Arabian Swindler

The Den was in heavy damages, as the ceiling was broken through, rubble everywhere, and it look ready to be destroyed and crumble down. As nearly all the changelings were buzzing around, talking down banners, gathering supplies as everyone was talking everything out. “Keep moving everything to the ship! We need to leave as soon as possible!” as her ears flick, turning to see Shiftling coming through the busted door of the Den.

Picking up things and awaiting direction from anyone on where they’re talking it. Mercy smile as she soon told and pointed to a tunnel. “Go through that tunnel and take the things to the docking bay, there you’ll see a Warship called Innovation Scars, drop them off and return as soon as you can to keep things moving.” seeing a line beginning to form, as Shifting were using the same line to carry things down the tunnel as a secondary line, one with them crawling on the ceiling is made.

As while they don’t have anything, they were like a conveyor belt, one line takes things towards the ship, as the other comes back to get something else to carry. Mercy sigh in thankfulness as they were still trying to move things around and pack them up, as they couldn’t live here, not with the Den in an utter mess.

“Mercy.” The Queen perked at the sound of Shima, the visit a little unexpected, but the sight of the mare was… almost sad in a sense. The Scion moved up with a few of her works, two of which seemingly lugging away two crates that jingled with a glassy sound, no doubt highly concentrated liquidized love.

The Scion gave a small frown and asked, “You’re leaving, aren't you?” Glancing at the large gaping hole in the ceiling. Shima gramanced at the sight of it and agreed, “That will take a while to fix.”

Sighing some, Mercy nodded as she told. “Time, which we don’t have. Even if we had help from you? It’ll be a matter of time before someone poke their heads in and we’re revealed. So we’re leaving out.” then laugh a bit bitterly as she admitted. “Although we’re still not ready. Herbal is still doing what he can to gather his things, and Gem is still trying to pack up all her smithing stuff from here and at her shop...or, probably whatever remains from the siege weapons.”

Sighing, Shima gave a slow nod and said while her eyes drifted down, “The Colony’s going to have go into overdrive after this.” Glancing up with a small smile, “I lost some three hundred daughters to fatal wounds, cave ins and unlucky moments of rocks falling on them and very lethal spells that didn’t need pure magic.” Then laughed bitterly, “I’m going to be back to recovering those numbers, and doubling what I have.”

Although there was a sad look, Mercy couldn’t help but try to cheer her up. “But hey, at least you’ll have Poppy around to cheer you up in more ways than one." hearing a bit of clanging sound as she glance ahead, seeing Dejen quickly putting what he could into a box as he and Debt were seemingly carrying things as she said. “I’m still amazed that thing of his worked. That he...flew in the air, like he said he would.” taking a breath in.

“It must have been a shock, to see something as strange as that, flying without an air balloon.”

Thinking back to the sight of a plane fighting a medieval like siege setup, Shima nodded and said, “It was a shock, and I was not expecting it.” Then looked around and told, “Well… I came to say goodbye, and that you’re all welcome to the Colony if you have to.” Smiling as she did so. “And… please take care of Katty, I think she is going to go with you all. No, I know she will.”

Mercy was a bit surprise as she said. “Really? Huh...and they didn’t even bang yet. That’s...surprising. Unless Katty is totally addictive to his love now.” then jokes. “And I don’t mean just his emotions either.”

Smiling, Shima said, “She took a week to feed on nothing but Lust… she’s a full Breeder now.” Then sobered up, “She’s not going to be able to protect herself. She’s… well, she’s a beautiful girl now. More leaner, a little taller… very attractive.” Then smiled a bit, “I think she’s a little more cunning than she was before… but she’s not anywhere near as strong. She’s… she’s really going to need you all to help protect herself.”

She smiles as she assured the Scion with a hoof to her side. “We may not be like a Colony...but she’s one of us, Shima. We’ll do what we can to protect her-- even more so than Herbal.” however she added with a mischievous smile. “Although Herbal didn’t see her new looks yet~."

Shaking her head, Shima said, “She finished her change a few days ago before this happened. I think she’s going to wear a cloak to hide the fact before showing off to him later.” Then smiled, “And thanks, Mercy. It’s… well, a bit nerve wracking that I’m letting my Daughter leave-- I still feel like she should be here, but…” She laughed gently, “But I know I can’t. This is a rare chance for her to have someone to just love dearly. She has the rest of her life with him.”

“And I’m certain he’ll cherish those moments dearly.” said Mercy with a small smile as she patted Shima side and told. “And you're welcome. For everything from Dejen helping you-- to me letting you and Poppy be together...and for us pretty much setting your life up, Shima.” then amended with a laugh. “Well, mostly thank Dejen, it was his idea in the first place for you to be here.”

Shima wanted to keep talking, but swiveling her ears and hearing sounds that most others couldn't, she sighed and said, “I wish I could stay… but I need to go.” Then smiled, “Goodbye, Mercy. Tell the others I said bye too.” Then added, “Those crates had whatever pure love we had at the time-- I thought you’d need it so… good luck.”

Sighing and nodding her head, she said. “Thanks, it’ll be added with the other bits of pure love we stored up with what time we had. And good luck to you. May the odds be always in your favor.” seeing Shima getting up and leaving with her entourage of workers, tending her all the while as Mercy focus back to the situation at hoof. Knowing that they probably had all night to pack up before the sun rises...she honestly hope that they weren’t spotted by Equestrians.

Within a few hours, with thanks from the Shiftlings, the Scars managed to completely moved out of their Den. Bringing everything into their temporary home of the warship, as the changelings were quick to keep inside the ship, organizing everything that was brought in. As Mercy felt it was best to stay inside the ship in case something happened, as both Gem and Windy were inside as well. Mostly to help organize things as the only ones out of the ship was Dejen, Debt, and Herbal.

As the former two were out due to waiting to talk to Harsho, and the latter was waiting as he was waiting for someone. With Dejen pacing around as the Striped was speaking out loud. “Okay, so we got the stuff, we’re organizing things, and now we just need to wait for Harsho to get our ship to fly out smoothly without anyone noticing. And we need to figure out where to go,” then pointed to Debt and asked.

“Where’s the least likely city to try to gut us?” the gnoll gave a glance to the Striped, but answered.

“In terms of Arabia, sir? Not much, especially with nearly everyone hearing rumors of Harsho ‘lapdog’.” Groaning some as Dejen kept pacing around as the Striped was trying to think, although he glance to Herbal and asked.

“Shouldn’t you wait inside the ship?” Herbal glance as his wings shifted in slight anxiety as he told.

“I’ll head back once I see Katty, Shima mentioned that she’ll be arriving soon.” Dejen sigh, but kept thinking back to where to go in terms of direction, of where they can hide out and plan as they heard the sounds of hooves. The three glance to see Harsho coming up with a somber look as the stallion was with his own guards as the Sultan gave a sad smile and asked the Striped.

“Are you sure you couldn’t stay in the city somehow? I could even try to hide you all in the palace.” to which Dejen sighed and told.

“Look Harsho, as much as great that sound? You got two alicorns of another nation, a couple of Hunters-- and a city to patch up. Even if we stay, and even if you can keep us hidden? Everyone is going to notice the big giant hole of where our Den was. Even more, that we don’t exactly have a backup Den.” then took a breath and told. “In short, the best decision is for us to leave, because sooner or later, everyone is gonna want answers of the resin that’s all around in the Den.” Harsho sighed, but pushed.

“I don’t want to feel like I abandon you, my friend. Is there no other way?” to which Dejen shook his head as the Striped told.

“Sorry Harsho, but the odds for once? Are against us. The city underground can’t support the Scars, even with the Colony help digging? It’s a matter of time for the people to have a panic attack of changelings being around, even more so when Hunters stop by and searching for us, yes the Colony could keep them off our backs...but they have a bigger priority to themselves and of the city.” Harsho gave another sigh, but slowly nodded.

“Alright…” then moved to hug Striped with a foreleg as he said. “But, I will miss you Dejen, and miss the Scars. You probably what help keep the city intact for all these years. Even saved my life on numerous occasions.” then felt Dejen pat his shoulders as the inventor told with a grin under his mask.

“Well, someone had to keep you alive.” Harsho chuckled some, letting go as he said.

“True…” then sigh as he told. “I order my people to open the gates in the docks, let you all get a quick get away, you should head north some at Arabia. Head to Abbasa, there you can hide in the city for Sultan Dejeen. You remember him, right?” giving a grin to the Striped who rolled his eyes and told in slight sarcasm.

“Oh very well, so much I remember that he tried to bribe me with a harem of slaves.” Harsho chuckled as he told.

“Yes, Dejeen is always an opportunist.” then added with a serious look. “But be careful my friend. He has Hunters within his city, and lack the same common sense as those who came into my city.” then told with a somber look. “May the Sands and Stars keep watch over you, my brother.” Dejen chuckle and told.

“And have fun with having a bunch of concubines, a Colony, and having everlasting peace for Ramada!” moving back as he motioned to Debt to follow, as while the two enter the ship, and Harsho gave a smile to the leaving Striped, he turned to trot off back to the palace. As Herbal was left alone by the entrance, waiting for Katty as he admittedly felt a bit...anxious and worried if she was running late.

It took a bit longer before a galloping could be heard, and for a moment Herbal thought that somepony else sounded to be running late. But as soon as that thought was pushed away so he could pay heed to seeing Katty, did the clopping hooves get louder, and a turn of his head showed a more cloaked mare coming his way.

The face of the mare was all he needed to see to recognize the mare. Katty gave a bright smile, her eyes glinting with a slightly unfamiliar look to them. “Herbal, I’m not too late, yes?” Slowing her gallop to more of a steady trot to get close and nuzzle him under his chin.

He nearly pause some as he noticed she grew a bit bigger as he soon gave a slow nod. “Yes, you’re not late. We were...slowly about to leave.” glancing to the ship as he admitted. “Well, the others were actually ready, they were just waiting for me to get inside the ship.” slightly pulling a wing around her as they began to walk in as he remarked. “Did something changed when you went to the Colony?”

Noticing a few odd things that caught his eye, he noticed a bit longer mane and tail under the cloak, as well as smell...particularly nice to him for some reason.

Smiling, she giggled and said, “I was trying a few new things out and asking Mother about a few things, that’s all.” It was odd, something in her tone suggested something more, though she seemingly wouldn’t say. “Which room will be ours?” Came her more familiar curious tone. “I never been on airship.” Glancing up and saying, “Is big.”

Chuckling, he lead her to where they were going to stay as he told. “This is actually a warship-- and it’s admittedly not that big, as there are other bigger ships than this.” trotting through a hall and up the stairs as they stop by a door, opening it as it reveal a bed, and boxes all around as he added. “And this is where we’re staying, granted we’re connected to the medical bay, mostly for my sake in case I need to see a patient right away.” closing the door behind them as he admitted. “It’s not the best condition as you can see, most because of the boxes.”

Glancing around to that, Katty seemed to scrunch up her face before saying, “It is a bit messy.” Fidgeting in place for a moment before in a near compulsive manner, moved over to the nearest pile of boxes and shifting back to her more normal body, began to move said boxes around. “Too cluttered, needs to be moved around.”

She barely glanced back during her sudden spree of organizing, asking, “Anything from boxes you need now?” setting them to the sides and taking a moment to sniff with her antennae and help identify what’s inside. “Medicine and tools for place of healing?” Trying to name what was needed to be unpacked and put away.

He nodded as he motioned with a hoof saying. “Nearly everything here is for the medical bay, I admittedly have...not many personal possessions, so most of the boxes here could be moved to the medical bay and unpack there.” he then moved by 3 boxes by the bed as he added. “These...are the only boxes of personal things of mine, which is admittedly small.”

Giving a single glance to the bed, then looking about the room filled with more important medical supplies, Katty turned her focus to the stallion and smiled, “Then we work on unpacking important things, yes?” Opening a box and asking, “Where do we begin?” Seeming a bit excited to get to work.

Smiling some, he opens a door, revealing the larger medical bay room that was currently empty beside a few patient beds as he said. “We can start now if you want,” rubbing his eyes some as he let out a small yawn. “Oh, apologies, I had to stay up a bit longer than I’m used to. Moving and all that.” then shook off the sleepiness as he told as he grabbed a box. “But right now we need to start unpacking, making sure that in the morning, we have the medical bay full and ready for anyone in need of healing.”

There was a small frown at that, and while Katty would agree to that normally, another part didn’t like that thought. Her attenna twitched as she worked it over, then sighed and moved. She brushed past Herbal, slightly confusing him as she grabbed and moved the three boxes off the bed first.

With a simple will of want, her body reverted back to soft fur and hooves, her mare like appearance once more taking her Shiftling place. She gave a glance back and smiled at Herbal, then with a reaching hoof and a small tug, did the string come loose and her body get to show with a little shrug of the cloak. She giggled at his sudden attentiveness, very aware that he could see her much more leaner and slimmer body now.

She swung her tail around a bit before jumping up on the bed much like a cat before laying down almost lazily. Katty gave a happy smile and told while patting a hoof on the bed, “You’re tired. Come sleep near me. Boxes will not go anyplace. They do not have legs to walk away.”

He balk a bit, seeing her form as slowly, he place the box down. Slowly walking to the bed as he was trying to figure out this new look as it came to him as he asked once he was near the bed. “You’ve been around the Gatherers, taking in a specific emotion...right?” figuring this was the best explanation he had of her new look.

She smiled and let her tail flick around, the hairs and quality of her fur having more of that silky shine, and when he could lay nearby to feel, almost seem velvet like him. She reached over, nuzzling him and whispering to his ear, “You want me, yes?” It sent an odd shiver down his spine how… huskily it sounded. “You want to breed me, yes?” Again, his wings twitched at the hot breath before she sneaked her head under his chin and said in a calm tone, “Then I made body ready for both wants. Make ‘Stud’ very happy.”

A flush on his face as she could feel the slight embarrassment, the slight arouse in him, and the slowly rising want in him as he took a calming breath, shuddering as he moved his glasses off his face. He looked down to her, slowly moving his forelegs around her back as to slightly pull her close to his front. Taking a low breath as he could feel a major difference of her now and when she was a drone, as he said with a slight flush.

“You feel more...lovely,” wings flexing in mixed arouse and want to wrap around her as he sniffed in her mane, resisting the urge to smell more in her scent as a shudder went through his body. “You smell...so good, like I can’t get enough…”

There was a giggle and moving her head to get free from under his, Katty nuzzled him gently and told, “Settle, Herbal. I know you want me much. But you need to rest first. Mother said best to wait before we breed.” Then shifted and admitted, “I feel excited at the idea… but will wait, wait for you to be actually ready.” Then leaned on his side. “So sleep, love. We wake to work, yes?”

Love….that, that made his emotions swirl, as she could feel happiness, joy, content-- a burst of love overflowing as his wings settle around her as he gave a gentle kiss to her head as he agreed. “Yes, on both accounts.” giving a little yawn as he added with a blush on his face. “Although, be warned. It's...been a very long time since I’ve slept near a beautiful mare like yourself, Katty. So my body might...show arousal while I sleep.”

“Hmm~” Slightly giggled the mare by him, “Now I can’t wait for you to slumber to see~” Giggling all the while she lay on him.

Sighing, he slightly shake his head as remark. “I don’t know if I should be delighted that you’re learning, or a bit worried that you’ll use your new body advantage to woo me.” then thought and added as he glanced to the side. “Or...arouse with a bit of curiosity of seeing how your new body works.”

“Be delighted.” Answered the mare with a nod, “That makes you happy most, yes?” As if that was a simple solution to the whole ‘problem’ in his head.

Chuckling, he said. “Delight it is.” then glance down to her as he admitted. “But you do know I get a bit touchy now and then in my sleep and I don’t know how that will affect your new body senses Katty.” feeling a mix embarrass and concern that he could do something in his sleep that could cause an unforeseen reaction.

“Worry too much. We rest now.” She told while giving a nip to his ear. “Too much thinking, no help get to sleep.” Seeming to almost chid him to just sleep and not be so concerned.

“I’m a doctor, I always have to think too much.” joked Herbal as he tried to close his eyes as well trying to sleep as he nuzzle the warm body next to him as he whispered with happiness. “I’m...happy that you came with me, Katty. I wouldn’t know what to feel if...you didn’t come.”

Leaning on him, Katty told, “I do… you be lonely.” Then sighed to how he felt, both physically and emotionally, “Would not want that for you, Love. I come, you happy. I am happy. Both happy. This is good.”

“Yes...yes it is.” said Herbal as he knew he didn’t need to say the words, as his emotions could literally tell her how overjoy he was she was here, and how much love was focused on her. It made him content she was here snuggling and close to him.

As the warship was flying through the night, heading north for a bit as the driver had to switch to Debt to a changeling, the ship had to stay in high altitude and go slow in terms of speed for one specific reason. Moving things around. As it was admittedly a good thing that they were going slow, as they had to unpack, organize everything and had to move around in more than one way.

As Changelings were buzzing around, flying around the ship as they held boxes, going to different areas as Dejen was placing things around in the captain's room, as he asked to Mercy as she laid on the large pillow bed. “How has things gone in the moving?” placing some of his unfinished project of weapons on small stands, placing their pieces and parts around as Mercy gave a quick message in the Swarm mind as she replied.

“Right now the Hive has finished aiding Gem with her things for her workroom, still moving the banners and things of the Den into storage,” her face scrunch as she added. “Your prototype ‘plane’ is in the hanger room and untouched, although Hives know it is taking a bit of space with it’s supplies.” to which Dejen raise a finger as he opened another box to take another few projects out.

“But it is useful to have if we are fighting something.” Mercy rolled her eyes some, as Dejen moved to grab another box, although this one held tools as he set them up as Windy was putting what cloths her Master had in the closet as Dejen asked. “And what about supplies for the kitchen and medical bay?”

“Food, water, and love vials are setting up neatly and are packed within the kitchen.” assured the Queen as she saw her male nodding some, moving to grab open another box as he checks in, but merely put on the side with his projects as she could tell it was extra parts and things as she continued. “As for the medical bay? Surprisingly it’s almost finished with only a few changelings working. As it seem Katty is moving and filling out things a lot faster with Herbal giving direction.” then rolled her eyes in amusement as she added.

“And apparently she’s a lot more good looking, caught my children by surprise, but I suppose it’s due to her taking lust for a week.” giggling some with a hoof over her lips as she told. “Although she gain a bit of a tongue on her, more clever with her words at time. Seem quite sharper, hard to tell how ‘innocent’ she really is when she has an obviously cunning like gleam in her eyes every now and then. Even tease the poor doctor with her looks and body language. I think she’s enjoying seeing him squirm and trying to calm himself down.”

Dejen chuckle as he shakes his head with a grin. “The poor bastard.” she nodded as she tilted her head, seeing him grabbing another box as he took out blueprints as she asked.

“What are you planning to do when we finish organizing the ship? I know we’re heading up north...but I can feel you brimming with creativity, Dej.” glancing some as he held a small smile as he told.

“Well, for one? I’m thinking of overlooking the ship more, as while we do have some cannons...I want to improve the ship more, tinker with it, make the Innovation a lot more faster, stronger-- armed to the teeth.” then scratch his head as he admits. “But I need parts, need things to create and while I do got loads of things to do a few modifications...I lack necessary things to create what I want.”

“Like?” said Mercy as she motioned a hoof for letting him talk about these things he wanted to create, as he hums moving to the bed as he sat down. Both mares moving by and leaning on him, letting him pet their manes some as he said.

“For one, I was thinking of implementing a sort of barrier around the ship. Maybe improve defenses for the hull and make it stronger. Like using mithril as it’s both strong and light. I mean steel is good-- but we could do so much more.” thinking more as he told. “I also want to use more than cannons, as while cannons are good...we could do more. I just need to figure out what I could craft as artillery.” humming some as both mares listen intently at their male talking.

Windy herself, felt amazed of how smart her Master was, how creative of these new and big ideas he held. Mercy herself felt wonder on how he could think so much, think of what to create, of how nigh impossible it is, yet simple to him. “I was also thinking of making a sort of communications of sort when we’re in a city-- nothing on that yet, but I’m sure I’ll figure it out somehow.”

“Master, do you think you’ll have enough funding for such ideas?” asked Windy as while she knew last night before they left, her Master, Herbal, and Gem, along with Mercy under a false name, all took their shekels out of their banking account. As well as added funding as both Herbal and Gem sold their buildings before they left.

So in a sense, they were rich. Dejen tap his chin as he admitted.

“A few, but getting other things, like mithral for the ship is...a lot more expensive.” glancing at his armor on the side as he added. “Even for armor for ourselves and the other's is going to take a hit on the shekels we got.” Mercy nuzzle his side as she suggested.

“Then perhaps instead of focusing on what ifs, you focus on the needed now? Perhaps focus on fine tuning the ship? Make it faster? Having this ‘barrier’ you implemented? Maybe work on your plane more?” Motioning a hoof to his unfinished projects of weapons as she went on. “Even craft and finish those other weapons you still have trouble with.” rubbing a chin as he nodded.

“Yeah, crafting parts out of scrap and what metals I could grab with Gem is tricky, especially starting from scratch. Thankfully the mechanisms are somewhat easy, it’s what needed to fill them is the tricky part. Making substitute ammo is problematic…” humming a bit as Mercy horn glow, keeping up with the unpacking as she took a few things out, blueprints, some random parts and gizmos-- even some stuff she doesn’t even know what they were. Yet she did suggested.

“Then why not work on the ship? It will be a while until we make it to the northern cities, so might as well tinker what you can, yes?” humming a bit, he nodded as he was about to get up to keep unpacking, before Mercy place a hoof on his chest as she gently push him back down as she told with a wide smile. “But first~.” tone dripping in seductiveness as she place the box down that was held with her magic.

“It's time to give tribute to your mares. We did such hard work after all~.” Windy giggle, nuzzling her Striped other side as Dejen gave an amused huff and said.

“You two are insatiable.” both mares giggle as they knew they will be ‘busy’ for a while.

Abbasa City. The single most largest city besides the capital of most of Arabia itself deep in the deserts, it was known as a place where one can find whatever they wished. It did no matter what the goods in question were to the many diverse owners. Illegal weapons, slavery, rare spices, artifacts long lost, rubber ducks and exotic butters-- it didn’t truly matter. If there was a coin to be had, then one could be assured that someone, someplace in that city, had it to sell.

It was a place that while useful, was also dodged by some people. Laws in this particular city were sometimes loose, or even convoluted. Anyone smart or clever enough could exploit these laws, gaining huge advantages over any fool that was not weary. For the Scar’s, it was a place they needed to land, being one of the very few places they could find, buy and gather parts needed for their ship.

The changelings were restricted to staying on the ship, mostly due to the heavy Changeling Hunter presents in the city-- though that same presents was stretched thin with how big it was and how many winding crowds bogged their movements. It was still a risk, one Mercy didn’t feel like taking. It left most of the crew that wasn’t changeling a chance to leave and buy what was needed, or just stretch their legs after being on the ship for weeks.

Like before they had come here, it was loud, and even more busy than their old home was. Streets were often packed tight with people, many species moving about, looking for their desired things. Shop owners were not as loud, almost swamped with the many, many curious eyes looking over their diverse and sometimes exotic wares.

“A map for one, maybe a world map if needed be, we haven’t bother getting one since we were mostly in Ramada most of the time.” thinking some as he went on. “I need to find information too, figure out what is going on around Arabia since the attack.”

“And I need to get extra supplies, as well as some clothes for Katty.” added Herbal, as he knew the cloak might not cut it, and her the only clothing she had was that bandana, and while it look attractive to her-- he knew that she might need other things to cover herself if they went in public.

Windy nuzzle Dejen side as she added. “Master, don’t forget, on whatever you need to find for gems.” to which Dejen nodded, although Gem snort and told.

“Let me handle the gem finding part, Windy.” then told. “I’ll be looking for metals and gems boss.” walking away from them as she added. “I’ll be back on the ship!” Herbal decided to depart as he gave a nod.

“I’ll do the same too, see you latter Dejen.” trotting off as Dejen side as he motioned both gnoll and pegasus to follow as they had their work cut out for them. As they began walking through the busy bazaar, different species moving around as the gnoll kept glaring at any that got close to the Striped and the pegasus. Yet as they began moving through the slave auction, Windy glance up and asked.

“Master, do you think we can stop around here?” gaining his attention as she said. “As much as I love being yours, I know that you might need more than me and Mercy.” Dejen contemplates as another hand might be needed, maybe someone to help clean the ship? But he shook his head some, as he said.

“While I wouldn’t mind-- we do have other things to do. Mostly on me me gathering intel, contacts, and giving intel. I don’t how far spread the info is about Ramada, but I intended to find out.” glancing to Windy as he smile, rubbing her head some as he went on. “Right now? We need to focus on ourselves with the ship, Windy. Focus on gathering what we need, after that? Maybe.” Windy smile, as she just gave a confirming nod. Knowing that her MAster was right, now as the time to just focus on what they need to do and gather.

Then focus on selfish wants.

Granted they had to make a large distance of travel, moving around, haggling for prices, and in Dejen case? Keeping an ear out to hear what's been told, and giving a little information here or there. But most importantly? Gaining contacts.

The Innovation Scars moved in steadily speed, heading towards a city to the east as the captain of the ship rest in his seat within the bridge. Looking annoyed as he shuffled a deck of cards as Windy and Mercy nuzzled his cheeks and neck. With a glance, a changeling brought some reports in as he whispered to another changeling. “His mood is really full of irritated, what did that Sultan Dejeen say to the boss?”

With a shrug the other changeling said. “How am I supposed to know?” although they were sent with a message from their Queen as Mercy explained. He was ‘volunteer’ to aid Dejeen and if he didn’t comply, he would've sent a ‘rumor’ to the Hunters of his ship being infested with ‘pests’. bitterness in the Queen tone as she went on with a nuzzle to Dejen face. Our Striped attempted his best, but the cards were rigged since the Sultan sent the scroll to him. So we must do Dejeen bidding temporarily, or at least until we leave from either him, or possible Arabia itself to spread Scars influence my children.

No offense Queen, but could you and Windy calm him more? His mood isn’t doing us favors. then added in a questioning tone. And where's that one Shiftling that’s around the Doc? I’m sure she would like to harvest the Boss currently emotions right now. then asked. Unless, she and the Doc are currently ‘breeding’ again?

One of many siblings was swift to respond, and thankfully tell, Katty is helping the Doctor with a few things. I told her that the new ‘King’ needs someone to help… take the brute of the anger. She’s on her way to try and take most of it out of the area.

Thank the Hive, I doubt the Queen can last against the Boss emotions right now for very long. said one, then amended. No offense to you mother, but all that anger can’t be good for you, especially so close to him. Mercy however assured her Hive.

Don’t fret my children, I’ve learned to handle it over the years as the Scars second in command. then added in a tone of knowing. Beside, once Katty comes to aid my King anger, I’m sure he’ll feel another set of emotions I’ve come to enjoy being bask very soon~. A few changelings couldn’t help but eye roll at that. Being reminded of Mercy fancy with being with Dejen...although a few wonder what she fully meant by that comment.

Although Dejen himself felt the nuzzles, licks, and attention the two gave to him-- his mind was currently busy being in a moody and anger process. That son of a gun and whore, he corner me, forced me to work for him, and got me by the balls with a blade ready to cut my dick off for stepping to the side! Oh he is going to pay one way or another, mark my words!

The easy tappings and oddly familiar sensation of Katty’s person nearing, all the changelings glanced in hopes the mare could finally help with lowering the tension in the room. Almost curiously, the opal mare walked in, glancing every which-way in that ever foolish like manner before glancing at Dejen.

She tilted her head, trotting up and sitting on her hunches near him and the two other mares, already acting like some sort of sponge to the negative emotions freely floating about. “Is Dejen ok?” She questioned, tilting her head and blinking more like a child would when asking an innocent question.

Focusing at her as his hands stopped shuffling the cards as he told in irritation. “No, Dejen is not okay.” seemingly to hold an anger look as he went on. “Dejen is currently being forced to work for someone, who can easily hurt his friends and loved ones with a simple rumor. Dejen is currently being forced to work as he’s off to get someone who will be a potential tool for the Sultan who put me in this situation, and Dejen is currently feel like strangling something right now, but is holding that urge back with shuffling my cards and trying to control what patience I have of this entire shitty situation.”

“Language.” Chided the Shiftling with a raised hoof before smiling. “If choking is what you want, why not have doll and choke it? Won’t hurt doll, yes?”

“The thing is I don’t have a doll, at least not yet.” said Dejen as he thought for a quick second and amended. “However, there are training dummies, to which I can choke freely.” then stopped shuffling as he got up and began walking out as Windy got onto her hooves and followed her Master out…

And a few seconds later, a changeling spoke out. “How didn’t we think of suggesting that!?”

Turning to glance at the changeling, the camouflaged Shiftling gave a smile and told, “You no think like Shiftling. We think all simple. Make things quick.” Then stood up and gave a nod, “Is all you need of Katty, yes? Dejen be better now.”

To which Mercy nods and request to one of her changelings. “Can you please bring a small cup of love? I might need it for now.” then leaned back with a sigh to the chair as to relax more as she rubbed her stomach some.

Cocking her head, Katty ask, “You need Love?” Blinking a bit before smiling, “I share some, can do for you if needed.”

Smiling, Mercy thanked her. “That would be appreciated, thank you Katty.” then teased “going to give me some of Herbal love to me? You know how potent his love is for you.”

Giggling, Katty nodded, “Oh yes, nice, sweet and strong. Is very good.” And with little hesitance, walked right up towards the Queen, whom cocked her head slightly to the side. What was not expected was for when the shiftling moved her head up quickly, lips touching into a kiss.

The action took Mercy by complete surprise, leaving her confused as the kiss was pushed to become more intimate, a tongue flicking to gain entrance and push her lips open. Mildly, Mercy was amused by this, and while she felt no love, eventually parted her lips. That was when the kiss deepened more and something slipped between their mouths. A very sweet, very tasty liquid making its way into her mouth, running down her throat-- making her moan at it’s flavor and potency. In her mind, there was no denial of what it was.

It’s the potent love of Herbal. thought the Queen as she absorbed it, letting the emotion filled her body as she slowly pulled back, licking her lips for any remains as she looked to Katty in an amused manner as she assured her children in the room. She just gave me some love from her thestral, no need to be worried. then jokes to Katty. “So that’s how you give love among your sisters and Scion, Katty? Transferring it with a kiss as the liquid go into the other mouth and throat?”

Smiling, Katty responded, “Sometimes our sisters have no time to find food, so, those foraging for food gather it. Fill their bellies with what they need, and save some on the side in a socal stomach. Is like ‘lunch-box’, always fresh and with you.”

Giggling some, Mercy couldn’t help but tease. “Well, better make sure to warn Herbal about that, otherwise he might have the wrong idea you’re into someone beside him.” noticing the blinking and tilting head of confusion as Mercy rolled her eyes and explained simply. “Everyone here saw you passionately kissing me, unaware of you actually transferring the love with your mouth.” then rolled a hoof around in thought as she added.

“It would be...akin to seeing….” thinking a bit more and sighing as she finished. “To be honest I don’t know how to put it in a way you understand, but it made everyone confused for a moment of what you did. We never saw how you Shiftlings ‘give’ emotions like that.” then added in amusement with a grin on her expression. “Although I swore I tasted something in that transfer, have you been practicing oral with Herbal?”

Giggling, the mare admitted, “Body acts funny from time to time. Get excited for certain things. Over enthusiastic. Could not help but share feeling.” Then shook her head. “This different from my Love. He and I share different feelings. So much more toxic and tight.” Then giggled more perversely. “Me likes it~”

Giggling, Mercy joked with a hoof over her smiling lips. “You enjoy the toxic and tight feelings, hmm? I guess you are starting to have a love addiction called Herbal Health.”

“Is not addiction!” Denied the mare while upturning her nose. “Is need of life.”

To which Mercy prod in a teasing manner. “Said the Shiftling who decided to make Herbal into a sex crazed beast whenever you feel frisky~.”

Smiling back, Katty told, “Is good. We breed good, and have a good time.” Then shook her head, “But only so much. He need the rest and has work.” Then blinked in realization, “Should return. Help Love with work.” Almost giddily dancing in place at the mere aspect. “Will ask of strange meaning of ‘kiss mean more’ thing. Love will know, yes?” Saying this more to herself as she turned and began to move out.

And while Mercy giggle at this, she couldn’t help but add in to ‘help’ the Shiftling knowledge. “Also when you get the chance, ask him if you can wear a tight nurse outfit. He will utterly loves if you wear one while he’s in the mood. It’ll help keep him addicted to you.” Giggling more of what the outcomes will probably be for dear Herbal, she can easily see him getting annoyed at Mercy...and pretending to not get thrilled of seeing Katty in a tight nurse outfit to show the Shiftling curves and ‘other things’.

Pausing to think to that, Katty said, “He is a doctor… so that does make me Nurse of his!” Seemingly missing the point as she trotted along. Though there was no doubt that she took in the thought of finding a tight outfit, though probably not for the reasons mercy had in mind.

Although Mercy shrug as she thought. She’ll figure it out when he sees her in it. then glance to Debt, the gnoll being silent during all of talkings as he seemed to focus on his job of driving the airship. Yet she did remarked as she can easily sense the utter calmness the gnoll had. “I’m utterly surprise you are calm, Debt. How are you so… so… boring during all of this? That stunt Katty made didn’t even made you glance to us!”

The burned face gnoll gave a single glance behind to Mercy in the captain's seat, then look back ahead of him as he said in a monotone voice. “I am calm, because what she did was trivial. It wasn’t important for me, nor to my employer. Therefore my reaction wasn’t needed. Not to mention I wasn’t looking for the whole time. Flying the ship and all.” Mercy rolled her eyes as she remarked.

“We have got to get you laid, you’re so stiff!” Debt snorted some as he jabbed back.

“Said the changeling Queen who's been trying to get into my employer pants since he healed her throat.” Mercy snorted as she crosses her forelegs and raise her nose up, feeling the need to be petty as Debt was one of the few within Scars who just was hard to talk to, mostly because the guy keeps to himself and doesn’t talk a lot. If anything he just stands there...like a bodyguard.

Granted the irony wasn’t lost as he was just doing as he was told...To which Mercy asked as she glanced to his way. “Which reminds me...I’m surprise Dejeen didn’t try to offer a payment to Dejen to buy you.” to which the gnoll respond.

“He did. 300,000 shekels for my contract with Dejen.” it made many changelings paused in the room, looking with surprise and shock that the Sultan tried to raise that much of a price. It made Mercy mouth drop open as he added. “He paid double the amount plus bonus if I broke my contract with Dejen and killed the Striped.” the shock deepen them as the gnoll emotions were just calmness and not even bothered by it.

“And...were you tempted?” asked a worried changeling as Debt glance to the speaker, looking at them with a blank expression...and replied.

“No. simply because I knew that even if I did, I am a tool. And Dejeen would've simply threw me away once my usefulness ended with me supplying everything I knew that Dejen knew across Arabia. I prefer to be in service to Dejen. Even if I am his tool, he at least treat me better than most employers who held my contract.” looking ahead again as Mercy gather this in, as she was utterly surprised.

For all the years they all worked together...she had no idea that Debt would have that amount of loyalty, or insightness within him. Knowing that even if he was a bodyguard, he knew that Dejeen would end his life even if he was giving a large sum of money and temptations to sway the gnoll. It made her wonder if that was another reason Dejen was so irritated? Dejeen tried to buy off Debt… maybe even tried to buy Windy too?

The later idea was disturbing, as it would tell why he was in such a foul mood. Windy was no small time slave, she was beautiful to the eye. It wouldn't be too surprising for the cunning stallion to target her as a possible bargain as she was just that, a slave. Though with what Debt told and what her thoughts grew up, it told Mercy they were not in a pleasant situation in the least.

Falazer, a Arabia town that was more of a trading outpost or pitstop for many caravans than a city. But it’s activity could had made it one. After landing and investigating the area for the needed information to this Filly, One Alia of Druzarrin, did they get more than enough leads.

Eyewitnesses had seen the young foal, and had pegged her description very soundly, though the only difference was the baskets she had carried and the wrappings of cloth to use as a head covering and veil. For a filly, she seemed fairly well aware of how to keep somewhat under the radar, though it wasn’t as effective as it could've been. Her last sighting was due east, heading to some canyons where a number of caves were. Or, that’s what many of the townsfolk believed. Not many went that way, mostly due to the treacherous sands full of giant scorpions.

Luckily, they had a ship to go over all of that. But it still posed questions to the group trying to track this young filly down. Such as why was she alone and so far out in the desert? Or more importantly, how did she make it this far on her own, or was she just that resourceful.

“I’m admittedly concern she’s out alone and so far in the desert,” said Herbal as while the ship was floating overhead with Debt and a few changelings taking watch, the others were in a ‘meeting’ room as the doctor went on while sitting on his haunches. “There should be someone watching the filly, there’s no way she could be safe around giant scorpions every time she comes to town and leaves it.”

Gem rub her chin and asked. “Question is, who?” getting Dejen to suggested.

“Maybe a family member of sorts that’s trying to keep her away from Dejeen?”

“If it was a family member, they would make sure that the young Alia would be away from Dejeen hooves. Perhaps attempted to take her into a city where there are family connections?” said Mercy, as Dejen thought deeply, finger under the chin as the Striped attempt to recall every bit of information of who could possibly be alive and related to Alia. Yet his ear flick as the discussion went on.

“If it was a family member, why aren’t they escorting the foal?” questioned Herbal, as he tap his hoof to the ground. “What we must be concerned of, is of her safety and well being! We can dive into the ‘what ifs’ later when she is safe and out of the dangers of the desert!”

It was all concerning, if not confusing. So far there had been no accounts of anyone else, but the filly. The filly herself having stopped at venders and shops to get a number of supplies, her cover story being she was part of the caravan that was passing through. Nothing uncommon for the town they passed.

What made it somewhat suspicious, was how old she was. 12. Sultan Dejeen had mentioned she was gone for a year, and would have thought her dead if not for this bit of information. The legal age for young mares to even have an inch of liberal freedoms without a guardian were from 18 to 20. Seeing a 12 year old horse foal wandering around got a few older mares concerned.

This was later confirmed to be true when one of them saw the foal more or less make a break for it into the desert. She would have followed, but the mere dangers in the desert with the large scorpions roamed the most awarded her form even trying. Many thought the filly to be dead by now. Many, but those that had contacted Dejeen. They seem to think the filly was still alive, or the sultan wanted conformation of the young girl's death somehow.

Still, the place wasn’t too far off by airship. They would be there not in a half hour from their speeds. The real trouble would be searching the many caves the locals mentioned. The canyon having a maze like path and plenty of alcoves, caves and holes. Some that were not careful were known to get lost in them.

Dejen thought a bit as he suggested. “Mercy, do you think some of the changelings can help in the search? Look around and see what's in the caves?” Mercy sent the message around...but then frown as she said in tad frustration.

“It won’t be simple, Dejen. There are many places, many areas to search. And while we could attempt, we aren’t fully adapted to the ground…” pausing in her words as she began to speak again, although this time as she was looking to Herbal. “But with Katty help, we might be able to find the filly.” Herbal frown at that, but glance to Dejen speaking in.

“Me, Gem, you and Katty are enough to handle whatever comes our way, Herbal. You might be needed for medical aid, Gem is needed for her expertise in digging and knowing the earth. And Katty is used to being underground like in the Colony.” Herbal thought for a bit as he sighed and said.

“I’ll see if I can ask Katty for helping,” then scowl at Mercy as he added. “And explaining about the whole kissing thing isn't easy. Nor the whole ‘tight nurse outfit’ you suggested to her.” seeing the Queen giggle as he sighed but added. “But finding the filly emotions may be one thing, its her scent that is another. We don’t have anything of hers to seek out, so we may need to pack for a long trip all over the canyons.”

“But first, we need to look over the canyons many crevices as a precaution. Make sure we know what we’re dealing with before jumping down anywhere. Even find a nice place to land before we go.” told Dejen as the other's nodded as he motioned them out, he sighed to himself as he rubbed his face as he said to Mercy. “I’m hoping that we can at least be sure she has a relative that's hiding here, maybe take her somewhere safe like Ramada. Because if we bring her to Dejeen?” glancing to her as worry filled his entire body.

“Well, we both know how a cunning bastard he is.” Mercy nodded as she nuzzle her stud neck, giving him some comfort and assurance as she sat close to him. Knowing that even if they did find her, trying to break the ‘deal’ they had with Dejeen was deadly enough. They wouldn’t be able to hide anywhere in Arabia, and the only way they would be safe...was leaving Arabia.

And that itself was deadly enough, mostly because outside of Arabia? Scars had no influence or information of anything. But...it may be a preferable option than staying and having a slow death with Dejeen around who could make their lives a living hell.

There was no joke about it, the canyons were like a maze. Form overhead the crew could see how the many crevices made zigzagging paths that lead all over the place, even with winding turns and twists with many a dead end. The thought of anyone getting trapped in there was a nightmare, even more a filly. It was only made worse with those in the know, that there might be predators creeping inside, though as uncommon as it might seem.

The aspect was still there, and after a long while of taking notes of mapping, did they finally choose to land. Luckily, in some bizarre manner, there was a nice little decline that sunk into the many areas of the natural maze. One that happens to have a very small, but fairly well growing oasis, shielded inside the stone walls and hidden from the world.

It was a good place to land and rest, even get a little water and a few hardy vegetation like foods from the nearby spring of water and it’s few plants. While the group planned and figured out their paths, Herbal sat off to the side and watched all the happenings. In particular, Katty.

The shiftling had changed back to her bug-like-form, and was currently skittering all over the place. The two antennas frantically sniffing out every single place that they could reach. It was almost amusing, seeing her as excited as she rushed all over the place.

He tried to focus on Dejen and the others, but midway in, he felt Katty poke at his side. When he glanced to her, Katty said, “We have no horses in group, yes?” Looking around their numbers to be sure.

“Yes we have no horses…” then paused as he glanced around as he asked with raised awareness. “You’re sensing horses around us, sweety?”

Antennae perked, Katty told, “Smell.” Then pointed at the oasis. “Few days old. But horse, smell different. Almost gone. Still there.”

Feeling himself relax some, but on alert as he asked. “Are you able to tell the age difference with scents? Or how many scents there are around us?” He himself taking in what scents he could, but furrowed his brows as there were horses around them...but it was hard to smell? He figured it was mostly due to them being in desert heat temperature that the scent doesn’t stay long. He did however added in his asking. “Are you able to find where it goes, Katty?”

Glancing to the Oasis, Katty soon made a small chittering, if not sad sound and said, “Not really. Where around the ossis, easy. But further and in sun, or with sand? Harder.” Then went on, “But I know way!” And motioned a claw at one of the many paths of the natural maze. “Went that way last.”

Smiling, he nuzzle her cheek as he soon whistle to the other's as he motioned with a hoof. “Katty found a way where the scent leads!” gaining their attention as Gem and Dejen began walking with them as Gem told with a grin.

“Not bad Katty, guess having you around helps us find the filly easier.” then look over Katty more natural form as she tease. “So do you and Herbal breed in that form? Test around and see how good it feels out of your camouflage?”

Despite the welling embarrassment of her mate, Katty turned her head and tilted her head and said, “No. Love likes to breed me while I seem like pony. Says it sexy.” Smiling in such an innocent manner, it was hard to tell if she even understood what she was saying. “Also says body is plush and soft. Like to feel and mold it. Even rump when he--”

A wing moved up to cover her mouth as Herbal had a red blush on his face as he cleared his throat. “I-I think that's enough now, sweety.” seeing Gem grinning wide as Dejen chuckled under his armored self, as when Herbal remove the wing and got back on his hooves, Gem tease the stallion.

“So you like her in her pony form, simply because you like her plush and soft form? Guess you do enjoy playing with a mare body, huh?” then asked to Katty with a bigger grin. “Does he enjoy slapping your flank whenever you two breed? Or does he fondle it whenever he feels frisky?”

“Slap?” She asked curiously. “Why slap my flank? We much too busy breeding, and him filling me full of--”

“I think that's enough now.” said Herbal as his face was burning red with embarrassment as Katty had that childlike innocent with responding to Gem questions as the d-dog laughed at his position. He was clearing his throat as he said to Gem. “There's no need to divulge into personal conversations like that,” but Gem interrupted him.

“Oh come on, I’m just curious. You never give me the chance to talk to her about your sex life and it slowly gets boring talking to Mercy about her times with Dejen.” then looked to Katty as the diamond dog coax the Shiftling. “So come on, what's it like to have sex with the good doctor?”

While confused by what was going on, Katty responded, “Is more thrilling. Almost like when Mother and sisters are in deep spirals of getting more sisters from Mother.”

Gem furrowed her brows, thinking over that as she said. “So it's like a big moment of thrill and enjoyment?” then snort and decided to be more simple in her asking as it would get the best response. “What to you two do whenever he’s feeling frisky? Does he give attention to you, do you do anything to make him more lustful beside the pheromones?”

With a slow and confused blink, Katty said, “When we wish to breed, we breed. What is so hard to understand?”

Herbal clears his throat as he couldn’t help but explain to his mate. “What Gem is trying to say sweety, is that she’s curious on what we do while breeding.”

Looking to him, Katty smiled and chirped, “We breed.”

And for once, Herbal feel glad that her simple and ‘innocent’ like nature succeed in holding back what would usually embarrass him. Even more as Gem groan and shakes her head. Although the d-dog was going to give up as she asked to Katty.

“Here’s another question, how good is he in giving pleasure to you?” grinning some as she added. “And have you tried giving him some oral sex with the hands to help fondle his balls?” giggling some of Herbal embarrassed look as he glance to the side and pin ears against his head.

A slight frown came onto Katty’s face, and the shiftling told, “Why? Chitin is smooth, but hard. Not as nice as mare body. Much softer. Make cuddles easy.” Then frowned her brow all the more before saying in a slightly accusing tone, “You make Love uncomfortable.” Not sure if she wanted to answer anymore, as that embarrassment was slightly shifting to something else, and she didn’t like it. It was a slightly negative emotion that had no reason to be in his person.

Raising her hands up, Gem assured. “I’m just curious, the Doc never talks much and he doesn’t usually let me to have gossip talk with you, so I’m curious.” Dejen wisely went out of this whole discussion, mostly focusing around them as he knew that Gem dug herself into this hole and she’ll dig herself out of it.

Herbal shifted his wings as he tried to get rid of the shame in him, as this all felt a little familiar to the stallion. The talks of mares, the discussions of him being ‘adequate’ enough, or good enough in giving pleasure as he was a medical doctor.

With a huff, Katty turned her nose up and away from the curious d-dog and told, “Love is happy, and that is all I need. If Love is happy, then I become happy. Is good, and all works. So is simple, yes?” Giving an almost flat look at Gem for even asking.

Rolling her eyes some, Gem said. “You know if you were in the Colony, you would have talked alot about Herbal with your sisters and Shima. I’m just trying to strike up a conversation on our good doctor, that's all.” Herbal let out a low snort, as his wing flex as it tried to pull Katty closer to him as a form of both comfort and a slight subtle warning for Gem to shut up.

There was no hesitance, and almost like a mental command, Katty moved and next to glued herself to his side, her smooth and curvy body still molding to his own like a glove. Though they had to come to a stop in both conversations, and walk, as a three-way fork in their road was before them, branching off in different directions.

They gave glances around, Katty swiveling her ears and attention moving in the air to try and get something, though there wasn’t much to tell. It was hard to figure out which way to go. Though it was Dejen, while moving about, that he noticed something. What little piles of sand that were around, scuffs and even a few clear hoof marks could be seen leading off to the right path.

Crouching by it and carefully examining the area the best he could, he looks over the scuffs and the hoof marks as he said. “This is the size of a filly...this path seem to be the best bet.” then glance back to the three and asked to Katty. “Think you can gather the scent from this?” motioning to the hoof shape areas.

Seeming to dart out from the wing and skitter right over, Katty’s antenna went to work tapping and even disrupting the sand. She moved all about the spot, even zig-zagging about a few times before lifting her head and saying, “No, not easy. But pick up water.” Then looked down frowning, “Or, dried bits. Same as last scent, days old. Right trial, yes?”

“It's the best trail we got.” said Dejen with a shaken head as he sighed. “It’s a stretch, but it’s better than nothing, right?” getting up as he motioned them to follow him as they went to the trail of the right path. With Gem glancing around as to keep her ears and senses up. Along with Herbal who moved by Katty with his open wing for her to go under again as Dejen glance to seeing the Shiflting going back under as he was curious himself on something.

“Hey Katty, did you sense his emotions of him wanting you to go under his wing, or was it something else? For a brief moment, it almost looks like he sent you a mental thought of you coming by his side.”

Glancing, the shiftling told, “Sense. I know when my Love wants me. Is very clear. Much like when you want your ‘Queen’ near you, or the want to be near Windy.” Saying it in a manner as if she knew when even when others wanted their love interests nearby. “Very easy feel. Hard not to feel and respond.”

Giving a single nod, Dejen went back to focusing ahead as Herbal glance to Katty, noticing something off for her as he nuzzle her neck and asked in concern. “Are you alright? You seem tense sweety.” then glance around as he added. “Is it our surroundings that's making you on edge?”

Antenna flicking, Katty told while slightly slowing, “Something is here.” Making all pause. “Old scent. But something been through here. Not horse. Not filly we follow.” She soon stopped and gave a glance around, antenna flicking a bit more. “No… nothing near. But was here in past day.”

Slowly taking his crossbow into his hands, Dejen asked. “Do you know what it is at least? Anything we can understand in terms of scents?”

Taking a long time to try and figure out the scent the bet she could, Katty soon told, “No… is… different? New?” Flicking them about to try and glean something. “I do not know what I smell.”

“Meaning we’ll be on our guard.” said Dejen as Gem questioned.

“Shouldn’t we head back and get Debt, maybe a few changelings in case things get rough?” to which Dejen thought it over as while it was a good idea to go back, there was also the risk that they’ll lose any tracks of Alia with what they had. She already had days worth of being ahead of them, who knows what could happen if they went back to get the other's. Yet on the other hand….

Why was there days old tracks around here if she had a head start? It would of taken Dejeen weeks to get this information of her being around here. It didn’t make sense. Another thing that made no sense was her scent being found in an Oasis. How could she have found it in the first place? The whole canyon was a big giant maze….

His eyes widen in realization. Unless she had help from this unknown scent. but then consider something more, as to why the filly would be here? With giant scorpions traversing around, and with a literal maze one can easily get lost in with an oasis full of water and food...it just didn’t make sense. Unless, someone helped her to hide here from Dejeen. The problem was, who?

Odds are? Whoever was this other scent. thought the Striped as he considers the pros and cons as he could tell if they travel more deeper without back up-- they’ll have a big problems on their hands as they might get themselves lost inside this place, or meet whoever was keeping the filly safe.

“We’re going back.” getting the three to pay attention to him as he told. “We’re going back to the ship and get Debt along with a few others. If we keep pushing, we’ll get ourselves into a sticky situation.”

While nods were given, they all turned, Katty taking the lead and tugging her mate along, Antenna focused at the ground and apparently tracing their steps by scent. Apparently another good perk with the shiftling, she could smell their way back and they didn’t have to guess if they somehow got lost. Then again, that was what Herbal was partially for, just in case.

Herbal gave a low sigh as he glanced to Dejen and asked. “I’m supposing that you will need me again for seeking Alia again with more numbers?” While he saw the Striped thought for a bit...the head of Scars couldn’t help but joke.

“I would consider you staying on the ship, but odds are Katty would rather have you around to make her feel safe. You are her Colony after all.”

“Am also Breeder.” Told Katty, not lifting her head form its task. “Am weaker than most my sisters. Not as strong in fight anymore. Need protection. Not fighter at all, but not defenseless.”

“And who better of a protector than an aggressive thestral mate?” teased Gem as Herbal admit that despite the dog teasing, she made a point. Thestrals were known to be aggressive protectors-- especially the stallions. He was at least assured that Katty trust him enough to keep her safe for the most part. Although he couldn’t help but frown as Gem joked to Katty.

“Hey Katty, does Herbal like it when you’re the ‘defenseless’ mate for him to protect?” having an amused expression on her face as she can guess of what the good doctor enjoys in his privacy.

Focusing mostly on the trail, Katty asked, “Why would he want me defenseless? Would be bad if fully defenseless. Live longer if defend self.” Distractedly following their trail intently.

Before Gem could clarify, Herbal gave a reminding tone. “Gem, you do know who is the medical expert here, and you do know where I can hit to keep your mouth shut for Katty sake.” getting the dog to close her mouth, but look to Herbal as the stallion had to keep up with the Shiftling as best he could with her tugging him along. “I may be a doctor, but even I know that the best way to help someone, is to hit them where it would hurt a lot. Case in point, your neck to keep Katty focus on what is needed now.”

Dejen glance to Gem as he said. “In short, keep quiet until we’re back by the ship, then you can attempt to tease the doctor and make him embarrassed.”

While the dog huffed to this, she accepted it. Maybe teasing the good doctor wasn’t worth it if they somehow got lost. That would actually suck.

Reaching back, Dejen began to reorganize the efforts. Plans were reworked and going over the crude map one of the changelings's made of the local area and maze in general, Dejen tried to point out where they were and the path they took.

There were also plans of how to handle the airship moving over the gouges of the earth, seeing as there were very few areas where it could actually settle down and not get stuck in the process, like where they were. All of them were busy, the sun making a slight decline as the many changelings took this chance to get out to move around or relax.

What few were relaxing noticed something. A familiar sound touching their ears in a slight echo. Clops of hooves. It was followed by a gentle melody, a song with no apparent rhyme or reason to it, just a lone vocal bouncing off the walls. Many eyes glanced towards the place Dejen returned form, and even Mercy paused their meeting to listen to her children, and glance to the direction her Striped had returned form not hours before.

She sent a message to her children. Shapeshift or get into the ship. Little Alia is back. then added to sent a message along the ship. Inform others that Alia is coming our way. Be ready for anything. as many of her children who were outside attempted to be like Shiftlings, shapeshift into the environment as extra rocks and things along side the wall. While others were back into the ship hoping that things go well.

However, for Dejen once he received this message, only facepalm as he was in his civilian gear as he grumble. “I have a feeling she’s going to run once she spots the ship…” then sighed as he waited for the chances as he saw the filly round the corner and stopping like a frightened deer and bolt. Two clay jugs dropping off her back during her fast gallop away as Dejen was debating on sending someone after her, or waiting it out.

He was admittedly tempted to send someone after her now, but was held back mostly because her ‘friend’ could assume the worse and possibly either kill whoever he send, or eat them. He rubbed his face and thought as he said. “This is probably the stupidest thing I come up with…” then told as he was starting to head out the ship. “Get Herbal, Katty, and Debt with me. We’re going after the filly and try to explain a few things.”

It took a moment for the message to be sent, but as soon as the Stripped began to reach the rocky and thirsty ground, did the others come. Katty moved much like her Colony had, quickly moving over the ground with her claws gripping it and launching her forwards.

Herbal was not too far from her, keeping pace with his beating wings, Debt being the only one lagging. But once he was out too, he began to catch up. With a new scent, Katty was the first to take lead, her atenai flicking and taking in the scent quickly as they began to follow the exact same path as before.

More than once they had to make sharp turns or go under a few things, the Filly apparently not taking chances with sticking to the normal routes she might had taken. Dejen had to almost admit, if it wasn’t for Katty, they would have been lost after the seventh turn, the maze almost starting to turn even his internal map around slowly as they moved deeper and deeper into the large maze.

It wasn’t until they came to a stop near a somewhat open cavernous area, light filtering in through a large crack overhead where they found what looked to be a simple camp. A smaller cave was nearby, and there looked to be a few things like cloth, baskets and a jar here or there.

Slowly, they moved in, Katty being the most cautious of them as her attani flicked about almost worriedly. She spoke, gently for only their ears. “She is here. Scared. Frightened…” Then paused in her advance, glancing around. “Something else is here. Watching. Defensive.” Though her gaze was mostly focused on the smaller cave near the camp. “She that way.”

Taking a breath, Dejen knew it was a slightly good idea for himself to come along, as he didn’t approach the small cave. Mostly to keep the filly assure and whatever was protecting her not threatened by him as he said. “Alia, we’re not here to cause any harm. We’re just here to find you and get you somewhere safe.” then sighed and added. “Or at the very least, explain why we’re here in the first place. So maybe you can, come on out so we can talk?”

Herbal flick an ear as he glance to Katty, noticing she was shuffling for some comfort, watching around them wearily as he couldn’t help but place his wing around her in a tighter and protective grip. Dejen noticed there wasn’t a response, he sighed and said. “Look, we mean no harm, and just want to talk, alright? We’ll leave you be and if you want to talk we’ll be by the Oasis.” hand motioning for them to leave, as while he knew he wanted to assure the filly and whoever was watching her, he doubted that being so close to their ‘home’ was pushing their luck as it was best they left for now and let them come to the group.

Rather quietly, Katty asked confused, “Why we follow if we only leave? Won’t she run?” That’s what the shiftling was at least sure of . The filly wanted nothing more than to run. If they left, wouldn’t that mean she would just run away and they would be at the start once again?

Dejen spoke lowly as they were walking away. “Even if she did run, I doubt this place has supply of water around in it’s maze setting. Sooner or later, she’ll have to come by, with whoever is protecting her.” then added as if reminding. “Beside, we’re in their territory, anyone will be defensive if some unknown and possible threat just so happens to stay and doesn’t leave quickly.”

While Katty wanted to agree to that, she was also admittedly confused. “But if they got in, what stops them from leaving so simply?” Sure water was important, but if the Filly was lead in, wouldn’t that mean the person would know where to possibly go next.

Sighing some, Dejen told simply. “To be honest? There is nothing we can do to stop them. All we can try to do is explain on why we’re here and hope for the best. I admittedly was against this whole thing in the first place Katty. Only reason I’m doing this was because Dejeen threaten my Hive.” then snort. “I rather we never came here and left Arabia in the first place the moment we had the chance. At least this way we can pretend we found her remains.”

Herbal frown as he asked. “But shouldn’t we try to stay and coax the filly out and whoever is watching her, out and talk?” To which Dejen told.

“And risk Katty in a misunderstanding?” pushed Dejen as that made Herbal quiet. “I don’t doubt we can handle ourselves, but we’re in the unknown here, for all we know? We could get seriously injured, or worse lose more than a limb. The best bet I can see is us simply leaving, hoping for the best, and if they leave? We at least can tell to Dejeen that we found nothing and the filly was dead. That way she won’t be his tool, we can get out of Arabia and put all of this behind us.”

Coming to a halt, Katty seemed to refuse to move forwards towards the way they came in, becoming sharply alert. The others paused at this and glanced to where they came from, and heard Katty whisper, “It’s coming.” Though it sounded like she wasn’t sure what was even coming.

All three perked their ears, but it was only the thestral that picked up anything. An almost muted and quite rubbing sound that was hard to pick out. It rose, just ever so slightly. It was when something low to the ground came around a bend they could see something brown coming their way slowly.

Katty moved herself closer in unease, and both hyena types shifting backwards. For Katty, she wasn’t entirely sure what she was looking at, even more when it rose. Her only interpretation, was a really big and weird looking worm. For the other three, they only saw a rather oversized cobra snake, it’s slim hood flaring out a bit as the thing towered upwards, holding itself up at a high ten feet and almost glaring down at them.

Looking up at the giant snake, or a giant venomous cobra snake as it was glaring at them, Debt soon spoke in a grunt. “For once, your idea of returning back to the ship was a good idea, Dejen.”

Dejen glance to Herbal, ears pin as he could see the stallion scared, but somehow moved his body around Katty as he was over her with his fangs bared and wings spread out to ‘intimidate’ the snake...although it was in poor attempt as Dejen saw Herbal hissing as the snake showed her long fangs as she opened her mouth and giving a growling like hiss, her hood flaring a bit more as it just made Herbal all the more aggressive towards her with his body over his mate.

In a small voice, Katty said, “That’s a really big worm…”

The Striped himself just rub his face as he corrected. “It's a snake. Or a giant Queen Cobra, Katty.” then slightly mused as he sighed. “Would explain how the giant scorpions didn’t bother the filly, there was a giant corba scaring them off.” then took a breath in as he said with a low smile as he put on his ‘game face’. “I’m guessing you’re here to talk, or at the very least, give us a head start to run for our very lives, right?”

Fangs fold back into the snake's mouth, she glared down at him, an overly sharp gleam in her eyes. “I was honestly considering eating you so you don’t scurry back to whoever sent you.” Her voice elegant, if not very threatening and to the point.

Well shit. thought Dejen as he said as he claps his hands together. “Would it help that we honestly had no utter choice in finding Alia in the first place? Because we really have no love for the bastard who sent us here in the first place.”

“Funny.” She seemed to hiss, “If that was true, then you could have gone anywhere, waited for weeks, and reported nothing.” Her forked tongue flicking out for a moment before saying, “But here you are. Following my ward to our place of safety. Knowing her name.” Near silently slithering closer and keeping herself poised upwards, long neck-like body curving back some.

Thinking of getting himself out of the situation, he merely shrug as he kept that game face on as he said. “Mostly because our ‘employer’ told of us her name and her last location.” being truthful to that as he admitted. “We didn’t exactly knew what had happened to her, and the town folk mention her exact description. Honestly we were thinking of taking her away to a safe place, but considering you’re keeping an eye on her, well why bother telling the guy anything when we could simply just leave this place, leave Arabia-- and pretend none of this ever happen, right?”

She paused in her advance, gaze not wavering and told, “OR I can eat you and the chances of you not squealing like a mouse never happens.”

Rather timidly, more so in the presence of something she and what few of them there were around, knowing they could not handle this, Katty asked, “Can’t we say a big worm ate the filly?”

The Cobra gave Katty a raised brow for a moment, tongue flicking before turning back towards the apparent leader. “Give me a fair reason why I shouldn’t make you all my next meal.”

Thinking as fast as he could for a reasonable argument, Dejen told. “Like Katty said, we could tell our employer Alia was eaten. Yes you could eat us, but then you would have to deal with more people who will try to find her. And yes, you could eat them too...but they’ll keep coming, and coming, growing in numbers and numbers-- until you have a lot of people searching around the maze to seek Alia.

“And I doubt you or her want that. Let us live however?” grinning wide as he told. “And we’ll say to the heartless bastard that Alia was eaten by a giant worm and we found what remains they were somewhere else! That way he won’t try to send people for your meal, you keep Alia safe, and no one will be the wiser!”

To say, to see her gaze not even waver for a moment was not comforting. For a long time, he kept his grin, forcing it to not twitch at all. The way she peered at him told the Striped, she was measuring and waiting for him to fault. Give any hints of lying.

“You keep a good mask, mouse.” Told the large snake. “But I know another snake when I see one.” Slightly lowering her head, thankfully taking away the idea she would strike, but also getting closer. “What proof can you give, that you are going to keep your word?”

“What proof can you give, to keep your word of not eating us?” asked back Dejen. “I mean after all...you’re a giant corba who can easily eat us within one gulp.”

“And you’re much too calm to make a deal to be someone simply honest.” She shot back. “You’re not scared like the horse and…” Taking a moment to pause and look at Katty, “...bug.” Going with the closest thing she could before turning back to him. “What would it mean for my word to not eat you?” She seemed to smirk. “You’re still alive.”

“For one, allowing us to leave, get on our ship, and never come back.” simply said Dejen as he went on. “And all we need is to fabricate a scarf or dress into the sands and ripped apart as if Alia was eaten by a giant worm. Somewhere far and somewhere Dejeen would accept as ‘proof’ that Alia has passed on.”

With a blank look, the Cobra told, “Last I checked there weren't any giant worms in Arabia.”

“Last I checked, there weren’t giant Queen Cobras in Arabia either.” said Dejen simply.

“Then I would ask how long you’ve been living here.” Flatly responded the snake. “Otherwise, how would you know of what I am?” Lifting a scaly brow before saying, “Or… if you want to show just how confident you are on your word.” Looking them over. “One of you stays for a week. If you return within that time to get this Dejeen to stop following Alia, then I won’t eat them. Fail, and the consequences are rather simple.”

That was when Dejen was going over the numbers-- who would stay? It can’t be him, he was needed. As well as Herbal or Katty, they’re inseparable. Neither Gem, nor Mercy, or Windy, or the changelings-- who could he suggest to stay behind? That was when he was surprised as Debt spoke.

“I will stay.” getting to turn his head as Debt glance to the Striped as it surprised Herbal as well as the gnoll went on. “I will stay in exchange for my employer to go and fool Dejeen of the ‘death’ of Alia.” looking to Dejen as he went on. “There are others who know how to fly the ship, you will get there within time.”

“Debt, I can’t risk you!” started Dejen as the gnoll jab back with a snort.

“You can. As long as you come back within a week, I will be alive. If not? At least you didn’t lose someone too important,” giving a rather calm look to Dejen as he said. “You forget Dejen, I am a bodyguard. This is my job.”

“Cute.” Said the snake with a touch of amusement. “Staying around so your leader doesn't have to take the fall.” Though looked between them for a long moment before telling, “I’ve seen enough.” Once more on the move, though this time her head going lower and body seeming to glide past and around them.

Katty in a jittery manner, shifted more under Herbal, keeping tabs on the ‘big worm’ as it soon set herself between the cave, and them. Once more rising up and poised, though hood not flared, the Cobra told, “You should be more concerned more often. People might actually believe you.” Watching them intently for a while. “Go on, leave. I think I might just let your little lap dog go, just because it was just so heartwarming.” Cooing that last bit out a bit more mockingly than anything, going by her smirk. “I’ll give you a minute head start. I haven’t eaten in a near week.”

Although while Debt ear flick at being called ‘lap dog’, Dejen took the ‘warning’ as he motioned to the other's to run like hell. Which they did as they ran like no tomorrow as Dejen told to Debt. “You are crazy!”

The gnoll gave a slight smirk as he glanced to see Katty carrying Herbal as the gnoll told. “I learn from you.” although as they ran to the ship Dejen shouted.

“Go, go, go, go, go, go!” getting everyone confused, as they were getting things started right before the giant Cobra comes slithering out from where the small group ran from. This in turn causes the ship to move faster and get up higher before the snake reach it. Although as the runners panted and gather their breath, Herbal cleared his throat.

“Katty...can you please let me go? It feels...awkward for you to hold me like this.”

Katty only whimpered, sitting down and hugging the stallion close while telling, “I don’t like big, creepy worm things that see through you.”

Herbal only sighed as he places his forelegs around as he nuzzle with his wings aiding in keeping her close. Although as Gem was coming by to ask what happen, Dejen told flatly.

“First thing of business. We are never coming around here again. Second thing? We are leaving Arabia the moment we tell Dejeen that Alia is dead. Finally? Never. Ever. Get me near giant snakes again. If I see another giant snake in my life, it’ll be too soon!”