Arabian Swindler

When they reached to Arabia, of its golden sand landscape and began work on getting the nations to heel? Dejen quickly noted that he was correct in his thoughts.

Mostly of the Sultans probably disregarding him or threatening him.

Such as now as Dejen was currently in the Sultan throneroom of one of the western cities, as the Striped thought it would best start here to get talking. But apparently with the amount of guards pointing their spears at him, and at a lowly growling Debt? Things weren’t going as he liked. So with a light grin to the Sultan, Dejen spoke. “Sultan Ferah, please. Try to ease yourself.”

The elder looking horse, with white showing on his beard on his face spoke out. “Ease myself?! How could I when you dare to come into my home! My city of all places?! I know how you work, Death’s Gambler. You come to bring ruin upon my home!”

“I’ve come to bear no ill-will, Ferah.” assured Dejen. “In fact, I’ve come to talk, to ask you to simply withhold your forces and not do anything when the Iron Hold Fleets come to deal with a pirate problem.”

“Iron Hold, damn you Death’s Gambler, does your touch hold no bounds?!”

“Look, Ferah, I’m asking nicely,” spoke the Striped with a grin on his face, but as the guards look to him, did they feel a light shiver down their spine. As they saw within his eyes of the annoyance, the agitation, and the promise that if they don’t lower their weapons, he will be having them hurt or killed. Even Ferah look to those eyes of the Striped, of Death’s Gambler as Dejen went on. “The reason I am asking, Ferah? Is because I got bigger gambles to play.”

“Now we can do this the easy way, where you’ll just accept my request, let us go, and nothing bad will hapen to you or to anyone here. Or,” started the Striped as he look to the Sultan. “I will be forced to be a little bad to make my point. And I think we both know here what’ll happen if you get on my bad side, right Ferah?” asked the Striped in a very tense tone, even if his face showed that grin of his.

There was a span of silence, as the Sultan look to the Striped with anger showing on his face, before he spat out. “Fine!” motioning a hoof to the guards to move away, as they not-so-subtly moved away as the Sultan went on. “I’ll allow you to do whatever you’re planning. I do not wish to know what scheme you hatched up-- or if it’ll involve another dead city.”

Giving a wider and more happier grin as Dejen said. “As long as you play nice like everyone else? Things will be fine!” motioning a hand to the two to follow as when he turn to walk out of the door, he glance to the Sultan and reminded. “Remember, leave things be when the Iron Hold Fleets come by.”

“Get. out.” angrily spoke the Sultan as Dejen waved a hand and once the door closed behind them? The Striped let out a ragged breath.

“Let's hope the other's aren’t like that.”

Walking down with the Striped to head to their ship, Debt told. “Odds are it will be, Clan-Head. With you're ill-gained reputation? Everyone has a reason to hate or fear you in Arabia.”

That made Dejen want to snort. The others could get outright violent the next time he set’s foot in their palaces. But his job to make sure Arabia didn’t get too out of hand when the attack happened, was a big deal. There would be a good number of cities he would have to viset to make sure they all keep their arms down and not act out of order when the Minotaurs get their fleet amassed.

Though while Dejen worked that over, he paused to look out over the city he was in. It wasn’t the most grandest of places, but it was a port city and one of the first many first he had to visit. Mostly due to all the ships docked here. Airships were not in huge abondance as the sea faring ones, and a good plenty were warships.

He could see why there was initial worry about bringing the Minotaurs fleet into his little scheme. Really the possible misunderstanding of possible hostilities could of really caused issues. Part of Dejen wonder if Karth did do his job in ‘settling’ the dragons after flying over the ocean. But he would find out if the ego-driven metal dragon did as he said.

While he huffed a breath and made his way down the steps and towards the main port where the ship was located, Dejen began to muse over… well, how to handle the rest of the Sultans. Some would just be easy to deal with like the one here. Enough pressure and would cave. While others would just be a pain and would have to let his newly-pumped bodyguard handel.

Dejen was still getting over the fact Debt now had some form of pyrokinesis to himself.

Then there were the ones that would only garenteingly do something for coin. Now those lot were the hardest as they tried to get what they could out of him. Dejen was starting to realize that his time away made his reputation suffer a good deal. And it further made him onder how to keep a grasp in the sands with him being away so often? This plan would work… for now. But what about after it? When things have settled and he wants to push his rep around again?

No one is going to take me seriously. mused Dejen as he thought over to himself. they’ll think my bite isn’t all that good. That I’ve gone rusty in being a cut-throat...well, technically thats true. But they’ll try to challenge, try to fight me. Try to put me down to remove a ‘old legend’ like myself. I can’t really stay around to enforce my rep as Death’s Gambler. Got a lot of things to do outside of Arabia.

But I know that if I don’t do something, my rep will be near gone sooner or later. They won’t be afraid of me. They won’t understand why its bad to get me angry. They just...won’t care. Dejen tried to muse on this, as he easily remember the things he did on getting everyone to play nice to him. Kill afew people, remember a few debts, blackmail, threaten, and even kill a lot of people with dirty tactics.

But his biggest means of gaining rep was how he used his card games to just kill people. That and making huge gambles that involved death.

Thinking it over as he walked down the steps, Dejen mused on how to make Arabia reminded on Death’s Gambler rep, on how its good to have his favor, but its scary to have him on his bad side. And that?

That was hard. Especially since he was rusty. He laid down his cut-throat ways to have a new way with his group...And that was both good and bad. It just made the problem more bigger.

Making his way around a turn and down another set of steps, the striped really tried to puzzle on how to handle it. But really, now wasn’t the time. As much as he wanted to re-establish his place? He really did have bigger fish to fry. Maltar, Dejeen, securing his own life… he only had two months, or a month it seemed like. Time was just slipping by and he knew that he had to get to the no-good Pirate King and his fortress overseas.

It made Dejen want to sigh heavily. He only had one chance at this and he had to do it right. If he didn’t? Chances were that if Maltar escaped by some small margin? If they failed, he was not going to make it. Dejen knew, he had to get the sultan's to listen. He had to make sure that the minotaurs had every chance to reach Mltar and he had to make sure they brought down this empire. The Twins would of been nice-- but they weren't here. He had to deal with what he had.

Letting out a breath, Dejen mused on how he was going to handle getting Maltar dead. He knew it wasn’t going to be easy, even less in the situation he was in. But one thing was for certain, was that he had a lot of traveling to do, and hopefully? Before the month was up, he could be able to get all of arabia under control and handle the minotaur.

After nearly two weeks of traveling around in Arabia, in persuading, haggling and near threatening, Dejen managed to get all of Arabia under control. But it was taxing on his mind as he would need to really up his game if he needed all of Arabia under his hand to make them listen. But he was just glad that the tough part was over, even if it was just trying to handle all of the Sultans that proved to be a problem.

Thankfully good news came, as he heard from Karth through Rah-Rah that the dragons would ‘tolerate’ the ships that would arrive. How did that happen Dejen wasn’t sure, nor did he fully complained. And even better news came as Felix got in touch with the King and his ships were already on the move to Maltar position.

It didn’t take long for the Innovation Rise to make its way with the fleet, as the Striped, already in his new mithral armor and having his exo-suit under it just in case. The Striped made sure to pack in with his railway rifle, dubbed ‘Choo-Choo’, he didn’t want to leave anything behind as a precaution. He was after all, fighting for his survival with how close time was before the month ended.

The Striped let out a breath, sitting in his captain chair as he held Lucky Hand, anxiety filled him as he watched from the bridge, of all the other ships as Port spoke out. “Wow...look at all, those ships.” She and Debt were working side by side as the gnoll watched silently of the large amrada of the Iron Hold Fleets. None of them knew if this was the entire fleet, but Dejen had a feeling it was a large portion to make sure it could handle the ships of Maltar little empire.

“Let's hope we can get to Maltar first.” spoke Dejen as he leaned forward in his spot as he felt on edge, mostly since it felt like he was dancing on hot coals in this situation to get Maltar for that creepy fox wish-granting thing.

Settling herself nearby, Ash with her own newly gained armor-- in no small thanks to Karth --soon gave a whistle and said, “boy oh boy… look at all those cannons….” then eyed the fleet for a moment to add, “wonder what else they’re sending?” she would of kept going, but there was a crackling as their comms came to life.

“Testing, testing, Dejen, can you hear me?” Came the otherwise synthetic voice of Felix. “Is everything all set on your end? The fleet’s ready to move out and deal with Maltar once and for all.”

Moving to activate the comms, Dejen gave a light grinning tone as he responds. “We’re all set here. Got the cannons loaded, Arabia settled, and all of us are itching for a fight.” Then soon added. “And Karth mentioned he got the dragons to be understanding somehow.”

“Good t’ hear, Cap’.” MIko was soon heard over the comm’s. “Alright amrild, that’s the ship we’ll be tailing. Dejen, you know how many stuff that bloody slaver’s got hold up at his fort?” A slight tension in her voice. No doubt on edge on being so close on downing the minotaur slaver.

Letting out a breath, Dejen admit. “From what I could gather about the guy? He got a fully fortify defense. High walls, cannons, lots of bodies to be tossed at. And pathways for an armada of ships to come out. Don’t know how many, and I don’t know what else he got. At worst? Maybe a secret passageway for him to flee. At best? We surround and push down before he has a chance.”

“Then we surround.” Felix seemed to tell, “show us the way Dejen. As much as we’d like to scout? I’m sure Maltar knows something’s going on with such a large reserve gone from the Holds. Lead the way.”

“Port, Debt. Full speed.” ordered Dejen, as with the two pilots moving, did the Innovation Rise began to take the lead as slowly but surely, did the other ships began to follow. The Striped let out a low breath as he leaned back, hand moving to feel his gun while he wanted to take his cards out? He had them put in his room as he didn’t want to lose them. The Striped watch ahead as for the most part, things were quiet in the bridge.

The two giving turns and knobs on the controls, with radio chatter in the background as Dejen glance to Ash as he ask. “So, on the chances we get Maltar, what next until you and Najat go back to where you came from?”

Both Ash and one very quite Najat traded looks. A just as quite Johari off to some shadowy corner, watching with keen eyes. After a moment, Ash shrugged, “well… I’d vote to stay in that town of yours or somthin’... but it’d be better if I stick with you.”

Lifting a brow, Johari questioned, “would this have to do with that other self of yours.”

“You’d kill her and not help.” Ash seemed to say bluntly, “right now, she’s hurt and confused. If I have a chance to save her? I’m taking it. Not just for her, but Imoto too.” Something Najat wholly agreed to with a nod of her head.

The white herno went as far to say, “you may find this a foolish task. But Ash-chan and I have agreed, to try and rescue Ashani-san from herself and this demon. Help her see, she does not have to turn her back on the world.”

“And what happens if you poof before you get to do that?” Dejen asked as he lean on his armrest, looking to the two as he went on. “Look, you maybe able to do it. I mean, I’ve done ‘foolish’ stuff before, so if its possible for you to get Ashani not under a demoness control? Good for you two, but what if you poof? None of us can easily handle her like you can Ash.” then soon blink as he added. “Oh right,” moving to take out a letter. “Here, in case if you did poofed during battle. I want you to give this to the group you’re in. Figure that if our worlds are the same? Some of the info in there should be solid enough.”

Raising a hand and more-or-less making it fly to her hand, Ash took a moment to open the letter and read it over… before nodding and tucking it away. “Thanks, I’ll be sure to keep it with.” Then went on while leaning on her staff, “and if I poof?” Thinking it over before shrugging, “well, then you have a more hot-headed heiress that might decide it’s her duty to go into the world without you and find her lost friend.”

Najat made a face, but agreed, “my younger self is… not as experienced as I am. She would do such a thing, now that she knows what is truly happening. Possibly not consider the risk she would place herself.”

“And something tells me you two are going to ask for us to make sure she doesn’t do anything stupid, and try to help Ashani somehow, and get her to see the truth in case you two did poofed.” summed up the Striped.

Najat sighed and spoke, “it would ease our minds.” Going on to tell with a twisted up face. “Ash-chan has talked about possibly finding other’s we know and aid them. But knows that unlike myself? She knows not where they are.”

Nodding, Ash told in example, “there was this Haynu Kitsune we knew, Mari? She was a ‘exotic slave’ prize at some arabian race.” Then shifted, “problem is? I don’t recall the city and don’t recall when it happened. We lucked out with Najat. But Mari? That’d take too long to track her down and we had no time for that cuz… you know.”

Rolling his eyes, Dejen said. “Yeah, me with my ticking time limit.” then thought on this ‘arabian race’ as he remarked. “I heard mention on it during the whole moving around, but from what I heard? It’s already done when I arrived in a city. Apparently a group with a yacht won the race.”

Johari rose a brow to this, but soon remarked, “regardless… from the sounds of it? We would have our work cut out in locating this one kitsune.” Then breathed out, “still, after this? We’ll have time. But not much. We’ll have another issue to deal with. This Tyra demon.”

“Yeeeeah, she’s a pain.” Ash dragged out in annoyance. “I want to find Mari, but no use without leads.” Then looked on ahead. “So, for now? Focus on beating this guy’s horned head to the floor, deal with him-- then… I don’t know, regroup?”

Letting a breath out, Dejen agreed with a nod as he soon look ahead, then glance as he asked. “But on the off chance you do poof...how are we supposed to ‘save’ the other you, Ash? Cuz last time I recall? My ass was handed down and we were nearly dead when we encounter her.”

Going quite, Ash told, “by reminding her.” Eyes down in thought. “Right now…. She’s scared and hurt. She’s scard for her life because everyone will kill her because of her marks. She’s hurt because everyone she could of trusted, will stab her in the back without remorse. She’s confused because she has no reason to just keep going, her only reason to hang on was Najat. Najat was the reason I pushed. So I guess, if she see’s Najat show that she still cares, you might pull her back.”

Najat became oddly quite, really focusing on Ash at that moment, and so had Johari. It was after a moment, Johari spoke, “this is the first time you were this open about your vulnerable side, Ash.”

Chuckling, Ash looked back and said with a slightly more somber grin, “well… like Dejen said. If I poof, what’ll be useful in helping my other self? I don’t talk about my feelings… but I know my other self wont either. So either I take the fall in showing weakness, or she’ll be killed.”

While Port was silent and glance back a bit to Ash, Debt glance and soon spoke in a simple manner. “Then pray that we would be able to remind her. Those marks on her will cause us trouble, even if we have the Heiress with us, she might not listen.”

“Oh, she’ll listen.” Ash told. “Or, my other self will.” Seeming sure. “I really put her off kilter with our last meeting. She’s doubting now, and worst of all?” Grinning as she did, “she’s curious.”

Thinking a bit, Dejen said in thought. “Which means, it’ll cause that demoness issues, if Ashani is curious...she’ll ask questions, and if she ask questions that the demon won’t or can’t answer? It’ll cause more issues and that doubt will grow.” Then let out a snort as he said. “But there’s still the issue of handling the demoness when the time comes.”

Debt however remind. “Karth mentions that he would handle her in due time, Clan-head.”

Dejen told in slight doubt. “Debt he may be a great blacksmith and rune-crafter, but I doubt he could track her and deal with her that easily.”

“Hate to say it, but Dejen’s right.” Ash agreed right along. “Tyra’s got more going for her than just some research. She’s got demons and abominations that are mangled bodies of lot’s of victims, powered by the souls of said victims.” And shook her head. “It’s real nasty work, and they’re almost like zombies…. Well, living zombie-things.”

“So shoot them in the head, got it.” comment Dejen.

Najat seemed to however correct, “removing the head, does not mean it will kill the creatures, Dejen-san.”

Giving an annoyed groan, Dejen said. “First demons, then reality fuckery, and now zombies that can't be killed the old fashion way.” letting out a breath as he rub his forehead. “Why can’t things be simple now and then? Is it really so hard to ask for that?”

“Well...if it makes you feel better, at least you’ll gain favor from the King once Maltar is dead, boss.” Port spoke in an attempt to help cheer the Striped mood.

“Yeah that's true…” spoke Dejen with a low sigh, leaning back a bit as he added. “And maybe things will be simple a bit once Matlar dead, that way I don’t feel like I’m heading to death’s row with what time we got.”

ASh only chuckled to this and Najat shook her head. One having a feeling that things might just get more interesting, while the other only wished things would go well. But it didn’t seem to be so. For as soon as they cut through some low clouds and out the front, the ship tilted-- Port pulling on the wheel hard-- and Debt following her example.

No sooner did the air fill with explosions and up ahead looked to be another fleet-- mostly of pirate like ships and slavers. They had little time to add anything in the comes when other ships of the Holds began to come out. But unlike Dejen’s own more advanced and agile ship? The Minotaurs took a few hard hits. But also didn’t seem to care nearly as much on being hit.

“Bloody-- Cap’, whot’s going, ah jesus, they were waiting for us!?” Miko’s shout came from other the comms, and presumably just now able to see the fleet before them. And over the same comm, Dejen could hear orders going off. Ships assigned combat routes and other’s to send in the landing ships.

“Miko, Felix, tell the Minotaurs to send landing craft with the ship. The Innovation can be the main cover.” then switch to all comm on the ship. “Everyone, be ready for a fight, Innovation is going down to drop off the main force, Rah-Rah, ready all hands to fire everything and head up.” then soon order. “Galdan, your on command duty,” getting off his chair, seeing Johari, Najat, Ash, Myun, Tatsu, and Debt as he told. “Lets go, we don’t have time to waste.”

The gnoll nodded, as he nods to Port to take control. The mare gulp, but nod with a firm head as when Dejen group began to leave the bridge as they began moving. Dejen saw Galdan passing him and the other's in the hall, along with both Sharp and Mist as Dejen joked to Galdan. “Try to make sure my ship doesn’t crash like yours, Quartermaster.”

“And you come back alive, Captain.” Told the grizzled bird as he shouted as soon as they were in, “Port! Keep the ship stead and high, we want all batteries to have nothing obscuring them!”

Najat gave a glance back, but payed no mind as she rushed with the others. Her new plated mythril armor hardly hindering her. All the while the comms blared out from Rah-rah’s words. “Forward main batteries, target anything in front and clear us a path. Port and Starboard, ready batteries to ward off interceptors.”

“Off the horn Engineer, I’m on deck.” Galdan soon was heard before he began to issue orders. “Port side, odd number batteries target interceptors. Even number batteries take pot-shots at frigates. Starboard, odd number battered to interceptors and even’s to the frigates like before. Main battery one, ahead, battered two and three? Target those battleships, give us less trouble!”

All the while the group got close to the cargo bay and came to a stop. Tatsu asking, “what is out plan for landing? We surly can not land while the ship is warding off threats.”

Giving a look to that, Ash said, “well, what if we used a ship, Dejen’s got those, right?”

Johari corrected, “not many. Most are being worked on, and the only one onboard is hardly functioning, if anything it’d fall and barley fly.” though Dejen perked at the thought that he did before… and turned to look at the mention ship that had little means to fly-- even if it had the propulsion. Lot’s of propulsion….

A wide grin escape from his muzzle. Halo, you are amazing with thoughts. as he soon told. “Oh, we have a way,” gaining the other's to look at him at his wide grin on his face.

When the last of them were getting settled and the ketch ship was moved, with Dejen at the helm to ‘pilot’ their way down as Najat comment.

“Truly.” Breathed Najat as they were nearing the opening bay doors, “you have lost your mind.”

Getting low and gripping the floor, Johari spoke with some amount of uncertainty of her own, “I would love to agree, but this is supposed to be normal striped behaviour.” Not savoring the idea of what they were going to do.

Moving up and gripping the railing near Dejen, Ash asked, “can I push the button that sends us off?”

Tatsu gave a stink eye at the herno and asked, “that however, is abnormal fora Herno. For certain, she has lost her sanity.”

Dejen laugh a bit to Ash, before giving a flat look as he told. “No.” then told to everyone. “Hang on, it’s gonna get bumpy!” then press the button himself. Hearing the thrusters began to go on as he soon grin wide and within a split moment, figure to go all the way as he began tapping his paw as he chanted out. “Lucky 7, Lucky 7, Lucky 7,”

Debt glance as he wanted to ask if now was a good time to chant, however it was replaced with screaming as the ketch ship ejected out and was full of screaming and one whooping Ash, who was joining the chant of the mad Striped as he steered the ship down.

Cannon fire echoed and banged all about, a few shots even whizzing by. Najat was certain that when their ship rocked, it was do to a cannon ball flying right under their little ship. And all the while other ships were flying by, all intent on landing.

A few did not make it. Going up in plumes of fiery flames as their bits and pieces fell to the water below. One cannon shot actually slimmed them, making the ketch jostle, swerve and spin before evening out. All the while the two ‘mad’ people continued to chant away. Then, they crashed. The ship hitting and sliding over the sand before coming to a stop.

Each one groaned and got up, some rubbing their heads. “That… was rough.” Johari spoke while shaking herself off and getting off the ship.

“Agreed.” Tatsu breathed, picking herself up. Ash doing the same but in addition to helping Najat up. All the while, the other ships were landing and the sky, once bustling with mostly ships? Began to fill with flyers and the land gaining a few rushing slavers out from their nearby fortress.

Dejen was quickly trying to shake off his daze, Debt in turn doing the same. Yet as they did, one of the ships that had not slowed down yet, flew in close as something dropped out. While the ship went on to swerve and find a more suitable place to lad, the lone figure got up with a bellowing purple cape and armor so red, it doesn't look normal. He drew a long sword blade, and without any hesitation, charged the largest group.

“What the, the hell’s he doing alone against that group?” asked Dejen in slight surprise, as he took out Lucky out as Debt spoke.

“It doesn’t matter, what does is us getting to Maltar first.” then give a quick glance to Myun, mostly making sure she was fine before looking to their opposition as he told. “I’ll go first.” Moving to get off and started to move, the Striped let out a sigh, but look to the other's as he gave a light grin as he said. “Lets go and kill some slavers.”

Johari gave a semi amused snort to this, but began to follow with the others never-the-less. Though as they did, Tatsu suggested, “if possible, we would be best suited to sabotage the gates. Without the ships, we will not be able to assault our way in.”

In turn, Ash said, “Alright, how about you, me and Johari sneak around, get in, then open the gates for everyone on the ground to just walk right in?”

“Eh sounds about a good as plan than anything I can think of.” told Dejen as he shrugged a bit, as he glance a bit from the fight that was going on as more soldiers were coming out of ships as Debt spoke in a minor dry tone.

“Sir, your mind is of insanity. You might as well consider using our ship to be used as a large bomb of some sorts and ram it it the fortress.”

“I’m not going to do that!” deny Dejen as he placed a hand on his chest. “I know how hard it is to get new ships, especially for our needs.” then told. “I may be Striped, but I’m not that unhinged.”

To that, Ash seemed to ask, “well the ship we got is a slight wreck, why not send it flying into the gates?”

Pausing, Dejen look to Ash, then to the ship, then to Ash, then to the ship.

“Clan-head…” started Debt as he look to the Striped. “You’re not really considering on of our ships to be used as a battering ram,” he however stopped as he recalled the Striped did something familiar when he saved the other's from being killed in the Griffon Kingdoms as already Dejen was heavily considering it. It didn’t take long for the Striped to get back on and began doing something to it as Debt only commented to the other's.

“It seems he is as Racky as a Striped.”

Ash shrugged and said, “I’d say I’m sorry, but the sooner that gate’s down? The sooner we reach maltar.” Smiling as she did. Though Johari was the one to eye and accuse the herno.

“You challenged Dejen’s thinking to see if he would hold what he said about not using his ships as explosives, didn’t you?"

“Me? No. Whatever gave you that idea?” Asked an ever so cheery cat.

Debt snorted harshly as he told. “You did, didn’t you.” Already knowing that Ash might as well did challenged the Striped, and while he knew Dejen real origins? He also learn that Stripes don’t like it when they’re being challenged like that. It makes them really creative in whatever they may do.

“Hey, mind if you guys push it a bit to the left for me? I need to get it at the right angle!” Dejen called out as Ash turns and spins her staff to one side, making a crystal growth push the ship more to the right as Dejen called out. “I said left!”

“Your left or my left?” Ash shouted in turn.

Myun put a hand to her face and muttered, “those two are crazy.” While Najat give a very heavy sigh and not even defending her friend.

“WAit hang on!” told the Striped, peeking his head and looking abit, then shouted down to Ash. “My left, and just a tiny bit to your left!” then went back as there was a bit of sound of metal and something as Dejen added. “Also I need a small ramp, otherwise I’ll miss!”

Najat sighs and motioned the other's to move, as she makes an icy ramp of sorts after a good deal of cryomancy. Debt only watch with the other's as when the ketch was moved a bit to the angle, did Dejen jump out and began running to them as the ketch engines began thrust with life. Starting to move on the icy path as it went up on its ramp, going up a bit in an arc as for a brief moment, everyone watch and saw it crashing into the gate.

Dejen raise a hand as he motioned to wait, and after a moment of it’s engines spluttering, it then blew.

After a moment, Johari dryly remarked, “funny. I think you’re getting closer to being like your relatives.” Dejen was going to comment, until he realized what she meant.

Ash however only told, “Uh, guys, gates open?” Motion ahead, “maybe we should, you know...” then shouted to many a troop that was rushing up the beach and land, “CHARGE!” Pointing her staff forwards.

As the troops began charging, Dejen only shook his head as he mentally put away the discussion with Johari as he wasn’t much like the other Stripes as took out Lucky Hand again as he told. “Less talking and more getting to Maltar.” already began to move, with Debt coming up behind. The other's began to move as while the support of minotaurs would help ease things out?

For the oddest of reason Dejen felt something was off about all of this. Even as he and the other's were coming through the broken remains of the gates, there were defenders, sure but...for the life of the Striped as he was shooting his gun, he felt that this wasn’t enough defenders on the fortress. It was nagging at him, since this was supposed to be Maltar base of operations. Where was all the beefy defense?

But before he could speak a word, he had to duck under a arrow as he raises up, seeing someone dropping from Myun accuracy. Okay, thinking later, be more focus on the fight now. thought Dejen, as he had to keep his senses sharp with all that was going on right now!

Debt look ahead of some diamond dogs rush with their weapons, as he breath in and breath out flames out from his helmet, the dogs were shock and were quickly being burnt as Dejen called out. “Damn Debt!” the gnoll ended his breath of fire, as he quickly move to cut down the enemies as his training with the old Ophenu paid off immensely with how he was quick to control the use of his fire.

Ash took up the front, though unlike before, limited her own skills and abilities. No doubt to keep from being singled out by the many troops that hadn't caught on to her more darker-aspects. Regardless of this ‘hinderince’, the herno moved with all the speed and grace that a warrior of her skill could. Often batting or smacking opponent's down.

Najat was almost the same. She wasted not a moment to fell or disable a combatant with or in ice, more than often being finished off by the other’s. While they made headway, they weren't the only ones. Mostly taking the lead was that red-armored guy, and Dejen had to say while he took cover, the guy was scary.

Not in the sense he looked terrifying, but the fact that no matter the attack? Spell, arrow, blade, axe or whatnot-- it all seems to bounce off the armor and the guy tanked every hit and continued his own fighting, sword slashing, thrusting-- or outright used to grapple and toss other’s around. Even going into brawls that ended up with someone’s face smashed in via metal gauntlet.

I don’t know who this guy is, but what I do know? Having him as an enemy? Is a bad idea. concluded the Striped, as he fired his gun into an archer, letting the body fell as he quickly look around. Already trying to find the best way to find Maltar as he asked. “Any idea where Maltar might be?”

“He might be on the run already, Clan-head.” told Debt as he stab into a minotaur and flung the body to the side. “He could be anywhere at this point.”

Ash thought on that and said, “not anywhere.” And ducked behind cover to tell, “if Maltar wants off this island? He has to go someplace on the island to hide and wait it out before sneaking away. My guess? He’s probably either still here trying to keep things going, or already bailed.”

Working it over, Johari spoke, “they knew we were coming. If he did leave, we have to find out when and how and fast.” Knowing that this was important. “We’ll need to split up to find him.”

Ash offered, “Najat and I can team up with the troops, assault Maltar’s main place. Give you guys time to split up and search other places.”

“Alright,” nodded Dejen as he gave a quick glance as Dejen told. “If I can guess where he might be? Probably somewhere no one would suspect him to hide in.”

“The sewers?” asked Debt as he soon said. “A good guess, but I doubt there's a sewer system in an island like this.”

“You be surprised.” dryly said the Striped as he asked to Johari. “Think you can work solo on finding that bull?”

Considering it, Johari told, “I can pull it off, but I would have to be extra carful.” Figuring the paths she would have to take and the cover to also exploited to keep undetected and safe.

Ash only said, “oh no, we’re in a warzone, lady. You ain’t going anywhere without a partner.” Then glanced to tell, “Myun, you stick with her. That way you can just stick the jerk with a arrow.”

Thinking it over, Myun agreed with, “with Johari’s shadows, I’ll be able to make a kill more easily.”

“Alright new plan.” said Dejen as he told. “While the Hernos are helping the troops? Myun and Johari will sneak and cause trouble of their own.” then look to the gnoll and Kitsune. “Debt and Tatsu? You’re with me. The sooner we find him, the faster I can get this over with.”

“Understood Clan-head.” spoke the gnoll, as he asked. “Where shall we search first?”

“Well if he is bailing out? I say the sewers if he installed one here.” told the Stripe.

Johari disagreed, “this is a fortress, Dejen, not a city. If they had a sewer, it wouldn’t be anything like you’re used to. Only enough to get rid of waste, and I don’t see them using an extensive tunnel system.” Then looked around the area, trying to keep low. “If this is his fortress, then I would instead tell you to find a tunnel or trail that leads to the jungle.”

Myun began to nod, “everyone’s looking to the fortress, not the jungle.”

“Alright, that's where I’m heading.” said the Striped as he added. “But its going to be a bitch to find him…” he however gave a glance to Tatsu as he ask. “Think you can find his ghost while me and Debt keep trouble away?”

Thinking, Tatsu nod, “if he is indeed outside the fortress? I would have better chance to search as all attention is on the inside and around it. Further we are from the combat, Dejen-dono? The further away from danger am I from doing my task.”

“Alright then.” Ash nodded, “sounds ike a plan.” And looked to Najat, “Ready to cause some more trouble?” Making the women roll her eyes in amusement. It made Ash grin as she vaulted herself over the cover and Najat not too long after.

Johari glanced from the two, then to Dejen to say, “Myun and I will prowl the fortress, just in case he’s still here.”

Nodding, Dejen motioned with his revolver to start moving, as Debt glance to Myun as the gnoll spoke towards the diamond dog. “Try to stay alive, Myun.”

Myun only gave a slight nod and returned, “don’t die.” before following the lioness another way.

While both gnoll and kitsune began to move into the jungle and slowly away from the main fight, Dejen comment to Debt. “You have the oddest way to say ‘be safe’, Debt.”

“Romance isn’t my strong suit, Clan-Head.” reply the gnoll as he kept close to Dejen side as he said. “But we don’t need words to express ourselves.” He however told to Dejen. “If there is trouble, let me handle it.”

“Fine, fine, I’ll keep under cover.” said the Striped with a mixture of amusement and exasperation. But as they were moving away bit by bit from the fight, Dejen asked with a quick glance around. “Is this good enough for us to start tracking, Tatsu?”

He found himself almost blinking, Tatsu already having her hands in the position needed. “It is, but I haven’t seen him.” Going on, “we need to keep searching.” Already starting to take lead to try and find any hint or clue.

Shaking his head a bit, he kept moving with Debt, part of Dejen still wonder on how he adapted with Tatsu was fast to track the minotaur. Then again, he figured she did it mostly since it was part of the plan to kill the guy. That or she was ready the moment they enter in the jungle area. Still, Dejen kept his awareness up, having his gun ready with Debt already keeping his senses sharp.

While they didn’t hear anything beside the cannon fire? Boht were certain that they could be ambushed at any given time. Dejen himself swore he could feel something heavy on him, he doubts it was magic, and it was more of sheer nervousness. Mostly since this was his only chance to get Maltar, if this fails, or if he’s unable to get the minotaur dead? He was as good as dead when that fox comes to him.

Letting a low breath escape from him, the Striped kept moving as he kept quiet, mostly to let Tatsu track the minotaur whereabouts. Dejen only hoped that Maltar didn’t escape yet.

Hand up suddenly, both stopped and watched as Tatsu glance at something only she could see. After a moment, Tatsu spoke, “I found something. It isn’t Maltar, but Horse. Well lavish and with others to his needs. He looks to be of a sultan, Dejen, but not one I recognize from your trips that I have gone with.”

Pausing, Dejen thought over...and soon ask with bits of dread. “Does he have a light scar around his face, and with a bit more fat on his stomach ...and also has three earings on his right ear?” Dejen knew who it might be.

“He does.” Tatsu affrened curtly.

“Shit.” cursed the Striped. “Dejeen.” he consider heavily of chasing after the horse-- but couldn’t. “As much as I want to kill the son of a bitch, Matlar is a bigger prioirity.”

Tatsu turned and told, “we may location Maltar by following Dejeen’s ghost. We could find Mataler’s trail, but why else would Dejeen be out here, unless he knows of another place that Maltar would have?”

Considering it, Dejen knew it was likely, even more for someone like Dejeen as he said. “Alright, Tatsu. Lets see if the horse knows where Maltar is.” Taking a breath in as he soon added. “I don’t like the fact Dejeen was here. That horse is more cunning than I am.”

“Then we end his life if we spot him.” Tatsu nodded while following the echo. Though as she did, going around and over a few paths…. The kitsune spoke while turning her head about, “there were others here… more recent.” getting both of their attentions. As they delved deeper in and further still, Tatsu told, “more were here, and so were slaves and goods-- wait…”

She focused on one location and told, “this way, I see his ghost.” Knowing that Maltar was more important of a target. The two picked up their pace to a run to follow Tatsu, now hot on the trail. Though as they moved and rushed on a barely noticeable path, they had to slow. Mostly due to a building not to much further ahead, along with a lot of tents and what looked to be a few cages, tarps that looked a bit camo and even slavers getting ships loaded.

They got low and stayed out of sight, Tatsu speaking, “there, in the tent furthest to the right.” Getting them to look and indeed see Maltar. While they didn’t know what he looked like? Ash was kind enough to give what she knew. And when she said he was tall… Dejen didn’t think a near 9 foot minotaur tall. With bursting muscles and grey fur that somewhat showed his age-- the man was a titan in size and easily was taller then Debt.

Taking his walky out, Dejen spoke lowly. “Guys, Maltar is located. Looks like he’s about to head out with his group.” then glance to his gun as it wouldn’t shoot at the Minotaur...but Choo-Choo? Hostling his gun and taking out the rifle, he put his walky away as he told to the two. “I can make the shot...but we’re going to have company the moment hes dead.” Debt glance and asked lowly.

“Why not let Tatsu sneak in and kill him?” Looking over as he went on. “It’ll be difficult, but there are plenty of places to have cover.”

“No, its too open.” told Dejen, looking through his scope as he went on. “Too many eyes and not enough places to hide.”

“Take the shot.” Tatsu urged, “better to end him from here, right now.” Not wanting the stripe to hesitate. “Do--” and watched as there was a shout of ‘intruders!’ making Tatsu wonder what had happened? She looked about, but she watched matter move as she hissed, “fire!” which he did.

Unexpectedly, a body flew and bashed the minotaur slightly to the side, the shot missing by inches and clipping the males ear. Tatsu immediately got her hand to the hilt of her blade at the kitsune that had bashed the minotaur aside, before he pointed for her.

The kitsune turned their way and rushed for an attack-- many other slavers getting the hint and looking to their cover.

“Oh you got to be fucking with me!” cursed Dejen, as Debt already move to cover as the Striped tried to focus on Maltar as he fired each iron bolt of railway spikes as to try to kill the minotaur as Dejen wasn’t going to hesitate and he wasn’t going to stop shooting at Maltar until the bull died!

Each bolt that flew tore through both slaver and tent-- a few even smashing through boxes. The large minotaur continued to run and seek cover-- having apparently figured someone was truly out for his head. While dejen was looking for his next shot and Maltar to show his head? Tatsu herself got up with Debt to cover for him.

She took out her blade and fell a few slavers, even tossing a number of knives out to send a few sprawlings in pain and slow them. But the kitsune that charged them? She didn’t slow. In fact, she went from a normal run, to a more animal one. Leaping to all fours and rushing like that, before swirling into fire.

Tatsu felt a want to step back, seeing a full on golden fox with three tails instead leaping at them and golden fire licking about their body. Debt turned and breathed out a gout of fire. Instead of slowing, he watched with some uncertainty that same fox open their maw and breath in that fire, unharmed. (End)

Debt gave a low snarl as he ready his halberd, moving ahead to intercept and fight off the feral fox as he heard Dejen cursed more.

“Fuck, come on, come on!” the Striped reloaded and tried to track Maltar, but he heard shouts of ‘get the ship ready!’ as the Striped spoke. “No, no, no, no, no!” he had to force himself to duck as an arrow sling pass his head as he took his walky as he spoke. “Guys, Maltar is getting away!” then ended it as he quickly got up and told the two. “I’m going after him!” switching to Lucky as he began running as Debt shouted to Tatsu.

“I’ll hold this off! Protect him!” the gnoll focusing back to the feral kitsune as he snarl and kept moving his weapon. He noticed it was hard to hit and very nimble jumping from one place to another, spouting flames or giving off said golden flames while coming in for bites and slashes, but keeping a mindful distance.

The gnoll double on keeping the fox away, as long as Dejen could kill the minotaur? He will keep this fox preoccupy.

Tatsu complied and rushed with Dejen, and told him quickly, “your magic shots, use them up there!” And pointed up at the balloon of the ships in the area, while also going back to blocking a few attacks. Going as far to skillfully slash and bat arrows from the air with her blade.

Without hesitation he spun his gun to fire his shot as he chanted. “Lucky hit, lucky hit, lucky hit!” spinning his gun to keep firing as when all three shots hit into the balloons there was a spout of fire and all the ships were dropping as 2 of those three shots resulted in an explosion from being super heated as Dejen kept moving and using all of his muscles to catch after Maltar.

He was not going to lose this chance! He was going to get Maltar and he was going to fucking live!

Yet it be by fate or by murphy, Dejen was slowed due to Tatsu being nearly tackled by some slaver as he had to help her. Firing his shots to them as three shots came out, he pulled off the body of one, noticing a blade puncture in the throat as Dejen grin a bit ot Tatsu. Mostly of her using those assassin blades he gave her. But as they were back moving? Tatsu noticed an opening for him to use to get to Maltar more.

The Striped saw Tatsu reaches for a nearby lantern that was lit and toss it towards some tent, it goes up and causes many to panic and back up, giving them room to keep going forward.

But as they were cutting the distance?

Dejen saw a bit of Maltar as he raised his gun, not hesitating as he fire his shot-- missing as it hit an iron pan. Though as he heard it ping and the bullet ricochet off, he also heard a shout and watched a large body dropping from behind some crates. Dejen look at his gun and then to Maltar, surprised that happen as he soon kiss his gun. “You are the luckiest gun I have ever wield and love you for it!”

But soon...time stopped.

Dejen glance around, seeing everything frozen as Tatsu, the slavers, everyone was frozen. Gulping a bit, Dejen slowly look and saw that fox floating in the air, having a more...calmer body expression. Hands behind his back as a neutral expression came as Med spoke.

“So you did it.” coming by Maltar body as he went on. “I knew you would get to him eventually, but cutting it close with a few days left?” tsking a bit as he looks to Dejen, who himself didn’t realize he was that close to death as Med went on. “You have got to be the most luckiest being I have ever met.” Then gave the widest grin he ever gave as he told. “You’re even more luckier than most beings I ever met!”

Dejen only stare as Med came down and plunged his hand into Maltar back and tore out the heart as Med soon told. “And with that? The deal is concluded~!” pocketing the heart away as Med gave a slight bow to Dejen. “You completed the task! And near the crunch time too!” then raise his head as he said. “Now with that, abide you adu! Oh and duck~.”

Dejen blink in confusion on that, but as time began to go back to normal did the Striped quickly duck for whatever was aiming at his head.

There was a woshing of something and when he pricked his ears, it was to a growling. He looked up and saw the kitsune now turned to look at him, hackles raised and growling in a ffrail manner. The three tails stalked forwards, and Tatsu, too busy with warding off three slavers and more to come, couldn’t help.

Well shit. thought Dejen as he took out his gun, but soon notice the metal collar on the large fox. Wait...oh...Oh I think I know whats going on… taking a breath in as he holster his gun as look at the large fox and soon rush at her, knowing this was probably the most stupidest thing he ever done...but he was going to-- he avoided the jaws as he got past the jaws and jumped onto the back and began to work on undoing the collar.

Although he noticed its one like the young Najat had, with no unlockable areas and solid. He recalled that Ash ‘zapped’ the thing off, with magic. He soon cursed as he took his walky, while trying to avoid the bites as he said. “Ash I need you here now! Theres another collar you need to zapped!”

He got static, before he head Myun. “Boss, Ash isn’t here!” He could hear fighting over the radio before the Diamond dog was able to continue-- presumably now in cover. “She and Najat switched mid battle!” Dejen almost wanted to shout, holding on for near dear-life as the fox had taken off and was trying to dislodge him. “Bina and Bakari are back though.”

It was about that time the fox stopped-- and send Dejen flying off it’s back and on the ground, where he found it over him and was trying to immediately maul him. It wasn’t until then he thought he heard a “I’m sorry, I can’t stop!’

“Ah fuck!” moving his arm to try to block those fangs as he cursed. “Damn it, damn it!” his mind was on high adrenaline, trying to recall everything about those collars, trying to recall anything, anything at all for anything useful. But right now he was only recalling that the collar forces the wearer to do exactly as told by their master, and Matlar was the master...but he’s dead. So she’s following orders last given, which he assumed was ‘kill the intruders’.

Or him for some reason as Dejen snarl in frustration. “Why can’t there ever be a damn off switch on these fucking collars!?”

The fox stopped the mauling and turned, dashing off as Tatsu landed close and swung her blade-- only to miss. She had to back off when the fox breathed fire, and immediately pounded for Tatsu. The Kitsune back and getting knives out, her intent clear to kill what she saw being a strict enemy. (End)

“Tatsu, she got one of those obedience collars on her! We need to take her down without killing her!” shouted Dejen as he got up and saw Tatsu nearly stumbles and made the blades fumble to either miss or drop harmlessly as she had to dodge to avoid being mauled and then deal with more attackers.

The Striped however figure he could do something with the collar. Mostly to get the fox to stop mauling them. So he pull and toss a flashbang under the fox to daze her. Quickly closing his eyes briefly for it to go off and quickly open his eyes as she was spewing fire all over the place now, near randomly and very hazadeeroulsy for all. Enemies and allies alike as Dejen rush as he had to jump over a bit of flame and onto her back, trying to use anything he had to make the collar ‘stop’, but there was only so much he could do…

So he consider one thing.

Choking her neck to make her pass out with his arms.

Though one look around cover, and he found that idea to be utterly suicidal. The three-tails was literally bathing in golden fire and touching her? Would just result in burning himself. Even Tatsu had taken cover and didn’t dare to get close-- though he saw her doing something.

The next moment she came out, she tossed something small and thin. It made the fox yelp and turn, spraying more fire which Tatsu ducked under cover to avoid-- and in turn roasted a good few slavers severely, making them drop in agony.

Dejen only peak as to try to see what she tossed, but it was hard to tell with the fires as slowly, the large fox slows and even as they regain sight? Stumbles ever so steadily. They look more and more ragged before dropping to the ground, before enveloping in golden fire to leave the colored kitsune in hardly covering rags.

Quickly moving, Dejen moved to holster gun away and take the kitsune in his arms as he told to Tatsu. “Alright, let's retreat! Oh wait,” giving a glance to Maltar body as he quickly ask. “Think you can cut the head? We need to show proof.”

“Debt has it.” Tatsu breaks with her blade up, “we must move now, there are still some remaining-- down!” And ducked the stripes head as a axe nearly lodge itself into his head and instead, got lodged in a tree nerdy. Tatsu pushed him to go and told, “we retreat, now!” And tossed a smoke bomb to cover their escape.

“Retreating!” agreed Dejen, already running with kitsune in arms as the Striped felt a mixture of relief of not being so close to death-- but also questioning of the kitsune in his arms. And more importantly, on how the bloody hell she could transform into a giant fox!

But that was something he could consider later, right now? He was running for his life with Tatsu, and soon quickly Debt with the head of Matlar in his hand.

Nearly twelve fully hours of fighting later, the island was finally secured. Ships sunk or captured and everything finally under Hold control. Dejen was called to some encampment-- mostly to get some thanks from some high-general minotaur and the king’s ‘Favored Warrior’ about the tip-- and a hefty pay. But otherwise, there was no huge fanfare.

After that, Miko and Felix more or less told Dejen they would stay around and make sure Maltar’s little fort and plans got further dismantled and might see him in Humilite later on. It was Miko that suggested Dejen go and get some well deserved rest.

Which, he was more than willing to take on-- but he had other things to atend to. First being on checking the crew, then the ship… and addressing the near rabid giant fox being held in one of their ‘cells’. Which barely held when the kitsune regained control of her body and went back to breaking free of bonds AND banging on the door.

To some grace of thanks, when he came to the door and the guards at it? He was pleasantly surprised to hear Karth had come up and delt with the issue by not only wrestling the large fox, but getting the collar off, with a good deal of carful work. And since then the kitsune had not tried to break out of the room and had been very…. Quite.

Part of me wants to be assured things are dandy ...but Kitsunes are tricksters and she could already escape at this point. That or either giving me thanks, or planning my death. thought the Striped as he had Lucky close, and still wore his exo-suit under his normal arabian garbs as he nod to the two guards of the former hunters he was going in, as he open the door and carefully examine the room as she was kneeling off to the side, slumped and ears pinned back.

She doesn’t turn to address him, as Dejen let out a low breath as he open the door more and enter in. He noticed she was wearing a kimono, one of Najat’s own when she was staying with them. Dejen muse on what to do with all those clothes now, since those two aren’t around.

He figure he could save some for that Heiress gal...and maybe Ashani later if they managed to get her to ‘understand’.

But that was future Dejen problem. Present Dejen had to focus on this kitsune. He closes the door behind him as he cleared his throat. “So….” trying to find a means to break the ice in this silent room.

He wasn’t sure how to take the kitsune shifting almost away from him, and pointedly looking more away. He shifted, a little unsure of what to say until he heard a small, “I… I am so… so sorry.” And slowly, did she seemingly fight her way to turn around.

The golden kitsune still held her kneeling position, but kept her head low to tell, “I, am ashamed of what I tried to do to you, sir. I am sorry, forgive me.” And again, found himself a little unsure when she went into a full bow, completely low to the ground. “Please, forgive me. I didn’t mean you or the other’s harm, I was unable to stop myself.”

Scratching the back of his neck in an awkwardness, Dejen said. “Look, I know it's not your fault, hell I’m sure everyone knows it's not your fault. Those collars? They could force anyone to do things against their wills.” looking at her as he went on. “I don’t blame you, and really, its not your fault in the first place. Its Maltar fault. So all is forgiven…” then roll a hand in an attempt to lighten the mood. “So...raise your head up, there's no need to be so harsh on yourself….” then added. “And the names Dejen.”

Slowly, she lifted herself up, and even looked up at him. He could clearly see she had been nearly crying to herself, and not seeming as crisply controlled as Tatsu or Susumu. Slowly nodding, the admittedly beautiful kitsune told, “I am Hayami, Dejen-san.” And pressed her lips tight before lowering her head. “Please…. I… I owe you both a debt of my freedom and… a debt of wronging you. Let me correct this… please.” A slight tension in her tone, an uncertainty to commit.

For some reason...theres something off… thought Dejen, although he figure it was with how Kitsunes view honor and she, in her view, did him a great wrong and owe him greatly for helping her be free from that collar as he figure she would owe him a life debt or something. “Alright Hayami.” figuring that the best way to help the Kitusne was to help her pay back her debt, maybe he could ask her on how she was captured, and if that fox transforming thing was her clan art.

“Thank you.” Spoke the kitsune in a down tone, but soon asked while glancing up, “Do I stay here… Dejen-san?”

“Eh, no. We just held you here until we can remove the collar off.” then turn to open the door and said. “Oi, guys, guard duty is over. We worked things out.” He motioned a hand for them to shoo, as the two shake their heads as they began to walk. He turned to glance at Haymai and said. “Come on, I’ll show you where you can sleep in for the time being, the least I can do.”

She got up and slowly nodded, following him without any sort of complaint. And while it was unsaid, he could just feel how horrible she felt about herself. It was like she was giving off a feeling of utter remorse and regret. It was almost odd the aura she was just radiating.

Though as they walked down the hall and turned to another, he had to stop at two small forms sliding to a stop. One saying, “Yo, Dejen!” while the other was a more friendly, “Hi Dejen!” And he himself, felt a girn grow on his lips at seeing a sore sight for eyes.

Laughing a bit, Dejen grin even more as he said. “Hey Bakari! Bina!” laughing more as he walk up and hug around their shoulders as he told. “You have no idea how happy I am to see you two back!”

Both smiled, Bina telling, “and I don’t think we can tell you how much we’re glad we’re back!” And gave a deep sigh, “I forgot how hard it was to try and keep our abilities hidden in a place that didn’t know about them.”

“It was nuts.” Bakari agreed with crossed arms. “When we get home? You won’t believe what mess we got stuck in. Especially with a jerk of a striped.” Half sneering as he did.

“You’re just sore because he didn’t want to get close to the islands.” Bina said, though before Bakari could respond, she said, “and I’m still angry he wasn’t willing to help that fast either-- but still, he had reasons!” then looked to Dejen to quickly tell, “something… went wrong and I lost my stone for a bit and slavers got a hold of me.”

“Ah shit.” spoke Dejen as he moves his arms back to himself as he asked, with a bit of concern in his tone. “You alright Bina? I know your tough, but still.”

Hand up, Bina said, “I’m fine, nothing I haven't put up with before.” Though Dejen still felt some concern. Mostly in knowing what slavers could do to some people. “We just came by to let you know, we’re back.”

Bakari glanced around him and asked, “uh… who’s that?” Being blunt as always.

Glancing back to Hayami as she was looking on in curiosity he look to the two and said. “That's Hayami, she’s a victim of circumstances and I’m letting her on the ship as a guest for the time being. I was about to show her a room she can stay in.”

Both of the Twins gave a glance, and it was Bina that asked, “do you want us to show her to one?” Going on, “you had a long day Dejen. It’s alright past 8! Maybe you should get some rest, Bakari and I can do this.”

Gently shaking his head, he told. “Oh don’t worry on me. Not the first time I stayed up and won’t be the last.” then added with a grin. “Side, you two still need to catch up on what happen you know! And I’m sure you two need some rest,” motioning a hand. “Go on, I can handle things from here.”

Both gave a look, but eventually nodded. Bina looking past the striped to say, “maybe we can visit later, Hayami, and welcome aboard!” And turned away, her brother shrugging and following long. All the while, Hayami watched curiously, though when they moved? She went back to her sad mood… even if it wasn’t as… down as it was before.

She eventually asked, “you… house two young Herno’s on their Honor trails?” From her tone, it was like she was asking herself if that was what was going on.

“Oh they aren’t on their Honor Trials.” told Dejen in amusement, as he glance back as he told. “This is their home, or rather...our home.” turning around the corner as he went on. “And yes, we housed all sorts, Hernos, diamond dogs, minotaurs, ponies-- we’re an unorthodox group...Or rather, an unorthodox Clan.” coming to a stop of a door as he turned to fully face as he grinned a bit.

“We’re known as the Mitego Clan, or the ‘Clan of Scars’, Hayami.”

“Mitego Clan.” Thoughtfully spoke the golden kitsune in thought. Eventually, she gave a nod and said to him. “Then… thank you for allowing me to stay with your kin, Dejen-san.” Then asked, “but… would your clan head be alright with this?”

Dejen couldn’t help but laugh a bit, feeling abit of amusement as he shakes his head and told with a thumb to himself. “Oh I’m sure he would be fine-- considering I am the Clan-Head of this entire ship.”

Hayami took a step back and looked utterly mortified. Her eyes darted about and she opened her muzzle-- only to close it and say, “I-I…” Then rushed, “it’s late, do you mind?” and rushed herself into the offered room, gently closing it in a rush.

Chuckling a bit, he shook his head as he told. “Good night Hayami.” already starting to move as he rub his face, feeling the exhausting coming through his body as he was glad this whole experience with Maltar was over. Granted he now had to deal with the new guest and getting questions from her, but also learning on what happen with the twins with this ‘jerk striped’.

But in all honesty? Dejen couldn’t wait to go back to Humilti, enjoy a bit of peace and quiet…

Figure what the hell he was going to do next.