Arabian Swindler

Slipping through a window, Cosmo scoped the area out a bit before jumping up and motioning with a hand. Instantly everyone else slipped on in, each one keeping low. As they slowly crept inside, Enola asked, “Cosmo… I’ve been meaning to ask.” Shifting while getting used to the odd… shiny purple object she now had around her ankle. “What are these things you gave us for?”

Feeling it was safe to talk, since Enola wasn’t as alert, Cosmo explained while he neared the next door. “Compacted hex-cells. They’re what I use to fight. Think of them as highly-conductive and anti-magical sandgrains. I gave you all a spare clump, in case you need the protection.” slightly confusing them as he went about unlocking the next door. (End)

“So, anti-magic protection clumps to keep us safe?” asked Gabriel as he saw Cosmo motions a hand towards the Wolfkin. The clump he has on his person suddenly spreads over him like a very thin second skin. Gabriel blink in surprise as were Leona as the mouse saw Cosmo wave once he was done with the door as it reclumps to it’s compact ‘form’.

“Oh, like a protection suit.” spoke the french mousette. (done)

Cosmo nodded and held a hand up. Little bits of purple dust came up and soon formed a knife that he grabbed. While they took in the sight of it, Cosmo told, “if you need protection or a weapon, tell me. I can shape it however I like. Make armor if I have enough. But you each only have enough to make a ‘veil’ to protect and nullify any magical attacks. And maybe make a knife.”

Nodding, Enola summarized, “so if we’re being attacked by magic, call for help.” Understanding that Cosmo had some very versatile power with him, even if he lacked magic. And while the door was opened and they moved in, Enola looked about and said, “do you think this is the right way?”

“Don’t know.” Cosmo admitted. “But you did overhear about guards being re-posted here. Meaning there’s something important to protect.” And stopped to look at some crates before saying, “we should probably search the crates. Anyone have a way to check one without making noise?” (End)

Leona glance to the side, and look as she spoke. “Nibbles said there’s something in them. Metal and some weapons? They looked odd to her.”

“Odd?” asked Gabriel as he had to get used to the fact spirits exists as he asked. “Did she check the other's?”

After a moment, Leona told. “She did, and she said most of these crates are full of metals, parts mostly.” (done)

Cosmo ran that through his head and asked, “Hold position here.” Getting a few looks as he asked, “Leona. How far and how fast can Nibbles scout the building?” (End)

“She can go as far as thirty feet, and she can easily go through walls.” said Leona as she asked. “You want Nibbles to find Doug?” already ‘seeing’ the Spirit floating away as she added. “Nibbles is already moving around to look and scout.” (done)

Nodding, Cosmo said, “we can’t underestimate another human. We don’t know what sort of weapons Doug has with him, up his sleeves or around him. We have to be careful.” And thought to himself. “If most of what he has is mechanical? I won’t have much effect unless I know exactly where to disable his machines.” And looked to the three. “And one of us is primarily a healer. Nibbles is strong, but I want her to be our trump card if things get bad or we’re overwhelmed.” (end)

Leona nod, as she flick a ear as she said. “Nibbles said there’s slaves moving some crates toward somewhere. There’s a lot of crates being moved and lots of guards patrolling the halls.”

“I still have some invisibility potions,” offered Gabriel. “They can help us sneak past if things get dicey.”

“That will be helpful, thank you Gabriel.” said Leona as the Wolfkin pass her a potion, as he offered one to Cosmo to take.” (done)

He just said, “anti-magical.” Reminding him that it wouldn’t work. “But. you give me an idea.” And looked to each. “Nibble’s knows what’s going on and where people are, right?” Getting Leona to nod. “Then here’s the plan. You each take a potion and sneak in.” And pointed to Enola. “You take to the highest place you can and take opportunity strikes on guards when the fight starts.” Then to Gabe. “You’re on crowd control. See about spreading chaos in the ranks and maybe swiping those slaves.” And then to Leona. “You have any additional magical skills besides healing?” Going on to tell, “because I’m going to be the main distraction keeping everyone busy while you all do your parts.” (End)

“I can use protection spells.” said Leona as she added. “And some druid magic, but I’m more effective in healing and making barriers.” (done)

Nodding, Cosmo told, “then you’re on support. Find a safe location and keep Gabe and Enola covered while they dart in and out of the fight. When Doug arrives, you’re going to be the one to let Nibbles out if one of us goes down.” Telling once more, “I don’t want to bring Nibbles out if we can help it. She might bring a lot of attention to us if people start noticing a spirit ripping through large numbers.” (End)

Leona nod as Gabriel handed Enola a potion as Gabriel said. “Alright,” then look to Leona as he asked. “Which way are they’re all going?”

“To the left outside the door, they’re all going to a large wooden door on the far end of the halll.” replied Leona, hearing a bit as she frown and added. “It sound like to her there’s something being worked on in that room.” (done)

“Well, that’s not good.” Cosmo notted. “It would be a rotten surprise if Doug was working on some giant mechanized machine.” And worked on it in his head. “You know Gabe… if he is working on some big machine of war… how much do you think you can cause a utter mess of it from the inside out?” (end)

Thinking on it, Gabriel said. “Alot, depending on how much I run around and cause trouble.” then amend. “Or if someone said the ‘no-no’ words alot.”

Leona shook her head. “I do not believe that anyone could be cursed with bad luck. It is rather ridiculous that a simple phrase of,” she found her mouth shut, as Gabriel looking very panicked had his hand on her mouth as he quickly took his hand off and said.

“S-Sorry, but don’t even try to tempt fate like that.”

“Wow...he is utterly paranoid with just a single sentence.” remarked Nibbles as Leona slowly nod her head, as she glance to the other two and asked.

“Is it...that serious?” (done)

Enola quickly nodded. “I’ve watched a whole city go on fire because people kept saying it. And it got even worse.”

Cosmo points out questingly, “before or after he had that Bow?” Getting a look from her as he said, “I hear things. And I ask a lot of questions.” (end)

“If you’re talking about the cursed I got with the previous bow? It happened alot.” told Gabriel. (done)

Cosmo nodded and said, “so in short, we don’t know how effective it is now.” Then shook his head. “I’m just planing ahead here. If there is a machine? We need to wreck it. Don’t need it being taken by a random person wanting world conquest or… I don’t know… joyridding around in?”

“In short.” Cosmo went on, “I just want to deal with Doug as fast as possible, wreck any deadly machines he made, and call it a day.” (End)

Taking a breath in, Gabriel said. “Then someone needs to say it. A lot to see how effective my bad luck is now.” then admit. “Or maybe...I don’t know, shove it in my bag or something?”

Leona scrunch her face as she asked. “Could it really fit in there?”

“I mean, I think? I just need to get a part in and I could try to drag the rest into the bag.” said Gabriel. “I mean, thats what I did last time when I had to take a dinghy or something big.” (done)

Cosmo considered Gabril, and soon thought on it. “Leona.” Getting her attention. “Get ready to call on Nibble.” And took a breath in.

“You’re not--” Enola started as Cosmo began to fire off rapidly.

“I am because nothing can go wrong, or ever go wrong in whatever feasible way it could go wrong because we have the element of surprise and have a completely perfect fool-proof chance with no margin of error. This plan will go off so flawlessly, that it will be done and over within a matter of moments without a single issue.” And paused. “Let the chaos commence.” (End)

There was shouts outside of the door as Nibbles was summoned, there was movement outside of the door as Gabriel quickly rushed out. Slamming open the doors as the Wolfkin ran off.

Leona frown as she didn’t had time to cast her protection spell on him, as she quickly cast a protection spell on Enola as a blue glow surrounded Enola as the healer casted one over herself. Nibbles remarking lowly to Cosmo. “You must’ve really wanted to tempt fate to see what would happen, didn’t you?” already hearing chaos coming outside of the door as it seem the Wolfkin was already starting something-- or spreading the effects of his bad luck. (done)

Shrugging, Cosmo said, “what can I say? Sometimes the best distraction is complete and utter anarchy.” Then pointed to the open door, “Gabe just stole my job though, so I might have to do the sneaking and sabotage.” And told both, “radio if you need that veil.” And took a muck more stealthy approach for the door.

Enola and Leona shared a look, with the Evolve telling, “you can stay near me and I can get you someplace high and out of the crossfire.” (end)

Leona gave a nod of thanks as Nibble added. “I’ll keep close, just in case.”

Although as Leona was moving with Enola for cover? Gabriel was running along, grabbing slaves to put into his bag, as well as throwing out firecrackers or rocks to hit at guards. He took out his bow as he fired a arrow at a guard, rushing into the doors as he saw it was some sort of large construction.

One that wasn’t finished apparently with it being hanging in the air, but it seem to be some sort of large dragon like construct as Gabriel didn’t have time to take it in, as he was back to running and firing his arrows. Hitting into guards and being a major target for most. Although he slipped as he missed some arrows hitting at him, rolling and getting up as he ran more, hitting a guard in the face with his bow like a club as he thought.

Damn it, damn, damn it! Why did Cosmo said it?! We have no idea what’s going to happen! I mean for all we know, it might not be much and backfire on us! Ugh, this is why I hate being full of bad luck-- you never know whats going to happen! although he yelp as he missed being cut by a blade, as more guards were rushing in. Most of the slaves were leaving as a voice shouted out.

“What the hell is going on?!” movement on a balcony came as a minotaur look over and said. “Intruders? Well, we can’t have that!” activating something as the dragon eyes turn on in bright yellow. Starting to move as it let out a roar as Gabriel look and fired a arrow as Gabriel shouted.

“Damn it!” already moving as he tried to deal damage as the guards move back to let the dragon construct handle the Wolfkin.

However a few figure to remove the threat by firing arrows at him, as Gabriel seem to be dodging, or avoiding the arrows as much as he could.

Leona was moving to a protected place and look in shock as she said. “Oh no.” seeing the construct firing flames at the Wolfkin as he was running away from the flames. Both Enola and Nibbles move to assist as Nibbles slam her fist into the dragon face, but notice it wasn’t budging as she moved back to warned.

“Its tough!” flying around as Gabriel fired another arrow into the dragon construct eye. It let out a roar as they heard a laugh.

“Well, since you all are going to be minced meat? Guards! Get the other's and inform that my creation will be ready to attack the fleet soon!” already moving to add. “And I shall be ready myself for more rats!” entering in a room as Gabriel kept moving.

It was difficult for them all to fight this. As Gabriel arrows weren’t doing much against the fake dragon, Nibbles was hardly making any damage, Leona using protection spells on the three and Enola had to be cautious on the fire. Even more as Nibbles had to drop out to protect Leona from any guards trying to get at the healer and Enola moving back to help Nibbles.

Gabriel was searching in his bag, trying to find something as he recall he had some acid-- but grunted as the dragon claw pinned him to a wall. The construct opening its jaws as it look ready to flamboy him as Gabriel eyes widen in fear, he almost swore he heard Enola shouted his name in the fight…

Then the dragons abruptly shut down before it could do anything to him. As after a moment later, a hatch was opened and Cosmo came out with a handful of parts. (Done)

Most watched him whistle a ditty and dump the parts down before going back inside. They heard a few clangs and zaps before the cat came out and shut the hatch. A few took aim, but he called out, “Attention everyone. If you want to live through a gigantic mechanical dragon exploding? Please run for your lives now!” And paused. “That is all!”

They were all still and silent… before there was a hissing pressure. Slowly, steam and a few bolts began to shoot off the metal dragon, and it’s form began to shake. Many now a little scared, turned and ran. While Cosmo camply sped-walked his way to Gabe and gave him a look over before calling while getting a round barrier made, “Nibbles, some help? I can’t move the claw!” (end)

Nibbles move down and grip on the claw as she tried to pull. Grunting a bit as she said. “Its stuck.” Pulling and trying to pull the thing off as it hardly budged on moving as Cosmo raised a finger and taps the stone wall instead and making punches motioned for it. Nibbles snort, as she punch the wall, trying to get Gabriel out as the Wolfkin told.

“Hey, can someone get Doug? He might leave and escape, we can’t exactly do that since its why we’re here!”

“Almost got it,” said Nibbles, moving around and finally getting the last stone as Gabriel yelp as he fell back. The stone breaking apart behind him as he landed on his back as Nibbles told. “I can get him, I doubt he got something to handle me.” (done)

“Never know.” Cosmo told and reformed his dust to a platform. Once gabe was up, he pulled him to the platform and told, “Going up.” before that platform rose quickly, sending them where Doug was last. Nibbles rolled her eyes and followed, where Enola and Leona soon met as well, wh evolve having carried the mouse with.

All on the ground and running again, Cosmo said, “when we find Doug? We split up. I know Nibbles thinks she can handle him, but he could have a gun.” And looked to the spirit. “Not sure how you handel those.” (end)

“I can’t die from them,” started Nibbles as she held an irritated look. “But they hurt. Alot.” recalling the ‘practice’ she had with Pranks weapons as she added. “But a shot to the head will give me a very terrible migraine.” (done)

“Yeah. I figured.” Cosmo seemed to agree. “And unique everyone here? I need a ride back.” Then looked ahead before telling. “Speaking of which, which way--”

“This way.” Enola told, ears up and nose flared as she made a sharp turn. The other’s following as she seemingly had a trail. They burst through the next door and up a floor, before she gave a yelp and ducked back after a loud bang.

With a hiss, Enola held up her wing, looking at a hole in the membrane. Cosmo soon said dryly, “so… yes on the guns. Great.” (end)

While Leona was carefully healing Enola wing, Gabriel frown as he reach into his bag, searching for something as he took out a large shield as he said. “I think this can work.”

“I think you need something stronger than steel.” told Leona.

Gabriel thought and asked Cosmo. “Think you can get that ‘skin’ up? I got a idea.” (done)

Thinking, Cosmo said, “I don’t have enough hex-cells to make effective bullet-proof armor if that’s what you're thinking.” (end)

“Dang, plan B.” said Gabriel as Leona asked in concern.

“And what is plan B?” Gabriel took a breath and told.

“I go up there with the shield, distract him till he run out of bullets for you guys to take him down.” (done)

Looking at the shield, Cosmo asked, “do you have spare clothes?” making Gaberil confused before Cosmo smiled and raised his hand, forming the dust into a shape of the wolfkin. (End)

Getting the idea, Gabriel reach in and took out some spare clothings as he helped Cosmo get the ‘fake’ dressed up and pass the shield as he asked. “Think it’ll work?” (done)

“You’d be surprised what can work.” Told Sosmo while telling, “now sneak around and find a good sniper spot.” And with hands raised, he began to manipulate the clothed fake, shield being taken up and held to cover the body to help with the illusion. “Leona, ready t keep him safe. Nibble, Enola? Take to the high spots if you see an opening.” And sent the puppet out. Gunshots firing off to ‘kill’ the fake. (End)

While Leona used a protection spell on Gabriel as he was taking his bow, the two moving for a sniper place as Nibbles went up to see a good opening. From what Nibble could tell? The minotaur had a lot of stuff on him, some metals on his arms, chest, and had a advance gun in his hand. Quickly reloading as a clip came down from the bottom of the gun, firing at the fake as the puppet move.

Gabriel moved to a window, taking a arrow ready as they heard Doug shouted.

“Just damn die already! I worked too hard for this! I’m not going to let some nobodies, no ingrates come and ruin my plans!” firing at the shielded puppet as it moved around. “I’m superior, nothing can harm me with my technology! Theres nothing that can harm me as long as it works!”

“There’s nothing that can go wrong once I kill you all!”

Gabriel wince, but hoped that it didn’t affect him as he pull back the string and fired through the window, the arrow missing Doug-- but it bounce to a steel pot, then to a lantern, then went around as it bounce as Doug kept track on it or tried to as the target was moving as Doug focus back on the shielded fool who thought they could get harm him!

Then the arrow hit some explosive packs on Doug, the minotaur turn, as he quickly try to remove it as he told. “Nice try, but you morons didn’t even light your arrow,” then by some mere chance? The lantern from earlier suddenly dropped and landed on the explosive packs as Doug exploded into bloody, yet burnt pieces as nothing was left. (done)

Everyone peaked out, Cosmo remarking. “And that, is why I hesitate to carry live explosives around on me.” (end)

Both Gabriel and Leona moved in as Leona commented. “I’m surprised just saying the words turn his luck around.” glancing to Gabriel as she asked. “Did this happen often?”

“You mean in helping me? Never.” told Gabriel as he let out a sigh and said. “Well, I’m ready to head back-- and deliver what people I nabbed for the Innovation, maybe they can ask the forced slaves on what they know.” then open his bag as he look to Cosmo. “Wanna ride?” (done)

Looking at it, Cosmo shrugged and said, “why not.” And jumped right in.

Enola was the first to remark as Gabe closed the bag, “he’s a strange one.” And looked about, “you all think he’s a little too calm about all this too, don’t you?” (End)

“Oh definitely.” agreed Nibbles.

“He is...different from what I expected.” admit Leona.

Gabriel sighed as he closed the bag and added. “Honestly I think all part of being human, we are rather odd on how we do things.” then took out his radio as he added. “I’ll let the other's know we got rid of Doug and are heading out…” then glance back down as he added. “As soon as we’re done scoping the place out. We don’t want any blueprints to fall into anyone elses hands.”

“You just want to steal more stuff, don’t you?” remarked Nibbles as she felt reminded of Umbra.

“I’m stealing for a good cause!” defended Gabriel. “Plus might as well, right?” (done)

Enola shook her head and said, “well, at least the dragon hasn’t blown up then. We can still salvage those--” All felt and heard a momentous explosion, and as they turned around they backed and ducked away from a large spill of fire and smoke. As they got up, Enola said, “on second thought, run?” (end)

“Run.” agreed Gabriel as they were quickly moving and running out of the place as they were going to inform about Doug-- as soon as they were far away from the burning building.

Dejen look over at the map, seeing Jubali was somewhere close. Lowering the map and looking around as he glance over as they were hiding in the streets as Dejen said. “This place seem familiar.” glancing around as the armored Elite asked.

“Like it remind you of another city?” Krev trying to move as quiet as he could as walked with Vass and Farin as Dejen shook his head.

“Like its somewhere I been.” thinking as he examine the place over. “I made a lot of safehouses and dens when I was still the feared Death Gambler. Hidden places for my contacts and changelings to go into, or whenever I need to visit a city to ‘check up’ on some stuff.” then look over a wall as he thought as he told. “But if I’m right? Odds are we’re near a den of mine.”

“I knew you were consider a terror in Arabia.” started Krev as they were moving onto another alleyway as he asked. “But were you really that scary?”

Dejen snort in mild amusement as he told. “Krev, before I left Arabia years ago? I made all of Arabia fear me. I made all the cities, sultans, slavers, people-- everyone knew what the name Death Gambler meant. And it takes alot to make a entirety of Arabia to fear just one person.” (done)

Vass looked about the area and remarked, “still. The place looks pretty empty.” notting the place being a ghost town. “It’s like there isn’t even any citizens around.”

“We’re getting closer to the less secure areas of the city.” Farin said while taking a look over the area. “It’s possible Jubali came here because there’s less security. Less attention.” (end)

Dejen was thinking as he look over the place and snapped his fingers. “Now I remember!” getting attention to him as Dejen went on. “I know why this place looks familiar-- its where I set up one of my dens here!” taking the lead as he move in his exo-suit with his mithral armor as he told. “Because this place wasn’t focused on? I made a den here, and if I recall right? It should be close.”

“But why are we heading there?” asked Krev as Dejen answer.

“Because I have a strong feeling that Jubali probably found my den and was using it for his own purpose. Its hidden, secret entrance-- and no one would bother to look or find. And considering this lion likes to be secretive and hidden? Its likely he’s using it for himself.” (done)

While they nodded to that, Farin made a face. “Still… shouldn’t there be more.. Guards?” Looking around to keep saying. “I know this place isn't that important and needs light defenses. But we haven't seen a single person. We’ve been walking in the open pretty much.”

Nodding, Vass agreed. “We haven't seen anyone around to spot or stop us.” (End)

“Its odd.” agreed Krev, looking around as he said. “For someone being a spymaster, you would think having guards around to patrol here would make sense...or have someone moving around.”

Dejen glanced around as he thought about something, then asked lowly. “Farin? Can you make something to detect our area? Odds are there might be changelings...forced changelings to be watchers around here.” (done)

Farin gave a nod and got her book out, flicking the pages for the right spell. Then rather abruptly, the group got tackled, each one tossed about while Farin herself found herself held to a wall, hand choking her. Then came the chuckling laugh. When she looked at the odd scarecrow like demon, it grinned greatly, hand up and grabbing her Alumina, something she tried to pull back as it hissed, “what luck to have such a book.”

Dejen, upon getting up, recognized the unkillable pain. (end)

“Oh fuck, its Scarecrow!” taking a knife and throwing it into the demon head, as Krev ran and shoved the with his shield away from Farin. “He can’t die, he use rune to trap or cause harm-- and he’s fucking annoying!” spinning his gun to fire as Krev had to move, the golden shot hitting into the demon chest. Seeing it felt pain as he saw Farin grabbing her book as Dejen added.

“Probably explain why no one here-- watching changelings and this guy scouring around!” (done)

While Farin held her throat, gasping for air, the tall demon gave annoyed hissis ad soon began to evade more shots. Twisting and jumping about before smirking and holding a hand up of runic marks. He gave a wave as it went flying, Krev ducking under one, before feeling his foot stuck.

When he looked down at the mark on the ground, tugging his foot? Another came and he felt himself stuck in place. When Vass gotten himself up and rushed for the demon, the Scarecrow again evaded, keeping out of reach of the drawn blade before using another rune to send Vass back. Then he looked to Dejen, an irritation there.

Rather abruptly, he gave a scream and began to run, hands holding his back while Farin held her hand up with her own runic array in place. “Havila!” She called, streaks of white light coming out and looking like birds. Each one striking with surprising effect onto the demon that again screamed and hid behind cover.

Farin ran and once close to Krev, touched and caused the runes to be undone. She soon said, “let’s keep going, I think he--” and turned upon hearing magic. Then, she felt herself hit the ground, runic yellow magic pulling at her. He cackled upon slinkering out, then stopped when the runic magic fizzled away. Farin getting up and glaring at him.

Vass joined back up and said, “so… we can’t kill him, right?”

“Maybe you can’t, but I can banish him.” Farin told. Though she made a face and said, “Dejen, keep going with Vass and Krev, this guy might be here to hold us off!” (end)

Taking his radio, Dejen called. “Anyone hearing? We need help with dealing with a certain scarecrow demon, Farin is going to hold him off.” then look to Farin as he said. “Be careful Farin,” giving a glare to the demon. “This guy is hard to deal with.” (done)

Rubbing her neck, she said, “I’ll manage.” And soon held her hand out, a number of runes forming around her person. “I’ll deal with him, and you three get that Lion before he gets out of here.” The Demon slowly creeping around the building, trying to find a way to get past the faun. (end)

Dejen nod, as he turn with both Vass and Krev, as they were heading off with Dejen in the lead. The Striped keeping Lucky Hand close as Krev asked. “Think she can handle that demon?” glancing back as Dejen said.

“Hopefully yes, but with luck she’ll have back up to remove that annoying pest for good.” scanning around as he added. “And if I’m right? We’re somewhat close, I just need to remember which building it was that led to the den.” scanning around while on the move as Dejen was trying to recall what it was. Was it that brothel? No that was for the port city. Was it for that abandon shack? No it was further south. Was it that sewer way? No, that was in the eastern city-- why did I make so many damned dens!? (Done)

While he scanned the next area, trying to figure where the entry was, Vass kept his guard up with Krev. The two kept as high a guard they could with being in unknown territory that might have had more threats than they might have expected. Vass soon asked while noticing a flash of magic that lit a bit of the sky, “Dejen. Are you sure you know where the Den is?” (End)

“Yes, I just need to remember!” told Dejen, as he had to stop and tap his forehead with his gun. “Think, think, think! I know it’s close, I just need to remember what it looks like!”

“Then you better think fast, we might have company.” told Krev, taking his blade out as Dejen was trying to think.

What was it, what was it? It was...it was… trying his hardest to think as he made a single den out of the many cities. He knew this place, he knew its sultan had a poor means of keeping his city updated in construction. So Dejen had to build it...build it…

He recalled and said. “Its in a bar!” turning he told. “Since this place wasn’t kept up alot, most people went to the bar! To drown their sorrows, and its the entrance to the den!” (done)

Vass sighed and told, “then let me go in first.” And headed for the building, the other two tailing. “Just in case.” And opened the door. It was then that something gave a strong smack to him, though at most it sent him slightly sliding back. When he looked up there were some mercenaries in place. Each one holding up large and heavy weapons.

Sword up, Vass asked, “you sure this is the way?” (end)

“Yep, definitely it.” told Dejen as he look at the sign of the building. “I recognized that crude writing anywhere.”

“So, how are we going to get in?” asked Krev as he ready his shield.

“Well, how about you two hold them off while I get in and get to Jubali?” suggested Dejen. “Because odds are we’re being watched by changelings and are being reported in as we speak.” (done)

Vass got ready and said, “I think I can handle a few people.” Getting ready for a charge. And when the mercenaries began to step out, did he say, “I keep them busy and you keep going.” And added, “this is starting to sound like one of those story cliches.” (end)

Snorting, Dejen told. “Nah, if this was a story cliche? Then there would be some moron that wanted revenge at me for shouting at this point.” Then glance to Krev as the Sangheili asked.

“Need some help Vass?” (done)

“Nope.” Vass told, armor going a bit more red and even seeming to glow a bit. “I got it.” And rushed right in, taking the first strike to his armor and bashing the mercenary aside, when the next struck, he blocked with an arm and used the other to swing and pumbled with the sword. Then grip and held the weapon with his blocking arm, a slight hiss of heat heard as he heaved and tossed the mercenary out of the way.

Now fully inside, Vass went full tilt. Weapons and attacks bouncing off the slowly heating living-armor, while also bulldozing any in his path. Krev and Dejen were quick to com in, and while Vass was indeed handling himself? The spare mercenaries noticed and when for the two. (End)

Krev slam his shield and push back the mercs as he called out. “Look like I’ll be helping you, Vass!” then slash his blade at a merc as he told. “Go on Dejen. I got this.” using his shield to block a attack. “It’ll take more than these lot to put me down.”

Dejen nodded, as he move to jump over the bar table, searching for the Scar symbol as he fiddle a bit and a secret passageway open up. Entering in, Dejen close it behind him and headed into the pathway.

It felt odd, using one of his old passageways to his old hideout. It reminded him of his time when he was just the boss of a small gang, having terror spread of him and his group as to keep things in place. Now look at him, a Clan-head of a large group and a large life. As well as dealing with world-ending events and empires. Snorting a bit, Dejen kept moving down, following the trail as he turn left and right, up and down.

Going down further and further as he didn’t need to see, his memories reminded him of the means to get to the den. Making his way until he felt a stone deadend, Dejen smirked as he moved his hands to feel for a familiar latch. Feeling it on the bottom end of his left, he pulled and he felt the stone wall moving. Turning it did Dejen enter in and saw the lowly light place of his den…

Although there was some changes, old banners missing, lots of dust...and a voice echoing as he lightly closed the secret entrance to hide its tracks. (done)

While Dejen snuck his way in, searching the near empty area, he could tell that a few things had been moved in. just some new crates and a few small items. While he snuck in carefully, he heard, “Dejen, what a surprise.” hand raiding gun and finger on the trigger. “You seem to find my wears no matter where you go. Luck seems to follow you everywhere, doesn't it?” Voice echoing all about. (End)

Dejen lowly chuckle, as he told. “Well Razul...no, I think Jubali is more appropriate here.” looking around as he didn’t see the lion as he said. “It seem you found my old den and used it for moving your stuff...Although despite you having the advantage in hiding? I have the larger advantage here.” (Done)

A chuckle echoed out as Jubali said, “are you sure?” And soon said, “Kill him.” And Dejen’s smirk waned as the darkness lit with blue eyes and a good amount of buzzing of wings. And without hesitation, the apparent swarm rushed.

Dejen thought about stopping them, but they didn’t seem too afraid of attacking so he shot, shot again and shot once more. Even tossing a knife at another that got too close. When one got on him, the exo-suit proved a great boon to give him the strength to toss the changeling off. Then again shoot another down. Smoke bomb in hand, he gave himself a moment to hide with it being tossed to the ground. Coating the area in smoke. (End)

Dejen moved as he went to a wall, feeling it and activating the switch as he enter in, closing it behind him as he thought and reloaded his gun. Okay, so he has changelings, forced changelings probably being force to hear their Queen tortured. moving around and thinking. So, do I kill them all, or try to force them to leave? Can’t give Jubali a means to escape, so I have to think fast. moving to another entry way as he open, this time through a cabinet as he close the entrance and jump down.

Still hearing the buzzing of wings as Dejen thought over as he quickly fired, knowing the changelings could sense him as fired and moved on his feet. Trying to figure out a plan to get to the cat-- and trying to recall everything in this room. He made plenty of traps, entryways-- although he may had made too many as it was tricky to know which was where in his dens. (done)

Dejen nearly tripped while in his run, and while he twisted and turned to regain his balance, he saw the odd indentations in the floor. Immediately, images flashed back to that one moment in the past, where that one idiot thought he won that gamble with him. Before meeting a death by a trap door. (End)

Wait, I know this room-- I custom made this room! Its my ‘Death room’! then grinned as he soon jumped to a wall and slam a brick as he move to the side. Small pipes exit out as burning oil gush out at some changeling, screams were echoing out as Dejen jumped and reloaded. Mind recalling everything here as he knew every trap and switch to make it.

Dejen fired three shots up, as he activated the light switches as everything was bright, the changelings hiss as Dejen soon saw Jubali. Chuckling and grinning as Dejen look to the Coppermane as he called out. “Well, well, well, what have we here?” quickly firing at the Lion as Jubali moved. “A Coppermane, huh?” then mockly told. “Oh, I’m really scared!”

“So you’re the one everybody’s talkin’ about, ha, ha!” laughing at the end as he moved. “You’re jokin’, you're jokin’! I can’t believe my eyes!” Turning to fire a shot as something open and something sucked in the changelings from above, sucking them all into a pipe as to remove their presence as he fired another shot. Closing the hatch as Dejen turn as he smirked wider.

“You’re jokin’ me, you gotta be.” Moving to jump as he found Jubali skulking as Dejen land a few feet before him, grinning wide as he declare. “This can’t be the right guy!” pointing his gun as Jubali quickly move as Dejen told. “He’s desperate, he’s scared.” then snort. “I don’t know which is worse.” reloading his gun as he grin. “I might just bust a gut now,” then laugh. “If I don’t die laughing first!”

Firing a shot as to close all exits as every doorway was locked as to ensure the lion didn’t escape. “When Mr. Death Gambler says, there’s trouble close at hand. You better pay attention now,” then threw a knife to turn the lighting into green, red and white around as everything glowed into a more casino-like coloring as Dejen voice echo out in a deathly tone. “‘Cause I’m Arabia Boogie Man. And if you aren’t shakin’, then there’s something very wrong.”

Then jump up as he search around, spotting Jubali as he fired a shot near the cat, as Jubali look up as Dejen slam down before the cat as he cackles darkly. “‘Cause this may be the last time now, that you hear the Gambler song, ohhh~” punching Jubali in the face with his fist, as he moved back as avoid a large paw of claws as Dejen fired another shot, this time things were coming out as puppets came down as they seemingly to echo out.

“Ohh~”

Dejen firing another shot, as things were becoming more dimmer in the lighting, as more puppets were coming out. “Ohh~.” It went on a bit as they sang out. “Ohh, he’s the Deathly Gambling Man!”

“Well if I’m feelin’ antsy, and there’s nothin’ much to do? I might just gamble away, my old and useless tools.” then asked rhetorically. “And don’t ya know the one thing, that would make it work so nice?” Seeming to turn and fired as a cage almost landed on Jubali as Dejen declared. “A caught and corner lion, to get a good price.”

Skeletons seeming to raise up from a reveal death trap from the ground. “Ohh!” wailing out as the horses seem to be clinging to their state in the pits. More creatures seeming to sing off in “Ohhs,” as Dejen searched for Jubali, as he fired another shot, this time to the floor as something came out as it seem to be a table, as Dejen jump on it as he called out before firing a shot to make things darken as he moved and his voice echo.

“I’m the Deathly Gambling Man!” (done)

Growling at this and trying to scan the area, Jubali called out, “Show yourself now, or you must face the dire consequences.” Then thought about it and said in a slightly calmer manner, “Your Clan will be the next ones in line, unless you come to your senses.” As if to insight something bad would happen to them. (end)

There was a sudden switch of lights, everything burning bright as Dejen laugh, wearing shades as he told. “You’re jokin’, you’re jokin’, I can’t believe my ears,” then lessen then lights as he threw his shades and pulled a switch. A rope with a large claw on it came down as Dejen called out. “Would someone shut this fella up, I’m drownin’ in my tears!” Jumping up on the rope, as he called out.

“It’s funny, I’m laughing.” shaking his head as he look down to Jubali, as Dejen fired another shot, the claw coming down as he declare. “You really are too much.” the claws coming down and grabbing hold on Jubali side as Dejen told. “And now, without your permission.” tapping the tip of his gun on Jubali head. “I’m going to do my stuff.” (Done)

Growling and pushing on the trap, Jubali gave a glare and asked, “and do what?” Again pushing as the claw slightly strigned, the Lion seemed to have a bit more strength than expected. (End)

“I’m going to do the best I can.” darkly grin Dejen raising his gun up as he fired up, the room shifting as the floor moved, things seeming to push out as skeletons were coming out, being of various races of horses, ponies, griffons-- a few minotaurs as they were slowly filling the room as Dejen saw the room lighting up with red, green, and white lights as the claw began to move up, Dejen jump off as the Lion was now hanging up as Dejen laugh as he began to move.

“Oh, the sound of rollin’ dice to me is music in the air!” Seeing Jubali go and broke out of the claw, starting to attack Dejen as he dodged, Jubali swiping, biting what he could, and even using strong roars to blast/push things. However Dejen jumped as he sang out. “‘Cause I'm a gamblin' Arabian Man,” firing a shot into Jubali shoulder as Dejen dodged a crate push to where he was.

The striped throwing a knife to a button, as a small wall went up to block another crate as Dejen told. “Although I don't play fair. It's much more fun, I must confess,” then jump onto a table as he motioned with all the skeletons piling up in the room. “When lives are on the line!” then place a hand on himself. “Not mine, of course, but yours, old Friend?”

Grinning all the more as he told deathly and in anticipation as he pulled another lever. “Now that'd be just fine~” (Done)

Abruptly as Jubali went to leap, another trap went off and snapped shut. Roaring out with pain, Jubali looked to the bear trap that had his leg before glaring at Dejen and telling, “Release me fast or you will have to answer for this heinous act!” Trying to move and open the toothed trap. (End)

Laughing, Dejen told. “Oh, brother, you're something! You put me in a spin.” then shook his head as he fired another bullet into Jubali other shoulder. “You aren't comprehending, the position that you're in.” seeming to stalk at Jubali as his grin was growing wider, as a old familiar feeling was swelling up in Dejen, of the being he was, of being the terror known as Death Gambler.

“It's hopeless, you're finished!” spinning his gun in his right hand. “You haven't got a prayer. 'Cause I'm Death Gambler,” pointing the gun at Jubali as he emphasis his words. “And you ain't going nowhere.” then he pull the trigger to fire off the golden shot straight at Jubali head. (Done)

Jubali tried to give a roar, but it didn’t stop the shot in the least from going right through. AS the body slumped down, Dejen regarded the Lion and really, it was oddly… strange to have killed Jubali so easily. Then again, as he looked over the mastermind of most of his troubles, Dejen had to admit that Dadisi was right. Jubali’s power was in those he manipulated and had contact with. It wasn’t his ability to fight or to use magic. (End)

Shaking his head, Dejen soon took out his radio as he said. “Hey guys? I killed Jubali. Should I take the body, or just cut off his head to show proof I killed the bastard for the Isles?” (done)

“Take the head.” He heard Johari. “But be quick. We’ve cut their numbers but something odd has happened with the fleets and they are splitting appart.” Making Dejen frowen a little to that.

Then he heard, “This is Cosmo. We caught up with Farin and checking her over. The demon, well… Nibbles is putting him in time out.” Slight yelling and beattings being heard.

“Semor here. Dejen, you should know the bar is back under control. There’s a mess, so do put that on my tab, I”ll be sure to reimburse you for the minor damages on your little hideaway.” Then added, “But in all due seriousness, gather what you have to and let us go. I have a feeling that the battle is won and we don’t want to be here when Arabia starts investigating this little battleground.” (End)

Holstering his gun, Dejen move to use his big dagger to cut and was trying to remove the head as Dejen told. “Alright, I’ll be quick as I can. Although we may need to check up where that Queen is. Jubali thought to use changelings to remove me, but I managed to deal with them and him.”

“You didn’t kill them all, did you?” asked mercy as Dejen admit.

“Maybe one or two, but the rest i sent away. Apparently Jubali was using my ‘Death room’ hideout. Poor bastard never stood a chance with this place.” forcing the blade through the bone to cut it off completely as he grunted and pulled. Taking the head off as he told. “I got the head, going to be heading back to the bar.” putting his radio back and moving to undo a switch to allow him to leave.

But he look back to the skeltons that laid there, looking them over as Dejen snort and move to enter in the entrance way to leave. (done)

“Don’t fret at the death of those drones.” They heard Camous over the radio. “I’ve been around changelings long enough to know how they work. I don’t think they were as forced as Cosmo was first to suggest.”

“Say that again?” Spoke up Miko, “Fer a momen’ there, I thought ya said they’re workin’ with these lot!”

“Believe what you want.” spoke up Camous. “Relief and comfort weren't in the eyes of the changeling we found. And watching these ships starting to flee? I’m wondering if the Queen took some deal from the Lion or not.” (End)

Thinking it over, Dejen said. “Its possible. If the Queen made a deal with Jubali? She probably figure to cut losses and take what she can…” then grumble in annoyance. “Or try to replace the spots now suddenly open. Great, this is going to be a major pain in our ass now.”

“If that changeling hasn’t been disconnected yet?” spoke Mercy. “We might be able to use that drone. If...they haven’t been disconnected to ensure the Hive won’t be found out.” (done)

While the line was quite over that, and Dejen continued to ponder this? Cosmo was soon heard saying, “we can figure it out later. For now? Let’s get out of here.” (end)

“Agreed.” said Dejen as he wanted to get out of the city before anything else happened.

After everyone used their runes and headed back to the Innovation? With Nibbles dealing with the demon and banishing the scarecrow for good? Most everyone was in the meeting room, as the fleet of ships were heading to Equestria as Dejen sat in his spot, leaning back as he look to everyone, as he was glad they made the room far bigger and with more chairs just in case as he asked.

“So. since we deal with some heads? We still have to kill the empire. Problem? There’s either one or more Queens now taking those spots, with Criff, Gouson, Arbin, and Karcia probably going to be informed. So. what are our options?” (done)

While everyone was sitting in thought, Farin soon said, “you might not have to worry about it.” GEtting a letter out while a few looks were cast her way. “Celestia mailed me back about the false message I sent. They spotted and delt with the wannabe asassin.” And looked to each. “She’s sent a persinal message to a number of people around the world. They’re being made aware of the issue and they’re making plans to deal with it.”

Raising a brow, Cosmo asked, “really? Gouson, Arbin and even Karcia?”

“Karcia is going to be hard.” Farin told. “Celestia mentioned they’re a little harder to inform bout this because of their republic nature. She might have to call in a few nobles she knows best.” Then breathed in. “The King of the Holds has agreed to martal a military force to deal with Gouson. And the Griffon King is also matralling a few of his Lords to rally and look over Shimmer’s lands.” (end)

“Can I take some of her stuff?” Asked Dejen, getting looks at him as Dejen glance around as he said. “Look, she really been messing with not just the Twins, but nearly killed half of my clan. I know its petty, but I really wanted to stick it to her on getting something back.”

“I highly doubt they’ll even notice your words.” said Sicarius. “I mean, will the Griffon King even bother to listen to a Striped of a ‘Clan’ that hasn’t made a impact in his lands? Odds are he and the other's might just ignore you and focus on searching into Shimmer lands.” (done)

Nodding, Galdan told, “let it go, Dejen. The King’s going to completely tear the place down once he figure out what’s going on. And then everything Shimmer had is either going to get burnt, or distributed. Dosn’t matter who got hurt, the King’s not letting anyone not part of his inner circle get a Peice.”

And while Dejen muttered to that, Farin sighed and soon told on. “Things can be handled by the national leaderships, Dejen.” Going on to tell, “so, let it go.” And soon placed the letter back saying. “Besides. I think we all deserve a break. That was a pretty big fight.”

Rah-Rah nodded, “the Innovator's good, but we need to restock supplies. Ammo, fuel, magical reserves…” (End)

WAving his hand, Dejen said. “Alright, alright!” then shook his head. “We can all use a break.” then thought and soon asked. “Think we can head to the Northern cornerstone? Its a good spot to relax,” then added to Johari. “Plus, I’m sure Dadisi might actually smile once I show him the head.” (done)

Puffing out to that, Johari said, “well… it has been a while since we’ve been there.” Then gave a look to everyone. “But I think that we may need to make a few stops.” A few giving nods to this. (end)

“While the Misfits had aided in removing this problem?” said Sicarius as he glance around. “Its time for us to head to Sanctuary. There’s lots to inform to other's, and to be with our love ones.”

“And for Ai to be with.” teased Umbra.

Sicarius ignored his sister as he went on. “And we can just fly with Prank and our ships back home.”

“Yeah, its best if we head back.” agreed Krev.

Gabriel thought as he said. “I might stay…” then briefly glance to Enola, Tish and Red. “only because something tell me you guys need me.”

Dejen roll his eyes but told. “I can make a few stops for you all.” (done)

Enola gave a smile and nod, telling, “that would be nice, but once things settle down? Red did promise me and Tish for a place to finally live in peace.” Going on to add, “and you’re welcome to come with when that happens.”

Red gave a nod, “I won’t mind. The Empire get’s pretty boring with only a few friends around.” (end)

“Well…” thought Gabriel as Grinder jab at the Wolfkin side as the diamond dog told.

“We’ll accept!”

“Only because we know this guy will want to try the simple life.” added Horn as he joked. “And he is loaded, so no worry on paying for housing.”

Dejen shook his head as he said. “Well anyways? How about we drop you guys off, the Misfits head back to their place with their ships, and we head to the Isles once we’re done?” leaning back as he added. “Some peace and quiet might be welcoming after this mess.” (done)

Asha gave a smile and said, “well, you’re welcome to come visit my Pride again if you like.” And added to the clan, “I’m sure Hirue would love to see you all again.”

Felix shook his head and gave a glance around. Soon he said, “Miko and I might use her old ship to do a little traveling. And if you want? We can take a few people with.”

Cosmo said, “if you’re heading to the holds? You can take me and the others.” Looking to Jordan, Hayami, Biscuits and Gem. “I’m sure people are wondering where we’re at.”

“And you can drop me off at the nearest city in Equestria.” Semor told with a smile, “I have plenty of means to get home on my own from there.”

Dejen nodded to each, his mind wandering over everything. Maybe I also have a chance at some peace and quite. Sure the new ‘Changeling’ issue was out there… but he was now free to maybe have some rest… and maybe do something about Dejeen on his own time. But that was later. Right now? He deserved some rest.