Arabian Swindler

Dejen breathed easy. After all of this? It just seemed good to just sit back, relax and just… breath out that things were going to finally end for Dejeen. It made the stripe want to cackle at the mere thought of the horse’s demise coming along. Karma was certainly, a bitch indeed.

Though as he relaxed and looked out the window with Port piloting the ship, he hears the radio beep for him. Iddily pressing the button, he heard Asha call, “Dejen… something’s wrong."

Oh thats not good. thought Dejen as he asked. “On the shit level...how bad are we talking about? Ships? Demons? Someone drank all the rum?”

“Demon.” Placing the stripe on alert. “They’re near, but they’re hiding themselves. But I can tell they’re here, Dejen. They’re on the ship.” (end)

Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit. shit! mind panicking as he thought. HOW DID THEY GET ON THE SHIP!?! Okay stay cool, stay cool...figure it out. taking a deep breath as he asked. “Please...tell me theres a way to stop it...or kill it? Or find it to do those two things?"

To that, Asha told, “I’m trying to stalk it now, but I’m sure it knows I sensed it. You should tell the ship, but don’t make a full alarm. We can’t let it know everyone knows yet. We need to be casual and patient.” And like that, the ship nearly seemed to lerch and half tilt, a sound of a heavy bang sounding. While it wasn’t a huge tilt, they could tell the ship moved.

Oh yeah, sure. Because I’m certain that sound and tilting form I’m seeing, doesn’t show it knows, does it? snarked Dejen, as he switch to open comm as he said. “Everyone, just to let you know, be on the lookout for any forms of rodents, mice, rats-- mostly rats.” going on a bit sarcastically. “Oh and the demon that is messing with my ship?”

And then, there was a blaring alarm. Dejen felt his modd go from great, to rotten. He was in such a bad mood, he took the time to sit in his chair, lean on a balled fist and wonder HOW, in luck’s name, it found it’s way on the ship!

Either way, he got up and moved to get some of his gear. Particularly the new ‘demon weapons’ that Katsume help make. While she lost most of her powers, her sealing was still good and she used it on a few old and even hardly sharp weapons. Well, even if they were not sharp? The seals on them would hurt a demon something new.

When the ship half-lurched the other way, Dejen knew that something was really up now.

If we somehow capture the demon and keep it still? I am going to beat it with those demons weapons….that, or see if I could come up with something so ‘evil’, not even the demon would enjoy it….Wonder if I get something special for it? grabbing his gear as he held up a baseball bat, as while it’s not a actual weapon...it’s still a weapon! Granted it’s a zombie apocalypse weapon, one of the top weapons for zombies apocalypse. Must work for demons too, right?

Tracking the racket was far from hard. He and a few hunters, changelings and even Taka began to gather and follow it to one of the storage areas. When one moved to open the door, they had to duck with a yelp as a crate crashed and flew over head. The other’s moving back before peeking in.

Dejen, then felt a little worried. Because inside were both Bina and Bakari, Bina herself struggling to overpower a yellow sickly magical rune, and Bakari dealing with the Scarecrow of all demons. The unkillable, scrangling, magic runic mastery DEMON!

....Damn it Murphy! mentally shouted Dejen. You just HAD to do this? Why couldn’t you let your sister handle today?[i/] giving a small grunt as he told. “Everyone? Better keep your distance.”

“That's the scarecrow, isn't it?” asked a changeling in a low tone. To which they had to duck as a Bakari flew in the air, denting the ship and making said ship shutter.

Getting up Dejen felt his eye twitch as raise his baseball bat, rushing to the scarecrow as he said with a full heavy swing. “Hey batter bat!” although it was stopped, as Dejen noticed a hand, looking up to the scarecrow, looking all the world amuse at Dejen attempt. The Stripe try to pull the bat away, but there was a tight grip. They just stare at the other...As Dejen had a feeling of regret of doing this. And the demon looking at Dejen as his next pay check.

It was at that point they both heard a low sizzling sound… Dejen himself sniffing and smelling something burning. Slowly, both Demon and striped looked to the bat, the hand’s vice like grip… seeming to smoke. After a moment, the hand went on fire.

Like that, The scarecrow blinked… and then let go, using one of his three other hands to grip his burning hand’s wrist and shout, “HOT! Hothothothothothothot!” running about the storage area with a hand on fire, “WATER!” Bina eventually breaking free with brute force-- then dodging as the demon rush past her.

...I can’t believe that work. thought Dejen as he look to the bat, seeing the sealing symbols on it as Katsume mention it was a ‘anti-demon warding’ and it could harm them...he just couldn't believe it made them on fire either! He however focus his attention on the Twins as he told. “Bakari, Bina, get over here!” already turning to tell. “Get Asha over here with Katsume! This demon is near unkillable, we need back up, now!”

One of the changelings already was sending the message through the ship as to get them here as fast as possible. As another asked. “What are we going to do?”

“Its call stalling!” told Dejen.

When a arcanic sound began to ring, all looked up to see a half annoyed demon holding up his hands, once slightly crispy, and having magical runes formed in the air. Bina was more than happy to join their ranks, and Bakari moved in line. Though when the magic reached it’s zenith, Bakari moved with Bina. Both zipping and grabbing a crate each before tossing them in the path.

Dejen watched them as they seem to freeze in the air, runic circles holding them in place. He got the hint without words, don’t let the magic touch you. He and the other’s got the same hint, those weren't magical attacks, they were snares.

Okay, how to stall against this guy? Ugh, I wish I had my other weapon...Although technically it’s not used against demons...Okay note to self, ask Katsume to make the railroad weapon anti-demon. Or at least the nails. already switching weapons as he raised up his crossbow, his bolts, or rather this bundle being anti-demon as he aimed and fired to the chest.

But the scarecrow easily dodge, as the other's were trying to plan, and fire their own projectiles to the demon scarecrow as it used its runes as shields to block the projectiles. Damn it! Think Dejen, think in your own insane mind of a human on what you could use to surprise it! trying to come up with something as he look to his flashbangs, as he took it in hand and warned. “Flashbang!” tossing it to the demon as far as he could in its area.

Hand up and runic circle flashing, they watched that flashbang stop in midair, frozen in place by the magic. Despite this, the crew had dodged into cover and covered both eyes and ears best as they could. When the Demon went to move, that’s when it went off. “IT BURNS!” And when Dejen popped up, could see the scarecrow stumbling. Hissing and arms flailing.

Perking, Bakari called, “Bina!” And with her peeking out, he called, “ROPE!” And like that they ran. Dejen watched them grab and fid rope, running in to tangle, tie and rush around the demon that stumbled. The striped looked at the rope and stopped at the sight of one of the anvils. It was Gems but… from looking at rope to solid iron item, he had a… oddly Loony Tunes idea.

I really hope this works. Giving a look to one of the cargo bay doors as he told. “Everyone, push it to the doors!” quickly moving to tie the end of the rope to the anvil as he added. “And tell Port to slow the ship down!” making sure the rope was tight and firm on the anvil, as he heard the demon getting his bearings back, as it fought against the Twins, the rope going around as he and a few other's were pushing the anvil to the large doors.

As they were by the doors, Dejen heard it monologuing, something of gold and riches. Hearing a bit more fighting with Bina stuck in place, with Bakari tossed around as the group opening the cargo bay doors. Dejen thankful Port was told to slow the ship down, giving a glance to it monologuing again as it approach Bina to catch her while she was on the ground. With Bakari stuck with a spell on him on the ground. Dejen motioned everyone away from the doors as he push the anvil off and let cartoon logic do the rest.

The Scarecrow nearly reached a hand to grip Bina-- before he made a strangled gack sound that almost sounded like a chicken squawking before he went flying. Hat floating down in place where the demon had occupied space while the body went flying-- or actually falling, --out the Cargo Bay. Everyone watched as with a slight whistling, the Demon got smaller and smaller… before there was a ‘poomf’ as by some stupid luck, he crushed on some remote tiny island. Hat floating and whisked out the cargo bay windy doors.

With a motioned of his hand, Dejen had the cargo bay doors closed. As for him, he was reminded of Wilde Coyate moment. However after a moment of silence, someone asked. “How did you know that was going to work?”

To which Dejen told simply. “I just went with the idea off the top of my head.”

“Crazy Stripe.” muttered one of the troops, as they turn to see Bakari standing up, arms binded by magic rooms. Seeing him grunt as fire, wind-- everything going a bit chaotic before the runes were burst out. Dejen gave a sigh as he told.

“Get someone to tell Asha and Katsume we got the demon out...and tell Port to move back in full speed...and get me my tools to check over the damages here.” walking up by to check over the damages.

“Urm… guys?” Bina called, some glancing to see her still stuck on a rune. “Help?”

Bakari moved up and said, “can one of ya still make sure Asha get’s here?” Looking at his sister as if he wanted to help, but wasn’t able to do much.

“Couldn’t you help aid her, or she break out?” Taka asked quizzically.

“Do ya want her to accidentally burst the pipes?” Asked a slightly testy Bakari. “We gotta flex our power to break out of these things, and I don’t think anyone wants her to flex her power a second time, it gets double the power, could just…. You know…”

Groaning, Dejen said. “And more work for us.” then told one of the changelings. “Better let the message be spread Asha still need to get here.”

“Already done, King.” said the changeling, as Dejen sigh and said.

“Honestly though...where did that demon popped out from?” then thought...and facepalm. “Oh right...Gruganda. Of course.”

Trying to shift and at least be… somewhat comfortable until Asha got her unstuck to the ground, Bina said, “he must of figured out we were here and snuck on when everyone was busy.” Trying to move a arm, though from the looks of it, she could barely flex a hand. She gave a groan and said, “I hate these things.” Looking… very agitated.

“Hey, at least we were lucky that it didn’t do worse, right?” said Dejen as he glance around in slight annoyance. “But it also means we need a bit more supplies...and a few hours worth of repairing the dents.” seeing of a near Bina shape dents in one of the walls. Dejen couldn’t help but comment. “Good for art, bad for engineering.”

“Ha. Ha. Very funny.” Dryly said both Twins.

Padding in, Asha gave a look down and said, “ick. Demon magic.” Padding up and telling, “hold on Bina, give me a moment. Those look complicated.” Taking a moment to actually observe and analyze the runes and their make. Taka soon leaving seeing he was no longer needed.

As the other's were leaving to get back to their place, a changeling came up with Dejen tools, as the Stripe graciously took them and remark to Asha. “Did you know those runes can make a demon go on fire? Who knew, right?”

With a look, Asha told, “it’s holy magic, Dejen. It doesn't really react well with demons.” Then turned back her focuse to Bina to add on. “Fire purifies things. And things tend to combust when being purified if it’s really nasty.” Then breathed in to give a low growl over the glowing yellow runes, making them smoke and dissipate.

Aka...this would be useful against zombies too...if they were demons. thought Dejen as he glance back to his bat, before telling. “At least we got rid of the scarecrow for now..” then began what work he could do as he added. “Now if you pardon me, I got work to do.” already focus on his job...before he glane to the Twins and told. “Nice job on trying to stop him you two. Even managing to get that rope on it.”

While Bina got up, Bakari told, “Well, thanks I guess.” Not seeming sure to take credit for that. Though in hindsight, the demon was possibly after them.

Dejen went back to his work, feeling his mood lighten...mostly when they reach the Isles.

When they did reach the Isles, with a now more awake, fed, and improved Zebra to meet this ‘Kaula Clan’ in the Southern Cornerstone...which turn out they met the Stripes a lot sooner than expected. As apparently they knew her rather well. Dejen partially wonder who she was going to marry to gather such attention. However while they stock up in the docks, with both Asha and Galdan leaving to find this ‘teacher’ to Dejen, the Stripe waited as to enjoy the time off...and meeting the Stripes to ask them of their help...and the help of some of the Spotted they convinced.

He was utterly surprise of them accepting so quickly, even more so asking when they could attack. Dejen however suggested they talk to the Spotted, but the Clan members told they rather know now. So Dejen had to...give some details on how this retribution will work, and asked that as long as they don’t cause too much damage to the city? They could have the Sultan for themselves.

Trying to curb their enthusiasm was almost impossible. During the meeting he met who the ‘lucky man’ was to marry the zebra-- and to say? He was so pissed. And of course, it had to be the son to the clan head. Seeing what he had planned? Well, Dejen was torn between admiration of such a overkill-based idea that was sophisticated--

And a little concerned if there was going to be anything left to rule over.

Dejen was truely torn...but he had to suggest to the son of the clan head to not enact that plan...at least not yet. Mostly since he rather not have too much damage of the city -- mostly since getting his replacement there to rule a nearly torn city was a pain in the ass-- he opt that perhaps they could hit at key points. Like say the barracks, the few key areas...and the son asking.

“Can we hit where the docks are at with the slavers?”

To which Dejen recall of the black market dealers and whatnots tend to show up...And could be removed in his mind, since they were a pain to deal with. “Go on ahead.” told Dejen, as it was a win-win for them both. As the plan went on, Dejen had to make it specific clear to not fully damage the palace...Although one did asked.

“If we can’t hit the palace...can we hit the gardens?”

“No, those are in the palace walls.” told Dejen, as while he was glad to have this Clan helping...it was a bit tiresome to get them to not overkill everything of the city. “Can we hit the walls?”

“No, that’s part of the city.”

“What about the grounds right next the palace walls?” asked another.

“You guys just want to see the palace blown up, don’t you?” accused Dejen.

To which the entire Clan answer. “Maybe.” eyes looking around.

“Look I’m giving you the guy for free, can’t you be sastify with that?”

“You mean before or after the Spotted are done with him?” asked another.

With another adding. “Because we still need to get revenge for Zunike.”

“And her people.” adding one more.

“And her tribe.” adding another.

“And maybe the Southern Cornerstone.” finishing another.

Dejen facepalm and asked. “What about their ships? Are you at least content in blowing up their ships?”

“Does that include the docks’ they’re landed at?” Asked one curiously.

“Yes!” groan out Dejen.”Does that make you happy at least?”

“Eh...it’ll do.” answer one.

“Oh what about the sewers? Can we mess with the sewers?” as Dejen look to the Stripe, having matches on him, and recalling on how much gas a sewers tend to have….and finding out ways they want to use loopholes to blow up the entire city by chance.

“No!” told Dejen. “By Lady Luck, do I have to let you guys have the scraps of their ships just to leave the city alone?!”

“We can take their scraps?!” asked one in a quick fire.

“YES!” nearly shouted Dejen.

With a quick look around, the clan head told, “we will accept as long as we have claim to any and all scraps laying about the city and it’s inner parameters.”

“Yes, yes fine, do it! Just don’t blow up the city! That's all I want!” told Dejen, rubbing his head as he now understanding why the Sultans were worry about Stripes go to war on one of the cities. As they did not understood..or knew enough on Stripes having no lines when attacking their enemies. It’s like they had no control on how much damage they do! And the worst part is? I’M RELATED TO THEM!

Dejen truely wonder on these Clans. Even more with him finding out that this Clan seem to use their most use well time with their equipment of anything they can grab their hands on...or use anything in a loophole. Dejen however move on to business as he asked. “Now, what are the Spotted planning to do?”

“Smash stuff until it dies.” said one.

“Destroy.” added another.

“And raid.” finish one as another told.

“But mostly smashing.”

Another agreeing. “They do love their smashing.”

Dejen facepalm as he groan out. “Do I have to talk to them on keeping the city be if they join?” With one thinking and told.

“Well...as long they smash, crash, bash-- especially other people they’re doing it too? They should be pretty content.” as he added. “Just to make sure they’re directed to people you want dead. Because whenever they smash, crash and bash? Become dead.”

Dejen stare as he couldn’t help but ask. “How are we related to them as a species again?”

“They do it all the way, or not at all.” Was all they recited.

Facepalming, he sighed out. “Alright….anything else we need to talk about?”

“Can we use you're ship to blow stuff up?” asked one.

“ABSOLUTELY NOT!” roared Dejen.

With one being clever, as they asked. “If we’re not allow to trash this city...can we trash the other? I mean, you don’t need that one, do you?” Dejen took a breath in...and look at the map of Arabia to see which city they were talking about. After a few moments as he pointed to Gruganda as he told.

“See this city? This city, was the one that had Zuzike in it...with the stallion-child that did a lot of nasty things done to her…” then look to them and told. “Blow it up for all I care.”

He watched as they all cheered to that, some chattering away over ideas, one even talking about stocking a ship full of nitrogliserin-- wait, what?

“Woah, woah, woah-- nitrogliserin? You guys got that?” nearly shouted Dejen aso ne saying.

“Well, technically we found it.” as another added.

“At the bottom of the ocean.” Then waved a hand telling, “No one will miss it.” Dejen thought...and asked.

“Can I have a few crates of it?”

“What do we get out of it?” asked one as Dejen thought...and grin.

“The right to scrap the entire city of Gruganda and everything in it.” With one thinking… and saying.

“Sounds fair to me!”

After all that discussion, coming to the ship and just relax on the port of the ship. RElaxing as he had Windy on his lap, petting her head with a sigh. With Mercy coming up to ask. “What got you so tired out?”

Dejen glance and told. “I had to deal with talking to my cousins...My insane, pyromaniac, destructive cousins of a Stripe Clan...that belong to a mad house.” Than thought and added. “Or a mental ward….or the two together.”

“I thought Stripes compliment each other for their Racky ways?” asked Mercy with a raise of her brow.

“Mercy. For once I’m glad I’m not a native.” told Dejen as he try to relax. “They just couldn’t stop asking of blowing up the city! I had to get them to blow up some ships at the dock-- and Gruganda as well the right to scrap it!”

“Is that a good idea?” asked Mercy.

“No,” started Dejen in a thought as he shrug. “But its better than them trying to blow up Abassa in a loophole.”

“Do you really think they would?” started Mercy as Dejen sighed.

“One try to suggest of blowing up the sewers with matches. Or the ground near the palace walls. I think at that point? They wanted to blow something up!” then told. “Beside... I think the Sultans would wisely stay away from the Isles when they find out why Gruganda was blown up. Apparently they realize Stripes have no lines when it comes to payback.” giving a look to her Stripe, she remarked.

“The same can be said about you.”

Raising his head as he raise a finger. “Hey, unlike them, I don’t want to blow up a entire city!” then correct. “Just blow up certain parts of the city so it’ll collapse from its cornerstones into a big pile.”

“Isn’t that the same thing?”

“They wanted to use ships as giant bombs. It's not the same.” defended Dejen. Then let a sigh and told. “I don’t want to argue...I just want to relax, rest, enjoy the sun and my mares if able to…” Mercy consider on getting on Dejen to rest on him, as there wouldn’t be much else to do as both Asha and Galdan were off. Although when she did get on his legs to relax, she asked. “What about the Spotted?”

“Mercy, the Stripes can handle the Spotted. I think we should be safe for now.” replied Dejen, the three relaxing outside the decks of the ship in peace.

Tey almost didn’t notice when Asha said, “you’re just stirring up trouble big time, aren't you?” Dejen peeked a eye open to see why Asha was back, though he opened both eyes to see she wasn’t alone. The Lioness smiled and said, “see, he’s just like any other stripe. Just a little more… refined.”

“Uh-huh.” Almost moodily spoke the lioness next to her. If Asha was sunshine and rays-- this new lioness was like the center of all things down, annoyed and just foul. Mercy had to lift her head and look at the almost cloudy blackmane that seemed ready to bite someone's head off.

Looking from the Blackmane, to Asha, did Dejen asked. “I’m guessing this is my trainer in the ways of a spook, huh?”

Giving a slight smile, Asha said, “well, not exactly…” going on to tell, “I had someone else in mind, but they weren't available. But Dadisi said that we should bring her along. Her name is Johali. One of the Blackmane ashmancer’s that can teach you more about info gathering.”

Though Asha wanted to say more, Johari added, “and I’m only helping if you do something I want.” And from the glare in her eyes, she seemed willing to go a step further to get it.

Okay...something tells me this isn’t simple. thought Dejen, as he could gather there’s only one reason she was doing this, but it was something personal to her. So with a raise of his head more to look straight at her, he asked. “I’m only guessing that you’re helping me, is because you want payback of some form, right?”

While Johari gave a low grown of agitation, Asha decided to say with a tone of reproach, “she’s looking for her cub.”

Quickly being full alert, with the two becoming alert to this, Dejen push his upper body up with full attention as he said. “I’m listening.” knowing full well of a Lioness and her cubs. He had front row seats to that remind long ago.

Seeing she actually had his attention, Johari stopped her growling and told simply. “A raid hit the North nearly two weeks back. They failed miserably, but they bolted with a few items. My cub, Tibia, was taken by them.” Deep in the lioness, Mercy could feel a deep vengeance. It was almost sickening to just sense. “I would of gone after them, but there’s rules that kept me from going out. Dadisi… decided to call in a favor.”

Asha breathed in and added, “It’s a big issue when a Lioness is looking for their cub. Johari was near her limit as was ready to take a ship by force, maybe nearly maul anyone in her way.” Through added, “And she’d do it too.”

that, I do not disbelieve. thought Dejen as he asked to Johari. “Did anyone saw any symbols on the ships? Or at least anything note while of the crew or what class the ship was?”

Giving a snort to the side, Johari told, “Two wings, one scimitar blade in the center. Blue sewing with a silver background.” Seeming very detailed. “Sky Pirates for sure, their attack was unorganized and hit-and-run. They weren't slavers, didn’t have the gear. They only used enough force to come in before bolting when they realized that they would die staying.” It was a lot of info in one go. “They headed east at the soonest convenience. If they have my cub, they would find her too much trouble and if possible, sell her off. Equestria does not allow slavery, so Arabia is the next best area.”

Thinking over it, Dejen thought over it, as did Mercy herself. While there were various groups, Dejen wasn’t familiar with this group. He however knew that if he pull the right strings, he would have information on this group. Possibly came from the north. But if the had the cub? They would head to Arabia, as he doubted they could take her up north. Thinking all the more, as Mercy was trying to recall, but came up with nothing.

AFter a while, Dejen told as he petted Windy mane, mostly to keep her relax. “I can search around, pull up a few contacts and see what info I can on where they were located. At best we might find something about them and where they’re at. Even more if they did sell off you cub.” Already thinking a bit as he added. “We can probably find some info at Abbassa, since that might be where they would head to.”

Mercy agree with a nod. “Its is the best place to find any clues, or at least a lead for now.”

After a moment longer, Johari told, “we’ll start your learning tomorrow.” Padding off with her mood… simmering down. It was possibly the closest thing to relieve the lioness had o having a way to find her cub. But the obviously horrendous mood told Mercy just how adgitatted the blackmane was.

Asha watched for a while and turned to Dejen and his mares, “if she acts out, try not taking it personally. Lionesses just get… violent when their cubs are in danger.”

“Noted.” said Mercy, as she try to relax on Dejen legs again, while Windy let out breath of relief.

“I’m just hoping that we could find her cub in time.” Dejen nodded in agreement, petting his mares head a bit as he went to say to Asha.

“Oh trust me Asha, I already know she’s like this when a Lioness gets protective of her cubs.” then shake his head as he told. “I’m just hoping I can gather info on this group, as I never heard them before...They aren’t from Arabia, that's for certain.” Thinking a bit with a thoughtful hum as he added. “My best guess? Somewhere up north, like say the Griffon kingdoms, since I doubt they could be far like the Holds.”

Asha still gave a concerned look, but did inform, “I just thought to warn you. Becuse while I was pretty mean? Johari could be worse if something did happen to her cub.” Turning and padding for the nearest entrice.

Dejen watch her leaving….then said to the two. “We are so fucked aren’t we?”

“Depends, if someone manage to prod at her too much or get on her nerves.” said Mercy, as Windy look a bit concern as she asked while slightly hoofing her foreleg to Dejen chest.

“Should we be concern, Master?” the Stripe consider that and admitted.

“We should be cautious. Mostly since we don’t want to find out what Johari could do...or might do if we aren’t on our toes...and make finding ehr cub a first priority.” Mercy nodded, as the three try to relax on the area for a brief moment, before Mercy asked with a peak eye to the Stripe.

“When are we leaving?”

Peeking a eye, he said. “Probably as soon as we got the Stripes ready to go with us...As well as any Spotted.” Mercy nodded a bit, as she really hope they find something, mostly Johari keeping her cool and not breaking a arm...or more than a limb from someone. Or worse, mauling someone to near death. She rather not have one of her children on the receiving end..or mostly some of the other crew.

The next day that came, Dejen found himself entering a room Johari had set up for herself. It was mostly a storage room for some tidbits they had laying around at the time. But the Lioness had taken to sleeping there. Though why she would sleep there, Dejen had no clue. There were still crates and items lying about, and the lights in the room weren’t really turned on.

He half wondered if she was there, though he had gotten his answer when Johari seemed to come from near nowhere to land and lay on one of the crates and just… stare at him with her yellow eyes. It just seemed… so polar opposite to what he had gotten used to with Asha.

Okay, so she seem to be either waiting on me to ask, or this is a test of how ‘good’ I am in info gathering. Dejen thought as while he doubted it was the last, he figure he should check the ‘mood’ if he came in a bad time...or at least too early than she prefer. Lions were odd felines to the Stripe, especially with their ‘unique’ moods. Staring back at her, he could tell she was either examining him with his body language, or waiting for something to come out of his mouth.

Dejen couldn’t tell what emotion she had within her eyes, or what other signs he could gather, mostly since he never been around too much Lions, or Lioness in this case beside either Asha...and those few he met in the plains. As seconds ticking away, neither spoke, but merely stare to the other long enough...as Johari finally spoke.

“You died.” It was said with such an amount of blandness, Dejen had to blink.

Subtly glancing, Dejen could only guess it was either a statement, something she spotted...or had some sort of magic or experience to notice something he didn’t within the room. Giving a look back, he asked. “I’m going to guess that was a statement of me failing something...or me taking too long before something happened to me to ‘die’?”

“You think that being on your own ship, you’re automatically safe, Dejen?” She asked while sitting up. “When approaching places, you need to be alert. Even more when meeting with people you don’t know. Staring right at me and only focusing on me, left you wide open. If this was a den of swindlers, your back would be exposed.”

Thinking a bit, Dejen let out a hum with cross arms as while he would argue he would have back up? There would be tiems he would be alone. Times where he didn’t had Debt, or Tatsu-- or even Mercy around to detect something. Giving a thoughtful hum...Dejen merely nod in acceptance to that. “You make a great point, especially when the unexpected happen.” then gave a low grin as he joke. “Guess it show you how much of a novice I am compare to you, eh?”

Getting off the crate and moving before him, Johari told, “it’s less the fact you’re a novice, and more the fact you’re too distracted.” Brushing past him to navigate the crates and items to keep telling. “Asha and galdan wanted someone to sharpen your skills in being a real threat. Primarily, a information broker.”

He followed her, tracking around the many crates and items they had stowed here to eventually come across what looked to be a small camping space. A little odd to see, but it seemed to accommodate Johari’s needs. Enough so she relaxed on a intricate mat, one of four just laying about.

She waited for him, and getting the que, he moved to sit on one. After she seemed to measure him, Johari said, “I asked Asha and Dadisi about you. I wouldn’t be here to just teach some low life that’s trying to get their hands on skills they shouldn't have. So I asked them why I should bother.” Then soon said, “now I want to know from you… why should I care to help you learn?”

Looking at her, Dejen thought. Charming, BS, and other persuasive tactics won’t work. Moment I give them? She’ll just walk off and leave me. Best to handle this? The truth. He let out a sigh and admit. “Honestly? I don’t expect you to care, really you could just dismiss me and walk out right now of this ship to go find your cub than wasting time with me. If anything, you could just easily get a ship and track the bastards who took your daughter and make them pay.”

Then shrug and told. “But, the only reason you might care enough? Is because I’m of use to you. I’m of use to you with the ship, with connections in Arabia-- and the only reason you might bother in teaching me, is to use me to find your kid, find the pirates who were stupid enough to mess with you, and make them regret with their lives.” then glance to her with a low grin on his face.

“Because while I don’t believe in much things beside luck? I know Karma's a bitch and it’s coming for them one way or another.”

After a moment, Johari spoke, “I was right. You’ve gone soft.”

“Eh, probably a bad thing as a info broker.” slightly agree Dejen with a shrug. “Then again, I doubt I could’ve use anything but the truth with you. You could’ve easy spot the bullshit before I could utter a word out.”

“PErhaps.” Spoke Johari, “but you lost your chance to try and conner me.” Making Dejen think on that. “You’ve gone soft. Lazy in plotting and manipulation. You know I don’t have any other immediate way off this island that doesn't involve threats to those visiting. And you know that this is the only ship that could give me the slightest of chances to find my cub.”

“That being said, honesty will get you around more easily when you know other tricks won't work.” The lioness rolled her eyes to tell, “at least you still have that skill to read others. You’re salvageable.”

Snorting in slight amusement, Dejen asked with a grin. “So I barely pass?”

“It wasn’t a test.” Johari told. “I was just deciding how much to bother teaching you.” Not really seeming concerned on what she taught completely. “Now, what are you planning to do about this whole issue with Dejeen. Asha made mention of some things, and Dadisi heard you’re up to something and he doesn't sound too happy with you coaxing the Stripe to do something… outside the islands.”

“Oh, just removing a giant thorn off my side, easily pushing through annoying politics of Arabia, while gathering all the information I can and placing few, business folks I trust enough to not fully backstab me to set up shop.” then going on to add. “As well as letting the Stripes...have a bit of retribution of sorts. And scraps. Lots of scraps.”

She watched him and said, “you don’t know what trouble you’re inviting in, do you?” But eventually waved it off to move on. “But, you’re doing this to remove someone from power? And through Arabian politics?” Going on to touch, “what does one do to go about that?”

“Oh it usually depends on what you’re trying to do.” said Dejen as he was considering on telling her...but figure this was part of the ‘training’ as to ‘improve him’. He doubted she was going to be simple, even less make things easy to teach him to be more of a threat. “Arabian politics at best? Usual revolves around business and time. The later preferably short enough to make the former last longer.”

She raised a brow and said, “Dejen, you are doing a large powerplay. Things like these can’t have mistakes. Who is the ruler, who’s taking his place? What damages will overtake the city, and what sort of costs are going to go into trying to stabilize it? Are those being inserted treated enough, or are they just biding their time to turn on you when most convenient because you gullibly believed they actually supported you?”

“Oh I know some of them are considering backstabbing me.” said Dejen with a roll of his eyes. “The only one I remotely trust is the new guy I’m going to help implement. Arabia is like a business, and trustworthy partners are a rare thing in Arabia.” looking to her with a serious expression as he told. “I know what's at stake. I know what I’m doing is a big risk. Hell, I know the implications and consequences will happen from my actions.” then told with a low sigh.

“I know enough of the damages and cost if things go right. But I also know Murphy comes by with the unexpected, there will be casualties, that I know. I know enough of how much is going to be cost with the investment I’m putting in it...even more, on what I’m doing in the long run against the ruler boss finding out about what happen.” He knew the moment Dejeen was out? Maltar will catch wind.

Sure it might be fast, it might not be quick...but the minotaur will know someone removed a useful tool, and he was going to use his resources to remove the threat. Aka, Dejen. Looking to Johali, Dejen told. “I’ve been making a plan, and you’re right on making sure there’s no mistakes-- I’m calculating every chance, every risk that could be a possibility or a unexpected chance.” then admit.

“Granted I may not be as tactical as Galdan is...but I know well enough to get opinions for a big operation like this to ensure we could lessen the mistakes that might happen. Or at least make sure everything is concrete as best we can. Since I know Luck won’t save me forever.”

She stared once more before telling, “and you’re confident you got all angles?” Slightly tilting her head to add in, “no loose ends. Even here in the isles were the four cornerstones will have to talk over why a fleet of Spotted and Striped suddenly went renegade to bomb a city?”

“Oh do not get me started on that.” slightly groaning Dejen as he said. “Trying to make sure there aren’t no loose ends, as well as back up plans with the Isles is a hell of a thing. I actually had to figure out on everything that I could be missing, even more asked the Clan on what could be done.” Part of his mind recalling the various discussions, and dismissive remarks as they ‘would take care of it’. How do you take care information of a fleet of Stripes and Spotted to bomb a city? ‘Oh don’t worry, we’ll make sure no one hears!’ Gee, thanks, that’ll reassure me greatly that my ass won’t get burn and banned from the Isles-- and possibly caused more fucked up from anything else I could be missing! thought Dejen in slight snark and bit of irritation.

Really, he wonder just how the Stripes could handle this if everyone was going to see it?

Similarly, Jahari said more to herself, “Stripes. They think they are so clever. Yet they forget who suggested they should use their skills in espionage.” Something Dejen really didn’t think about. He knew they did it and were part of it, but he was never given hint of someone teaching them… well, unless the ones that did, were the real infobrokers and the Stripes were just the extension to them.

FAcepalming, he grumble. “In hindsight, I should’ve saw that. It explains a bit on how some Blackmanes and Stripes are so buddy-buddy half the time…”

“Take to heart, that no plan goes well.” Johari began. “And that there are always bigger fish. You like to play by luck, Dejen? We Blackmanes mold it to our wants.”

Aka, don’t fuck with the OG spies. Lesson learn, Johari. Lesson learn. thought Dejen in a grumble manner, he asked. “I can only imagine some Blackmanes might consider, or possibly making plans to handle me when the time comes? Or at least make sure I try not to step on their toes?”

“You think highly of yourself, don’t you?” Blandly asked JOhari. “They find you more annoying than threatening. This mess will be straightened out soon enough. We can’t have a Striped clan go to war and tug along Spotted that would be happy to get a fight. Arabia might be a fractured nation of itself, but it’s still a nation. This could spark a potentially larger war the Isles don’t want. What do you think Equestira, Karmkal, or the Kingdoms will think when they hear a small fleet of stripes bombs a city? With spotted going on a rampage in the streets?”

Well shit. Alright I admit...I didn’t plan that far ahead. Hrm...At worst? The Isles is going to get heat because of me and be brought into question of why the Hyenas bomb a city. At best? Things might get smoothed out with a bit of diplomatic talking, a bit of long political dialogue...and a possible bounty on my head...or at least a warning to be cautious of my ship...with Arabia wanting to know why the Stripes and Spotted hitted the cities...Hrm, for some reason I may be a bigger target now...that or cause issues in the future. thought over Dejen as he wanted to bring out his deck to think clearly…

But he didn’t want Johari to notice his habit. At least...not when she could exploit it.

He did however thought over that if the Isles barred the Hyenas, it could mean he would need to readjust his plans...fast and try to figure out which back up plan could work better with what he set in mind.

“What Dadisi does, will not be any of your business though.” Johari told without much concern. “Many of the blackmanes were fairly sure that city, Abbasa, was responsible for a number of slaver attacks. If the clan can show proof of that? Then the four may allow things to pass…. After, they’ve informed those of the nation of the crimes done.”

While it was reassuring to know, Johari did tell, “you were messy, and if it wasn’t for the fact Dadisi found you useful for storing this situation up to make a opening? You would of left your little marks all over the lace for everyone to see. Infobrokers of other sorts would have a field day manipulating media and news to fit their own ends if your blundering plan went the way it did.”

...I’m so stupid! Of course they would! berated Dejen in frustration as he kept quiet. Damn it, she’s right! I’ve gone soft? What the hell happen!? although that answer came back in full force. When you decided to help Shima to live in Ramada, left Arabia, lost your edge when talking to the Twins and was reminded of who we were once were? a frown settle on his lips as he thought on that answer.

He knew that since he left Arabia, he...lost his edge. Lost his cunning with information, his manipulation of other's and making people play in the palm of his hand. Ever since he left Arabia and had to ‘change the rules’? He wasn’t ‘Death’s Gambler’-- or rather the info broker kind he was in Arabia. He was just...Dejen, a inventor, a leader of a ragtag group of misfits...and a gambler. The only thing he still had with his skills was his swindling, since apparently not having enough information and working as a broker made him as rusty as a native Stripe!

Johari watched silently, and seemed to observed, “so you’ve finally noticed.” seeming to watch all the more closely. “You’ve grown attached to things the way they are. And now, you’ve just left behind your old ways for this new one.” Not that Dejen could find a way to justify it. Being cutthroat called for being a little distant. Something he wasn’t with his crew anymore.

After a bout of silence, Johari told, “there’s not much I can do if you don’t feel like going back. So instead of trying to make you into something that might be impossible, how about we change you into something else?”

Raising a brow, he remarked. “Oh and what's that? A sensible Stripe?”

“It would be a start.” Johari told with a straight face.

“..Me thinks you prefer the Stripes to be sensible than the near insane lot they are now.” noted Dejen. “Then again, after meeting with my ‘cousins’, I can safely see why.”

Seeming to add to this, Johari told, “you can’t reason with the mad, Dejen. Why do you think bribes and even tricks don’t work on Stripes, their own given and taught insanity makes them difficult to just reason with. Reasoning only works when you have sense.”

“But without sense, you become hard to understand and in some cases, difficult to work with.” The blackmane snorted and told him. “You’e not like them. But you’re not unlike them. So, the best way to make you effective? Is by making you into something else that takes a new route of teaching.”

“Information brokers of the isles are untrusted and feared. Those of Arabia are liars and cut throat. Going to the Kingdoms only leaves you on a delicate line of political traps. In Equestria, you need to read the lines and watch the darker corners. With the holds, money is what causes deals to make or break, bribes and under the table deals.”

Alright...I’m interested….what is she going to suggest of this new route? Because it can’t be the same...but it can’t be too different. Maybe a jack of trades teaching? Maybe...I did well enough with the Holds. Know enough of what I could with the Isles-- and lived and breath Arabia for 3 years...although the Kingdoms and Equestria is a bit...iffy with me. thought Dejen as he made sure to listen to every word he could understand from her, and what it could mean for him.

Seeing he was listening, Johari said, “since you’re on the move, you can do something most can’t. Learn about things on the move. Hearing information in one place, can be invaluable in another. To make yourself a real network, you need to do something a little different.” Then smirked in amusement. “Make friends.”

“Ah, the spread connection through friendship.” remarked Dejen. “Best way to gain info, is to make friends.” knowing of this well, mostly since he did this with Harshio and plenty of other's in Arabia in his years. He however frown and said. “Problem is, keeping in touch with friends. Making a network is good on paper, but applying it is tricky...especially when we need a secure and long-range connection with the network-- and how far spread it might be.”

“Then I suggest you start thinking that over.” Suggested the blackmane. “Beuse while you figure that out? I’m sure Dadisi will be giving you a visit for that little… blunder you made. I think he will have words with you.” Half narrowing her eyes to punctuate. “Many words.”

Lovely. thought Dejen in exasperation. something tells me it’s like ‘daddy disapprove’ and ‘I’m using my belt on your ass’ discussion...but with words. Lots and lots of words. giving a sigh, he asked in dry humor. “Should I make a gravestone for myself? ‘Here lies Dejen, died from verbal asswhopping from Dadisi’.”

Lifting a brow, Johari said, “we don’t ‘woop’ the backside, Dejen. That’s too crass. Knowing Dadisi? He’s going to make you understand that if you mess with the isles like you did just now? You’re going to find that your next visit will end very poorly.”

Meaning I’ll be dead, probably a slow death too. Or a very painful death with shadow magic and jaws clamping down with bones breaking. then amend. Or possibly being eaten alive. That might work too. thought Dejen as he let out a sigh. “Noted. I’ll be sure to prepare my gravestone then.” adding that in a dry tone, already feeling his hands move to take out his deck, feeling the need to calm his nerves with a shuffling of cards.

With a flick of her eyes, Dejen almost stopped his action while she looked back to his face. Pushing down his hesitation, he began to shuffle. There was a odd… stiffness in the room with how she now stared at him. Almost stuffy.

“Perhaps you should go.” Began Johari. “It will take a while to figure out the best means to get you started on your new ways of conduct.”

Don’t press, might get a roaring. thought Dejen, stopping his shuffling for now as he got on his feet. “Agreed.” giving a brief nod as he turn to make his way out, unable to stop the shuffling again as his mind think of what he could invent...or ask with Rah-Rah-- maybe with Felix too? Although he did this time, keep his wit around his surroundings...Mostly because he felt a tingling in the back of his neck.

That usually means he should keep his ass safe from possible threats.

Johari was right. Dadisi was not happy. The bland faced and otherwise bored out of his mind looking lion, came with a moderately annoyed look. What proceeded, was possibly the longest lecture Dejen got in basic common sense. It had very little to do with information brokering, or political dynamic of the isles or even the simple fact that he was trying to play a game he didn’t understand.

No, Dadisi seemed to underline all the most basic, little, tiny common sense details that Dejen had trouble keeping track of. Truthfully, the striped had forgotten most of it after an hour, and Dejen half wondered if Dadisi purposely did that, just to waste his time.

After all of that though, the Blackmane ‘suggested’ he and his crew left and did something else, like find Johari’s cub. Because apparently while Dadisi had gotten things ‘under control’, there was a fairly huge deal of how the Zebra mare gotten back to the isles and who brought her. Something the four leaders of the cornerstones wanted to know, because there was very little they could do to keep the now angured clan from rushing out to blow up the nearest city.

After some talking, Dejen had to regretfully turn over his contacts to the blackmane so they could make a more streamlined plan-- that didn’t involve some mass hysteria over the nations with ‘possibly random stripe bombings’.

So, Dejen was left somewhat annoyed while leaving the Isles and half trying to figure out how to find a lion cub in all of Arabia. The most obvious move, was to identify these pirates, and even more so, locate the best place to sell a lion cub off.

However with Abassa being a place most would or could sell slaves? Dejen had to rethink with finding information on these Pirates, to which he had to plan on talking with various of peoples to gather information once more. Using a bit of Johari ‘wise words’ as info broker to gather contacts, or rather new contacts and figure out a lead. He tried with the contacts he turned over to Dadisi, but they didn’t knew anything of these Pirates.

He doubted Harshiro would know, as the stallion wouldn’t gain pirates into his docks. Which lead to trying to head to another city that could be close hear the seas as he figure they would sell her off from there. Problem was, he was partially hoping he could head to Abbassa once his pal was in throne to gain any information.

But with Dejeen still in the seat, going to Abbassa was a bad idea. So Dejen had to plan for a different route. He figure he could visit some cities as close he could by the ocean, then make his way to Ramada for Mercy to gain a answer from the Queens, or rather the ones she wanted to join up with her.

Dejen also knew he needed to head to the Holds for two reasons, being of dropping off the nonfighters, and visiting Sinsana Clan to drop off the heads and the two Hernos...and get himself a new gun. With all theses thoughts circling around his mind, Dejen couldn’t help but sigh and brought out his deck to shuffle. Sitting in his chair as his mind think to what to plan out, what to do, and better yet?

How to change his style as a broker, even more figuring out a way to have constant communication. They don’t have the means to make phones, and the walkies could only be stretched so far with their connection to the ship. He needed a sure way of communication…Hrm...maybe ask Rah-Rah for suggestions? This is technically part of her turf. thought Dejen, as he shook his head. No, no...maybe we could use that gem system? Pretty sure with the right runes, the right stone...it could work. Problem is we don’t have a lot of gems...mostly due to Gem being a mad genius.

The only options of aquiring more gems to have a system, would be either buying them in Arabia...or risk Equestria. He also consider on how the structure of the system work of communications. They do need some sort of wavelength, a tower to tune in callls, even making sure they don’t overlap the other while multiple calls are coming in. We need a radio tower...or a comm tower, but how are we going to make one on a moving ship? thought Dejen as with each question asked?

Did more problems and challenges came up by the double as Dejen furrow his brows. As it seem with each idea that came up, did it’s problems, its development time, and resources needed to craft it came into play.

Dejen almost consider on asking some of the ex-hunters on anything in equestria in terms of gems and where they could be bought at in a cheap price. Or at least...a price that doesn’t make a dent in his finances.

“Food for your thoughts?” He half glanced over to find Johari wandering in, giving him a careful look over to tell, “because I would like to know what is going on before we reached any ports.”

Snorting, Dejen told. “First part of my plan? We try to gather intel of this pirate group, see if they stopped by anywhere close for any transaction. I was planning to head to Abassa, but after that, ‘discussion’ Dadisi put me through, that’s no longer a option.” then told on. “After that? Well, we’ll be coming by a city I know well to let Mercy talk to a few people she know. Hopefully we can hear from various traders or travelers if they spotted that ship by chance. Or at least know it’s direction.”

“You think the ship would roamed around arabia for this long?” A doubt in Johari’s tone. “The attack was weeks back. They would of dropped their cargo and left. We’re on a cold trail, the only way to know for sure is tracking it backwards, not where it would go.”

Letting out a breath, he said. “I know one thing for sure, they aren’t Arabian. No colors I heard of with their emblem, even less would take a risky hit on the Northern Cornerstone. My best guess? They came from the Kingdoms, since its the closest to the Northern Cornerstone.”

Thinking on this, Johari gave a slight nod. “While it’s sensible, it’s also doubtful. Most griffin's or pirates in that area know better. And those pirates were not your average sort. They came in with too much confidence. I would say they were new to the area and underestimated us.”

While that was nice info, it didn’t help much in figuring where they went. “I figured Arabia would be their destination, because other places are difficult to simply sell slaves. Karmkal has a odd system, the Griffins are weary or very select about it. Equestria does not enforce it at all. Arabia has a whole monetary system, one that would want a Lion as a exotic and rare find.” Which was true.

And thinking about it, Dejen realized… a cub, a Lion cub, would buy for a huge price. A price that would not at all be common to see in most places, much less a slaver’s circles. Zebras were rare and exotic enough to be sold for a lot of coin. But a Lion cub? That was… he wasn’t sure if that was even a thing at one point.

Hands shuffling the cards a bit faster, Dejen thought harder on who could have such money-- if she was sold? Going over the amounts of profit, of economics, of sales over the cities barred Ramada-- Dejen thought more as the Pirates never did handle slaves...even more be so well unprepared as to handle their ‘cargo’. Slavers? They would probably know all about the exotic price of a Lioness cub would sell, and duped the pirates into selling the cub at a low price…

Then sold the cub at a high price.

Dejen thought the more as his eyes closed. Thinking to himself of what sort of group would take the cub to sell off? They had to be confident enough, or ignorant enough to not know the dangers with a cub...and a dangerous mother searching for it in retribution. Thinking of all the slaver groups he know of, and what each type were like…

Dejen frowned as he was certain that he pirates weren’t the target. But more like the slaver group...problem was, which?

Stopping his shuffling for a moment, did Dejen open his eyes as he said. “Instead of finding the pirates, we need to find the slavers.” looking to her as he went on. “The slavers probably either heard or found out about the Pirates with the cubs, duped them to sell your daughter at a cheap price, while taking her to be sold off at a insanely high price.” thinking a bit more as he went on. “Problem is, there’s a lot of groups around, so trying to narrow it down will be a pain. Even less if they’re on the move, or sold off the cub at this point.”

Wandering up, Johari asked, “how would that be hard?” A low rumble echoing from her throat. “If they sold my daughter for a great amount of coin, simply ask who of those you know, gained a hefty sum in the last few weeks.” circling around one side to come before him. “Think about it. Someone is bound to notice someone spending obscene amounts of coin or to show off their new wealth. Surly, those slavers know the other groups to keep the… peace, as it were?”

“Yeah…” said Dejen in a thoughtful tone. “They hate it when each other groups try to wreck their business. They try to keep it a point to be ‘pleasant’.” thinking more as his hands shuffle once again. “When we do reach to one of the cities, I can pry open a few lips to see which group it was...or rather who spent the shekels the most.” then thought and said. “But the only ones with big coin are Sultans, powerful businessman, or Lords who were lucky enough to have enough coin.”

Already forming on the purchase, or rather finding the closest slavers group to gain info on what they knew. Granted it would be…’Tense’ as technically he was still a wanted man. And technically they knew well enough to not fight against him...but it doesn’t mean they won’t smell the opportunity when they find it.

She seemed to measure him for a moment before telling, “if you hear anything, tell me.” Getting up to prowl out of the room. “If you find someone that knows something? Make sure you bring them back. I would like to talk to them. Maybe over dinner.” Leaving out and making Dejen wonder if he should do that for her.

On one hand, I would be concern of the mess that would be made...but on the other hand, it would be a damn sight to laugh my ass off. thought Dejen as he would rather not have a bloody and pissed mess in his ship...there was a chance he could acquire the assets of whoever did knew and take it himself. But, that remains the question. Who? Even more, where are they located? thought Dejen as he sighed out with a shake of his head.

I’m just glad Taka and Katsume hasn’t pester me on talking them back to the Clan...Even less since technically I’m ‘finish’ with buisness here. he partially wonder why they didn’t came up to ask.

Meanwhile, Tatsu, Bina, and Mercy were within the same room of Katsume as they were all trying to convince her to talk to the guy, or even use the ‘dress’ Tatsu somehow persuaded Katsume to get from Poppy’s store. Said dress being a very ‘bold’ kind of dress. One the Herno was very reluctant, to which Mercy internally grumble in irritation. She knew it was a lovely dress, showing off the feminine curves, a bit of cleavage. Even slit up on the sides to highlight the legs, but not high enough.

Even the back exposing in a V shape, and lacking sleeves to show off the arms-- but it was a balance of modest and appealing in sexiness! Although trying to convince Katsume to have it on while talking to Taka...was a whole other can of worms.

“Oh come on Katsume!” said Mercy as she felt her patience thin. “It's the best approach to seeing his attraction to you, live a little!”

Nervously, Katsume shook her head and flushed more deeply, “W-why need to know? What does attraction matter, am just talking, yes?” Seeming to be wanting out of this situation, and looking at Tatsu wearily while the kitsune held up the dress in question.

Rolling her eyes, Bina told, “Katsume, really, we know you have a thing for Taka.” Making the herno freeze. “You don’t have to hid it, we’ve figured it out already.”

Quickly shaking her head, Katsume stuttered out, “t-that is, no I….” And quickly motioned at the dress, “is most indecent!” Trying to find some excuse. It made Bina cross her arms at Katsume’s nervousness and glance at Mercy with a raised brow.

Tatsu shook her head and spoke, “and here I thought that Bina was uncertain of courtship.”

“Tatsu!” Bina half shouted in embarrassment.

Snorting in amusement, Mercy said, “She makes a point, Bina.” then told to Katsume. “Katsume sweetie? I know you like Taka, its rather obvious with what I’m sensing.” then soon told with a amuse smile. “Beside, consider this a way to help him see appreciate you in a different light.”

With a very fast shake of her head, Katsume told, “can’t, is not right, indecent and--”

“Katsume, we’re not in the holds!” Bina called out with some exasperation. “Look, I get it, you don’t want to do this in some dishonorable way, but really, if you want to even have a chance with Taka, then you’ll need to take a chance for once and risk it!”

“Yeah, just take a bit of a risk while we’re in Arabia.” agreed Mercy with a firm nod. “There is no dishonor about this, especially since with no other Hernos to judge you.” then grinned. “Beside, consider this a way to one-up the other females in his village to get closer to his heart before they do.”

Sagging, Katsume told, “no wish to up on others.”

Sighing, Tatsu lowered the dress and told, “Taka has not chosen a bride as of yet. This is a fact I have found true. But the chances of him gaining one raises every moment you do not make a move.” Folding the clothing over a arm to move next to Katsume. “You wish to try making a life with him? Then now is the time to act.”

“But how?” Asked KAtsume, “have no honor. Am without clan. Have lost rights as priestess. What am I?”

“You can still cook, right?” Getting looks from all three women at Bina’s question. She looked to each and told, “I know I’m not exactly the best person to ask about relationships? But one rule seems constant. The most direct way to a guys heart? Is their stomach.”

Mercy thought on that...and remarked. “I don’t think it works for some guys...Like Dejen or Debt…”

“Does Dejen still come right to you when you have a lemon pie ready?” Innocently asked Bina. “And won’t Debt wander over when he knows that Mynu has a bowl of soup cook in a way only he likes?” The women looked between one another as the teen smiled. “Face it. When men know that their favorite food’s around, they have a really hard time saying no.”

“Fair point.” said Mercy, as she gave a thoughtful hum and told. “But now we gotta figure out on what Taka favorite meal is...even more on how to make it correctly.” Thinking a bit as she asked. “Any suggestions?”

To that, Bina told, “he likes a salmon dish on the side of a curried sprinkled rice with some lime seasoning squeezed over it.” It caught them all off guard with how Bina was so sure of this. “I had to take care of him once, believe it or not, and during his delusion, mentioned that. I tried it out, and it is his favourite.”

Shaking her head a bit, Mercy decided not to taese Bina, mostly due to how she recall how ‘crazy’ Taka was with the mind magic. She did however grin to Katsume as she asked to Bina. “think you could teach Katsume on how to make it? I’m pretty sure he’ll start showing intrest to her once he taste his favorite meal.”

She gave a nod to that, and Katsume still seemed unsure. It made Mercy want to twist her face at such nervousness… but this was almost like dealing with a young queen going on their first seduction quest. It may take a bit of coaxing to help the feline along.

Tatsu to some extent, added in, “perhaps while Bina-chan is aiding in teaching you the recipe, Mercy-san and I can set things up with Taka-san.” But, placed a hand on Katsume to add, “after…. We have gotten you properly dressed. Getting a half-alarmed look from Katsume.

“B-bu-but--” Startted the herno.

“The only ‘butts’ that would be seen, is yours in that dress for Taka to look at!” told Mercy with a mischievous grin. “Now, we can either do it the easy way, where you wear the dress...or we can be very persuading to you with...other ways.” horn glowing to make her point across.

Ears flat, Katsume meekly asked, “can I not… simply have modest dress?”

Feeling both hands and magic on her, Tatsu told, “this is for your own good, Katsume-san.” Both Mercy and Tatsu moving the feline away to get the dress on, while Bina just sighed out.

“I’ll be in the kitchen!” She called, the teen turning around and heading out. “And stop scaring her so much you two!” Adding more to herself, “we’re trying to help her build confidence, not scare her out of her mind.” Closing the door while the two women got the feline ready for a date.

As the Innovation Rise travel across the seas, heading to the nearest Arabia city to gather info, Dejen delved into what he knew of information. Mostly from slavers, as while there were a few who attempted to take his life, the Stripe knew how to make them talk...with Debt ‘suggesting’ on breaking a few limbs. Or rip off a leg. Or even ‘inviting’ those who might have known something but refuse to answer to Johari just to see what could happen.

As Dejen and Debt brought a roped tied diamond dog, who Dejen knew had information on which slaver group it was-- or rather who bought off the ‘exotic merchandise’ of a cub, but refuse to say who and where. So...they brought him to Johari in a room where they could easily clean up the mess.

The stripe glance down to the dog, grinning as he said in a expression he rarely use. “Come now, if you just tell us what we know, then you won’t experience too much pain!”

The dog growled as he spat at Dejen robes. “Think you scary? You lost power. You lost strength, Gambler! You’re nothing now. Your fangs are gone now! Your lackey ain’t scary anymore!” Debt gave a low growl to this, but Dejen raise a arm as he chuckle.

“Listen, buddy, I’m asking for your sakes. Cuz...you really don’t know what you just did.” knowing this dog was a member of the slaver group, or one of them that knew what he wanted. “So, last chance. Tell us and well...I might put in a good word for you.”

The dog scoffed. “Or what? You let gnoll beat me up?” Dejen ear flick as he heard a low growl in the shadows as Dejen tsked.

“Nope. you get to talk with the mother of the cub.” already walking back as the dog last chance was up to talk freely.

At first the diamond dog seemed confused. Ear flicking to hear the growl go silent. Dejen and Debt had decided to step back more towards the door, mostly to block it off. It had gone rather silent, and while the dog was busy looking around, both Debt and Dejen could see two yellow eyes pierce the shadows and next to stalk around the searching dog.

Every time the dog turned to find the lioness, those eyes seemed to vanish away before appearing elsewhere. The dog eventually snorted and looked at them to call their bluff. That, was when Johari pounced and pinned the dog down, giving a very low rumble in her throat and looked his mover.

She gave a sniff, and told, “not the most pleasant of smells, but dinner is dinner.” Cocking her head to the side and said, “but maybe not. You know where my Daughter is?” Large paws pressing down and claws slightly showing, pricking at the dog’s skin. “Better hurry, I could use a meal.”

Stuttering, he look to Dejen and said. “W-When you got giant cat!?” Dejen thought and shrug.

“Oh...about the time when some idiots kidnap a cub. And sold said cub to a certain slaver group you know.” then told. “Better talk fast, she might do it too.”

Shaking his head, he try to bluff. “N-No, not your way. You’re too soft to do this.”

“He is.” Johari said absently, making the dog gain some confidence… but felt the lioness shift his person. One paw to hold him in place, and another to get a good hold of a leg. “But I’m not.” Both Dejen and Debt next to winced when she actually took a bit from his leg. Both gnawing, and seeming to actually eat some.

As the dog scream, feeling the teeth biting into his flesh and eating, Debt look as he felt slightly unerved of a ‘canniable’. Then again they were two different species...but still felt unsettling. Dejen did his best to not throw up, or show a reaction as he looked to the lioness eating from that ‘small bite’.

“You better tell her now. Otherwise she’ll keep going.” told Dejen as he tried to keep his cool.

“I’ll talk! I’LL TALK!” screech out the dog. “The group that got the cub was the Sleek Stars! They left for east weeks ago!” Feeling the lioness still gnawing without a care as the dog scream out as he tried to move as he could under the weight in agony. “I heard a Sultan by the name of Freaf bought a exotic slave! Paid nearly 100 golden shekels for it!” feeling the next bite slightly makes the bone snaps as the two males winced at the sight.

“Freaf lives in Kroan! HE’S IN KROAN! THAT'S ALL I KNOW, I SWEAR!”

“Hey Johari, I think that’s enough, can’t get anything else out if you keep eating till he’s dead, right?” said Dejen as he tried to keep his cool.

Seeming to lift her head and give one lick to the pretty mauled section of leg, Johari told, “He can live without a leg or two, can’t he?” Seeming to pass an amused look to the dog. “Well, he can live without his arms too. Maybe a nibble more? He might smell bad, but he is a little tasty.”

Whimpering in pain, the dog begged. “Can tell more, can tell everything I know! Just KEEP HER AWAY FROM ME!” screech the dog out, as the two guys wince from the high pitch screech, but Dejen told.

“Maybe, but I’m sure you rather not have a disgusting taste in your mouth till your next meal, right? Dogs like him will give bad breath for a good while.”

“Your problem, not mine if I have bad breath for a bit.” Johari told passively. “But since you seem so intent on letting him go, fine.” Moving off the wimping dog. “But no guarantees if I see him again. I think I’ve gotten a taste for him.” Casting a look to the dog before sinking back into the shadows where the lioness seemed to melt away into.

Dejen move by to the dog, as he crouch and told. “Look, tell me everything. Now.” then galnce and said. “And I may let you get help for that leg.” the dog nodded as fast as he moved his head.

“Know that Freaf paid big gold, his city is used for shipments of slaves, mostly supplies between other cities or slaver groups! Need big coin to get a slave, or a very expensive slave.” then told. “Know where you can get good price of a few there, if you let me live, I can-,”

Tsking, Dejen said. “Right now, I’m more focus on the cub...but I’ll take your ‘vouchers’ if you got any. Call it...repairments for being stupid enough to not be honest.” while the dog wanted to insult Dejen, his eyes move in fear of where the lioness left as the dog nodded.

“Can, can do that. Can give proof that you value customer!” then begged. “Can I get help?” Dejen nod as he motioned to Debt to get Susumu, although while the gnoll left, Dejen asked.

“What else do you know?” and like a dam, the dog told him of things. Mostly of slavers group finding some ‘high priced bounty’ that's been notified by a big boss called Maltar. As well as Abassa suddenly having a new Sultan that appeared after Dejeen death. The stripe learned other tidbits, nothing important to many, but something he knew would be important to the right ears in due time.

The stripe saw Susumu coming in, as the Kitsune made a face as he look to the leg, then asked. “Should I know?”

Dejen shook his head. “Don’t. You’ll save your stomach that way.” Susumu sighed, as he preformed a sleep jutsu, then had the gnoll carry the dog away for the doctor to perform healing aid. Or amputation due to the exposure of the leg of the bone.

Although as Dejen walked out the room with a quick update for someone to clean the room when able to, did he had to lean a wall as he rubbed his face. Wow...that could’ve been me and Asha back then...only less biting of flesh. Ugh, that’s going to haunt my dreams for a while….Look like Blackmanes don’t make threats...but guentiess. letting out a sigh as he thought. Still, we should be able to find that cub now...problem is if the guy sold her off or not.

Its doubtful...but something tells me he’ll have problems. thinking abit as going to a slaver filled city, especially one with constant supplies moving will be...hard. He would need to get a smaller ship, or a ride to the place to avoid detection. Even make sure he had a way out once they gather what they know-- or take the cub out of the Sultans hoof. Which means lots of planning for what could be done. Maybe wear cloaks to avoid detection as best we can? Pretty sure I could be assumed as a diamond dog with a cloak. thinking it over of the best solution he knew of with what they learned.

He nearly jumped from his skin when Johai spoke next to him, “looks like we have a real direction.” When he turned, he still saw a spot or two of blood around her mouth, but seemed to have mostly been cleaned off. “I’m coming with when we look for my cub. I’m getting her back, one way or another.”

Looking to her, he asked. “I’m guessing asking you to wait is not a option?” Knowing that the moment they go to the city? She’ll head to the palace without giving a damn. Shaking his head, he thought to himself. But knowing how a mother is with her cub...yeah, that might not be possible. he figure of a plan to maybe get a hit and run job. Mostly to not get Johari snap at him...or pounce at him and possibly break a arm.

“Would you stay on the ship knowing your mate of a mare was held by some stranger?” Rebuked the lioness, hitting at a nerve within Dejen. “I am coming with. They have my daughter and think they can toy with her. I have every right to go in, and get her back.” Then added while padding along with a deep growl, “maybe gut the supposed owner before I leave. Preferably while he’s still conscious.”

Taking a breath in, he sighed as he rubbed his head. “If you are serious on this...I’ll get the big guns.” then added. “Maybe get the ship to cause a slight distraction while we make a hit and run.” already thinking as he told. “I’ll gather the other's, see if we can come up a plan.” already moving as he consider on asking the twins for this. Since they were demi-gods after all.

Stopping, Johari told, “you misunderstand, Dejen. I want to go in with no one the wiser, and send a very crystal clear message of what happens when a Lioness wants her cub back.” Adding flatly, “I don’t want mayhem. I want panic within the place they think they are so safe in.”

Pausing in his steps, he thought it over...and amended. “Sorry, thought you meant the blunt approach.” thinking and nodding. “The sneaky way? That is more reassuring.” thinking as he asked. “Need me and Tatsu to come with you to make sure you’re covered?”

She gave him a long look and said, “Bring who you want. As long as they can remain quite? Then I will be fine with it.” Choosing then to leave. “And bring something to cover our escape if things do go wrong. Preferably something to cause mass confusion.”

Grenades and flashbangs tend to do that. thought Dejen as he began walking again, as he thought of other things to bring along...he however should probably find Tatsu and let her know of what will happen, maybe tell Port of their direction. He however hope things will be a clean get away…

Then again, Murphy was always there to remind him that nothing can go ‘right’ in life.