Arabian Swindler

The next day, with changing of shifts and moving away more from the island and into the Iron Holds, Dejen enjoyed a good hot meal of oatmeal. Granted it wasn’t anything special, but considering the amount of crap he went through? He deserve something good. However the Twins woke up not too much later, and going about retelling what they could.

And suffice to say?

He wasn’t all that pleased with this ‘Phobia’ guy.

The Twins did not get on with the right foot with the guy, who was very overly suspicious of the two. Sure there were others that sort of helped the Striped, but the point stood that the Striped didn’t like the fact they were on his ship. There was also a half-demon pony mare that also eyed them constantly for their hidden secret, and even a changeling that while carful-- wasn’t… as overly persistent.

There was a real kicker on a few things that happened due to their powers. One being where they found out that there was more to their stones and when traded? They could use the others powers and were more ‘stronger’ in a sense-- but at the moment? Doing so was too dangerous. Mini-disaster level dangerous.

Then there was a situation where Bina lost her stone, and some Diamond dog caused Ramanda-- taken over by Hishiro’s brother apparently --to suddenly suffer earthquakes and sink in on itself to get destroyed. A spirit figured out about Bina and Bakari being Demi-gods, then Bina was taken by slavers. Phobia was overly difficult to near the islands because he was exiled striped that had the Islands after him because of some crime. Phobia next to let Bakari leave to find Sumari to help find his sister because the striped wouldn’t do a simple fly-by to let Bakari airdrop in the isles-- there was also some bit about them finding an alternate Debt and some other things that really? Made it sound like the two put up with some BS crap themselves.

And they were clearly happy to be back home.

Sipping the last of his tea, and the rest of his meal, Dejen could only summed up their story. “So it seems we both got to put up with a lot of shit. Yours with a paranoid exiled, me with an annoying cat.”

“You too?” Asked Bakari, “Phobia kept complaining we were as much trouble as this Ash lady.” And Dejen, almost wanted to say otherwise. Sure, the two were demi-gods that could tear a city to bits. But Ash?

“Heres the difference,” started Dejen as he pointed to the two. “You two are demi-gods, she was a fucking Kratos that could not only take magic away, but is so annoying, she almost driven me to drink. Oh and did I forget to mention she could see through illusions and see through a person real form? Like say former humans?”

While the two gave a glance to the other, Rah-rah decided to pip up herself while finishing up her plate. “Ash is also pretty smart. She figured out who could and couldn't be human because we don’t exist in her world. And she never heard of you two, so…” And lifting her ears, listened.

All, even Tatsu, could tell the Twins were shifting a bit. Tatsu blinked and spoke, “so… it’s true, even you are these… humans?” Bina glancing away and Bakari scratching the back of his head, both refusing to say anything.

Rolling her eyes, Johari said, “the silence says it all.”

“There's one thing I want to make clear.” started Dejen in the most serious tone, as he soon stood up, got up on the table and stretched out his arms as he shouted. “I FUCKING CALLED IT!”

A random changeling spoke out. “Yeah and it took some inter-dimensional craziness and soul-seeing cat from an alternate dimension to give you the evidence.”

“Shut up Bob, let me have this!” shout Dejen as he jump down from the table and into his seat as he look to the Twins and grin. “Well, now that’s out of the bag, I’m sure you curious on how we got here,” motioning his head to Rah-Rah as he added. “Or wonder who else is former human? Well I’m sure Miko and Felix are former humans. As far as we’re aware at least.”

“And the Crimson Knight.” Johari spoke up, making Dejen… actually very confused when he looked to the lioness. The black-mane told, “that armored figure we saw fighting? He was a former human. Ash noticed midway into the battle that something was off and got close enough to give Muyn a hint. He’s known as the ‘Crimson Knight’ by the Minotaurs, and a large hero. A living suit of armor that is rumored to be indestructible.” (end)

“....Well, that explains on how he could handle such hits without an issue.” said Dejen as he let out a ragged breath. “But while part of me wants to know more about him-- another parts of me just want to go back to Humilit, take some time off and enjoy the peace…” then grumble as he added. “Or at least, before we need to go and find Ashani, get her straight, maybe track this demoness and remove another problem. Oh and also track down Dejeen since the bastard probably is making a new slaver empire as we speak with Maltar remaining forces.”

Myun said in a doubtful manner, “Maltar’s dead. His fortress gone and his fleet smashed. Dejeen dosn’t have much to make a slaver empire with, not without what Maltar had.”

“Oh Myun, you fail to understand.” told Dejen in a bitter tone, as he look around. “Some of you aren’t Arabian, so its understandable you don’t understand. But let me make it clear. Dejeen will and can make that slaver empire go back in business, sure Maltars dead. And sure his fortress is gone...but let me ask you...if it was Maltar base of operations? How come there weren’t alot more ships than there were in the fight?”

Debt was quiet and soon asked. “You think Dejeen purposely took the remaining ships, crew, and everything else?”

Dejen told in certainty. “When we hit that Slaver cove with Ash? There were letters, letters that there were a good deal of other ‘people’ that made up in the Empire. Maltar was simply the boss that kept the machine going…” looking around as he told. “And while Dejeen may not be part of the group? He was a hell lot more cunning and devious than I am. Some of the letters? He wrote in, greasing the wheels you can say to get in. By now? He’s probably already having a plan to get things back in motioned, especially with these ‘other's’; that will pitch in to cut losses and get business back in.”

Johari made a face and asked, “Dejen, you should of brought this up earlier.” Going on to tell, “do you at least have the letters? If we had this information, then we could have used it. Before or after. If Maltar is that well connected, we’re looking at a much larger issue then before.”

“What do you mean?” Myun asked. “He knows people and had others that were greedy enough to help him.”

“From the holds to Arabia.” Johari highlighted. “And Dejeen had a city dedicated to slavery. Some of those slavers he let in used to raid the Isles. Making Maltar’s informants go as far as the islands. Add in the recent dealings that this one Shimmer Lake has done in arabia with some possible connections to slavers in arabia that Maltar was possible half connected to? We’re looking at connections reaching most of the world by this point.”

“And that’s what pissing me off.” grumbled Dejen as he added to Johari. “And I got all the letters, I made sure to keep everything I took in check. Why do you think I ask Tatsu to scour for info too yesterday.” rubbing his hand to his face as he admit. “And while you’re right I should’ve brought it up? I literally had a close encounter with death, since I was just days away from dying.”

Lowering his hand as he further admit. “And I checked around from what I can tell, Johari basically right. We’re looking at a world empire of slavers all connect everywhere.”

Tatsu frowned and spoke, “this is the most concerning, Dejen-dono… but there is nothing we can do as of now.” Going on, “we have already faught a large battle, one that will at the very least? Keep the internal workings of this slaver empire in the wayside until it can sort itself out. We have time for recovery and preparations-- but we have a greater threat to adress.”

To that, Rah-rah nodded while getting her plate. “She’s right. That demon that has Ashani. If Ash is the result of what those experiments do when they don’t listen to a demoness? Then we don’t want to see what happens when she can control Ashani for too long.”

Johari seemed to pointedly tell while looking at the Twins, “and while you may not like it… the Twins might be our best hope to challenge Ashani if she got violent.”

“I thought she could absorb magic?” Spoke up Bina, “when Hirue… was controlled.” Sounding a little pained at that, “she drained us.”

“But after a moment's of that and being transported to a new world, you were invigorated again.” Johari pointed out. “At best? She can only delay you. But as soon as she stops taking your power? You both are back on your paws and are able to fight.” Then added on, “and from your recounts, even if she drained you both of strengths? Nothing less of possible demons or higher powers can truly cause you much harm.”

“But,” started Debt. “Ashani is another situation. We also don’t know where she is at the moment, or how to deal with her or the demoness.”

“We also aren’t able to do such searches.” Susumu pointed out, as the Kitsune glance over the other's as he went on. “We use too much strength, use near most of ammo. Weary of body and mind. Need to destress and regain focus. Wise to return to Humilit to do so.”

Johari agreed, “we all need it.” Going on to add, “and we also need to know more about this guest you brought onboard, Dejen.”

Tatsu made a face, “I am uncertain about keeping her onboard.” And Dejen could see Susumu narrowing his eyes a bit more in agreement. Again, the apparent stigma of Kitsune not trusting other unfamiliar clans showed true. The two were not willing to trust Hayami in the least-- or even give a benefit of a doubt.

Rolling his eyes, he said. “She’s a victim of circumstances guys, I’m sure we can cut her some slack.” getting up as he went on. “And I agree with you Johari, since I was going to come by and see if I can talk with her a bit, she should be awake at this point.”

“Not alone.” spoke Susumu.

“I think I can be somewhat safe since technically she owes me for her freedom.” said Dejen.

“Not.” started Susumu. “Alone.”

A changeling however added. “She’s been in a really horrible mood, feeling terrible and feeling sad. I don’t think she’ll cause much harm to the King. Especially with her emotions right now.”

Tatsu gave a glance and told, “do not be so sure. You feel her emotions, but not her mind.” Seeming to stick to her caution.

Snorting, Johari spoke up, no one paying mind to their head engineer wandering off. “Then let her come to Dejen. If you’re concerned, then let her come out in the open where we all can see her.” Going on to add, “we all need some rest. And from the sounds of it, she’s not in the mood for questions. It can wait, for now.”

Sighing, Dejen nodded. “Probably for the best…” he however glance to the two Kitsunes and asked. “So, what does it mean for a Kitsune that owe someone not only for a debt of freedom, but a ‘debt of wronging someone’?”

Both actually shared a look, and Tatsu was the first to tell, “a debt of wrong, as you put it, is a Debt when a Kitsune feels that they had stained in their honor.” She shook her head and told, “which is… rare. We kitsune are very flexible in our honor and how we see it. For her to feel… ashamed and dishonored in attacking you, when she had no means to stop it? I would caution of ulterior motives… but one doesn't simply wave around such a thing so freely.”

“A debt of freedom,” spoke in Susumu, “is merely a similiaration of a life debt. Small differences, but it is the same. As you did save her life from a fate not of her own.” frowning a bit, Susumu confess. “It is odd. One consider she gave such things...too freely.”

“Perhaps then, it is a Clan standing of honor we are not aware of.” Spoke in Tatsu, “there are too many clans with their own traditions. We simply lack the knowledge to know what part of her honor was stained to the extreme, to give such a want to repay a wrong such as attacking Dejen-dono.”

“That seems very likely.” agreed Susumu, as while the two Kitsunes muse over it, as well as Dejen? The Striped figured that he could learn more when Hayami was in a better mood, or at least not so depressed. Shaking his head, he soon told to Debt.

“Head back to the bridge, we’re heading back to Humilti for some good R&R. We all deserve some time off with the recent fight and stress.”

“Understood Clan-Head.” spoke the gnoll, turning to head out and going to inform and drive with Port on where they would be heading to.

The striped turn as he told to the other's. “In either case, it’s good to have some peace and relaxation after the shit we’ve been through,” adding on to the Twins as he glance to them with a grin. “And its good to have you two back, I mean it. I kinda miss you two while you were away.”

While they smiled or smirked, Bina was the first to drop her smile to ask, “I forgot to ask, where is everyone else?”

“In Humilti.” Johari told while standing up. “Asha, Mercy, Windy, Tibia, Hirue-- most if not all non-combatants were taken off the ship before we went on this task.” Then smiled, “we’ll be seeing them soon.” And began to pad her way out.

Bina sighed to this, but also looked a little worried, if not unsure. Bakari was the same, his smirk slipping away before nudging his sister. “Come on sis, let’s go to the deck. Could use some fresh air, ya know?”

“Yeah… yeah sure Bakari.” Agreed the girl, both of the teens getting up, polishing off their food fast and eventully leaving. A few glance in wonder of what was bothering the two, but seeing how much crazy had happened in a short time? Well, maybe they were all a little wound up.

The trip back to Humilti didn’t take that long, mostly a few hours trip as the Innovation Rise began landing down in its usual spot, as the hatch doors open up with the group coming out in their own time as Dejen took in a deep breath in, looking at the town with a grin and in his usual garbs as he said. “It's good to be back here.”

Debt walked up as he glanced to Dejen and told. “It is, Clan-Head.” then turn to look at his diamond dog as he placed a hand on hers as he asked. “Get victory drinks at the bar? I feel in the mood to drink after all of this.”

Myun gave a glance, even as she followed the two down. “That sounds good to me.” Seeming very approving of the idea. “Galdan might too. Need to ask though.”

PAdding not too far behind, Johari told, “don’t bother. Galdan’s getting the whole team to pull in some extra overtime to make sure all stocks are cleared and numbered right. They won’t have time off until later in the evening.” Seeming to eventually push on ahead.

Myun watched for a moment before remarking, “she must miss her cub.” Figuring that was the only reason Johari rushed on ahead.

Debt nod in agreement as he look to Dejen and told. “I’ll be away Clan-Head.”

Dejen gave an amused grin and waved at the two. “Go on and get drunk, or kiss-- or whatever you two enjoy doing. We all deserve some time off.” seeing the gnoll nodded as Debt turn to walk with Myun, moving a arm around her shoulders to walk as Dejen chuckled a bit.

He notice a few other's were getting off, a few changelings undisguised, Gem coming off with a sigh of relief as she went out to do something, and over all it seem like the tension was set loose. Dejen himself began walking down, musing on if he should visit down in the Hives, seeing as Mercy and Windy was probably waiting--

There were two zooming forms as the twins were rushing past him as they seem to want to do whatever they wanted as he jokingly called out. “Watch it, you almost hit me!”

He didn’t get a response, though he could only guess they were happy to finally be back home. It made him almost smirk, but all the same wonder. Now that he kept walking, he had to wonder where Asha was. Normally, the lioness always knew what was going on. It was almost odd she wasn’t there waiting for him to come off the ship.

While he pondered this, Dejen felt a sudden weight, making him give a ‘oof’ as he landed on his front… then felt that some weight move on his back, Tibia telling him, “you let your guard down. Again.” And he could hear a chuckle. It took only one look up and near the ally he just walked past, to find Asha sitting there with a large smile.

Letting out a breath, Dejen dryly said. “Hey Asha.” then glance up as he told. “The only reason my guard was down, was because I just got done with a life and death experience kid.” then added. “Also your mom is looking for you.” then soon called out. “Hey Johari! Your kids here!” glancing up to see a perked Tibia getting off his back to track her mother as he got up on his paws, dusting himself off as he looked to Asha and asked.

“I can only assume you two did that on purpose?”

Asha smiled and told, “I was going to meet you, but Tibia wanted to see if she could ambush you.” Going on to tell, “and Mercy’s been wanting to see you badly. Her and Windy have been gushing over the new litter--” Then quickly corrected herself, “sorry, brood. But they wanted you to be around.”

Not too far off, he watched Hirue come out from a hiding spot from around a trashcan, joining Asha’s side. The lioness soon smiled, “how are the twins?” Going on to say, “two days ago, I felt them return.” A touch of concern in her tone, “were they alright when they came back?”

Giving a light sigh, Dejen admit. “They had a shitty time where they were in. As much shitty as my experience with Ash was. But they’re happy to be back here, and with people they know.” then pointed to a direction. “They zoomed off to who knows where.” then glance to Hirue as he said with a light grin. “Hey Hirue, doing better?”

Slowly, Hirue gave a nod. “A bit.” She admitted.

Asha gave a gentle smile back, but soon told Dejen, “we’ve been trying to help her over her memory a little. The Opnehu helped some too.” Then held a somber smile. “She’s a former exiled child. Apparently her mother did something that was frowned upon and her father had to take Hirue into hiding. We don’t know much else, besides that village that was set as a trap? It used to be Hirue’s at one point.”

“I’m...sorry to hear that, Hirue.” said Dejen, feeling a bit sad to hear this, granted he mused on what happen to all of the villagers, but he figured nearly most of them were dead from either those pirates, or that demon.

Hirue lowered her head and said, “it’s okay.” Keeping near Asha as she said, “even if I can’t recall everything, I have Asha now.” Smiling up as she did. “It’s not the same, but… I don’t really remember much else besides my Father. Or the reason I was… made like this.” Shifting at the reminder she was a demon touched. “But Asha’s right. This…. This is my new life.”

The Lioness smiled and used one large limb to pull Hirue into a hug, one that made the teen blush a bit in embarrassment. The lioness giggled and told, “We’ll get our things to the ship later. But for now, maybe you should visit your girls. I think they’re going to be impatient if you keep them waiting any longer.”

Laughing a bit, Dejen told. “Relax Asha, I’ll get there soon enough.” then wave to the two. “I’ll catch you two later,” then glance to Hirue as he added. “Oh and Hirue?” giving a slight grin as he told. “Don’t forget, you don’t have only Asha. You’re one of us, part of the Mitego Clan, alright?”

She looked away to that, still seeming unsure, but the young herno did give a shy smile and a nod. Reclusive as she seemed? Hirue did seem a bit more happy than before.

Chuckling a bit, Dejen turn to start moving, but flick an ear as he heard the buzzing of wings. Glancing up, he noticed a small group of changelings as he yelp when they grab down and pick him up in the air as he said. “Alright, who’s idea is it to manhandle me?!”

“Sorry,” lowly spoke a drone. “But the Queen really needs you.” Dejen rolled his eyes as he was being carried in the air and flown off to the Hive as Dejen knew he would have reached there. But he figured Mercy stopped being patient and just sent her children to grab him and bring him down.

It was almost odd, coming down into the hole of the Hive coming downwards as he saw the mixture of earth and resin around him as there wasn’t much lights as far as he could tell, his eyes had to adjust to the darkness as he was being carried through the tunnels and uncemosiouly tossed through a hole as he felt himself being held in the air of magic as Mercy spoke in a calm, yet urging tone.

“Oh Dejen~.”

Being pulled in more into the limbs of both changeling and Pegasus as they trapped him in the bedding as both of their muzzles were close to his ears as Windy spoke in.

“We missed you~.”

Dejen only chuckled, figuring that he would be preoccupy...probably a bit longer than he assumed in all honesty.

But that wasn’t a bad thing. Since he missed them just as dearly.

The next day, Dejen was walking out in the town, feeling fatigue, tired, and feeling sore in his lower back and hips ...But felt utterly satisfied with being with his girls. And he was sure they enjoyed being back with him, showing him the brood, and mostly ‘catching up’.

Chuckling, Dejen was glad he talked the two in letting him go around town, mostly to catch up on what happened, maybe see what changed within the last month. Although he doubted much had changed. Mostly since this was Humitli after all.

And some rounds around? That shown to be very true. Granted there was a newly made little village area for the Herno’s that had come into the town, and there were a few new buildings, one being a new Inn… but otherwise? There wasn’t much new.

He did spot the Twins at one point, talking to not just Asha, but also Hirue. He had no idea what was going on there, but left them be. And going over the rest of the town, he did spot others. Myun and Debt having a drink with a few of the former hunters. Rah-Rah apparently came out to get some fresh air herself. He saw Karth with her, getting some more raw materials. Gem was taking a break off to some side…

He did catch sight of one familiar face that was talking to some herno. One that was dismissed before she herself began to walk away in a slight huff. It wasn’t too far off from the crisp and icy glare the other Najat had, but this younger Najat that had been here? He could tell she was a little ruffled and annoyed.

Raising a brow, Dejen figure to see what was up as he did say he was going to help the young Heiress. Who knows, maybe he could gain some insight on finding Ashani. Walking up a bit to Najat as he spoke. “Hey Najat,” figuring to use her name since the other Najat wasn’t here and wouldn’t get confusing on two different people. He noticed she was giving a slightly sharp look as he gave a raise brow as he asked. “Is there a problem?”

Eyeing him up and down, Najat breathed in and held it… before breathing out slowly, “no.” A defined edge there before turning to ask, “can I help you with something?” And it didn’t take his skills in reading people to know how annoyed she seemed.

“Funny, I was about to ask the same thing.” replied the Striped as he went on. “You seem to be troubled by something, Najat.”

Seeming to bristle, Najat shook her head, “none. I merely had a… young warrior express interest in me. I declined.” And when she said it like that? Dejen felt she may have done more than just ‘declined’. The older version was pretty cold as it was, but this one? She could have bitten the guys head off to boot.

“Mhmm,” spoke the Striped, as he read the Herno, already knowing she was utterly annoyed and put two-to-two together as he asked. “I’m going to guess this isn’t the first, nor the last time this happened before, right?”

Flatly, Najat told, “the Herno here seem inclined to believe that I am interested in finding a new suitable home here because I have stayed so long.” Giving a huff as she did, seeming to borderline scoff. “The nerve. These far western Herno seem to have forgotten a thing or two about our ways. It is disgraceful as it is pitiful.”

“Tradition can slowly change in the passage of time, and especially so when new Clans are made, if I recall correctly from what I learn of Herno traditions.” thoughtfully spoke the Striped, as he glanced to her and asked. “But something tells me there's a lot more bothering you than just suitors wishing for you to join their house?”

Breathing out, Najat admitted, “I have… pondered on returning home, or speaking to Ash-san about finding Ashani-san.” Dejen almost wanted to grab for his cards, almost seeing getting a mental image of Ash’s smile in place. The cat seemed to know her friend pretty well, and it just showed here and now of that proof.

“Well I got some bad news.” told Dejen as he took his cards out to start shuffling. “Just about two days back, Ash poofed back where she belongs with her pal, and our Twins are back.” glancing to Najat as he added. “But, she asked me to help you with helping Ashani to get her sense together and ‘undo’ the you-know-what.”

Najat made a face to this, and after a moment, she asked, “do you know where these… ‘Twins’ are at?” No doubt wanting to meet them in person. At most, all the young herno knew of them was from the Crew. But now? She was wanting to know about the two herno’s and what they were like no doubt in person.

“They were talking with Asha and Hirue.” told Dejen as he added. “But I should warn you, they aren’t like most Hernos. Very different…” then glance to Najat as he went on. “Don’t assume they follow the same traditions all Hernos do, Najat.”

She blankly said, “of course, Dejen-san.” Then breathed out, “I will be sure to get my things later on to take to the ship, once we are ready to depart.” And as she wandered off, Dejen watched and knew he had to keep an eye on her. Mostly because if she was going to try and find Ashani? The young Heiress might do whatever she deemed as necessary to find her friend.

Letting out a breath, Dejen figure to ask some of the other's to make sure she doesn’t do anything reckless. There was a reason Najat and Ash asked to keep a eye on Heiress, even more so if she would do something stupid.

And speaking of stupid, Dejen muse if he should try to find Hayami and talk with her. Dejen figure she should be in a talking mood...the only issue was on where she could be. Only problem was that she was either on the ship ... or out in the town. But in hindsight, she might as well be on the ship for a while...Or at least Dejen thinks so. He could be very wrong and she was out in town.

Letting out a breath, he put his deck back as the Striped figure to look around town, see if she was here. And if not? He would check the ship if she was on it. Although he made sure to keep his guard up, mostly in case those lioness try to jump at him again.

Knowing the two? They were still hiding and waiting for an opening. And who knows when ‘striped Season’ would be over.

As nice as it was to feel the waves of her lovers embrace and his other skills for her needs? Mercy found a want to leave the hive to not just stretch her slightly achy legs, but to also see this new Kitsune. Her children had updated her on everything, and she felt that Tatsu, and even Susumu, were right. They had to know this new kitsune’s motives. And she chose to get that over with before Dejen possibly got himself killed.

So she traveled the ship in disguise as always and searched out the women that had not really left her room. All her changelings had felt since the girl got on board was a sort of depression, and while it had reduced? It was still there. IT almost made Mercy frowen. Mostly at how… strong it was compared to Susumu or Tatsu. Sure, the two had their own little sad spills, but this was just more defined than what she was used to. (end)

She figured it was best to learn of this Hayami, on why her emotions were like this, and potentially understand more before her Striped comes and risk fate once again. Granted he did it just a few days back, but she just got him back. She didn’t want him to do something foolishness and nearly get killed.

Moving in her disguise of her unicorn form, she stood before the door of this Hayami. Feeling that depression ebbing out as she will herself to stay composed. She lift a hoof and knock on the door.

When the door opened, she found the kitsune now standing before her, and wearing one of older Najat’s former kimono’s. The kitsune had a wonder in her eyes, and a slight curiosity, but it was just surprised by her depression. So with a slight smile that was half hearted, Hayami spoke, “hello. Is there something you need, miss?”

“Hello, I’m Mercy,” spoke the faux pony as she asked. “May I come in? I want to talk a bit.”

She hesitated, but the kitsune nodded and moved to open the door more, but did say, “I could use another to talk to… though, I don’t know what we could talk about.” Watching Mercy walk on in.

Nodding a bit, she trotted in and move to a seat. Jumping and settle in as Mercy said. “We can start off simple,” figuring to prod a bit on Hayami life as she asked. “Like how are you feeling?”

Closing the door and with a heavy sigh that just released a sort of anxiety that made an unpleasant feeling crawl along Mercy’s skin, the golden kitsune told, “not the best.” Being… uncharastically open and honest. Mercy almost wanted to blink at how open those emotions were.

Hayami walked over to the table and took the other chair to sit in and almost leaned on the table. “I have had… a difficult time, to be honest. It… is still bothering me.”

“Take your time, Hayami.” soothed Mercy, as she looked to the Kitsune.

Looking up, Hayami smiled a bit and told, “thank you.” Looking back down with folded hands to admit, “truthfully, I have been… thinking. Mostly about what to do. I didn’t expect all of this to happen.” Then made a face to question, “you know of Kitsune traditions, yes? About we uphold traditions and rules given by our ancestors?”

“Roughly, yes.” answer Mercy as she said. “I know tidbits from our own resident Kitsunes to know you have your own view of honor being more flexible and traditions within your own Clans.”

Nodding, Hayami told, “your clan head… he has…” Pausing a moment to think of how to say this. “He… had saved my life from forced servitude. And I owe him my life for this.” Then lowered her head. “But he also was wronged. I attacked him while I couldn’t control my body. So now, I have two debts on the other. One for my freedom and the other for nearly killing him wrongfully.”

“I want to follow through my traditions, and I will. Honor demands of it.” Went on Hayami. “But… I also want to go home.” Sighing out as she did. “But I can’t. As much as I want to, I can’t. My clan… needs it’s secrecy. They have… just recovered from something terrible. I’m just concerned about my vows to serve out my debts, and who I now serve in turn.”

“I can understand your desire to return home.” spoke Mercy, as she really did understand it. It wasn’t easy to not be with the other's in the ship for an entire month, or more importantly with Dejen. Looking to her, Mercy prod a bit. “Maybe I can help you with your concerns, I know enough of our Clan-head, and maybe I can enlighten you a bit and help ease your worries about him and other things that plague your mind.”

Slowly nodding, Hayami said, “that… would be nice.” Smiling a bit as she looked up. “I’d rather know who it was I was serving, since it will be… a long time to do so.” Seeming a touch more sadder when even mentioning it how long she’d be around.

Looking to her, Mercy could easily tell Hayami was more sad than before as she asked in a more gentle manner. “You wish to be back with your Clan, and be with those you call family?” asking a bit more concern. “How long were you force in servitude by Matlar?”

Sighing, Hayami told, “almost two weeks.” Ears folding back to the mere thought. “He was… more than happy to have me in a cage when he was able to get me.” Perking the disguised queens attention for sure. “For you to understand, he had gained knowledge of my clan over a year ago now.” And slipped into thought. “He came and raided my home. Razed it to the ground and took who he could. I and a very close friend, Cosmo-kun, gave chase after his ships.”

“For a year… we searched and tracked my clan down.” Told on Hayami. “They wanted us for our gift. A special kitsune magic that gave us the form of multi-tailed kitsune foxes. Most of my clan, both young and infant, were sold off to those that wanted warhounds. My people as the hounds.”

Gripping the table, Hayami slightly sagged and lowered her head. “A month back, we found the remains of what little there was of my clan. We were going to go home, find a new place to make our clan again… regrow ...” Then gulped. “Maltars ships chased us. Found us. We had no choice but to fight during the storm they ambushed us in. I and Cosmo-kun went to another ship, sabotage it.”

Looking to the side, Hayami told, “we did. But… I didn’t get off in time. Last I saw, the ship we used was forced to evade a twister made of water. Cosmo-kun on the ship trying to reach for me. I fell with the ship. And a week after… stranded on the shipwreck on the seas… and later found by Maltars ships returning from their chase.”

“We… were great pain in Maltars side.” Admitted Hayami. “So when he saw me? He took…. A good deal of pleasure to collar me and make me his pet. Do tricks and humiliate me.” Mercy could just feel the sorrow there and even a tear or two in Hayami’s eyes. “I’m lucky… all he did was touch my body. I know he would of broken me in and violated my body next good chance, but he was too busy.” Then sighed out, “I now know why. Not two weeks after, his fortress was attacked. And your Clan head came.”

“I’m sorry to hear so much had been done to you and your clan, Hayami.” sincerely spoke Mercy, as she could feel everything from Hayami, even if she tried to stomach through it. She note that ‘Cosmo-kun’ often set the sorrow with a bitter feeling of content joy. She look to Hayami as Mercy told. “I am glad that the Striped managed to help save you from such a fate even if it wasn’t much.” Looking to Hayami in thought as she said.

“but...I will admit, I can see why you are in such trouble. As much as you wish to uphold your honor, you desire to be back home with what few of your Clan have.” thinking more as she asked. “Would it be possible, to compromise with your traditions and to an extent your honor if instead of serving the Clan-head, that you could...just request to be sent home and simply owe the Striped a favor? He would understand greatly on your desire to return home if you voice it out, Hayami.”

Shaking her head, despite the feeling of gratefulness, Hayami told, “I can’t. I won’t run away from my duty to return the favor. And it’s a heavy favor to return.” Going on to admit, “and even if you did let me go home? I don’t know where home is anymore. My clan was going to find a new place to make home, and… we hadn’t decided where that was yet…”

Ah...that is bad. thought Mercy as the chances of Hayami finding her clan were a low time low, even more if they were traveling by ship. They could be anywhere, using their magics and skills to hide somewhere no one would find them. Looking to Hayami, Mercy figure that there wasn’t anything to be done for the time being. But she considers on trying to ease Hayami mood, maybe try to cheer her up a bit. Although she wonder on this ‘Cosmo’, especially since there was a hint of content joy among that bitter feeling as she asked.

“Who’s Cosmo?”

That small smile returned, and a warm feeling seeped into the vixen. As somber as the feeling was, it seemed to give the women some joy in recalling the person. “Cosmo-kun… is a very good and close friend. If it wasn’t for him?” Lowering her eyes a bit as she went on, “if it wasn’t for him… I would have given up after five months of searching and getting nowhere. I really considered giving up a few times, but he always helped me keep hope. Helped me on my whole journey… if it wasn’t for him? I… I would of never found whatever was left of my clan.”

It’s probably someone she grew up with, a Kitsune that help her get through the hardships on finding their clan. mused the Queen in thought as she thought and soon remark. “It sounds like he means a lot to you,” looking to hayami with a smile as she said. “I’m sure he’s already trying to find you right at this moment.”

That made a moment of elation raise in her, but it seemed to be squished down by some doubt. “I fell into the sea during a storm.” Hayami told, “he doesn't know if I survived that. And to be honest… I was probably as good as dead.” But Mercy could feel it. That hope. Inside the kitsune’s heart, she did hope this Cosmo was indeed looking for her. There was an odd plea there that he’d find her. After a moment, Hayami shook her head, “he… he wouldn’t waste time trying to find me. He would take my clan someplace safe, that was our whole mission.”

“But what if he already did?” brought up Mercy, as she tilt her head as she told. “What if he did that and began trying to find you.” going to smile a bit. “If he’s been with you in trying to find the Clan, and he was indeed a good and close friend? Do you really think he wouldn’t try to find you? Try to seek down slavers and search on any hints, on any idea where you could be?”

Hayami was silent and in deep thought. And after some thought, she said, “no… no Cosmo…” she hesitated before saying, “Cosmo-kun… would of come back for me. Like he always has.” Pressing her lips tight. “He… he would have gone back. Told our friend to take my family, find them a place to make a home… and Cosmo would of took anything he could to come find me.” Gripping her hands as she did. “But… I don’t see how…” a want to believe, but also feeling doubt.

“Hon,” started Mercy with a light amuse look. “If there's anything I learn with guys? Is that if they’re determined enough, willing enough, and stubborn enough? They’ll go to the ends of the earth to find someone close to them and make sure they’re safe.” rolling a hoof as she went on. “And if he did head back to where the ship crash? Seeing nothing there, he would figure Maltar lackies found you and took you away, which in turn him start tracking what hints he could find and try to figure where you might be.

“And if he heard about what happened to the island with Maltar death? He’s going to start tracking even more, once he finds out you were there.”

The kitsune went in thought and soon said, “maybe.” An almost hidden lounging want for that to happen. “Cosmo-kun… has surprised me before.” Smiling when she said that. “I wouldn’t mind if he did it again.” That warmth again fill in her being.

Chuckling a bit, Mercy said. “The one thing about males with a mission? They’ll surprise you in unexpected ways, case in point? The Clan-Head himself.” she muse a bit and soon asked in curiosity. “Do you know what a Striped is?” figuring to explain a bit on stripes if Hayami didn’t knew about them, but Mercy assumed she hasn’t, like most everyone else that didn’t bother to go to the Isles.

Thinking on it, Hayami shook her head. “No, I don’t.” That gloom peeling away in way of curiosity, “what is a Striped?” An almost glittering in the kitsune’s eyes to know more about something.

“Well, to basically start? Think of the Stripes almost like Kitsunes, but instead of following of the ninja way? Prefer to be inventors and engineers.” Shifting a bit to relax more as she rolled her hoof. “They have this motto that's similar to the Kitsune own motto, ‘live on the blade tip’, but for them? It's ‘All the way or not at all’. Its kinda odd how similar both Stripes and Kitsune are with their viewpoints…” then added dryly with a flat look. “But unlike the Kitsune? Stripes consider insanity and genius are the same thing.”

Hayami made a face to that, but eventually shook her head and said with a sigh, “westerners.”

“Just be grateful that the Clan-Head isn’t the norm for Stripes.” told Mercy. “He’s not a native born on where they usually live, which is in the Isles to the far west. And unlike them, he’s abit more reasonable…” then amend. “To an extent. There are moments where that ‘Striped Racky’ shown, but the Clan-head is more sound of mind than most other Stripes.”

Hayami wasn’t sure what to say to that, but she did eventually blink. “Should I be worried of my health while serving his… needs?” Sounding a bit tentative on how she said the last bit.

Raising a brow, Mercy consider the implications of it, but she wanted to be sure. “What do you mean by ‘serving his needs’? Because...that could be misinterpreted.”

Letting out a breath, Hayami told, “it’s as I said. His needs.” Going on to shift, “I’m to repay him however I can. And while I’d rather not do… some things, I still need to repay him. Even more because I nearly killed him.”

“So, what you’re implicating, is that you’ll repay him, even with sex?” asked Mercy as she knew sex was a tool for most Kitsunes, it was a bit surprising to hear Hayami might indeed go through with it.

Nodding, Hayami said, “yes.” Though unlike Tatsu that seemed rather passive about the idea of having sex with others for whatever reason to gain advantges? Hayami seemed… oddly bothered by the idea. No matter how honest she was there as a large part in her that Mercy could feel, she didn’t want to at all.

Seeming to let out a breath, Mercy assured. “Well I don’t think you need to worry on that, Hayami. Infact, I don’t think you even need to consider the idea at all,” looking to her as the faux pony went on. “Considering the Clan-Head already is in a relationship right now.”

“Oh.” Was all Hayami said, “I see.” And while she sounded awkward, her being filled with so much relief. It was still boggling Mercy of how open the woman's emotions were compared to the other two Kitsune that had a much tighter hold on their inner selves.

I probably shouldn’t make mention on it. Don’t want her to know about it right now. thought Mercy as she nodded. “Yep, I’m sure he would respectfully decline too, since unlike Kitsunes? Stripes seem to consider sex with someone else as sacred.” she however consider and asked. “But, a question.” looking to Hayami as she went on. “If Cosmo is indeed looking for you, and he track you to here...would it be possible if, you just leave with him and go home?”

Raising a hoof as she said. “I understand it would affect your honor and the debt you owe to the Clan-head, but bear with me.” lowering it as she went on. “Family means a lot to a Striped, and the Clan-head would surely feel bad if it feels like you’re being forced here till the debt is paid. So...would the idea of just owing him one, or at the very least, consider another means of repaying him would help?” going on to shrug. “Like, maybe have your clan as ally to his?”

Shaking her head, Hayami told, “that’s not possible.” Telling, “we used to be near a hundred. But now, we’re barly even 30. We… can’t risk being known.” Admitted the Kitsune. “Maltars dead. But the people that wanted my clan as their war-hounds? They’re still alive, and they want our power. We can’t risk being known.”

Thinking...Mercy brought up a proposal. “What if we persuade your Clan to live here? In Humilit?” going on to explain. “There's a Herno Clan living here, A ophenu Temple here, and this place is far up in the north, no one knows much about it. The Clan-Head is considering on having this place sanctify as a ‘off-limits’ by the King himself if he gets the chance. And while I understand the risks? There’s also a lot of benfit as not only this could be a place for your Clan to live-- but repopulate as well.”

Hayami nodded and agreed, “if it kept my clan safe? I’d take it.” Then breathed in, “but then I would owe him threefold.” Making Mercy almost blink. “Because he not only saved my freedom, and I owe him for nearly killing him-- but taking in my clan for protection? We all owe him a debt for our survival. I have to serve by this point to repay him for all of that.”

“Question.” brought up Mercy. “But does it have to be you? No offense to you or your traditions, but couldn’t another represent your Clan and serve the clan-head for this debt?”

Shaking her head, Hayami told, “I already owe two debts. And my clan needs whoever's left to rebuild our numbers. I would be the odd one out, and my father would insist I pull through with my debts in full.” Telling on, “my clan isn’t like other kitsune. We’re more warrior than shinobi. We still practice trickery and deceit-- but our main skill is to be powerful allies in large fights. To take on our multi-tailed form and become the biggest threat.”

That is rather interesting. mused the changeling, as it was surprised to hear of a Kitsune Clan more warrior than shinobi, but it does explain on how open Hayami was. Not even trying to hide her emotions, or more reserved like the two onboard. Mercy however couldn’t help but remark. “It is rather surprising to hear about this.” going on to muse a bit. “Although a question. How is your clan going to repopulate if there’s not enough Kitsunes to help do that?”

“We have enough.” Hayami assured somberly. “We found what few kits that were kidnaped. We found the men and women. We can pull back.” Seeming sure of that. “It will take time, but we’ll pull back.”

Giving a understanding nod, Mercy figure to start prodding if Hayami know details about other things. “So Hayami, do you know much on these ‘other's’ you made mention that tried to use your people? Or at the very least any hints or information on them?”

Face hardening, Hayami said, “one for sure.” Fur bristling and sorrow while still there, slightly replacing with some anger. “A griffon noble that betrayed his sister. In a city, Owlett. Teir Vakoo, a noble that now rules the city and has a slaver operation under it.” she took a tense breath and told, “we didn’t stay long. We only rushed in, got the slaves and my kin, and then ran. We couldn’t fight him, we left that to some military griffion that was with the salves. We never went back, we were following the next lead to the rest of my Clan.”

Children, please speak to Galdan on what he knows of Owlett and Teir Vakoo. We need information on this one. spoke the faux-mare in the Swarm mind as she asked. “Were there any other's Hayami?”

Nodding, Hayami told, “four. Besides Cosmo and me.” Going on to tell, “a Wolfkin named Jordan and his wife, Shady. And their close friend, Biscuit, a diamond dog.” Dropping honorifics to apparently keep things going. “And while we searched for my clan, we happened upon another Kitsune.” And made a face, “I was a little unsure about her. Along with my kin.”

Making a face, Hayami told, “but Cosmo-kun… said to give her a chance. So far, she hasn’t done anything against us, and really… she needed us mostly, since she couldn't speak the common tongue. And honestly? While she’s… a little different and too much of a flirt, she’s alright. Mostly.” Seeming to half bristle at some thought only she knew.

“Let me guess, she flirted with Cosmo?” asked Mercy in a knowing and grinning tone.

There was indeed an internal fire, and the women visibly pouted in an angry way, “I know as a kitsune vixen, we use our bodies to take advantage when we can. But she was pushing it! It didn’t help that she was forced to wear the most revealing clothes possible-- the people that made her a bonus prize didn’t give her clothes that actually cover anything.”

Huffing out, Hayami went on, “I think Mari was just trying to show she was happy Cosmo-kun helped her, but at the time I didn’t like how she was nearly grinding him. It was just… shameful!” A slight jealousy rising there and then. But despite this, Merci felt the need to lock on to that name. It was familiar, something about it being important, but where?

Mari, Mari, Mari….where have I...oh… She look to Hayami as she asked. “Did this Mari have three tails, was part of a race and was a Haynu?”

Everything in Hayami stalled and she became alert. Almost carefully, but controlling her tone to not relay her caution, the golden kitsune asked curiously. “she is. How did you know?” Showing that despite being open, she still had that kitsune training-- just not as often used.

“Okay this is going to sound crazy, but apparently we met someone from another dimension who knew Mari as a friend, and asked us to learn a bit about her, since the dimension she came from was similiar to this world here.” bluntly told Mercy, as while she could easily lie about this? Telling the utter truth would be the most crazy thing that it could be consider a lie.

Plus with the amount of crazy around here? Might as well be honest about it.

Whatever the vixen apparently expected-- that was not it. “Huh?” was the first thing she got out, her face warping to utter confusion trying to interpret what was said. After a few times, her mind finnlay concluded, “a… friend that knew Mari, wanted you to find her to keep her safe?”

Nodding in solemn, Mercy added. “And a few other's, but yes.” looking to Hayami as she said. “One thing you need to learn about the Mitego Clan? Crazy. Is. The Norm.”

Hayami again blinked, but soon shook her head. “I… I’m just… surprised. That someone would willingly look for and keep a haynu safe.”

Letting out a breath, Mercy told. “Mitego is a lot different than most other Clans. We’re all different races, different groups...different people, all bearing scars, be it physical, mental-- all sorts really.” leaning back with a somber expression as she looked to Hayami. “And we take those in, misfits, rejects...people who are hurting with all sorts of pain.”

Having a very focused look to the Kitsune as Mercy went on. “Because no one are willing to take those who are outcasts. Not even those who were born and hated just because of being something thats hated on by nearly everyone. And yes while its true there are those who are evil...It's easy to view someone as a monster based on looks or blood...it's a lot harder to see them as a person, Hayami.”

“Because monsters aren’t born...they’re made. And it's rather easy to make a monster if you keep reminding them of what they are.”

Mercy found the women staring at her for quite a bit. And after a bit, Hayami shook her head and said, “sorry, I…” Locking eyes with the mare before telling, “you… you just reminded me of Cosmo-kun for a moment. He said… something that sounded the same. Why we should give Mari a chance…” Looking off to the side in thought.

Interesting… thought Mercy in thought, as she look to Hayami as she said. “Well...at least your friend knows a thing or two about that.” going on to tell. “Really, it's like giving a second chance for someone like Mari, or other's to really experience being welcomed.” then soon joked. “And a guy could really be interested in having a girl like Mari as a wife, you can never tell with guys.”

She could feel the bristling of the vixen, even if she seems thoughtful as Mercy put in. “Like say this Jordan guy.”

For a moment, Hayami snapped out of her jealous feelings and seemed to become internally embarrassed. She even flushed just a hint and shook her head, regaining control of herself. “Jordan has a wife. And Mari’s too young he said. Even if she’s a suitable enough age.”

“Really? Huh.” spoke Mercy in surprised, as she admitted. “I would’ve thought otherwise.”

Hayami shrugged to tell, “westerners think that 16 is too young.”

“That...yeah I can see that.” nodded Mercy as she recalled Dejen mentioning something like that for himself. She shook her head a bit as she said. “In either case, was there anything else you want to know? There's a few things Mitego has that is considered unorthodox…” then added a little bit to see if there was any change in emotion. “Like for example...having changelings around.”

Like that, elation seemed to rise to great heights in Hayami, who seemed to rise from her seat and send the chair flying back. “There’s changlings here?” An odd joy and excitement there. “What are they like? Are they really like insects? I heard they can change shape, is it possible they can take any shape?” A flood of questions just flowing out-- it was almost overwhelming with the amount of excitement the vixen gave off.

“Well, they’re pony shape, but looking like insects to a extent-- and yes they can take any shape…” then soon asked. “And..why are you so excited on the fact changelings are here?”

Seeming to try and contain herself, Hayami said, “I never met a changeling.” Then breathed in and out, trying to contain her own excitement, “I’m sorry, but… before my clan was kidnapped… I was never allowed out of the village, into the world. Ever since a year back? There has been just… so many new things.” A wonder in her tone.

Giving a slight hum, Mercy figure to humor her, as she said. “Well, first off Hayami? Nearly most of the crew here on the ship? Are changelings. And Humilit? Its a haven for changelings. Why else would the Clan-head try to get this place sanction off by the King orders? Because that way no one, not even people from other nations could go in and do as they please here.” then soon smirk.

“And changelings can change into any shape,” then shapeshift into her ‘Kitsune’ look with a kimono as she place a hand under her chin. “Even other races if they’re good at it.”

Hayami, seemed to lose control and Mercy found the other female by her, lifting her arm, inspecting her and saying, “amazing. It’s like Kitsune magic, but better!” Going to the other arm, moving and bending it about-- Hayami was almost acting like a child finding something new. “You feel like a real kitsune-- even down to the fibers of the kimono.”

“Yep, the power of changeling shapeshifting.” giggled out the faux-fox. Letting Hayami move her arm around as she went on. “But don’t expect a lot of changelings to do it, it takes practice into shapeshifting into other forms, and a great deal of mental strength to handle it.”

Hayami nodded, and after a moment, let go of Mercy’s arm. After a moment, Hayami smiled in a somber manner, “part of me wants to feel happy, you know.” Confusing the disguised queen. “With my debt? I’ll see more of the world. I really do want to keep traveling, there is… just so much I still want to see.” Then sighed. “But… I still want to go home. If anything… to make sure my caln… my family… mother, sisters and father-- that they’re all safe.” Then shook her head. “Knowing father? He’d demand me to stay home… until he knows about my debt, then demand I serve it out.”

“Well,” started off Mercy. “Remember about relocating your clan to Humitli? If we can bring it up to the Striped? I’m pretty sure he would agree to help you out, as I mentioned earlier, family means a lot to Stripes, so he would feel inclined to help you out, and in turn help your Clan out with a new place.” Then joke with a roll of her eyes. “Even if he would pretend otherwise with some saying like ‘its better to have new allies than to have more enemies’.”

Letting out a breath, Hayami admitted, “you would have to convince the new clan head though.”

“Who is the Clan-head?” asked Mercy in curiousity.

Shifting to the side, Hayami almost sighed out in uncertainty. “Yumana. The last son to our last clan head.” The vixen seeming a little bothered by the name. “He’s...difficult. He takes a lot of his father’s stern ways. And one of those ways is to keep from contact of outsiders. They don’t trust the outside world. It’s why I’m not sure if it would happen. They simply don’t like the idea of being around outsiders for too long.”

Thinking on it, she shift back to her pony form, musing more as Mercy said. “That is a problem…” thinking a bit as she said. “I don’t know if Dejen could fully persuade this guy…” thinking more as she mused. “We might need to consider a good means to convince Yumana, but the rest of your Clan it might be a good idea to go to Humitli, for their sakes than anything else…” tapping her chin a bit as she mused. “Wonder if we can ask a Ophenu to help convince them?”

“He would still be stubborn.” Hayami told. “When we first rescued him, my mother, sister and others? The first thing he told to me and Cosmo-kun, was to leave and find a safe place to rebuild.” Then shook her head. “It was the smart thing, but Cosmo-kun and I came too far to just run, and we only had one ship and one chance to keep up the chase.”

Making a face, Hayami admitted, “I could maybe convince him… but I’d rather not try.” Making Mercy curious. Yet Hayami explained anyways, “I know he has a… want for me. Mostly because my Father was one of the head elders to Yumana’s own father. And both shared an interest in me and one of the next heirs for possible marriage.” But there was a hidden edge of unwant there in her feelings. “But I’m not ready for that yet.”

She would’ve done it out of traditions, but not be fully into it. Even more as she’s interested in this Cosmo. Hrm… part of her wanted to prod more on this little romantic feeling, but she reeled it in. Mostly as to keep the fact she was a emotionvore a secret...for now. “What could we do to convince the clan? Sure Yumana is the head...but maybe they would pitch in…”

Thinking more as she soon asked. “Or rather…” thinking on Dejen talent of luck. “What could we do to make Yumana agree? Like say...something he would have to go with if it was part of traditions?”

Shaking her head, Hayami said, “unless you offered to relieve me of all my debts so I could marry him? I doubt he’ll agree to anything. Like I said, he is a stubborn baka.” Which almost had Mercy laughing, recalling what Bina used to call Taka. An outright idiot. It was clear that Hayami didn’t have that high of an opinion of this ‘Yumana’ guy.

Calming down a bit, Mercy told in amusement. “Remind me to tell you a story about a stubborn baka later on.” then frown as she thought a bit. “If there was just a way to get him to listen...or at least your Clan to agree. Something to exploit...to try to help your clan without causing too much of an issue…” then snort in irritation. “It would be a miracle if Yumana is willing to play bloody hoof, that way Dejen could solve this without too much issue.”

Mercy almost tripped up mentally when Hayami asked, “what is bloody hoof?” Going on to question, “is it some violent game to see who makes the other bleed first in some fight?”

“Wha, no!” started Mercy in surprise as she told. “Its a card game! The minotaurs here all it bloody hoof because of its risks and rewards on betting. The richer you are, the more you can gamble to gain it.” giving her a look, Mercy asked. “Don’t tell me your clan isolate itself to the point you don’t know the basics of the place you’re living in, right?”

Shaking her head, Hayami told, “there were very few the clan head would allow outside our clan to do contracts or to gain something not local. All other times, we were not allowed to come into contact with anything of the outside world from our Village.” Giving a good idea to Mercy why the kitsune before her almost seemed naive to an extent-- she was outright sheltered by her village in a way. Had training, sure, but had a lack of knowledge of the world at large.

“Well...thats going to cause more issues.” exasperated the queen as she mused. “Wonder if we can have Asha try to talk sense...but I doubt she could get a stubborn idiot like Yumana to understand…” thinking a bit more on how to solve this.

Hayami hummed in thought, but soon said, “the only other way… is perhaps hope that enough would listen to Cosmo-kun to try.” Going on to admit, “but… the words of our new clan head is final. And both he, and some others, still don’t think Cosmo-kun earned enough to have any sort of say on clan matters.”

Huffing, Mercy said. “If only there was a way to get the baka to listen…” she honestly consider using changeling magic...but that was a bad move, mostly in trying to gain support from Hayami clan and make them allies. She consider asking the other Queens...but they didn’t know much on Kitsunes, even with her trying to explain for a long while she stay in the Hive.

Letting out a breath, she said. “At best? We’ll have to figure something when we come to that bridge…” then heard a message. my Queen, the King comes. She glance to Hayami as she added. “And speaking of figuring things out? It seem the Clan-head is figuring to visit and talk with you, Hayami.”

Confused, Hayami asked, “how would you know that?” Before hearing a knock on the door.

“Hayami, its me Dejen. Mind if I come in?”

Mercy gave a low silent giggled as she motioned her head to Hayami to let the Striped in.

Hayami blinked in wonder, but eventually went to open the door and let Dejen in. Though as soon as the Striped saw inside, he blinked upon seeing Mercy there. When he looked to Hayami, the Vixen gave him an overly curious look and spoke, “you wanted to ask something, Dejen-san?”

“Yeah...I wanted to see how you were holding up…” then glance to Mercy as he had a good feeling the changeling already did that as he asked to Mercy. “So...how much did you two talked?”

“Oh...you know, a bit of this, a bit of that,” then shapeshift into the Kitsune form as she looked at her nails. “And maybe talk on girl things.”

“Oh, I see now.” remark Dejen with a roll of his eyes as he looked to Hayami. “Anyway, I wanted to check up, maybe talk a bit on a few things-- but something tells me Mercy clear some things up.”

Mercy nodded as she added. “And we were wondering if you would be able to help Hayami with a problem.”

“What sort of problem?” asked Dejen with a raise of a brow, crossing his arms a bit as she glanced at him with a low grin.

“Oh, the type of problem you can probably handle.”

Hayami looked a little confused, glancing between them. After a moment, Hayami knitted her brows, the tingles of suspicion in her emotions. But, Hayami placed it off to the side and remarked, “Mercy-san, I don't know if he can help. Convincing Yumana of agreeing to anything isn’t going to be near impossible. Even if I did what I had to, there would be no guarantee he would even say yes.”

“I can only assume this Yumana is a person of important and me being added in this means this involved Hayami clan?” asked Dejen to Mercy who only nodded.

“Yumana is the clan head, and a baka. Very stubborn too, with a clan of isolationist as having Hayami clan be move to Humilti is best for Hayami and for her clan to be safe.”

Thinking over this, Dejen thought over the pros and cons. He almost consider taking his deck out to think as he looks to Hayami as he said. “Tell you what, I’ll put it in my to do list and muse it over. I’ll probably talk around, and see if I can figure out a good plan to get your family safe, and probably do it with the least amount of trouble.”

Shaking her head, Hayami admitted, “if you did? I would be further in your debt.” Bowing her head to go on, “but you might find it nearly impossible. Not many know about my clan and Yumana isn’t going to just leave isolation for just any good reason.”

Chuckling a bit, Dejen soon told. “Hayami, if there's one thing I learn?” Grinning a bit as he jab his thumb to himself. “Impossible is just saying big risk, bigger rewards.”

Hayami made a face and remarked, “what reward? The Clan may have a debt of safety to you, but they wouldn’t be able to help in much anything because of how few we are right now.”

“You’re thinking in the short term-- I’m thinking in the long term, Hayami.” simply said the Striped as he grin more. “And as for the reward? Well, sure your Clan will be in debt-- but I prefer to see it as a means to win a bigger gamble.” then shake his head. “Anyway, since Mercy is here I think I leave you two be.” turning but glance back to Hayami as he grin. “But I suggest going outside. Get a good idea on what I mean, Hayami.” then turn his head as he began walking out.

Mercy roll her eyes as she shapeshift back and said. “Don’t mind him too much when he talk odd like that. He’s a gambler in nature.”

Humming, Hayami said, “gamble…” Working that in her mind, “I think I recall what that is. Cosmo-kun would always make reference to some things being a gamble…” Then snapped her fingers, “that is the action of doing something that isn’t guaranteed to work and may cost you more, yes?”

Nodding abit, Mercy said. “Yes, it can cost you more...but with the Striped?” glancing to the doorway as she confess. “He always gamble to the point it may be big...but he wins when you least expect it.” staring at the doorway a bit before looking to Hayami as she added. “He was right on one thing, it would be good for you to be outside of the ship. We’re on shore leave right now, and I’m sure there's a lot you haven’t seen before, even various races.”

Nodding, Hayami gained a smile that edded away her slight depression that had thankfully diminished over their talk. “A new place to look around would be nice.” Then looked down sadly in thought before pushing it down. “Can we go now? Maybe I can…” then paused to recall, “right.. I have no coin.” And made a face, “I wish I had something else. A Kimonos nice but… it always felt restricting…”

Nodding, Mercy said. “We can.” getting off the seat and added. “And don’t worry about coin,” giving an amused grin. “I know a few people here, and I’m sure we can get a good price. After all, we did help restore their town from being a shitty place into something better.”

Hayami smiled and asked, “could you tell me how that happened?” something Mercy was all too happy to tell. Since any impression given about Dejen? Would severely matter longterm to this kitsune. Granted, she was a warrior-kunoichi of sorts, but it was clear she was a little… sheltered and naive to things. How much was unsaid.

But as more was said and the more Hayami got reeled in on the story, Mercy felt that the vixen may have a good opinion from the story alone.