Conquest Horizon

Ship chugging along at it’s standard speeds, Nowa gave a slight glance back to the thoughtful and almost grumpily slipped striped that kept to his command chair. She wasn’t sure what his gripe was, but she had a hint it had to do with their newest resident.

And there was one way to find out.

“So, tha’ Mari gal. Pretty silly, ain’t she?” began to former pirate in curiosity. “Came to my room yesterday, girl wanted t’ braid my mane. Normally I’d not have that, but she was persistent.” Then grinned, “I don’t mind much. She be a bit of a silly one.” (end)

Grumbling more, he said. “Yeah...silly.” trying to think back to something else, as he said. “Sometimes Nowa...I’ll never understand Hernos or Kitsunes. They’re just so...odd at times. One moment you’re discussing something, then suddenly they’ll do something unexpected!” sighing some as he glance to see Scrappy wasn’t back yet, mostly because he had the mechanical wolf move around to gain a final report on the check ups as he look back to Nowa as he went on.

“Sometimes trying to figure them out is like trying to figure out someone insane like me.” (done)

First snickering, Nowa soon barked out so loud, the golems operating their stations had to cast glances back on what had the navigator so… happy. But, when she calmed, Nowa said back, “they be girls. ‘Course ya are having trouble understand them, they ain’t the type you probably are used too.” (End)

As the golems look back to their stations, Phobia snorted and shook his head. “Yeah well...you’re right on that. I’m more used to the Stripe girls or zebras, ponies, Spotted, Lions-- although only a few, and thats...pretty much all.” then sigh a bit as he said. “But with Mira? She...she honestly confuse me, like I’m partially wondering if she’s a gal that doesn’t know much outside the Clan life-- or just biding her time,” then rolled a hand around as he went on.

“Or if she just likes to be around us, or just know that she can be at ease with us because we aren’t a threat to her in all regards!” (done)

“Or.” startted Nowa, “ya can relax an’ give her a bit o’ room.” Looking forwards to go on, “gal’s home been attack from what I gather, righ’? Sumtin’ about another clan an’ them betraying her’s… I’m sure demon-tracker or something was in it.” Then shook her head. “Point is? I think she’s bein’ so preppy cuz them two herno’s are about. Way I understand it, the cat’s are a honest sort. Fer them to be fine with her? Probably tells her she can be fine with most of us.”

Looking to him, she smirked, “an’ you hon? I think she’s just teasin’ ya a bit. Nothin’ but a bit o’ fun I’d say. She ain’t Najat, she’s free an’ lively. Much like Ash, but that gal is a whole diffren can of trouble.” (End)

Humming some, he relax in his chair and said. “You know...maybe you’re right Nowa. Maybe I’m just so used to being paranoid and cautious that...I forgot how to let loose.” then glance to the side and added. “Also...maybe she is teasing me...although considering I’m the only guy here thats single, it probably explains why she hasn’t try to tease Sieg from what I heard.” (done)

“HA!” barked out Nowa, “oh, she teases him alrigh’.” Then snickered. “Jus’ not the same way like you. She knows he’s got a girl, so what she does is tease him abou’ how he treats Book.” Then shook her head. “I think the lass nearly got him to blush once, he trot out so fast, his tail migh’ of been almost of fire!” (End)

Giving small fits of laughter, Phobia could imagine it as he joked with a grin. “W-Well...at least we know that changeling can blush still!” calming some as he sighed and shook his head as he said. “But on a side note...Even though we got our ship repaired and some of our forces replenish...we’re still not ready to take on serious threats, like what Kan mention with Tyra or potential pirates.” giving a frown on his face as he went on.

“So it might be best to lay low while we pick up this Kiru guy...Maybe figure out if Mira clan is alright.” then hum a bit as he lean back. “After that? Hrm...maybe go conquer a city or something? I’m still planning the whole conquering thing with minimal life casualties. Won’t do good for our image if we just be some third-rate group if we just kill everything our way…” then grin as he added. “Plus it’ll confuse the pits out of our to be foes on our tactics.” (done)

Giving a look back, Nowa rolled her eyes and looked forwards before telling, “iffin’ ya so worried over that, why not jus’ find a Pirate’s den and take it fer ya’self?” Going on to snort, “get their treasure, stuff-- maybe some spare ships. Make it ya own an’ all that.” Smirking, she went on, “best part? Most of ‘em are murderous backstabbin’ two-timin’ dealers. No tears over losses o’ them, righ’?” (end)

Grinning more, he nodded and said. “Oh thats true...not to mention more stuff for you to sell with Kan, more ships to try to upgrade into my personal fleet…” but pause and furrow his brows as he said. “But...whoever piloting them has to be good…” glancing to Nowa as he went on. “Sure I could try to hire some into captaining my ships...but the only one I trust to pilot anything of mine is you, Nowa.” (Done)

“Aw~” cooed out the mare, “why, that’s so sweet-- I think I’m touched.” Then paused before asking, “...do I get double pay fer driven’ extra ships?” (End)

Snorting with a grin, he said. “Ah, ah, ah. Just because I consider you as part of my clan-- doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get greedy, Nowa.” then told on with a amuse look. “Beside its doubtful you could drive so many ships…” then shook his head and told. “No, I would need actual captains, crews, people to be loyal enough to me to not stab me in the back...And it’s rather easy to double-cross someone when someone else pays a lot more money.” humming a bit in thought as the mechanical paws of Scrappy came as he suggested.

“Perhaps create captain like golems to pilot your ship and having crafted extra golems to pilot those ships to assist you in battle, Phobia?”

While that did sound interesting...there was a problem as the Stripe shook his head. “No..I barely know much on ship battle, and anything I craft won’t have the same creativity Nowa will have. No, if I make captain golems, I would need to craft them to be creative like...but the problem with that, is that it’ll take years to get them develop that psyche in a sense.” then glance to Nowa as he asked with a grin. “Know any somewhat useful people who could pilot ships for me and be somewhat loyal as long as I bring the gold and profit?” (done)

Huffing to this, Nowa told, “nada. When it comes t’ me, I know people, bu’ keepin’ them loyal? That be a whole different thing.” She thought on it and told, “wha’ ya need is backin’. I used t’ have all sorts o’ crews, an’ biggest thing to keep ‘em workin’ fer ya? Respect. Ya make it an’ get it. Ya get a good crew t’geather and get their respect, they’ll keep by ya.”

“Ya don’ get that respect?” Continued Nowa, “well, then ya get a mutiny an’ upstarts takin’ yer spot as captain. Seen it before, all it takes is one unrespectin’ scruffy boyo who think’s they can out do ya.” (end)

Thinking to that, Phobia thought over it as he doubted taking over a city could gain respect, nor removing a pirate den. It might prove the wrong effect as while both are interesting? It might not work well as he hum a bit. “Hrm..doubtful people will respect me if I just go to pirate dens and take everything I want. They might feel like I’m a threat to them.” Scrappy consider and asked to Nowa.

“Does ‘respect’ allow one to gain reputation by providing ‘good deeds’ of removing slavers, freeing slaves, and returning them into safe haven zones to allow authorities to take them to safety?” (done)

Thinking to that, Nowa said, “eh, maybe. Hard t’ tell, seein’ as ya really gotta pull weight t’ do all o’ that.” Then snorted out and half joked, “ya know, this be all the more faster if ya coul’ just put a person in ya golems once they be made.” Then chuckled, “now that’s one way t’ get creative crew, eh?” Chuckling to herself and looking on ahead, not noticing the mad gleam in Phobia’s eyes. (End)

“Souls eh….I know where to find such abundance of souls.” lowly cackle the Stripe as he got up and began walking to Kan office as Scrappy look to Nowa and remarked.

“It appears you did not calculate that my creator could make something a joke into something literal with the right phrase of words.” seeing the ‘huh?’ from Nowa as Scrappy translated. “You gave my creator a insane idea.”

As Scrappy explained that, Phobia headed to Kan door and knock, hearing it open as Kan raise a brow and question. “Yes, what are you-,”

“Give me your souls.” interrupted the Stripe as she held a afront expression and said in adigation.

“Excuse me!?” he pointed to the back with that mad gleam in his eyes still.

“Souls. Nowa gave me a idea, of putting souls into my golems. Giving them a body, but making them work for me with their creativity.” Kan blink some...then told flatly.

“No.” then slam the door on him as Phobia cross his arms, a smirk on his face as he spoke.

“By the contract between us, I invoke Kan to give me access to her soul collection, or give me a substitute of souls to gain for my golem usage.” hearing a pained sound as he spoke on. “I invoke upon Kan, by the contract that bind her to me and me to her, that she will give me access to what I require to gain control of what will soon be mine in the future be it now, or within a due time to allow me to gain what I desire.”

Hearing huffing and puffing as there was a agonizing sound from behind the door as Phobia told. “I invoke upon the demoness of Lust, of the 3rd pits, that she will do as the contract decree and assist me in all things she is able to so that I will achieve--,” the door suddenly slam as she glare at him with hatred. Her glasses were of some as she look like she was in some sort of pain.

“Alright! Alright!” her tone seething with hatred as she said. “I’ll give you some damned souls!” then glared at him as she said. “But these lot will escape if I try to grab them. And if I go in my demon form, we’ll be tracked. I can’t let you have them…” seeing him arch a brow as she quickly said. “Only because I don’t know the means to seal souls...or the fact you don’t know how to fully yet. Maybe use the few I have as test subjects for whatever madness you got once we figure it out. Just….stop.” feeling the contract between them crushing her like chains on her being.

She hated this. She hated whenever he invoke the contract between them. She hated that he wasn’t too stupid enough to word and make it so he had a leash around her neck-- she hated the fact that if she doesn’t do what he said, she’ll be in agonizing pain for a long time until he gets what he wants.

Kan would enjoy seeing his expression once she gain his soul. But for now? She has to play the good little demoness until he died...or managed to get her all the souls she could get. So she stiffly told. “If you want some to research...just make a golem body that's suitable for them to live in...I’ll...try to help you make sure you don’t screw up...just. Leave. Now.” waiting until he said those words and leave her be as he soon grin and said.

“I Phobia the Dreadful, shall allow Kan to have the contract be counterbalance to allow her to do what I require of her.” feeling the weight off her body, she let out a sigh, then glared hatefully at him as he gave a two finger salute and said. “I’ll be sure to get a body ready-- make sure the core is usable with your help, Kan.” turning to walk off as Kan slam the door, fixing her glasses as she limply move to her bed to relax on.

With a sigh she grumble. I hate that Stripe so much...it’s going to be a while before my body feels normal after that pain I suffer from the damned Stripe...why does he has to be so insufferable?! Why does the apparent idiot has to be somewhat smart at the same time!? (done)

Really, the large issue was the deal required souls. Her own collection was out of the question-- because of their use and the other reason of them escaping. The only other way were trying to steal some from Tyra’s little imps-- but that would be a hassle. The other was abominations, but most of half of them would have souls of the insane or useless due to the trama.

She could try and talk Ash into this-- but that was just unlikely. Really, the herno might just say no and not do a thing. But Kan couldn’t do the harvesting, going full demon would just draw too much attention. And both she and Tyra had a slight deal of not stepping on the other’s toes.

Vass didn’t count, he was a independent third party.

She was in a pickle though. The only way to please the Stripe? Was to give him maybe a soul to tinker with, but all the souls would just run and the others could only be gained by Ash. And the only one that wouldn’t run, was just a soul of a mere foal. One that was still scared in it’s jar and confused. Granted, it was still pretty to look at. (end)

and maybe...maybe he could use that...but he wouldn’t gain too much out of it. It’s still a foal. It won’t do much obeying or whatever he has in that brain of his… frowning more in irritation, she wanted to punch whoever gave the Stripe the idea! There was no way he thought of this himself, he was too good in mechanical work...but not spiritual. She doubted Ash told-- the herno was smart.

Najat? Please, she didn’t sound able to mention this to the idiot. Mira? As if, she probably confuse the mutt...Can’t be any other's…

So how did the mutt thought of this? There was no way he would consider souls to put in the cores, he would of try to craft them himself with his ‘make it yourself’ mindset that all Stripes had. Maybe...I could tell him I could try another time? That now’s not a good time? she wince from the slight pain her body, still feeling after effects as she grumble out. No...he had that look in the eyes. That cold, mad, and psychopathic look. The look that said he was going to do whatever he set his mind to, even if he has to make a body trail in the way…

Thinking more...she consider that if they were somewhere far from civilization...she could try to help the idiot...but with two hernos, and one kitsune with seals? She doubt she’ll get far in helping him. They might actually try to stop him… (Done)

Actually, ‘stopping’ might be a light term. Ash had encountered Tyra, and there was no telling what the herno had seen while in the demoness’s captivity. And while Najat might only know so much, she would be surrly angered by the knowledge of this. Mari? She… she was a complete unknown. A half-demon child that could use seals, and was a seal-master if what little she could translate was true. Meaning… it was possibly a risk to try anything. Who knows what sort of nasty seals she had for stopping, containing, binding, trapping or merely banishing demons like her. (End)

I have to stop him...but how? How could I get him to reconsider it? Those three in solid points? Might work, but he’ll try tackling it another angle, like killing some murder or criminal and wanting me to grab their soul for transfer...no that’ll be worse. Maybe suggest him to invest into some other idea? But what? What could I get the idiot to reconsider on to...to… she thought on it…

And there could be another means...maybe...get a spirit inhabited in a item to assist the mutt? That was...possible...but there lies a problem. Which spirit? Because...she knew that despite how useful they are...they might reject him, or worse try to harm him. Like the spirit of justice, or purity-- or even righteousness. Those lot are such sour-puss that it’s like everything was black and white to them. (Done)

An that wasn’t counting other spirits. There were virtues that would run from him, or easily see him a threat. That is to say unless she tried to find a spirit that could just…

Who was she kidding? This whole situation was horrible. Nothing would work out no matter how she looked at it. She could try any number of ideas, and they would all end in the same kind of trouble. With her possibly suffering a voided contract by another third party. She loses chances of getting his soul or others-- and the strip get’s off scot free.

And that just can’t happen. Bu what else could she do? Hand over one of the spirits she had to a golem and just hoped something would work out? Because she doubted that would work with the collection she had. At best, she had to somehow bid her time. That was the only clear option. Bi her time until she and him had privacy to do his little mad experiments and be done with it--

Or… or maybe she didn’t have to. Maybe… she could have someone dissuade him for her. But who, and how? (End)

Not Sieg or Book, won’t have a good effect, not Nowa, sure she’s ‘clan’ but not that high...Najat or Ash? Please, one is a hotty bitch and the other might get him to think, but not fully listen. Mari? As if. The only one that could actually get the Stripe to stop...was his damned creation. She hated on considering Scrappy...but that thing was the only thing to get the Stripe full attention and use logic on him.

Granted it served Phobia best interest...but if she would make mention of the consequences of no matter what, he’ll have the cats and the fox attacking him? Or maybe...her mentioning the contracted maybe getting voided in some way to not get the idiot what he wanted…

But on the other hoof, the mechanical thing might ‘consider’ the voided contract might be for the better, to remove her position to be a bigger lap dog than anything else...And have the ‘urge’ the idiot to ‘ask’ the three on the whole thing and gets banished anyway? No..I got to word it right….or ask Ash-- and I hate Ash more than the mechanical mutt.

The cat who she utterly hates...or the lapdop that may very well undermine her. She had to grit her teeth with the cat. She despised the cat...but she knew that Scrappy would be looking for only Phobia best interest. Only his. So she took a breath in, and force herself on her hooves, using her heritage to let herself patch up real quick, before slowly walking out of her room and find the damned cat.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. (done)

It was merely unfortunate that finding the cat was a choir to do. Kan had to stop and ask a few of the stupid golems of where she was, and each time was a different response. When Ash had nothing to do, she tended to wander around. A lot.

To some thanks, she did settle on a place to be finally, the training room. The only unfortunate part was that, once again, she was around Najat. What only added to this was the fact Mari was also in the same room. Making her way towards the room, Kan thought about asking another time.. Or just asking for a bit of privacy.

Ash might tell the two later, true. But a little privacy would at least make things a bit more bearable than to have all three hounding at her for answers. Ash would be bad enough with how sharp she was. (end)

Yeah, asking her later. I do not want the ice ‘kitten’ and the haynu to find out either. settled Kan, as she managed to walk at ease as the slight pains and soreness finally eased up. She knew that with all three hounding at her? It would make things even more difficult. Even more if one of them decide to kill the mutt...and as much as she would like that, it would also mean they might try to banish her at the same time.

So it was best to wait until she had Ash alone...and the Kitsune not in the area to over hear them. She didn’t knew what the Kitsune was planning, much less on what she was going to do, but she didn’t like how the Hanyu was so friendly, granted it might be how she actually is...but the Kitsune were shadow warriors. Using the art of deception of all things. So it might as well be a ploy to get the other's to have their guard down. (done)

Pausing by the doorway that lead directly into the training room, Kan pondered to call Ash out or not. Though, while she worked over her thoughts, she became aware of how quiet it had gotten. Really, it sounded as if the room wasn’t in use. Deciding to peek, she cracked the door open a little… and huffed They weren’t there. (End)

Of course. Just when I decided to ask for Ash-- she or the other's aren’t there. predictable. shaking her head as she decided to wait until she had a chance to talk to Ash later, knowing that they, or that ‘demon mark’ cat could be anywhere at this point. Huffing a bit, she turned to trot back to her room, wanting to relax, enjoy the peace and quiet-- and look at her collection.

However once she reach her room, she found the feline relaxing by her door as she raise a brow and remark. “Well this is a first...you deciding to come to me.” (done)

Glancing up and away from her nails, Ash greeted, “hey Kanny-kan-kan.” Using the same hand to wave at the mare. “I heard from a few tim-men you were looking for me. So, I thought I’d stop by.” Then went on to grin, “Let me guess. You wanted to know the secret to my great curls, right?” Slightly pulling and fluffing the ponytail of hair that indeed was fairly curly. (End)

Taking a calming breath, she said in annoyance. “No...I…” gritted her teeth as she gave a annoyed look to her. “I...need your help on a little matter.” Taking a moment to hold back the hate in her at the feline, she explain. “Earlier, the mutt came by with the ‘bright’ idea of using souls to inhabit his golems for a ‘creative’ means. I don’t know how he came up with it, since I know he never takes it into consideration. But I can’t exactly talk him out of it for...obvious reasons.” the end bit having a bit of spite in her words.

“So...I had two options. One was to talk to the lapdog...or you to get the idiot to stop pursuing the matter. but...I think we both know that Scrappy is ‘smart’ enough to consider me as ‘obsolete’ to the stripe and will try to remove me. So...I decided to go to you of all people...you should feel happy.” the amount of hate in her tone didn’t exaggerate how much she hated to come to the feline. (done)

“So you came to li’ll ol’ me?” Asked the teasing feline, hand on her cheek and acting shy, “why, I don’t know what to say.” Then squeed to herself, “Senpai noticed me!” (end)

Glaring at her, she said. “Cut the act, Ash. we both know you’re enjoying the fact I’m loathing to come to you for anything.” giving a harsh snort as she went on. “We both know that the idiot doesn’t know the first thing of the Dark Arts, much less on proper soul transfer. We also both know that he’s too stupid to even not consider this is a bad idea. And we also know that your good at manipulating other's with a few words here or there, so you could easily persuade him out of this idiotic chance he consider as a ‘good thing’.” (done)

“Uh, but why should I?” Asked Ash in a manner that befuddled the demoness. “I know it’s a bad idea, and lot’s of moral problems with it. But you?” Giving a sideways glance, Ash said, “naw, it can’t be as simple as ‘its bad’ with you. The only reason you hate me, and I tolerate you, is because we each have a history. Herno’s hate demons, and harnos don’t trust demons that make bad deals from the start.”

Arms crossed and seeming to lose that joking nature, Ash watched Kan closely while going on. “So what’s really going on Kan? You wouldn’t come to me if Scrappy was the best ‘logical’ choice to get Phobia to stop.” Then smiled, “unless you had something pretty big to lose from it. ‘Obsolete’ was the way you put it.” (end)

Gritting her teeth, she took a calming breath and told flatly. “My contract. The idiot wants me to transfer souls, either using my collection or other means to his golems to have ‘creative’ captains or something. But I know you, Najat, and the Kitsune will stop him...or more to point, stop me and will banish me back to the pits. Making the contract nulled and voided as I will lose not only the means to stay around….but I also won’t get his damned soul.”

Taking another breath in to calm her tone as she went on. “And as much as I hate to admit it...but I know that the damn thing is loyal to the mutt. I know it’ll ‘urge’ him to continue on this progress, and allow you three to remove me, and stop him completely, making me cut off from his ‘varabable’ and keeping his ‘precocious’ creator safe in the long run.” (done)

“So you came to me.” Ash started before leaning on the wall again. Grinning like a cheshire cat as she said, “the cat that’d probably just let Mari get rid of you and help Phobia out.” Tapping her lower lip with a finger, Ash comented, “you know, I don’t know if you thought this through completely.” Making Kan grit her teeth again. “So again. Why should I bother to help you?” (End)

“Because the only means for the idiot to gain a potential chance of this idea, is to either use my collection, get at Tyra collection of souls-- which is bad due to her being stronger and more resourceful than me...or asking you to help-- which is also annoyingly impossible due to your own morals.” then snort out. “Not to mention...if I’m banished, then you’re going to lose a potential means to stop future demons that might be in hiding still without knowing them or their strengths, or on how Tyra acts or thinks. Right now? She’s currently searching for you...but she’s also a bit preoccupied at this moment.”

Then huff and said. “But maybe you’re right. Maybe you should just let that damned kitsune banish me...but let me also remind you I’m the idiot financial tool. Right now, I’m the only one beside Nowa who could haggle, bargain, make deals-- and able to help keep this ship and you lot financed with money. Without me? You all won’t have enough money. Sure you all could do bounty work...but I’m sure that you lot won’t survive with the amount of paperwork and constant means to acquire more money beside the usual bounty and hitting at pirates and slavers.” (done)

“I think we’ll live.” Ash waved off.

It soon left the two in silence, staring at the other as Ash thought and hummed, “I got… two questions right now on my head.” Holding up a finger to ask, “one… why do you even need Souls?” Going on, “not for Phobia’s idea. But you, why do you want souls so bad, or even his?” Then proceeded on. “And two. You have souls in your closet huh? Why’s that?” (End)

SNorting, she told. “Souls are a means to allow a demon to become stronger. The more souls we eat, or the stronger the soul we eat? The more stronger and powerful we get. You think Tyra got strong for researching souls and making those abominations? No, she got strong to the point that she learn the value of specific souls and not just gluttony on every soul in sight.

“As for why I want his soul? The contract state that if he fails, I get his soul to torment for all eternity. If he succeeds? He has a whole bountiful of souls to give in the terms of his enemies. As for the souls in the closet?” looking at her hoof and said. “Well...When I had that little….outbursts months back, I was spotted easily by a lot of things...Tyra being one of them.”

Glancing back up and continuing. “She was rather desperate for information. So desperate she was willing to give me souls. I never seen her act like that for a long time...meaning that you were possibly her greatest creation as a ‘slayer’, Ash.” (done)

“And what would that entail?” ashed the Herno before quickly adding, “don’t forget the part of tellin’ why you still got souls locked in your closet.” (end)

She would of spoke...but there was a look of suspicious on her face as she stated flatly. “The other two are over-hearing me right now secretly while you are trying to get me to spill what I know before removing me, aren’t you?” (done)

Shrugging, Ash said, “why would I want to remove you?” Then pointed out to Kan, “look. Herno’s and Demon’s don’t get along for good reasons. I get that. And in all honesty, after what happened to me? I should be spalling you with some seal Mari made to send you back to the pit you came from.” Then held a hand out to twirl it. “But… I’m willing to give you a chance, I really don’t want to hate you for no reason, Kan.” Then thought on it to go on, “I mean… how would you feel if you didn’t have to be a demon?” (End)

Snorting harshly, she told. “Bit hard to not be as what I was born to be, Ash.” then told. “But...since you’re so generous…” using the term with scathing in her voice as she told on. “I have a feeling you’ll just let the two remove me either way.” shaking her head as she said. “In a way...why should it matter if I need to be worry or not? I’ll know sooner or later you three will get the chance…”

Then told on. “As for the souls and the slayer thing? Well… Tyra was desperate. Really. Desperate. So desperate, she was willing to barter to me for any sort of information on where you were at. In all honesty, I didn’t care for you back then. Gave some random directions on where I thought you would be headed.” then added with a snort. “Still don’t fully care of you...but tolerate you some.

“As for the slayer thing? Well...you’re the byproduct of Tyra research, craft, and by far the potentially strongest thing around...in equelivant speaking? You’re like the same as Scrappy in the mutts eyes. The greatest work Tyra ever made, as you would be strong enough to not only kill demons...but steal the souls of immortals like the alicorns...or the weakest Medeliers.” (done)

“Big claim.” Ash said in turn while in thought. She looked to Kan and said, “you might scoff at me, but that question on not needing to be a demon still stands. Would you take it?” then went on, “I mean… not having to be the way you are, maybe not being stuck in a pit. Maybe not needing souls to get stronger.” Then smiled, “maybe try being a bit nice for a change, hmmm?” (end)

“Ash. I’m a 1000 years old. You're little suggestion might of work if I was maybe 500 years old or younger...but it won’t. I know eventually you and your friends will remove me. I know eventually sooner or later I’ll be denied the mutt soul and other souls while I rot in the pits...But let me remind you, that while I may be a demoness...I also know that I rather not let this mortal world perish so soon.” raising a hoof to explain.

“Right now? Everything is stable, yes there is Tyra around...but lets face it, some idiot will always try to summon demons for a bargain. Its how some mortals work. But if Tyra gets her hands on you, and somehow activate those runes on you? She’ll be unstoppable to the point that even the hierarchy of the underworld will cower to her since you’ll be able to even steal a demon soul-- its not a exaggeration or a large claim, Ash. I saw her expression. I saw how she panicked and wanted to know the tiny bit of information.

“In a way...she reminded me of the stripe himself when he gets a little mad...or panicky if someone stolen the lapdog. Someone who was willing to destroy everything just to have their creation back.” (Done)

Ash staired for a bit and soon nodded. “Figures.” Then sighed out and looked at Kan. “one last thing… if souls are such a big deal to get strong, why are you keeping a bunched of trapped one’s in your closet and not… you know, snacking on them or something?” (end)

“Bargaining chips. While I don’t know what sort of souls they are due to their...panicky nature? I know they have a lot of potential, or untap potential.” then snort with a annoyed look. “And as much as I want to know what sort of souls I’m dealing with...the only means for that is to be in my true form to find out...and we both know how everyone will quickly notice me be it mages, demon hunters, even other spirit like or demons will sense me within range. And I rather not have something or someone start chasing me so soon.” (done)

“Right, right…” Nonchalantly spoke the dark feline before saying, “well.. Off to find Phobia!” Turning around and musing, “now how to keep the silly numbskull from doing a idea he has no clue on?” Then paused to glance back over her shoulder. “But really Kan. think the idea over, not needing to be a demon. You might not think it’s possible, but who knows. Maybe you can have a chance for a better life?” Then walked on down the halls, musing to herself on random things. (End)

Huffing, she moved to her room door, opening and closing it behind her as she thought to herself. Stop being a demoness? As if. We can’t change in how we were made...not unless we could inhabit a body. shaking her head as she thought on. No...I’m a demoness, one that is just filling out a damned contract...hrm… thinking more as she move to relax on the bed. its doubtful really, granted there are a ‘few’ means as there were some rumors of some demons changing...but not all in succession. Beside...I’ll admit, I do enjoy living in the mortal plane than in the pits...good food, good cake...and clean water.

Thinking more as she hum a bit and shook her head. No...its a bit impossible...then again. thinking in a rueful manner. This entire thing is rather ‘impossible’. Even more with that stripe stupid luck… (done)

She pondered on the thought and tried to shake it, but it stuck in place in her head almost stubbornly. The things she could do in the mortal realm. Not completely as a business dealing dealing backstabber either. Maybe just the simple things. Having cake when she felt the want for it. To simply bath as she pleased. Make successful deals by both honorable and dishonorable means… or entertain herself in a few carnal things of lust.

Possibly what had her most vexed, was that it was Ash that made the offer. Herno’s and demons were at ends with the other. Both hating the other for one reason or another. And Ash had to go and break that constant cycle with that offer.

“But… I’m willing to give you a chance, I really don’t want to hate you for no reason, Kan.”

There was kindness in that tone, just for a moment. A moment of honest kindness for her, a demon. A demon Ash knew wanted nothing more than to other have Phobia’s soul for failure, or to have many souls at his success. And yet, despite her careful guard, Ash seemed to honestly want to give her a try-- even if she had to keep armed to give a demon that chance. (End)

Snorting abit, Kan couldn’t help but ponder over it. There was...some means of allowing herself to not being a demoness anymore...but the problem was that she was in a contract already. And she knew that the only way to do what she please in the mortal realm...is to make a new contract. Which was a large issue. She would need to null their contract, he would need to agree with it, and they would have to come up with some means to ‘compromise’.

And the problem with that...is that already the contract was tightly knit in the striped favor unless he dies. And as much as she rather not...the only other means was to ask a spirit for assistance. And she doubted many would willing or try to help. Even the most simplistic of spirits will try to remove her somehow. So with a shake of her head, she could see the problems already…

Then...a idea came to her mind. Unless...I made a new deal proposition...to where both me and the Stripe can be satisfied? It’s a fool goal at this point for him to actually conquer anything with two hernos and a Kitsune around...and its really doubtful that he’ll succeed with his stupidity. So maybe...I could potentially give him something else his heart desire...he has been rather homesick of the Isles. (done)

But that would be hard to accomplish. How would she work that out? It was clear that the isle maybe on high alert for Phobia. Chances of getting him back there safely was small. It just caused a new set of troubles for her mind. Turning and looking at the cabinet that held the souls in their jars, Kan watched each flutter or plink about inside their containment. Well, except for one less enthusiastic soul. Unlike the others, the Foal’s soul was much more still, possibly still a little scared and unsure.

Innocents was such a fleeting thing. It was a almost slight surprise that this foal’s soul, timeless as it was, was still innocent in a way. Kan had to wonder what it was like to have pure innocent’s like that? She would have to have been probably born mortal or in some sense a spirit to know that. But not demon.

Watching the souls a bit longer, thinking about her needs of them, she stared at the pink glowing one with such a nice blue core. She thought and pondered her thoughts, plotting of ways to let Phobia reach the isle in relative safety and leave in relative safety. The possibility of voiding the contract and being in the mortal realm more freely. Maybe see what Ash had in that confusing head of her’s to make her ‘less demon’.

Or, as stupid as one fleeting thought was, ask the innocent soul of a foal for their unbiased opinion.

That was a stupid thought she waved off and continued to think. Why was she entertaining such a thought anyways? She could really gain a lot more if she helped Phobia gain his desires and conquer land. Maybe get enough souls to rival Tyra, maybe surpass her and get more closer to Camous. A Demon Lady in all rights!

Though, even that made Kan wonder. She never bothered to think about it before, believing the Demon Lady was just off harvesting souls to become strong enough to strong-arm the demon lords later on. But last Kan saw of Camous, she was in contract with a family with the use of a crystal to keep her bound to the mortal realm in a sense. And even more strange… Camous was caring for filly.

Not that it was odd for a demon to trick and guard something if it benefited them, but thinking on it… even more looking back on it, Kan wondered…. Did Camous truly care for the filly? Last time she checked thousands years back.. Camous would of not cared and just told her to keep away. But no… Camous made a point to her and the mortals that the filly was not to be harmed, tricked, used or… anything. It was almost like watching a… protective mother? (end)

She gone soft...maybe watching over a mortal family line made her more softer and caring? That would explain why she gained...a heart in a sense. thinking a bit as apparently the infamous demoness was a protective hen to the filly, nearly threatening anyone to not raise a limb at the foal or say anything to hurt her.

I wonder if Camous just gained some sort of empathy around the mortals the more time she got stuck in that crystal? it would...make some sort of sense, knowing that the demoness would be constantly around the mortals in that crystal...make even the cruelest of demons care within enough time...however that would only mean that those she was around around would actually cared. Cruelty and hate just doesn’t go away...only when people gave a chance of kindness and trust…

A frown on her face as she grumble a bit of Ash actions...then glance to the foal soul as...a idea form in her mind. While she wouldn’t eat the soul...she could see some use in it...perhaps give it a chance to get the stripe to stop his stupidity? After all, he might be derange, stupid, and even selfish...but she honestly doubt he would harm a child. (done)

She pondered the idea some, mostly on if it would work… but first, she needed to sate her reasoning first. GEtting up and trotting to the cabinet, she could see the many souls doubling their struggles or getting ready to fight. It made her want to roll her eyes at the pathetic display of helplessness. Coming to the Foal’s jar, she peered down as it seemed to slightly cower in place before taking it and opening the top.

Like before, the soul was more keen on staying inside and away from her, though when she reached in, she paused and… not try to grasp. She frowned and thought about how Camous was. Motherly? What did that do to help make the filly feel comfortable? Thinking on it, she slowed her hoof and gently held it close, more… offering than anything.

There was hesitance, but the foals soul’s own curiosity got the better of them after a long while and touched her hoof. Oddly, Kan didn’t feel the need to grasp, only feel the confusion of the soul and th caution. The Foal wanted to speak, but was unsure what to say.

In truth, Kan wasn’t sure what she wanted to say either. A lot of this was just a… on the fly thought she was just toying with and not sure what to do with. (End)

Pursing her lips some...she spoke in a rather unfamiliar gentleness. “Little foal...a lot has change in a long time...home isn’t familiar and the world changed.” wanting to furrow her brow as she continued on. “However...however there is a chance for you to have a choice to live again...or to...go on in the afterlife with your family.” she couldn’t believe what she was saying. Letting the foal choose?

She wanted to take back her words...but said. “But...if you do go...well, you won’t see what new and excitable things the world has to offer, little foal.” (done)

There was a jittering and a shifting of the soul. “A...afterlife?” it was poised in such a confused manner, the innocence to the foal rippling over the demoness. Was she not familiar with the concept of death?

No… it only made sense. The foal didn’t even realize that her body was gone, or that her mom or dad were gone. Ignorance was bliss, and the foal was possibly unaware of what her position was. “I can see mommy and daddy there?” It was asked with so much hope, with so much want to see those two she possibly loved the most with what her little heart could give. (End)

“...yes.” was all she said, looking at the soul in such a...unfamiliar softness in her tone. “Yes you can…” although she doubted they were there, if Tyra took their souls, they’ll be either abmoniations or stuck in jars too...but on the other hoof, Vass probably took care of them by now...although it was a risky gamble either way. But she couldn’t help but continue on. “You could see them there...all you need to do is...go up once you leave the jar. Go up and keep going until you see that bright light, little foal.” (Done)

“Go up?” she asked with thoughtfulness while being gently taken out of the jar. For once, Kan almost marveled at the sight. A soul… not held, griped or contained. Just…. Sitting in her hoof in thought. “If I go up, I can see mommy and daddy again?” a joy slightly raising in her. “I… I want to see mommy and daddy again.” Floating up some.

Kan wanted to bite her lip, but had to stop from doing so when the soul stopped it’s ascent up. Seeming to zoom down and next to nuzzle her side, Kan heard, “thank you nice lady. I get to see mommy and daddy!” The joy, happiness, gratitude… it was so strong and… different from what Kan was used to in the past of fear, anguish, horror…

Was this warmth what Camous felt when dealing with that little brat she mothered? (End)

If so...then she didn’t knew how to handle it as she clear her throat. “Yes, yes…” moving to the window to open it as she told. “Here...use this to go out and go up. Don’t stop for anything, just keep going up and up...until you reach those gates. There...there you will be with your family little foal.” feeling the soul giving one last nuzzle...a odd sensation of phantom like forelegs hugging her, before the soul gently floated out and zipping skywards…

There was a odd...warmth in her chest, as she glance to the other souls as...there was a stillness and ‘balking’ on what just happen as she snort and told. “Yes, you saw that...I was feeling charitable for once.” then snort as she told on. “Really...there might be no point in keeping you all. Especially since that idiot was planning on giving you all bodies in exchange for working for him…” (done)

They were still oddly still, and Kan felt very aware of them just staring at her. For once… she felt oddly embarrassed or… awkward at this moment. She did everything in her power to not shift of glance around. Unlike the innocent faol she let go, these souls were more mature and wise, even smarter. They seemed aware of her act and were… either dumbfounded or scrutinizing her. It was hard to tell without getting a feel for one. Though from a few, she could tell they looked to the window longingly for their own freedoms.

Not that she could completely blame them. They had been contained in jars for a long time by Tyra. Freedom and afterlife was possibly the highest thing on their lists. (end)

Looking at them..she couldn’t help but feel a sort of..odd feeling in her chest as she scowl. Trotting up to one of them, she told flatly. “Be thankful I’m feeling generous you lot.” grabbing the jar and opening the cover as added. “Consider this a rare moment of a demoness being nice.” (done)

While each jar was opened and souls darted out and flew around, Kan was surrounded by a rainbow of colors as each left out the window in a rush. Some waiting their turn to fly out before vanishing. One of the many, a silvery soul, danced before her face in odd compilation even as she undid the last jar.

Moving up, the soul next to touched her and Kan could hear a new voice of a female-- possibly herno from it’s stuck up manner. “Demons don’t have hearts.” A slight scoffing there. “What are you?” A slight deliberation in her tone… before just leaving with some odd amount of dignity. Kan didn’t know souls could do that, but this herno soul somehow pulled it off while leaving.

While she raised a brow to that, another soul, a yellow one, slightly passed her up, a ‘thanks’ being given. Another paused at her and gave a odd ‘hug’ feeling on her once more before going, those two definitely being pony with how friendly they were. She was sure of it.

Feeling one more soul a small shimmering pink one, she heard a young male voice, barely holding a phantom form to hug her side that was definitely of a young herno. “Thank you for this gift, demon-san.” And like the rest, left, leaving a empty room with a demoness just standing in place, eyes watching the last pink soul of a slightly wiser child seemingly pause to maybe ‘wave’ before going for the sky like the rest. (End)

Snorting with a shake of her head, she examine around to make sure no soul was left. After which with a quick confirmation, she move to shut the window and sighed out. Can’t believe I did that...let them all go for free, with no strings attached, no deals made...not even a nibble of them. shaking her head more, she grumble. “Can’t believe I became soft for a foal.” then turned to proceed to clean up the jars, placing their cover on them as she filed them up at the cabinet…

Feeling a odd mixture of emotions. Feeling the annoyance of that ‘better than thou’ herno soul, the odd warmth of that foal she first let go...The weird feeling of those hugs of pony souls as they gave thanks to their former warden. Even that...young child herno giving thanks of the gift. That one made her feel...a bit pleasant. She never felt such feelings before.

Even more at being thanked for just...a act of kindness.

She partially wonder if she got a bit of the stupidity the stripe had...but consider it was possibly from Ash somehow using her own kindness of giving the demoness a second chance...to allow other's to have a chance to have rest in the after life...or to their bodies if they survived. Really it was hard to say at this point. All that she knows is that she just let them all go for free and have no idea on what to feel beside...beside that odd warmth in her chest. (done)

Placing a jar aside, Kan had to stop and just evaluate it all. Even those few words Ash gave. If she had the chance to not be a demon, would she take the chance? (end)

...Maybe I would...but I would like to stay long lived though. No need to give up everything of me to not be a demoness. Maybe keep the longevity and enjoy the mortal realm more freely. Live long to maybe...do what I please for once, enjoy what I’m able to. although she put it on the shelf for now, mostly because she still need to find a means to void the contract without her being sent to the pits again. (done)

Unless Ash had something for that. It was worth to find out what that sneaky and cunning herno had in mind.