//------------------------------//
// Report E1 
// Story: Her Eyes Reflect The Stars 
// by Lynwood 
//------------------------------//

Princess Twilight Sparkle,

I arrived at Sleepy Cove with the first Canterlot division just as the sun rose. Right away, I realized the problem thus far. The reserve company assembled from the surrounding settlements was extremely poorly organized and was in desperate need of coordination. Most of the personnel were poorly equipped, especially the unicorns, and many of the squads were not in proper fighting shape. I know I shouldn't expect as much from the reserve, but this is a disgrace. I've submitted another report to the Captain of the Guard, to save you the trouble. I know he can get that sorted out. 

Really, the main failure of the reserve detachment was its command. The officer responsible, one Lightning Blast, was woefully over her head and was not prepared to command more than a dozen guards. I believe this was no fault of her own, just an oversight in the organization of the reserve guard. Again, I've included this report to the Captain.

As commanding officer, I took control immediately. I judged it best to completely dissolve what little organization the reserves were in and incorporate them into my existing structure, as that way they could be properly ordered while preserving my own chain of command. This worked well enough, though many of my sergeants have complained to me already.

As I reorganized the reserves, I sent some of my light scouts to fly ahead and gauge the threat from the air. Their report was swift, and it was refreshing to get a clear, professional assessment after that flood of rumors and garbled reports from Monday. I assume that you will also like a clearer idea of the threat, so I've included it below. 

The beast neared Sleepy Cove in the mid-afternoon. I followed my scouts' advice and organized a bombardment using team-slung boulders from the quarry further north. I thought it best to minimize damage to Sleepy Cove so we engaged before it could do any harm to the settlement or any of the citizens that refused to evacuate, so I ordered the attack when the beast was a short distance from the town.

The bombardment proved somewhat effective. The beast's shell was cracked and it began to stagger, appearing disoriented, but stopping it outright required multiple binding spells to its limbs and attacking the legs' joints on its right side. However as we began to examine the beast, another appeared from the waves.

Luckily, I thought it prudent to prepare extra boulders, and we engaged it immediately in a similar fashion. We took it down, but not before it severely damaged the town's docks. Only one citizen was injured with a broken leg, and she was treated immediately. 

I must say that it bothers me greatly that there are more beasts than we expected. We have no idea how many of these ocean beast things there are. I will continue to engage any more that come near Sleepy cove until I receive further orders.

Dutifully yours,
Commander Stronghoof





The beast appears to be protected by a shell of stone. Covered in seaweed and unidentified markings. Moves using four thick limbs, no visible head or tail. Resemblance to turtle suggests withdrawal beneath the shell. Emits glow from underside. Traveled about three-fourths of the way to Sleepy Cove. Appears formidable against ground forces. Recommend aerial bombardment. 

Addn: sent Private Lightwing to scout Shoreside. Settlement is a complete loss. Second beast sighted emerging from ocean.