Author's Note

If you're wondering why I'm posting so much of this? Please read blog for context.

Chapter 27

There were moments in time, that people might feel scared out of their wits. Mostly because they knew how hopeless a situation might look. Possibly of how downright terrifying it was to be in the direct center you didn’t want to find yourself. Well, for Port Swing and Mist Summer, that was what they felt.

They looked outside the window, watching as the city crawl with hundreds upon hundred and over more hundreds of opal colored shiftings. Their home territory being Ramanda, the infamous Arabian city that not only experienced a sudden burst of growth with their new neighbors. But also was an infamous Anti-Changeling Hunter city that had a rather hefty consequence for hunters not following the rules.

It didn’t help that Shiftlings had some undying hatred for Hunters, and even getting close to the city resulted in thousands of eyes watching and just waiting for the slightest excuse to tear them apart. In short, they were in the last place they ever, ever wanted to be in.

And Asha was next to jumping around like a little foal as she jabbered on and on about how neat and nice and silly the shiftlings were to them. “They’re even kinda cute. Getting all up and close-- and fun to play with, did you know they don’t mind a little roughhousing once you help them understand? It’s really fun to just wrestle around-- though not all of them seem to like it the same.” Mostly saying that in a thoughtful manner.

Mist snort, as she glance to the earth mare that was fidgeting around, something the unicorn couldn’t blame her, as they were in somewhat dangerous territory. Tartarus, even the other Hunters that left the ship would want to flee to somewhere else. thought the orange mare, as her green eyes glance around as really, she felt on edge herself. She knew the Sultan view of Hunters, she knew the Shiftlings had a hatred that could rival that Striped, and she knew they would jump at her the moment she stepped out of line.

But it was either that, or stay in the ship full of changelings that couldn’t wait to jump at her the moment she even get near one of them to hurt her badly.

Though in hindsight, it was either get torn limb-by-limb brutally by thousands, or get possibly mauled by an irritated changeling. It was hard to tell which was worse.

Looking out, Asha perked up and said, “Oh, Mercy’s back!” Ears perked and eyes looking down before smiling, “And she’s brought friends! Yes, more people to meet and greet!” Dancing in place before saying to both, “you want to say hi? Nothing’s more great than a nice hello.” How the lioness could be so happy all the time was also a mystery.

“No thanks.” told Mist in denial as she didn’t trust the ‘unicorn’, she knew it was a changeling, but the orange mare glance to the brown mare as Port Swing said.

“I don’t know Asha, I don’t think Mercy would like whoever she’s with to meet...well with Mist. Maybe it's best to leave her be?” while she was technically in the safe among the changelings, she was viewed with some scrutiny due to giving the Hunters a ride in her broken ship-- then again...that Striped did make a very tempting job offer. Very tempting.

Rolling her eyes, Asha, “Oh fine, be worry warts.” Then winked to Mist, “But things won’t change if you don’t try.” Then turned and began to pad her way out, cheerfully saying, “Hey Bina, hey Bakari-- Mercy’s back, you want to say Hi?” Pausing before the two for a moment.

Bakari gave an indifferent shrug, while Bina politely said, “No thanks, Asha. We’re just up here to relax.”

“Alright.” Chirped the Lioness, bounding past the two while they came into the bridge.

Both twins and the ponies looked to the other, but without much of a word they walked past them. Both moving to the railing and looking out over both city and Mercy coming back with a fairly sizable grouping behind her.

While they watched for a moment or two though, Bina looked to both ponies with slight curiosity. She glanced away for a moment before asking both mares, “So… what do you plan to do now?” Then tapped her foot on the floor a bit before saying, “You’re… well, hunters, right?” Trying to start something of a conversation.

Scuffling a hoof on the floor, Port told. “I’m not really part of the Hunters, more like...a pilot for their ship.” then glance around to the bridge admitting. “The Striped, Dejen? He offered me a job here, working with the gnoll as co-pilot. Said that my skills shouldn’t be wasted.”

Mist gave a roll of her eyes, then answered to Bina. “I’m planning to head back to Equestria, see if I can get group with some Hunter group.” then glance away as she added. “I’m not going to inform them about...the Striped return here, or his new ship. I have a feeling if I did that, it’ll come back to bite me in the ass later with my possible death.”

Snorting a bit to that, Bakari told, “Well he’s not the only one that come to kick your butt.”

“Bakari.” Hissed Bina in warning to her brother.

“Bina, you know what she is.” Bakari told with some irritation while looking out to the city. “You know what they did to the changelings. It’s not right, and I don’t trust them.”

Frowning, Bina said, “And you think Asha’s wrong about her?” Turning to address him more than the mare. “You heard her, Bakari. She’s not like them. I know what they did is wrong, but they’re not all bad guys.” Though she watched as he scoff and look away.

Heaving a sigh, Bina knew why he was being so hardheaded. His heart just felt there was so much injustice in it all. So much unfairness. Sure, Bina herself was still a bit jumpy around changelings, her grandstanding fear of bug-like creatures. But that didn’t mean that they were a bad species, and the same could be said for the hunters as a group.

Turning to Mist, Bina said in apology, “Sorry about Bakari. He’s… he just doesn't like what he’s heard about hunters. He don't… really agree with how they do stuff.” Not bothering to mention she didn’t either.

Mist give a snort as she said. “Yeah, because apparently it's wrong to just kill changelings.” then told. “But your feline friend is partially right. Some of us aren’t bad, we sometimes...get too enjoyed in our orders. “

Port glance and couldn’t help but mutter. “You enjoyed too much in it too.” Mist ignored the earth mare, as she told.

“But us Hunters are supposed to keep order, make sure the bugs don’t too out of hoof for any locals.”

“Yeah right.” Bakari said in a detached manner before getting elbowed by Bina. He gave a slight glare to her, but the feline ignored him and went on to speak.

“We never really met.” Then smiled and said, “I’m Bina.” Then slightly shoved her indifferent bother that continued to ignore them, “The indifferent mute is my Twin, Bakari.”

“Kissup.” Muttered Bakari.

“Rude boar.” Bina shot back.

“Little-miss-nicey.” He jab.

“Brute.” Bina tossed.

Port held a hoof to her lips, giggling as she add in. “Jabbing twins?” Mist rolled her eyes, apparently not finding this situation funny as she glanced out of the window, seeing the unknown changeling, having a foal on her back, with an entourage around her. It almost made her thought the ‘ponies’ were bodyguards and the faux mare a VIP. She then glance to the twins and question.

“What made you like the bugs more? I would have thought you two would hate them because their uses of mind magic?”

They looked confused, but it was Bakari that said, “We didn’t know much about changelings at all. Too busy traveling around.” Tilting his head before going on, “The first time my sis saw one, she freaked. She really hates bugs. But she was just scared because they looked like bugs.”

“Bakari, I thought we talked about this.” Bina said in a patient tone. “They don’t like being called bugs. It’s rude.”

Shrugging, Bakari said, “I don’t see them in here.” Making her groan in annoyance. Still, he spoke on, “And they never used it on us. Never had a reason I don’t think.” Then went on, “But really, I don’t think they really care. They have what they want. Safety, food, shelter…”

Sighing some, Bina added, “I’m still a little freaked out by how… ‘bug’ like they are-- but I don’t hate them. Hating people for being… the way they are isn’t right.” Then looked up to add, “And we didn’t trust them. For a long while we didn’t, but not because they were changeling. It was because we knew how bad strangers can be. At the time, they were just… strangers. Not monsters, or murderers or rapists or… anything. Just… people we didn’t know.”

Mist snort some, as Port admitted. “I personally didn’t mind them too.” getting Mist turn and said in a shouting tone.

“They attacked Canterlot!” to which Port glance to the unicorn and seem to remind.

“A Hive attack Canterlot. Not the entire species, Mist. Sure it was changelings...but not all of them agreed of it. It would be like a group of pegasus invading a griffon capital, not the entire pony race of Equestria-- but a small cell.”

“Are you just going to ignore what they did?” question the unicorn as Port snort and told.

“You mean what a single Queen did? What one single Hive did out of maybe a dwindling thousands? Look we know changelings attack our capital, but it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t brand a species for the result of one group, it would be...well, speciest of us to do it, right?”

The twins didn’t speak for a moment and just watched. Though after a while, Bina said, “The Hives remind us of Kitsune villages at times.” It was seemingly out of the blue, but the feline told on. “Kitsune clans only watch out for their own people. Or those they serve if they are asked by an honorable household.”

She shifted and went on, “But they are shadow warriors. They only fight for the betterment of their land. If there’s a threat, or they need something or have to raid, they will. The clans abled will go out, sneak in, take and leave without a sound.” She let that set and soon told, “All clans are different. But… but if a clan attacked, just one… would you blame all the Kitsune, even if they don’t trust the other clans around them?”

Bakari rolled his eyes and said, “Bina, I don’t think they’d know that much.” Seeming to talk more out of logic. “They would just see a bunch of foxes come in, steal their big stuff and secrets, try to sneak out, and use unseen tricks to get the job done. Then, they’d think every fox is like the ones that came, call war on them all and attack them without bothering to care or even know why.” Then added while glancing to both ponies. “They want justice, but get vengeance.”

Port rub her foreleg, looking a bit guilty as she said to Mist. “See? Even they get it that you Hunters are sorta in the wrong.” Mist snort and question.

“So why were you with us?” Port grumble and told.

“Ship contract, I was supposed to fly for you all until three months were up. But with the ship destroyed and scrapped, I’m out of a job, with no actual pay from your dead captain.” then added with a shrug. “So I might take on that Striped offer of being a co-pilot for the gnoll.” then asked in a bit nervous to the twins. “he‘s decent for a gnoll, right? Because...there's a lot of stuff mention about them that isn’t pretty around Arabia.”

Smirking, Bakari said, “Well, if you make him angry, then maybe we’ll need a mop to clean up your brain--” Then got a rough shove form Bina.

“Ignore him. He’s trying to just get a scare from you.” Giving a very pointed glare to her smirking brother. Huffing, Bina said, “Debt is pretty quiet. Just respect his space, and he’ll be fine with you. He’s not much for talking, and he just likes to keep things simple.” giving a good base line. “And no, he won’t get angry and hurt you-- he’s not easy to make angry.”

“Then...he won’t get the ‘urges’ to be with a female? Because I heard some stuff about gnolls, and they can get a bit territorial when they see something they like.” Mist gave a low snort to Port as she told.

“Quit being dramatic, I honestly think he’s gelded, otherwise we would have seen it by now.”

To that, Bina said, “Or maybe because he’s already got someone.” Getting looks, even from her brother. Though it was to Bakari she told, “Don’t tell me you haven’t notice.” Then went on to wave her arms, “Mynu! She’s the only one he talks to, and I see them visiting the other all the time!”

Blinking, Bakari asked in an oblivious manner, “Really?” Which made Bina groan and facepalm.

While Port gave a relieved breath, Mist thought and told. “The gnoll and the d-dog...for some reason I can see that working, they’re a bit similar in cultures, so they might make it work.”

“Oh thank Celesita, I thought there was going to be a problem with him,” said Port in a relief manner, wiping some sweat off her forehead of the possibility of him looking at her being null. Then gave a sheepish look to the twins as she admits. “No offense to this Debt-- but gnolls aren’t known to play nice, even worse the females. They’re more territorial than the males are, and more aggressive too.”

To that, Bina nodded, “We’ve heard.” Then added, “And kinda saw. We only fought a few, but we took them by surprise.”

Shaking his head, Bakari said, “They're a bunch of weirdos.” Then seemed to observe them before saying, “So… once we get to Equestria, we’re tossing her off the ship, right?” Pointing to Mist before Bina gave a pointed look.

“No. We’re not ‘tossing’ her off the ship. We’re going to let her walk off the ship at some port.” Then went on, “What is wrong with you, Bakari?” Though at his look, she threw her hands up and said, “Seriously? You’re-- no, no don’t answer.” Then sighed out, “Just give her a chance, for Asha, please?”

Crossing his arms and looking away, he told, “... Sure, whatever…” Making her preen happily and hug him.

“Thanks!” She said rather pleased, though he just grumbled.

Mist rolled her eyes, she said. “I’ll stay out of the way, I don’t have any shekels on me, so I doubt I could pay my way back.” then told. “Although the other Hunters left to who knows where, probably went their own ways.” then was silent in her thoughts...before asking. “Did you know that the Striped, he could be quite monstrous if he wanted?” looking to the two as she told.

“I doubt you know what sort of person he was here, but while he was in Arabia? He was something to stay away from, mostly because of his ‘methods’ of being an utter cutthroat. It made a lot of Hunters both despise and fear him, since if he was on our side, he would be affected in finding the bugs.”

While both shared a glance, Bakari said, “He might be.” Then looked back and told, “But Asha trusts him enough. And he’s decent enough, I guess.” Shrugging at the last bit. “And that’s that.” Then shoved off the bar, heading for the door.

Bina watched for a moment before saying to the two, “We figured as much when we met him.” Which was almost odd to hear from her young voice. “We know what it’s like to be around people like him.” Then hurried after her brother, both leaving to who knows where.

“Was he actually...monstrous like you said?” asked Port in a nervous tone as Mist gave a harsh snort and told.

“If he wanted to, he could of plant poison in an entire well to kill an entire city. He had the means, the resources, and the changelings. Don’t know why he likes the bugs, but when he was in Arabia? He was like a grim reaper in killing someone and letting someone take the blame…” then soon told. “It's even more scarier when you see his eyes, as they hold a lot of his feelings while he kept the grin.” then gave a bitter chuckle.

“We had a name for him earlier, or rather a name he keeps around in Arabia. Death’s Gambler.”

“Why...that?” asked the mare as Mist told in a dry manner.

“Because the Striped wins the game, but Death itself as the dealer wins most of the pot.” then turn and told. “Don’t trust him, never trust the Striped, especially when he ask for a game.” trotting out as to leave the poor earth mare to debate on her new possible employer now.

I came here with 180 children...now I have nearly 680 children that are part of the Swarm mind. thought Mercy as she knew they were either gathering what emotions they had, or spreading words to those still deciding as she saw Shiftlings were sending crates of purified love with them, letting her children on the ship take them to store them inside the reserves. She knew that with so much love, she could make it last with new mouths to feed, especially with the love of her Striped.

On her back, the small filly stirred just a bit, but didn’t wake. She had slept during most of the walk and even melding of many more minds. The child was still young, and it was clear that the little episode during their meeting had drained her a bit of energy. It was concerning, when the Queen considered what the young one had gone through.

“Mercy!” He heard Asha’s cry, the Lioness next to dashing out and radiating her normal and ever so welcoming vibes of joy. “Who’d you bring with?” she asked before brightening up and cooing, “Aaaawwww, that’s soooo cute!” More slowly approaching and lowering her tone to not wake the young foal. “She’s adorable!” Then smiled while looking to the Queen, “And… something very special?”

Glancing around, she said simply. “I’ll explain once we’re inside the ship, Asha. No need to let others see my words.” Walking with the lioness as she assured to her new children in the Swarm mind. "She is trusted and special. She is in a way, a retainer for me."letting them know of Asha position as she enters in the main bay doors with the lioness. Letting her new children move to settle themselves and ask questions among their new siblings as Mercy removed her disguise, as the foal own as she explained.

“The sleeping Queen is name Alibi...she’s only 6 years old Asha, she endures a lot...the six with us are the remains of her mother Hive.”

A soft look formed on Asha’s features, the Lioness watching the sleeping nymph before telling, “She’s has scars. Scared too. So very scared.” It made the six nearly stumble and look to the Lioness with shock. “She lost so much, watched so many die. Seen so many loved go… she’s hurt.”

Looking up, Asha said gently, “She needs so much love. Love and care. Cub’s like her shouldn’t be torn away from their mothers so soon.”

A simple nod was the only thing Mercy gave as she said. “Which is why I’m going to do my best to give her that love and care...its...its something I’m willing to do for her, she needs me so much, need someone to care and comfort her.” Then frown as she added. “We need to keep her existence a secret, because Queens like her? Well...they would be worth a fleet of airships to the Hunters or Maltar.”

“Don’t worry Mercy.” Asha said, “I’m good with secrets.” Then went on, “So can the twins. You can count on me to be protective aunty Asha.” Then went on, “If you have trouble you think you can’t handle… let me know. Healing the spirit is what I’m trained for. If you have any difficulties, you know where I slumber.”

Smiling she said, “My thanks Asha, I might do need your help when she is thinking of those she lost. I may be able to help raise her...but healing scars is something I might not be able to do.” Then soon added.

“Also, expect at least 500 new Changelings to come, maybe more if the few hundreds decide to come join my Hive. Hopefully they will be adjusted with the crew.”Then added in amusement. “And the choice of my King.”

Smiling to this, Asha said, “Oh, I’m sure they will all have plenty to get use to with him around.” Then went on to say, “I think Mist is in the bridge right now. And I have a good hint Port’s going to keep around too.” Then through on it a bit before adding, “I know you plan to raise her Mercy, but do you think you’re up for it?”

Asha had no doubt the Queen could. But as things were, there was a ship to be operated, and while Mercy saw herself as second in command-- she would not have a child to watch over. “Or do you think you’ll need me to help babysit?”

While Mercy knew she could handle it...she also knew when to ask for help. Especially with foals. She looks to Asha as she admits. “I might need help on babysitting Alibi, I know I can handle it… but even I know that I can't do everything, especially coordination 680 Changelings on the ship by my King side-- while watching Alibi at the same time.”Knowing full well that was asking for trouble for the Queen.

Nodding, Asha said, “Maybe we can get something up and going with Alibi and the other kids.” Going on to say, “With what she’s been through? I can tell she’s going to be a quiet girl when she gets older.” Then frowned, “Maybe… withdrawn.” Going on in thought, “Always smiling, but also crying within. People thinking she’s fine, but is screaming so very loud.”

Mercy was silent...then asked. “Just like Dejen?”

Looking up, Asha said, “Almost like Dejen.” Then glanced down a bit. “I’ve seen cubs that had their families taken away. Watched their dad and mom’s get killed by bad people. They… they withdraw. They act like everything's fine. People think they know them, but… but the truth is no one really knows them, and they feel so alone, even with so many around them.”

Looking up, Asha said, “Don’t push her, Mercy. Alibi is… she’s scared of getting too close. She has felt enough pain that she doesn't want to hurt anymore. She might… not be like a normal Queen when she gets older.” Then said with a somber smile. “It’s going to be tough. Not in a normal sense too. This… is something she’s going to be haunted by for all her life. And she was only three.”

Frowning, she made an understanding nod as she said. “It's worse than I thought. Far worse. If I recall right, it's been three years when the Hunters formed after the Canterlot Invasion.”Thinking a bit as she was trotting with Asha to her room as she went on. “I think my approach may be more delicate than I originally thought, take it easy with her, give her time to adjust...with lots of cuddles and comfort.”

“Don’t smother her.” Asha jokes. “Not everyone likes to drown in love and security.” Then told gently, “I’m just warning you. I can feel her pain, and my Mother has dealt with so many like her. I’m just warning you to be careful. She might not like the idea of large crowds. Which, will make things a bit hard for you for a while.”

Sighing she said. “Especially with the Swarm mind, I might need to tweak Alibi connection so it's between me, her, and the drones she knows. Still connected to me, but won't hear the other's too much.”Then recall her room as she let out a groan. “And I need to get my children to clean up my room with Dejen and Windy. We never had to clean up a few things with no foals, but if she's staying with me? I might need to clean up and put a few things away.” Already having an idea of having new rules with Dejen and Windy when they come back to the ship.

Thinking of this, Asha asked, “Do you think Alibi knows what it’s like to have a father?” Then went on, “Or another mother?” Letting that echo in Mercy’s mind before smiling, “I’d love to keep talking, but I have a strange feeling I’m needed someplace.” Then said, “I’ll see you and the little cutie later, Mercy!” Making her way down another hall, and leaving the Queen to these new thoughts.

Most Queens are usually the sole provider and caretaker, maybe with the Breeder too...but at most it's the Queens. Oh this is going to be troublesome already. thought the Queen as it will be hard for Alibi to get use to both Dejen and Windy as parents, she hopes that it won't frighten the poor thing, as she sent her children to start cleaning up her room.

Um, my Queen? When you want us to clean...do you also mean the Kings inventions too? to which Mercy said.

"Just a bunch of parts, scraps, and other stuff. Put them in the boxes, put the toys and gear in a box AWAY from Alibi to see, preferably in a closet on the top shelf." then added. "Also, make sure that everything is replaced as we hadn't had time to ‘clean up’." Some of the changeling made a few comments at that.

’Clean up’? By the Hive, I'm dreading what they did recently.

There was a shifting that Mercy became aware of, the small Queen slightly waking. She gave a little yawn, and seemed about ready to open her eyes before repositioning and snuggling a bit towards Mercy’s mane. A few of the six around moved to make sure she didn’t fall off, but as it stood, Alibi was fairly well balanced. Maybe even grippy with how she clung to Mercy’s back in her sleep.

She smiles as she nuzzle a bit on Alibi head, as she heard the buzzing of wings, knowing her children were already in progress of cleaning things up as she said to the six. “I want at least two of you by me, mostly for Alibi sake when she awakens. She needs to see something familiar to her. The rest of you will get yourself situated with the other's in the Hive, start learning the mental map of this place and absorb knowledge of others. This ship is a lot more complicated than you think.”

“Then when you're done, I want assign jobs from you all, what you're good at and best suited for your position.”

“Yes my Queen.” They responded in unison and possibly great understanding. Mercy could hear a familiar and comforting thrum, one that seemed more than eager to finally take orders from someone able to lead. One did say, “My Queen, you said that we would be on the move and fighting something?”

While most didn’t like the idea of leaving safety, the many that did come, came out of need. Mostly for a Queen. They found comfort with a truly united hive, and there may have been some discomfort with living near Shiftlings and their disorganized order they were too fond of.

“Yes my child, that is true. I understand if some wish to remain on the ship to work in their position, but even those may need to defend the ship if we are breech. This vessel is powerful, strong, deadly-- but even the strongest defense have chips in them.”Hearing within the Swarm mind as her room with the other's were nearly finished, one asked.

“I mean no disrespect my Queen, but some...might not like the sound of fighting, especially when they come for need of you.”

Mercy gave a simple nod and told. “I will not force them to fight, but I will ask that the very least they defend this ship. This is the closest we have of a Hive to live, it's not too unreasonable for me to ask them to defend it like before, is it?”

A few shifted in the grandness of the shared mind of the swarm, but they responded in an understanding. “No, my Queen. We understand.” It was very reasonable. They were not expected to fight, but they were expected to defend. That, while they would rather not have happen in the first place, was needed. It would always be needed.

“And, of the new Queen?” Asked a mare next to her. “What about Alibi? The… the strange cat, she…” Trying to find the words. “How did she know of all of that? She’s not changing, but she… she seemed so sure she was right.”

An amused look on her face as she told. “She sees in the spirit, as a White mane it is needed, she is a healer. She heals both physical, emotional and spiritual wounds. She is right to say that Alibi will need time, that the poor dear will not grow up normal…”humming a bit as she told.

“I was considering letting her play with nymphs near her age, help her bit by bit. It might not be much...but it's a start for a long healing for Alibi. Even more with gently tending the scars inflicted on her mind with her wariness to get close to others.”

They nodded to this and looked to the small from that was Alibi. They wondered if they were at fault for such damage. They did all they could, but after assaults time and time again, they felt partially guilty for such scarring.

Mercy however ease the guilt. “It's not your fault, none of you knew were at fault. You did the best you could with the cards you were dealt with. You did you best to aid Alibi to the best of your abilities. To the best of your knowledge really. You all were dealt with a very bad hand.”

A changeling scrunch his face as he asked. “My Queen, why say such odd sayings?” Getting Mercy to giggle and said in amusement.

“Blame my Striped King, he tends to use such a saying as a gambler. Bit of his sayings rubbed off on me.”Seeing the room was done as she motioned two to follow her as she added. “Best get memorizing and start learning your new position my children, because a lot more will be doing the same very soon.”

Walking with easiness as Dejen had Windy by his side, the Striped talking in what information he gained from his friend as the situation? Was utterly shitty for him. Most of his contacts work for new guys, as when he left? He accidentally left a power vacuum in Arabia, getting a cropping of new info brokers, some ‘lords’ of illegal activities and whatnots.

Although it also means that Dejen was still feared enough to make them pause of the Striped, so there was that. He did however knew it will only be small enough pause as they might get the bounty on his head.

Ugh...3 million shekels? Man, Dejeen is utterly pissed at me.thought the Striped, he was hoping that Mercy managed to get plenty of new hooves on the ship. They need to have extra hands to work the ship at this point,

Walking back in the ship itself, through the halls and stairs, all Dejen wanted was to relax, unwind and maybe work in with his inventions. Yet when he and the Pegasus came through the doorway of their room….

Both stop to see most of Dejen stuff in boxes, all the toys and stuff missing, two Changelings standing by the bed...and a young Queen drawing on some paper on the side, with Mercy drawing with her. There was some distinct of surprise in Dejen, as well of Windy. But Dejen had one thought in his mind. when did we adopted Queens?

While the two changelings were very much aware of Dejen’s entrance, it seemed that the little queen was next to oblivious. Or, so it appeared. For Mercy, she knew Dejen was there. But what had her interest was the change in pace with Alibi. The small changeling was still trying, but her once slightly comfortable pace had slowed. Her ears slightly wanting to flick back, but clearly trying to make it look like she hadn’t noticed. A slight anxiety began to build under the surface.

Mercy assured the young Queen in the Swarm mind. "Be at ease, Alibi, this is Dejen and Windy. The ones I told you of, remember?" she smile at the two as she said. “Hello Dejen, Windy. This is Alibi, she's our adopted daughter within the Hive.”Dejen gave a brief nod, noticing the slight anxiety as he had a guess that the young Queen is wary of strangers.

try to let her come to me in her time. thought Dejen as he reminds himself of those orphan kids as he walks in steady steps to the bed as Windy trot by him as he said to Mercy. “Good to see you did well,” sitting on the edge as he took out his cards, shuffling them as Mercy wonder why he didn't approach Alibi.

what are you doing, Dejen? thought the Queen as she saw him using the ‘pro’ shuffle as they made a few sounds, it was almost like he was attempting to gain Alibi attention without going to her. Mercy knew that Alibi was pretending to not even knew he was there...it was funny in a sense as she wonders if she should introduce Alibi properly?

But she held caution of Asha words, and would let Alibi, or at least Dejen, come to the other in due time. Let the Queen tolerate his presence. “How have things been with Harsho?”

Shuffling a bit, he told. “Pretty good, caught up with him, he got kids now.” Grinning in amusement as he kept a tighter grip on his emotions, for Alibi sake as he went on. “Buuut it turns out that things aren't well in Arabia, most of my contacts shifted, and my head? Is worth 3 million shekels alive now.” Making the Queen pause of the amount and terms.

The quiet was only really broken by the light scratching of head on paper, Alibi going about swirling and making a spiraling image before continuing to draw on absently or the shuffling of cards. It almost made the situation feel awkward, in a strange sense. Windy could only look between all those around the room, trying to figure out how she should approach this too.

Windy glance to the foal, as she took a free piece of paper as she steady scoot by the young Queen and draw with her, feeling to at least attempt to connect the Queen. She notice Alibi pause a bit, as Windy was doing her best to keep her emotions at ease. She saw Alibi slightly peeking as she was trying to be sneaky of it, while partially paying mind to her drawing as Windy gave a kind smile.

She saw the foal looking back to her paper, trying to play off she didn't peek at the mare, even looking a bit embarrassed at being found as Windy gave a small giggle.

Mercy soon spoke. “3 Million alive? Dejen that's...How could Dejeen acquire so much?”

“My guess? Trade and inflow.” told Dejen as he moved his cards around as he said. “I think we should gather more minerals, stock up on ammunitions, even start calling in favors of gathering the deposits of shekels I had in store around some cities.” Mercy nod some, seeing that Dejen wasn’t going to hit Abbasa until he had a game plan, especially getting a footing within the politics of Arabia once more.

He was being cautious, and it made Mercy slightly wonder what they might have to deal with with Dejen getting back in the Arabian Game temporarily. “We need to move around a few cities, gather our surplus of shekels, minerals, remove a few players and set for the big shift of Abbasa.” He thought a bit as he stack the cards, glancing to Alibi as Windy slowly scoot by the foal, going bit by bit as they were drawing together as he looked back to Mercy as he went on.

“It might take me time to gather everything, even on how to deal with Dejeen, so for now? We’re going to be on the move to gather what we need.” as Mercy nod, she look to Alibi as she asked gently to the young Queen.

“Alibi, do you want to say hi to Dejen?” getting Dejen to stop shuffling as he look to the foal and gave a gentle smile, mostly to try to ease the foal the best he can. Although he doubts it means much for now, since first interactions with kids like this were the tough part in helping them out.

Almost shyly, Alibi shifted in place, seemingly unsure of how to respond. To some interest, she didn’t seem to mind Windy at the moment, pretty calm actually now. With a peek, Alibi snuck a look at Dejen, but quickly retracted. Once more as if to hide that she snuck a look at him. There was a small muttering sound, one Mercy had to strain to hear, “Maybe?”

Dejen thought as Mercy gave him a glance, as he gain an idea as he got off the bed sitting down on the ground cross legged as he had his deck. Smiling as he asked to Alibi. “Want to see a magic trick?” using his cards, or one of them as he used his rather favorite technique of card magic. Making a card appearance change into something else. He took the Ace of hearts for his first card, letting her see as Alibi turns and watches him.

Giving that open smile he showed, he places his palm on the front of the ace, and ‘magically’ changed it to the Queen of Hearts, seeing her blink and turning her head as if to figure out what he did. He chuckles as he took the Queen as she looked thoughtful, then switch his other hand to hold as he used his free hand to place his palm down on it. Then the Queen turned to King of Hearts. “See? Magic, Alibi.” said the striped with that friendly look and feeling.

The two mares looked at Alibi, the foal turning her head this way and that. They could almost literally see the gears in her head turning, trying to puzzle out how he did it. She shifted, looking like she wanted to say something, but also just as reluctant. How? was the gentle echo Mercy heard. I don’t get it… did he change it?[/i] Something the older Queen was learning quickly-- Alibi’s thoughts often leaked into the link made. Switch? When?.... Hand? How?

Dejen place the cards into the deck, shuffling them as Mercy suggested gently to Alibi. "Go on and ask him, he’ll explain it, Alibi." knowing the foal was nervous, feeling unsure as she shifts, whether it was intentional or not as she snuggled close to whichever body was close. The closest was Windy as the pegasus notice in surprise, before a warm feeling came as she gently place her wing over the foal as she asked to Dejen for Alibi.

“How did you do it?” Dejen chuckle as he said.

“Like this.” then took out two cards, the Ace and Queen, putting them together as the Queen was behind the Ace, showing it sideways as when he ‘changed’ the Ace, the Queen was there as the Ace card slip into Dejen sleeve.

So it slipped into the sleeve, when the hand moves by? Mercy began to realize that Alibi was a very loud thinker, and apparently wasn’t too aware of this fact. Then… stacked the other cards in too?[/i] Face cutely scrunching up while she continued to run her thoughts over. A few times her mind was trying to visualize the image, that too leaking through on occasion.

Windy held giggling back, seeing her new, er, daughter scrunching up as she was thinking as her Master was shuffling his deck as Mercy suggested. “Dejen, why not show her another trick with your cards?” getting the stripe to chuckle, as he put his entire deck into one had as he spread it out and held it before Alibi as he said.

“Pick a card, any card Alibi.”

She looked to the held out card, eyes darting from them to him rather quickly. Shyly, she reached a hoof up, only hesitated long enough to both watch him and to pick a card. Though once she took it, she held it and waited for further instruction, not seeming too sure of what to do.

“Oh, the Jack of Spades, not bad Alibi, not bad.” then he split the deck into halves as he asked. “Can you place it in the middle of this please?” seeing her hesitantly place it back as he move the deck back as one. He then said with a grin. “Watch this.” as he began shuffling the deck, very, very fast. Going over the other, side by side, then shuffling within a multiple sounds as the cards overlap against the other.

While he had Alibi focus on his deck, Dejen used his hands to feel the cards as he was honestly glad he had his deck from home. Because he doubts he could've done this with any other deck but his own. With the cards sliding upwards in his shuffle, he soon stopped as he had them gather together as he soon took the very top of his card out...and then asked in amusement. “Is this your card?” revealing the Jack of Spades to her.

She reared her head back, surprise very evident. Again, Mercy was given her overly vocal thoughts, though these were more of a confused mess trying to figure out how, seeing as the deck should had been too fast. Or did he hide the card like last time? Did it actually really move? But it was clear to all that the filly was confused. Dumbstruck even.

Dejen chuckle as he said in an explaining manner. “The cards were chaotic, confusing, and hard to predict with my shuffling. But I know each and every single card, how they feel, how they sound...And I knew where to move the Jack of Spades. I knew where to place him, where to keep him ahead, and when I settle my cards into a nicely neat deck?” giving a wide amuse grin. “I instantly knew where I had old Jack. right on the top of the deck.”

She stared and soon said, “So it only works with that deck?”

“That's right.” said Dejen, feeling happy she was talking to him, but continued on. “Sure I can use any other deck, but this deck of mine in my hand? Is one I would always trust to play with. This something I had for years, I memorized each and every card, with my deck, I knew what to do with the cards in how they moved.” seeing the rather thoughtful at his explanation as Mercy and Windy held a smile as Dejen said.

“If you want, I can teach you how to shuffle like I do, Alibi. Maybe even know how to use the cards to your advantage.”

She shifted a bit and looked to her drawing more. The page filled with many, many lines that really had no reason or rhyme to them, though there was an odd pattern to them. Nothing too impressive though, looking more like a confusing mess going here and there than anything else. I like drawing better. Was leaked and absent thought.

While Dejen waited for an answer, Mercy spoke. “Dejen, maybe you can show her some of your drawings?” having a smile as she said. “I think Alibi has a knack for drawing.”Getting Dejen to think a bit as most of his ‘drawings’ were blueprints...but hey, maybe she could learn from it? He grin to the elder Queen as he said.

“Alright Mercy.” getting on his feet as he place his deck into his pocket, heading to his workshop area in the room as he asked. “Where did my blueprints get moved this time?”

“Second drawer, on the right!”told Mercy as he took out a few rolled containers, carrying them as he walked back to his original spot as he sat crossed leg once more. Then took out a random blueprint as he pop the top and took the blue paper out, revealing the original blueprint for his plane. So with Pup, may you rest in peace. thought the Striped in nostalgia as he let the filly see the design plans of the plane.

Turning her eyes to look at it, Alibi tilted her head this-way-and-that once more. “What is it?” She spoke without much thought, and her eyes roamed over it, seeming to take in every single little detail that she could.

“This is called a plane. Something I invented back then.” told Dejen with hints of pride. “I got oodles of drawings to see, Alibi.”

After a short time in Ramada and a moment to work over a new supplies of materials, did the Innovations Rise take off, heading out for its next destination. Shima made sure to tell Mercy that if they need any purified love, she and her children would be waiting. Though the colony did add that they have a hope Mercy would bring something to trade-- possibly a means to send more people to settle into Ramanda.

Something that Mercy knew Dejen could do with some well placed rumors. But the first thing that they had to do was drop off the Hunter still in their ship. Both Mist, and the changelings, were wary of the other still, and space was needed. Thankfully, Dejen had a solution. An unexpected one that came up when Asha seems to drop a hint.

It took some time, and a bit of waiting, but the Innovations Rise was now near the border of Equestria, in the more abandoned and largely empty spaces of the desert. It was here they waited patiently before a ship came. Not just any ship though, but a Changeling Hunter ship. Normally, Dejen would have opened fire.

The difference about this Warship, was that Dejen requested it. Seeing it coming by and turning, it eventually began to match and soon settle near the much larger battleship, and a moment later, some hunter’s few off. On the deck, Dejen waited with one Mist and Debt by his side. Landing on the ship were two pegasi, and Captain Galdan.

The Griffon give the striped a look over before saying, “Dejen. It’s been a while.” Moving up and saying, “I’m surprised you asked for me. I started hearing that you became pretty infamous down in Arabia after my crew left. What’s the occasion to have Sultan Harsho request this meeting?”

Giving a jerk of the head, he motioned to Mist Summer as he said. “Her.” then went on to explain. “She’s a Arabian Hunter, and while I would normally kill the likes of her, a good...friend persuaded me otherwise and decided to spare her. Now the only problem was, where to send her in Equestria.” then rub his nails on his robe as he went on. “No offense Captain, but while I utterly hate Hunters and wish for their death to be utterly agonizing and painful-- you and your group I honestly like. So I thought, why not send her to you?”

Raising his brow, Galdan said, “Coming from you and the reports I’ve started to read from down there in Arabia, that might as well be high praise.” Then looked to the mare and approached. With how he held himself taller and was looking her over, Mist began to feel a sense of being carefully inspected.

With a near bark of his voice, Galdan said in a firm commanding tone, “Name, Rank and objective of your service, Soldier!”

She saluted and reported. “Mist Summer, Hunter Rank: Seeker, to find and seek out dangerous changelings, sir!” Standing firm as Dejen chuckle and said to Galdan.

“You should be lucky I spare her, she is rather good in her ‘job’, Galdan.” then added in a rather cherry manner. “Well, beside disobeying orders to spare nymphs, but I think you might not have a problem with that.”

With a stern glare, Galdan said, “I’ll be the judge of that.” Then went on while looking at the crisply saluting unicorn. “I claw pick all of my crew. I run checks on them and make sure they are up to my standards.” Then ordered, “Seeker Mist Summers. What reason did you have to disobey direct orders from your commanding officer?” Casting a glance to Dejen to keep quiet so he could hear the mare’s response.

While the Striped kept quiet, he held his grin as the unicorn responded. “Sir, my former Captain order death of all changelings, none would be spared when we hit their dwelling Hive. the reason I disobey, is because there were nymphs there, and I was unwilling to kill those who couldn’t even defend themselves in a fight, sir!”

Not giving pause, the griffin captain continued, “What was the threat assessment during the extermination process Seeker? Was it to the needs of the current detachment you had, or was the Detachment able to easily quell the threat without any impairment?”

“Easily quell the threat without any impairment sir, it was a Gypsy Hive of 80.”

“Tell me Seeker, do you know why your orders were to exterminate and not properly investigate and assess like your job was intended?” Capt. Galdan once more questioned sternly.

“Yes sir, because we all hate them Celestia damned bugs, sir.” reported Mist without even flinching. “Our orders were always to exterminate with extreme prejudice, sir!”

With a near shouting voice, Galdan asked, “So tell me Seeker Mist Summer, why should I not court martial you for not only disregard of orders, but for also disregard of the initial rules of engagement when dealing with wandering Gypsy Hives?” Then went on, “If you were to exterminate, but they were not a threat for your group when the fight started, why did you attack before investigating as per-regulations?” Then asked, “Or was it kill and just to kill?”

She was silent...then responded. “Kill and just to kill, sir.” then added. “I have nothing more to say, sir.” all there was silence...before Dejen gave a slow clap of hands. Almost...in a mocking manner.

Galdan gave a slight glare, but said nothing to Dejen’s mocking and instead addressed the mare. “I run a tight ship, Miss Summer. I do not tolerate anyone out of line. I expect everyone to carry out their orders to a T when they are given.” He let that hang in her mind before going on, “However, there is a line that I draw when it comes to orders.” Then told, “That is why we have regulations. This is not a war of Glory. This isn’t a justice system. This isn’t a partition of vengeance. We have a job. A simple, single print job to do.”

Using a talon to poke her chest, he told in a drill sergeant manner. “So stow those feelings of resentment. Put down that blade to kill. And for the love of whatever you believe in, get rid of that attitude that killing changelings for being changelings is the only reason you are a hunter-- because if it is? I might as well toss you off the side of this ship or send you to the nearest judge and jury and tried for murder.”

Galdan’s eyes didn’t waver when he said any of that, keeping them pinned to the unicorn. “That being said, I’m willing to let you have a chance on my ship, with my crew and to work with us.” Then pointed to the ship. “Follow the rules. Follow regulations. Get a moral rug under that guilty heart that’s dripping blood and maybe we’ll make something respectable out of you. Exterminate if we have to. Protect the ones innocent. Do you understand me, soldier?”

Saying it loud and clear did she shout out. “Sir yes sir!” then soon asked. “Permission to speak freely sir?”

Standing up, he told in a slight gruff, “Granted.”

Giving a look to Dejen she look back to Galdan. “What of orders of Death’s Gambler, sir? Higher-ups been wanting him dead for a while.”

Snorting, Galdan said, “Higher-up also have been starting to act spotty lately, Seeker.” Then considered her before telling, “As it stands, I’m willing to look the other way for now. I’m under orders from the Sultan request himself for peaceful transactions. Any aggression will be treated as a threat. So Death’s Gambler get another lucky hand.”

“With respect sir? Death’s Gambler got Discord luck he’s alive right now.”

With a slight smirk, Galdan said, “Than it’s a good thing we’re not trying our luck in attacking him, Seeker. I’ve never been one for luck.” Then motioned for her to go towards the pegasi. “Go with them, Soldier. Get washed up, clean your gear off and get some sleep.” Then looked to Dejen. “I have a few words for our notorious gambler.”

Dejen grin wide, as while Mist drop her salute, trotting pass the griffin as she went by the pegasi as they helped her to the ship. Making both Dejen and Galdan alone with Debt by the Striped as Dejen joked. “At least you know why I hate Hunters as a whole and cause Tartarus for those in Arabia, eh Galdan?”

Nodding his head, the Captain said, “Your infamy only spread around after you left. I’m impressed at the havoc you spread around.” Then told, “And don’t worry. I’ll straighten her head out. Not the first time I had people like her on my ship.”

“Good,” said Dejen as he cracked his neck and told in a serious manner. “Listen Galdan? I’m going to inform you now. You’re right that the high-ups been spotty. Very spotty. Got news that some of them been spotted going to Abbasa for ‘talks’ with dear Sultan Dejeen. Don’t know what...but I think we both know that they’ve been looking to find more wiggle room since the Celestial sisters crack hard on them.”

With a firm nod, Galdan told, “Since that happened, things had gotten more quiet. Quite a few Changeling sympathizers got to show up, apparently some Hunters were put down form stopping the rally. I had a feeling that things weren't right, but it’s been becoming obvious to the sisters something’s a little off. Higher-ups are starting to back down to keep quiet.”

He stared for a bit before telling, “I know you have a Queen.” Pausing before saying, “Maybe more.” His eyes picking up the most minute of stiffness in the Stripped. Reaching over and pulling up a sleeve, the stripped noticed a gem, this one different and glowing a very deep green and vibrating.

“It’s a new magical trace charm.” Told Galdan, reaching up to a breast pocket and taking out another. “R&D’s been cracking down on a discovered Queen. These just came out months ago.” With a claw out with the spare, Galdan told, “They’re not widespread yet… but they can detect nearby Queens. All high ranking officers like me are ordered to have them and investigate immediately.”

“...why give this to me? If you know exactly of this information, you could've not show me it and give me one-- and just told someone I had some Queens. Why offer me one?” question Dejen with a side glance.

“Because even if you’re a double dealing swindler, you’re also a double dealing swindler that’s been keeping Ramada safe with possibly a small hive for years.” Told the griffin with a slight sneer. “I might investigate, but I know when there’s a good male someplace. And while a lot of Hunters hate you, I can tell that you’re doing good.”

He held out the gem more and told, “Those Queens are important. What’s done to Queens in R&D shouldn’t be allowed. What some of those ‘hidden’ camps the hunters have, shouldn’t be allowed. My job was to secure safety of people. Clear changelings as none-threats, and move the changelings that were under threat to safe locations.”

The Captain snorted, “Well, there’s one too many hunters discrediting basic regulations. I’m a soldier, Dejen, Not a mindless, bloodthirsty murderer. If my superiors are acting out of emotion and not thought, they’re orders become more of a threat to the whole. Not a beneficial situation for both sides.” Then looked to Dejen and told, “Take it. Figure it out. Keep those Queens safe. If things go bad, and changelings go dead, then at least two will be left to rebuild.”

Yeah, that will go well. sarcastically thought the striped, but soon took the gem as he pocket it, but soon said. “You didn’t hear this from me, but the other Queen? Just a foal of 6.” then told. “We found her in Ramada...been on the run for three years from Hunters…” then told. “Doesn’t speak a lot well for you Hunters even more when we found out about that.”

There was a flickering of his eyes, a look of thoughtful reflection as Galdan said, “The snake hole keeps getting deeper.” Then gave a firm nod. “I’ll keep in mind that rumors of some lost foal was seen to the far east of Arabia.” Then told, “I might be a Changeling Hunter, but I have morals. If it comes down to it, I’ll send a message if something bad happens. We are here to protect, not exterminate like so many think.” Wings opening and taking off for his ship.

Giving a low chuckle, Dejen admit...he might respect that griffon now. Sure he was a Hunter...but at least he was one hunter out of many that kept to his morals and reasoning. He however held a frown as he took out the gem...and soon said as they were walking back. “Get this to Gem. Find out what it does and how we can block it. I don’t care if we need to use anti-warding's, but we won’t get those bastards an upper hand.”

Debt caught the tossed gem as he said. “Yes Sir.” then soon asked. “What will you tell the others?” to which Dejen grin a said.

“We got an ally among the Hunters, and that he knows how shitty the Hunters become.” the gnoll nodded as they headed back to the ship.

Mercy had an uneasiness in her, even with the ship flying as if the Hunters were able to sense Queens now. It was bad, really bad that they could track Queens, the only good thing that they were having Gem find it out...but knowing that Captain was a ‘ally’ was a mixed feeling. While it was surprising there was a good Hunter, it made her wonder how he kept his morals? Or maybe he always kept his morals as a soldier no matter what?

What was more of her focus, as she and some of the other's were in a room, Asha was watching over Alibi and the other nymphs. Letting everyone look to Gem as she took a low breath and told. “I’ll be blunt boss. That gem? Damn scary. It doesn’t have a large range, but it can reach 500 feet, able to sense Queens effectively. The glow itself intensity tell how the range is between the holder and their target. The number of vibrations tell how many Queens there are, the color of the glowing thing tell the swarm mind strength. And the estimated number of the swarm with the Queen range.”

“How about the colors?” question Dejen as Gem told.

“Blue small, easily handle, but the green seem to mean a need for stronger forces, yellow is a large hive. Red? Apparently large invasion force. Right now though? Mercy Hive is a more green-yellowish color.”

“Are you able to make something to block it?” asked Dejen as Gem breath in.

“Not...yet. I’ll be honest boss...this is something that is a mix of runic, stonology...and something else.”

Sitting with them for this, Rah-Rah spoke up, “Then we don’t block the sensory gem.” It got an odd look from Gem, while the rabbit told, “All sensory based equipment or even senses work by picking up a specific signal and isolating it. Scramble the signal, alter the signal or line something over the object that refracts or traps the signals, and you effectively block it.”

Dejen held a hand under his chin, thinking on it as he asked. “Gem, think you can scramble the signal like Rah-Rah said?” getting Gem to think and said.

“I might...but the problem is, I have no idea what those R&D researchers those Hunters got did to those Queens to get something like this, it might take me a bit of time to figure out how they track a Queen, to the signal.” to which Mercy told.

“Swarm Mind. they resonate with the Swarm mind, I can sense the blasted thing giving an echo within the Swarm mind already.” However despite the calm words showing, there was an angered look on her expression. “It is a mockery of a changeling-- no, a Hive with its Swarm mind. Imitating to be of a changeling with the same wavelength, fooling the drones and possibly the Queen it is changeling as it mimics the same connection with its echo.”

Thinking this over, Rah-Rah said, “That’s a problem. To block it, we have to scramble your own senses. But to block it, we’re also blocking your signals.” Thinking a bit more before adding, “Meaning that either way, we’re also harming ourselves…” Then asked, “Mercy, do all Swarm Minds work the same, or is there large variations on some occasions?”

Getting Mercy to think a bit, the Queen explain. “Many think a Swarm mind is the same, on some levels yes it is-- but only in basic understanding. There is a Queen and a Hive, the Queen is the center of the Swarm mind for the Hive. To keep connection, to transfer minds to have quick talk, that is fundamentally the same for most Swarm minds. But there are large variations.” thinking a bit, she soon explain.

“Imagine each Hive with a Queen as a nation, and with each Hive there are various ways of ruling, some rule with sternness, other's kindness, others with fear. So with each different way of ruling, so are there different ways of the Swarm mind operating.”

“What about different connections?” Asked Rah-Rah, which was an odd question to hear. “Can you divide the swarm mind into section A, section B, section C-- with only a specific group of changelings. A specific number only?”

“I can, for example, Alibi with her six. I specifically separate her a bit as to not get overwhelmed, but with each piece I divide, the more I must focus to keep them connected. If I don’t keep total focus on the Swarm mind, it will collapse as it will all form back into one whole Swarm mind instead of specific pieces connected.”explained Mercy.

Nodding in thought, Rah-Rah asked, “Can you ping the gem?” Making Mercy give an odd look. “You and the other changelings can sense it, right? Can you or them, actively send a signal to it?”

Thinking, she raised a hoof to wait as she sent a single signal to the gem, focusing on the echo as there was a reaction in Gem pocket. “What the Stones?!” talking it out as it slightly vibrated hard with Mercy single signal as Mercy told.

“Apparently I can send a signal, I don’t know if my children can, one moment.”then ordered. "Can one of you send a signal to the echo mockery please? We are testing something of it."

One single signal was sent, and like before, the gem vibrated, though not as harshly. It was a small and faint pulse. Nodding at the results, Rah-Rah asked, “Now… did it respond in any normal way a changeling would?”

Frowning, Mercy admit. “Yes...in a way it did, but it wasn’t giving the right...feel I would say is the best I can describe it. It almost felt...like the changeling was near death-- but somehow still alive, if that makes any sense...like a...a lich I would say.”

“A lure.” Was Rah-Rah’s response. “It detects queens, but it’s also a lure. The more you ping it, the stronger the pulses might become. The closer they get, it glows brighter, but if it was in their pocket, like Gem’s and a Queen pings it-- they know one’s close.”

The Rabbit thought for a moment and went on, “And while it’s not for Drones… they can ping it. But it’s weaker…” Thinking a bit more and said, “Alright, we can’t block it, but maybe we can confuse it.” Perking up as she said, “Have the swarm send pings-- different types of pings, rapid pace and from random directions.”

While Mercy question this, Dejen told. “I think I know what Rah-Rah is getting at, do it Mercy.” she glanced to her Striped, but if he knew, maybe he would explain as she said in the Swarm. "My children, I want you to send pings, every type of ping, rapid pace and random directions to the echo of the gem. We’re going to see if we can...confuse it." seeing the reaction as it began to...react oddly.

Like before, it buzzed and flashed, but once it started, it didn’t stop. Buzzing and flashing at such a rapid pace, a few blinked their eyes at it flickering. At one point, it’s colors began to shift, going between one to another, going faster and faster and faster-- then, it just flickers off, glow dimming and going inactive.

Rah-Rah stared and soon grinned, “Just like a computer.” Then told, “It can receive signals, but only so much at once.” Then went on, “It overloaded, crashed, froze. Right now, it’s too busy trying to sort out all the junk information.”

“The blue screen of death.” said Dejen with a chuckle. “Gotta love the classic with computer fucked ups with information.” most of the group were giving confused looks, but he assured. “But, at least we know we can screw up their gems by making it be full of junk information with all those pings, making them crash and unusable for a limited amount of time. Maybe longer than an hour or two to flush out the information.”

Rah-Rah soon told, “If they have anyone that knows their gems, they can just reboot it.” Bursting Dejen’s bubble. “But, in my experience, this would be an opening assault. If you really wanted to overload it?” She smiled, “Mercy, can you make a ping loop? A ping that never stops pinging with a number of changelings, to one point?”

She thought over it...then with careful delegation of ‘copying’ all the pings and using a cycle of pings, she waited till Gem ‘reboot’ it as when it was active did she sent it. She look to Rah-Rah and admitted. “This is new for me, I manage to send at least 50 pings of my children with a loop like you ask on the echo…” then they saw it.

The rainbow colors of the gem as it was flashing with random colors of the rainbow as Dejen couldn’t help but laugh. A few glance to him as he managed to say in his laughing of a hyena. “S-Spinning beach ball, oh the ultimate crash of mac!”

Rah-Rah leaned more on the table, mostly standing on her chair while looking at the gem that was glowing a mild color while also hardly vibrating. “You’re keeping the loop going, right?” Making sure with Mercy. “Because this is a more long-term stall. I was hoping for a major crash, but this is better.” Then told, “Gem, reset it while Mercy keeps it up.”

The Dog looked confused, but with a careful burst of magic to cause a reset, the gem dimmed, relit-- and began to once more go through a spiral of colors. Rah-Rah grinned and said, “There. It’s not perfect, but it’s like putting a magnet under a compass. It’s not too much information to overload, but it’s enough it’s too busy trying to process it.”

“Damn...how long do you think it might work for?” glancing to see the Hyena calming down as she asked. “And what's beach balls spinning got to do with this-- or this crashing of mac?” Dejen calm down as he said.

“Not important,” taking a breath in as he asked to Mercy. “How many times you can do that?”

“I don’t know. Maybe a few times? Its a very delicate process of making a looping of pings and send it to the thing, even more with how many I send. Too much and it might pop like a balloon.”then asked to both rabbit and Striped. “How did you two figure it out?”

Rah-rah shrugged and said, “I don’t know about Dejen, but I work with computers. They’re delicate things. And they can only process only so much information.” Then patted herself adding, “I’ve been using runes and enchantments to sort of work like programs, but it’s also tricky. Both aren't the same, but some aspects have the same principle. A similar idea of how to function.”

Then pointed to the gem. “I just used what I knew, and test it out. It’s called Cyber Warfare. Or in this case, Runic Warfare. Outsmarting the system that was made for the runes in something.” Then went on to tell Mercy, “And this is a stalling tactic. You can sense it, right? That means you can track it. Send scouts, and once they are close enough-- do a surge of pings to knock it out. While the Hunters are blind for that one moment, you attack.”

Mercy thought over that as she nodded, it can work, especially if she sent a few scouts, move the loop pings to them, and while distracting the enemy, they attack with swift motions. Still….it made her wonder of the two. But she pushed that aside, at least for now as she focuses on the blinking color of the gem as she asked. “But how long are we able to stall them? Sooner or later they’ll invent something better with those researchers.”

In turn, Rah-Rah said, “And while they are, we’ll be evolving our technology too.” Then pointed to the gem. “They sense Queens? Well, once we know how your Swarm Mind works on a basic level and how it can receive signals to the primary conduit-- the Queen, we can make a dummy signal with our own gems. Leave them lying around to lead them off.” Then went on, “Or, make a single room in the ship, made to completely block it. If you sense it, you can go in the room, and be completely shielded for the time being, leave orders around for the Changelings to do something while you’re out of contact.”

Thinking a bit, Mercy gave a nod. “If a room can be made to shield me and Alibi? I can easily coordinate my 620 children. Maybe make the dummy signals with our own gems to fool them.”To which Gem add in.

“Yeah...that might be a problem.” said the d-dog as she held up the blinking color gem. “This is...well, this seems to be a hybrid gem. I think the Hunters started to cultivate gems and trying to oddly cross-breed them. It might take a while to figure out which one they did it so I can even start making gems to counteract this thing.”

Looking to Gem, Rah-Rah said, “Let me handle the counteracting shielding.” Smiling while saying, “Once I know how the signals work, I can make something made to reflect or contain said signals.” Then pointed out, “You go on and try figuring out how to make a dummy signal. The gem latches onto a Queen’s nearby frequency and piggybacks onto it. That’s my basic understanding right now.”

Grinning, Gem told. “Now that I can handle.” then glance around and asked. “Hey boss, where’s the Twins, Mynu, Debt, and Windy?”

“Windy is getting something for me to eat, Debt is getting Port a handle on the wheel, and apparently the Twins and Mynu thought this was important for us to talk and they’ll learn about it when we’re done talking about it.” said Dejen. He then said. “Galdan said that there were only held by high officials like Captain, so we shouldn’t be too worried…” then frown as he admits. “But it also means we have another reason to stay away from Abassa for now, as there might be a few Captains with the gems to locate Mercy and Alibi.”

To that, Rah-Rah said, “I’ll get working on something to get in the way of its ability to follow signals.” Then hummed in thought before telling, “That will take a while, but I think I have a few ideas of how to do that.” Then looked to Gem adding, “Once you figure your project out, mind letting me know? I want to see if I can help make a fail-safe trigger so that the gems die or break before the Hunters can fully track the dummy’s region-- stop reverse engineering.”

Nodding, Gem said. “I’ll let you know first, but it’ll take me time.” then seeing Dejen waving his hand to let the group disperse, although as they exit out of the room, with both Gem and Rah-Rah doing their own work in their workshops, Mercy said to Dejen. “What are we going to do, Dejen? It might take them weeks to get it ready, and we can’t keep going around Arabia forever, even with you taking all the supply of shekels you hid away. We need to leave Arabia to ready ourselves to even approach Dejeen.”

Scratching his head, Dejen agreed. “Hate to say it, but you’re right. I’m contactless here, even with gathering minerals we might fight some gnoll clans. It’ll be a matter of time until we got ourselves a fight. We need to conserve ammo…” then think a bit as he told. “We’ll keep gathering minerals as plan, get some favors called in and get word spread for Shima to get an income of people for living.”

“And gnoll Clans?”asked the Queen as Dejen grin.

“We’ll handle them when the time happens.” she sighed, but nodded, turning to trot away, wanting to check on Alibi as well letting Dejen think as the Striped began walking as he shuffled his deck. Everything is a disadvantage to us. I give maybe three weeks for Maltar lackeys come here for a dogfight, maybe less. Maybe an increase of Hunter attacking us, as well as Clan ambush. We do need to leave Arabia again, but the problem is...should we leave now? Or try to stay and keep on the move, we do need to save on fuel.

Thinking to himself as he went on. Yes we got silent running, all our small guns are calibrated, but we can’t fully leave, but can’t fully stay. What to do, what to do? thought Dejen as they were in a pickle this time, and time was against them for once.