Arabian Swindler

While Dejen was utterly annoyed of losing Yumchal tracks...he knew that this was important. If the Hunters were deploying gas to reveal changelings? Chances are it might be big to spread to other nations. While they had to swing by to Humilit to pick up this drone, mostly for directions-- they were making their way to the Kingdoms.

Or at least...going to a higher altitude to avoid detection from patrols and other things.

It would take soem time to reach there, so he figure to call up a meeting with those in the crew, even Asha and Johari for their input as he spoke. “Alright, plans been changed on the whole ‘gain rep’. Most of you probably know why, since apparently Hunters been using some sort of gas to reveal changelings.”

Going on to say as he look around. “Now, I’ll admit, I don’t know if we can get this Hive before the Hunters do, but I do want to know what this gas is and if its spreading to other areas.”

“Here's a question,” spoke Gem. “How did they develop this ‘revealing gas’ in the first place? I thought changelings disguises were flawless.”

“There are ways to remove a disguise,” informed Mercy. “But most are either lacking of energy to shapeshift-- or being knocked out from a magical surge. This gas is...concerning, especially if its’ ‘inhumane’ in the eyes of Equestrians.”

Johari thought on it and remarked, “it could be something as simple as a chemical.” Pondering on it some to proceed and tell. “Magic can be influenced by many other factors. While it’s true it’s near perfect, magic can cause it to strip away. This gas, could be magical in nature. But the magic used, could be what causes harm. And that harm, possibly lingering, is what makes it… prohibited in Equestria.”

Agreeing some, Asha said, “Equestria might be leery of changelings, but they aren't all cruel.” Though became concerned some to say, “but if they’re making it and it becomes popular? Then other Hunter groups might use it.”

“I doubt it would see use in the Holds.” Tatsu spoke up. “The King is much too stern on what can be done in his lands. A gas that could harm changelings, might harm others. Vast amounts of testing would be called for, and great scrutiny of it’s use.” Then pondered, “but Arabia… is of another matter.”

“Yeah, Arabia might as well buy it across the cities,” said Dejen, as he amend. “Well, except for maybe a small few. But overall? Yeah they’ll use it.” crossing his arms to add. “I can see loads of slavers buying it to increase profit chances.”

“But it could also be used as a weapon against Ramada and it’s Shiftlings.” added Debt. “maybe as a means for slavers and the Hunters to strike against Shima and her children.”

“Which we can’t allow.” told Dejen, as he look to Galdan and asked. “Galdan, anyone you remotely trust in the Kingdoms? I know you said you’ve been in Equestria for a long time, but is there anyone in the Kingdoms you know enough to be useful?”

Humming, Galdan told, “I know a few people that owe me a favor or two… Also have a close relative I know. She could at least point us the right way.” Going on to say, “we don’t see eye-to-eye for the most part. But we agree on some things. Our best bet on aid is with her.”

Thinking on it, Felix told, “I think I’ll message Miko about needing some help. We could use her skills to rummage around for information while we’re there. Mostly to find out more about this gas and how it works.” Seeming to raise a hand in a shrugging manner. “Cuz’ it might not do nothing to the Shiftlings. We won’t know until we know what’s in it.”

With a calming breath and closed eyes, Asha said, “I think I will go and meditate. See if I can gain a vision of what may occur.” Standing and padding her way out of the room.

They watched for a time before Johari asked to Galdan, “this relative of yours. Are you certain they can be trusted?” Almost leery of having another in on this little operation.

“I’d bet my wings she’d help.” Galdan firmly nodded. “Countess Elivia. Noble of a small area on the fringes of the Kingdoms. She’s pro-changeling concerning how they’re treated. I should know, I’ve sent a few changelings her way.”

“And your disagreements?” Pressed the Lioness.

“She thought I shouldn’t have been part of the Changeling hunters.” Galdan told simply. “I did it out of military obligation. She found the group too questionable to be liable.”

“Something that is common.” said a amused Mercy, as Susumu glance and question.

“Are Hunters eyeing at this Countess? For all we know? Could have spies on her, blackmail her to work for them.”

“Eh, gotta agree with doc here,” said Gem. “If she’s pro-changeling, chances are the Hunters are having a keen eye on her, wouldn’t they try something once they find out about us visiting her?”

Snorting, Galdan said, “they can try. But she is one mean griffioness. You get on her wrong side? And you’re looking at a lack of trade in certain goods, or maybe having some other nobles not helping out in business. She has strings, lot’s of them. But rarely uses them unless someone’s stupid enough to ruffle her feathers.”

“Hear that ‘Clan-Head’?” joked Gem with a wide grin. “Try not to piss off the Countess.”

Snorting, Dejen said. “I think Elivia might see me as a potential tool, or a potential partner in business.”

“More like what I saw you as.” Galdan stated, “a problem better tossed at your enemies to deal with and get headaches.” Then told simply, “she knows who you are.”

Being a bit surprise, Dejen glance to ask Galdan with a curious tone. “Why Galdan, I didn’t knew you already told Elivia about me, did you warn her ahead of time if I decided to make my way to the Kingdoms?”

Gruffing to this, Galdan told, “no sir. This was before I signed up with you. I was voicing all my headaches every time we met in our letters.” Getting snickers or small laughs around the room.

“Well boss, looks like you made a impression of being a constant headache.” teased Gem, Dejen rolled his eyes as he stated.

“Ha-ha.” shaking his head a bit as he asked to Galdan. “Anything I should know of the Kingdoms? How they operate and what the landscape is like?”

“Cold, mountainous, windy and most lower areas having casims or forests of evergreens.” Galtan quickly informed. “Most forests can be found near Equestria’s lands, while the mountains are more and more prevalent in the north. Winter storms are pretty common, a rare few will happen in these spring and summer months, but blow over pretty fast.” It was a good deal of info o know. “We’re in the warmest time of the year, so don’t worry about chills. It will be mostly pleasant weather wise. Just be weary of rouge winds, not always easy to fly in for with wings.”

While Debt took this in to assist Port with flying the ship, he asked. “What sorts of trouble we’ll encounter beside the Hunters? Will we deal with some nobility or pirates?”

Shaking his head, Galdan told, “the worst threats will be sky-pirates. They’re a cut above most, and know how to sail the skies around the kingdoms. They’re few and in between, but that only makes them all the more dangerous as their elite among any other pirate’s I know.”

“As for the nobility? They can be sharp bastards.” Snorted out the Captain. “As long as you’re outside their lands? Then you have very little to worry about. Just keep in mind they have their own hired malita mercenary forces. Not as devoted as the Minotaurs forces, but still damned strong and trained for war. Best be on best behaviour while in each plot of land under each noble.”

“Any types of taxes we’ll be forced to pay? Or inspections?” asked Dejen, as he glance to Mercy as he added. “And whats the Hunter means of ‘snooping’ in the Kingdoms? Do they board on the ship like in the Holds to inspect around?”

Shaking his head, Galdan said, “if we stick to the outer or middle reaches of the Kingdoms? We have less red-tape to go through. Closer to the middle of the Kingdoms seat you get? The more security to get past. At the very most, I see a few patrols either asking for ID to let us pass, or if we don’t got it? Redirect us around the nobleman's land. At worse? They’ll see no ID and shoot us, presuming we’re Pirates. Taxes vary depending on how deep in we go.”

Slowly Mercy glance to Dejen to ask. “Say Dejen...you do have a ID, right?”

Snorting in amusement, Dejen assured. “I got one, made sure to used a international ID thanks to Felix here with hooking me up with a guy he knew.” he did however asked. “But Galdan, what about the Hunters? I know the ones in the Holds are tied up by the Holds laws, Equestrian got them in a firm control and Arabians are lawless-- whats the Kingdoms Hunters like?”

“Extension of military.” Firmly said the griffon. “There’s very rare cases of external Hunter’s being drafted or transferred into the Kingdoms. For the most part, all the hunter’s are Local. The only drafted or external ones in it? Are ones a Noble allowed in. It also depends on the Noble and how they stand with the political situation.”

Going on as a example, Galdan said, “Count Gramda for example, is very anti-changeling. Mostly out of paranoia. So he accepts hunter’s from other regions to help bolster his Hunter ranks. Then you have Countess Elivia, who allows changelings but still has a dedicated ‘hunter’ group, but one that lines up with her views.”

“Anything else we need to know Galdan? Like who to really watch out for in terms of nobility or Hunters?” pressed Mercy as she went on. “For all we know, there could be a dangerous Hunter that’s either working for a noble, or someone who’s really good at their job in finding changelings.”

Shaking his head, Gldan admitted, “power from nobles shift all the time in the Kingdoms. I’ve been away for a couple years, so what I know is obsolete. For all I know, Gramda has the least amount of power and is just making due with his fish-oil runs.” Rolling his eyes as he did. “All the same, there might be some new nobility. Either replacing some that died, got assassinated or were just instated to be nobility after getting someone’s favor.”

“Well, better than nothing.” said Dejen with a sigh, shaking his head as he went on. “Still, hopefully we’ll have better information once we enter the Kingdoms and talk with your Countess.”

Glancing, Debt spoke. “Sir, this could be a chance for you to gain some sort of credence in term of being a Clan-Head. Even if you are not nobility, you have a chance to make some sort of impact.”

“That depends…” started Dejen as he glance to Galdan to go on. “Would they even care if I make my claim as a Clan-head? For all I know, they might as well see me as some nobody diamond dog.”

Snorting to that, Galdan told, “you don’t have a high-standing credential or favor of a high-standing official? Then you aren't anyone.” Going on to make it clear. “For the Griffon Kingdoms, you have to have a level of standing with nobility, rulers or other’s of high standing. If you have none of that for yourself or given by someone with high-standing? Then you’re mostly a second or third class person.”

Nodding, Dejen told to Debt. “In short? I might as well be ignored by everyone. Which in this case? Works in our favor, since we’re going to be making trouble once we know more on this Hive and the gas itself.”

Looking at Dejen, Mercy asked in amusement. “You can ignore a gigantic battleship that has a build that isn’t like anything in all the lands?”

“...no….but in this case I’m just hoping they won’t try to tie me down in some political bullshit of theirs.” Mercy roll her eyes as she asked to Galdan.

“What would the reactions and protocol be once they see the Innovation traveling through the Kingdoms?”

With a deep heave to that, Gldan said flatly, “it’s a battleship not under anyone’s control. I think it’s pretty clear border patrol would rather we don’t go in. Which is why I suggested my cousin. She’ll at least recognize it and let us in. If anything, to ‘entertain’ whatever hairbrained ideas Dejen has for her own amusement.”

“My ideas aren’t hairbrained!” defended Dejen as Mercy reminded.

“Dejen, you tried to use the Isles Stripes to bombed Abbassa and have a power control for Pjo to land on the throne and gain a advantaged. At this point anything you planned is hairbrained.” she look to Galdan and said. “You better let Debt know where your cousin lived, that way we can get there a lot smoother before patrols find us.”

“I’ll head to the bridge now.” spoke Debt as he turn to walk out of the room. Gem shake her head as she told to Dejen.

“I’ll get to the engineering and prep on my gear, just in case if I’m needed.” she did however grin and joked. “Try not to cause a civil war boss.”

“When did I ever do that before?” sarcastically asked Dejen as Mercy corrected.

“I think she means, when will you cause a civil war?”

Johari agreed, “you came close to making a war between the Isles and Arabia with your last stunt.”

“Oh come on, that was one time!” protest the Striped, as Susumu told flatly.

“Yes, and all it take is one opportunity for Dejen to cause total chaos.”

Gem laugh to this as she walked out with a waved hand, as the Striped shook his head and grumble. Mercy roll her eyes and soon said to Galdan. “Better if you get ready too Galdan, you might need to come along with us in the field. This will be your home we’re coming back too.”

The good captain only gave a long sigh and moved out. Apparently, he wasn’t looking forwards to whatever trouble Dejen was going to cause in his homelands. Not one bit.

Picking up both the Drone and later on Miko on the way to the holds was the only really big thing during their flight there. Galdan made a point for them to go around most normal paths to reach his cousin, and in doing so, had to travel near some areas where the Yaks lived.

Granted… nobody saw much of anything but ice, snow and lost’s of winter clouds. So when they reach the more mountainous regions and eventually touched into Countess Elivia land’s, did they meet the first border patrol. At first, they moved to be both defensive, and be prepared to run. But after a while they seemed to settle and even approach with a bit less caution.

It left Dejen in wonder what would happen, but when a Griffon left one ship to land on the deck of his, Galdan was insistent to let them in. one short exchange later, and they were allowed to fly on ahead to the small city that belonged to the Countess.

It was… rustic. Really it seemed like that. With fairly simple housing and castle like walls around it all… though there was a very large Airship docking space. And a busy one at that-- though there wasn’t too many spaces large enough for their battleship. They were forced to set it down in another location.

Dejen left with Debt by his side, Galdan having also coming with along with two of his troops. Dejen wasn’t sure what he was expecting of the griffon kingdoms or this stretch of land. What he wasn’t expecting was the citizens. To say, there were plenty of griffins, but he was surprised to see a fair number of undisguised changelings around. A good number even having their own jobs.

Huh...thats...that’s odd. thought Dejen, as he glance around, seeing the number of undisguised changelings looking pretty well. Even having cloths of varying sorts, be it for warmth, or showing of status. Dejen himself had to use the robes from Humilti from the winter time. Keeping the warm cloth against his body as he tried not to shiver from the low temperatures. Granted it may not seem much for Galdan and his troops, but for both Striped and gnoll it was a bother.

Mist glance around as she remarked. “It almost feel like we’re in another version of Humilti...only with more griffons.”

“I would make a comment-- but I’m too busy trying to keep my tail warm.” told Dejen as he was glad for the warmth runes under the robes, even more for it to keep his body from making small icicles.

“Reminds me when we were in the early winter time of the northern Holds.” said Debt, giving a glance around as the gnoll notice the looks that were sent their way, which was understandable, mostly as both he and Dejen were a odd sight...even more of how they dressed.

Galdan wanted to shake his head, but merely focused on leading them ahead towards the mansion. That was their destination and he was sure his cousin noticed the Innovation when it came. Unless she had been busy with something. But he was sure she’d know soon enough. The large battleship was rather hard to miss.

While it wasn’t too noticeable, there were troops and guards around. Most of which seemed to be fairly low-key considering how casual they were. But they were easily picked out with the weapons on their person's. Though the guards at the gates to the mansion were a whole different story. Being armored and standing straight.

It was like entering one of Harsho’s palace rooms… if his guards had more heavy armor and larger weapons. Spears, halberds and other polarm-like weapons were seen all over, giving a feeling that these griffins would spring out to fight on a moment’s notice.

Approaching the door and knocking, they waited before it was opened by a butler of sorts. Galdan only said, “I’m here to see Countess Elivia.” And after the butler gave Galdan a look over, inclined his head.

“I will be sure to tell her ladyship you have come back around.” Spoke the butler, allowing the group in. “Please wait here while I alert her to your being here, Sir Galdan.” Roaming off as he did. And allowing both gnoll and Striped to feel the more pleasant warmth in the mansion.

“Oh sweet, sweet warmth! How I miss you!” muttered Dejen, already rubbing his hands together and feeling pleased of the degrees rising. Debt snort, but was taking in what warmth he could, as the two adds-on glance around, with Mist remarking to Dejen.

“I thought you were used to the cold with how you handle yourself in Equestria months earlier.”

“I still had a bit of extra fur on me, Mist. My coat ain’t like yours some of the other's, even less my body’s still adjusting from the constant changes of weather.” told the Striped as Mist shook her head as the pony knew that the gambler was half-right, as his body did develop a shorter coat than hers or the Captain.

Sharp glanced about and said, “still… I’m a little surprised your cousin is fine letting changelings walk around in broad daylight like that.”

“Elivia’s brutally honest. And she made a deal that if changelings wanted to live around here? They do it without needing to hide.” Told Galdan. “She’s got the pull to make security tight and safe. It’s hard for Hunter’s from outside to do anything, when she has this place made as a ‘Changeling safety zone’. Part of Changeling hunter regulation 44-F.”

That made the mare nod, recalling the reg that basically meant this was where changelings had to be moved to for their own safety. Which was nice to know… but she asked, “do many get sent here?”

“Not as many as I hope.” Spoke the Countess from the top of the stairs while coming down. Her cloths were very fine and almost a bit over the top in some respects. It was a slight surprise to see a changeling acting as some assistant, having a few bags of papers or forms.

Smiling a bit, Countess Elivia spoke, “Galdan, to what do I owe the pleasure?” Then glanced to ask sharply and near adruptly, “who are they?” Spotting Dejen and Debt.

“The headaches.” Was all Galdan said.

“Oh. them.” Airidly remarked Elivia. “Well, regardless, what do I owe the pleasure to get a visit from you after so long?” Once more becoming pleasant… and completely glancing over Dejen.

“Huh...being ignored, alright I can work with this.” commented Dejen, as Debt made a snort. He could tell Dejen was a bit annoyed, but didn’t showed it. Although the gnoll figure she’ll talk to the Clan-Head once she was done with Galdan.

And to point, the Captain motioned his head to Dejen, “he wanted to talk to you.” All of the Countesses interest draining away to semi-boredom when she looked to Dejen. It was as if she was looking at a speck of dirt more than anything else.

“Really?” One could just hear how disinterested she was. “And what would he have to ask to me?”

“Oh information really,” said Dejen. “Like about how the Hunters are developing some sort of gas to flush out changelings out of disguises. As well as finding a Hive that’s being tracked by said Hunters around here.” he figure to make it on point and quick, mostly since he had a feeling she would disregard his words rather quickly. It made the Striped partially wonder if this was either from what she knew of him from Galdan, or if this was common among griffons around here.

She seemed to dismiss this with, “that whole debacle behind the gas again?” Sounding more annoyed than anything. “Yes, it’s something a few nobles thought was a good idea. Personally I find it detestable. Too toxic and cruel for my tastes.” Sneering at the idea. “And as for a hive being shown? I would ask which one. I’m sure a number are being flushed out by this point.”

“Well, I’m sure the drone would show us the way, but we need to put my battleship in your territory, for obvious reasons.” (Done)

She only raised a brow to that. “And you’re telling me this…?” Obviously, he wasn’t making a good enough selling point for her to take interest. At all.

Turning to Galdan, Dejen said. “Okay I’ll admit freely Galdan, I don’t know how to approach her. This is new territory for me.”

The captain shook his head and said, “she wants to know why you’re here.” Placing it simply as that. “You want to know about the gas and about hives. But she wants to know why you are here.”

“Ah, simple enough.” said Dejen as he look to Elivia to say. “I’m here because I want to know who to keep a eye out, who to stay out of the way-- or in a way Galdan tend to refer of me?” giving a amused grin. “Being a ‘headache’ to someone else and to possibly the Hunters around here.”

She regarded him for a moment and glanced to her assistant. The changeling only nod and seemed to affirm something… before Elizia told, “in that case, if you want to know what’s going on I suggest following whatever leads you have. I know of a few that have been going for the changelings, and I’d like something done.”

“Chief of which is Shimmering Lake.” The name catching Dejen’s full attention. “She’s a new Noble in the kingdoms for a few years now. A real pain to deal with too. She’s been rallying a few supporters to the anti-changeling movement. At the moment, she and I are at a stalemate. So I suggest you keep clear of her airspace just west of here.”

“As for the gas issue?” Went on the grifoness, “to be honest, I knowly know so much. It’s a external item by external sources in the hunters. So you will have to find someone in their ranks to gain hints, they’re keeping the formula under tight lock.”

“Any hints on who to find among them?” asked Dejen, as while he knew he could have the drone Hive talk to him, he rather have options.

Debt glance and spoke to Dejen. “Sir, it would be best to know more of Simmering territory, as she is a problem to us.”

“Unless she’s with the Hunters, I doubt we could do much for now, Debt.” retort Dejen.

“Oh, she’s a strong supporter.” Informed Elizia. “Her territory and those of her own supporters are the places you’ll need to worry over.” then waved on, “I’ll have someone send you a map. If you intend to make a mess of things, do it to those I dislike, would you? Oh, and try not causing too much damage. I doubt the King and Queen would like to know a rogue element is roaming around causing mass hysteria.”

“Oh please, I’ll be sure to keep things underwrap.”

Mist retort. “Arabia called, it want’s it’s refund from near mass hysteria from you.”

Dejen rolled his eyes as he said. “Oh relax Mist, I’ll try to be more subtle.”

“Like that one time in Arabia where you encounter Simmer?” cue Debt as to remind Dejen.

“Again, the key word is ‘try’. Murphy does love to screw things up for me.”

Flatly, Elizia said, “charming.” Not seeming to have much faith in Dejen’s word. “If you do find changelings that need refuge, send them my way.” Looking at a tallion to go on, “I’ll confiscate you for the trouble as well. I take their safety rather seriously.”

Eh, might consider it if they haven’t joined my side...or at least the few that might remained. thought Dejen as he wordlessly nod. Dejen soon asked. “How soon can you bring that map you mention?” and with a glance, saw a changeling coming up with a rolled up paper as with a passing of magic into hand, the Striped unrolled the map to look over as he remarked. “Nice, very detailed.”

Elizia told, “I have to be. I know from the Captain how much trouble you cause. The more details you know of where you should or shouldn’t go, will save me a very large amount of grief.” then added slowly, “and the grief to the Kingdoms.” Soon taking a breath in to ask, “are you now part of this ruffian’s crew, Galdan?”

“If you’re offering a place in your Hunters for myself and my crew?” Began Galdan, “I’ll have to decline for now. I’m partially staying with Dejen to try undermining the issues that are going on in the Hunters and get to the bottom of what they’re up to.”

Letting out a breath, the countess said, “very well.” Looking to Dejen to ask, “if that is all?” Seeming to be interested to get back to whatever things she had for the day.

“It is, we’ll be out of your way, Elivia.” told Dejen, rolling up the map as he turn to walk out of the door, he did pause as he raise a finger and said. “Just… one last thing…” then turn his head as he asked. “Has there been any news of Simmering Lake returning from her ‘business trip’ from Arabia?”

Elizia gave a oddly strange look to that. “She’s been back for a while as far as I know.” Not seeming to understand why he wanted to know. “And it rather doesn't matter if she’s here or not. Her border patrol will probably not care either way of who you are. If you help a changeling, you’ve already marked your stance.”

“Eh, it’s less of her or her patrol caring about who I am and more of, wondering you can say. Take care Countess.” told Dejen as Debt moved to open the door for the Striped, as the Clan-head added. “Hurry up Galdan, I rather not keep out of the cold any longer than I like!” seemingly to try to walk faster out of the mansion.

Mist roll her eye, but didn’t comment as she glance to Galdan, mostly to see if he had anything to say to his cousin or not. She figure there would be a parting word or something between the two, especially since they haven’t seen the other for a long while.

Though all that was given was a shared glance of the two and a sort of shared eyeroll. The two then just parted, Sharp and Mist following along. As they caught up with the two, Galdan said, “I should probably fill out a order for fuel here while we’re landed. The taxes aren't as heavy here and this place has a surplus of fuel due to business ventures coming through.”

As they were catching up with the Striped and gnoll, Mist asked. “Sir, if I may? I would’ve thought you would mention of talking to her later on. She is your family and who knows how long till you speak to one another.”

Shaking his head, Galdan told, “business before pleasure. I’m sure that I’ll have more time to talk when we’re passing through a second time and not pressed for said time.”

Nodding, Mist heard the Striped, mostly talking into his walky of the situation as he was giving quick orders. The unicorn ponder briefly before she asked. “Sir, permission to speak freely?” seeing him lightly nodding as the unicorn asked. “Is it really wise to keep assisting the Striped in this path? The more we assist him and make the ‘Mitego Clan’ known...the more of a problem he would be for everyone.”

Debt glance back, knowing Dejen was listening, but the Striped kept his focus on the walky as he was telling on what needs to be done. The gnoll stated to Mist. “Is it such a bad thing? It would help uncover the mess the Hunters are hiding.”

“But at what cost?” spoke Mist. “for all we know we might as well replace one trouble with another.”

“Settle down Seeker.” told Galdan. “Way I see it, either we make sure their aimed at the people that are worse, or we can jump ship and watch as they just make a mess.” Which… gave mixed feelings to them all. “They want to take down the hunters? We want to refine them to be less anti-changeling in mindset. Only one goal has a peaceful ending. We leave, the hunter’s might as well be wiped out and cause issues for everyone. We stay, we make it so that the bad get routed out and the good stay-- and not have them all dead.”

“With respect sir, I doubt Dejen could have every Hunter dead.” said Mist, as Debt reminded.

“He made enough bodies to make the Hunters put a death warrant on his head in Arabia. Pretty sure he’ll find a way to make even more bodies given time and resources.”

Snorting, Galdan told, “I’m more concerned of other factors.” But soon waved off, “but for now? It doesn't matter. What does is locating that hive and escorting them to safety. Focus on the here and now, Mist.”

“Yes sir.” responded Mist, as the unicorn knew that for now? She would need to focus on this Hive and escorting them to safety.

The engines hummed as Debt worked on the wheel, he glance to the changeling drone, Zon if he recalled, sitting in uncertainty just a few feet from the controls. Mostly from being in a battleship, or from the various species he encounter. The gnoll glance back to see Dejen was shuffling his deck, the Striped thinking in thought as Windy was lounging on his lap.

Dejen was pondering on how many would survive, what kind of Queen they would encounter, or even this ‘gas weapon’ the Hunters were using. He was hoping that they would learn what sort of chemicals were used, as the quicker he learn, the faster he could try to counteract this gas agent. Shuffling his deck all the while, Port asked to Zon. “How long till we reach your Hive?”

Glancing, Zon clear his throat and spoke. “J-Just a bit longer…” trying to relax as he look ahead as he said. “I...just want to thank you all, for helping us.”

Debt told simply. “We’re trying to do what’s sensible. Nothing more.” While Zon was quiet to this, the changeling felt a connection, his eyes wide as he said.

“Oh, oh!” quickly feeling the connection of his Queen connecting to him as he spoke. My Queen! My Queen are you alright!? there was no response as Zon asked in concern. My...Queen? Are you safe?

...Zon? spoke a tired voice, one that was filled with both uncertainty and suspicion. Is this... How are you…

My Queen! I’ve did it! I found help! I found us people to get us out from Hunters pursuit! proclaimed the drone in glee. They’re all from the ways of the Holds-- and they’ve been helping other Queens too! One is even on this ship too!

The hope through the link could be felt, and while there was hesitation, there didn’t seem to be much of it when the Queen quickly snapped, hurry them here! The Hunter’s have been getting closer to the Hive, We’ve lost too many to false calls of help.

Of course my Queen! respond the drone, as he added. It’s...well the help is of a big unknown ship, my Queen. then said to Debt. “the Queen responded! Go that way!” pointing to a hoof as the gnoll snort, but turned as he followed the direction of the drone. Seeming to let the drone lead him as they pass through some paths, at least until Zon told. “Here, here!”

“Zon, better tell them to move fast, we’ll open the ports soon.” said Dejen as he activate the comms. “Alright everyone, we’re getting a Hive in, open the ports...but be on full alert for any possible ambush of Hunter ships. They might be tracking the Hive as we speak.”

Rah-Rah responded first with, “warming up all cannons for possible combat, I’m pretty sure I saw the Twins run out to meet the changings.” And while there were other’s responding in to what Dejen requested, they neared a mountain. Even as they lowered down to a altitude that would be easy for the hive to reach, Dejen couldn’t see it. Well, not until a swarm began to just rush out from some foliage over what appeared to be a rockslide location.

The swarm was rather sizable, and they poured out in a rush. It was clear, they wanted to get out of there. Eggs, nymphs, the queen herself-- they were all moved fast as possible before the rest of the hive began to move. All the while the skies remained clear, and Asha padded in to watch the large move.

“Wow...look at them all.” said Port in amazed, as Zon nodded...then frown as he said.

“It’s….a lot smaller...the Queen...there were a lot fallen from false calls…”

“Well, with luck, we should be getting you all out of trouble soon enough.” said Dejen as the Hive was quickly moving into the opening bulkheads of the Innovation as best they could. He did however asked. “How many are left?”

“About...1021...including the unborn eggs.” was all Zon said.

Asha watched on… then flicked a ear. She lifted her head more and looked about, and like that, Dejen felt his paranoia skyrocket. “Dejen…” Started the lioness. Bt snapped out, “Zon, tell the hive to hurry faster, now!”

Before Zon could ask why, Dejen ordered. “Zon, do it now!” The drone quickly spoke.

My Queen, they want you all to hurry faster, they’re on edge. At first the Queen didn’t knew why, but soon spoke.

Oh no… and like that the Hive was swarming more, going into all the openings it had as they managed to squeeze through as Zon spoke. “They're in-,” Dejen roared out on the comms.

“SHUT ALL HATCHES AND GET READY!” then ordered to Debt. “Higher altitude now!” the gnoll quickly moved the ship as best he could with the spacing it had as large amounts of cannon fire rain down, with fire of gas’s bursting over the hsip, the Striped soon commanded. “Everyone, get ready for a fight!”

But, they struck an issue. A unforseen one. “Get us out of this gas, it’s blinding the guns!” “where’s our targets?” “S-Su*gak* shut tha-tha hatch!” The last one sounding in hacks and coughs.

Asha slightly lowered herself, claws coming out to grip the floor as more cannon fire hit the hull and gas containers bursting over the hull, blinding the windows up with the purple clouds. Asha growled out and soon said, “Dejen, they’re getting close. Very close.” Then called out, “they’re going to board us!” And quickly ran to possibly cut off where that was going to happen. (End)

Shit, shit, shit, shit! thought Dejen as he gave quick orders. “Windy get into the safety room. Mercy get all the kids holed up with Windy. Debt help Port drive us out of this mess!” getting up as he commanded. “We are not losing this ship!” although he quickly turn to Zon to tell. “Tell your Queen to follow with the kids. Now!”

My Queen, hurry, they’re escort you to safety as best they can. We’ll try to defend you and the eggs as best we can! although there wasn’t a response, as it seem his Queen was already doing this, as Dejen ordered. “Galdan, get your ass in motioned with the group, we’re fighting off some Hunters!”

“Already on it.” Told the old bird, possibly having been more than alerted by the crashing of cannon fire. Yet it was about then that one of the bukheads thumped and was banged on. Dejen got out his gun and as soon as something forced it to break open, did he aim.

The first one through was a Griffion, who found their head gone with a single bang of a gun. When more hunters came in, hoping to rush whoever killed their partner, also found a bullet in their chest, stomach or head. A can was tossed in and it spilt of purple gas. While Dejen moved a arm up to protect his face, he noticed the hunter’s coming in didn’t seem to do so. And while it stunk? It didn’t really bother him so…

Hand reaching for a knife, he threw it to the Hunter neck, letting the body fall as he quickly aim to fire another shot as he ordered. “Debt, hurry up!”

“Sir, trying!” snarl the gnoll, trying to move the wheel with Port as he was ready to defend the mare in case the Hunters target the pilots.

Dejen quickly reloaded his rounds before firing at a Hunter head as much as he wanted to fight with the other's? He needed to defend both Debt an

But bullet after bullet, they were not backing down. Dejen was more than happy that one shot was all that was really needed to put down a single hunter more than not. But when a few tried to get cheeky in firing arrows, throwing knives or in a few cases of unicorns, sling spells? That was when he had to get to cover.

Nothing, was feeling easy at that moment in time. Port and Debt were too busy trying to get the ship out of the gas-cloud, he was trying to cover them… He was eternally glad when a arrow flew by and pinned a hunter trying to once more get in. What followed was a throwing knife to another trying to come in as well. Miko sliding in by him and saying while knocking an arrow, “havin’ a party without me?”

Snorting with a grin, Dejen said. “Well you know me,” quickly getting up and quick fire three hunters as they drop. “I tend to be the main event!” quickly ducking as he added. “Also, their gas seem to smell funny for us, trying to figure out how that works.” then called out as he peek up and fire another round. “How you doing guys?”

“Still working!” called out Port as she and the gnoll were doing their best under the fighting.

There was a thumping of something, soon followed by a tremble. Dejen was sure even the hunter’s stumbled from the strike, though it didn’t feel like cannon fire. When it calmed, Dejen went back to firing away, holding the bridge best he could.

Over the comm, he heard, “this is engineering, we need help down here!” the changeling sounding a bit panicked.

“Hold it!” Bakari seemed to patch in, possibly running to the position now.

Miko snorted out and uncliped something from her belt and said, “this is turning out to be one of those bloody days.” Showing the unlit bomb to Dejen and tossing it over the cover while falling, “Down ya two!”

The gnoll only glance, before he gripped Port to move aside as she yelped, however as the two went down for some cover. As well as Dejen who quickly reloaded his weapon as he had to put the casing in a pocket, mentally counting down how many bullets he had left from all the work he and Rah-Rah did.

The next thing they know, there was a click and a bang as smoke soon mixed in with the gas. Though that wasn’t the end of it, as for a moment, things flashed hot and dejen felt singed as the gas… cleared up. Having been a bit flammable.

Each one of them coughed and were a bit signed, but when another hunter tried to get in, Miko sneered and said, “I’m getting tired of these bloody Hunters now.” Rolling out of cover and shooting the first one she saw a couple times. She didn’t stop her approach and went in for a low sweep of the leg before getting near the door and going out. A rope in one hand and it’s metal hook being jammed with the door while she went out and literally took the fight outside.

When the three got up, they were not sure if the lady was crazy or just that confident.

Dejen figure it was both, as he told. “Debt, Port, move the ship as best you can.” getting up from cover as he shouted. “Miko, the two will keep moving the ship!” then took out his walky as he said. “Roundcall!”

“Master, we got most of the eggs and nymphs in, as well as the Queen and Mercy-- but we don’t know what’s going on.” spoke Windy, as Gem spoke in agitation.

“They just keep coming! We’re trying to push-- but they took Rah-Rah! I think they’re after anyone they can grab!”

“Shit.” said Dejen as Susumu voice spoke.

“Attempting to stop...too many.”

“Hold them off the best you can!” told Dejen, “I’m coming down to help-,”

“Dejen if you go down, you’ll get caught.” told Mist as there were sounds of fighting in her area. “They’re not just fighting to take-- they’re trying to seize control of this ship!”

Dejen made a face to that, nd felt it was all the more reason to go help. He was going to argue, but heard at that moment, “someone, help--” Hirue’s shrek being enough to catch a few attentions. And while Dejen wanted to assure, he heard another call in. “They’re taking the cargo bay here, we need help!” “They’re still coming in, we’re having trouble breathing!” “Hirue, where are you?” the last one being Bina, who probably heard the call for help, but got no response.

“Hang on, I’m going down to the cargo bay!” told Dejen as he told to Debt. “Keep this bridge secure!” quickly rushing in as Gem shouted.

“Fuck, they’re overwhelming us in engineer, MOVE!” a sound of a small explosion came as the ship began to gave a shake as Dejen said.

“Gem, gem the hell is going on!?”

A coughing came as a changeling spoke. “My K-King...they took Gem...we’re trying...engines looking bad.”

“Shit, I’ll get over there and-,” started Dejen as Mist spoke in.

“Dejen, get to the bridge. If you’re taken, then everything is done for.”

“To hell with that, you all need me, and I’m going to help!” told Dejen, running faster as he tried to reach engineering with Lucky ready to fire.

On his way down, he spotted a good amount of bodies. Some were of hunters, others were of the crew. Namely the changelings. He could now hear cannon fire from the Innovation, possibly now able to get clear shots. But now he felt irritated as he ran the halls. When he spotted a hunter, he didn’t think and just fired. The body count of the invaders was fairly high, and from the looks of it, his former-hunters hadn’t kicked the bucket yet.

In fact, making his way around one corner, he found a few former-hunters and a group of changelings fighting off the invaders. He intervened, shooting and moving past the group from there to let them secure the area. He had to cut through a few rooms, sometimes having to trudge through thickly purple gassed areas where changelings lay on the ground, hacking and coughing and unable to do anything.

When he began to near the cargo bay, Dejen felt the need to back as a body flew by. Soon followed by others-- it was like there was a gal inside the ship. It was soon explained when Bakari rocketed past, a large minotaur being used like some battering-ram that was carrying a number of other bodies.

Shaking his head to that, Dejen pushed on and ran. He had to stop at a corner for cover to gun down more invaders, and even had to help a felled former-hunter that had taken a arrow to the side, but still alive. They went for safety, mostly to bandage up and stave the bleeding.

Moving after getting the former hunter out, Dejen reloaded as he thought. Okay, they’re trying to not only take my people-- but my ship too...For some reason I feel very, very angry. Not just angry at them doing this, not just angry for killing my ‘kids’-- but angry enough to just murder them all with nothing more than Lucky Hand. Firing a few rounds as he spoke in the walky. “I’m making my way to the engineering, tell me we have good news!” although as he was storming his way to the deck, he saw a ship amongst the purple-cloud.

Dejen spin his gun as he figure to see how his aim and super-shot was...against a ship. Aiming it right, he spotted where the balloons were as he fired. Seeing the magical charge bursting from weapon as it went straight to the ballon, piercing it’s armor as for a moment nothing happen…

Then a sight of the ship falling down as it’s ballon suddenly burst into fire and dropping down as Dejen told. “I found good news….I blew up their ship.”

While the inflamed ship fell and crashed below, he could still hear a number of shouts and calls for assistance. He could spot a few ships, small dingies of all things, leaving his. He raised a gun, really considering shooting them… but amidst his anger, knew his crew might be in them.

It was then, he heard Mercy shouting over the chaos.

“Dejen! They took Alibi!”

“Shit, I thought she was with you!” said Dejen as Mercy told in a panic tone.

“So did I! But she must’ve been playing with Tibia when-- where’s Tibia?!” called out Mercy as Dejen was running faster now as he said.

“Stay with me Mercy, how many are still kicking?”

“About...400, they’re trying but the gas is-- they just took Asha!”

“Damn it Murphy!” cursed Dejen with a snarl, double timing it to the engineering as he said. “Tell me we got some good news?”

“Sir, we’re almost out, but we need a bit more time.” told Debt as Dejen made a turn.

“Good, try to get us-,” but was interrupted as he felt something slamming him into a wall, feeling his body pressing against the metal. Turning his head, he saw a diamond dog, but felt his hand slam against the dogs own, Lucky being toss aside as Dejen felt a pressure against his neck, choking as the diamond dog sneer at Dejen, as he was choking the Striped neck with his hands.

Dejen tried to grip the hands off his neck as his legs kicked, but the dog only gave a malicious grin as he told. “Got you now, Striped.”

While Dejen tried to again to overpower the dog, a arrow flew in and skewed, and half broke, into the dog’s face. Dejen flinched at the blood splattered on him, but was more glad he could breathe again. Looking up, he found a ruffed up Mynu standing there, arrow ready and knocked. She then said, “Hurry Boss, there’s still more around.” Watching her sides as she did. (end)

Wheezing a bit, Dejen got up and grab Lucky Hand as he said. “You got,” coughing a bit as he began to move. “No idea how glad I am...to see you.” clearing his throat more as he said. “I’m heading to engineering...gotta make sure they don’t cut off the engines.”

She gave a nod and told, “I was heading to the Bridge. Give cover to Port and Debt.” Their goals being a bit polar to the other, but clear enough. Though while dejen nod and the two parted, he felt the need to get his people back. They had to. They were on one of those ships, but he couldn’t track them easily. He needed Tatsu.

Taking his walky, he spoke. “Tatsu, how you holding up?” making his way back on track as he added. “Please tell me you weren’t jumped by these bastards either.” While he doubted she could be jumped-- they had jumped the other's rather quick.

He got no response, and just hoped she wasn’t near a comm. But when a few more moment’s passed, she responded. “Am still here. I currently hold ground in the center of the ship. I have fell the fools that tried to chase the hive.” (End)

Breathing in relief, he said. “Good...thanks Tatsu...I’m making my way to engineering...We should manage to make a counter-attack soon.” there was another shake of the Innovation as he cursed. “Shit, what now?!” although he didn’t gain his answer as he had to move, but he hoped it wasn’t something serious. But he gain some knowledge of what happened on the comms.

“King, they’re trying to stop the engines, if they do, we’re done for!”

“I got it!” Felix called in.

“Felix?! I thought you were taken too,” started Dejen, but quickly said. “I’m making my way to the engineering bay, we can try to-,”

“Dejen we need to retreat!” told Mercy, as Dejen nearly falter as he said.

“Mercy, we can go and hit them back and get our people. We just need to-,”

“Dejen, right now we are on a losing front. Their gas is putting the children down, they’re swarming us-- there’s too many of them and not enough defenders. Even now we can hear them trying to break in! We need to...retreat.” the tone of the Queen sounding hurt-- in pain even to even consider it, but she had to pritoized...even if it hurted her so much as she spoke in the swarm mind.

WE need to retreat...we can’t fight them all...I’m so sorry my children, I’m so sorry! there were various responses, some in hysterious, but other's acknowledging that with so much against them, it was impossible to fight back. It also was hurting her to the point she now understood what Sumari meant….She never thought it would be like this...but she had to make a choice...even if it broke her heart in ways she never thought could be repaired.

Snarling, Dejen wanted to argue back, but heard on the lines. “We need help!” “there’s too many, we can’t hold-,” “What are we going to do!?” The Striped felt conflicted himself...but grit his teeth and order.

“Felix, do what you can to flush them out. Debt, get us out and close all the hatches you can...we got no choice but to retreat…” then said. “Susumu, I need you to start finding the injured...Susumu?” It was only then a voice spoke in.

“They took the doctor too, my King…”

Great, just great! WE lost our healer… being more agitated as Dejen ordered to everyone.

“HAng onto something. Debt, Jumpstart to ludicrous speed now!” moving to grip something hard as he holster his weapon. Everyone quickly attached themselves to something, as the hunters started to go flying as soon as the ship bursts into motioned. For a moment things were flashing by Dejen...then it slowed down as they were by a beach of sorts.

As they slowed more, Dejen got on his feet as he ordered. “Round up the remains, get whoever's in charge and put them in a room...We’re going to have some serious conversation with them shortly…” he was feeling very angry, angry to the point he might consider on letting Johari eating some of them alive just to get answers.

The Lioness was just as agitated as he was. Dejen waited by a closed door and half listened into the screams inside, roaring even sounding and shaking the door. “LET ME OUT!! LET ME OUT!! FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS! LET ME OUT!!” Something he ignored for the most part, but did decide to see if this one was willing to now talk.

Hitting the door three times to let Johari stop, at least for now as he called out. “Gonna talk now?” opening the door as he saw blood everywhere, the griffon badly cut and bitten up with a broken wing and leg. He saw the lioness watching with adigated anticipation to continue as Dejen told to the griffon. “Because if you don’t? I’ll let mama Lioness here keep using you as a chewtoy till you're dead.”

The griffion looked from Dejen to the Lioness, the later of which crouched down… just wanting an excuse to pounce. Quickly, the griffin said, “I-I don’t know what you want to know, I don’t know anything else! I told you everything!” So far, he was the fifth one to say that. But when Johari inched to the side, as if trying to get a cheeky shot to get at him regardless of what Dejen said, he snapped.

“WE WERE TOLD TO FOLLOW YOU!! THAT’S ALL I KNOW!” trying to back away, trembling in terror as he did.

“WHO!?” Snarl Dejen as he bare his fangs. “WHO ORDERED YOU? WHO TOLD YOU TO FOLLOW US!? GIVE US THE DAMNED NAMES OR YOU’LL DIE AS A LIONESS MEAL!”

“SHIMMER!!” Shouted the Griffon. “PLEASE, NO MORE, KEEP HER AWAY FROM ME!!”

Oh...I am so going to kill that unicorn bitch when I have the chance… thought darkly of the Striped as he pressed. “And where are they taking my Clan?! Where were they suppose to send my taken Clan to!? WHERE DID YOUR PALS SEND THEM TO!?”

“I don’t know!” Nearly cried out the griffon. But when Johari began to approach, he backed up, “I don’t know, I DON’T KNOW!”

Hearing a hard knock on the door, Dejen raised a hand to pause the Lioness. Tatsu stood there and spoke, “Dejen-Dono. I believe you may wish to hear this.” Motioning for him to come out with Johari.

He motioned Johari to come ash e told the griffon. “Don’t move…” walking out of the door as he took a deep breath, mostly to ease his nerves as he look to Tatsu to asked. “What did you found out?”

Seeming to stay remarkably calm, Tatsu spoke, “after speaking with one of the hunters, I have found that they are planning an execution of traitors.” Going on, the kitsune explained, “it was not affiliated with the clan, but I have a very strong belief this is where they were taken. From a few others that have made scarce mentioned? I feel that this is fact.”

“And the location?” growled out Johari.

“A fortress between a few noble territories.” Told Tatsu. “It will be taking place in a week. To, from what I hear, prepare the charges and gather other traitors for the event. This last bit I gained out of one of the prisoners. Until then? They will hide the Clan. Our best bet, it to storm them on the execution.”

Taking this in, Dejen nodded and said. “Thank you Tatsu…” then raise up his walky as he spoke. “Galdan, know anything about some fortress between a couple of noble territories? It might be where they’re planning to kill my Clanmates in a special execution.” (done)

The captain seemed to think before telling, “you must be talking about one of the old fortresses in the area. They aren't used for war anymore, too old and broken down. We use them for execution of dangerous criminals now. Mostly so if they escaped by chance? The wildlife could just kill them off.”

“Show me where it is when you got time on the map…” then asked. “Did you learn anything about their gas, or how they made it, Galdan? Because I really want to know how these lot managed to craft something like this.”

“I got one of my tech-heads working on it.” told the Captain. “From what I understand… if I’m understanding it right, it’s some mixture of plants that just don’t mix well with emotion vores. I don’t get the full jargon, and they’re still figuring it out. But in short? Bad for changelings. Not sure about shiftlings though.”

“Keep me in the known of what you managed to figure out, Galdan.” said Dejen as Mist spoke in.

“Dejen, what did you want us to do with these prisoners? We can’t let them stay in these forever...right?” Dejen took a breath in...and slowly let it out as he said.

“Give them a choice. A choice of either abandoning the Hunters and being used by me...or being given a death.”

“Dejen, I know they took some of your people, but-,” started Mist, as Dejen snarled.

“They took my CLAN! As far as I’m concerned? They just made me go to war with them! They’re either work for us, or get killed by us. No exceptions, am I clear!?”

There was a quite, and even a tension. Some seemed unsure how to respond, but Miko voiced in, “Cap…. put a lid on it.” Making him bristle. “An’ hear me righ’ now. Ya ain’t thinkin’ with your head. If you give these bloaks a chance to side with you now? Oh, you’re askin’ for trouble. No, I say, take them to that countess lady--”

“Countess Elizia.” corrected Galdan.

“Whot’eva! Take them to her, jail ‘em. THEN, then we can go back and kick those sorry bum’s of those Hunter’s that took the others!” Miko sounding pretty steamed herself. “That’s what I’m votin’ for. Let them stay on the ship, an’ one might stab ya in the back!”

Taking a deep breath in, Dejen try to calm down, trying to use his head as he slowly said. “You're...you’re right...better to let Elizia deal with these trash…” taking a moment to compose himself as he told. “Debt, get us to Elizia pronto...I’ll be...in my quarters to try to relax.” ending the comms as he took another deep breath in and asked to Johari. “I’m going to guess it’s...rather common to see a Striped go berserk when someone takes their Clan member, right?”

Johari spared a slight glance and told, “just as common to see a Mother Lion maul people for taking her cub.” Affirming his thoughts. “Family means everything to those in the Isles. You acting out like this, is normal to my eyes.” Then gave a low growl. “When these creatures are left with that griffon? I will savor the feeling of breaking bones in my jaws.”

“And I’ll savor the feeling of putting a bullet in their heads.” agreed Dejen as he took another breath in and slowly let it out as glance to Tatsu and said. “Go on and take what break you need. WE’re going to be very busy soon, Tatsu.” already turning to head to his quarters as he let his thoughts count off. We had 690...we lost nearly 50 from death, 100 are slowly recovering from the gas...and about 40 were taken. 500 left. wanting to feel like make a effort to scream, but knew it didn’t matter.

Dejen felt...he didn’t know what to feel. Angry? Agitated? Concern for those taken. He was certain he was even feeling concern for Susumu-- sure he may not fully trust the Kitsune, but at least he cared enough for the guy. The Striped slowly shake his head as he raise his wakly to ask. “Mercy...are you feeling alright?”

“....” there was no response, but Mercy slowly spoke. “No...No I’m not...I’ll...I’ll need you soon…” her voice sounding tired-- dead even as this was probably a huge blow to her, as they not only lost her children, but volunteers from Text, Jali and Lonil Hive. It wasn’t also helping that Mercy can still feel Alibi fearful thoughts as she could hear every little bit of fear and worry that pass through her.

Dejen knew he would need to try to help the Queen soon. But he heard Mercy go on. “The...the Queen we brought wanted to thank me...for trying to help her and her Hive...She...she knew I had to make a tough call. She knows the pain I am feeling right now, Dejen…” taking a moment to gather her thoughts, Mercy went on. “She..also wish to thank you, for coming by.”

Dejen sigh as he said. “Yeah...wished I could’ve done more...hell I wish we didn’t lose anyone...but that’s what we got for the cards, all we can do is try to get a better hand…” he soon told. “We’re dropping her and the prisoners off to Elizia. Then….then we’re going after the bastards.”

“....Good.” was all Mercy said as she ended the call.

Dejen mentally sigh, as he rubbed his forehead in thought. Still...how am I going to do this? I’m not a military planner...how am I not only suppose to stop a execution...but also make sure we get everyone from...from the Clan? it was a condenirum really, what was he supposed to do? For once, it was like before, him struggling in the dark as he tried to figure out a plan for everyone to the best of his degree-- but sometimes failing, or worse, things going out of hand as he try to adapt and scavenge the plan…

Only this time it was at a higher rate. One that could fail and fall apart at any moment. He wished he could have something-- a advantage for once! Granted that was in the form of Asha, but she was taken, so he was back in square one. Think Dejen! What can you do!? What can you use?! stopping abit as he took a deep breath in and lightly hit his head against the metal wall.

Think! Think! Come on Dejen, you got us this far! Think of a plan! Think of something-- ANYTHING to save your friends! To save your adopted kids! To save your damned CLAN! slowly going harder with each hit against his head as he tried to think of something as his eyes clench, trying so hard to figure out a solution to this entire shitty problem they were all in-- and everyone was hoping he could get them out of.

But what? He was stuck. They were probably expecting them. It was actually very likely now that he thought about it. They would have ships guarding. They might have a trap waiting about. What could he do? Going in gun’s blazing might not work at all, they’d just aim all guns forwards.

He almost wish Asha was here to give some silly mystic vision. Maybe have Gem talk about some possible invention? No, Rah-Rah was with the inventions. She made this whole ship practically! Knowing how it worked how it flew and got high up or could fire on below--

That’s when he stopped. He blinked and thought it over a bit. The Innovation could fly. Fly higher than any ship-- and it was the only one he knew that had cannons on the underside, so it could literally rain shells down below. Would… would that really work? Just fly high up and.. Rain shells on the possibly patrolling ships?

But what about landing? He had to get down fast and maybe in a way they wouldn't expect. Like those shells, but they couldn’t just…. Or could they?

Slowly, the idea of jumping out of the ship from thousands of feet was blooming. It was… more than just insane, many would say suicidal. But… but was it possible to do that somehow? To just leap out and… land down safely? Parachutes were out, they’d be shot down but…

But what if they didn’t parachute down? What if they… crashed down. Not crashed, controlled crashed with… with a flying ram? No, a flying ship that was a ram! A flying ram that could hold people!

But are we going to use one of the ships we blew from above...or...or… then thought on something, or rather the ketch ship...He gained a thought as he quickly took his walkie as he asked while heading to cargo bay. “Felix, are you busy?! Miko can you head straight to the cargo bay? We’ll need all the help I can get on something.”

Miko was confused when she called in, “Uh, sure Cap’...”

Felix only told, “just patching up a few more things. I can pop on over to see what you need.” Then asked, “something up?”

“Yes, I just had a idea-- one that could work if we get started fast enough. I’m planning on modifying my ketch ship into a flying ram! But not just a flying ram-- but one that will come from above and slam down on anything stupid enough to be near it’s landing zone!”

It sounded better in his head. But for everyone else, he probably sounded insane. And one of his crew voiced it. “I think Dejen’s lost it, Galdan.”

“Did he ever have it to begin with?” Questioned another.

“Just roll with it guys, it’s a brilliant plan. Granted one that’s very insane and suicidal-- but I’m nearly 80% sure it’ll work.” Told Dejen as he was rushing to the cargo bay as he went on. “Also I need metal, lots of it-- maybe a couple of things too!” told the Striped as his mind began working rather faster than usual as he was brainstorming.

“What...are you doing Dejen?” slowly asked Mercy in both uncertainty and dread.

He merely grin widely as for a moment, he was feeling what most Stripes liked to be called.

“Oh...I’m just being a Racky Striped, Mercy.”