With a breath out, Jerry look to those in the room within his Private Quarters, as seats were place around, along with a table of sorts for a large map of the Dark Castle. It was a improved version, as technically there weren’t any ‘actual maps’ of the Castle due to it being a combination of Overlord 1 and 2 designs. But it was decent enough. The meeting itself was where Jerry usually look over the small version of the Dark Castle and what could be improved.

Or rather what can be improved with recent...’upgrades’ revealed. He didn’t know how that happens in all hindsight, but he could summarize that it was due to being a populace in the Castle itself and expanding on the Castle surroundings. He checked whenever he could, but so far some were decent, others were debatable onto grabbing. Mostly due to the amount of gold he had to horde. He couldn’t use it often due to giving gold away to the Equestrians to supply themselves.

However his attention was focus on the map, as well to those in the meeting right now, With both Shadow and Lovely by his side sitting, Spree sitting a bit to Shadow side on the thestral left, with Sonata standing behind as Shadow newly made ‘maidservant’. Granted it wasn’t official as of yet, but he can do the whole formality thing later when they figure out a plan as of now. His eyes turn to Kalvarn, as the scientist proves insightful.

His eyes turned to the three minions in the room, being Gnarl, Giblet, and Mortis. The first was a no brainer, since he was the Minion Master and adviser. Granted he couldn’t fully trust the Minion to an extent. But he knew that Gnarl needed him alive, and hated when someone just barge in the ‘Overlord’ place without a fight. Or spy on said place. As for Mortis? Well...

He figures he could trust him the most, since Mortis could prove insightful with his gaining intelligence.

As for the Smith Minion? Well, the brown was the one who helped crafted the space in the Castle, being partially the architecture of the Dark Castle, so he figure if the minion knew anything of the Castle beside Gnarl? Jerry welcomed the aid. As for right now, he just got done informing them all of the situation he learned from the meeting earlier and proved up some potential ways to stop the pinks...or try to find them. However he knew that it was going to be hard to plan it all himself, so he figure he could have other options just in case.

Looking to each one, he took a deep breath and told. “Here's what I know right now. We may have Pinks hiding among us. We may not have them-- but I’m not going to assume we can’t get find them all in time. Mostly since the island been formed into somewhat livable land. Even less they may hide somewhere the Minions won’t find. What I’m focus on? Is trying to plan on a means to grab the Pinks, secure our home, and make sure we aren’t taken by surprise.”

“You’re right Master,” told Gnarl as he went on. “Why we should round up all the ponies and make them talk one way or another!”

“Which will cause a panic-- which we don’t want to have.” dryly told Jerry as he said. “What else can we do? While we may have the home advantage, they have a better time hiding among us, which is bad.” Looking to Giblet he asked. “Is there anything missing from what you have in blueprints?”

“No Master, all here! And all kept hidey away to make sure none see! Make sure only Master and close ponies see!” assured Giblet as Shadow grimace and told.

“Giblet, for all we know the ponies in those meetings on improving the Castle might of been Pinks. At this point we can’t...rule out any mare as a potential Pink.”

“Especially if they hid out this long.” enforce Jerry as he let out a sigh. “To be honest I’m hoping we have...anything at this point as a means to counter them, or at the least make sure we aren’t hit on the inside or anything.”

Thinking this over, Kalvan slightly fixed his glasses and told, “while it’s not the most prudent thing to do, I might have a way to find them, if there are any Pink minded mare’s in your ranks.” It was enough to gain him glances as the caribou head scientist explained. “All Pink collared mares, despite their zealot nature, have unfortunate weaknesses to dominance and sexual activities. Most tend to slowly cercum to pleasure if enough is given. Alternatively, there can be slight hints to their mental process as spies.”

Leaning on her spear, Spree said, “well I think we’re all ears, doc. Because as it stands, we can’t figure out who’s a spy and who isn’t a spy at this point.” Which was something she didn’t like. It only meant that they could be backstabbed at any moment in time.

Nodding, the thoughtful male said, “simply put? The Overlord has in his ranks, spies of his own. Green Minions.” Turning to tell to Jerry, “I propose to have a few follow the mare’s to an extent and watch their behaviors and where they go. A spy will try to plot out paths, escape routes and a means to get into contact with their masters.” Holding up a hand, he went on, “if they can get close enough? It’s possible to relay conversations or further actions. The more signs they might show of sexual want or a slow frustration without sex might help tip them off, but might not be the full reason for their irritations.”

Snorting to this, Spree did agree, “I might not be into the idea of sex, but he has a point. After being rutted out or played with so much, it tends to make some of us feel a bit horny.”

Frowning to this, Jerry place a hand under his chin in thought as Gnarl spoke in his own thoughtful tone. “Greens are very sneaky despite their smell. They can easily sneak up all the mares here-- especially with so many of them around!” then cackle with a smirk. “And when we do find a Pink, perhaps we could give them a taste of the Master magic to root out the rest?”

“Gnarl.” spoke Shadow with a furrow look as she told. “We aren’t going to just randomly hit Jerry...magic with them. For all we know, they might not be a Pink at this point.”

Holding up a claw finger, Gnarl enforces. “But if they are, then we would need to find out how many they are and if they keep in contact! And despite caribous around here that could aid in the questioning, the Overlord magic can easily get them to obey, or by other means.” although he shut up at the glare the thestral gave as Jerry soon spoke.

“There's also another problem to this,” getting looks as he told. “Despite having so many Greens, most of them are still newborns. Still learning and might know much…” Thinking on it more as Jerry look to Mortis and told. “Mortis, I want you to start reviving older minions, minions who can be quickly taught of the situation and get to work on finding the spies.”

The blue raise his head under the cowl as he asked. “How much will you request for of the old blood, Master?” going on to add. “As there are many who had died in serving you in battle.”

Jerry didn’t hesitate on it. “The older blood. The ones who are at the level of smarts you and some of the other's gained. If we want to have a effective force in rooting out the Pinks? We will need smart minions, specifically smart Greens.” While Mortis bow his head to Jerry orders, Shadow glance to him as she asked in concern.

“Are you sure that's...a good idea Jerry? Wouldn’t getting...old minions hurt how much you have in numbers?” to which Jerry shook his head and told.

“Right now I got 10,000 per Tribe, Shadow. I can easily regain those numbers faster while in the Dungeons to push back in a few hours worth.” the thestral couldn’t help but shifted at this, as despite how sweet Jerry was….she was given a reminder of how callous he was to the Minions, specifically in how they were worth to him.

Sighing to this, Spree said, “that doesn't mean they’ll find them, Jerry.” Deciding to add in her own few bits. “Look, we might gain clues, but for as far as we know? These Pinks already have what they need and are just waiting. Maybe trying to find them won’t help.” Thinking some, she went on, “maybe we need to let them try doing something.”

Before Jerry spoke out, Gnarl spoke harshly. “Are you mad, you blasted wrench?! If we let them do something, then we could put the whole Castle in jeopardy, as well as letting them have a potential foothold, especially if the Overlord is away!”

“It’s going to happen sooner or later, toad.” Spree shot back. “And I don’t know about you, but I’d rather force them to do something easily, than when our pants are down.”

Thinking to this, Kalvarn admitted, “as soon as the Pinks see an opportunity, they will take it.” Furthermore saying, “like what happened at Alpha base, as the Overlord said. A Pink took a ship and made it reach Caribou influence. Only when she had the ability to do it, no sooner or later. Only the bare requirements.”

Jerry was silent on that, as much as he wanted to veto at this, he had to face a hard truth. Right now they could do nothing but wait. Wait and see for them to do something...the problem is what exactly? Especially with a unknown number of them moving around. Mortis merely enforce this thinking of the mare and caribou. “May try to establish contact with their masters, may try to give foothold. Matter not. Only matter is when we see them act out, shall we be ready however we can.

“However opportunity cannot be easily given. Cannot reach into Spell room, heavily guarded by magic. Cannot enter in Spawning Pit with Heart, minions around. Patience they need until find it.”

Gnarl hum a bit, claw tapping on chin as he soon gave a low evil chuckle. “Perhaps, we can make a opportunity they can’t resist.” gaining looks as the Minion Master spoke on. “While it’s debatable if it’s really Evil or not, there is the fact while a opportunity may come? There’s a real opportunity to cause damage, as most would take it without thought.” grinning more darkly as he went on. “In short, make a trap for these Pinks, as most traps are of something so enticing, the victim can’t help but take it!”

“Hero’s fallen for them, and even Overlords who were foolish to be fallen into them. But what they all needed? Was a simple bait with the trap.” then glance to Shadow. “And what's the biggest bait for them….is the Mistress herself.” getting an alarm look from Shadow, and a heavy frown from Jerry as Gnarl-- and the other Minions noticed Jerry hands clenching the table quite...hard.

Oh dear...it seems I set the bar a bit too high. thought Gnarl as the minion advisor was already making a fallback plan in case his Master might unleash his anger onto the old minion.

A solid thwack, and Gnarl found himself sent sprawling on the ground as Spree next to shouted at him, spear butt where his head was. “Ooooooh no you don’t, Toady! There is no way that Shadow’s going to be bait-- I don’t care how irresistible bait she’d be, there is no way that is happening!” Making her thoughts pretty clear to the groaning minion master.

Mortis raise his scythe as he asked simply. “But who else can be irresistible beside the Master?” motioning to the few in the room. “Lovely is known to be created, they know she is useless as opportunity.” then motioned to Kalvarn. “Kalvarn is caribou, will not take him so quick as bait.” then to Spree. “Know you are strong, they also know you can easily defend yourself.” then to Jerry. “Master may be good bait, but might not fully take it due to his magic. Might try to kill him by other means, but will be cautious.” then finally to Shadow.

“Mistress is highly enticing to them. Civilian. Unable to fight fully, and does not wield magic.” then soon enforce. “Only other bait can be seen...is Jasmine.”

Giving a grunt to that, Spree said, “so, our choices are to let them assassinate Jerry, assault Shadow-- or let them foalnap Jasmine. Am I hearing this right?”

Sighing, Kalvarn spoke, “you have not misheard, Corporal Spree. That is exactly what is being placed at stake.” Thinking on it some while admitting, “the whole situation would be a large risk. As a scientist, I would take the one with the least amount of cost.” Though, he pointedly did not tell them which option that was. “It all depends on those that might participate, if they would wish to risk it.”

“I’ll do it.” told Jerry as he place a hand on Shadow hand and gently squeeze it. “There’s no way in hell am I letting Shadow get herself in danger.”

“B-But Master,” coughs up Gnarl as he got on his feet. “If you’re the bait, how are they suppose to jump on it when you’re surrounded by other's constantly?” then thought on it and soon said with a dark grin. “Unless...we give them the chance with you alone completely-- to their assumptions?”

Frowning, Shadow questioned as she held onto Jerry hand more. Not liking how he would risk himself for her sake...but felt partially happy he would protect her at his expense. “And how are you going to propose that?” Gnarl hum in thought as he admit.

“Normally, there would be a proclamation of sorts, something to get the Hero attention-- or would-be assassins. Sometimes a big banquet, other times a one-to-one meeting. This will be a tricky situation.”

While they thought, one mare shifted in place and shifted near Shadow. Quietly, Sonata spoke into the thestral’s ear quietly, an idea being told. The very plan that was given made Shadow flick an ear and feel a rise of anger-- but… at the same time, it made her think. It was risky but… could it work?

Taking a deep breath, Shadow spoke. “There is a plan…” gaining looks as she look rather miffed at this, but told on. “A announcement that Jerry is...looking for concubines to entertain himself. A situation that would involve him and the mares, no apparent guards or minion would attend...making it all private. Pinks are made for sex...so this would be a perfect chance.” Jerry glance as he knew Shadow didn’t like this, a lot from how her expression was…

Or how hard her hand held tightly to his own. Mortis hum and spoke.

“It might work...but wouldn’t they think it’s a trap, since the Archmage gave the clones to the Master as concubines?”

“Not if...the announcement added Jerry was looking for actual mares instead of...the fakes.” begrudgingly admit the thestral as she glance to the human and admit. “Jerry is used to reactions from a mare...especially when in the mood.”

Thinking it over, Spree said, “I still don’t like it.” Proceeding to add, “You said to the ponies he wouldn’t ask for sex as a tribute or something along those lines. I’m pretty sure they will notice something’s fishy.”

Frowning to that, Shadow knew it would be fishy enough as she tried to think over it. Then soon let out a sigh and suggested. “What if..I’m the one screening the mares?” gaining looks as she said. “I mean...while they would know I said he wouldn’t ask for sex for tribute? If I’m screening them, checking them over with Sonata by my side as to see if they can make the mark. Tell them that the...reason I’m doing this? Is to be certain my husband can be pleased later on.”

While Lovely was quiet, taking this all in, Jerry thought and said. “And if they are caught or questioned after suspected? We can bring them in...if they managed to make it to me and try something? I can have all the Greens hiding take them while in the act.”

“Not to mention the Master having something to do in the long run if they aren’t a Pink!” cackle Gnarl as Jerry gave a flat expression and told.

“You just earned yourself a week in the prancing flowers again, Gnarl.” getting the minion to splutter a bit in outrage.

While the ‘punishment’ was amusing, Kalvarn did humm to himself and say, “that still won’t catch them all. A number may jump at this opportunity, that is to be expected. But what of later invasions into the Castle?”

Sighing, Jerry said. “To be honest Kalvarn? While Gnarl was crude on it...he was right in a sense with my magic. If I did use it on a Pink...I could learn on what their plans are, figure out what sort of invasion they will do...and maybe try to plan at it.” then rubbed his forehead as he admitted. “This place hasn’t been used in a invasion for a long while, and while I can try to think of something of it in defenses?” looking to them all as he further admit.

“It’ll be hard enough to figure out, much less defend against a invasion, or multiple invasion without a good idea on how they’ll get in the first place. Even less if they activate it sooner than we like.” Mortis thought over that...and suggested.

“Perhaps the Master could use the Tower Heart once more? Use it’s magic to create a defense until the Master has a better idea?”

Rolling her eyes, Spree told, “Jerry, the only attack or invasion you have to worry about is either by sea, or by Gate. One would take who knows how long to reach you, the other can’t happen unless you let it happen.” Giving him a look, she finished, “I think what the doc meant was form more Pink’s sneaking in.”

“Honestly? I got nothing.” said Jerry as Gnarl hum and suggested.

“Perhaps the Master could, if a Pink did attack him and get use by his magic? Root out the rest of the Pinks under his influence and use them to put down potential Pinks? Use the enemy resources to your own-- like what you do on the field, Oh dominating one!” Jerry looks a bit uncomfortable at that, as he admits.

“I’m a bit unsure on that Gnarl...mostly because I don’t know how my magic will...affect them in the long run, or what side-effects there will be.”

Speaking up to that, Kalvarn told, “be that as it may, Overlord, but your advisor has a point. Subjugating a Pink might help us, and if it doesn't work? There is no loss since their alliances are clear.”

Sighing to this, Spree reluctantly agreed, “the doc has a good point. I don’t like it, but once a pink has a master? They won’t talk easily. Too far gone.”

“Including stronger lifeforce, Master.” added Mortis as he told on. “Give us more newborns, more Minions, and more to sacrifice for older Minions.”

“Either way, a win-win for us, Dark Lord.” told Gnarl with a vicious grin. “We either get them all and halt a invasion force? Or we get what we can and learn the secrets of a possible new slave of yours. Or we get what we manage and new lifeforce for us. Practically a win for all of us.”

Shadow gave a flat look as she said. “I still don’t like this…” then let out a low sigh as she admits. “But this...is the best chance we have to gain a way…” already not feeling happy at letting her man be in such a position, especially screening the mares…Then again this was the best solution for her beside putting herself at risk. Lovely thought and asked to Jerry.

“Are you planning on...taking them to be recover after using your magic on them?” getting Jerry to consider on it.

I could...take them to the Tree, maybe try to restore them… although another though crop up to his mind, one of a cold reminder of his position. But I haven’t been...evil lately. I haven’t kept my position as Overlord with all the ‘good’ I done...and despite the Eyes of Fate not showing up, he might consider I need to be ‘remove’ since I haven’t done too much evil...this might be as close to evil I can be.

Already knowing that while it’s not a large Evil act? It might work to appease being the ‘Evil Overlord’. Especially with how things were going, sure it might get the ponies in the Castle conflicted and make things difficult for him later on...but it was better for him to be here-- than whoever could ‘replace’ him with his death.

Taking a deep breath, Jerry admits. “I...don’t know. I just don’t know Lovely.” was all he said, not sure how to fully say it. Especially with his life on the potential line as a Overlord. Or worse, he might have no choice but to keep the potential Pink, or Pinks under his magic thrall as a means to keep them in line.

Something of which Shadow noticed Jerry was keeping something to himself, but didn’t say it out right, at least not here as Gnarl spoke in. “Might be best to keep them under the Master touch, wrench. After all, if we just undo the hard work of using them, then we might be in some serious troubles in keeping the rest out in the future. Especially if they manage to sneak in through the Gates on the Island.”

Looking around, Spree signed out and told, “it doesn't matter too much right now.” Looking down at the table to continue to tell, “I think we should focus on making sure the more vulnerable parts of the castle are secure. And I’m going to consider adding extra security for Shadow and Lovely. Maybe ask some ponies back at the islands if they can give me anymore ideas how to catch these Pinks without using ‘bait’.”

“That might not matter.” told Mortis, as the blue in robes told on. “Sooner or later, bait is needed. Use the opportunity now before it’s too late. For all we know, Pinks on island will be catching on these ‘ideas’ you may ask and may send more in under signs of seeking new life. Best strike now with bait idea, Spree.”

“We’ll put it...into consideration, Mortis.” said Shadow as much as she didn’t like the idea...it was the best idea so far, even more as while she trusted her friend? They may have no choice but to use bait tactics. She however added. “But we should also focus on vulnerable parts of the Castle...just in case.”

“Will make sure smart Minions assist in matter.” assured the Blue as Giblet added.

“Giblet will make sure that Minions are stronger, Mistress! Bash new armor and weapons!” getting off the table as Mortis gave a simple bow and decided to follow his Master orders of reviving Minions of old to assist as Gnarl add on.

“And I will start the baiting, Mistress. Please be ready with whatever you will need to say to start seeking the potential spies. After all, Mortis is right; the time to use this idea may be now instead of later, especially if more Pinks might arrive soon.” Already scurrying off to make sure he won’t get hit by Spree spear end once more.

The mare gave the short minion Master a baleful glare, but with a sigh she nodded to the other and told, “I should get going too. The in-training guards I have need me to help train them soon.” Turning and leaving for the door.

Likewise, Kalvarn fixed his small glasses and said, “I bid you good day, Overlord. I’ll be in my work area with the others and getting back to that ‘non-magical, non-electrical’ coffee maker you wanted.” Then turned and began to walk off with an amused smile.

Jerry shook his head as he sighed out, looking to the two mares by his side as Lovely spoke. “I will be away; I need to talk to Jade a bit. See you later, Jerry.” giving a brief nuzzle as she left her chair and walk off. Jerry was partially split on that nuzzle, feeling glad she gave some affection to him, but another part was feeling that awkward feeling as Shadow sighed.

She gave a kiss to his cheek and assured. “Don’t worry Jerry...things will be fine.” then admit. “As much as I don’t like the whole baiting thing...it might be needed.” then sighed out. “Maybe it’s our best option…” then told as she got up. “If you excuse me...I need a good speech and questions to make if the bait thing does work.” glancing to Sonata with a smile as she added. “Come on Sonata...we got work to do.” seeing the crystal mare giving a respectful bow and a ‘yes your highness’ as the two mares walk off.

Jerry glance to the two, mostly at Shadow...and a bit at Sonata as he look away in thought. Great...going to be hard to try to not look at Sonata now...at least I’ll use the ‘I was looking at Shadow’ excuse. a sigh escape from him as he got off his chair, moving toward the ‘Dark Castle’ upgrade station, seeing it rise up as he look over the few various upgrades as he noticed some new ones popped up.

Mostly on expanding the research development, some Minion upgrade on their equipment...and Minion farmers?

Eh...I got some gold to spend. looking at their ‘price’ as he did a few spending, but halted for now. Mostly to use the rest of the gold later on...however he noticed a ‘upgrade Castle defense’ as he activate that...yet afterwords did his eyes glance to noticed a...off-setting color scheme around him. Like...before. He took a deep breath and couldn’t help but say in a bit of dread.

“Hello...Eyes of Fate.”

“You’ve been a good little boy, haven't you?” The tone did not show any form of malice or irritation. If anything, the Eyes of Fate sounded very amused, the odd man himself walking around Jerry and going on while looking at the upgrade station. “You know, I gave you just one little warning of what might happen if you didn’t keep evil, and you go and do this.” Turning and leaning on the umbrella like cane, the inverted man shook his head, “I’d say for shame, but you’re slowly reforming away from that, aren't you?” A large cheshire grin on his lips.

A dry gulp of air went into Jerry as he try to stay calm...Mostly because part of him was, or rather his entire being was scared of the high-omnipotent being so close to him. Looking amuse, who to say he wasn’t seething livid on the inside? Talking with a straight tone was hard to say the least. “T-To be fair...circumstances haven’t really formed for me to be evil...since the whole plague thing is spreading all over. Can’t be a Overlord with nothing to gain from the dead, right?”

Chuckling, the Eyes told, “there’s always necromancy.” But brushed it off and went on while lifting and twirling his umbrella about. “But, as it stands, your karma levels are much more benevolent than malevolent. And something has to be done about that.” Turning to glance with gleaming glasses, he told, “I’d say stick to the program or else… but lucky for you, things have changed.”

Jerry tried to not shake, whether in relief or fear he couldn’t say. But what he did know was that he was shaking like a leaf as he asked. “Y-You mean...with the whole K-Khara thing?”

“Oh no.” Waving off the powerful being that look to be human. “Someone made a deal with me, and it calls for you to be alive for it.” Stamping his cane into the ground, he went on in mock thought, “but, I can’t just let you off scot free for going against what I told you. It would be bad business.”

Moving and tapping the crook of the cane to rap at Jerry’s head, he told, “so here’s the new situation. You go on and be as good or bad as you like.” Twirling the umbrella about in his hands and grinning further. “And if you live through all the windigo’s, viruses, madmen and whatever else happen to come to you? Well, deal done.” Only to shrug and add, “but, in turn… I’m getting a new replacement to fill in the void that is supposed to be the Evil around here. Someone that will enjoy their job.”

Turning, he waved, “Nice talking to you Jerry. Enjoy the wife and kids…” Turning his head to leer back towards Jerry as he adds, “if they make it.” Snapping his fingers, did the world returning back.

For a brief moment, relief filled him that he wasn’t dead….Then it turned into horror, then to dread as he slowly came to his knees. Shaking even further as Jerry turn his back to rest against the cold stone object as his hands clenched on his hair tight. Fuck. his mind thought as tears slowly form in his eyes. Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! FUCK! he shook harder as he heard what the Eyes of Fate told him.

A new Evil will show up, someone who would enjoy their job...someone to be the new Overlord. Someone that would be terrifying in their own right...someone that Jerry might not be able to stop. Even more could be able to kill him, but everyone else that was living here. “Damn it...damn it…” muttered Jerry, feeling the tears coming down his face as he curled to himself.

It was official.

He was dead. Even if Jerry did managed to live through this now? It was a matter of time until this new person will show up and screw things even further. Not good...even if I’m good or evil, even if I’m carrying the title...I failed. I failed at being evil and being the Overlord...it’s all my fault. And we’re all going to die because of my morality. Because I cared...because I couldn’t be evil enough. he tried not to scream out, mostly to make sure no one else could hear him… but he was screaming on the inside because it was all his fault.

He had one job to do and he failed at it, now everyone was going to pay the price. He didn’t even knew how long he was there for, all he could think of was how he failed, of how he allowed himself to care-- even more on how everyone was going to die at the hands of this new evil and how Gnarl will betray him, at how the minions will turn to this being and the whole world will fall.

And there was nothing he could do about it.

---

Fingers tapping along the helm, Twilight looked about the dark waters and up to the display, noting how they had reached past 400 meters down underwater. A feat that made the Alicorn almost feels anxious of how deep they were. Besides the ship’s own humming or the light chattering of her friends, it was pretty quiet.

The only indication that it was day was the barely lighter tint of the water, and the slightly sightable seabed below. Part of her wished for light, but with the ship on Silent running, everything kept to dim lighting. Pricking her ears, Twilight could slightly hear the roars of a large leviathan nearby, and one simple lean forwards and peer up only showed what was making the sound. A rather sizable Reaper Leviathan stalking the waters overhead.

Looking to her right, Twilight could see the brown ship, the Ruffed Raft, keep close and nearby. So far they were almost to the final destination of their long trip, one that had taken a week or so to reach. It was a little hard to tell with how dark the waters got, day and night almost inseparable at times.

Both ships crawled along at a slow pace, sometimes stopping when the huge fish would swim dangerously close and with a swiftness that was almost uncalled for form a fish its size. While it was true that the Ruffed Raft’s crew could scare it off, they also didn’t want to waste any stocks in a unnecessary skirmish with wildlife.

Flicking her ear, Twilight glanced to see Fluttershy taking up a place right next to her, gazing out into the dark waters with a wondering look. Both kept a bit quite, until Twilight said, “how have you been holding up with all this going on, Fluttershy?”

With a look, the shy mare admitted, “Alright, though it’s been a little scary a few times.” Ears plastering back at a particularly loud roar from the overhead fish. Twilight eased the cyclops to slow and stop, watching the sonar as the leviathan's blip rush by and come down.

The reason for its action soon became clear, a lone sandshark having come up for a meal, soon found itself as one. The large fish’s mandibles claimed closed and held the thing tight, thrashing it a few times while swimming off. The sight alone making Fluttershy wince and make a small sound.

Twilight only sighed in relief that it was leaving. In the waters they were in, the leviathans loved to prowl about and search for meals. Trying to dodge them was a choir in itself with ships as big as theirs.

Slowly easing the throttle up, Twilight called back, “Rarity, did you see if that Leviathan left the area?” Hoping the mare did notice through the cameras of the ship.

“It’s leaving, Twilight.” Rarity assured with a low breath. “And I’m glad, too. I’m not sure if I could stand that ghastly creatures sound for much longer.” Eyeing the screen where she last saw the thing swim off too, though it’s hard to tell if it was truly gone through the fog of dark water.

Nodding to herself, Twilight activated the comm on the ship and called, “Thicket, this is Twilight. Can you find the Leviathan anywhere? Because if not, we can pick up our pace and take the ships out of silent running.”

There was a short pause, but Thicket called back soon enough to tell, “We don’t see it, Princess Twilight. Go on ahead; I’ll have one of the girls ready with the Seamoth if that fish decides to come back around.”

“Alright, and thank you again.” Spoke the Alicorn as she began to reach out a hand to tap each holo display, bringing the ship’s lights on and listening to the deep voice boom out as they began to go to ahead-full. While the engine revved and they began to move forwards, Twilight wondered. Wondered how the people of Alpha base were doing. How well the evacuation went. If Albert, Pyro, Magic, Crisp-- or even Grain made it out alright.

So many things were left unsaid and they had been out of contact for a long time. They didn’t know where the others were and if they were alright. All they had were Albert’s pre-set destination to follow. Twilight wished she could of done more, but she and her friends were very important to Equestria. It was possibly the right choice they went first.

It still didn’t mean she felt any better about leaving so abruptly and not staying to help. She was a princess; she felt that she had an obligation. But it was possibly too risky for me to be around and be re-captured by the Caribou by chance. Something Twilight did not like to think about.

Going slightly deeper and going around a ridge, Twilight glanced up as the metters began to build more, slowly approaching the 500 mark. And even still, one glance to the side would show even deeper and even darker waters that the mare could not even see the bottom of. It was rather eerie to know.

“Whoa.” Rainbow Dash spoke up and said, “Twi… look ahead!” The pegasus taking up her place near Twilight’s other side, Fluttershy looking on with a slight astonishment.

With this, Twilight turned her focus fully ahead again, and found herself blinking. Just before them, was a large… no, huge underwater structure. A few Cyclops could be seen around it, Seamoths and PRAWN’s also patrolling about. But the size, it baffled Twilight. Unlike Alpha Base, it was one, whole structure.

It was the light’s that help show it’s position, and Twilight had to wonder… how long had it taken to make this… city sized underwater Habitat? But furthermore, Twilight realized, this was their destination. This huge base was their stop.

They had arrived at the sea base known as Citadel-1.

Next Chapter: A lot of discussions Estimated time remaining: 19 Hours, 3 Minutes