Arabian Swindler

Gaining any kind of trust form the town was a difficult challenge in of itself. Very few people trusted each other, and the mercenaries didn’t seem to care too much of what was going on unless paid. Though with the following week, Mercenaries began to file out, no money to be had from either civilians or now-dead outlaws.

It thankfully began to solve one problem for Dejen since they were leaving on their own accord only as some bothering to stick around for whatever reasons. Though they seemed to only stick around because there was some food to be had. But following Mynu’s suggestion of mercenaries, Dejen moved in to talk to each and find out what he could gain.

The two minotaurs, Bumosi and Juvmi, did in fact want to start up a place of work. Bumosi apparently having worked as a lumberjack and carpenter at one point. His mage friend apparently part of a metal working family that also did stone work. The hopes the two had were mostly artistic aesthetics… but the idea of building homes was within their skillset.

Sheer Force, as it turned out, as not much of a talker. She hardly poke and mostly seemed to speak with hums, huffs, grunts or indifferent nods. Hiring her or roping her into anything was a null matter. Apparently her plan was to go with the trashmen mare and go back to a ‘healthy paid job’ of guarding the trading caravans.

This only left one mysterious Herno swordsmen, Ommuna, who was mentioned to not be around for a while. When asked of the four that knew him, they told that he received some messages about the Main House needing his services. A matter of utmost family honor. And really, they didn’t know when he would be back. But seeing as he kept to the four as company, it was a fair guess he would be back.

As for recultivating efforts of restoring the plant life, that was a slow process. But it began to show. Everywhere Asha, Katty and a few changelings worked on had began to slowly sprout green patches. Grass in particular was starting to peek and creep it’s way out more. Asha and Katty visited the patches at least once a day, sometimes requesting a pegasus to find a cloud for water. Though Asha did say they would need seedlings later on.

It was just another thing to add to the ever growing list of things. And asking townsfolk for any directions for nearby trees or areas for stone quarries, not many had anything to say. A few knew of a forested area, but it was apparently across one of the many geyser fields that tend to dot Iron Holds. For a Rock Quarry, Mynu knew a spot. Told that her family were formerly miners a long time ago and there was a quarry just a mile to the north-west of the town.

Water was another thing needed, though when that was asked, a few elderly townsfolk that had somehow survived the mud-hole of a town told that there used to be a stream and a small lake that had fresh water. But it had dried up a long time ago when the small-scale war between the nobility happened. Something that the striped found a little hard to believe, seeing as the size of the ‘dried lake’ and the river that had passed through it, was rather sizable. It left one to wonder how all that water dried up.

But it told how abysmal things had gotten over time in a sense.

Another thing was on the progress with his own group, as the changelings had a bit of trouble in passively eating from the townsfolk. Mostly due to their suspicions and unease of the changeling themselves, as most of his Hive had to feed with their original food source of love.

Herbal thankfully managed to get medical care for the townsfolk, healing or tending to their various wounds as he used a bit of the ointments and bits of serum from the Winged for the most serious cases. Sheer help with the townsfolk was a boon in itself, as it lessen the time for him to check over and work with whatever alignments there were. Sadly, he couldn’t do more as he would like, as the thestral couldn’t do much for those that either had some missing limbs, or with scars that had to be given ointments to ease the pain.

Gem however, was working non-stop with the bits of repair or smithy she was doing, mostly in crafting nails, hinges, doorknobs-- even getting tools ready from what metal they took from the dead outlaws. But the diamond dog was focusing on what metals they had, as while she had enough, there wasn’t enough to give exact items for the entire town.

Another thing some people assume, was that Windy was a servitude slave for Dejen. Apparently while there were no slavers, there was an honor bound system of paying off a debt if they didn’t have the money. A few of the townsfolk wonder how long Windy served the Striped, as they didn’t expect a pony to know their honor system.

Yet even as the mercs left save for a few, Debt had his work cut out for him, as the best he could do was keep an eye around the town for Dejen. Even that didn’t do squat with him being one gnoll. Thankfully Mynu kept an eye around for the gnoll, so there was that. Nevertheless, Dejen shuffle a bit of his cards, looking over the town on the deck as he was thinking.

I can get the Innovation to go to the forested area, get a few people to start cutting down trees, maybe head to that quarry too? Get started on getting the free stones. frowning a bit as they had to make space inside to do that. And the best space to put them...is in the Hanger bay… he debated if he should scrap his plane, mostly to gain metal for Gem-- but to also make space for stones and wood.

Really, the more he thought about it, the more Felix was right. The plane was a waste of space, and while it was sad he had to see his project be taken apart-- he had to prioritize the people now than his own needs. Hell, I haven’t touched my inventions while working on this place in thoughts! By now they probably gather dust! taking a breath as he thought on more.

It probably doesn’t help that we need to gather tools for the Quarry, or patch up what tools there are to make them work. It also probably doesn’t help that technically we’re stealing from Iron holds in terms of talking resources-- buuuut considering they left this town to the outlaws, I think taking a few trees and stone is the least I can do to offend them. thought Dejen.

There was also that one tradesmare that Mynu mentioned. They had a couple weeks before she showed up, and in honesty, they weren't sure what the mare might bring. Food and water were the two main things of the charity work though. So that was expected. But if the mare had any other things to trade was left to be known.

Thinking further, Dejen realized that in a manner of speaking, they were a little stuck in place. The town needed a lot of work, and was very vulnerable to everything around it. And they needed supplies and materials, all of which they had to go get and leave the town to retrieve.

Granted, Humuile was next to forgotten, and people that knew of it would overall just avoid it. But that didn’t mean that someone or some bandits might come this way to cause trouble. It was a lot to really consider.

We can’t fully leave, but we can’t fully stay. grimly thought Dejen. We need to split up in a sense...one group go and gather materials and supplies, the other stays here and keep an eye on the town. it was a bad idea to split up, especially with their numbers...but Dejen knew it had to be done. Question is, who was going to do what?

“You're thinking hard.” spoke the Queen as he glance to her walking by him, still in her disguise as she asked. “What got your attention this time?” thinking abit, he admits.

“We need to split up. One part stay here, keep an eye on things and make sure no trouble comes here, the other goes to gather materials and supplies.” Humming some, Mercy soon told.

“Me and my children can stay here.” getting him to balk as she thought and corrected as he stared at her. “Well, half, I know you might need some for the workforce.” looking ahead as she went on. “Already my children are burrowing underground, building a Hive of sorts as a means of building a place for my children to sleep.” Looking to him with a smile she added. “Not to mention, this was the plan. Us building a home here.”

She could feel the uncertainty in him, as she raised a hoof to gently pat his side as she assured. “I’ll be fine with 100 of my children, you need 50 for the workforce.” Then adding on. “I think Gem might stay, mostly to get the two minotaurs work on making blueprints on them houses and that wall.” Humming a bit she admitted.

“Don’t know about Herbal or Katty. They might stay, or might go with you.” Nodding, he said with a low breath.

“Can you,” to which she told simply.

“I already brought them up to the bridge to discuss this.” he snorted a bit as he put his cards away and said in an amused tone.

“What would I ever do without you?” she tease with a bump of her flank to his side and a smile.

“Struggling even harder without a workforce and be more horny with Windy as your only need of pleasure?”

Which made Dejen told in a dry manner. “Ha, ha-ha, ha.” walking with her towards the bridge as he entered in with her. He expected Katty being with Herbal for this, what he didn’t expect was Asha and the twins being here too as he asked with a raised brow. “I’m guessing you want to hear what's to be discussed?”

Asha only gave a smile and told, “Well, we are bunking here. So it would be nice to know if our room suddenly left one day.” Getting a shared synchronized nod from the twins.

“Fair enough,” said Dejen as he said. “First off? I’m crunching the numbers and there's no way we’ll rebuilding without supplies. The problem? Some of us need to stay here in case bandits or more outlaws arrive. Sure Mynu might watch things, but she’s just one merc.” motioning a hand to Mercy as she shifted back to her original form as he told. “Mercy is opting to stay here with 100 of the Hive, 50 will go with me. She's already building an underground place for her kids to rest.”

Looking to them as he went on. “I heard Gem is also staying, so that's a no brainer.”

the diamond dog snort and told. “Course I’m staying, only because I’m needed for my genius thinking.”

A few chuckles as Dejen soon said to Debt. “Debt, I need you here in case there’s trouble.” getting the gnoll to blink...before surprising not only him, but everyone else that knew Debt well.

“No.”

Both Bina and Bakari gave glances around, unsure of what had most of everyone so shell shocked. Was there a problem with Debt not wanting to stay? Though unlike them, Asha gave a giggle and told, “I thought he was your bodyguard, Dejen?”

“He is, but he's also supposed to take orders from me.” Started Dejen as the gnoll snort with cross arms and told.

“I know why you want me here, you're worried for Mercy if bandits might give her trouble.” Then told to Dejen. “She can handle herself, you need me.”

“Debt I'm fine with handling-,” started the Striped as Debt counted off.

“You had trouble getting Gem under control, you had to fight off nearly drunken bar fight or poker games, you had trouble with fighting Hunters-- and no one was watching your back when I was trying to kill you back then.” Looking at Dejen as he told.

“Simply put, Sir? You need me around you in case some Minotaurs might want to break you. Literally.”

Nodding, Bina said, “The Northern places of the Hold’s aren’t as watched. Bandits and a few sky-pirates travel the area. It’s not as safe as south of us where more cities are built.” Speaking from experience herself. “And the reason there’s so much is because the Herno and Kitsune live in the northern areas here.”

Rolling his eyes to this, Bakari hooked a thumb at his waistband and told, “Herno and Kitsune don’t like strangers on their lands. They put up with you, but rather if you just left.”

“Let's be honest Sir, you're not bad in a fight, but you're not a heavy hitter like me.” Add in Debt as Dejen sighed and said.

“Fiiiiine.” Then look to Herbal as the stallion looked conflicted.

“On one hoof, you might need me in case there's medical needs...but on the other hoof, Katty might need me here if she's going to be looking at the land…”

Moving to pad up, Asha said, “How about this Herbal?” getting him to look at her. “If you go with Dejen, I’ll stay. I can watch and help the land grow-- and help heal people that might need it.” Then went on, “Or, if you do stay, Katty can work the land and you can heal. While I help Dejen out here.” Then straightened up to tell, “I’m a healer too, you know.”

Thinking a bit, the stallion admitted. “I would rather go with Dejen, mostly because I need to restock on my supplies, there was a lot of healing I needed and I'm running low.”

Nodding to this, Asha asked, “Do you want Katty to stay here with me?” Then went on, “I know you’re both attached, sometimes literally.” Laughing at the slight flush the stallion gained. “Buuuut… Like you said, she’s helping with the land. At best, she’ll just be giving a helping hand out, but not as much while here at town.”

Herbal debated as while he could say yes to let Katty stay here...there was a sense of uneasiness as he had a wing over Katty side. Like there was something bad for him to not be around her as Mercy joked to Asha. “I think that give us his answer.” looking to the thestral as she teases him. “Guess you can’t handle being apart of your cuddle bug, can you?” The shift to that as he clears his throat and said.

“I-I just feel that she should be with me...in case something happens.” attempting to use that as his excuse as Mercy had a ‘riiiiiight’ expression to him. She look to Katty and joked.

“Look like he's addicted to you as you are to him.”

She tilted her head, and Katty said, “But we colony. Only two, no keep if separate.” Seeming to reason things out as simply as that. With a nuzzle, she told, “No separate for long. Is bad.”

Asha chuckled and shook her head, but said, “well, don’t be so sure that it’s safer away from here and it is safe here.” Then seemed to chirp to Mercy, “I’ll be out and around and checking up on things. I’m sure someone needs something somewhere.” Then told to the Twins, “You got my room!”

Bina smiled and said, “We’ll make sure it’s clean when you get back onboard.” Though she did have to ask, “Is there anything you need from it?”

“Just a few things.” Asha told. “But nothing much. I’ll get to it.” Moving up to give a cat-kiss to both cubs before bounding off to get her things. Bina giggled at the attention, while Bakari made a ‘yauk!’ sounds and tried to get his hair back in place.

Dejen chuckled a bit as Gem crack her neck and told. “Welp, I’ll be getting my stuff off the ship, start up a small place to get things started for you.” Mercy gave a look to Dejen and said.

“I’ve already started on the burrowing process, and gather my things too.” then look to Windy and joked. “Take good care of our stud.” Windy giggle and assured.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure Master will be fine.” Dejen rolled his eyes in amusement, but soon thought and said.

“Now I just need to figure out where to start first? Start gathering timber for the town or acquire stone from the quarry?” thinking before saying. “Forest first.” then look to the twins as he asked. “Any towns close to here for Herbal to acquire his supplies while we’re gathering things?”

Looking to the other, both went into thought for a moment. It was hard to tell what they were juggling in their heads, but Bakari said, “Not really. But if you want to try it, there’s a Herno village. A few.” Though not looking too happy at the thought.

“Let me guess, they would rather we stay out of town than get near it?” dryly guessed the Striped.

Shaking her head, Bina said more gently, “They get touchy because people don’t understand their… strict way of life. Outsiders aren’t really looked on that great because of how you can easily insult them. Things like honor, duty and family lineage means a lot to them-- and a small insult…” Looking for the right word to say.

“Last time I told a guy to get lost, he tried to cut my head off.” Blatantly told Bakari. “I punched his face for looking at my sister and called him a perv.”

Shaking her head, Bina told, “Bakari said something that really insulted him. And Herno’s are all warriors, skilled too. Even with our stones, they’re… well, strong. Skilled really.”

Thinking a bit, Dejen sighed and said. “We’ll try not to get near them, but if there's no other towns, we may have to risk it.” then asked. “Want to stay in the ship if we do have to get inside a Herno village? That way things will be smooth for us to acquire some goods without problems for you two?”

Shaking her head, Bina placed a hand to her brother’s shoulder and told, “After that one time? I pretty much got it in my brothers head that I do the talking when around other Herno villages.”

“Greeeat.” dryly said the Striped as he had a feeling that might happen as he rubbed his face and said. “Let's hope that we can just get through one village without ‘insulting’ their honor or something.”

“No offense Sir, but you’ll somehow insult them with your very being.” said Debt as Dejen glance and question as Gem and Mercy walked off.

“What's that supposed to mean? They don’t like the way I dress in my Arabian clothing?” To which Debt told.

“No, just you being a gambler.” getting Dejen to squint at Debt as if the gnoll was instigating something. But he soon pause, thought over...and soon asked to the twins.

“They look down at any aspect of gambling or poker, do they?” almost feeling...annoyed of being denied one of his favorite things-- again.

Bakari glanced to his sister, whom really thought it over carefully before saying, “Well, I think it depends on what’s being gambled.” Then went on, “It’s a little frowned… but it’s not like they don’t do it. As long as there is no cheating, no dishonoring of the family, staining of your family’s blood, running from your responsibilities…” Then said, “But if you do cheat and they catch you doing it, even in a small gamble?” She winced. “Execution. Maybe… a missing finger to make an example if you’re lucky.”

Good thing I don’t usually cheat. thought the striped as he tapped his chin as he was curious on something and asked. “What's this Honor Code they got? I know they’re sorta like samurais, but it doesn’t fill in the detail about it.”

With a careless shrug, Bakari said, “We don’t know.” Tilting his head to the side to go on, “We didn’t stay long in each village. But they’re strict. Bina said that you’re expected to follow a fairly fine line. Most of the lady’s of the village stay as domestic wives. Teaching and raising kids. Learn self defence for the family and the house.”

Bina then counted in, “The men have a strict Bushido code. It varies from village to village. But it all roots to family and their bloodline. Their lineage. The men are also expected to be warriors and hard working people. Some of the more stronger Herno, women or men, can leave the village once they have mastered the art to travel and bring honor to their house, maybe learn something new to teach the village. They can leave as soon as 15, I heard from one mom.”

Rubbing his chin, Dejen nod some as Debt glance to Windy, then to the twins as the gnoll asked. “What will their reactions be if they encounter or see Windy? While it's one thing with the Iron Holds natives, it's doubtful that these Hernos will see Windy in the same light of the Minotaurs honor system.”

Both shifted in place. Bakari scuffed the floor while looking off to the side in disinterested thought. And Bina scratched the back of her head and they both admitted, “We don’t know.”

“New territory then.” mused Dejen as he clap his hands and told. “Alright, so we just need to do what we can and hope things will work out.” glancing to see Herbal and Katty were gone in their discussion, as Debt remarked.

“Winging it as usual, Sir?”

“Hey it worked out for me!” the gnoll snorted and told simply.

“Only because you’ve been touched by ‘fate of luck’, which is doubtful at times.” Dejen rolled his eyes as he looked to the twins telling.

“In either case, you two go on ahead, it’ll be awhile before we leave with everyone gathering their things and readying for the split.” then thought for a moment as he asked. “Also, is it suppose to be this cold in the fall?” noticing bits of ‘chilly’ wind from time to time, granted it was really 50 degrees outside.

“Sir, I believe it’s merely 50 degrees outside.”

“50!? I thought it was 30 at least!” said Dejen in surprise.

Glancing to the other, it was Bakari that said, “Fall’s on its way. And it gets colder faster up here in the north of the Holds.” Then turned back to tell, “It will get slowly colder. And the Minotaurs don’t manage weather as much as other places, it’s not unexpected for sudden clouds to come by with snow.”

Bina hummed and nodded, “A few more months and it might start to snow a bit more often.” Then told to Bakari, “We should really find something to help keep warm. It’s going to get freezing without our stones to help.” To which he just gave an annoyed gruff to.

“Wool. We’re going to need lots of it to stay warm.” said Dejen as Debt said.

“I’ll add it to the list Sir.” as Dejen gave a nod, turning to walk out, seemingly to think a bit to himself as Windy follow him, however after a moment, Debt asked the two. “How long until my employer accidentally insults or gain a duel from the Herno in one of the villages? 5 minutes at least?”

The two gave a look, with Bina saying, “It really depends on how he insults them.”

“‘Do you want to play a bit of poker with me?’” saying it word for word in the best imitated tone of his Striped employer.

Scratching his head, Bakari admitted, “I don’t think they know what poker is.”

“They will once he explain it to them,” said Debt as he glanced to the two and said. “You can go on ahead to your rooms, or walk around if need be. I’ll be here waiting until everything is ready for our departure.” turning to walk towards the wheel as he looks over the controls and seemingly end the conversation with the two.

Both gave one last look to the other in thought before Bakari shrugged to his sister and turned around, thumbs hanging from his waistband. Bina twisted her face and glanced to Debt before turning away and following her brother.

Gathering timber was the first priority that Dejen aimed for, and with one Request to Bumosi to come get sent. The Minotaur was fast to get onboard and travel with them before setting down and getting the changelings set out into the right order. First job being how to properly cut down trees-- without causing unnecessary damage to the forest and workers, even the goods they were getting.

The work was swift, but still tediously long over a week. As many as they had working, cutting down a number of trees and properly refining them down into something manageable later on was a task in of itself before being all loaded up. The Geyser fields were also a sight to see for the Striped. Long rocky plateaus with water boiling and blasting out at random times.

Bumosi commented that people didn’t risk traveling those areas often due to how hot the water got, sometimes scorching the skin right off a person. He also joked that if you were willing enough, it was an ideal place to use for cover-- not many were insane enough to run straight into a bubbling deathtrap.

Dejen almost consider on using this place later on if things go south, but felt that it was probably best he won’t risk it. Just because he was lucky-- didn’t mean he shouldn’t push it. Yet even with them coming back to the town to drop off the load of wood with Bumosi, they had to leave post haste. Mostly because they had supplies to get as Herbal mention while looking through foliage as despite harvesting some herbs-- he wasn’t fully stocked up.

And there weren't many places to go to, especially cities or towns that were close to them, so they had no choice but to head to a Herno village to acquire supplies. With some direction, they head straight through to one village within a few hours. Yet it was landing that was a problem, as there wasn’t any clear landings. Still, Debt managed to get somewhat close to one.

It was a mile off, but it was better than nothing for the gnoll.

The changelings had to stay behind as a precaution, as Herbal, Katty, Dejen, Debt, windy and the twins let to the village. The striped thought it was best to wear his Arabian clothings, but kept some of his hidden weapons or tools in case there was a fight. Herbal walked in a trot with Katty moving around and talking in the sights as she let her antennas take in the smells.

Windy hum a tune as she trot close to her Master, as she wanted to see a Herno village up close, especially wanting to be close to her Master as she wanted to see what he saw. Still after a bit of traveling, did they saw the sights of the village, as Dejen couldn’t help but remark to himself. Huh...a japanese like village. That's...thats something. thought Dejen as he glanced around, doing his best to look calm as he felt he was in tretching in unknown territory...which he was in hindsight.

Herbal motioned a wing for Katty to come by his side as he with a simple look to her, did she change her camo-mare looks. Mostly to ease the Hernos if they saw her, and get free cuddles with her stud as he felt her nuzzling him.

Taking a breath in, Bina spoke out, “Keep on your best behaviour. Don’t try and openly challenge anyone. Be polite as possible.” Then seemed to add in, “And please, please-- do not try and insult their family bloodline.” Seeming to stress this the most while walking forwards.

“Don’t worry, I’ll do my best to be polite.” said Dejen as he added. “Although I can’t say the same for your brother, Bina.” Debt glance and add in with Dejen.

“I give it five minutes until he fights someone.”

To that Bakari said, “Better be good in a fight or fast to run out of the village then.”

“Please, for Luna's sake-- let's be civil on this?” pleaded Herbal as Dejen said.

“Relax Herbal, you just focus on getting those supplies and Katty close to you, I worry about getting wool and other stuff.” coming close to the village entrance as he added lowly. “Also, Windy stick close to me.” the mare nodded as she moves a bit closer to the Striped. They were standing tall as they were like unmoving statues. They look to the group, but hardly respond, like they weren’t even their time as the gnoll noticed that the tallest were five feet.

Dejen noticed that between four to five feet were the norm, and most of the village were wearing kimonos, long, flowing, and modest. He could almost joke that the twins were ‘savage’ in clothing compared to the rest. There were a variety of species in the village, but most were of mainecoon, fluffy long fur with short hair breeds. Almost like snow cats.

Even more surprising to the Striped? Most villagers don’t spare them a glance, as young cubs and children seem to watch the strangers in curiosity, while mothers kept them far away and in a fair line. Herbal noticed that they all held a certain grace and poise, like nobility...but the kids were being kids.

Looking around, Bina pointed to their left saying, “The markets would be that way.” Turning her head and telling, “Most Herno keep a simple format. Mostly for any… rare strangers that come by.” Keeping a bit close to her brother and ignoring the very rare few stairs or glances cast to her and her siblings. She really didn’t like when they looked to them like that.

Katty flicked her ears about, easily sensing a certain extent of curiosity, indifference or in some cases disdain. Though whatever feelings the Herno had seemed to be held back. They apparently found no reason to address them as a problem.

While they got closer to the market stalls, Dejen felt at lost at the…. Calm of the place. There was no shouts. There was no loud bartering. There was hardly any organized chaos he was used to. It was orderly, clean, and only a low peaceful murmur was the only real noise. (end)

This...is going to take some used to. thought Dejen as he glanced around, feeling a rather surprise that they saw Windy...but were indifferent to her. He didn’t know if that was a blessing, or they just don’t care. He leaned to the latter as he admits. “This is probably the most surreal thing I have ever seen for a long time.”

“They like their snooty manners.” Lowly told Bakari, mostly to not alert the other Herno. His ear was however flicked by his sister.

“Bakari, behave.” She said almost sharply, showing a bit of impatience. Apparently the situation was too serious for her brother to just shoot his mouth off. And one look around almost matched that seriousness. It was like nearly every cat had a stony face of indifference to everything nearby. The few that smiled were children, mothers or a few fathers.

Maybe a couple of people having a very calm and pleasant conversation. But otherwise the place was so tight and orderly-- it was a far cry from the loud and boisterous Arabia. Or the almost lively and cheerful calls of the Isle during his visit. Just calm, well mannered and steady.

Herbal kept close with Katty as he admitted. “It feels like we’re in Canterlot, everything is just...pleasant and quiet.”

“Makes me feel I'm surrounded by lots of Debts.” Lowly joked Dejen as Debt gave a snort. But the gnoll had to admit, it was...odd to be around Stone face people. Almost like he was...in a place he rather not recall. Changing the thoughts of the gnoll, did Debt say to his employer.

“It is odd, we are so used to near chaotic places, the orderly seem unnatural to us.”

Pausing in their walk, Bina turned around and told to them all, “We should be in the middle of the market now If you want to find something…” She motioned around, “Look. People don’t really shout or advertise their things too loudly. Go and look for what you need.” Then told, “And they don’t barter. They set a price they think is fair and keep it there. Arguing might cause a bit of trouble.”

“Ugh.” Grunt the Striped, but nod as they split a bit, Herbal trot with Katty for whatever he spotted. Dejen began looking around, looking for wool as Windy move by his side, with Debt close behind. If the Striped was honest to himself?

He found it really odd that no one was bothered by a gnoll, a Striped and a collared mare. He almost felt like back home in Ramada-- if one didn't add in the control chaos he was used to. They looked around as Windy look at the odd things, the strange cloth as it seems like silk, but not the silk she knows as she looked to her male and asked.

“Master, what's this?” Motioning to the bundle of cloth as Dejen examine it, he knew it wasn't wool, but more silk like quality.

“It's a type of silk, a lot different from home.” Answered the Striped as he look to the merchant and asked. “Excuse me, but do you by chance sell wool?”

The herno women paused in moving a few things and gave him a glance. Her eyes held a concealed edge of hardness, but her smile was as pleasant as a cool breeze would of been. “I’m afraid not, sir.” Moving to the front to stand before him. “We do have, however, have Angora fabric.” Moving to get a roll of the fabric and place it down.

Looking at it and taking a fell, Dejen was rather surprised at it’s fluffy and very soft quality. Much softer than wool, and not having the same catchy or scratchy tendency that wool sometimes had. Though it did leave to question of what it was. (end)

“I don't wish to be rude,” started Dejen as he on his ‘polite face’. “But may I ask what is Angora fabric? I am unfamiliar with cloth of the Herno.”

Smiling, the feline told him, “Angora is a wool we get from domesticated rabbits. A specific breed of Angora rabbit, thus its name.” Then went on to tell while holding the roll. “It’s warm, comfortable and soft as you can see. We don’t get wool out this far, stranger. And besides the silk or cashmere, this is what we commonly have. Most ideally for when winter comes.”

this can not only for the group, but the town too. thought Dejen, as he asked. “May I ask how much will be the price for, say 67 people?” Then politely explain. “The reason I ask of such, is I am gathering supplies for a town that is in need of warm clothes for the winter, miss.”

There was a blink, but that was the only hint he got of her surprise. “A village then?” Thinking about it before shaking her head. “I don’t have enough fabric to supply that many. Perhaps if I sold all of my rolls of silk, cashmere and Angora, perhaps most?” Then went on to say, “The Angora alone is not a common thing. I only carry five rolls.”

hmm, not good. Not enough to give, even if I do visit other villages, it might not be enough. thinking a bit as he soon asked. “How much for the five rolls, miss?”

“120 gold.” Was her swift response. “But if it is bulk you need? I would suggest to take only three rolls of Angora, and have more of ten or more cashmere.” Placing the main interest down to retrieve another. This one being not as soft as the more higher quality Angora, but still plenty soft. “This is of goat’s wool.” Making him pause.

She went on, “It only goes for 15 gold. It is much more common and easily gathered. Goats sometimes live further north to trade their own wool for our finer silks. It is just as warm and well retardant as Angora, if not a bit less softer. And cheaper, if you are supplying a village’s needs for the winter that is to come in a few months.”

Giving a nod, Dejen said. “Then I will take three rolls of Angora and at least twenty of cashmere, miss.” Then added. “Thank you miss, this will greatly help the village when winter comes.”

She nodded and told honestly, “I hope you do have the gold for it.” Then told, “590 gold.”

Reaching into his bag, he took a large pouch of 500 bits, adding a 90 bag bits to place on the table as he noticed the frown as he knew that wasn't good. “You're unable to take in Equestria money.” Making it a statement than an accusation.

Shaking her head, the feline admitted, “Equestrian gold does not reach our villages often.” Taking one of the gold bits out and, to some intrigue, leaned behind her stand to get something. When a scale was brought up, he had to blink and watch while she took another bag and began to weigh out the single coin.

It was a tedious, but short little show before she hummed and seemed to rethink the price. After a few moments, she placed the coin back into the bag it was form and told him, “280 ‘bits’.” Shoving most of the gold back. “Equestrian gold. Very pure to most gold we use or some gold used in Holds or Yakastain.”

He was surprised to hear that, as were Debt and Windy as the gnoll remarked. “You just saved a lot of money without realizing it, sir.” Dejen nodded, letting the merchant take the 280, as Dejen thought and soon asked.

“Pardon me miss, but are there any who sell seeds? Mostly vegetable or anything to help grow crops?”

She gave an odd look and told, “Winter is on it’s way, customer-san.” As if to remind him. “New plant growth isn’t recommended. But if you plan to store them for spring, than I know one person that might.” But then shook her head, “But you must understand, we don’t grow vegetables often. Rice and grains, but rarely vegetables. We hunt game for most of our meals.”

“That is unfortunate, but understandable, miss.” Said Dejen as Windy look up and asked.

“Master, why can't we just by some seeds in one of the cities later on? Shouldn't we focus on getting water too?”

“The best we can do is find some springs for water, maybe let the snow fill that spring so we can melt it.” Said Dejen with a slight shake of his head, although he glance to the feline, then back to Windy as he looks to the feline and spoke.

“I apologize for any rudeness miss, as I am unfamiliar in your culture and honorable traditions, but I must admit that I am surprised that none have been bother of Windy here. I must admit I was worried due to how some cultures view of Windy position with me.”

Almost curiously, she asked, “And what position would that be, customer-san?” Before going on before he could respond. “Your business, and her business, are your own. You have no reason to tell what they are. You are guests in our village and home. We have no place to judge you by appearance. Only action.” Then told more seriously, “If you do something to subvert our rules, traditions, honor and way of life, we would kindly ask you to leave our home.”

Clearing his throat, Dejen spoke. “I would not consider a thing, miss. But I am partially relief that you would say that we are guests, and no reason to judge. As sadly other's judge of Windy and me as she is my,” thinking of the right and polite term as Windy roll her eyes and stated.

“He is my Master, and I am his freely serving slave.”

There was a slight upturn of the feline’s lips, but she spoke with the same steady tone, “Whatever your reasons. You are here for your needs or in need of direction. If we did not want guests or you inside, you would have not passed the gates themselves.” Then asked, “Is this all the business you have, customer-san?”

Giving a stink eye to Windy as the mare giggle with a hoof over her lips, he sighed and nodded to the feline. “It is miss.” Then gave a slight nod. “Thank you and may prosperity fill your household.”

She lifted a brow to this, but didn’t say anything. “May you bring honor to your house.” Moving to get the rolls needed on the table-- which were fairly big in size. It made Dejen reconsider how they would get them back to the ship. But when she was done, the feline went back to her work, allowing Dejen to just stare at the 20+ rolls he requested.

“Debt can you,” started Dejen as the gnoll snort.

“I'll find a cart to purchase.” Told the gnoll, already moving around to find a cart to purchase as the two look to the rolls as Windy sat on her haunches and said.

“See Master? No issues or troubles about me.” Smiling up at him as she tease. “You got to stop being cautious on everyone you meet will cause problems.”

“Windy, we lived in Arabia.” Dryly told the Striped. “I always have to be cautious.”

“Well not in this village.” Said Windy with a tongue sticking out, Dejen rolled his eyes as he glanced around, seeing Herbal and Katty on the far end, seemingly to talk a bit to the vendor there.

Dejen couldn't help but wonder, maybe Windy was right? Maybe he shouldn't have to be cautious? He worry? Maybe for once he should just relax and let his guard down a bit?

Although he couldn't help but ask to himself. isn't this how we got into this situation in the first place with that blind kid

Hearing some feet, he turned his head in time to see a very disgruntled and annoyed Bakari with fur slightly raised. Bina on the other hand looked a bit shell shocked, maybe a bit dazed while she stuck close to him. It was to note that both hyenas and pegasus were sure there was a red tint on her cheeks.

Trying to not shift too nervously, Bina asked, “Did you, uh… find what you need?” Giving a glance to all the rolls of fabric.

“Yeah, we found these rolls. Angora and cashmere, should be enough for the entire town.” Said Dejen. “Debt is getting a cart for this load.” Then raise a brow as he asked. “One of the locals said a ‘compliment’ to you Bina?”

Ducking her head, she twiddled her fingers nervously while Bakari scowled and said, “Some bozo wanted to have Bina join his family at dinner. Something about rejoining a village.” Then snorted, “We know the deal. He thinks my sister’s cute and thought he could ask her hand later on.”

Sighing, Bina seemed to say with a small grimace, “We’re… a bit exotic. Even by Herno standards. And, well, even though we're a bit young to be wandering out of a village. So, some try to take us in and well… make us part of the village.” Then frowned, “But we don’t want to be part of their traditions. I really don’t want to be part of their traditions.” Shuffling and adding, “I’m… legally old enough to be a wife in these parts.”

“Yeah, I can see the downside to this place.” Nodded Dejen as he glanced around and added. “Anyway, once Debt get a cart, I'll be seeing what tools we can get for those minotaurs, see what we can get.” looking to the twins adding.

“Did you know that Equestria gold is more pure than most? I got a 590 price cut down to 280 gold. Good news for me that I can use what bits I got for later purchase.” Tapping his chin some as he said.

“I was thinking of acquiring some metal, but I can give a hazard guess that might not be possible around here.” Then asked to the two. “Need me to get you two anything?”

They both thought to that, Bina seemingly banishing the thoughts of what had happened, apparently again. “Well…” She began, “We do need something.” Being slow to admit it.

“We used to have weapons.” Told Bakari. “We can make do without any. But they help. Herno villages have unique weapons that you don’t really find anywhere else. Most are custom made.” Then admitted, “But they’re expensive. We were thinking of just waiting.”

Arms behind her, Bina explained, “We break and lose weapons a lot. Just because of the trouble that shows up.” And in his mind, Dejen could just imagine the trouble they got into with whoever followed them for their stones. (End)

He then thought a bit of that and soon asked. “What about metals? I can grab metals for you two, let Gem craft them and add runes on them so they can be more sturdy for a bit.”

Both shook their heads rather furiously, it was a surprise to see Bakari even doing it. Even splutter out, “You don’t use Herno forged steel.” Almost saying it in a rush.

Nodding, Bina told, “Herno only use metal for their weapons or rare few items. But there is a… really important tradition to weapon forging for Herno.” Then went on, “That’s why we’re wanting just cheap or more easily throw away stuff. We lose and break weapons too often to just have something nice.”

“And to a Herno smith? Throwing away a metal they forged into something is… us…” Bakari seemed to stumble in thought before saying, “Like… like tossing a gifted home?”

Sighing, Bina said, “More like tossing out grandma's knitted sweater she put all her attention into for their grandkids.”

Humming, Dejen nod and said. “Ah, I see the problem.” Nodding a bit as he look to Debt coming with a cart as the gnoll grunt a bit, pulling it towards the Stripe as the bodyguard look to the twins and told as he pointed to the rolls.

“You're helping me with this.”

Both gave the many rolls a look, before both giving a shared groan.

“Tough.” Was all Debt said as he move by the rolls as picked it up with both arms, before passing one right to one of them-- and the Herno falling right to the ground trying to lift it. The other sibling moving to help move it off, as Dejen saw they weren't kidding on losing their strength.

Although the Striped did say, “have fun putting that on the cart, I got stuff to look at!” More or less letting the three handle this without him or Windy.

Grunting to lift and get the roll off his sister, Bakari told in a threatening tone to Debt, “When I… get my thing back… I’m dropping a log on you!” Successfully holding it up so Bina could crawl out, but needing her to even attempt to lift and carry the single roll of fabric.

Snorting, he told in slight snark. “Wouldn't that kill me instead of straining me?” Getting another roll to toss into the cart as he continued. “Less threatening, more working. Be happy I didn't say you would be pulling this when we left.”