The needed supplies, tools and equipment for the mission were nearly rushed to the Military base on the main island to the ponies. Alpha Base and a few smaller underwater places, like those near the island itself, were used to produce a few dive suites, air tanks, flares and other small things.

A few volunteer Prawn Suit pilots were also brought in by Cyclops, mostly being moved to help with the ambush mission to come. Flush was among these numbers, though they only made up five in a single group. Not that she would complain. Prawn Suites were powerful pieces of mechanized hardware in her experience. Possibly a bit much for something like this.

But, they weren't going to be solely for combat. Rather, they were going to use the things impressive storage containers to move a large amount of items. Containers, she might add, were… rather roomy. In a sense, she wondered what sort of magic or technology made these things hold so much stuff? It was ridiculous!

Still, she and the four other volunteers were currently on the island itself. Going over their mechs and making sure they were equipped with the needed upgrades and tools for this job. She glanced towards where the beach was, and idly wondered when those explosives would come. Most of which, she and her team were going to carry for the Resistance Fighters.

Flush sighed and went back to looking over her own tablet. She walked around the large suit, and partially wondered how this mission was going to pull through. If she understood the recent debriefing made by one of the troops stationed here, they were going to go out one of the gates near a river and then travel down stream under the water's surface. A rather good plan, since it would help them remain undetected. Or, unless someone were to look very carefully into the river’s waters.

But none of that was happening until the explosives came along and were dropped off. Nearly half of which was to be sent off to that Overlord, Jerry, to do his part.

Leaning back on her Prawn, the pink mare placed down her tablet and looked up in thought. Well.. This is something. Going back to land again, but this time to get the elements… She hoped things turn out for the best. Last time things went pretty well, all things considered. Only a few hundred crystal ponies died from the surprise attack on the Crystal Empire, and they next to saved the remaining thousands. Also had gotten both princesses back to boot! But now? They had to get the bearers, and form the sounds of it, there was a chance they might slip by…

But despite the large amount of stress that comes with high-risk missions, there was a chance that if, if somehow one slip by? Then they would unload a surprise as Jerry would take the last remainders, after the ‘safehouse’ was destroyed with that last bomb ‘Pyro’ would make.

One of the pilots shook her head as she said to Flush. “You know, I wonder how those explosives will get here in time? I mean sure Albert ask this Periodic guy-- but I doubt one stallion could make hundreds of different bombs in a short amount of time, right? I mean it took nearly 10 of us to make half the stuff for the base in days.”

Giving a glance, Flush said, “I don’t know. It’s not my jobs.” Then went on, “They could be just using a fabricator to make most of the parts and slap them together. Hard to tell what the Eggheads are up to.” then went on in thought, “But, I think Al knows what he’s doing.”

Turning to look at another, Flush asked, “Still, she made a point on time. You think it’ll take while to get here?” Knowing that the ships they had for the sea were only so fast.

“I think Albert would have a group of Seamoths do the job.” Nodded the next pilot. “Those things are pretty nimble, I got to drive one around. It can swim circles around any of the other things we have. Get here much sooner too.”

Huffing and leaning back, Flush snorted with crossed arms, “I’m just hoping a leviathan class fish doesn't come along, Joy.” Then went on with a near flat look, “I heard they’re getting a bit more touchy in the open water now. I think the crew of the ‘Sea Dog’ was damaged badly a few days back. And around one of the deeper areas between here and the Alpha Base.”

Perking to this, the mare named Joy asked, “Are they alright?”

Hand waving, Flush told, “A few burns and bruises, but Glint said that it wasn’t anything serious.” Then shook her head with, “Cyclops nearly blew up though. According to Glint, the captain got the shield up in time before bugging out. Apparently they ran into a Sea Dragon that was out and about hunting for a Reaper to gobble up.”

“Damn, they were lucky to get that, otherwise they would of been chowder.” winced another pilot, as she lean back against her PRAWN as she said. “Speaking of deadly situations, any idea how we’re suppose to get the Element Bearers if phase one fails? Granted we up the explosives as planned, but they’re all spread out with the trains, right?”

“From what I can tell?” Asked Flush, “They plan to have a attack group hit the trains during the first phase. And if any slip past, then the trains all head to some choke-point at a bridge where we’ll be stationed to cut them off again.” Then gave a shrug, “If they slip by again? Something about blowing up the safe house they plan to escape to, and force them to turn around or scramble for another place to escape.”

A mare nod some, as she thought some and asked. “So, how are we going to get the Element of Generosity? I mean I know we’ll get the rest, but what's Al plan to get the last one if she's so up north?”

“Couldn’t we take a Seamoth to go up north? Theres plenty of water in that direction, so we could get some Resistance members up somewhere non-frozen.” suggested another mare.

Rolling her eyes, Flush said, “You mean if there’s enough room-- I mean, seamoths are small…” Then reminded, “But the gates are on land. And I don’t think anyone here wants to haul a Seamoth over land too much.” Then added on, “Or beach it on accident. That’s why we’re only using PRAWN’s, they can go on land just as easily as they can go in water.” Then held up a hand, “I have no idea what’s going on with Element number six.”

“Here's a thought, why not get the Overlord to walk underwater with that suit Al helped him with?” asked Berch with a shrug. “I mean, it got underwater equipment for him to use. Easy solution for him, right? He could easily walk up to land and create a Gate from there.”

Running a hand down her face, Flush said, “Berch, he doesn't know where he’s going. I don’t think anyone knows where those two brothers are right now. If we did, maybe they could have sent him there.”

Nodding a bit, Joy admitted, “It would take awhile to find them, before they have to attack with a plan of some sort..” She thought on it some and went on, “And… really, we can’t just let him do it alone. What if he needs backup?”

“Don’t tell me you sympathise with that guy.” Asked Berch, “You heard what he’s done?”

“Lush seems to think he’s not that bad.” Defended Joy, “Just… misunderstood.”

Snorting, Flush rolled her eyes and said, “Yeah, sounds like something Lush would say.” Then turned to tell, “Don’t get your hopes up Joy. The guy still holds two mare with leashes. Not something ideal in my head.” Somewhat making Joy look down to that.

“Well, from what I heard? He’s sort of have to do the things he has to do. Sort of come with being a villain, right?” said another mare as she went on. “I heard from Grain that he’s not that bad, just dense at times.”

“Really? From Grain?” questioned Berch with a raised brow. “You do realize he parade around two mares with red collars, right? Right in our place and mocking us, right?”

Snickering some, Flush smirked, “Or the guy really is stupid as he is dense and didn’t think it’d bother us.” then pointed out, “I mean, did you hear of some of the mistakes he made while there? Going so far to try eating one of those mushrooms in a cabinet?”

Grimacing, Berch said, “That’s not really funny, those things are really toxic.” Then asked, “Did he really…?”

“Grain happen to be working inventory that day and stopped him before he could peel a bit off to try.” chuckled Flush, “Knowing Grain? She gave him a long talk over knowing what’s edible and isn’t-- I think it only happened because somepony mixed up the lockers and accidentally put the acid mushrooms in the food storage.”

“That was fixed, right?” Joy asked in a good amount of concern.

“Yeah.” Calmed down Flush, “Turned out it was one of the new rookies that made the mistake. I think Grain chewed their asses out for making such a bad mistake, something about cleaning all the halls in the main habitat base.”

Wincing some, another mare said. “Thats harsh…” but then questioned. “But you think he’s one of the ‘good sorts’, Flush? I mean, it's one thing for Lush to think he's ‘misunderstood’ and Grain opinion for him might be rumors for all we know.”

Waving a hand, Flush told, “Grain, I can’t be sure. The mare’s more focused on Alpha base these days.” Than pointedly told towards the last pilot, “She probably said he was decent enough, because she has to put up with him. She get’s used to people after dealing with them and their shit for a bit.”

Thinking some, Flush then rolled her eyes, “And Lush is just being nice, if anything. She lacks a real backbone half the time, and is just trying to be pleasant. Hardly really speaks her mind all the time, get’s worried of how others might take it.”

With a shrug, Flush said, “So in short? Who knows. Personally, I hardly care about the guy.” Then thought on it and admitted, “He’s not too bad, I guess… but I think he could really change his outlook on life. I mean, really. Being evil for being evil is just… stupid, I guess.”

Humming some, one of the mares asked. “Well, maybe if we get the chance, we could see if he’s decent enough?” rolling a hand around explaining. “From what Jade mention about him, he’s not that bad.”

Berch snort some. “She only say that because her little sister hero-worships the guy, and anything negative about him might break her sister heart.”

Giggling some, Joy asked, “Are you sure it’s hero-worship?” Then pointed out with a large smile, “From what I hear, that filly is just as much a prankster to him as she is to most others.”

“And where’d you hear this form?” Asked Flush.

“I pressured Dew enough to get her to cave about it.” Smiled Joy. “Most of you might not know, but it was Jasmine that somehow wrote those words of where the Overlord makes his stay on that one habitat building. From what I can tell, no one's sure how to get it off yet.”

“Noooo,” said Berch in surprise, then groan. “How did that filly managed to wrote those words on in the first place?”

“I’m more surprise how she managed to get away with it. There were bound to be some mares to look through the glass areas to see her writing that.” said another mare.

Giggling, Joy told, “I think she bribed the foals to distract others or help do the deed.”

Groaning to that, Flush said, “I hope not.” It would be embarrassing to know a filly outsmarted a base full of adult mares to pull a single prank.

Groaning some, Berch told with a facepalm. “That would be embarrassing, a filly somehow managing to outsmart all of us with a single prank.” then look at them as she pointed out. “But you all got to agree with me, for all we know, there's no way he could be good, right?”

“Well...not from what we heard in the Resistance.” said another mare. “From what the newbies gossip around or what talk been going with the island, the Overlord sort of...fails at being a bad guy, like he’s some mockery of a villain and the best he does are ‘charitable’ acts with food, supplies, sewing cloths-- even free healing of lost or cut off limbs like horns or wings.”

Raising a brow, Flush asked, “Is there a reason the Overlord is such a ‘fascinating’ subject?” Almost sounding a bit dry at the mere idea of this being fascinating at all. Granted, unlike those around her, she had to deal with the man more than once, and in a sense, she didn’t feel like gossiping over a male she knew well enough in her opinion.

“Considering he’s always here, passing food and fresh water, with clothing? He’s seem to be a topic some of the mares around here.” then amended. “Granted mostly hate-filled talks, some third rate rumors, and even talks of conspiracy on the Overlord.” shrugging some. “It always seem to give them something to focus on with their anger and bitterness beside some of the guys around here. Especially with the whole Empire thing that happened.”

Sharpening her gaze, Flush asked, “What do you mean?” Knowing that they had kept a lid on the modified Khara being unleashed. But, it almost sounded like that someone had made a leak. But that couldn't have happened, right?

“From what I heard?” started the mare. “Some of the Resistance thought the Overlord stole some animal from Alpha base, use some dark magic on it and create the virus. Other's think he made it himself and created the antidote-- some even said the Overlord forced the Resistance Heads to ‘get to work’ since a few heard Screech shouted in the meeting room.” thinking more some. “Even more the Overlord was pressing them to be ‘incentive’ and do what he said, a lot of mares don’t know what fully happen…”

“But they all know that the Overlord was the one who not only created the virus, the cure, but also is the reason the Empire nearly died. Add in he held the Crystal Heart ‘hostage’ and made the crystal ponies home a frozen wasteland? Everyone here thinks he should killed after we take Equestria back. Mostly because his ‘virus’ spread beyond the Empire.”

Well, that’s… something… Flush held a oddly confused, if not unsure look. Knowing what happened allowed her to know this was all of Albert’s own violation of planning. But it also made her wonder why no one tried to curb this rumor when it began. The old resistance leaders knew, right?

Who am I kidding? Even if they knew, what would they do to keep mare’s form gossiping in the first place! It was a almost ridiculous fact, that mare’s just loved to gossip. And from the sounds of it, Jerry got to have that wish of his of taking the blame. Somehow… which was odd almost.

Giving a groan and rubbing her head, Flush muttered, “Just when you think you know something…”

Brech slightly snort. “While it's unorthodox, it does keep things quiet,” then pointy added to Joy. “Still think he's ‘misunderstood’? Way I see? Sound like the Overlord enjoy these mares hating his guts and wants him dead.”

Screwing up her face, Joy told, “Or it could be mare’s that are just being over-saturating.” Then went on, “You’ve heard and seen how some of them are. They even get leery about their own stallions half the time. Maybe it's because he’s a male they came up with this.” Then crossed her arms, “Besides, it’s a conspiracy theory. Why make a virus to do all of that? You’ve read the tablets, right? Khara is something that was in the ocean and is just spreading on it’s own, it’s only just now starting to show on land.”

Brech rolled her eyes as she told. “True, these mares on the island may figured that out when we melded,” snorting as she went on. “But you get my point Joy, the Overlord didn't bother telling them anything and wants to be hated like a villain.” Shaking her head some as she added.

“I honestly don't see why Jasmine likes him so much as a ‘elder brother’. He's just a male that likes being the bad guy and want everyone to hate his guts.”

Flush had to roll her eyes to all of this. To her it seemed almost pointless in a sense, granted that was only because she knew the real facts of the situation. She had to wonder why they volunteered almost, when they had such mixed thoughts of Jerry…

She tossed that aside. Maybe it didn’t really matter as long as they did their jobs. Though, still, Flush had to wonder if she should let the others in the know, know about this… rampant gossiping and rumor-- or know if they were even aware of it. Maybe later. She affirmed to herself.

---

After the bombs were sent over and at least two days worth of preparing, the plan was activated with the first part of shatter explosives on the mountain face as it buried the base location. While those within were caught off guard, other explosives were set off, targeting tracks as the incendiary explosives melted and/or damaged train tracks for specific train routes.

And while some were halted as Caribous and stallions attempted to repair or figure out what happened, the ambush group were sent through Waypoint Gates, with the Element of Loyalty, Honesty, and Laughter were near the safehouse in terms of tracks, they were hit first. While of Magic and Kindness were behind schedule, the Resistance and Overlord hit the closest one, being of Honesty and Laughter.

Jerry, within his blackish titanium armor now, marched with his horde as he and a few members of the ponies were hearing working as Jerry spotted up ahead of most of the males were without armor, as they were trying to fix or do something with the tracks. He sent his mental orders, as the Browns charge first, coming through the foliage of bushes as a Caribou shouted out. “AMBUSH!” alerting other's as they picked up their tools or laid out weapons to defend themselves.

The Browns raise their weapons, stabbing and attacking as they spread themselves out. Although as the defenders were coming to aid in repelling back, some were screaming as fire came down at them. Reds positioning on a log, as they aimed and fired at random males, bolts of fire coming up and down upon them as a few tried to grab crossbow or any bows to hit at them.

But with sight of the Overlord, a stallion shouted. “Its the Overlord!” shouts and alert calls came as more Caribous in heavier armor came out, coming to attack the armored male as Jerry added Legion of Honor, giving his Minions then needed strength to fight harder and kill those without armor. He directed his Greens to move around the more defended soldiers, stealthy moving behind them as the 15 Greens jumped onto their backs, causing alarm of the sudden assassins stabbing into their necks, under arms, or even sides as Jerry add in the assault with Combustion burning them while the soldiers attempted to force the Greens out.

Feeling a Brown died from a shovel edge to the brains, he directed his Blues to post a guard area, as they began to run out to any fallen Minion to bring back. Grabbing them over their shoulders as they hurried back with the other Blues, reviving them to life as any who came back, were given mental commands to Jerry to attack once more. The Overlord felt more Greens dying, as while his fire spell did its job, archers were coming out to fire their crossbow bolts, hitting into their backs as Blues rush to grab their bodies.

He directed his Reds to aim at them, sending their bolts of flames onto them to burn alive. He overlook the area, seeing that while he removed the workers and few soldiers, more were coming out of the train or on the rooftop as archers as he felt his spell on the Minions were draining him, as he cut off the Legion of Honor, mostly to allow him more mana to use on more soldiers as he ordered a Green to rush to the ambusher mares.

As the Green ran back to where the mares were, it spoke. “Follow! Follow!” directing them around the fight as to sneak behind the train to enter its back door.

Knowing the overall plan, they followed with little hesitation. Their plan was simple enough. The Overlord acted as the main point of diversion, keeping the defending Caribou’s busy-- while they acted as the retrieval group, going in and getting the Beares.

The steel door was tightly shut, but with one of their unicron allies, the locks were forced opened and the door quietly enough opened for them to enter the first cart. To say it was a slight disappointment. Nothing but supplies. So, they moved on, opening the next door to exit out, but open the next cart’s door to enter back in.

This one, held many a enemy in it. Mostly archers that were trying to use the window’s as cover while they fired. This was a opportunity they decided not to waste, and with a more heavily armored earth mare taking point, charged in. The thundering of hooves made a few pause, but the unicorns in the back cast their spells to stun, while a few others took their chances to pause and attack once close enough.

One mare in particular almost found herself overpowered, the Caribou having turned in time to see the spell before ducking into cover-- then ambush the would-be ambusher, gripping her neck and striking at her head. She in turn, had little time to block with her arm, and felt herself get a hard hit to the side of her helmeted head, a pause of daze causing her eyes to spin.

She felt herself being pinned, and in a attempt to free herself, she reached out, grasping for something before getting one of the many arrows from the quiver on his back. She pulled one back, readying her arm before shoving it into his face and twisting it-- ignoring his screams of agony.

“Move it mares!” One of the lead ponies told, “We still have Bearers to find!” Motioning for a unicorn to undo the next door, while also berating, “Sergeant, stop that and get moving!” Trying to get the mare to stop from wasting time with mutilating the Caribou’s face any further.

The mare herself breathed out, panic beating in her heart before dropping the now lax body. When the door opened, she followed along, going from one cart to the next, wanting to just find the mare’s and get out of here all the more sooner.

But after clearing cart 3, and entering cart four, did they hit a near problem. Four heavily armored Caribou’s, with shields and spears were there waiting. One being a mage that stood in the center of the group. In the same room were the two bearers to Honesty and Laughter, both in their own respective cages.

The caribou, as soon as hearing the door open, turned with shields bared and mage raising his hands, magic flaring and flying. It was only by quick reaction of one of the unicorns, that a magical shield was up to stop the attack before it made contact with the leading mare.

Said mare backed up some, reaching for her short sword in preparation, but realizing they were outmatched here. They had magical users, and that would normally provide an edge-- but she and the other’s knew better. The Caribou had anti-magical armor. They couldn't use their magic to break their lines.

Or, not normally in any case. “Shades!” The lone shout made the mare’s close their eyes right as one of the unicorns flared her magic-- but instead of a magical blast, it was a large and bright flash. The armed caribou and lone mage gave shouts of surprise, their eyes blinded by the bright light--

It was the opening they needed. They all surged in, many shouldering and forced the caribou’s back by brute force, all aiming to pin them to the walls or at least hold them off. “Get to work!”

“On it!” One mare told, motioning for a fellow mare to help unlock the cage’s locks, one using a spell and the other going as far to try merely breaking the door’s lock.

To the side they could hear the others striking and trying to hold back the caribous. Their vision was returning, and both weapons of each side clings and clattered. The sounds of magic could be heard, one of the mare’s giving a shout of confliction.

The pegasus working on the lock for the bearer in her face tried to keep calm, working her small tool in the keyhole and finding that sweet spot-- then felt a jolt. Yes! She thought, almost hurriedly removing the lock. She flung the door open and reached in, telling, “Come on!” Pulling the confused orange mare out as quickly as she could.

“Damn it!” She heard the unicorn behind her, “Azure, trade! This lock’s antimagic!” Which only made the Pegasus groan, but understand.

“Hurry!” She told, slightly pausing when she saw one of her fellows get knocked down hard, the mare panting and writhing on the ground looking bothered. Her eyes pricked and heart dropped, seeing the mage smirking. She knew what happened, he just corrupted her. “Behind you!”

The unicorn turned to see that the mage, now free to move as the few mare’s holding him and his comrades back, were busy with holding off the shield bearing soldiers, or in the case of two mares, on the ground panting in lustful desire. The unicron backed up in fear, seeing his perverted grin.

It then turned into a pained scowl, a roar of pain ripped from his throat as something green and slim could be seen clinging into his back-- violently pumping his fists covered in metal claws in and out of his back, singing out, “Stabby, stabby, stabby~!”

The mage stopped his magic, trying to turn around to grab the Green as he shouted as he came on his knees. “Get off of me you rat!” only for the Green to move around, stabbing through the neck as the Caribou gave a dying sound as he dropped on the ground. The Green that lead them quickly move, to the shield bearing soldiers, moving around their shields as it jumped onto another back.

“Gah! What!?” but before he could speak, he felt the blade stabbing through the back of his neck, as he dropped, another soldier quickly took his blade to stab the vermin, as he raise his shield to block off the whores. But he felt something on his back, turning his head to see another Green as it grin evilly at him, before he could get another word out or make his move, a blade stab through his neck, resulting him to falling down.

One of the mares noticed four extra Greens as one spoke. “We help!” Quickly the 5 Greens moved to get around the Caribous to aid the mares in their need to escape.

The Unicorn wanted to blink-- or until she was shoved and reminded by the pegasus, she needed to get out of there. So, she turned and took hold the the Element of Honesty. Without much needed though, she flared her magic and teleported away-- knowing it would be the fastest means to reach the nearby gate.

When they dropped out, she panted and placed a hand on her head, feeling a slight headache. Similarly, the mare that used her for slight balance gave a look and said, “I’ll be damned…” Her green eyes looking over the unicron before asking, “Ya’ll… ya’ll just got me out, and getting’ Pinkie out.” Blinking some before saying, “I… are ya resistance?” Recalling the piling rumors of the resistance… “Wha’ were those… green imp things?”

“No offense ma’am,” said the Unicorn as she pointed to the Waypoint Gate. “but you need to get there, now.” looking at her as she told. “We’re pressing for time, and all your answers will be given, but for now? I need to get back. Now.” slightly pushing the apple farmer to get onto the Gate so she could help her fellows in escaping.

“But I-,” started Applejack as the unicorn interrupted harshly.

“Ma’am, if you don’t get on, my team will be raped without me teleporting them out. So please,” she said in a strain tone. “Just. Get. On. the. Gate.”

Sighing, the orange mare gave a nod before saying, “You best make sure they all get out then.” Letting go and stepping up to the odd…. Gate. She wasn’t sure what to expect, even less when she made her first step into the thing.

The moment she got on however, it shifted to blue as she was teleported towards the Resistance Gate. The unicorn sighed out, horn glowing as she teleported back with her team, in vain hopes that they were doing fine. However when she did, she was given a surprise to see that the two that were corrupted were held up by her team mates, while another grabbed Pinkie as another unicorn teleported out.

“You all right?” asked the unicorn, looking over to her 6 member group, as the other unicorn that left was the seventh. A earth mare nod, as she jerk her head, the 5 Greens cheering as they were on the bodies of the Caribous, scavenging for any weapons or equipment as the earth mare told.

“Yeah, those imps surprisingly made short works at the bastards. Who knew they were swift little imps?” then told. “We can head out, we got what we came for.” one of the Greens sniff in the air, then told to the ponies.

“Go, go! Deer coming!” rushing to the mares and pushing on her leg, as if trying to urge them to leave now.

“Pushy little thing.” Remarked one before looking to the unicron. “Think you can get us out of here without your sis?”

Taking a breath, she sighed, “I’ll try. Huddle close.” Opening her arms while she felt the others pulling closer to her. She flared her magic, all focus on connecting to each pony near her and her destination-- and with a flare, she was gone, with most… but Azure. The pegasus blinked and cursed. “For the love of harmony!” Feeling a little worried now that she was alone--

Or, somewhat alone. The green imps were still around, but from the looks of it they were using a window to make their escape. “W-wait!” She tried to say, or right before she heard the door get slammed open. She turned and felt her wings flare in unease and taking a few steps back. She gulped, seeing the five, possibly ten caribou moving in, surveying the place… and noticing her alone.

And seeing their glares turn to leers, made her eyes prick and her body tremble.

They began to start stripping, moving towards her with confident grins, as if knowing she was doomed and had no way out. The pegasus tried to move, but the fear shook her body as it made her still. However she quickly took her blade out, steeling herself as a Caribou snorted at her short sword as he claimed with a perverted grin. “Do you honestly think you can take all of us on? Please, the best you can do is just give up and spread those legs...we might go easy on you.”

They closed the door behind them as they were going to enjoy breaking her.

She raised her blade, feeling her heart race with a familiar fear-- one that felt all the more higher when she felt everything was at stake for her now. “I’m killing whoever I can before that happens.” Backing up all the more. Her eyes glanced to the windows, checking their sizes…

She looked back to them, right before flapping her wings for a charge. The Caribous reacted with arms out and moving forwards to tackle her-- then she flapped again, fainting her attack and causing those blocking, guarding or trying to grapple to cause a mess of bodies.

Azure bolted for the open window, wings closing and arms pulling herself out. She felt her hips slightly catch, but with a slight twist, she pulled herself out and slightly fell to the ground. She panted and got up, wings flared again and moving to fly off. She would have succeeded in doing so, if the commotion of the males clammering at the window didn’t catch the attention of others.

One of the Caribous using the train for cover, turned his gaze to her. He reacted upon what training he had, bow being placed away and hand reaching down to get a bola. He swung his arm around and tossed it-- right as the mare was taking flight. Azure gave a shout and fell, giving a ‘omph’ at her rough landing on the ground, both arms and one wing stuck in the snaring rope.

No, no, no, no! She struggled herself up and began to a run, arms struggling to break free. She griped her hands, feeling her sword gone and possibly dropped when she hit the ground. She heard a shout, one that was unwelcoming to her.

“Someone get that whore before she get’s away!” Which made her body urge to run faster. Adrenaline pump into her more. She glanced around, not seeing any cover from where she was running-- it took her now to realize she had landed on the opposite side of the train, away from where the gate was set up. Her fear rekindled. She was going the wrong way and couldn't turn around to get back!

The sounds of hooves only confirm that she needed to move, she needed to escape. But how? Where!? She soon almost scream when something jump on her, making her fall into some bushes as she try to take whatever off of her and get free with a fist ready to smash whoever jumped at her--

There was sounds of cutting, as she look to see...a Green, one of the Greens who helped her team, cutting into the bola as it rip the ropes open,the Green got off of her, turning to face her and told. “Heard call, need aid! Follow! Stay close!” looking at her with, slight intelligence as it told. “Bring to Overlord!” motioning to her to follow it.

Despite the scare, Azure considered her options and decided to risk it. It was better than getting caught and raped. With that thought alone she got up and ran, not bothering to fly and get spotted easily. She followed the minion, starting to skirt near a few bushes that were in the otherwise open area.

At first it was only him, but it slowly began to turn to two greens. Then four, then five, six. She wasn’t sure what was going on, but when they made another turn-- this one being a space of clearing where the train had met a forced end before hitting heavily damaged tracks-- did she understand.

There in the cleared area of the tracks was the male called the Overlord. He moved and slashed about more like some brute than a actual military warlord like she heard. Minions swarmed all around him, even as arrows and bolts clattered off his armor. There was a screeching sound, a arc of a shock spell next to scraping near him-- something the tall and heavily armored male was barely able to dodge away from.

Instead of waiting, she flapped her wings and went for a low flight. Skimming over the ground and rushing past the fighters to reach the other side. For Jerry, it was like seeing a blur of sky-blue, brown and silver pass his sight before rustling into the bushes.

What the-, thought Jerry, as he saw six Greens coming back as he was wondering where they went, before one of the Greens spoke. “Brought mare! Need aid! In bush!”

What!? I thought they all left! Jerry sending a mental command for his Minions to get her out of here to the Gate! Already the six Greens left his side, going to the bush as the head Minion told to Azure. “Overlord cover! Bring you to Gate! We protect!” motioning her to follow the six Greens.

Azure didn’t complain, moving to follow the six through the foliage and trees that began to get thicker and thicker. As the fighting of the battle lulled the further they moved, the shouts of anger rose as they drew closer to the gate. “We need to go back! She got left behind because your sister couldn’t take us all!”

“And like I said, you should've just let us both teleport us, what were you thinking in making me go with the Element of Laughter alone? We could of met up at the Gate together like that!” Azure had a feeling that due to how the situation went, their commanding officer felt it too risky to teleport back, and now the team was giving grief over the whole situation.

“That doesn't matter, we know the high-risk of this mission and we can’t just go back. She’s probably overwhelmed and if we went back, so could we!” Countered another, trying to talk the group down from going back on a one-time run.

“But we can’t leave her behind!” Argued the younger sister of the two unicorns.

With a annoyed roll of her eyes, Azure called out, “Well at least somepony cares!” Causing the argument to stop as she came out with the Greens leading her. “What are you all doing here still? You should be back at base!”

Turning, the elder unicorn spoke, “We wanted to go back for you.” Then glared at their CO, “But somepony wouldn’t let us get you out of there. But we weren't ready to leave you behind just yet.”

“The mission was to get the Element Bearers at all cost.” told the earth mare with a flat look. “We all knew what risks would happen when we sign onto this mission.” then look to the Greens that were around Azure as she added to the pegasus. “But it seems that you managed to get out just fine,” scrunching her muzzle some as she tried to not smell their disgusting scents. “Even if they stink.”

The Head Green gave a sound, looking at the mares as it told. “Heard call from pony!” motioning to Azure as it went on. “Lead to Overlord, Master let me lead, protect pegasus from deer!” The younger blinked as she said.

“Wait...you stayed back and helped Azure? Heard her calling out for help?” It look proud at that, as the Green told.

“Minion hear well! Stayed and helped with Greens! Lead her to Master, Master order us to get her to Gate!” puffing up some as it told in pride. “Did well, protect pegasus, all six!” the other five cheered lowly as they jumped up a bit with arms raised up.

The sight was odd, to say the least. Even more for the mare’s that held a slight uncertainty towards the overlord and his possible dark heart. But to hear the minions sounding rather pleased at… helping? It was odd to say the least.

Rubbing the back of her head, Azure said, “Yeah… thank you for that.” Not sure what more to say. “But, we should maybe get going now?”

“Right…” Nodded the commanding mare, looking to the cheering greens with a tinge of confusion. “Come on. We should report back.” Moving to the gate with the other mares.

Azure sighed and began to move with, but paused and looked back to the greens. She scrunched her nose at their stench, but gave a slight smile, “Thanks again… you… you did good.” Then left for the gate.

One of the minions blinked, and turned to the oldest of their group, asking, “We… did good?” He knew the Master Minion would of complained to that… but there was an oddly pleasant feeling to being told they did good-- both the icky gross squishy kind… and the also prideful kind they did a great job.

The eldest nod his head saying. “Did good job. Master want Minions protect pegasus, Master want ponies protected. Master proud of Minions protecting ponies!” A few of the Greens gave ‘oooh’ at the older ones ‘wisdom’ being given. They heard the footsteps of their Master as they cheerfully rush back to his side, seeing the other Minions as they went back to the horde.

They saw Jerry a little singed by the shock attacks, with a few scorch marks on his armor too. He grumble of the work and repair that had to be done, but when he noticed the six were alive and the mare was gone? He glanced behind him and told. “Good job.” focusing back to the Gate as the eldest Green told to his fellows.

“See? Master proud! Give praise!”

A cheer rose, though for Jerry he wasn’t sure what the cheering was about. All his focus was on getting his minions to their pits and getting himself to the gate. Already, he could hear the tell-tail signs of rushing Caribou’s, all seeking retribution for his interference.

As he brought his horde to their respective pits, he quickly enter in the Gate, focusing on transporting himself to the Resistance Gate as he came through. Ignoring everything around him, he focus on the tent on the far side, being of where Shining, Screech, and Pearl were usually at with these missions. Glancing to the guard before him that stood before the tent, he glance back up, seeing bits of the stallion unicorn as Jerry spoke.

“Shining I’m back.”

“Let him in soldier.” told the Captain, as the mare gave a low glare to Jerry, but move aside to let the Overlord in. The moment he walked in, Jerry spoke.

“Did we managed to acquire Honesty and Laughter with low casualties?”

Turning his head to look to him, Shining Armor gave a nod. He turned around and told, “They just came back, not a few moments before you did. Full team is back, one of their members almost didn’t make it out but your Greens managed to get her back safely.”

Arms crossed, the stallion frowned and told, “You got us a victory, but it’s not all good news. The train that has the Element of Loyalty, Rainbow Dash, wasn’t retrieved. The train with her on it took a different route, passed up the tracks we set the explosives on.” He glanced off to the side and admitted, “We’re not sure the reasons, but we had to update the Ambush team by the bridge to get ready in a few days. By then, the rest of the explosives should be with them…”

Looking to Jerry, Shining told, “But, I also have some good news. The Brigadier has an informant that’s found the Flim-flam brothers.” But soon amended, “Or, at least where they might be heading.”

“Really?” started Jerry as he asked. “Where are they heading to? Trottingham? Vanhoover?” frowning a bit as he added. “Out of Equestria to ‘safer lands’?”

Shaking his head, Shining told, “Believe it or not? They’re still in Equestria. Just heading towards a more deserted area.” Then motioned for Jerry to come. The man moved, going around the table with the map on it before watching where the stallion pointed. Which was a expanse of dried out land that looked more like the nevada desert form it’s coloring. “Here. We’re not sure why, but we think they’ve caught on to how the infection been spreading and are heading here of all places to get away from it.”

Looking at it carefully, Jerry almost frowned at it. The place was… well, it looked barran. And form the way the map was laid out, the tracks from Equestria didn’t really travel into it. It overall looked like a plot of land surrounded by hills and mountains-- but at the same time had nothing. No rivers, no trees, no fields-- just a bunch of dried up land.

“....Shining, what the hell am I looking at?” asked Jerry. “I mean, yes I could travel there with the Main Gate near Manehatten….but how am I supposed to find them in a barren plot of land that looks like part of my island?”

Looking to Jerry, Shining told, “We plan to give you Spree and a few pegasi to be part of her unit to help extend the scouting range.” Then glanced back down to admit, “We think the brothers went this direction to completely avoid both us, you and the Caribou. Even this disease that’s sweeping all over Equestria.”

Looking back to Jerry, Shining added, “We can also have one of Screeches informants meet you at Manehattan to give you an extra edge in locating and even sneaking into their encampment. Brute force might not be the best way to get Rarity form their greedy hands.”

“How greedy are we talking about?” asked Jerry. “Greedy like a buisnessman to suck everything out of you, or greedy enough to put you in a contract and suck everything out of you with a everlasting debt?”

“If my sister’s friend was right?” Asked the stallion, “Two swindlers that are good at not only getting the largest amount of gold out of someone, but also fooling them to keep buying their goods that might not even do anything.” Then went on, “Good enough to fool other swindlers into making fools of themselves and then steal their work to use for themselves.”

“....would you consider it a favor if I use the Target on them?” asked Jerry. “I mean...no one is going to notice...right?” adding a bit more. “I mean, I know it’s evil….but on the other hand I’m technically doing you all a favor with those two.

With a stare, Shining Armor told, “As bad as they are, they’re really only in on all of this for the bits, believe it or not.” Then went on, “They don’t even care too much about sex. They’re only in this to get rich. If I’m right, they would sooner change sides if it meant they could get a large amount of bits by the end of it.”

Sighing hard, and looking at him Jerry asked in a slight annoyed manner. “And I suppose you want me to somehow broker a deal with them to get the Bearer of Generosity with my dwindle treasury--- and probably get myself roped into a situation that would take out more than gold out of me just to get her, right?”

“No.” Told the Prince, “I’m just saying that you could probably try something more than forcing your way.” Then motioned at the map telling, “The Caribou have us easily outnumbered and out armed with weapons-- our weapons. We’re going to need more than just plain force to beat them back. If it’s possible, I’d rather have them cause some sort of problem for them with monetary losses.”

With a equally annoyed look, Shining told, “The trouble is making sure they stay on our side. They are just as likely to double cross us-- and even if you use that Target Spell on them? If what I saw was right, they wouldn’t be themselves, just near mindless bodies muddling around. They wouldn't have the same… skill like that.” Not sure if he wanted to put it like that, but it was the only way to put it. “But I’m mostly thinking they’ll run for it before you can do much of anything.”

“Hence me in disguise with this agent, and wearing something other than armor with Spree group to find them.” then asked in slight annoyance. “So, how can we at least make a deal with them, and try to make sure to they don’t double cross us long enough take Equestria?” He heard Gnarl voice speaking in.

“Perhaps Master, you will allow me to speak for you in bargaining. These brothers sound rather devious, and could be problematic for you. But with me? I could use my age old wisdom and cunning to handle them.” hearing the old Minion cackle at the end.

And the problem with that, is that it’s too tempting as well. I hardly could figure out about the agreement with the Resistance without Gnarl help. How the hell am I supposed to handle two swindling ponies who got more silver-tongue than I could hope to be?

“It wouldn’t be fully up to you.” Told Shining, “It would be up to Screech’s informant. They have experience in that field. You’re there as backup to make sure that if one avenue fails, then another might pressure or push them into caving.”

Jerry nodded, thinking some as he asked. “Who would the informant be?” thinking that whoever it is, gotta be someone either a really good stealthy mare, or a good undercover stallion if they managed to not get spotted by the Caribous.

Taking a moment to recall, Shining responded with, “A stallion thestral by the name of Seeking Star.” Glancing at the map again and going on, “He’s been under Screech’s tutelage for a while now, and his older sister recommended him for this. His ‘official’ mission by the Caribous was to investigate the brothers and why they disappeared as they did.”

Becoming more grim, Shining Armor admitted, “I’ll mention this now. There’s something off about the area you’re heading towards, Jerry.” Going on first name basis while looking to the armored man. “In a few years, even after the caribou took over… ponies have disappeared around that area. Even a few patrols have vanished. We never found out what happened to them, so be on your toes.

Yeah, that does sound bad. thinking on what they could find, although Jerry recalled the thestral mare by Seeking side, and couldn’t help but lowly chuckle as Shining noticed it, giving him a rather confused look on why Jerry was chuckling as the man spoke. “Sorry, I know the situation is grim, but the last time I saw Seeking, he was off with his new ‘Pink’ thestral when he dropped me off to Magic place.”

Asking in amusement. “Should I expect Seeking to bring her along with the talks, so the brothers won’t bribe him?”

Shaking his head, the prince told, “No. He plans to have both her and his other mare to get dropped off here and stay with his sister until the mission is over. Said he didn’t feel like risking their lives in a place like this.”

“Fair enough.” Nodding some of that thinking, Jerry would of done the same in Seeking place to keep them safe from any harm. Especially in a unknown area like this, glancing to Shining he then asked. “Do you want me to get to Manehatten and wait for Seeking-- or aid in getting the remaining Element Bearers with my Minions assisting?”

With a snort of amusement, Shining told, “I think the Ambush team is set enough with Flush Ace and her small squad of giant machines.” Then assured, “We can spare you to go to those empty lands with Spree, her squad and Seeking.” Then told more seriously, “If anything, you’re their primary defense if things go bad. Either form the Brothers turning the tables on them, or whatever’s been making ponies and caribou disappear in that unexplored area.”

“Meaning that you will be facing all sorts of threats while you do all the work, and they get all the credit. Typical heros!” Gnarl told in indignation.

Jerry rolled his eyes, as he said to Shining. “I’ll be sure to have a mixed varieties,” but then added. “Also, is there confirmation the last bomb is set? I told my Greens to hid it well and unsuspecting, but I never got confirmation if it was primed to explode or not.” shrugging some as he said. “All I know from the Greens it was, ‘blinky-lights’ when they set it down.”

Nodding some, the white stallion confirmed, “They’re set up. I heard that they are being watched on carefully and that Mrs. Image, Dr. Table’s wife, mentioned they finished the last of the traps to be sent to the Ambush group. We expect things to be ready within a few more hours.”

Sighing, Shining added, “You have a few hours to get some rest and do what you have to prepare. Spree’s getting her group gathered and we’re gathering volunteer fliers for her to lead now. You have five hours until things are needed to get moving.” Then went on, “Try and be quick. While we know where the brother’s are, but Screech mentioned that something else might be happening. She’s not sure what yet, her informants haven’t figured it out yet. It’d be useful if you're here when we found out.”

“I’ll be back, my armor needs to be repaired. I’ll be back as soon as possible.” informed Jerry, turning as he headed back the Gate, knowing that with Giblet, the armor would be repaired and patched up within 3 hours, mostly of the mechanical parts. But he was certain Giblet could shrink it to two, the Minion Smith seem delighted of all the things he could ‘smash’ since Albert introduce technology to the Brown.

Next Chapter: When Fate Speaks Estimated time remaining: 28 Hours, 7 Minutes