Arabian Swindler

One long trip back, a few more shots of sedative to keep the creature under and finally getting back to have some sleep? Did Dejen wake feeing refreshed. All things considered, the hunting trip had gone very smoothly. They hardly had to do anything due to everyone else putting in the effort.

Though after getting up, having a good-morning greeting with his girls, going to breakfast and getting ready to make plans for the day? Dejen wasn’t sure if anything could ruin his otherwise fairly good mood. Though Mercy became attentive during breakfast, when she heard her drones.

The creature had woken up, and while they had gone about getting food ready? They reported that it was finicky. Well, finicky wasn’t the word. It was snarling, banging on the walls, rushing all about-- it was haggard and tired from what they could tell, but it sounded like it was in a outright frenzy or panic? There were a lot of conflicting emotions in the creature and none of the drones were sure what was going on. One thing was for sure, it was distressed and desperate. (End)

“Dejen, it seem the creature is awake.” said Mercy as she look to him, the Striped breathing a bit hard in annoyance as he look to her.

“Was she fed yet?” asked Dejen.

“My children just slid the food in…” hearing the report as she told. “She took it, but dismissed it and lunged for the small grate to used to pass food in.” frowning a bit as she said. “I think the creature needs a bit more food than a bowl.”

Sighing, Dejen said. “Just get a rabbit, I think with the creature eating wildlife, she’s probably used to that.” Mercy sent the request of getting a rabbit they had in the preservers, and as it made the way to the cell with the grate. As one warmed rabbit went into the cell as the creature takes it-- before dismissing it and attacking the grate again, desperation rising as Mercy told with a frown.

“She didn’t take it...her desperation is rising, she probably wants out.”

Dejen sigh as he said. “Well, I can’t let that happen. She's our ticket to Arbin, so she’s just going to have to stay in there.” (done)

While Mercy gave a nod, she did passively wonder. Mostly because the creature did take the two provided meats… for a moment. Which was odd. They knew that it ate meat. The reports said so. So why was it so finicky? From what Dejen said it was probably captured because it had no time to hunt its food. Shouldn’t it be hungry?

While she pondered this, Johari wandered in with her cub. Both getting their pound of meat for the morning and soon enough sharing it. Though while Tibia went at the meat, Johari voiced, “how’s the creature?” (end)

“Well the creatures awake.” said Mercy. “But for some reason its not eaing the food we gave it,” frowning as she told on. “But it kept biting at the grate, trying to get out I think. The emotions from it is mixed, but theres a high desperation in it.” (done)

Joharis lips twisted to this, and soon asked, “what did you give it?” (end)

“First a bowl, it ignored it. So we decided to use a warm rabbit, and the creature ignore that too.” (Done)

Working it over, Johari asked, “I presume both were preserved foods?” getting a nod from Mercy. Johari contemplated this and looked to her own meal. Then said, “try something fresher.” Going on to add, “try finding a rabbit, or something bigger. Fresh kill and give it to her. Maybe it doesn't think the meat is actual food or think’s it’s old meat.” (End)

Mercy sent a request for one of her children getting some fresh kill. Although she was in luck, as some of her changelings were coming back with some food they caught in trappings. She sent the request for one of the fresh killed to be sent to the cell.

She waited for a response as she look through the Swarm mind,as the fresh rabbit went through, the creature all but attacks the newly provided food. Biting hard, seeming to savor, even ripping a couple apart. But mostly just bites each one to seemingly savor… but not completely consume. Though once it seems to calm, seeming to go about actually eating the freshly killed game. Then samples the other food and is...oddly confused. Then worried...then scared. That calm turning into fear while they oddly cover their body with their wings, as if snapping out of their animal state.

Mercy spoke. “The creature is calm now, seem like fresh game works…” then frown. “But it seem to...snap out of her animal state? It took notice of the other food and was confuse, worried, scared, her calm turning into fear.” frowning as she said. “Which is odd.” (done)

Seeming to stop her eating, Johari looked up and took a moment to gulp before asking, “were they acting out before?” Which was far more than that. Ramming and attacking the cell was more than acting out, it was downright savage. The sudden turn about, no matter how slow, had Mercy at a loss. She saw through her drones as they peeked in. and as soon as the creature saw them, backed up and made sure their wings covered their once bare modesty. Ears back and looking both cautious and worried. (End)

“She was ramming and attacking the cell than acting out,” told Mercy. “But now she stopped...and she noticed one of my changelings, backing up with the wing covering their modesty, cautious and worry is what my drones are feeling.”

Dejen frown as he rube his forehead as he was getting a odd sense of dejavu. “Please don’t tell me this is like Serena, because that just make it harder with my moral conscious if it was the case.” (doen)

Thinking on that, Johari spoke, “we won’t know until we investigate.” Then said, “but, regardless? Arbin is paying a high amount to have her taken to him alive. So, it stands to reason if she is indeed sentient and he wants her alive for something? She might know something.” (End)

“And the only way to find out if she is sentient is to talk to her.” said Dejen as he breath out. Taking a breath in as he got up. “Well, I might as well do it. Since I’m going to bringing her to Arbin, I might as well let her see my face.” his meal already forgotten as he was planning to meet with the creature. (Done)

Rolling her eyes, Johari told, “finish your food. She can wait.” And resumed her own meal. Dejen huffed to that and thought about doing what he planned, but Mercy seeme to magically pull him back down to sit and give him a semi-stern look to just eat.

It was rather quiet as Dejen and Mercy walked down the hall and to the cell the creature was in. the whole while, they had become quiet and kept to themselves. There was still a level of distress and confusion, but they were no longer attacking every corner of the cell. When they came up to the door and locked in, she looked rather forlorn and sad. Then upon flicking an ear, looked at them with both worry and alarm.

She stood up, wings protective covering herself and ears flattening. Backing up use a bit while taking them in. Mercy could just feel it. She was scared, but was pulling up the courage to stand her ground and from the coiling of her body? Preparing herself for a possible fight. (end)

Dejen took a breath in and figure to get this over with. Leaning up, Dejen asked. “Hey, you’re sentient, right?” looking at her as he asked further. “Got a name?” (done)

She shifted to that and soon said, “Enola.” Taking a breath and trying to settle herself, even if there was a little tremble in her voice. “What do you want from me?” (End)

“I want to know why Arbin wants you alive.” told Dejen. (done)

She took a step back and told, “I’d rather not answer that.” Enola flicking her tail a bit anxiously. (end)

Mercy frown as she told. “Enola, theres a reason we need to know. We need to know, because we’re trying to figure out Arbin. Because he may have information we need.” (done)

Cautiously, Enola asked, “what do you mean, why does it matter to you what I say about… Him?” Half saying that in a mixture of detest and fear. (End)

“Because Enola, we’re trying to learn more of this slaver empire, seeing if Arbin is connected to it,” told Dejen as he lean more against the cell door. “As well as trying to find some pals of ours thats been missing for months. We know ARbin is a noble horse that help trade between Arabia and the Holds, but we got a big hunch he’s in on the slaver buisness. But we can’t exactly sneak in-- without knowing what to expect.”

“You’re the only one we know so far that knows enough about ARbin and his place. And maybe his contacts connecting to the slaver buisness.” (done)

She seemed to back away to that and Mercy could feel pain in her. Lingering pain and torment. It was with a lot of effort, that she seemed to ask, “y-you know about them?” Making them both perk. “You know… about their slaver circle?” (End)

“We don’t have the information about this ‘circle’.” admit Dejen. “But we have a strong guess that there’s more than just a few people running the buisness, Enola.” (done)

She fidgeted a little in place. And after a long moment of contemplation did she ask, “I-If I tell you… will you let me out?” And soon added, “and… get me something to wear?” (end)

“Can you make sure to not leave the ship or harm my Clan?” asked Dejen in turn. “Because if I do let you out, you might hurt someone and you can’t leave since we need to know what you know.” (done)

She gulped to that, but slowly she gave a reluctant nod. “I… I promise I will do my best not to hurt anyone. And I’ll stay on the ship…” going on, “but, I need to hunt. I need to get my own food--” (end)

“We have porchers, we get fresh game.” told Dejen, while Mercy however asked.

“What do you mean, ‘do my best not to hurt anyone’?” (Done)

Head down and ears flat, Enola told, “I… have issues.” Going on to explain, “Instinct… issues. I don’t mean to hurt anyone but… I lose control sometimes.” Then rushed, “I’m better, i’m not as bad as I used to be, b-but I…” She soon went quiet and Mercy felt some self disgust and shame. “I just have trouble with it now and then.” (End)

“Is that why you were so savage in hitting the walls and the cell door?” asked Mercy. (done)

This time, Enola looked to the steel floor in utter shame and soon said, “I-I don’t really remember what happened. I sort of… lost sense when I wasn’t given time to take care of my needs. After a while I just… turn into an animal.” a sensation of revulsion seeming to ripple over her being. “I just… lose all sense of self.” (end)

Mercy thought over as she whisper to Dejen. “The porchers can’t get food in time, and most of the time we preserve it. We should let her hunt with some of my changelings keeping up.”

Dejen frown as he asked lowly. “You sure?”

Mercy nod. “Yes, that way we can have her control her ‘instinct issues’-- and keeping a eye on her.” then added. “And we are in ‘base mode’, so we’re fine.”

Dejen thought as he let out a breath as he look to Enola as he told. “We can let you out to hunt, but four changelings with you whenever you go out, alright?” (done)

The Queen could feel Enola’s reluctance to accept, but she soon gave a nod and said, “alright.” it was clear that she wasn’t alright, but willing to abide by their rules. Understanding she wasn’t in the position to make any brothers or demands. (end)

“I’ll have someone have some clothings for you.” Mercy said, then glance over to Enola as she added. “A seamstress rather, as to help make modification for your unique physique.” already having her changeling get to that.

“Alright Enola, what can you tell us on what you know on Arbin, his slaver circles and anything you can recall.” Dejen said. (done)

Looking away to that, Enola told, “well… I don’t know too much of the inside. And when I… left, I don’t remmeber much.” But didn’t elaberate as she told, “but I know about some… ‘guests’ he had over often. Even would throw parties with, they were his mian guests.” a ripple of pain going through her. “One was… a mare, Shimmer Lake.”

It was said with a fearful worry, and Dejen wanted to flex his hand at the mare’s name. It was like she had her hooves all over the place. “Another was a minotaur, Doug. He often had some other minotaur friend, some… Captain Mataler.” This made Dejen’s ears perk. “Then there was this griffon, Gouson. He sort of visited a lot…” then let out a shuddering breath. “And a dog by the name of Criff. He would have a pack come with now and then…” Then shifted. “And then there was this… creepy lion, Copper, or, Juko? Jubali?” (End)

Quickly looking the other, it seem that Arbin has a connection with Jubali as Dejen said. “Okay, well look like we were right. Jubali does know him.” thinking a bit as he said. “Maltar was a captain to another minotaur? Well, thats a surprise. Who knew the slaver king was someone flunky.”

“Or he was just a close friend to the other minotaur who was in on the deals going on.” said Mercy as she frown. “But we don’t know the other's…” looking to Enola as she asked. “Do you know more on any of them?” (done)

Shaking her head, Enola said, “no… just them. They came around often and…” She hesitated on saying something, but skipped ahead with, “they came around a lot. Sent letters. Attended some parties…” Going on to stutter, “t-there’s a friend of mine that would know more. She was a forced slave under Arbin.” (end)

“Who was she?” asked Dejen. (Done)

She looked hesitant to give a name, but with a sigh, Enola said, “her name is Tish.” (end)

“Well...crap.” sighed out Dejen as he rub his forehead, knowing that Tish was long gone with her pal somewhere. He took a breath in as he said. “Alright Enola, I think you gave me enough to think on...and to talk with other's.” he however let out a breath as he asked. “Enola, is there anything else you can tell me? Anything vital on Arbin place, or at least anything that caught your attention?” (Done)

She contemplated it and shook her head. “No. the only other thing I can think of is that he buys and uses a lot of slaves and… mistreats them.” Again that lingering pain wrapping around her emotions. “I-I just… don’t remember because, well… my needs were not met and I lost control and… well, again, I don’t really remember much after that.” (End)

Breathing, Dejen nod as he said. “Alright,” looking to Mercy as he said. “I’m going to talk to Johari, maybe see if we can make some plans.” Mercy nodded as she saw him leaving, as she figure he was now thinking over his options, and wondering on what to do with Enola. Glancing to the odd female, Mercy knew that Dejen would probably feel horrible in using Enola for a means to get close to Arbin, which is why he probably didn’t mention it.

But it was their only shot in, and they couldn’t find a single zebra who was probably somewhere in the world with Red. there was a movement of hoofs as a female drone came in as she spoke. “I’m here with the clothes, my Queen.” smiling a bit as she had some clothes on her back as Mercy nodded and look through the cell as she said to Enola.

“The seamstress is going to help you put your clothes on, she’ll try to help make sure they fit right for you.” (done)

Heasetently, Enola said, “Alright.” And while there was some hesitation on opening the door? Those guarding did so on a simple command. Enola seemed a little weary still, even as the seamstress came in. Enola pointedly turned around, back to the door for some modesty. When underwear was first presented, Enola opted to dress herself as much as possible. Going with panties, then the shorts. But once it came to the ‘bra’ provided? Did she embracingly ask for help. As well with the modified shirt to go over her and be tied on.

Once done, Enola gave a almost meek, “Thanks.” and seemed embarrassed she needed help in getting dressed. Then she turned and began to walk out, still seeming hesitant while coming out. And while there was a lot of information going over Enola as some mindless beast? In Mercy’s eyes she seemed like a fairly self conscious young female. (End)

While the seamstress nod with a smile as she left, Mercy said. “You are welcome Enola.” she however told. “However you’ll be needing to have someone with you, mostly as a guide since you could get easily lost in the ship.” (done)

She didn’t seem to like that, but sighed out an, “okay.” sagging just a bit. If the clothing bit was any hint to go by? She probably didn’t like the fact she had to be chaperoned. Probably was a very independent female. Though, Mercy wouldn’t know until more time passed. (End)

With a message in the Swarmmind, the two guards left as Mercy was trying to figure out the situation with Enola. As it was clear someone will need to guide her, although she did figure to learn more of Enola as she asked. “So, is Tish the only one you know?” (done)

To that, Enola shook her head and said while they waited, “no.. there was another. Her name is Red.” Again, getting Mercy’s interest. “We met her some time after leaving that island that Arbin lived on. We traveled togeather and, well… smthing happened and both Tish and Red were taken into slavery again. Then sold off to someone else…”

“Anyways.” Enola breathed out, “after working out the misunderstanding with him and his group.. We sort of traveled together for a couple years. Then we just… broke up. Things got intense, so Tish, Red and I just left and decided to head for Red’s home. But… well, things happened and we had to split up.” Going on to tell Mercy, “it’s hard to travel when you have people trying to capture or kill you. I didn’t want my friends to get hurt.” (end)

“On that, I can understand.” said Mercy as she began to walk a bit, she however prod. “But you mention a ‘him’ in there, someone you know?” (done)

Nodding, Enola said, “Gabriel.” and for a small moment, Mercy felt a small flutter. Was that a little bits of beginning love she just felt? “He was… well, is a… ‘interesting’ person.” Then sighed, “and very unlucky.” (end)

“How unlucky are we talking about?” asked Mercy in curiosity, a part of her surprise that Enola felt a bit of love to this Gabriel character. (done)

“Utter ‘things can’t get’, well… you know the full saying.” Told Enola. “If you even suggest things go more worse or better? Then odds are? It’ll get worse.” And breathed in. “When we first met him? Well… no, second time meeting him by chance? We didn’t realize how ‘taboo’ the phrase was.”

She shook her head and told, “back then? The group he teamed up with wanted to capture me. So when they found me, Tish and Red in a cave? They attacked.” Then looked off to the side. “Then the cave collapsed. We were all trapped inside. We had to work together to find a way out. Almost got attacked by a hoad of giant spiders. Almost fell off a deep raveen. Almost drowned from a sudden flood after no-no words were said. Some of us got hurt. Then more complications. Gabriel suffered blood loss. And when we got out? We found ourselves sliding off the side of a mountain, getting tangled in some trees by rope-- someone said things couldn’t go worse. It started to rain, I was in a panic being tangled and told it couldn’t get any worse. Then lightning struck a tree in the forest and lit it on fire, which all turned out to be one pinetree in the middle of forest of pines--”

Sighing deeply, Enola told near tiredly, “that was barely one week. And I’m sure I missed a few details.”

Staring at her with a long look, Mercy remarked. “Wow.” slowly shake her head as she said. “We have bad days, but it sound like this Gabriel was cursed with bad luck to the point its scary.” then commented. “I’m surprised he’s still alive at this point.” (done)

“Right… I forgot.” Enola heaved out with a massive sigh, seeming to relax a bit more while talking about this ‘Gabe’. “He sort of… found this bow from some place. He didn’t know better, but Tish told us the Bow’s Cursed. And until Gabe returns it to its rightful place, which turned out to be a tomb? Then it will curse him with bad luck-- never killing him or disabling him. The curse only lifts, if he takes it back.”

“But.” Enola deadpanned, “he can’t because one: it’s on a far off island surrounded by deadly tides, whirlpools and storms. And two: the locals will kill him if he ever returns.” (End)

“He must of angered powerful people at this place if everyone wanting to kill him.” remarked Mercy, going on to tell as she glance to Enola. “Still, I’m surprised you stick around him for afew years, anyone else would’ve left him once they found out how unlucky he is.”(done)

To that, Enola said with a bit of fluster feelings, “well… he’s not bad.” Going on to tell, “and… I guess he’s a bit charming.” Going on to add, “this part I’m not joking about. He actually was able to sweet talk a dragoness that was going to flamboy and eat him for stumbling in on her cave. But at the end of it he got her wrapped around his finger-- than booked it out. She’s now wanting him.” Then went on with a face. “And charmed some other women… even this one cult lady-- he did it to try and not be used as a sacrifice… but instead she wanted to marry him… and get them both sacrificed to her… god-thing her cult worshiped.” (End)

Scrunching her face, Mercy asked with a deadpan tone. “So he’s a womanizer?” (done)

Shaking her hair, Enola said, “no. just extremely charming. He uses it to try and get out of trouble or not get killed. But with his luck? He actually makes it worse because not only do women fall for his charms, but they either want him, or want to kill him after running off.” (end)

Raising a brow, Mercy said. “What a poor bastard.” then look to Enola as she tease with a grin. “So, did he ‘charm’ you too?” (done)

To this, Enola blushed and said, “no!” And after a moment to calm herself, she said with a slightly soured mood. “I… I was going through a hard time back then. Things like poems and flowy words were not something I wanted to hear. And he didn’t really try to use them on me, like I said. He did it to try and get out of trouble with people trying to kill him or get some better barter deal.” (End)

Shaking her head, Mercy said. “Well, why exactly did you all split? Was it because no one couldn’t take his bad luck anymore?” (done)

Shaking her head, Enola said, “no. one of them was an Arabian princess that ran from home to stay alive. But when she heard her Uncle or… father-- can’t recall who. When she heard he died? She went back home with group to get her birthright city. Three of them were griffins and were technically nobles and wanted to support her, so that’s what they did.”

“As for Gabe’s group and mine?” Asked Enola, “well, without the others we were having troubles with money and the people after me were getting more intense. So we split up to keep safe after a ship of pirates tried to get us. And after that…” She sagged, “well, you already know. Red and Tish went to go to Red’s home in Equestria.” (end)

“About that,” started Mercy. “They were captured again.” she quickly assure as she felt Enola alarmed emotion. “But we intervened and got them out of being slaves. We sent them and several other's to safe locations.” she heard Enola giving praise to luna with a wing over her chest in relief. “However, that was half a year ago, we don’t know what they’re up to or where they’re at now. At best? They might be in Equestria.” (Doen)

Enola thought that over some, eyes flicking a little. Soon she asked, “how did you find me?” Ears back to admit, “I still can’t recall things… but I know that after I found a place to… hide, that a lot of hunting parties began to show up. And.. well, I was having a hard time escaping…”

Looking to Mercy, she asked with no small amount of worry. “Did… you all come to capture me for gold?” Enola looked unsure, but she wasn’t outright frightened. “You said you wanted info on Arbin… but unless you somehow brought me off some hunting groups ship…” (End)

“Technically we took you from the Skull Crushers posing as mercenaries.” said Mercy. “You were on their ship in a locked room, we had to sedate you and bring you here on our ship when they didn’t notice.” looking to her as she said. “And as for the gold?” shaking her head. “No, we didn’t capture you for the gold…” she frown however as she admit. “But we do need you. You’re our only means of getting close to Arbin, if there was any other means? We would take it, but I’m sorry to say that you are our only chance of getting inside and take everything we can get from Arbin and know more on the slaver empire, Enola.” (done)

Enola seemed confused, but she seemed to widen her eyes and say, “you… you were going to… take me to him to get inside and…” She shuttered and shook her head. Mixed fears and detest swirling about. “I-I, I don’t know if I can..” then shuttered out, “I mean, I don’t like him but…” then hugged herself before telling, “I-I just… I don’t…”

Quickly taking a few breaths to calm down, Enola stuttered, “y-you plan to… c-collar, mu-muzzle and t-t-tie me up for t-that, ar-arnt you?” And Mercy could feel it. The outright fear and terror. It felt like that Enola was more scared of being bound up than seeing the Horse. (End)

Sighing out, Mercy said. “I rather not...but we need Arbin to be deceived that we have ‘caught’ you, Enola.” raising a hoof to gently place on Enola shoulder. “If there was any other way, any other means of getting to the horse? We’ll take it. But as it is? We need to have Arbin think we caught you, that we’re just some hunters wanting a big paycheck.” (done)

While she didn’t like the idea, not in the least? Enola said, “w-what if I told you where Red lives?” going on, “I… well, I had plans to travel to Equestria when I had an opening. Live out my life. Forget about all of this.” Then breathe out. “But…”

SAgging, Enola admitted, “after being stuck in the Holds, being hunted down relentlessly… I don’t know if I’ll ever have that chance. I mean, I sort of hope that once I go to Equestria, Arbin wouldn’t reach me..” but Mercy knew she had to burst that bubble. (End)

“He may not reach you, but he would have other's do it for him. Monster Hunters, mercenaries, people he could give a large juicy paycheck to track you and find you. Even sending out a ‘warning’ about you in Equestria.” (done)

Enola gave Mercy a worried look to that, and for a moment screwed her eyes up and gave a groan while turning away and butting her head lightly on the wall. Mercy paused at the frustrated distress that the female was in.. and later the moment of composure.

Taking a few breaths, Enola asked, “so… even if I go to Equestria… he might still… get me?” Getting a nod from Mercy. (End)

“And not just him, but other's like Shimmering, Criff, Gouson-- or Jubali.” told Mercy. “It would take time, but they will find out and may be interested in you for one reason or another.” then frown as she admit. “And while that idea on going to where Red lives is nice? Its not certain that she’s even there, or if she’s in another area of Equestria.” (done)

“She’ll be there.” Enola assured. “I know she’ll be there.” Then breathed out, “if… if I can’t run?” Grimacing as she said that. “Then… I guess I’ll have to fight.” Going on to admit, “I don’t want to fight for my own freedom. But.. if I have to, I’ll… I’ll do this.” Going on to frowen. “The idea scars me… but Arbin did a lot of… things to Tish and I. and I don’t want her or I to go back to that.” (End)

“We’ll do what we can to make sure you don’t stay there.” said Mercy. “But we’ll put up the option of finding Red as a possibility, as we need to work over a plan….and figure out where Arbin is staying at.” (done)

“Tish knows.” Enola assured. “She knows where he lives and knows the inside.” Shifting on her feet to admit, “Gabe thought about hitting his place because of what the horse did to us. But he never got around to it, I don’t think. Other things just… got in the way. But she knows all of that.” (end)

“Well, lets hope we’ll be lucky to encounter them,” said Mercy as she frown. “Because we’re struggling as it is in term of information and finding other's. Arbins our closest chance of gaining anything out of the other lot in their circle.” (done)

Breathing out, Enola said, “trust me. I know where Red would be. I’m sure of it.” Then looked away to add. “Just… let me know when you want to make plans to go there. I’ll mark it down on a map.” (End)

Can someone inform Dejen we have a alternative option? And a map for Equestria. We may be able to have something to work with. told Mercy as she said to Enola. “Well, it may be happening soon, or at the very least, when we’re done our business around here gathering for resources.” (done)

“Alright.” Enola nodded, while Mercy kept chaperoning the female through the ship.

Dejen wasn’t sure how to feel. He fidgeted at the table he was at, trying to have a snack and some tea that Yushu was kind enough to make for him and help his nerves… but damn it all was it only halfing his stress. Or, at least making him not feel aggravated at what he was looking at.

The mark that Enola had pointed out on the map, was none other than where the Crystal Empire was. Red lived in the Crystal Empire and Tish, their main source of information, was there. It was a far way off, and sure they could get there in a few days with the Innovation. But the fact was, it was the Crystal Empire that they had to go to. (End)

If it was anywhere else in Equestria I could’ve easily sneak in, no one would notice me too much and I could talk to those two. But the Crystal Empire, the crystal city of love-- with possible anti-changeling spells or wards, too north for my taste and the one place I rather not go beside Canterlot. taking a bite of a snack to calm his nerves, Dejen narrow his eyes at the mark.

As he didn’t knew anything about the Empire, he knew nothing at all. Sure he could easily go there with Debt, but those ponies probably never seen him. Granted it could be good for him-- but it was a big place, it could take days for him to find those two! Sipping his tea a bit, Dejen let out a aggravated breath. And I have no idea what will happen if the royals take notice of me. (done)

But, the fact was that if he wanted an edge on Arbin? He had to go there and pick up Tish, or at least talk to her. And probably needed Enola to go with. Maybe? He wasn’t completely sure. The fact was that the one person that Enola was sure would know where his place was, how the layout was done, know about each floor and who knew what else-- was Tish.

Either he went to get her so he could make a better plan… or try and wrangle Enola into rope and muzzle and hope she could bare through it. From the sounds of what Mercy said? The female really didn’t like the idea of being bound up. Something he might have to look into more to see how much she didn’t like it.

He took another sip and almost gave a relaxed sigh. It wasn’t enough to make him relaxed, but whatever this tea was? It was really keeping him from being overly stressed or worked up. (End)

I think I might have to ask Yushu to make this all the time, it’s working wonders for my stress. thought Dejen as he took another sip, as he thought. Okay, so since Enola doesn’t like it, and I rather not demean her any more then she had to endure? I guess I...could go to the Empire and hope I can talk to those two. Maybe bring Enola with to show I mean well? thinking a bit as he thought.

I might need to give cloak for Enola, not get notice by the locals. taking a larger sip as he thought to himself. And then...after getting the intel, I’ll probably leave Enola with her pals, head to Arbin in higher altitude, plan to sneak in and get everything to get us a damn edge. Taking another sip as he added. And maybe kill the guy for good measure, can’t have him squeal on us. Hrm, maybe I can see about that whole ritual thing, see if I can get more intel on that too while I’m at it. (done)

It was better than what he had before, and really? It was the first solid lead Dejen had on Jubali since… well, since the guy was first mentioned. Did it really take him almost a whole year to find out this much about Jubali after finding out about him? It really put into perspective how well hidden he made himself. How much effort we went into hiding himself. (End)

taking another sip of his tea, Dejen lightly shook his head, as he heard that Jubali was very good at what he does, and was very cunning. So Dejen couldn’t keep up with him, but if things work well enough? He could have a solid lead on not just Jubali, but these other's in the slaver group and find all the more info on people, and clansmate that were taken. He frown as that last one would be difficult, but he was sure they could do it.

At least he hoped so.

taking another breath, as he drank a large gulp of the tea, he let out a relaxed sigh as he saw it was empty...and turn to pour more in the cup. Dejen saw the tea pouring into his cup as he pull away to set it down, taking another bite of his snack as Dejen focus back on the map. His mind thinking over on what he would need to do, getting the ship towards the Crystal Empire, getting all the intel he could get and leave to plan for Arbin.

Maybe see if Karth was ready for pick up afterwords after he got what he did. Dejen was slightly curious on what the dragon had to get-- but he was sure that the dragon could wait. Taking another sip of his tea gently, Dejen let out a relax sigh as this stuff was really helping him, he was pretty sure that he might get this all the time whenever he’s busy thinking or going over his honeycomb. Which grew thanks to what he knew now from Mercy through Enola. (done)

Hearing a gentle knock, Dejen turned to find Yushu there and came in while giving him a look over. She slightly smiled and asked, “is tea helping?” Adding on, “you seem to like?” (End)

Smiling in return, Dejen nodded. “Oh yes,” looking at the tea cup as he said. “I don’t know what you put in here, but it really help my nerves.” he however let out a breath as he lean back in his chair as he admit. “But theres only so much to calm when you got so much to deal with.” sighing as he took a sip of the tea, before placing it down with a shake of his head. “But at least its better than full on stress, thats for sure.” (Done)

Giving him a full on look and crossing her arms, Yushu gave him another look over and said while cocking her hip to the side, “then we fix this.” And soon moved to get a chair and sit in it. But told, “turn chair.” Confusing him. But she told again firmly, “turn chair, face I-- me.” Correcting herself at the end. (end)

Setting his tea cup down, Dejen turn his chair to face her as he said. “Alright, but I’m bit curious on what you’re planing, Yushu.” (done)

She smiled and rolled her eyes, and told, “teaching kitsune technique.” Perking his attention. “Used to focus self. To aid in stress. To make mind sharp as blade.” Though he became confused. Weren’t Kitsune techniques… dangerous for none kitsune? (End)

“Aren’t most Kitsune techniques tend to slowly kill anyone who isn’t Kitsune?” asked Dejen with slight confusion. (done)

“Kitsune jutsu and magic, yes.” Yushu said in agreement. “But, this is not of magic or jutsu.” And soon made both hands into a sigh. “Do as I.” And after a moment, he copied her. While she said, “Shu.” And waited for him. “That is where you repeat.” (end)

Dejen couldn’t help but roll his eyes, but he figure to try. “Shu.” (done)

Nodding, she soon went to a new hand sign. “Hi.” Which he soon repeated. “Hou.” again, making a new hand sign, which he also did. “Zai. Nag. Chiz. Fou. Nii.” Each time going through a different hand sign and saying a different word. Eventually, they began to repeat, going through each one.

After a fourth round, did they stop. Soon, Yushu asked, “are you stressed now?” And when Dejen went to respond? he … oddly found himself not as stressed. (end)

“Huh...no, I’m not.” looking to her in a bit of surprise. “I’m not that stressed.” then asked in curiosity. “Is that some sort of priestess mean of teaching to handle stress when dealing with it?” (done)

Shaking her head, Yushu explained, “it is Kitsune Matra. Used to center and calm kitsune.” Going on to tell, “when stressed, in intense fight, or forced to deal with too much, we take moment to do it.” And made each hand sign, saying ‘Shu. Zai. Chou.’ before stoping and explaining. “When used, key is to focus. Only words and only the hands. With focus, comes clarity. With clearity, comes settling of mind. Once mind settled, devoid of thought, can once again be ready.”

“This is the key, to most Kitsune’s stoic, calm and focused selves.” the priestess went on to tell. “I teach you, so you may dispel the stress, the worry and the muddling of mind. A clear mind, makes focused choices.” (End)

Grinning, Dejen joked. “And it also help with Clan heads trying to figure out the best choices they got in their hands?” (done)

She crossed her arms, leaning back and crossed a leg over the other. “Clan heads are groomed and tought. You were nominated one. Yours is not birthright, but of vote.” And shook her head. “You not ready for stress of job. Not fully. I simply help give means to help. In time, you will be best.” then paused, thought it over and corrected. “Better. In time, will get better.” (end)

Snorting in amusement, Dejen said. “Well thanks Yushu, I think I try it out when I do get stressed.” moving a hand to take his tea cup to sip a bit, before lowering it as he asked. “Do you got some time, or do you need to head back?” (done)

“Have time.” Yushu told with a nod before asking. “Something else to ask?” (end)

“Well, I was wondering if we can start with basic lessons on the Kitsune tongue?” moving a hand in his robe, taking out his deck. “Maybe if we have more time, I can teach you a bit with cards? Like Solitaire?” (done)

She gave him an odd look, glancing at the cards and back up to him to tell with a raised brow, “am priestess. Gambing is not my way.” (End)

Raising a hand, he assured. “Solitaire isn’t gambling. Its a small game to play, either by yourself or with another.” shuffling his deck as he said. “I figure its something to try out.” seeing her slightly smiling and giggle as he asked with a raise brow. “So was that yes or are just amused by me?” (done)

She told while waving a hand, “I tease.” Going on, “shameful to gamble. But if simply done for fun, not a issue.” And shook her head. “Rule is for those trapped by worldly want to gamble. The lust of it. Not because of game.” And assured, “but, would not mind. But lack cards to do ‘self game’.” then rolled her eyes. “But have plenty of ‘self things’ for self. Maybe teach one for more than one person?” (End)

Grinning widely, Dejen said with a chuckle. “Oh I know plenty of fun games!” being a bit excited as he place the deck down. “My grandpa taught me all sort of card games to play with other's, like Four Corners, King,” shaking his head as told in recalling. “The old man was happy I managed to learn well with his deck.” (done)

Yushu gave a nod to this, and soon said, “will have to make time to teach then.” Going on to admit, “perhaps when both of us no-- not. When both of us not busy in work.” Then breathed in deeply to sign out. “Perhaps do so at time while teaching common speech.” (end)

Smiling, Dejen said. “Sure, Yushu.” Moving the chair a bit to get closer to the desk, moving aside the snacks and the map as he began moving the cards for a simple game to work with. “Come closer Yushu, I’ll show you how to play Go Fish.” (done)

With a smile, Yushu said, “very well.” and stood up to move her chair around and get on the other side of the table to get started on the new game.

Mercy took a good long moment to look over the garden a little, and even glance up and out of the skylight to the blue sky just beyond. She was a little surprised to hear they were heading to the Crystal Empire after a few things were picked up… but that was apparently where Tish was. So not a huge surprise.

Though as she walked the path and glanced about at the garden now had, she took a moment to notice Yushu. The Kitsune seemed to be meditating near some of the trees they had inside. Once she was close, Yushu gave a glance and smiled, “Mercy.” A part of her tone sounded like she wanted to add a sufix at the end, but chose not to. “How is day?” She asked. (End)

“How is your day.” playfully corrected Mercy. (done)

Sighing and nodding in acknowledgment to her mistake, Yushu spoke, “how is your day?” (end)

“I have been faring better.” replied the changeling, moving to settle on the grass as she said. “I’m just passing by to look over the gardens, see how well things were growing.” then asked out of curiosity. “How was your day?” (done)

“Nice.” Replied Yushu. “No injuries. No emergency. Had good moment to settle trouble three minds.” This Mercy knew about. A few of her changelings had started going to the Kitsune for some ‘meditation’ classes. It really helped ease them and even clear a bit of clutter in the swarm-mind funnily enough. “Got to visit Dejen.” This one perk Mercy’s attention. And it was even more interesting to feel that Yushu help a pleasant feeling in her. (End)

“Really?” asked Mercy as she settle down, smiling as she asked. “How did it go? Help him give him that tea of yours?” (done)

Shaking her head, Yushu told, “language. He teach I of common. I teach him of Juk-jin-la.” Smiling, “tradition hold tongue that Kitsune, Herno and Opnehu use.” (End)

“I can only assume he had troubles saying words?” asked Mercy in a knowing tone, having a amuse expression on her face as learning another language is beyond difficult. (Done)

Puffing out a breath of amusement, Yushu told, “quick to try. Near bite tounge while speaking.” And rolled her eyes. “Wonder if too quick and eager to learn, or distracted by this.” And used a hand to lift and bounce one of her breasts that pulled a little taunt on her shirt. She even asked, “have noticed look. Not often. He like Kitsune, Mercy?” (end)

Laughing in amusement, Mercy told with a smile. “Oh yes. Yes he does.” shaking her head as she said in amusement. “He tries not to, but he can’t help but enjoy the feminine beauty of a Kitsune.” (done)

Yushu gave a nod to this and spoke, “I see.” Then while she let that roll around in her head, she breathed out, “flattering to know. But should be more mindful later. Do not wish to… send wrong message too soon.” (end)

Nodding, Mercy said. “I understand what you mean,” then admit. “But I think its why he’s trying not to look that much, since he’s still getting adjusted to being in courtship with you. I think he might be a little cautious at this point.” (done)

“For best.” Agreed the red vixen. Though she did admit, “but from all seen so far? Will admit, he is catch.” Going into thought while Mercy payed some more mind. “He is… character. Stubborn, but most driven. Something to like, in male that has drive like he.” And glanced to Mercy to add on. “Is battered, worn too. But given time, can help patch old wounds and return to strength.” And clearfield, “may not love, but would be good husband. Can see now, why you and Windy like.” (end)

Smirk showing, Mercy said. “Oh Yushu, give him more time and you’ll see alot more on why I tried to get that Striped for two years.” (done)

“No doubt there more.” Yushu agreed. “Just wish to tell, that Kitsune women would like such strength in drive.” (end)

Snorting in amusement, Mercy remark. “Yeah, Tatsu did mention Dejen was very appealing to a Kitsune woman.” her mind recalling that Tastu had judged Dejen character and in her own way, said Dejen was ‘desirable’ in a way. (done)

“Tatsu was Kitsune Warrior of crew, yes?” Asked the priestess. “Would explain why she approve.” Going on to tell, “warrioress Kitsune like males that show to be unafraid of risk. Dejen show through gambling habit, that risk means nothing, when reward is greater than it. Follow Kitsune way, of living on a blade.” And smiled on. “Drive goes with such thing. Drive needed, to challenge risk and reward.” (End)

Mercy smile, although she recalled her little discussion with Dejen. On how he was ‘gambling’ with his life, out of the need to protect his happiness, which was the clan, everyone, everything that was built up. Mercy lessened her smile as she recalled it. His emotions were in a state of influx, and there was a genuine fear in him, of losing everything. Losing everything he worked hard to make and worked with other's to ensure they have something like this. That he was gambling every day to ensure he could still have this and to ensure no one takes it from him.

Lightly pushing those thoughts, Mercy focus back to the now as she look to Yushu.

Her face had morphed and her eyes seemed keenly aware of something. She even said, “you are troubled.” Not wasting time in calling Mercy out. “Something bothers you?” And asked, “is of Dejen? Perhaps… Riki?” Seeming to think that all this talk of kitsune women and sexual appeals the guy had was the reason for this trouble. (End)

Shaking her head, Mercy assured. “No, not Riki. I think things were cleared on that.” frowning a bit as she let out a breath to admit. “No, its rather with what Dejen told me, some time back.” placing her forelegs together as she said. “I was curious on why he kept...gambling his life constantly into the craziness, that if he was so sick of the crap we go through, why not just settled?”

She frown further as she told. “He told me something, and his emotions...told me more. He told me that he couldn’t stop, that he couldn’t stop gambling his life because he had to gamble it, he had to gamble it everyday to ‘win’. At first, I thought it was his gambling addiction took for a worse….until I could feel his emotions. Could feel his fear. And I didn’t understand why he was afraid, but when he told me that he had to do it to keep what he had?”

Lightly shaking her head. “I understood. He wasn’t gambling his life for the sake of gambling. He was gambling his life to protect what happiness he had left. Our happiness.” then raise a hoof to motioned around. “The ship, the people, Humiliti-- everything he and everyone else build up. He wasn’t gambling for himself, but for everyone he consider close. For his Clan, for his friends, for everything we managed to keep.” lowering her hoof as she sighed.

“Because he knew if he stopped gambling? If he just settled? Someone would take that happiness from him, and he’s afraid he might not be able to stop them if that happened.” (done)

Yushu looked to the sky after hearing this, and after thinking it over, she said. “Only fool would not fear.” Getting Mercy to look up. “Fear may poison. But, he knows coast of leading. He know, is his duty.” And looked down to Mercy to smile. “Am Priestess and healer. If need aid in soothing fear, teach to let go if bad were to happen? Will do. Will try.” And breathed out. “Foolish are some acts done. But he, Dejen… is courageous. Know risks most times. Knows what may lose. But does, as it helps clan.”

“May be my clan.” Went on the vixen. “So, as maybe-clan, should aid in soothing and preparing him.” And admitted, “may never had been clan heiress. Or lead. But know from fellow priestesses, that clear minds are needed. Can be… one to help remind of duty, of path and of ways.” Smiling on, “is my duty, to also heal head, no matter thickness.” (End)

Snorting in minor amusement, Mercy remarked. “You do know that what he’s doing is utterly insane, right? Anyone would see him being mad in the head to go to the meatgrinder everyday like he is.” (done)

Shaking her head, Yushu spoke, “perhaps is insane.” Then said, “but biggest risk to gain biggest reward, is most time very insane.” (end)

Laughing, Mercy teased. “So does that mean he’s even more attractive to Kitsune woman?” (done)

Smirking, Yushu said, “attractive of will and drive.” Then rolled her eyes. “Silly, for extent needed to impress.” (End)

“With Stripes its hard to tell.” told Mercy in amusement. Going on to add. “When I told Johari this, she just look at me with a stare and told me and I quote,” clearing her throat to imitate Johari's voice. “No extreme is too much to a Striped.” going on to tell. “Even gave me a flat look as she added,” then imitated again. “Example A: the Striped that were going to bomb two arabian cities because their heirs fiances was kidnapped.” then change back her voice as she shook her head.

“Stripes.” (done)

Curiously, Yushu spoke, “dos not seem too extreme to do terror tactic bombing…” Thinking it over through a kitsune’s eyes. (End)

“They would use their ships to bomb the city, then purposely crash those ships-- which are full and strapped with MORE bombs, while also jumping hip to find places to put more bombs-- possibly in the sewer systems to blast the city from under-up. ” told Mercy. (done)

Yushu blinked. And soon blinked again. “Sound more like Kitsune war on other clan. But given gift of many bombs.” (End)

Rolling her eyes in exasperation, Mercy said. “To a Striped? Kidnapping a clanmate or stealing their stuff would be enough for a clan war.” (done)

Giving a slow nod, Yushu admitted, “Kitsune may not jump to those extremes, unless one kidnaped was most important. But… can somewhat see reason.” And while she pondered this a little, she let out a breath. “Must keep in mind. To aid in keeping Dejen settle if one goes missing, and no rampage mindlessly on ‘maybe enemy’.” (End)

“I want to defend Dejen to say he won’t go that extreme.” started Mercy as she rolled a hoof. “But Dejen can sometimes...do something very extreme when he’s beyond angry.” still recalling the time when that moron kitsune tricked Dejen back then and really got under the Striped skin. “Again, Stripes are sometimes hard to predict when they’re angry.” (done)

Only a nod was given, Yushu just accepting what she was told and not bothering to ask more. Probably willing to wait and ask on it later. Though as she thought it over, she soon asked, “Mercy, wish to know. How has Salou been doing? Healing well as of late?”

Mercy smiled some and took a moment to go through the links and check up. And there Salou was, back from visiting the Opnehu and now in the hive. Even visetting and playing a little with Alibi. The two almost being like sisters. She smiled a bit more, Text’s daughter also being there and being tended to by Shiff a little. (end)

Smiling, Mercy said. “Salou came back from visiting the Ophenu. She’s bonding with Alibi more, almost sister like with them both. She’s healing, even if its a slow pace.” (Done)

“Am glad.” Yushu smiled in turn. They sat there in silence and enjoyed the peace. Then, Yushu said, “Mercy?” Getting her attention. “Would you like to join with Windy tonight?” Going on to tell, “Dejen wish to teach I another ‘card game’. Could have time to visit the Wives of his, too.” (end)

Smiling a bit, Mercy said. “Sure, its been a long time since we played with him with cards,” rolling her eyes as she added. “Mostly since we never had time.” then added. “I’ll be sure to help Windy too,” knowing the pegasus was growing with foals. But Mercy internally admit...that it felt different. Mostly with Yushu putting actual effort in visiting Dejen, and both her and Windy.

Riki didn’t do the whole visiting thing, as she more rather was putting up with Dejen out of duty. Yes she was nice...but Riki was too afraid of Dejen to try, the memories were fresh for her. If they waited, then maybe Riki would’ve grown to like Dejen…

But what done was done, and having Yushu visiting Dejen, getting to know him and know both Mercy and Windy? It was making Mercy felt that things could work out more smoothly, more...harmonious in a sense.

Dejen expected a lot of snow when he neared the Empire. But after passing some mountains and going farther north? It seemed there was a lot of green grass and sunny skies. Which confused him, because he was sure that was not how the weather worked up there. And after backtracking just a little, did Dejen notice there was like a…. Cutoff.

He wasn’t sure how to explain it. On one side there were clouds, snow and hail and ice-- and on the other there was just grass, flowers and sunshine. It was like there was some invisible line the weather didn’t want to cross. It made him sigh at the crazy impossibility that was pony magic. So, he had the Innovation fly in the ‘nicer’ side of the area, deploy the ship and get a Ketch ready.

Enola got herself under a cloak and came with, a little nervous but also wanting to come. And once onboard did they leave. Only him, Debt and the female. Seeing as he didn’t want to risk any Changeling detection going off.

The flight over was a bit long, but the Crystal Empire was impossible to miss. It was big. It was shinny. And there were crystals everywhere. They had to slow and land for a quick checkup by some guards, but they were let in rather easily. And once they parked did they leave.

Enola looked about and soon breathed, “I can’t believe I’m actually here.” Taking in the sights. “Red told me about this place… it’s… well, more impressive than I thought.” And looked to Dejen, “when she said it was a Crystal Empire… I didn’t think she meant littoral crystal roads, buildings and… ponies…” Actually pausing to take in the sight of a group of siad Crystal ponies. (End)

Dejen and Debt couldn’t help but stare, as Dejen spoke. “Crystal ponies...with gem like features….” Looking to Debt as he said. “I think I can cross my bucket list, seeing actual shiny ponies.” (done)

Shaking her head to get her mind focused, Enola looked about and said, “well… I don’t know my way around, but… I think I know where her house is.” And began to go up the main road. “She said it was more deeper in the city, so… I think this way.”

Dejen and Debt gave the other a look, but followed regardless. Going down the main road and heading a bit more to the center of the city where the castle was. All the while, Enola counted, “6…. 7…. 8… 9… 10… 11… 12! 12th road in.” And made a turn and looked about each house. Which were pretty big. “Blue… blue… green… lavender… blue…” Seeming to name off each color crystal house. (End)

Walking with Enola, Dejen asked. “Did she ever gave a exact address, or at least what her house looks like?” (done)

“Ruby.” Told Enola while looking about. “She’s one of the only ponies with a red ruby house. Only one with a ruby house on the 12th street circle into the city.” And kept looking at each home. “I don’t quite remember the address, so I’m going by what I recall, which is color.” (end)

Sighing a bit, Dejen figure to just follow Enola, as while it seem ridiculous of Red living in a ruby house? He had to accept ponies do ridiculous things. Honestly he was just glad they weren’t being pestered by any of the locals-- or questioned by the guard since the three of them don’t look like they belong here. (done)

“There! Ruby!” Enola called out, getting Dejen to look up and nearly blink at the place. It was almost double the size of the other houses on the street, and even had a slight tower on one side. While they walked up to the door, Enola took a moment to lift a hood and knock away.

They waited for a bit and after a while, did the door open. “Yes?” Spoke one tired unicorn mare before blinking and smiling. “Enola, you made it!”

Smiling in turn, Enola leaned down and hugged the pony that reached up. “I did.” And after a moment let go and asked. “Is Tish here too?”

Shaking her head, Red told, “she’s out shopping for dinner. Why don’t you come in and…” And soon noticed both Dejen and Debt. she blinked and went, “uh…” Looking back and forth.

Enola glanced back and then to Red to sigh, “they… found me and we need Tish’s help.”

“Why?” Red asked a little cautiously.

“They’re going to strike at Arbin.” Enola told simply.

Red’s eyes widened, looked to Dejen, and soon said, “Really?” And after a pause, grinned, “Well come on in!” And trotted inside. Enola following along. (end)

Dejen grin, as he walked in, as did Debt enter in while crouched more to enter inside. Glancing around, Dejen could see it was a standard living home. Some furniture, some stuff-- nice all around. Not middle class as far as he could tell as he move to enter in a chair, with Debt moving behind, or slightly crouching to not touch much of the furniture. (done)

Once they settled in and red took to sitting down, she asked, “so, you plan to finally get back at that guy?” mostly directing this to Enola.

“Well… not exactly.” Admitted the female. “But after talking to Dejen and his ‘clan’? It sounds like I won’t be able to live a peaceful life until he’s gone. And his ‘friends’.”

Red scowled to that. “Friends. Not sure if that’s the right word.” And soon told, “I met Shimmer, Enola.” Making the female stiffen up. “You wern’t kidding. She is the most coldest, cruelest mare I’ve ever seen.” And went on, “and I had to fight demons before, I’m pretty sure she could make them cower!” (end)

“Or try to tame them.” added Dejen. “She’s next when I’m able to hit at her, but right now I’m focus on Arbin.” (done)

Red gave a nod to this and said, “so you came to ask Tish for a way inside.” Being pretty sure about this. “I’ll say this now. You’ll have to be pretty carful. The guy is paranoid. The things she told me about the place reminds me of a few royal security wings.”

Making a face, Enola said, “why do you say that?”

Shrugging, Red said, “I never told you, but I’m technically a noble.” Making Enola blink in shock. “Turned out that I had family in the Empire some 1000 years back. They passed away and when they were processing the stuff? My family, the Gleams? It came up and I upright inherited it.” Smiling, “been great for my magical studies. But I’m pretty sure most nobility don’t like me.” (end)

“Well that explains why everything look neat fancy.” Remarked Dejen, leaning back a bit as Debt snort in agreement. The gnoll seeming to adjust in the space of the housing. The stripe grin as he added. “I bet it’s nice to rub it their faces.” (Done)

“Sometimes.” Red shrugged. “But only when I really have to.” Then gave them all a look over again and said, “but you’re really going to do it? Stick it to that guy for all the stuff he did?” Mostly focusing on Enola the most over this.

“I don’t want to go back.” Admitted Enola, “but I don’t want to be hunted down for the rest of my life. I want to live in peace, maybe with you and Tish.” And left out a breath. “I’m nervous at the idea, but… I’d be lying if I said a small bit of me wants to get back at him.”

Shaking her head, Res told, “he and those others put you through a lot. I don’t blame you for being a little scared.” Then looked to Dejen to tell, “if you plan to get at Arbin? I want in on it.” Pausing to think and say to herself while tapping her chin, “Right… I have to tell a few friends I’ll be away again.” (End)

“You sure?” Asked Dejen, leaning in to tell. “Because odds are we’ll be sneaking in and take what we can. Maybe take over the place to secure it, move people around and interrogate Arbin what he knows.” Knowing if the horse was that paranoid? A frontal assault wouldn’t work, sneaking in might have more effect to make sure any vital info was burnt or move away. (Done)

Red seemed to give a flat look to him and soon told, “and what if he’s not there, ever think about that?” Going on, “for all you know, when you get around he’s out visiting some noble or friend someplace else.” Which was a point that Dejen didn’t consider. But then again, he rarely had issues of people not being where they should be. “And what if one of his pals are there, like Shimmer Lake?” She further asked. “I’m not at her level, but I at least know how to handel her. You’re not going to last long against a dark-arts psycho like her.” (end)

“Considering the last time I faced her? You might have a point.” said Dejen as he lean back. Recalling facing her and her using a wall of magic to stop him. Which was annoying admitally. (done)

Lifting a brow, Red asked, “you faced her before?” Enola also gave him a look. “And you’re not a puddle of goo?” Scrunching her face up and commenting, “I thought those two brats were the only ones that could stand her magic and not get turned to goop.” (end)

“I’m a lucky guy.”told Dejen. (done)

The mare gave a long look to that, but soon shook her head and said, “anyways, if you want Tish’s help? You’ll have to wait. Like I said, she’s out shopping for dinner.” Then made a face and proceeded to ask, “how soon do you plan to try and break into Arbin’s place?” (end)

“Well,” started Dejen. “First after getting all the information your friend Tish knows? I’m planning on leaving soon, since I need to talk with the other's on a plan to enter into Arbin place, what to expect, who may be there-- then travel in a couple of days to the guy place-- or close enough, which would take about...maybe five days at the very least?” (done)

While the mare worked that over in her head, she soon said, “when Tish get’s back? Do you think you can start travel for the holds?” making him curious, while she smiled. “If you’re going for Arbin? I’m in. and if Enola’s going, Tish will for sure go. And I think I know someone that’ll be more than happy to help.” (end)

Leaning forward, Dejen asked. “Who?” (done)

Seeming to catch on, Enola said, “Gabe. the person I used to travel with.” Going on to say, “you might know him by his tittle. ‘The Lucky Wolf’.” Which had Dejen pausing. Mercy told him about Gabe, and Enola said he was the most unlucky bastard to ever live from her accounts-- but his wanted poster called him the ‘Lucky Wolf’? (end)

“Okay hang on,” started Dejen with a raised hand. “If this guy is so damned unlucky-- why the hell is he the Lucky Wolf?” going on to question with a furrow brow. “And what makes you think he can help with this?” (done)

They were going to answer, but they heard the front door open. Everyone glanced back to find Tish coming in and carrying a bag. Though she stopped and looked at the full room, before smiling, “Enola, you’re here!” And trotted right up. Enola was ready for the hug to be given.

But when she let go, Tish looked to Dejen and Debt, before asking, “why are they here?”

“They need your help.” Enola told. “They plan to attack Arbin.” Making the Zebra go a little tense. “And we’re planing to find Gabe to help. We were going to explain his tittle to them a bit and why he’s considered lucky.”

Slowly, the Zebra nodded and told, “let me first place these things up.” And trotted to the kitchen to do so. They waited a bit silently while she did that. And once back, Tish spoke, “perhaps I should tell you. I understand his curse the most.” And came to sit by her friends.

“You have been told of his Bow, correct?” Getting Dejen to nod. Nodding, Tish told, “the bow is cursed severely. It is to cause the holder to return to the place of its origin and return it to it’s rightful place. Until that time, the Curse will bring suffering to the holder. But, it will also prevent death, disabling or deathly illness from ever stopping him from returning it.”

The Zebra further explained, “in short? The curse will not allow for any sort of death or permanent disabling. And if he wished to toss it away to let another deal with it? The Curse will bring the bow back to him. And trying to destroy the bow, will only intensify the curse, bringing harm to him-- or anyone, trying to break the Bow.”

“In this way.” Heasetently went on Tish, “when one wishes to kill Gabe? They will be given a more lethal version of the curse. The longer they fight the curse or pursue to kill Gabe? The worse the curse becomes for them. When they give up? It lifts.” And gave Dejen a long look. “In short? The reason for his ‘luck’, is that the curse protects him from all forms of death or things that would stop him from returning the bow. The supernatural forces of the Curse making ‘good luck’ to seem to protect him.”

“Suddenly falling trees. Lightning from a passing cloud. A hawk dropping a poison frog on you at random. Falling into a pit-trap ment for Gabe. eating a drugged pie ment for Gabe. hit by an arrow that missed Gabe, deflected off a shield, arced over the air and landed on the guy that shot it-- by ‘chance’.” Red nammed off. (end)

Frowning, Dejen said. “So basically, because of this cursed bow, he can’t die or get too hurt. Any harm to him goes to someone else, and no matter what happen? His bad luck keeps him alive as people see it as ‘good luck’?” (done)

“Oh no, he still can get hurt.” Enola shook her head. “The curse just makes it so it won’t break bones or disable him for long. It still will make him suffer, just not cause enough damage that he can’t get back up after a few days or a week.”

Nodding, Tish spoke, “Like the time I told him why he has such horrible luck. He tried to destroy the bow.” And shook her head. “Things fell on him. He constantly tripped on things. He tried to toss it in the fire, it sprung back out. Tried to put it through the fire-- the flames would not touch it. Then had the idea to try breaking it.”

“He smashed his foot, almost killed a rabbit by accident, the got saved by a haw trying to get the rabbit, broke the axe he was using-- then got struck by lightning when he tried to use a mace.” Enola said with some irritation. “We had to stop him after that. But the curse persisted and our hideout collapsed-- while the single wooden beam he was tied to was still standing and he was just minorly dusty.” (End)

Snorting, Debt told to Dejen. “Sound like the opposite of you, Clan head.”

“In terms of luck, maybe.” said Dejen as he rub his chin and asked. “So what, you’re saying we need the guy to be bait for us as he distracted everyone?” (done)

Tish sighed, but Red said, “trust us. If there was ever a person to cause a huge distraction? It’s Gabe.”

Enola seemed to agree while flatly saying, “he once caused fifteen different buildings to nearly collapse on themselves, just by running on them. And they were completely undamaged before he touched them.” Then half-tossed a wing up. “He even caused the whole city to go on full on alert from just walking around!”

Tish then pitched in. “And if not distraction? Tends to make bad choices that often result in our safety.” Proceeding to tell in example. “Like jumping in front of a deadly magical attack, only for the curse to reject the possible lethal hit and cause instead, something random to hurt him-- but ultimately save him and the one he’s protecting.” (end)

“Distraction and a meatshield, huh?” said Dejen as he thought and said. “well...I rather not let him in on my ship, due to his bad luck...but I might let him use a Ketch to keep close.” not wanting the cursed wolf on his ship to cause some damaged-- especially after they reworked the entire ship for months! (done)

Not liking this, Enola said, “as long as you don’t say the ‘nothing can go’.” not finishing the rest. “You know… that saying around him? Then you’re fine.” And patted herself, “I can keep an eye on him. And make sure he dosn’t do anything stupid.”

“Because Celestia know more than half his bad luck is because of bad choices.” Red seemed to agree with a snort. (End)

Pointing a finger at Enola, Dejen told. “If anything happen to my ship? I’m blaming you for whatever bad luck will happen.” then lower it as he snort. “But here’s a question. Where are you going to find him? Because last I check his bounty, it went higher to 30k gold and alot more felonies were place on him.” (done)

The three girls looked to the other, and Enola sighed, “don’t worry. We know a sure fire way to find him.”

“Just…” Began Tish, “be sure that you find us a nice, open field and that your ship is far…. Far…. far away.” (end)

I’m just going to assume they’re going to invoke Murphy. thought Dejen as he just wordlessly nod and figure to keep his ship up in the altitude as he glance to the three and said. “Alright.” then asked. “So, do you need to talk to any people? Because Tish can tell us everything about Arbin place on the move back to the Ketch.” (done)

Red gave a nod and stood telling, “yeah, just give me a moment and I’ll be back.” Leaving to the door to get her business finished with.