Arabian Swindler

In the Arabian desert, within the rising of the sun, was the stone city of Ramada. As the sun went up to the east, did the day began. As markets and vendors were opening up shop, as people began to wake up-- and as a being was currently coming out of a bar with a large bag of money in a hand. As the scrap-armor that wore a robe over himself couldn’t help but chuckled to himself, as the poker game he did a few hours earlier was quite enjoyable.

Even more as an armored gnoll was walking behind him, keeping an eye on all fronts as he held his Halberd close as slightly hunched male look back to the gnoll. As while inwardly the male knew Debt was always cautious, there was a slight amuse tone coming out of him. “Debt, must you always keep that tight grip on you?” noting the gripping hold of the larger male weapon, as Debt glance down to the smaller male, snorting as he said in a low tone.

“When it comes to your protection, yes.” looking back up under his steel helmet as his golden eyes note the waking and setting up vendors as he went on. “If you prefer to stay and buy, now is a good time, Sir.” Dejen, the smaller male, glance to his large prize as while he would prefer to go home, sleep and enjoy time on catching some z’s-- he did consider he could stay around, buy a few things.

He was sure that maybe Herbal might appreciate some plants-- or something fancy for either Windy or Mercy. He motioned for Debt follow with one of his large hands, as once he began walking, the gnoll followed close as he kept a constant eye all around him and his employer. A few glanced to the two, as while some went back gathering their stocks up-- a few gave expectant looks as they try to bring the first customer close.

“Come and see fine craftsmanship!” “Enjoy having ladies around you? Well I’m sure I can give you something!” “Fresh fruits and vegetables here!” Debt ignored all the talks, while Dejen couldn’t help but snort. Mostly because out of the corner of his eye under his mask-- they were all eyeing his large bag of shekels that was placed around his waist. Still he kept a good eye around, giving brief pauses of a few vendors as to look over their supplies.

He even stopped now and then to look over some clothing to view over, sometimes haggle hard as he could to lower the prices. Still as Dejen was shopping a bit, moving around some to see what other things vendors had, as more and more was getting ready to sell-- he paused. Seeing something in the distance as there were five heavy armored and armed to the teeth group. A group he couldn’t help but give a frown under his helmet, as Debt eyed the five, standing close to the smaller male as he let his halberd end hit the ground.

As both noticed a mix of pony, minotaur and griffon as Dejen mind was trying to recall when Changeling Hunters came to the city? Granted a few pass by-- but some tend to stay due to rumors he couldn’t squashed… but unlike other groups who were investigating...this look more like a group who was ready for a fight if need be.

The two gravitated to the side, keeping between a few stands and seeming to ‘relax’ in the shade, and observed the armored group. At first they looked about with sharp gazes and eyes, but eventually moved out. They didn’t fan out far from the others, but each went to a stand, asking a question or two before leaving-- though some did stay long enough to look at the wares or even by something. A mare of the group seemed rather quick to snatch up a nice pair of earrings on sale.

They watched, the five slowly moving their way down, pausing to ask something of either shop owner or even pedestrian, but in the end, nothing as vocal as some Hunters. The five almost seemed reserved in comparison. It was about at that time one of them, a minotaur, began to make his way towards them. If it were not for Debt and his impressive height, the 8 foot tall minotaur would somewhat towered over them.

Yet when he came close, he spoke in a pleasant tone, and spoke, “Excuse me, but could I have a moment of your time?” Tone sounding disarming, and a far cry from aggressive.

Keeping his tone neutral and having his ‘poker face’ on, Dejen spoke. “Depends, what is it you wish to ask?” giving a subtle glance to the gnoll as Debt gave a gaze to the minotaur as he was looking over the armor, the weapons-- and making sure the Minotaur wasn’t close to his employer.

“A small inquiry.” Told the minotaur. “My group and I have recently came here in search of a highly dangerous Changeling Hive.” Watching both carefully, but continuing on, “We tracked them down here, but we lost them in the arabian sands. We’re looking for any information of any suspicious activities you might have noticed in the last few days.”

Changeling Hive? Do they mean Mercy Hive? thought Dejen as he tried to recall any sort of information of anything leaking out about her hive, yet nothing came to mind as he prodded a bit. “A Changeling Hive? That is rather surprising, do you know how many are within this Hive you are seeking?” keeping his voice calm and having his ‘game face’ on as to not give a hint of any suspicions as he added.

“It is rare to see Changeling Hunters so armed. Most of the time we tend to see groups who aren’t armed to the teeth, even more with them only a few at a time.”

Shaking his head, the Minotaur told, “This hive is completely unusual. First patrol that spotted it found it in some catacomb system.” Tapping his armor to explain, “We lost a good 30 strong Hunters trying to get in, and we’re sure that we only got a small portion of the Hive in turn. We’re thinking that it’s in the 70’s in numbers, but we simply don’t know. The place was abandoned after we found it, so we can only guess how many there actually were.”

Still, he told, “Still highly dangerous though. We have reports of them killing local wildlife or causing large damages to the local flora. We’re not sure what was going on, but it was enough to cause a small panic back in Equestria. Enough so that they had a few warships get sent out to track this hive down.”

So its not Mercy Hive, maybe another Hive that’s in another portion of Saddle Arabia? thought Dejen as it was suspicious enough that there was a Hive killing local wildlife or damage to local flora. Most Hives, from what Mercy explained, try to not make a presence to themselves...So why this one was doing its best to alert everyone about them? It didn’t make any sense, especially on the ‘why’ of this Hive causing damage.

Yet he gave a shake his head as he replied. “Heard nothing of this Hive…” inwardly he decided to warn Mercy to tell all the changelings to be on the DL for now, mostly to not alert this group of a Hive already living here. He gave a glance to the minotaur as he could tell the larger male was not only being careful in his posture and words-- but was trying to figure out both Dejen looks and species. To which the smaller male use to his advantage.

“I see you are trying to figure out what I am,” then gave a small wave of his hand as he notes the small bits of surprise in the Minotaur eyes. “I am used to being asked ‘what are you’ so often in this city-- especially newcomers who spots me by chance.”

Shaking his head, the male told, “I didn't mean to stare. This is my first time going this far south on a search. I’m still getting used to the height the horses have here compared to ponies.” then pause to soon tell, “If you hear anything, please notify us. We’re going to be docked here for a few days for the investigation before moving on. Hopefully we won’t be here for more than a week.” Giving a snort and crossing his arms saying, “I don’t think the Captain’s all that happy to be down here truly. We feel like we’re wasting time looking for this hive, the Arabian sands are vast. I think he feels we lost them as soon as they gone down south this far.”

“In fairness, anything can get easily lost and easily found within the sands.” spoke Dejen, as he asked. “And I presume the Captain you speak of, is the griffin there?” giving a simple hand motioned to the dark brown griffon as he went on. “He seemed to have an air of authority and military, much like some of the guard captains who trot around in the streets.”

“Noticed that, did you?” Asked a slightly smirking minotaur. “Yeah, that’s him. Captain Galdan. He’s only down this far due to orders. Like I said, we’d rather be back north. We deal with high-priority dangerous type hives. But we think it’s a waste of time chasing after a running one. Let those scouts, patrols and diplomats handle them I say. We’re wasting funding on coming this far down.”

Orders? Probably from someone higher in command. thought the Striped, as he nodded, but as he glance to some of the other Hunters asking questions, he looks back up to the Minotaur as he prod. “I believe that even if you all have opinions of heading back, whoever gave the orders seem to have intentions of not letting this Hive run so easily, it is like you mentioned. That they seem to kill wildlife and damage flora-- whoever gave the order must believe that letting others handle this might prove costly to the Hunters.”

Humming to that, the large male nodded, “You’re probably correct. This Hive did take out 30 well armed troops and even overwhelmed them in the first strike. From what I heard? They started out as an 80 strong force.” Then went on to explain, “Were completely prepared like normal and all that. But once the fight began, the Hive did odd and off attacks and strange maneuvers in those catacombs. We think they made them too. Out of the eighty, some thirty dead, and some twenty or more injured badly. I think some were reported to have mild poisoning from one of the bites.”

Bites? Changeling don’t usually have venomous bites...unless they maybe did something to gain it? Add a bit of alchemy to harm the Hunters? And 80 Hunters with thirty dead? Odd...even more with odd attacks and movement in catacombs...something is off. thought Dejen as he gave a slight nod, giving a concerning tone. “That is very deadly, it is a shock to hear such a thing.” as well as something to talk about with Mercy when he had the time.

“I must admit, I can see why whoever order you to come after this Hive can see that they are deadly, having poison bites? One would think that they use some sort of alchemy to injure the Hunters.”

“Some of the boys in the lab think the same.” Shrugged the Minotaur. “Something about magic or alchemy, mostly because only a few that bit actually did any lingering harm. I--”

“Malvus!” Shouted the mare form before, “We’re moving on, keep up!”

There was a sigh as the minotaur told, “Looks like we’re moving out.” Then gave a firm nod, “Thank you for your time.” Then stepped away, moving along and catching up with his group that was moving further away now. Leaving two thoughtful males in his wake, going over what they had heard from the rather open minotaur.

“This is very disturbing.” Muttered Dejen to the armored gnoll, as Debt gave a grunt, looking down to the smaller male as if asking, ‘are we going to stay around?’ as Dejen glance to the Hunters, who were moving to another direction as Dejen motioned his hand to let the gnoll follow, as he put his shopping things into a bag on his back. Giving a quick walk through an alleyway, as the two males were going through left and right, up and down the alleyway steps and paths. Making sure that they weren’t followed so easily as Debt gave constant checks to make sure none follow so easily, or well as easily as they could.

Following a mental map that Dejen had in his mind for the Scars little hideaway, which was a simple two story house. But within it however? While it looks like a simple home...the two went to a secret hatch, going down a set of ladders as they closed the hatch within a set of stairway. After going down the ladder and walking through a hall, did they enter through a larger and bigger room.

As the two walked through a bridge, seeing the large banners of a claw mark in red, with its background in black, showing the designation that this place belongs to the Scars. As Dejen took off his helmet, letting his amber eyes look around, seeing the mixture of stone, wood and bits of chitin for support as he told in a strict tone to Debt while giving his bag. “Get the other's in the meeting room, we have much to discuss.”

The gnoll snorts, but took the bag in one hand as he turned to place the bag for Dejen to take out later, not being bothered by the sudden strictness. As there were a couple of changelings, undisguised and conversing with one another. Really, Debt knew that his employer had a ‘funny’ thinking that the Striped had to show no caring or relaxed nature he gave to the gnoll-- but Debt knew that it was simply one of the few ways Dejen protected himself in a sense.

While the gnoll was gathering the other's, Dejen moved through the doorway, as changelings moved around the Striped. Sensing the ‘business’ mood and body posture as the Striped walked through the short halls to enter in a rather sizable room, going through as he walked around a desk, sitting in the large baggy like pillow. He almost felt like relaxing, but kept his posture straight and neutral as one of his ears flick.

Hearing the many sounds of walking, as the first was Debt, the gnoll walked in without the bag, moved to the side as he leaned back on a supporting pillar, having his weapon close as usual, only this time he didn’t had his helmet on. Revealing his burnt scar face as Dejen attention turned to their residence ‘genius’ as the collie d-dog walked in, having a wide grin as she moved to sit down on one of the large pillows that seem to spread out across the room. Gem gave a low sigh of content, relaxing in her spot as she looked to Dejen, eyes analyzing him as if wondering why he was calling them out.

Part of her wonder if he was going to bring up a new invention or more, but she knew that this was a ‘important’ talk, as he had that look on him. The next was a lab-coat thestral, trotting in as he didn’t have much, beside the glasses on his face, and a few scars across his chest. He held a curious look, wondering what reasons did Dejen called them all?

Still he sat in a spot as he let his haunches sat down, keeping his questions to himself until they were all here and Dejen spoke to them all. The next that came, was Mercy. As the Changeling Queen trot in with grace, having a pleasant smile as she looked to Dejen, but soon held a frown, noting that his emotions were of the cold side today. She gave a low sigh, trotting to her spot in a pillow, as the scar across her throat moved a bit with her body.

And the last, was a pegasus, specifically Windy. As the mare trotting in, having a low smile to Dejen as she moved around the desk, sitting down to his side in a submissive manner on her haunches. Wings pulling close as the pink collar mare look to her Master, as if asking silently if she was allowed to come up, but was denied as he placed a hand on her head, rubbing it as she leaned into his touch. Feeling a bit happy that even if he was being strict today-- he at least gave some care to her.

Yet they all gave special attention to Dejen as he spoke. “We have a problem. Armored and armed Hunters of five came today.” gaining looks of surprise and disbelief as he went on. “They say that they’re after a Hive of 80, supposedly dangerous by killing wildlife and damaging local flora. Their leader is a griffon, Captain Galdan.” giving a steady look all around as he added. “And supposedly, this Hive is causing even Equestria panic to send warships after this Hive.”

Gem blink some in surprise, while Debt remain emotionless in his look. Windy held a slight worry look as Mercy held a frown herself. Herbal gave a wince and a hiss as their doctor spoke. “Warships? Oh that is bad. If this group is searching and are here? Odds are that this is big to Equestria.”

Mercy horn glow, as written words appeared for everyone to read. “What is more worrying is that this Hive seem to cause a ruckus, with 80 alone. Even more with these five armed and seeking any suspicious beings that could be changeling.” To which, Dejen gave a curt nod as he told.

“Which is why I want you to tell all changelings to be on the DL, until these lot move on. They’re going to be here for a few days to a week.” While Mercy held a rather worrying expression, mostly because of her changelings might be found by pure accident, Gem asked while she scratch behind her ear.

“Any reason on why this unknown Hive seem deadly beside killing wildlife and flora?” to which Dejen told.

“Apparently, the Hunters sent 80 armed and strong force for the first strike. This Hive did odd and off attacks, maneuvers in this catacomb that they were found in, and had poisonous bites that caused a few deaths. 30 were confirmed dead and 20 and more were injured.” Having a hoof under his chin, Herbal thought over as he spoke.

“Could it be some sort of poison crafted from Alchemy? I never heard of changelings having poisonous bites.” to which Mercy giving a confirming nod as she added.

“It is rather odd itself. That these changelings were somehow able to not only beat, but kill these armed Hunters.” Looking at Dejen, she asked. “What were you able to find?” To which Dejen snorted as he told in an annoyed tone.

“Not much. Even more the Hunters don’t know how this Hive was able to have poisonous bites. All I do know? Is that they’re far from home, don’t know where this Hive is, and are going to stay for a while.” Windy scrunch her face, as while she enjoys her Master hand scratching and rubbing the mare head, she looked up at him as she asked.

“Master, do you think Lord Harsho might think the Hive they are looking for is the one here?” While Mercy paused to consider that, Gem discounted it with a snort and cross arms.

“Hardly. That horse knows that Scars don’t try to make ourselves known, even more as we sticked around here and try not to spread out of Arabia. Odds are he knows this is another Hive.” then added to Dejen. “But boss? He might suggest them to contact you, you are quite usable to gather information around Arabia.” A low snort of annoyance, Dejen had to admit to that.

“That is true, and I am rather suspicious of this Hive myself. Even more as this is the first I heard of it, meaning that they definitely came from either Equestria or even across Iron Holds, as they did had a mixed bunch of ponies, griffins and minotaurs.” Herbal gave a low shudder with his wings flexing some, although didn’t give out a reason, they all knew that if ponies and Equestria were add together, he would try to keep within the den and not come out, well unless he had no choice.

Like medical work. Still, the thestral doctor spoke. “I rather hope that we won’t encounter them again.”

“Odds are, we might.” Dejen told as he scratch Windy behind the ear, as she coo out while he went on. “With Harsho mentioning of me, with you and Gem working outside the den? We might encounter them one way or another-- the only thing I want to make sure they won’t know, is that there's a Hive here.” To which the Queen gave a firm nod and expression.

“I will make sure my children are not seen and working.” Her eyes scrunch as she added. “Hopefully wherever this Hive is? We do not have to meet them. It is already hard enough to keep a low profile on our Hive, them coming here and with hopes to integrate? It might cause more Hunters to come.”

“Which is something I don’t want.” agreed Dejen as he motioned them all in a strict tone. “Now get and see what you can do.” While Herbal rolled his eyes, he did obey as he got up, heading out to presumably his other job, while Gem jump on her feet, walking off as she tapped her chin, thinking of what to work on in her time off.

Mercy gracefully stood up, giving a courteous nod to Dejen, even a smile as she knew while he added the strictness now, there was that tender spot he had. As she trots off to warn her Hive, Dejen gave a glance to Debt as he motioned the gnoll to leave. With a snort, the gnoll gave a nod, walking off with his spear to get some rest, as he had to watch the Striped all night with that poker game.

Dejen gave a glance to Windy, as the pegasus mare stay in her spot, at least until he stopped as he got up. Motioning a hand to follow, the mare got on her hooves to follow him, as with him leading out, Windy trot a bit faster, coming close to her Master side. Giving a gentle nuzzle under his neck, as while he gave this presence of strict and harshness, she knew that he was a bit exhausted. Mostly from staying up the entire night with a poker match.

While it wasn’t her place to say, she wished that he hadn't stayed up so much now and then. But another part of her reminded that there was a boon to this. Mostly when they walked up the stone and chitin stair steps, heading into a wooden door as once the Striped open, revealed a medium size room. As on one side held chalkboards, lots of boxes full of junk and metal, a few sketches of ideas-- and a few projects Dejen was working on.

On the other side was a King side bed, with arabian theme of many plush pillows with a rather large bed like a pillow on the bottom. She looked to Dejen as he was taking off his armor, moving by him as she assisted with a smile, helping the Striped to take off the pieces. Setting them aside in a neat pile as once he was in the nude, she was picked up in his large arms with a squeak of slight surprise.

Dejen carried her bridal style to the bed, as once he got onto the large pillow, he turned around, jumping backwards as to let himself feel the softness of the bed. He turned on his side, letting go of Windy as the mare move to grab a free blanket, pulling it with her mouth to pull over her master body. Seeing over the dirty brown coat male, she let the blanket stop at his shoulder length.

Dejen in turn, move his arms out, having a yawn as he wrapped them around her, pulling her close as she allowed him to take her closer to him. Letting herself get snuggle in as her head rested under his, her snout nuzzling into his neck as she breath in his scent. Her forelegs wrapping around his body the best she could as her wings stretch out, moving to cover him as she felt his arms wrapping around her upper and lower back as to keep her close. Feeling each other warmth as Windy gave content sigh.

Dejen in turn keep her closer, as his eyes droop some, allowing himself some peace and quiet as while he knew this was probably going to be a short nap-- he knew that at least he’ll get to sleep with his pet.

“My Lord?” a servant spoke, as Lord Harsho, proud Sultan of the Ramada, was enjoying his breakfast as the servant went on speaking. “There are Changeling Hunters requesting to speak to you.” worry etched in the Sultan mind, as he wonders if they were here about the rumors again...or were trying to find the Hive here? He gave a nod, finishing his breakfast as he told.

“Tell them to meet me in my throne, I will be there shortly.” the horse servant bow, as the stallion pull himself up from the pillow, trotting towards his throne room. While it wasn’t as glamorous as other Sultans with it being made out of gold and jewelry, it was rather practical. As it was made out of sturdy steel, able to hold his weight and weight of another horse. It also had some etched in work, he admittedly found it appealing once he saw the throne. Feeling a bit happy that even after a few years, it still looks as great as when he first saw it.

He wonders if he should give another gift to Dejen? Just to make that male feel happy. However he turned his attention to the five Hunters, as there was a reason for him to be worried, as they look rather armed and ready for a fight. Still he kept his composer, walking to his throne as he let his haunches sat down as he spoke. “Greetings. I am Sultan Harsho of the city of Ramada. What reasons bring you so far from your homelands?” noting a mixture bunch instead of pony or horses this time.

The griffin in the lead step forwards just a few inches, and spoke, “We don’t mean to take your time, your Highness.” A fair edge of respect being heard in his strong voice. Something pleasant compared to the suspicious or sugary tones of some of the Changeling Hunter Scouts that were suspicious of everything or trying to butter him up. “We are out this far under orders to search out a dangerous Changeling Hive that had recently left Equestrian borders barely a week back. We are here to find if there had been any unusual happenings in the last few days.”

Another Hive then? That is good in a sense. thought Harsho as he spoke. “I see, well I will admit, there have been rumors of changelings in large groups-- but no idea of where they are going or when the came by.” he then look them over as he asked in subtlety. “In fact, to hear of this Hive now is rather surprising. Is there perhaps something you heard about beside of this Hive?” wanting to get a good feel if they also came for, quote unquote, ‘his Hive’. Granted while the Changeling Queen or her hive didn’t serve under him...they did live in his city.

Shaking his head, the griffin told, “That’s not under my job description, sire.” Keeping himself well poised. “I’m part of a detachment of a few other Warships tracking down this one hive. Those in higher rank specifically told us to search for this Hive as a top priority.” Pausing in thought to go on, “Forest deviation, eradication of local wildlife and capable of holding off a well armed division of assault hunters and escape with near to no trace. We felt the need to inform you that we will be here for at the very least, a week before pulling out.”

Sighing, the griffin told on in a terse tone, “I don’t mean to be rude, your Highness, but I would rather pull out as soon as I can if there isn’t any evidence of this dangerous hive being around or passing through this area. We’re far out of our jurisdiction as it is, and I think the higher ups are relying too much on changeling nature to head for a city. This Hive is different, and I think they might be somewhere in the large desert, and that’s too large to scout out with what ships we do have.”

“Actually I find this rather liberating.” chuckled the horse, as he rolled a hoof in a circle going on. “You’re not the first bunch of Hunters and you won’t be the last that come to me in a meeting, I mean no disrespect to you all, but most Hunters I have met are either suspicious little twats, or attempted buttering of my position, in vain hopes I will allow them to reside in my city.” Snorting some as he told.

“For once, I am glad that some of you Hunters are respectable and rather blunt. As I tend to tire of your group who try to do what they can to form a group in the city here.”

With a near glint, the Griffon spoke, “Sounds like some scouts, and they don’t sniff around unless there were changelings around.” And while Harsho kept a calm face, he felt a slight twinge of worry. Though, it seemed for nothing as the griffon shook his head, “I’ll say this now, I’m not interested in staying too long, even if there happens to be a few changelings hiding here. My priority is this larger and more violent Hive. I’m not some investigation group, just a soldier. I have my orders and I don’t plan to diverge from them unless a serious situation pops up.”

Having a furrowed brow, he began his questioning as he kept a neutral look and tone. “What sort of serious are you speaking of? Do you mean of the possibility there are changelings here? Perhaps if a hypothetical changeling accidentally pop out, or perhaps some rumors of what you Hunters see as the ‘biggest target’ might be around?” wanting to be sure of what sort of ‘line’ the griffon held, as while part of him was thankful the griffon was a soldier-- the other part held worry the griffon might diverge to get the changeling-- or worse, hunt for the Queen herself.

And he knew Dejen will have a few words if it did happen.

The mare to the griffin's left moved up and spoke, “Captan Galdan, and we of his combat group,” Motioning a hoof back to the others, “Will only diverge from our mission if the following happens.” Then cleared her voice. “The endangerment of civilian lives. Rise to the defense of allied government cities and towns under siege. Safety of civilian lives. Targeting of Changelings with obvious hostile intent. Eradication of any attacking swarms to local allies and their government.”

Turning, the Captain gave a nod and motioned the pegasus back before turning to the Sultan. “To answer, your highness, I run a very tight ship and only allow leeway if something along those lines rise up. If a changeling isn’t causing any trouble? I let the negotiators, scouts or those meant to handle investigations or talks handle them. I’m merely the blade and shield when things get too out of control.”

Giving a low chuckle, the horse said a bit relieved tone. “Oh, you have no idea how much you assure me,” giving them looks as he told. “You may be one of the few Hunters I tolerate in my presence and home. As some of your fellow hunters are, shall we say, quick to retaliate? Which also cause me quite a few property damages in the years that they came now and then.”

Nodding, Gladan said, “I don’t envy your position, and I’m admittedly worried what the other battle groups I was paired with are doing in the nearby cities to ask their sultans and civilians of this Hive. Some might just cause trouble at the mere hint of changeling activity just to gain a small speck of added reputation.” Then scoffed. “And they wonder why so many can find our organization annoying from time to time.”

He snorted some. “And they are probably wondering why I never allow you all to settle in my city. While some of you Hunters are of good intents and like yourself, I find the mere presence of you hunters in my city...troubling. Even more as like you said, they try to start trouble to gain that ‘rep’,” scoffing some as he went on. “I will only say this, mostly because of your respectable nature, and at least admitting that there are a few bad lots among the Hunters. There are some, shall we say, beings who are trying to make a new life here. They follow the rules and laws in my city, and there is...a certain truth within the rumors of what you may heard.”

However he furrowed his brows as he told. “But mark my words, if you try to seek for those in my city, I will not show favor. They have earned their place here, and I rather not lose someone who I highly trust in terms of information per se.”

Galdan got the hint, There were changelings around, and they were under the sultans payroll, if not supervision. Taking a breath, the Captain gave a firm nod and told, “I don’t plan to be here any longer than I have to be. I would rather set sail for Equestria as soon as possible.” then paused to say, “Normally I would have to report this for later investigations. But from the sounds of it, any investigative groups will only cause you further trouble.” Trying to think of anything to make this go smoothly, though had nothing much.

“Just simply report that you heard rumors, but had no proof.” told Harsho simply.

There was a nod, as Galdan spoke, “This I can do. I am searching for this other roaming Hive, it should be a fair enough excuse to not look into any rumors here.”

He nodded, but decided to give them a little aid. “If the information you seek, then I suggest you seek out someone who I highly favor, someone who is a rather credible info broker across Arabia itself. I suggest you find him in the Smelly Plot, while it’s not the best bar-- it does reside in the markets. Simply find him with a tall armored gnoll with a halberd. He usually comes around in the evening times, mostly for a game of poker.”

Giving them looks as he told. “The simple reason I am telling you this, is because the news of this dangerous Hive disturbs me, and I would rather that they do not come near my city.”

There was a nod as Galdan said, “It is highly dangerous. Some of the changelings have been reported with poisonous bites, and do not act as most normal hives do.” Feeling the need to inform the sultan of this information. “We tried to fight them with a battle group of eighty. Thirty dead, twenty injured. The hive was able to hold out against the battlegroup. I urge you to keep a good ear out just in case.”

Giving a firm nod, he said. “I will try, but in hopes that the info broker will know of more.” then added. “But as a suggestion? Try not to demand anything more than information from him, as while he is good in giving info, he is rather strict and harsh. As well as demand things upfront in terms of payment, he hates I.O.Us-- especially from the Hunters.”

Frowning, the Captain said, “That may be a problem then.” Giving a sigh and explaining, “As much as information might be needed, I’m reserving and all funding to my crew and ship. We don’t have the coin to deal much for information. It might be better if we wait for our week then move on.”

Thinking some, he suggested. “Perhaps, we can both aid each other. I am thinking of giving a gift per say to this info broker, and it would be rather suitable to use that as payment for the information you require. A simple package really, give that to him, and he will consider that as your payment for any and all the information he can give,” chuckling a bit as he added. “Beside the, beings within the city that is. Lets just say that they both work rather well together.”

While part of the Captain wondered what this package was, he instead nodded and said, “I will accept those terms.” Knowing that in the end, if he gained information, he got it next to free. If he got nothing useful? Then he didn’t lose anything in the end. A fairly win-win solution. “Hopefully he knows something and I can be out of your mane as soon as possible.”

“Agreed,” nodded the Sultan as he gave a little description. “The info broker is something of an oddity, not a horse, and neither a pony, in some ways he’s like a diamond dog-- but not at the same time. He’s actually from across the seas to be honest, Striped of all things.”

Blinking some, the Minotaur spoke, “Am I to be correct to assume that he looks much like a gnoll, yet shorter?” Gaining a few glances from both the royal and those of his group. He decided to tell, “Ran into him at the market. He seemed to be new to the information himself.”

Having a frown to that, Harsho consider it was either a front-- or things must be bad in terms of info if this is news, he consider on the whys and hows, before snorting harshly. “I honestly hope he found something even more be able to aid you some on the news, but if I had to guess?” looking to the griffon as he told. “I believe it was one of the few ways he gain information, by being a bit new to any sort of information on hand.”

Sighing, Captain Galdan said, “I’m not expecting anything large. Despite what my superiors felt, I think that we lost the Hive as soon as it roamed into the Arabian territories. Chances of it being around here are close to none, in my opinion.”

Giving a sigh, the Sultan can only nod his head. “The Arabian sands are both a blessing and a curse to any non-Arabian, it hides and reveals all it its bask of openness. Especially with it’s mirages.” he clap his hooves, as a servant brought forth a book like package as he said. “Here is the package to the info broker, I wish I could do more,” then frown. “But any more support I give, might make your fellows assume that I allow Hunters to just try to take from me, which I cannot have.”

“I’ll be sure to mark this as a sign of great generosity that shouldn’t be taken for granted in my report.” Told the Captain in all seriousness. “No offense to yourself, your highness, but I don’t want to make ill made or false reports back to my commanding officers on my return back.”

He couldn’t help but snort in amusement. “You see? This is why I give you such generosity aid. Bluntfulness, respect-- and a Hunter who knows not to push, honestly if your fellows knew how to be like you, then I might not be so harsh in denying you all to stay in my city in the first place!”

With a nod and a slight bow, they soon proceeded to wait in silence for a moment for the book to be given. As soon as that was done, the Hunters took their leave, not having anything more to be said and letting the Sultan sit in his throne, though mostly in thought to the… recently disturbing news of this Hive.

A dangerous Hive that has poison bites, ravage wildlife and flora? Kill 30 Hunters with harming others? Oh Dejen, I honestly hope you have something, especially if this Hive decided to stay in my city-- or worse, try to push your Hive out. having a frown on his face as he honestly hope that things will work out…

But he knew that nothing is simple in life, especially more with this unknown hive from Equestria borders. He really hope that Dejen will point this lot in the right direction, for the Sultan sake as well as the city.

After a week for the Hunters to be around, Dejen knew that they were leaving with their ship, as the Striped himself was sitting in a chair within the Smelly Plot bar. Going over what he could from both Mercy and his contacts, as despite trying to find this Hive-- they weren’t in any of the cities, which meant they were somewhere in the desert. Which itself was a problem, as it was harder to find a changeling in there than one would think.

although the Captain was at least pleasant. More than I can say for most Hunters. thought Dejen, as he was shuffling his cards, as he added on in thought. Sure, his group kept an eye out for things, but made no move on suspicious activities or rumors from my Hive. And soon after that whole week? Inform dear old Harsho and left with no fanfare… he however felt a slight annoy at the mentioned Sultan, mostly because the book was a Pony Sutra.

Which embarrassed him. Granted he kept a neutral face along the way, he was at least thankful the griffon didn’t know what the book was...but the ponies in the group certainly did. Especially that mare, snickering out, but was merciful enough to not say anything. And in hindsight...it was a considerate gift, help me practice with Windy. as the mention mare was snoozing on his lap, curled up like a dog as she was enjoying the lap without those cold armor parts as he glanced down with an inward smile.

But Dejen refocus from the mare as he went back to thinking as he was troubled. He had close to no information of this new Hive movement, even no information about it whatsoever before the Hunters came. He felt something was off with this Hive, as the only way he couldn’t know, was either three things. One: his contacts been jeopardize among the cities by the Hunters presences. Two: This Hive was smart, staying away from the cities for a long period of time and moving through the darkness of the night in the desert.

Or the most crazy of reasons, three: they weren’t fully changeling. And while that seems a stretch, there was a certain claim to it. For one, not many Hives could have poisonous bites, or be able to hold that much venom in their teeth or fangs for long without self inflection. Two? From what he gathered, the captain mentioned in reports of this Hive being a bit oddly shaped, no bodies could be recovered from the battle as the group had to be pulled out, but they did report that most of the drones seem smaller than normal. And on a few occasions? Had literally tunnel out of the catacombs walls that they presume this Hive made.

No changelings could easily tunnel out, even more with the tunnels being fairly extensive with plenty of cavernous rooms. Even more? No Hive had drones that small, except as foals. And he honestly doubt that this Hive drones were all foals, or around 3 feet to 3’5” range.

His hands shuffle the deck in his hand, thinking a bit more as he gave a quick glance to Windy, as she slightly shifted and nuzzle his lap some, focusing back on the deck, he thought to himself. And even if the third is near impossible… I’m here as an info broker. That itself is impossible. Meaning the third is as likely as could be. but another question came to mind. What reason did this Hive kill wildlife and damage flora? What reason were they slightly getting attention to themselves? It makes no sense.

All that was given was the slight quiet sounds of the bar and those in it. It was slightly irritating, in some ways. To have such extensive information, but have completely nothing on this hive. It was strange, in a sense. The Captain made a very good point that a Hive would head towards a city, if anything, for food. The desert had no emotions to just take or feed from. So why was this hive so hidden?

While he shuffled his deck in though, the Striped flicked his ear, glancing up just enough to spot a mare pushing her way inside and past the beaded door to the bar. She was an interesting sight, an earth mare that was fairly tall, 4’8” to be exact. She held a fairly slender body, one that most could appreciate. Though, the dark dress, tan cloth used to wrap around her head and the sunglasses were a bit strange… but being pony, it was highly likely she was a tourist or something similar. Something not uncommon. Though from what wasn’t clothed, he could see she had a fairly nice opal like coat and a fair sheen, showing it was a well tended to.

Odd, why come here in a not so decent place? thought the Striped, as he and Debt look to the earth mare going to the bar to take a drink, seeming to take a seat and enjoying it. As Dejen was taking in the sights of this mare, as well as seeing a few males was moving in to talk to her. He notes that they were met with a friendly smile, getting into a pleasant conversation...or a conversation at least, as he knew that some of the guys were looking for more than a talk...He took a careful eye on the earth mare, as he was a bit surprising that this mare was without a guide, or even friends.

Didn’t she knew that the worst way to be in a city of Arabia-- was be alone?

She stayed there for some thirty minutes, talking and chatting and even seeming to go as far as to meet some of the more rowdy comments tossed about with bold ones of her own. But after some three drinks, she pleasantly gave them all a nod and goodbye before paying for her drink and making her way out. A few of those around gave looks, some having a familiar gleam of curiosity or the idea there was an opportunity with the mare that was just in the bar's den.

He frowns to himself, as he saw those looks, as he glance to Debt, who stood at his side as he spoke lowly. “Introduce the mare to this table.” the gnoll gave a short nod, as he moved to the about to leaving mare, as the gnoll came up to her side as he spoke.

“My employer request you to come to his table, he is curious.”

The mare stopped, having nearly reached the exit and turned to look at Debt. There was little the gnoll could do to read her, with the sunglasses and the cloth around most of her head, it did well to mask most of her emotions. Though there was still a face to show, nose and mouth twisting up as she asked, “Why?” A touch of possible defiance in her smooth tone. (End)

He looked at her as he said in simplicity. “It is rather unusual for an earth mare tourist to be alone, especially in arabia. He is curious.”

A brow hiked it’s way over the shades, and the mare retorted, “It’s rather suspicious some stranger is asking his lackey to take me to them.”

“I am not a lackey. I am simply in his employment.” said the gnoll simply, refusing to show anger of being called that, as he despised being called a lackey. He was so much more than that. “It is also rather suspicious that a tourist just come in here, having a couple conversation, and doesn’t ask questions with the bartender beside a few refills of drinks.”

“Really?” She asked, “Because I’m pretty sure that is the image of a girl trying to just relax on her off time.” The amount of blandness in her voice suggesting that she found his reasoning not all that great. “If you don’t mind? I have some shopping to do. Goodbye.” Giving a smile and a nod before once more turning for the door and moving along.

Debt gave a glance to the side of his eyes, seeing Dejen motioning him to come back, as when the earth mare was gone, he turned to come back to the Striped, as when he stood by him, Debt spoke. “She is different. Not like some of the ponies, as far as I can tell. All I do know, is that she doesn’t require a guide, simply because she may be able to handle herself.”

Dejen look over the gnoll, noting the slight frown as he asked. “She use the ‘l’ word, didn’t she?” there was a grumble as Dejen assured. “You’re not a lackey,” although one of the horses jest out from overhearing the conversation between gnoll and mare.

“Yeah, you’re more like a loyal mutt!” Debt slowly turned to the horse, glaring into the stallion as he snarled, before being told by Dejen.

“Calm down, he’s drunk.” already knowing the signs of drunkenness as Dejen said lowly. “We’ll keep an eye on her, and maybe see if she can or can’t keep an eye around her….then again, there’s always a first for everything.” then stack his cards again, as he moves a hand down to scratch behind Windy ear, as she gave a content sound as he added. “Not to mention, it’s time we relax.”

The gnoll merely grumble to himself as he stayed by the Striped side for ‘fun’.

After a couple of hours, as it was becoming late at night, with a couple of tidbits info, the Striped felt it was time to leave, as he and his two compatriots were about to head out. That was until he spotted a mare trotting up by him, as she spoke lowly. “By Edison Innovations,” gaining looks of the codeword as he flick an ear for her to speak. “Something is odd, there’s been a feeling of a changeling...not part of us, but it’s hard to pinpoint around the city. Its...been in the city for a while, but we can’t find them. We know it’s one...but so far it’s hard to pick through the crowds and where it goes now and then.”

Dejen frown, as he felt like this could be a scout from the odd Hive...and if so, that worried him...Yet he kept a calm tone as he asked. “Anything else?” the changeling shook her head, as he motioned for her to leave, as Dejen told lowly to the two. “We need to go. Now.” Both nodded as they followed him out to the door.

The cool and near chilly air outside almost left the group wanting something warmer on to ward off the chill. It was something they had to push aside, their minds more fixed on getting back home as quickly and possible. The mere thought that a strange changeling had slipped in did not settle both gnoll nor striped. Concerned of what this might imply.

Turning for the nearest alleyways, they almost rushed their way through, the lone mare of the group casting her eyes back to make sure none followed them to the inconspicuous house where they planned to meet up. Even as they used the hatch inside and made their way in, there was some pleasant surprise to see that Mercy was already in the meeting room, along with the others and waiting for them.

Looking around them, the Striped spoke in a neutral tone. “I believe you called the other's here about this lone and strange changeling, Mercy?” the Queen nodded, as when the three moved to sit, with Windy sitting close to her Master, Mercy horn glowed to give the information.

“Yes. From what I gather from my Hive? It’s always been in general areas, the trade districts, bars and eating establishments, and always the lower districts.” Her brows furrowed as she told. “From what I can tell? This changeling is a scout of some form, possibly hoping to find this city without a Hive. Or maybe trying to gain an idea of how many we have to overtake us and make this city theirs. It is hard to say, this lone changeling seem to not get any of the higher areas, or any of the sewer systems. Even hadn’t attempt to look around the barracks or any defendable locations of the city.”

“Meaning that this Hive might either want to go to the general areas to feed...or perhaps to find suitable places to implement their changelings into these areas to not only feed, but to gather emotions to feed the Hive.”

Dejen thought to this, as he thought over any newcomers that came to the Smelly Plot within the few hours, most of them been horses ...and yet...yet there was that earth mare… No...but… having that neutral expression, he looks to Mercy as he asked. “Did the changelings noticed a earth mare of 4’8” height? Tan cloth around her head? Black dress covering her body with sunshades? Got an ember tail and opal body with a slight appeasing look?”

Glancing to Debt as to let him add in as the gnoll added. “And was a tourist of some sort? She mention on going to the trader market.”

Mercy carefully thought over, as she soon nod and informed. “More than once. My children saw her now and then, among the masses…” Then asked carefully. “Do you suspect her to be this changeling, Dejen?”

“While it’s rather skeptical and possibly nothing… you mention that this changeling tend to go around bars and restaurants. We saw an earth mare coming in the Smelly Plot sometime back, apparently having a few drinks, having a conversation with others before heading out.” told the Striped, as he placed a hand on Windy back, gently petting her as she nuzzle and arch her back like a cat for him.

While the other's ignored this, Mercy pretending to not noticed the affection the Striped was giving to the pegasus full of gooey emotions, the Queen spoke. “It may be we found the lone changeling…” Then frown. “But she already left the city by the main gates, and we have no ways to track her yet. And by now? She’s probably back with her Hive.”

“But there’s no wind and plenty of sand, where could she gone off hiding to?” asked Gem. “We could easily track her with her own tracks, maybe let me use my nose to find her? Maybe even let your changelings point which direction where she was going.”

“But there is also the fact she might have her Hive waiting for an ambush.” added Herbal, as he lifts up his glasses some. “For all we know, if we do try to track her, she’ll have guards, as those in her Hive could burrow their way upward, and sand is easier to dig than stone. I suggest we wait.” Gem snort, crossing her arms as she told.

“I say we get our gear, find her trail, and track her.” only for Mercy to shake her head.

“You are being a bit adventurous Gem, we may know who she is, but odds are? If we do try to track her now and late at night? We might be the hunted instead of the hunters.” Looking to Dejen as she told. “Lets wait. Wait for her to come, try to track her again, but make sure we aren’t spotted. Hopefully by then we will gain our answers.” Dejen had to agree, as he was scratching under Windy neck, that going right now in the darkness and with no clear idea of what to expect? It was like a gnoll just rushing after something like a complete idiot and get his ass screwed by ambushers.

Especially with changelings.

So he had to nod to agree. “We wait. And keep an eye on her.” while Gem snort, she conceded with the other's, as he motioned them to get some sleep. They are going to have a long day.