Arabian Swindler

Shiff was near godsend in gathering information. The Stripe felt like he was making massive progress with her assistance in going to locations to meet with reliable contacts, marking where hunters were known to roam and even going in to fish for information in disguise. She wasn’t the strongest changeling from her past wounds and scars-- but she was a very good Agent. (End)

He couldn’t help but grin, as he also was marking out dens-- as some of the dens were actually his old den locations. In the past two weeks, Dejen was able to move resistance dens to Ramada for ‘screening’ for any moles or spies. Target Hunters, and learning whats been happening. Yet even with the huge progress and inflow of information. He hasn’t found a single mole...which was kinda annoying.

He knew there was a mole, there was a mole or two in the Resistance, but he couldn’t find one yet. He however felt a bit sad at during the time moving around, alot of those dens greatly suffered or destroyed. With Shiff reporting at least a few places being raided or hit while they were on the move.

It was a miracle he found what few survivors, but there were only two left to tell the tale. But with what he knew of the survivors tale? The defectors had no idea how they were found, they just were. There was suspcions of a possible person of being a mole, but they would fight tooth and anil for the resistance and be killed.

Dejen was considering if it was a rune, or something slap on a defector to track them into the dens? But that was difficult to say. What he did knew? Was that the Hunters had a way to find these dens somehow...and it was annoying him on how that was possible. (done)

There were still more Resistance fighters to be sure. And many of them had voted to cut all contact with the others to keep secrecy. One of said resistance bases made contact recently, and Shiff was able to tell him that they were doing well. But they refused to give a hint of their location.

What they reported was troubling and had him shuffling his deck while sitting in the Ketch in a port at some small town. By Shiff’s words to him and the others? Each resistance base that would go under and off radar, would report any and all findings and investigations of any moles. Each one that hid, could not find a mole in their midst. But, from a few ‘special agents’ they had spying on their own resistance bases? It was clear that there were a few getting reports out to the hunters to track them down.

Most troubling of all? Ever since two weeks back, the hunters rather abruptly picked up their pace in hunting down the Resistance. They had drastically picked up the pace and hit a few key Resistance bases around arabia, but no hint as to how they knew. (end)

Shuffling his deck more all the while, Dejen frown in thought. Clearly something spooked them. They began to push harder, but why? What got them on edge to remove the resistance? We know there are moles, we know reports are getting out...but how are they doing it? What is their trick? shuffling all the more as he tried to think. Yes he knew he was out of the loop-- but could get a head of the Hunters now and then.

Just what was it? What were they doing or using to find these Bases? Who was the traitor? Who could’ve done it? And how many are left for him to help relocate? It was all hard to say, and more difficult to consider the possibilities. It made him annoyed a bit, as this was reminding him with Jubali, as Dejen was stumbling in the dark again. (done)

Part of him wondered what the cat was up to. But it was clear that there was nothing to track him down with. And while Dejen sighed, trying to find any clue or hints? All he could tell was that the resistance bases that were hit were the farthest reaches. All in places he had yet to reach due to how far he’d have to go.

In some odd twist, a couple of the Defector hunters seemed to question his loyalties. Questioning if he was actually playing an act to give the hunters’ info to get something. It made Dejen scowl, but all the same he knew they were worried and a bit scared. After all, things didn’t go down hill until he showed up to one of their dens two weeks back. (end)

He couldn’t fully blame them on that...but he needed a solution. but how? How can I find out how the Hunters are tracking them...how can I help the resistance with what limited resources I have… thinking over more in thought as he thought of one solution… I have to go to the source...I have to go to the Hunters… he also consider on just cutting back the resistance dens that were too far-- but it was likely that would happen no matter what he did.

The only issue is...where the closest hunter base?

Glancing to around him, as he asked. “Shiff, wheres the closest hunter base?” (done)

She lifted her head up from her slight nap, and asked, “the closest base?” And thinking, “well, the next vulnerable--” But Dejen cut her off, knowing that a small easy to get in place wasn’t good enough. (end)

“No, no, no I don’t mean the easy place.” said Dejen as he lean forward. “I mean the closest hunter HQ base.” looking at her as he told. “Because if we want to know how they’re finding these dens and who their spies are? We got to go to the source.” (done)

Looking alarmed, Shiff spoke, “you want to hit a primary base?” And soon shook her head, “Dejen, you can’t be serious, they’re too secure. You’ll get yourself killed!” And flinched, using a hoof to rub her head. (End)

“You okay, Shiff?” asked Dejen as Susumu glance from his spot as he spoke in.

“I may have to agree with Shiff. Far too dangerous.” (done)

Breathing out, Shiff told, “I’m fine, just… headache.” And went on, “like Susumu said, it’s too dangerous. You could die.” (End)

“I’m rather hard to kill,” said Dejen as he reminded Susumu. “Plus, I done dangerous stuff before, like the time I saved you and the other's from being executed.”

Susumu shook his head as he told. “Still dangerous.” he however asked with a raised brow. “Are you planning to use Ketch to smash into gates?”

Dejen consider it carefully as he said. “Well, it would be something they never expected….” then added. “But I do want our ride out in one piece.” Going on to tell. “Plus I do have something to even the odds.”

“And what is that?” asked Susumu with a bit of concern and exasperation.

Dejen grin widely as he told as he took out his gun. “A Lucky Hand.” (done)

Shiff eyed the weapon a little wearily, but soon said, “I still think this is a bad idea.” Then looking at Dejen, she sighed out, “I… can mark it on the map.” Seemed reluctant at the idea. (end)

“Don’t worry, I’ll let Susumu keep close to you, alright?” assured Dejen as he jab a thumb to Debt. “Debt here will keep me safe.”

“And keep him alive.” added the gnoll as he glance to say. “I still think this is a bad idea, Clan head….Then again, most of the plans you make are bad or crazy.”

“Eh, mostly crazy.” said Dejen as he hoslter his gun and added. “Now, lets see if they’ll remember me.” (done)

Shiff sighed and once she was given the map, marked it down. Fidgeting as she gave it to Debt and let the Gnoll get the ship ready. She gulped, not sure if she liked how this will end.

Shiff was not kidding. Upon reaching the area, Dejen was given the sight of a very well fortified location right inside a city that was anti-changeling all around. They were lucky to slip past as they did, the front door having a faulty anti-changeling lamp that was on the fritz, so it let the slip on though.

But the base of operations that the sultan funded them with? It was just outright fortified with guards, barbwire, barracks, guards and many means to detect changelings. Shiff constantly fidgeting and tried to remain calm, looking unnerved for being there but following him regardless. (end)

Glancing back, Dejen said lowly. “Hey, Shiff?” looking to her as he said. “You don’t have to be here, we can let you head back with Susumu, get on the Ketch and just wait for us. No need for you to get endangered, right?” (done)

She looked at him and soon shook her head. “No, no it’s alright.” Then breathed in with building nervousness, “I have to see this through.” (end)

Nodding, Dejen look to the doctor, seeing him armored up in light mithril armor over his doctor clothing, keeping his vital areas safe, while also being ready for a fight as the medic-nin assure.

“Shiff, will be close to be as possible.” looking at her as he told. “I will ensure you will be protected, Shiff.” he glance back to Dejen and asked. “Still, how we enter in, Dejen-dono?”

“Good question…” Dejen said, looking over as it was tightly guarded, and odds are once he did a fight, the city guards will aid the hunters… Looking over the place well, Dejen was seeing if there was any way in for him...but it was tightly guarded. He consider on using the sewer system to get inside, but it was likely they trapped that too with runes. Thinking over, Dejen muse. How to get in, how to get in… he glance over and noticed a abandon looking building is next to one of the walls.

He motioned to the building. “There. We enter in through that building.” (done)

All gave nods and moved out. Making sure to keep inconspicuous enough to not be singled out. While they worked their way through the crowes and around people, one of the Changeling hunters paused and looked at them. They stopped and did their best to look around and the hunter fished into their jackets.

A moment later, they got out what looked to be a blue gem and gave it a shake. Even tapping it before grumbling and going to a trashcan and dropping it in. Shiff sighed out and laughed nervously, “I-I thought it was one of those sensing gems..” and breathed out. “Just a cooling gem…” (End)

“Such a waste.” said Dejen, as he reach in to grab the gem.

“What are you doing?” asked Susumu lowly, as Dejen paused realizing what he was doing as he pull back and grumble to himself.

“Can’t believe I almost dig into trash for a gem.” Moving with them as Debt asked lowly.

“Not becoming a scavenger, are you Clan-head?” his tone fill with amusement and slight teasing.

“Shut it.” snorted Dejen as they headed toward the abandon building, doing their best to avoid being spotted as Dejen thought to himself. Note to self, wash hand or wipe it on a Hunter to remove any germs...or at least try to. Ugh, I can’t believe I almost did that/ entering in as Dejen glance around, noting it was recently abandoned. Looking to be a former bar, tables out, stools up, things cleared out mostly…

And a large crack on one of the walls, like someone ran full force into it. A gnoll or minotaur from the shape. And its the same wall to the base.

Dejen got a idea as he look to Debt, the gnoll snorted a bit. But crack his neck as he step back a bit, then the gnoll ran towards the wall. (done)

With a crushing, the wall shifted and nearly gave way. As the bits of stone fell, Debt rolled and rubbed his shoulder, while peeking through the hole he made. From the looks of it, it leads to an overhang on the other side. No, not an overhand, it was a shed. And while he looked about, he could see why. Apparently the two places shared plumbing. It looked like the Sultan cut costs by not making one of the walls thick enough so the two places could share plumbing.

Knowing the stone would be weakest here, Debt struck and rammed the wall until a large enough hole was made. Allowing them to go in. though as they did, Shiff said, “hide!” and went under a table. Debt and Dejen looked about, though when Susumu went into the shed’s rafters, Debt helped the striped up to the rafters and later, the gnoll himself took to hiding behind a large sheet of metal.

Moment’s later, the door came open and two hunters looked about the Shed. both saw the hole and the horse said, “well isn’t that great? The wall fell down.”

“I tried telling them they needed to fix it.” Agreed the other horse. “Let’s head in and report it. Maybe someone will finally get around to fixing it.”

“I’ll report it.” Told the other horse. “You go through and guard outside the bar’s front door. Don’t want anyone sneaking in.”

Snorting, the hunter did just that. Waking past the hiding four, through the hole and out the front door. The other one leaving the shed, no doubt to go report this. Though he didn’t seem in too big of a rush. (end)

They waited until both were gone, as Debt came out from his hiding place, while Susumu and Dejen drop down as the Striped motioned a hand for them to go through, as all four of them headed through the wall. Susumu peak out of the shed, glancing around before moving up. The other's waited until the fox came back to infom.

“Clear.” as they rush in through as Dejen told.

“Okay, so we need to find the guy in charge, or at least get to the office to steal all the info. We just need to figure out where to go.” (done)

While Shiff crawled out and they left the shed, being extra careful of any guards and using whatever cover was around? Did she say, “well… what about the middle of the place?” Going on to tell, “there’s a few places I used to go into, and they’d have a similar layout.” (end)

“Good thinking Shiff,” said Dejen as he took out his gun, while also taking out a throwing knife as he said. “Keep close and we’ll follow, alright?” (done)

They all nodded and moved out. Each one following his lead as they used the crates and carts left out. Each one having cages, tools, supplies and many other things. It was astonishing how much was around and Dejen got the hint that the sultan was helping outfit these guys with some high-grade stuff.

When they got to the door of the base, Susumu was the one up. Getting a few small steel picking tools and going at the lock. The kitsune almost smiled, hearing and feeling the pins in the lock, and clicking it open. It felt like child's play almost. And while they moved in, he had to reflect things were going rather smoothly. He had to wonder if these Arabians were simply overly arrogant that nothing could get through. (end)

It is possible, as unlike the Hunters I seen in the Holds who follow the discipline of the minotaurs? The Arabian hunters seem...arrogant. Assuming nobody could get in their fortress so easily. although Susumu still had his guard up, as he couldn’t be arrogant either, as he had to keep watch of Shiff for her protection and also be alert for anyone spotting them.

Dejen kept his knife ready, alert for anything as while he wanted to use Lucky? He had to use silent methods, at least until they had trouble. And so far? It seem despite the hunters having change of tactics, they seem to have old habits of arrogance. Or maybe they didn’t have means for rune locked doors. (done)

While they moved through the halls, only occasionally stopping for a guard or patrol? Did they get deeper and deeper in. When they came near one corner and Susumu glanced around the next corner, he could see two guards by a door. Not moving and standing at full attention. The doctor came back and after some thought, looked to Shiff and motioned.

She snuck over and took a small peak, and came back to nod. “That looks like the room they would have for the officer of the place.” And asked, “how do we get in without them noticing?” (end)

Dejen thought and look to Susumu as he asked. “Sneaky Shinobi?” the fox thought over it, glancing up the ceiling as it would be tricky to get up there. He thought and soon told. “Distraction and misdirection, make them come to us.” motioning them to move back, as Susumu went by the corner and let out a low sound. Catching the two guards attention as they look to the other and nodded. Both moving to find the source of the noise.

As the two horses were moving around the corner, a pair of gnoll arms reached around to grab both of them. Pulling them in as Debt held them in chokeholds, before Susumu jab his fingers into their nerves. Knocking them out as Debt releases their bodies. Before dragging them to a closet door. After putting them in and closing the door, Dejen snort in amusement.

“Wow, good old distraction.”

Susumu lightly smile as he nod his head, then the four were moving towards the officer door, as he began to work on the lock. (done)

This one was a bit more tricky, but he eventually persuaded it open and the four walked in. As the door closed, Susumu almost made a face at the room. It was pretty clean and spartan, with a simple desk and only a few amenities. Which was odd, since arabians loved their luxury.

While he walked in he stopped. There was something off about the room, even as Debt and Dejen began to search the room. Rather abruptly, they all heard the dock click. Debt and Dejen kept up the search , but Susumu looked back… only to find that there was no door knob and Shiff was not behind them. What made his dread come to full, was the fact the other side of the door was made of steel. (end)

Turning, Susumu told. “Debt, Dejen-dono. Shiff is missing.” getting the two to quickly look as Dejen stare...and facepalm.

“Damn it...we had a spy along with us….” taking a breath in. “here I thought I could trust changelings…” lowering his hand as he said. “When we get out of here, I’m going to put a bullet in her.” taking his gun out as there was a distinct hissing sound, as Dejen spun his gun as he fired at the hinge of the steel door. Or at least what he thought as he asked. “Did I hit it?”

Susumu jump up as to peek through as he jump down to tell. “Yes, but can’t se the other one.”

Dejen spun his gun around again, as he fired a bit below. But he missed as the room was smelling funny and a dizziness is tingling at them. “Debt...Push…” spinning his gun again, as he fired again. The hole going through but missing as Susumu snarl. The doctor was moving to wrap a thick wrapping around his nose, trying not to breath in as he thought. So it seem Dejen-dono luck is finally out...and all due to a spy. I am careless...Dejen-dono is trusting...and we’re going to be torture to death. seeing the gnoll drop down, as Susumu saw Dejen struggling as Susumu thought and activate his walky.

Hoping the radio tower was up as he spoke. “Attention Clan. We are captured, Shiff is spy, working for Hunter…” coughing a bit as he told. “Dejen, Debt, and I capture. Shiff is spy, she is mole...no trust….” ending the walky as he put it safely away, feeling himself more woozy as he pray to Kami that the radio was working fine...and that perhaps Dejen luck was enough to get them out alive…

Finally Susumu dropped as he saw Dejen barely awake before he knocked out.

Dejen cough a bit, as he thought. Oh I’m going to make them all pay...even if….I have...to...ask….that fox….for help…. thought Dejen as he finally dropped and was knocked out.

(done)

Johari wasn’t sure what was going on when she was rather rudely woken up by a changeling. But from their panicked tone to get armor on and get to the Ketches? She knew something was wrong. So she shook herself awake, rushed out and found not just Mercy there, but Karth, Rah-Rah in her mech, changelings getting arms and armor prepared-- she had to ask. “Mercy, what is going on, are we under attack?” not hearing anything or the sounds of supposedly agitated shiftlings. (end)

Taking a control breath, Mercy turn to say. “Johari, apparently Shiff, one of our own species, a changeling of all things-- is a spy for the Changeling hunters.” trying her best to remain calm as she went on. “Dejen decided to find the source, figuring to learn why and how the Hunters kept finding the dens so he considered sneaking inside one of their main bases, figure what info to get.”

Then snarl as she slam her hoof down. “And Shiff lead them to a trap!” doing her best to calm herself as she said. “I trusted her, she gave herself for a egg! She gave her own life for a Queen Egg! And she was a spy! She was a damn spy!” (done)

Johari also made a face, but it was one of contemplation. While Mercy raged and ranted, Johari asked something that made Mercy pause. “Did she ever lie to you?” Making the Queen turn her enraged glared to the lioness. “Did she ever once, lie to you?” watching the rilled up queen before saying, “you would have tasted a lie from her. While this is… a shock…” which was a massive understatement, “something dosn’t add up to me. Why is she a spy, and how?” Going on, “it dosn’t make sense. If she is terrified and scared of the hunters, why aid them while outside their reach?” (end)

Furrowing her brows, Mercy took calming breaths, trying to think on it. She never heard Shiff lied to her at all, never tasted it...Thinking more as she said. “You’re right...she never lied…” thinking more. “Why is she a spy? A spy for the hunters? The one who torture her and cause her great pains? Who broke her horn, body and wings?” thinking more as Mercy said. “Something...doesn’t add up here.” (done)

Johari nodded. “Something about Shiff being a spy, is off to me. Because everything tells me she wouldn’t want to be one.” Then while she thought on it more, she sighed out. “As much as I’d like to figure this out? Dejen is in danger and we have to rescue him.” then made a face. “But… I don’t think Ketches will do the trick.” And looked at them and those they had. “I also don’t like the fact this happened while we were at our weakest.” and now that she was calmer, Mercy could feel the suspicion from the lioness, like something was off. (end)

“You think we were being watched…” frowning more as she added. “Or we were being spied on?” (done)

With a look, Johari said while moving for a Ketch, “clearly we were. Shiff watched us all the time while she was here. She knew what we were busy working on and where Dejen went every day of each week.” Then went on in thought. “This doesn't seem like normal Changeling Hunter behaviour. It’s too precise and sharp. And I don’t like it.”

When she reached the first Ketch that looked a bit modified for the fight, Johari seemed to repeat. “Mercy, I don’t think we can assault a Changeling Hunter base at some city. It doesn't seem like we have the firepower or bodies for it. Without the Innovation, we’re at a massive disadvantage.” (end)

“And I suppose you suggest we wait?” asked Mercy, trying to keep her cool. “To wait until we are able to rescue Dejen, Debt and Susumu?” (done)

Shaking her head, Johari said, “no, I don’t think we can afford to. But we lso can’t rush in.” Then gave a low growl, “what I would give for Asha to be here. We need her scrying for this mess.” Then went back to thinking. “We just don’t have an edge. And we can’t call for help, it would take too long to get here.” Disliking this more and more. (End)

Mercy was trying to think as Karth suggested. “We can drop me over the base on a Ketch, I can get those three and get out.”

Turning, Mercy told. “Karth, you may be a dragon-- but you’re still mortal. They can still kill you.”

Karth scoff. “I am a metal dragon, I doubt their arrows can hurt me.”

“I think its more of any runes used to hurt you with said arrows.” told a changeling.

“Well we can’t exactly stand around!” told another. “If we don’t save the King, we’re screwed!”

“Well we can’t use the Innovation, not with the condition she's in!” shouted one.

“What do you propose? Just fly in there like the King?”

“Duh! Its what he did with the execution!” said one with a nod.

“We had twins for that!” shouted another.

Mercy nearly shouted out. “Silence!” getting many to be quiet as she took a breath and think. Thinking over a bit as she said. “Alright, we can’t asked for Harsho, we can’t get aid, Galdan and his troops are protecting the egg, and we have no means of actually assaulting a city with a base design to harm changelings.” thinking a bit she asked. “What do we have then?” (done)

Each one stood in place or even sat. TRying to think of what they had. It made them fidget and shift at how inconvenient things were. What were they supposed to do? At most they had the changeling combat crew, a black mane, a metal dragon, Rah-Rah and her mech, a Queen, an Archer and some Ketches?

They all heard clanging and coming out from a service hatch was Felix. While he pulled himself out and stood up, he took notice of them all and asked, “oh… what’s going on?” Looking about in confusion. (end)

“Apparently Shiff is a spy and we don’t know how or why, she lead Dejen, Debt, and Susumu in a trap in a Hunter building in a city and we can’t go rescue them as we don’t have the means, nor firepower to save them, much less break in.” told Mercy taking a deep and cool breath. “And we rather not stay here, as they will be tortured before being killed by the Hunters.” (done)

After a long pause, Felix asked, “and we know this because…”

“Long-range comm tower’s up.” Rah-rah spoke from her mech. “Susumu sent a last second transmission and someone was awake to pick it up.”

Felix gave a nod… and asked, “that tower can still reach all over the world pretty much, right?”

“Well… yes.” Rah-Rah said, “it’s an upgraded version of our emergency phones I made. Hundred times the power and no chance of burning out the power to get a call out.”

Felix nodded to that and asked, “mind if I use it?”

“Why?” Asked Rah-Rah, “there’s no one in the world except maybe you, Cosmo and Miko that has anything that could pick up a signal. And even then, Miko’s who knows where in the world and it would take Cosmo a week to get down here.”

Chuckling, Felix said, “yeah, uh, funny you should say that…” (end)

“Is this a ‘I know a guy’ thing?” asked Karth with a annoyed snort. (done)

“Well… sort of?” Felix got out, “how do I put this?” And clapped his metallic hands together. “Miko asked me about a few weeks ago about needing me. Said it was really important. But I had to tell her that I couldn’t because I was here in arabia helping you guys.”

While they made faces to that, Felix went on, “well, after I explained this on the emergency phone? She got real quite and told me that I couldn’t say a word of her coming down here. And she would tell me more once she got here, being a few weeks.” Then went on, “I have a feeling she will be getting close or in arabia now.” (End)

Rubbing her face a bit, Mercy said. “Felix, if I’m understanding this right, Miko is coming here because she need your help-- did she specifically say why she needed your help?” (doen)

“Nope.” Felix shook his head. “Which is strange, since she normally gives me a rough idea. Since no one can tap into our emergency calls-- no phones or wireless communication and all that.” Which had them all confused. “But. if I can patch a call into the tower and see if her emergency call has enough power to receive a call, or at the very least? Hope she still has a radio on her.” (end)

Taking a deep breath, Mercy said. “Well...look like we have no choice but to wait,” being very begrudging about it. “Since we have no plan to get them out, and we have no means to get close either.” she didn’t like this, not at all, but she didn’t had much of a choice with how limited their options were. (done)

Felix gave a nod and said, “rah-Rah, could you help?” The rabbit soon getting out of her mech and hopping down to rush over. Both going about getting Felix plugged into one of the walls where comms would normaly be hooked in and taking a moment to get the finquincy right. While they waited, Felix seemed to patch the call through and say, “Miko, it’s Felix.”

“Whot? Felix? How da bloody ‘ell did you get-- is the Innovation aroun’ here?” They heard her voice come from the comms in the cargo bay.

“No, we have a long range radio tower.” Felix told. “Look, I need to ask, are you in or near Arabia yet?” Making her go quite. “Because Dejen’s in major trouble and needs rescuing from hunters.”

“Dejen-san is in danger?” all paused to hear Hayami’s voice and even Mercy had to make a face. (End)

“Hayami….why are you traveling with Miko?” asked Mercy. (done)

“Well.” They heard Cosmo. “Looks like you re-invended speaker-call.” Then said, “Right… as for the… reason?” Asked the cat, “We were told not to say.” Everyone is making faces. “But. I think I know why now. Where is Dejen being held captive?”

“Why are you being so calm about this?” Rah-Rah asked in minor worry. “Dejen’s in a hunter base, along with Debt and Susumu! And why can’t you tell us?”

Then they heard another voice. It was hard to make out, but they soon figured who it was. Vass. “Well, that would be my fault in a sense.” Which made them again pause. Why was Vass there? Wasn’t he supposed to be on the Isles fighting the demon horde? (end)

“Vass, why the hell are you here? Aren’t you suppose to be fighting the demon hordes at the Isle?” question Mercy with a big scrunch on her face. (done)

“I’ll put it simply.” Vass told. “Asha.” (end)

There was a silence as Mercy facehoof. “I don’t know if I should be ecstatic to find out Asha sent you guys-- or be utterly annoyed.” taking a deep breath as she had no words for the White mane. (done)

Felix was in the same boat and said, “I’ll tell you the, uh, way…” And asked, “but why can’t we know why you’re here?” But Mercy immediately did as soon as the bot asked. Her mind going back to when she had asked Sumari about making Susumu an ally. She was given the clues, but told strictly that no one must know-- because it could change the results. (end)

“I think I know why,” said Mercy, having a more somber look as she said. “You guys were told by a Whitemane, either Sumari or Asha to not tell anyone due for a specific reason. And you can’t tell us everything, or even the slightest of detail as it could change something on what you were told, correct?” (Done)

“Pretty much.” Cosmo seemed to tell. “But we now know why we’re here.” Then seemed to ask, “oh, hey. So, ready to see everyone’s reactions to the Dread Wolf’s return?” Making them all confused, while they heard Hayami giggle and even a few chuckles on the other side of the line. (end)

“The...Dread Wolf?” asked Mercy in confusion, as she never heard a title like that before, and neither of the other's. (Done)

“Sorry, bu’ I gotta cut this short.” They heard Miko. “We’ll meet’cha back at Ramada!” and cut the line.

Everyone looked at the other, and Johari soon spoke, “I believe we owe Asha one.”

The ship chugged and Cosmo half fixed up his gangster-like costume and made sure his hood and mask were in place. It had been a long time since he got in his gear. The same with Hayami, now looking like a proper shinobi. And they weren't the only ones.

Miko had gone and changed up her clothes to something akin to a kitsune shinobi. And even Vass had gotten extra stuff and a black paint job to fit the theme of it. And while they were ready, they heard FArin tell while pacing before them, “alright, I made runes for each of you but Cosmo since magic won’t work on him.” Close her Alumina to go on, “when you find them, grab them and use the runes. You’ll be sent straight back to the ship.”

She then looked to the highly armored and spiked terror with a mace, and asked, “got it? These things only work once.” (end)

“I got it, I got it.” assured the highly armored terror, as he turn to call out. “Hey Biscuit, how are you doing with the ship?”

“Ship? More like piece of shit!” shouted Biscuit, as the german diamond dog was working over time as he glare to Miko. “How did you make this thing even function I can’t tell, we’re lucky we’re even flying right now! You’re as worse as Cosmo with ships!” (Done)

Shrugging, Cosmo said, “hey, I at least keep them intact.”

“Ah shut it, the two of ya.” Miko said with frustration. “Look, the roughed up gal got us ‘ere? It’ll get us out.” And glanced to see a dirty Gem pop out and told, “just keep her runnin’ and we’ll be good.” Then asked, “but.. Shela? How’s the anti-magic fella goin’ to get back?”

“I’m not.” told Cosmo. “I’m a black cat, that’s going to cause some bad luck so you all can get out.” Proceeding to add, “I’ll also cause trouble all around while the ship get’s gone. I’ll catch up.”

“Cosmo-kun also has me.” Hayami assured.

Vass shook his head and soon said, “so. We just… drop down?” and looked at the odd…. ‘Device’ they would use. “Will it work?”

Farin nodded, “it’s got feather-fall runes. You won’t feel a thing when you hit the ground.” then said to Biscuit, “and don’t worry, I’ll put some luck-charms around the place to make sure it dosn’t fall apart by chance.” (end)

“Yeah, just relax Alpha,” teasingly told Gem as she shook off the soot. “We’ll be fine.”

“Lets hope so,” grumble the diamond dog as he worked around the switches.

Gem snort as she look to the other's and grin. “Have fun saving the boss and the other two numbskulls.” (done)

Cosmo shrugged and Hayami gave a small laugh. But otherwise he, her, the ‘Dread Wolf’, Vass and Miko all got into the odd pod. They locked in and waited. Fairn stepped back and pulled the lever, bay doors opening. When, she pulled another.

The pod went screaming out at high speed, falling fast and straight for the tall and secure building-- before crashing right in. Floors got demolished and eventually, it came to a stop. Doors broken open, each one looked about and soon spotted a few hunters.

Each one did not hesitate. Cosmo swept an arm and quickly made shuriken and made them home in on vulnerable throats.

While Hayami made a few hands signs and blew fire, burning and taking out other surprised hunters. While one side burned and another cut down, Vass said, “Mi’? We’re with Dreadwolf.”

“You got it Knight.” Miko said with a near grin in her tone and taking to the wolf’s side. “Black, konoci, ya got this?” Seeing both nod in confirmation that they would get the bases attention and cause outright trouble. (end)

The Dread Wolf soon spoke in a deep tone. “Then let us go and show these worms the true terror of the Dread Wolf! And his minions!” rushing ahead as he raise his mace, slamming down a door to force himself in as he scoff. “No doors will be able to hold me!” Getting through as one of the confused hunters doing a coffee run see the ‘Dread Wolf’ break in, walk in--

And soon screams while dropping the coffee, “What? DREAD WOLF?!” running away as he shouted. “I left Equestria to get away from that crazy! Why, why?!”

“The Dread Wolf is insulted.” spoke the Dread Wolf, as he said. “But now the Dread Wolf must find navigation.”

To that, Miko told while coming up by him and Vass on his other. “I got this.” And took a moment to do some handsighsn to tell, “Tatsu taough’ me this nifty li’ll trick.” And once done, took a breath in. glancing about. After a moment, she told, “Left.” and all three went left. “Righ’.” And then right. “That door!”

With a crunch, mace met door and the door lost. All three went up the stairs and Miko poted for the next door, which also lost a fight to the Mace. as they ran forwards, they saw guards. While they looked ready and shot magic? They wern’t prepared for the Dread Wolf, or truly knew his mace’s power as he swung it like a bat for all the magic. (End)

“You dare to attack the Dread Wolf? With puny magics?!” snarl the demon armored being, swinging his mace to deflect magics as he declared. “This is true magic.” then thrust his left hand out, shocking one of the guards as she scream in pain as he laugh. But he stopped his magic to quickly toss his mace to the other guard as he used double handed as he cackled out. “Unlimited power!” shocking the guards.

While Vass picked up the mace to beat down many in the area, then toss it back to the Dread Wolf once his hands were free as he grip his mace as he declared. “None can withstand the might of the Dread Wolf!” (done)

Punching and son decking another guard, Vass breathed out, “he’s enjoying himself way too much.” And soon say a unicorn getting up, magic flaring with fire. Like that he rushed and got between them and the wolf. As the roar of a large inferno came and the Dread Wolf turned, actually worried about the large sweeping wall of fire, he felt relief as it got stopped and even inhaled/absorbed by his ‘Knight’ Vass. the unicorn looked shocked. Then Vass ‘breathed’ that fire back out.

It didn’t hit anything and greatly unfocused, but it did the trick and scared the unicorn off, rushing for escape-- only for a mace to come flying and knock them out. While he went to pick it up and get ready, Miko told while sending a body to the floor, “strigh’ ahead!” (end)

“The Dread Wolf thank his minions for their service!” told the wolf, rushing ahead as he was rushing towards their destination as he saw a door as the Dread Wolf declared. “No door shall stop me!” raising his mace to smash it, hitting the steel door again and again as it was slowly breaking in as he laugh. “Ha! Puny metal!”

“Move it!” Vass calls, he’s charging full force forward, fist drawn back and ready as the Dread Wolf pulled back to allow his Knight to go all out. There was a *CLANG* as the door flies right off-- a few guards get hit by the metal door from the other side.

“Come Mi! We must move for our quarry!” called out the wolf, entering in behind Vass as to find the three.

Although from the looks of it, the three were tied up, with Susumu hanging by his arms and look a bit beat up as the fox look a bit shocked, Debt laying against a wall, staring at the sight as a snort escape from him as there hot iron near by, indicating he was about to be tortured.

And Dejen merely stared, one eye swollen shut as he was tied to a chair, his hands forced out as it look like they were messed with a bit as Dejen cough a bit and remarked. “Well, this by far the most shocking rescue I ever encounter.” (done)

Walking in, they perked upon hearing Miko’s voice, “yeah, well… shit happen’s Cap’.” And asked to the two, “so, think ya can--”

“I got it.” They heard Vass, and began to recognize the shape of the armor, even if there were added bits of cloth, metal ‘spikes’ and completely black. In fact, it looked like it was… paint. Slightly chipping paint. But the Knight walked up and took one set of bars and slowly pried them open. (end)

“What injuries befall you?” asked the Dread Wolf, as Dejen scrunch his face, trying to recognize the tone as he asked.

“Do I know you?”

“Not at all.” both Miko and Vass say in a sarcastic and dry manner.

“You do not know I, mortal, but I know of you!” told Dread Wolf as Dejen roll his eyes as he saw Vass open the bars.

“I know its you two being Miko and Vass,” then motioned his head to the armored being. “But I swear I heard his voice from somewhere.”

“Foolish mortal, I told you, I’m the-,” started the wolf. (Done)

“Alrigh’ alright. That’s enough, dramaqueen.” Miko cut off and shoved him towards the wide bars as Vass moved to the next. “Just grab him an’ warp him t’ da ship, would ya?” And watched as Vass slightly opened the next set of bars. Easy for her to slip though while getting the slip of paper runic paper out and getting it between her fingers before placing a hand on Debt. both vanishing in magical light. (end)

“Wait, hang on!” started Dejen as he look to armored wolf. “Our stuff! They took our stuff!”

“Forget it.” told Jordan, using his normal voice as he grumble. “Damn it Miko, I never get to play as DW.”

Dejen knew who it was-- but he told. “I can’t, they got Lucky Hand! Those bastards got my gun!”

“Cosmo and Hayami can take care of it.” told Jordan as he heard Vass getting Susumu. Taking a paper out, Jordan move between him and Dejen as they vanished in a magical light, Dejen feeling himself out of the bound chair and his arms were free as he felt himself landing on wood as he heard a voice.

“Hey boss, how was being a prisoner?”

Looking up in surprise, he saw Gem with a wide grin and slight shake of a tail-- although she was a uttery cover in soot as Dejen said. “Gem?” glancing around as he noticed. “Farin? What are you guys doing here?” (done)

Mking sure the rune on the wall was in place, Farin tuend and told, “we got a message from Vss that something was goig on.” And looked to the currently ‘black knight’ to add, “he couldn’t tell us anything. But it became pretty clear why he got us all when we got a call from Felix asking Miko if we got near Arabia.”

Vass took a moment to get a bucket and start using a brush to wash the balck paint off, telling, “Asha had a vision a near month back. She saw you near death and was going to die. So she asked me to go and find some help and go to Arabia.”

“That was the bloody vision?” Asked Miko while getting undressed from her getup.

“There was more, but that’s the short version.” Vass told, taking a moment to also strip off the clothing he didn’t need. Then asked, “how did you get captured?” (End)

Trying to get himself up, his hands dangling to his side as he told. “Well, we had a changeling with us, who was a spy for the resistance here, as we were doing work on finding out how these Hunters were finding the dens so easily and for some reason I still don’t know why or how-- but she was a double spy for the hunters. Lock us in a ‘officer room’ with sleep gas and left us.”

Frowning as he told. “Next thing I knew, I was getting punch in the eye and my fingers pulled off, they managed to break my fingers so I’m really pissed.” (done)

Farin gave a alarmed look to that and told, “hold on.” And abandoned her project to get her book out and search it. Page flipping on their own quickly as she said, “alright, here.” and walked up, then paused. She looked to Dejen and said, “show me the hand and, this will hurt. A lot.” (end)

Dejen raised up both hands, showing how swollen they are as he said. “Well, let get this over with.” seeing her grimances, but sigh. While she starting a chant, Miko coms over and puts a thick stick of wood near his mouth. Dejen gave a nod of thanks to her, as he figure this will hurt like hell. He saw Debt and Susumu getting up, both seeming to fare well, despite Susumu having some bruises on his chest.

The next thing he knew, was that he was biting the stick hard and was screaming. His eye widen as bones were ‘snapping’ into place, like they were being broken...but in reverse. He force himself to stand up, enduring the pain as he gave another muffled scream, biting harder into the wood as it nearly lasted a minute before it ended. Huffing and panting a bit as his hands felt...raw.

He could barely move them as he gave a nod of thanks to Farin, as Debt got up to remove the stick out of his mouth as he said. “Thanks...gonna be a while till I can feel them again.” (done)

Farin walked up and said, “sorry, that’s the only spell I know that can reverse damage that server.” Then said, “alright, no that’s not the only one. But it’s the only one that dosn’t require borderline dark magic.”

“Well at least it’s done.” Miko said while coming back, apparently having left. “I talked t’ those two lover’s. Cosmo says he and his shela are gonna stick aroun’ and find yer things and see about this changlin’.” (end)

“She got a broken horn, scared up shell, wing semi-torn, her shapeshift is limited and her disguise is related with scars.” informed Susumu as Miko gave a thumb up and goes back to make the call. The fox look to Dejen to asked.

“What will you do, Dejen-dono?”

Dejen let out a breath as he lean against the wall. “Well...first we’re heading back to Ramada...and after that?” glancing to the other's as he said. “We’ll figure out whats next, because now I got a lot of questions that doesn’t make sense of the situation we’re in.” (done)

Farin gave a nod and agreed, “I know changelings can trick people, but working with hunters?” She made a face, “I don’t see that happening. They hate and fear the other too much.” and soon moved to take a seat.

“Dosn’t matter right now.” Vass said while scrubbing more black paint off and getting off the extra spikes that looked to have been magneted on. “Dejen’s out and the Hunter’s are going to start getting an alert out. And we don’t know if the Changeling was working alone.'' which made Dejen jump in realization.

Changelings could sense changelings. And she still had a few others connected with her swarm mind, and they were scattered through the resistance! (end)

“Oh my god...Why didn’t I realized it?!” started Dejen, gaining attnetion as the Striped groan out. “It was obvious! It was before me the entire time!”

“What?” asked Jordan with a raise brow.

“She isn’t the only one, she’s connected to the other's in the Swarm mind! Spread throughout the resistance as they break it apart!” going on to tell. “And not just that, I think I have a idea why, mind control!”

Looks were given as Susumu asked flatly. “Is this another crazy theory of yours?”

“Well how else would you explain why they were working for the Hunters?! Defended Dejen. “Those hunters probably tested some changelings, mind control--,” then realized something more as he shouted. “Oh shit! Hey call the others at Ramada! Tell them immediately to get all changelings we got within the resistance in isolated areas! There might be spies among them!” (done)

When the message came in, Mercy felt a panic nearly overtake her and a moment of anger. How could she have forgotten that Shiff had other’s in her Swarm mind? And a few might have been in Ramada, skuing about and learning things! She had sent out the message to her changelings to go and find those others and fast, if any were around. But discreetly. They couldn’t let them on to know that she now knew.

An hour past and soon enough, one was brought in. they were lured in by assurance and questions about joining. The Changeling seemed unsure, but eventually came inside the ship and eventually to a private room. Mercy wasn’t alone, she had Johari there and a few more changes around just waiting.

Though as the drone sat, seeming to have less damage on him compared to Shiff, he asked, “you wanted to see me, Miss?” Going on to say, “I’m not sure what you need me here for.”

“Just some private questions.” Johari assured. “Mercy’s been curious about a few things going on in the resistance, and wanted to know first hoof by you about them.” (End)

“Yes,” said the Queen with a smile, keeping her emotions under control. “Like how well you all been fed? I’m sure a few of you have been missing some days of love.” starting off simple, gentle...and playing the ‘good cop’ as it were while Johari might play as the ‘bad cop’. (done)

“Well.” He started, “we’re doing alright so far. The shiftlings seem to bring us our daily meals for everyone. Mostly by the Sultans directive.” And went on, “I’m sure you know that.”

Absently, Johari said, “I don’t think we do.” Going on to tell, “we rarely have time to go out and check on you. And while we can get second hoof accounts? It’s better at the source.” And then looked at the changeling directly. “Speaking of being fed I often notice Shiff seeming to be underweight. And so are you.” And asked, “care to elaborate?”

And now that Mercy looked closer, JOhari was right. The changeling was underweight. And when the drone spoke, he gramanced. “He… have eating problems. Being… being in the camps…” He shifted uncomfortably, even his emotions tangled. “Th-they… they really caused us problems.” But there was something different there. It wasn’t just shame, it felt like… like utter depression. Hopelessness. (End)

“Mind explaining more on that?” asked Mercy. “How could you have problems eating pure positive emotions?” (done)

“It’s… hard to explain.” Told the drone a tad uncertainty. “It’s… we can have it, we want it, but we… don’t.” Making a face to figure out how to say it. Though Mercy herself felt an odd nervousness about it. And again, there was that feeling of depression. (end)

Mercy motioned Johari to come close to her, as the queen lowly whisper into the lioness ear. “Theres depression, hopelessness from him.” glancing to the drone as she added lowly. “I think it has to do with food...or perhaps something connected to the camps.” (done)

Johari made a face to that and looked to the Drone, who was anxiously shifting while looking at her. No doubt feeling the absence of emotional readings from her. Though something made Johari raise a brow and soon ask, “there’s something I’m curious about.” Getting his attention, “are all of your hive, or those remaining, all this nervous and bothered?”

He seemed a bit alert to this, but eventually the drone said, “we… don’t like talking about it.”

“The camps?” Asked Johari a tad sharply. Though when he nodded, she pressed, “I take it that it has caused plenty of mental scarring?”

“Some of us kill ourselves.” The drone talked honestly and even more depressed than before. It almost hit Mercy like a charging gnoll. “It… it all just seems like too much and then they just…” closing his eyes, he seemed racked with pain and almost morbid feelings before asking, “can I go? This.. is making me uncomfortable.” (end)

“Not yet.” spoke Mercy, as she told. “We have a few more questions for you,” she focus on the drone as she asked. “How is it that you managed to stay stable?” (done)

Shifting to that, he told, “I’m not sure if we are.” Going on to say, “I-I’m not going to say who… but… some of us… we think about just… ending it.”

“Why?” Johari nearly asked in a stern manner.

“We just can’t take it anymore!” shouted the drone with a look of dark terror and horror. “We just… we just…” Eyes closing and head turned around. It was like he wanted to say more, but all the same time the amount of distress he was feeling was making him shiver in place. (end)

“Tell us more.” said Mercy. “I can feel it, your terror and horror. Tell us more.” (done)

Rather quickly, he shook his head. “Please, I don’t want to talk about this anymore.” Looking to Mercy with near begging, “can I please just go back to the Den? I… I don’t think I can talk about it.” (end)

“One last question and we’ll be done for now.” said Mercy as she asked. “How many are left of you all?” (done)

Looking down to that, the drone said, “there were 19 of us… but… I-I think… I think one of them…” Head starting to bow down. “I think one of them died. We don’t hear her so… maybe 18 of us are left.” (end)

Mercy nod as she glance to Johari if she had any questions. (done)

She shook her head and said, “you may leave.” And a bit shakily, the drone got up. They watched him leave, going out and Mercy tracked him for a long while with her changeling. When he was far enough away, Johari spoke, “he seems a lot like some changlings that get sent by ship through the northern cornerstone after getting taken out from a Hunter Camp in the Kingdoms.” (end)

A low breath escape from her as Mercy settle down as she frown. “We still don’t understand why though. If all of them were scared and feel terror at even recalling the camps...why would they be spies for the hunters?” (done)

Johari thought it over and admitted, “we’re missing a crucial piece. Something is pushing them forwards… and over the edge.” Going on to tell, “he mentioned scucide. That they couldn’t take it anymore. Why stay stable for so long, only to kill themselves. It’s as if they know this whole fight is pointless. But people like that, do not normally join a side.” (end)

Mercy heard through one of her drones as they see and react as the scared drone nearly falls off the ramp of the ship. “That drone nearly fell off the ramp of the ship.” told Mercy. “My children noticed...that the drone seem alright with nearly dying, even if he was scared of miss-stepping…” frowning more as she thought. “You are right, we are missing something, and it connects with those changelings…” thinking more as she let out a sigh.

“I can’t go into their minds to find out, as it could alert them on us knowing...and I could accidentally do further harm to them.” tapping her chin with a hoof, Mercy thought over more. “But they know something. They know something...but what are we missing of this? why are they pushing to aid the resistance, yet are being spies for the hunters? The only reason this may be is either through their Queen pushing them-- but they’re a gyspy hive.” (done)

Jahari made a face and told, “then perhaps we should wait until everyone returns.” Proceeding to say, “Dejen should be here within the hour. And it may take Cosmo and Hayami a few days to both escape and fly a ship all the way here. Until we have everyone? We can not easily figure out what is going on.” (end)

Nodding, Mercy said. “That might be for the best.” getting up as she snort. “Although I am going to be tearing his ear for trying to sneak into a hunter main base without letting us know.” (done)

Nodding, Johari said, “we were lucky that Shiff was unaware of our means of communication.” Then made a face. “That has to be the most concerning thing. The timing is simply too… perfect. Even if she was a spy. The trap, the place, the way she knew how to get them in…”

Breathing out, JOhari stood up and said, “it is late, and I’m sure we’re both very tired. The sun might rise in a few hours, and getting no sleep isn’t doing us any favors.” (end)

“Agreed.” opening the door as Mercy said. “I’m going to drag that Striped to bed with his ear pull and we’re going to get our rest.” walking out as she told to the Lioness. “Good night Johari, enjoy what sleep you can.” (done)

With a firm nod, the Lioness watched Mercy nearly stomp her way out. And while the Queen did so, Johari kept puzzling over the current situation. Though she wandered off for her new ‘den’ for her own rest. Seeing as trying to think while tired won’t do any good.

Dejen, Debt and Susumu were given a moment of treatment upon getting in the ship. Then Dejen was dragged to bed where Mercy kept him, until the morning where she gave him a long chewing out for doing something so stupid on his own. The other’s that had conducted the rescue kept on the ship, mostly waiting for Hayami and Cosmo to come back.

And while they waited, each person tossed out ideas. Dejen was pretty adamant on the brainwashing idea. Miko wasn’t sure if that was the case. While Johari flat out told that the evidence was too inconclusive. Mercy didn’t think that was it, as it was hard to brainwash a changeling that was connected to others. But other arguments rose of being indoctrinated as a group, or some form of sleeper-agent training.

They all seemed ridiculous, but Farin seemed to remind them that they were in a world of magic and they just survived a near demon apocalypse. Which was another thing, the worst of it was over it seemed and now there were just some battles going on with the Twins vs the Demon Lord.

After a lot of this was tossed around and a near week almost past, did they get news of Hayami and Cosmo returning. With a plus one. Immediately people gathered and got ready. Dejen himself feeling a twitchy hand, feeling that the ‘plus one’ was the traitor.

While he waited and Mercy watched through her changelings, she did indeed see a cloaked figure with them. Coming on the ship and through the halls. And Hayami seems to assure them that things will be alright. Puzzling Mercy, but she didn’t think too much. Only wait.

When the door opened, Cosmo was the first in. Hayami next with a bag. Then the cloaked figure that took off said cloak, showing Shiff. Dejen tightened his hand on the spare crossbows grip handle, and in turn Cosmo moved and stood right in the way, almost giving a glare to Dejen that if he tried, he would have to shoot the cat. (end)

Dejen took a heavy and control breath as he lower the crossbow and asked. “Did you guys, found my deck, my ring-- and my gun?”

“Thats your focus?” asked Mercy with a questionable tone to him.

“One is from my grandpa, the other is a artifact and the last is a one of a kind gun I made!” defended Dejen. He however look to Shiff and added. “And its so nice to see you again after you bail on us, Shiff.” (done)

She flinched, head down and looking oddly ashamed. Though Mercy had to note that her head glimmered. A lot. Actually, it looked like something was over her head? And even body? She didn’t get to think on it much as Hayami walked up and placed the bag down. Opening it, she allowed them to see that a large amount of Dejen’s things.

Cosmo told, “we dropped the rest off with a few others.” And while Mercy picked up the things to give to Dejen, Cosmo told, “if you don’t shoot, Shiff has something to say.” (end)

Dejen immediately put the ring on, placing the holster on his waist and feeling his deck. Counting all the cards in his head, feeling them up as all of them were in place and together. He took a very deep breath, and slowly let it out. As Mercy noted Dejen was trying to calm his emotion, forcing his anger down as the Striped look to Shiff as he said. “Alright...I’m willing to hear you out Shiff, but only because I want to at least give you a chance.” (done)

Shiff shivered and didn’t look like she wanted to leave the safety of Cosmo. But when Hayami came around, gently speaking and assuring her, Shiff soon came out. And when she did, Mercy became aware of not just how devoid the changeling felt of emotions, but she and Dejen were very aware she had a coat of that odd dust Cosmo could make. But it wasn’t just dust, it seemed to have been formed into a near transparent-glass like set of clothes. Covering almost every inch of her.

The drone still looked scared, and while she looked at them, the first thing she said in a temple was, “I-I’m sorry..” Head down as she went on, “I’m sorry. I… I didn’t… I didn’t want to. I…” Then they heard her start to cry. Hayami did her best to pat and comfort the drone, but she nearly shouted, “I didn’t want to do it, but I had to! I’m sorry!” (end)

Dejen scrunch his face, as Mercy frown a bit. As they could only guess Shiff was forced to it...but why? Dejen crouch down a bit to look at Shiff as he said gently. “Hey, hey...its alright.” trying to help ease the changeling as he asked. “Who put you up to it? Who forced you to do it?” (done)

Whimpering, Shiff told, “the.. The hunters.” Dejen still felt that pang of anger that she still was technically working for them. “I… they have her.” she got out, confusing them. “Salou… they have Salou… Our Queens d-daughter and heir…” This time Mercy pricked her ears. And yet it didn’t stop there when Shiff lifted her eyes, full of regret and shame. “They have her. If… if we don’t do as they say… they… they’ll…”

Hayami went back to comforting, and Cosmo more cooly explained, “Salou is a young queen. She turned 16 this year.” Giving them an idea of how old Shiff’s changeling queen was. “From what Shiff told us? They have Salou hooked up to a giant lie detector. The Hunters ask questions and make demands. If she lies? They punish her. If any of her changelings don't follow an order? They torcher the young queen. And if any of them try to cut connections or call for help, they make it more intense.” (end)

Mercy felt pity for Shiff...and disgust at the hunters as it seem they figured it out. How the hunters were managing to find the dens, how they trapped Dejen, and how they just know where to look for.

Dejen fists balled up, taking a deep breath as he look to Shiff as he said. “Alright...I forgive you. Now that I understand the full extent? There’s one thing to do.” looking at Shiff as he asked. “Where is Salou being held? Because we’re going to bust her out, and kill ever hunter that stands in our way.” (done)

Looking down, Shiff told in a stutterer, “i-in… in t-the changeling camp we… they took us to.” Shivering and clinging to Hayami for comfort. “It.. it’s guarded by ships… the place is huge…” She shivered, “t-they have slaves helping.”

Hayami hushed her, stroking the drone’s head and doing her best to comfort her. When she looked up, Hayami said, “we asked all we could about it. It seems heavily fortified. And the use of the Queen was not the hunter’s own. From what little we know? It was an idea pitched by some slaver named Captain Juke.” (end)

Dejen thought over the name, mind trying to recall the name. “Juke...Juke, Juke, Juke…” thinking and soon realized as he snort. “Son of a bitch, Jubali.” (done)

“Who?” Cosmo asked blandly. (End)

“Okay,” started Dejen as he turn to tell. “So ‘Juke’ is a alias name, or one of many names of a lion ‘advisor’ name Jubali. Who is actually the cat leading the entire slaver empire that spans around the globe. And odds are? He’s been puling the strings within the hunters and probably made that plan on trapping me in that hunter building.” going on to tell. “He’s a criminal to the Isles, and a very cunning cat, we’ve been trying to find traces of him, but he got a huge advantage his claws sink in with connection and in the slaver business.”

Taking a breath as he added. “And he’s probably the one who control Maltar to a extent.”

Mercy pause, as she recalled Johari mentioning that this was all too well planned and too well executed for the hunters. Frowning more as she spoke. “Jubali must’ve planned this. He knows about us, probably too well as he hit us at our weakest and tried to remove a thorn from his side.” (done)

With a glance to each person and even a now dissolving mess that was Shiff? Cosmo said, “sounds like he came pretty close. If Asha didn’t send Vass off? I have a feeling Dejen would be dead.” And let out a breath. “We were cutting it close.” And made a face while putting his hands in his pockets.

After a moment, Cosmo told, “I’m going to stick around for a while.” Going on to tell, “mostly to make sure Shiff keeps that new cloak on her. It’s made from my Hex-cells. Completely anti-magical. It’s the only thing keeping her cut off from her Queen and keeping the Hunter’s in the dark that she’s free and turned rogue on them.” (end)

So thats what they were. thought Dejen as he glance to the odd stuff on Shiff as he took in a breath as he said. “Alright..” then thought and said. “But we’re going to need to talk to everyone. Figure out our options, what we can do…” and glance to Shiff as he added. “And see if we can bust out Salou.” (done)

With a look to him, Shiff said, “please… please save her.” Shivering and face getting completely wet from her tears. “She’s in so much pain… I… we..” she shook. “We can’t take it anymore. We can’t stand being so helpless and to feel her torture nearly every day-- I don’t want anymore of my hive to kill themselves to stop their suffering, I don’t want her to suffer anymore, I’ll do anything to make it stop!”

“Shh, shh, calm yourself.” Hayami hushed and rocked the nearly hysterical changeling that was possibly forced to stay quite for so long. “Shh…” And with a look to Cosmo, motioned to her. That cat got the hint, and helped pick up the mare. “Here, let us take you to the medical bay. Get those injuries treated.” And while Dejen and Mercy got confused, they took a moment to try and look over. And it looked like indeed that a few places looked a bit… freshly cut. (End)

Was she...trying to kill herself? thought Mercy in uncertainty, as Dejen frown further, as he activated his walky.

“Everyone, I’m pitching a meeting. We figure out what happen…” grimace in his tone. “And its not pleasant.”

Getting everyone up to speed on what happen, why the changelings were forced, who was behind it all, and where the young Queen was at. Including some defenses they know of as Dejen lean forward on his chair, looking around as he said. “Now, here comes the question. What are our options and how are we going to take this Salou out, with all the changelings we can grab-- and deal a big blow to the Hunters and a extension to Jubali?” (done)

Each one was quite, thinking to themselves. Really, looking them over? Dejen was a little surprised at how diverse things were. Mostly with the other former humans being here. And while it was a side note, he couldn't help but look them over. Though he was burst from his thoughts when Farin said, “we could try what we did before. Outfit everyone with a Teleporting rune so they can grab and take whoever they want.”

Shaking his head, Cosmo said, “that’ll take too long. You took your time to make a few reliable long-range runes in the week we were coming here. You can do that for a few, but we’re looking at a massive breakout. And we can’t risk enemies coming with.”

“And we can’t just run in.” Vass seemed to say. “That’s how I do most fights. Going straight in. but this is a hostage situation. They could use the changelings as fodder.”

Cosmo only said, “sneaking in is our best option. But we don’t have any information of what’s completely inside except what Shiff knows. And the could of changed things while she was away.”

Johari seemed to add in, “and we would have to be cautious. Jubali has taken a direct interest in this.” and looked to Dejen. “Once he figures out that you were freed? He will immediately try to plan on what you’re going to do.”

Perking, Cosmo said, “really?” his bland tone sounding… interested. (end)

“From what we gathered from Dadise?” said Mercy. “It sounded like Jubali is a very...meticulous planner. Taking in information, using what he has for precise plans, even controlling the way it happens. Like with the trap at the base, as it was well too thought out, to planned for it to be a coincidence.”

“And we can’t forget about the slaver ships acting as back up.” added Dejen. “I don’t know how many there, but odds are they’ll patrol around for anything they spot.” leaning back as he frown a bit as he told on. “Still, this is a problem…” then glance to Cosmo as he noticed the cat sounding interested. “Unless you thought of something, Cosmo?” (done)

“Jubali and the hunter’s don’t know that we know they have changeling spies.” Told the Herno rather simply. “To them? Shiff was killed because she lost sight of me. They can’t get a signal and she didn’t willingly cut off her connection.”

Hayami blinked and understood. “You’re thinking of doing that same letter trick from before?” making Jordan perk up to this.

With a nod, Cosmo told them. “We have a direct line to their base through communications. What we do is plant the rumor that the whole Mitego clan is getting a number of ships ready for a huge strike.” And told on to each. “We let the spies do the work for us. The idea is to forcefully pull forces away from the base to help secure another high-priority place. Then, once we’re sure that place is secured? We move in on the weekend camp.” (end)

“Well we can easily put in the rumor, and I can get the ships,” started Dejen as he lean back with a frown. “But how are we going to make sure they aren’t going to use the changelings or the queen as hostage? Since the Hunters could force us into surrendering, or force the changelings to attack us as cannon fodder.” (done)

Cosmo looked to Jordan and soon back to Dejen. “Hard to use hostages as a playing card, when it’s a bad guy attacking.” (end)

Looks were given as Jordan grin, having his helmet off as he lean forward to tell. “Basically? I, using my Dread Wolf persona, goes in to attack and force my way in. Making the hunters realize that since I’m a egotistical villain? I wouldn’t give two-shits about hostages, and just bash everything insight while searching for my prize.” (done)

Miko gave a thoughtful tap to her chin, and soon said, “ya know… that would work.” Going on, “this plan woul’ take time to get workin’. An that just gives us time to get costumes and let them move things around to get ready.”

Farin made a face and said, “even if things go that way. What about any other ships in the area? We don’t have a real fleet to deal with them.” And motioned, “and the Innovation can’t fly.”

Hand up, Felix said, “well, I know this guy--” (end)

Groans and grumble came out as Dejen laugh as he told to Felix. “You and people you know, Felix!” (done)

Miko agreed, “yeah, who don’t you know?” and soon asked, “alright, what do you have fer us?”

Nodding, Felix soon said, “I know this one minotaur salesman at a town not too far from here. He has a lot of old junk and junker ships. They’re not really in the best condition, or flight worthy. But I helped him actually get here to start his business. Maybe I can ask about using a number of them for this?” Proceeding to tell. “They'll be throw-aways. Just enough to get us there, drop people off and maybe fight the fleet.”

Thinking on it, Cosmo added, “and since we’ll have time? Maybe we can use Farin’s teleporting runes. Make it so that crew can warp out of there in an emergency or those on the ground can grab and take any changelings.”

“More importantly?” Farin spoke up, “since we’ll all have one? All we need is one person to find and grab the Queen.” Going on to add, “if we can put some time into making more radios for everyone? We can call back here to see who has the Queen and all flash back here once the jobs done.” (end)

“I can aid you with the runes.” said Karth with a smirk. “I’ll be able to ensure they last longer, or work multiple times so it doesn’t need to be a one way trip all the time.” going on to tell. “And making more radios will be quick for us, we can give them to each one here to help further their task.” However the dragon snorted. “But we’ll need to pull as stop on working the ship if we want to ensure this plan work flawlessly.”

Dejen thought and soon told. “We’re putting a stop on the ship for now, as we need to deal with the hunters, save the queen, get what info we can from Jubali-- and show what happen when you mess with Mitego.” (done)

“As grand standing as that is.” Johari spoke up, “how do we ensure that the hunters are pressed to move their ships to defend this hypothetical location?”

Cosmo shrugged. “I’m pretty sure that hinting that a sultan or two helping might make them jumpy.” And looked to Dejen, “I mean… if the spy saw a wounded and hurt Dejen walking up to the sultan to ask about some ships to use and strap with… I don’t know, bigger cannons?”

“Explosives.” Johari put in. “if Dejen were any other striped? He would strip them and fill them with bombs to attack the location.” And smiled, “you know… that may actually work. No sane person would want ships full of explosives to crash into their bases.” And perked. “Or… we can suggest they are going all over for multiple bases.” (End)

Dejen thought for a bit as he said. “And since I know how Arabia works more than others...I could actually pull it off. With how enraged I would be, with some craziness and being the Death’s Gambler? I would filled up all the ships I could with explosions, maybe add something to make things bigger once they detonate, and have them fly towards multiple bases to kill everything and not giving a damn on the base or anything close to it.” (done)

“Maybe to help with the illusion?” Cosmo said in thought, “why don’t we add in a little secrecy.” and looked to Mercy. “Then while Dejen is having a secret meeting or giving a letter to the sultan telling him our full plan and how to help influence the false information? Mercy can have a changeling try to subtly tell the Resistance, or even directly tell a spy, about giving a message about the ‘plan’ of bombing multiple hunter HQ’s, but not the camp.” (end)

Giggling a bit, Mercy said. “I might go myself, seeing as to help with the illusion on informing them about this plan that my dear,” lightly bumping Dejen side in amusement. “Death’s Gambler is going to take out the HQ in rage, as to ‘remind’ Arabia what happen when you cross the gambler in a game of chance.” (done)

Shaking his head, Vass remarked, “with how big of a fire you’re lighting under them? It might make the hunters panic and act anyways.”

“All the better.” Johari smirked. “It’s difficult to keep control of the masses, when they riot.” (end)

Dejen chuckle as he said. “And even more once the word is spread to the other cities that support the hunters. They sultans may not care for me, but they still remember I made Arabia afraid of me whenever I pass their way. Odds are they’ll be a bit panicky too on what the hunters did to make me so enraged.”

“Seriously?” asked Jordan with a doubtful look. “I may understand the hunters, but the sultans too? Aren’t they usually the law in their own cities? I doubt everyone was terrified of you, Dejen.” (done)

“At one point they were.” Johari said without much concern. “And while they dismiss his name now of days due to libralistic fools? Once they hear and start hearing evidence of Dejen doing just as the rumors say? They will start to panic.” Going on, “no one would do something so extreme as to bomb cities that have Changeling Hunter HQ’s. and Dejen has proven in the past, that he does extremes when concerning the hunters.” (end)

Dejen nod in certainty as he cross his arms. “And that is when they know some serious stuff is going down.” grinning a bit to everyone. “Once they see I’m doing what I said I’ll do? They’ll panic and fan the flames even more, as they know I don’t hold back.” Thinking a bit as Dejen said. “Although maybe I should have ships loaded with explosives, just to make it real enough to get the ball rolling.” (done)

Rah-Rah said, “Karth and I could find and buy a cheap ketch and do some work on it to make it into a pretty simple auto-matic warhead.” Getting looks. “Then send it to the closest HQ. with it being smaller and having a thinner profile? It can hit a smaller space, cause a little less collateral and with the short distance? It would help give the hint that the others are going to be reaching the other cities within days or a week of the first bombing.”

“Then we send that off once we are nearly prepared to move out.” Johari nodded. “In the mean time? Rumors, hints and work on the ships. Once we are prepared? We send off a Ketch, or two, and have them bomb a HQ or two. We move out not long after, give the hunter’s time to scramble air forces in their confirmed panic.” (end)

Nods were given as Dejen said. “Lets get to work then, we have a lot to prep for.”

Mercy was already sending message to her children to help spread the rumors as she said. “I’ll get started on the rumors.” (done)

Felix told, “I’ll get a ship ready and talk to my pal and see about getting some deals from him.”

Farin soon voted, “I’ll find something to make a safe exit for the teleporting magics later on.” Getting her book out to no doubt find the runes needed to make it as safe as possible.

Vass looked around, but Cosmo said, “I think the rest of us will probably try and help around where we can.” Then thought, “maybe we can work on some costumes. You know, complete the whole ‘Dread Wolf and his army comes’-- we’re making quite the role-play comeback with him.” Going on, “Dramatic entrance at a hunter HQ, ripping through it, now invading and stealing from a changeling camp…”

Then Cosmo said, “hey Mercy?” Getting her attention, “maybe spread the rumor the Dread Wolf is planning to attack a city. Maybe something about the Death Gambler making a deal with the guy to have a city while also attaching the hunters or something.” (end)

“No, no, no,” started Jordan as he said. “Make a deal with the Dread Wolf to attack the city, take ownership of it, and having his own personal evil city!”

Hayami giddily adds in, “Along with his own giant harem of females and army of slave servants.” making Jordan laugh with a wide grin at this as he nod to this thought.

Cosmo add in thought. “Huh...All we need is that he’s doing it because the Gambler talked his way out of the Wolf killing him and now they’re allies or something of the sort.”

Vass stare at the three. “You there are enjoying this persona stuff too much.”

“Hey, I had to give up the Dread Wolf persona for a peaceful life!” told Jordan. “Sure I like blacksmithing with Shady-- but I enjoy playing out the big bad guy that crush his enemies, hear the lamentation of woman and be overpowered.”

Dejen thought and gain a wide grin. “Mercy...have the rumors tell that I made a deal with the Dread Wolf, in helping me gain revenge against the hunters? I help him conquer a city, make him a sultan, and add in what Hayami adds in.” and soon added. “And add in that I would let any survivng hunters be the Dread Wolf new playthings and slaves to torture all he likes.” (done)

Vass shook his head and facepalmed, “sadists. I’m allies with sadits and morally questionable pranksters.”

“I know the feeling.” Farin heaved out with a big sigh.

Slowly, Mercy opened the door to the medical bay and took her time to come in and look over Shiff. The drone was sitting on the bed once more, and seemed to be lost in thought. And fro the looks of it, had a few bandaged over her midsection, foreleg and even chest. It didn’t look like she had bled, so maybe the wounds were not so bad. And while she neared, Mercy had to wonder how effective the cloak was.

The mare didn’t lift her head and even show she sensed the Queen coming in. it was only when she cleared her voice, the Shiff jumped and half froze seeing Mercy. After a moment of silence, Shiff looked away with glossy eyes and said, “I...I’m…” seeming unable to speak. And now sitting here, looking at her in the near same position as before… Mercy felt a want to sigh.

She now understood why the drone was so ashamed of herself. She was ashamed she was betraying them, when she had no choice. (end)

Taking a breath, Mercy look to Shiff as she said. “I understand now, and it...it hurt that you betrayed us.” looking at the changeling as she told on. “We didn’t understand why or how, but now...we do…” taking a moment to look at Shiff as she said. “I forgive you, Shiff...you were forced into this…” looking at the drone as she asked. “How did you get you wounds?” (done)

Sniffing, Shiff said, “they beat me.” Making the Queen a little confused, but understood when Shiff explained. “After… after I trapped them… the hunters beat me up. For… for trying to convince Dejen it was too dangerous to come. For trying to tell you what happened…” Then went on, “my headaches… they aren't headaches.” Eyes shut tight and tears coming down. “They’re… they’re the screams the young Queen makes when they harm her. Whenever one of us messes up…” (end)

Wincing, Mercy thought back to whenever the drone had her headaches...and it was screams. The hunters had a direct control on the queen, and ensure that the queen get hurt if her drones mess up. “I’m...sorry to hear this.” spoke Mercy, moving a foreleg to wrap around Shiff in a means to comfort the changeling mare, as hearing what Shiff was beaten up, for hearing the screams of her queen whenever the hunters noticed something...it brought a cold feeling down her spine, even more as she told to one of her children. Get in the radio room and see how Galdan progress is. wanting to be sure the egg was safe in travel, and ensure that Galdan didn’t encounter trouble with the hunters. (Done)

While that was going on, she heard, “wh...why are you being so kind?” Shiff shivering and crying in full. “I don’t deserve it. I failed my Queen. I failed my hive. I broke my promise to protect her daughter…. I feel like I’m constantly failing in trying to keep her from being hurt-- why are you being so forgiving!?” Shouting the last bit out. “I don’t deserve this, I’ve done nothing but mess up!” (end)

Mercy was quiet, hearing a response from her children. My queen, Galdan second in command, Sharp Edge. Respond that they stopped at Equestria for minor assistance, they have a escort of two royal ships to get them to Humilti, they should be there before the week is up. my thanks, my child. send Mercy back, before focusing on Shiff as she answer.

“I am being kind...because I understand. Because you are in pain, in need of aid.” looking down to her as Mercy went on. “You deserve a second chance...because sometimes we all need a second chance.” (done)

Shaking her head, Shiff told, “I don’t want a second chance.” Making Mercy scrunch her face up, wishing the veil that Cosmo made on the drone would let her sense what Shiff was feeling. “I want my queen to be free, to be safe. She…” She gave a shutter. “I’m scared for her. I promised, I promised I’d do everything for her that I can to our Mother. Now she’s alone, without me… I… I wish I could just take this off and tell her I’m there, tell her…”

Mercy felt the need to grip more tightly and rock the sobbing drone. It was both heartwarming, and painful to see this scared, hurt and in pain drone still remain so loyal. It told Mercy a lot about Shiff’s loyalty. And how she stayed together. Bits and pieces began to form a fuller image and it made the Queen give a heavy sigh.

Other’s of Shiff’s hive did scucide. They couldn’t stand the pain, the torment and the thought of their mistakes costing them their young queen’s safety. And from the sounds of it? Many more were thinking of ending their lives just to be… free. On one hoof, Mercy understood. On another… it was selfish.

Shiff only held on as long as she had, because of a promise she made to the First Queen of her hive, her mother. To protect and aid the young Queen. And while she failed in a lot of areas of keeping Salou safe? She still was trying to do everything she could. Even betraying her own species, just so the Young Queen could go a day more without suffering.

But now… being cut off from the Hive? Not being able to be there to give comfort or talk to the young Queen? It was arguably causing Shiff just as much torment as before. Sure, she was now free and numb to the pains and screams… but now she couldn’t hear or comfort her young Queen that she felt needed her. (End)

Gently rocking the drone, Mercy assured. “We’ll save her. We’ll save her and the rest of your hive Shiff.” looking down to her as she told. “We’ll do what we can, to save them.” (done)

“Thank you… thank you…” Shiff got out between sobs, and Mercy bowed her head over the drone. It made her worry for Shiff, but she felt almost double that for the young Queen. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to know what the hunters did to her. (End)

One thing is for certain, we’re taking them to Humilti as quick as we can. thought Mercy as she knew it would be needed, or at least send them to the Cornerstone if it was possible, but with the demon battles? She wasn’t sure if that was wise or not.