect I look like he does.”

They gave looks as Pearl said, “Alright, we’ll bite.” Seeming to realize that there might be something here they were missing. “What do you mean by that. Is there something off about him that isn’t normal?”

“Yeah there is.” Said Jerry as Shire asked.

“Like what?”

“For one he see things all scientist like, might be odd looking, and don't expect him to wear nothing but a diving suit.”

“You mean like you never get your armor off?” Snark Stone.

“I take my armor when I'm at my Castle.” Counter Jerry. “Buuuut try not to shake hands with him. He's sick, and I mean in the terms of having a disease.”

That sent a new wave of worry, as Screech said, “Oh no, are you really expecting us to even send anyone now?” The motioned at him, “If he has some sort of disease-- that could be a disaster for anypony going to this base!”

“He has free mares working for him and as far as I know, they aren't catching what he got.” Told Jerry, usually he would be more ‘diplomatic’ but considering he's been standing here and listen to their talking for two hours? Made him rather used that time for something else. “Hell he said he’ll have crew members who been there to be brought up and talk to who's coming to confirm things are good.”

“Watch your tone.” Told Pearl as Jerry heard Gnarl scoff.

“You should watch yours, wench!” The man took a low breath as he said.

“Sorry if I seem a tad bit annoyed, but I've been here standing for two hours hearing you all argue, when I could use that time to do something productive and come when you all made a choice. So sorry if I'm not in the mood in being ‘nice’ right now.”

Almost as annoyed, Pearl spoke, “Maybe you should reconsider before nearly barging into the middle of a meeting.” Though it wasn’t particularly the male’s fault, it was still a tad annoying to get interrupted midway through a few delicate matters.

Still, Screech seemed to repeat, “And you’re sure it’s not infectious?” Having all the weariness of a germaphobe.

“I got near him and I'm fine.” Told Jerry. “Pretty sure it's not infectious unless you touch his body and not wear gloves.” Then said. “So is Shire going now-- or should I just wait for her to teleport in my place and let Albert know the news?”

Each passed a glance between the other, right before Pearl told, “We need a moment to talk it over.” Then glanced and told, “Screech, get Periodic. Tell him it’s high priority.” Getting a single nod from the thestral that got up and moved her way out.

“Then I'll be on my way.” Said Jerry as Stone spoke.

“Now hold on, we need to bring up something.” Jerry couldn't help but groan.

“What is it? I swear if it's something like getting more gold from me, then I got bad news-- but I'm slowly running out.” Stone shook her head and told.

“No. It's about the filly.” Jerry pause, looking at her...and asking in a neutral tone.

“What about Jasmine?”

Folding her hands, Pearl said, “You wanted us to find that sister she talked about, didn’t you?” Then set her features into a familiar mask of neutrality. “Screech found a lead. It’s a small one, but a lead. Nothing's been confirmed, but there’s a chance that she can be found now.”

“...Good. Just let me know when and where and I'll be there.” Said Jerry as Shire took a low breath and said.

“There is also the matter of Jasmine coming to a safer place when her sister is found.”

“I thought we agree that she would stay with me.” Spoke Jerry as he managed to speak calmly about this.

“The agreement was she would stay with you as her temporary guardian.” Corrected Pearl. “When her older sister, a mare that’s an adult, is back, then all custody of her goes back to her elder sister. What she choses to do and where to go is up to her-- not you.” Then seemed to more firmly tell, “She’s Jasmine’s rightful guardian by blood.”

“Of course.” Said Jerry cooley as Stonehooves snort and question.

“Don't tell me the supposedly ‘Evil Overlord’ is starting to go soft on a filly that's not related to him at all, hmm?”

Jerry hum and said. “Let just say that she's starting to shine on me and keep it at that.” Stonehooves scoffed and told.

“You got those two traitors around your legs, you should be fine.” Jerry felt like gripping his weapon as he said as calmly as he could.

“You can bad talk me, but please...don't bad talk them around me.” giving a deadly look to the dark earth mare as he reminded. “I told you what could happen if you kept talking bad about them...don’t make me go through with it now.” and despite the deadly look given to her, the trader held her ground with a snort and crossed arms.

While she herself held little to no respect to the tail lifters that had submitted themselves like sex-slaves under their supposed ‘Ally’ known as Overlord, Pearl knew when pressing too much was a bad mistake. “Stone Hooves, this doesn’t have anything to do with the situation.”

She was more than thankful for when Screech came back, Periodic in tow before saying, “You can leave, Overlord. This shouldn’t take anymore than a half hour to talk over.” While she again would not admit it… Shire was right. They had to ration supplies and space. If there was a area to get the civilians out of the way-- all fillies and mares and what few stallions were unfit to fight? Then they needed this badly.

As the man gave a long look to them and especially to Stone, he soon turn and walked off to the Gate. Periodic glance as he took his seat and look to Stonehooves as he asked. “You antagonize him with his mares, didn't you?”

While the strong mare did nothing but snort and cross her arms, Screech seemed to press, “Someone’s apparently still sour about how he’s doing a fair bit more damage than our trained forces.” But skipped over the possible subject to glanced at those around the table.

It was Pearl to speak first, “The Overlord has just informed us of finding a potential ally.” And if she knew Screech, Periodic had little clue as to what this entailed. So, she gave him what he no doubt wanted to know. “It was another male, one that apparently claims he’s got a large portion of safe area that the Caribou can’t find or reach for all mares and fillies willing to. At all.”

The unicorn held a skeptical look as he said. “Really? And should I ask what this place is and his price is for such a thing?”

“Apparently under the ocean in a underwater base, about 100 meters down.” Said Shire as the stallion blink, thinking over a moment as he asked.

“Interesting, so how is this bad thing beside not knowing what this male want in return?”

With a tone of suspicion, Screech said, “That’s the thing. He has none.” Making Periodic come to a screeching halt. “The closest thing we could even put together as a ‘cost’ is just sending fresh water, food or clothing for anypony being sent to him. Apparently, as long as some deal between him and the Overlord hold, they’re fine.”

Pearl interjected though, “Or it’s possible the Overlord overlooked something and didn’t mention it to us.” Hardening her gaze as she told, “He tends to do that, neglect information either purposely or just outright forgets.”

“Considering we’ve been holding some things from him, is it surprising he does the same?” Question the diplomat unicorn with a raise brow. “After all if I recall most of this group question seem to be, ‘how many forces do you have?’ Or ‘how do we know we won't expect you to backstab us?’ As he repeatedly show that despite his ‘origins’ he seem like aiding us, mostly to put down Caribous.”

“So he can try to conquer Equestria.” Counter Pearl as Periodic reminded.

“His adviser said that, not the Overlord.”

Rolling her eyes, Screech said, “Your idealistic Periodic-- I’m sure we’d be tickled pink if he was telling the truth.” Then said rather pointedly, “The problem is, we can’t take that chance. If and when we do puch those bastards off our lands, Equestria’s whole military and defense will still be in shambles. If he wanted to, it would take one strike and we’d be at square one.” Then went on, “And this isn’t mentioning the debt in funds we would have towards him.”

“Like it or not, we can’t afford that, Periodic. Not at all.” The thestral being brutally realistic. “The current plan pertaining to this new male is risky. We plan to send Shire with some agents. Unlike you or the rest of us, we can afford to lose Shire. And to be blunt, she’s best suited for any possible negotiations with this male.”

Periodic thought that over, as it was strategic and make most sense to send Shire. He did soon ask. “If this does go right, and we have a place to send the civis somewhere safe...just how will we send them to this underwater place?”

Shire spoke in. “I'm hoping that we can send them through the Gate of the Overlord, as he’ll transport them to this Albert.” Stonehooves soon add in.

“Maybe when you go through the Gate, you can check out this ‘Castle’ before meeting this male.” Periodic sighed as he rub his forehead to hrstion.

“Please don't tell me you all want a recon as well to this?”

Scoffing, Screech said, “As nice as that sounds, I doubt she’ll have the chance.” Then seemed to remind the others, “From what I could tell when the ‘Dark Master’ had said before, this male’s waiting for our response. It’s possible he’s still at this Castle waiting.”

“Still be good to know how he's able to do more than we do.” Grumble Stone as Periodic rolled his eyes.

“He commands a small horde of imps and travel around with the Gates. Gates I may add, only he could use or able to make work.”

“That's the thing! Just how!? Those damn Caribous could've use them, and the damn Gates are open and around!”

Pearl had to agree, “I’m worried sooner or later that some unlucky chance a Caribou will figure out a gate and all of them will just have a free pass to anywhere with a gate. It’s a horrible situation.” Then sighed with relief, “At least they’re more busy trying to destroy the gates than open them.”

“You mean if they can.” Counter Periodic. “We all know that the magic itself is something that can’t be used by them, and we know that they’re magical constructs that tend to regenerate.” shrugging some. “In short? We don’t need to worry of the Caribous doing anything about them beside dying some horrible and agonizing death.”

Sighing and shaking her head, Screech said, “The point we’re just making is that it’s still a risk. A seemingly unlikely and impossible one-- but guess what?” Raising her hands to wave them and say, “Impossible happens a lot. Discord is one example of that.”

“Anyways.” Pearl interrupted, “I think we need to steer back to topic.” Giving a look to Shire saying, “You’re the one going head first into the manticores den. Do you think you can handle it, Shire? We might send some of our own to protect you-- but you’re still going into unknown territory.”

Shire thought over it and admit. “It's risky...but so was trying to trust the Overlord…” Then sighed heavily. “I'll do it. At least to see if we can finally bring the civil somewhere safe than here.” They nod their heads as they soon dispert to do what must be done.

Next Chapter: Under the Sea~ Estimated time remaining: 41 Hours, 7 Minutes