Arabian Swindler

Dejen hands were shuffling the cards, agitation noticed by the other's as Mercy did her best to sooth the Striped, Windy did the same, but her gaze was a bit unfocused, mostly leaning and nuzzling him as the others were around-- except for Debt, as Susumu said of Debt condition being stable, but will have to be on the ship until fully healed. Few days at least for the two healers to work on the gnoll together.

Dejen took in a breath as he said. “Let see if I get this right, this guy, is name Kikalim, renowned bounty hunter under Haulani, a demon of curses, spells, hexes. He got major mojo magical runic traps to keep targets on hold. He’s basically the living embodiment of greed and love riches, he hunts anything with a bounty and is stronger and faster than any normal mortal being….”

Then paused as he took in another calm breath as his hands stop the shuffle, looking to the twins as he said. “And his apparently nickname is ‘Scarecrow’ as a warning for you two.” then with one final deep breath, he said with closed eyes. “When you mention a lot of things were after you, and said a demon was after you ...I thought it was plural. One. Haulani. Not. More. than. One.” then told.

“And the shitty cherry on top, is that he knows about Debt at first glance, meaning he knows I’m with you, meaning Haulani will figure out I’m helping you two.” then soon asked. “So why in the hell, did you fail to mention about this guy? I mean yes, you got loads of enemies, but when you mention bounty hunters among them, I thought you mean mortal bounty hunters. Not. Demons.”

“Hey!” Bakari burst out, “We tried to tell you as much as we can remember-- and Kikalim isn’t just like the others-- he works for Haulani because that guy summoned him out of Tartarus.” Then went on, “But he’s greedy-- so greedy that if there’s another bounty on someone, he’ll sometimes stop his hunt for something to get that bounty. This is only our eighth time seeing him.”

Bina then pitched in, “Normally when we see him, we’re stuck running for a few days at a time with him on our tails. He’s caught us a few times too and brought us close to Haulani.” Then scuffed the floor adding, “With him, and the many other bounty hunters both normal and abnormal and demonic-- we just lost track of him. We haven't seen him for over a year. He’s… a little absent minded.”

“Yeah. For gold.” Bakari snorted. “Only real guarantee distraction. Toss a coin off the cliff and he might actually chase it.” Then muttered, “Unless something more valuable is in front of him.”

“Like you two?” Mynu dryly asked.

Sighing, Bina nodded, “Like us two.”

“And the only bait he’ll catch beside you two, is the 3 million shekels in the room.” said Dejen in a strain tone, taking another breath...and said. “We’re opting out.” getting looks as Gem said.

“Wait, you mean we’re leaving Arabia?! Before we even started?” to which Dejen asked dryly.

“And wait as we move around gathering minerals and resources for Kikalim or whoever Haulani has under his employment?” then said to the group. “Listen, I know I mention the plan of getting Pjo in Dejeen throne-- but with a wildcard like Kikalim and whoever are after these two might popping in Arabia? My gambling senses are telling me to fold my cards and back out.”

“That gambling sense thing isn’t really a thing, boss.” said Gem in a dry manner.

With a hint of focus, Asha asked, “Just how far are these bounty hunters?” A question she no doubt knew the answer to, but one that was more for everyone to hear. And the question made both herno look bothered.

“Everyone that wants our power.” Bina said sadly. “We’ve been on the move for years… people find out, hear about us and… well, send others after us.” Fidgeting a bit and adding, “Some understand and leave us alone. Others…”

“Other’s we have to put down.” Bakari said with more of a firmness. “Others like Kikalim have the skill or strength to actually get close to catching us, so we run. We’ve killed a few demons. Kikalim is one of the few we can’t kill yet. Uses magic to regenerate himself in a day and is right as rain.”

Mynu glanced to Asha and spoke, “What about Asha? She used a roar to stop him.”

With a glance to the dog, Asha said, “I use light, life and purifying magics. I’m the last thing demonic spirits want to face. I can hold, banish and harm them.” Then said in thought. “Kikalim is strong though. He’s been in this world for a long time. Trying to banish him won’t be easy. Even if I fought him.”

Mercy held a worried look, as well scrunching as she glanced to see Dejen went back to shuffling, thinking as she asked to the twins. “Do you think that Kikalim might use Dejeen to get us? Dejeen is wealthy, and I can see the demon possibly using a ‘rival’ of his boss to kill two birds with one stone.”

Shaking her head, Bina said, “He’s more interested in using bounties. If I had to guess? He saw Dejen’s bounty or heard of it and just decided to take it on. That way if he noticed Dejen, he could get the money.” Then went on to think. “He doesn't put much thought into things like that. Only whoever his target is.”

“Very single minded.” Agreed Bakari. “He gets distracted by his other bounties and jobs, he sometimes forgets who he’s after. It only comes to mind if he recognizes a hint to a target. Or sees his target in sight.”

Gem rub her chin as she held a frown. “How could we stop him, or get him focus on something else to ignore us for a while?”

Susumu frowns, thinking to himself. Troubling. Demons after the two, maybe be more. he soon thought of something...and soon asked twins. “Have try asking good spirits for aid?” gaining a few looks as Dejen pause in his shuffling as he said. “Legends and stories, if there are bad spirits after you, there are good spirits who may help? Perhaps aid in killing bad spirits? Send them back to the underworld?”

Asha was the one to clarify. “Only if they have a physical from, Susumu.” Seeming to have a clear idea of what he was thinking. “If the demon is physical, they have to be physical too. If Kikamil was still a spirit, then they could handle him. But he’s not.”

Then said in a thoughtful tone, “But, from the sounds of it. His embodiment of greed distracts him. I think all you need is a changeling to shake a bag of coins and just lead him away.”

Blinking, Bakari said, “That would actually work.” Getting looks while he shrugged. “Once had to run away from him. We were hiding and he was trying to find us. Bina had some gold on her, but with all the fighting, the string popped loose and it fell.”

Thinking back, Bina said, “I remember that. The bag broke open by a cliff side and split all the gold over the side. About a few hundreds with.” Then shook her head. “He heard it and saw it falling-- dived right over the cliff to gather it. We ran after that and didn't look back. Completely lost him for… I think six months before he happen to run into us.”

Mercy glance to Dejen, seeing him slightly hearing with his ears flicking, but was focusing on his thoughts as his hands shuffle that deck. She moved her head to see Windy only focus on Dejen, nuzzling and rubbing on him as she looks back to the Striped as she looked to Rah-Rah as she asked. “Maybe we can use some of our shekels to distract with like Asha suggested? Distract with bags of it and lead him away.” then frown and admit.

“But it doesn’t solve the problem of unexpected problems…” then look up and ask to the twins. “Is there anything or anyone we need to be worried or aware of, I know you mention there were a lot after you-- but we need specific people and names if we want to somewhat plan if we come across them.”

Bina winced at that and Bakari tossed his hands up, “We don’t know, I think we can only remember a few, the rest either give up, are dead, or new! We started losing track of who’s who and why and everything else!” Next to complaining this aloud.

Shaking her head, Bina said, “With the slavers, bandits, rich people, the bounty hunters, random people and just… stuff.” Then sighed and named off. “Maltar is the slaver after us. That one unicorn mare, Slands-something is after us. Haulani is after us, Kikalim being one of the people being paid to do that. A pirate group in the holds is after us, but we don’t really know their names.” Then shook her head, “There’s even that one Rat that keeps telling them where we are, and he won’t shut up if someone forks over a piece of gold.”

Note to self, kill Alluite or make sure he keeps his mouth shut on specific parts. thought Dejen as he soon said. “The pirate group in the holds are named Shoreline Crushers, they usually keep near the shores of the Holds. Slands-something I need a bit more info on coat color, mane, eyes, use of magic, helps me get an idea of what she could do. We already know those you mentioned earlier… then stop shuffling as he asked to Rah-Rah. “Did you gain a letter yet by Miko at this point?”

With a look, Rah-Rah told, “She wouldn’t know where to send it Dejen. We use a special gem as a beacon, but she hasn’t used it yet. She either hasn’t found anything-- or lost it.” Then went on, “I wouldn't be surprised on the last part. If she gets attacked, she could have dropped it and lost it. It’s happened before.”

Mynu rubbed her face and said, “Well, that’s wonderful to hear.” Then sighed out, “Can this day get any better?” It was at her last punctuation that there was a dull thump on the ship, followed by a small bang sound. Everyone turned their heads and gave a look at a fleet of frigates, all of which were firing small cannon fire at their ship that blew up-- but mostly pinged off fairly harmlessly.

Focusing his eyes on the fleet….he soon said. “Annnd perfect, those are Dejeen lackies. Just. Peachy.” then rubbed his forehead as he pointed a finger to Port who jumped at his finger pointed at her as he told. “Turn this ship to fly to north-north east.”

“Sir, no offense but...why not fire at them?” asked Port as Dejen said.

“Because I am not putting up with their shit, and them being a distraction for something else. Now move.” she gave an eep and began turning the wheel as the Innovation was leaving from the fleet of frigates as Dejen had zero fucks to give to Dejeen lackeys.

If she was able, Rah-Rah would of watched as the firggets get out of range form their overall faster speeds. Still, the Rabbit couldn't help but say, “This last week’s been full of encounters.” Then went on, “First whole brigades of gnolls getting in the way every day. Then that demon bounty hunter-- now Pirates just showing up.”

Snorting, Bakari said, “That makes me feel like we’re being followed.” His paranoia at the line of events seeming to tickle at him.

“For once, I agree,” said Susumu as the fox said. “Seems odd of many threats are chasing us, feel we are being followed. But by who? Beside obvious?”

“To that, I don’t know.” said Dejen as he sagged in his chair. “But what I do know? We need a quick stop somewhere to finish up replenishing our ammo and lay low temporarily.” then thought...and soon said. “Why not near the border of Equestria? That can work.”

Gem thought and soon asked. “Why not that labyrinth--,” and was shut down.

“Nope! Nuh-huh, no. Way. In HELL! Am I going back there!” told Dejen as he said. “I rather we go to Canterlot itself! Than go to that place again!”

“But what are the chances of the snake being there?” asked Gem as Dejen told.

“And what if Lady Luck decided to stop giving me good luck? I rather set into Canterlot itself and stay there than to go back there!” Mercy then told.

“But it's also the only place for them to even be afraid to go as well.” looking at him as she asked. “You just don’t want to see that giant queen corba again, don’t you?”

“Oh I’m sorry, but I think you can understand why I’m very against to go there, we would of been eaten!”

Asha gave a look to that and said, “I can reason with it.” Then smiled on, “White Manes are good with reasoning with others.”

Bakari then pitched in, “And if it’s just a giant snake? Bina and I can handle it.” Then crossed his arms, “I don’t think it can handle the two of us, doesn't sound like a demon.”

Bina then added in, “Any place sounds good to hide, Dejen, but right now? We’re being attacked almost daily-- three times today! We need to hide someplace, and I think anyplace will do right about now.”

“Well you can forget it, because I-,”

“Inhale this.” told Susumu as he had a rag pressed to Dejen nose, letting the Stripe in hale, before calming down as he put the rag away as he said to Mercy. “Suggest you put Dejen-san and windy back in room. Potion at limit, gave Dejen-san to ease mind.” Mercy sniff the bits of pheromones and said to Susumu.

“You sly fox, I think you made Dejen sleepy. Making him relax and let him rest so they can go banging the other?” Susumu gave a slight shrug and said.

“Doctor recommendations. Let Swindle sleep and unwound, pegasus will aid in relief stress levels.” Gem smirk, but then told to Port as she walk up by the mare.

“Now follow these directions, we’re heading somewhere to hide for a few days.” Mercy horn glow, teleporting the two away as Port glance and ask the other's.

“This isn’t going to backfire on us...right?”

Some shrugged, not really sure what Dejen was even scared of. Others thought, but didn’t bother to think more on it. After all, this was them looking for a place of safety. And the Labyrinth was the safest place they could think of at this moment.

“Batteries firing!” All heard the echoing blasts of cannons, the Innovations Rise was in the midst of another fight. This time with some random slavers that had some pirate backup. The fleet of 15 ships was being dealt with easily, but those around we're starting to feel tired of this.

For nearly four straight days, more and more stuff seemed to come at them. Pirates. Slavers. More Gnolls. Some Mercenaries. Even some gn-ho-idiots that thought they could take them on! They just kept coming and coming as they were trying to reach the Labyrinth.

But it was slow progress. Be it by going Silent and sneaking around, having to take on an ambush group head on, getting attacked by fast moving interceptors before blasting them out of the sky. Ground ambushes or even just Mercenaries flying right at them from behind.

Mynu looked out of the viewing window and watched as those ships shot down began to crash below, and next to shouted back. “What in the Ancestral Stone’s is going on here?” She felt a little less sleep in her, mostly just from all the encounters that never seemed to stop. How did everyone seemingly keep finding them!?

It made Debt snort a bit, leaning on his other leg some as the gnoll said. “If I had to guess? Dejeen told everyone what our ship looks like and just let them move around till they spotted us.”

“Here's my question, how does everyone and those ships seemingly find us a few times a day, or even the very next day-- in a freaking huge desert!” told Port as she question. “And are we really going to let Dejen finish rutting that pegasus and not here?”

“You rather him ordering us to leave away from the Labyrinth?” questioned the gnoll.

With another slight tremor of the ship, Bakari gripped the railing and said, “I don’t know if you noticed, but they’ve been finding us no matter which way we go!” Then looked out adding, “This is nuts!” Watching as another ship get gutted out, this one blowing up in a fireball. “No way they’re just finding us!”

Bina had to agree. “This is happening too often. We’re being tracked, we’ve got to be tracked. It’s the only reason they keep finding us!”

Debt thought of what it could be, but Mercy brought up a suggestion. “Tracking runes? Probably on our ship hull somewhere, or by you two in that fight?” although she amended. “But that can’t be it...otherwise that demon bounty hunter would be tracking us….” scrunching her face in thought then said. “I hate to admit it, but we need Dejen. Now. I’m going to get him snapped out of what Susumu did and in action. We need his brains to figure out how we’re being tracked.” teleporting away as in a few minutes later, Dejen nearly shouted as he was teleported back in with some bathroom robes.

“You didn’t stop me when we’re being attacked constantly!?” seeing the last ship of the fleet going down before it could flee as it became a burning wreck. Dejen sat in his chair as he activate the radio. “Rah-Rah. Gem. Stat report now! Ammo, hull, and how much left.” then order to Debt. “how many times were we attack!?”

“For the last few days? Nonstop.” Dejen grumble as he reached his hand to grab something-- but missing the touch of decks as he said in a mutter.

“Great, no cards to think with...Just peachy.” starting to calm himself as he said to the twins while he heard from Gem.

“Slowly running low with 10% loss of ammo out of 70%, ship hull is getting scorched or dented around, still holding out. Fuels going down steady, have reserved to load in, the biggest problem is lack of sleep from constant attacks boss.”

“Bina, Bakari, you two been tracked. Options of how we’re being tracked.”

Shaking their heads, Bakari told, “If we were tracked, it would of ben from the scarecrow. But he’s not here and his ruins don’t last more than a few days. Something about our own person's wear it off faster.”

Bina then told, “But we’ve been tracked before. That’s the only reason we’ve figured out we’re being tracked, but we don’t know how-- and if Kikalim did put a rune on to track us, it would only be for him. It doesn't explain how everyone else is finding and tracing us.”

Thinking a bit, the annoyed swindler took a deep breath, calming himself to think ashe thought. Multiple hits of ships, for a full day to even the next in random order. Somehow finding us no matter how fast we go. We’re being tracked, we’re being found... he then said in the radio. “Everyone, I think I have an option. We may got a stowaway on our ship. Giving a signal somehow to every to bloody find us!”

While there was a moment of pause, possibly the changelings all moving to find this stow away, Asha spoke, “I don’t sense anyone else here. It feels all the same, nothing different Dejen.” It possibly made a few pause, but it didn’t help the situation.

Still, in an odd twist, they heard Alibi’s voice. “Maybe it’s something else?”

“Alibi, careful with that.” Asha spoke, apparently babysitting the foal again. But still, she went on.

“But Asha, if nobody new is here, maybe something is just in the ship.” It was odd to hear a child try and barge into an adult situation. But it did make the strip think. Even if Alibi didn’t fully understand the situation.

With a look, Bakari said, “In the ship?” Then thought on it. “Well… maybe that could work. But wouldn’t that mean someone plated something?”

Bina shook her head, “Asha would've sensed them, and I think the changelings would have too. They can feel bad intent, right?”

“Unless…” said Dejen as he thought more to it… ”Unless it was a pawn.” then thought more as he said. “A thief that was hired, to infiltrate and plant something to track us. At a moment with...the demon at our attention.” then smile and said in the radio. “Thanks Alibi, sometimes I forget the best advice-- comes from the mouth of foals.”

There was no response, though it could've been the foal bashfully keeping to herself. His thoughts were confirmed when he heard Asha. “Aw, don’t be shy. He’s saying you did a good job, Alibi!” Chuckles being heard.

Still, Bina said, “But Dejen, that means that whatever’s in the ship could be anywhere!”

“If it’s in the ship.” Added Bakari, “What if it’s on the hull?”

“Problem is, where?” said Dejen in thought as he said. “Mercy, ask for volunteers, get them out and find anything on the hull, anything that looks suspicious.” Mercy nodded, sending the request as Dejen order. “Open the hatches, while we got what breathing room to be had, let's see where the tracking item is.”

Over the radio, they heard Rah-Rah, “Gem, can you help me make gemstones that can pick up signals on all frequencies?” The rabbit going on, “We’ll search on the inside Dejen. Maybe if Gem and I work quick enough, we can jury rig something to make things faster.”

“Got it,” said the Striped as he leaned back in his bathrobes, thinking a bit as they waited in silence...or near it as Port asked with a slight glance back.

“You couldn’t...find anything decent to wear than a bathrobe?” to which the striped remark.

“Oh I’m sorry, but who’s idea was it to keep me out of this situation for how many days?”

“Don’t look at us.” Spoke both the twins in perfect unison. Mynu sighed and only gave a shrug, seeing she didn’t make the call either.

“That would be me, Sir,” said Debt as Dejen said.

“And for that, no payment.” to which the gnoll snort and told.

“Sir, you never pay me.” although before the banter went on, Gem told on the radio.

“Boss! You wouldn’t believe it! Remember that ‘haul’ you mention? Well that damn Lion got us tracked!” then Susumu went on the line as he said.

“I believe this is the part where I say told you so, Dejen-san.”

Blinking, Mynu said, “Razul?” Thinking back and saying, “Haul…. Wasn’t that before the gnoll’s started showing up?” Making a few pauses in thought. “How did you find this Lion guy?”

“....by tracking...pirates…who were in a formed group.” said Dejen as he then said. “Who were also looking for something...like that tradesmen who was trying to hide from said pirates, and mentioned him being followed by a lot of pirates for a time.” there was only silence...beside Susumu slow clapping on the radio.

Frowning, Mynu said, “Sounds like he was being tracked by the goods he had, Boss.” Thinking a bit on it more before telling, “You must have bought the stocks with the tracking… unless some other stocks had tracking too.” This was a complex matter to her. The idea that a tradesman was being tracked by his goods? Was it an accident or purposeful?

Bina twisted her face before saying, “Does it matter right now?” Then went on, “We need to get those things off the ship, now, before more people show up!”

“Problem about that, some of them are our materials too.” told Gem in the radio. “If we get rid of them, we lose what we need to replenish our ammo.” with Mercy bringing the Hive back, Gem went on. “Plus...the best way to remove them is to melt it down.” Dejen frown as he said.

“Not to mention I got miscellaneous stuff for the rest of you..and that cube rune….”

Bakari scowled and said, “Just toss the stuff already!” Arms in the air and going on. “Or better yet, send it out somewhere random and lead those people away! Why are we still trying to decide what to do?!”

“Some of the stuff were for the nymphs.” told Dejen in a dry manner, then rolled his eyes and told in the ship. “Rah-Rah, Gem? Track all the stuff, get them ready to melt, or to pile up together to toss it in a random direction as you save as much knowledge as you can on the stuff…” then grumble. “And I wanted to use that cube for my exo-suit as a new engine.”

“We can get you a new cube of runes!” told Mercy as she order in the hive. Sorry my children, but we must get rid of these tracked things for our safety. We can get more somewhere else where it's safer. already feeling annoyed at this as Dejen thought...and soon asked.

“You know...I have to wonder, who put all of Razul stuff tracked in the first place? It looks like he came from the Isles but...why would they track his stuff for pirates? Or better yet what if pirates infiltrated and track his stuff to take? No, no….” thinking a bit ...then asked. “Asha...would the Spotted somehow be in league with pirates?”

With a pause to think, Asha eventually told, “It’s not common. The only pirates they let close are Gnolls, and even those aren't let in easily. The Spotted know the rules, and they know the trouble pirates bring. They will go to war if a Pirate tries to do anything to the Isle.” Then paused to soon asked, “Who’s Razul?”

“A yellowmane lion that was tracked with his stuff,” said Dejen.

“Oh, alright.” Asha accepted. “It could be possible that he just traded bad goods. Maybe. I don’t know, Yellowmanes get touchy with their things during transport. Best thing I can think is the goods were tampered with before being put onboard.”

“But who would tamper the goods? That's the problem. All I’m getting is Spotted doing it for some gnolls, and even then that's farfetch.” said Dejen.

Sighing, Bina said, “Dejen, stop.” Her hands up as she said, “We can’t figure it out. Right now, right now we need to just get the tracked stuff out of the ship and leave.” Trying to be as polite as she could. “It’s bringing too much attention to us, and we need to hide. Maybe run for it and fast. If pirates, gnolls and slavers come at us, mercenaries too-- who knows who else might come.”

Sighing, he nodded as he said. “Alright. I’ll drop it…” then look to Mercy as she soon said.

“All tracked items are gathered together, everything has been copied the best we could do, and right now Gem is melting all that extra copper and ivory is being crushed. All that is left where the need to throw it away.”

“We could burn them, just to save time.” said Dejen as while tossing them is easy, they could easily burn it for fuel.

“*sigh*, fine. They’re being burned right now, all packages and crates are burning for fuel as we speak.” then added. “And Gem is dismantling your cube.” Dejen sigh to that as he told to Debt and Port.

“Keep moving to the Labyrinth,” then order in the radio. “After the burning, everyone gets a good shut eye, you all earn it.”

As they reach the labyrinth and settle somewhere to hide in it ...there was silence, no attackers, no more ambushes, no random appearing hotshots to fight...peace and silent. Even no giant snake to greet them-- which is a plus for Dejen. Sadly they couldn’t reach down in the oasis, they manage to hide….

Then the sandstorm came, making them hunker down as it passes, but it was appreciated compared to the last week of BS they went through.

Rah-Rah looked over the many parts inside the Innovations Rise, and was happy that everything was in good order. Sure there was a bit of wiring here or a motherboard there that was a bit roughed up, but with the ship landed? It gave her more than enough time to fix it up.

Still, even as she placed the parts back and placed the panel in place, she couldn’t help but reflect on their time in Arabia. Just one big giant roller coaster with random ups and downs. It was almost a refreshing change of pace to the monotone life she had in the Holds. Did I really miss this? She asked herself.

And after a moment, Rah-rah smiled and shook her head. Yeah… maybe I did. Those times she, Miko and Felix would go around. Cause trouble, go on some crazy gambit of an adventure involving some crypt. It was dangerous, and hair pulling at times… but it was oddly fun, challenging and exciting.

Sighing, Rah-Rah refocused on making sure the panel was tightly in place, her diminutive stature of two feet hardly helping her in pushing the larger metal panel back in place-- and screwing it back in at the same time. (end)

A hand move to help push the panel back and holding it as Dejen look down as he held a grin. “Hey Rah-Rah, just checking in with you,” jerking his head back adding. “Finish my part in repairs in Sector A-C, figure you might need help.” then jokes. “Then again, with nothing to do but repairs, you would think we would be finished by now on this ship.”

Giving a small laugh, Rah-Rah was finally able to go about using the large and seemingly oversized screwdriver for her hands to get each screw in. “Yeah, well, it’s a big ship. She demands a lot of attention and patients.” Going about working as she looked up and said with a grin, “Sector A-C? Is that what the new official term for the ventilation system is now?”

“It's better than, ‘long winding path with nothing but dust and repairing fans’.” joked Dejen as he moved by her, helping her work as he went on. “Not to mention, gives me plenty of excuses to focus on repairs, been a really long time since I last repair or work on...anything like this before home.” then asked in amusement. “So how did you came here? Because I doubt it's less embarrassing than losing a poker game to a blind teenager deity.”

“Seriously?” Rah-Rah asked before shaking her head and said, “I was a prodigy from back home. REal good. I&T at age 12 good. I was given an offer to learn at some new place to further my learning when I hit 14. I took it right up.” Then rolled her eyes. “And now I’m here. Three years later I’m on a battleship with an almost crazy gambler that’s got the spunk to take on a Slaving ring empire.” Though after adding up the numbers, Dejen come to a quick realization about something.

“...wait, you’re 17?” looking at her as he said. “I almost thought you were around my age!” then grumble. “Guess I was off by an added 6 years.” then said. “Must be amazing to go to I&T, all I could afford was learning the hardware and inventing from grandparents.” then amended. “That and poker from grandpa.”

Shaking her head, she told, “Don’t be hard on yourself. I was a prodigy that had two parents that were fairly loaded in cash. I happen to just have a lucky rabbit's foot.” Slightly smiling at her own joke. “Really, I feel like that’s the only reason I’m still alive.” Finishing the last screw before holding the screwdriver to one side of herself. “I’m a small rabbit. Big magic reserves for runes and innovative tech aside? I’m harmless without my stuff. I can’t name how many times running away like a jackrabbit has kept my fluffy tailed butt safe.”

Laughing a bit, he remarked. “I can say the same, running away and being utterly useless in a confrontable fight. I’m mostly good at fighting long range and throwing my bag of tricks.” then added with a grin with him holding his deck up. “And my best fighting is with my cards, they always seem to be a good luck charm, especially since they’re from home.” then he added in a joking manner as he put them away. “Its kind of funny, I wanted to be an inventor when I grew up, but for some reason gambling is my greatest feat in every advantage, cards, taking risks, even counting numbers to win the game without magic. I just seem to be...natural at gambling.”

“I can’t gamble my way out of a paper bag.” Laughed Rah-Rah while she walked with the striped. “I’ve tried with my friends. I’m just not all that great. Only get lucky when they just all happen to have bad hands.” Then said, “I won’t mind playing a few games, but don’t really expect me to win. I’m honestly not that great.”

Then went on while motioning a hand, “Now robotics, engineering, programming and now even runic crafting and array chorography? That’s where I can work my best.” Then went on, “I’ve been working on a exo-suit design. It’s coming together, but it’s not the same as a mech suit.” She shrugged, “Simple, sure. But again, I’m trying to figure out all the bugs before we start working on it. It’s still going to be expensive to make if you decide to go through with it.”

Grinning, he said. “Why do you think I’m gathering all the shekels all over Arabia? I’m stockpiling them to transfer into equestrian bits, get myself all ready so I can get the money the only way I know how.” then told in amusement. “By gambling in Los Pegasus, and sure the name is different, but if I guess right? It got all the tricks and casinos I know I could swindle my way in and win big without them even thinking I used magic to cheat them out of their bits.”

Shaking her head some, Rah-Rah told, “Well you have fun with that.” Then went on seriously. “I’m personally will be trying to get to work on a proper CPU and hard drive made for Mr. Fisty.” Going on to say, “Making the parts is difficult, even more trying to properly write code without an actual computer around. But if I can accomplish it? Mr. Fisty will be just as much robotic as he is my mech.”

Dejen couldn’t help but grin. “Meaning you got a giant robot fighter with all the deadly toys in him to do your bidding. And add in as a suit for you.” then told. “I can try to give you some bits to help on your project, keep funding so you can keep working. Maybe when we take out Dejeen, we rob a lot of things from the city, make it run nearly dry, and give Pjo a little starter funds to start the city afresh. Break down the slave trade, focus more on goods-- and I say Abbassa might be the city the Isles could trade with within a few generations that is.”

Thinking some, Rah-Rah said, “If we do go to Equestria, we should make a stop by somewhere.” Then went on to say, “Maybe we can stay at Los Pegasus. But I really should send a letter out and see if Miko made any progress. Only way to know if she’s alright, by letter.”

Thinking about it, Dejen admit. “To be honest Rah-Rah? I was thinking after this storm...we do head up to Equestria.” then explain. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m still planning to hit Maltar in the balls by talking Dejeen out and robbing him blind...but I’m crunching the numbers...and we’re honestly not ready. Sure we got a big ship, we got a large crew, we got ammo! But…” thinking about he admit further.

“We need more time, time with the counter and dummy signal for Mercy and Alibi, time to maybe get that safe room up, time to gather more funding's. Sure we have enough...but it’s going to get run out soon, we’re going to dry up within maybe...two months at least if we keep at it.”

RAh-Rah also added, “Miko would also help too.” Then went on, “Not just her treasure hunting. I’m talking about her skills. Miko is a Kitsune, and has learned some jutsu’s. I’m not sure what kind, but mixing that with her natural survival skills? She’s a force.” Then went on, “And Felix would be a huge help. I know he likes to travel-- but he’s a fair engineer. An even better fighter, even if he doesn't realize it.” Going on in thought, “Kept Miko and I pretty safe when we traveled.”

“I’m also admittedly hoping he could call in some favors too,” said Dejen as he leaned back in his spot. “Sure I can pull a few strings here in Arabia, but let's face it, outside of it? I’m kind of worthless as an info broker. Felix can easily find people by simply asking, recalling faces, and just...know who to get.” scratching the back of his head as he went on. “But yeah, heading to Equestria is the best idea for me, for this group really. Because if we try to go to Abbassa and attempt to put down Dejeen? We’ll lose a lot. So it's best we go to Los Pegasus and stock up, hopefully Miko or Felix will come by that way eventually.”

There was a nod to that while Rah-Rah told, “Ever since Felix became robotic, he’s had a perfect memory. All because he’s more machine than ever before.” Thinking a bit more she went on, “Used to be more of a tinkerer, like you. Really he’s just good at improving things. Making things from memory, he can do. But improving performance after seeing how something works is what he’s best at.”

Then told, “And, like I said, a good fighter. Add in he’s machine? The only thing limiting him is energy and how sturdy he is.” Then huffed, “Now we have to make sure he keeps around. He’s been traveling on his own to be a distraction. We need to tell him the time of distracting is over. But finding him is going to be a pain.”

She considered it some and soon said, “The Twins Alluite.” Thinking a bit before saying, “I know that name… a rat…. I think Miko told me about a rat by that name… what was it…” Trying to rack her brain over it. “Right, he’s an information broker. He tends to know stuff. He probably knows where Felix is.”

Grumbling a bit, he said. “Yeah, Felix mention to me about him, and I was an idiot thinking he could be slightly trustworthy.” snorting a bit as he told to Rah-Rah. “I forgot that as useful of a info broker he is? He’s greedy as the rat he looks like.”

Shaking her head, Rah-Rah said, “Miko used to complain about him.” Then went on saying, “She’s not sure how, but even if she hasn’t seen Alluite in months or even the last year? He seems to just know where to point people.” Then shook her head. “Miko thinks that his network is a lot bigger than he lets on.”

“Considering he knew about a few things outside of Equestria? I can see it.” said Dejen with a shake of his head. “He probably got a network of people, maybe use the ‘outcasts’ to his advantage.” then snort and said. “But enough of the rat, we have other things to do.” making a dramatic hand wave around them. “Like finish up repairing this ship.”

Laughing and shaking her head, Rah-Rah said, “You know nothing much is actually broken. It’s just tedious bit of maintenance we’re doing.”

“Hey I rather deal with tedious maintenance than the shit we went through.” joked Dejen as he got on his feet, dusting himself off as he asked. “Say, have you noticed how Bina seem to prod of Debt with those questions? I think she might be secretly shipping him and Mynu together.”

“Secretly?” Rah-Rah asked, “Dejen, nearly every woman on this ship has been aware that Mynu and Debt stick around the other a lot. Half of us are expecting something to happen sooner or later.” Then went on, “Even Asha’s been getting this look in her eyes, like she knows those two are into the other and just haven’t admitted or noticed yet.”

“I’m betting the latter with Debt.” said Dejen as he stretched a bit. “Guys sorta apathetic most of the time, not to mention really calm, like he’s calm enough to hide whatever emotions he’s actually feeling. Sorta hard to break those sorts of habits.”

With a smile smirking sound, Rah-Rah jokes, “Unless you’re the all-seeing Asha.”

Laughing a bit, Dejen shook his head as he asked. “Outta curiosity, how long do you think until one of them admits it? My money's on Debt, whenever he figure something out, he just use the simple solution and goes straight with it.”

Shaking her head, Rah-Rah said, “I think it depends on if Mynu decides to say ‘I want that hunk’ and just go to him. She seems the type to drop a hint here or there before trying to openly say it to his face.” Then rolled her eyes to tell, “It’s hard to tell. She can be so reserved at times.”

“I can partially say the same to Debt, I always see him annoyed, or calm...never anything else…” Thinking a bit as he remarked. “Huh, you know I just realized. I have never seen him angry, not even fighting. He’s just...focused.”

“Maybe focuses all that bottled up anger whenever he’s hitting something.” Rah-Rah said.

“That could be it...although I think I notice him being on edge or really agitated when we’re around gnolls,” then remark to Rah-Rah. “You know...now that I mention it, he has a lot of hate for gnolls, and I mean to the point he’s not bother calling them savage barbarians...I think it's a sort of...racism? But mostly a self-racism or...something?” scratching his head. “Or maybe just a lot of hate for gnolls. In general.”

“I don’t think it’s racist if you’re the same species.” Told Rah-Rah. “Like how Changeling's don’t like being called bugs, but if a Changeling calls another changeling a bug, they won’t take offense.” Then said in thought, “Or, I don’t think they would. I mean, in a sense, calling the other bug is like calling themselves a bug. So, it kinda just…. Balances out in a way.”

Shaking her head, Rah-Rah said, “I don’t know what to say. Debt doesn't visit down in engineering. Or me for that matter. I wonder if the guy even notices me when I walk by, me being so short?”

“No offense Rah-Rah? But I don't even notice you until I look down.” said Dejen with a small shrug. “You’re just...small to notice at first.” then thought as he rubbed his chin and said. “Hmm, maybe I can ask Debt when I have the time. Best to learn from the guy himself.” then tap his chin in thought as did mention. “On a side note...I am sorta glad that giant Queen Cobra isn’t here. Would be really, really bad if she did. I think she could eat the ship with one gulp if she spotted us.”

With a glance to him, Rah-Rah said, “Dejen, the Innovations Rise is a little over fifteen hundred feet. I doubt a Cobra big enough to swallow it would be able to fit into the cracks below us.” Meaning the Labyrinth.

“True...but I’m still wary of being around here,” glancing to Rah-Rah as he went on. “Sure it's a bit silly that I’m afraid of giant snakes...but let me remind that you got a mech suit, the twins got their elements-- I got my wit and my cards. Not much I could do with a giant snake that could eat me in one gulp.”

Crossing her arms and tapping a foot, Rah-Rah said, “The Twins can’t use their elements without causing a natural disaster. And without my mech suite all I can do is run.” Then sighed, “Look, you really don’t like the idea of huge snakes. I get it. REally.” Then winced, “I know because I was almost eaten by one once.” then finishes quickly, “Miko cut me out. But the point still stands, I know the feeling!”

Rubbing his face he said. “Yeah, I know I should drop this whole thing-- but this place just unnerved me, that's all.” then sighed and admit. “Honestly I’m just glad we didn’t come across that yandere mare around here,” then glance to explain. “The former doctor, Herbal health? He was an equestrian that ran into Arabia to get away from a nobility mare that was a yandere for him. Been chasing the poor guy for years in Equestria till he came here, then when I pass by Equestria before heading to the Holds, Allute mention her coming down south. Meaning she has an idea where he is...just no idea where he’s actually is.”

Thinking of that, Rah-Rah asked, “Well, how long ago was that?”

“About maybe almost 10 months ago, a near year before we arrived in the Holds.”

Nodding, Rah-Rah said, “Then I would say she left a long time ago. A year is a long time to search away from home. If she didn’t find anything? Then she probably headed back home, or tried someplace else.” Then shook her head, I really doubt even a rich mare would stay around Arabia for half a year of turning up nothing.”

“...for some reason, I honestly doubt that.” said Dejen as he remarked. “Herbal did mention that she was...determined, like Taka determined.”

To that, Rah-Rah said, “Well, she must not be determined enough to find him.” Thinking some to that and said, “Ok, that’s strange. What are the chances of getting a girl crazy for a guy to try finding him, and then a guy that’s crazy enough to somehow find the girl everywhere she goes?”

“...I honestly don’t know.” said Dejen as he shrugged. “The chances of that are low, like 1 in a million chances.” shaking his head some as he said. “Maybe it's all a big coincidence, maybe it's just the downside of having good luck-- or maybe someone up there is getting a kick out of our suffering for their utter amusement.”

Sighing and looking annoyed, Rah-Rah said, “I’m not sure what’s worse. An overly annoying idiot that stalks you everywhere you go… or a crazy Yandere trying to find you.”

“I go with Yandere-- but after meeting Taka?” shrugged Dejen. “I might say both of them are worse.” then added with a grin. “But on the flip side, after the storm and a trip up north? It's going to be smoooooth sailing from here on out, or as close to it as we can possibly get.”

Smiling, Rah-Rah said, “I can only hope.”

Unpredictability was something that the Scars had gotten used to since they met their Boss. Things unexpectedly just happening with mixed results for no apparent reason. Even as they left the quiet Labyrinth behind to head for Equestria post haste, one had to wonder what brought about the situations that took them to this point.

It also had Port slightly wondering what she signed up for when, without warning, something fell and slammed into the windshield. Dejen, Gem, the twins and even Debt glanced to the sound-- Bina in particular felt her hairs rise and give a scream while backing away from the window. One Taka stuck to it like a bug-- and saying through the glass. “Bina-Chan, my one and only!”

“HOW DID YOU EVEN GET UP HERE!?!?” Bina nearly screeched while pointing at Taka on the other side of the reinforced glass. There were also times Bina wondered what she did to deserve this curse.

“WHERE DID HE EVEN COME FROM!?!” scream Port as Debt just stare at the idiot as he swore he made Taka unable to follow them so easily.

Dejen stare at Taka as he held Windy close and remark to Gem. “You have to admit, he got spunk.” Gem snort as she looks at him as he rolled his eyes as he activate the windshield wipers to push Taka like a bug.

The rather comically oversized wipers came down, one whacking the cat over and over as he stubbornly clung to the window somehow. “Bina, my love, please, come away with me back home! Be my beloved wife and--” With a spray of window cleaner, they heard him gurgle nonsensical before being hit again. Yet he was still there like that one dirt spot that stubbornly stayed. “*chogh!*--I will hold you close to me, my dear, and we will have many, many beautiful children--” To this Bina had enough and moved up to the window to give it a nice thump. It made Taka bounce off a bit-- before he was flung off by the wiper. A look of utter shame and humiliation on the girl’s red face.

Port glance to her and said as she raised a hoof to pat the girl side. “There, there… he’s gone for now.” then tried to be positive. “Not to mention we’re rid of him with him falling down to the ground, right?”

Then there was a sound from the radio. “My King, something is breaching into the ship! Its...its coming from outside!” Another call made as a changeling spoke from the crows nest.

“My King...there's a Herno...climbing on the hull and reaching for one of the doors. Very hard.”

Bina placed her hands to her face, giving a very frustrated sound that soon resulted in an odd vibration in the ship. Bakari looked honestly concerned, and rather cautiously moved by his sister, wanting to pat her shoulders, but looking unsure if that was even wise.

It was Rah-Rah that called through, “Hey Gem, can I get you down here? The water cooling system’s acting all weird.”

“Yeah sure ...give me a moment to get down there.” said Gem, as she carefully stepped out of the room as Dejen rub his forehead as he thought and asked.

“Tell me the door is shut tight?”

“Yes my King, all doors are locked, I doubt he could even-,” then before the changeling finish it, there was a very loud groaning with an audible clang. “...he just pry it open with his weapon. My King, orders?” getting the Stripe to think...then look to the two as he ask.

“If I give you two permission to wreck him...can you promise to limit the damage inside the ship?”

“Let me!” Bakari said quickly, “Bina should, you know, stay here. Since Taka-Baka’s trying to reach her.” Moving to leave the simmering twin sister in place-- but whispered in Dejen’s ear, “She’s getting real angry. The cooling things ain’t the problem with the water.” Then rushed past, no doubt to find Taka and expel him from the ship.

Dejen soon order. “Just stay out of the idiot way, no need to listen to his babble.” there was a sound of disgust as a changeling told.

“I don’t think you need to tell us, his affection is...ugh, I think I’m going to be sick.” ending the radio chatter as Dejen thought. Apparently the kind of affection Taka has make changelings sick. That's new. thought Dejen as another changeling radio in. “I think Susumu is sending Asha to hopefully talk down the guy before Bakari kick him out….”

For a while, there was just silence. Silence, that was only broken by the sound of dull and slightly muted clangs and bangs. All listened as some changelings felt that affection, turn into a warped righteous fury and annoyance. Followed closed by somewhat calm, but also annoyed feelings.

“What’s going on?” Rah-Rah’s voice spoke through the Radio. “Someone better not be denting up my ship!” A slightly protective touch there.

For a moment, Bina’s anger slightly shifted to concern, worry started to fill her as she glanced to the door and fidgeted. There was a loud clang, much like with the last door that was forcibly opened before things became quiet. They all waited before they heard through a radio.

“DEJEN!” Asha’s voice called over the roar of something else. “THERE’S TOO MUCH WIND HERE! A DOOR’S OPEN!” Working that through his mind, Dejen realized that the open door was possibly making a suction effect, even more with the speeds they were going at with the Innovation so high up. Asha wasn’t willing to risk going into the hall without being sucked out.

Shit. thought Dejen as he said. “Debt, Port, pull speed down.” the two nodded, slowing down their speeds as he activate the radio. “Get some changelings to fix that door and shut it tight.” when the Innovation went to a complete stop, he heard on the radio.

“We’re getting it close, my King, but Asha is getting really worried, like high levels. You might be needed here.” Dejen glance to Bina as he saw the worry of her too as he got up and began walking. Talking his walkie out as he said.

“Emotions?”

“Lack of annoyance, my King. which is...odd. Asha is a bit frinky too...we’re already sending some changelings to see the damage of the two.” (done)

Bina was right with Dejen’s side, the sister seemingly twitching her hands and tail flicking left to right. It took some few directions, but they soon found the hall that both Herno were apparently in. Changelings were around, looking over the other side of the hall that had suffered fairly minimal damage. Mostly light scratching form a blade.

The door was also fine, form what they could tell. Just was opened. Asha, however, was outside, this they found out once going out, and the Lioness was looking very concerned. No, she was troubled and highly agitated. When she looked back to them, she had an almost haunted look. (end)

“Okay, now I’m really worried. Asha ...what did you see?” asked Dejen in high concern and worry of whatever happen to Bakari now.

Taking a dry gulp, Asha glanced over the ship's side and back to both and said, “He and taka fell off the side.” Pausing for a moment before going on, “When I got close, I think Bakari opened the door. To suck Taka out. The fight was getting rougher. I think Taka grabbed Bakari and they…”

“.....Crrraaaaaaaaaaappppp.” said Dejen as he glance to the door...then to Bina in her state of shock as he knew she was going to panic and cautiously said to Asha. “Please ...help Bina. I’m going to see if I can get Bakari alive or well.” then raise his walky and order. “Debt, Port? Turn around and go down. We may need to find where Bakari and Taka are fighting in the air. I recommend you go very fast now.”

The whole ship next to lurched to the side, the almost hard turn making many nearly slide around-- Asha and Bina had to make sure they got inside quickly before they fell off too. IT took a long moment-- longer in Dejen’s mind, as the large ship tried to slow enough to make it’s wide turn around. It’s large bulk not made for such quick turning.

Once they had turned around, the ship was once more on the move, and lowering downwards. It was about this time that Bina’s shock was starting to creep more and more to panic, panic Asha was trying to quell. “Bakari… we lost Bakari, Bakari’s alone!”

“Calm down Bina, it’s fine. We’re going back.” Gently soothed the Lioness. “We’ll find him, pick him up and get going. Deep breaths, in and out.”

“But, I need to get down there!” Bina insisted, seeming ready to leave.

“Bina, settle, you’re not going to find him any sooner on your own.” Asha sternly told. “Calm down. Come on, stay with me, keep breathing.” Dejen watched as Asha lead the feline away-- Bina looking almost like she was about to turn and bolt-- even jump off the side of the ship if she had to. The amount of discomfort the girl was in was pliable even to him.

“Debt, Port, please tell me you two are doing the best you can.” to which the gnoll said with a snort.

“Doing our best, but can’t go too fast, otherwise might miss him.” Dejen sigh as he glance to the few changelings around as he ordered.

“Get watchers on standby, tell Duey on crows nest to keep looking, hopefully we’ll find Bakari in one piece.” the changelings all nod, as he walked off, unaware of the chatter in the Swarm mind.

I know we should respect our Queen desires in her mates, but doesn’t it get annoying he order us around like that? asked one of the still accustom changelings of this new Hive, one of experts snort and told. Please, he’s not that bad, he’s really...well, bossy when need be. This is a serious moment, most of the time he’s not bad. Then another spoke in.

I don’t know...he’s not really a...changeling, so what rights does he have beside giving the Queen emotions?

There was an odd feeling of disappointment, and what few that could track it eventually found Asha giving a few changes a look-- right before going back to trying to console the distraught and nearly panicking feline.

The short moment caused enough pause, but one changeling said, The rights our Queen gives. Trying to ignore what just happened. It was weird whenever the Lioness just… did things like that. She chose him, and we have to accept she is doing this for the best.

Even when the ‘King’ is sterile? deadpan told another. Doesn’t give the Queen a chance to have more eggs for the Hive. I mean, most Queens would toss him for a fertile male, right? there was a bit of irritation as one of the older changelings told.

He may not be changeling, but he’s crafty as one at a time. Not to mention save our Queen life. I think the Queen can allow him around. Besides, we do need him as much as he needs us. another spoke in. I’m just thinking that maybe the Queen could-, all at once the conversation ended as within the swarm mind, there was ...a memory.

A memory from a few years ago, as shown of a bit younger Dejen, him playing a deck of cards, against a captain of the Hunters. Having that wide grin on his face, and that hidden edge in his eyes as the memory shifted to the end, as Dejen spoke with a wide grin. ‘Looks like I win.’ and did the Hunters fall into trap doors below, impaling them to their slow agonizing death.

The memory ended as everyone saw it-- or, within the exception of the nymphs and Alibi. Then the Queen spoke in a simple and calm tone. The reason I chose him, my children, is far more than being a changeling. I chose him because of his cunning, his way to hold that mask, his need to be as deceitful and cutthroat as us. But most importantly...because of his uncanny luck. Do not be deceived my children, as underneath that warm and caring personality, is a stone, cold backstabber waiting to double-deal anyone he feels. Even with a simple poker game.

After all. He has earned the title Death’s Gambler for a reason. Because even if he wins, Death is the one who holds the pot. He is the King, only second to me. Am I understood, my children? keeping a level of control to make sure the nymphs and Alibi were tune out, as this was for those who recently joined. A sort of reminder of who their Queen is, and who their elected King was.

With an almost reluctant tone form, and an understanding one form more, she heard, Yes, my Queen Something Mercy watched for a long time before eventually turning her focus to more important matters.

The search was made sizable. It took a while to even locate the crash location, though from the looks of it, it looked more like a sudden freak natural event with how some of the sands looked like a powerful gale force had come through. There were tracks, a single set, but they had long since gone and even left gaps.

Neither Taka or Bakari could be found, and even as the group was outside searching with changelings, they were turning up nothing. What was possibly more concerning, was Bina. “BAKARI!!” They all heard her shouting out again for her brother, occasionally dashing from one location to another. “BAKARI!!!” A few changelings even watched her. Speeding past and even going to far and close positions.

Asha was the most stillest of them all, sitting and focusing. Still, even with her prodigy nature, she was only so skilled and strong, and so far she hadn’t turned up anything while sitting in the warm sand. “BAKARI!?” She barely even flicked an ear at Bina’s panicked rushing about, looking for her brother. Whom, many began to believe wasn’t even there anymore.

Do you see anything? asked a changeling as she looked around in the air. No, nothing. The tracks seem to be...somewhere. Dejen himself was by the tracks, noting they were leading far, far off. He looks to see it was a run, then to a sprint, and then a speed storm.

Question is...is it from Bakari, or Taka? using the jutsu to see the possibility of whoever, as it was Taka, running off and apparently shouting ‘I’m coming Bina-chan!’ Dejen frown as he looks around more a s he noticed it was the wrong direction, got turned around during the fall...He focus on the ‘crash site’ to see what happens. He knew it was a fight, as the two were fighting it out. With Bakari looking off, tired like before Taka spun and swung his Ningata with some sort of spell? Magic? Technique? Lit brightly before a windstorm, a powerful one swept the area. The area clouded to the point it covers all over. Bakari is missing afterward and Taka looking rather surprised at himself before shrugging and leaving.

Okay, so that happen...but where's Bakari? scanning around for the feline ghost as he walks in a steady manner, he was reaching the 3 minute mark, slowly feeling that pain in his head as the spell isn't compatible with him. Holding his head some as he told. Focus. Find. Bakari. doing his best to scan around with his eyes.

It took some moving, and an ever increasing headache that was building behind his eyes, but he finally found something after replaying the situation a few times-- particularly from a proper angle to watch things from the start of the landing, to the windstorm of a swing. It was there, Dejen saw a few key factors. 1: Bakari was missing his stone. 2: Taka was owning the kid due to it. 3: Taka’s hand had something clenched in it, more focused on holding his weapon. 4: Bakari had been sent flying away from the strike, but to where was left to question due to how fast he was blown away.

It was then he let go of the jutsu, clenching his head as he took low breaths, then he held his fingers to his mouth and whistle. Gaining everyone's attention as he said. “Found something you might want to hear.” a few changelings move by, mostly to help balance him as Bina rush by and stopped by him, while Asha calmly walking up to him as Dejen said. “Okay, here how it happen. The two fought, right there,” motioning to the area. “But Taka was owning Bakari for one reason, he was missing his stone. Taka hand was clenching on something, but had his hand focus.” then pointed in the direction where Bakari was sent flying.

“And Bakari flew there after Taka sandstorm technique. Then the idiot ran that direction.” then soon said. “Bakari is farther than we thought, and Taka might got his stone during the fight.”

Bina turned her head in the direction of her brother-- then to where Taka went. She looked between the two in confusion before twisting her face and about to move in the direction of her brother. It was with Asha’s voice that stopped her. “Bina, stay. We’re all going to find him.”

Turning, Bina looked fairly angry. “I’m going Asha.” Putting it simply, “I’m going to find my brother.”

To which Dejen spoke in. “Bina, I know you want to find him, but we need to do it together, with the ship. Right now we know where he is in general direction, but we don’t know the specifics. We need to go on Silent Running to track him, so we know where he landed. Then we can bring him on the ship and see the wears and tears.”

“You don’t understand!” She next to shouted, hand motioning back, “He’s out there alone, without his stone.” Then placed her other hand to herself, “More importantly, he’s out there without me! He’s in danger, and he can’t handle the dangers like he could before! I need to go get him now.”

“Bina.” Asha tried to tell before pausing when the girl turned to her.

“No Asha!” She shouted once more, a slight shifting felt below their feet. “I’m going, I have to go, I need to go!”

“Bina, if you go on ahead of us, you’re also risking yourself as well as your brother.” told Dejen as he tried to be diplomatic about this. “Right now, we don’t know where he is, and yes, he might be in whatever you think, but right now, the best way to get him out of that danger, is going with us to track him, okay?” then going on. “We need to do this together Bina, please listen to us.”

She looked at him and slowly shook her head, “No, no it’s not Okay Dejen.” Then shouted again, arms crossing and spreading out behind her, “Not at all!” Completely oblivious when the sands pulled, shifted and flew behind her. All felt the need to step back when the wave of sand go flying behind the feline.

“He needs me now, he’s going to be in danger, and he’s going to be hurt!” Her feeling s next to flying all over the place inside of her, while the sands continued to shift and coil as if it was alive. Sometimes jumping and twisting like it was water. “And I’m not there to help him, I have to help him now, I--”

A soft sounding melody floated on the air, and a few glanced to Asha as she focused on Bina, taking in breaths and letting out the soothing melody. Bina blinked and tried again, “I-I need.” Placing her hands to her face and head, the sands once moving in a graceful snake like manner slowing, crawling and becoming sluggish as Asha continued on, the song getting louder. A few Changelings blinked their eyes, even Dejen, but they only felt hints of tiredness.

Bina however, looked like she was fighting as hard as she could. Even trying to step back and run, as if to run… but staggered, tittered and eventually fell down into the sand unmoving. Deeply asleep as the sands settled…. And Asha breathed out.

Slapping his face some, getting himself awake as he look to Bina with a sigh and said. “Get her to Asha room…” some of the changelings started to move as he added. “And tell Debt to move the ship on Silent Running to this direction.” another nodded as while they buzz away, he rubbed his face and said to Asha. “this is my fault. I should've gone to confront Taka myself. Not let Bakari handle it.” letting out a sigh. “Would be a bit easier if I tried to talk to him, maybe stall him long enough for you to talk to the guy instead of sending Bakari like that.”

“Only seers can see the future clearly, Dejen.” Asha told gently. “You did what you felt right at the time. You didn’t know the results.” Then went on, “Because by your logic, that would mean it’s my fault for not having a premonition vision of this happening.”

Getting up, she said, “Come on. We need to find Bakari and fast. Not just for his safety, but for Bina’s sake.” Glancing to where so much sand had been displaced. Almost like some giant had scooped it up and flung it away. “Bina’s emotions are linked to some of her power. They might have gotten better, but if extreme emotions cause them to get out of paw…”

Sighing, he nodded as he walked with her, as he said. “I’m honestly hoping we can get Bakari in one piece...even getting his gem back without Taka thinking its something to sell.” then let out a breath. “I just hope with his twisted logic he might think to give it back to him, maybe Bina if she ask?” letting out a breath as he glance to Asha and joked somberly. “Was this part of the adventure you hoped to have with me? Because I hope you want your receipt back with how things are going.”

With a small smile, Asha said, “Maybe if I bothered to pay for the trip.”

Laughing a bit, he said.” that right, you got on for free, that means no refunds, Asha.” he then held a solemn look as he asked. “Do you have any senses that we’ll find him in at least one piece? We’re still in Arabia...and there are gnolls around still.”

Sighing, Asha told, “I’m skilled and strong, but I can only sense things so far, Dejen. Bina’s and Bakari’s stones… they make things a bit difficult.” Then went on to explain, “Before I couldn’t figure it out. But now, now I know that every time they touch the world, purposely or not, they leave a… a large echo of themselves in an area. The place we were at was saturated with Bakari’s strength.”

“Strength Taka might have unknowingly used. I was having trouble seeing through it. Bakari could be anywhere where you pointed. If we’re close enough, I’ll be able to sense him-- but only part of him. Only part of his person.” Then sighed once more. “It’s like… like next to half of Bakari’s person is just not there. It makes him… faint to feel.”

Dejen thought on that as they were walking in the main bay doors as it closed behind them. “Like a radar and a signal, you know its there, but with how faint it is, it’s hard to fully locate it until you’re closer.” getting a slight idea of how Asha senses were. Although as they were walking up towards the bridge with the ship already moving in Silent run, he remarked to Asha.

“You know, I think this is a sort of payment from Lady Luck to her brother Murphy, a sort of something to balance out all the good luck I have with these moments of problems and despair.”

Shaking her head to this, Asha told, “Or maybe it’s to help with something else.” Then paused by a hall before telling, “Bina’s going to need me when she wakes up. She’s going to be ready to run out of her room and jump off the ship at this point.”

Nodding, he wave at her and said. “I’ll keep you posted on what we got.” then as he walked to the bridge, a sort of unease in his feel came in his stomach. But...we still don’t know his condition, we don’t know if he’s found by gnolls or not ...and we don’t know what Taka will do with that stone. I’m honestly hoping he’ll give it to Bakari, or at least with his twisted sense of reasoning, believes it’s the right thing to give it to the kid.

Rubbing his head from the slowly leaving headache as he thought. I just hope we’ll find the kid in time.