Arabian Swindler

On their way to their next destination, Dejen iddily counted his winnings and thought over the recent situation at the bar. It was rather pleasant, fun, and informative. It gave him a good clear view that the Hold’s would be slightly lifting martial law soon, meaning more free movement within the weeks to come.

It also gave him a fair hint of the current political state of the nation as a whole. Which was rather stable at the moment. And as for rumors, it was a bit on the quiet side, nothing too big. Really the place seemed solid as the rocks the Minotaurs were known to have for their walls.

That didn’t mean there were a few problems. Like how the two Lords were being replaced, who the new Lords were, how the families would be confiscated for the lives lost or how to reorganize things. That was a mess, but one that was being cleaned up with the methodical efficiency of a military dictator fully focused.

Dejen gained a clear idea that the Kings of the Holds were very stern, strict and overall demanded enough respect to be seen as a high general to all his armies. One Minotaur joked that if the Griffons were the single most effective military engine, then Minotaurs were the single most effective stronghold. And interesting comparison, to be honest.

Hmm, I’ll have to give this King credit, he seems to have a strong hold around here...heh, ‘strong hold’. finding that a bit funny in a way as he glance to see Windy laying on his lap, as the striped was in the deck, sitting in a chair as he counted over his money. But it seems that the Lords are being cleaned up and business will resume as normal...although I am a bit worried for the north, especially Humili. Sure no one got their eyes to it...but the moment progress is seen? One of those Lords are going after it.

A frown on his face as he paused in his counting. Thinking of the people, the state it was in, how things are slowly being better...and Herbal. The thestral might not be part of his group since he and Katty started a Colony...but Dejen would be damned if he didn’t try to get the town for Herbal sake with Katty. If some Lord noticed the Colony and thought he could make some loophole with his friend?

They should reconsider who they'll be dealing with.

Yet that brought up a glaring fact to the Striped. I’m not a Lord. I don’t have the influence or support. Sure I got the town...but it's nothing to a Lord...unless. looking over an equestrian bit...a grin slowly rise up as he thought. Unless I show them this, maybe a handful...I can get the Lords to support me with favors? When the time is right with either me getting Maltar heads or alive? I can call in favors to get me a spot there and them to not try to take my land in a petty war. If I play this right..then maybe, just maybe, that town can be safe.

He felt a slight rock of the small sky-dingy and gave a glance around. The area had become a bit more foggy, and they had gone a bit higher in altitude. Up here, the fog of low clouds almost looked the part for water, and the rocks like that form reefs out at sea.

Looking forwards, he could see both Twins again going about making sure the ship continued on, though he did wonder their heading. Mynu seemed to be helping them, mostly in keeping a bit of control on the sail, the wind being a little mischievous at these altitudes of the Holds. Though, it did leave him to ask.

“Are we passing by a storm of sorts? Winds aren’t usually like this unless we got something in the air.” Debt snort as he was tying up a knot as he told.

“Hard to say Sir, will say this though. Seems this fog is making things trick to see around.”

Mynu turned and admitted, “I’m not familiar with this area, so I wouldn't know.” Then glanced to the Twins before asking, “Where are we going?” Not sure if anyone realized that the two had chatted about some unknown course.

“We just needed to make stop somewhere.” Bina told while she paused for a moment and looked about the slowly thickening fog. With a glance, she motioned for Mynu to fold the sail, which brought them to a slow drifting halt in the ever so thickening fog.

They gently rocked as gentle and on occasion, strong winds moved them some, but for a moment things just got thick enough they couldn't see off the side of the ship. It was when both Bakari and Bina moved together on the deck that they looked forward in thought… then both sighed.

The other’s watched as they got into a loose stance, mirroring the other as they made move-for-move and did a sort of odd slow dance. Spinning and shifting around the other before stopping and spinning their arms and gently pushing. For a moment they felt the boat teeter and almost jolt forwards, and at the same time a gust pushed, fog pulling and clearing to show a clear path, and a stone peak.

Bina sighed and said, “Mynu, sail please?” She and her brother going back to manning the boat while the dog did as asked, heading for that stone peak.

Dejen squint his eyes, trying to see anything at the peak as he said. “Bina, Bakari, correct me if I’m wrong...but are we going to the stone peak to meet a hermit?”

Both paused and looked at Dejen oddly, with both saying at the same time, “Uh ...no?”

Then the striped shrug as he told. “Well, I don’t know why we’re heading to the peak now.” Debt glance to the Striped as he comment.

“Sometimes I wonder if Striped are insane like that Lion said-- or you’re more crazy than the average Striped.”

While they traveled closer, they could see more and more clearly the green growth they would spot on the stone peeks around them. This one seeming to have lush vegetation hanging off it’s sides, even a few trees. When they landed, they tied the ship down and both Herno got out, Bina grabbing something and Bakari getting a stick.

With both jumping out, the others soon followed, more out of curiosity than anything and began to travel. Besides the winds, it was fairly quiet, silent even. It had a strange sense to it, like nothing was there. Ghostly one could say. But while they got higher up and began to reach further in, they began to notice something.

The incline was a bit flat in some places. Some areas a bit more rigid in shape. Looking around, Mynu paused and blinked and looked at one such shape. The greenery, while normal, the pale reddish pole that was under it was not normal. A closer inspection showed it was a wooden structure-- an old one.

Looking around, she and the others began to see more. Some were broken. Others worn. Some collapsed and even a rare few burnt. It was when Windy stepped on something that clattered, that Mynu glanced and found herself lose some control of her jaw at the tri-star like metal, dull and rusted.

Windy move her hoof back, looking in confusion of the thing as she asked. “Master, do you know what this is?” trying to figure it out as Dejen crouch by her, carefully picked it up as he said.

“It's some sort of tri-shape star thing. A blade on each side...but its dull, rusted, very old...I say maybe...if I’m guessing right, a century? Hard to say.” then glance to Mynu with her jaw lose as he remark. “You seem to notice what this is.”

She nodded slowly and looked about before glancing to the two Herno still walking ahead. With a sigh, she said, “We’re… we’re in a Kitsune hidden village.” Taking another breath to tell, “And, and it’s probably rusted because of the air here. It’s saturated with water…” Then slowly walked forwards cautiously. “But… I never seen an abandoned Kitsune village before.” Glancing about as if expecting them to jump out.

Dejen was silent as he carefully put it back away as he said. “I think...there's a reason it might be abandoned.” getting up as he turn to follow as Debt frown, but followed with Windy coming up as Dejen added to Mynu. “I just really hope I’m wrong this time."

She didn’t comment and just kept following, slightly jogging to keep up with the two as they were, indeed, going up old, mossy stone steps. As they all got higher, more housing and homes could be slightly distinguished, if not roughly so. It was when they reached one of the parts of the peak, they stopped by a large dirt area, mostly empty bare some foliage, trees and a home long since gone. It’s walls fallen out and in and roof collapsed.

There was an odd silence before Bakari and Bina moved toward the house, the Tom-cat raising and stabbing the stick into the ground. Bina herself unwrapped the package, a collection of flowers being shown before she began going about the stick, seeming to place and even tie them to the wooden pole. Her brother helping her.

“Master, what are they doing?” asked Windy in a whisper, as she was confused about what they were doing, were they performing something? Why place the sticks there?

“They’re making grave markers.” said Dejen, as he sighed and scratched his head. “Probably someone close too, a lot of care they’re doing for it-- well, I think.” then added as he glanced around. “This place was probably attack by one of the threats they were running, Kitsune thought they could hide well...but whoever it was managed to find them and with hope the survivors ran with what they deem important as the few remainders try to fight off the invaders…”

Glancing for any signs of old blood, he added. “I say they were half successful, not much old blood spots-- or any I can see. I think they manage to pull through...question is, which threat was the one that did this damage?”

They thought that some and glanced up to see that the two had finished and were currently kneeling before the pole and just… bowing their heads. Mynu was completely unsure of what to say or feel. What was she supposed to do? Hearing a small hiccup sound, she glanced to see that Bina was holding a hand to her face, and in turn, Bakari had a hand on her shoulder. One of comforts.

Dejen gave a low sigh as he was right. It was someone close to them, or rather many. He was about to say something, maybe tell them they were going back to the dingy...but Debt simply place his halberd on the side, walking up those steps as the three saw the gnoll walked upwards. Coming to a stop as he soon kneel by the two and soon gave a simple bow of his head to the poles as he remain there.

Dejen admittedly felt confused as he glance to Mynu and question. “Did you mention anything to him of Kitsunes? Because...I’m confused here.”

Mynu just watched and told, “It’s something else.” Seeming to leave it at that for a long while, there was… silence. A cold, ghostly silence for a long time as the twins seemed to grieve.

When they finally rose, Bakari and Bina hugged the other, seeming to seek the other’s comfort for a while before partying. Clearing their tears before glancing at the three… and then to the slowly standing gnoll. Wordlessly, they began to leave, moving past the others and slowly down the stairs.

It was during their more slow going descent that Bina said, “This was the first village that was attacked.” Saying it in such a distant tone. “We were lost… confused… the Kitsune took us in. Helped us. We wanted to just live here.” Then leaned to one side and told, “Then a ship came. They knew about the stones… they attacked and razed the village…” Then looked down, “No one survived.”

The others were a bit silent before Bakari told, “We found another village months later…. It got razed too.” Then looked off to some buildings they passed. “Everyone didn’t die… but they were tortured to tell the mare that was looking for us.” Thinking a bit in thought.

“We couldn’t live anywhere.” Bina told almost sadly. “Staying too long in one place… got people killed. Got them enslaved. Tortured… broken.” Almost wilting in place. “We stayed sometimes, fought…”

“They’d at least escape.” Bakari told on. “But sometimes…. We lose our stone. One of us gets taken. Both of us get taken…. Then they try to break us. Kill up. Break our bodies.” Then looked down and scowled. “Try to hurt the people we tried to protect using our own Stones….”

“...Shit.” muttered Dejen. Really what else could he say? Sorry that happen? Sorry for the pain you went through? Sorry wasn’t going to cut it, and neither of them look like they wanted his sympathy or pity-- or comfort. Windy ears pin as she shuffled her wings, being silent herself as Debt ask in a monotone voice.

“This happen for years, has it? To the point it dulled you.”

“Maybe.” Bakari said. “But we never stop feeling. It still always hurts.” Going silent before kicking a piece of broken metal and remarked, “It’s why we stay on our own. Why we didn’t want to stay.” He and Bina stopping to look back. One looking indifferent and uncaring, the other sad and almost remorseful.

“People, very horrible people, want our power.” Bina told while placing a hand around her red stone. “We… can’t really control it. Not even the people that take them can control the power they have. It’s… it’s too much.” Looking to Bakari and giving a reluctant nod.

He took a breath at what she was suggesting, but sighed and moved forwards some. He glared at the foggy skies.. Then with a spin and a shout, he thrust his hand-- and for a moment there was a clap of pressurized air, and a sudden vacuum of air. Mynu, Debt, Windy and Dejen seemed to huddle down as the winds roared, rushed and pulled all around. They could hear the creaking of wood, the flying of stray loose objects…. Then, the winds calmed, the fog now gone and leaving cleared up skies around them.

Mynu… for a moment felt a little scared, and thought she was going to be blown away for a moment.

Windy jaw dropped looking at the sight...and just being speechless. Dejen himself wasn’t much better as he could understand how everyone wanted the gems. Especially with them doing this...and could understand why the two fear of their powers.

Debt look on, simply talking this in, as he soon walk by the two. Looking at them as he look back to area they blew away, then back to the two as he said. “You say you cannot control it?” then asked. “I thought you said they were a part of you two, part of your life force? How could one control themselves?” Dejen look to Debt ...and facepalm.

That's what he thinks is important!? thought the striped.

Sighing, Bakari said in annoyance, “To even have any control, I need my sister.” Then went on while going out of stance, “For her to have any control, she needs me.” Then pointed at where his one palm strike had caused a vacuum effect. “Alone? We can’t control it. But even together we have troubles controlling it.”

To explain, Bina said, “We have better control over our respective elements when we work together-- but there’s just… so much power, small movements causes big changes.” Then motioned to the steps going down. “Remember when we were on the Dingy and we both did a small kata-dance to clear the Fog? We were trying to use as little power as possible, and it still made the boat get pushed and a large area of fog to get brushed off.”

Mynu held up a hand and asked, “So you’re saying that unless you have the other helping…. Do nature-magic stuff” Hands motioning about, “It gets too out of control?”

Bakari crossed his arms and jerked his head to where he did his demonstration. “If I did that trick again anytime soon? It’s going to be twice as strong. The more we use our powers that aren't inside our bodies? The more server they get, doubling in power most of the time.”

“And we can’t control it when it gets stronger.” Bina told. “We’ve tried practicing, little bits at a time.” Then rubbed her head, “We… almost caused a few disasters…” Then dragged off, “Like that tsunami that hit the west coast of Equestria.”

Bakari said with no hint of pride, “Or that sand storm that almost buried that one horse city a year ago…” Then said to Dejen, “My bad.”

“Eh, wasn’t my city.” told Dejen as he flick an ear as he thought in this. So a natural disaster was a ‘accident’? then blink and said. “Wait, that was you?” looking to Bakari as he said. “That happen like...two years ago, right in the upper north part of Arabia. A sudden sandstorm just came and buried alive everyone there, thankfully they dig out, but there were a few who weren’t lucky.”

Bakari winced, a slight hint of regret there while Bina sighed. “We’ve tried, but… it’s just too much power. We can’t control it yet. And when people notice..” She shifted about, “Well… you already know why they want it. And you now know what lengths they’ll go to get them. Anything.”

Mynu slowly gulped and looked between them and asked, “If one is powerful… then if someone had both?”

“They’d have better control… and a lot of power.” Told Bakari. “Bina and I are opposites. One alone is strong, but absolutely no control. Imbalance.”

“Have both sides.” Told Bina. “Balance of the Yin and Yang, and you can focus and control that power. We’ve learned this the hard way, and we’re still practicing-- but we just don’t have the control yet. Because it’s too much power still.”

Dejen thought to that and said. “In a way...it's like trying to put an entire dam of water, through a tiny pipe for an outlet to give water, but too much pressure might burst the pipes. Causing a flood of sorts.” thinking some as he said in thoughtfulness as he took out his deck to think. “With your powers, it's like the Chinese with their Yin Yang philosophy of balancing in their opposite, perfect harmony or something along the lines.”

“Without one, the other can’t work, but if not balanced right, things get out of control…” he then stop and soon asked. “Have you met any Ophenu in your travels?” recalling something long ago from Felix, them being a monk like race.

Nodding, Bina said, “We have. Some Herno helped us.” Then breathed in and told, “They said the reason we can’t control it, was because we’re just… young.” Looking down and fixing her face. “Not ... young in body, but in mind. Like, we can control it, but we just need time to.. To actually understand it.”

Bakari looked annoyed, but said, “We know that we need the other to make it work. They even explained that much to us. They said that when the time’s right, and that we understand the true sides of ourselves, then… then we can return and finish what is needed to gain true focus.” Then huffed, “Whatever that means. I think it’s some self-discovery thing.”

“While encrypted, there is some truth in that.” said Debt, as he soon said. “Despite you two being 14, you tend to be very childish at times.” then went on. “However...if I hear right, I think the Ophenu meant something along these lines. The reason you are having trouble, is because you need to mentally grow, mentally understand what you hold. Yes you have an idea, but there is much between the two elements you have.”

There was a tone of exasperation as Bina said, “Thank you for the input, Debt.” Trying to not sound rude. It was something they already figured out.

“You're welcome.” said Debt with a nod.

Mynu thought about it some and gave a nod and said, “I can see why Miko asked me to watch you kids.” Then went on and admitted, “But still… that’s some… concerning stuff.” Then went on, “Using your powers result in natural disasters?”

“If we try using it too much.” Confirmed Bina. “And we try to stop it if it does get out of control, normally by using opposites.” Then lowered her ears admitting, “We also have… uh… one more problem.”

To this Bakari even rubbed the back of his head embarrassingly and said, “We don’t let it happen much anymore but… when we… really, really sorta lose our heads and get… really scared or angry, we sort of just… react, and, well….” He raised his hands with Bina and both make a ‘bokow’ sound while their hands ‘exploded’. “Lots of wind, fire, water or earthquakes.”

“Like a big giant bomb destroying everything in sight, except with elements.” remarked Dejen. Meaning that when they do react with emotions, we might see a nuke of sorts, or a really really really big bomb blowing up.

“We do better!” Assured Bina, “Before, we used to...well...maybe destroy a small forest?” Then quickly assured, “But, but we only just, well, cause small gusts or water to boil a bit, nothing so bad anymore!”

“So we should be prepared if one of you gets a temper tantrum-- be wary of whatever element is used for it.” said Dejen with a nod of his head. “Okay I can work with that.” then glance to Debt as the gnoll seem thoughtful as he was humming. “Something on your mind?”

The gnoll glance as he remarked. “Just thinking what sort of destruction might happen if we caught one of them attempting of masturbation's.”

While Bina gained a deep shade of red, Bakari felt his eye twitch and snorted, “Pervert.”

Raising a hand, the gnoll corrected. “Precaution. Teenagers are usually full of emotions and hormones, who knows what they will react if it happens?”

Bakari only glared while Bina lowered her head and said, “We… don’t think about… sex much.” Then winced and shivered. “At all.”

Noticing that fast, Debt soon nod and change the subject. “Was this the only village you wish to visit? Or were there others to visit to give pray for those who passed on?”

Shaking their heads, they told, “Only one, we never had time to do it.” About to turn… then both froze and looked to the other. In unison, they said again, “The Scroll!” And without warning, made a mad dash back to where they came from and leaving the other four stumbling at how fast they rushed past-- super-person levels of speed in a sense.

“Uh, I’m going to give a rough guess that this ‘Scroll’ is very important to them-- or maybe Kitsunes?” said Dejen as he knew they were ninja base...but the Scroll could mean a lot of things. He thought in it as he asked to Mynu. “I’m guessing it's not something to check on bloodline, isn’t it?”

It took a moment for her to even register she heard what she did, but eventually, Mynu shook her head. “The… The Kitsune have a unique kind of Kitsune magic only they know. And… and they keep them in scrolls. Extremely rare-- and valuable. So valuable that Kitsune will burn the scroll to keep its secrets, only the clan is allowed to even read them.”

She rubbed the back of her head and looked up the steps and told, “It’s… it’s like Honor and bloodline is to the Herno. The clan scroll hold their history, their secrets, their special clan magics…. Everything. If… if those two know about it, even know where to look….” She paused and grimaced, “They must of been… been like family, clan even.”

Having a frown, he placed a hand under his chin as he thought. If it is important...then it's going to be hard to keep it secret, sure I could try to learn...but something tells me that is a horrible idea. Even more it might break what trust I have with them. Best let the two keep whatever inside it, bad news if anyone find out of the thing.

Mynu waited in place with the others, though she remarked, “I wonder if they could learn anything.” Then went on to tell absently, “Herno aren’t known to use external magic. Kitsune have a… skill in it though. I’m not sure if those two can use much of the scroll’s secrets.” Mostly thinking to herself.

Windy look up to her Master as she saw him being thoughtful, as Debt thought on Mynu words. Debt comment to Mynu words.

“They might be able to, if they were close to the village and its head, then they were able to learn a thing or two from the Kitsune.” Looking to his employer as he asked. “Sir, were you thinking of searching around?”

Getting Dejen to glance...then said with a shake of his head. “Naw, feels a bit rude for me to rob a grave sight like this...side, anything to be taken here is for those two than anything else.”

Debt nodded as he then asked. “Sir, if I may make a suggestion? Perhaps find a healer around the Holds? We do need another doctor on the ship, and I don't think Asha could handle healing and sensing around us forever.”

“Hmm, I just might...question is when? We got a lot of ground to cover, might take time till I find us a doctor.”

Thinking a bit, Mynu spoke, “I know about a few towns a bit more east of here, a little to the south.” Tilting her head and going on in thought. “It’s not much. But I know that there’s a City near the area. One of knowledge. The Lord there is known for his libraries and scholars.”

“Hmm, not bad Mynu, maybe when the twins are done here we can try the City there, see if we can recruit our new doctor.” Then muse as he added. “Wonder how I'm going to find them?”

“A wanted ad of a doctor with near to no pay, all travel with a near crazy group?” Teased Windy as he ruffled her mane some as he snorted in amusement.

“Right, like that would ever work. Odds are they might run the other way if I did that.”

“Unless they were desperate enough to run from troubles in the city.” Suggested Debt.

Mynu raised a brow, but didn’t comment. It wasn’t like it couldn’t happen, though the likelihood was just low. Turning her eyes back up, she crossed her arms and waited a bit more. Slightly wondering if she should go up and check on the twins.

Her worries were put at ease when they began to come back down at a steady pace. Mynu had to blink and stare at the the large scroll on Bina’s back, while Bakari seemed to be carrying something wrapped in cloth-- though that was ignored. The D-dog tried not to stare, but the sight of the decorated scroll was a… sight.

She averted her gaze away, not sure what to think. She knew the rarity of such scrolls, and their importance. She didn’t want to give the wrong idea to the Twins. From the gazes they had, sad as they were, they were also of a steel. They were going to protect what they had with them. Scroll and whatever Bakari had.

Both Debt and Windy look in surprise on big it was, as did Dejen. He honestly thought the Scroll was smaller, however he focus more on whatever Bakari had, trying to examine what's underneath it. He gave a few guesses on the wrapped cloth, it was either body, a sort of weapon-- or something he had no idea. He thought about asking on Bakari, he was actually going to speak to Bakari, until he felt a hand from Debt as the gnoll asked in a simple manner to Bakari.

“Close person?” as if knowing that was a body of a Kitsune who could have protected the scroll with their dying breath.

Bakari gave a confused look to that, right before blinking and shaking his head, “No, no, eck, no.” Scowling and telling, “Clan heirlooms. We didn’t want them rusting away here.”

Nodding some, Debt then asked. “Where will you hide them?”

“We don’t know.” Bina answered while hefting the Scroll some. “Not yet… Bakari and I have things to talk over.”

While Debt accepted that with a nod, Dejen cleared his throat as he said. “We were discussing where to possibly go, Mynu made mention of a City down in the south. I’m going to see if I can find a new doctor for the ship, with luck we might find someone to fill the spot Herbal had.” then glance around as he asked. “Is there anything else you want to find...maybe we can stay the night here for you two?”

Ugh, trying to give suggestions with past dead things is not my forte. thought Dejen as he was trying to be at least considerate but...well, there was probably nothing much he could say for the two.

Frowning, Bakari said, “Let’s just go.” Shrugging past the others and adjusting the bag carefully, gently really. Bina past them up some and told in a softer voice.

“We did what we came to do. If… you notice a blade or weapon lying around, you’re welcome to it.” Then looked down adding with flattened ears, “I doubt anything is really left though.” Moving on to catch up with her brother.

Scratching the back of his head as he glanced around as he highly doubt he could find anything. With how most of the weapons deteriorated or were rusted...there wasn’t much left. Beside...I honestly doubt I could find anything here. thought Dejen, although there was another part that consider looking around, just in case. Debt glance to see Dejen look as he asked.

“I thought you said were you weren’t going to look around.”

“I know, I know...I just got this...feeling that there might be something here, call it a...intuition.” said Dejen, as he began moving around some buildings, looking inside and search around as Debt snort. Moving to sit on some broken stone as he said to Mynu.

“If there was a downside in working with a Striped? They always have this urge to find scrap to take.”

Moving to follow the twins, Mynu gave a small laugh to that. “Better than most packs. They fight over scraps.” Then waved before moving on ahead. More than likely to watch over the two. It left the gnoll and pegasus to wait for the Stripped, who moved about the old hidden village.

To say it was sizable was an understatement. As Dejen began to move about the many pathways and broken buildings, he could see a real place of living here. Almost as if picking out the details and replaying what could have been, Dejen could see a town that was maybe like the Herno one. It didn’t look busy, maybe it was like a normal little country town?

Even as some dirt crunched under his foot, Dejen could only look down at burnt wood and what looked to be a half buried, and rather ratty, doll. It looked like it was ready to fall apart any day now, from the harsh weather, and could pick out a distinct fox like shape to it. The sight made him frown before moving on.

When he tried to open a door, Dejen heard an odd creaking… and jumped back as part of the ceiling collapsed, some wooden cogs and gears seeming to explode down and what looked to be spiked maces collapsing out of a few ceiling-trap doors.

It made him realize very quickly that there were some booby traps around… though greatly in disrepair and in need of lots of maintenance. He reminded himself to be extra careful, and moved forwards through the building. There was a hole to one side, and moving through that he could find more wreckage, a few shuriken and kunai dulled and rusted…

While he was looking around, his eye caught the glint of something. Curious, he moved forwards and began to work his way around the remaining rubble. Glancing down at the threshold to the still slightly intact building, he could see a few remains… bones. Moving forwards, he could make out a few identifiable skellington's.

Some D-dogs. A few gnolls. Plenty of griffons and minotaur. He could see one with still-intact cloths. But going further forwards, Dejen paused and looked at the sight before himself. The last skellington was leaning on the wall, miraculously still fairly intact.

It was of a fox shape, Kitsune presumably. What really had his interest were the arrows-- there were quite a few sticking form the long-dead body. And form all the other bodies, presumably took out a good handful of invaders before dying. As he moved forwards, he found what had glinted. A single shoto blade, possibly the length of a machete, in the skeletal hands of it’s old wielder and gleaming silver as if not a day old.

Hello...what's this? thought Dejen, carefully moving by the Kitsune skeleton as he looked at the shoto blade. Carefully he move the hand off the blade as he set it down by the Kitsune side. He examined the blade as he noticed it was...in rather good condition. With a slice to a griffon bone, he noted it was still sharp. How did you become so good? Most weapons are dull.

He could tell it was still good in cutting and had no resistance to the bone-- but there was an odd chill in his spin, an odd whisper in his ear as he glanced around. Seeing nothing was there was he looked to the Kitsune, focusing on the bones as he thought that maaaybe he was trespassing and stealing from the dead…

Suspicious...but then again magic resides here. Better play it safe. thinking of the Shinobis from what he recalled, he went on his knees and gave a simple bow to the bones as he said. “Please pardon me for taking your blade, Ninja of this village. I humbly request to take this blade, so it can be wielded for a new wielder. I mean no disrespect, it is in my nature to scavenge and take things people long forgotten.”

Part of him couldn’t believe he was saying this, the other part was hoping he at least appease the ghost of this Kitsune.

For a long while, there was silence. The only thing that even tickled his ear was the sound of wind and the slight creaking of wood. There was something eerie about it. Even as he lifted his eyes to look around, seeing nothing happening, Dejen thought about just getting up and going… maybe leaving the blade?

There was a slow creaking, and like some horror movie trope, the wooden doors just blew shut, though softly and not violently. The only light inside being the hole that was in the roof, causing a single ray of light to come down onto him… and the rest of the room left in a thick darkness.

Why do I have the sudden feeling I might have accidentally piss off more than one ghost? thought Dejen as he glance to the blade, looking over it to see if there was anything on it as to see if some markings indicated it was cursed or not. Although beside intricate artwork on the blades length, there wasn’t anything flashy of it. Why are you still good and all the others are rusted and dull? thinking on it more, he noticed that for some odd reason the ray of light was on him…

Now he didn’t know what that means, but he could give a guess. Either A: he was given permission to take the blade as his own...or B: the ghost or ghosts around here might want him to leave the blade here. In a way...Dejen almost felt it was the later as he said. “Okay...for some reason I think leaving the blade is a good idea.”

“Why do you cower?” The voice made Dejen jump and turn on a dime, looking around to find who spoke. The voice, a female’s voice, kept speaking. “You wish for my blade?” Leaving a length of silence before she told, “Earn it.” And as soon as those words left, did a running of metal and a gleam of steel enter the light, tip coming for his face--

He raised the shoto up to deflect it as he jumped back, quickly thinking. Okay, so it was Kunoichi. seeing nothing but darkness within his area of light as he thought on. And I’m guessing that the best way to take the blade, is to earn it. Ugh, sometimes I wonder how I put myself into these situations. wielding the shoto as he glance around, using his ears to hear if another steel was coming to hit him. I’m starting to have a dislike with supernatural stuff now. Taking a breath in as he said. “Very well, then I’ll earn your blade, Kunoichi.”

There was a chuckle as he heard, “So you do have a spine.” The only hint he had to an attack coming was a glint. Even as Dejen moved and raised his blade to block, not everything was stopped as he was sure some of his sleeve was cut. Sparks flew from the impact, and for that slight moment of light, did he see a kimono's silver Kitsune women before she was gone.

Another glint, this time from behind and he turned and once more blocked, and heard her say, “You wish for my blade, yet don’t know how to wield it.”

“No offense lady, but I never came across Kitsune.” said Dejen as he thought back on how a shoto was supposed to be used, but he was coming up with blanks. In hindsight, I should have really prepared and asked a bit more on Kitsunes with their weapons.

While he waited for the next attack, he heard her question, “Tell me, scavenger. Why have you come to my village, and seek to take what obviously is not yours?”

“Originally? To let Bina and Bakari have their peace here. As for the latter,” giving a slight shrug. “It's what we Stripes are, we take things that are left forgotten for better use.” then he took a low breath, trying to focus, figure out where the Kunoichi might strike next as he was getting a taste of how he was at a huge disadvantage with a fighter of shadows.

Oddly, he heard a slow sheathing of the blade and a slight click… then her voice. “You brought my Clan brother and sister here?” An odd tenseness to her tone. “You brought them to have peace. Of our demise, I presume.”

“Yes.” said Dejen. “Made grave markers and everything on top of some steps, saw them take your Scroll and what heirlooms they found…” then glance to the blade in hand as he added. “Guess they didn’t found them all since I found yours.”

“My blade is that of my family alone. Not to the clan as a whole.” Was her ghostly response. “It is earned. Earned by true shadow warriors. My father earned it by challenge. His father, by challenge. His mother, by challenge.” She paused. “I was never challenged. So I am bound to the blade, and will await one to challenge me for the right to have that blade.”

“Meaning you’re testing me if I’m a good candidate or a waste of time.” presumed Dejen, feeling the blade as he tried to get a good feel for the uniqueness of the shoto.

“I can tell you know nothing about a blade. I would have also killed you, but will spare you for aiding my Clan to honor those that died here.”

“Okay I’ll admit, you lost me on that part.” said Dejen as he asked. “What you’re saying, is that I’m unworthy to take the blade, and would have killed me-- but not because I brought those two here to make peace, right?”

There was an amused chuckle. “You are sharp. Good for a shadow warrior… but have no discipline or proper training.” Then told simply. “Bina and Bakari are not Kitsune. But we accepted them. They are clan. They… are the remains. They honored our deaths. They helped the clan. They come to protect our sacred treasures. You aided them in all of this.”

“If it were not for them, I would have tired of testing you and slain you. That sword is only for the strongest of shadow warriors. I will not settle for the weak to wield it.”

“No offense Kunoichi, but with this place being abandoned and no one else coming here? I say that if I did leave the blade here? You would wait for a loooong time for someone worthy to wield your blade.”

“Then I shall wait until a worthy one comes.” She told. “I drew you to me to be tested. You took the challenge.” Then paused. “Unless you are willing to repay me for a disappointing end to this test?”

Chuckling a bit, he shakes his head and said. “Nope, I’m going to try my luck to see if I’m worthy for this blade.” then crack his neck as he admits. “Sure, I’m not a Kitsune, and I’m unworthy as a shadow warrior...but I will admit, I do know how to fight for my life on the line.” then jokes. “Hope you're not too disappointed that a Striped challenged you for the blade.”

“The blade was a Herno’s, centuries past.” Was her response. “And my asking for repayment… is to take the blade, and hold it out to those that might be worthy of wielding it. That, is what I ask. Not to be the Wielder, but the temporary Keeper.”

Thinking a bit, he hums. Won’t be able to wield the blade...but on the other hand, keep the blade till she finds someone worthy of it. While it sucks I won’t wield it...I think we both know I am a terrible Shinobi. then grin and said. “You got yourself a deal, Kunoichi, I’ll be the temporary Keeper till you spot a good wielder.” then introduce himself. “My name is Dejen.”

With a slow creak, the wooden doors came open, light filtering in and giving him sight to a ghostly Kitsune vixen. One that he had to blink at and try not to think too much on with how her curves were, or the kimono loose enough to show a nice looking cleavage.

She held a mischievous smile, and said, “I am Tatsu.” Tail flicking and holding herself in a manner it was hard not to notice all her curves. “For this, I will grant you one thing. Something to aid you, and to aid me.” Walking up to him, holding a finger up, and tapping his head.

Eyes screwed shut, Dejen felt a sudden rush of a headache as something was just jabbed in his brain. Complex hand motioned and sighs, the information of the feeling, of the energy, of the rush-- like that it was over and he was left rubbing his head in slight pain while thinking about… about Supirittoekō. Supirittoekō Jutsu. Spirit Echo jutsu. Only in his head did he understand what it was. A way to see… to see past things, past events…

Rubbing his eyes as he thought. Ugh...pain...so much pain... trying to focus as he thought. Okay...so I can basically watch ‘history’ of someone, their paths like a Seer...and ghosts with spirits...down side? Painful. Headaches. He soon blink his eyes as he looked Tatsu as he remark. “You wanted me to learn those because you want me to see people if they’re worthy-- and see ghosts, right?” rubbing his head as he went on.

“Going to be a bit tricky to do the hand signs and using chakra… but I can manage.” then glance to Tatsu as he joked. “I’m guessing you’re going to be following me in case you do fight whoever is worthy with those jutsus?”

She lifted a brow and told simply, “If I want a wielder, you have to help find one that is worth my time. That jutsu, if used correctly, can give you a glimpse of how strong, and honest, they are.” Then told, “As a warning? You are not Kitsune. You may not see everything… correctly.” Then smirked, “Be sure to leave a warning about possible death on challenge.” Then faded from their, leaving him be.

Sighing a bit, he looks at the blade as he shakes his head a bit. “Sometimes, I wonder how ‘lucky’ I can be.” glancing around to find the sheath for the shoto, as he searched around the remains. However within a moment, he found the sheath, closing the blade in it did the Striped held it in his hand. Dejen felt like searching around more, mostly to see what he could see to scavenge. Yet there was nothing more, as it seems…

This place was picked clean or anything useful was damaged beyond his repairment. Not even a doll to fix up as they were beyond repair, yet when Dejen came back he saw both Debt and Windy waiting as the gnoll glance to the Striped and asked. “Found something?” noticing the shoto in Dejen hand as Dejen said.

“Something like that.” then glance to see Mynu wasn’t around as Windy said.

“Master, Mynu went to watch the twins.” then tilt her head and asked. “What is that blade?”

“It's called a shoto, and lets just say there's a very unique story to this blade.” Then snort as he added. “And a very interesting situation on how I am now it’s new Keeper.”

Both of them look at Dejen as Windy ask in confusion. “Keeper?” Dejen chuckle as he told.

“Like I said, it's a unique story, I’ll tell you on the way to the dingy.” hand motioning the striped as he let the two follow him back onto the ship.

The sight of the hilt was something that both Bakari and Bina recognized swiftly upon landing their eyes on it. Both asking where he found Tatsu’s sword the moment Dejen got back onboard. It was from there he proceeded to tell them of how he had gotten it-- and almost could have been killed by a ghost of all things. It particularly set Mynu on edge, knowing there was a ghost in the blade looking for a wielder… the unworthy being killed.

For the Twins, they gave the blade a glance and had seemingly agreed that if Dejen found a wielder, then they won't press about taking the blade from him. This was, in a sense, Tatsu’s final wish in a way. Though they wondered how aware Tatsu was, seeing as she was technically a spirit.

As the dinghy was slowly leaving the hidden village, Windy asked. “But Master, how are you going to find the wielder? It might take years for you to find one for the blade.” to which Dejen shrug and admit.

“Beats me, all I know is that I got a jutsu to use to give me hints, Spirit Echo Jutsu I believe. Suppose to let me see stuff not many can’t.” Debt glance to his employer as he asked in a hidden caution tone.

“What sort of things?”

“Well...mostly on what I can find in the past, some choices they made of ghosts-- did I mention I can see ghosts with this jutsu too?”

Breathing in, Bina said, “The clan we left were of trackers.” Then went on while pulling on a rope. “They had a lot of secret jutsu’s, but the Supirittoekō was a technique that, when focusing on one thing, let’s the caster see what it’s been through. Those that used it could tell who the forger of a blade was, what hands wielded it, what wars it fought and seen.”

Bakari went on to further explain it. “I once tried to evade a shinobi that used it. He could track me, step for step, even see where I jumped to. It was like he was re-watching me do it all again.” Then thought on and added, “But… that’s about it. It just replays what had happened. And if you don’t focus on one thing?” She scratched his head. “Well, I think that it just shows nearby wandering spirits and ghosts.”

Dejen nod a bit, taking this in as he flick an ear as he heard Debt ask. “Are you going to try to practice, Sir?” to which Dejen gave a shake of his head.

“Naw, to be honest, I’m just letting the fact a ghost let me live due to helping the twins here. I think I might practice when we reach a town or something. Learn how to handle it,” then snort in annoyance as added. “Going to be a pain with my headaches whenever I use them.”

Shaking her head, Mynu told, “That’s probably a difference in magic, boss.” Seeing a few glances as she told, “Not everyone knows this, but Juvmi used to tell me how each race had different capacity for magic. Said that it’s what let’s Zebra’s do the magic they can or why Minotaurs use staves and even why Herno’s normally can’t use it. The spell isn’t always compatible with other races.”

“Great, means I might have a problem with even using jutsu, lovely.” said Dejen as he thought to himself. And here I hope it was mostly on chakra, not magic. Ohhh this is going to be annoying. Debt glance and soon remarked to Dejen.

“I would have thought you know on how to use magic, or at least understood the differences in them, Sir.” Dejen snort and told.

“I've been living in Arabia for a long time, Debt. Not much I could learn of Striped magic-- or whatever magic we know of. Or any magic for that matter.”

Shaking her head, Mynu gave a shrug and told, “I only know because I asked Juvmi if there was any fancey spells I could know… like making arrows.” Then rolled her eyes and said, “He said that I didn’t have the magical pools or pathways for most spells I could have learned.” Then screwed up her face adding, “But still… Kitsune don’t just tell people how to use Jutsu…” Then blinked and said, “Unless she knew you couldn't really teach it.”

Humming some, he said, “that would explain the pain and instinctive memory she put in my head. I think she more or less made me understood by simply ‘feeling’ it.” then hum as he leaned back and said. “She pretty much gave me the basics for me to find the wielder, but not enough to be using the good stuff to use.” then snort in annoyance.

“Ninjas, always covering their tracks in making sure they always win.”

To that Bakari said, “Well it was Tatsu’s blade you were trying to take.” Then moved to sit down and soon told. “She always said there was somthin’ important about it. But never said what.” Then looked at it and said, “I think I know why she was one of the best fighters in the village now.”

Sighing a bit, he admits. “And it was good that I mention you two, otherwise my luck would of ran out and I would be a dead Striped.” he then muse and added. “Although, she did...mention that she called me to her blade…” then look to the two asking. “Any insight on that?”

Moving to sit by her brother and keeping an eye on the ship as it gently sailed through the open skies, Bina said, “I think she noticed you were… similar to the Kitsune.” Then thought on it and went on, “You’re an information broker, right? You gather intel on people, sell it to the highest bidder. You work in the shadows, keep out of sight, and keep to the right contacts.”

Bakari gave a nod even while Mynu got up to mind the ship. “Kitsune are shadow warriors. Information is just as important as knowing how to hit something. She probably saw some potential.” Then shrugged and said, “If you were strong and skilled in a fight? You might have won. But, the only quality she probably saw was what you’ve done and how you’ve done it.”

“She basically saw everything of me the moment I held her blade, did she?” dryly asked the Striped.

Bakari gave him a strange look before asking, “If the Supirittoekō was that good? Then she wouldn’t need to test you to know you stunk in using a sword.”

“Ha-ha.” deadpan said the info broker, as he then asked. “When you say ‘what I have done and how I did it’, you mean in the way I deal with things? Or the amount of credibility of a ‘shadow warrior’ I am?” Glancing to see Debt already doing some task as Windy laid by his side in the seat as she listen in the conversation.

Bina thought about that and said, “Supirittoekō was something that most of the clan used. And it… it had uses that we don’t even know.” Trying to explain it the best she could. “It could see ghosts, so… maybe when she saw you, she just saw a similarity to most Kitsune.”

“Or she was still angry she got killed.” Remarked Bakari. That only got a rush hit to his side by Bina, while he said, “What? It was a sucky day when… you know..” Giving a slight growl off to the side. “Maybe she just wanted to haunt someone.”

“Tatsu doesn't like doing pointless things.” Bina seemed to remind. “She’s doing this because it’s an important concept of the blade. She probably was worried it get weaker just laying around.”

“That does remind me of something, how come this blade is untouched with rust? When I found it, it looked like it was newly made, cut easily, no dull edge-- it was like these things were meant to last for centuries.” said Dejen, “Unless, that's part of the blade charm, last for a very long time as it passes wielder to wielder?”

Straightening up, Bina said, “Tatsu used to tell me that it was a special Warriors Blade, made by Herno Smiths.” Then went on to say, “It’s a Family Honor blade. Meant to only be passed through a family line, or to strong warriors if the last family line ended.” Then looked to the hilt to add, “She said that it takes and forges part of the Warriors very person onto the blade-- honing and strengthening it with only the strongest warriors that wield it.”

“A blade that never weakness, never dulls, never taints.” Bakari recited. “Empowered by the wills of past warriors that watch over it. A legion as one, a single blade a legion.”

“...Sweet damn.” said Dejen in utter surprise as he look at the blade. “No wonder this thing still looks good!” then thought on the bit of words Bakari gave as he added in thought. Man...whoever is worthy of wielding this blade will be a powerful warrior when they use this thing. It honestly amazed him that he was called to this weapon, sure it sucks he couldn’t wield it as his…

But hey, a new jutsu to use for him to learn of things was a plus. Not to mention he could one up people if need be...he just had to get use to painful headaches.

The dingy passed a few places after the visit of the village, where Dejen took time to practice his jutsu, mostly on focusing on a thing or seeing ghosts. It was admittedly a sight for the Striped, as he saw what history he could of things, of barrels, of ropes-- granted he gain painful headaches for each attempt, even a migraine too when focusing on the ghosts. He attempted to use it on Windy.

He was given some insight on her, mostly her utter love and loyalty to him. Her absolute devotion to the male she loves to call Master...even saw a bit on how she used to feel before she became his. It made him felt his heart feel mushy of how much she felt strongly for him. He gave a lot of attention and affection to her after that, and made sure to not accidentally go too far for the sake of being forced to listen to the two.

He tried to do it on Debt once...but all he got was...echoes. Like garbled sounds of a message on a radio transmissions with what he saw, it was hard to tell of Debt. But all he could gather was that whatever history of Debt there was? It was all messed up and felt like a screen was in the way.

Still, after a week of travel, they reach into the city, as the group had to split a bit, mostly with Mynu with the twins on supplies with bits of money Dejen gave, and Dejen with his two followers moving around to gather information and learn of where they could find a doctor.

However he took this time to use a bit of the Echo Ghost jutsu...and he’ll admit, there were a lot of ghosts here. A few were around people, others were simply walking...it made him wonder if spirits were an actual thing and part of this world? Hmm...maybe something to ask of Asha when I see her again? thought Dejen, as he walked into a bar with the two, a few minotaurs glance at their way, but focus back onto their things.

Dejen could see a lot of things here, a few ghosts wandering about, some in chairs. He subtly turned ‘off’ the jutsu for now, as he wanted to use the jutsu as sparingly as possible. Especially when his eyes set on the cards being shuffled as he motioned Debt to get something light and for Windy to follow him. He grin to them and asked. “Hey, got room for another player?” the other's look and soon motioned him to come in as a bull asked.

“What you got to bet?” Dejen chuckle as he took out a handful of silver as the bull look and said. “That’ll do.” already getting a hand ready for Dejen as Windy sat on her haunches by Dejen side. As he glance to his hand, he chuckle inward to his hand.

Looks good. thought the Striped as he asked. “So what's the news around the city, just arrived here.”

“A traveler, eh?” said a bull as he glanced down to Windy as he looks back to Dejen as he asked. “What's the occasion?”

“Just traveling around, see the sights really.”

“Do you know how to play Bloody Hoof?” asked another as Dejen held a smile as he made his call.

“I’m good at the game.”

There was something to be had of this city, as it turns out? Much information to be gained, some rumors, some news-- but what got his attention on the talks with playing cards beside earning the pot?

A Kitsune was a doctor here. Or rather there was a very adept healer Kitsune here.

And apparently the Kitsune is very famous, very well known in the city as everybody been looked at the doctor, even the Lord himself. It was like this guy was the local hero. Or at least how Dejen saw it, however, he needed to know more, as while he thought this Kitsune is a good candidate...there was more to look into. He moved around the city, gathering information from off-duty guards, some other citizens, shoppers. Making it all innocent questions as a traveling wanderer.

After looking around and gathering notes, he could easily say that this Kitsune could fit in Herbal place. All he needed to find was the guy, which was easy enough. As the Kitsune owned a clinic, with both Debt and Windy by his side, Dejen enter in as he saw a 5’0 Kitsune, seemingly to help put a binding on an arm as he had red crimson coat on his fur, a white underbelly showing under his nose down to his neck, orange eyes looking to the minotaur as he said in a kind manner in a Japanese dialect-- or rather broken English.

“Now then, must rest. Let arm bones recover, do well patient-san?” the minotaur nodded and said.

“Thanks doc, you know how to help me out.” the Kitsune held a smile as he said.

“Of course patient-san, know healing very well.” He then move in his medical suit as he told. “Please make sure form filled. Need proof you here.” The minotaur nodded as he said.

“Sure thing Doctor.” the Kitsune chuckle and said.

“Please, must know name by now.” then look to the three and said to the minotaur. “Excuse me, new patients I must see.” walking towards the three as the Kitsune look to the three, noticing one Equestrian and two unknown species as he gave a smile and polite bow as he said. “Greeting, name Susumu, doctor of clinic. No good speak foreign tongue, speak odd.” then raise himself up as he look to them-- and noticing the shoto hanging by Dejen side.

Dejen glance to where the Kitsune eyes were as he said. “Long story for that, temporarily Keeper.” then added. “My name is Dejen, and I heard you are a very successful doctor here?” Susumu took that in as he already understand the reason the unknown male named Dejen has the blade. A Keeper meant he was given a duty to pass the blade to a worthy wielder.

Susumu then nod his head and said. “Yes very successful, done much. Wish to know more, but no means travel.” Dejen hum as he asked.

“So you want to travel around and learn more on things?” trying to understand from the broken English as the Kitsune nodded his head with a smile.

“Yes! See you, see big dog, never seen either. Wish to know more.” Dejen chuckle and said.

“Well, good news for you, I’m wanting to recruit you for our group, we need a new doctor and I-,”

“Done.” said the doctor as Dejen blink, well him and the other's as the Kitsune soon said. “Notice you are new, not from here. You all travelers, came very far, yes? Came in ship? Wish to come, see the world, learn more healing.” said the Kitsune as Dejen chuckle and muttered to himself.

“I’ll admit, that was...easy,” then clears his throat and told. “Alright, so when do you need to grab?” the Kitsune wave hand and told.

“Be ready in an hour, can easily transfer things to apprentice, let them handle clinic, gather things and leave, yes?” then asked. “Meet by docks?” seeing Dejen nod his head as the Kitsune said. “See you soon, Dejen-san.” the Striped chuckle as he turned to walk out, as the three left out of clinc...Debt spoke.

“That's very suspicious Sir. He just agreed with no hassle.” Dejen glance and said.

“Yeah a bit...but it's also lucky, I really hate it when I have to prove something to get people to join up. Getting someone to agree easily is refreshing to be honest!” the gnoll made a sound as Dejen said. “Relax, I’m sure things will be alright, now come on. We need to tell the other's I got a new doctor for us.”