Arabian Swindler

A ship landed down in Humilit the next day, and from the looks of it, Dejen was sure that Razul had finally arrived. Though upon fiseting the ship, it turned out it was some Minotaur tradeship. It still made Dejen wonder, but he had to drop the investigation as he was told Karth was finally there.

Giving a glance to the ship, Dejen figure some of the other's would look into it. Turning he headed to where Karth was, as it seem the dragon was taking survey of the town and of the ship as much as he could. Dejen noticed Rah-Rah was...perched on his shoulder as he was talking with her on something, the Striped walk up and said. “So you know who Tyra is?” getting Karth to turn his head as he told.

“In a way.” his mind still recalled on events in the past as he growled out. “That demoness has been annoying to me, and my nemesis.” then snort as he continued on. “If you all are going to be fighting her and her ‘test subjects’? Then you will need all the advantage you can get.” then mused as he soon turn his head and told to. “I will craft every new gear, new armor, and install new tech that no one has ever witness before on this world. All for free.”

This caught Dejen off guard as he asked. “For...Free?”

The dragon nodded firmly as he glance up to Rah-Rah, looking to the rabbit as he….recalled in another time of the girl and having to leave her once as he look back to Dejen as he told. “Yes. you will need my expertise in all things. And while Rah-Rah is a genius? She does need my help now and then.” then look to Rah-Rah as he said. “I will need to find this place forge. I have much work to be done, and much to craft to install what I have planned.” Thinking a bit more as Karth added. “And I will need measurements of everyone in the group, or those fighting. I know how you mortals tend to grow.”then glance to Rah-Rah again as he told. “And I may need to assist you in getting Mr.Fisty install with A.I. work you are attempting to do.”

Although Dejen glanced up to Rah-Rah as if Karth was really serious about this, or if this was something to rub the dragon ego.

“I’d rather skip the A.I.” Rah-Rah admitted while rubbing her neck. “I just need Mr. Fisty for fights. Maybe for some heavy work, but mostly fights. I am just an engineer you know.” Then asked, “and how do you know about A.I? I know you’re smart Karth, but I’m starting to really wonder now.”

“I’ve lived for a long time, Rah-Rah. Your not the first to attempt to make a golem to be with artificial life.” but not saying more on that as he changed subjects. “But I will probably help assist to improve Mr.Fisty with armaments and weaponry just in case.”

“What did Tyra actually do?” asked Dejen as he tried to keep up. “You said she annoyed you but, that could be anything.”

The dragon glance down as he said. “Let just say one of her experiments was broke one of my favorite creations in the process of it work. I had to destroy it before her toys took it for her to tinker with.” finding a forge in sight he move a bit faster as he told. “Tell your warriors and fighters to visit me as soon as possible. I will need all your measurements and know you weaponry to craft new gear.” then glance to Rah-Rah still on his shoulder as he told on.

“I will visit you in your area on the ship, Rah-Rah, and I will install technology that will help with your little ‘communication problem’ you tried to tackle with Felix.”

Sighing, Rah-Rah patted his head and told, “Karth, I know you really want to get to work and prove to the forge-master that you can make impressive work-- but you do remember that you helped me install a forge on the ship, and that it’s more advanced too.”

“But of course!” told Karth as he turned direction as Dejen gave a look as if Karth forgotten about it as the dragon made a 180 to head to the ship as Karth went on. “But you all lack metals and materials to craft! And I had to look over the town, and that forge to see if it had extra room to use!” giving a scoff as he rolled his hand. “This place is mostly dirt and stone, not enough supplies. Not enough good qualities for the likes of me!”

Then he pat his stomach as he told in ethusatic. “Lucky for you Rah-Rah, I always carry the best quality metals, materials, and supplies in me! So you all well be able to handle Tyra and her monstriesties.”

“Uh what monstrities?” asked Dejen as Karth wave a hand.

“Oh little sick experiments, I’ll tell you all when I have complete my task in building the finest armor and gear for you and your Clan.” Looking to the ship and heading inside, Dejen had to keep up track as Karth was moving faster. “Hurry up Stripe, tell everyone to come by the forge when they can, and get their armor and weapons. I will need to inspect on what they use so I can craft superior versions of it!”

Dejen slowly nodded in thought-- then gave a yelp. Karth turned, breathing in readying his flames-- “Karth, it’s ok!” RAh-Rah assured, hand up before him and looking down at Johari, large smile in place and holding Dejen down with her now extended claws. “It’s just Johari.”

“No.” Johari said with a calm enjoyment, “it’s Dejen dying a third time. He’s very distracted.”

“Johari,” grouch the Striped in question. “Karth just arrived, he mention something about monstriestes from the demoness-- and there's a lot going on.” getting up as she was off of him, as he noticed she was giving a questioning look to the metal dragon, even eyeing him over with a suspicious gleam.

Karth glance down and smoke jet from his snout as he remark dryly. “Hello Blackmane. Far from the Isles you are.” examining her over as he remark. “I would offer armaments for you-- but that would be considered a insult with you having you natural weapons and shadow magic.”

“It would be also ineffective for my line of work.” Johari agreed calmly and without much care. “But what about you? Karth, correct? You’re the supposedly great smith RAh-Rah talked about.” And observed passively, “odd I’ve never really heard of the name Karth.”

“That is because I rarely do business in the Isles and of the West.” told Karth in turn. “I prefer to stay in the east, or travel whenever I feel like it away from Death Mountain.” then place a hand onto his metallic chest as he continued on. “And I am the greatest smith that have ever existed here, not ‘supposedly great’, the genius smith the world has ever seen!”

“Interesting to know.” Johari spoke calmly enough. “Even more interesting to know is the fact that despite such claims, no one seems to talk about you in the Holds at all.” Making him splutter. And while the dragon spluttered in slight outrage, Johari told to Dejen, “and get to the ship and stay there.” Glancing around to tell, “Asha felt something off today, and I agree. The shadows are disturbed.”

Rubbing his chin, Dejen shrug as he said. “I was planning on looking over a few things in the ship, maybe check over Lucky Hand.”

“You finally got a weapon for yourself?” asked Karth with a raise of a brow, as he glance to Dejen side of the weapon as he hum. “Hrm, Herno Steel...been a long time since I seen a non-Herno hold such things.” then motioned a hand. “May I?” Dejen glance to the weapon and nodded, starting to undo it and pass the weapon to Karth.

Looking it over as Karth mused as he soon asked. “Did you gain any assistance in crafting this?” looking it over as Dejen admit.

“Rah-Rah help with the designs, and Felix help a bit, but I mostly made it.”

Karth hum as he eyed the weapon, moving it around in his large hands as he soon spoke. “I am minorly impressed Striped.” getting Dejen to be surprised of Karth words as the dragon went on. “A actual hand cannon in this time and age? Even with three magical charges. Very impressive. Nothing like someone else I knew, but he was a different genius.” then added lowly. “Then again, his smarts were on a whole different level than most.”

Shaking her head, Rah-Rah admitted, “we had trouble with trying to get a good model to hold magical charges. If we went with a normal gun it would of worked, but Dejen insisted on magical shots. We made a lot of prototypes that later blew up. It wasn’t until Herno Steel was brought up that we considered it. Since everything else kept being blown to bits.”

Humming Karth nod. “Herno Steel is one of the rare few metals that is stern, tough, and made to channel magic in near dangerously high amounts. I myself know all about it, and there’s a ‘special ingredient’ to it, not even a easy one to obtained.”

“Wait, what?” said Dejen as Karth nod while moving Lucky Hand around.

“Yes, I had a chance to gain Herno Steel long time back, it was extremely difficult to get the Forge Master trust, the steel in question was made with something called Spirit Steel added to the mix. Which is a ‘living metal’. It was so rare to get or even make, that any that found was very carefully used. Mostly due to how uncommon and rare it is. Small bits goes for huge prices and only a small amount is used in the Herno Steel mixed.

“The Spirit Steel, that make Herno Steel so strong and able to handle magic. Make great tools and weapons-- but not so much armor at times.” then carefully handed Dejen his weapon back as he told. “I attempt it once, nothing great admitally as it made decent armor, its why its more prefer as weapon than armor, you need the ‘training’ to use it as armor.” then added.

“But this Lucky Hand you crafted is…” pausing for a moment as he confessed. “It is a very special weapon. A….masterpiece.” looking to the Striped as he doubted Dejen would know of the ‘little secret’ of the gun. Dejen look in surprise as he holster the weapon back as he ask to Rah-Rah.

“Did I hear that right? Him saying its a masterpiece?”

Nodding, the Rabbit told, “Karth’s not kidding about Spirit Steel, Dejen. I only got to see a small fragment of it once by a Minotaur Forge Master. It’s like nothing I’ve ever handeled-- or felt before.” Then breathed out, “no wonder Herno’s Honor Metal is strong.” Then shook her head, “still… only one ingredient. There’s probably other parts Karth didn’t mention just to keep it’s secret. The Spirit steel must be the more ‘known’ part of it.”

“Yes,” nodded Karth as he stated to Dejen. “And its why I am giving you this complement, Striped. I rarely compliment other's of their works, but I will freely admit that your weapon is possibly the only of its kind and possibly the only one of it’s kind for a few generations. Even if other's attempt to copy it, there can be no other like the Lucky Hand.”

With an agreeing nod, Rah-Rah told, “and that’s a lot coming from Karth. Since he’s made enchanted weapons that wouldn’t be seen for a hundred years, he knows what he’s talking about.”

“Fascinating as this is.” Johari interrupted them. “I think we need to get a move on.” Eyes flicking to a house corner. “I noticed some vermin skittering about. We might have to think about teaching people how to deal with rats getting into their things.” Making Rah-rah look around a bit in confusion.

Karth glance and eyed the house corner as he said in a subtle manner. “Yes...they are rather annoying to deal with. Always after the good things.” then began walking as he told. “Come along Striped, the more quicker we get to the ship, the more faster you can have everyone come to the forge for me to look over. I am feeling in a generous mood, and I will ensure all of you things are fully enchanted and upgraded to my standards!”

Rah-Rah rolled her eyes, but looking from him to Johari, she could tell something was up. The Lioness was quite again, but also focused. And Karth seemed just as oddly focused. It made her frown. While she didn’t know Johari was well, she knew Karth. And for him to not be talking about some new great thing he’s done? Well, something was up.

Pouring a few mixes he learned from the Opneu together, Susumu stept back and observed the small brew as it settled. IT would take a few minutes, but he was sure it would finish before the day was done. Moving to a shelf, he began to finger through the many books on it. Most of them being some old copies of Herbal and even some notes. The Thestral Doctor being quite the scholar in the Fox’s opinion.

Though as he inched one out, he paused. Ears perking and turning, he could feel it. He wasn’t alone. Even as he calmly got the book out, a hand drifted to his side, fingers gently slipping into his sash to get a light grip on a sebon needle tucked away.

He waited in silence, waiting for whoever came to reveal themselves, or to strike at him. As the Kitsune waited, he heard a voice, a familiar voice. “Susumu-san.” the red fox turning to see one of his Clansmate coming from the shadow, as he wasn’t alone, as more came out as the doctor gave a brief bow of his head.

“Greeting Clan-brethren…” feeling a frown as he asked. “If I may inquire, what brings you to here? If its about my reports, then know that I haven’t had much time to deliver them.”

Seeing the lead shake his head, the Shinobi told. “We aren’t here for reports, but we are here to inform you that the Head of the Clan has deemed this Striped to be assassinated.”

Keeping his expression calm, Susumu prod a bit. “May this medic-nin know the full reasons of this order?”

A Kunoichi nod briefly as she spoke. “Your latest reports of the Striped has….caused concern.” going on to say. “And another also show similar concern, and was willing to pay a large sum for his assassination. Normally we would consider such things but, the Head of the Clan has decided to approval of this.”

A light frown on Susumu face, as he asked. “How did you all arrive here so soon?”

“The benefactor consider aiding us nin to get here as soon as possible, although we believe we may have taken the wrong ship we were suppose to use to get here.” answer one.

“We can return this ship later.” told another as he look to Susumu and spoke. “Medic-nin, we will need all information of the target to assassinate him completely.”

Susumu let a low breath out as the Kitsune thought, while he would do his duty in aiding his Clan...he also felt minor conflicted as in a way, Dejen did save his life and through his grace, left him to live on the ship even though those on it were suspicious of him. The Kunoichi glance and spoke.

“You hesitate.” making it as a statement than accusation as Susumu slowly nod and answer.

“Yes...the target has...spared me long back and I cannot fully give much information.” Going to explain. “I owe him a life debt. Another Kitsune here owes Dejen a life debt, and I owe him a life debt too as he saved my life. I cannot be part of the assassination because of it”

While those in the room consider, the head Shinobi nod his head. “An acceptable reason, medic-nin. Then give what information you can.”

Susumu let out a low breath and said. “All I know is that he will be staying here in the town...but I must warn you, he is under the sign of luck in the heavens. Or in what some will call, the Devils Luck.”

While they all considered this for a moment? The door slightly cracked. Like lightning, the nin disbursed to each shadow, corner and hiding place. When the door opened, Susumu held his place and he got a visit from… well, what he would consider to be a rare visitor.

Padding in, Tibia looked up at him with a glare of possibly constant suspicion before asking, “mother asks if that potion she asked for is done yet.” Sitting down and waiting rather attentively.

“Almost.” spoke Susumu, turning to look over the progress as he continued on. “Need to add a bit of mixture.” trying to play the part of a doctor being busy, and keep under the facade that everything was normal in this room.

“How long will it take?” Asked the cub, watching his every move. Though while she watched him, she felt her nose twitch. With a a sniff, she could smell… something odd. Ears flicking, Tibia began to wonder… but felt her attention pulled back to Susumu, wanting to be sure she caught every bit of his explanation.

“2 more minutes.” assured Susumu as he went on. “Had to make sure to use ingredients right, new work from monks. Insure I use notes correctly from former doctor.” glancing to the cub as much to some exasperation, waits patiently as the medic-nin moved in a ‘fast pace’ to hurry up the progress as he examine the mixture and glance to see Tibia moving her focus along as she was glancing to the shadows, ears flicking about. Her nose slightly sniffing as she looks to one shadow, and to the hidden nins shock, the shadow slowly began to waver.

Creeping back a little, forcing them to inch back further and further to hide--

“Am done.” told Susumu as he brought the elixir to Tibia, as she looks back to him and the shadow quickly returns.

Looking at it, then eyes flicking to the shadow, Tibia returned her attention to the vile and grumbled, “thanks.” Taking it into her jaws and gently carry it away. Out the door and Susumu soon closing it behind her. He could hear a very light sigh from his brethren, all whom came out… and gave the medic nin a questioning look. Even a few looking at the door a bit bothered. And Susumu knew what was on their minds.

Nodding, Susumu told. “Yes, apparently her race, Blackmanes can control the shadows. Shadowmancers they are called. It is partially the reason why I am late in my reports. They can blend into the shadows, and utilized it. Even be part of the shadows. It is also why I cannot do much to assist you all.” Looking to them with a sideway glance as he told. “And I cannot do anything to help or hinder you.”

The shinobi briefly nod as he told. “Then stay here medic-nin, and we will carry out the assassination without you being part of the attempted. Farewell, Susumu.” the medic-nin seeing his brethren leaving in the shadows as Susumu sighed. Turning to focus on his work as a frown came on his face.

Part of him wonder if his Clan could kill Dejen...another hoped they will have trouble. In all honesty he was conflicted and he didn’t knew if he should warn Dejen or keep quiet. Loyalty to my Clan...or paying my life debt to the Striped. Both are difficult choices...and I am uncertain which is the correct one. He admitally hope if they did somehow managed to kill Dejen?

Then he would be unaffiliated with this whole thing...and hoped his death was a quick and painless one.

If there was thing the Kitsune nins ever consider with their assassination target? It was that perhaps, Susumu was correct in his words, that Dejen was under the sign of the lucky star. The shinobi and kunoichi attempted common attempts, mostly poisoning of food and water as it would be quick, no one would notice and they can wrap up their job. However it seem that before he could even take a drink or eat anything, he had to run off from that cub, or her mother that attempted to jump him.

One of the changeling came by and clean up the food and water as it was left forgotten.

The assassins then attempted to rig a trap to kill the Striped, but their target had to do something before he arrive, and the rabbit activated it by mistake and missed her due to her height and walks on by oblivous of the trap. They attempted another trap and before the Kitsune was going to jump out to initated it? They had to stop due to a young Herno, being little Najat coming along to ask Dejen about something and was in the way.

Letting the Striped lived again.

Another attempt was made, but right before they moved, Asha comes by and bubbly talks to him about something and tells him MErcy needed him and gets him out as he lived again.

After some time, when Dejen had a moment to himself from all the work he did by checking around, he decided to clean his gun a bit, allowing the Kitsune had a perfect chance to strike at him-- before going back into cover as Ash walks in.

“Yo, Dejen!” grinned the cat while walking on in, many Kitsune feeling a cold chill up their spines seeing the many markings on her body. A Demon Touched in their midst. “I got to say, Karth’s kinda weird-- like, really, really weird.” Staff stamping on the ground as she leaned on it. “Like… I look at him and everything is super weird. Cupcakes, odd glitter and noodles weird.”

Raising a brow as he stopped his cleaning as he lower the rag and asked. “Seriously?” going on to ask. “You can’t see him at all?” being a little surprised as he would’ve assumed Ash would easily see through Karth like everyone else.

Shaking her head, Ash said, “oh no, I can see him.” Then tapped her cheek, “I just can’t make sense of it.” Then snapped her fingers to say, “kinda like one of those.. You know how you sometimes look at fancy paintings and sometimes, you can’t make heads or tails of what it’s supposed to be?”

Humming, Dejen began cleaning parts of his gun again as he said. “I think I get what you’re saying,” going on to tell. “I mean, its kinda odd for Karth to look like a dragon, but got all those odd and different metal scales on him.” he however remark. “I’m surprise I didn’t hear a ruckus in the ship when he met you.”

Grinning, Ash told, “he’s a metal dragon of very few words.” Then went on, “if he’s even a dragon, which I kinda doubt…. But, eh, I don’t care.” Then gave his gun a glance again. “You know… I got to ask, why are you using honor steel for that?”

“What, for Lucky Hand?” asked Dejen as he glance to the weapon in it’s parts, as he was halfway done from cleaning the gun. “Well, for various of reasons. One of them being it’s very durable.” moving another part as he went on. “Plus, not every day I can actually use magic, since Stripes got so little of it.”

Looking from it to Dejen, Ash worked it over and asked, “want me to teach you?” Making him stop. While he looked back, Ash shrugged. “I’ve talked to Kan, and a little with Zaki. and even with a few people here. I don’t know a huge bunch of stripes, but from what little I am told is they use throat and vocal magic the most. Chant’s, as Asha and Johari call them.” Then pointed to him, “I can teach you. A bit at least.”

Thinking a bit, Dejen admit. “It would be nice to actually use a bit of magic, but...its going to be tricky for me to use these Chants, since I’ve never learn more about my heritage with how Stripes are.”

“They’re actually pretty easy to learn.” Ash waved off, much to Dejen’s surprise. “The reason it’s so easy, but also not used much, is because Chant’s really only work best with people adding to it. More people chanting, the stronger the spell. It’s a very passive magic. Not near as flashy or near as much burst potential as other magics.”

“And you think I can utilize it?” asked Dejen as he finished up his cleaning and began putting the pieces together. “Well, I might as well give it a shot, who knows, I might actually be good at it once I’ve practice a bit on using Chants.”

“Sure thing.” Ash smiled while turning and leaving out. “We can start tomorrow morning.” And while Dejen nodded, the assassin’s waited. When Ash was almost gone, they began to slinker out, weapons drawing.

“One more thing!” Ash suddenly turned back in and sent them scrambling to cover as she walked in. “I think I’ll get Debt to join too. Gnoll’s use Chants a lot from what I hear.”

“Really? Huh, that would actually be great.” said Dejen as he got Lucky Hand together as he asked. “But doesn’t Debt go to the Temple early in the mornings for his training?”

Pausing to think it over, ASh said, “I’ll work something out.” and roamed out again. The assassin’s sighing and creeping back out-- “One more thing!” And dodged back as Ash quickly slid in, “do you want me to help teach you how to also chanale internal magic? Because if you do then we can do that with the Chant things too.”

Humming a bit, Dejen shrug as he began putting his cleaning items away as he said. “Sure, why not? I might as well use what internal magic I got, so maybe it would help with my Chants training.” then thought and added. “Maybe I could use it for another of that musical number I did months back.” thinking when he and the other's sang ‘Lawbreakers’.

Nodding with a humm, Ash walked back out. After a moment, the assassins let out internal sighs and once more advanced as Dejen began to assort his cleaning tools-- “One more thing!” And all wanted to groan as they slunk back to their hiding places, Ash peeking her head through the door. “Do you think it’s possible to add more flowers around here? The place looks so dull, maybe a few ferns or greens? You know, get some color around here.”

Thinking, Dejen consider that as he admit. “I could probably try...Maybe I can ask Herbal and Katty if they can lend a few flowers, or add a bit of nature touch in the ship.” he however joked. “But we have to make sure we don’t get dirt everywhere, otherwise my kids will get rather annoy of cleaning the halls up and down the ship.”

“Hey, the place could use a scrubbin’.” Ash shrugged while leaving. The shinobi glared at the door way and turned back to a once more distracted Dejen-- “One more thing!” And some felt a odd feeling rising in them. One of frustration. Even as the accursed cat came back in to say, “I forgot to say, but Gem mentioned something about a boiler and it gurgling and something about it being really hot…”

“Aw shit,” muttered Dejen as he hoslter his gun as he told. “Look like someone forgot to check on the pipes again. Better get that dealt with now, I don’t want another repeat of everything bursting like last time.” already moving to exit out of the door as to check on the boiler and making sure there weren’t any damages again.

The kitsunes for a brief moment felt the need to scream and shout at their attempts failing again. But yet another part of their minds focus on the fact that apparently? Susumu neglected to inform the Clan that there was a demon touched here to begin with!

Turning, Ash nearly left, but looked at the room and eyed it and said, “for some reason…. I get the feeling this room hates me…” Then turned around and began to go after the striped, “Oh, Dejen! One more--”

And while the cat raced after the Striped, all the kitsunes look to each other in the shadows of the room, as they knew if the Herno was close to the Striped? They couldn’t assassinated him… they consider on what they should do, as while they needed to kill the Striped? They also needed to kill the cat too.

And they needed information on where this demon touched came from. So they decided to visit on their medic-nin and to figure out the answers from him.

As they were making their way to the medical bay, they had to hide in a room to avoid detection. There was a Herno that talked with another one, saying goodbye as she closed the door, moving to practice some breathing exercises as they had to move in a silent fashion to avoid detection from this Herno.

Though as she moved, many could tell she was very much untrained. So it was likely she was not a threat. They moved more quickly, but stopped and felt their eyes nearly bulge when from inside the black stripes, green markings glowed. They felt themselves stall, another Demon Touched before them. But unlike the other, with poise and careful grace, this one seemed more… hesitant, unsure, and moved with the most basic of kata’s… she was untrained and clearly more weaker.

They glance to the other, nodding as they could remove this one in the room. Have one less Demon touched and continued with their assassination. Or at the very least make it seem like a accident as they silently move around the room, using a small needle lace with poison as they were going to kill the demon touched…

But one held a hand to wait, as they recalled in Susumu reports that the Striped cared for those on the ship, and instead of killing her, they could use her as hostage, a strong bargaining chip to get the Stiped out. And if they are forced to kill? Then they won’t have regrets of killing a demon touched. All nod in agreement as a Kunoichi quickly move and hit the back of the Herno neck.

Knocking her out as another used rope to tie her up, a plan formed in their heads as this would surely get the Striped to come before them.

During the evening, everyone was a little scattered about. Asha had gone with Mercy to make sure she was comfortable. Changelings had gone out and about to get a few last moment supplies. Gem was in the forge with Rah-Rah and Karth, making sure they got a large assembly of weapons, tools and armor ready. And what few that were still on the ship were getting a meal in the mess hall.

Though as they had their meal, the nin figured now was the best time to strike. Susumu was in his medical ward, and couldn’t be affiliated. And with there being so few around, and most in one room, they could control the situation. Granted only one would make the needed threats and stand, the rest being in hiding to take out any would-be rescuers or to have a opening to end the striped.

They knew they were on a time limit. Someone would notice the young herno missing and with how she nearly woke up a hour before? They knew they had to do this sooner than later. All they had to do, was kill the striped and then just leave. It didn’t need to be a clean job, seeing as they only had to kill. And with so many obstacles? Getting it over with as soon as possible was the safest choice.

Once they were in position, they initiated the plan. Feeling extra lucky when the two more experienced Herno’s left the room in search of their two youngest members. Once they were gone and surly out of hearing range, they moved. The volunteer to be, felt the young demon touch stir and slowly wake. They were fine with this, even as the herno muffled out sounds of confusion and distress, struggling-- but to no real avail. Truely, they were more experienced than most ten-year old hernos!

When they moved around the corner, holding Hirue tight, a few heard the muffled cry. When all turned their heads, the kitsune had to make a point for them to stay still, blade up to Hirue’s neck, making her still and quite out of fear. And similarly, the room stilled… then, strangely, they looked scared and a few even backed away a bit. Even the life debted Tatsu took a step back. It was odd, but the kitsune made their demands regardless.

“Give us the one named Dejen, bring him here for his death. Fail to comply? We will kill this one.” demanded the Kitsune as a changeling spoke.

“Oh boy...uh….” glancing to Hirue, then to the Kitsune. “You really, really….messed up.” the knife getting closer to Hirue neck as everyone was pinning themselves far, far, FAR away from him.

“Oooooh he’s dead.” told one.

“Oh shit he’s serious.” mutter Gem as another changeling said.

“Dude, for your sake, you should really reconsider on that knife.” the nin was confuse, he had a hostage, he made his demands, shouldn’t they comply or have this one killed? Why are they going away from him as if he was holding a stick of dynamite?

Oddly, the only ones remotely calm were Johari and her cub, both watching on emotionlessly. Though Tibia asked, “mother… which do you think will be torn off first?” Making the Kitsune look to her. “The head, or the arm?”

Morbidly enough, Johari responded. “Not the head. That would kill him too quickly. So perhaps the offending arm. Followed by the other arm. Maybe his tail after that.” Seeming thoughtful. But giving him a long gaze, Johari spoke directly to the kitsune, “you seem confused.”

“I have hostage, I give my demands. Why not bring Striped to meet his death, does he not care if one of his own dies?”

“No, it’s not that.” Johari told. “He’s just smart enough to know it’s saffer where he’s at, and not by the one holding a Lion’s cub in their grasp.” Then told, “my suggestion? Run. if you don’t…” Then thought it over, “well, at least those that don’t know anything about lions will be reminded why you don’t threaten a Lioness cub.”

The Kitsune only braced, ready to call the bluff. But when he felt the hairs on his back rise of serious danger, he began to reconsider. It was then that he felt all his senses scream out, a deafening roar filled the hall and all but the lions cowared. He turned around, feeling himself being all too slow to see the source of the roar. When his eyes landed on what it was, he saw Asha-- but not as bubbly and nice as before.

She looked furious. A predatory glare in her eyes, a large fanged maw open wide, sharp curved claws unsheathed and looking the part of some demon's talons of death. He Tried to hold Hirue up like a shield, but when the white Lioness came down, he fell back from the weight alone. He gave a scream of pain, feeling those fange bite and take hold of his arm, crushing and pulling at it.

All those hiding winced when there was a loud snap, and when the kitsune was pulled, Hirue rolled out from his grasp and shook on the ground. Yet Asha was far from done. Dejen even flinched as he saw the lioness begin to maul the kitsune. Claws tearing, jaws ripping and twisting the arm, making it break and snap-- a corner of his mind told him… that could of been him if Mercy didn’t intervene.

Knife clattering on the ground and arm in horrible shape, the kitsune felt a large and very well sharpened claws on their chest, blue eyes full of anger glaring down. Asha growled menacingly, blood freshly stained on her otherwise white coat as she told lowly for only him. “Never… touch my cub again.” Voice going lower and lower. “You touch her again, and I will hunt you, and every one of your clan that is remotely near this Clan. Understood?”

“Y-Yes….” stuttered the Kitsune as he whimper in pain as among in the crowd, Susumu appeared, eyes widen to see one of his brethren with a broken and maimed arm, and cover in claw marks and on the ground. It made his expression twitch of the unpleasant gorey sight, as eve nif he might attempt to ‘heal’ it, might be safer to remove the arm itself.

Ear flicking, Asha said, “Susumu.” A dangerous tone in her voice while backing off the kitsue. “Could you please take this kitsune away and help him…” And said in a low growl, “before I mend his body and murder him?”

Taking a deep breath, ignoring the smell of copper blood as he nod. “Yes.” moving carefully and cautiously as he gently grab the Kitsune as the injured shinobi spoke in their native tongue and hissed in Susumu ear in a low tone.

“Why didn’t you mention of this, this thing!?”

Susumu spoke very low to the Kitsune. “Things have gotten extremely complicated since my last missive.” dragging the Kitsune as far as he could, as he and those of his Clan heard Johari words as a chill went down their spines.

“I’m surprised you were merciful, Asha. I would of broken and eaten part of his legs for what he did. Maybe give an arm to my daughter.” Many in the crew actually giving Johari a look of slight horror and even disgust.

“I wanted to warn him, not make an example, Johari.” Asha told terse back, though the kitsune soon got out of ears reach once they turned a corner. Gone down a hall, and soon got into the medbay. A place all came rushing into while Susumu and another helped their nearly mauled kin onto a bed.

One glare to the medic-nin as he demanded. “Susumu, you have much to answer for. You didn’t mention of two Demon Touched here, nor of what that lion, or of the other lion could do!” raising a finger as he questioned. “Why have you not have reported of such information? Or at the very least remove them?”

Susumu told in a irritated tone. “Both Ash and Hirue are protected. Both by the Striped word and the other under the watch of Asha, the Whitemane. You saw what she did to our fellow Clan member-- do you think I, a medic-nin could even get close without repercussions?” Reminding them fully that he was a medic nin and not a full Shinobi as he went on. “Asha is also a ‘heiress’ to her homeland. If I attempted on Hirue life, it would be as if I strike a Herno Heiress own child regardless of blood.”

“You owe no loyalty to this Striped beyond the Life-debt.” reminded a Kunoichi as Susumu told back.

“It is because of that life-debt that I have to obey his word! He is the Clan-head here, what else am I supposed to do, if I do not obey out of duty, then I would be even more in suspicion than I am!” Going on to tell. “Plus Asha also already know why I am here.” gaining surprised from his brethren as he explain. “She comes from a line of Whitemanes, who are seers, fortune tellers, healers and wisemen. She knew my reasons as soon as she saw me arrive, the only reason she didn’t end me? Was because she knew why you are here and who you are related to.”

“And the other Kitsune, Tatsu will figure it out soon enough. Because of what you all did, it would be a matter of time until I am brought before the Striped to be questioned of my own loyalties!”

While they all silently thought to that, and tried to wrap their heads around this, they heard a knock. All hid bare the sounded and Susumu, the later of which went to the door. He felt a sense of foreboding with Asha sitting there, looking stormy and angry. She let herself right in, telling, “close the door, Susu.” a clearly lacking kindness there. “And tell your kin to get out here. I have something to tell them.”

Taking a deep breath, Susumu spoke as he close the door. “She knows you are here, she wish to talk to you...or to warn you and possibly threaten you, it is wise to listen to a Lioness when they are like this.” moving to the injured Clanmate as he began to treat him, and seeing his fellow clanmates coming out of the shadows.

Eyeing each and every one of them, Asha told, “leave this place and don’t come back.” Her tone very much serous and lacking her normal cheer. “The only reason I said nothing, was because I felt Dejen was in no danger at all. I was going to let you leave without a hit.”

Breathing in, she gave a low growl. “That changed when you threaten my daughter. She is my cub, and if you even think of harming her in any way? I will hunt you down. I’ll go as far to use a few Curses I learned.” Making a few tense. “I’m fine with Susumu. He knows better. But all of you?” Glaring at each. “Leave this clan alone. Because after today? They won’t be so unprepared again. And let me tell you, if you did kill my daughter, you would of had an entire striped clan after you.” And told, “and if you think me mauling your friend was bad? You haven’t seen the grudges Striped clans hold.”

To which Susumu had to speak in agreement. “She is right, Striped hold deep grudges, Dejen would scourge all over the Iron Holds to find our Clan. he would not grant mercy and would ensure our Clan would be in ruined.” going on to say. “And it is best if you tell the Head of the Clan that...it is best if you leave the Striped be.” gaining their looks as Susumu tried to say more but a Kunoichi spoke.

“We are holding a job to complete the mission, and you are saying we must leave the Striped be?”

“Is your intent to kill Dejen worth so much, that you want him or his Clan to carry out genocide on your clan?” Asha questioned. Though at their looks, she told, “no, I don’t understand your tongue. But I can feel your intent, I’ve always felt it. I know what you’re planning. And I’m telling you now, leave before you make a huge mistake.” Then sharply breathed in. “I’m going to leave now. If I stay any longer I’m going to kill the one that tried to hurt my cub.” Tuning and leaving out, looking very tense.

When Susumu close the door behind her, he look to his Clanmate sharply as he said. “She is serious.” getting their attentions as he said. “While I doubt Dejen would call for genocide on our Clan, he would ensure we would be close to it. Destroying specific places, poisoning the water, even ensuring we would slowly starve. Or worse, get the King of these lands to take notice of us with a well place lie. Stripes are similar to Kitsunes, so there is a chance it can happened.”

Taking a breath in, Susumu spoke in hesitation. “I am...not betraying the Clan but...I cannot betray Dejen either. You have put me in a difficult position between loyalty and duty, my brethren. I cannot stop you...but I must insist you listen to Asha words. My words. Please. Leave this Clan while you and our Clan have this chance. Tell the Head of the Clan you failed because of me, inform him that Dejen is under the sign of the luck and is surrounded by powerful forces.”

“You must come with us. Surely it can be explained that,” spoke a Kunoichi as Susumu sadly shook his head.

“I am bound by the life-debt. You all understand if I do leave, it would stain my own Honor and put me in a questionable light for the Clan itself? I must remain...you all must got and tell this ‘benefactor’ you couldn’t do it, and ensure the Clan would not fall into ruination by this Clan. It is….better if I am be put to blame, than let my Clan die because of me.”

While they didn’t like it, they lowly nodded. They were too ill equipped and ill prepared for this while mission. Maybe later they could try again, but Susumu had a point. Right now, they had to withdraw and go silent. If the Strip could do as Susumu claimed? Then staying here would put them at risk. Though looking to their wounded kin, they knew that they couldn't move him just yet. They needed to wait for their medic to heal him just enough to be able to leave safely.

Taking in a breath, Susumu began to apply something into a syringe as he spoke to the injured nin. “I cannot save your arm. It is better to amputated it than risk letting it stay there.” Looking to his fellow member, he said. “Lions have strong jaws, powerful jaws that can crush bones and rip them off their sockets. The arm is too damaged. I must remove it to save your life.”

Clenching his jaw, the nin slowly nod, as he saw Susumu began pressing the needle in as he assured. “This will help you sleep.” Waiting for the effects to start as he knew this would be a hard job to remove the arm and ensure not much blood was gone from the body.

A few hours later, when Susumu had to remove both arm, and ensure his Clanmate survived, those that came left as soon as they could, leaving him alone in the medical bay to clean up. It left him to muse and consider on what he would do when Dejen calls for him. Sadly it seem fate demanded him to go, as there was a knock on the door, as Dejen voice spoke. “Susumu, we need to talk.”

“Come in.” spoke the doctor, turning to see the door open as he saw Dejen, but both Debt and Tatsu coming in behind him as Susumu internally frown.

So both hands of the Striped has arrive. Looking to all three as Susumu moved back a bit, mostly to allow them full access in. As Debt close the door, Dejen let out a breath as he asked.

“So, they were your clanmate...and they came to my ship, why?” giving a calm look to Susumu, as he was waiting for whatever excuse the Kitsune had.

But Susumu replied in a calm manner. “To kill you.” getting Debt to grip his new halberd as while it look like the same of the old one, it was in fact a superior version that was handcrafted of Karth. In fact most of the gnoll armor was handcraft and improved with stronger materials, enchanted with runes, and made to be in perfection.the Kitsune went on. “My Clan gotten permission from Clan head, to assassinate you, and benefactor, who I do not know, wish for your death as well.”

“Alright...so, why didn’t you stop them?” asked Dejen.

“Am...still part of their Clan, am still loyal.” then look to Dejen as he told. “But also loyal to you, due to life-debt...I was stuck in position. Stuck between two loyalties to Clan and one who I owe life-debt too.” Dejen glance back to Tatsu as he asked.

“Is what he’s saying is accurate for Kitsunes, Tatsu?” Figuring to ask the Kunoichi if what Susumu was saying was spot on or was a lie itself.

Firmly nodding, Tatsu said, “from the danger of execution, Dejen had effectively saved Susumu’s life at the hands of others. He would owe a life debt to Dejen. However, just as much, he is still loyal to his clan. Unlike myself, where my clan is next to dead bare the Twins? Susumu’s clan is still alive and not aligned to us. So his loyalties conflict. For him to not aid his clan, only tells his life debt holds enough value to be in a position of neutrality.”

Dejen nod, and soon ask. “So why didn’t you warned me, or anyone?”

Susumu frown as he told. “It is like I said earlier, I am loyal to Clan, but also loyal to you from life debt. If I told you about them, would be seen as hindrance, or possibly traitor to Clan. I couldn’t help you, but at the same time I couldn’t help them. It is as Tatsu said, I am position of neutrality.”

“And I’m going to assume you didn’t tell them about Asha adopting Hirue?” asked Dejen as Susumu let out a low breath and admit.

“I had...not much time to do so, mostly as its been months since I had…” heistanting as Dejen raise a eye brow and soon asked in a knowing tone.

“Since you informed them of a latest report?” Making the Kitsune slowly nod his head in confirmation. Dejen place a hand on the brim of his snout as he sighed. “Alright...I should’ve seen that coming…” then look to Susumu as he asked. “But here’s one thing I don’t understand. Why did your Clan sent a hit on me?”

“You...proven to be….a threat.” told Susumu.

Tatsu worked it over and admitted, “his clan would be wise to see you a liability, Dejen-Dono. Once Susumu learned of both past and what you have available, they would see too clear a threat. In most cases, Kitsune would rather remove the issue before it became one.” Then added, “negotiation is a rare occurrence, and only if they are sure they can batter with the possible liability. This benefactor was the possible needed persuasion to act in such a manner, as they would gain two benefits. One from your removal, and another from a paying source.”

Susumu nodded as he told. “You would be a powerful enemy to many. My Clan consider on removing you before you became more dangerous, the benefactor merely help in this thought.” then told. “However, I hope my Clan won’t attempted again. Asha warned them. And I try to persuade them too.”

Humming, Dejen asked. “They probably didn’t give you information on this benifactor due to you being netural, right?” seieng him confirm with a head nod, Dejen sighed and soon asked. “Would any other Kitsune Clans try to assassinate me?”

Susumu frown and answer. “They would need to be aware of you first. And in order to deem you as a possible threat? Is either by ear, or found on the ship. As long as no one knows of you or your history? None see a benfit to poke at a problem that isn’t theirs yet.” He then heistated as he soon asked. “What...would you’ve done if my Clan kept trying to assassinate you?”

Dejen thought and said. “Well...I would probably have Tatsu use her skill to track their ghosts, go to where your village is, and give them a polite ‘warning’, and if they didn’t listen? Well…” thinking a bit as he admit. “I would probably use a paralysis toxin gas to spread over the town, let it get into everyone lungs and move them all with my Clan wearing gas mask, then have a nice long and deep conversation with your clan head as polite as I can-- while having Debt slowly break his fingers or something.”

“You realize that may kill Kits, Dejen-Dono.” Tatsu spoke politely enough.

Looking to her, he thought and said. “Okay yeah, the gas might actually be overkill…” then thought and admit. “To be honest Susumu, I wouldn’t know but...I would try to talk things out with your Clan head...and if he won’t listen?” then pat Lucky Hand on his side. “Then I’ll just kill him.”

“Would need to kill whole clan.” Tatsu seemed to tell Dejen. “To them, you would murder their leader. The next to lead would wish your blood, which you would kill them. And another would take their place to possibly want your blood. And the cycle would go on, until none but innocent are left. Word may then spread to other clans you are greater threat than any kitsune clan.”

Thinking, Dejen remark. “Wow, am I glad I have you to help fill me on on these things Tatsu.” Letting out a sigh as he look to Susumu as he told. “Look, I rather not have Kitsune Clans after me, as I would prefer to have them as my allies instead of my enemies. Lord knows I got plenty of those. But I doubt your Clan would consider it, since they seem to prefer to have me dead.”

Susumu slowly nod as he admit. “Hard to make you seem as ally. Not much to gain and much to lose. But I know would be wiser to have you as ally than foe, more so with your luck than with anything else.”

Dejen thought a bit on that and soon asked in curiosity to Tatsu. “Is it actually possible for me to make allies with Kitsune Clans? Sure they might be as suspicious as hell with me, but, we can’t rule out the possibility for some alliances, right?”

With a slight huff of amusement, Tatsu spoke, “to ally with a Kitsune clan is no simple thing. We ally to Herno, as their clans are nothing but built on truth and honor. Minotaur’s are harder though, as they only ally through payment and jobs provided.” then pointed to Dejen himself. “To ally with them, you must accept a tense one. One where spies will commonly come and go, searching through your things and ready to get blades prepared for the day, you show a hint of being a enemy.”

“So just like usual with Susumu.” joked Dejen as Susumu eyes widen as he asked in shock.

“You...knew?”

Debt snort as the gnoll told. “He suspected. But it might as well be close to the truth. The Clan-Head figure someone would backstab him one day, and he listed both you and Tatsu as the one to do it.”

Susumu look from gnoll to Striped and to Tatsu as he look back to Dejen as he spoke. “But she is in life-debt.”

Nodding, Dejen said. “She is, but let's be honest, I’ve gotten a habit of being suspicious of people since I was backstab by people I trust. And even if you and Tatsu owe me a life debt? It doesn’t mean it’ll last forever since it’s both on your terms to see how long till you felt you paid in full.” then added to Tatsu. “No offense of course.”

With a single glance and raise of her brow, Tatsu told, “there is none to have. When dealing with Kitsune, is rather most wise.”

“Good to know.” said Dejen as he turn to Susumu. “So yes, I figure one day either you or Tatsu, or anyone in the clan would backstab me.” then amend. “Well, beside my girls or Debt-- but they’re different cases.” then went on. “But in either case, I think I learned enough, so get back to whatever you were doing Susumu.”

Looking at Dejen strangely, Susumu asked. “You are not bothered I have told them of information?”

“Eh, I’m a bit annoyed, but nothing I can do.” then said. “Just do your job, try to keep out of trouble and don’t make me regret not shooting you in the head. Hell the only reason I’m letting you off is because theres a chance I can have your Clan as a ally.”

“You understand they attempted to assassinate you, and yet you still feel like you should ally them one day.”

Dejen grin as he said. “There's a old saying where I’m from. ‘Today they’re your enemy, tomorrow? They’ll be your brother-in-arms. Life always make the strangest of bedfellows’.” then went on as he joked with a head motioned to the two behind him. “Beside, both of them tried to kill me once in their life, and now they’re both working as my Hands. I’ve seem to have the oddest of habit to make my enemies into my allies somehow.”

Tatsu pointed out, “you disturbed my blade. I did not go out of my way to attempt to kill you.”

To which Dejen reminded. “If I didn’t mention on the Twins, you would’ve killed me.”

“Rules of the blade, not mine.” Responded Tatsu.

“Uh-huh.” said Dejen as he said to Susumu. “Anyway, get back to work, doc.” turning to head out as Debt turn to follow him. The doctor frown as he spoke to Tatsu in their native tongue.

“There are times like these I do wonder if he really is insane than the common Striped.”

She only shrugged and said, “would you think any different of a Kitsune?” Seeming to remind they live a life of fair risk too. “Be assured, I may kill you the next time your loyalty is questioned enough.”

Susumu snorted, but didn’t respond as he saw her exit out, he close the door behind her as he turn with a low sigh. It seem Kami has grace me with living another day...However I am once again on the rope between two loyalties...I cannot go against my Clan, but yet I cannot go against Dejen. How am I supposed to ease this conflict, if I am reminded of such troubles?

The Kitsune sighed as he began to slowly get back to work, knowing that he had no answers to give for such a thing, he doubted the Ophenu in their wisdom would assist him with such a thing.

Near everything was ready for launch. With Mercy tucked away with the youngest of their group in the Hive, and plans set to start gathering forces, Dejen called for the Innovation to move. The ship rose during early morning, and Rah-Rah told him that Miko and Felix were off and away to meet the King himself to speak to him about Maltar.

With those plans set in motion, Dejen went about relaxing in one of the many viewing rooms of the ship to mostly sit in thought. Of his soon-to-be big fight with the Minotaur Leader himself, of getting Arabia back under his influence so they can keep them calm… Or the point that Dejeen was still alive. That particularly bothered him.

But even as they set sail for the golden sands of his home for the better-part of his first three years, did someone invite themselves in. Ash walked right next to the stripped, and said, “hey Dejen, got a sec?”

Giving a glance to her, Dejen said. “Sure,” turning his full attention to her as he gave a light grin. “Whats up? Here for that ‘praciticng’ of those Chants?”

Shaking her head, Ash told, “nah. I wanted to ask something. Mostly about the whole assassination thing I caught wind of last night while Najat and I were out.” Moving herself to a wall to lean on and asked, “what happened? I know they got Hirue and then Asha showed up to nearly tear some guys arm off… but I didn’t hear much of what happened after or how they got here.”

Rolling his eyes to this, Dejen huffed as he said. “Well, apparently Susumu Clan got hired by this unknown benefactor as they came to Humili by some ship, probably that trader ship earlier. They’ve been keeping a eye on me, since you know Susumu been giving them bits of info up till recently, and figure to kill two birds with one stone. But they couldn’t really get at me, since I’m apparently a lucky bastard. And apparently Susumu didn’t tell them Hirue was demon-touched-- probably since he owe me a life-debt and knew the repercussions since Hirue is under Asha protection.”

“So when they figure out Hirue was demon-touched? It didn’t came up as surprise to use her as hostage. After that? Asha did what any protective mother did, as for what happen? I think Asha came by and warn them, with our doc insisting they leave, so they did and hopefully his Clan will back off.”

Ash hummed to this and looked up in thought. Dejen rose a brow, but soon began to squint at her when Ash said, “so Susu didn’t get the memo out on anything that’s gone on here for a good while then, huh?” Seeming particularly thoughtful. Which, wasn’t too odd. Ash was smarter than she let on, as he learned. But something about her thoughtful tone made him wonder. Why was that important?

“No,” started Dejen as he said. “To be honest, I assume he was giving info. Even more I had a feeling it was a matter of time to be backstabbed by someone.” Leaning back in his seat as he went on. “I can only figure he hasn’t been giving the full detail since I saved his ass from being executed.”

“Sure, sure.” Ash seemed to wave off, “but you don’t get it. If he hasn’t set a letter out in forever, how did his clan know where to go to come kill you?” Going on to speak on, “it’s been bugging me since I heard it from Johari. She was asking Susumu on when and why he sent messages-- you know, airtight us and all.”

The feline looked to him and went on to point out. “And everyone here rarely sends out messages. And this ship? Flies faster than anything I’ve seen before-- even Phob’s ships can’t go anywhere near this things speed. So how did they know we were here? And knew we had landed or were going to be here for a bit?”

Frowning a bit, Dejen thought it over as his hands moved to feel his cards of deck, musing over as he briefly consider to shuffle them in thought. Although his hands were already moving to start shuffling as he admit. “I have a few ideas on that. One: we could have a traitor on the ship, but it's debatable on who would send out information like that. Maybe our ex-Hunter group we got around, but the same could be said for any changeling too since there's so many on our ship.”

“Two: could be someone at the town, don’t know who or why, but it could be for any amount of reasons. Three: the benefactor could be someone from Maltar group, trying to remove a problem, but thats speculation…” then frown further as his cards move. “But...the more possible one? Is a known Rat and possible spymaster somewhere in Equestria that tell anything for gold. Odds are he got a large connection.”

Humming to that, Ash worked it all over in her head and puzzled it. After a good long while of thinking, she told, “I don’t like it.” Going on to tell while contorting her face. “I’ve been tracked before Dejen. By a very persistent demon-lady with hundreds of flaying little imps that had a instant connection to their mistress. I get how she would spot me. A imp see’s me? She can track me.”

“But you’re ideas?” Went on Ash, “they take time. We’ve been there, what? A week at most?” The Herno shook her head. “Think on it. Letter would take too long to deliver. And magical communication is tricky to do. Even if this spymaster you’re talking about heard it? Should take weeks to send a message to him, then to a buyer-- not to mention who wants the info.”

While Dejen worked this over, Ash continued on. “And there’s the point that these Kitsune knew how to reach you. I know how Kitsune work, they never go in for the kill unless they had the info they needed. So unless this benefactor that hired them really got under their skin to do work, or they had plenty of info to toss about how to kill ya in one go.”

Considering this deeply, Dejen let out a breath as he lightly shook his head and said to Ash. “alright, you got a strong point.” then told. “But there's the million question. How could I be track that quick? I’ve checked over all over the ship for any possible runes to track us, from inside, to outside, even to our things. I even had my changelings and all the crew check for anything to track us.”

“And I’ll admit, I’m trying to figure out how or why.”

“How far back?” Quickly asked Ash. “a week ago? A day over a week? Two weeks? When’s the last time you checked for something like that?”

“A day after the failed assassination and talking with Susumu.” admit Dejen. “I’ve tried to figure out if one of my crew backstab me, but so far nothing. Not even the comatose ones.”

Shaking her head and going back into thought, Ash huffed out, “well that’s just…” Pusing to think, “Peach. That’s what ponies say, right? That’s just peach?” Going from serous, to minorly confused.

“Personally I say lovely,” told Dejen with a light shrug as he moved his cards in a angle as he lightly shrug. “Honestly how we were track is a problem. Even more since it could happen again, but this time with a different Clan.” letting out a breath as he went on. “And whoever this benefactor is? Could be anything at this point. A possible Seer, a spy master in the Holds, or even a damned demon with lots and lots of imps.”

“Definitely ain’t the demons.” Ash seemed to brush off. “Talked to Asha about her sensing power. She would've definitely noticed if any were near. So they’re a no-go.” Then, the herno thought on before huffing, “welp… I got nothing.” Then told to Dejen, “I just thought I’d ask. I can just smell something fishy here. Call it paranoia from being chased by all sorts of whack jobs.”

“You and me both.” lightly joked the Striped, before frowning abit. “Honestly it could be anything, and sadly I don’t got the means or resources to find out who it was that could track us so quickly.” then remarked. “But I will say this. Whoever it was? Definitely didn’t want me around if they were using the Kitsunes in this.”

“Or they really know you’re a big threat.” Told Ash. “I know how the Kitsune play, Dejen. Unless they know they can’t win? They often will go in and be sure to complete the mission at any coast. They only hesitated this time because they knew that dying to try killing you? Would of accomplished nothing.”

Getting off the wall, the women told on while still in thought, “I think I’m going to look around a bit and think. I don’t like how those kitsune popped up like that. To the point they were willing to go in this blind. And Kitsune rarely go in blind on something like assassination contracts.” And soon began to leave the room.

Frowning to this in thought, Dejen considered Ash words as he let her go out of the room, he himself wondering on this too. He knew that if Ash was right about this? Then something was off on how quick they not only came to kill him, but the fact they knew of his location. But he also knew that he didn’t had any means to find out how he was tracked, even less on who it was that wanted him dead.

It could be anyone at this point and that didn’t sit well with him.

Letting out a breath, Dejen let his hands shuffle his deck, musing a bit on not just this, but on how he’ll have Arabia in his pocket. Its one thing having one city under my influence and another to have a pal doing anything for me. It's another with all the rest. They know who I am, they know what I did to earn my title. They know its bad to get on my bad side. But let's be real, how well does my rep hold up? I’ve been near silent in Arabia for a long while.

And odds are they might try to be tough to me. Plus every Sultan is different, some won’t listen, other's would want a price to play nice. Even a few would demand my head to be cut off. And some of my info will probably be old, even a few blackmail I got might be correct in the time I’ve been away. Hands shuffling his deck, he thought on as his ear flick to hear for anything.

Mostly since he had to keep his guard up thanks to a certain pair of Blackmanes jumping at him every single time he was too preoccupied with something.

And speaking of my guard, how is it that those Kitsunes tracked me? I had everyone be track, everything on this ship from inside and out scourge. How could those Kitsune find me? Who gave the intel to them? There's a lot of unknowns in this and I can’t solve this. Breathing hard, Dejen wonder on how he’ll solve this. In all honesty he was trying to figure something out with near to no facts or clues.

Everything was too hidden, everything was too uncertain. Even now as they headed to Arabia, and possibly Ramada to learn about what happened in his ‘home’ of anything new? The Striped musd on what he could do as of now? At best, all he could focus on was the situation with Arabia, using his wit, his knowledge, and his gambling nature to ensure he had Arabia under his grip.

But it was Arabia.

Things were never simple once you add politics into this.