Arabian Swindler

It was taking longer than they originally thought, mostly with the Striped using the jutsu as sparingly as he could, mostly to attempt to find the ghost trail. Going bit by bit in mile as to see how far Taka threw Bakari ...and judging from the echo? Dejen could say it was a long throw. Like, to the point he was worry that Bakari could be near death when he land down somewhere hard. Or actually dead. And that...that would be bad. Ugh, I really hope he’s alive. thought Dejen in worry.

And while Bakari was the primary concern, part of him couldn't stop but want to wince at the implications of Taka’s attack. Less of it being Taka’s own might, but his might while inadvertently sprinkled with Bakari’s own power inside the stone. A power anyone could access. It was highly possible Taka was completely unaware of its power and influence.

If he did by chance sell it off, what would that mean for whomever got it and figured out later on what it could do?

A God damn goose chase with everyone else. grimly thought Dejen as he shuffled his deck, focusing in the sky with each time with his jutsu. Everyone is going to be after that once they hear of it, even Dejeen and the damned gnolls. I’m honestly hoping he kept it...and will give it back. Ugh ...I really should of went to talk with him instead of Bakari…

But, what could he done? He honestly thought that was the right choice at the time… but maybe he could of done better? Although, Taka is a complete idiot, trying to use reason on him is like me trying to take on Discord in a poker game. Impossible. taking a breath as he used the jutsu again, seeing a bit of landing this time as he said. “Debt, he’s landing this time. I’m going to the front of the ship, maybe get a better view.”

Going out of the bridge to the front, it was a bit of a walk, but once he got to the front? He used his jutsu to locate the echo of Bakari...and see the damage.

Bakari had flown quite a flight, and made quite a dent in the sands and some of the rocks around. The echo rested after a chaotic and not at all gentle landing. And Bakari looked to be in plenty of pain-- but by some measure of miraculous miracle, alive. It placed to question of how tough these kids were in all reality. But for a while, Bakari just layed there… in pain.. Trying to move.

Dejen had to cancel and reapply the jutsu, mostly to speed up time because, Bakari wasn’t where he was. So where was he? It was after some number of flicking, and watching as Bakari drag himself to what used to be shade at one point- that Dejen wanted to pull his hair out. A passing gnoll scout that found a eventually sleeping Bakari.

Oh shit, shit, shit, shit! thought Dejen, canceling the jutsu and doing it again, he focuses every detail he could, the hair, the accessories, even her gear...and saw her putting Bakari over her shoulder and walk away to a direction. Thankfully her trail was noticeable…

But which Clan was she?

He rushed back to the bridge, as Dejen said. “Debt, I need Clan knowledge, a gnoll scout took Bakari. She got bones tied into her hair, some markings in zig-zag lines under her eyes, pelts hanging on her body, and got a few animal skulls hanging on her neck.”

And the Striped nearly jumped when he saw something he didn’t expect coming from the bodyguard. Rage. his hands emphasise this as they were crushing the wheel as he asked in a low growl. “Are you certain?” Getting Dejen to slowly nodded his head, feeling concern for the gnoll as Debt took a deep breath...and let it out as he spoke. “Apologize Sir ...but we need to make post haste.” already moving the wheel as Dejen said.

“Wait, don’t you need to-,” only to stop as Debt told.

“This Clan never moves. It stay in one spot.” then glance with his now neutral eyes and told Dejen, “gather the other's, Sir.” looking ahead Dejen merely press the radio as he said.

“Hey...we found where Bakari is...and we may need to prepare for a fight on our hands.”

“Where?” It was Bina on the radio, and she sounded very annoyed. Possibly almost as annoyed as Debt was no doubt angry at this moment. It was far from her normally nice, polite and sometimes kind tone. He could only guess Asha was keeping her in their room, calm, and controlled.

“Head to the bridge, I think...Debt know where they took Bakari.” said Dejen as Gem asked.

“Need us to come to?” to which Dejen admitted.

“Actually, yes. This might be a group effort in discussion...because, I’ll be honest. Debt is really angry right now.” then added in emphasis. “Like...his hands broke the wood of the wheel, angry."

“He broke the--” Rah-Rah was near ready to rail about that, but seemed to take a moment to stop, breath and calm down. “We’re coming up.” Seeming to hold her breath and keep herself calm now with how hectic things had gone so suddenly for what was once alright day.

Even as the radio clicked off, Dejen had to wonder about what they were now heading into. With things aggravating Debt this badly, Bina being on a hairline trigger and now Rah-Rah possibly a bit angry at ship damages, it left him to wonder what the end result of this overly bad turn of luck would be.

Rubbing his face, he moved to his chair to sit and wait. Waiting until he glance to see the door opening, as the others were walking in, well except for Port as she was sleeping in. Mercy jump by Dejen side, as did Windy, but the Queen note...aggravation within Debt, rage, even hatred at something. It made her unease of how he was just swelling up in all that negativity.

However once they all enter the bridge, Debt activate auto-pilot as he turned and spoke. “We’re heading to a settlement call Bone-charm Clan. They lived in a ridge around rocks and walls of stones to protect them, a narrow passageway with it being the only entrance and exit they use. They have watch-towers, archers on the walls, at least around 12,000 strong females with possible 500 males.” then said in a simple tone.

“They must die a painful and agonizing death.”

Mynu didn’t comment, her mind already having a clear idea of why Debt was saying this. She suspected, but would not speak out why. For the other’s, they gave varying looks. Though Asha was oddly calm about it, still and possibly indifferent. A strange sight for those watching.

Rah-Rah gave an odd look to this while standing on the table, but glanced when Bina asked, “What do they want with Bakari?” Something in the rabbit telling her to inch away from the herno. Something about Bina just setting off a few danger senses, just like Debt’s current position and vibe.

Looking to her, he told. “For now? They will heal him, tend to his wounds, make sure he is at full health. When he is? They will try to break him in more than many ways.”

Susumu held a thoughtful look, glancing to Asha as he remark. “Odd you not speak. Usually you against large amounts of death, yet indifferent you are of gnoll claim of death.” then tilt his head as he asked. “Why?”

With a look, Asha said, “Because while I would rather not be any death, I have a feeling that I won’t be listened to.” Then paused to consider. Her eyes were soon closed and she seemed focused. “And I don’t think anything I say will even matter to them…” She seemed… bothered. Like something wrong.

Dejen glance to Asha, noting the botherness as he asked. “You notice something about these ‘Bone-charm’?” Debt glance to Asha as he look back to Dejen and said.

“She seem to notice what they are, what they do, and what makes them so different from other Clans.” Mercy held a neutral expression, but soon asked.

“You wish for this Clan death much, why? You never acted like this, never were so...angry.” Debt held a gaze to her, a gaze that only spoke of a storm t o come as he soon answer.

“Apologizes that my emotions make you unwell…” then look to them all as he said. “The reason of my anger, the reason of my want for their death, is personal. They were the ones who nearly broke me into what most gnolls would be. A male tool who only serves by the contracts.”

Closing her eyes, Mynu sighed with resignation of her concerns. Though she didn’t need to look around to know that this did not go over well with the others. Bina was agitated, and from the sounds of it, only became more bothered. ASha was still silent and Rah-Rah gave a slight gasping sound.

Dejen held a grim face, Mercy was the same as Windy held a mortified look. Gem just let her jaw drop at that revelation, while Susumu stare and soon asked. “Revenge this is? Wishing their deaths. Amazed you kept such anger in check.” to which the gnoll gave a low bitter laugh.

“Part of their lessons. Control the emotions, so none can see what you feel.” then took a glance to their soon to be close destination, then to the other's as he spoke. “They will not listen to reason, they will see prizes, they will not barter, nor gamble, nor attempts of peace. The only way to get Bakari, is by their deaths.” then look to Dejen, looking at him as the Striped had his face neutral as Debt soon move a bit up to him and spoke.

“I never ask for much, I never asked for anything in the time I have been under your employment. I have never requested a single thing...but this once, this one time…” then went on his knee and bow his head. “Please, lead me to fight against the Clan and kill the Clan-head with my halberd, Sir.”

While looking between the two, Rah-Rah said, “I’m coming with.” Getting a few looks while adding, “I need to convert Mr. Fisty to combat status, but I’m coming with. You’re going to need me to make it through.”

“I’m coming with.” Bina told in a tense tone. “Bakari’s my brother, I’m going whether you say yes or no.” A raw determination in her red eyes. Not just a determination, she was making it her very gaol at that moment in time to do this.

Mynu lifted her head and opened her eyes before telling, “You’ll need ranged support.” As if stating the obvious for them.

Sighing, Asha told, “I should come with. I can at least provide protection and healing at the same time.”

Dejen look to them, then to the gnoll knelt before him...then smile and said. “Alright Debt. Let's do this.” the gnoll gave a firm nod, getting up and soon turn to the wheel as Dejen told on the radio. “Someone wake Port, we need her to cover for Debt in flying.” then look to his mares as he said. “You two stay, Mercy you’re on defense support with the changelings on the cannons. We need you to whittle the numbers down.”

She nodded as she understood the reasoning, Dejen turn to Windy and said. “You stay here.” the mare smiled and nuzzle him as she said.

“Of course Master.” Dejen look to Gem and told.

“You’re on the ship too, you’re more of our researcher than anything.” the dog roll her eyes as he glanced to the doctor as Susumu sigh and said.

“Fine, I’ll help, mostly to aid as Shinobi.” Dejen nod as he said to the group.

“Everyone meet in the Bay doors, we’ll be moving on our feet for entering in the camp.” getting up and heading to grab something, as the Striped headed to his room, and soon took a low breath. He glance to the shoto...and talking it as he unsheath it and muttered. “Can’t believe I’m doing this.” then told to the spirit in the blade. “I need your help. I know I’m the temporary Keeper-- but right now? We’re going in a deadly fight, and we both know I suck badly in close quarters. So...if you’re listening, can you help me out fighting with your blade against gnolls of all things?”

For a moment, nothing was heard… then again he was talking to a blade, what did he expect? Yet even as he stared at it, he felt the cold touch of feminine hands on his shoulders, a soft body leaning on him and whisper in his ear. “We of the Warrior's Blade, will allow this.” Before the feeling past as if it never happened.

Feeling that chill in his spine, he shake a bit as he sheath the blade. Ghosts. Never going to get used to that. taking the shoto as he switch into his armor, grabbing his gear as he loaded up his crossbow. Within a few minutes of traveling down to the main bay, he look to those that were going to fight, seeing Debt among them as he asked. “What the worst we’ll expect?”

Debt glance and said. “They use blood magic, hexes, curses, their most known for the way of magic, they have warriors. Warriors will give no quarter, they will use their fists to break bones, use their words to break your focus, they are more like ‘drill sergeant’ in a sense, but a lot more crueler….” then added. “Expect poor treatment to males. Very poor treatment.”

With a steady ‘chuck-chuck’ sound, they glanced to find that Rah-Rah aws on her way with Mr. Fisty. Though unlike before, there were extra parts. More exterior metal meant to be a form of armor. A large shield like part was on the left arm, as well as something leading to the shielded arm’s tip. On the other arm was what looked to be some folded up weapon, while on a shoulder was what looked to be a small mini-gun. The other shoulder mounted with what Dejen knew was a grenade launcher of sorts. And the back, while armored, looked like it had two things. Some sort of rounded container, and a belt chain that lead to the minigun.

Stopping before them, they heard Rah-Rah tell, “Well, they’re about to get a little surprise.” Looking around to see that Mynu was coming in, her back having a few quivers of arrows, and what looked to be a spare longbow around her back. Asha looked no different, and neither did Bina, though the girl did still look very cross.

Susumu was in his Shinobi garbs as he asked. “Where Bakari locate?”

“Far end of the settlement, wooden house with stone. That's where most new males go to before training.” said Debt as Dejen asked as he turn the safety off the crossbow.

“Anything we can do about the guys?” to which Debt answer.

“If they have a dull look to wish for death? Grant them it. They are too far gone to be saved. Any with some sense of themselves? Spare them.”

“Certain he be there?” asked Susumu as Debt thought and said.

“It's a place, otherwise if he was fine? They sent him to one of their caves for ‘training’. Usually with beating them like a punching bag to start their pain tolerance.”

“Okay, sadistics, anything else Debt?” hearing the ship near the ground as the bay door open, revealing a narrow pathway leaning only straight as Debt told.

“Yes, expect young females to lure you with defenseless and looking weak, before they take the dagger out and stab you in the back of the knee to weaken you.”

Seeming to take full directive, Bina moved ahead, only pausing long enough to glance back to see if the others were following before moving on ahead. Moving her mech with, Rah-Rah said, “Is anyone else bothered with how Bina’s acting right now?” Then went on, “I know her brother’s in danger, but she just… flipped her personality.” (end)

“Yes actually, its...kinda disturbing.” said Dejen as he followed with. “It's almost like she just lost the reason to care for anything or anyone but her brother.” to which Debt glance and remark to his employer.

“They are twins, they need to be balanced, without one, the other is incomplete...in more than one way.” then look to Dejen as he asked. “Plan sir?” getting Dejen to blink, before telling.

“Right, right. Rah-Rah you’re up front as our tank. Asha gets in the back to support with Mynu until she finds higher ground. Susumu hit and run, Debt you’re work in the front with Rah-Rah if possible, and I’ll try to stay in the back...but I might be fighting close if they’re going to zerg rush me.” then asked to Rah-Rah. “How much ammo you got for the mini-gun and grenade launcher?”

It didn’t take much thought. “I should have over two-k worth of bullets for my Mini. I have twenty rounds for a gun on the underside of the same arm, precision shots. The Grenade launcher only has ten, eleven, if you add the one that’s primed for launch. And I should have enough fuel in the tank for my flamethrower to keep going for some fifteen minutes. Which was a pause for Dejen, until he considered that odd point at the shield-arm tip.

Shield arm? How does that fit on the suit? he asked. “So...where's the flamethrower? Unless you hid it somewhere before using it?” noticing they were walking within the narrow passage, feeling a bit squeeze as they mush together in their walk.

“Tank’s in the back and heavily armored. Tub’s protected by armor and the tip is at the shields tip. All I have to do is light, point and shoot.” Then asked while watching Bina, “What about Bina? She wasn’t in your plan.”

Sighing, Asha spoke, “I think there is no room for her in it.” Watching as Rah-Rah slowly move to the center-front of the group. “And I think that Debt is right. But more in a way we’re not going to like.”

Susumu thought and asked. “Not together, full of disharmony? Also affect lost of stones to? Make them feel out of sync?” seeming to think that was the best guess he could give, as Dejen was silent, thinking it to himself as he admittedly was a bit lost with the twins connection and only knew that it was a lot more than their powers and them being close. He could only guess it add in to their spirit as well.

Eventually, the narrow passage began to open just a bit, enough that when they got out, there was a nice wide clearing. One that was filled with huts scattered apart with many gnolls moving about their daily lives. Large torches with large plumes of fire lit the area, and watchtowers stood tall before the large city as it were.

Around, they could see a few males on posts, limbs missing and hanging in place with not even a scrap of clothing to cover their bare forms. A few females could be seen out and about with large smiles of merriment, and those of the group could even hear the sounds of pleasure and pain from huts of the place.

To the center of the place was a huge hut, where loud sounds could be heard from even their distance, while in the far back, guarded by many a warrior, was a large fencing. One that looks more like the entrance to a prison than anything else, with many males inside, each leading to their own cave entrance, five numbering them all.

Looking around, only a few dull glassy eyed males could be seen roaming, though never unaccompanied. The very sight made Dejen feel a sick feeling drip into his stomach, and Susumu felt his lips tighten. A grim foreboding building in his eyes. With a scowl, Debt gripped his halberd, an urge to kill starting to overwhelm his mind.

Rah-Rah could be heard, taking a sharp breath and her mech seeming to somehow tense, possibly getting ready to move. Asha herself glared, but remained calm while she stuck to her position. Her steps calm while hackles slowly rose. Mynu strung her bow back, an arrow knocked and prepared.

And Bina, walked forwards. Quickly. Her approach easily caught the attention of those in the towers. Some were unaware, but those watching were plenty of surprised, and those able readied their bows to strike her down. It was when they were ready to possibly fire that Bina called out, “I want something, and you better listen!”

The group that was more cautious to approach paused at Bina’s shout. Even more, how she was apparently going diplomatic. Though the attention she drew was huge, every gnoll stopping to look at her. “You took someone from me, and I want him back.” Then pointed to them, her thin arm showing just as much as her small and thin form-- it was so easy to tell them she was just a cub in their eyes. A teenager. “Where is my brother? Because I want him back!” Pausing and waiting for their response.

Many began to glance about, muttering lowly to themselves while looking at the small Herno that hardly even reached half their height. It was then that once glanced and began to grin, and raised her voice to speak to Bina.

“Oh, you mean that scrawny male!” laughing a bit as she walked up to Bina and said. “Yeah, I know who you’re talking about, but you don’t want him now! He’s fresh meat, need to learn his place. Once we done with teaching him-- you can have him back. Easier for you to control that mouth of his, eh?”

With an intense glare, Bina said, “He already has a place, with me!” Her red eyes gaining a new sort of intensity. “Give him back, and I’ll leave you all alone. But if you don’t, I’m going in there and taking him back.” Then told again, “I’m asking nicely, so please, give me back my Brother!”

Some look in utter ridiculous, some giving measure stares of the cub ...then they all laugh at the hilarity of this lone female, even the one talking to her as she said. “Listen, I don’t know where you’re from-- but there is no way we can let him go.” but look behind her and grin as she said. “But maybe a trade? your brother for those males? Some of them look good pickings.” then scrunch her eyes and said.

“Wait a minute...that one seems familiar.” looking at Debt...then she gave a low chuckle as she shouted. “Hey everyone! It’s Sizue the Blemish! Look who finally crawl back to us,” then smirk to Debt. “I knew he would break eventually.”

Hands shaking at being ignored, Bina spoke lowly. “I said.” Looking up with a trembling rage. “Give me.” Slowly widening her stance, arms by her side. “Back.” And slowly lifted her leg. It was when she lowly spoke Asha moved more center, giving them all a small warning to brace while she spoke low and calming chants. “My.” There was an odd pause as Bina had her foot up before shouting, “BROTHER!!!”

When her foot met ground, did that rage get unleashed. Even as Asha continued her change everyone, both those with Asha’s protection and those in the large settlement, felt the ground shake, trembled, crack, break, lift, fall-- it was as if an earthquake chose there and then to happen. Towers collapsed, tall earthy walls gave, houses fell and everyone found themselves falling-- bare Bina and those near Asha.

For one, full terrifying moment, the earth shook and quaked before it calmed. And when it did, people were busy picking themselves up, looking to the ‘funny’ little cub that looked quite angry. “And I’m not going to give anymore warnings!” Bina finished to the utterly silent gnolls.

They just stare, in either shock, in awe-- or in utter fear as the one talking to her had shaky breaths. “Yeah...yeah…” then jerked her head back to a gnoll, getting one of them to start running for the back to grab the male that was related to her...already one was pulling a bow and the gnoll said. “But, you’re little group, even Sizue? Are coming with us, fair trade, right?” trying to give a grin to make things ‘fair’ for the two of them.

“Fair trade?” Bina started before raging, “FAIR TRADE!?” Then told again, “You took my brother, there is no trade here. You’re giving him back, we leave, and I leave you alone!” Making it clear as that. “And if you did anything to hurt my brother badly? I am not going to back down from a fight without some apology!”

“Now, now, no need for that.” although while she was silently motioned to her fellows to remove the threat, Susumu remark.

“Am not going near her while she is near angry again. Let Asha handle her.”

“You think?” Mynu said in a slightly shaky tone. “She just made the earth break!” The wind demonstration was aweing enough. Seeing Bina willingly use something that could get out of hand with constant use? The D-dog really hoped Bina was calm enough to not do that again.

“Dejen.” Asha told softly while breathing. “When this does turn into a fight, keep everyone close. Bina’s…. Bina’s not doing good. When things get hectic…” She only looked around at the now rent area that used to be a nice flat rocky ground. (End)

“Earthquakes.” said Dejen as he frown. “Or in this case...natural disaster. Lots of it.” glancing to Debt, he asked. “You holding up, Debt?” not even going to comment on Debt ‘name’ as the gnoll told in a growl.

“No.” clenching his weapon as he tries to calm himself. “That one...that gnoll took pleasure in beating me. Pride herself as me being her ‘near' successful’ one.”

Mynu told, “Peaceful or not, I’ll be sure an arrow strikes her head.” Taking calming breaths adding, “I doubt she has a heart to strike.”

Chuckling lowly, he said. “Always aim at their heads. None of them have hearts.” Susumu spoke lowly.

“Should leave and strike in shadows now?”

“Not yet...this one might be a close group.” said Dejen as he was about to say more, until the center hut opened its blinds, revealing a gnoll female of 9 feet, bones decorated on her neck, multiple zags under her eyes as she looks to be in her 40’s, but still had a body of a warrior as she snarled and shouted in the nude.

“What, in the Ancestor Stars are you all balking around for!?” then stare at the group in the back, and said. “Intruders? Here?” then roar out. “Kill them and take the scraps!”

“Do that and I’ll flatten this place!” Bina threatened back, and for a moment, the group had a slight feeling that she would be willing to pull through with that threat. She looked ready to lift her foot too.

The gnolls were split on either obeying their chief, or the cub who could cause the land to shake. It was hard to say what. Still Susumu muttered. “We might actually get out of this without a fight.”

Debt gave a look to Dejen as Dejen told to Susumu. “Don’t count your chickens yet, the moment Bina see her brother? We’re in a fight.” and on cue, was a female carrying a tied up Bakari as he looked more annoyed than anything as he was probably the hardest male to deal with, especially with him kicking back. Or his taunts. She soon drop Bakari before Bina as she snort.

“You're problem now.”

Looking up, the roughed up cat smirked and said, “‘Bout time you showed up.” Making her glare down… before giving a smile. Reaching down to help him up with a heave and without much concern, ripping the ropes off before giving a hug-- and to glare over her brother’s shoulder as if to warn the Gnoll’s not to try anything.

The gnoll snort as she told. “You got what you want. Leave.” as both Bina and Bakari detach from the other of their hug as they back away from the gnolls. Fronts aimed at the gnolls and watching every step of the way.

The group was starting to walk out, but Debt gave a low sound, as Dejen said lowly. “I know ...trust me, you’ll get the chance to kill her.” Debt snort as he said.

“This is the only thing I ask, Sir. Her death.”

Bina told, “Well… you know the saying.” Bakari moving behind her and with the group as she paused at the thin crevice that was the entrance. “Life’s a bitch.” And much to the horror of the gnoll’s, her foot lifted up, “And she had a litter, called mother nature.” Then stomped. And for the second time that day, the earth shook. Unlike the last, it was much, much more server.

Asha had to act on a near instant to say loud words of a chant, saying the phrases over and over as earth, rock, stone and all things of the terra shook, broke and rent. Stone lifted, rocks fell, casual gaped wide and large stones jutted up. Bakari held onto someone for support, and even with Asha’s protective area-- even their spot was cracking, rocks of small sizes pelting them-- while the settlement experienced what humans knew… as a magnitude 8 earthquake.

While Dejen only whistle lowly as he remark. “I think this is going longer than two minutes?” Susumu felt his tail poof up, as he just look in utter awe and disbelief of...something like this happen-- and the Striped was fine with it?! Debt was silence, just watching the destruction, the rocks coming down and destroying everything as the settlement was breaking apart, crumbling into an empty hole as everything shifted in place as the earthquake slowly settle in the rumbling as eventually...there was silence.

Dejen soon asked. “Asha, feel any living among them, or complete death?”

The Lioness, long since losing her composure, breathed in and out and spoke, “They…” Taking a deep breath and sighing out while Bina and Bakari turned and left, both holding the other close. “They…. A lot died… but, but there are some left… alive… scared, confused…. Angry…. Plenty angry.”

“Can you sense the Chiefess among them?” asked Debt. “Or did she die too?”

Focusing, Asha said, “It’s… hard to tell. There’s so much going on, and I didn’t really have a chance to feel her out…” Though as she focused, Asha shook her head. “I think she’s alive… but stuck, buried under… under dirt, rock, rubble… she’s… pretty down deep.”

Rah-Rah looked from the devastation, to the Twins that were about gone, and back again to the devastation before asking, “Dejen… Did… did you know they could do this?” Then went on with a glance. “Because if Asha wasn’t here….” She looked up. “If she wasn’t here… I think we could've been like them.” Nottings how the two narrowly close walls, while cracks, just barely held.

“To be honest? They mention bit of natural disaster. Although I’ll admit, they never could do it on purpose, not having any control with it as the natural disasters were accident...this? Intent and they mention if they use it once ...the second will double the strength of the last.” glancing around adding. “And there's no aim here, everything affected by that stomp..” then look to Debt and said. “I know this isn’t what you wanted...but it's the closest you can get, right?”

Debt was silent as he told. “We should leave. Otherwise the survivors will attack us….” then said to Rah-Rah. “When we get back to the ship...can you order fire with the big guns at this place? Destroy it completely?”

With a look, Rah-Rah said, “Normally? I’d say no.” Then breathed in, “But after what I saw?... Just this once.” Then as they were about to move, they paused. The ground shifted and rumbled before they steadied. With a calming breath, Rah-Rah said, “Aftershocks….” Getting her mech to glance up and add, “We should get out… I don’t trust those rocks anymore.” Moving with them.

She did soon however say, “Debt… do you want to give the order to fire when all the cannons are loaded?”

Giving a glance as they carefully walk through the narrow path, Debt answered. “It's the closest I can get in pissing on their Clan and remove a blemish among the lands. I would be glad to do it.”

Mynu however said, “I think this would be more of pissing on their grave, and also pissing on their remaining kin standing on said grave.”

“That's a much better image for me to enjoy.” said Debt as they saw the Battleship waiting for them as they walked in as Susumu spoke.

“If pardon me ...need tea to relax.” walking off as Debt said.

“I’ll be in the bridge...getting the best view of the sight.” they were splitting as Dejen walked off to his room, as he glanced to the shoto. Holding it in his hand as he unsheath it and said lowly.

“Okay, so it wasn’t a big fight, disappointing, shame on me,” rolling his eyes and said. “But...at least I ask, right?” then snort as he said in a snark tone. “Although I have a good feeling Tatsu and the other ancestors who held this blade, ain’t going to give me that freebie anymore, right?”

All he heard was a mischievous giggle form Tatsu’s ghostly voice, as if she knew something… but when the chill in the air left, Dejen was left staring at a gleaming silver blade.

“You ghosts. Always love dicking around, huh?” then he sheath the blade as he rubbed his face and thought. Still...with Bina making an earthquake eight? Ugh...things got a bit bigger than I thought. If she could do that with a stomp? yeah...I can see why Haulani want the stones so bad. Ugh, I can sense the shitstorm already. taking a breath in as he rubbed his eyes some.

Sometimes I wonder how the hell I rope myself into these situations, I really do. Because it feels like I’m a mortal among gods now. Or close to it...How am I supposed to keep up with the twins!? then sighed and thought he should get some rest, get some shut eye from what just happened.

Debt look down to the bridge. Waiting for Rah-Rah as he glanced to the side. Seeing Mynu as he said. “You didn’t have to be here with me. You could of slept in, Mynu.”

Glancing to him, she said in a much calmer, once more reserved manner, “After the day I had? I need to see something die."

Chuckling, he heard the beep that the guns were ready. He took the walkie to his mouth, looking at the rubble of his most painful of past ...then order. “Fire all cannons until there is nothing but salt.”

“Weapons free!” “All batteries firing!” “Reloading!” Debt listed almost daily while the ground became nothing more than light and fire. Any hope the Gnolls below had of recover was all but dashed in that single moment as it was bombarded by more shells than needed. The two then watched as part of the earth collapsed, a chasm opening further and dragging things down into the seemingly endless pits below.

After a while, the guns stopped and Rah-Rah told. “Alright Debt. That’s about it. I think using almost another 10% of our reserves are more than enough. Got to save some for other fights.”

“I understand.” said Debt, ending the call as he took in a breath. And slowly, did a smile reach on his face as he hunched over the controls...and tears slowly came out of his eyes. Giving low breath as he let them out for a bit as he asked to Mynu. “This is ...selfish of me ...but can you, stay close? Just for a while, Mynu?”

A hand gently laid on his shoulder, and Mynu said, “I have the night.” Then became silent for a long while for the gnoll. But after a long stretch, Mynu said, “I just realized…” Her tone going dry and slightly annoyed. “I never got a chance to put an arrow in that bitches head.”

A low sound of laughter came from him, as a hand move to rest on her side as he gently pull her close and told. “I think Bina robbed you of that chance.” then jokes. “Maybe the next time you see a gnoll female, imagine her as that bitch and hit her head. It counts technically.”

“Won’t be the same.” She said mildly. “That one might actually have beating heart… but it’s close enough.” giving a hug back before telling, “What about your old name? Should it be left in the past?”

“Yes.” said Debt. “Sizue….was a coward, someone who gave in too easily. Debt ...Debt is the remains of Sizue, holding what matters as Debt live on with Sizue resting in the past with the Tartarus talking that place where it belongs.”

She was quiet and just stood with him, letting Debt have his moment of peace. Though after a long while, she told, “You need rest.” Moving to start guiding him out. “You should get some sleep. We’ll need you if more gnolls show. I’ll need someone to help me send them down to the dirt.”

Giving a toothy smile, he said. “I’ll be sure they take humble pies too.” then was quiet...thinking as he asked. “This is...rather beyond selfish Mynu ...but I was wondering if you….were to stay for the night with me. I can understand if you say no. But it's time….time for me to move on.”

She tilted her head just a bit and asked, “Why? Is there something you’re expecting from me?”

Looking down, he said. “Not much ...just wanted to tell you I think I might like you more than...a friend. A lot more.” then added. “But I understand if you don’t see me as such. Understandable with how I am with others.”

She stared for a while before looking ahead. “For tonight.” Then told, “With limits. When your heads clearer… we can talk about it. That…. That is fair, isn’t it?” And for a moment, her voice seemed to almost jump a bit in tone.

He smiles as he leaned his head down to kiss her forehead as he told. “It is fair. Mostly because you’re right, my head is in need to be clear.” then pull his head back up as he admits. “I honestly thought you were going to say no. I am uglier than a diamond dog male after all.”

“Scars are a badge of strength of past fights or endurance.” She told in a simple manner. “It’s considered… appealing for some packs.”

He glanced down and had a...teasing tone. “So I’m appealing to you? Hmm, might need to be near naked more often around you to see all those scars of endurance, Mynu.”

She gave a small, and light, elbow to his side. Hardly even harmful as she told, “I’m just saying you’re not too ugly.” Though even in the dark, it did seem like she was blushing at his teasing.

“You’re blushing.” stated Debt. “Body warmed up with you slightly leaning on me. Face more warmer than usual. Looks like my teasing is better than I thought.”

“Only because you’re likable enough to me.” She told in a frank manner. “You understand simplicity. I understand your life. There’s something to be said about how similar we can be.” Then paused before telling, “We should save this for tomorrow. Better for the both of us. Todays been…. Long. Too long.”

Snorting, he said. “Agreed. We’re sleeping till lunch and I won’t give a damn. I deserve some time to rest.” then as he opened the door, he then admit to Mynu. “Hope you weren’t expecting much from me, my sex life is messed badly with gnoll bitches destroying what experiences I had beside laying down and obeying them.”

“Unless I want pups, I don’t have much to say.” Was her response before the door closed for the night.

It was a rather mellow morning, everyone on the ship not having the same energy they held from last night's experience. But they manage to get up and get everything working, the Innovation was on silent running, turning away from the ruins of a home and toward Equestria. At least in a steady pace as while there was a few discussion of heading to where Taka was...everyone knew that if they stay in a place, the idiot would find them again.

With the hope he would still have Bakari stone.

Yet while breakfast was serving, there was just small talks, eating mostly food as nearly everyone was present. With the exception of Debt and Mynu, but they weren’t the only ones not around, as the twins weren’t either. Dejen guessed they were in Asha room, either sleeping or talking. But with a few glances, some of the changelings noted the Lioness was out, getting herself a meal and another tray for food.

None asked why she had another tray, they could already guess who it was for.

Dejen muse to himself in his spot, eating his food as he glanced to the entrance of the dining hall. Should I wake Debt? On one hand he’s missing food...but on the other he deserves the rest...what to do, what to do? although he was given his answer as his ear flick.

Hearing footsteps of two walking as a couple glance to the entrance as they spotted Debt ...with Mynu close ...and the gnoll shirtless as he was wearing pants.

Mynu didn’t seem to bat an eye at anyone looking to them, seeming to keep her path with Debt straight and narrow for the food. Though she did slightly pause when Asha got one overly full tray of food on her back and began to move. Looking around, Mynu asked, “Where are the Twins?”

Moving to pass them up, Asha told, “In my room. Bina needs a bit of time.” A somber note there, one that confused a few that heard. But once Asha left the room, attention was soon refocused to the two.

Mynu gave a subtle glance about before rolling her eyes and moving for the food again. Debt not any further away while they both went about getting their plates and their respective meals. Though part of her was ready to just ask what was the deal with everyone.

But Debt, in all of his wisdom and dry wit gave a glance to Mynu and spoke simply. “Everyone is surprised to see us close, although it's doubtful if they were expecting us to be close soon. They at least had a feeling we would be close sooner or later.” then added in low amusement. “Doesn’t help that I use to wear my armor all the time to hide the scars.”

“Wouldn't matter if you didn’t.” Mynu told in a simple manner. “I don’t do something until I want to. At the time I didn’t want to. But then I did.” Getting some silverware for a moment before admitting, “I’m concerned with what Asha said.” Miko asked her to keep an eye on the Twins-- as ridiculous as that seemed now after yesterday's little demonstration.

Still didn’t stop her concern form welling. What did Asha mean? Both seemed fine yesterday, Bina was smiling like she was brimming with joy.

Debt frown, thinking a bit...then told. “I think Asha meant that while they look fine on the outside, they’re still hurting and their emotional and mental state need time to heal. We only saw them being fine, because they bottle up their negative emotions.” grabbing something as he added. “Like despite how I look calm now, I’m still shaken up and getting over the fact I destroy the Clan in fire and death.”

Thinking of this, Mynu asked, “She said Bina’s name.” Thinking that over even while her plate clanked on the table. “Bina needs time.” Thinking some before asking, “Do you think she regrets what she did to the Clan?” While Mynu held no love for what she saw, she couldn't say with clear certainty she was willing to… go to those extremes to do an action, to make a kill. The quake was… she didn’t really have the right words.

Getting Debt to think while sitting down close to her as he thought over it...and said. “I believe she does. She’s always been the diplomat, always the one who wish to use words and use violence as a last resort...This is possible the first time for a while that she actually uses her powers to instantly kill the size of a town. To destroy an entire culture, a lot of ‘innocents’ who even didn’t commit the same crimes as most females.” cutting his sausages as he told.

“I think she is in pain, regret, and in need of comfort from her brother to undo those horrible feelings and forever seeing the multiple deaths replay in her mind that she killed with simply a large step on the ground.”

Taking small bites of her food and thinking it over, Mynu said, “I wonder almost if them having their stones is good or not.” The words causing an odd pause. “I worry for their safety. I also worry about the safety of the rest.” Pausing to think more before telling, “When Bakari was gone… Bina was… temperamental. Not herself. The water and sand… seemed to nearly move of its own will during her angry state.”

Any who overheard their conversation wonder the same. Was it good for them to have their stones? Would it be so bad if they weren’t powerful enough to cause things to shift when they get out of control in their emotions. It made Dejen think of it, as while he saw them without the stones ...with the stones it was like he was near two god-like powers who were teenagers. Almost like the Greek gods.

He thought of butting in and saying it might be bad, but Debt beat him to the punch.

“If we switch the two around in that scenario, Bakari would be long gone to find his sister, moving around in worry for Bina safety.” then thought and soon told. “As for them having their stones? While the sight was beyond what we saw and of Bina out of control emotions...the stones are also part of them. You heard them on how they talk about the stones, part of their being for example.” then as he took a bite, he also added.

“You also have to think of another thing. Who would it be better to keep the stones? The Twins who at least know how to somewhat work them-- or one of the crew here to hold on them and having no idea what they could accidentally damage with a single movement or with their emotions.”

Shaking her head, Mynu told, “Not the crew.” moving one of her own sausages on her place. “I was thinking more of them placing them to the side. In a safe. Close, but not close enough to cause what we witnessed.” She took the meat and ate it, thinking it over.

Sighing, Mynu went on, “I don’t want to separate them from them. But I am thinking for the rest of us. They do well when calm. When near the other. But if and when things like this happen, what then? What can we do to stop them from making a mistake or brash decision?”

Thinking to himself, he considers as Mynu made a good point. What could they do? He took bites of his food, thinking over that as he look to her and ask with tings of joking tone. “Throw Sir at them and let him talk to them to calm down?”

Yeah, because that went SO well when I tried it the last time. thought Dejen as he snorted and gave a remark tone to Debt. “Maybe we should toss you to them, you seem suddenly wise now, Debt.” the gnoll said in a reminding tone.

“Less of wise, and more full of common sense, Sir.” taking another bite as he said to Mynu. “Although while you make a good point of having it in a safe...safes can be easily broken in.” giving a subtle glance to Susumu who was too far for them to hear as he was eating his meal in peace.

Rolling her eyes while she chewed, Mynu took a moment to swallow before telling, “If they know there’s a safe. The stones look like any other rock or gemstone. Unless they knew what they were looking for, even a bowl full of red or blue stones could be more than enough to hide them.”

Shaking her head, Mynu said, “The point I am just saying, Debt, is that when either one has a stone and gets out of hand… we have no way to really stop them. And that makes me concerned for our safety, and their own.”

He took a bite of his food, chew and thinking as he said. “You’re right...but I’m more concern of something else.” looking to her as he told. “When Taka arrives here...will he have Bakari stone, and if he does...could be able to ‘take’ Bina with Bakari stolen strength?”

Thinking of that, Mynu turned it over in her head and grimaced openly. “If Taka realizes what sort of power it brings… than I don’t know what to do. If Bakari’s power is Bina’s equaled opposite…” How did they expect to handle that? Those were levels of strength they didn’t know how to handle-- Taka might have the power, but not understand it and use it all willy-nilly. While Bina knew what she could do, but would be careful of how she used it. Maybe. She didn’t like Taka much.

“Then just maybe Taka could be the most strongest idiot with near god like abilities.” said Debt as that phrase made Dejen thought for a moment, letting the two have their conversation as he thought to himself.

God-like abilities? Yeah...that is true, their abilities are god-like, and powerful. They have the ability to cause natural disasters, have great strength, healing of regeneration, and even without a stone, with Bakari showing in those echos ... survived things that should of killed people normally. But they aren’t gods, they’re just two kids. Ugh this almost reminds me of those Marvel...comics….

Trailing off as he thought about it. There were people who were mortal, there were god like beings showing in the comics ...and then there were those in the middle. The one who were near mortal, but not completely as they had god like abilities. In some twisted sense, it made sense to Dejen as he thought of that single word. Demi-god. then slowly chuckle as he shook his head.

Those two are demi-gods. Wow. just….wow.I have not two teenagers with powerful abilities...but demi-gods with god like abilities.I don’t know whether to laugh of this hilarity of a discovery-- or cry as to realizing I had demi-gods on my crew and not even realizing it.

It did poise a show that there was something still up. Because for Demi-gods, the Twins seemed wholly unaware of themselves. Unfocused control aside, they even only knew the base abilities to their gifts. The stones were certainly a core to it, but the sight of them not having an ounce of control or treat situations as if they were dangerous-- when they could possibly actually handle it?

Something didn’t fully add up, in some odd manner. How was it that they, two Demi-god teenagers with immense might not realize this? Sure, they had to have some sort of hint of what they were, didn’t they? And why wouldn’t they tell him, as they have long since opened up to him. What was missing from all of this?

Why keep it a secret? They could of told me, I would've handle it a lot better than others. Were they scared of others finding out? Were they just unsure of what to say? Or maybe they didn’t knew? I mean most people who achieve greatness never...realize ... it. that one question, ‘maybe they didn’t know?’ made him pause. It was farfetch...but he never drop far-fetched guess until they were fully disproven.

And on his track record, he seems to discover far-fetched guesses on others and they were right half the time. Like with Shima. He couldn’t help but laugh. It started lowly, then it began to rise up as he laughed. Having a hand on his face as he holler out in that hyena pitch of laughter as people began looking at him like the madman he was. They didn’t know! They don’t know that they’re demi-gods! If I’m right, oh this is going to be hilarious!

Debt glance to Mynu as he comment. “I believe the insanity crept up to him this time.”

Mynu stared at the hysterically laughing stripped, and asked, “Should we be concerned?” Her otherwise reserved voice almost betraying her concern of this situation.

“Possibly. I never seen him do this before.” agreed Debt with a nod, as they saw the striped slowly calming down as he added. “I think Sir either has discovered something-- or is now a nutjob.” taking a sip of his drink as he saw the stripped calming more and gaining breath he added to Mynu. “Most of the time I think it's the latter whenever he laughs for no reason.”

She only slowly nodded, keeping a close eye on Dejen for a moment before turning her focus to her food. Trying to figure out what had the stripped so… worked up into a laughing fit was something she was not interested to figure out. If it was good or bad, was hard to tell. Maybe she should have considered this job more carefully before joining the crew.

Debt glance to Mynu as he ask in bits of joking. “Reconsidering on asking for actual payment from Sir?” then tease as he used his free hand to poke Mynu cheek. “Or thinking of running for the hills for what sanity you have away from my Racky employer?”

“At this point?” She asked, “I don’t think there’s a place I can run to. And I am doing a favor for Miko, so I can’t leave anyways. I’m trying to keep the Twins safe.” Though added dryly, “But it hardly looks like they need my protection.”

He then ask in a tint of playfulness. “What about keeping me safe? We both know how bad I am in being nimble, even more with me falling off of buildings with my face meeting the ground.”

She gave him a slight bump with her hand and told, “This is why you don’t bother climbing. You have common sense, you don’t need me for that.” Peeking from the corner of her eye to this. “If you’re so desperate though, I’ll be sure to find a rope for you to climb up.”

Chuckling, he said. “My thanks,” then tease as he told. “Although I think you do a better job in keeping my ass safe in a fight you do like the look of it whenever I charge up ahead.”

Rolling her eyes, she said, “careful. I’ll get an arrow to deflate that ego if you keep that up.”

“Sorry to disappoint you, but my ego was deflated and on the ground for years.” slightly joked Debt with a low smile. “It just started to rise after all the humble I had started to ease up.”

“By the Queen, just kiss already!” shouted a changeling as Debt glance to the drone speaking, then to Mynu as the gnoll ask in a dry, yet amusing manner.

“I thought you wanted me to wait until my head's clear up for that? Didn’t know you wanted me to do that so soon.”

Mynu looked fairly unamused by that and just lifted a brow.

Chuckling, he apologize. “Sorry, still failing at giving teasing and amuse quips. I think I should stick with what I’m trying to salvage. My humor.”

She stared and told while going back to her food, “Don’t change. Trying to be something else doesn't suit you.”

He couldn’t help but ask with a raised brow as he took another bite and swallow. “You prefer me being a dry tone, annoyed, and horrible joke making gnoll?” then asked with a smile. “Are you sure you want to stick around me? You already know I’m as dull as a rock with expressions and anything light hearted.”

“It’s the little things.” She told while readying to get another bite of food ready. “You already appealed to me as you were. Why try any harder?” Looking up to him with a questioning gaze.

Thinking, he admitted. “Because I seem uninterested, bored, suck all the fun out of things-- and probably would be horrible in anything fun related as I seem to be always serious at times?”

She gave a snort and told, “If you were right, then I wouldn’t be here, talking to you.” Then poked him with the hilt of her fork to tell, “Our conversations are meaningful. They mean something when you talk. They aren't flowery. They aren't pointless. They are how things are and how things have been.” Then gave him a flat look to tell, “Don’t change. What people think don’t matter. You’re fine the way you are.”

“Even my humor?” asked Debt with a raised brow.

“I still laugh.” She shrugged in turn with a slight smile. “My sense of humor can be dull as a rock too.”

Debt snort as he remark in a snarky manner. “Out of all the guys you could be appealing to, you somehow see the dull, bad-humor, and utterly stubborn gnoll appealing.” taking another bite as he chew and swallow as he look down and told to her. “It also doesn’t help that I’m taller than you, Mynu. I think you should ask for a refund on seeing me appealing.”

“Too late, I’m cashing in.” Mynu told with a snort. “You might find it odd, but I hold you over the dumb and smelly dogs of the Packs. Even the mercenaries I worked with.” Then told in a simple tone, “They got annoying. You don’t annoy me. You’re good under it all.” Then went on, “I’m also a steady girl. It’s why we’re talking it over and waiting for your head to clear. We are adults, not a couple of silly pups.”

“Correction, you’re the normal adult. I'm messed up male who doesn’t even know what's normal anymore.” said Debt as he took another bite as he told. “It also doesn’t help that I’m currently loyal to an insane male.” keeping this part quiet as to not let Dejen over hear, although from the looks of it the striped was almost heading out of the room.

“Nothing about our situation is normal.” Told the female dog blandly. “There is a rabbit with a metal suite as tall as you. There is a Lioness that can sense changes in the area, permanent dangers. There is a large hive of changelings helping manage a giant Battleship made by a rabbit, a striped and a metal dragon with a huge ego.”

She paused and soon told, “I can go on.”

Debt snort in slight amusement as he remark. “Yet you still prefer me. You do realize that I am utterly horrible in things most normal people know what to do. Beside small talk.”

“We’ll work on that.” She told. “For now? Eat.” Seeming to follow her own advice.

Snorting a bit, he went back to eating his own food as despite his own doubts...he actually believe that Mynu was right. They could work on him, make him a bit better, yet still the same at the same time. He just hoped he wouldn’t say something stupid or say something out of turn.

Mercy look to Alibi as the two were in the Queen’s room, Mercy smile as she saw the foal having a beaded bracelet of blues, greens, and grays as Mercy recalled Alibi having it after a visit with Asha. still, the Queen spoke. “Now Alibi, it's time for us to practice your transformation. Now is a good time to see how well you learn with my tutelage.” Motioning with a hoof as she said. “Let's start with earth pony first, Alibi.”

The response was quick, just about as soon as Mercy was done asking for it. Though the Queen almost had to frown at the finished results, as Alibi looked the part of an earth pony… but looked completely like a blank slate. To overt details, no specific coloring, no mark, no real mane style.

This wasn’t the first time this has happened. Just ‘asking’ for a from seemed to get the girl to make a ‘blank’ basic from with no unique details. Though if asked to transform into another, she did exceedingly well. Just… not making up a disguise on the spot.

Hmm, perhaps I can give her an example? thought Mercy as she said with a smile. “Good Alibi, you got the basics right, but try changing your mane into a more curve form,” shifting in her own disguise, but in earth pony form as she said. “Imagine a bit of color on your mane, your coat-- imagine two colors to fit the other?” she wouldn’t ask for a mark yet, mostly because as of now it would be fine if the foal didn’t had a mark again.

Although when Alibi changed, it was the same basic form, but the mane had some curve on it, with it being lighter brown and darker brown combo. Although the coat was still bland, Mercy could work with this. maybe be a bit more specific. then shifted to a blank look herself as she said to Alibi. “Here, try copying me.” shifting her coat to be of light brown, her mane dark brown as she saw Alibi mimicking each step as it comes.

Mercy made her mane curled and change her eyes to amber as she saw the filly do the same. “When you are in disguise, you have to be a bit creative, like your art. The basics are good for a start, but to retain a disguise you have to be creative in what you look like in the form. Are you following so far, Alibi?”

Alibi made a humming sound to herself, thinking this over. And with the next flash of green, Mercy had to slightly wonder about her teaching methods… or rather how her students learned. Even more now that her student was a white-- with a patchwork of artful, if not seemingly randomly colored and patterned lines all over her from. Almost like one of her drawings, really.

Okay...Maybe I shouldn’t be literal with that. Hmm...Tricky, very tricky. then subtly asked one of the six of Alibi circle. How far has Alibi learn of disguises beside the basic mold? She seems to take it...literal. thinking of to actually teach the filly properly in terms of keeping a good disguise.

There was an odd pause a moment of speaking, oddly suspiciously sounding like whispering in the swarm mind. We’re… not quite sure. Was the slow response. She does well with mimicking, but… unless she knows what she’s exactly turning into-- like that teen queen from, you, me, the King…. She.. she can’t seem to get it right. Seeming at a loss of what to really say.

Talking a mental breath, she asked. You mean she is literally copying what she sees and turn into it, or doesn’t have a full idea of what to turn into herself? thinking on it...Mercy mentally frown. Of course, she hasn’t been properly tutored of anything of disguises beside basics due to 3 years on the move. thinking of it as she spoke to Alibi with a smile. “Alibi? Can you try to turn into an earth pony, but imagine having the colors of coat of Dejen, the eye color of his amber eyes, to your mane with a lighter shade of brown?”

With a blink at all of that, Alibi went, “Uuhhh…….” Her mind, still somehow mixing personal thoughts and Swarm-talking up, seemed to accidentally blare out. Coat of Dejen and eyes of amber with mane of lighter shade-- A almost discombobulated amount of thoughts trying to figure out the sudden influx of requests.

It was about this same time she heard the six main caretakers to Alibi. She’s good with mimicking. She has trouble with.. Not mimicking things.

Clearly. the dry response came as she shifted into what she requested, looking nearly like Dejen in pony form in terms of colorings and of the eyes as she noticed Alibi notice her, the filly pauses in her thoughts as her mind loudly organizing what she sees and a three second pause, did she turn to an identical mimicry of what Mercy look. Mercy soon asked. “Alibi, are you able to keep the colors correct if you change into a pegasus?” wanting to see how well the filly could keep the colors the same while in another form.

Noting Alibi humming and close her eyes in focus as she changed into a pegasus while keeps the colors, but everything reverts to basic. Mane basic, form basic, wings basic, coat basics. Oh dear ...that's what I thought. It appears even if I ask her to keep the colors, she’ll lose them...I think Alibi is more of a visionary learner with her mimicry than a thinking learner.

Blinking, Alibi looked up to Mercy, tilted her head and watching with anticipation. Again, Mercy felt the urge to frown as she could just hear Alibi’s thoughts again. Did I do it wrong? She doesn't seem happy. Maybe it wasn’t enough? Didn’t I do it right? That was another thing-- Alibi couldn’t seem to separate personal thoughts and Swrm-mind communication.

“You did try but…” talking a mirror to show before Alibi as she said. “But when you change, you revert everything to basic.” looking to the filly as she went on. “It is admittedly odd Alibi. Are you having trouble with trying to keep the image in you're head?”

Blinking, Alibi shuffled her hooves and said, “Well, no… yes?” Thinking it over before adding, “Seeing a shape and taking it is… easy.” Then went on, “Holding it is easy.” Then rolled her hoof around on the ground adding, “Remembering it is… hard.”

She soon asked in a gentle and curious tone. “Why is it hard, Alibi? Does it get messy in recalling when you transform? A blur of sorts?”

Thinking it in her head, Alibi seemed to try and consider it for a while, apparently even focusing. “Yes?” She said in a more asking tone, as if she wasn’t completely sure. Shifting from hoof to hoof, one moved to rub at the bracelet, something Mercy was noticing was becoming some form of comfort for the child. “I… I remember but it’s… not the same?”

I don’t know if I should be happy she found something of comfort with Asha, or feel sad she isn’t seeing me as comfort. thought the Queen as she ignored that for the filly sake as she thought for a bit and asked. “What about if I gave you disguise,” changing to the earth mare with Dejen colors. “Like this, are you able to keep it on when I switch back to my own disguise?”

She nodded, “Yes.” Changing into it instantly. It was afterwards she hesitated and said, “It’s… taking it off and trying to put it back on I have trouble.”

Thinking abit, Mercy said as she went to her normal form as she said. “I think you’re having trouble putting it on, because you’re a visionary learner. You learn how to take something just from looking and focusing on something. But when you try to recall it, it gets troublesome. You recall the details...but it's hard to remember the colors and shapes of the disguise.” thinking abit, she soon added.

“Although, I don’t know why you have trouble taking it off and putting it back on.” she muse on that as she soon asked to Alibi with a smile. “What about a zebra? Are you able to change into that by yourself?” seeing Alibi tilt her head in confusion as Mercy soon realize Alibi must never saw a zebra as she said when she transformed into one. “This is what a zebra looks like, black and white all over in stripes.”

Though in just a flash of a moment, Mercy found that Alibi had the exact image that she had. Alibi seemed to wait to make sure to hear she got it right-- and much like before, the girl’s mimicry or ability to copy what was before her was rather good. Better than most her age in some regards-- considering her lack of tutelage.

Mercy hum a bit as she move by and gently ruffle the filly mane in a gentle manner. “I must say Alibi, I am impress you are able to mimic within a few seconds, down to the exact detail.” then soon move back as she went back to her normal self as she asked. “Alibi, please take off your disguise and use the same one.” she noticed as when Alibi did as ask, there was hesitant on placing the disguise back on, when its reapply? The body reverts back to ‘basic’ while the stripes are...disorganized. They’re not the same patterns as before.

“You were hesitant.” it was more of a statement than anything else as Mercy gently asked. “What happen Alibi?” Letting the mirror show of Alibi current zebra disguise.

Glancing away from the mirror, Alibi admitted, “I was trying to remember what it looked liked.” Looking to the mirror before closing her eyes, trying to get the image correct. It only resulted in a still same basic body shape, with another tangle of stripes not the same as the last. She tried again, only to get the same result, though this time the stripes gained a wavy quality.

Placing the mirror down, Mercy was thoughtful as she prod to the six in the Swarm mind. Do you have any ideas on why she has trouble making her own shapeshifting? She is a near expect in mimic a disguise she sees, but when she takes it off and attempts to put it back on….she has trouble. Like disguising as a zebra and the stripes are always shifting.

We’re not sure, my Queen. A female admitted. We’ve tried teaching her better, but she can’t seem to get it right without an example. We’d give her a from, she would mimic, and we’d sneak around form there. TRying to get her to recall a disguise has always been… difficult.

To that, one said, More like impossible. It’s like she can’t recall what she’s supposed to look like. We’ve tried everything we could think of, nothing seems to work! Then he gave a sigh. We’re sorry, our Queen. Every time she tried to recall the image, seems to get worse and worse until it’s back to basics… sort of…

It's alright. assured Mercy. But there must be a reason why she can’t recall. A reason why she can’t just create anything but the basics. It's almost like she’s subconsciously unwilling to change into anything but basic. Only focusing on mimicry to perfect than her own disguise crafting. thinking a bit...she had a thought. Tell me...when she draws a pony and give them color on paper...does she recall what they look like in detail? Or does she draw the lines when she freelancing?

There was a long pause in thought as one said, She never draws other ponies, always… those odd lines

They’re not odd. Said one of the others. They’re kind neat. Kinda swirl around and have all these patterns.

It’s nonsensical. Another told. There’s nothing in them but lines and shapes. I don’t think there’s even an image in any of them, just lines and random shapes.

To that another told, There’s patterns. They’re hard to see, but the Lioness showed me that each one has a pattern, different from the last.

Uh, guys, the Queen? Reminded another before telling. No my Queen, she only draws… random lines.

Thinking over each opinion she said. I think I have a reason why she can’t craft a disguise, well a theory to be honest. Like her drawings, her mind is...chaotic, spurring into thought when she was trying to figure out of Dejen card tricks. And whenever she tries to think, her mind tries to concentrate too hard, spiraling out of control until she form into a basic disguise. But when she sees something and focus on it before her, she could copy it to the detail.

But whenever she's out of it and try to reapply it...it's all random, like her drawings in their own patterns. Thinking a bit as she said to Alibi. “Transform into this.” shifting into a diamond dog of Gem as she focus on Alibi.

Focusing intently of the faux from of Gem, Alibi seemed to take a few seconds longer to think. But after it seemed to process, did the girl change. To say, the young queen did pretty good. Looking the part, having the right color, the right texture for fur. The only thing off was Alibi’s balance, the young queen obviously not used to such a from.

She nods her head and said. “Take your time, it’s a bit disoriented being on two legs.” She then said to the Swarm. I believe that while there is trouble with her making a disguise...we can honed on her mimicry abilities, help her perfect them to blend in among the crowds, or around others if need be. then asked to Alibi. “How do you feel being a diamond dog, Alibi?” shifting to her original form again.

Watching the faux Gem teeter forwards, sideways, backwards and all around, Alibi told, “W-Weird.” Tail flicking one way, then the other as she teetered-- then when the tail went the other Alibi fell to the ground with a little ‘oof’. It was about then, after laying on the ground for a bit, she undid the disguise and said, “Not fun...”

Holding back the giggle, she said. “Alright, you can change back again.” then move by the young queen in her normal form, she nuzzle the filly head and told. “I believe we will end lessons for now, it is time to get you something to eat.” then with a glow of her horn, she move Alibi onto her back and began trotting as she asked. “Are you ready to take positive emotions from my King this time?” glancing her head to see if Alibi was confident enough to feed from the Stripe this time.

Mercy could see that Alibi was trying hard not to make a face. It looked rather adorable with how her cheeks puffed out a bit and her lips turned inwards. Like a pouty, but less angry and more unsure. “They feel funny though.” She said, a bit in complaint, but also with unease. “Can’t I just feed with Auntie Asha… or maybe Bina?” Then paused to consider before adding, “Rah-Rah and Gem?”

Looking through the Swarm, she soon told. “Bina is busy with ship repairing, Rah-Rah and Gem are currently working on refilling our ammo.” although she knew Asha doesn’t had big jobs...mostly because of the Kitsune being the main doctor. She look to Alibi and ask. “Why do Dejen emotions feel ‘funny’ to you, Alibi?”

She shifted and told, “I don’t know… they just feel…” Looking for a word before asking, “Slimy?” Then blinked and said, “They’re fine, but… sometimes it feels like it’s slimy on the outside.” Making a face at the very idea.

Slimey? They’re never slimy with me, taste a bit odd yes...but slimy? she thought of that as she said. “Very well, we’ll go to Asha,” then said in a pointed manner. “But I do want you to use the cute pouty look at Dejen to take some positive emotions from him later on.” then subtly asked her Swarm. Have you notice my Striped having ‘slimy’ feeling on the outside?

There was a quiet murmur of opinions and thoughts, and they came in fairly much in a steady flow. Tasted funny at times, but not really They seem fine to me when he’s not annoyed There was that one time he felt disgusted, but that was just as normal as any other person No my Queen, sometimes odd, but not any odder than Debt or Gem. The list going on to read ‘normal’ in the overall opinion.

She mentally nodded...but muse in the Swarm. And yet Alibi mention whenever she feeds on him when he gives positive emotions….it’s slimy on the outside. She thought about of Dejen emotions and all the years they’ve been around...not once she felt ‘slimy’ from him.

She’s going on about a slimy thing again? Mercy heard one of the watchful six. I thought we moved past that? This being directed to his fellows.

Though one of the females told, No, we just started to stop trying to force-feed her near anyone she said had a ‘slimy outside’ when feeding. She gets a bit grumpy when pushed to some people with it. Then said in an eye roll fashion, I’m thinking she’s being overly picky. But she gets like that for no reason we can tell. They seem just as normal as others.

She honed in on the six and said. She mentioned that Dejen has a ‘slimy outside’. Do you think that she has a higher sense in emotions than others? Some Queens have a knack for higher senses in empathy, helps sense emotions within someone faking….. mentally pausing in her thoughts of that ...before saying. Alibi mother ...did she have a higher empathy in sensing emotions?

They all thought to that, and one said, You know… I think she did get a bit finicky whenever some of us brought back love. Said that it wasn’t… good enough for her, or nymphs. She was sometimes pretty picky on the gathered love, or feeding on others that had emotions.

Thinking a bit as she walked down to Asha room as she said. I think I know why Alibi is feeling off my Striped. She gained a higher empathy senses from her mother, able to pick out something within an emotion, like how some loves are hurtful? Like self-love for example. Or even false love. I think...Alibi feels something off from Dejen… then mentally sigh as she made sure Alibi didn’t overhear this entire conversation. I guess Dejen is still having trouble accepting the fact of his sterility.

My Queen, I mean no offense, but why not gain a donor of a stallion to help bear more eggs for the Hive? asked a drone as there was silence...then Mercy said in a simple tone.

It could be easy to accept a donor, it truly is...but if I did that, then everytime I feed off of Dejen, there will always be a tinge of resentment, a...jealousy I could say. It's a petty reason, but I rather keep Dejen love and accept the fact of his sterility as I adopt new children for the Hive-- then have donors and taste bitter resentment along with his love.

Knocking on Asha’s door was not something one did. Merely wanting to enter had the effect of the door opening of it’s own will more than not. And normally the reason for that was the perky Lioness that would come to the door, open it, and great, “Heya~!” Having that constantly happy smile in place.

“Hi Aunty Asha!” Chirped Alibi while Mercy walked in.

“Alibi, it’s so good to see you again.” Asha smiled only more, staying still to let the faol jump from Mercy’s back to her own. Asha giggled and leaden her head up and around, playfully and gently nipping at the filly’s hooves a bit before stopping. Alibi hugging and nuzzling into the Lioness’s neck.

Laughing a bit, Asha glanced to Mercy and said, “So, lunch time?” More or less making a ever-knowing guess for the visit.

Nodding, she rolled her eyes and said. “She still has trouble feeding from Dejen, and we are using the store love as sparingly as we can for my other children.” then added in amusement. “It also doesn’t help that she likes feeding from you.”

“You all like feeding from me.” Asha teased back before telling, “I’m sure you’ll figure it out.” Then told in a knowing tone, “I’d say you’re on the right track, actually.” Then reached back to boop the filly’s nose, making her giggle. “Alibi’s a sensitive one.”

“That she is, highly aware in empathy actually. Tastes emotions within the main emotion.” then asked in slight concern and curiosity. “How are the twins? I know they’re settling..but with Taka having Bakari stone…”

Mercy almost felt a slight jump of her heart when Alibi was grabbed and pinned to the floor-- before the paw used was tucking the small filly. Making her squirm and giggle. Lion-play was always a slightly more rougher than the Queen was used to seeing-- even with Asha’s gentle handling.

“Bakari’s fine. He’s pretty tough.” Told Asha simply. “This isn’t the first time something like the Gnoll’s happened to him. He boasted they hardly did anything. And inclined to believe that he’s been through much worse.” Then tilted her head while moving her paw about, Alibi grasping it and wrestling with it. “Bina’s still a bit upset. She and her brother try to not get like that, but every now and then, it sort of just… slips. They try pretty hard, and I think they just get so full of pressure of what’s on their shoulders or what risks come with the other when in danger.”

Giving a slight nod, Mercy suggested. “Should we land somewhere for them to take off that pressure? Let it all out for a bit so they won’t accidentally snap in the ship itself?”

“I know just the place.” Told Asha, “But not yet. You all want to do something in Equestria, and the trip is kinda lengthy I think, so we’ll make the short trip first before the long one.”

Turning away from the subject, Asha asked to Alibi, “So, what did you and mommy Mercy do this time? Play dress up, or learn boring quotes?” Giggling to herself at Mercy’s slight glance at the ‘boring quotes’ part.

“Dress up!” Giggled Alibi, “We did dress up this time!” And soon bit back to Asha’s paw, not too hard, but enough to keep up the rough-play with the Lionesses paw. But after a moment she pouted, “I don’t think she was happy about it.”

“Oh?” Asha asked in amusement, “And why’s that?” Subtly glancing to Mercy while Alibi when bashfully quite-- as if remembering who was also there still.

Rolling her eyes in amusement, she said. “Mostly because I discover little Alibi was having trouble in remembering ‘dress up’. But I think I have a way to solve that little problem with focusing on her mimic abilities more. She seem an adept in visionary learning, Asha. A few seconds of looking and she transform into a perfect copy of what I was disguise as.”

“Really?” Asked Asha. “She hasn’t done that with me.” then teased the filly, “No, you just wanted to show off your little hidey trick during hide-and-seek, didn’t you?” Blowing a raspberry to the filly’s tummy, making her squeal and giggle.

Having an amused expression she said. “”’Hiddy tricks’? Alibi, you never mention this.” having a mischievous look as she crouch and was stalking to the filly. “I think you need a raspberry~.”

“No!” She laughed out, darting away from Asha’s paw and making a dash. Mercy had to watch as the filly go around them, and when Mercy turned her head to keep tracking the filly, she had to blink. She got up and looked around, a bit bemused while Asha giggled to herself. For a moment, Mercy was honestly a bit confused.

Where did she go? searching around to see nothing...but with a ping to to Alibi location to see a wall...but saw a wall. She scrunch her eyes...then said. “Well, well, well...you know how to use illusionary magic, hmm~?”

Getting up, Asha said, “Not quite.” Moving over to where the filly was, then with a nudge, shifted her. Mercy watched in intrigue as part of the wall was ‘moved’, it’s pattern shifting to the side. It took a moment, but it registered to Mercy, Alibi had mimicked the walls textured and colors over herself.

It wasn’t like a shiftling where they changed their bodies to match textures, the filly that was pressed up to the wall was just the right colors to give the illusion she wasn’t there.

Using her horn to grab the filly off the wall, she held the filly with her magic as she said. “You were able to change your entire body to shift into the wall. Down to the right detail as well.” Looking at Alibi as she heard in the swarm mind of the six as one said to her fellows. She can do that? To which Mercy smile wide to Alibi and began hugging and nuzzling the filly. “I’m so proud of you! You master the art of mimic to the point you can blend to anything you want! Oh this is so wonderful, Alibi!”

The filly stayed still while she changed back, her shell once more gaining it’s normal qualities. The filly shifted in the hug, feeling both happy, and very much embarrassed. The sight made Asha giggle at them while speaking up. “She’s a real puzzle solver, Mercy.” Only making the mare pause just a touch. “Give her a problem, and she can think of funny ways to solve them.” Then told, “She’s particularly good at noticing patterns. I think that’s how she’s so good at that hidey trick.”

Looking abash, Alibi said, “It’s just a pattern.” Then went on, “Like my drawings. Lines here, lines there and spirals there.” Seeming to try and make sense of it, though it didn’t come out as much sense. “Just… lines and colors, right?”

She couldn’t help but giggle as she nuzzle the filly. “Oh Alibi, I think I should start tutoring you with problem solving now, mostly with puzzles.” then thought and said in amusement. “It's funny in a way, you have troubles with shapeshifting-- but you’re able to mimic things to near perfect detail, notice patterns, and think of ways to solve puzzles. Miko might like hanging around you if she ever have puzzles to deal with in ancient temples.”

While this perked the filly’s interests some, Asha laughed, “Careful Mercy, give her too many ideas and she might try and sneak off with Miko.” Giving a look to the young queen and told, “Don’t need any misadventures.”

“I’ll be good.” Told Alibi in a fairly honest tone. “Really!” Then pouted, “But puzzles would be fun. Drawings fun, but it’s not the same as a puzzle.” Drawing lines did only spend her attention so far before she got a bit bored of it. The idea of a puzzle made her mind wander and swirl with thoughts.

Amusement in her as she let go of the filly as she said to the Swarm.Do we have any puzzles games or work on the ship?

A few worked that question over and began to do some tedious work on figuring out an answer to the question. It left Mercy to sit and wait, while Alibi went back to keep playing with Asha. Really, the Lioness was good with kids, even if they were not her own. It could've been her bubbly personality. Maybe her playful inner cub. Or possibly that calm and joyful aura she always exuded.

Whatever the case, it was nice to watch. To see. Though Mercy wondered how she ‘compared’ to Asha, much to her own mental dismay. Though while she did filter through the thoughts, she heard Alibi ask, “Asha, do you think Mercy would want one of these too?” The filly holding up the beaded bracelet. “When she’s sad too?”

Asha smiled and said, “I don’t know.” Then asked, “Why do you think she needs it?”

Shifting around, Alibi said, “Mercy is like mama was.” Shifting on her hooves. “But even with my… siblings?” Apparently talking about those from her hive, “They said Mama would have lots of them. But then why look for more changelings not hers?” Seming to ask herself this question. “So… so I thought, maybe she was like me and… maybe she would want a bracelet too?” Which was… sweet, if the changeling Queen had an idea of what Alibi was talking about when it concerned the bracelet.

While she felt a bit happy of Alibi concern, she did ask to Asha. “what are the bracelet anyway? Are they the Ancestor bracelets you mentioned once?”

Looking to the Queen, Asha smiled and nodded, “They are. Ancestral Beads are, like I said, to show who you are to your later descendants. What you were like and such.” Then lifted her right paw telling, “This bracelet is mine. For myself.” Then placing that paw down ,she lifted her other one, having a few bracelets. “These are from some of my Ancestors. Cousins. Other family members. We use them to remember our roots.”

Looking to Alibi, Asha smiled, “When Alibi got… worked over about losing her mom, I thought she could use something to remind her, she’s still with her. And the Ancestral Beads mark this. They might be gone, but a part of them is still with us.” Then looked up to go on, “We Lion's wear the beads of others sometimes. Others place them on an Ancestral marked stone. But really, it’s just a way to remember those passed. The lineage and line we come from.”

Mercy look to Alibi as she moved by the filly as she nuzzle her head as she said to the filly. “It's sweet that you think I need them, but the truth is, I don't. I'm sad for another reason Alibi. I'm looking for other Changelings that aren't mine to join my Hive, is because Dejen can't have kids.”

It took a moment to think that over, and it was hard to tell what was going through the younger Queen's mind… well, if it were not for the bit’s leaking through as it always seems to. No kids? None like me or others? Then she doesn't get any more kids. She frowned to that and said, “What if…” Pausing before thinking, Another to take over? But then he might not like that, ewwww. Worse than slimy.

Mercy roll her eyes in amusement and said to Alibi. “As you might have guessed, it's a hard problem.” Then said with a mental sigh. “But we’re adjusting to it, one way or another. All I can do is take in Changelings who need a Queen and be apart of my Hive. It's at least the best I can do for him to give children.”

Slowly, Alibi nodded. It was sad to know that Dejen couldn't have kids-- or that Mercy couldn’t either because of something wrong with him. She wished she could do something to make things better, but it seemed like she couldn't.

Shaking her head, Asha moved and nosed at Alibi- telling, “Don’t you get all sad on me.” Getting Alibi to look up, the Lioness smiling, “This is a No-sadness-allowed time! And that means we want smiles here.” Then grinned as she poked and prodded at the filly. “Come on. Smile, smiiiles~?” getting at those ticklish spots that made the filly first giggle, before starting to outright laugh. Hooves moving to vainly protect herself from the large cat.

Mercy agreed as she used her magic to tickle the parts Asha big paws couldn't tickle well. “She's right, now's not the time to be sad, but happy and be fed by the big kitty.” Then look to Asha as she asks. “Which reminds me, are you going to be exploring around Los Pegasus while Dejen earned more money for us to get?”

Asha thought to that and soon said, “I don’t know.” Shifting in place to pause and say, “I’m not sure why, but I’ve been thinking about just lounging around in the ship.” Then smiled, “I could use a nice good catnap one of these days.”

Laughing a bit, she joked. “Maybe the reason you want to lounge around in the ship when we get there, is because Los Pegasus isn’t you're kind of place.” then added. “Although it might be good for you to lounge around with the nymphs, they’re not ready to enter in a place like Los Pegasus.” the Queen thought a bit as she let Asha tickle a bit to Alibi as she asked in curiosity and amusement. “So, how long you knew that Debt and Mynu been interested in the other? Since spring in Humuli?”

Smiling, Asha said, “I might have gotten a hint last winter.”

Shaking her head, she then thought of something as she asked with a concerned look. “Asha, do you think that if Taka comes here again...he might give Bakari his stone back? I can easily tell he has no care for the ‘brute’, he would give the stone back? Because admittedly? Him having so much power and having the luck of an idiot? It’s...kinda worrying when he comes out of nowhere and smother Bina with his affections.” Mostly on the aftereffects with Bina accidentally losing her temper.

Asha was oddly quiet, paying more mind to Alibi for a moment before saying, “Taka may be the fool. But don’t believe that luck is the reason he still stands.” Pausing to that while saying, “If he has it? The he will use it. If he has let it go, then it will drift. Either way, a strong storm will come.”

For some reason...the way Asha said it made Mercy concern, she almost wanted to ask...but she knew that Asha was being cryptic because she either didn’t know much, or could only understand what she saw and heard herself. She sighed, and then asked in curiosity. “Are we going to at least hear from Miko on whatever this possible treasure is when we reach Los Pegasus?”

With a mischievous smile, Asha spoke, “Only one way to know.”

Snorting some, she said in a dry tone. “Now I know you’re messing with me.” then shook her head as she nuzzle Alibi and told her. “I’ll be back in a later bit, I have a few things to do with the Hive, be good and mischievous to Asha, Alibi.”

While the Queen turned and left out the door, both girls sat in place and waited for a good long while… before glance and grinned, “Guess what I snuck out~” Reaching a paw over to open a cabinet that had a small bowl of cookies.