Arabian Swindler

Dejen slightly drummed his fingers on his chairs armrest, eyes once more going over the letter that he was given. Semor had done some flowery introduction and pleasantries, nothing too important. But the later bits of the letter had him almost drumming his fingers in concern.

To my esteemed acquaintance, is a list of towns and cities I think you should look into. I will not say where I have procured their names, or their full relevance. But I believe you and I both know something has changed in the world. Something fairly drastic. You could say I was given a sign after the events of that flying city fiasco. And since you seem so effective at getting things done like a certain little Mouse, I felt to extend this to you.

Akojul. City of a northern hold that is known for its winter agricultural locations and snow bush berries. Delectable and full of plenty of peasants.

Hamnou. A small hamlet town in the far eastern south of the holds. Mostly of small communities and fishermen ports. Very secluded and not very well looked over if am to understand.

Gremira. A small little plot of land that is between the holds and Arabia. I happen to know of some tradesmen noble that lives near that town, he technically owns it but hardly pays it mind. Makes one wonder what hides in such a little place?

Aqulive. A growing city to one of my former associates, Shimmer Lake. I have reason to belive she is up to something detestable. And if you were to use some contacts I know, a Griffin named Fril in a small town called Jujina? I’m sure they can show you right inside.

These locations are important. For some very important people I doubt you, I, or even many other’s for that matter, would want to get into power. Please do consider dealing with them. I have it on good knowledge that a small Mouse and a smart Fawn are dealing with a few issues similar to it. How could we not? I’m sure we’re not the only ones to notice the rising of some powerful forces some weeks back at the time of this letters creation.

From your acquaintance, Sir Semor. (end)

Looking ove this letter as he re-read the information, Dejen could say that while he may not trust Semor? There was a certain truth to the cat words. That there are some powerful forces at hand, and if he enters and solve some of the ‘issues’? It could not only help deal with the rituals, but also maybe get him close to finding Jubali. The only issue is on which place to hit. As they were heading back to the holds, some of the cities he wasn’t familiar with.

Hamnou, seem the best one as it’s in the east, and they were traveling back to the Holds. So why not head there first? Then he could probably move to to the other places to deal with whatever comes close...Maybe Akojul, since if its in the north it might be a problem for Humilit? (done)

Really, he would have to ask around to see where the pace was exactly. All the letter gave was a general idea. One was in the southern-east of the holds, the next in the north, another was no doubt an island between Holds and Arabia-- possibly a trade post of some sort. And the last had to be in the griffon kingdom for certain since it was Shimmer Lake’s own place. Or… one of the places in her turf. Yes he knew she was a noble, but how much land did she have to herself? (End)

Activating his walky, he spoke. “Myun, know anything on Hamnou, Akojul, and Gremira?” (done)

There was a momentary pause, but Myun responded quick enough. “I know about Akojul. I used to go there often with Miko after jobs. It’s nothing impressive.” After another pause of thought, she said, “I’ve never been to Hamnou. I don’t think I’ve heard of it.” Telling Dejen that it was pretty far removed. (End)

Nodding, Dejen asked. “What about Gremira, you ever been there?” (done)

“No.” Was the simple response. “I know about it only some. It belongs to a noble that does some sort of exchange dealings with traders. Make sure things have set value before trying to sell in the Holds.” (end)

“Thanks, Myun.” said Dejen as he asked curiously. “What do you know about Akojul though?” figuring out how to get a good lay out of the land as he was curious on why Semor set this up as a place of interest of all things. (done)

“Only that it’s mostly a city that grows some snowberries in high amount.” She told me back. “Mostly for wine. Never been a fan of it, but it’s okay. Miko would take some people after a job there. One of the few places she’ll actually have two or so cups of wine.” (end)

“Right,” spoke the Clan head, looking over the letter as he went on. “Well, thanks. At least I might have a idea on what we might deal with.” ending the call as he told to Debt. “we’re heading to Hamnou, since its in the eastern south? We might as well head there to see if theres trouble.”

Debt nod, as the gnoll was already moving the ship upwards to cause them less trouble for them to fly through as Dejen lean back. A part of him musing on why Senor was giving such information out, and why would he want Dejen to snoop around at all? From what he gather from Farin? Senor was an enigma...and troublesome. (done)

But then again, if what he had learned from the ‘flying city’ incident was anything to go by? The Cat didn’t want anything to end the world. Yes, his goals, incentives and even agenda was mostly cloudy. But, all the same? When the chips were down and there was a clear world-wide threat? He dealt with that first and foremost.

The noble was one of the people that had actually established order in the groups at the city and get them all, to an extent, to cooperate to deal with the city. Even go as far to get Celestia involved later on incase of failure or to secure the city remains.

This could of been one of those situations. The Cat found out about this world-wide threat and instead of letting it be? He decided to do something about it. It sounded like that he either knew, or possibly aided Farin and Milo in locating these place. And if he conscripted or they at least knew of other places? How many rituals were going on and how quickly were the other’s getting to them? Clearly Milo, Farin and Semor were much more aware of this magical BS then he was, and one of them was making sure he helped deal with the issue.

In a manner of speaking, he was doing Semor’s work for him… or it was possible Semor was dealing with one of the issues himself. Was it possible there was a Ritual going on back at the republic and Semor’s there to deal with it too? Becuse it seemed like they were happening world-wide at this point. (End)

Letting out a stressful breath, Dejen settle the letter down. A hand rubbing his forehead to think. So we got Semor having me ‘deal’ with these places, and removing any ritual potentials. thinking with Shimmer as he muse over. He mentioned ‘former associates’ with Shimmer, which means he probably found out about her connection with the whole ‘world ending’ thing.

Or something along the lines. Either way, I have a lot of work to do. Best I handle Hamnou, maybe head up to Gremira, then to Akojoul-- then head straight to Aqulive. thinking over more as Dejen thought over more. But it also means funds are going to be tight, I need to get a income rolling fast. Best I could do is steal from various places in these locations, maybe steal from Shimmering if I can-- she still owe me for messing with my group, so I’m just going to try take everything from her. (Done)

Though considering what he saw upon finding the Twins after their… godhood? Well, Dejen had to take a moment to figure out how to face her. She had Changeling Hunters on her side, as well as Demons now. There was no telling what she had waiting for him upon reaching the city. And if she caught wind of him being around? Well, there would be problems all around. (End)

If I can get into contact with this ‘Fril’ in ‘Jujina’? It might make things more smoothly. muse Dejen, as he also had to fulfill his end on finding possible clan mates of Shouki. Or rather if he found any in the griffon kingdoms. It was hard to tell if that was the case, but he had to try. He did say he would try, and he was a Striped of his word. He thought over more as he figure to settle with what he can in the holds, deal with them, and gather what information he can before heading to find this ‘contact’ of Semor.(done)

Assuming they were where they should be. A lot could happen in a couple weeks. And it was likely that it may take more than just a ‘week’ to go all about and find these places and the rituals at each location. All he had at the moment were names of locations and where they may occur. And while Dejen wondered why all the rituals didn’t happen all at the same time? It was possible that the sacrifices didn’t get to their locations all on time.

He himself had disrupted one ritual. It was possible that during the whole issue with Maltar, he had disrupted many others. This whole ‘Demon takeover’ had been in the works for a long time. And he, along with others, had gotten in the slight way of it. (End)

But, he was just one guy. He could try to get to these places, but there was only so much Dejen could do. He took a low breath as he mused. I wonder if the Twins, Tatsu, Najat, Ashina, Miko, Asha, and Hirue are having difficulties like I am?

Then again, they had to deal with actual demons. So they were probably having it harder than he was right now. (done)

It was probably a warzone near the isles by this point, Dejen had to realize. Since there was good hints that the Whitemanes were in danger. It was hard to think of what had become of the northern cornerstone since Asha had taken the whole group to her home. But so far, Dejen had heard nothing. But then again, his ship could travel faster than most words can by ship. (end)

He just hope that this ‘aid’ that Karth asked from whatever higher being is actually helping. Then again, he doubted it. Since Dejen didn’t place too much faith in higher powers, although that fox still terrified him a bit with his ‘requests’. Shaking his head, Dejen puff out a breath as he lean back. Trying to think on dealing with what he has to do. Mostly with the rituals being disruptive and gathering intel.

He honestly hoped that his friends were alright. Especially with whatever may happen in the Isles against their fight against the demons. (done)

The ship was left out over sea and a smaller ketch was taken down to visit the port-towns that dotted all of Hamnou. And Dejen had to admit the place was pretty far removed. They mostly had shacks, there were only a frigate or two patrolling the area and even the ‘main town’ nearby was mostly a small pitstop. It was near literally, a small plot of muddy land and rocky shores. And there was indeed, a lot of fishing. Not that it did much for the area, seeing as fish wasn’t the biggest demand item in the Holds.

So it was an understatement the place was woefully underfunded. And underkept. And really under-everything. Even as he tracked through the area with Debt and Myun, he had to twist his face up. The place had roads mostly made up of stone or wooden planks to keep from walking in mud. The place seemed to get a lot of rain from the stromfonts by the sea-shore. And there was hardly much in the way of crops due to all the salt saturating the area. If anything, the only thing keeping the area afloat was the nearby salt mines. But even then it was one commodity that could rise and drop in price depending if a better source was found in another place. Better than Humalit when he first found it, sure. But not much better. (End)

Shaking his head, Dejen had to wonder on what he could find in a place like this. But he heard Debt remarking lowly. “This place looks more like a Arabian town than anything.” the gnoll gave a low sniff as the body guard added. “The only redeeming thing this place has is the ships passing by.” glancing to Dejen as he asked. “Are we to find anything useful?”

“At the very least we can check in the pitstop, find any updated bounties and see if we can find the ‘trouble’ here.” told the Striped as he tried to keep his robes getting too wet on the bottom from the mud. “We might get lucky and deal with the ritual here, or even gather info on what we need.” (done)

Myun scanned the area and remarked, “but where to look? The place is pretty spread out.” Something Dejen had to agree with. Hamnou wasn’t really impacted like most towns or cities. In fact a lot of it was spread out along the shoreline and the only ‘business’ area was the small open trade area that some airships would come in and out of. Sure there was a port, but that didn’t seem to get used all that much.

In fact the portside was pretty old looking and the few hands there looked like they napped more than worked. If there was one thing that dejen wasn’t so sure of? It was where to locate this ritual. The place wasn’t developed enough to have a sewer system, but all the same the houses were so, small, rickaty and spread out, they didn’t look like they could house such a thing. (End)

Thinking, Dejen thought of the salt mines as that could be spacious enough as he said. “We could look into the salt mines,” but soon frown. “But its going to be a pain to look through every single one of them. How are we going to deal with the ritual without a means to track it?” thinking over as Asha was in the Isles, and while having Johari could help? She wasn’t as ‘attuned’ as Asha was in tracking anything like these rituals.

And who knows if the people decide to do the ritual far enough from the town-- or if they already did it at this point? There was a lot of uncertainty and Dejen need to figure out how to deal with the issue at hand. (done)

Myun soon asked, “did you ask Johari, or even Galdan.” The last bit getting Dejen to glance at her. The greyhound explaining, “Galdan’s been working on training his troops to deal with demons. Just the other day he was going over the equipment that Katsumi helped make anti-demon. He’s considering doing some trade with Monster hunters for more equipment.” (End)

“Galdan mention something on training.” mused Dejen as he internally thought on reaching out the Monsters hunter to help Galdan get some more equipment, but he focus to Myun to added. “And I was considering to have Johari around..” glancing around the area as while it was a bit wet, Johari could probably handle it. But with the lioness being so far in east? The locals may assume she’s some threat.

He activated his walky to speak. “Galdan, hows that training with demon fighting doing?” (done)

“As well as you can expect when you can only guess of what insanity will come next.” Was the rather blunt response. “We’re as armed as we can be for it, but I still don’t think we’re the best suited for it. Maybe handle a couple demons, but we’re specialized for changelings, not demons. And without fighting the real thing more often? Best we can do is guesswork.” (End)

“Think any of you might be able to track rituals?” asked Dejen. (done)

“If your asking about tracking dark magic? I only got one or two that could come close to figuring that.” Was the near snort. “If you’re asking us to track down suspicious targets that might be up to something? We can do that easily.” seeming to inform, “you’d be surprised how many crimes we busted because of suspicious activity and ‘potentially’ being changeling. Half weren't, but still tracked a few criminals down by chance.” (End)

“Well I haven’t found any targets yet, but I was wondering if you might at least find a clue or something among the populus.” said Dejen, avoiding a bit of a puddle. “As much as I want to have Johari down here to help? I don’t want the locals to freak out in seeing a Lioness, much less attack her.” (done)

“I’ll have one of the teams stick with her.” Galdan told rather simply. “If anyone can get a hint on this magical shit, it’s her. She might not be Asha, but she’s the sharpest one here on the ship.” (End)

Smiling, Dejen agreed with a amuse snort. “On that, we can agree.” then told. “I need you to send a group down with Johari, see what they can find.” going on to tell. “And I want another team to scope around, talk and gather what they can. Or at least see whats been going on. We need to know what’s been happening around the hold, and I can’t be everywhere at once doing my job.” going on to add in amusement. “Maybe you’ll encounter monster hunters by chance, Galdan.” (done)

“Understood. Expect a full report tonight on their findings.” The captain responded and soon after cut the line. No doubt getting straight to work on terrorizing his soldiers to get geared up and moving out in a minute.

Dejen chuckled at the mere thought, but really it got stifled when he looked about. It was hard to see this place have any sort of dark rituals to summon some powerful demon from beyond. But Semor seemed sure of it. Either his intel was wrong… or the place was just that well hidden.

Shaking his head, Dejen figured to do the other thing on his to-do list. Seeing about this Chimera and if there were any bounties other then them. Money was still needed and he might as well get a lead on her, or anything else relevant. Though locating a bar was a little hard, the place just had hardly anything.

But a tavern was eventually found. And it was in slightly better condition than most places. And after walking into the hardly populated space, I looked for bounties. Sure enough, there were a few. Even a single Monster hunter is going over the board.

When Dejen walked up, he scanned through and took his time. Eventually, he found her. This time with more details. Besides the image, it had a price of 6000 silver as her bounty, crime of being suspected in many missing people and accounted as ‘highly dangerous’ to track alone. (end)

Dejen lean forward, looking over the bounty as she really did look different. He didn’t knew if there were any other ‘Chimeras’, but this really update things...although it was a slight concern for her to be having alot of missing people, as this Eydis was probably many in the people this Chimera took. But as he took the paper and look it over more? Did the Striped headed back to Myun as he asked. “So is 6000 silver big?” (done)

“Down here? Probably a fortune.” Myun said while looking at the rikaty tavern. “Most of the east in the Holds have a lack of gold. Silver is more common as you know. But down here? It looks like silver is the highest currency. The Noble might be minor or have little compared to others in the Holds.” (End)

Dejen nodded, looking over the bounty for any signs of info. Mostly on where this Chimera was last seen, although he heard Debt moving away, probably moving to take some other bounties to look at as Dejen snort. Seems like she’s been noted in more forested areas. which was annoying to find out-- but he could deal. He did have trackers after all...

But he did have more important things to focus on than bounty hunting, as this Chimera was secondary compared to what he had to deal with.

Although as Debt was looking, he heard a monster hunter making a comment. “That Chimera demon-thing might be around. As there had been a mass disappearance of seven people recently.” then shrug. “A shame those folk disappear.”

“How long?” asked Debt as the hunter Minotaur told.

“Around two weeks.”

The gnoll nodded, as the minotaur went on. “I’ve been tracking it down, I think its in a swamp, but I’m reluctant to go.” glancing to Debt as the gnoll glance back as the minotaur added. “I don’t have any back up.”

The gnoll told. “A shame.” As he focus back to see some familiar bounties as he took a few to let Dejen read over. When he came back as he sat down with some updated bounties of what they were searching for. Mostly about Yumchal, the Skull Crushers, or what few there were. Or even Camkum.

Dejen look over to see Yumchal bounty went up, being targeted for ‘consorted with demons’, Skull Crushers regressed into the east and south of the holds. A problem, but a smaller one…

And Camkum hasn’t been spotted at all.

Although Dejen spotted a odd wanted poster, moving it to the side to reveal a title he swore sound familiar. Seeing the image of some black wolfkin, with the title ‘Lucky Wolf’ as there was a...a lot of crimes listed here, some minor of stealing, other's causing government disfunction, and some new ones of stolen valuable property, large time theft of nobility, and being marked as Demon Marked.

Dejen stare at this as he told Debt. “Put that one back,” eyeing the bounty of this wolf. “For some reason...I feel like he’s more trouble than he’s worth.” Debt nodded, putting the Lucky wolf bounty back to the board to be set back and forgotten. (done)

But the Chimera… he didn’t want to split his attention up too much, but the fact remains that until he knew where the ritual was? He might as well be twiddling his fingers. And from what he heard the Minotuar comment to Debt? The guy didn’t want to go alone. And the guy looked like he’d been at this for a while. If the scuffed armor, scars and gear told him anything.

Dejen cast a look to the minotaur that took to getting a quick drink at the bar. Seeming to be looking over a few bounties to do. Possibly because he felt too reluctant to track down the Chimera further alone. Made Dejen wonder what the guy knew. Since he was nice enough to give Debt a warning in a sense… (End)

Moving up from his spot, taking the bounties into his robe as Dejen walked up by the minotaur. Coming to sit down on the stool as Dejen asked. “So, what do you know about this Chimera, monster hunter?” (done)

Turning his head and looking him over, the minotaur said, “plenty. Been hunting them on and off for a year now.” And looked back to his drink. Even swishing it a little. “Actually got to fight it once. One of the hardest fights I’ve ever been in..” (End)

“How so?” asked Dejen, leaning on the bar as Dejen look to the minotaur. (done)

With a look, the minotaur lifted an arm which had what looked to be a metal gauntlet. Though when he moved the sleeve, Dejen got an eyeful of a mechanical-like arm. The mitten-like gauntlet being some mechanical hand. The minotaur told while showing it. “She took my arm off. And I had to fight with one arm while the rest dragged me back.”

Sleeve back down, he went on. “She's strong and smart. Very smart. Tore through iron plate with her teeth alone. Pretty sure she mauled half the group before we figured out that it like to ambush. But once the ambush stopped working, She just started fighting us head-on.” Then snorted, “in the end? We had three missing, five wounded with a missing limb or two. And only two of us just banged up. Since I got the replacement arm? I’ve been tracking them down. Always with a group. At least half die, mostly just new-recruits that underestimate something non-demon.” (end)

Frowning, Dejen said. “Damn.” thinking over as trying to track this Chimera would be...dangerous. Thinking over, he asked. “Any means of fighting her to live without to many dead?” (done)

With a sharp look, the Minotaur told, “if you plan to hunt her? I suggest you use the best steel you can to protect your arms. She can bite through a lot of things, but steel seems to slow her down some.” Going on to add, “and keep away from her head, and the tail. That spade tip can be sharp as a blade. And her teeth can tear off flesh and bone-- I should know, I lost an arm from the elbow-down to that bite.” thinking on, he took a swig of his drink to add. “If I had to guess? The best way to take her down is binding her wings and limbs. But the rope or net will have to be stronger than most.” (End)

Dejen thought as while he did have mythiral under his robes-- it didn’t mean it could be tear apart like other metals. Thinking over as he asked. “Would chains work as well?” (done)

“They might.” snorted the monster hunter. “Trouble is? Since that day I’ve been a lot more carful on attacking her. Came close to catching her a few times, or fighting her again. But she seems to have gotten the hint we’re after her and only fights when needs to, and flees the rest of the time. At least, for those that survive.” Making a face as he added, “I’d see a group go after her and that building bounty. They’d never return and be labeled possibly dead. We never know, since we never find them.” (end)

Hrm...attempt to go after her, or wait? muse Dejen as he knew he could get the right amount of people, but he didn’t need to go immediately...but he might as well do this to see if he could find any info on Eydis as he asked. “How long do you think she’ll stay around here for? A day or two?” (done)

Putting down his half empty tanker, the minotaur told, “the missing people have been gone for a couple weeks. So she’s either skulking about in the swamp someplace, or long gone. If she’s around? She’ll leave as soon as a day when she notices me sniffing around. But I’m not going without backup. She likes to pounce on unsuspecting hunters.” Then asked, “you thinking of going?” (End)

“I am,” said Dejen as he glanced back at his two bodyguards as he look to the minotaur. “I’m thinking of making a call to someone other's. Get the numbers we need...and some equipment.” (done)

With a nod and downing the rest of the drink, the Minotaur hunter told, “I’m coming with.” Standing to his full 9ft height to tell, “you can keep the money. I’m in it to stop this monster from getting away. Maybe find out what happened to all those missing people.” (End)

Dejen nod, as he was interested in finding some people too, as Dejen activate his walky. “I’m going to need a few volunteers to help with a hunt.”

The only ones that could come, was Mist, Myun, Debt, Susumu, and in precaution? Karth. Although Dejen had the dragon come with just incase things went south. He didn’t want to have Johari or the other hunters join in, mostly to let them focus on their tasks and not accidentally get them killed. (done)

Leading them was the Minotaur hunter. He didn’t give a name, just his tittle of ‘Warden’ and stuck with it. He was doing most of the tracking for them, and once Mist and Myun caught onto what to track form him? They went back searching. Going about the deep, dark and even smelly swamp.

It was a sight surprise there was even a swamp so far south in the holds, though Myun had mentioned that with how often it rained in the area? It was probably one of the few swampy locations in all the holds. Something of a rarity. Though it made tracking that much harder, since their target could've been anywhere and the rian made tracks vanish quickly.

But old Warden had tricks, and kept a keen eye out for any hints he had picked up. One of them being ‘find any and all bitemarks’. It was an odd request, but eventually, Mist found one on a tree. Or rather, taken from a tree. The minotaur used that as a heading point. Then found a bush lacking practically all it’s berries and many broken branches. And soon followed another hint of a tree that clearly used to have it’s own fruit, which were mostly gone.

Myun was the first to ask, “does this Chimera eat a lot?” Taking note of how many things had been eaten or how they were following a trail of eaten or foraged things of what could have been edible food.

“One of my fellows thinks that they use up a lot of magical energy.” Told the Minotaur. “And I have to agree. They seem to use it all the time to be stronger, faster and even heal from wounds. With so much magic usage? They’re burning energy near constantly. So they seem to eat a bit more often.” (end)

Mist frown as she remarked. “Would explain why they eat so much. Maybe trying to refill themselves while on the move.” the unicorn however added. “But it doesn’t explain how this Chimera could eat from a tree, from what I saw? The markings were full of fangs, which is carnivorous...she wouldn’t be able to digest actual wood...could she?” (done)

Shaking his head, the minotaur told, “pretty sure she just took a bite out of a tree while trying to fight something. Did the same when fighting one of my team. Would strike out and if we evaded in time? Rip into a tree and take out a chunk by mistake.” And looked to Dejen, “like I told your friend. Keeping away from the head is a big rule.” (End)

Nodding, Dejen glance to the Kitsune as the red fox informed. “Will be ready.” having his sebon needles ready, laced with a bit of paralyzed venom in them. Would help force the Chimera to slow a bit.

Karth snort as the dragon comment. “Still...I never thought there would be a chimera with actual intelligence, most Chimeras are like manticores or cockitres. Magical creatures with lower intelligence.” (done)

“Took my team by surprise too when we first found and faught her.” Agreed Warden. “Didn’t know they could speak until after most of the fighting.” Then gave a snort, “still, they act like an animal from how vichous and cold they are. Didn’t flinch at even killing. Can only guess they’ve done this for a long time.” And stopped to take a look around and get some bearings.

Myu did the same, but raised a brow and said, “found something.” and walked ahead a bit-- but not far. Like the minotaur said, they kept close. And when she neared a bush that was a bit roughed up, picked out a few bits of dark cloth. She gave it a sniff and looked it over before telling, “minotaur.”

“Must have been one of the missing people or some unlucky hunter.” Spoke the minotaur. Coming up and looking it over. “Doesn't look like normal clothing…”

“Heavy cloth.” Myun informed. “Used for cloaks or light armor. Perfect when wandering in cold or wet weather.” (end)

“Probably one of the missing people.” said Dejen, observing over it as he said. “Look like it was ripped up.” The Striped figuring the Chimera found this minotaur, ripped them in shreads and left the body to be eaten by wildlife. (done)

Making a face, the minotaur said, “probably got lucky from avoiding a claw-swipe. Or it was lose and got caught on this branch…” then looked ahead to tell, “I guess this is our next heading.” and went that way. The rest following close.

Myun hoever asked, “what does she do with the missing people?”

“We don’t know.” Answered Warden. “It’s been a question we’ve been trying to answer. So far nothing. People go missing and are never found.” (end)

“Well its obvious she doesn’t leave the bodies.” noted Karth as he sniff a bit. “I don’t smell any recent dead, or old dead.”

The Kitsune thought over as he suggested. “Perhaps she has a lair of sorts? Drag the missing people to personal lair?” (done)

Shaking his head, Warden admitted, “the lair idea is the closest thing we can figure. But even then it has holes. Such as why she hunts in an area, then stays for a bit before going to another. There’s no pattern and she wanders in no local areas.” which was an issue. “Even then, we don’t know what she does with the missing people.” (End)

“Hopefully we’ll find her soon.” said Dejen as he place a hand on Lucky, giving a glance around as he look to Warden to ask. “How close do you think we might get to her?” (done)

“Hopefully close enough to spot her and give chase.” Spoke up the hunter as he used his mechanical fake arm to move a bunch of vines out of the way. “But I’m not holding my breath. Like I said, they could be long gone.” And continued to track what bit’s of trail there were. Mist and Myun had to point out any hints they noticed.

Then, they came towards a cliffside. One that had a cave that had the Hunter a bit alert. He made a shushing motion and soon, each one got out their weapons. The Hunter got out some modified crossbow with bolas, Mist prepared her magic. Susumo readied his senbon needles, Myun her bow-- they were getting ready for a fight as they neared the cave.

At it’s maw, they peaked in, glancing about the dark. Mist, after a quick whisper from Dejen, lit the place up with a spell. The magic illuminating the space that was… pretty empty. Each one going in and the mare lighting her magic more.

The insides were a little… odd. There were hints of something having gone on, from what looked to be old bloodstains. But what really had them slowly go in, was what was all there. There was a wooden door and improvised wall. One that had it’s hinges busted off and left to hang open.

Slowly they went in and when Mist lit the next room, warden gripped his crossbow. All around there were bloodstains, but more than that were chests left open, cabinets and drawers left open… scrolls and books scattered about. But most disconcerting was the odd circle in the middle of the cavern room. One that looked to have been severely messed up. Mist took a moment to take and ight a few torches, helping light the room. (end)

They saw a summoning circle, and to Dejen surprise it look to be impressive as Karth snort out.

“Well, a summoning circle, looks to be for a greater demon or higher…”

Dejen glance around, as he saw chains and collars on the side, signs of people being here being contained. But only bloodstains and no bodies. The bloodstains show hooves, paws and other things. But he did focus on one set of bloodstains prints with a odd lion/pony trail. Dejen activated his walky. “Guys we found a demon summoning circle, high-tier. No sacrfices, but we’re going to investigate it.” taking Lucky out as he took the lead to follow the trail. (done)

Warden was fast to glance and ask, “you’ve been searching out this group?” And looked down to add, “I’m not sure how to feel about that Chimera finding these demon worshipers. On one hand, good riddance to Demon worshipers. On the other…” Not sure how to finish it.

Myun carefully walked about the room, even eyeing a few books to finger at and look through. “Boss.” She spoke up while looking up at him and jerking her head at a book that was left open. The Striped moved up, eyes looking down at the pages and quickly began to run over the test. It looked to be a notebook of things.

The needed things for the ritual, the needed sacrifices, the demon to call on (some sort of demon of pian-or-other), as well as the needed people for it and the best time to do it. He didn’t understand most of the jargon, but it was clear that a few people came here to summon that demon and they might have been the people they were looking for. (End)

“See if you guys find anything else around here.” told Dejen to the other's, Susumu was already searching, while Debt examine the chain and blood. Karth was focusing on the circle, studying it as Dejen added to Warden. “And yes, we’ve been searching out demon worshipers, specifically worshipers who are trying to summon demons.” flipping the pages more as he added. “And with how big the Holds are? Its not easy to find what you’re looking for.”

Dejen look into other entries, older entires shows misses gained from other cultists. Of other's that told about a few good slavers to get their needed sacrifices. Of potential people to turn. Dejen even notice one old entry talks about messaging their ‘Lord Haulian’ about the ‘two demi-gods’ that had been around the holds-- which was old news.

He however took interests of a bit of a deer that was seen around the time frame, and would’ve been a perfect sacrifice, but she was taken by slavers before they could get her.

Slavers huh? The hunt goes on for Eydis. thought Dejen as he saw it happen outside of Hamnou and the cultist didn’t feel confident in fighting off the slavers. Dejen search if there was anything else to note as so far he didn’t find anything. Frowning he close the book as he glance around, but he saw Myun moving to give him another book, this one having missives and notes.

He took one of them that was open as it was a message to get the ritual going, and how one of the other ritualists had recently procure a very valuable sacrifice. Dejen frowned as he tried to search more in, but it was a ritual in ‘Esdisla’ and until their ritual was done? They wouldn’t activate their own, something about needing the three sibling demons-or-other for the ritual to truly work for the specific demon they wanted to summon.

“Any one knows what ‘Esdisla’ means?” asked Dejen. (done)

Perking, Myun spoke, “I know of it.”

Warden spoke up too, “I do too.” And looked to the greyhound, asking, “how do you know about it. That is a Monster Hunter closed off area.”

Myun gave a glance back and told, “one of the areas a friend of mine asked me to come along and explore for some artifact. It turned out there was nothing there.”

“Because we sanctioned it off and took all dangerous demonic things from it.” Snorted out the Minotaur, “you and your friend had no business being there.” Then made a face and looked to Dejen, “why? Did those notes talk about it?” Looking at the circle and then back at Dejen again. “Are they trying to summon the Demon of alakish?” (End)

While Dejen was a bit confuse, Susumu spoke. “It is a demon, a old greater demon that came close to ruling the Holds long, long ago.”

“And nearly succeed, as it was one of the few, a Demon lord to be exact.” told Karth as he said. “There were three generals with him, Pain, Horror and Terror.”

“Well shit,” told the Striped as he glance down and said. “And apparently? It say here there needed to be a ritual in Esdisla, and until that ritual was done? These lot won’t be able to summon the three siblings.” (done)

Shaking his head, the Warden told, “you have it backwords. The Demon of Alakish is sealed in those runes. And can not be free until it’s three Generals of Pain, Horror and Terror are freed. Together, they would go and add their power to the ruins with any demon followers, to release their Master.” And then asked with a near stone cold face. “But how do you know of these people, much less tracking them down. You aren't Monster hunters from what I can tell.” (End)

“Yeah we ain’t monster hunters,” admit Dejen as he look through the notes as best he could as he told. “But we’re people tracking these lot to make sure something like that doesn’t happen.” seeing nothing of interest for now, Dejen snort as he close the book as he pocket them in his robe. “But right now? I’m wondering if the Chimera has another agenda…” focusing around him as he activated his Spirit ‘sight’ to get a glimpse of what happen here earlier. It still hurts to use this ability-- but at least he was getting something out of it! (done)

He almost wanted to flinch at the first thing he saw. Being the dead slaves and six cultests. Though they seemed to be doing nothing but some prepping. While one slave, seeming to be some thestral mare, shiver and shook in her place.

Then, the door burst open, a seventh cloaked cultest, a minotaur , called out. “Ready spells, something is--” and like that, a roar echoed out as the Chimera showed. She leaped and in a flash of a moment, bit and tore the back of the guy’s back and snaped it. When she looked up them, she snarled and jumped. The cult in turn tired to fight, the thestral slave being left to be stuck in place with her bindings and watch what could of been easily called a slaughter.

Dejen could already feel a headache mounting, and did his best to keep it going. And watch through the gruesomeness of that chimera rip each cultest to bloody bits. He felt the need to stop midway in, and blinked his eyes while rubbing his head. When he looked up, he could now see where an arm, a head, a leg or foot had landed in the past… but weren't. (End)

Frowning, Dejen wonder where they went, but he activated the jutsu again, trying to get the information as his eyes glowed. He didn’t notice in the background of Debt warning Warden to not speak until Dejen was done. The Striped skipped to the end of the fight, as he spots the place bloodied and a just as bloody chimera walking up to the chained and shivering slave that looked in terror. The remains were gone, and there was no hint of them ever being there.

When she looked to the thestral, she measured her intently.

Dejen wince as he lost connection as rubbed his forehead as he said. “Okay...I think I see what happen.” motioning a hand around while rubbing his head to ease the headache pounding in his skull. There were dead slaves here, lots of them, but there were seven cultists. They were about to kill the last one, a thestral mare before the Chimera came in here.

“Killed the cultists gruesomely...the bodies are gone, so she may have eaten them…”

Debt look to the blood trail as the gnoll added. “And odds are the Chimera may have eaten the pony…” then added. “But the trail seem...odd.”

“Can you use it again?” asked Karth to Dejen as the Striped rub his head.

“Give me a moment...it’s painful to use it constantly.”

“Because it is a Kitsune technique, further pressure in its uses can cause issues to your health and may cause magical damages.” inform Susumu with a frown. “I recommend stopping for now, for your sake.” (done)

The Warden however looked about and surmised, “then those missing people… are dead. Eaten.” And made a face to ask Dejen, “All of them?”

Myun seemed to agree, “how could she eat them all? Warden did say that they ate a fair amount. But we’re looking at what could have been seven bodies of the ‘missing’ people. More from your accounts.” Which really did have Dejen making a face. How did she consume so much? She didn’t look any bigger or fatter… (end)

“That is a good question, and honestly I’m not sure.” said Dejen as he could feel the headaches slowly lessening. Then thought and soon said. “But...I think I know where she’s heading.” glancing to the notes he had as he told. “She’s heading to Eslida.” (done)

Thinking on it, Myun gave a nod, “if there is a ritual there..”

Snorting, Warden said in agreement, “The chimera can wait.” And seemed to tell sternly, “if you’re going that way? I’m coming with.” Pushing on, “and we’re reporting this to the other hunters. This is a nation-wide threat and I’ll be damned if Cultists find a way to release that demon into the world again!” (End)

Dejen nod as he activated his walky, he motioned Susumu to follow the trail just incase there was more in the cave. “Everyone? I got news, it seem we discover our next location and we may be fighting cultists.”

“Cultists?” spoke a changeling as Dejen told with a low snort.

“Yep, cultists. And possible demons too.” he ended the call as he glance to see Susumu returning as the medic-nin told.

“Nothing too deep, seem Chimera left the cave.”

Dejen nod as he said to Warden. “And you can come with us Warden.” (done)

He gave a snort and a nod, and while Dejen went about checking the place over for anything that might be valuable in information… he figured to let the others take or sift through what was there. Maybe for later analysis. Though from the looks of it? Karth was just ‘storing’ it himself.

Dejen was at least glad nothing got slimy with that guy.

The trip wasn’t the most longest of rides. There was a short detour to stop and pick up a group of hunters, per Warden’s request, but otherwise? There was nothing overly eventful about the few days trip. They landed at the ruins not long after and the Hunter’s were fast to fill out towards the runes.

Myun, Johari, Debt, the hunters and even a few chanlings with combat equipment were all with. Dejen felt glad the Monster Hunters don't really care about changelings all that much. The fact was since they heard that there were demon worshiping cults trying to free this greater demon? They all but took the best of their weapons.

Holy water-bombs. Holy-blessed weapons. Anti-demon runes and seals. A couple of battle clerics. Herno, Kitsune, old war vetren soldiers. They nearly spent no expence to get the best and to fortify the runes. Why it wasn’t guarded better, was beyond Dejen. Though was told that it was never an issue before, since no one was stupid enough to summon such a dangerous demon and all of it’s follwoers had been killed to extiction.

These new demon worshipers, were not a group they knew.

Still, they marched on the ruins, Myun having taken some lead due to knowing about how the ruins had half collapsed due to some accident. But once they were closed they had to hide. Mostly because Johari told them to. And when they skuled closer and peaked around a few bushes and rocks, they found why.

There were Imps everywhere. A few demons too. But that had them boggled was what was going on. There were cultists with a few demons-- but the Imps were attacking them. And they weren't the only things. Strange abominations of melded flesh, giving screams and roars of pain and hate rambaged about. It left the Monster Hunters stunned. (End)

Dejen stare to see all the abominations, imps-- and remark lowly. “I think that Tyra demoness is here….” glancing around as he asked lowly. “Think we should let Karth know?” (done)

While Warden gave a look to that, Johari said, “no. take a moment to look over this, Dejen.” And when he did, the Lioness told, “we’re looking at a territorial dispute. Clearly, Tyra has become aware of what her rival is trying to do. And is denying him it.”

“Are you saying that there are two demons rivaling over this space?” Warden asked, again feeling conflicted. He could tell his ellows wanted to attack, but they only held back because of the fight. It was intense and big.

Johari gave a nod, but told, “from what I understand? Tyra doesn’t want any competition. She’s perhaps fighting to keep this greater demon sealed so she has less competition. While the other demon is trying to free it, so he may have more followers. Powerful ones at that.” (End)

Frowning, Dejen look over as he nod his head and said. “So its a battle of who can take the ground or keep it…” then frown further as he said. “But we can’t enter in, because if we do? We’ll be targets for both sides to hit…” looking at the abominations with a grimace as he added. “And we can’t handle all of them at once.” (done)

One griffon Monster Hunter spoke, “those abominations won’t be affected by our holy-enchanted weapons.” Making Dejen quickly look to him. “They are stitched-together undead, given life by souls. We can’t easily kill them, and our enchanted weapons are made for complete undead or demons-- not whatever these things are now.”

Warden made a face and agreed. “They are hard to kill, and we haven't found a concrete way of killing them easily. They can take more punishment like an undead, but have the strength of a living monster.” And glared ahead. “There are too many.”

“We can tak’em.” Spoke a pony mare in the group.

“Then you’re a moron.” Galdan scoffed. “Heed your commanding officers advice, greenhorn. We can’t go into this fight without server losses.”

Johari gave an agreeing nod. “Best to let both sides fight and let them eliminate the other. And then we can move in.” Adding on to Dejen, “we may need Karth regardless. Even if Tyra isn’t here? He knows about her… experiments and her abominations.” (End)

Dejen nodded as he raised up to activate his walky. “Karth, I need you to listen to me. We are witnessing a territorial battle and there's Tyra creatures--,”

But the walkie quickly cut off as Dejen became increasingly concerned if he had Karth come here to ruin things. Admitally he could’ve waited-- but he did wanted Karth here to know what exactly they were dealing with the experiments and the abominations. He waited as did the other's, they were watching the battle between the two factions of cultists and demon abominations as Dejen flick a ear.

Hearing a low flap as Dejen asked. “Anyone hear that?” a few glance to hear something, while other's shook their head. As they swore they heard something, but they weren’t sure what it was. Debt glance around, but they saw nothing beside the battle below them.

Although slowly they heard the flap, as a changeling gulp and sense intense anger, no something more than just anger as he stuttered. “I-I think….” turning to look, or rather feel something was coming their way as the raging emotion was growing more. More attention turn as they saw something...and the metal dragon was flying as fast as he could, hammer grip tightly in hand as Karth was getting closer.

“Karth, Karth!” lowly spoke Dejen, motioned his arm to get the dragon's attention to hide with them. The dragon was getting closer and closer, no one was sure if the smith was slowing down or not, but Dejen let out a relief breath as Karth slowed a bit. Lowering down in altitude before coming down on the ground, taking care to not be noticed as best as the large dragon could before he marched towards them.

Dejen motioned the dragon to slow down. “Karth, don’t go over there, over here!” hissed out the Striped as the dragon let out a annoyed breath, as the changeling shudder a bit from the earlier emotional experience before the dragon marched to them as the dragon ignored them briefly. Taking a peek over to see what was going on...and snorting harshly as he pull back to comment.

“Yep, differently tyra stock. Only she would send her forces to something like this.” (done)

“We need a plan of attack.” He heard Johari tell. “And it needs to be more than ‘attack’, in case I wasn’t clear.” GEtting a minor glare and snort from him. “We are not made of steel. All of us need a more secure plan to keep out lives intact while we--”

There was an echoing blast and all looked back over as the battle sundely got more chaotic. Rather abruptly, five new fighters came in, these were unlike the rest. Marks of sickly yellow magic etched on the skins of what looked to be two minotaurs, a griffon and some earth pony. Each one going in and mashing their way in.

“Demon touched.” Sheared a herno… before he became confused at how the Demon Touched were… attacking both groups? Even Dejen had to blink, what was going on here? What was with the sudden warzone that included what could have been another Demon’s forces-- demon touched no less? And giving a beatdown to both sides-- even contesting some of the bigger abominations, if not just.

“Apparently…” Johari spoke, “this area is important to another too.” (End)

While Dejen was watching in confusion, Karth eyes squint as he remarked. “Thats odd…” observing the demon touched as he was watching their movements, magics, and their marks as he said. “Well...it seem that demon Camkum has added new pawns under his touch.” motioning with his claw. “See their glow? Doesn’t it remind you Dejen?”

The Striped paused...and soon realized it was the same sickly magic Hirue had on her, and frown as Karth soon said. “Look like you might be right Johari, if three demon forces are fighting to keep this spot? Then odds are more might come in.” glancing back to them all as he said. “Sufficely to say? Its better if you all retreat back.”

“What?” spoke a pony in outrage as Karth jab a thumb to the fight.

“I mean, sure you might win with the cultist, and I can help you fight the abominations since I know how to take them down-- but if a third demon party is entering in? Odds are another might show up too.” (done)

Warden made a face and soon said, “but that makes no sense. Camkum never showed interest here.” And went on to add, “why would he be here?”

Squinting their own eyes, a griffin spoke, “hey… that’s Locsher.” Getting a few alarmed looks. “I’m sure of it, that demon touched is Locsher!”

Johari made a face further and shook her head, “Karth might be right. We should back away.” Getting looks and glares. “If one of them is one of your own turned? Then it’s clear why people often don’t return from Camkum’s clutches or traps.” Then looked back at the battlefield. “Perhaps it would be better to have the Innovation do the work for us.”

Myun told, “that could cause the runes to collapse.”

“Better to bury it and anything important, than give the enemy a chance to take it.” Johari told. (end)

Taking a breath in, Dejen look to Karth as he asked. “If we use all the cannons to fire down, is it going to cause damage to the sealing?”

Karth thought over as the dragon admit. “Maybe? I don’t know what’s used or how strong the stone is. Sure the three generals are needed to break the seal,” then glance to see the fighting going on as he added. “But I think there’s another seal keeping the demon locked away, since they needed another ritual to take place here.”

Dejen nod as he told everyone. “We’re heading back, and letting the Innovation rain fire down on everything.” and adding to the monster hunters. “And yes, you are going to listen because we can’t handle that…” then Dejen gain a idea as he told Karth. “Karth, head back and let Rah-Rah know to use the Napalm rounds. We’re going to burn everything.”

Karth laughed darkly as he said. “Oh, that would be perfect.” turning to fly off and back to the ship. (done)

None were happy with this, but reluctantly agreed. Johari still gave a look to the place and wondered what had them all fighting over this one place. She knew there was a greater demon, but why would Camkum come? Regardless, she turned away and made sure to shadow their leave. In case of any Imps trying to spot any dangers.

One Napalm shelling later, and a bit of waiting, did the Innovation come down and let off the massive force once more. Some pegasi and changelings had to work together to make some rain and cooling water to put out the fires or cool the area down for them. From there it was mostly a fast clean up… mostly.

The group along with the hunters went for the temple-like-ruin doors while the rest exterminated the rest of the demons, semi-alive cultists and abominations. Though the doors were busted open and Warden along with his team were weary. Even Galdan kept on high alert. As Dejen looked about the place, he could tell there was a battle. Dead demons and cultists laid about, with a few abominations ripped to bits.

Karth hefted his hammer some, eyeing the area knowing how some abomination’s functioned. His experience telling him they had to be on guard. And while they got deeper, Myun spoke, “I hear something.” getting others to perk and listen, hearing… haggard breathing?

Then they all felt their skin crawl at a horrendous scream, something that made them look up and see a horrendous blistered red-raw flesh, teeth gnashing and biting away as it fell for them. Long arms flailing about, reaching for anything and anyone on its way down. (end)

Karth flew up as he slam his hammer to force it into a wall, the creature was crawling to them in a haphazard manner, screaming and wailing all the while. Multiple arms carrying it’s blob like flesh along as it seems to gnash its teeth and reach for them. Dejen fired Choo-Choo, seeing it bleed what seem to be stomach acid, but continued to try to charge them.

“Move!” told Dejen, as he saw Karth slam down on it, breathing down hot magma on the abomination as a horrible scream of languishing pain as it fails while being burning to death. Slowly, slowly dying and screaming horridly all the while as Dejen shouted. “Can you make it stop?!”

Karth moved his hands in rune formation, making a white rune on the creature as Karth spoke. “Release thy pain and be absolved.” Activating the rune as he commanded. “Absolved!” using it to force it to die faster and release any souls that were put together to come undone. Feeling it dying as Karth knew the souls were rushing out, as the group shiver from the ghostly anguished sounds coming from them as Karth got off the body.

Snorting as the smith said. “Definitely Tyra work.” (done)

Myun was now tensely gripping her bow, and even Johari spoke, “Karth… what is that?” Seeming a bit disturbed, surprisingly enough. “That is more than a simple undead with spirits inhabiting it.” And gave an unsure look to the Monster hunters that seemed less bothered, if not nearly not as concerned of how they came to be. Only that it was dead. (end)

Karth snorted, but informed. “That, is Tyra handiwork.” glancing to the body as he went on. “She does more than stitching up bodies to make abominations. She stitch up their souls.”

“Souls…” started Dejen as he shudder. “Mind explaining that one?”

Karth turn to take the lead as he said. “She takes the bodies and has the imps collect the souls. The imps take the souls to her so she could torture and torement them. Until they ‘break’ and become nothing more than balls of hate, anger, and vengeance. Then force-melds them into a single body she makes from the husks the imps create upon, taking the bodies soul.”

“And within that new mismatched body? They feel more agony, and in turn, they feel more hatred for anything that hasn’t suffered like they had.” snorting harshly as Karth told. “I know how to...release them, but I am limited in my work.” (done)

Johari narrowed her eyes, looking from body to Karth as she spoke, “you release them, but can not heal them, is what you mean.” Karth remained quiet and unwilling to say more. But Johari’s face became hardened, and soon she breathed out, “that… is troubling…” And looked to the hall that lead further in. “should we expect other abominations to try such ambushes more often?” (end)

“Yes.” told Karth without any hesitation. “There will be more. In all shapes, forms, and body parts. From young men, woman, children-- everything and anything to make you shit yourself and tremble in fear.”

“And I thought Arabian torture was messed up.” muttered Dejen as they slowly walked back as Karth snort.

“Demon torture is the most messed up there is, Dejen. They don’t hurt just the body-- but your soul too….able to rip it apart, or take it apart bit by bit. Or in large chunks.”

Debt glance to Karth as he asked. “You saw it happen?”

Karth was silent as the dragon refused to say anything, at least until he told. “There is more to my hatred to the demoness and more reasons why I wish for her death, Debt.” (done)

The Monster hunters cast looks, though Warden soon said, “no matter. We have to push onwards.” And did so with the others. “And be more prepared.” Getting a large axe ready in his grasp.

“Agreed.” Johari spoke, actually putting more focus on the shadows. “We don’t need to be-- to our left!” All turning that way as something screeched and ran. Going further into the ruins. All remained on guard, but Johari snortted, “it ran ahead…. Whatever it was.” (end)

“Hey Karth?” asked Dejen as he asked. “Could our weapons affect them?”

“To a extent. They can feel pain,” said the metal dragon as he added. “But they won’t die. Since they’re all mixed up? You can’t kill them the conventional way. The souls keep the body functioning, more than the body itself. So I would need to undo the souls, to ‘kill’ them.” going on to amend. “Or you all just can smash or rip the body up to the point it can’t support the souls and force them to leave.”

“Greeeat.” sighed out Dejen, as he reloaded Choo-Choo as he asked. “Any idea on what exactly we find inside the temple?” glancing around as Dejen went on. “I mean, what exactly are we going to expect at the end here or whatever is inside.” (done)

Warden was the one to tell, “besides what we found fighting here? There will be a specialized tomb up ahead with a special obelisk stone to keep the demon inside sealed.” Going on to explain, “it’s in the center of the ruins, which you can’t see from the outside. Locked by three set’s of doors, for each of his generals that lead to it.”

“If the doors are closed, the generals are still sealed.” Myun surmised, getting a nod from him. Though as they headed deeper in, they heard a screeching sound that did not sound natural, as well as hissing and fighting. The group got ready and moved, and just ahead they saw a few abominations and demons fighting.

Johari gave a roar, ashen lions forming and rushing forwards, while Myun and many of the Monster and Changeling hunters used bows or magic to pelt the two fighting forces. Both surprising and gaining their attention. (end)

Firing Choo-choo, Dejen look through the scope as to hit into either demon or abomination he could as Debt rush forward to be the defense.

Karth clapped his hands as he form a circle in his palms, forming some runes as he spread his hands out as he shouted. “Holy Protection!” casting protective auras around all of them as he took his hammer as he roar out. Flying up and slamming down into an abomination to use his runes to absolve it of its souls. (done)

Though unlike the one that had been dying? He found it almost resistant. It made him snort and bash it over and over, trying to cause the body to die sooner and faster. When he was going to hit it again, a skull-headed abomination screeched out a raspy sound and leaped at him. And while knocked down, it’s taloned feet did nothing to his body, so all he did wa swat it off.

When he got up, a domon up and attacked him-- only to hiss and get off from the protection spell, sizzling and slightly burning. And not a moment later, get hit and filled with purifying arrowheads that made it swipe it’s arms about, screeching itself at the pain. (End)

Raising a hammer, he slam it down on the head before Karth slam his fist down on it as he commanded. “Cleanse!” forcing the demon as it screech in pain, trying to claw Karth off before turning to dust. He turn his focus onto the other abominations as he chased after the skull-head one, slamming his hammer down as he was going to beat it down, and remove the souls from it.

Dejen was reloading his weapon as he was noting he wasn’t doing anything harmful to the demons, or abomination with it. Granted it was more of a mortal weapon-- but it was better than nothing! He had to jump back with a demon rushing at him, only for Dejen to fire in its chest as it let out a bit of a screech. Before it smirked and rush at him again as to swipe its claws at him.

The stripe moving back as he thought in irritation. Does nothing I have hurt demons!? taking out Lucky as he spin it to use a stronger shot-- it goes flying and hit the wall, clawing at its burning chest and trying to keep itself alive in the mortal realm.

Dejen blink as he look to Lucky, then put Choo-Choo back as he aim Lucky to the demon as he fired a few shots into the demon head to kill it as Dejen grin as he saw it slumped over dead as the Striped thought. And Lucky Hand became my go to weapons in killing demons! reloading the gun as he spun the gun around to fire at another demon, this time at the head to see if it would instant kill it. And seeing it fall down to the ground, Dejen cackle.

“Yes, finally a means to kill demons!” (done)

As he turned to deal with another, Dejen blinked at the sight of something coming from the deepest parts of the ruins-- before one of the Demon touched, some minotaur women, elbowed and slammed both Demon’s and abominations out of the way. Even crushing one abomination underfoot to make it’s cage slightly break in.

Many turned ready to fight, but they ignored them. Instead they kept running headlong, holding something that looked magically bound and even grabbed one Monster hunter by the throat to act as a shield when someone tried attacking her with arrows-- only to get their pal that was later tossed like a projectile to take down a few of galdan’s troops. (end)

“Guys, move back!” dejen warned to his hunters and changelings as he aim towards the demon touch, knowing his bullets could affect them as he fired at their legs. Mostly to stop them from whatever they were trying to do. Including the minotaur woman as he wasn’t sure what that magically bound something was-- but it was telling him it was deadly mystical crap that had to be dealt with. (done)

His plans proved to be rather ineffective-- shots seemed to miss and fly near the legs, but not quite hit their mark. The pining and snapping bullets near the Demon touched seemed to put her on alert, and instead of just taking it, she again reached out. Grabbing and holding up another body-- a Abomination this time --and used that as a meatshield. Dejen felt his last shot fire out, and then needed to reload.

Though he stopped and dodged instead, when that abomination was tossed at him. And while he got up, the three-legged monstrosity with a skull-melted looking face and two different jaws, locked it’s eye sockets with him own eyes… and gave a grutal roar, rushing with it’s contorted limbs, swiping away as the demon touched continued their run out. (end)

Shit, shit, shit, shit, shi! was all in Dejen's head as he was running from the abomination as the Striped had to move as he shouted. “Can someone deal with them?!”

He saw Karth slamming down on the abomination that was chasing Dejen, slamming repeatedly to its head as the smith grabbed Dejen as he snorted out. “Yes, you.” swung Dejen up in the air as the Striped let out a panic sound, flailing around as he felt gravity coming down as he was going to be landing hard soon, but soon landed on somebody as there was a grunts of pain.

“Sorry!” told Dejen as he got off, then pause briefly as he saw he landed on a demon touch, one holding the magical thing, which was a...whole person, a familiar doe in magical binding as she was passed out as the Striped decided to take her in his arms, and run as fast as he could as he shouted. “Not sorry!” trying to run as the eight foot minotaur woman grabbed him by the leg as he shouted. “Some help please?!” (done)

A few turned, but the one to turn the quickest was Johari, snarling and flexing her claws. Rather abruptly, the shadows around Dejen flexed and shifted, before spiking up around him. The sudden long spikes caused the minotaur to let go-- even try batting them away to only minor effect.

Dejen got up and ran, and heard her shout and land. When he glanced, he found her running after him-- only to get a magical shot to the face. It made her stumble and sneer angrily, but more magic came, Mist and a Monster hunter unicorn both tossing spells, while the minotaur seemed to half protect herself with an arm and start running for them again-- (end)

Until a hammer flew into the minotaur face, as Karth was done removing the abomination and its souls as the minotaur glance with a snort. Seeing not many demons or abominations left to keep them preoccupied as she and the other demon touched retreated quickly-- even ramming to cause a few pillars to become unstable. Making the hall ready to fall all the more easily.

When Dejen managed to get in the safety of the group, he glance up as he warned. “Uh guys, we may want to plan a way out, this place could fall on us any moment!” (done)

Those not busy looked up at the slightly crumbling and cracking ceiling, and others began to pull or tug for others to start moving. Galdan was fast to call, “Exit, now people, now!” And like that, people chose to run. Johari half watching the walls and ceiling while also turning to roar out and make new ash-lions to rush and tackle any remaining enemies down-- to give other’s time to run. But she didn’t do any more than that before rushing away. (End)

Dejen rushed with the doe in his arms, Debt rushing with Myun as the gnoll was carrying her as his legs pumped to get them out as quick as possible. Their group retreating as Karth clap his hand as he spread out a wide rune as he commanded. “Paralyze!” using the rune to give a mass stun on the abominations and demons, as he turn to run after the other's.

They were moving through the halls as they saw the halls cracking down from the ceiling, stone falling down more and more as Dejen shouted. “Move, move, move, move!” (done)

“We’re moving, damnit!” shouted one mare in slight annoyance at him. As if they weren't already running as fast as they could. A few nearly got ht, and a few others had to be pulled up after getting pelted by larger rocks. Johari almost got smacked by a large stone, and tripped on another, but she and the others were able to run out barely in time before the place came down.

And while they hacked and coughed dust, Myun took a moment to look around and notice that a few of the Monster Hunters and changelings were getting up from something. And from the looks of it? The Demon Marked had gotten out of there.

When she looked at Dejen, she looked at the doe and spoke, “boss… isn’t that..?” Surprise creeping into her voice. Mostly at how fast they found the doe. Which… was unexpected. What was she doing here? And magically bound at that. (end)

Dejen look down at the doe and nod his head as he said. “It is...which is a shock…” he look to Debt as he asked. “Can you carry her for now?” the gnoll nodded, moving a arm to carry the doe over his shoulder as Dejen look to Warden as he asked. “How are you and your group?” glancing to Galdan as he added. “Is everyone alright?” (done)

Galdan breathed out and looked over those that went in. After each one gave a nod or some gave a slight groan, he said, “we’ll live. But we’re going straight to Susumu for medical care and should consider heading to the Temple for any stains.”

“If you’re talking about the demon blood, we have something for that.” Warden told while using his mechanical arm to hold up a slightly injured normal arm. “Talk to the clerics, they can do that.” And gave a look to the doe to ask, “you know her?” and made a face. “I don’t recall deer living around here.” Seeming to wonder why she was here. (End)

“We know of her,” corrected Dejen as he glance to Eydis as he went on. “And we think she was going to be a sacrifice for the demon touched.” frowning as he admit. “I don’t know how she was chosen for this,” but recalled in the notes he found in that other ritual cave. “But odds are she was important for something big for this place.” (done)

Warden gave a long look at the doe at hearing this, and Johari soon said, “Dejen.” getting his attention. “We should leave a few supplies here and let the hunter secure this place. Maybe send one back to a city so they can tell the King or those of high standing what is going on.” Adding while glancing at the doe, “and see about checking up on everyone.” (End)

The striped nod, as he radio in. “Port, bring the Innovation down, we’re going to be ready to leave soon.” He headed to the clerics as he wanted to be sure every one was clean of demon taint. And plan on letting the king know about this situation.

Although he still partially wonder why the Chimera was coming here for, but he had to push that aside to plan for their next trip to the next location up north of the holds.