Jerry puffs a bit of breath, sitting in his chair as he was in his office, or as close to an office room he could have. His body was recovering from the slight soreness of training, as while he wasn’t happy with adjusting his schedule a bit? He also knew he needed to be stronger and more skilled. As to not only handle against the Necromancer again, but also the many other threats he had yet to still handle.

There was only so much one could do with dumb luck before it was spent. With how he got captured by Tempest, he wasn’t willing to make the same mistake twice.

Still, he grabbed the goblet of Blue healing water to drink, as the stuff was good to help with soreness, and for hydration. He was currently looking at papers some of his minions stole from the Storm King. Mention of artifacts, army detail, and brief detailing of map structure from what he could gather. The latter was drawn by the claws of some of the minions, and while it was crude? It gave him a rough idea.

But as he was looking over all of this? It was making him think of Equestria’s own capital. While he briefly went along the streets of Canterlot…he never went deep into the castle itself. And there was untold knowledge, information, loot, resources, and possibly some dangerous artifacts that could be ‘retrieved’ for him to get. As well as maybe a few things that could be used later on.

He thought over it more, and Jerry also figured to see if there were any survivors. He doubted it but…well, there was a chance. Which made him think on something…Maybe before he goes off to raiding and acquiring stuff? He should ask someone who lived there about anything important he should know. And with Twilight being here still, he could ask her. So he moved to get up, cracking a bit of his back as he shifted in his comfy clothes.

The man didn’t take long to stretch as he walked out of the room. Already heading to where he knew Twilight was, it didn’t take him long to travel as she was still in the Dark Castle. Mostly likely checking on Rarity, though he also knew that she could be going over a few things. But he figures to check the guest room first. When he reached the guest room, he knocked on the door, waiting as the door opened as to his luck, Twilight was there to greet him.

She looked at him and said, “oh hey Jerry, what seems to bring you over here?” Her arm moved and made sure some bag was in place. From the looks of it, she was on her way out.

Jerry gave a light grin, as he said. “Hey Twilight,” he continued. “I’m here to talk to you about something, I was planning on checking into Canterlot castle to find anything useful. As well if there’s anything I can keep an eye out for, since with the Necromancer around? I figure to see if I can take stuff before he does.”

Blinking a little at this, Twilight thought it over and spoke, “well… It would be nice to know what happened to Discord. Last we heard he was dealt with in some magical Order prison. We expected him to escape with the amount of chaos going on, but, well… we haven't heard a thing.”

While Jerry nodded, a little cautious at the idea of approaching a Chaos God? Twilight continued to say. “It wouldn’t hurt to check on the Barracks either. There was a large amount of weapons that were stored there, even magical ones. Not to mention armor, what we have is nice. But there was some high quality magical armor that the remnants of Equestria could use later.”

This was also good information and Jerry thought about helping himself to some. Something to put towards the debt the ponies owed him and all that. “Then of course there’s the Canterlot Vault, but you’ll need Celestia or Luna to unlock that.” making him blink and stop for a moment to work that over.

“Wait, hold up.” started Jerry as he raised a finger. “Did you say the Canterlot Vault-- as in a vault filled with all sorts of things that were locked away that is either magical, or forbidden?”

“Mostly just dangerous.” Twilight said, “not so much as everything was dark or forbidden and more like that they were too risky to allow to be left to float around.” Going on, “for example: the elements of Harmony. They were not dangerous, but it was safer to keep them in the Vault than out in the open.”

“And continuing on that,” said Jerry with a slow growing grin. “Wouldn’t that mean, if things were clear in the castle, I could bring either Luna or Celestia to open the vault so we can acquire those elements or to an extent…a few things that could be properly disposed of?”

Twilight stared at him before rolling her eyes. “You’re not wrong, but only if it’s safe.” and went on. “I would suggest doing a preliminary scouting before getting one of the other Princesses involved.”

“Why do you think I’m asking you for anything important? I’m planning on scouting around the castle to relieve a couple of things, and gather any stuff.” retort Jerry.

Shaking her head, Twilight said, “Well, that’s all and good. But if you want to know of anything else important? You should also consider the Canterlot Library.”

“....the libraries?” started Jerry as his grin grew wider. “Well, I know where I’m going to raid first.”

Breathing out, Twilight said, “just be careful.” going on to tell, “I’m hoping Diann didn’t burn everything of our history and magics and the Canterlot Library is the only place I can think of that anything might remain intact. We already lost so much of our past from their self-righteous take on how ‘things should be’.” And took a moment to think.

“You won’t find the physical Elements of Harmony in the vault. They’re with the Tree.” Told the lavender alicorn. “If they haven’t been too disturbed? Maybe consider looking into Princess Luna and Celestia’s old chambers and studies for anything.” then pressed her lips and quirked them to the side. “Otherwise? Well… there’s a lot of places you can go, but the rest are things you would need experts to know about.”

“I’d include the museums, important landmarks of the city and the like-- but I think what I covered are the highlights that you should be on the lookout for.” Continued Twilight with an eventual nod. “I will have to ask the Princesses about their feelings on this matter, and they should have a response ready when you return from your scouting.”

Jerry nodded, as he reached into his pocket, and took out a large scroll, unrolling it as shift the scroll over and with a pen taken out from the side of the paper? Began to write down into his ‘Evil List of Shopping’. As he wrote down the highlights. Check Discord statute. Raid all knowledge of Canterlot Libraries and especially the dark forbidden stuff. Raid the Barracks for all the goodies and armaments for myself and minions. Find goodies in sisters chambers and hopefully diaries. Attempt to get into Vault once things are cleared out. Check for manifests of information from caribous of any goods.

Jerry thought over a bit, before adding. find any potential survivors that somehow managed to stay alive. Bring them to Castle posthaste for healing and cure. Scavenge for any additional foods…. Jerry thought as he tapped his chin with his pen and added. Also sexy lingerie for potential use for the herd. and after adding that, he clicked the pen and attach it to the scroll as he rolled it up. “Welp, I’m going to be busy with my Evil list of shopping.” he glanced at Twilight and asked. “How’s Rarity doing?”

Smiling, Twilight said with a sigh, “much better.” Then sobered a little. “A few nightmares here and there, but compared to before? She’s doing much better.” Going on to tell, “I think right now she’s with Shadow and Sea and doing a few small projects. Since she regained her cutie mark? She’s been working on new dressing projects, just enjoying her love for fashion” (end)

Smiling, Jerry nodded. “Good to hear.” while he knew nightmares were expected? It was also good she was recovering. And having some interactions with others. Though he did add. “Although if she gets any ideas on ‘refurbishing’ on my armor? Please tell her the King-Tyrant prefer his armor as it is.”

With a small laugh, Twilight said, “I’m not sure what she could do, you can alter the color of the thing whenever you like.” Jerry was a little surprised she knew this, but the mare motioned him aside and told, “I’d like to talk more, Jerry, but I need to get down to the City Square and help Starlight get everypony ready for the big move.”

“Right…her.” said Jerry with a slight huff, but shifted to move aside. “Well, good luck dealing with the commie.”

Twilight paused halfway out and asked, “I never got around to it but… what is a ‘commie’? You’ve used the term with Starlight and her people a lot.”

Humming a bit, Jerry thought it over…before he said. “It’s a slang-- usually meant for someone who may believe ‘we are all equal’, but is a total hypocrite.” going on to tell. “Look, I may be the bad guy, and may be evil-- but I’m honest in being it. The likes of her?” and snort. “Even if she claims her ‘equalization’ is better? She’s a total hypocrite. If she really believed her own shit? Then she would’ve tore her mark off like everyone else.”

Raising a brow, Twilight asked, “what makes you so sure she didn’t?”

“Her fur color. Her mane. Her eyes.” told Jerry as he looked at Twilight. “You saw how everyone in that town were, less in terms of color. She was the only one with full color. Everyone else was dull. Not to mention if she was like everyone else? Her magic would’ve been near low.”

Not that she would dispute it, but really Twilight had more important things on her mind at the time. And given Starlight’s slightly paler pink coat? She didn’t see a huge difference. But she was very much aware of how Starlight hadn’t really shifted much since the other’s got their marks back. not to mention Magic’s own thoughts on the situation…

Shaking her head, Twilight said, “well, you won’t have to worry about her for much longer being on the island. Albert is getting her and the other ponies set up someplace else.”

“Good,” huff Jerry as he began to walk, walking past Twilight. “One less snake for me to remove from here.” then waved. “I’ll talk to you later, Twilight. I got some exploring to do at Canterlot.” Jerry glanced at Twilight as he added. “Just keep an eye on her, alright? Even if she lost her magic stick, she still gives me the villain vibes.”

Giving a smile, Twilight assured, “I’ll be careful.” while privately thinking, because I’m having doubts the Staff was the real deal, just like Magic theorized. And soon took her leave for the nearest balcony to use.

Jerry watched her go, and shake his head. Moving to walk off as he pockets the scroll into a pocket as he thought of the scouting of Canterlot. He knew he still had a Main gate there, hidden under the crystal caves…and he did remember the path…right? no wait…I wasn’t subtle when I went to Canterlot in breaking out Celestia and Luna with those mares…kinda broke through…and I think I got an outer gate hidden in that prison? Hrm, might need to check in with my Minion Digger if they’re still available.

Jerry admittedly forgot, as he had a bit more important things to focus on than gate management. But if worse comes to worse, he could search for the connections later. Right now? He had to suit up and talk to Grubby on those gate placements.

---

Aria half focuses on her surroundings. Her eyes focused on the PDA and working over management. As since she was a ‘temporary administrator’? She was working to keep things manageable. Thankfully with her being a Queen changeling? It was far easier to multi-task. Working over developments, requests, information, and sending out orders. She had to admit that Grain does a good job in assigning tasks and jobs.

Though if it wasn’t for Lush? Then there would’ve been a management issue. And Aria was glad someone managed to handle that, otherwise this would’ve been a nightmare for her to clean up, as the queen was tapping away and focusing on what needed to be done and handle it swiftly for the entirety of Citadel-1.

Off to the side of the room she was mostly hiding herself away was Albert. The scientist vigorously worked on some chemistry project that had something to do with the Khara cure. She wasn’t sure what it was about, but more than not she would feel a spike of elevation. Telling her that whatever Albert was trying to do? He was getting close to completion.

While the man worked, a nearby set of fabricators buzzed away and made entire crates of the standard cure that was to be brought to the island where the Overlord was. Something about sending in a second wave of the cure to the remaining ‘Light-kin’ that had begun to make the island their home.

There was a beep as the bulkhead to the lab was opened and quickly walking in was the young mare Deft. Aria glanced at the navy blue unicorn that closed the door behind her and sped walked to the man, holding some materials close to her chest. Holding them out and correcting her slightly skewed glasses, she told, “here you go, Albert.”

“Thank you Deft.” Nodded the sickly man, taking the vials and liquids to place to the side and immediately start using them.

As he worked, Aria kept an ear open. Mostly to listen to Deft when she asked, “what exactly are you trying to do with this strain of the cure?” her otherwise flat tone piqued with curiosity.

Taking a glass stick to gently mix the liquids and holding it up to carefully observe the reactions, Albert told her simply. “Making a variant of the cure that won’t inadvertently harm me.”

Aria gave a slight pause. Her mind halting and glancing to look towards Albert, as she spoke up. “A cure for yourself?” her hands half pausing from the typing as she focused on him and asked. “Is that why I’ve been feeling you being excited? Curing your version of Khara completely?”

“It’s been a small side project.” Albert told while putting the vile down into a machine. As he worked the controls and set it to go? He went on to tell both pony and changeling. “It was never high on my list because the infection I have was… ‘stable’ in a very broad term.”

Making a face, Deft crossed her arms and asked. “Then what changed this from a side project to a primary one? You’ve been at this for almost a week and haven't worked on the Heavy Prawn project for a week.”

While Aria was curious about what this ‘Heavy Prawn’ project was? She found her attention stolen by Alberts internal amusement. Even interest, though not in Deft herself. “Aria made mention of finding suitors and myself being one.” making Deft blink and look at Aria in some surprise. Then back to Albert when he told, “however, given the infection in me? I felt it prudent to remove any undesirable elements. If I become a ‘breeding stud’? I need to be in peak health as possible. Don’t want any mutations or sickly batches of young.”

“You’re assuming she’ll pick you for sure.” Deft said a little slowly. Seeming half unsure of this, but also just confused. Maybe… was that jealousy Aria tasted? Not a romantic jealousy, more like…

Family jealousy, or…a form of protectiveness. Cute, but understandable as Albert is the closest thing to a ‘dad’ she has, even if he treats her as an apprentice. And Aria spoke with a light smile. “Well, he is rather cute,” going on to add. “And one of the few who seem comfortable around me, add in that he did help save my life doesn’t hurt.”

Deft looked at her and said, “Joy saved your life. Glint and Albert just medically cared for you on return.”

“Mhyes-- but he was the one who made the cure.” pointed out Aria.

There was a rise in amused humor from Albert, though the only physical hint was the slight smile. He turned away and reached to the machine as it beeped and took out the glowing glittering vile of yellow stuff. Turning to a nearby microscope, he began to get a sample from a nearby drawer and began working over the next phase. “I know. You think I could have any number of mare’s in Citadel-1. You seem to think Glint and I have something in common.”

This made Deft twitch an ear. Though a slight flush on her cheeks could be seen and Aira could taste her embarrassment. “It’s a professional relationship. I have a good hint that she might be seeing a stallion from an already formed herd in sector B-7.”

While Deft shifted her lips, seeming to almost pout? Albert asked, “why do you think I’m better off with someone else?” and continued his work. Getting the sample on a tray and soon getting a small drop of the vial to use on it. The microscope getting sighted in for the results to come.

There was a pause before Deft looked at Aria. a deep caution and concern in her being. “You can’t always tell with changelings.”

“Ah I see.” said Aria with more amusement in her tone as she lowered the PDA, already having things set up ahead as she focused on Deft. “It's because of what I am, and what I need for ‘food’, that stems your caution of me having a relationship with Albert. Or more possibly, you are thinking I’m just using Albert as a ‘breeding stud’ rather than an actual lover, yes?”

The young unicorn held a defiant gaze, despite buried uncertainties. Possibly aware she wasn’t really a match for someone older and possibly more magically inclined. “Changelings are good actors, and we know they can cause alterations to someone’s mind. How would we know you’re not planning something?”

“Then by that logic, wouldn’t that mean anypony who managed to learn mind manipulation magic can do the same thing a changeling can do?” brought up Aria as she made it more of a statement.

“At most, it’s a unicorn sanctioned thing and even then you often need great studies or magic in that area.” began Deft. Neither seemed to pay much mind as Albert hummed to himself. “You however, are from a race that have innate skills for it, correct? And you can use things like seduction to get close when someone’s unwary.”

Aria laughs a bit, shaking her head in amusement. “If I wanted to use seductions, I would’ve gone to a herd already to get love and a breeding stud.” then went on to say. “And as for the minor prodding of altercations of the mind-- why would I risk not just myself, but technically the ‘last’ remaining changeling survivors of being deceitful? Of risking my life to alter someone's mind when I’m more or less, the second to last of our kind?”

“That wouldn’t make sense, and it would be both foolish and arrogant of me to do so. Neither which I am of.” said Aria.

While Deft seemed to think, and a small fear bubbling in her. One that seemed centered more on Albert, coated with a protective want? Both were brought from their debate when Albert said, “HA!” And went on to tell a nearby cat poster, “I’ve done it Henry! I’ve done it at last!” Adding as he got his PDA out, “alright Surly, start the simulation!” and got a scanner out to go over the current cure he made.

Besides the burst of joy that she enjoyed for it’s moment, Aria found herself staring at Albert as he chatted away to his PDA. then mentally remarked to herself, Well…look like he’s back into his ‘chatting’ with his ‘friends’. knowing that he probably developed the need for social interaction by being isolated, so him being a little ‘unhinged’ was something she got adjusted to.

Off to the side, the Queen heard a sigh and glanced to see Deft shaking her head. Apparently just as used to this. They did return focus when they heard the PDA chime, “Preliminary test complete: Khara cure variant C-215 compatible. Chance for biological error: 1.23%”

“Not perfect.” Muttered Albert while looking at the vile in his hand. “But… far closer than all the other’s. Possibly as perfect as I can get.”

Aria calculated the risks, and asked with furrowed brows. “If it’s 1.23% chance of error, wouldn’t that mean that there’s a low chance of a miscalculation?”

“Very low.” Albert nodded while pacing. Deft moved aside to let him walk in his little ‘thinking circle’ as he muttered and mused. “All other variants had errors as large as 70% or as small as 20%. This is the first one where I’ve gotten below that twenty-mark threshold. There’s a very high chance this will be the cure I need.”

Deft then spoke, “but… there’s also a very small chance it won’t work out well?” then made a face, “what would happen if it fails?”

Thoughtfully, Albert told, “Degradation of cellular structure, complete auto-immune diseases being applied to self, possibly a seizure-- the effects are theoretical mostly, but that is the rough outline of what may happen if the cure doesn't properly take effect.”

Aria frowned, though glance at Deft as she told. “Better call up Glint just in case that does happen. Can’t risk him falling into a seizure by pure chance.” and began to work her fingers to type a message. “Scratch that, I’m sending her a message. That way we have things prepared if it does happen.”

Turning away from the Queen, Deft asked, “you’re not going to seriously take that?”

“Not right now.” Albert agreed with a nod. “I do want to try a few other methods.” and quickly moved to put the vial away and label it. “But, if none of the other’s turn out as I like and all other scenarios don’t pan out? It might be my best option.”

Lips pressed into a thin line, Deft spoke, “then do that.” For a moment Aira was sure that a ‘please’ was meant to be someplace in there. But the young mare held it back. “Was there anything else you needed?”

Albert hummed and returned to measuring the materials he had on hand, PDA set out to look at what worked in the most recent mixture. “Yes. a steady magical touch would be nice.” It was spoken in an almost simple manner, but Aria could sense a trace of care there.

While Deft wasn’t the most emotionally expressive of mare’s, the changeling queen could still sense her attentive hope. “Sure, just no more talking to ‘Henry’. Please.” and said in annoyance, “I can only stand so much of… ‘him’.”

“Of course.” Albert spoke in amusement. As if he was laughing at some inside joke. Aria shook her head. That man made her wonder a bit.

---

With a power of magic, Jerry appeared within the crystal caves, coming out and scanning around, as he didn’t see anything. Though with a raise of his hands, he had his minions be brought out of the Pits as he began to walk. His mind was trying to recall where the exit was, as it had been so long since he recalled. Though he was sure he might find his way out…

Although he was internally musing as he walked within the somewhat dark caverns. His suit lights help see the path as the armored man walked on with his horde behind him. Okay let's see, I just go this way and walk down this path… he was mentally recalling the direction, going along in the dark caverns as he looked at the large gemstones and reflective visuals they were giving off.

Hrm…wonder if I can mine this stuff later? Jerry wasn’t sure how useful the stuff was, as he didn’t have a scanner on him. Or at least the type Albert and most ponies used to scan materials or other items. And while he would have just had his minions start mining the area? This was all technically belonging to Equestria. Even if he was going to ‘own it’ later through debt? He didn’t want to be ‘That Guy’.

Plus, he wasn’t sure what it could be used for. It was something for him to write into later for him to look over, as Jerry just partially his map, and trying to recall his steps of the caverns as despite the lights providing him sight? It was becoming apparent that he was going to be lost, since despite his ‘built in map’? With him forgetting how the layout of this place was?

It would take him a while to reach up to the surface. He huffs a bit, as he figures if worse comes to worse? He could either make an outer gate to teleport back to retrace his steps again in the caverns, or use the outer gate in the dungeons under the castle. Either way he has a way out.

Still, he figured that once he reached up into the castle? He’ll need to have more than himself raid around. Even if he could move around easily? The castle was a big place. He considered asking Spree if she wanted to go raiding for gear, and have a few of his smart minions help along. He was, after all, one Overlord. And he had a lot of willing Minions to do tasks. And he was certain they would be able to.

Side’s, he was sure after it was cleaned out, he could return again after making sure the coast was clear for either Celestia or Luna to open the Vault for all those goodies. Though part of Jerry wonders if either Celestial sisters would ‘give’ some of the stuff in the Vault to him? I mean not everything, like some national artifacts or some sentimental values. But some dark and forbidden stuff should be okay for me to take. I mean, I can easily drain the magic and make them useless. Give more power to me, help strengthen my island…and cutting off loose ends to make sure they aren’t used.

He knew that having some dark and evil artifact left somewhere was usually a stupid idea. It was usually better to make sure it was properly dealt with. Or at least have someone to do it. And with him able to drain magic out of things? Well…it would make things easier long term. (done)

If he was allowed. It was just as likely Twilight got back to him and said that the two wouldn’t let him in for X reasons. Or maybe they wouldn’t come to the castle for some other reason. They were, after all, very busy with work. In fact, didn’t Cadence and Shining mention something about how Luna had been putting a lot of ponies through training to eventually retake Equestria and Celestia being busy trying to help the ponies back on their hooves after all the trauma? (end)

in all honesty, the Vault might be the last thing for me to go to…I doubt I’ll be able to take anything in there… thought Jerry, as he took a turn around the corner, as he added in thought. Although I’m sure that they all would be very happy with me ‘liberating’ a lot of their texts and books from the library…. maybe I can finally fill up my own ‘library’ with the Canterlot books? The Minions built the damn thing, so might as well fill it with books. And if I’m lucky, we can find ‘unaltered’ versions of books too.

But first? He needed to find a way out of this damn cavern.

---

Four. Hours. Four. Damned. Hours.

That’s how long Jerry has been stuck in this cavern for. That’s how long he had been roaming around for. That’s how long he had been until he found the entrance leading out. He would’ve been lost were it not for his map, having to backtrack, go around a few times. And as he managed to reach up to the cavern entrance? He was reminded of something that irritated him even more!

He wasn’t even CLOSE to the castle! He wasted. FOUR. DAMNED. HOURS. Over nothing!

Jerry took a deep breath, then slowly breathed out as he raised his hand, forming an outer gate as he teleported himself and his minions into the dungeon where Celestia and Luna were once upon a time. He took a deep breath in, and soon spoke. “Anyone listening in? I’m at the castle…finally.”

“Yes Master, I am here.” spoke Mortis as the Blue Minion asked. “What do you need?”

“One: I want to have some of the smarter Minions here. I’m going to be stretching out searching and need teams to gather resources and intel. Second: get Spree and ask her if she wants to join in to help spread the search. Finally, I want one of the smarter Minions to search for any survivors in the Castle. See if they huddle up somewhere to keep safe and warm.”

“I shall do as you command, Sire.” spoke Mortis, as Jerry walked off the outer gate, taking more calming breaths, as in hindsight he should’ve gotten into the Castle via outer gate here-- but hindsight was 20/20. And thankfully he didn’t have to wait long. As Odd, Pub, and Quaver came out.

Jerry gave a glance as he asked. “Quaver, I thought you would be at the Castle? What brings you out here?”

The jester smiled, before bowing as he spoke. “Why serve you, oh King-Tyrant!” raising up, as his right fake eye glowed, as the glass eye was replaced by the red stone that imitated an eye as he went on while raising up Greens. “We are to serve your will.”

Jerry nodded, though told. “Pub, take some wolves and roam through the castle. Search for any living people that might survive. They would give off scents.” the Brown nodded his head.

“Yes Master, your will be done!” and with a gate forming , Wolves were coming out as Browns were getting on and they zoomed off to seek out the living.

Jerry turned and said. “Odd you’re on information gathering. Search for information of any kind. Second priority is searching for survivors.”

“Yes, Overlord-sama.” said Odd with a bow head, as he and his Greens moved to leave.

Jerry turned to Quaver as he thought…before saying. “Go and search for anything useful.” figuring the bard would find anything good.

“But of course, Master!” said Quaver as he moved with his group of Greens, as Jerry puffed a bit, then turned to wait for Spree to show up.

It took some time, but Spree did eventually come through the portal. Though her armor looked to be somewhat modified with extra cloth. The mare gave a look around and gripped her spear with a heavy gloved gauntlet. A cloth mask hiding her face while her eyes glanced around the prison.

Jerry could make out a slight grimace in her gaze, but the covered mare muffled out, “Canterlot dungeons. Not the first place I hoped to visit when coming to the capital.” And wandered up to him. “You know… there used to be this donut joint Twilight loved to talk about. Best donuts in all Equestria, she’d say.”

“I’m sure we can set up a donut place at Home.” Amusingly said Jerry, though he focused and told. “I need you to gather a group of minions, head to the barracks and take everything that isn’t nailed down. I’ll have Grubby make a gate for you to transport things in.”

“After that? We’ll try to regroup while I search the library to get another gate to take everything.” He seemed to muse as he added. “We might be able to take everything within the castle. But we might need to go back at a later time for more resources.” Then asked with a grin in his tone. “Ready to raid for the Overlord?”

Reaching over to tap his metallic helm with her staff, Spree told, “just remember half the stuff’s gonna be on loan. Books especially.” And pulled the spear back to hold over shoulder to say, “I just hope there’s something left to preserve. We already lost a lot of lives, don’t want to think about the history we lost with it.”

While that brought Jerry’s mood down a bit? The mare by his side shook her head and told, “let me handle the Library. Minions do alright, but I want to work the place with a bunch of blues. Some magic tomes are pretty old from what I hear, and we want to make sure none of it gets damaged.”

Jerry puffed out as he remarked. “Well considering how Diann has been copying stuff from you all? Odds are he probably preserved some books to cheat his way in keeping a tight grip." Though a question pops up. “Mortis, did you get all of that?”

“Yes Master, I shall have Grubby build the outer gate once Spree arrives in the Canterlot libraries.” responded the Blue within the helmet.

“Good,” Jerry said, while looking at the mare as he told. “Mortis is going to make sure Grubby gets a gate ready for you to transfer all those books,” and added for Mortis to hear. “Make sure all the Blues come to help, we got a lot of knowledge to move and I want to make sure there’s nothing left.” and Jerry began to move as he went on to add. “I’ll swing by the barracks and grab everything. With luck we should be able to clear out a good portion of everything.”

Though he did add with a glance to Spree. “But get a bit of browns and reds added just in case, there’s a good chance the necromancer came here to get more bodies or been looking into things.” while he doubted the necromancer came here in Canterlot? He wasn’t going to assume there wasn’t a possibility. And Jerry would rather have some caution, than to be jumped by any undead around.

Spree went to say something, but the two heard a clatter of something. Both readied their weapons and moved in slight haste forwards and left the dungeon space. Just ahead in the hall the two saw the Browns from before that had rushed ahead. The riding browns swinging their weapons as their mounts dodged about. While in the halls were the undead.

Caribou soldiers that once guarded the walls now fought to take down minions and wolves. Ponies that either fell to magic or were sex slaves now lunged and tried to grab the minions, often scrambling after them like deranged creatures.

There was a slight curse, but Jerry didn’t catch what it was. Only that Spree was not happy with this. “So much for hoping you were wrong.” and prepared her spear in both hands.

“Head to the library, and get those books.” told Jerry as he ready his axe as he charged ahead, unleashing the Legion of Honor to empower his minions as he sent the Browns to charge, Reds firing bolts of fire and Greens moving around to stab or decapitate limbs of the undead. Jerry slammed his axe, using the armor enhanced strength to rip apart the rotting flesh and decay as he continued on to tell Spree. “I’ll clear the way for you to get moving.”

He saw the Brown riders moving around, evading and stabbing with their blades or spears, ensuring their mounts avoid getting jumped on. And while his group of minions were making way as he was slashing and hacking? He also was annoyed. As apparently the Necromancer had set things up here-- and likely made Canterlot his home base.(done)

Spree moved to take a different route, a few minions following. Though she and they came to a stop when she shouted, “Whoa-boy!” And began to swipe and stab her spear forwards. Mostly to bat away the undead that came rushing around a corner and upon seeing them? Charged.

Spree stept back and began to bat and sweep her polearm about the flailing limbs and bodies. Stabbing forwards at each opportunity but mostly trying to keep the slightly enmassed hoard from reaching her. “Don’t let’em close! Reds, burn the first line-- Browns ready defensive front line!” snapping her orders out quickly. “Greens, pull back, ambush positions incase--”

She half yelped when one undead caribou grabbed her spear and yanked. Making the earth mare nearly stumble forwards. She tightened her grip, got a better stance and told, “Fire on this one!” Getting the reds to focus on the caribou, even as she went on. “Head and arms, head and arm!”

A few gouts of flame clashed against the areas where there was some missing armor. The head popping off and the arms falling. And yet the body, while stumbling, tried to ‘fight’ on. Spree finished it off with a stab to the hip and caused a leg to become too weak at said hip and make it fall.

She backed away and said, “Jerry, I’m having a hard time trying to kill something already dead over here!” (end)

Jerry turned, and began to call his minions as he ordered. “Pub! Charge!”

And the wolf riders, charged onwards with their weapons, aiding the Browns holding the line as they pushed back the undead. Jerry came up by Spree side as he commanded. “Reinforce behind us!” and while his horde moves to do so? He began to slash and hack as he cut down the undead and told. “We’re going to be stuck here unless we push.” and thought it over-- before gaining an idea as he called forth the spawn pits as he told Spree.

“Okay, if we stay here, we’ll be stuck. Get the minions to the pits. I’m carrying you to the library. They can’t pull me down with my shields on. And we can reach there faster.” knowing with him having 100% with his suit? He could rush with his shield activated, bulldozing away and use his magical shield first, to save up the energy of his suit for the trip. Granted they would have no minions.

But on the other hand? It would get them to the library faster. Plus less minions to add to the necromancer collection.

“Not worth it.” Spree seemed to deny, backing herself away from the hoard. “I say fall back and let the Green’s scout while they can-- we come back later with more stuff to get rid of these things!” Which sounded like an annoying thing to do. To just run just as they started. “Charging through who-knows how many undead is just asking for trouble!”

Maybe she had a point on that front. There was no telling how many undead were in the castle.

Puffing a bit, Jerry agreed as he said. “Good thing I got Odd out scouting around,” and gave a glance and commanded. “Pub, pull back with the wolves.” letting the wolfen spawn pit form, as Pub obeyed, and with his wolf riders? All enter into the wolfen pit. And while Jerry wanted to go out and gain stuff? He also knew that if the necromancer was here? He had possibly collected nearly everybody here.

“Retreat back to the cells.” told Jerry as he soon added. “All Greens, scatter, and seek Odd, informing him I’m having you all scout and gather intel-- as well as grabbing anything if possible.” and as the Green scattered, he pulled back with Spree, as the Blues, Reds were pulling back, with the Reds tossing fireballs, while the Browns were pulling backwards while still covered by Jerry spell.

The two were forced backwards into the prison cells, and as with depositing the minions? Both Jerry and Spree got on the gate, as it teleported them back into the throne room, as Jerry let out an irritated breath, then took a deep breath as he slowly breathed out. Looking at Spree, Jerry said with a huff. “Looks like we’ll need to wait for Odd and the other Greens to get intel.” then rolled his shoulder.

“How about we head down to the dungeon and spar? Since we can’t do anything right now.” she smirked a little and nodded, as they both headed down to the dungeon, as they would just need to wait for any responses.

---

Quaver was moving his claws over the amount of papers, as he was gathering many manifests, the jester was going over many papers that were left over in file cabinets and desks. And with the Greens able to sneak without any undead detecting them? It was rather easy to gain so much.

Even now, as he was in the Canterlot library, having many Blues taking out books with some Browns and setting them in nice stacks. The jester heard of the Overlord's desire for everything to be taken, and it was Quaver who wanted to ensure the Overlord’s will be carried out. Yes the undead were rampant around, but with the minions barring the doors? They had plenty of time, and had ways to go around.

Still, as the minion looks over the information and stacking them nicely together, even taking something to ‘add in’ information he had gathered and worked over. However he turned to see Odd coming by, as the Green dropped onto the table as Odd spoke. “We have successfully scouted the entirety of Canterlot castle. The undead hasn’t noticed any of us.” Odd expressions shift to a frown. “We found some sick mares, most infected by Khara. We have moved them to be healed and given the cure. Within the Dark Castle as the Overlord would desire.”

Both minions knew Jerry would’ve wanted that, even if he was preoccupied, if Jerry heard of this, he would’ve wanted it. So they did it without being told to, and with Grubby helped? Got an outer gate to move them all to be aided.

The Green continues on to tell. “We gather, based on what we gather from them? That the Necromancer settled here as a seat of power, having some of them entertain him, but took only the few healthy ones to be moved to some desert, we presume it was the remains of the Town. though we’ll need to scout later.” going on. “We are also searching for his current playthings as of now.”

“Good, good.” said Quaver as he glanced from the tablet to Odd as he said. “We shall be taking everything soon, and shall please the Overlord with our many bounties.” giving a wide smile as he looked over to see the many minions talking books, shifting them to one large place to pile up and Quaver moved to stand up onto the table, as he looked at Odd as he said with a wide toothy smile.

“I believe it’s time for us to take everything. Doesn’t it?” and move to take his jester staff as he spins it around.

Odd gave a nod, though the ninja-green spoke hesitantly. “Should we not inform Overlord-sama that we are essentially raiding without him?”

“Oh rest your worries, we are merely following the Overlord desire!” assured Quaver as the jester told with a wide grin. “And as his Minions, we do take our job with pride.” seeing Odd nod, and Quaver grin widely as he spins his staff and with his claw hand takes his gem eye out? Infused power with it as he waved his stick as was ‘performing’ a song. And as he cast the song and moved his arms, all the Minions spread throughout the castle and city? Began to move faster.

Grabbing items from food, materials, and even information. Greens spread over more, taking everything from the Barracks, and even within the castle. While the Blues and Browns move the books from their pile or shelves to the outer gate to be teleported and moved by the other Minions inside the Dark Castle. He waved his arms around, increasing the tempo as all over, Minions were moving around, breaking things apart, dragging things away, and for a few greens, grabbing the playthings of the necromancer and sending them via gate.

As everything was moving faster, with everything being taken apart or moved, Quaver only smiled widely as he knew by the time they were done? It would all be gone, and the Necromancer would be mighty mad. Which would be good. As Quaver knew? Everything. Must. Go.

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