Author's Note

Mercy voice

Chapter 19

“So, are you able to do it?” asked Dejen, as he informed Ommuna of what he was planning in terms for the town. Looking to the Herno, he almost thought back to those maine-coon types of breed in the village he visited back a month or two ago. He couldn’t help but add in his thoughts. How do they be so fluffy? thought the striped as he pulled the cloth closer to his body, feeling the already lowering temperatures making themselves known.

It was almost with a frown that Dejen noticed how unbothered Ommuna was of the cold, his long fur no doubt helping since all the cat had were overly large pants that almost looked dress-like in a sense, and a leather straps that held two iron shoulder plates in place, leaving his upper half mostly uncovered.

There was a grunt, and a nod from the cat, who hadn’t really spoken. “Yes.” Was all that was said. Really, the cat seemed to only speak in single word terms. And all the while, he went through his kata stances, gracefully going from one sword strike, to block, to attack and so on at random patterns.

To say, Dejen could get more of a conversation out of Debt than this guy.

“Okay, how long will it take? A week or so? Longer than that?” trying to get an estimate as he wanted to ask how much will Ommuna wanted, but he could of accidentally insult the cat. So he added. “Also, I don’t mean to insult you or your honor as I’m only asking out of precaution as I haven’t dealt with Hernos much. But are you expecting payment as well?”

The grey cat moved with a lunge, stabbing his blade forwards while shaking his head. But then told, “Month.” Then went back to his training once again.

Well...that went well. seeing the cat back to training as he nodded, Dejen himself went back as he thought on to check Herbal, seeing how far the stallion was with progress. With a quick turn to the ship, he headed toward the ship, entering inside as he moved through the halls and to the medical bay. He noticed Katty was on their shared bed, seemingly to sleep in her normal form, although her shell is paler than her usual Opal color.

He glanced to Herbal as the stallion was working on some tubes as he asked. “How are things?” getting the stallion to glance back as he sighed and said.

“Not well. I kept close to her, keep her warm with all the blankets and sheets. She's inactive to be honest, thankfully alive but...inactive. Even my nuzzling doesn’t affect her, I made sure she’s fed with my emotions but…” Dejen nodded as the doctor went on. “As for what Mercy asked? well...I’m still looking into that, I don’t have the right medical equipment for looking into the means of why there's a lack of kids.” then amended. “Well I asked Asha as she seemed to notice something.”

Gaining Dejen look as Herbal told. “Thankfully I’m fertile enough and the same is Mercy. Apparently Katty, while fertile, but wasn’t ovulating yet as they were growing. They stopped when she began to feel under the weather. Asha assured me it wasn’t my fault that it happen, that I didn’t knew as this is unique for us.” then look to Dejen as he held a sad look.

“As for you...I’m sorry Dejen. But you’re...sterile.” getting the Striped to look in utter shock, as he slowly moved to sit on a chair, talking this in as the doctor was silent.

Sterile? But..how? I wasn’t sterile before. I...did get a bit sick when me and Windy went at it a bit. although he pause...remembering years when he got sick badly, mostly from eating some plant that would cause it as Herbal spoke.

“Asha mentioned that there was a residue from sickness from you, not there any longer, thankfully, but it might...be the reason why you’re sterile,” then added. “She noticed it came from Windy first.” Dejen grimace as he said.

“Windy… was probably the one who caught the sickness from whoever owned her and had a sex season. Is she?” to which Herbal shook his head.

“Amazingly? No, she’s fertile too. Which is...admittedly surprising.” then asked. “What are you thinking of doing?” seeing Dejen sighed and said.

“I’m just ...going to sit down. Take this in.” the doctor nodded as Dejen walked out of the medical bay, moving to the bridge as he sat in his chair and let out a sigh. Within minutes, however he felt a rush as Windy slam into him and repeated to him.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” going on repeat as he held her close, her head under his chin as he forced the tears back as he told.

“It's...not your fault. It's not your fault.” soft hooves came as he glance to Mercy, seeing a sorrow on her face as she moved by for the hug, as both mares felt their Striped hugging them close as the waterworks slowly won out, as Mercy sent a single request for her children to tell everyone.

Don’t...let anyone see us right now. We’re in the middle of overcoming some news. keeping it at that as it might take a while for them to get through the fact that their male was sterile.

Even with the slow chill of air starting to permeate the small village, everyone was still out and about. Even Debt moved about, making his rounds and keeping an eye on things. So far, he had no work to attend to at the moment, and the slight news from days back was still in his head. Mostly of a small ‘problem’ his boss was working out.

Mercy and Windy closed things off from there, and even Herbal had withdrawn himself into his medical bay for Katty. The Shiftling had only gotten a bit paler each day and seemed to be in some coma. The doctor worried to no end, but he and Asha having no clue of what was happening. It really didn’t help that Asha wasn’t sure what she was seeing, but said things were fine. If they Shiftings weren't so new, perhaps they could have had an answer.

This left a odd… off time for them all. Gem mostly working on-and-off at the force with the minotaurs. He walking around. Mynu updating him of slight happenings… the Herno, Ommuna, had left not too long ago in search for a Herno Clan. All he gave was a ‘Leaving’ and after that was said, left.

“Oh Debt~” The gnoll flicked his ear and turned-- right in time for a large and way-too heavy bag land in his arms. Next moment, he found himself falling back and stuck on the ground… with a bag filled with who-knew what pinning him.

Feeling two things land on said bag, he looked up to find two grinning cats, Bina giggling behind a hand and Bakari smirking as he said, “This is for tossing that roll at Bina and making her drop.” And not a moment later, both jumped off the bag and ran off, laughing all the while and leaving the gnoll pinned.

Would of thought they couldn’t hold a grudge. Guess I was wrong. thought the gnoll as he grunted, gripping the bag as he had to drop his spear as he tried to get it off. Mostly for him failing as he glance to see Miko walking by, pausing to the sight of the gnoll stuck with a heavy bag, watching him trying and failing to push it off...and snickering. He snort as he forced his upper body to move it as he was slowly getting up as he turned his body some to the left.

Letting gravity do bit of the work as within five minutes of struggling muscles and harsh breathing as the contents in the bag shift to the side. As behind him Mynu was watching the scene in amusement as the vixen walks up and crouched down by his face as he grunts out. “Nice to see you’re amused by the hooligans handiwork.”

Grinning widely, Miko said, “Yeah, well, there a reason those two ankle biters caused ‘em slavers utter grief.” Then asked, “Need help there, mate? Or’s you fine with tryin’ to do dis yourself?”

Mynu called out, “We don’t mind, we can watch this all day.”

“I’m humble enough to ask for help when I need it.” grunt the gnoll. “Can you assist me please?”

Glancing back, Miko asked, “Whatcha think, girl, should we?”

‘Pff’ing to that, Mynu told, “Just get on the other side and lift.” Then went to one side herself.

Shaking her head, Miko glanced to the gnoll and told, “alright, here’s the plan, big-guy. We lift, you wiggle your way out. Forge’ tryin’ to push it off. Waste o’ energy.”

“Fine.” said the gnoll as he drop it back down as he let out a breath. “Couldn’t be able to push it off with whatever's in this thing.”

Rolling her eyes, Miko said, “Knowin’ those two? Must be dirt or sand.” Then counted with the other female before both gave a grunt and lifted-- taking off most the weight. It was enough that with a bit of wiggling, Debt slowly crawled his way out with his back before half of him was free. It was enough for him to pull his legs free, and hear the girls let go.

Mynu huffed and leaned on the bag, and asked, “Miko… how did they even lift this bag?”

Shaking her head, Miko said, “Them two are strong, Mynu. Watched Bakari punch thru a hull of ‘em airships an’ then lift a crate of steel beams before tossin’ it.” Then amended, “Alrigh’, the crate was big and even’ he grunted. Bu’ that’s sum five hundred pounds righ’ there. Don’ know their full strength, bu’ them kids are strong.”

500 pound bag? They’re probably strong enough to take on 20 gnolls and won’t break a sweat. idly thought the gnoll as he grabbed his halberd from the ground, dusting it off from the bits of snow as he said to the two. “Thank you for the assist, Mynu, Miko.” then giving a slight nod of his head as he said. “If you pardon me, I still have my rounds to complete.”

Waving a free hand, Miko said, “Sure thing, big-guy.” Then paused to ask, “Where the Cap’? Haven’ seen the bloke prancin’ around here for some time now, he up to somthin’ or whot not?” Her australian drawl almost speeding past his ears, but slow enough to comprehend.

“No, Sir is in the Captain's quarters. He and the other's...discover something unsettling, as both Mercy and Windy closed things out from the other's.” a slight frown in his tone as his helmet hid what emotions he showed. “I would inquire more, but I quote from Mercy, ‘Do the usual work and leave Dejen alone for a good week or so.’.” then added. “So, I’m doing my rounds as per usual until then.”

Miko frowned, but shrugged. “Alrigh’. Just had t’ ask since he said we be leavin’ but we’re still here.” Then gave a wave and told, “Le’ me know when he’s ready t’ get movin’.” Moving off to do presumably something of her own needs. Or wants.

Mynu watched for a moment before shaking her head and following Debt for the time being. “So I’m going to guess that nothing’s going to happen until whatever came up get’s finished?”

“Correct.” said Debt as he glance to her as he went on. “But with how things are in terms of the ship being slowly repair from hauling materials, to the doctor mate being unwell? I daresay we might not move here until spring, especially more until Ommunga returns with a traveling clan.” then added. “Which also means more rounds for me to do, until Sir orders otherwise of my needs.”

Giving a nod to that, Mynu looked on a head and remarked, “Why not take a perch at the current middle building?” Giving him a look while moving ahead, arms out to tell, “There’s only four houses… one more being made.” Then pointed to the first constructed house. “Going in circles wastes energy. Why not just climb the highest roof and watch form there?”

“Never did much climbing.” admit Debt. “I’m more used to moving in circles and being on my feet. Been doing that since my first employer. Walk around, look menacing, and be ready to kill something with my halberd.” going on to tell. “Climbing wasn’t a thing back in Arabia, as the only thing was to climb was hot stones or sand.”

Smirking, Mynu told, “This ain’t arabia.” Then took a small dash for the nearest wall. Debt had to watch for a moment as she went up swiftling a side, then give a little jump off to grab a small ledge. She pulled herself up, using small wedges, nooks or corners to climb up-- sometimes pulling with both arms to vault up a distance.

When she was halfway, the archer glanced back and down, hanging off the side of the building and asking, “Coming?”

Shrugging, he said. “Why not?” although he had to tie his Halberd on his back, as he glance to climb on something. He tried the wall, but he grunted as he tried to pull himself up, but his feet were having trouble getting him up. He drop down as he thought on how to get up to where she was, he glance to some barrels as he used those as to boost himself up as he tried to climb up a wall.

He paused when he was halfway on the wall as he glanced up and said to Mynu. “Feel free to laugh. This is out of my usual things to do.” as he managed to get on the top of the wall-- but shifted in uneasy movement as his arms were moving around, as if he was on a tightrope to balance on as he tried to get a footing on the thin line.

Only to trip and land face first into the ground, if it wasn’t for his helmet, he would of gotten a bloody nose for his troubles.

She smiled and rolled her eyes, going back to climbing towards the top and pausing at its peak. Glancing down, she could see the gnoll getting back up, and trying to figure out how to climb up. Thinking it over, she figured he had enough humiliation as it was. Reaching for her waist, she undid the rope there and used one end on a small part of the roof. Tossing the other down, the end tapped at the wall, drawing Debt’s attention.

Glancing to it, he had a feeling it was Mynu way of giving him some dignity left. He moved by the rope as he gave a slight tug, making sure it was connected as he took a low breath, and soon began climbing upwards on the rope towards the top. Rope climbing was a no brainer for him, as he recalled the times he had to climb up and down on a rope when he had to break into a house to do some employers dirty work.

Reaching to the top, he pulled himself up to where Mynu was as he spoke. “My thanks Mynu. What dignity I have left isn’t on the ground for each failed attempt I might have done in climbing up here.”

She shook her head and knelt down to pull the rope up, and told, “Arabia must be a really boring place without being able to climb up perches.” Her normally board or calm tone turning something akin to mirthful. “Around Iron Holds, there’s rocks, mountains, hills and cliffs. Not sure about you gnolls, but we Dogs gotta get used to climbing them, and even in tunnels and caves.”

She stood and told while her hands rested on her hips, “Something to think about while here. Knowing how to climb up and down like that makes traveling faster.” Then motioned to the town and past it, allowing for quite a view around. “If you happen to be traveling Iron Holds.”

Looking at the view, he felt a bit...nostalgic in him as he comments. “It makes me feel like I was among my Clan.” then carefully lean on the railing by the pole as he went on. “Most gnolls lived by plainlands or near the savannah. My Clan lived near up by Equestria with its trees. Or at least by the jungle area.”

Humming, Mynu said, “Clan huh?” Smiling a bit and told, “Must've been nice.” Then went back to watch over the area. “Iron Hols is great for a home. Great for Diamond Dog packs too. Plenty of stone and earth.” Then went on, “Didn’t stay with the pack though. I liked trees a bit more. Different. Liked to climb them whenever I get the chance.”

Nodding, he took his helmet off, letting it rest on the side as his burnt face look on ahead as he comments. “Never seen trees like the ones here before, closest trees I saw were either those long pole things with green leaves in Arabia, or what I recall of the jungle.” then added in bit mirthful. “You might of liked being around gnolls, despite us being somewhat stubborn, it is ruled by a matriarchy. You would of been treated well among some Clans. They value females who favor the bow and are quick on their feet.”

Snorting a bit, Mynu said, “Well… they might like me. But keeping with a Pack is only so good.” Then looked out to tell, “Wanted a bit more freedom. Part of why I’m a mercenary. Go where I want, where I want. Didn’t like staying deep in the earth for so long.” Then chuckled, “Funny how when the Pack left home here, I stayed. Couldn't leave it as it was.”

He gave a ghost of a smile as he said. “I understand the feeling.” thinking a bit as he said. “Working for past employers was...tiring, always be ordered around like some servant, always doing tasks, always being treated as lackey,” the tone of his voice shifted to spiteful at the end, but went to calm as he went on. “When I work under my employer as of now, I found...a certain freedom with him. Or at least, working for him, I didn’t mind staying with him, even if he wasn’t even paying me.”

Smiling a bit, Mynu told, “Sounds nice.” Then went back to watching over the area with a keen like gaze. She kept an eye mostly on the further areas, but otherwise didn’t watch much else. Though with a flick to a particularly white spot, she lifted a brow and asked, “What’s with the white big cat?” Then went on, “She seems… wired. Always happy and… cheerful.”

“From what I gained? Whitemane's sense things we usually can’t, noticing things, and predict things before they happen. Asha is, rowdy from other Whitemanes. However she is also content with what she is or sees, enjoy being what she is. Happy and cheerful.” then snorted. “But she’s also very perceptive, easily see within you and what ‘wounds’ you may have.”

Making a face to that, Mynu told, “Sounds creepy.” Then starred on and told, “Never liked those magic casting people. Just strange and makes my job a pain when magic solves everything for them.” Reaching a hand over to grab an arrow and spin it between her fingers iddily.

“Hard to say if she used magic beside healing.” admit the gnoll. “For Whitemanes, magic is used for healing at best, never to harm. Goes against their codes as Whitemanes.” then added. “However, you must admit, without her, then the land wouldn’t be fertile again, give the people here a pain in growing crops if the land won’t grow them.”

She thought on that a bit and in reluctance, nodded. It was darn useful, and really did help everyone out involved. Still, the idea that Asha could see into someone and just know stuff was still creepy.

Standing for a while in thought, the archer glanced and said, “So Arabia… it’s where you're from.” Then glanced back out to ask, “Why here? Would have thought with a ship like yours, you’d go for someplace with a bit more profit. Not the dirt-hole that’s my home.”

“We would, had my employer not taken one thought into consideration.” looking to Mynu as he said. “Changeling Hunters. While the Hunters here are limited with the laws, it wasn’t so in Arabia. Each city has its own rules, its own laws, and the Hunters were allowed to chase changelings, kill them even in public without trial. Within exception of a city we were in, it was bad for changelings to be in Arabia.

“We tried the Isles, a place far in the sea and are made up of islands. While they push Hunters out...they would of kept the changelings and a Queen within a heavily defended village, unable to leave much within 2 years. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do best, even more with how they ran things. We would of try with Equestria but….”

Thinking some, Mynu told, “I heard of that in the Isles.” Then pushed to tell, “Maltar patrols around there most.” Then turned her head to inform, “Not sure how much the Boss told, but he’s a pretty infamous slaver pirate. He’s been trying to break into the Southern Isles for years. But they keep a tight defense down there.”

Looking ahead, she went on, “Zebra’s catch a hefty price. Exotic they say. If he got in, and noticed changelings or a queen?” Mynu snorted and said, “I can see a huge bargaining auction. He would probably waste a couple of ships to break in for a Queen changeling. Doubt any other slavers have sold one of those. Would kill for that. Who knows the price a Queen would go for.”

“In Arabia, the price would have been nearly 3 million shekels.” said Debt simply. “Translate that into bits, you would get at least 1.2 million golden bits.” glancing to Mynu as he went on. “And that's one price set for everyone in Arabia, even the Hunters would pay more to gain their hands on a live Queen.”

Shaking her head, Mynu told almost monotone, “Real crazy.” Then went back onto staring off before commenting, “Anyways. I think that’s why there’s a two-year policy. With Slavers like Maltar trying to break in, they’re being careful.”

“Something to inform then.” said Debt, as he was quiet for a bit, before he soon asked. “Mynu, when we do leave in spring to do whatever my employer plans...what are you planning to do? Besides keeping an eye on the town?” glancing to her as he went on. “Odds are, my employer is going to give a big speech to the town, inform the woodcutter that he’s letting the minotaur be the mayor, and my employer setting out as a Lord...but until that happens, we’ll be in the west.”

“Are you going to accompany that mare in her caravans? With Ommuna possible clan bringing, this town will be defended.”

With certainty, Mynu told, “Ommuna will pull through. I know he will. He’s good on his word.” Then thought on to add, “Sheer Force has connections. I’m sure she’ll be fine with her fellow pony.” Thinking a bit more before saying, “I’m thinking of coming with you all.”

There was surprise in his eyes, as he wasn’t expecting that as he asked. “You sure? It's doubtful some of us, or all of us are going to be alive if we even attempted it.”

To answer that, Mynu told, “Miko’s going with you.” Saying it as a statement. “She did me a favor.” Looking around to see if she could find the kitsune. Spotting her by a little campsite self-made, the archer explained. “Before I started staying in my hometown more as a defense? Miko came looking for mercenaries to go on some hunt for treasure.”

“Had this old map and wired legend and all.” Told the dog with slight amusement. “Was deep in Iron Holds more hostile environments where geysers and rockslides happened often. We had a group of fifteen go in, Sheer Force, Ommuna, Bumiso, Juvmi and I were with. The deal being that we get some profit from the trip.”

She shrugged a bit and went on. “It was dangerous. There was an old ancient dragon around that ate two of the 15. Then, another died to a fallen boulder. The next to a poisonous spider. When we got to the temple, there were some curse that brought the dead to life. Lost most of the crew from there.” Then shook her head. “They didn’t listen to Miko, wanted the treasure for themselves and got killed in the process.”

“Well, when we found it?” The archer smiled, “There was plenty of gold, riches, jewels… we took what we could. Miko just grabbed some odd artifact and took what riches she could before we escaped. Kept me alive when a dart caught my arm, saved my life from being poisoned.”

She watched on as Miko was getting a meal ready and told more softly. “After that, we all headed out to get the gold where we needed. Sheer Force sent hers to her merchant friend. The two minotaurs stowed it away for later use. Ommuna took it back to his Village to use. I used mine to buy what food, water, clothes and supplies I could for here.”

A smiled from as the archer finished, “Miko kept her artifact, but gave me the rest of the gold. Told me to use it for my home…” Sighing a bit happily. “That extra gold got this town past the next winter. It got harsh at the end and snowed it all in. Had just enough to buy just a bit more food to last through it. Survived until spring came. That… was about two years ago now, give or take.”

Being silent at that, Debt was taking it all in as he soon said. “You owed her twice. One for the poison, the other for the gold. You’re willing to go with her, even with no payment ...I can respect that and understand your reasons.” said Debt as he gave a nod to her.

“She’s a good friend.” Mynu seemed to affirm. “She helped me when she didn’t have to. But going on her risky treasure hunt… well, it brought us five mercenaries together. Made her our unspoken friend too. People like her are… rare it seems.” Then snorted, “Or… outside Equestria.” Rolling her eyes, “Ponies and their Friendship.”

Snorting in agreement, Debt told. “Agreed. In Arabia, its either be a cutthroat or be the next tool.” glancing to the warship as he went on. “I say that my employer was rare, even in Arabia standards. You can say that he saw me more than a tool, more than a...blemish. But a good bodyguard.” then snort in amusement. “Although the latter was for my sake, as I prefer to keep it like that, but I think...he knows that he sees me more than a bodyguard, but more than a friend, just doesn’t say it for my sake.”

Laughing lowly, Mynu said, “Maybe it’s like with I and Miko.” Gaining a glance as she said, “I don’t say it, but Miko jokes we’re sisters by heart. Maybe you and Boss are brothers by heart.” Then looked forward telling, “Ommuna said one thing right about harsh times. Brings people close. Only when death comes for you, do you see who your true allies are when they come to fight it in your stead.”

Giving a nod, Debt agreed. “It does show who fully trust in who.” then was quiet as he soon said. “It is good to...talk of these things. I rarely talk about it with the other's, mostly because I rather not indulge in their curiosity of me, or my past.” snorting a bit in annoyance. “They joke sometimes, that I am mysterious and silent as a statue.”

Snorting, Mynu told, “While Arabia’s cut throat or tool, Iron holds got a philosophy of nun’ya.”

“Then it is good we are in the Holds, I like this ‘nunya’ very much. But out of curiosity, what does ‘nun’ya’ mean?”

With a face looking controls, but ready to burst out grinning, Mynu told, “Nun’ya business.”

A low chuckle of amusement came out of the gnoll, as he shakes his head a bit and said. “I must use that line whenever Gem or someone prods of me. Good to get their looks of surprise.”

Shaking her head and freely chuckling too, Mynu told, “Minotaurs are stubborn as bulls. They don’t want to say something, they won’t. Herno are stiff and will not speak if they don’t want to. Reason why all say they share the Nun’ya philosophy. If they don’t say, it’s not worth trying to prod for. They won’t talk no matter how hard you try.”

Calming some, he looked around the landscape as he remarked. “I might enjoy staying here in the Iron Holds when my employer takes down Maltar. It would be nice to be with the nun’ya thinking.” then added in annoyance. “Going to be hard to get used to the cold, but with plenty of fur, I’ll adapt.”

Huffing, Mynu told, “Wait until winter finally hits. You’ll be praising the Stone or whatever you believe in for whatever pelts or fire you can get close to.”

Frowning a bit, he said. “I think I’ll be praising the sun for any actual warmth I can get.” then soon asked. “How bad does winter usually get?”

Looking around, the archer said, “The very least? Heavy snow and near 20 degrees.” Then went on, “At worst? Fully snowed in while there’s a constant blizzard and below 0.” She sighed and glanced up to say, “It’s worse up north. But we’re close enough that the more severe ice storms sometimes drift down from time to time.”

“We may have to get more goat wool for everyone, specifically for Asha.” said Debt as he glanced to the white spot lioness doing something as he asked to Mynu. “I’m guessing it's also going to get darker faster and less lighter until spring comes? I noticed a slight pattern of it becoming dark faster than user in the evening times.”

Nodding to this, Mynu explained, “Days shorten and night becomes common. Expect it to be night for most of the time during winter. Further up north, sometimes night lasts for a couple of days before the sun shows for one, then back to dark. It’s like that until Winter is over.”

Thinking a bit more, he asked. “Anything coming down beside snow? Something like this ‘hail’ my employer mentions that come up now and then?”

Snorting, Mynu told flatly, “Hail is clumps of ice. Think of it as snow so backed together, it’s a round ball of rock.” Then held up her fingers, “Can be small as a droplet.” Then cupped her hand, “Or one of those balls you toss around. And if a blizzard hits? I wouldn’t be surprised if we get a few ball sized ones. Will maybe damage or break a few roofs.”

“Troubling.” was all Debt said, as he leaned against the pole, letting everything he knew sunken in, as he remarked. “I’ll have my work cut out for me with the weather alone. Even more with snow coming down hard.”

“Be happy that Raiders and Bandits have the brains to bunker down during winter.” Told the Archer. “Even if it makes great cover, the snow and ice is just as likely to kill them from sheer cold. Attacking and raiding is the last thing you want to do during winter.”

He couldn’t help but say in amusement. “Means less guarding for us to do in the cold freezing snow.” then thought a bit and soon asked. “What was that thing in the sky? That light of colors just moving in the air? I recall seeing one a few days ago, I never...saw anything as beautiful as that before.”

Smiling, Mynu said, “The Herno call them the Dancing Lights. To them it’s a sign from the ancestors to come home. The stronger the light show and Dance, the more they are needed at home.” Then she shook her head and said, “Never really believed it… but I know Ommuna will leave for home if they get large enough. It’s a tradition for them.”

“They show up during winter.” She went on. “Always like to take a few nights to watch them before it gets too cold or the snow get’s server. And they are beautiful. My ancestor Pack used to think they were gems trapped in the sky, as ridiculous as it sounds.”

“Doesn’t sound ridiculous,” said Debt as he told with a glance to the sky. “My Clan use to believe that them stars were of our ancestors, looking down upon those of the current generation,” he snort a bit as he told. “Although the shamans always said the brighter ones were of the females, the dimmer ones were for the males. I think your version Pack version is a lot better than my Clan one.”

Chuckling, Mynu said, “Well, the Pack believed that our ancestors souls rested in the stone that they cherished most.” Then pointed upwards with her played with arrow to tell, “They thought that the stars were actually diamonds. And they wanted to all dig skywards to get them for great riches.” Then snorted, “Imagine how my ancestor pack got whenever there were sightings of Falling Stars?”

“I can,” said Debt with a low smile. “Them all rushing to it, digging their way to the exact location, and then play king of the hill on who can keep the ‘diamond’ first as they fought over it.”

Shaking her head, the archer said in musing, “Ownership by strength. That is the rule of the Packs. You want to keep something? You prove it with strength. You want to be Alpha, prove by strength. To make and keep a blade?” Then shrugged, “By strength. The weak follow the strong lead. Something we all follow and understand.” Then rolled her eyes, “Mostly why males lead. Most of them are just stronger in body. Only cunning females become alphas.”

Giving a snort, he said. “Odd, but I understand.” shaking his head as he told. “Very different from gnolls. Since its matriarchy, females rule, rule as heads, warriors, huntress, they pick and make decisions. Males are seen as lesser, I can see a female gnoll defeating many diamond dogs with brute strength.”

“Then it would be the cunning males she would have to fear.” Mynu said thoughtfully. “We are skilled with traps. And unlike many, we will always fight dirty. For us dogs, you use all strength. Holding back shows weakness.” Then shook her head a bit. “Maybe why so many Diamond dogs have such a bad reputation. Everything about us is dirty to everyone.”

“Probably not as bad as gnolls. Gnolls generally raid from others, even other Clans. We don’t care for others except in the Clan, all we care about is profit, goods, tools, and power. Not many trust gnolls, even some who are mercenaries.” then thought a bit and soon added. “Doesn’t help that we’re stubborn and stupid compare to most, as well as very ‘barbaric’ to some cultures. I think we have bad rep than diamond dogs.”

Laughing a bit to that, Mynu joked, “If gnolls are seen as barbaric, stubborn and stupid, then I guess Diamond dogs are the slime-balls, backstabbers and illiterates.”

Giving a small grin, Debt told. “Did I forget to mention most Clans don’t bother reading? We deem it as, ‘a waste of time’ and prefer the more oral dialect of learning.”

Pointing to her eyes, the archer told, “Farsighted. Most Dogs don’t have the eyesight to read up close.”

He hums a bit, as he soon said. “Gnolls get easily angered. Even with petty reasons.”

Thinking, Mynu said, “Packs are smelly, because it’s how we help figure out who is from which pack.” Then shook her head, “We don’t mind bad smells. You get used to it they say.”

Thinking to himself, Debt told. “Sometimes when Clan raid other Clans, they destroy other Clan into nothing and take survivors as trophies. Said its how to ‘weed out weak’ in Clans.”

Shaking her head, Mynu said, “Funny. Pack’s fight the other and if you can beat the other to the ground, they either leave or submit into the new pack, the Alpha of the losing pack is made a permanent Omega.”

“Odd, usually the head of a Clan is dead, and the male of the head female is usually the new toy for conquering Clan.” then thought as he amended. “Most males who are survivors of destroy Clan are usually made as toys for the females, the females however go through a trial to see if they’re worthy to be part of their new Clan.”

Thinking that over, Mynu said, “The closest thing we have to that is Gain by Strength. What others see as slavery is merely how packs gain numbers. If you fail to escape from a trapper, you lost your right to the hunter. It’s not seen as slavery to most Dogs, but a right of ownership over a weaker individual.” Then shook her head, “I never liked it. I didn’t find it fair for other races.”

Nodding, he said. “Never could try to hunt well, mostly because no one taught me.” shrugging a bit as he admits. “Clan was destroyed, I was a cub by then, didn’t see much use, so sold me, learned everything by...tutelage.” being oddly vague at the end of that.

Thinking to herself, the D-dog told, “Sorry for the loss.” Then thought of something in her head before glancing down. “How would the gnoll Clans feel about those two?” Pointing down towards the more open areas outside the town’s range. With a glance, Debt saw both Bina and Bakari doing… something, but the dog went on. “Miko talks about them like siblings when she visits… but all I know is that they are important. And strong. What would the Clans do?”

A frown on his face, thinking hard on it as he admits. “Hard to say which Clan might feel...but know that most will feel like this.” motioning a hand to Bina. “Treat her well, treat her like warrioress, suggest she finds good male to bed, mostly to let her aggression out.” frowning a bit as he motioned to Bakari. “See him as second class, try to discipline him, make him listen. Fail to do so, will try to domesticate him, or break his will. Female gnolls don’t like males who they can’t control, much less keep spirit under control.”

Frowning, Mynu commented, “Bakari, form Miko’s own words, doesn't sound like the sort to break. Even Bina is defensive, form what I hear…” Dragging off a bit before shaking her head. “Probably doesn't matter… but they are cubs. Even for herno they’re young to be traveling around. I don’t worry of Packs. By strength alone, the packs would easily leave them alone. See them as possible Alphas.” Then asked, “What if they can’t break a male, the Clans?”

He was silent at that, thinking of the past as he said. “Gelded.” glancing to her as he added. “Highest way to punish and humiliate the male. Make him unable to sire young, but can still use him for female needs.”

Wincing, Mynu could see that was pretty server. But glancing to the two herno, she said, “What if it’s not enough?” She felt that it was more than enough, but part of her still felt concerned.

“...Some Clans might decide to drug the male, make him unable to feel anything for the night...before cutting off his limbs, then closing the wounds, then in the morning, he is awakened to see his arms and legs were gone. Hanging naked in the nude among the Clans as a spectacle, and as a pleasure tool for females when they really get nasty. Sometimes death is preferable than that.”

Nodding slowly, it was a sight that Mynu hoped to never see. “Would bina be able to keep Bakari safe in any way? They are… well, inseparable at times.”

“....unless they lie about their relationship of siblings? Then the only other option is to kill the gnolls, or leave the Clans before the Clans even ask them to come. That is the possible safe way for Bina to keep Bakari safe.”

Humming to that. She gave a little nod. “Hopefully it never happens. But I thought I’d ask. Miko would be angry at me if I didn’t keep them safe.” Then shook her head, “Don’t know why she would want me to though… with what they’ve done to Slavers or the stuff they can lift and run past? I’m not sure if I’m even needed.”

“Even if they are able to do what she mentions of them doing? They are still two cubs.” glancing to the twins as he said. “Bakari is arrogant at times, Bina is to worrying. Sometimes when one is in danger, the other rush to aid them, even forgetting their surroundings. One place arrow, one well hit poison dart-- and they’re dead. What kept them alive is either by someone intervention-- or luck alone.”

To this, the archer had to agree on. “Even I’m not sure how they have survived this long.” Tilting her head to tell, “Miko only told me so much, but even I have trouble believing they have been traveling for years on their own. They would have been…. Much too young to be on their own, but they’re here… still alive.” Sounding puzzled. “Do you get the feeling that something just isn’t…” not sure how to fully finish.

“Right? Normal? Correct? Part of the situation?” finished the gnoll as he said. “I had. All the time, ever since I’ve been in employment by my employer? I always get the feeling that something is out of place.” glancing to the Warship as he continued. “Its something I’ve been trying to understand him, somehow, someway, he has been able to defy the odds. Able to kill my former employer, able to take in a Queen under his employment. Able to craft and create things that seem impossible….

“But the biggest I’ve tried to understand?” glancing to her as he told. “His uncanny ways of being lucky even at times when things seem deadly of whatever we face. It is like the gods of luck bestow their blessing onto him.”

Snorting a bit to this, Mynu told, “I would try and say Miko should take that, but I know that she’s not lucky. Just determined.” Then said blankly to the side, “Very determined and hotheaded.” Then shook her head, “Makes me wonder what will occur with a female like Miko and two cubs like Bina and Bakari traveling with our Boss?”

“Very chaotic, very unpredictable, and high risks with possible high rewards.” stated Debt. “Knowing my employer, he always will play a huge gamble in risks, and get the pot, or at times something out of those risks.” he however was quiet as he thought for a bit. Thinking a bit as he asked. “Do you think with someone as determined as Miko, and someone as lucky as my employer ...that the world will shake in terror of what might happen with our group?”

Smiling some, Mynu seemed to stare on and say, “Maybe if the metal puppet was with, it might be.” Seeming to not notice the silent pause Debt had.

“Metal puppet? Do you mean...Felix?”

Blinking, the dog turned her head and asked, “Is that it?” Then shook her head. “Just some rumor around the Holds. A metal puppet always on the move with nothing holding it but it’s own will.” Then looked out telling, “Since it showed up, it’s been… doing things. Fixing some problems, breaking others. I think it’s gotten a favor or two from some people. Not too many talk about it, but whenever it’s sighted, something seems to change suddenly.”

Thinking for a bit ...Debt admitted. “He was with us in Arabia...He provides another option for my employer, leaving the Arabia sands to the Isles...then we came here through Equestria. In a way...Felix did change our pathway, probably without knowing it too.”

Frowning a bit, the archer remarked, “First dealing with an uprising. Then stopping a assassination plot. Getting rid of a slaver cell… and now you all coming here.” She let that settle for a moment before telling, “The metal puppet, Felix? Those are the things that happened here in the holds-- or what I know of. I hear in rumors he’s been…. All over the place. Some try to chase but…” She shrugged and put the arrow away. “No one can seem to track him.”

“Possibly because he tends to move in random directions. Going where he pleases.” stated Debt, as he leaned back, he remarked. “For a little guy, he’s been having a huge count of rumors and deeds. Make one wonder he might even gain favor of the Celestial sisters themselves.”

Shaking her head, Mynu said, “Wouldn’t know. But I know the King hopes to find him and thank him for those three things I mentioned. They helped keep things in order while handling the civil war the two nobles had. It’s why he called martial law and put his hoof down, it was getting out of hand.” She looked out and frowned. “If Felix showed up… maybe things will get more chaotic.” Then sighed out, “This’ll be a… interesting trip I’m coming on, isn’t it?”

“Very.” confirmed the gnoll, looking in silence around them as to just enjoy what peace they had together in their watch.

Herbal look over Katty body, worried filled him as he rested by her in the bed. Wing curled around her as he kept vigil watch over her. While he peeked his head out for food and such-- the doctor holed up in his medical bay as to keep close to his Shiftling. He heard bits that Dejen was coming out of his room to inform a few things that need to be done.

But Herbal didn’t care about such things. Right now he was focused on Katty and her health. The Shiftling was in a near coma like state, talking those breaths, being in her shiftling form as she was stiff, her body literally becoming unmoving. He nearly had to drag Asha to come here, but the Lioness assured that Katty was alive. She even radiated warmth, she was unmoving yes...but was looking peacefully asleep.

It didn’t mean that the doctor was worried for her, as he curled by her, gave nuzzles, read a bit of stories like before. Even trying to inform her how things were going outside. It didn’t help his nerves to see her mane and tail hairs going bit by bit over time, in fact it worried him more. If it wasn’t for the need of food, relief in the toilet, a shower, or checking on a few patients that need his aid-- Herbal would glue himself next to Katty 24/7.

Sighing again, he continued to just rest near the shiftling. Part of him thought about sending a message to Shima, trying to get into contact… but that was a bad idea because of miss-possessive that was after him. Even more if Dejeen found the letter somehow. They really didn’t need to be tracked back.

Even as he glanced up and considered leaving out for food again, the thestral had to blink. Swiveling his ear, he was sure he heard something. Then, he felt it. A slight shift. Glancing down, Herbal focused all his attention on the still from that gave a small sound. This made him ever more attentive, listening to a slight shifting… rubbing and… cracking?

For a moment he was confused before there was another heave of movement. One that made the dull bluish color of the shell… shift? No, it moved. He could see it moving! And with another cracking, no, a snapping sound, he felt himself jump back as the back of the shell seemed to snap, a long crack slowly forming.

W-What? thought Herbal as it looks like that...that Katty body was breaking? No it was more like her shell was…He pause in that as he questioned. Is...is she molting? finding that idea utterly ridiculous-- but on the other hand...what other explanation could he give? It also...also gave him hope. Hope that Katty was okay, hope that she was going to break out-- hope that she would be alright and safe in his forelegs and wings again!

Another squelching crack sounded, making him flinch at the alien sound. He felt even more disconcerted at the slight slim-like liquid that leaked out, and on the bed no less. Something to clean up. But seeing another heave, he could see her back, his lovely mare’s back was-- it was….

Light blue. It was light blue and not as Opal and even…. Furry? He had to blink and make sure his glasses were on straight. This only confirmed that, yes, that was fur. Not a soft shell, but fur.

Why did his shiftling have fur after a supposedly-possible-molting?

Slowly he trot up by the bed as did his best to move around the liquid as he spoke. “Katty? Are you...okay?” seeing a jerk and heave of breath, the shell cracks further open at his voice as he almost jumped back. But talking a low breath to calm himself, he walked closer to the body and the furry back as he asked. “Do you need anything Katty?”

Another loud crack was the only response, a muffling slightly heard, but nothing he could translate. It left him wondering, and only waiting, as over and over, Katty jerked and heaved. Eventually, the crack reached and broke around the back of the shells head. While more slime splattered, he heard a large and long gasp-- before followed by coughing and gagging. And once more, more slime as Katty hacked it out.

Even now, Herbal could see her head with fur, her mane much yellow and shiny, if not short at the moment. She was also as lovely as before-- if not covered in slime. She breathed hard and labored, but turned her tired eyes around, showing the same black scarla and, much to his interest, greener irises.

Seeing him, Katty gave a contented smile, her attention, once double jointed and curved, were much more… well, longer, more curved and almost branch like. Almost like a moth’s, he reflected but… not quite the same.

“Love.” She sighed out. “Am… very tired.” Then looked down, annoyed at the rest of her still in her shell. “Am… very stuck too.” Jerking again to try and get free.

Letting a relieved breath go out, he said. “I’ll help.” getting on the bed as he carefully pull the shell around the free parts of Katty as he look to her and said. “Katty you...you look...leaner.” noticing how lean she was than before, helping her free arm as he works on the other side as he asked. “What happened? You...were asleep, more tired…” then nuzzle her face, ignoring the slime as he admitted. “I was scared on what happened to you.”

Nuzzling back, if not tiredly, he heard her say, “No know…” Then scrunched her face and told, “Am hungry…”

Blinking some, he asked in confusion as he freed her other foreleg as he works on the bottom. “You’re not feeding on my emotions?”

She blinked in a slow maker, even as she worked and eventually pulled a foreleg free. “Am… trying?” Then focused before saying, “Still feel. Still sense worry.” Then focused more… then there was a low growling sound from her tummy, a sound that Herbal was sure Katty never made before. Or for any Shiftling for that matter.

“Your stomach...growled.” said Herbal in surprise, as he broke more of the shell as he was slowly getting her lower half out as he soon said. “Wait… your stomach, that never happens. I...I think you’re hungry for actual food.” then when he broke enough of the lower ends he said. “Hang on, I need to get you soap! your body might not be adjusted to take actual food! I’ll be back!” quickly galloping out as he bumped into a changeling and soon told.

“Get one of the chefs cooking some soup, highly nutritious and easy to swallow, stat!” the changeling blink, but before he could ask, Herbal gallop as if Nightmare Moon was after him. The changeling slowly put his head through the doorway-- and jump back in surprise as he said. “By the Queen, what happen to you!?”

Katty blinked and looked to the changeling before saying, “Me no know.” Then made a small sound, “Am hungry.” Her newly shaped antennal flicking some while her ears pinned back. It was even now apparent, with her limbs free, that her claws were still in place, if not less insect like and smaller.

“You look like a changeling that tried to be a diamond dog, but became a weird two-leg pony.” remark the drone as his senses made him move as Herbal was galloping back with a protective tray as he told.

“I got food!” quickly entering in as he move the tray on a table, talking deep breaths as he added. “Fastest. Running. I ever...did.” calming himself as he move the cover off as he saw her antennai flicking, looking towards the tray as Katty was focus on it, with her eyes dilate and her nose flaring abit. He chuckle as he assured. “I’ll bring it to you, Sweety. We just need to get you out of your shell first.” trotting by her as to get the last of her out of the old body she was in.

Not as soon as she was free, did she nearly scramble for the food that was in her senses. The soup, once she reached it, was next attacked. Herbal had to go and try and control her. It was like she was starving! Though in retrospect, she was stuck in her own body for over a week. Who knows if she had any food to sustain herself during all that time. Still, it was almost impossible to keep her from chugging the warm soup down-- thankfully not hot.

“Easy Sweety, easy.” console the stallion as he held the bowl back, as to allow her to breathe in while she nearly lunges for more food. He kept the bowl tipped back, making sure that she doesn’t try to drink it all in one go. She wasn’t used to actual food yet. However after it was gone, she licked the bowl clean and moving about in sluggish movement. Attentively looking around for more food to consume.

He glanced to his snack board of dried fruits, as he sighed and muttered. “The sacrifices I give.” then moved to the cover of dried fruits as he open the cover drawer. Talking out the bag of dried food as he almost had to raise a hoof to stop her. “Hold it Katty! I know you're hungry, but this needs to be chewed, not consume like before!”

For a moment he felt his heart almost wrench as she shook and said with the most puppy-dog of gazes, “But Love ...Huuuuuuungryyyyyyyy~” Sounding ever so pitiful as she looked to the dried fruit… and like before her eyes seemed to dilate. Whatever control she had left and she lunged-- and fell flat on her face due to her wobbly legs.

Giving a tired sigh, he put the bag back on its place. Moving to carefully grab her by her chest as he held her in his forelegs. “Come now you hungry Shiftling. I’ll feed you.” then moved her on the bed as he gently push the shell on the ground. Letting her lay down as he flew back to the bag, getting it as he flew back to their mat. He rest on his haunches-- but pulled her to lean her back on him as he told.

“But if you are going to eat, I’m going to feed you, understand Katty?”

She nodded slowly, but whined, “Am hungry….”

“And your stud will feed you.” assured the doctor as he let his wings wrap around her as he took out a hoof full of dried fruits was moving to her face as she lost control with her eyes dilate. Her mouth open with sharp fangs snapping and chewing on the fruit. Herbal kept his wings wrap tightly as he almost jumped, he thankfully draw his hoof back as he noted. New long fangs. Okay, something to watch out for.

He took out another hoof full, this time waiting as he nuzzle her neck and said. “Please try not to snap at the fruit, you almost bit me by accident Sweety.”

While she gulped down her chewed food, Katty seemed to blink owlishly… before alarm filled her, “I bit?!” Then said, “I, I not, I just, I...I…” blinking and next to solely focusing on the next fruit, belly gurgling loudly.

“I know. I know.” said Herbal as this time he toss the fruit at her, letting her catch it with her mouth with a snap. Chewing them as he sniffed the slime that was still on her. Doesn’t smell bad… then slowly lick a bit for the taste. Doesn’t taste bad...but it got a tingling feeling, even a warm feeling in my mouth...and in me. letting her chew and swallow as he took careful licks in cleaning Katty mane, figuring that was the best way to start.

He let her feed as he began to feel a bit warmer with each lick of his grooming, tossing fruits at her to eat as he noticed his heart rate is climbing...for some odd reason. He felt a very odd urge in him to want and smell her. He reaches into the bag, noticing it was empty as he thought. Not good. as he stops grooming her as he noticed...something was off as he cleared his throat and asked. “K-Katty, are you still hungry?”

“Yes.” She said, though in a more relaxed tone. “Am hungry still. Better, but still hungry.” Giving a disappointed sound when she could see his bag was empty.

“Okay, I think ...we need to go to the kitchen now.” said Herbal, as he moved his wings off of her, and soon carried her off the bed as he gently laid her on the ground, letting go and moving by her side as he asked. “Need my wing to hold you up, Sweety?”

Smiling, she said, “Little… Love.” Leaning on him and moving with shaky legs.

Ravenous.

Everyone that was in the kitchen could only define Katty as Ravenous at the moment. Even now a changeling off to the side was cooking another bit of food, which would go on a plate, and be devoured by one, different, but also very hungry shiftling. Asha seemed to even blink in mild surprise and remark, “I’m surprised she’s keeping her figure so well with all that food.”

Bakari said, “I’m more surprised that she’s still eating.” Then asked to Herbal, “How many plates has she eaten?”

“Six, which is surprising.” remarking Herbal as he correct himself. “Seven now.”

“By the Stone, is she going to eat till plate ten?” questioned Gem as Herbal sighed.

“I hope not, otherwise I’m fearful for how much she needs to eat in the future.”

“No kiddin’.” Said Bakari as plate number eight was already being attacked, and striking dangerously fast. “She looks like a woodchucker gone wild.” Which got a small slap from his sister. But as soon as plate eight was clanked off to the side, they heard a burp.

Katty blinked a few times…. And said, “Am tired now.” And not a second later, faceplate into the table asleep. It left everyone a bit dumbfoundedly confused on what just happened.

“Well...at least she didn’t reach to plate 10.” said Gem as she look to Herbal moving to Katty sided to carefully put on his back. “Any idea what happen?”

He glance to them as he admits. “I don’t know, but I can summarize a guess. Katty undergo a sort of metamorphosis transformation, changing herself for whatever reason I can guess. But in exchange for that transformation, she needed to sleep and form on the inside, as she didn’t eat anything for a week. So when she got out, newly formed, all she could probably think of is eating.” then glance to the plates as he added.

“Or my second guess is that she's a heavy eater now.”

While Bina was secretly happy that Katty no longer looked like some bug --something she tried to not be uncomfortable about around the changelings-- she asked, “What happened to her being a, well… Emotionvore?” Which, was a good question.

“She mention she could feel me still, but for whatever reason she couldn’t eat my emotions. I think in her changing, she lost some ability in eating emotions in exchange for actual food. Yes she can still senses emotions, but I don’t know how much.”

“Essentially, you are making wild guesses doc?” asked Gem as Herbal managed to get Katty fitted nicely on his back as he told.

“Gem, this is unknown territory evolution at its work. I’m a doctor, not a genetic researcher. All I can make is wild guesses and speculations, until we can reach to Shima --being if she has any idea on this due to some situation with her-- we’re basically finding this out as we go along.”

Asha nodded some and tilted her head a bit.. Then smiled and said, “Well, there’s good news.” Getting looks as she chirped, “Katty’s fully fertile now!”

There was surprise at that as Gem blinked, a few changelings gave gaping mouths. And Herbal was looking surprised and happy at the same time, although Gem asked. “When you say fully fertile, you mean like a mare in their heat fertile or…?”

Thinking of that, Asha said, “Well, it’s not like a heat.” Then pointed out, “More like that if they tried to have foals, it’ll probably happen now. Before she was still developing the needed eggs to be fertilized. Now? They’re fully formed. Must of happened after I looked at her last.”

Scrunching up her face, Bina said, “So… they can have kids now, and it could be… any time?” Tilting her head a bit to that. She was no stranger to sex, or rather how it worked. But she wanted to make sure she was clear.

“If I’m seeing it right? Yup.” Nodded Asha.

“While I’m sure the doc is happy at that,” said Gem as she grinned to Herbal before looking to Asha. “Any idea why Katty look more like a sexulaize mare now?”

The big cat shrugged, “I don’t know. I do know the growing pains are gone. And I know she’s not hungry anymore. And I can tell you now that trying for little babies now would be a bad idea.”

With a look, Bakari asked, “Why?”

“Winter’s coming.” Told the Lioness simply. “I might have never grown up here, but I’ve listened to the villagers. You don’t want to have a baby during winter. And I think Mercy mentioned how Shiftlings can have lots of baby’s and fast, so…”

“And even if there's underground, there's not going to be lots of food to pass around.” added Herbal in a grim manner, then nodded and said. “I’ll be sure to warn Katty of it, when she wakes up.” then trots off to his room as Gem shook her head and said.

“Well, at least I’m glad that the doc ain’t holed up in his room anymore. It was getting kinda anxious to see him staying near her all the time without separating her unless had to. I remember this one time when he grab a meal, he gallop straight back into that room the moment he took his food. I think he surprised a few changelings on how fast he could go.”

Bakari gave a shrug and looked off indifferently to the matter. He seemed to lose interest form there and slightly wander off. Bina looked between him and the others before saying, “Maybe things will get better now.” Then turned to follow her brother.

Asha smiled at the two before looking to the rest and telling, “Still… if Katty needs food now, it’s probably a good idea to keep it ready for her. I’ve only seen lions and hyenas get that ravenous over food.”

“Lions I can get-- but Hyenas too?” asked Gem as she had doubt in her tone.

“Oh trust me.” Asha spoke with a grin. “When a hyena is really hungry, they’ll risk tangoing with a Pride of lions to get a bite of their catch. Steal it on some occasions.”

“Did they ever succeed?” asked Gem as she joked. “Because I’m sure while a Spotted could pull it off, the Striped will have trouble in stealing from the Lions.”

Giggling, Asha told, “It depends on how much the Pride gives a care, or if a Stripped uses a smoke bomb.” Then giggled, “Or bright pink paint bombs. That was my most favorite one for a prank!”

Admonish with a grin, Gem said. “Noooo, they actually used paint on Lions? Ohoho, the Lions were pissed at them, were they?”

Shaking her head, the Lioness told them all with a splitting grin, “Ran after a jury rigged dinghy, shouting all the while.” Then giggled, “They were more angry at being painted pink than losing their meal.”

A few laughs at the mental image, painted pink lions and lioness as a changeling asked. “Does it happen often, or whenever the Striped want to prod them now and then?”

Rolling her eyes, Asha told, “Dadisi said it was the Blackmane’s ideas. The idea was that if a Striped could get the jump on a Lion? Then those lions weren't being aware of things enough and could have been an enemy attack.” Then went on to explain, “It’s why Striped and Spotted are allowed to steal a meal. It would be the same concept if a slaver came along to steal a person from our home.”

“So its not only a way to get fun out of the lions-- but also a way to test and remind them of the slavers?” said Gem in a thoughtful tone. “That explain a few things.” then shake her head and said. “Speaking of Stripes, any idea on how the boss is feeling? Sure he still has that grin, good mood and all-- but I think some of us, especially the changelings here, noticed he’s not up to his usual self like before.”

Shaking her head, Asha said, “The news I gave Herbal wasn’t the happiest thing. Dejen just needs to work past it. There’s nothing to be done about it, and he will realize this on his own time. It’s accepting it that is the tricky part.” Then moved to look at the next plate that was going to be Katty’s 9th place, though left untouched. Sadly, it wasn’t a meat, so Asha left it alone.

Looking to said plate, Gem took it as her own. Eating it as while she and everyone heard about Dejen being sterile, she had to admit that he did need time. It wasn’t everyday that it happened. Still, she glance to the leaving Lioness as she ate her meal and knew that she would have to get working on the ship. As usual. She sighed to herself, knowing that things were going to be heckful like this.

but hey...at least things couldn’t be worse, right? thought the d-dog to herself.