Conquest Horizon

Phobia wasn’t sure why he was doing this. Granted, it was because Scrappy said this would be good for him, that it would help his health and possibly make him feel less on edge constantly. But the stripped wasn’t sure how much he was really wanting to do this.

Yes, Jiru had gotten the ship up and running with him and all the base functions were good to go. Yes, the doctor was alright so far and didn’t prod at his ship or life just yet. And sure, he was a little ticked off at Kan basically finding a loophole in his airtight contract to slip on out and it was all Ash’s fault!

He still had misgivings about going to this ‘Temple’ place and asking for help to help him feel a bit better. He really did. Yet he was doing it, only because Scrappy asked. And as they neared the place Scrappy had in his databanks, Phobia was still unsure if he wanted to go. Even as they descended down, he sat in his seat… rapping his fingers on the armrest while Nowa went about making sure all the ships systems wound down properly for a nice smooth landing. (end)

Tapping his his prothestic finger on to the armest, Phobia frown as he look to Scrappy and asked. “You sure this Temple is any good?”

The mechanical wolf turn his head, as he stood by Phobia side as he informed. “It is spot on, Creator.” turning his head back as he went on. “It is the same exact temple we went for the first time to find Ash, or rather directions.”

Giving a scrunched face, Phobia question. “Scrappy, are you reallly sure, I need to go to this place? Because I feel fine! Better, cheery even!”

Scrappy turn his head to Phobia as Scrappy told. “You’re data percentage of stress levels have been at 72.4 % since the arrival of the doctor, it’s ‘average’ has been at 63%, nearing levels I am not in agreement with. This Temple will assist in removing your stress and ensure you are able to plan better, Phobia. You will need your brain to ensure you will lead this ship into glory.”

Phobia hum a bit as he frown, as he really didn’t like it...but if Scrappy was right, then it was possible he did needed a ‘small break’. “Yeah...maybe you’re right...maybe all I need is a bit of time to just...relax, and take a break.” Showing, or proven that Phobia really does listen to Scrappy, and to a extent show that Scrappy would give out logical reasoning to the Striped to get him to understand and listen. (Done)

Looking back, Nowa told, “sid’s cap, you need a break.” Making him look up and lift a brow. “What? You’ve been slavin’ yerslef away on this ship tryin’ to make it work all fine-- that ain’t good fer a person. Ya need a break.” The mare going on to tell while sitting on her haunches. “Why, even we sailers need to get our hooves on the ground now and then. Easy as sailin’ sounds, can drain ya over time. So a few days of tryin’ to unwind won’t kill ya. Maybe give ya hands a bit to not be tense or somthin’.” (end)

Grumbling, Phobia look over his hands as he said. “Eh, maybe…” then lean back as he snort. “But I don’t understand wh ya Temple? Why not a beach or ...a city! Or even just somewhere remorte.”

“Because it won’t take too much fuel to reach there, it won’t cost us much to park there, and it is free.” informed Scrappy as Phobia remark.

“You make very good points, Scrappy.” the mechanical golem nod his head as he told.

“Of course. I am your advance and highly intellect creation, Phobia.” (done)

Rolling her eyes, Nowa added, “I think ya almost forgot the part where we got two half-demons walkin’ around and Ash onboard.” Shaking her head to tell, “I don’t really visit here, but folk around the Holds? They get twitchy with demon stuff. Heard from this one guy visiting arabia where a whole armada of the King’s ships was sent to shell some forest ‘cuz there was this demon lurkin’ around.” (end)

Considering that in his mind, Phobia shrug and said. “Eh, whatever works.” then asked to Scrappy. “So are you staying at the ship, Scrappy?”

“Negative. I will be accompany as always. I will be needed to ensure all signs of less stress have been accomplish. Also Ash and Najat will be coming with, as they have their own questions to ask the Ophenu, but they will not be joining with us for too long.”

Phobia roll his eyes, as he asked to Nowa. “What about you Nowa? Staying on the ship?” (Done)

With a firm nod, Nowa explained, “since we’re in the Holds, figured I’d go and talk over things with Kan. See what deals we can get here, metals are vast in the Holds. Could get a few good deals if we work’em right.” (End)

Lowly chuckling as he said. “Well try not to stay too long, I doubt we’ll be here long enough Nowa.” hearing from the Triplets as they spoke.

“We’ve just landed in a good zone!”

“Thank the creator! Now we don’t need to worry on repairs!”

Clanky however added. “Dreadful One, the ship has settle and you all can leave anytime you like.” Phobia grin as he got up and motioned Scrappy to follow.

“Take care my faithful golems!” then added to Nowa. “Enjoy, try not to do what I do!” (done)

Nowa rolled her eyes to that, “no trouble with that when Kan’s around.”

Which was true, but Phobia didn’t ponder on it. He instead walked through the ship and headed down to the large bay. A place where he could not only walk on out, but had to bare sight of Ash and Najat. Both gave him a look, but otherwise said nothing.

He almost wanted to eye Ash while she walked along, but said nothing. It was a little strange. Suspicious almost. Najat being quite was normal, but Ash? Well, looking at her, the heavily clothed feline seemed thoughtful and staring onwards as they departed the ship, even headed through the forest and reached the fog that hid the temple. (End)

Giving a look, he said. “For some reason, you aren’t as chatty as usual. That makes me suspicious.” (done)

With a glance, Ash told, “I got a lot on my mind.” Then looked on ahead again, a path of stones dotting over to the temple of sapphire. “Reason I’m coming with, got a lot of questions I can’t figure out on my own.”

Najat nodded in turn. “I too, am in need of answers and console of my own. It is the reason Ash-chan and I are here. To get that council and guidance to our own issues.” (end)

“Uhuh.” said Phobia as he rolled a hand. “Well, at least you two got something, figured out.” then look to Scrappy leading the way as he said. “Scrappy here just told me I need this, all because I need to ‘relax’ somehow.”

Without looking back, Scrappy informed. “I have taken all data and factions into account, Phobia. All of my insight has lead me to conclude you are in dire need to relax and to ease your mind from the last couple of months of stress on your mind and body. It is highly recommend that you take this.”

Phobia snorted, but didn’t argue, as he conceded that Scrappy was right, even if he still felt iffy about going into a Temple in the first place. (Done)

When they drew close enough to see the temple’s stairs, they could make out a form. Phobia wasn’t sure how he felt to see a yellow opnehu, just standing in place and waiting for them. Najat seemed to take lead quickly and give a bow. “Opnehu-san, we ask for guidance and shelter for ourselves. Would you please allow us into your home?”

Smiling and laughing gently, the female monkey told, “Of course, of course. This temple welcomes you all.” Looking to each and saying, “You have come far, very far indeed.” Then waved off, “ah, but you wish inside, don’t you? Come, come. You will find what you seek inside.” Turning to start acending up. (End)

Phobia glance over a he commented. “That wasn’t the same monkey.” Seeming to follow the monkey to walk up the stairs as Scrappy informed.

“It is a Temple, it is possible we won’t meet the same Ophenu twice, Phobia.” (done)

With a glance back, the yellow Opnehu questioned, “you have met one at the temple here?” Going on to ask, “what would their name be? This one may know, she is most informed of those that live here.” (end)

Thinking, Phobia said. “Someone name Nuru, a golden monkey if I recall right. Or rather Scrappy here did.”

Scrappy added in. “Yes, a Golden Ophenu monk name Nuru was here last, and he spoke to both Ash and Najat as well.” REcalling his data files as he informed. “Very strange Ophenu, spoke odd, and yet seem to be very spot on.” (done)

Humming, the monk told, “there was one named Nuru, but he was a monk not of this temple.” Which was surprising for Phobia. “They were traveling, on vacation they sis say.” Then smiled, “lucky you were to meet that one. Nuru seemed most wise and intouch with the world that is. His light shines most brightly too.” (end)

“Huh...thats...that is odd.” said Phobia, as he shook his head. “Eh, maybe we’ll meet the monkey again later on.”

“It is a possibility, a low possibility of 3%, but a possibility nevertheless, Phobia.” agreed Scrappy as he look to the monk and asked. “Will you lead us to where Phobia needs to be, or will another guide him?” (done)

“I will be the guide.” Assured the monk, “This one is called Aymun. And your friends?” Looking to the Herno, “this one believes that they will know the way, once we have reached the final step.”

Tilting her head, Ash said, “well, I wouldn’t say we got the best intuition. But I seem to drift to the right places somehow.” Getting a light laugh from the monk.

“Ah child, you are full of life.” Aymun lightly shaking her head. “Aymun has faith you will go where you with get what you need. And so will your friend. But for now?” She breathed in. “For now, we shall reach our place.” And took a few more steps before they reached the entry in.

Walking in, Phobia looked about the inside of the temple, light fluttering in by reflective gems and long vines covering all over. Flowers of many colors showing while Aymun told, “please, this way young one. Aymun feels she knows why you are here.” The to Herno parting away, while the Opnehu continued to lead him. (end)

Grumbling, Phobia told. “I’m not that young.” following the Ophenu as Scrappy kept close to the Striped, who was also trying to ignore the gems and how brighter the area was in compare to outside. He gave another glance to Aymun as he added. “Also, all I know is that Scrappy here wants me to ‘relax’,” then roll his eyes. “Even if we could’ve done it in a beach or something.” (done)

Lowly chuckling, Aymun told, “then you do not know your own issues, young one.” Grinning all the more at his sour look to add. “Aymun is elder to this temple. She has gift from earth, and outweighs your age by five times.” (end)

“Still, I’m not young. I’m 23.” told the Striped as he was annoyed at this, but kept his peace, mostly since he was doing this for Scrappy insistence. Even if he still didn’t knew why the mechanical wolf was insistent in the first place! Phobia snorted a bit, but didn’t mention anything more as he just wanted this done and over with!(done)

With a glance, the apparently much older female told, “say t all you like, you will still seem like a child in this one’s eyes.” Taking a turn to speak up. “But Aymun recalls this. Once in a dream. She didn’t know it’s meaning, but now she does.” Which made him want to roll his eyes at all the ‘whitemane talk’ being done. “You feel a hole from being away from home.” (end)

There was a twitch of a ear to that, but Phobia didn’t say anything. He didn’t want ot give the monk a idea that was...was true. Or give her any idea aobut his past, even if he doubt he could do that. As he felt sorely reminded that he was talking with a Whitemane. He did however look at her with a questioning look as he spoke. “And you said you saw this in a dream?” (done)

With a hum and a nod, Aymun told, “dreams are fleeting, and most obscure. Most try to decipher, others ask to know it’s truth. Aymun, waits and see’s. And when it happens, she understands then.” Sighing out to turn and tell, “rest is something you need. But it is not the thing you need now.” Then told, “this doesn't mean you should leave. It only means that you should consider this offered help, before you recklessly leave like a unruly child would.” (End)

Grumbling a bit, Phobia consider telling her off, but pause as Scrappy spoke. “Phobia.” Getting Phobia to look down at the mechanical wolf as Scrappy look up and spoke. “Please,” ears bent back as for a moment the Striped thought he heard concern in the monotone voice. “You need this. You need all the help that can be given, I nearly lost you, my creator. Please do not be lost to us again.”

Looking away to that Phobia knew Scrappy was right, when they were at that down ship and he confess to Najat he...nearly killed himself in his misjudgement. He took in a deep breath and sighed in a given in tone as he pat Scrappy head a bit. “Alright...just for you Scrappy, I’ll go along with whatever the Whitemane rip-off will say.” (done)

“Aymun is not of white, nor of mane.” Told the monk in stride, “she is Opnehu. To toss insults like that, does not give best first impression.” Making him want to twitch at her knowing tone. “You must understand, child, you are not invincible. Your friend shows concern because you are fullhardy and consider the now, and not the later.” (end)

Looking at her, did he took a restraint breath, as Phobia said. “I’ll...keep in mind of my words….Aymun…” He move his other hand to rub his forehead, feeling a slight migraine forming. “Mmhm….maybe you are right...I have not been feeling all that well, Scrappy.” pulling his arm down to noticed that they were entering in a large room that looks of stone. Seeing a single mat in the midst of it all, with the only thing to show of light was from above.

A small opening of sorts to let it filter in like some stagelight to the mat. Seeing the Ophyenu takes one side, she motioned for him to take the other side. As Phobia slowly move to the opposite end, he saw her sits in a calm meditative manner. Once he sat down and try to relax, he glance to Scrappy sitting behind the Stripes on his haunches, seeming to wait for this to begin. (done)

Seeing he was cooperating, the monk breathed in and gave a single melodic hum. It was a hum that echoed in the empty room, bouncing off each wall and making the sound amplify. For a moment, Phobia felt the room saturated with…. With something, and it made his skin crawl for a moment before she stopped.

While he shook and tried to get rid of the feeling, Aymun made a face and gave a new note, again the sound loudly echoing in the room, and making his spine get a odd feeling in it. She stopped again at his discomfort, and really seemed to consider him, study him. (End)

“For some reason...there's something wrong with the room.” grunted out Phobia, trying to get rid of the odd feeling, but for the life of him he felt it was still attached to both his spine, and still kept his skin crawling up.

Scrappy took note of it as he thought. This is very bad, Phobia has been too far from the Chants. Too far from being full of magical energy. Body and nodes are unable to ‘correctly’ align with whatever Aymun did. Possible problem? Processors thinking as he concluded. Decaying Striped Clan Syndrome has had full affect on him and his mental state longer than I originally predicted. (done)

“Not with room.” Aymun soon corrected, finger up and tapping his chest. “Problem in you.” (End)

Frowning, he asked. “What is wrong with me? I don’t feel anything wrong beside that small migrain-- or whatever happened with this room.” (done)

Hand back to her lap, Aymun told, “the Temple is full of natural energy, given by the ground on which we stand. The air which we breath. The sun in which we bath. The water, in which we partake.” Then held her hands out to the room to go on, “what you feel, is the natural energy that binds the world, focused in one place of life.”

Resting them back to her lap, Aymun looked to him and told on. “Your body, it is unbalanced, confused… it is poisoned by saturation, and because it is saturated, it thirsts for something it can not have, in which, makes the body very ill.” Making Phobia scrunch up his face. “That pain, the discomfort? Symptoms of the ailment, and it showing while bathed in a place full of good energy.” (end)

Looking at her, he tried to figure out if he was ill, but he never noticed. Not one bit...well beside his depression an his fears-- but that was another thing.

“Please, do this, Phobia.”spoke Scrappy with a paw on the Striped shoulder. “Your magical output has been dangerously low since...we have left the Isles.” Phobia turn with wide eyes to Scrappy as the mechanical wolf told. “Please trust me with this. Please...just follow along. For me?”

Phobia didn’t knew if he should feel betrayed or hurt at the fact Scrappy did this, mislead him and manipulated Phobia into going along with this….but with a shutter of a breath as he told. “I’ll...Try.” Knowing that at the very least? He should try for at least the only person who was both loyal to him and was the closest thing he had to a family now. He look to Aymun with gritted teeth and told. “Lets do this again.” (Done)

She nod and got up. Before he could, she held a hand for him to stay, which he did. Turning, she walked all the way to a wall, going to a odd edging around the room and lifting what seemed to be some stone cover to get something. Slowly, she took odd bowls out and began to place them by the mat. When the last was brought to the mat, she sat down, a odd smooth stone in her hand.

Hand up, she moved it to the rim of one of the bowls and gently rubbed it on the inside in a circle. The room hummed with the new sound, and again made his skin crawl in a odd manne again. When she stopped and he let out a breath, Aymun told. “Your body seeks to take in a magic it can not have. And because of it’s reliance, it is like a babe that doesn't know how to feed. Rolling and gasping on it’s own in confusion.”

Holding up the odd stone, she went on. “The treatment Aymun wishes to give you, is the one to ween off that reliance. To attune the body to a new way, to balance and calm. Open up what you have, and not need it to be shared.” (End)

“So, do I just hold the stone in my hand or something?” asked Phobia with a questionable brow. (done)

Taking the stone to a new bowl, Phobia readied himself as a new tone filled the room… but unlike before it was… pleasing, and felt… no different. No odd feelings, crawling things or anything. Taking the stone away, Aymun told, “for every tone that ires you.” Going to another bowl-- and making his chest feel a bit tight and making him squirm before she stopped, “is another tone your body is unbalanced to.”

“To remedy this, you must be in a room, bare of anything and have a bowl that makes one uncomfortable.” Continued the opnehu. “The sound, as you listen and feel it, retunes the flesh and the sound in you. Reharmonizing what you are. It is a process that takes time, and one you will do when you have time.” (end)

“Translation please?” asked Phobia as he tried to relax his body. “All I can understand is be in a room by myself and make odd tones to ‘reharmonize’ myself.” (done)

Giving him a long look, Aymun breathed in and sighed. “When you hear a sound from a bowl that bothers you, it is a sound that you need to attune to. You play the sound in a empty room by yourself, and try to relax to it. When it no longer bothers, is pleasing yet does nothing, then you move to the next bowl that bothers your body with it’s tune. As time goes on, you will feel more yourself, and feel balance once again.” (end)

“Okay now I understood that.” told Phobia. He soon however amend. “Although the whole bowl thing sounds like I need to find a random bowl to find it bothers me.” (done)

“No random bowl.” Told the Opnehu surprisingly terse. “No simple bowl will grant your needs.” Then tapped one of the bowls with her finger. “These bowls, and this rod, are made of crystal. Gemstone that resonates the right song and energy, for the body to attune to. No simple glass, clay or wood that have nothing to give. Only those made of crystal and made of the right shape, will aid you.” (end)

Slightly nodded, he look to the bowl and to the rod as he glance up to her as despite him being hesitant on this? He also knew that he was doing this for Scrappy sake. “Can I start now?” (done)

She gave a nod and said, “once we know what bothers the body, we may begin.” Though as she went to start another, Aymun told, “you will need much time to remedy this. IT will not be a few day treatment, it will be months.” Making him grip his hand. “You do not have to stay. This can be done on your own power in your own housing. But, to do it, you will need bowls like these.” (end)

Making a face, he said. “How am I suppose to find crystals like these?” (done)

Humming, Aymun told, “This one doesn't know.” Looking up to tell, “but, the dream may have what you need.” Making him want to pull a face to that. “Aymun saw you, and saw you leave. Leave for a place far, far north of here. A mountain, dead to all and of a home now gone. A place filled with treasure only the beholder would care for.” Then sighed out. “That is as far as the dream goes. And all this one knows.” (end)

Letting out a low breath, he said. “I might as well do this for now till Ash and Najat are done.” scrunching his face a bit as he thought on how to aquire the specific gemstones to be crafted into both bowls and rod. He knew it was going to be hard to find them, much less craft them into the right shapes. (done)

Feeling his hand being tugged, Phobia glanced down to ee Aymun hand him the rod, and soon moved the bowl to him. At his inquisitive look, she smiled up and gently held his living hand to tell, “This one will teach how to properly use these. One must be gentle, to get the tune.” And with careful guidance, began to help him know the pressure needed, and how to cause the sound.

(End)

AFter who...knows how long Phobia was in that room, using his real hand to move the rod against the stone. Granted the migrains were still hurting, but the edge was taken a bit off, even if it wasn’t much. Aymun did told him that it would take months for him to feel its full effects, as this was help to remedy him, not instant healing. All it was doing was correcting his body...Even if he didn’t knew why or how.

He walk out of the room as he glance to Scrappy, as he felt...well he wasn’t hurt, or betrayed. As he now felt...assurance. That his friend, his creation was concern enough to lie to the Striped to help him and get him the help he needed. He place a hand on Scrappy head, as the Striped glance around, wondering if Asha and Najat were done. He noticed they were in the main area, chatting away about something as he walk up by as he asked. “Found out what you needed?” (Done)

With a glance, Ash made a wavy hand. “Eh, give or take. Learned what I could, but also left a few things unsaid. But from what I can tell, I need to first know something before I find out.”

Najat nodded and spoke, “my own have lead me to believe that I am close to a revelation. But for it, I must go north and await a event that will change my perspective on things that are.” (End)

“Huh, funny that. Aynum told me I gotta go north to a dead village in the same direction.” he soon glance to noticed Ash perks and asked. “They said the said thing too?” (done)

Shaking her head, ASh told, “no. I just remember about hearing a village being wretched month’s back. Before I met you and the crew.” Going on, “Don’t know it’s exact location, but I do know it was north of here and at some mountain side, that’s about it.” (end)

“Well, we might as well go…” he then glance to the two as he asked. “Know any places on finding gemstones? Turns out I need something unique to ‘harmonized’ me. Using some gemstones with a bowl and a rod to help with whatever I got.” (done)

Shaking her head, Ash said, “crystal bowl’s aren't easy to make, Phob. I don’t got the skill, and Najat can’t do it. I mean, you could ask the other’s, but that’s high-skill sort of gem-cutting and crafting there.”

Najat seemed to agree full heartedly. “My family has a set themselves, and they were crafted by a very skilled and aged Herno. It is a art that only so many know, and while can be done? Must be done with care and vigalince.” Pondering on it to go on, “we may need a expert to do so, or simply buy one from one whom can craft it. But it will be most expensive in price.” (end)

Groaning, Phobia said. “I’ll figure it out when we reach to that northern village place. Maybe we can stop by a close village by chance or something.” then scratch the back of his neck with his fake arm as he went on. “Anyway, I’ll be back on the ship, got some thinking to do.” already heading off as Scrappy follow close, the mechanical wolf seeing that despite his creator stress levels were still high?

They were down by a percent. Which was better than nothing in his opinion. The golem however wonder on why they all had the same advice to head north? It was hard to say, even more when the Ophenu were like the Whitemanes, evasive and gave bare info for ‘the greater good’ or whatever they sprouted. (done)

Both herno’s gave the other a glance, before Ash shrugged and began to follow. “Yo, wait up!” Figuring now was as good as any time to keep moving.

The trip was rather slow. When Ash meant north, did she ever mean north. Phobia spent most of this time going over ideas and relaxing a bit as the others suggested. That and relook at some old ideas. One of which was an amazing teleportation machine that took runes he found in one black-mane’s office-- but… well, it needed a lot of power to use, and really, Phobia had nothing that could power the thing. So it went back into the vault with the rest of his ‘to do’ ideas. (End)

Hrm, I might need to figure out if it could work, it would need a huge power output...maybe I can see what ‘treasure’ I find in this village. Thinking it over as Scrappy was resting by his feet, heraing his golems giving out commands or reciving reports as Nowa move the ship a bit. Really the Striped did wonder on his thougths, as while he had many ideas, some of the ranging from powerful golems, to a few that seem silly like a golem you could be inside and controlling it.

Granted it would take a tremendous power output and work, but it could be done with given time, and materials. But he just went thorugh his thoughts and ideas of them all as he waited till either his golems, or Nowa spotted the town. (done)

Uncrumpling one piece of paper, Phobia made a face at the himara golem he drew up some time back, and still doubted if he could get the thing to work right. Sure, he liked the idea, but he really didn’t have the needed data of how to make it work. Maybe ask Jiru for suggestions? The Opnehu did help with his Golem-stupidity problem, and ever since, they’ve been 15% more efficient and 70% less stupid! (End)

I can probably ask him once we land, maybe see if it could be done. Not to mention I would need to make sure that the core won’t be ful of mistakes or stupid like what my Golems had been like. Looking over the deisgns, he consider on even asking Jiru on other suggestions, since he was working with a fellow golem crafter-- or at least someone who understood his talent with golems.

“Status report.” spoke Scrappy as Clanky answer.

“Not much sighted, Scrappy. Just clouds and cold weather. Might need to get the Dreaded One all bundele up in warm cloths.”

“I’ll see what I can do.” said Phobia as he was more focus on the drawings and the designs of his golem than the actual conversation itself. (Done)

While he returned to his work, Pobia half wondered if he could get the other golem idea of a hydra-like-dragon working too? It still looked neat, and would scare the pants off any that wore some. Those ideas halted when he heard Nowa. “Hey Cap’, you might want to see this.” Making him look up… and gap.

They had turned around some low cloud, one that nearly hid a mountainous rockface from them. But once they were around and over some mountainside? Phobia couldn't believe what he saw. Before him, in the forest below with trees broken and fallen, were ships. Ten’s of ten’s of ships. Sunk and just… laying there. He couldn’t believe his luck-- no, the accuracy of the Opnehu’s prediction! (End)

Slowly getting up, Phobia nearly cheered out. “SHIPS!” wide grin shown on his face as he could feel his tail wagging. “So much metal, so much scraps! SO! MUCH! MATERIAL!”Then his eyes bug out as he soon spotted a destroyer-- a Iron Hold Destroyer, which was made entirely of metal as he soon chanted to Nowa. “Land, land, land, land, land, LAND, LAND, LAND!” (done)

Giving a hearty laugh, Nowa said, “Wew, contain the excitement, Cap! I’m landing her as fast as she’ll go!” Shaking her head and eyed the ships while they went down. “Looks like pirates. And they didn’t have a good day I’d say.” Then her grin faltered to see one ship cut in half. “Blimy, what did damage to these things to sink ‘em? This is a fleet of ships. Fair grade too.” (End)

“DON’T CARE!” shouted Phobia in excitement. “SOOOOO MANY SHIPS, WE’LL FIND OUT WHEN WE GET THEM ALL, NOW LAAAAAND!” (done)

Rolling her eyes, Nowa said, “Alright, we’re landin’, we’re landin’!” The ship slowly easing down and landing. Though as she began to tell the golems to go through the landing sinquince-- Phobia ran from the bridge and towards the cargo bay. (End)

Scrappy however called out as he ran after him. “Phobia! Get warm cloth setting for environment!”

“FUCK THE WEATHER I SEE SCRAP HEAVEN!” shouted Phobia as Scrappy sighed and sent orders for warmer clothes-- and have some golems try to hold Phobia off before he freeze himself in the weather.

When the mechanical wolf reach down there, he saw at least 3 grunt golems holding their creator back, so close to go outside, but at the same time wanting to go out of the cargo bay to start scavenging. They were almost finish with putting on the additional clothigns as Scrappy noticed other's coming by as Kan facehoof and said.

“Damn it Phobia? Are you doing this now?”

“Don’t care, so much scraps!” told back the Striped. (done)

Setting her face, Mari walked around and got before him and told. “No.” A very defensive, no. “Is most cold. Have felt fur, too-too short. Will freeze then be most sick.” Arms crossed and glaring. “Scraps no good, if sick for weeks, yes?” (End)

Looking at her, then outside, then back to her as Phobia gave a grumble and a long, “fiiiiiiiiiiine.” as he stop struggling, and allowed his grunt golems to finally put on the rest of the winter gear on him as he told in a for-sure tone. “But you’re coming with me on scrap gathering, Mari!” (Done)

She tilt her head and told, “am user of Fuinjutsu. No know what scraps be good.” (end)

“Well part of the fun is just enjoying time together, thats all.” told Phobia with a wide grin, as when he was done getting set up, Scrappy came up and reminded.

“Do not forget on grabbing scrapping gear.”

“Oh right!” told Phobia as he turn to grab that.

Although while he did, Nibbles appeared with a amuse look on her face, as Zaki merely rolled her eyes. “Stripes.they get so excited when they see a huge horde of scraps in a nice pile.” the Spirit look to Mari as she added with amusement. “You should get used to this often, Stripes tend to go crazy in grabbing all the scraps they can scavenge.” looking to where the village as as she frown. “But...I’m a bit concern on the town. It’s been hit badly and by a large fleet of pirates...not many would risk hitting a small town, or get hit by the amount of damages I saw earlier.” (done)

Frowning, Mari agreed. “Town too-too small. But many ship broke.” Seeming to survey the snowy place to go on. “Signs of battle, but only town seem hit by cannons. Ships… torn. Ripped. Shred.” Purring in thought before saying, “Herno village.” (end)

Kan thought over it, as she said. “But why a small village? What could be so important for a fleet of pirates-- even a destoryer would come and get?”

“Probably from whatever's in it.” said Nibbles in thought. “Sometimes Hernos got something big, and sometimes people are foolish or greedy enough to try to steal it.” (Done)

Nodding, MAri said, “many rare, strong, thing. May wish for bad things.” then tilted her head to observe, “marks… know these ships. Ravaging pirates. Skull Crushers. Have heard tails, will attack villages, take riches and people. Most wanted by King of Holds.” (end)

Kan thought and said. “Skull Crushers...I’ve made sure to keep Phobia away from them. Very bad for business.” thinking a bit she suggested to Mari. “Maybe it’s best if you do stay close to Phobia, mostly incase there's trap or two placed around here, I doubt the mutt would even notice in that excitement of his for all the scraps here.”

“Well that seem awefully nice of you.” tease Nibbles as Kan rolled her eyes.

“I just want to make sure that if Mari really want the dunce? Then she should make sure his ass is safe from any threats.” (done)

Mari smiled to that and said, “he say he did want me.” Which was out of context, but it did make the two women laugh at how easily the kitsune could twist words. (end)

Nibbles grin. “That he did, probably the closest you can get to him...for now.”

Scrappy tilt his head, looking from the three and then to Mari as he asked. “So you do hold interest in Phobia?”(done)

Turning her head with a curious purr once again, Mari said, “he want me, yes?” Going on to smile, “then go and help, like asked.” Making Scrappy… wonder if maybe that’s what she meant? Was there some… language barrier going on and Mari’s limited understanding made them just misunderstand? (end)

Calculating a bit, Scrappy soon told. “Would be greatly useful if I understood your native tongue. Easier to understand, and calculate.”

Nibbles laugh a s she pat the mechanical wolf head. “Sorry Scrappy, some woman got to have things for themselves.”

The golem made a huffa s he remarked to Mari. “Ever since that time months back, you have confused him greatly. He wish to approach to you, but does not yet know how. If you are interested in him, then it would be beneficial for both of you to be together.”

Kan snort as she asked. “What are you, a love guru?”

Scrappy look as he told. “I am simply stating my own observation and consider if my hypothesis is correct.”

Nibbles move by Mari and joked with a wide grin. “In short? He's really saying, ‘please, please, please just get hitch with Phobia!’” (Done)

With a look, Mari asked in complete confusion, “hitch?” (End)

Rolling her eyes, she simplify it. “He hoping you have sex with Phobia and consummate as mates.” (done)

Perking in understanding, Mari said, “if that what want, he ask. Might consider, yes?” Making Scrappy wonder if she meant that in a serious way-- or… meant that like last time where she ‘entertained’ his once drunken ‘Father’. (End)

Tilting his head, Scrappy asked. “Are you being serious in this, or is it going to be like last time with Phobia drunk?”

“Do my ears deceive me? A bit of sass?” teased Nibbles.

Kan roll her eyes and said. “Who knows.” then told to Srappy. “You shouldn’t interfere in their business, then again you always go into Phobia business since you’re such a nosy one, mutt.”

Looking to Kan, Scrappy told. “I am ‘nosy’ because I was made to be intellectually and logical, to ensure that Phobia will not get into any problems too large.”

“Aka, he’s worry for daddy.” teased Nibbles to the two. (done)

While they laughed or giggled to that, Phobia waked up and looked on in confusion. Mari perked and said, “we move now, sun up. When low, get much cold.” Going on to tell, “In holds, cold in north get much much cold. Coat may need more.” Something Nibbles had to agree on. (end)

Nibbles agreed as she told. “Up north does suffer cold spills, and since winters around? More cold would come.” then roll her eyes. “Be glad we’re here before winter, otherwise we wouldn’t be able to move with nearly 8 foot snow, or leave with artic storms around.” then wave a hand as magic surrounded Phobia. He jump in surprise as she told in amusement. “I just used a basic protection and warmth spell on you. Should last for a day till you get better cloths,” then tease. “Have fun on your date, Phobia.”

The striped splutter as he told. “Its not a date!” unaware as when he turned, he took in Mari hand to ‘lead’ her, as Nibbles kept her laughter to herself as they were heading out with scrappy close by. (done)

Just as they were going down the ramp, both half-demon and spirit heard Mari ask, “Metal-Arm? What is ‘date’?” (end)

Spluttering, Phobia thought a bit as he said. “Its uh, something like...a...a courtship! Yeah something like that! Where I, uhm well,” trying to think as the wto tried to hold back their laughter at this. “Would be in a relationship with you like ah……” thinking as they were coming out into the snow. “Uhhhh, OH MARKS!” shouted Phobia as he nearly jump close to Mari side as he said. “Thats cold!”(done)

Giggling and taking hold of his arm, not caring that it pressed to her chest to make it squish nd bend, Mari told, “is snow. Most cold.” Seeming to not at all care that she stood on it, while Phobia danced about. “See, like said. Is most cold here.” (end)

“I never thought it would be that cold!” brred out Phobia, seeming to keep close to Mari as he didn’t fully notice his organic arm pressing close to her chest. “How do you people stand this sort of cold?” seeming to try to move, then nearly jump of the cold touch on his paws. (done)

“Log fur.” Mari explained. “Grow with it. Am used to many winter. Clan lives more south, cold not as bad. Winter still cold.” Looking onwards to keep saying as they walked on. “Snow would fall in much pile. Only get inches of it. But, most fun to play in, when young. Make snow-prints and snow-people.” (end)

“I’ll take your word for it.” told Phobia as he was slowly settling with the cold, but not pressing fully with his paws as he let out a low shiver, seeming to keep Mari as close as he could for any warmth. He didn’t care what that Spirit said! It was still cold enough for him! (done)

Giggling, Mari said, “is why you go in when night. Be colder.” Then looked to the ships to hum, “metal be cold. Need gloves, and careful of wet hands. Be most bad.” Confusing Phobia to that bit of information. But she explained anyways. “Metal most cold, if moist hands touch, may freeze to metal. Had friend take dare, tongue to metal with winter. Tongue stuck to metal, no get off. Had to warm metal, melt ice sticking tongue to metal. Most unpleasant for them.” (end)

Shivering at the image of that, Phobia look to his prosthetic arm as he said. “Glad I got this.” He glance to her looking at it in concern as he asked. “You think it won’t last in the cold, Mari?” (Done)

Shaking her head, Mari told, “Metal-Arm is metal. Will get cold. What will cold arm, do to shoulder?” (end)

He consider that for a brief moment and frown. “Damn it….” giving a look of the ships as he said. “And I wanted to tear apart these ships….”

“You cn still do that...just not with what you have.” told Scrappy as he added with a glanec to Mari. “and making sure you keep close to your ‘warmth’.” Phobia raise a brow to that, then slowly realized as he look from him, then to Mari….then on how close they were as he didn’t knew if this was a good thing or a bad thing. (done)

Ears perking, Mari spoke, “Scrap most smart!” Confusing both as she let go of one arm, and clamped the other. Holding the metal arm in her grasp-- more closely than Phobia was unsure he liked or not, Mari said, “Body keep metal warm. No harm shoulder. Can look around.” (end)

“Uh, right…” said Phobia as he glance to the side, as he glance back to Mari as there was a show of a low blus has he told. “You can...uh...rest your head on my shoulder if you want. Make it easier for the, warmth to keep warm.” (done)

She hummed and leaned her head on his shoulder. Thinking on it, Mari said, “Metal is hard… but no bad.” Picking her head back up to soon ask, “which ship we search?” Which was a good question. Looking around, there were a lot of ships. It shocked him still how many there were, or what sunk them. Now that the cold snapped the excitement out of him? The damages done to these ships were… nothing he’d seen before. (End)

Placing a hand under his chin, the Striped admit. “I don’t know...theres so many ships, with multiplied damages...not cannon fire, they seem to be...bigger than most cannons.” Looking on as he admit. “They almost look like some dragon rip them open or something.”

Scrappy scan around and soon detected something as he spoke. “I sense a large power level in the nearby area.” Already began leading them as Phobia took interest as he said to Mari in a wonder tone.

“Look like Scrappy found something big.” (done)

She purred in wonder, but as they walked, Mari spoke, “damage not dragon. Is Herno.” Making him nearly stumble. (End)

“Herno? How could…” started Phobia as he glance and soon asked. “Some sort of Herno mystic power or something?” Recalling on Najat own ice abilities, or Ash own dark crystal thing...in hindsight, it could be possible this Herno place got Hernos to use something to damage the ships like this. (Done)

Shaking her head and stopping and causing him to also stop, she pointed at a gash. As he looked at what looked to be possibly a good ten or eleven foot long gash that cut right into the air-balloon inside? Mari told. “This made by Blade technique. Warrior Herno, no mage. No magic.” Which, looking at it? Made Phobia a bit… intimidated. Mostly knowing that a herno did this… with a simple sword, and zero magic. (End)

Why Do Hernos got to be so damned scary? thought Phobia as he glance over on the ships, imagining a Herno cutting the ship with just a blade.

“Over here.” Spoke Scrappy gaining both attention to a ship he was close too. “I have detected the high amount of energy here.” When the two came close, it was a Frigate that seem to had multiple slashes mark on it as Phobia whistle.

“Look like whatever was in here, pissed the Herno off.” (Done)

Eyes from her tight gaze going over the slashes, Mari considered what did the damages. After a moment, she could only say, “must be first to fall. First to crash.” All following the golem through a open side and into the ship. Everything tilted and on the side. Even here it was cold, if not a touch more. And as they moved through the ship on it’s side, they came to a room, desk, drawers and many things tossed about.

Then, Mari felt it. Something dark, and something she knew was dangerous. She looked about alert, even as Scrappy moved aside papers and found some box, opening it and showing a gem with a dark glow. Mari felt her eyes open a touch more at the sight. (end)

“That is new.” Phobia told as he asked. “You sure it got the energy?”

“Affirmative, it is powerful. Full of magical charge.” The Striped thoigut and order.

“Grab it,” Recalling of the teleportor and it’s need of power. “Might as well take it for ourselves.” Scrappy obey as he carefully use his jaws to grab the dark crystal into his mouth. (Done)

“S-stop!” Mari stuttered, making both hold while she looked at the gem like it was some explosive. “Put… put back in box.” Reaching around her skin-tight clothes to get out her seals, seeming to half sort through them. “Metal-Arm, promise no touch? No touch Black Gem.” (End)

Looking to her, Phobia noticed for the first time, Mari catious...no, scared. Giving a glance to the crystal, and Scrappy carefully putting it in the box as something tell the Stripe he should have a tool to touch it.

“I’ll keep my prosthetic arm ready if I do need to touch it...or use a prong.” Assured Phobia. “But what is it?” (Done)

Seming to find the seals needed, Mari moved by the box, seeming to hesitate to touch the wood to close the lid before putting seal after seal over it. “Is… dark C-Cry… cry-s-tal.” Carefully wording it out. “Much power, but too-too evil. Too-too dark.” Then again told him, “promis no touch! May… could… will warp. Much danger if touch.” (end)

Looking at his fake hand, he asked. “What if if used my right arm?”(Done)

Shaking her head venomously to that, Mari emphasized again, “no touch!” carefully picking up the box like it was a explosive. “Use dead things. Use tools. No part of self must touch. No trust it with self.” (end)

“Alright, Alright, I’ll keep using tools…” he did however ask. “Did you want Scrappy to carry it for you?” Seeing her nod, as Scrappy move and took the offer box in his mouth as the Striped told. “We should probably look around here. See what we can learn.” Looking at files and papers as he motioned to Scrappy.

“Take it in my safe, should be away and untouched for now.” As Scrappy nodded and left, Phobia let out a low ‘brr’ as he rub his arms. “Damn, still cold even in here.” (Done)

Mari let out a sigh and looked about the office before moving by his side. With a worried look, and eyes relaxing once more, Mari told, “Metal-Arm?” Getting him to look at him. “Treat with care, of gem. Most dangerous. Even Kitsune know, no mess with.” (end)

He consider that as carefully as he could. If a race, as far as he was aware of, that use anything to their advantage, were hesitant on this thing? It only show how bad it was. Looking to her, he nod and Told. “I’ll keep in mind of using tools.”

He however sneezed, as Mari nod in uncertainty but seem to accept that. Phobia held his arms together as he said. “I’m almost tempted of going back to the ship, I can’t work in this environment. It’ll take time to get better winter gear.” Giving a low huff as he held his arms close around him. “I hate having short fur at times like theses.” (Done)

With a glance to him, Mari walked up and took his steel prosthetic once more and advised, “go to ship, if coat no work. Will get sick, we no want.” Coaxing him to start walking forwards and head for the ship in turn. “Golems feel not. They do work.” (End)

Frowning a bit, Phobia really, really, really want to scavenge and search for anything good, but with a quick shiver from a sudden air of coldness came into the room? Phobia nearly held Mari close as he could physically could as he gave in to her coaxing. “Maybe your right, Stripes do not work well in these weathers.” (Done)

Shaking her head, Mari began to lead him out before giving a shiver herself. With a light giggle, Mari spoke, “must ask Naja’ of kimono. Am chilly too.” (end)

“Maybe we both can get heavy duty winter gear.” Moving with Mari as close as he could as he told. “I might consider on making hot cocoa— just to warm myself up when we get inside.” Told the Striped as he wince as his paws began feeling the ice cold and bountiful snow. Giving a slight glance he added. “Maybe you can join with me.” (Done)

Shaking her head, Mari said in slight amusement, “can.” Though asked in thought, “what hot coco?” (End)

“Oh it’s warm drink I found out back, apparently it’s something that’s liquid chocolate, apparently it’s suppose to be good to drink in the cold.” (Done)

Humming to this and working it over, Mari said, “will try.” (end)

Phobia lowly grin as he soon felt a low blast of cold wind, he stop and shivered as he huddle close to Mari as he muttered to himself. “I’m almost tempted to just carry her to avoid this coldness.” Really the Striped was really considering on just carrying Mari just to avoid any more cold wind or the snow as long as he could try.(Done)

Giggling to this, Mari spoke in a amused manner, “wish to hold pretty me?” Smiling all the more at him slightly pausing in mind to it. “Is to get feel of body, prrr?” (End)

Phobia started. “Well, I uhm, ah, you see I was more thinking of, er, the cold!” proclaimed Phobia as he tried to use this excuse. “Yes the cold! I just don’t like the cold and I figure it’ll be more faster, and easier if I just ah, carry you to the ship, so we won’t need to endure the cold! Yes that's it! Completely normal!” (Done)

In a innocent enough manner, Mari pressed, “and hold tight warm, pretty me?” Head tilted to the side. (End)

Sputtering, Phobia thought of something that could seem normal, even if Mari was pressing close to him and tilting her head in that innocent manner as he tried to think of something, but all he could managed was a weak. “Maybe?” Although internally Phobia thought. Damn it Phobia! Why? Now you might have less a chance with her! She’ll probably see you as creepy more! (Done)

Tails flicking, Mari held back her laughter and only said in a half purr, “Metal-Arm want, Metal-Arm ask. Might say yes if do?” Making him freeze. She giggled at that and told while leaning on him, “bother you to want pretty me?” And while he tried to process this, Mari asked a in a whisper to his ear, “am here to ask, yes?” (end)

Okay so she knows I want her, and I want to ask-- wait does she mean as more than carry her? Ugh I don’t know! Kitsunes are so confusing! What the Markings am I suppose to say? Hey MAri I really like you and I don’t know how to be a normal Striped! with a quick glance he could see she was just waiting for his response as she lean on him as he thought.

She’s waiting Phobia, just ask her! The worst she’ll say is no and give us a idea she doesn’t want us, whats the worse that can happen? Well beside her kicking my balls and leaving me to the cold-- but thats beside the point! With a quick and deep breath, Phobia asked in a slight rushed manner. “Mari can I carry you and take you to the ship where we might spend a lot more time together than we both realized?” he freeze and almost wanted to face palm. Oh by the Stars why!? You didn’t even made anything for her as a courtship gift, wait a minute why am-- oh by the Markings this is so all confusing!? (Done)

Slightly peeking a eye open more to look at his face of confused confliction, Mari smiled, “bold to ask.” Making him nervous, though she only giggled out, “but want to carry, yes?” Then snuggled up to his side. “But is so comfy here~ Mari lean on Metal-Arm? We go for ‘coco’ and Mari lean on him then too, also?” (End)

“Uh….yes?” weakly responded Phobia as there was a sign of a burning blush on his face. He then soon said in a bit more confident manner. “ I mean, yes! Yes, totally, exactly what you just said right now, Mari!”(done)

Smirking, Mari reached a arm around to pat his cheek and giggle, “are cute. Metal-Arm be silly and cute.” And rested her head back on his shoulder, figuring that should give him enough to think over. (End)

Phobia slowly started to move with Mari as he thought. Oh by the Stars...just...Mari...you are so confusing and so bewitching at the same time. Ugh, I think I need to ask someone more on Kitsunes because...I really, really don’t think I could just...ugh I don’t even know anymore. She just...she just makes me question about everything now and then. Part of him was trying to figure out why Mari would be interested in him, while another part just wanted to say ‘screw it and ask her’, but it would always bring a conflict in his mind as for all he knew, it could be too soon.

Sure they met a few months and he slowly know about her but...He still didn’t know if she was actually interested in him or just teasing him. It also didn’t help that he didn’t knew what to craft for her as a courtship gift...but would there be any need for one of a different species? Phobia didn’t really know the answer to that. All he did know was that he should enjoy this soft, sexy, and cute vixen by his side and around his fake arm.

Because he doubt she’ll keep close once they’re in the ship.