Arabian Swindler

“MOTHER FUCKING BASTARD!” scream Dejen, slamming his fist down on the meeting table, his head slam down on the table as he scream bloody murder. “FUCKING FUCKER FUCK EVERYTHING! RAZUL WAS FUCKING JUBALI?! I FUCKING, THAT GODDAMN BACKSTABBING LYING LION MOTHERFUCKING--”

Mercy wince hard, feeling his intense hatred, his anger-- everything was flaring up as she knew that this was bad, that Dejen was dupped hard and been fooled for years. It was even worse that Dejen actually trusted the lion in the first place. (done)

Johari passively watched, along with a few others while the Striped cursed and raged. And he wasn’t the only one angry. Debt felt his blood boil because of how he allowed his gourd to lower so much around the Lion. Susumu himself held a deep frowen, realizing that from the very first time they met? He was right but had also let his guard down. Mynu shifted in thought over everything they traded with the lion. While Rah-Rah tapped her foot away, thinking over everything.

The Rabbit soon said, “this is making too much sense. The runic trackers on the stuff he traded us. The way people could find us. How the slavers knew where we were going or had been recently? Being in the places we’d sometimes needed him most?” Then asked, “how didn’t we notice?!”

“Because coppermanes have the roar skills of the Redmanes and Goldmanes.” Johari sighed. “They’re roar arts together make for a very powerful magic that soothes and manipulates others by simply speaking. Because we never thought he was a threat? We naively allowed him to persuade and manipulate us. The magic stuck around as long as we kept unaware, he never needed a full roar to make us listen with our guards down.” (End)

Debt let out a low snarl as the gnoll said. “Its a disgrace I let my guard down…”

Susumu didn’t say anything, but it explain how he was trapped in that building as he glance Dejen still cursing as he look to Johari as he said. “We should make him stop, too much blood boiling in his head will hurt later.” (done)

Johari agreed and soon let out a roar-- one that had Dejen jumping and looking at Johari. The lioness blankly staring at him before saying, “that is enough, Dejen. You need to focus now.” And breathed in. “because we now have to be extremely careful how we handle this information.” (end)

Taking deep breaths, Dejen slowly settle, or simmer in his place as Dejen said. “One thing for certain, if we see him again I’m shooting him in the head.”

“That would reveal we now know, which isn’t good.” said Susumu. “If he find out we know now? Could make him guarded, or loose chance of grabbing him and interrogating him for information. He is mastermind, he knows everything.” (done)

Nodding, Johari told, “we now know, or highly suspect, that Razul is Jubali. If you try shooting him, true, we will rid ourselves a pain.” Then breathed in. “but... That also means that he may pull a fast one and escape and start doing everything in his power to destory us. Further more, as lond as he dosn’t know that we’ve figured him out? His gaurd will remain lax just a bit more.”

Nodding, Rah-Rah said, “we could use this to work in our favor. If we tell him about things we ‘plan’ to do? Then we can not only see if he reacts to them, but also be ready for them ahead of time.”

“Risky.” Johari poke up, “but also useful to waste resource on ‘ambushes’ we’ll be prepared for and have an easier time dismantling.” Then I thought on it. “But it’s bothersome. He’s been missing for a while, ‘Razul’.” (end)

Thinking on it...Dejen said. “There might be a way to know where he’s heading.” said Dejen as he snorted in annoyance. “But its a risk itself. We ask the Rat.”

Mercy furrow her brow and asked. “That guy? Wouldn’t he sell us out if someone pay him higher that we know?”

“We don’t have any other leads.” told Dejen. “And as much as I hate it? The guy knows alot. Odds are he’ll know where Jubali might be…” Dejen frown as he said. “But there’s another issue. Whats to say he might use his roar on me to ‘persuade’ me like last time?” (done)

“That will be a risk no matter what.” Johari told simply. “The roar won’t work as well as before, now that you’re aware and will be ready for it. But the fact is that it will influence you because he can talk to you.” And thought on it. “None of us can resist it, not easily. I could but I would have to be going at my best and using my magic at it’s fullest, fight his Roar with my own.”

Thinking on it, Mynu asked, “what about Cosmo?” Getting their attention. “Magic dosn’t work on him.”

Rah-Rah blinked and gave a glance. “That… that could work.” and asked to Johari, “would that work on Jubali? Does he have a way to deal with that?”

Thinking, Johari shook her head. “Magicly? No. and he uses his words more than his strength. And Cosmo is much too agile and nimble for most lions. And with his anti-magical ability? Jubali would have no means to manipulate or persuade him magicly. He would have to rely on old faston silver-tounge persuasion-- though we all know cosmo is very sharp.” (end)

“He is.” said Dejen as he look to Mercy and told. “Get one of the crew on the comm tower, tell Cosmo what we learn and secretly inform those that need to know. I want to make sure that if Jubali already came Humilti? That they would be ready next time.” Mercy...was very concern on that, as she already sent the request-- and told the other queens on this as Mercy said.

“Its terrifying if Jubali was at Humilti. He might have known how things change-- and may use it as hostage if we try to do anything to him.” (done)

“I don’t think so.” Rah-Rah spoke up. “Has he ever gone to visit those places?” Which Dejen took a moment to consider… though made a face and realized something. Razul always made some excuse for never reaching them. Pirates. Losing his ship. Debts. Errands… (End)

“No...he always had an excuse...pirates, lost his ship, debts...errands…” scrunching his face as Dejen asked. “Was it because he acted as a messenger he never went...or was it something else?” (done)

“Ramada was pretty clear.” Johari spoke up. “The Shiftlings. They can sense emotions and can smell things we can’t. They could of been too large of a wildcard to test.” Then thought on. “Then there’s the Temple by Humili. Any single wandering Opnehu would immedetly rat him out. He must of realized that it was too risky to try either option so chose to stay away, or be found.” (End)

While that reassure Dejen? He thought over more as Dejen realized. “Jubali must of also looked into Susumu clan, when he first saw him years ago.”

Susumu frowned as the Kitsune said. “Likely...but with Dejeen it would happen regardless.” the Kitsune went on. “However a question. Do we still go with the plan of Arbin after bow dealt? Or alter plan?” (done)

They all were quite for a while before Johari said, “we still have other issues besides Jubali to deal with.” And looked to each person. “Despite this? We still need more information. We might cut off the most informed head with Jubali, but this empire is a Hydra. Cutting off one head won’t stop it. Weaken it for sure, but not stop it.” (End)

Dejen nod as he lean forward. “So we keep with the plan. After we deal with the bow, we head straight to Arbin place, take everything, head to Equestria to gain permission from the royal sisters on digging underground, see if we can cause a issue for Criff-- and gather what we can.” going on to tell. “We may hit up with the Rat-- if he hasn’t moved at this point, I don’t trust the greedy rat….but he’s the best source of info we can get if we need to find out more on whats been going on.” (done)

While they agreed to this, Rah-Rah asked, “what makes this rat so important Dejen?” Going on to say, “he’s not the same one that Felix told me about, is he?” (End)

“He is.” sighed Dejen as he rub his forehead. “Felix told me about him and honestly? I rather not go to him at all...but I’m going to be honest.” glancing around as he told. “I’m at the end of my ropes in gathering intel and after finding out that Razul was Jubali? Theres no way that we can just get by with old and outdated info. Especially if we keep going after old trails with a vain hope we find something the more we search and follow it.”

“How can you be so sure he has anything?” asked Susumu with a frown “Its has been talking us a long time to find this information or figure it out.”

Dejen sighed. “Well, he knew alot of that demon lord and the stone the twins had, even about Humilti and other things.”

“He...knew about the demon lord?” asked Mercy in slight surprised. “How did he know?”

Dejen shrug. “Honestly I don’t know, he may have a wide info web and could be a infogather and broker-- all I know is that he was apparently in hiding, enough hidding that’s a Tyra level hiding. To the point nobody know they were even around for the most part, and the only ones that know that came to contact are rare.”

There was a bit of silence as Mercy facehoof as she said. “Hives damn it, he’s a former human.”

Dejen pause...then facepalm as he groan out. “Why do I even bother!?” (Done)

Rah-Rah seemed to think about something in her head before saying, “maybe before we get too involved in this fight, Dejen?” Giving him a look. “We need to know who’s on our side and who’s with Jubali. This Rat isn’t on anyone's side, but he can turn on us at a moment’s notice. Even more if he has a way to just ‘find out’ anything he wants.”

Johari nodded in agreement. “We may need to widen our influence with the people we know-- more to point the other former humans.”

“Before when we fought Maltar and the pits of the Empire we knew?” RAh-Rah asked, “it was just Felix, Miko and I. then you showed up and you enabled us to start actually doing something more.” And thought on. “It’s not a army, but we now have multiple people that can face this Empire. If we can gather what allies we have? We could start dealing with each threat.”

“And we have the means.” Agreed the Lioness. “We can send messages to each ally with a simple flick of a switch. Coordinate each one, feed them the information they need to know. Even more once Arbin has been taken out.” And thinking on it? Dejen had to agree, they had the people now. The people that also had the power and strength to deal with each threat.

Myun went on, “and if they can deal with most of the fodder or issues we find? We can deal with the bigger targets or get the stronger to deal with bigger threats.” One thought Dejen had to that was Cosmo to Jubali, or sending Cosmo to that unicorn pest Shimmer. The Twins actually now be a credible threat to her. But cosmo could be better due to his anti-magic abilities. (end)

Debt turn to speak. “Its time that the Clan-head spread his fingers, like he has done to make Arabia fear him.” getting Dejen to glance as Debt added. “But this time, you can spread your fingers to enable other's to help fight what you can’t.” Dejen thought over a bit as he said.

“You know...you guys are right.” thinking more as he said. “But, we’re at a huge disadvantage. We don’t know the exact location or even have the information just yet. And they don’t have the means like we do with the ship-- and some of them don’t have the radios. We will need to go to each place, give them a radio and update them as we move around.” frowning a bit as Dejen went on.

“Hell, we don’t exactly have the means to even get constant information ourselves.” (done)

“Don’t be too sure.” Johari spoke. “Farin knows much about magical spells. Even means to teleport. It’s possible she might have an answer to a few of our issues.” And went on, “we also know of a number of targets. And once the other’s are connected to the ship through some medium? They can send you the information they know.”

Considering it, Rah-Rah told, “one of the issues of the spy-network was having reliable people to hear from. And we now have that.” And thought on. “Heck… Cosmo used to track and riffle through Slaver dens. And he knows people, Felix knows people-- everyone we’ve met knows someone.” (end)

Dejen thought and said. “And if we ask both Cosmo and Felix to find these people, or get into contact, maybe start spreading the radios for use, have a real and good spy-network. Maybe even those in the black market and a pal or two I know I can trust.”

“Still…” sighed Dejen. “We now have options...and things are looking good.” giving a grin as he look to everyone as Mercy nod as she admitted.

“You’re right Dejen.” then rolled her eyes as she told. “It might pan out, I don’t see how this could get any better!”

There was a creaking, as glances were turn to it. Mercy realized what she just said as it clanging to the ground with Gabriel shouting. “Gah!” as he fell flat on the door.

Attention all turn as Gabriel felled in, everyone looking rather annoyed as he quickly got up with his hands raised. “I didn’t mean to listen in!” glancing around as the Wolfkin said. “I just came by and...accidentally heard you guys talking.”

Mercy frown as she said. “Apparently he’s telling the truth.” then asked. “So was there a reason you were overhearing our meeting?”

“Well…” started Gabriel as he rub the back of his head with a sheepish look. “If its info you guys need?” moving to come up to the table and open his bag. Reaching in as he took out some letters, then more letters, then papers, books, scrolls, journals-- they were watching Gabriel just...taking everything he can of papers out of his bag. (done)

Rah-Rah hopped back from the sudden flood of paper, and Johari lifted a brow at it all. She gave a glance to the papers that began to spill over the table and asked dryly, “do you have anymore, or is that it?” The sarcasm thick in her voice. “No, please, by all means. Keep flooding the table and making a mess.” (End)

“Allllllllmost,” said Gabriel as Mercy frown, her horn glowing to organize the papers, stacking them a bit as she look over a letter and blink.

“This is…” looking it more closely as she pause in her organizing as she look to Gabriel as he was piling more papers. “Where did you get a letter that was sent to Gouson?” getting attention as Gabriel added a bit of books as he said.

“Well, I’ve been around,” adding some files and folders. “And I had...well, bad luck going into places. And usually I take whatever important.” then took out a bit of scrolls out. “So I never get the time to read them,” then finally finished as he took out some large books to set down. “But considering I’ve been going into slaver dens, important noble houses, and anywhere I stumble in? I figure these stuff might help you guys.” (done)

Johari used a paw to bat and push papers about. Eyes more than once spotting a few familiar names. She made a face and looked to Gabe telling, “let us sort through this. You may go.” Adding tensely, “now.” And while Gabe gave a disarming raise of his arms, did Johari give a loud growl that really sent him booking it out of there.

Once he was gone, Johari mellowed out quickly to tell Dejen, “we need to go through these and re-evaluate our plans. Though could drastically change how we take on Jubali’s little enterprise.” (End)

Dejen frown as he took a few papers, as Mercy went back organizing and tiding up the table as he asked. “I don’t know how he even got this stuff, even if its accurate or old-- there’s no way he could get anything vital to help us.”

“Well apparently Gabriel done a lot more traveling,” said Mercy as she added in minor annoyance. “And broke into a lot of places. It seem his ‘bad luck’ been bad to him-- and to a extent anyone he come across. Its possible that he may inadvertently helped us.”

“Am….not sure if he is a horrible thief,” spoke Susumu with a scrunch face. “Or possible info gather.” (done)

“It dosn’t matter.” Johari told, “we need to get through these papers. We have about a little over a week left before we return back to the mainland. By then we need to have a definitive plan of action.” (End)

There were murmurs of agreement as Mercy said. “I’ll have some of my children help.” frowning as she said. “But this is going to be a pain to search through.” already feeling that they will either thank or strangle the Wolfkin for what he gave them with all this material.

(done)

The information was insane. True, a lot of it was old junk information. But the real nuggets showed through to antone that knew what to look for. Documents, papertails, who sold what to whom, information that Wousa being dead and someone else taking his place-- being Karcia apparently. Then there was a number of letters from Jubali, all under his alias and something both Susumu and Yushu had to scan for-- only to find more letters and more aliases.

It was a near goldmine for Dejen once they had gotten through the pile. And it painted a large protate of what had been going on over the last five years. How Jubali had moved around, how he had things organized. Of places and times that he made arrangements-- he even had a large chunk of information that told him where Dejeen planned to go-- basically to try and take control of a large Arabian city through it’s underground and be in charge again.

And there was something much more to this. Shimmer Lake had been supplying the Demon Lord with sacrifices and weapons-- she was more or less ‘allied’ to him. She helped instigate his ability to make the attack! To further that, there were a number of plots by Doug to try assassinating and taking the Holds for himself and allowing their slaver empire more easy access. And from what he could tell? The guy was an engineer in his past. With some uncanny designs that looked too advance for this world-- and possible human.

Karcia had plenty of plans to try and secure the Tidelands for them, having carodded a lot of its law enforcement with her own ‘yes men’ without the rest of the nobility knowing better. While Criff had some set plans and orders to at some point get the elements of harmony to weaken Equestria-- with the aid from some guy that Dejen never heard of.

But from what he picked out with Mercy’s changelings? The guy was some large boa-snake and had been getting himself comfy within one of the cities there and a Gang called the Constrictors. From the looks of it? It had to be a former human. Never-seen species, odd habits and manners that let him get far…

The only two that didn’t have any extreme things to self were Gousu and Arbin. Both having their plats full with their jobs as is. But now that he had a much fuller picture, even if some of it was from the past? It painted a huge world-wide problem that everyone had been fighting, even if unknowingly. (end)

Rubbing his face, Dejen took a sip of his tea as he enjoy it and let out a sigh as he lower both cup and hand as he said. “I can’t believe I’m going to say it. But Gabriel apparently helped us immensely.” Motioning hand to the papers that were all organized, as wella s scrolls, books, and other stuff as Dejen went on. “We now got a bigger picture of everyone, and know alot more than we did before.” (done)

Yushu took the time to pour more warm tea into his cup, and even organized a few letters and papers. “Regardless of the aid, what will we do?” Making a face at one letter that had information of how her village not only got attacked, but where many of her people got sent. Half of which, sadly, were sent as ‘sacrifices’ to that demon. Though she held hope as other’s went to other places. (end)

Thinking it, Dejen admit. “Well first? We may still have to hit at Arbin.” motioning a hand. “Sure we got the bigger picture, but we need some new info, and Arbin may be our ticket to know not only where your clanmates might be-- but if the other's updated on their plans.” He frown as he said. “But we also need to get information spread out, and need to get radios for the other guys…” going on to admit further. “We might also need to reach out and inform other groups...like Farin knowing about those...what were they called again?” thinking as he said. “It started with a M….”

“Misfits.” informed Debt as Dejen nodded.

“Yeah them, we might have them help us since they could help with world ending scenarios-- or something to help lessen our burden.” (done)

Humming, Yushu spoke, “perhaps in the morning, you can speak with her.” Going on to tell, “it is getting late, and this all has been a lot to take.” Proceeding to ponder on. “Gabe in below returning bow. Will be back soon.” (end)

“He’s already returning the bow?” asked Dejen in slight surprise as he yawn a bit. “wow...I didn’t notice.”

“I think its time we all head for bed.” told Mercy as she got up. “We can discuss this all later in the morning, I’ll be in the bed, Dejen.” heading off first, as already the other's were heading out, with the added help of changelings leaving out to get some rest. Leaving him nearly alone with Yushu.

Dejen took another sip of his tea, looking over something as he remarked. “Still...this really changes things.” looking over a letter as he went on. “Before I was struggling...now...now despite what I know is old news? I got a better grasp on the situation.” (Done)

Yushu slowly nodded to this and soon said, “it was as if fate had intended for you to find this…” Then soon smiled and told him, “I should go and prepare for tonight. We don’t know when Gabe will return, and intend to have medic bay ready.” and nod, “good night, Dejen.” And wandered out. While Dejen reflected on what she said. (End)

Fate intended me to find this… humming a bit as he took another sip, his mind thinking. It’s strange, for someone to have load of bad luck, be able to gather so much...and when the ‘no-no’ word was utter out? He came in and provided all the info he gathered. Yushu was right, it was like something wanted me to find this, to have it… taking another sip as he thought. I wonder what Asha would say? Something about how she knew it was the ‘stringes’ bringing other closer…

I wonder if more are going to be added? Dejen thought over to that as he let out a sigh. Knowing that he didn’t had the answers, but what he did knew? Was that if fate really ‘wanted’ him to find this? Then it was either by the luck he got...or something else playing and pulling the strings. Snorting a bit, Dejen shook his head. I get to philosophical when I’m tired. downing the last of his tea as he got up, figuring to head to bed.

Maybe hear on what happen to Gabriel once he head back on the ship. Although he figure that Gabriel would be going through loads of trouble getting that bow back.

“Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit!” scream out the Wolfkin, dodging arrows and howls as he look up, seeing it was a full moon of all nights as Gabriel kept running, avoiding everything as he jumped over animals, dodged arrows behind and around him-- even magic of plant life trying to pull him down. “[All I’m doing is just returning a bow! Let me be!]” scream out the black Wolfkin.

But the response were just more howls blasting behind him as he jump, screaming as he slam into the ground as he quickly got up. He didn’t knew how long until he reached the damn place as he glare at the bow as he shouted. “I’m doing this for you, you damn bow! You better help me get there faster!” running as he tripped on a branch, falling down as he tumble down a small hill before a howl hit him as he was blasted up in the air. Screaming as he fall away and slam into a tree, coming down some branches as he let out grunts.

He landed on his back on the ground, as he groan out. Getting up as he shook his head as he look around-- and saw it. He saw the resting place, a stone slab set up as a altar, the ‘tomb’ for the warrior….and by it was a old familiar face. The white wolf shamaness, having silver markings on her, wearing some leather garbs with a staff by her side, giving a wry smile at him. He got up and was cautiously moving as he spoke in the native tongue. “[Hello...She-who-sees unto-things].”

There was a amused laugh, as the old wolfess spoke. “[Well, its been a long time since I seen you Nameless Wolf].” looking him over as she asked. “[Had a nice adventure?]”

Snorting with a roll of his eyes, Gabriel walked carefully towards the tomb, stopping a bit as he wanted to talk to her. “[You know me. Always doing something.]” seeing her laugh as he chuckle a bit, but she gave a somber look and gave a sad smile.

“[you’ve been through so much pain, so much strife.]” moving a hand to gently rub his cheek as he flinched, but didn’t move a way as the old shamaness sigh. “[and still in pain, from females who hurt you.]” looking to him as she said. “[I know you don’t wish to tell, you wish to hide the pain, the scars, to put them down and focus on what you need to do.]” smiling lowly as she said. “[but I want you to howl. Howl it all tonight before you return the bow and never come back.]”

Gabriel frown as he said. “[I...I rather not.]” being a bit on edge as she shook her head, as she assured.

“[I won’t force you….but you should howl. You may not be Wolfkin in spirit….]” then move a hand to gently pull away from his cheek to place a hand on his chest. “[but you are worth more than the color of your fur.]” looking to him as a sad look came over her as she said. “[this will be the last time we meet, he-who-arrived from-stars.]”Gabriel blink, as he wanted to ask her what she was talking about. But she placed a hand on his mouth, shaking her head and said.

“[Whenever you are ready….just howl, and I will hear it. Goodbye, he-who-arrives from-stars.]” moving away from him as she walked past him, the old shamaness head off, then pause as she turn and added with a knowing smile. “[Oh, and be sure to treat taht female right-- you know who I’m talking about.]”

Gabriel stutter, and quickly shook his head as he denied. “[I have no idea what you’re talking about!]” she laugh as she walked away, as Gabriel snorted...then glance around, seeing that during the talks with the old shamaness? The packs surrounded him. Gabriel took a breath as he ready one hand on the rune and lift the bow. This better work…. then as he place the bow on the stone?

He activated the rune and was gone in a flash before any arrow hit at him.

Gabriel took a heave of a breath, glancing around as he was in the cargo bay as he drop to his knees in relief. “Oh thank God!” panting a bit of breath as he...he was glad that actually work! He was doubtful of the rune working due to his luck...but he did it. He was free from the curse. Gabriel...just needed a moment to take this in. (Done)

“Gabe, you’re safe!” He heard as Enola was there waiting, along with Grinder, Horn, a tired red and waking Tish. the evovle herself looking bright and happy while looking him over, “they didn’t hurt you too much, did they?” A clear concern of being hit by an arrow or some spell. And when he turned to answer, he stepped on something and he fell. (end)

Hitting his face on the ground, he let out a muffled whimper. But as he got up, his eyes dilate, seeing a bow….and quickly kick it away as he scramble away.

“I think thats a different bow,” pointed out Horn as Gabriel pointed at the bowas he said in hysteria.

“I put you back, I put you back on that fucking stone! Why?! Why won’t you leave me alone!?” (Done)

Now fully awake from the shouting, Tish got up and honed her eyes onto the bow. Making a face, she turned around and stood over the bow. Looking it over and even picking it up to examine and feel it… then looked to Gabe. “it’s not cursed, I feel blessings on it.” (end)

Giving a cautious look to it, Gabriel said. “That? That thing?!”

“Oh boy, boss may be having a meltdown.” said Grinder.

“No, no, no, no, no-- I am done with magical bows! Toss it over the sea or something!” told Gabriel. (done)

Tish gave him a bland look and gave a sigh and held it out. “If you wish to--” and not finish as he grabbed it, ran to a port-window, shoved it out and closed it. And sighed a breath of relief, sliding down on the wall-- before in a magical flash to bow landed gently in his lap.

Everyone stared, with Red saying, “well that’s new.” (End)

“No, no, no, no, no, no, no” repeated Gabriel as Horn sigh as he walked up to Gabriel to slap him in the face a few times. Getting the Wolfkin to stop as Horn said.

“Its not going to curse you, it’s going to be around you, and you’re not going to have increase bad luck again.” Helping Gabriel up as the Wolfkin stare at the bow in a daze look as it was on the ground as Horn let out a breath as he glance to the other's. “I think I’m going to help him get to bed...its obivous he need some time to rest.”

“We can ask Farin.” started Gabriel. “She know magic stuff, she can see if its curse.”

“But isn’t she asleep?” asked Grinder as he suggested. “Why not talk to her in the morning?”

“Yeah...yeah…” said Gabriel as he was walking slowly off, as Grinder sigh with Horn leading the Wolfkin away.

“Poor boss, I think he snapped hard with this one.” (done)

The girls all gave the other looks before Enola motioned them to go to their shared room and soon spoke up. “Gabe, hold on.” And walked her way up. The three of them paused as the lone female walked up and stood before the wolfkin. She glanced away and sighed out. “Look… I’m… it’s good you came back safe.” And after a moment gave a peck to his cheek, “I’ll see you in the morning.” and rushed herself away with the other girls. (end)

Gabriel stiffen, feeling the brief warmth on his cheek, slowly looking to Enola as she and her friends were walking as Gabriel slowly look to Horn as the minotaur shrug. Gabriel let out a sigh, feeling...complicated and mixed. He wasn’t sure what happen but...well…

Maybe it just his luck finally changing. He’ll take the peck at this point.

When morning came and everyone was having breakfast, eating a bit as they were discussing what happen or what was going on? Gabriel walked in fast, scanning around as he spotted the faun as he rush to her as he took out the bow and asked. “Can you look at this? Its a magical bow and it scares me.” (done)

FArin paused and looked up from her book, spoon hanging from her mouth and blinking at him and soon looking to the bow. Sliding the spoon out and putting it in the bowl with her food, she slid it aside and said, “okay, I can take a look.” motioning for him to place it down.

Once he did, Farin moved it closer and began to do an inspection. Even getting into her back to get out a magnifying glass. Going over it and even flipping the pages of her book to get reference information. A few looked on and even those of Gabe’s old and current groups came in and nearly signed. Walking over to see what the fuss would be.

“Tier 10 protection charm…” Farin spoke, “tier 10 luck charm-- make that three teir ten luck charms. This looks like a return-enchantment. Useful. And this one here looks to be a rune for hex protection. And a rune for curse protection….” and soon made a face and said, “Gabriel, there’s no way this is cursed. I’m going over it and there’s a few Devine markings on it, divine magic too.”

Tish soon said in a deadpan, “told you it was blessed.” (end)

Turning, Gabriel told. “Cut me some slack, Tish! I had to deal with the curse bow for years! One just suddenly popping up on the ground after I return the first bow? Kinda creepy.”

Snorting, Horn said. “Well it must be a ‘reward’ for returning the bow and coming back alive.”

“How does that make any sense?” Question the Wolfkin. “No seriously, why did this bow suddenly appeared right after I put the other one back!”

“Maybe bow felt you need replacement?” asked Grinder as Gabriel toss his hands up in frustration, mostly as why it would even give him a replacement if it was pestering him to return it to the tomb in the first place!(Done)

Farin turned to eye them each, and took her time to keep examining the bow. “Well, it’s obviously was sent by some higher power if it came from noplace and filled with Divine magic.” And pushed it back. “You should take it. Because I doubt you’ll be able to get rid if it with that return-rune on it. And with all the protection runes on it, I’m not sure what the worse that could happen.”

They heard Yushu give a yelp, and heads turned to see that she had stubbed her toe and tripped on something. The tray of food she had going flying and splashing all over Gabe. And while he stood there in a mess, Red said, “that… was rather tame.” Looking around for something to make it worse, while Tish went to see if Yushu was alright-- which she was. (end)

“It was tame compare anyone else saying the ‘no-no’ words.” agreed Grinder, as Gabriel move a hand to wipe his face a bit as he asked to Farin.

“Can you please try not to say the ‘no-no’ words? Because it seem I’m still cursed with bad luck.”(done)

Farin seemed to raise a brow and smile, “you’re cursed with it. I think the rest of us will be just fine.” (end)

Grumbling lowly, Gabriel said. “Just when I thought I would be free of bad luck-- that bow decided to give me something to mess with me for the rest of my life.” Horn and Grinder helping wiping the food off of him as Horn said.

“Come on Gabriel, lets get something to eat-- I’m sure a good meal will help raise your mood.”

Dejen walked in during this time as he glance to see a slightly food covered Gabriel as he raise his brow as he asked. “Did someone activate Murphy Law?” (done)

Farin raised her hand. “I didn’t feel nearly as worried.” And let it come down to pat the new bow on the table. “He had a blessed bow.” And while watching the other’s clean Gabe up, she added, “I don’t have any way to measure. Luck. but I felt pretty safe with a bow that has three tier 10 luck charms on it, powered by divine magic.” (end)

Whistling, Dejen said. “I may not know how powerful that is, but if it got divine magic? It must be pretty strong.” moving to settle in a seat across from Farin as he change the topic. “Anyway, Farin? I need your help on something, we found out last night that the whole slaver empire thing? Its a hell of a lot bigger than we thought. Like, the group been doing a lot more than we realize.” then going on to explain.

“We found out that Shimmer lake? She was the one that been supplying that demon lord with sacrifices and help it attack. We found out even further on how Criff, a diamond dog, been using an underground smuggling operation under Equestria and planning on taking the element of harmony bearers.” then frown as he told. “And there’s a lot more we know thanks to Gabriel giving us ton of info he stole, old info sure-- but enough to help fill out the big picture.” (done)

Farin became concerned at this and soon said, “so they effectively are all over the world?” And went on to think, “and Equestria… I knew there were Diamond dog packs all over it, but a whole smuggling system?” fingers tapping away anxiously at the news. She got into her back and without much hesitation, began to write.

While looked were given, Enola asked, “what are you doing?”

“Getting a letter made for Princess Celestia, or at least Princess Twilight.” Told the faun. “It’s one of the more safer and main super powers of the world. The fact that there’s been a Demon uprising to the far west near the Isles? I can’t take the chance of them getting smuggled into Equestria.” (end)

“Theres more.” sighed Dejen. “Alot more Farin.” looking at her as he said. “But I’m going to need your advice-- and help. Because me and my Clan can’t handle this. We need to start finding more allies, finding more people to help us. We’re planning on asking Cosmo and Felix on helping us start a spy system and meeting up with the Twins at the Isles.” he frown as he said. “but...I was hoping if you could send a message to your friend Milo and the group he’s with, because I think we might need their help too with how big this is getting.” (done)

Pausing in her writing, Farin gave dejen a look and seemed to think for a moment. Pushing the letter a side and getting out more paper, Farin took a moment to write. “Give me a moment.” she told while getting the letter down. Once finished, she folded it and got her finger ready, pressing it on the folded letter. Runic symbols formed quickly and soon enough it went up in a flare of blue fire, ashes seeming to vanish.

Looking up, Farin told, “Milo should get that soon.” making Dejen blink. “I can write to the others too.”

Enola was slow to blinke, and Red even asked, “you know how to do a fire-mail spell?”

“I just know the runic array for it after asking about it from Twilight.” Told Farin. “She never thought to ask her Teacher for the spell or it’s runic origin.” Shaking her head. “But anyways, I’m going to get a letter to Celestia made. And even have other’s made and sent to other people if you think we need it.” then made a face. “And while I’d hate to letter him… if we can get Semor on our side…” (End)

“I know Semor may not be trusting,” started Dejen. “But I also know he doesn’t like Shimmer since he told me about her doing some rituals in her lands.” he however ask. “But do you really think he’s willing to help us out?” (done)

Farin went to answer, before a coude of ash seemed to come and form rather suddenly, bursting into golden fire before dropping before her. She was quick to take it up and open it, reading it. Farin soon said, “Milo got out message.” and made a face before saying, “he’s also asking….” then looked to Dejen, “what’s your radio frequency?” (end)

“Uh….” started Dejen as he took out his radio and said. “Well, its 103 hz, but unless they got a radio tower set up, I don’t think they…” then frown as he let out a low breath as he just answer his own question as Farin writes it down quickly set it off….and not too long after, they get a call as Dejen activated his radio.

“TREMBLE! FEEBLE WEAKLINGS!” comes the pitched and confident cry. Dejen face palm as he let out a sigh. “I have heard your pittiful plight, and have decided, that the only one that can conquer the world is I, Prank! AH-HAHAAHA! Now, I demand to know whom to bring down my DOOMFUL wraith on, for I will bring them that! DOOM! Dooom and GLOOM! But mostly DOOOOM!”

Dejen pull his hand down as he gave a raise of a brow to Farin, as if asking if this was a joke.

“Psst, let me talk to them, if you talk to them like that, you’re going to loose them Prank. You might reveal you’re the leader.” another voice spoke in in the background.

“Oh very well, yess, yess, go and speak with them.” sounding dismissive on the other person. “I have a large and DOOM-a-flying plans to make on those that even DARE to conquer this planet. Which they can’t. Because I have the ‘dibs’ on it. THE DIBS!” the sound of movement came as the other voice spoke in.

“Sorry about that. Prank got the line before I did. This is Sicarius, Grandmaster of the Misfits. I heard from Milo that you want our help…?”

“Dejen, Dejen of the Mitego Clan.” respond Dejen as he said. “And yes, I do. Because this is something of a world wide problem and we can’t handle it ourselves.” (done)

“So Milo told us.” Spoke up a mare’s voice. “Eve, medical doctor of the Misfits.” Then proceeded to say, “after that letter Farin sent us and hearing about the severity of the situation? I think it’s important that we get to meet each other.” (End)

“Yes, we gather what info we can, old info-- but information nevertheless.” said Dejen as he said. “Although we can’t meet up just yet, as we’re traveling to the Holds for a job.”

“We can met after.” Sicarius spoke in. “Maybe somewhere we both can meet without interruptions? Bring our two groups with?”

Dejen thought over and glance to ask to Farin. “Will Equestria be a good place to meet them?” (done)

Thinking on it, Farin said, “it might be better to meet over the ocean between Holds and Arabia.” and soon spoke up, “Sicarius, can you hear me?” Going on to tell, “we’re planning to inform others about this. I’m going to be sending letters to them and if we all want in the loop? We’re going to need you to try picking them all up.”

“What ever for?” Eve was heard asking.

“Trust me.” Farin said, “They’re going to be a huge help.” Then hesitated, “and… we might bring sir Semor into this…” (End)

There was a bit of silence as Sicarius asked. “Farin, correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t Semor brainwashed my two friends and used them as spies for him and been in our way every step?” his tone sounding slightly agitated. “Why the hell are we bringing him in this?” (done)

“Because he’s the only other one that’s even sly enough to fight someone that’s been fooling half the world, Siracus!” Farin said in some frustration. “I don’t like it any more than you do, but he’s got an Alumina that allows for future sight and scrying. We need him-- even more, we’re facing a threat that could replace the King of the Holds with a slave trafficker, a Demon-aiding Unicorn that made that last string of demon problem that you had to help Milo and I with-- AND, and that Dejeen horse guy might just come back into power soon with this Empire’s aid!”

While that as left to sink in and all looked to the faun that had next to shouted this, she breathed out. “Sicarus, I don’t want to bring Semor into this. But this lion, Jubali? I’ve heard a bit about him. I don’t know all his aliases. But what I have been told? At least one name, Capt. Juke?” a tone of understanding, “you remember what ‘he’ did to your last home. Even if we never saw him, you saw the notes.” (End)

There was a long silence on the other end, as Dejen glance to Farin and to his radio, as a deep and control breath came as Dejen swore he heard a muttering of latin on the other end as Sicarius spoke. “I know….I saw it myself...and I swore he would pay one way or another….” being silent as he soon asked. “Farin, where are we meeting between the oceans of the Hold and Arabia? What are we going to be on?”

Dejen spoke in. “You and everyone else will be aboard my ship, the Innovation Rise, as it will be hosted for all of us to met and discuss.” then told. “But one thing is straight. No fighting, no destroying the ship, and keep your weapons to yourselves. Because if anyone dares to wreck my home? I’m going to make sure everyone will be getting a large bill for the damages.”

There was a low snort, as Sicarius was hearing something from someone as Sicarius spoke. “There’s a old island in the local area, Milo can send the needed runic array to both find and enter in it. There we can speak to everyone without damaging your ship.” then said to Farin in mild amusement. “You found a rather, unique individual to be hosted by Farin. He sound like he’ll fit in with the cutthroats in Trottingham.” (done)

Sihing, Farin said, “ask Camous or your sister. They can fill you in.” Then told, “I’ll be sending you a list of everyone, along with some tracking runes. Camous and Milo should be able to help with that.” Then breathed in, “and please, oh please.. Make sure Prank behaves while he’s helping with the pickup?” (End)

“I’ll make sure he’ll behave.” assured Sicarius as he grin in his tone. “Cora will be with him.” (done)

When the call ended, Farin went straight to getting papers out and quickly writing down the details in each letter. As she did so, Farin told, “they should be able to meet us on that island soon enough.” Half ignoring the whooshing of fire that dropped another letter down before her. “When you’re ready to head there? Let me know.” (End)

Nodding, Dejen got up as he said. “I’ll need to combine the notes, gather stuff, get into contact with the other's.” then soon added. “And thanks Farin.” (done)

She gave a sigh and looked up to him with a slightly tired look and told, “you don’t have to, Dejen. The world is basically in danger of something big. I can’t let it happen on the sidelines.” Then focused on her work again. “Just don’t take too long on Arbin if you do decide to get him sooner than latter. The more this Jubali knows about what’s going on or suspect us? The more trouble we’ll have.” (End)

Dejen thought and asked curiously. “How quickly will everyone be at the location?” looking at her as he went on. “Because if they can all be there in day or two? We might be able to meet them, give them the info, and help coordinate on what we’re doing-- and then head to Arbin to help update any information we gain to spread out.” (done)

While she was finishing a letter and sending it off, Farin said, “it might take a day for the closest people, and up to a week for the firthers.” Going on to tell in example. “The Twins are at the Isles, meaning a few days to go to them, then at least three more to reach the island.” Giving Dejen a clear idea that people were going to appear as soon as a day, and the more later entired about a week. The same time it would take to get to the mainland just about. (end)

Nodding as Dejen thought over as he said. “We might hold off on Arbin, mostly to get the Twins, and head to this island.” and while he didn’t want to hold off Arbin? Dejen knew that right now as far as he was aware? They don’t know fully that he and his group knew their plans. So he might take this opportunity to speak with these other people, get radios ready-- and possibly try to hold everything together on having some peace in the conversation on their plans.

Maybe even have a larger connection of a spy net and gather information faster, even direct and point to places for everyone to go to, or give heads up.(done)

“Let Prank handel the pickups.” Farin told while finishing another letter and sending it off. “I’ll make sure everyone knows what’s going on.” and once more focused on the letters.

Dejen really did not expect what he saw once they reached the island. Frist of all, the place was apparently enchanted to be cloaked by some strong magic. Something that was only attuned to the runic symbol Camous had allowed Milo to send over to Farin. The second thing?

There was an entire fleet of ships that were more advanced than anything in the world. And they apparently belong to that Prank guy! They all patrolled the area and kept watch. While the Innovation itself joined it’s ranks, being the biggest ship currently there.

When they came down with everyone, Dejen had to revaluate who was all there. The Twins were there, Asha was there, Tatsu, Miko, Felix, Cosmo, Hayami, Jordan, Biscuit, Gem-- there were so many familiar faces… and somewhat new one. Like Milo’s group, who were mingling with the rest.

Some were getting over the fact of meeting a Lioness. Other’s comparing tech. And some getting over the fact that they were meeting two small-sized gods, more-or-less. And once they saw Dejen’s group come in, the Stripped took a breath… and clapped his hands together, forsure getting their attention. (End)

“Okay, before we start?” giving a look of everyone as he told. “Raise your hand if you’re a former human.” seeing some he knew raise their hands as he raise his own, other's that don’t know are shocked, and slowly raised their own hands. Okay so the two fox twins, the two mouse couple, Jordan and Farin are former humans? Who knew, a...Sangheili, some sort of robot guy, a earth pony mare, oh that Herno’s a former human? noticing Serena and Eydis. Oh great, those two. Lovely. then glance to Semor as he raise his hand up, while Camous was taking her time to count every human. And Semor a former human huh? interesting. (done)

Hand coming back down, Semor was the first to ask, “now that is out of the way, perhaps introductions are in order?” Smiling in that charming manner that would disarm most anyone. “For those out of the know, I am Sir Semor. Noble, historic enthusiast, entrepreneur of unique items…” Then cleared his voice. “But never mind my pleasantries.” Motioning for another to talk next.

“I am Prank, you glorious--” Started insectoid shaped robot, though got a quick jab by the herno by him.

“We get it, your greatness.” She told, before saying, “names Cora.” And from there, other names began to flow in. Each one helping to at least identify themselves.

When it finally finished, Cosmo was the one to speak up. “Now that names are figured, let’s get to business.” And looked to the striped. “Dejen, you know the full details. And I know you wouldn’t have called each of us here if it wasn’t serious. Farin wasn’t completely clear on every detail.” (End)

Nodding as Dejen soon focus around as he clap his hands. “Okay, here’s the deal. We're dealing with a world wide slaver operation empire. And I don’t mean the little thing Maltar had a few years back-- I’m talking about something that’s been happening for years. And there are key players. Shimmer Lake, the unicorn who basically been backing a certain demon lord for some time. Gouson, a former griffon military who is keeping the Skull crushers busy and pulling in new pirates for fodder.

“Doug, a possible former human thats a minotaur who’s engineering and planning to overthrow and rule the Holds as a slave trafficking bastard. Criff, a diamond dog who got Equestria underground control and been hiding stuff to move, as well as taking ponies. Karica, a vampire snake lady who killed the previous guy as she’s controlling the police force and going to try to take control of the Tidelands.

“Dejeen, a horse bastard from Arabia trying to gain power with the empire aid.

“Arbin, a horse noble that work as a economist, between ARabia and the Holds-- who’s also help move illegal slave trafficking to everywhere.”

“And finally, the mastermind of them all, you know him as Juke, Copper, Razul-- or any other name, bottom line? He’s a Lion mix breed named Jubali that’s a spymaster and check in everything pose as a trader and everything else.” then look around as he told.

“And these guys? They have been working pretty hard with their plans and goals, to the point they may be already progressing as we speak, I’m sure some of you probably notice it when a certain demon lord tried to attack the Isles.” (Done)

Bina seemed to tell, “it’s done with for the most part.” And motioned to her brother. “Bakari and I were able to fight it back and go to Haulani’s place of hiding. We took out a large chunk of his paradise and even were able to cripple him pretty bad.”

“But the creep slipped away.” Bakari told with annoyance. “We had him too, but a few of his lakies had done a last-ditch fight with us to keep the guy safe.” And held a glare while crossing his arms. “Pretty sure he ran to the ocean to keep away. But he got no army now.”

Humming, Semore said, “well, that is good news.” Then breathed out, “now to inform the bad.” And gave each a long look. “I know those names fairly well. You could say that I have a bit of an… entroprize when it comes to knowing people.”

“Of course you do.” Camous spoke with a measure of dry sarcasme.

“No need to take that tone, madam.” Semor spoke cooly enough. “I am far more aware that each and every one of you would rather see me dead, unsure of what side I am on.” And used a hand to fix a glove. “But, if you must know? I am first and foremost, a businessman. The further preparation of Equestria and her people come first in order to keep both economic balance and my own interests intact. The fact is? One of these foes that were named? Are a threat to me, as much as they are to anyone else.”

“And all the other times?” Milo asked.

Smiling, Semor said, “nothing personal to you or anyone else. You question my motives? I have as much right to question yours, seeing as most of you do not do things by regulation of law and order.” (End)

“We’ll we have been trying to save the world.” sarcastically spoke Umbra.

“And you still haven’t apologized for brainwashing us.” heavily snorted Stone.

Dejen spoke up before any arguments were showing up.” Hey, hey, hey!” getting looks as he told. “Look, its pretty clear some of us hate each other alot more than other's.” he ignored Serena growl as he said. “But you know what? I could care less of whatever personal grudges you all have! We can kill each other after we deal with a potential world ending/ conquering group is dealt with!”

Looking around as he told. “For now? Semor has info. Info we all need. And unless you all want to try to scramble for information that’s months old and trail behind these assholes who been causing us all misery? Then just fucking leave, because I’m trying to not have this world be ruined anymore than it already has.” (done)

While a few didn’t look happy to this? No one walked away. Semor took this as his que to reach into his bag and get out his Alumina. Flipping the pages, he soon told, “while you may question my methods of hypnosis or brainwashing? It get’s the needed the results.” And looked up. “Karcia, firstly? Is our lowest threat. She’s the furthest and only has power in the Tidelands. Her motives are pretty clear, to get a certain person of interest to achieve eternal youth.”

Then looked back down. “Gousu is also on the lower end. The biggest threat he poises are his fleets. Unless he’s given the go-ahead to attack a place? We don’t have to worry much on him. In fact a quick round-about game of cat-and-mouse will keep him and the Airship pirates mostly busy.”

“Doug however is a very clear threat.” Told Semor. “With Arbin aiding in backing him? The two very well do have the means to stage a coup or a very complex plot to kill the King of the Holds and insert Doug as the new King. it won’t be instant, or seemless. But it can be done, and we need to deal with the minotaur at the very least. Arbin may have a slave-made army, but it’ll crumble once he lacks backing from Doug’s devices.”

“Dejeen is a bit more tricky.” Semor seemed to admit, head tilted. “He has a place of stay, but he’s keeping himself under the radar. From what I’ve gathered and know? He’s planning to get his own coup made in the city’s he’s hiding in and surge up to take the throne. Then use what influence he has in the Slaver Empire to get Pirates, slavers and even Hunter’s to act as a residue army to take more Sultan Cities. Be he isn’t ready to move out, and weak. But we lack the full knowledge of his hiding spot.”

Page flipping, Semor then informed, “as to the Twin’s words? The Demon Lord has ran away. Whatever remains of his forces have gone scurrying back to Shimmer Lake’s place. She’s hiding them, and doing her best. But sacrifices do call for people, which other’s have been noticing missing lately. All thats needed is one very scandalous show of what she’s been up to and the Kingdoms will come crashing down on her.”

“As for this Criff?” Semor asked, “well, he’s much harder to track. He and his packs never venture on the surface if they can help it and have been working on rail-ways.” Then went on, “I have it on good knowledge that he plans to make a strike on the Elements at some point, Capture mostly, but they don’t mind death as it would open a way for the Demons Shimmer is housing to come in unhampered.”

“Lastly, Jubali.” This time, Semor snapped his book shut and told, “he is a whole different sort. I’ve sent what I can, but the Lion is very carful. He knows someone is looking for him and he’s keeping low. The best I can tell from my recent bit of information? He plans to viset either Shimmer or Criff. Possibly to get some goods and transport them to Dejeen to supply that army. Maybe swing around to Doug to help plot the King’s demise.” (end)

“You heard from the cat, people.” said Dejen as he look around. “We know what they’re doing as far as Semor looked into-- and we have to work together, coordinate with each other-- and make sure these guys don’t ruin anything more.” moving into his robe to take out a series of folders as he told. “This, is all the info I managed to gather for each of us.” nodding to Mercy as her horn glowed, passing the folders around to each group as he told.

“Its not much, but its something to catch ahead on than what I told you.” Looking to them all, their different races and groups as Dejen went on. “Now, I know ‘teamwork’ isn’t something some of us can do, especially with our ‘rivals’.” he turn as Cosmo asked.

“What do we know about their strengths and weaknesses?”

“Well Cosmo? What we do know? Is that they’re mostly mortal-- except for Karcia I think. They can be killed. Their strengths? Well, Arbin has a slave army and is utterly paranoid. Doug is a engineer and is probably smart, not Jubali smart, but pretty smart to make connections in the Hold. Gouson is a former military, so he probably has the Skull Crushers with him having some military standard, or gear. Criff, is hiding low and probably control alot of packs underground. Dejeen is cunning and is ruthless as he likes to enforce and keep tight control with currency.”

Dejen frown as he told. “Shimmer and Jubali are two different stories. Shimmer being a dark arts user, with powerful magic and got demons on her side, and Jubali being a mixed breed of a Red mane and a Gold mane that his roars and words alone can manipulate most.” (Done)

He heard Eydis speak up. “Karcia is mortal.” getting looks as she went on. “But she can take lifeforce to make her young or heal herself and power her magic. If you get too close, she’ll take it away. And she learned a lot about magic, most of it will sap her lifeforce. But she will use anyone as a source to feed herself.”

Considering it, Semor said, “If I know Doug from our meetings? He isn’t what you may call the most burly of minotaurs.” going to ponder to them. “Though his equipment did show that he has the hands for tools. Denying his tools or overpowering him through raw attack may work. He doesn’t seem skilled in enchantment, so magic might also work well.”

Cosmo gave nods and looked around, “anyone else?” going on to tell, mostly to Dejen. “I know you want to deal with these people and as a team. But we need to know what they bring to the table and what we can bring to the table. Any misshap in our fight will result in a bad loss.”

“We can face most anyone.” Bakari seemed to tell.

Cosmo only countered with, “you can take on most anyone, but we can’t send you after anyone.” Pointing to him and his sister. “You’re both litteral gods, able to manipulate the elements and are practically invulnerable to most damage. We need you playing hardball with the most largest threats.” And put a hand to himself. “I’m adaptable, can sneak into areas and most importantly, anti-magical.”

Farin gave a nod and agreed, “Cosmo makes a good point. If we want to take each of these people on? We need to use our specific skills to take advantage of their weaknesses or use our strengths to nullify their own strengths.”

Thinking on it, Bina said, “well… if there is someone Bakari and I should avoid? It should be Shimmer Lake.”

Bakari snorted, but said, “okay, yeah, that unicorn knows a few things to hold us down. Maybe for a bit, but those demons will be a pain to deal with while being held down. And she knows a thing or two about sapping our power, so maybe it’d be smarter if we faced someone that isn’t so used to fighting us.” (end)

Sicarius thought and soon asked. “What about fighting Doug? From the sounds of it, you two can easily handle him.” going on to tell. “Although the Misfits might actually handle Gouson, since if all he has are ships? Then we can use Prank ships to remove them, or at the very least play cat and mouse with them. Infiltrate Skull Crusher dens and handle in the Griffon kingdoms.”

“But,” started Umbra as she cross her arms. “I don’t know if we can handle Shimmer, since while we can handle demons to a extent? Not alot of them if she’s playing host.”

Jordan told. “Cosmo can handle Shimmer with me as his back up.” getting looks as Jordan smile. “Cosmo can make a utter joke of spellcasters, since he’s anti-magic? No magic affects him. And my mace can take and reflect or rebound spells.”

“What sort of mace is it?” asked the skinny unicorn among the Misfits as Jordan took it out.

“This mace, and trust me,” grinning wide as Jordan told. “The demons hate Macey.”

“You named the Mace of Molag Bal….Macey?” asked the Krev in dumbfound as Jordan shrug.

“Its quick-- plus its annoying when it talks to me, so I figure it would hate the name.”

Pondering it, Semor told, “then perhaps I can use my contacts and influence in Equestria to deal with Criff.” Telling on, “I know of the operation and I can maybe ‘persuade’ a few people I know that he will be not that useful for business soon.”

Thinking on it, Serena told, “know where a entry way in is?” Getting looks as she told, “Eydis will remain at home. But I can deal with them.”

With one look, Cora asked, “by yourself?”

Grinning with many a sharp fang, Serena told darkly, “I got a pretty big appetite.” (end)

“She eats anything she can get her claws on. People, weapons, entire trees-- doesn’t matter, as she will eat it.” dryly explain Dejen as there were a few who look disturb looks as Serena as Dejen told to Semor. “Just keep a ear out for a Constrictor gang, there’s a boa-snake guy thats probably former human and Criff is planning on using them to either steal the harmonies, or take them and kidnap or kill the bearers.”

“Question.” spoke the jackal diamond dog from the Misfits as he asked. “How will we be in contact with the other? Our radio tower doesn’t reach far to contact anyone else but ourselves.”

“We will handle communications.” inform Dejen as he told. “Once everything has been planned out and we figure where we need to go? We’ll hand out our radios, as our comm tower can spread far and wide all over, so we can all be in constant contact, update each other and pass information around so we know whats happening.” and going on to add. “And no I’m not exaggerating, the Innovation is able to handle communication with our comms room and with our transmissions? We could have something as close as cellphones.”

While most of the natives were a bit confuse on what a ‘cellphone’ was? Sicarius asked in surprised. “How did you managed that? We haven’t even gotten that far with Prank.”

“Well when you have two very smart engineers and innovative dragon?” told Dejen as he jab a thumb to Rah-Rah, Felix and Karth. “There’s a lot to be done.”

Although while there was some impressive hums or musing sounds, Nibble eyes widen as she turn to Camous as she mouthed. ‘Is that who I think it is?’ being absolutely surprised to see the dragon here of all places. She thought he looked familiar, but when she took a full notice of him? Nibbles had no idea that the guy would be with a group. Although she didn’t voice it out due to the topic of the conversation as Dejen went on.

“Anyway, while we do have some means to handle in Equestria and in the Griffon Kingdoms? Arabia and the Holds area problem with Dejeen and Arbin. While the Mitego clan can handle Arabia fully? The Holds is what I’m concern of with Arbin and Doug.”

“I can go for you.” volunteer Gabriel, looks were given to him as he said. “I’m not the best thief,” admitting to this. “But I can go into Arbin place, and take everything from him-- even make sure to leave nothing if the horse comes back, like papers, books, money, even people.”

“How can you take people?” Asked Umbra with a raise of her brow.

“I got a magic bag of holding.” Answer Gabriel as he said. “I’m close enough as a smuggler, so I can have anything in this bag.” and went on to add. “And I can handle Doug, granted not fighting him with brute strength. But I can cause him trouble and take his stuff too.”

“Then what can you do to hurt him?” snorted Ragi, as Debt snorted at the gnoll.

Gabriel tried not to wince, mostly from seeing the gnoll as he shook off the brief memories, clearing his voice to calm himself and soon answer. “I just be myself and let bad luck do its job.”

“Basically, Gabriel here can invoke Murphy's law just by saying ‘the words’-- and bad luck just happens around him.” explain Dejen.

Sicarius thought as he asked. “Cora, think you can deal with Doug?”(done)

“I mean, sure.” Cora shrugged nonchalantly, “but I thought the two brats were going to do that?” Ten went on while looking at the two, “‘less they ain’t what they’re cracked up to be.”

“I wouldn’t challenge them, Cora.” Camous said rather blandly. “You’re strong. But they are languages over most of the mortals here. Only a very select few can handle them.” Eyes flicking to Karth, “though win is debatable.” not saying more on that subject and skipped back to the main topic. “But… it would ensure success. But it might be more prudent she go with the Wolfkin there.” And looked to Gabe. “add muscle to their ranks.”

Enola seemed to agree, “Horn, Red and Grinder are good, but it would help if we had extra help.” And asked, “how strong is Cora?”

“I can bend or tear steel, and I’ve mastered a good deal of Ki techniques and styles.” Bragged Cora with a cocky smirk. “I scare the hibijibis out of metal boy over there.” Tossing a thumb to Prank.

Arms crossed, Prank said, “Pah, as if I would be frightened of a lowly fleshbag like--” Only to cower back when she turned, ready to toss a fist. “AGH! NOT THE FACE!” all four arms up to guard it.

Tsatsu rolled her eyes to this, but thought on it and said, “Ashani-san, Najat-san, myself and possibly a few others can deal with Karcia.” Standing tall as she told, “while only so strong, Ashina-san is quite powerful, and can deny the noble her meana to get close. She also possessed absorption like powers of her own.”

Semore let his eyes drift and spoke, “perhaps while you do that, Milo and Farin can deal with Dejeen.” Getting looks from the two. “The Horse is very arrogant. He won’t see them as a huge threat at first. I would come along too, personal vendetta. But seeing as I’m needed in Equestria, I’m afraid I can’t carry it out. But their knowledge in magic will undo any defenses or measures Dejeen has up to fight or scurry away.” (end)

“I can send what info on the city Dejeen is hiding in, at the very least to he give you two a idea.” Spoke Dejen, as he said. “But I have a concern, mostly on a certain Rat, odds are he might give info on what we’re doing to Jubali or other's.” (Done)

“Alute?” Spoke Semor in a passive manner, getting a few looks as he smiled. “Don’t worry. I specifically payed him to keep out of this.” Smiling a bit more, “that… and he knows that if he steps out of line? He will have every nation after him for… breach of national security.” (end)

“That’s a vague way of saying ‘I’m blackmailing him’.” Told Umbra.

“But it’ll do for now.” Said Dejen as he asked. “But what about the demon lords? Specifically the one the Twins chased off. Odds are he’s hiding with Shimmer, and there’s a chance Camkum and Tyra may interfer with our work.” (Done)

Waving a hand, Camous told, “don’t concern yourself with Tyra.” Seeming rather dismissive. “To her? This little squabble only helps her long-term. No, she wouldn’t mind the chaos, but seeing as these ther people could be a semi-threat to her? Well, she may just let us do our little qurral and simply wait for the openings it gives her.”

Looking to Ashina in particular, Camous went on while also dragging her sights over each person. “She’s lost something too important and integral to her plans. So she won’t be doing anything anytime soon.” Then smiled, “and Camkum? How has that little sneak been?” Smirking as she said, “no doubt skuling about and still trying to use other’s to do his work for him. At most? He’ll send his little lakies to do something. He won’t show himself unless he knows he’s safe-- his magical reserves are actually pretty small. No matter how ‘powerful’ he seems.” (End)

“Well that’s reassuring.” Dryly said Mercy as she asked. “But while Arbin and to a extent Doug is handle? We still have one missing link left. Jubali.” (Done)

“Ah yes, the ever elusive linchpin in all of this.” Semor spoke in thought. “He is the most difficult one to deal with out of tall of them, simply because we don’t know where he is exactly, nor where he plans to go…” And worked his mind over this. Though as he hummed and thought, he let his eyes drift to Dejen and cocked his head to the side. “Do you happen to have anything from his person as of late?” (End)

“I do have the map he gave to ‘help’ me.” Told Dejen as he snort in irritation. “I had Farin and Karth look over if there was anything hidden. That’s really the only thing he gave to me.” (Done)

Large grin in place, Semor said, “how ideally convenient.” And rolled a hand, “bring it here, I think we have just acquired the Lion’s undoing.” And while Mercy sent the message, a few seemed confused.

Though it was Milo that blinked and said, “you’re going to use it for a scrying spell to track him.”

“Very astute, as always, Milo.” Semor chuckled. “Yes, with the aid of Farin, Milo and one Whitemane to add in a bit of her own magic? We should be able to not just link his lingering ensecse on the map, but I my also know a spell to… well, let’s just say that the map will always tell you where it’s former owner is at all times.” (end)

“Ohohoh,” started Dejen with a grin. “Which means we will know where he is, but update you guys too on any places he’s heading to check in.”

One of Mercy changeling came to buzz his wings, holding the map with hooves as he pass the map to Semor. While Farin, Milo and Asha came up as do some work of their own with the noble cat.

“I can’t believe that Lion actually gave you something to track him.” Said Sicarius as he shook his head. “He probably assume you couldn’t track him with how smart he was,” then remark. “Then again, he probably didn’t think we would come together like this.” (Done)

To that extent, Camous remarked while watching the four work on the map, “scrying magic like this isn’t a common thing. The Lion is used to dealing with Zebra Shamans with their Rituals and Whitemane Seers with dreams of things to come.” Pausing to point something out to Milo before speaking up again.

“He might have traveled the world, but he’s still a young mortal. He dosn’t know the more expansive dark arts or deep archaic tricks mages have in full. Even less from those like these three.” The Demoness watching on with minor disinterest. “To him? What are the chances someone would have the needed skills or magical knowledge to use something so minor, to locate him? Only Zebra Shamans had that skill in his mind, and they needed a lock of hair or even a nail from his person to do anything.” (end)

“It also probably doesn’t help that I reach out to everyone here to try working together.” Added Dejen. “I mean sure Farin did wrote letters to everyone, but I wanted us to make a plan.” (Done)

When the Demoness gave Dejen a glance, the striped wasn’t sure what to think. Mostly at how she scrutinized him. But after a long drawn moment, she told, “just be happy you were able to pull this miss-matched mess together to deal with this issue.” And glanced back down to the work at hand. “Things are changing rapidly. And I’d rather nip this issue now before it becomes a longstanding one. Seeing as there will be much worse things up ahead soon enough.”

“What makes you say that?” Eve spoke up, after having been silent for most of the meeting. “Isn’t this a large issue that you just admitted we needed to deal with before it becomes a true full on issue?”

“What I mean, Eve.” Tersely spoke Camous, “is the fact that two demi-god children had ascended to godhood. The demon threat they fought ran away and lives. Tyra is also waiting and back in hiding now her rival has ran like a dog with their tail between their legs. The real problem has yet to happen.”

Finishing and standing up, Farin told those all around. “I said this once to Dejen’s people. When Demi-gods come around? It usually means either a golden age is coming up, or a large disaster.” Going on to add while looking at the two. “Bina and Bakari reached their god-hood stage. Meaning that a golden age is coming up, but we have to make sure they succeed later on. Because if they die? Whatever we’re dealing with now will seem like a small issue.”

Nodding, Camous told with her arms crossed. “So sweeping aside this little slaver empire now will just make sure that those two fulfill whatever pre-set destiny they are no doubt in for. We ensure this golden age to come and we all can have a few centuries or a millennium of relative peace and quiet!”

Making a face, Bakari said, “I thought being a demon you’d want the opposite.”

“Don’t get me wrong, I do love a good bloodbath of fools.” Camous said passively, “but even I can get tired of killing insufferable fools and idiots. I think Nibbles and I are on the same page that a couple of centuries to just chat and enjoy the simple things would do us some good. Perhaps get a nice relaxing rest in for once.” (end)

“You have no idea what’s it like having constant bloodbath.” Agreed Nibble as she let out a exasperated breath. “Constant death, constant squabbles— a pain in the tail.”

“And a headache to clean up.” Snorted Karth, as he kept silence for a majority. “While I would like nothing more but to kill Tyra? The damnable demon won’t come out. So I might wait with Mitego until the time is right.”

“What I’m more concern of is how to handle Jubali,” spoke Umbra. “From what we’re hearing? Tracking him will help us know where he is, but how are we going to face him, much less nabbed him. He might retreat and try to use any fall back plans. Maybe try to use his words to trick us, or give us info to mess with us.” Going on to add. “He’s basically in charge, so he’s a goldmine to get info out, so how are we going to capture him?” (Done)

“We don’t.” Johari spoke up rather simply. “We could, but we have two choices. One: Kill him.” Sitting up tall as she went on. “Do we miss out on vital intel? Yes. will he be a problem? Not anymore.” Then went on, “if we were to try capturing him… then we have a dilemma. We’ll have to muzzle him. Contain him in a separate cell… perhaps get someone deaf to give him meals so they don’t fall for his tricks and persuasion. As the only ones I’m aware of that are immune or aware of such magics, are Blackmanes and Zebra’s.”

While FArin took the map and began to carry it over, she said, “in short… killing him might be the only option?”

“It’s the safest.” Johari told. “Dadisi knew it was. True, Jubali has a lot of information in that skull of his, but Dadisi knew that he was too large a risk to keep alive. It would be safer to simply kill him.”

Tapping her chin, a very disturbing and dark grin grew on Camous’s lips as she spoke, “Perhaps I can help you with both…” And proceeded to tell, “Milo, deary? After we deal with that Horse, I think I know of just the artifact we need to help these poor helpless souls get what they need.” (End)

“That doesn’t give us assurance on the way you said that.” commented Mercy as she gave a wary look to the demoness.

Nibble roll her eyes as she told. “She’s a demon, she tend to be like that alot.” then glance to Camous on what the demoness figure out, but she focus back on the topic. “We know what we’re all going to be doing, but are we going to inform any of the leading powers? Like the Celestial sisters, the King of the griffon kingdoms, and the King of the Holds? We do have proof, so letting them know might help us remove the threats.”

“Felix and Vass might be able to let the good King of the Holds know,” said Dejen. “And I’m sure Farin already informed the Celestial sisters so they know something up.” he however frowned. “The griffon kingdoms I’m unsure of, as we don’t know the full situation there.”(done)

To that, Farin told, “They’ll know.” Going on to explain, “Knowing Celestia? She’ll let everyone in charge know that a group of going around to act as the main strike against these threats. If anything? We’ll just have to meet each military force.” (end)

“If,” reminded Sicarius as he said. “If we meet the military forces helping us.” the Grandmaster thought over as he said. “And I’m concern if our home was attacked again, Farin.” frowning as he recalled when his last home was burn to the ground and while they managed to get most everyone out? A few didn’t make it. “The Sanctuary could be attacked again while we are doing this.” (done)

Semor rolled his eyes some, though when the other’s began to talk over this ‘issue’, he blinked and reached into his pocket. Pulling out a small slim box of some form, he frowned at it’s magical pulse. His eyes flicked up to the group and then figured to place them on hold while he got the top open and reached his fingers in, taking out the small slip of paper inside.

Closing the box he unrolled the little slip and took a moment to read it over. Soon, he felt his brows knit close. He then spoke, “Dejen, is Jubali heading straight for Arabia at this very moment?” Making all pause, and Dejen, having just gotten the now enchanted map, took a moment to unroll it. Semor going on, “because if he is, mostly due east of the northern tip of Arabia? We may have an issue.” (end)

Dejen look over the map and said. “Ah shit.” seeing the blinking ‘dot’ of Jubali moving as he said. “He is.”

“What, why is he over there?” asked Mercy as she said. “It doesn’t make sense, why would he go to Arabia if he was heading to Criff or Shimmer?”

“Here’s a question,” asked Umbra with a raise of her brow under her hood. “Why is it bad he’s heading to Arabia in the eastern north?”

Dejen frown as he said. “That is a good question, if I recall there’s only a city or two up there.” (done)

Pocketing the box and holding the little slip of paper up, Semor told, “put simply? One of my spies just had a moment to send me a letter.” And told, “Shimmer Lake has massed and sent a large detachment towards Arabia. She’s personally accompanying them. And she’s bringing quite a bit with her.”

“So?” Cora asked in confusion.

“So.” Semor told in a firm tone. “I asked if Jubali was heading that way to see what he’s doing. And he’s going to the same location too.” Then thought on. “We need to know what’s going on. There shouldn’t be a reason for Shimmer Lake to move herself and such a huge detachment away from her space. And this is more than a simple flight over, the spy spoke of slaves, arms and crates that demons were assured to hide in.”

Farin thought on it and said, “hold on.” And took a moment to use her book’s cover as a surface, while getting a slip of paper out and began to write. One sent it off through a magical fire, and the group waited.

When it returned, Farin grabbed it and looked it over. And after her quick read, Farin said, “well… ponyville is still safe. Twilight hasn’t noticed anything off yet.”

Vass went into thought and soon asked, “are you sure something is up?”

“Undoubtedly.” Semor nodded. “This sort of move is not like Shimmer. She likes to let others do far-off work so she has more time for more important matters. If she’s going someplace with a large group? It means there’s something large caling for her attention.” (end)

“But what?” asked Jordan. “What could make both Jubali and Shimmer head to Arabia with slaves, weapons and demons?”

Dejen thought over, thinking as he was trying to figure it out...then pause. Thinking and glancing to Farin as he asked. “Farin, you sent a letter to Princess Celestia first, right? Or at least, someone to reach to Celestia, right?” Going on to expand as he look to the others. “Let me put in a hypothetical. Let say a letter was reach to Celestia about something going on and let say there was a spy working for Jubali to keep tabs in Canterlot. And when they see said letter? They send word back which roughly takes a week depending on travel, right?” (done)

FArin made a face and thought it over, but it was Felix that answered. “Actually it could take more than a week.” Explaining further. “If we take your scenario, Dejen? We’re looking at a few days to a week to reach Criff, since he’s the closest. Then another week or two, to reach a couple others. And a X amount of unknown time to reach a constantly traveling Jubali.” Debunking the idea.

Cosmo however, said, “no… Dejen has something.” and while a few gave him confused glances, he said, “because we’ve had this happen before.” (end)

Dejen recalled what Cosmo meant as he said. “When Jubali planned for me to be caught by the Hunters in Arabia.” frowning as he thought and realized. “Oh shit! They’re using the same trick again! Changeling swarm mind!” (done)

“Changeling swarm mind?” Eve asked in some confusion.

“Months back, Dejen got himself captured.” Cosmo told them all. “Because the Hunters had gotten a young queen and were using her as a hostage to control the remains of the swarm. If the swarm didn’t obey commands? They would torture her. And if she lied to their questions? Again, torture.” Then looked at each person. “A changeling swarm can send and receive messages near instantly. The idea was Jubali’s. And I told Dejen, after it all. If he could do it once.”

“He could do it again.” Finished Semor in thought. “Well… this complicates matters.” Going on to add with a twisted face of detest. “But how can we be certain?”

“By sending another letter.” Cosmo quickly replied. (end)

Turning, Dejen said. “Farin, send another letter to Celestia-- or someone important. Make something up on what our plans are going to be.” (Done)

While Farin gave a nod and got another paper out and getting ready to write, Cosmo said, “I got an idea.” And asked, “they wanted to get the Bearers, right?” Making Farin look at him. “Maybe hint at a perfect chance to get them.”

Nodding in quick understanding, Farin said while she wrote, “this might take them a couple days to plan and react to this. But I can do that. Send a letter to Celestia about this and get her to help make a fake move.”

Tapping his chin, Semor considered it and said, “we can do something in that time to help further confirm this.” And looked to Gabe. “Arbin lives relatively not too far from here. If you can break in and scope out his home, it’s possible you can pick out anything of vital importance.” (end)

Gabriel nod as he said. “I can head over there and see on what I can take.”

“Take this.” told Karth moving a claw into his mouth reaching and pulling out a radio as Karth toss it to Gabriel. The Wolfkin wince as he caught it, but notice it wasn’t cover in slime or spit as Gabriel internally sigh in relief as he put it in his bag as he said.

“I can head over there now.” then glance to Semor as he asked. “Which direction is it at?” (done)

Pocketing the note, Semor told, “as much as I would like to know what’s happening? We need to be smart about this.” And gave a look to Gabriel. “We need to move as a group. Arbin’s little home is in the middle of the whole ‘network’, if you will, of this Empire. I suggest we move as a group, rest the fleet over the ocean and then allow yourself to infiltrate the home and make your findings.”

“If nothing too drastic has changed? It will help us know our current plans can go unhampered.” Told Semor. “If they however, yield new findings? We need to re-plan accordingly and quickly as a collective.” (End)

“And make sure your bad luck doesn’t affect this, boss.” joked Grinder as Gabriel snort a bit to this.

“Personally I think it would be wiser to send someone who is more good in stealth to head there first.” told Draw. “someone who can move there quick and sneak in without notice,” and glance over to Gabriel. “And someone not as bumbling or cause notice as the ‘Lucky Wolf’.” (done)

Cosmo however said, “well look at this from two ways.” Looking at the jackal. “If there’s nothing new? Gabe can deal with the issue and deplete Arbin like planned. If there is something new? Then he’s already there to send the info and still be a big problem in taking stuff from him.” (End)

“Which is good for us.” agreed Dejen as the jackal shook his head.

“I still believe,” started Draw before Sicarius interrupted.

“Relax Draw, I’m sure things will go fine,” there was a quick shout from Gabriel, Horn and Grinder-- as well as Enola, Red and Tish.

“Don’t finish that!” Getting looks as Gabriel clear his throat as he said.

“Sorry...old habit. But don’t say stuff like that around me-- thats how the bad luck start.” (done)

Shaking her head, Johari said, “since we have to postpone things? Let us go and pack up and see about gathering the last bits of information from that Horse and await the Princess's response.” Something that people began to agree on. Seeing as things were quickly spiraling sooner than they expected.