Jerry had to admit, he never thought being in Alpha Base would be like a vacation. As he and the mares, including Jade and Jasmine all went to the Alpha Base for a much needed break, as well time out of the Castle. However he also wanted to check on Mortis as the Blue was in the Labs, which he was in...and he was honestly surprise of how much the Blue was learning from the unicorn, as Mortis was quite talented with his magical healing.

To the point, Magic complemented Jerry. Granted it was mostly on Magic complemented Jerry for sending over a rare gem of a prodigy, he did asked if more of these Blues were like Mortis. But the Blue informed Magic that he was, ‘unique’ among his brethren, and the Minions need time to learn more, that is if they didn’t die first.

But as of now? Jerry was talking to Albert, as the later was working on the PRAWN suit in one of the Moonpools, with Jerry leaning on a table as he had his arms cross. “I mean, I know it might of been wrong for me to speak out. In hindsight I should've kept my mouth shut, kept asking of the vault...but the entire town was...was just nagging at me!” looking to Albert as he went on. “It felt like a Communist town at first-- but the more I heard with their musical number? The more I felt it was less like that and...and felt like it was stagnating. On purpose, on talents, achievements-- on possibilities and potential!”

“It was like they were trying to deny their own abilities and talent, limiting themselves on purpose, and just because they want to be ‘equal’,” shaking his head telling. “Equal? More like it was a start of Order going wrong! Like...like Starlight is building a cult of Perfect Order!”

While Jerry went on and on, next to ranting, Albert iddily listened in. He took moments to actually focus on his work-- but done so only when Jerry was stuttering or pausing to collect thoughts-- or get air in his lungs after long-winded sections of said rant.

The man moved a plate out of the way and began to carefully tinker with the inner workings of the powerful suite, figuring a way to make the thing have a higher power output. “Maybe that’s her aim.” It made Jerry pause as the infected man went on, “A new world order or a ideal for a perfect world is far from an old struggle. Maybe what’s setting you off is how overly perfect it sounds, or the mere concept of having to give up what you are to fit it.”

Albert paused in his work to turn around and address, “Being human, we both already know where giving up your personality leads. For we humans, it’s merely a safety measure to be accepted by our peers and not get weeded out as the weird ones. To appeal to the larger group and how they think.”

Turning back, he raised a tool, sparks slightly flying as he used his other hand to feed some metal in and make slight changes. “For ponies it’s a bit different. While it’s true humans need social interactions, ponies can hardly function without others. They need a sort of herd around them to function. In this case, it sounds like a cult to you because they all follow an ideal that seems so radical and with such a strong belief, it shakes up how you can handle it and breaks down your composure over the hows and whys.”

Giving a long sigh, Jerry nod as he told. “Yeah...it just…” collecting his thoughts as he took a deep breath. “It just that it feels wrong. I mean with how Spree and Shadow mention about Cutie Marks, on how they’re part of a pony, and Starlight giving this equal thing? It just...just makes me imagine that in a sense….Starlight is sort of doing like...what I do, or what the Caribous do.” he explained further.

“Yeah, I know its vastly different, and yeah, the Caribou ways is sick, and my way is no better with the Target spell...but, the way Starlight does it? She makes it sound like a good idea, she persuade them to give half of themselves up, having dull eyes, passionless eyes…” sighing. “Maybe I’m paranoid, maybe I’m full of shit and I don’t know better and think its all in my head….”

“Or maybe you’re feeling guilty and see it with Starlight.” That snapped Jerry from looking at the table and to Albert as he stood up. The man placed the plate back onto the mech and used a nearby tool to seal it closed. “Part of you probably also see’s her as your inner demon too. And because of it, reminds you of your own faults.”

Moving away, and going to a locker, Albert went on to tell while placing the tool up and closing the locker up. “When it comes to people like Starlight? They have to be pretty self asserted in their own preaching and make sure they keep to the path they made. She makes good points and examples.”

Jerry watched as Albert walk up, reaching out and taking the spare chair to shift and sit himself in while propping a arm on the table to tell, “Think of this in their perspective instead. They might have been outcasts or people that just were different. Then, they find this mare and this town that is willing to completely accept them into their group, just at the coast of part of who they are-- the same part they might have felt made them feel so alienated from so many others. To them, it's not a loss but a opportunity and they take it with little to no thought because they are desperate to be accepted.”

“Or, alternatively, maybe they were looking for something new and came upon that town. Heard about how things worked and thought ‘I want to try’, and eventually got sucked in on the whole idea.” The man lifted his gloved hand and counted off with his fingers. “Equality. Unity. Acceptance. Respect. Companionship. Who wouldn’t want that in a community? In a way, who wouldn’t want any of that when set before them?”

Giving a hard sigh, a hand raise up to rub his head as while he dislike the feeling...he know that Albert was right. In a sense...they wanted to be part of the town, because of a second life….who was he to say otherwise? Doesn’t mean it feels right… frowning some as he shake that thought off. Stop it Jerry...you’re not the good guy. Remember, got to be bad.

It was almost odd, when Albert soon said, “Doesn't mean there isn’t something that feels wrong about it.” it almost threw Jerry for a loop when Albert nearly parated one of his thoughts, though rather unintentionally by the looks of it. “I will agree that something isn’t right. By social standings, and psychology, not all of them could be happy at all times.” Then went on, “What I’m more concerned about it the Caribou. If they were former patrols, why the sudden shift and change?”

The scientific man went into thought and told, “And Rarity is a whole different subject altogether. Not have some of her memories? That’s a large concern.” Then went on, “And you remarked she said from what she was told, it was from traumatic experience?”

“Yeah it was,” nodded Jerry. “Which sort of made me question, I mean it's one thing for her to try to forget of the rape...but multiple areas of her past, even good memories? That's...that's something else.”

“That’s illogical is what it is.” Told Albert, “Unless she suffered a lapse in memories, then all the traumatic memory loss should have done was block out a large majority of her most worst moments. It’s a safety feature of the brain to keep the person sane. A biological failsafe.” Then went on, “But select memories blanking out and fuzzing? That does not line up with a traumatic memory block.”

Taking a breath, Jerry added. “And there's something else bothering me too.” looking at him as he went on. “It's about the way Rarity seem to...to not recall her sister. Not recall someone related to her flesh and blood. Now I might be wrong, but I doubt you could even forget even family with traumatic experiences. Especially their name of all things.”

Albert crossed his arms and told, “Well, that is something we can both agree on.” Then went on, “And again, by your admission, Rarity said she wasn’t the only one that suffered from these memory problems.” Then shook his head, telling, “I can’t make any solid answers. But it either has something to do with her and their marks, or there is another factor that’s missing and is being hidden from you and I.”

“Maybe its both?” asked Jerry with a shrug. “I mean, maybe its part of Rarity not having her mark, and maybe its whatever either Starlight did-- or something that happened to which we have no idea about.” then remarking. “I did noticed odd signs of the Crystal Mountains doing the walk-- but I just shook it off as mirage,” then shook his head. “And I swore it felt a bit chilly at nights, more chilly than usual. Especially with Mist getting on my case with Shadow now and then.”

Giving a humming sound, Albert said, “The seasons should be on the verge of change soon. Maybe with the shift in balance, the Empire’s more violent ice storms might be leaking over.” Then went on with a rolling hand, “I’m not sure how far winter is off from Equestria, but it does get colder. I wouldn't be surprised if a slightly more violent winter hits because of the chaotic storms getting loose along the way and Pegasi unable to deal with them.”

Nodding his head some, Jerry then shook off the seasons of winter, focusing back to the town as he told. “Now I’ll admit. I’m stupid at times. I’m hard headed and even don’t know when to shut up...and I may be exaggerating, maybe paranoid about it-- but I think Starlight did more than ‘helped’ Rarity and other of the townsfolk. I think she might even ‘tweak’ a few memories of the people to not recall certain things, like good memories. Memories and people that would make them want to leave, leave her town and her ideology.” shrugging some.

“It's probably farfetch and stupid,...but Caribou aren’t the only one with mind magic spells.”

“It would also require magical skill to do that sort of magic.” Told Albert. “By the sounds of it, Starlight isn’t any more magically adept than any of the others. And if she’s as smart as I can make her out to be-- she wouldn’t do anything to show she is able to be, as that would ruin her whole philosophy she has with the town.”

Albert continued to tell to Jerry, “And even if that was true, exposing her would be difficult. She would be on the watch for it. If there is a possible conspiracy behind her actions? Then she might have had to deal with others that thought like you did. She would be ready, possibly.”

He hum..thinking some and asked. “What if I used my Minions? And I don’t mean my regular...I mean my smart ones, ones like Mortis? She may be ready for people like me, or people like you...but what about my smarter Minions?”

“That’s debatable.” Told Albert, “Saying that a smarter minion being able to outdo me in this, is almost equivalent to saying that a fast gecko might out perform a chimp in something. The problem here is we don’t know what she can do-- assuming she’s even false in the first place. If she isn’t a fake? Then you can't do anything about it. And if she is a fake? She could be too much for the minions to handle.”

Sighing he nodded, but then asked. “But what are we going to do about Rarity? From the way I see it? She won’t want her mark back. She prefers the lifestyle, and we need her.” thinking some as he asked. “How are we going to not only get her mark back, but make her accept the ‘pains’ she’s avoiding from having her mark back?”

Tilting his head, Albert asked, “Isn’t it obvious?” Making Jerry give a strange look. “You help remind her.” Then motioned around himself, “I wouldn’t be who I am without my trials. But if I was forced to forget a lot of myself and didn’t know how to be reminded?” He tossed his head about and told, “Well, a good enough friend would know how much I loved something. In this case, my love for learning, for science and advancement. They would give me puzzles, show me feats of engineering and interesting facts that I just revel in.”

Smiling, Albert said, “Rarity is a seamstress, right? A sort of artistic shower.” Then raised a hand, “Maybe.. She just needs to be reminded what it’s like to see something beautiful and that feeling of inspiration.” Then went on to tell, “You don’t realize something missing until it’s gone. And for Rarity, maybe it’s just as simple as that.”

Chuckling a bit, Jerry joked. “So let her friends deal with her.” sighing as he lean back adding on. “Alright, we’ll let her friends, maybe even Spree or other Ponyville resident handle Rarity.” he then raise a brow and asked in amusement. “So, how’s Mortis around with you? I know he’s been learning under Magic, but has he gotten around here to learn a bit from you?”

There was a quirked smile to that and Albert said, “A little. The minion has a very vast mind and intricate curiosity about living things. I was more than happy to share what I know with him.” Albert then went on to tell, “I was even more than happy to help provide some living and expired test subjects to test his work on. To say, he has some impressive skill. Even was able to revive a ten-day-old, cooked over seasoned fish that was left out, into perfect health.” Then grinned, “Magic is still wondering how Mortis was able to regrow bones into a once thoroughly cooked fish.”

“Well, Blues can not only revived Minions, but rework bones of limbs that were crushed and repair squished organs too.” replied Jerry.

Finger up, Albert told, “That’s the thing… the fabricators we use to cook food on the fly? Completely remove and atomized all internal organs and bones that are not needed to be consumed.”

Jerry blinked in slight surprise...then soon said. “Oh...So when you said thoroughly cooked…” then couldn’t help but chuckled. “So he’s at that stage now. Oh boy, a matter of time before he mastered what I know he could do.”

“I assume it has to do with your game logic?” Almost all at once, Jerry stopped chuckling as his mind tried to keep up with that. Albert slightly smiled and leaned back in his chair, watching as realization slowly began to dawn on Jerry’s features.

“What…” mind started thinking as how Albert knew of game-logic, but then...he thought of the storage lockers...as Jerry couldn’t help but realized. “The lockers...that's…” chuckling some. “Bigger on the inside...I should of known the moment I saw them…” looking at Albert as he saw Albert lifting a hand, flourishing it, and a tool just popping into his hand without reason as Jerry chuckle. “Yeah, that too...how did you know about my game logic?”

Shaking his own hand and dismissing the Habitat builder tool, Albert told, “It wasn’t easy. It took me a while to figure it out, but the clues started with those Blues you sent over. They were far from normal.” Then went on, “Then Magic told me a bit about the Gates you had, and I also had gotten moment to look at how your forges worked from time to time. It was a slow buildup, but I think my biggest hint was when you knew more about being an Overlord than you let on.”

The man couldn’t help but grin, he asked. “Was it the amount of lore I knew, how I was able to control the Minions at ease?”

“And suddenly sending Mortis here when you suddenly realized his name.” Albert ended up. “You just confirmed my suspicions when you said ‘so he's at that stage’, meaning you already knew what he was capable of doing, far before it happened.”

Jerry chuckle, deciding to explain to Albert. “Morits was from the second Overlord game. He was able to revive dead Minions from beyond the grave-- but in exchange for lesser Minions lifeforce from their respective Tribe. So far he’s the only Blue I know that is able to do that.” then added in admittance. “And Quaver...was from the second game too, he’s more loyal than the last Jester was. As the first Overlord Jester would betrayed me sooner or later.”

There was a slow nod before Albert told, “Gnarl considered betraying you.” Making Jerry pause at that. “I’m telling you now because we are in full private and he can’t overhear in any way. Gnarl tried to convince me to take up the mantle of Overlord, but I persuaded him that you were the better choice. If you died, he and the minions would die out. As it is? Gnarl is more like a parasite looking for a host than a symbiotic advantage with the hoard.”

Taking a deep breath, Jerry shake his head as he spoke. “I should've known he would do it.” looking at Albert as he admit. “Not really surprising, he literally betray you in the game for the previous Overlord. I knew he would try to betray me sooner or later.” then added in annoyance. “And I can’t kill him yet. As much as I hate to admit it, he has his uses as Minion Master.”

“You should feel lucky.” Told Albert in a simple manner, “I’ve convinced him to look after you as much as possible. Because if you die, then he’s at the edge of ether being hit by a rainbow of doom, or full out extinction by uncaring Caribou.” Then smiled, “I told him that if he kept you in charge, then he could have a whole line of overlords, you producing heirs and heirs producing more heirs and ensuring the minions survive through each generation.”

He shook his head with a slight chuckle, “He was a wily old minion… but I was far smarter than he anticipated. It gave me the overall advantage in that situation to make him cave to my reasoning.” Then smirked, “I think I nearly gave him a heart attack when I told him that unlike you? I don’t need him or the minions. I’ve survived worse alone.”

He couldn’t help but laugh as he said. “Well thanks Albert, at least now Gnarl won't back stabbed me long enough till old age!” calming some as he thought abit with a slowly forming frown. Unless the Eyes of Fate change that. While he may say I might not die...doesn’t mean its a certainty I won’t die at all during all of this. as while Jerry was thinking, Albert moved from his spot, walking towards a locker to grab something before using the Fabricator.

While the Fabricator finished it’s job, Albert made his way back, while Jerry continued his thinking. Not to mention for all I know, there could be some big evil waiting to jump at Equestria the moment we handle the Caribous. By that point, Gnarl might back stab me. I doubt all the Minions will serve me still… a smell of cooked fished wavering at his nose, smelling the odd smell of cooked meat. As Jerry blinked, his mind thoughts shaken as he glance to see a plate with a odd fish served before him.

A large bottle of water was set near it and with a fork, he glance up to see Albert with a different fish, before going to eat at it. Jerry took a bite of the fish, poking at it with the fork to eat it bit by bit. As while he wanted to worry on the what ifs, he knew that it was something he shouldn’t focus his thoughts on. Instead, he focus back to the situation.

“What about the Element of Kindness and Magic? From what I heard, there were no words of them on the trains...or getting near the safehouse.”

Sighing and stopping his eating for a moment, Albert washed down some food with a swig of water before telling, “From what I can tell? The two forward trains that had the first three must have reported back or sent back a message that things were not going as planned. It’s possible they halted the transports for the remainder of the Bearers and are planning a counter move to get them someplace out of our reach.”

Going back to his food, the infected man went on, “The turn is now the Caribou's. We just have to wait and plot out plans for what their next move might be. Like a shrouded game of chess, figuring out what move they might be thinking of and being fast to counteract it so they can’t respond to our more faster actions.”

Jerry sigh, nodding as he took another bite, as he chew some...and soon asked. “So are we going to interfere when Rarity makes her choice to take her cutie mark back? I mean granted there is a chance Starlight might not be a fake...but if she is a fake, and she might know who Rarity is? Odds are she might attempt to try to derail Rarity to get her mark, maybe try to peer pressure her with the town.”

Shaking his head, Albert told while pointing a fork at Jerry, “First, we need to make sure Rarity will be onboard with the idea.” Then went on to explain, “Rarity is possibly at a complex crossroad. She can’t remember who she is completly, but knows who she is in person. She has horrible scars no women would want to remember, but also hurting at not being able to remember everything.”

“At this moment? She needs familiar faces, not two strangers like us.” Affirmed the man even further, “Tactically speaking? We need to deploy something for her to latch onto. And that is Shadow, Spree, those of her hometown, her close friends and the last two of said friends-- Fluttershy, and one Princess Twilight. That is the first step.”

He then thought for a moment and told, “The second step will be harder. Rarity will be a instant target and might be blamed for turning her back on the beliefs she accepted.” then explained, “To the town, it would look like betrayal. They are in a way, the victims if it’s put like that. They put their trust and belief in Rarity-- and now she just leaves them and takes back her mark after making the sacrifices to stay? It would sting them as much as it would her.”

Then, shaking his head, Albert told, “The second part would be the harder one. We can’t rush it, and need to make sure the first part is secured and in place before confronting Starlight and her town.” Then went on, “But… it’s also highly likely that she doesn't even need her mark-- only to hold the representation of what she is supposed to be, Generosity.”

Jerry slightly nod his head, thinking on asking Shadow if she wants to spend time seeing the element Bearers with Spree, considering it might be best for her to catch up...although he couldn’t help but told. “If Shadow is going to be around the island...I do want to give her guards, and I know Spree is a good friend and guard...but I slightly feel assured with some Minions I know that are smart and able to keep a eye on Shadow while Spree isn’t around.” then admit to Albert.

“Maybe I’m a bit paranoid and a bit stupid in not trusting the ponies, but with dealing with Mist, I can’t help but feel other thestrals will feel the same to Shadow for a while she’s on the island helping Rarity out.”

“It’s a dangerous time for everyone Jerry.” Albert said. “Whatever semblance of order there was has been shattered. I don’t need to be smart to realize it. With how you also added to that building chaos? Things are bound to go out of disarray. I knew it the moment I was sent here to this world, Khara unleashed into the ocean and bound to reach land at some point and cause a mass extinction of unwary creatures or alien lifeforms.”

Placing his fork down, Albert dragged out a sigh and went on, “When I found the ponies, I knew I was dragging myself into something. Their company was welcomed-- being in a videogame world with nothing but water nearly everywhere I looked? It was maddening. But knowing that they wanted to hide, or get their home back?” He shook his head, “I’m a survivalist, not a soldier. But… sooner or later, even I joined in on the fight. The Empire was one example.”

With a slow nod, Jerry held a somber look, “Yeah...I know what you mean…” then sighed as he took another bite, chewing some as he swallowed and spoke. “I never thought I would be in this whole situation…” then shook his head. “But, that’s life for you. Full of surprise and unexpected turns or events.” taking another bite of his meal, takings sips of water to conserve the freshwater as he thought to himself.

I really come a long way….I’m honestly surprise I managed to get my sanity slightly intact. I would of thought I would of lost it a long time ago when I started killing and listening to Gnarl… thinking some as while it was true he was adding to the building chaos, he honestly hope he could remove it. Just to give these ponies some sort of peace or order that didn’t require him causing trouble much.

“That reminds me.” Albert spoke up, getting Jerry to give the infected man a look. “I’ve been working on it, and I think I might have finished the final idea of the armor that will be better than that prototype armor you have--”

“Wait, prototype? I thought that was the first version?” asked Jerry in near surprise.

Rolling his eyes at Jerry, Albert said, “It was a overly thick armor with hydraulic systems, lights and air tanks slapped on with minor changes over every tune-up I gave it to test out new ideas for the final result.” Then he assured him, “All the prototype versions and changes I made were guaranteed to leave you intact and safe-- I put in a lot of failsafes. But overall it was still a prototype. In fact I used the data from the armors recording chip to help me figure out the needed changes.”

“Wait...recording chip…?” said Jerry, thinking a bit as he thought. It was always odd with that weird red chip in the back of my helmet feeling warm now and then… then asked. “So what were the final ideals to the titanium armor?” then asked in slight curiosity. “And are we still going to use the Arcanium Smelter to craft it?”

Giving a nod, Albert said, “We just might. I’m going to be using Plasteel to make the final result, which is more or less a extra-reinforced steel variant of refined titanium ingots-- though your smith only used raw titanium ores, not the refined ingots.”

“Wait…” started Jerry with near shock on his expression. “You mean...I let Giblet used ores and not ingots?” rubbing his chin at that as he thought back on the shapes as he mused. “In hindsight, I should've seen that coming. Maybe I did and didn’t noticed it. They were round chunks of metal…” although he did asked. “So should we cut it down a inch of titanium with them being refined ingots?”

Waving off, Albert said, “I’m thinking of possibly cutting it more to a inch or less. Upping the hydraulics in power, adding in some Areo-gel to help add heat resistance. Possibly a coating of Copper in some areas to help take care of that shock damage you keep taking-- I was also thinking of using a bit of Kayanight to help make a sort of insulator for the electronics. Maybe add high-capacity air tanks…”

Everything Albert was tossing around was almost dizzying. Form a ‘Mod panel’ to ‘upgrades’ and ‘variations’ or ‘parts’ and many other things. It was hard to keep up, or until Albert said, “It would more or less be a smaller, more agile and somewhat weaker PRAWN suite almost.”

He caught onto that as he thought. You mean like a mini-tank!? Or maybe a mini-mech!? then almost giddy as he thought. Or maybe Fallout power armor?! Overlord style!?

But… of course, there was a catch. “The only thing I’m figuring out still is the power needs.” Making Jerry pause. “Your current suit uses a mix of magic and some tech I have-- but that won’t cut it with this set of armor. It’s processing power alone would be a hog for power-- I might have to consider making a power cell-- no, maybe some Lithium Batteries, or if possible, Ion Batteries or a Ion Cell.” Though the scientist grimaced, “But those are hard to make. I’d have to figure out if there’s any Prothean structures, and those hardly have appeared around here.”

“What’s a Ion cell?” asked Jerry as he added. “And why are they hard to make?”

Blinking, Albert calmed up and said, “A ion cell is a very powerful rechargeable power source. I use a few for my Sea Moth, the Excursion, and six of them for the Dauntless.” Then reached down to get his tablet, opening it and swiping through it, “They are made from Ion Crystals, which are only found within ancient alien structures form the game world I was trapped in.”

When Jerry was handed the tablet, he felt himself blinking at the blocky green crystal on the screen, even as Albert went on. “They are extremely powerful, and as you can read, basically stay in a state to keep ionized and hold immense yields of nuclear force.”

“I seen this before!” told Jerry as he stood up in surprise, seeing these things before. “Hell, I know where there's more! I gave the Resistance one of these during a raid at a facility-- and there's more within Canterlot in a bunker. The Caribous been mining these things on a--,” then pause midway explaining as he look at the nuclear force part on the Tablet and nearly shouted in shock as he look to Albert. “They’re nukes!? All this time we had a nuke with the Resistance?!” then eyes widen as he said.

“Oh, shit, shit, shit, shit! A town wouldn’t get wiped out,” thinking of the scientist papers. “Nations would get wiped out! And the Caribou been slowly stockpiling them!”

Making a face to that, Albert said, “Well… that is bad.” Then took a moment to think and remark, “I hope no one’s messing with them now. Even I was hesitant with playing around with them besides with using my game logic-- something that glows green inside an ancient alien structure and makes ominous crackling noises?” He shook his head. “At first, when I first discovered it in game? I was hesitant to even touch it.”

Slowly sitting down, he told. “Thankfully? None of the scientist didn’t want to mess with it too much, fearing it could blow a town…” shaking his head as he explained earlier. “We found out that the Caribous in Canterlot stockpile them in a bunker, a few boxes worth. Nothing about where they originate from, but what I got from the Resistance? They were finding them in areas on a island or other places, didn’t tell me much since they didn’t knew either.”

He then thought and went on. “I think Periodic moved it somewhere, don’t know where admittedly.” then think abit and grimace. “And I doubt we can get those boxes full of Ion Cell in Canterlot, especially with how things tense are right now.”

“Ion crystals.” Corrected Albert, “They aren't Ion Cell’s or Ion Batteries until I process them.” Then went on, “But that goes without saying, all I can make with one Ion Crystal is a Ion Battery-- and I doubt that will have the needed power. A normal Powercell might do it-- but I still need to test the final result of the armor a number of times before I’m sure it’ll work.”

Motioning behind himself, Albert told, “It already takes two power cells to run a PRAWN, but that’s with a certain limit of mod’s and parts being used. If I do as many incorporation with your armor as I’m planning? I’m thinking one will get spent up too fast within a few days of constant use. I’d need to test it.”

Jerry thought it over and asked in curiosity. “Why not combine the Gauntlet gem with the Ion Battery or cell? Try to see if we could combine our game logics again like with the prototype? Maybe use sacrifice Minions to adjust the power supplies?”

“The prototype was a near fluke, Jerry.” Albert told in a simple manner, “We can’t rely on luck to work a second time around. We’re messing with higher amounts of power here, enough power to be like two bioreactors with a eight times efficiency rate with a normal Power Cell.” Then went on, “Times that by ten with a Ion Powercell, and you have a lot of power that could do anything if something went wrong. They are ‘mini nukes’ by your expression.”

Jerry slightly nodded, thinking that it might be a while before he could gain such a armor. Well...at least I’ll be able to use the ‘prototype’ for a good while. Maybe the solution will come to us with a least expected idea? shaking that thought off as he took another bite of his fish, thinking a bit to himself. Although we should figure out when and if to take those Ion Crystals. Dainn might resort to them to ‘win’ against me, or Albert…

He mentally sighed as he thought. Maybe I should try to relax, technically I’m on vacation, I need to relax and try to not overthink too hard...right? but even if he tried to forget and enjoy his meal, part of his mind nagged him with not only on the final armor, but also on Starlight and her town, on finding the last two Element Bearers. Even on Shadow safety and the need to bring Minions around her for her protection.

While he knew he could trust Spree to keep Shadow safe...part of him wants to bring in Minions who were able to protect her and were ‘smarter’. Hmm...maybe I should asked Gnarl if I can get him to screen through Minions? He’ll want Shadow safe mostly because she’s the Mistress and going to have my kids… he almost pause at that, as he noticed that he’s been getting used to the terms ‘my kids’....it almost became common.

He took another bite, as he thought on something else, specifically food supplies as he swallow his food, and asked to Albert. “Should I get ready for raiding for supplies? There might be a need for me to gather food for everyone in the island with all the extra mouths showing up.”

Shaking his head, Albert assured, “I’ve been helping Grain organize making a effective farm setting near the islands. As of late, there’s been a large amount of foods being grown for the ponies using both mainland and the small bases around them in the water.”

Albert soon went back to poking at his food and went on while in thought, “Really what I’ve been more focused on besides food and water supplies, were actual materials. We’re good at the moment, but we’ve hit that point that it’s being debated with a few of the Expedition Captains that more ships will be needed-- which means more Cyclops's, more Seamoths and more PRAWN’s. Overall, more expenses to make all of those, and their corresponding upgrades.”

“At best? I see two more Cyclops's, with needed upgrades, a few Seamoths and two more PRAWN’s being put into the mix soon. Then about a few weeks of training and joint-trips with another more experienced Expedition group to make sure they can handle the dangers.”

The man frowned in thought and told, “This is of course, not mentioning the whole situation of researching new things down here. Even with the supplied laboratory space for those here? We’re having trouble making too many breakthroughs without some more substantial data to work form when it comes to properly replicating the Caribou’s more effective anti-magic armor or finding sure-fire ways of reversing some of their magic.”

“Have you asked Dr.Kalvarn or some of the Caribou scientists on that?” asked Jerry. “Because I’m certain they were able to help give some data or information with the copies I let them have of their work and research.” then thinking and asking further. “Do you also want me to start taking some of their anti-magic armor, maybe start raiding other facilities to gather more scientists or work for you all to have?”

“Periodic has been in contact constantly with Kalvarn.” Told Albert, “But there’s only so much a lone expert in one field can hand out. We need more solid notes, data, recipes and other bits. Striking a research faculty, it’s scientist or even going to a factory or smithery that has the information we need would be useful.”

Giving a hum, Jerry admit. “I actually been looking at other research facilities, with their location within the papers, it was quite easy to find them...but the problem I mostly have is ‘who to take’ because raiding them is easy...it's another to have credibility that they’re ‘good’ like some of the scientists from the last facility. For all I know, I could unknowingly bring in the bad sort that accept the Caribou ideology.”

Holding the large bottle of water, Albert said, “Figuring out intent isn’t figured out until they are in and under the microscope.” Then went on to tell, “Screening them is just as hard. You lucked out with the first group. That’s the only way I can define it.” Then went on pausing, “Or there’s some sort of cosmic power that’s playing us all for fools.”

While Albert let that taper off, he shook his head and told, “But the point is, we don't know until we find out. Unless you were to somehow get into the public files of everyone that lives in Equestria, comb through each and every file and be able to pick out every single good or bad action as well as get invasive with private information? You have to work out by guessing.”

“What you mean like government official places or highly secured buildings on records?” asked Jerry. “Because from what I heard, apparently Caribous enjoy learning every bit of information of everyone to the point they keep tabs on them.” rolling his eyes as he said. “Problem is, it never occurred to me to break into those buildings and read through every information. And by now, they probably secure those up more tighter than before.” then sighed. “But honestly? I think I’m just going to raid the facility for all the information and artifacts, maybe get lucky and find something to help you all out in the Labs.”

Giving a dismissive wave of the hand, Albert told, “Take your time and plan it out later. Right now you should focus more on what’s going on with Twilight and Fluttershy. Like I said, they are more important to our needs in the long term.” Then muttered, “Unless they died. That would be a large problem, possibly a huge one.”

He took a breath and said, “It’s one we really need to advert if at all possible. And we can’t have you going off on too many raids, on the off chance we need you with a advance group to react when we do find out what has become of the two.” Tapping a finger to the table, Albert shook his head once more and told, “I should get back to work.” Taking the plate form the table and going on, “And you need to go on and take some time off while you can.”

Finishing up his fish, Jerry joked. “Why do you think I’m here? Shadow felt the need to suggest me to relax here in the ‘Overlord area’ to take my mind off of stress.” Then take some sip of water as he got up. “But you’re right, I should probably head back, maybe we’ll find out about the last two soon. Later Albert.” turning, he headed off to the bulkhead, mostly to get a quick check up on Mortis, and planned on seeing how the girls were doing.

Maybe play with Jasmine and let her piggyback him? That would sure to get some looks from the ponies.

---

After a near week, a message was sent to Alpha Base, as there was mixed news. The good news both Twilight and Fluttershy was alive...but the bad news, was that they were within a fleet of Caribou ships, along with riches, mares-- and even Ion Crystals from Canterlot. Apparently they were going to try heading to the Caribou home land to ‘secure’ what healthy and able mares they had and send their riches and prizes so that if the Caribous died in Equestria, they managed to get their homeland a chance to win.

But there lies a problem. One that made even Jerry annoyed heavily as he was asked to be back on the island. And this time he had to do it without his armor, since he’s been in Alpha Base for a good week, so he had to take a trip by boat. Even more Albert was asked to come along. While both comply, Jerry was nearly surprised of Mortis coming with him.

As the Blue Minion was, by Magic words, ‘learned all he could’ and was able to do what Jerry knew the Blue could do. Raise the dead of Minions even after they perished, but he was curious on how much Morits could do, only for the Blue to tell him that he exceeded what a Blue normally could do.

Still, what bothered him more was that Shadow asked to come along, mostly to visit Rarity and the other Ponyville inhabitants on the island. While part of him knew that it was mostly a good idea for Shadow to do so, and another part of him reminded it was of establishing her new position as his wife for the ponies to see. He agreed, but only if she had guards with her. Thankfully, Gnarl was easily to contact with the communicator relay by the Castle and gave assurance that the Mistress will have the best the minions could offer, as the moment the Dauntless was near land and the four swam out from under the ship to being on dry land, being Shadow, Jerry, Albert and Mortis, Shadow noticed a couple of Minions on land, waiting for them as they gave slight jumps and hoots.

Jerry quickly noticed that these Minions were different from those in his horde. As there were 15 Minions, 4 Browns with two having spears and the two other having axes, 3 Reds all fully armored and ready for a fight, 4 Greens all spiked and metal and bones covering their bodies, and 4 Blues with protective paddings on their bodies. The dive-suit man noticed that they were all fully armored, all wearing gear and armor on their bodies as they bowed towards Jerry and Shadow, as a Brown spoke. “Master! We are elite! We smarter than other's! We are stronger!”

One of the Greens, being Zippy gave a low laugh as he told. “We protect the Mistress, keep her safe!” While Shadow gave a giggle, hand over her lips, Mortis assured to Jerry.

“Do not worry Sire, they are actually the best among the Minions, the most ‘smartest’ and possibly eldest who have served under you. The Mistress will be safe.” There was some doubt in Jerry, as he felt a chaste kiss on his cheek as the thestral assured.

“Don’t worry Jerry, I’ll be safe.” then added as she bump hips with him. “Spree will be around too to keep a eye on me.” He relent and nod his head as he warned.

“Just let me know if you need help.” she giggle, but after a quick hug, she walked with the Minions surrounding her and looking ready to defend her to their deaths.

With a glance, Albert told, “She’ll be safe. Once she’s surrounded by familiar faces, even more safer.” Then looked ahead and said, “We better go and see what was so urgent to call us over and not tell over the Comm’s.” That alone had bothered Albert, why the ponies had called for both himself and Jerry in such a haste to the base.

Jerry slightly nodded, walking with Albert, feeling a little uncomfortable, mostly because this was actually the first time he came here without his armor. It made him feel...vulnerable in a sense, even more he didn’t had any full ways of defending himself, or even use any other Minions.

“Be at ease, Master,” spoke Mortis as the Blue walked with the two humans the best he could. “I may not fight as a Brown, but with my newfound magical abilities, I will be able to defend you with more than healing.” Jerry glance to Mortis and asked.

“Why did you decided to come with us anyway Mortis? I mean, yeah Magic said you learn all you could, but wouldn’t it make more sense for you to head back to the Castle?” the Blue glance up as Mortis told simply.

“That is true, Sire. But I felt the need to accompany you, in the least case one of these foolish ponies attempted to harm you, or perhaps offended you without a chance of defending yourself.” Jerry couldn’t help but chuckle as he asked in amusement.

“Meaning you came along as my bodyguard since I’m here without my armor?”

“I may not be as perceptive as the Mistress, but I at least know how uneasy you are among ponies who may decide to give harm to you Master.” glancing up as he added. “Especially with no armor to protect you, Sire.”

Speaking up, Albert said, “You can also rely on me too.” Giving his fellow human a glance and explained, “I have backup tools for sudden emergencies. I might be trusting of most of the leadership here, but blind trust only makes way for a attack to slip by your guard.”

A relief breath came out, as Jerry said. “Thanks you two. It feels...odd, not being in my armor around here,” glancing as ponies noticed the trio as he added lowly. “And makes it harder to ignore the dirty looks around at me.”

“Pay no attention to them, for they have no idea of who you are, Sire.” spoke Mortis, as he spoke on. “Without your armor, they have no idea of your true looks. They will mostly see in curiosity or wonderment of you around here.” Jerry gave a slight smile, as he glance down to Mortis as he said.

“Remind me when we’re back, to get the Minions to weave you a cloak of sorts, maybe a scythe made too. I’m pretty sure Giblet won’t mind making one for you.” Mortis hum, as he admit.

“It would make my place as, ‘Minion Resurrector’ much more noticeable, Master. And I must admit, it would show of my status with things none of the other Minions have.”

Considering this, Albert gave the man a glance and said, “I remember that there was a mention of a mass move being planned with a few ponies and caribou that live here to your castle?” Then raised a hand, “Maybe see if any of them might be willing to train your smartest minions into even more effective and elite fighters. Possibly guards.”

Thinking some, he said. “Spree can shape up my Brown Guards into actual guards, maybe asked of the new inhabitants for more things to teach to them? Various of things too..” then added. “Maybe get more cooks to teach some of my Reds on how to cook properly beside, ‘burn food until it smells good’.”

“Perhaps teach Giblet with smiths, if any wish to come to the Castle, Master.” added Mortis as they saw the tent where Jerry usually go to meet up with the tactical planners. But he noticed there was a extra set of guards, seeming to put their spears before the three, as Mortis stood up and spoke up. “Move aside guards, the Master and the Scientist are here to answer the call of which your leaders demand of them.”

One opened his mouth to speak, but Albert told in a near curt manner, “Arguing is wasting time. I was ripped away from my work at Alpha Base and any research projects for future campaigns against the Caribou for this emergency meeting. Instead of asking, merely let us in.” then called out, “Shining Armor.”

That was enough for the flap to be opened, the stallion giving a glance and being mildly surprised at Jerry’s state of undress. Ignoring this for the time being, he motioned, “Guards, stand down.” Then told, “Come on, the situation has gone drastic.”

Both humans exchanged looks before moving inside, where upon they could see Shining Armor setting himself up by the side of the table. Nearby Luna was there, along with Pearl, Screech, some stallion in similar royal guard armor of the caribous and even a few other ponies in military wear of the island.

Albert ran his eyes over the room quickly, particularly zoning onto the map and what looked to be a plotted course over an expanse of open water. He narrowed his eyes in suspension, but didn’t say anything just yet. “Overlord. Dr. Albert.” Luna acknowledge the two, “Come. We have a problem.”

While some of the ponies held surprised looks of Jerry without his armor, Jerry moved along with Albert, as Mortis followed behind as Pearl glance down and told to Jerry. “Overlord. Keep your imp out of the tent, this situation does not concern with it.” Mortis himself give back the same curt tone.

“If one Blue annoyed you, it is a wonder how you never done anything right.” ignoring the glare of the older mare as Mortis told. “My place is with the Master, with or without your consent, pony.”

“Peace, the two of you.” Luna told sternly before looking to the two humans. “As you know, a situation has arisen where the final two Element Bearers to Harmony have been found. One of Seeking spies that stands with us has told us of a fleet that had left not a near week ago.”

Taking his que, the stallion placed a finger on the map and told, “They are making a run for their Caribous homeland, and right now we don’t have any means to stop them. We don’t have any ships and they have a week's worth of time ahead of us.”

Sighing, Albert summed it up, “You need a fleet and you want Alpha Base’s fleet.” Then raised his brow, “Why ask for us both? Grain is in charge of Alpha Base.”

“But you know the technology in greater depth.” Retorted the lone princess. “Would this… fleet be effective in doing what we need?”

Albert thought it over and told, “Well… with the right placement, it could work.” Then waved a hand adding, “We would have to improvise though. It’s not like the Expedition fleet or the tools and technology it’s equipped with is made for battle in mind in the first place.”

“But are you able to get your fleet to catch onto the Caribou own fleet?” asked Seeking as he went on. “Can your ship's be able to stop them within a shorter time than their own ships, which would take months of traveling to their homeland?”

Shrugging, Albert said, “The Cyclops alone can match or surpass your wooden ships in speed. They don’t rely on wind or current. Though a good strong current can make the Cyclops's go much faster.” Than thought on adding, “I can also have a few Seamoth scouts go ahead of the main fleet, they’re faster and they can sabotage and slow the ships down. Make things easier in not just slowing them, but spotting the ships.”

“My primary concern is the Leviathan class fish.” Grimly told the scientist. “It’s not too common, but ever since the Reaper Leviathans, the Sea Dragon Leviathan and other large aggressive lifeforms got here? Ships have gained damaged or sunk. Even a passively swimming by Reefback can cause a problem-- and they aren't aggressive. Just big and slow.”

Concern looks came on their faces, as Screech spoke. “That is what we are afraid of,” looking at him as she continued. “We know of these creatures from your Tablets that were provided by Shire, but we fear that fleet will possibly be destroyed, maybe nothing left of the Element Bearers or any other mare on those ships would survive.” While there was a silence, Jerry spoke up.

“I hate to change the topic, but I am curious on why I’m here. It's one thing for Albert to be here with his fleet-- but what reason do you need me here as well?” looking at them as he went on. “Wouldn’t it make more sense to let me stay in Alpha Base while you asked for Albert? The sea is his department after all, I work best on land.”

Sighing, Screech said, “We thought a extra hand in a boarding would be needed, you’re armor--”

“Would be too heavy and he’d sink to the bottom of the ocean.” Cut off Albert. “It’s aquatically able-- but can’t swim. And there’s no way of getting him on a ship in the first place.” He wasn’t sure why they thought Jerry would be of much help, but he had guesses.

Screech looked a bit miffed at being cut off, and spoke, “He’s a strong and heavy hitter and a perfect moral breaker for the Caribou. It should shake them up.”

“Or encourage them if he was tossed overboard.” Albert shot back before raising a brow, “Unless there’s a ulterior motive?”

Seeming to mask herself, Screech told, “His blue minions might be needed, as well his other types. The red ones alone can cause some serious damage to the ships.”

“I can improvise with tools to make just as much damage, perhaps more and make it look like a accident.” Pointed out Albert, “Or make them sink so deep no one will ever find out what happened. The oceans deep, a sunk ship can easily vanish.”

Luna focused on Albert as she asked. “How would you be able to do that? Wouldn’t it compromise our needs in gaining both Dame Fluttershy and Princess Twilight?”

Shaking his head, Albert told, “You would be surprised what you can accomplish with few tools.” Then raised a hand to go on, “But with a large amount? We have Diving reels that can be improvised as tethers. Knives used to cut or damaged key parts. Laser Cutters to easily make a door under the ship’s hull to slowly sink it. Gravity sphere to pick up items of a certain weight.”

Albert crossed his arms and told, “Really, it can be as simple as cutting a hole in the bottom of the ships, wait for them to sink, and salvage the rest.” Then slightly smiled adding, “We could have a group swim on in, get the two out, swim to the closest Cyclops and just let the caribou splash about at the surface while we do our work and leave. Simple as that.” (

While a few of the strategists thought on this, other's looking surprise as Jerry blink some at Albert of how...simple it was. And they didn’t need to confront the Caribous at all! Mortis just stay quiet, as the idea was great in Albert turn, he gave a look at Screech direction, feeling a niggling feeling in him as he look up to Jerry as he spoke. “Master, if you can?”

Gaining Jerry to glance down, seeing the Minion motioning up on the table for a better clearing, as Jerry resist the urge to heckle as it was like holding up a kid onto a table. As when he got the Blue up on the table, he gave a look to Screech as he told. “As you can imagine, the Scientist alone with his ships can easily put down a fleet without confrontation.” then questioned to the older thestral. “But was there a reason, beside demanding the Master of the use of his Blues and terror of the Caribous in morality…”

Then added with bits of suspicious in his tone. “Or were part of you hoping he would somehow drown and die as you ponies would swoop in to ‘save the Bearers’ and remove two issues at the same time?” Jerry felt he should facepalm, or maybe attempt to stop Mortis to speak, but the Blue spoke on. “It seems odd, that you require the aids of Blues, as while the Reds are of use, and while blues can swim and heal-- what ulter purpose was of using the Master and the Blues?”

Pearl gave a annoyed look to Jerry as she remarked. “Maybe you should put your imp down back on the ground, he sound like he’s suspicious of us.” Mortis replied in simplistic manner.

“I am suspicious, because it is very suspicious to asked of the Master in this endeavor, that doesn’t even know how to steer ships, much less does anything with related of this situation. It would be of smarter to asked simply of the Scientist, not of the Master.”

Shaking his head, Albert said, “That’s off point.” Drawing the conversation back to topic as he went on, “Because my plan does have a possible flaw.”

“Like what?” Asked Shining, “It sounds rather straight forwards and fool proof. What could be the problem?”

In turn, all Albert did was point at the vast open space of ocean and told, “Possible crush depth.” Drawing confusion form most, but Jerry understood on the spot.

“The sea levels which your ships, or the ships of the Caribous will go.” said the man, as the ponies glance to the two, as Jerry explained. “While Albert ships can handle being underwater, there is a sort of limit of how deep you can go, and the ocean can be pretty deep. So deep that you can’t see the bottom,” as he almost could imagine the awe they might have of him knowing of this. “Since the deeper you go down in the sea, the more pressure there is, and the more chances you’ll have the ships crushed by said pressure.

“And let's not forget of adding in how dark it will be, as it’ll be pitch black for you to see by glass. Or adding in the multiple sea creatures, especially the Sea Dragon or Reaper Leviathan that might roam around said areas.”

Albert gave a firm nod and told, “Sinking the ships will be easy. It’s making sure they don’t sink to a place we can’t start recovering and scavenging it’s things. And anyone trapped aboard?” Albert thought and shook his head, “Well, they’ll drown before they die form the pressure over their bodies.”

Speaking up, one of the ponies asked, “Can’t the Blue imps swim down to do the work?”

Albert almost snorted in a laugh, “They can swim-- but their bodies can only handle so much being underwater. There are some places that you need a ship or a PRAWN to reach without worrying about your body imploding.” Then sighed. “No, if we want this to work right? We have to make sure we make those ships sink in a area that’s around 1,000 meters down, to a hundred meters. Those would be the ‘safest’ areas we can use the fleet to scavenge the remains.”

“But couldn’t you use the Blues to handle being 1,000 meters down?” asked one of the ponies as Jerry decided to be blunt.

“Albert said ‘implode’, 1,000 meters may not seem much to you, since you’re ignorant of how deep it is underwater. But if one of my Blues are down there? They’ll get crush easily before they have 3 seconds to live.”

“That might be a bit extreme on your part, Jerry.” Told Albert, “But the point stands that the Blues are land-dwelling creatures-- not sub-aquatic creatures that are made for that environment.” Then remarked, “Though if I was honest they might get eaten whole by something rather than get crushed.”

Mortis agreed with that. “Blues are more frailer than Reds, and we would be seen as a snack to chew and eat by the creatures there.” then told simply. “If you wish to save those on the fleet of Caribou's, then all hands of Alpha base might be need,” looking to the spies as he question. “How many ships were within the fleet?”

Looking flabbergast, the stallion started. “Ten ships in total.” Mortis soon turn to asked to Luna.

“Then perhaps it would be wise to let the Scientist take his leave, to not only get those of Alpha Base ready, but to arm his ships with needed tools?” Jerry add in with a sigh.

“Mortis, we still need to figure out how to handle the area of the ships to sink.” glancing to Albert as he added. “I mean, I doubt there’s many areas underwater that can fit the 1,000 meters for you, right?”

To that, Albert gave a nod, “There are places in a ocean that can exceed 10 thousand meters, possibly even further.” Making many balk at that. “But the path the ship is taking is close enough to land that they should be near some sloped areas we can take advantage of. If I’m right, they might plan to make a few stops to keep their supplies fresh before risking the open ocean.”

Screwing up her face, Pearl asked, “How would you know that? I thought you were a scientist, not a navigator or tactical planner?” Still wanting to question this odd male that was a horrible sight of a constant sickened state.

“Rule about ocean exploration?” Asked Albert, “Never leave without fresh and highly stocked supplies. Hunger and Thirst are two high threats besides wildlife and drowning.” Then placed a hand to his chest, “I should know. Starvation and dehydration has caused me some problems along with nearly getting lost in underwater caves and nearly blacking out from lack of air.” Then waved a hand, “The sea life is only bad if it catching you off guard.”

“So you can easily guess that they’ll be making stops around islands or places to resupply themselves.” said Shining, thinking some as he asked to Jerry. “Overlord, are you able to make Waypoint Gates to where they are?” Jerry gave a flat look as he felt the rise of sarcasm in his tone.

“Oh sure, let me just set up a random Gate, in a random area where I don’t know where the fleet is heading to, with no information whatsoever of where they will be stopping.” then asked. “Do you honestly think I can just make Gates pop out of thin air? At least around Equestria I know where I’m making them in geography or area. This is a whole different case, Shining.”

Thinking, Albert raised a hand, “No… he has something.” Then went on to tell Jerry, “I know they will stop someplace to at least restock their fresh water supply. Food can be more easily managed. You can go a whole week without food if you have to, the body can handle and confiscate if it has to. But water? Past three days and you will die soon.” Putting it simple as that.

Looking over the map, Albert said, “We should trail them. Find the fleet, then trail them. If they start moving to land? We can all cut them off there by just sending Jerry ahead with a few seamoths and let him get ready. If possible? Possibly open up a gate to let more fighters through and be ready to ambush any caribou’s landing. If they try running and sailing off?”

Shining was slowly nodding, “They would effectively be in shallow enough water for you to sink the ships and scavenge them safely without worries about depth, sea life or other complications. It also makes it safer for the mare’s onboard the ships, as they can swim to land where we’ll be waiting for them.”

Taking a deep breath, Jerry explained. “And while that is a good plan, there's a problem. It’s where my gates will be set up.”

“Overlord you told us yourself that you can spread your Gates around the map of Equestria, was that a far-fetch tale?” asked Luna with a raised brow, Mortis defended his Master as the Blue spoke.

“What my Master means, is that while he can set up the Gates, be it Waypoint or Main Gate, it is the area that concern him. While the Master can be alerted by the Scientist by the Comms, the Master has no knowledge of the islands or places surrounded by water mass, as he has no maps of said areas.” bringing up a example to get them to understand. “It would be like asking the Master to create a Main Gate, across the continent into another nation land, without ever stepping foot or knowing the layouts of said land.”

Turning to glance at the minion, Shining Armor told, “This isn’t a permanent camping or insertion location. This is just a foothold to use temporarily to cut the Caribou off or ambush them when they come to land.”

Albert had to agree with a nod, “There is no real tactical value in the location we’re going to possibly. Unless they have a keep or some kind of port to their final destination before setting sail for far off lands? Then there shouldn’t be too much of a problem. To the Caribou, it would be just a random gate in the middle of nowhere.”

Thinking some as Jerry mused a bit as he told. “That I can handle, just need to know which island or port they’re heading.”

“That's why we’re following the fleet.” reminded Seeking as he slightly wonder if the Overlord wasn’t in his A-game today. Considering he was wearing a diving suit, he can easily guess he was ‘busy’ with other things.

While Jerry then glance to the ponies as he asked. “Anything else we need to bring up?”

Nodding, Luna said, “A final thing.” Then glanced at Albert as she said, “Dr. Albert made a valid point if it was a port. If there is one, it would vastly complicate things for us. And it would make more sense for them to stop at a seaport before making a long voyage. If there is one, we may need to alter the plan and quickly so.”

“I can work out sabotage of the oceanic ships.” Told Albert. “But all land assaults or attacks need to be headed by Jerry or anyone with groundwork experience. Just leave the ships to myself and the Expedition Fleet.”

Nodding, Luna turned back and told, “While we do not expect to find any heavy resistance on land, we mustn't think otherwise and prepare for the worse. A fortified seaport would be a great dilemma, and a hard place to recover both elements and any other things the ships might drop off for safety.”

Thinking that over, Jerry mused to himself. Fortified seaports? Maybe I should get Grubby to start working on Mount Gates then. Start collecting Wolves for the Browns, maybe start harvesting spider eggs to grow and tame for the Greens. I have encounter some spiders, granted mostly around in Everfree now and then...Maybe I can check on Hayseed Swamp? Maybe search for the large spiders the Green would enjoy having around like in the game? mentally groaning some as he thought.

But that might not work, in fact I doubt I can find the same, or closest to the spiders the Greens have in the second game. Even more, I doubt I could find the Salamanders anywhere. I doubt they even exist here! but another part of him recalled that the Spell Stones or Catalyst didn’t exist in the first game...maybe both the same spider breeds or Salamander type lives or are in a habitable place that’s around, but haven’t been found yet? It was likely since the Stones been found around all around Equestria.

So its possible that the same Mounts for Greens and Reds are around, just haven’t look where. thinking to himself as he slightly heard the conversation as he added. Maybe do a bit of searching, start making habitable places for the Mounts and breed them slightly docile to me and the Castle habitants and deadly to everything else? Problem is how long it might take. Maybe ask Albert when we have the time about the breeding-, he almost didn’t hear the question directed to him as he glance to see Screech giving him a questionable look as she asked.

“Is there something you would like to share us, Overlord? You seem quiet.” Jerry waved off as he spoke.

“Just thinking to myself of things I need to be ready for.” recalling the conversation being about when Albert can get his fleet ready with them tracking the Caribou own ships as he decided to input a concern in him. “Now, if we are finishing up on the fleets, may I suggest we talk about the glowing green cubes, otherwise known as Ion Crystalines?”

“I thought we agreed that we would've left them for now,” spoke Pearl with furrow brows. “Why bring them up again, Overlord?” Jerry brought up his reason why he’s bringing them up with a question.

“We know that they have the Bearers of Magic and Kindness, right?” gaining looks as he went on. “We also know they’ll have good, ‘healthy’ mares, and are trying to leave to the Caribou home land...would it be farfetch for them to take the Ion Crystalines as well to study and research carefully?” Giving looks as he added. “I think we should be even more cautious in case they do have the Ion Crystals and might assume to they could use them as ‘bombs’ to hit at us, or mostly at me.”

Frowning a bit, Pearl said, “why are you concerned about that now? By Dr. Albert’s plan, he can safely sink the ships and retrieve the cargo. I doubt they’ll gain any damage while sealed inside the crates they’re in.”

Albert also lifted a brow at Jerry’s choice of words. Considering he himself was the one to show Jerry the information of the crystals, then he was certain the Jerry knew that if the Caribou did figure out how to disrupt the things, it would probably remove them and everything in a large area in a small nuclear blast. What did Jerry want to gain out of mentioning the Ion Crystals?

Screech narrow her eyes, feeling suspicious herself as she questioned. “Overlord, is there a reason you are talking of them now? We know that the Caribous aren’t stupid enough to use them as bombs.” then pressed. “Why the sudden deflection? Is there something you’re not telling us? Perhaps whatever you were thinking wasn’t contributing to us or this planning whatsoever?”

Mortis gave a subtle glance, knowing from what he noticed of his Master, that the Overlord was attempting to deflect whatever he was thinking about, as the Blue spoke to aid his Lord. “The Master feels that perhaps with the Caribous having these crystals, perhaps they have other artifacts to study with them? As I do not doubt that they merely focus with grabbing one thing that could be used for them. Perhaps they grab other artifacts from other facilities to take with them to study upon?”

“But he’s still deflecting something.” pushed Screech, having a very suspicious look to Jerry as she has a way to see through his expressions as she questioned. “We can assume that they might as well have these artifacts with them, and assume they have these Crystals. So tell us Overlord, why think of them now?” having a suspicious tone within her voice. “Unless, you’re trying to hide something from us, something that you neglect to tell us?”

“Quick question, did you read through everything of the Ion Crystals?” asked Jerry as Screech held that look as she replied shortly.

“Yes, mention something of a nuclear blast,” then demanded. “But why are you bringing this up now? We already know they’re dangerous, so why are you-,”

“I can use them.” Albert felt this was all really unnecessary, but with how they were badgering Jerry, it was getting irritating. “I can use them to make some highly powerful and reliable power sources for the machines I have.” Placing it as simple as that. “Also, I would be more worried of them accidentally setting off a Ion Crystal. The initial blast alone would be devastating, but if it does work like normal nuclear fusion? I’d be more worried about the fallout that will carry over who knows how far and cause even more damage and death.”

That made the old thestral pause, as well as Luna focusing in on this as she glance to Jerry and asked. “Overlord, was this the reason you are focusing on the Crystals now?”

Jerry slightly nodded, thanking God that Albert gave him a out. “Yeah, because with them acting like nuclear fuel? I’m worried that from what I learn with my talks with Albert, that the Caribou could fucked things up way more than we thought.”

Pearl gave a glare to Jerry, then a questioning look to Albert as she asked. “Is the Overlord making sense in this regard-- or blowing hot air and making us more annoyed at his antics?”

Sighing, Albert admitted, “Nuclear fusion isn’t something ponies use yet, and it’s as dangerous as it is useful in powering things. The materials used for it are highly dangerous and most of all deadly to living things. Radiation alone causes cells to die quickly, meaning that a ‘cure’ for it isn’t as simple as giving medicine.”

“Furthermore, the Nuclear Fallout is what is my primary concern. Low levels of radiation won’t hurt you anytime soon, but exposure will cause problems. After the initial explosion, most of the fallout will be at ground zero, the point of explosion.” Then raising a hand, he went on, “But a good amount also goes to the atmosphere, getting carried by wind currents over miles of land and sprinkling down. A nuclear fallout can take place between days to litteral years. Irradiating and poisoning things even further. And while the nuclear decay can be fast, if it finds a proper insolation or isotope, can stay around for years and make an area dangerous to travel near.”

Placing a hand to his chest, Albert told, “I need a specialized dive suite lined with lead to even get near areas with high radiation levels or handle radioactive materials. Even then, if there is a single opening in my suite, I’m sentencing myself to maybe five years worth of life because of radiation poisoning-- possibly even less if I’m exposed to high amounts for too long.”

There was near dreaded, shocked, even dumbfounded looks at Albert, as they had no idea of this. Then again, nuclear fusion hasn’t been discovered yet to them. Luna herself, has a disturbed expression as she glance to Jerry as she asked in a shaken tone. “This...is what kept you thinking, Overlord? The mere possibility that the Caribou could discover this?”

“Or them possibly using a ‘last resort’ method.” add in Jerry, thankful that he has a sort of alibi for himself with thanks to Albert. “They might become desperate enough to use the Crystals, granted maybe it might not happen…” then shrug. “But it's something that could happen.”

Albert shot Jerry a glance and said, “While I don’t think it’s likely, just because of what it might take to destabilize one crystal, it’s something that might need to be considered.” Then turned back to the others to tell, “The blast force alone would cause huge amounts of damage in a small area, the shockwave more with irradiated debris. But I’m not nearly as concerned. Again, I plan to sink the ships and I know the Crystals are waterproof enough.”

Luna gave a curt nod, and soon told to Jerry and Albert. “Then you may be dismissed, get the ships ready and find the fleet to trail after. I will inform my sister of where you two will be.” Jerry gave a curt nod, turning with Albert as when they got out of the tent and heading back to the Dauntless, Mortis spoke.

“Sire, I will informed the Mistress of the situation, and will return to the Castle.” Jerry gave a nod, seeing Mortis run off as Jerry couldn’t help but comment to Albert once the Minion was gone.

“I’m honestly surprise despite his dreary mood and lack of conversations, he seem so talkative in defending me.”

Giving a glance, Albert said, “Maybe you should reconsider who’s the adviser of the Overlord. Maybe change up the jobs around the castle.” Turning around and taking strides to leave the tent. “Form the sounds of it, you might prefer Mortis as the new advisor instead of Gnarl.”

Thinking some, he slightly hum. “Maybe…” being quiet as he glance to Albert, as he consider of the mounts and breeding...as he asked. “Hey Albert, when we have the time, you think you can help me with a personal project of mine? I’m trying to figure out how to breed certain kind of creatures for the Minion uses.” rolling his eyes some as he added. “Specifically, with giant spiders.”

The idea of breeding Spiders, even more giant once, made Albert turn his head in a almost questioning manner. He didn’t comment though, only told, “I would have to know what the species is and maybe study them before making suggestions. But I can already tell you that domesticating some creatures might be a problem… depending on what you’re getting.”

Sighing, he decided to explain why he was asking about this. “In the past of the Overlords,” giving glances of around them as a subtle hint to Albert. “There were mention of Minions having mounts to ride. Wolves for the Browns, giant spiders for the Greens, and salamanders for the Reds. And I have encounter some creatures like wolves and spiders around Equestria that could be used by my Minions.”

“But, while I can easily make room for the mounts with the Minions...its the problem of them behaving for the new inhabitants, or later generations that gives me concern. Specifically the spiders and possibly salamanders. Maybe wolves depending how hungry and territorial they are.”

Thinking on it to himself, Albert told rather simply, “You would be better off just taking care of wolves instead, Jerry.” Looking ahead and going on, “Breeding dogs is something that’s not just simple, but learning how to train and domesticate is also lengths more easier with not just ourselves but ponies. Wolves are a breed of dog, all you need are some experts that are no doubt around the island or even Alpha base.”

Raising a finger, Albert added, “They would also make excellent companions and defensive measure for the castle and it’s inhabitants.”

Thinking some, Jerry had to agree with that. Maybe I should ignore the salamanders and spiders? I doubt I can get them trained. Maybe asked for experts with dogs around to teach the Browns how to train them, or better yet, give Brown's lessons and let the Browns teach themselves? although while he was thinking this, another part reminded him of something else, specifically of when he was going to get out of the Dauntless and onto dry land...by swimming…

“Say Albert...do you know who could teach me how to either use the Prawn suit or the Seamoths?” asked Jerry. “Because I just realize...the moment when we do track the Caribou fleet and I get out of a ship...we might be deep underwater that I might need to use either to move around under the ocean. I am sorta useless underwater beside swimming…”

Thinking to this some, Albert gave a slight nod and told, “I was planning on you to be holding onto the hull of a seamoth with a few others to reach land… but I could take some time to go over the operations of a Seamoth or PRAWN.”

The scientist worked the thought over for a bit, right before giving a nod. “I’ll get you set up once we get back to Alpha base. While we’re trailing the ships, I can take some time to teach you how to use a Seamoth, maybe a PRAWN if we have time.”

“Well, no offense, but aren’t you going to be busy during a bit?” asked Jerry with a raise brow. “Coordinating other ships, checking on conditions, planning things? I can see you teaching me on a Seamoth, but a PRAWN?” thinking some as he suggested. “Maybe you could ask some volunteers of PRAWN users to teach me how to work them? Give you more time to focus on other things beside me?”

Shaking his head, Albert explained, “I only placed a PRAWN as a maybe, because they have to be deployed and are too slow to keep up with the Seamoth or Cyclops. The Seamoth we could teach you to use on the move.” Then went on with a smile, “We will also be in open water, less chance of you running into something.”

“True,” agreed Jerry. “But I’m just saying, you could ask someone to keep a eye on me while you direct the fleets,” joking some with a smile. “I mean, it's not like I won’t be making a total fool of myself while trying to learn how to use a Seamoth, might as well give someone to laugh at, right?”

Albert shook his head and merely told, “I might be helping direct the fleet, but I won’t be doing anything drastic. It will be a simple follow-the-leader mission until we have a clue of what our next action will be.” Then waved a finger, “But before that? We need to assemble the fleet at Alpha base.” Glancing to the waters that swept up at the beach. “Hope you don’t mind being on the move. We’ll be doing that a lot while in the fleet.”

“I’ve been on the move before,” assured Jerry as he then admit. “But I’ll admit, beside the teaching of the Seamoths, I might need something to distract me…” thinking as he mused to himself as they began walking into the water. “Maybe talk to the ponies on the ship, or at least those tolerant of me. Don’t know who, but might be worth a shot…” getting himself ready as he was admittedly tempted to ask if he could bring Lovely...but he shook that thought off, mostly because it might make things difficult for not only himself, but for everyone else in terms of supplying food and water in feeding another mouth.

Beside, it might give him a opportunity to expand his social circle beside Albert and those in the Castle. Literally being nothing than a few ponies and loads of Minions. I really need to work on my attempts on expanding the group of friends. Might smooth things out in the long run. as they both jump into the water and began swimming toward the Dauntless.

Next Chapter: New Inhabinates Estimated time remaining: 25 Hours, 37 Minutes