Arabian Swindler

After the whole beach thing and a grumpy pilot Stripe taking his passengers on the ‘safe’ route, did Dejen travel with only Tatsu and Windy. The later coming along as she wanted to spend time with him, and knew how long the Stripe tend to take when gambling. She also wanted to see the sights with him as much as possible, something Dejen didn’t mind as much.

Thankfully they had Jumanne take them the ‘safe route’ from then on as the Stripe pilot told. “Can’t believe you want to go for a game of chance!” snorting in amusement as the pilot look to three as he went on. “But who am I to judge? Especially when that tab of Dadisi gets higher with each trip you want me to take!” laughing a bit as Windy glance from Jumanne to the other's.

Especially Tatsu detest eyes towards the pilot on how he worded that, and Dejen wondering how this Stripe was ‘friends’ with Dadisi.

Seeming to make a point to ignore Jumanne, Tatsu reminded, “do try to keep from using all your earnings, Dejen-dono. Mercy-san would be very disappointed if you spent most of it during your… activities.” Placing it rather delicately as that. “At the very least, try to have a few games that do not require monetary values.”

Chuckling, he petted Windy mane as he joked with a grin. “Relax Tatsu. I know how to keep my earnings wisely when playing the greatest game of chance!” as well as going on in amusement. “Beside, I’ve been doing this for years now Tatsu. So don’t worry too much.”

She still gave him a slight look, but otherwise kept her peace while traveling the streets. While there were lions about, mostly of the Brown mane sort? There were others. A few dog’s keeping their distance and behaving. Griffins moving stocks or making deals. Ponies of both trader and tourist alike wandered the area. There were still a few locals of Zebra, hyena and Gazelle-- but the lions kept a very shapr vigal wherever they were.

The tavern they were lead to was a fairly sized place. And well traves with how many hung around it. When Jumanne showed them in, there was indeed games going on. Mostly of the card varent and different sorts going on. Dejen even spotted a minotaur at one table, playing what looked to be a slightly different version of Bloodyhoof with his fellow sailors. Otherwise? Poker, blackjack and a few others were being played about at a few tables.

Ah, this is the closest I can get to gambler heaven. thought Dejen with a sigh of happiness, looking about as he hummed. Question is...which game first? giving a look to the minotaurs first, he thought he could try his hand at that.

“Try not to take too much time. Mostly since I have things to do. I’ll check up with you all later!” told Jumanne as he walked out as to do his own thing.

Windy glance up to her Master with a smile, as she saw him focus on Bloody Hoof as he began walking to the minotaurs with a smile as he asked. “Heya, think you can squeeze one more player in your game?”

With a glance up, the first said, “Unless you know Bloodyhoof, than no.”

Grinning wide, he told. “Well, good thing I know how to play Bloody Hoof.” moving to take a empty seat, with Windy jumping on his lap to settle as he took a few gold pieces out as he told. “Deal me in fellas.” Seeing the cards being tossed appropriately as a Minotaur snorted.

“Cocky one aren’t ya?” then went on as he asked. “Aren’t you Stripes more of the scavenging than gambling?” To which Dejen told.

“I’m not from around here.”

While some gave good looks to that, one seemed to take note of Windy and asked, “Been to the Holds?” A bit of interest in his eyes as he grinned. “Didn’t think I’d find a Honor bound all the way out here. Only see that back home.”

“I’m something of a traveler, but yes I’ve been to the Holds. Travel around in it too.” taking his cards as while he kept that happy expression, his eyes scan to the cards. Hrm...a bad hand. already planning on winning and gathering info as he asked. “So, what brings honorable sailors like yourself in the Isles?”

One snorted to that, “honorable. Haven't heard that in awhile.” A grin in place as the sailor told, “We’re part of the steel trade. The Isles here pay pretty high price for steel. They don’t got it in huge stock. If you don’t know that, then you’re not from the isles. Which is strange, don’t know of any Stripe that doesn't stay in the Isles.”

Cackling in laughter, Dejen joked. “Everything strange about us Stripes!”

“Don’t have to tell us twice.” told a sailor as he looked at his cards, throwing some silver pieces as he went on. “Didn’t expect a entire species to be a bunch of scavengers,” going on to add. “Even digging in trash of all things.” Shaking his head to tell. “Who does that?”

“Well, its how Stripes suppose to ‘clean up’ the Isles.” said Dejen with a shrug. “Think of them as cleaners of sorts to keep the place nice and tidy.” using his charm as a fellow gambler as he folded his cards to make them enjoy his presence-- and loosen their lips in friendly conversations.

While a few rolled their eyes or snorted to that, the game eventually proceeded as normal. From the lacks of any commenting on Tatsu, Dejen only assumed she had slinkered off to keep hidden. And indeed, when he glanced about the kunoichi had made herself scarce. Though he did spot her off to the side, watching carefully.

It was almost amusing to know how well she could keep guard, look like a pretty damsel and also charm a few men herself to hear what they might share. Much more better than Debt trying to scare everything away with a stoic glare. It kept things actually relaxed.

When the game was done, and Dejen counted out a few earnings, did Tatsu return to his side. Like before, she had the facade of a kind female that was possibly by him merely for company. It made a few wonder that bothered to look. Though Dejen spent more of his time figuring who to play next.

When the doors opened, a few cast looks. The locals in particular seeming to gain distrustful gazes as a mare and minotaur walked in. “I’m telling you, anymore of that and I think the Captain's about to have it.” The pegasus brushing her braided mane to the other side of her head while ranting on. “Did you hear the way the guy talked to him? I was pretty sure the Captain was going to actually retaliate for that back-talk.”

Well...Looks who the cat drag in...although not literally. thought Dejen as he put a pause on his want of gambling and to gain info from the two. Starting to walk up with Windy in tow behind him as the Stripe grin wide. “Sergeant! Lieutenant!” opening his arms wide as he asked in a amused tone. “What brings you to a place like this? I thought you guys stay away from this location of the map?”

Both stopped and glanced in their own shock, the Sargent saying, “Dejen?” Then blinked to say, “what are you doing here?” It didn’t seem intended to seem hostile, but the pegasus Changeling Hunter looked honestly surprised and taken off guard he was there.

A little more calmly, Malvus said, “and were here dropping off a few refugees. We had a run-in with some trouble and had to come over the ocean of all things after a argument with one of the Hunter teams.”

“Oh, that sounds bad.” said Dejen in amusement as he motioned the two to a empty spot of a table and a few chairs. “Come, how about you tell dear uncle Dejen all about it. Be good to catch up, eh?”

Rolling her eyes, the Sergeant told, “would, but we only have time for a quick drink before we have to get back to the ship.” Giving him a look of slight annoyance. Apparently his charms did not at all work on her.

Shrugging, he said. “Eh, fair enough.” then asked with a raise of his brow. “Then I guess I could ask the short version then? It seems like there’s been more than one disagreement with how Hunter teams operate, yes?”

Glancing to her partner, Sharp asked, “you want to take this while I get our drinks?” And watching the minotaur nod before she took for the bar.

Moving and seating himself at the table, Malvus told, “well, to put it bluntly? Galdan’s trying to do his job by the book. But, with how some of the other’s teams have been acting up and making demands a little to the edge of regulations? It’s starting to grate on the Captain. We’re keeping things tight as before, but we’re all starting to get the feeling the other hunters are starting to not like how Galdan does his by-the-book job.”

Humming with a nod, Dejen said as he took out his deck to shuffle. “It seems the other's are slightly showing their true colors now.” then asked. “Are there other's like Galdan, or have they been slowly becoming ‘unfit for duty’ among your group?”

Sighing, Malvus told, “all he crew under the Captain are talon-picked by him. We’re in agreement with his ideas. And there’s a few others like us, but not in a… well, same like-minded group.” Leaning on the table more, the Lieutenant told, “We’re actually here because one of those other teams? Tried to tell Galdan to turn over a gypsy hive we found to them. Something about orders being redirected. The kid was just a major and expected the Capt to just do as told.”

Drinks landing on the table, the Sergeant snorted. “Galdan wasn't happy. Tossed that unless the guy had explicit documents of that order, than he was going to do his job. But the kid was ballsy. Too ballsy. Captain Galdan had to pull rank to get him and his team to leave. We were going to go to the normal drop-off for found harmless Gypsy Hives, but he decided that we’d go with the safe route and use the Zebra’s special ‘Species protection act’ to bring the Gypsy’s here instead.”

“Smart choice.” nodded Dejen as he looked at a card as he told on. “It seem like the Hunters are getting a little too ballsy. Probably found something interesting, or possibly needed the changelings for something if orders are being redirected…” putting the card back in as he shuffle the deck mindlessly as Dejen thought it over. If they were going for that route, it means something changed up in high command. It was a good idea for Galdan to bring them here, since the Isles hold no love for Hunters.

Thinking more as he said. “Better be ready for the worst. Sounds like this is going to be common enough in due time, you two.” he glance up and asked. “What’s the plan for when you leave the Isles?”

“What else then our jobs?” Asked the Sargent. “We’re going out and continuing operations as normal. Once the Captain can find a place the Gypsy’s can be dropped off, then we’re leaving. But as of now? We’re waiting for the ship to refuel and get some minor repairs. We ran into some pirates and they didn’t make it easy.”

Priates huh? Thats not good either...that’s actually bad. already knowing on what might happen once the group leaves. In all honesty Dejen could see pirates coming after them as ‘fresh meat’. Thinking more as he told. “If I could suggest something? Maybe hook up with one of the other ships around here. Like say the Minotaurs or ponies. Something tells me the seas are becoming much more dangerous now.”

“Intuition, Master?” asked Windy as Dejen nodded.

“Something like that.”

Shaking his head, Malvus told, “most of the ship’s here are tradesmen. They’re not really made for battle. Once our repairs are done, we can handle the pirates. We’re military, Dejen. We can deal with pirates. If anything, us traveling with some trade ships might give the impression they have something more valuable to them.”

“What about you?” Questioned the Sargent, “you never told us why you’re here?”

Giving a wide grin, he stretch out his arm as he asked in amusement. “Do you need to even ask?” motioning to the sights of gambling around.

Windy giggle as she informed with a smile. “We’re on vacation. This is the only place we won’t have to be on guard much.”

“You can also say I’m, exploring my roots as a Striped.” added Dejen with a chuckle.

While the two gave a look to that, Sharp took a sip and said, “well at least you have that luxury. We won’t get shore-leave until the year’s up.” Then added in, “and no, we don’t get a break even now. Relax a moment, but that’s just for a short rest. While the ship’s being worked on, we got training and meetings. And the gypsy’s of course.”

Thinking some to that, Malvus asked, “you have a hive with you, right Dejen?” Getting a look from the Sargent. “Would they be interested in taking the gypsies?”

“I thought we were getting them to someplace safe.” Pitched in the Sargent in reminder to her cohort.

“They’re also looking for something more than just safety.” Reminded Malvus, and in a way, Dejen knew what the minotaur was implying subtibly.

A Queen to lead them. thought Dejen as he asked. “How many, where were they found, age rate for them, and anything serious I should know right now?” being quick and short as he lean forward to talk to them more easily-- as well as to keep this conversation a bit private.

Looking around, Sargent Sharp told, “I’d rather you ask another time when there’s less people around.” seeming too cautious to just say anything right there and then. “If you want, get whoever’s interested and talk to the Captain.”

In agreement, Malvus added, “He could fill you in on it all. We’ll be here for a week at least. We can tell him to hold off on getting anyone here involved until you get a chance to talk things over.”

“Agreed.” nodded Dejen as he lean back, putting his deck into his pocket once more. “I might actually talk with him now.”

“Not going to stay around more for gambling?” asked Windy as he sigh with slight lament.

“Sadly no. This sort of things takes priority over my needs.” then added jokingly. “Side, I can always come back and try the game of chance again.”

Rolling her eyes, Sharp told, “if you go to the doc’s, you can ask the guard to let you in. everyone knows you by now.” Then warned, “just try not messing with the ship.”

Laughing, he got up on his feet as he told in amusement. “Don’t worry. I’m not going to do anything.” already waving them goodbye as he exited out of the place, Windy and Tatsu already by his side as the pegasus asked.

“Do you think we have enough room?”

“We might…” said Dejen as he didn’t add on, mostly since he didn’t want anyone to over hear. Although as they kept the silence to the docks, Dejen partially wonder if the Hunters would try something to Galdan for his by the book work? It was highly possible at this point, then again he wasn’t too knowledgeable in military protocols.Even less on how the Hunters work with their organization.

It was easy to see the ship, even more being repaired as there was a pony standing guard. Walking up, Dejen spoke with a grin. “Hello there, mind letting me in to talk to the dear Captain?” while the pony give a look to the Stripe, she told.

“No, no Stripes are allowed onboard to tinker with our ship while being repaired.” Dejen snort in amusement, as he reach into his robes to take out a Ace of spades from his deck as her eyes widen a bit. “Oh...its you.” then move aside as she said. “Sure, he’s on the top deck,” then added defensively. “And don’t touch anything!”

He laugh as he put the card back in, walking with both females behind him as he made his way to the top deck as he called out. “Hello dear Captain, missed me?”

Sighing, Galdan waved off those he was talking to in order to turn and address the gambler. “Dejen. Why am I not surprised you come at a time like this?” Then held up a talons, “you know what, don’t answer that. Just tell me why you’re here.” Seeming a little tired. Though, from the sounds of it, he did have a slightly rough week.

Shrugging as he lean on the wall. “your fellow co-workers were at the gambling joint I was in, decided to figure what happen and learn about the Hive you got.” then went on to tell. “And apparently Malvus thought on a idea of the gyspy hive joining up with me. I’m just here for the details.”

Seeming to want to rub his face, Galdan said, “gossiper.” And soon told, “yeah, we found a Gypsy Hive about a couple weeks back. Apparently they had some trouble in one of the further parts of Equestria. Some rockslide causing them to leave home. Anyways, we found them and checked them. We were going to go for one of Equestria’s main conservation places.”

“But then a young MAjor with too much pride thought he’d tell me off and hand them over.” Snorted the griffin. “Apparently I was ‘out of line’ for making that judgment call and they had to be processed properly. I had to lay-down the rulebook right in his face to set him straight. Took me a good hour.”

“Anyways.” huffed out Galdan. “They’re not your average Gypsies. Pretty well founded, got a fair headship and stability. Some kids. Really all they’re missing is a Queen. Since the Isles have a few hidden away, I figured they adept best here.” Then raised a brow, “the lieutenet thought it was a good idea to let you know, didn’t he?”

Grinning, Dejen told as he waved a finger. “You catch on quick, my dear captain.” then lower it as he went on. “Sure I could take them in-- but its gotta be their choice. Who am I to say otherwise with them living in a chance of peace?” adding a bit in thoughtfulness. “Which might be a better idea, since well. Being around me is a occupational hazard.”

There was hardly any amusement, but Galdan said, “it’s a good rough hundred. The precise count’s a little off, some have egg’s to unborn changelings with them and we didn’t count those. Don’t tend to hatch all the time with the conditions given during travel.” Then rolled a tallon. “But they aren't taking any Queen. They wanted to see who the Queen was and if they were worth following. They have… standards, from what I can gather.”

Humming to that, Dejen remarked. “Considering how the Queens here are hidden...that might take a long time. Or at least long enough to chose.” thinking as he admit. “With the news of them having unborn eggs...might be safer with them being here. Especially in a safe environment.”

Shrugging, Galdan told, “you can get your ‘friend’ to talk to them, but I won’t say they’ll just hop onboard. They seem to be on point to have the right Queen. Otherwise, they might not join a Hive.” Going on to add, “not my words, actually one of the changeling's own words.”

“I can pass the message, but I doubt it might work.” said Dejen as he shrugged. “Changeling ways is very vexing for me.”

“But I thought it would be good for Mercy to have more?” asked Windy with Dejen reminding.

“Yes, but this Hive seem to want to follow a Queen they can get behind. They want to choose the right choice, otherwise they’ll be discontempt with whoevers leading them and their unborns.” looking back to Galdan, he asked. “How long till you think the higher ups may try something to make you more restrictive, Galdan? Because honestly? Something tells me they’re going to look for a excuse now.”

To this, Galdan told, “they can’t. Not with how I follow the rules to the T. Anything they might try, I can toss regs back at them.” Seeming confident in this. “Even my ‘abandoning of a search’ that one time was justified with the reporting of a dark-mage summoning a Demon. The body was good enough proof for Equestria’s league of magai.”

Chuckling, he asked in amusement. “And their findings about you not ‘appending’ me? Pretty sure some were grinding their teeth in knowing I was around in Equestria and not in chains.”

“And they would expect one Warship to take out a highly armored Battleship on it’s own?” Questioned Galdan with a raised brow. “And finding you alone in a forested area while also combating a demon trying to kill both?” The Captain had a slight smile and told, “I’m a soldier with limited resources, Dejen. My priority to keep my men alive is up there. Dying for nothing is considered stupid.”

Laughing a bit, Dejen nodded. However he gave a wide grin and asked. “So, what's it like with so many Stripes around?”

Sighing, Galdan told, “annoying. This isn’t my first time here. I have to post guards around the ship so the locals don’t poke at our ship. They don’t mean anything, but when they see a few holes or dents? They get a… urge to help ‘improve it’.” Scowling when he said that. “Had to shout at a few that it’s my ship, and I don’t care if they can improve it. It goes by my rules and my regs. Military life like that, they don’t understand.”

“I don’t pretend to know how their military or traditions function, but as it stands, I keep a tight ship that doesn't involve a strips overly insane ideas.” Finished the Griffin.

Snorting in amusement, Dejen nodded as he could imagine the multiple stripes around, he was glad he didn’t had his ship ported here-- the amount of...Stripes around would’ve made Rah-Rah pull her ears off. Which was somewhat funny, but point stands. “Stripes are Racky.” comment Dejen as Windy tease.

“But Master, you’re a Stripe too.”

Placing a hand on his chest, he told. “My Racky is different from theirs.”

Shaking his head, Galdan told, “when repairs are done, we’re planning to head out. I was going to get a representative here to guide the Gypsies out-- but maybe you can save us all the time if you get that mare here to look them over.”

“I’ll have to come back at a later time, since I was doing business here.” then shrugged as he added. “But I won’t promise guaranteed anything will work out between them.” then asked. “Normally I would say good day and be on my way-- but I did want to ask if anything, new came among the Hunters. Since I rather not be caught by surprise if they updated their gems...or got new tricks up their sleeves.”

Shaking his head, Galdan told, “nothing new so far. There was a od report of gem turning into a rainbow for a while, but the lab-boys said it was probably some magic interference by one of the unicorns.” Dejen had to hold back a laugh at the misconception the hunters thought up. “But besides that? Nothing else I heard.”

Nodding, Dejen told. “Good day then Galdan.” getting off the wall and turning around as he waved bye. Making his way out of the ship as he thought on his choices. Hrm, go and tell Mercy now, or stay a bit to do gambling? Choices choices. as much as he wanted to enjoy his favorite game around here? He also knew that the group here would be staying around for a week.

Plenty of time, right?

But that was also true for him to do his gambling-- at least for a good while. Humming abit, he let out a sigh and told. “As much as I want to stay to gamble more? I know that it’s better to let Mercy know about this.” Windy pat his side with a smile.

“Don’t worry Master, I’m sure you’ll be enjoying more games when able.” Sighing, Dejen nodded, as while that was true, he would also be unable to gain more info. Or at least from the chattering of what's been happen around in the nations. Who knows what information he might lack if he take his leave now? Sadly it wasn’t up to him anymore, especially since he was certain Mercy would be interested in this group, especially with them having non-born changeling eggs.

Thinking to that, Tatsu suggested, “perhaps a fast trip to the village and back to here is needed. Though, from the sounds of it, there will be many a changeling to move. Perhaps think of how to go about picking them up, once we know if they choose to stay with us or not.”

Nodding, Dejen agreed. “I doubt Jumanne would appreciate going back and forth like that.” thinking a bit as he went on. “Maybe have our ship pull up here temporarily, then back to the lands?” then thought as he added. “Or maybe see if Dadisi know more Stripes who could help?” He however frown and said.

“But finding said Stripe...is going be annoying.” looking around as he noticed the Stripe wasn’t anywhere in sight-- or at least around his ship apparently.

Tatsu sighed and said, “allow me, Dejen-dono.” Wordlessly making her jutsu be active to track the less-than-liked striped.

After bringing Mercy back to the town and letting her talk with the Hive, did Dejen went back to his gambling. However after a few hours, she returned to him when he gained a increase of winnings among the various of games. While she didn’t say much, they waited until traveling back as she explained that the Hive weren’t interested in joining with her. And she could understand that as they wanted a place of security, and a firm foundation.

Which Dejen ‘Clan’ didn’t have. Even less with it being on a ship with constant dangers around them. While Dejen could only shrug and knew it might be for the best, Mercy internally knew that it might be best with what could happen later on. She however try her best to enjoy the rest of their time here, even more talking with Tatsu on the ‘kitsune way’s of things.

Mercy was internally glad that they could have some peace before the worse will come, in a twisted sense it was like a calm before the storm for her. Thankfully nothing else happened, although apparently Asha left with Jumanne to, ‘catch up’ with other's she knew.

Besides that, it was just peaceful. The Whitemanes were inviting all the while to them all. Sure, it was a little off putting from time to time to deal with their nature. Be it the raors, growls and yowls often made during apparently random times. Or even the rough play that had a few worried there was a fight going on. But overall, it was just… peaceful.

And really, it was a kind of peace that Tatsu once commented had the twins actually relaxed. Not excited, happy or even moving-- just released. Like the word itself was rarely put with them. And considering the two’s life? It almost made sense. The two were always on the move dodging some threat. For about two week, there was no threat, no danger or… anything like that. It was just simple and calm life.

That being said, when the third week had rolled around, they all packed up and got going. A solid month of relaxing was just about enough for the group and they headed out back into the world itself. Rah-Rah having took most of her relaxing time to actually work on the ship and make sure everything was up-to-date.

Though now came on what to do. And after a while of thinking? The otherall plan was to head slightly north and around Equestria’s boarders and the Griffon Kingdom borders. Not being in either, in a sense. Though Dejen debated at stopping at one place. Mostly concerning the rat himself. They would be passing by the city Alutte was at, but at the same time.. He didn’t know what he wanted to do about it.

Should he just try and get info, pass him up or get rid of him? It was a tough choice, but that rat was possibly the one that caused so many issues… if someone tried using him for info. And with how much he knew? It was very likely. (end)

As much as I hate it...I might need to pay a visit to the rat. I need info. I need to know what happen with Maltar, the Hunters change of pace-- and figure out how to give Maltar heart to the fox before the year is up. Even if that fox said on there will be a way-- who knows when that will be. He also knew that he should withheld information too. Mostly to try to stay ahead of others the best he could.

He however knew it might be best to check in the rat...mostly to see if there’s anything new within the lands. Possibly the griffons if he was forced to come in there. While he doubted he would be hunted in Equestria, he wouldn’t take that chance unless push come to shove. He also knew he had to visit rat mostly for another reason.

To figure out if anything changed in Arabia. Something tells me something is brewing a storm in there. thought Dejen as while he knew nothing big would happen in Arabia, it didn’t mean it wasn’t changing in terms of information. (done)

He didn’t look forwards, however, to what the rat might snitch. He learned his lesson last time, and it was just as likely, that the rat told off someone where they had gone for that one ambush. So, Dejen made a mental note to be extra careful on what he said or asked.

So far, they had a while before they even reached the city in Equestira. And really, all they had around them was open seas. So for now, planning was on the brain. There was also the Demon they still had to hunt, as well as that herno mage to logate. And speaking of mages? He needed to find a business opportunity of finding one that’d join his crew.

Just one thing adding on with another.

Okay, first of buisness? Find a mage that would be willing to join our crew. Find that herno mage to either bring back, or at least inform the ones who are finding her. Get that demon and kill it somehow. And finally gain information from that rat while be paranoid. Or do the last first and do the rest in order. Ether way work. taking a hand to his deck to shuffle, Dejen thought over the prototypes as there was a ‘lucky one’ among the various of guns they had to recycle and craft again.

But it was too soon to say if it would be ready for ‘combat testing’. Even less with the magical charge in it.

Hrm, wonder if I should try to craft a rifle weapon, or at least something to tinker my other weapons. consider Dejen as he sat in his captain seat, musing to himself as he thought on what could be, or what needed to plan as Port was piloting the wheel this time. At least we increases our fundes and manage to sell some of those stuff from the temple of the fox. Pretty sure I saw some drools from those Gold-manes. thought Dejen with a smile of amusement.

While he relaxed over these minor things, he did play with other thoughts. Though, there was nothing really concreet about them. They were just half-thought and barely worked over because they had so many holes. Though it was nice to have a overall plan… though how he would find the mage was one thing. How to track either demon or herno was another. All seemed to need info which the rat may have.

It made him want to sign, since asking about any of the three, would just tip the rat off on what he was planning to do. And that was oddly frustrating. (end)

I can’t let him know of anything. If I do? Not only will he spill about it to other's-- but it could also be Maltar he would inform-- or the Hunters. Or anyone at this point. Anyone who could easily infiltrate our group, and stab us in the back. thought Dejen as he kept shuffling the deck. Moving the cards in random as he tried to make a plan. What to do, what to do, what to do? How to make all those barely thought out plans with flaws work into a fine tuned plan? thinking over it some.

He could ask specific questions to the rat, learning about what the guy knew about his queries...but he would also ask specific questions about the nations and the Hunters. He need to learn what other tricks they didn’t tell Galdan. Otherwise there would be something bad coming around. Granted he doubted…

But he knew it might be good to learn.

While he didn’t like to let the rat know of anything, he doubted he could for long. Mostly since the rat might have a large info ring around the world. Not to mention whats life without a few chance risk. thought Dejen in mild amusement. Knowing that there would always be a risk, a chance-- a bad hand being shown.

However he knew that the best way to win in the game of life? Is to wait until he reveal his hand at the right moment. Because while he may not be the most innovated Stripe, or a tactical leader and ruler of a Hive? He was for sure he was a pro as a gambler.

While he played these thoughts over in his head and half-payed mind to things round him, Port nearly jerked at Tatsu saying, “Port-san, hold!” Making the mare jump while going on, “Turn for the north!” Making Dejen lose focus and also curious of the silvery vixen’s sudden urging.

Dejen blinked, giving a look to Tatsu as the mare glance from behind as the Striped asked. “Tatsu, whats up? Noticed something?”

Moving up towards the railing and pointing out the window, the Kitsune told, “the demon we hunt, it’s echo goes to the north. I see it’s path now.” Eyes unmoving and making sure she kept the ghostly image only she could see, in sight.

Dejen motioned to Port, making the direction change to north as Dejen told. “Follow her every direction, Port. With luck, we should find it.” putting his deck away as he was focused on where Tatsu was looking at.

The following few days drew the ship to come into the slightly more chilly Griffin Kingdom and it’s many evergreen trees. The ship roamed high over the sea of white-and-green below and watched the few mountain peaks past them. The nip was hardly noticeable, even less so with the ship being heated.

Tatsu rarely left the front of the ship, making sure to keep the echo in sight at all times during their tracking. When it began to lower to the ground, she began to think they would have to follow by foot. Though as they neared the ground, Dejen saw something that made him want to blink. That being a blue-kimono wearing herno of green, standing on the absolute top of a mountain peak. Waving at them.

Old habits die hard as Dejen wanted to say, ‘ignore him’. Don’t think him as crazy, don’t think him as crazy...Crap, I can’t. The memories are still fresh. Shivering from recalling from the ‘crazy Taka’. However he took a breath and let it out as he told. “Port...let the ship stop by the mountain…” lets hope this time things don’t go crazy. Like...Before. As the ship was slowly traveling by the mountain top.

As Dejen blinked, mostly to seeing Taka jumping from mountain to ship hull. Huh...okay thats a bit impressive. Seeing Taka walking camly on the ship deck towards the bridge as he asked. “Mind letting him in Tatsu? Maybe we can figure out whats he’s doing here.”

She gave a nod and moved towards one of the doors. The ship slightly slowing so there was no sudden decompression. Once the herno was close, did the kitsune open the door. Respectfully, Taka spoke, “may I enter?”

“You may.” Tatsu nod, moving out of the way to allow Taka’s entrance in before the door was closed.

The Herno walked before Dejen and gave a bow and spoke, “thank you for taking a moment to allow me onto your ship, Dejen-San.” Raising up to add on, “are you by chance on the trail of the vile demon as I am?”

“Yes, yes we are.” said Dejen as he motioned to Port to travel back in speed. Looking to Taka as he tried not to recall ‘Crazy Taka’ as he went on. “I suppose you spotted the Avian demon by chance?”

With a shake of his head, Taka told, “no, I am in fact on it’s trail.” Which had Tatsu giving him a look. “Regretfully, it pulled a underhanded trick and escape my blade. Though, while it was fast to escape, I know of it’s location. I simply lack the means to catch up to it, as I can travel only so fast.”

“You had the chance to kill it, but had not?” Questioned Tatsu in slight confusion. “What trick would it have done to evade your skills, Taka-san?”

“Possession of a comrade, Tatsu-san.” Responded Taka. “The demon was most cunning, and chose to infuse my comrade with it’s yokai magic. The two are bound, with my comrade trapped inside. To the point they have now gained features of the demon, most notably the wings for flight.”

Thats...bad. thought Dejen as he said. “That complicates things. I don’t think we could seperate them at this point...can we?”

To that, Taka told, “we can, and I would shame myself if I had not.” Straight up some to tell while taking out a seal. “This seal was made by them. It was made in preparation for possession in mind. But, to my shame, I am unskilled in the use of seals like these. And while I can attempt with my Kai, I feel better if I were to have aid from someone with skills in purification.”

Curiously, Tatsu looked at the seal and remarked, “I am most surprised that this comrad of yours would have made a seal for such a thing… how were they prepared for such a thing as possession?” Giving a half-suspicious glance at Taka.

“Because the my Comrade had been possessed before, and knew she would be susceptible to being possessed. She entrusted me to hold this in use if it were to pass.”

Raising a brow, Dejen wonder if being possessed was common for Hernos. Still, he said with a grin. “Well lucky for you Taka? This time you have back up, namely us since we’ve been hunting after this demon for a while. Perhaps with our combine effort, we can save both your friend, and remove this pest at the same time.” he gave a thoughtful hum as he added. “Although first we would need to remove it’s wings to make sure it won’t fly off again.”

Shaking his head, Taka admitted, “I would wish to separate the demon from my comrade before harm came to them. While I am confident in winning, I am however, unsure of what would befall my comrade if we fought them while being possessed.”

“Understandable for your position.” Agreed Tatsu. “Then you must have a plan to subvert this demon before killing it?”

“Indeed. I hoped that your own Sage may aid in capturing it and helping me apply this seal to separate it from my Comrade.” Informed Taka with a level of seriousness. “The worry I possess, is the demon’s cunning. It was prepared for us the first time, and I worry it may try another trick when we least expect it.”

It wasn’t great to hear, but Tatsu said, “we outnumber it and have many to aid. Victory is most assured this time.” Proceeding to ask, “you say you know where it is?”

“That I do.” Taka spoke while placing the seal away. “My comrade, Katsumi, gave me a trinket that would track it. She toiled a long time to tune it for this demon, but it has not lead us astray.” And soon took out a gem that’s light shone in one direction on its surface. “It can flee, but no shadow can ever hide it.”

“Well, good thing your friend had insight to track it.” then thought over as he activated the comms and spoke. “Hey Asha, mind coming here when able? We found the third demon-- or rather where it might head. Figure you might want to know.”

While he turned away and walked to sit back down, he heard one of the doors opening. It was about that time he winced. “How did he get here!?” He wondered if his luck did this to him, just so fate could laugh at him. From how Bina shouted, he was sure she was worried of why Taka was here. Dejen resigned, that this was going to happen sooner or later.

“Bina-san.” Taka said rather…. Calmly. How he could stay calm, even when Bikari moved before his sister and half-bristling… well, he was sure Taka remembered how strong they were… or, he hoped so. But from the looks of it, Taka was unaware. Or just not concerned.

“What is he doing here, and when can I toss him overboard?” Asked Bikari, looking more than ready to do that.

Passively, taka remarked, “if you are concerned over my wanting Bina-san’s hand, than please do not worry. I have accepted her decline for marriage.” Though at their semi-glares and Bina’s flattened ears, they didn’t fully take him seriously. But… who could blame them? (

“Easy you two,” told Dejen as he decided to step in the conversation. “Taka here been chasing the bird, and apparently it got his friend too under possession.” motioning to the trinket in Taka hand as he went on. “That friend of his made a trinket to track the demon. But we gotta worry on saving his friend and killing the demon at the same time. So we’re probably gotta come up with a way to surprise it.”

While the Twins still didn’t look happy about the arrangement, Bakari asked, “and how did this all happen?”

“My comrade’s been possessed before.” Taka calmly told. “With the aid of your guardian-mother, I plan to purify and rescue them using a sealing tag they gave me.”

Continuing the line of thought of her brother, Bina said, “so they were possessed by a demon…. And gave you a tag to repel the demon out of them…” Eyeing him and asking, “Who are they really?” Going on to add, “because… last I checked, no one knew where the demon was. How does this herno just know how to track it, and was ready to be possessed?”

And considering it, those were some good questions. Ones Taka answered honestly. “Katsume was the Herno mage that the demons possessed.” And right there, even Dejen wanted to look at Taka as if he had gone cray-cray all over again.

“.......” staring at Taka, Dejen took a deep and long breath, and let it out in mixture of annoyance and exasperation. “I can only assume...you manage to get her side of the story, right?” going on to add. “because...I’m pretty sure, the only reason why I inform your clan about this, is to get her side of the story, and do what you Hernos do.”

Taka gave a look to that, and told with respect, “she was a former priestess of her village before a demon, the one we are tracking, disguised themselves as a wounded traveler. She made to heal him, unweary to his deception and possessed her. Stealing much of her magic, power and will for two hundred years. Traveling the land and using other’s to keep the body alive for it’s use.”

“When she was freed, she honestly woke to a world not her own. Katsume is marked by a demons corruption and has since lost much of her priestess powers. She is more innocent than you might think. She has been trying to find a way to kill the demons that had overtaken her, but knew at one point, that a single possession would only undo her work to kill them.” Which, just made the striped wonder about demons, hernos and other mystic stuff.

Because he didn’t sign up for this shit.

Mystic bullshit. Why is it mystic bullshit? sighed out Dejen both mentally and physically as he told. “Well lucky for your friend, we killed two of them. So there's that.” then look to Taka as he admit. “While I would leave her fate to your and your clan hands, she still technically wrong me and my clan…” then further admitted. “But this is all one big fucked up and complex situation. So fucked up, I don’t think she even did wrong my Clan in the first place.”

Raising a brow, Taka said, “you would claim someone wronged you, when they were all but unaware of what was going on with their own body?”

“Said the one that was mind-screwed by her years ago.” remarked Dejen as he shook his head with a snort. “But despite that, I’m washing my hands of her and her fate to you and your Clan. What is my focus, is the demon and how we’re going to kill it.”

Thankfully, Asha reached the bridge and looked over what was going on and being said. She blinked a little and observed Taka before smiling, “Heya Taka. I see you’re doing better.” Padding in as she did.

Turning his head, Taka bowed and spoke, “thank you, Sage Asha. I have recovered since my cursing.”

Nodding, Asha observed them and said, “so, the demon. You found it?” Looking at the gem Taka held and went on. “And this friend…”

“Possessed and in need of aid.” Taka told. “She is innocent, and must be saved. But I lack the skill to purify the demon from her being. And defer to you, for that aid.” Getting a nod from the Lioness.

“Right. Well, for one thing? We might need the Twins to help just in case. I can purify this person easily enough. Trapping the demon might be tricky though. Because once we separate them, we have to be fast to catch it.” The lioness thinking on it and saying, “Dejen, we might have to be careful. The demon’s going to try using the possessed to his advantage.” Turning to add, “It’s the same mage from before?”

“Sadly, yes.” Regretfully told Taka.

Dejen hummed a bit in thought as he glance to the Twins and consider that they would be fast-- or faster to catch and hold down the demon. Thinking it over he asked to Asha. “I’m going to guess that this demon handling would be with you, the twins, Taka and maybe Tatsu?” already knowing that he or some of the other's weren’t probably equipped to handle this type of demon.

“We might be enough.” Nodded Asha.

“I can take this Katsume and move her away from the demon when they seperate.” Spoke up Bina, ready to help. From the sounds of it, this was just all big plot done by Demon for power.

“I wouldn’t mind giving that demon a few good hits.” Bakari pitched in. “I have a few punches to give for the trouble they gave us.”

Tatsu rolled her eyes and spoke, “With all of us, we should be able to deal with the Demon swiftly enough.” Seeming sure of this. They had her blade to destroy it. Taka was skilled and powerful. Asha had her magics and both the Twins were powerful in their own right.

...Makes a guy wonder, on how I manage to be the leader of this group-- with powerful and skilled people? I mean...the Twins being Demi-gods. Asha a prodgey healer and heighten sixth sense-- and Tatsu being a assassin with a demon killing blade! How did a gambling swindler manage to stay as a leader with them around? then thought of a answer. Maybe it’s theses ‘threads of fate swirling around me’ that Sumari mention….that and maybe they’re attracted to my kind of crazy. thinking a bit more before he mentally shook his head.

Naw...maybe it’s the mystic stuff. That or I’m in a lucky position. That’s more believable.

The kingdom was left behind and the path was set for a area of land that was still in the unknown. Equestira’s undiscovered west was mostly uncharted lands. Mostly in due fact that at one point, it was simply too dangerous to travel into. The wld beasts of both natrual and mystical kinds too hostile to traverse around for many.

While now of days people explored it, it was still very much unexplored. And while they had a homing becon for the demon’s location, it was still a ways off. Days and nights passed up and the crew was left to just wait… and get used to the tension of the Twins putting up with Taka. That is, Taka was very well behaved. The two younger herno were just.. Plagued by past bad experience.

It was something that Mercy herself tried to not think too much over herself. Even now, late into the night, Taka was sleeping away and in a room he requested to be a good distance away from Bina. No ‘chan’ at the end, just ‘san’. Bina still felt bothered, but she was no longer glaring at Taka as much. Bakari… still felt like he wanted to punt the man off the side of the ship.

There was also this demon business and the fact that those going would be the Twins, Taka, Asha and Tatsu. And they were going in to rescue a herno-mage that turned out to have been possessed and was oppressed by the demon responsible for all of this… mess.

It made her sigh.

While she sat in silence and looked over the untamed land below or up at the starry sky. She rested on the railed side of their airship as it slowly moved in it’s silent running setting. The demon hadn’t moved, so they slowed. Mostly for those sleeping.

Flicking an ear, Mercy felt something that was rare. Worry. Less for the fact it was worry, but it was worry that mingled with Asha’s being. Turning, Mercy watched the lioness roam out of the ship and towards a railing to just sit and look out. A slight concern in her being as she looked to the night sky’s many stars.

Trotting by the Lioness, she sat on her haunches as she look at the sky and remarked. “I never thought I feel you being worry.” giving a glance and asked in slight concern. “Is it something that will happen eventually?” seeing the lioness as she wonder if Asha saw something in her visions...or just knew what will happen eventually.

“I don’t know.” Thoughtfully spoke the Lioness. “Could be just a bad dream. But it could be a vision. I just… don’t know. It wasn’t very clear.” Continuing to just sit in thought and look to the night sky. “I just needed a moment to clear my head.”

Slightly nodding, Mercy look back to the stars as she thought and said. “Hopefully it could be a bad dream…” then thought more and asked. “Should we be concern if it is a vision?”

Nodding, Asha told, “I think so. It wasn’t…. Cherry.” Going off in thought to tell on. “It was of darkness. Earth crushing all around. Shouting. And the fire. Fire all around as if it were get us. And… and the Twins, gone.” She breathed out and told, “that’s about when I woke up. I think I panicked and woke up after that, it just… blurs.” Then looked out over the forest below. “I’m not sure how to interpret it. But it seems to involve earth and lot and lot’s of fire. Maybe a cave in with how the earth fell?”

Mercy could only shrug and said. “I wouldn’t know much on visions.” then mindlessly thought about on the bits of the ‘dream’, she suggested. “Maybe it was connected to their abilities? Or at least..some of them.”

Breathing out, Asha said, “I’m not sure. But it has me worried.” Looking out and going on, “I’m going to tell Tatsu, Taka and the Twins to keep a very high guard. Just in case.” Feeling that was for the best. “Maybe things will clear up tomorrow. I can’t always know the future on a whim. It’s not always clear.”

Slightly nodding a bit to this, Mercy agreed some. “And it’s never really confirm too.” then thought for a bit...and asked. “Asha, I never really asked this much but...do you have a idea on why Dejen is so...bound up with fate and luck?” looking to her as she recall. “When I talk with your mom, she mentioned he was destined and entrapped by the fate of other's...I never really consider it, but...it does make me wonder about him sometimes.”

Smiling, Asha admitted, “I can’t say I completely know, Mercy. Unlike me? Mom is… she’s a lot stronger than me. She can see so far in the future, sometimes it’s something none of us but our children's, children will see.” Though she did seem to give it some thought. “But… it’s just possible that Dejen happens to be one of those special people that… well, will affect how the future will play out. Maybe he’s the reason that history will change for the better.”

“Or for the worse?” amusingly asked Mercy. “He is after all a gambling, swindlingly, double-crossing, insane Stripe with nothing special about him.”

“But he did help a Sultan by chance.” Told Asha. “and accidentally helped a Shiftling. Brought them together to make a prosperous city. He let aboard a nosy whitemane. He fished out two cubs in trouble. He help save a town from starvation and crime.” She smiled and told, “he might not do things right. But sometimes his actions cause good things to happen. Intentional or not. Sometimes, things have to get worse before they get better, Mercy.”

“Like with the storm and the rainbow.” remarked Mercy, who then thought abit...and soon asked. “Will he ever confront what he’s running from? Or at least...tell us what he’s running from?”

“Sooner or later.” Admitted Asha with a light shrug. “But, it’s up to him to keep running when it catches up, or to face it. And I can’t tell you what he will do when that time comes. Only give a warning when if happen to see it.”

While Mercy hum to this, she asked with a raise brow. “Will I ever learn on what he’s running from...or is that a secret too?”

Smiling, Asha told, “you can’t expect everything to just be told, Mercy. Not even I know everything. I might know the reasons, but part of learning of something, is to find out. And just telling you, won’t just fix the problem.” Only showing that Asha wouldn’t be saying anything.

Snorting abit, she remarked. “And knowing our Stripe, he’ll keep his lips seal until something happened.” then sighed and said. “Hope you’ll get enough rest Asha. Maybe even a clarity of the mind…” then joked. “Maybe you’ll be dreaming of sheeps.”

Rolling her eyes, the Lioness said, “oh very funny.” Then looked out at the stars for a while. “I think I’ll just stay here. Maybe find councile of my own.” Still pondering her dream and its meaning.

Chuckling a bit, Mercy trotted off back into the hall. Her mind slightly wonder about her Stripe. Even more on what secrets he held, then again like Sumari said. He keep his hand close to him, never revealing anything as he kept that grin. She slightly feel infurated at the Stripe. Why does he has to be a damned good deceiver? knowing that while emotional senses were useful for her, the Striped learned on how to ‘control’ his emotions. Granted not well enough. But enough to make her guess at times.

I swear, if he wasn’t a stripe, he would make a excellent changeling. mused Mercy as she headed back to the Stripe room, mostly to see if he was still asleep, or awake working more on that gun of his. She partially wonder if it would work, as it would be different from the cannons the ship had-- or Rah-Rah mech.

The ship had settled after a while and the team to fight the demon had gone off to confront it. It left everyone else waiting for their return, taka having taken the lead. While they did wait, everyone managed their time in their own manner. Rah-Rah, Dejen and Gem were mostly focusing on the gun project, Rah-Rah having found a good way to balance the charge out with the gun’s prototype. Mercy mostly managed her hive, going over ship stocks and such. Susumu occupied himself in the medical ward and Alibi was just playing with some of her former hive.

Debt and Mynu ewre doing their own things though. Mostly chatting one of the main areas and talking about demons and how to fight them. It was a topic that Mercy half listened into while she payed mind to her changelings. It was surprising that Mynu knew a bit about demons, though the D-dog was swift to tell that the Holds happen to have old artifacts and things the had means to call on them and that many illigale mages liked to use the Hold’s huge spaces to hide around.

One topic in particular was when Debt asked about demon possession and how that worked. The response, was sketchy. “I don’t know how it works fully.” Began Mynu in thought. “But one way we know of possession is something those in the Hold’s called, Demon touched. It refers to a set of markings a demon places on a person to either control them, or gain the power to possess them. Another way, is to give them a amount of their blood in some way. The corruption, if enough, allowing a slight access in.”

“And it could work for any species?” asked Debt. “No matter what race, it could affect them nevertheless?”

“If you are demon marked, then yes.” Mynu said. “It is the only means to truly have power over a person. Though to do this, the victim must make the markings themselves, or the Demon must place them on.” Then went on to think, “the blood way, is harder. The spirit of the person can still fight back. So simply bleeding on a person won’t allow for possession. Even then, they must know the magic, as Ommuna once told me.” Which was nice to know for Mercy. “But if a demon had spilt blood on a item, it can become corrupted and cursed. Making those that hold it, become susceptible to be possessed by bad spirits or demons that know the magic.”

Thinking back, Debt nodded as he said. “I recall, Asha stopped us from touching our things, or rather your arrows, Susumu needles and Sir bolts.” then added. “She had to purify everything, even my weapon too.” he however asked. “So just a bit of blood of a demon would affect a person that much?”

Thinking on it, Mynu amended, “not instantly. Most times it needs to remain with them for a time. Ommuna always wanted that if something was corrupted by a demon, not to hold onto it. The longer you have it, the more it’s demonic magic might worm it’s way in. sooner or later, it will make a hole and some bad things can just slip in.”

Mercy pause as she turn her head and asked. “How long would it do? A week?” vidily recalling of her three children mention about the first demon...and Dejen.

Shrugging, Mynu said, “depends on the strength of will. Some that are already bad may just become possible after a week. Some stronger need more of a month. You can’t tell most times. And most possessions in these cases happen through the item rather than the person.”

“....Shit.” said Mercy as she told. “Mynu? We may have a problem….because apparently no one consider about two things with the first demon.” starting to get up as Debt blinked...then gave a irritated sound.

“Bakari stone and Sir.”

Becoming more alarmed, Mynu said, “they’re fighting a demon that knows how to possess others.” Then became more alarmed. “Bakari’s stone wasn’t purified. The demon could possess him!” Actually standing and going on, “the boss might be in danger, but Bikari’s stone-- that is part of him. Miko has said it, and we know that’s true.” then looked out the door. “We need to find them, now.”

“But how? They’re too far away and we don’t know how to catch up to them.” said Mercy as she thought on sending her children-- but wasn’t sure that was a good idea with possible Hunters. Thinking abit as she thought...and said. “We get Dejen to track them as fast as we can. He can use the Echo jutus to track them up.”

“Is that wise?” asked Debt as she told.

“Better than trying to get my children to wander and getting lost.”

My Queen, there’s a large amount of smoke in the distance. reported a changeling in the crows nest. I think there’s a forest fire.

“...never mind, apparently they manage to make it easy for us.” told Mercy as she sent a alert to the Hive. My children, Bakari is in danger from being possession. We will need to find them fast and make sure Bakari isn’t taken by the demon. focusing at the two as she told. “Get ready, we need to leave now to make sure we don’t have a possessed Bakari.”

Both nodded and moved, no doubt to get their weapons and prepare to fight the demon. Mercy herself moved, heading for the bridge and telling her children to warn Dejen of what was going on. By the time she got to the bridge, the ship was already in motion.

Dejen apparened not too long after, and both he, Mercy and even Port could see the smoke. Though as they traveled closer, the smoke got larger and the fire more easily picked out. It was huge and had become a dangerously large blaze. It was hard to tell where the team was, or what was even going on.

“Well...thats not good.” said Dejen as Port asked in concern.

“What are we going to do?”

The Stripe thought for a moment as he told to the two. “Port, us a bit higher in the clouds as best you can.” then told to Mercy. “Get the Hive to transform to pegasus and start collecting clouds to make rain.”

“Dejen, what if there’s not enough clouds?” asked Mercy as Dejen quickly thought and told.

“We find a pool or anything with water and start using the buckets. I doubt bina could put it out with her and the other's handling a possessed Bakari and a demon.”

“And what are you going to do?” asked Port, to which the Stripe grin as he held up his prototype weapon.

“I’m going with the other's and test this out.”

Mercy gave a hard look as she told. “ARe you’re kidding me? You think that thing will help you now?” looking at him more as she emphasise the point. “Dejen, you got demon blood on you from that first demon! And no it doesn’t matter if you got yourself wash, you’re not purified. You could be possessed by it!”

“Well, better me than Bakari, right?” grinned out The Stripe as he activate the comms and told. “Debt, Mynu. We’re heading out right now. Susumu, you might be needed incase things are bad.” Mercy stomp her hoof as she held a mixture of concern and irritation.

“Damn it Dejen, take this seriously!” Turning to her, there was a somber smile as he crouch down to her and gave a brief kiss on the lips as he told.

“I’ve always taken things seriously, Mercy. Even if I never shown it.” and before she could get a chance to say a word, he winked as he moved around her as he exit through the doorway as he shouted to Port. “Drop us off as close as possible, Captain orders!”

While Port glance from leaving Stripe and to irritated Queen in worry, Mercy couldn’t help but spoke in agitation in the Swarm mind. Sometimes I really want to strangle that stripe.[/i

Exiting the ship in a rush, the team consisting of Dejen, Debt, Susumu and Mynu all rushed after the ghostly path only their boss could see. They took the exact and straight path right for where the others had gone. But, they had a issue. Namely the large blaze of fire that was before them.

At the distance they were at, it was warm. And they could see the fire high above the trees, smoke casting a shadow that only was lit by the flames red and orange hues. Mynu frowned and told, “we can’t go in. It’s going to possibly cook us.”

Thinking of a way to get through, or around. Dejen thought a bit and look to Susumu as he asked. “Any suggestions?” the Kitsune look and shook his head.

“No.”

Humming abit, Dejen look as he look to his gun and thought of something that might be stupid...but could work. I got three charges in this gun before it blows up...might as well see how strong the first shot is. thought Dejen as he took out the revolver like weapon as he switched to his charge. “Better stay back abit if this is a dud.” told Dejen, as he fired his first shot, seeing it go through, as despite it working in making a path, it didn’t last long as the flames consume the hole.

Dejen gave a annoyed sound as he said. “Damn. REally thought that could work.”

“Sir...what was that?” asked Debt as he stared on feeling very stumped on why his Clan-head did that.

“Feel Stripe is stupid right now.” remarked Susumu in one sentence.

Mynu drew her brows together, watching as a few weakened trees fell. She tilted her head at them, but figured Dejen was trying to make a path. But, that was indeed stupid. “If you were trying to shoot us a path, then that’s too small to do it.” Remarking on, “you’d need a line of cannons to try blasting a path like that.”

“Hey we should be lucky it didn’t exploded on me!” defended Dejen as he thought on a idea as he brought up his walkie up to contact. “Hey Mercy, mind bring down some with a few clouds to pour us a path?”

“Fine, but don’t expect too much. My children need to be careful of fire.” muttering a bit of ‘stupid stripe’ at the end as Dejen sighed out.

“Yep, she is going to give me a stern talking after this is done.”

Mynu made no open comment, instead waiting with the others while a few clouds were moved in to start pouring water down. The mount needed, was just monstrous. The blaze seemed to want to persist, even after a large amount had dropped down.

Mynu frowned and told, “it’s going to get very hot.” Watching the water as it came down and said, “we should move with the rain. Help keep us cool and not burn.” Then breathed in. “Carful of smoke.”

Dejen took the lead as he moved up, Debt following behind as did the Kitsune. Doing their best to not breath in the smoke as best they could, following the path of the rain as the fire blazing around them, with embers nearly coming to their bodies. Or even things nearly falling on them from charred trees, or trees falling down nearby them. It was a disaster, especially in the knowledge that Bakari could be the one doing this in the first place.

Directing the water and following the ehco’s wasn’t easy. They were in a real disaster zone and really, it made Susumu question why they should be here in this dangerous blaze. The risk was just too great in his mind. Yet both Mynu and Debt persevere on with Dejen, following as the strip kept to the path, his head slightly gaining a headache.

Then, he saw it. A clearing chard and still aflame. But it was different, as there was more dirt and rocks. When they got closer to the heated area, they heard, “Dejen! Dejen!” One look up and they could barely see Asha behind a wall of fire. “This way!” The roar of the fire nearly downing out her words. “Hurry!”

“Come on!” told the Stripe, as he tried to maneuver around the fire, as the other's had to follow. Once close enough to Asha, they saw Bina out cold, ruffled up and with many chard spots-- she was however intact. The mage out cold, with Taka holding the mage. Tatsu was looking worse for wear, and Asha covered in soot and ash. Susumu look them over and told.

“I believe it is time to call for cannon fire?”

Dejen motioned to Debt to call for a way out, as he asked to Asha. “Bakari got possessed, did he?”

Sounding agitated, Asha shouted, “get us out of here!!” Nearly roaring the last bit out.

Okay, talk later then. thought Dejen as he look to Debt, as the gnoll had the walkie and speaking to Rah-Rah on a extraction. In response, there was a cannon fire raining down on a area. In a brief moment they heard nothing but cannons, then saw changelings with rainclouds to pour as much into the area they could as Dejen told. “Go, go, go!” moving himself to help Tatsu lean on him, as Debt helped Asha as he carried her. As well as Mynu carrying Bina.

While they moved as fast as possible and more trees were both felled and doused, a couple of escape-ships came down. And seeing as they needed a way out of this place? It was well taken. They landed as close as possible, and the others got in as fast as they could before they were taken up.

Slowly, as they went up, a changeling warned, “hold your breath.” And with how the smoke got thicker, they all got the hint. Some having to cover the faces of those knocked out. When they got on the ship, they began to take each one to the medbay for Susumu to look over.

Dejen accompanied them, and now that he had a clear view of them all… they were in very rough shape. Asha won't just filthy, she looked a bit beaten up too with scratched. Taka’s once nice and clean cloths looked to have been through a shredder, and had a slight limp in his normally dignified stance. The herno mage, looked like she had been dragged through a mud-puddle and a fire.

Tatsu was no better. She looked like she got a few nasty bruises, a burn here or there and plenty of nasty cuts. Her kimono was torn and even took away some of her modesty. Bina was in just as bad shape, almost. Her fur seemed to be in place, but a lot of the young herno was just covered in black soot, and had plenty of lumps and scratches. She seemed to have been through something pretty serveir.

“Require much concentration.” said Susumu making various of hand motions as he focus on Asha first. Hands glowing of healing magic, he began to gently place them on her body as he moved his palms around. “Please don’t talk. Wait till done.” requested the healer to Asha as Dejen glance to Taka as he asked.

“What happen?” Seeing out of the corner of his eye Debt and Mynu were assisting the doctor as they took afew healing ointments to assist in reducing the doctor work.

Placing the herno feline on a bed as gently as possible, Taka said, “the demon once more cunningly avoided us and gained Bakari’s self.” Checking the mage over before seeming satisfied and turning to Dejen. “The plan went as well as it should. But as soon as Bakari had the demon in his hold, did it use it’s magic to take hold of him. He fought, but not for long.”

“Asha-san tried to help him, but Bakari’s body showed to be… powerful. She was nearly killed. We moved to intervene, but it seems that Tatsu was easily overwhelmed and I underestimated his might.” Glancing to Bina, Taka went on. “Bina-san fight him, and, to say… she had issues. The demon was ruthless and nearly killed her. The fire was made by Bakari’s possessed self. I had never truthfully seen so much power exerted by herno their ages.”

“Yeah, they’re something special.” said Dejen, glancing to see Susumu done, as he quickly went to Tatsu, using his hands once more to heal as Dejen glance to Asha and asked. “So, whats the plan on holding down Bakari and getting that demon out?”

With a low verberaing growl, Asha told, “first we have to find him. Then we need to trick him, then I need to purify him with enough light that the Demon won’t get another chance to hurt him.” Baring her teeth and nearly snarling. It was enough to make Mynu back away and Dejen feel on edge with Debt.

Taka gracefully took a calm step back and remarked, “She has been most tense since Bakari’s been possessed.”

“Well, that what happens when someone mess with ehr cubs.” told Dejen in a slightly cautious tone. Thinking on the ‘tracking’ part as the Stripe consider on using his ‘jutsu’ to track him...or at least his echo well enough. Debt glance to Bina, as Mynu was working over her, while the gnoll was assisting Susumu with Tatsu. The healer finish what he could as the healer went to Taka as the Kitsune spoke.

“If finding the cub is needed, then we will use our ‘leader’ sight. Tricking however will be debatable, as who could outwit a demon?” then told. “Or rather, who is insane enough to try?”

“Tracking it will not be an issue.” Taka told. “I still have the gem, and KAtsume can aid in tracking it. Though, she would wish to have protection from being possessed again.” But considering the demon, Taka admitted, “but none of us can face the Demon. We do not have the power.”

“Bina does.” Asha told in a downed tone. “Bina does. But she didn’t want to hurt Bakari. She could, but she didn’t want to and she nearly died.”

Dejen thought over as he consider their options. A frown came on his face as they couldn’t face on the demon...or rather not while possessing Bakari. He thought on it more, and he knew that he couldn’t use his way to ‘trick’ it. After all, the demon control a powerful body and could easily destory Dejen. How could Dejen trick it out of it’s body? What could I do? I got blood on me...but isn’t that enough? thinking more as he asked.

“Could we maybe trick the demon out of Bakari body some how?”

“Doubtful.” told Susumu. “Yokai is cunning. It will not fall for the same trick twice. It will know we want it out, and it could destory us now with it’s stolen body.”

Breathing out, Asha got up and moved to Bina, looking over the herno carefully and telling, “we need Bina. We need her to fight Bakari’s body so I can have a chance to purify whatever’s allowing the demon to possess him.”

Mynu looked to Dejen and told, “Dejen has tainted things.” Making Asha pause and prick her ears. “You may need to make sure he gets himself purified.”

Sighing, Dejen said. “Yeah, apparently demon blood can stick despite washing well with water.” then pause to hear a low growl, and Asha turning to him as he nearly jumped in fright of Asha’s stormy expression. Holding his hands up in defense, he wisely didn’t speak, as he rather keep himself intact with a moody mother.

“You mean to tell me.” Started Asha, turning towards Dejen and continuing to make that growling sound that set all those in the room at edge. “That you had tainted items, one of which being Bakari’s stone, and you-- none of you, bothered to tell me after I expressly mentioned that things can get TAINTED BY DEMON BLOOD!” Her roar at the end truly turning into one. The whole ship echod and to some, shook at the mere force.

Taka, once full of dignity, was now huddled in a corner shaking. Mynu had chosen to back herself to a wall. Tatsu similarly, now glued herself to her bed. Bina was still out, and so was Katsume. Though Debt himself had become frozen, unwilling to move as if twitching would set off the beast. Susumu had frozen as well, fur on end and looking at Asha as if she was the most dangerous thing in the room.

As for Dejen, he was unfortunately staring at a bared teeth lioness, trying to stay as still as physically possible. Body muscle so tense that he couldn’t shake and worried at her focused anger. And now that he could see her half hunched form and bared teeth-- there was nothing bubbly, kind or adorable about her. She looked like a real predator that could very much maul and turn him to bloody bits.

A changeling spoke in the Swarm mind. Was...that Asha? Shouting in rage? I think that was a roar….and I think I wet myself in fear from that. spoke another as Mercy heard her children speaking various things, the Queen herself frowning in, uncertainty as she felt she might be needed in the medical room...mostly in case if something did injure Dejen...possibly maul in near death.

Already making her way, Mercy came as fast as she could to the medical bay, seeing the sight of Asha looking ready to maul her stripe. In a way, it felt...a harsh reminder that despite Asha being a bubbly, friendly, and go lucky female? She was still a primal...and savage like Lioness that would kill anything in her way. And she could feel the various of emotions, the biggest of them of Dejen uncertain caution.

And Asha fury at Dejen.

Mercy admitally debated if she should intervene or not. Technically this was a lesson that needed to be done...but at the same time she didn’t want Dejen killed...then again, this was his fault… choices choices…. although she also knew that if Dejen said the wrong word? It would get Asha to nearly kill him in her fury. Or actually break his bones with her teeth.

She did seen lioness break bone by chomping on them in the plains. Sighing abit, she spoke. “Yes, yes he did.” seeing Asha flick a ear as she didn’t remove her eyes from Dejen as Mercy went on. “However in hindsight, we never dealt with demons. Or demon blood. Or possession-- or even clearly the fact demon blood could taint. Yes you told us about it, but we never consider that the residue itself could still linger on. After all, how could we? Since unlike those in the holds or in the Isles of the Northern Cornerstone-- we never dealt with the supernatural like demons. Its new and rather something we haven’t encounter.”

“And the reason I’m saying this instead of Dejen? Well...he’s rather cautious that he might say the wrong thing, and you might accidentally-- or purposely kill him or break a bone or two in your fury.”

To Mercy’s unease, Asha seemed to assure, “I’ll heal the arm I break. He’ll live.” The growl still prominently there and painting a clear image that while Asha was peaceful first… this apparently didn’t fall under her ‘peaceful’ nature. “Because I don’t think either of you get what just happened.”

“No, no we don’t.” agree Mercy as she try to pacify the situation. “Maybe you could tell our Stripe about it-- then break his arm?” Dejen gave a glance of his eyes to Mercy as if he said, ‘seriously!?’ but didn’t say a word as his focus went back to Asha.

“Oh, I will.” Sassed out Asha, “I just watched Bakari suffer as something forced itself into his body and took control of him-- then watched as he nearly kill people he cared for, nearly murdered me, then watched as Bina tried to snap him out of it, and nearly get killed by her own Brother. Getting choked and punched by him over and over.” Hackles rising at the mere memory. “I could feel him, at every moment, he could nearly see what he was doing.”

....Well…...Shit. thought Dejen as he imagine that, for a brief moment...imagine what Bakari felt as he internally sigh. I’ll admit...I fucked up. Look like I played a bad hand and everybody paid for it.

“Can I break his arm now?” Ashed Asha, taking a step forward that was most threatening to Dejen. And it was then… Mercy understood. Asha was serious about breaking Dejen’s arm and then mending it after breaking it.

Mercy gulped and said in a slight haste tone. “Shouldn’t we try to get Bakari back first? I mean we could do the whole breaking thing another time! WE do need to make sure we got a plan to save Bakari before anything else, right?”

Asha gave a menacing growl, but after a long moment of her just keeping her eyes locked on Dejen, did the Lioness turn away and stalk for the door. Mercy hurriedly moving out of the way and watching the white lioness leave. For a while, everyone was trying to calm themselves from the…. Well, overly tense situation.

Gulping, Tatsu said, “I… I believe we should give A-Asha-san some… space.” Then muttered in her native tongue, “Much space indeed.”

Taking a breath of his own, Susumu agreed in native. “Am very glad Stripe was focus of her wraith. Almost felt pity of him if broken limbs came.” Debt let out a breath he didn’t even notice he held as he said to Dejen.

“You Clan head...are beyond lucky. If Mercy wasn’t here...you’ll be in pain so much, you’ll probably faint from it.”

“Don’t...have to tell me twice.” breath in Dejen as he took what calming breaths he could as Mercy remarked.

“I couldn't believe you forgot about the demon blood and never mention it.”

“Oh piss off Mercy!” nearly shouted Dejen as he raised a finger. “You know as well as I do that we don’t commonly fight against demons, supernatural, and possession! Unlike Tatsu, Taka-- even Asha who was well knowledge in this, I didn’t know squat! Sure I fucked up, but who hasn’t when they never come across demons! Fucking, DEMONS! Thats mystical shit territory.”

Calming, Mynu asked, “who’s going to tell Bina?” Making them all go silent.

“I bid you all a fair night.” Taka said while leaving the room. And when some looked to Tatsu, she had vanished.

Debt quickly carried Mynu in his arms in bridal form and quickly rush out. With Mynu adding, “Nope!” as Mercy was gone in a teleport. Before Dejen could glance, Susumu was gone too.

Rah-Rah however, seemed to choose then to walk in and ask, “hey, what's with all the racket?” Ears moving about and going on, “and is something up, I saw--”

“GoodnewsyouhavetotellBinathebadnews,bye!” told Dejen in a fast pace motioned as he ran out there as fast as his legs could carry him.

Turning her head, Rah-Rah said, “what?” Looking about the now empty medical bay. She scratched her head and eventually said, “Today’s been a little off…” Then shrugged, “I guess I’ll ask later.” And turned around to get back to her work. With all the running around and the water gathered? There was some places she had to tune up. hrm.. I should also look into that one injector. Been sounding off… might take a week to look at. Figuring that whatever Dejen was talking about, could be asked about later.