Author's Notes:

Another chapter done, technically I can release a couple of more, but both my laziness and the speed at which my editors work sometimes prevents me from doing so.

A few more are long done, but either need some proofreading first, or a sketch to go along with them.

“So it’s settled then. We are going to be assisting these Rebels in trying to move against their queen and basically place her daughter in her place?” Bakuss questioned as I was busy sipping on my brew like how I always do. Long, loud and way too much of this stuff in a single day.

But then again, you cannot possibly have too much coffee in your entire life. Especially with a job that is so stressful like this one. One problem follows after another, which is also one of the reasons as to why I drink so much coffee in the first place. Trying to recreate the scene I had during my caffeine induced trip I had during the battle and see if I could visit that one illusive chocolate making factory or not.

I mean I love chocolate, who the fuck doesn’t? Lizard people who are running the government that’s who…or at least that’s what all those tinfoil wearing hobos back home like to scream out of their lungs while also holding out a crudely written sign that even has some of the letters drawn backwards.

But alas, I am not saying that I haven’t tried wearing tinfoil hats myself. Mostly just for a shitty self-made costume for a holiday I couldn’t possibly give two ounces of fucks about because I am originally European and not American.
Talking about Halloween by the way.

I once again like to blame my cousin for this catastrophe by dragging something that I didn’t care about before. At least I had half of a mind to not waste my money on an actual costume. But the end result in making one instead of buying one like a normal person was…interesting to say the least. I just ended up exposing way too much skin than would be ethical allowed for kids to see. Because the damn thing kept falling off whenever I took a step which was really annoying.

Where was I? Ahh yes, I have some coffee to sip and some political faction crap to explain to everyone present within this room. My room in fact, which consisted of Aku, Susi, the Zebra form of Akadar and of course my trusty little captain as well.

Plus there where the two Gazelle sisters as well since this is THEIR idol that this campaigns will be mostly aimed for. Minus getting a whole new race and nation under my flag for helping the princess bitch slap her mother into space and beyond, before she finally ends up in a Galaxy far, far away where everybody wiggled around colorful light sticks and some of the most boring voodoo hoodoo I have ever seen…O rather not, minus the force lighting which is cool and one of the only things that is actually visible.

Well that was a thoughtful.

Anyway (I seem to say that a lot) I just nod after having taken yet another unnecessary long sip from my novelty mug.

“Well yes, it’s obviously within everyone interest that this issue get dealt with sooner rather than later. Having another potential war going off so close to home is really to no one's interest. So we shall strike swiftly and decisively before any real damage can be done. According to Cyrus, the queen has gone more and more mad with each passing day, with audible voices now echoing through the hive link. She is now beyond negotiations and probably needs an exorcist instead.” I replied, setting the mug down and repurposing my attention back to Penelo on my lap by feeding her some cheese.

Akadar nods to that. “Indeed, having such a crazy ruler with a whole loyal army of shapeshifting magic users on her side is to no one’s desire. Cyrus has told me that his underlings have managed to successfully make connection with those loyal to the princess and are ready to jump into action at a moment’s notice. All they need is the added support of both the city and palace guards in case things go wrong. Adding our forces with their own would mean that we automatically have the numerical advantage. Which is a good edge to have over the enemy.” Akadar commented, which in turn caused a couple of murmurs to erupt within the room.

I hummed to myself before replying. “Well that is all fine and good but you should know that having a numerical advantage alone doesn’t win battles or wars alone. As the very history of my world has proven time and time again. It’s all about the training and discipline of the troops, the equipment that they use and the very tactics and command structure they follow is what decides a battle’s outcome.” I added before taking yet another sip out of my mug.

Bakuss nods. “Indeed, though I like to personally admit that I and most likely a large majority of the guard have little to almost no experience when it comes to fighting magic user. And as we know so far, the changelings are a race that possess both passive and active magical abilities. Similar to unicorns and the such.” Bakuss added which again caused a couple of murmurs.

“Actually, I got that problem covered if some of you are wondering.” Liu happily announced as she suddenly entered the room through the front door.

Because how else would you enter my room anyway. Through the windows? Through a hidden passage behind a closet that I swear I don’t have?
Well anyway, back on topic.

“Oh and what solution will that be?” Bakuss asked.
Liu just continued to grin through her helmet less head which was a fresh sight. Though she still kept on her armor on so there was that.

“Well quite simple really.” She announced before pushing the door open even further, revealing a certain stallion that I have never seen before. But most curiously some of the heavily looking saddle-bags that he was carrying on his back.

My curiosity was peaked. “Oh, gifts from another tribe? Well I do hope that it is more exotic coffee beans similar to the first round of tributes I received after out first major victory on the big bridge. I could always use more to spice up my tastes and mornings.” I excitedly hoped. Clapping my hands in short glee which Penelope quickly mimicked.

Liu sadly just shook her head. “No, but at least you were right about the gift part there Your Highness. Because this is very much a gift from the tribe that occupies the area close to the bronze canyons after I sent a quick letter to my uncle who lives there.” Liu answered, her smile creeping back up onto her face afterwards.

I was even more intrigued now than ever. “Liu actually has an uncle.” I wondered to myself.

This completely out of context thought was missed by everyone…because, it happened inside my head so how would anyone know.

Bakuss actually took over my job to ask the proper question while I was mentally imagining how an uncle of Liu looked like.

“Well, tell us then Sergeant Liuanda. What is inside these bags that this stallion is carrying?” He asked while eying the newcomer curiously.

Liu nods before moving towards the bags to open one. She immediately sticks her hoof within its plump form and pulled a strangely simply and recognizable colorless crystal out of it.

The identity of this rock was at first unknown to me when my memory for once actually did its damn job by checking on all the hard drives connected to the main CPU and managed to pull out some information that has actually been stored.

But before I could openly speak the name that came into my mental forefront, Aku too it up to himself to beat me to it with his infinite old man wisdom and character.

“I would believe that this is Nethicite. Quite a rarity to find, unless you know where to look.” He babbled which caused a certain doe to immediately frown at the sight of one of these stones.

Liu again nods before quickly pulling out a second nethicite out of the bag, followed by a third and so on.

She grinned before looking back at the group. “See, all the nethicite we could possibly need in order to counter the magical abilities of the queen’s guards. Still not the most optimal solution, given the estimated numbers of hostiles down there, but still enough to significantly cripple the biggest advantage these changelings have. Their magic.” Liu added before stowing the few crystals she pulled out back into the bag.

I heard Mystic Gem huff behind me. “Well of course, it's not like you zebras possess any from natural affinities to magic yourself, so you only rely on items and trickery to solve your magic related problems for you. Basically, cheating and sleazing your way out and away from the established natural order from which our realm operates from. A big weakness if you ask me.” She openly criticized.

The outcome of her outburst was pretty predictable in the end. Liu was quietly glaring at her for her insult while Bakuss seemed more annoyed than anything else, with Little Stepped looking more disappointed in comparison.

The only three that looked a lot more critical with the doe’s bold statement where of course the one of the head honcho’s of this well-established hierarchy of the zebra culture. Including Aku, Susi and Akadar as well.
Aku was the first to open his mouth, in a calm and open-minded manner.

“As much I can understand your viewpoint about us young Mystic, I have to respectfully disagree with your statement. We zebra do make use of our own form of magic. Mostly revolving around alchemy and magical constructs in the past, which sadly have been somewhat lost over the passing of the centuries. Though Alchemy itself is still a very big part of zebra culture, being primarily practiced and studied by many zebra shamans both young and old. Especially those carrying the status of a High Shaman such as myself. The reason as to why nobody of you have seen me practicing or even studying alchemy in an open fashion is simply because of the lack of necessity for me to do so. Smaller independent shamans living in and around the city already fulfill that role in local shops and hospitals, which then only leaves me with the task of keeping the alchemical secrets and recipes alive and well kept for, while also acting as this cities custodian until the arrival of the true successor of the throne…”

“Which is me.” I interrupted him with a grin and a self-pointed finger which Penelo mimicked.

Aku nods before continuing.” Well yes, as I said. I was in the end mostly acting as this city’s steward before the true owner of the Lion’s Throne would arrive to take my place. So overall that was really my only main responsibility within the old capital, and to also act as the host for any council that would be held here within the palace.” Aku finally finished with a long sigh.

Again, can’t really confirm any of this knowledge he just spouted out, simply because I don’t know any. But I can still agree that he is at least telling the truth on one thing.

I have never seen him brew or stir a potion since my arrival. Either brew me some coffee or some poison would be my active moto here. Either help me relax during the day or help me smite my enemies in the most quiet and secret way possible. Though a decent massage will fulfill that as well, something I should seriously add to my ever-growing bucket list of things to request while still being the king.

Not particularly sure as to how effective a pair of hooves are when it comes to massages. But couldn’t possibly be any worse than that oversea cousin of mine used to provide.

His massages felt more like punching than anything else.

Anyway, Mystic Gem simply stayed silent from this point on afterwards. Little Stepped even openly provided sincere apologies for her sister’s behavior. Which in turn allowed the main topic of this meeting continue post haste. Revolving around these nethicide thingies and how she really got them all so quickly.

Apparently a large vein of nethicide was already discovered long before my appearance onto these lands was actually a thing. Residing around the same area that Liu previously mentioned. Bronze Canyon.

The only problem was that the actual existence of these veins was kept secret from everyone else for quite a long time. Because prior to my arrival, many of the different zebra tribes that primarily dot the northern and mid parts of this content have viewed themselves as rivals since the start of the Empire’s collapse. Which they still are by the way, only this time with the added benefits of having a single head figure to follow instead of just looking out for themselves before that.

Quite interesting to hear how a single thing can somewhat rekindle the need for some mutual cooperation and understanding in some of them. Like this one tribe who actually gave up their kinky little secrets to everyone in order to help the resurrection of the greater nation at large.

Quite inspiring to see how dedicated these striped equines are to reclaim their lost legacy. A large imposing empire, rich, wealthy and far reaching.

Well it’s a good thing that they have me, because I am definitely planning to do just that. Just so that I can have an excuse to finally play a total war game in a much grander scale.

Whoever said that video games stay in video is clearly mad.

I regain my outside perception after the wonderful gentleman’s…and woman’s let’s not the sexist here…were done with their discussions about this nethicite thing. Wondering if capitalizing more on these magic sucking rocks would be a possibility in the foreseeable future.

A concept that I could only agree upon because having an almost never-ending supply of soul gems can only be a good thing. For us of course while sucking for anyone else born with a horn…or a set of horns…or a dick that pisses out rainbow or whatever. Either way a lot of magic sucking shall take place within this new empire of mine, just to prevent any unfortunate experiences of receiving such magic up our asses. Well their asses, because I will be sitting on my ass most of the time.

Sex jokes, so many sex jokes lately and most likely more in coming if my track record is anything to go bye.

He, he, coming.

“Not sure or really care of what the princess has told me. But I still wish to personally throw this mother of hers against a bloody wall for holding onto OUR Idol for all this time. Possibly even misusing its intended use if the stories about her degrading insanity as anything to go by.” Mystic suddenly sprouted, which again took everyone’s attention within this large bedroom of mine after her long silence beforehand.

Bakuss himself was about to get up from his sitting position on the floor and protest to Mystic’s insane wishes, until he and the rest of the room seemed to realize something else that she just sprouted.
Even Penelope, as she stopped for just a second from nibbling on my shirt, before continuing with much gusto and little care in the world.

Bakuss arched an eyebrow. “What do you mean by misuse?” Bakuss questioned.
Little Steppes was also looking at her sister curiously before an invisible light bulb seemed to go off inside that little doe’s head.

“Oh yeah wait a minute. What where the stories that our elder told us about the rituals require to tap into the magical essence of the physical from of our deity?” Stepped curiously asked while looking to her sister with the same expression.

Mystic on her part just kept to her frown as she looked to her sister. “Well I am not really surprised that you already forgotten that sister. The way you always kept staring at the young stags around you during our lessons, pretty much says it all what your attention was really focused to.” She replied, much to Little Stepped’s dismay as her wide eyes and prompt expression were anything to go by.

She immediately went red all over her face after she said that. Looking awkwardly down onto the ground while pawing it with her hoof.

I scared her even further when I called her out. “Hey, no scraping the carpets, they are very expensive…I think, and I don’t feel like having to replace them myself at some point in my life after all of this is said and done.” I pointed out, raising an accusing finger at the offending doe while the other was being sucked upon by a small baby drake.

She had somehow, at some point abandoned my shirt for something more fleshy and alive. Close to the verge of talking and already trying to have her first taste in blood…I am getting more and more proud of her development with each passing day.

Yes, be fearsome while still staying adorable. Feardorable, the most effective combination of all time. First “aww” them with your eyes, and then punch them when they least expect it. Go straight for the jugular or face, or just spew them alive with your flames of resolutions. Warhammer 40K style, only less Emperor and more Monkey King at the end.

Either way, this comment was enough for Susi to finally break her silence from this conversation. “Why would you worry about that in the first place Your Highness. Even if you forget to get it replaced the servants that clean your room everyday will most likely not.” She commented.

“Plus these carpets aren’t really that expensive anyway. They are made by local weavers outside the city walls, along the twin rivers.” She added.

This of course almost caused me to gag out my coffee when I was trying to take another sip from my mug. I was about to comment on the insult of ME having been walking upon cheaply made carpets for all this time when I noticed the anonymous look Little Steppes was trying to give out.

I knew that she was keeping quiet in hopes of changing the open topic on everyone’s mind. A move that I obviously can’t condole as my inner troll demands it.

I diverted my attention back at the doe who was looking back at me in kind. “Anyway, who were these “young stags” that your sister mentioned? I am quite interested about them now that is has been brought up. Should be quite the love filled story in my opinion.” I openly announced with a grin.

The reaction was almost immediate as the poor little girl once again went red all over her muzzle while Mystic Gem just looked at me with the “huh” face.

She eventually seemed to understand my intentions (to my surprise) as a smirk formed on her muzzle as well. A very devious looking smirk if I had to be honest. Seems that even she had a little troll bone inside of her. Though being a little bit more mischievous compared to mine.

“Well…” She began. “I can certainly tell you who some of them where but for some…”It was then when her sisters shoved her off her hooves in a fit of panic.
A move that was surprising to most but mildly entertaining to me.

She was still red around her cheeks when she began to babble, quite literally in fact.

“It was really, really a long time ago, ok? We were still young fawns back then and I was obviously still quite naïve and dreamy at the time when it came to stags and what not. Everything is quite different now and I don’t even remember who some of them were in name and person. Some of their families even left the tribe to go out and live on their own out in the open savannas when me and Mystic just reached adolescents. So again, it really has been a long time” She explained, somewhat rapidly in fact.

After that little outburst she quickly retreated back with a little whimper. Her cheeks still quite red.

Bakuss on the other end just groaned to himself while rubbing his guard covered face. What this actually accomplished I have no idea. All he is rubbing really is just his faceguard instead of the face that he is supposed to rub when feeling frustrated.

Alas in the end it pretty much served the same purpose as well before he glared at everyone around him.

“Could we PLEASE just return to the actual topic instead of just discussing things as to who used to love who when they were young, or what these carpets are even made of? We still have some actual planning to do before the engagement with the changeling queen forces becomes downright unavoidable” He stated, trying to be the word of reason.

I nod. “I agree, Susi, Mystic and Steppes, you should be ashamed of yourself for turning this rather serious situation into a joke of gossip and useless topics. We have possible another war at our hands here, and all you little girls can think of is all about yourself and you equally related girly needs. For shame I have to say, for shame.” I chided, sounding and looking very disappointed.

The three mentioned, or rather the two mentioned (because mystic couldn’t possibly give a damn) females in question where both utterly bewildered. Opening and closing their mouth like gold fishes while trying to say or protest to my accusation.

Alas, I cut them off with an air swipe before focusing my attention back at Bakuss and the now long entered Liu and her companion with the bags of juice sucking soul gem on him. The stallion in particular was suddenly interesting me the most as she just awkwardly stood there, avoiding everyone’s gazes.

I would bet that this guy is just some random, run in the mill poster boy who was just tasked by Liu’s superiors to carry the bags of offered gifts over here.

Only one way to be sure, and that is asking him or Liu about him and continue to circle jerk around the actual issue here. Why? Because it’s fun, annoyingly fun for others and very much reminiscent to my character.

Already starting to talk and think to myself in third person. The only thing that would be missing as of now would be for me to start speaking in old English while constantly using the royal “We” to describe myself.

Might actually consider doing that, should be fun.

But anyways, I looked over at the pair with open curiosity. Even going so far as to rubbing my chin with a finger and raising an eyebrow for extra effect.

“Say, before we go any further. Who exactly is this stallion anyway? A family member perhaps or maybe possible your poor and lonely fiancé who was forced to marry out of his will beause someone else on your or his family said so? Which is it?” I openly asked, which in turn got Liu’s and even the stallion’s immediate attention afterwards.

Primarily Liu of course because she is the mental focus of this trolling. “Wha-what? N-no he is neither a family member nor some fiancé. He is just a young poster colt who delivered these bags into the barracks before being redirected to me to so that I can escort him into the palace post haste. Can’t really carry these on my own after all, I am still just a mare despite being part of the guard.” Liu answered, which the stallion next to her confirm with a nod before going back in looking off to the side.

I just hummed. “Well ok then, anyway back on track then.” I announced which was just that.

Us returning to the actual reason of this meeting and not diverting from it. Well almost. Mystic once again had to of course open her big boastful mouth to once again received a sucker punch from her sister and a couple of glares and groaned in the end.

Such is the nature of Alexander's court, and frankly it can never be more chaotic in the future.

Maybe I should try introducing this court to my own personal version of both the “Golden Saints” and the “Seducers”.

My own little Shivering Isles outside the Shivering Isles. Something that I always wanted for myself ever since I played the Shivering Isle DLC for old dusty scrolls of the other term for void.

Should be also on my to do list, if I can remember adding it that is.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

“Are you sure it is wise for the zebra’s to basically know everything that is to know about our plan? What if after the queen is defeated and your ascension to the thorn, the king and his zebra guards would suddenly turn on us. Taking us as their slaves or outcast us away from the hive and claim the undercity, and the rest of the established underworlds for themselves? How can you trust a nation of surface dwellers who previously didn’t even know that our kind even existed?” The changeling Captain of the Rebel Force asked. Sounding quite concerned about the information he was given so far. Maybe feeling even somewhat nervous since this is practically the first time he has ever been to the surface.

For him the air around him felt al ot more warmer and…drier than he normally was used to down below. Not even mentioning the fact that the light levels up here were basically of the charts. Forcing his invisible irises to shrink further than they have ever shrunk before.

The fact that he, the princess and some of their own loyalist where occupying the interior of a very large and abandoned granary outside the city walls, shielding them from the outside elements and oddities of the outside world was really doing nothing in forcing him to feel totally out of place. Even though both certain section of the palace and the majestic zeniths of the city’s ziggurats were quite visible from the few cracks and holes on the upper walls and roof.

Either way, Palmyria just nods her head at the Captain’s concerns as they continued to observe the commotions bellow them from the catwalk.

Changelings from both the guards, drones and basic civilians were carrying supplies into the warehouse while some of them even engaged into some quick and basic training for the noncombatant as well. Showing them basic stances and the uses of spears while also tutoring them in some basic arts of combat magic as well.

Though obviously not enough to go against the still loyal and seasoned guards of her mother. Not to mention against the feared Obsidian guards themselves. Those changelings where on a completely different level when it comes to skill and sheer brutality in the face of combat.

Something that the princess personal feared and hoped that the Zebras could handle themselves with their better experience and expertise in the art of war. Something that the Princess has to hold heartedly rely up if they massive cue against her mother shall be meant with any degree of success.

Palmyria sighed. “Yes captain, do not worry. I have the utmost confident that our new established allies will honor our cries for help and stay true to their words. Plus…”She sighted once more.”…I already proposed towards their local ruler that I would gladly engage with him in order to secure a long lasting relationship between our peoples.” She admitted, which in turn caused the stallion next to him to looked at her in shock.

He was certainly not informed of that.

“But my princess. Is that…is that really the wises of choices. By engaging with a foreign leader, you would basically sacrifice one half on the hive towards him. Basically making it part of his realm and his will to do as he wish.” He stated. Sounding and looking even more concerned than he previously was.

Again, the princess just sighed. “Once more Captain I am very much aware of the implementations that such actions would entice. And just for the sake of calming you down somewhat…” She turned her gaze towards the captain next to him. ”…he hasn’t exactly accepted, or even openly acknowledge my offer. Which obviously means that the offer is still up for debate in term of its legitimacy. So again, don’t worry.” She answered before looking back down below.

“But his is somewhat right though. I should have really thought this more carefully before even starting to suggest these things towards a foreign leader. But then again, I was feeling quite desperate and fairly pressured at the time. Something that hasn’t really changed much, to be honest.” She thought to herself.

She knew that backing down now was pretty much impossible at this point. She has made her will clear, both in the eyes of her supporters and those that still follow the Queen. She will either succeed with her plans or die trying. Quite literally in fact judging in just how far away her mother has gone so far.
From her own experience nonetheless.

She just recently had tried to link herself up into the rarely used hive link that every changeling still shared, only for her to discover for herself that the stories about these illusive whispers dominating the link were actually true. She was never more disturbed and/or scared for her life when she was exposed to the unadulterated form of what the hive mind has now become.

A never-ending wave of distant chanting and the every threatening allure was present. The images, the chaos, the rage, the never-ending hunger for someone’s sanity and self-conscious. She was basically screaming out loud to herself at that point to fight the pull it was having inside her mind. Eventually become too strong to bare as she was threatening close to be pulled away. Cyrus was even forced to physically slap her out of it which in turn was the reason as to why her left cheek was somewhat swollen today.

All thanks to her curiosity.

She actually subconsciously started to rub the sore spot on her cheek, which in turn forced her to hiss in pain and flinch back. This of course garnered the Captain’s attention next to her.

He was about to ask when a sudden set of hooves told him otherwise. Forcing both him and the princess to turn their attention to its source.

To the Captain’s mild surprise, it was none other but the well-respected noble Cyrus himself who was also being accompanied by a certain changeling which in turn, made the Captain frown.

Palmyria on the other end just perked up. “Oh Sir Cyrus. I thought that you were busy down below, scouting out the catacombs and tunnels for any of these old abandoned passageways that you mentioned to us this morning.” She greeted, before cantering over to the arriving pair.

Cyrus quickly noted the still somewhat visible spot on the princess’s cheek where he basically punched her. Still feeling somewhat sorry for his action.

He simply pointed at her scar while giving the princess an apologetic smile. “Before I answer, I just want to say that I am again very, very sorry for hitting you so hard Princess. That nasty cut on your cheek is certainly going to be visible for quite a while, ruining you otherwise well-kept chitin. I should have thought of less…barbaric methods when trying to pull you out from your trance.” He commented while again looking at the sizable gash he had caused on her.

Palmyria on the other end just smiled. “Oh, don’t fret yourself too much about it Sir Cyrus. It was mostly obviously my own fault for daring the devil himself and willingly expose myself up to my mothers’ hive link despite the many warnings not to. I should have obviously known better than to just blindly jump into something that I have very little knowledge of, so the blame isn’t entirely on you.” She answered.

Cyrus just nodded. “Still, should have warned you before hoof before even allowing yourself to witness its current horrors yourself. The fact that a lot of changelings have to suffer through these themselves down at the hive, just puts the priority of this rebellion even more to the forefront than it had been before. A lot are now at the risk of losing their minds quite literally if we don’t act soon.” Cyrus commented, which Palmyria could only agree.

“Indeed, which is why I am hoping that the King and his zebra will be there to help us. As dreadful as this may sound, we are severely under armed and under skilled, not to mention outnumbered as well in terms to actual fighter and specialist on our side.” She comments before looking off to the side sadly.

“Well which is why I have been personally started to scout out the tunnels down below with the help of previous working infiltrators and spies…” Cyrus gave Farries a side look before continuing.” …from the Queen to help us determine the location of them. With these long forgotten and abandoned tunnels uncovered and cleared, we would be able to have a somewhat more tactical advantage against the Queen’s guards. Being able to come in and out of certain tunnels and locations of the hive without stirring up too much of a fuss. Basically, performing guerrilla tactics. Something that I personally used to do a lot with my team, when we were exploring and trying to claim the deeper levels of the vast underworld and the monsters it harbors. With mixed results of course as you should know.” Cyrus added.

Mentioning Farries, this caused the captain to finally speak up himself while giving the mentioned changeling and untrustworthy glare.

“Speaking of spies, are you sure that this just “previously” defected spy of the queen herself is not here just for that? How can anyone be sure that he is truly what he says to be. Out of the queen’s clutches for a chance fortrue love or whatever. As cliché as it sounds.” He stated, which in turn got him a glare in return from the aforementioned ex-spy himself, before turning into a rather challenging smirk instead.

“Well, sounds like somebody might be jealous? Believe me when I say that once you had a taste of what true, genuine love taste like, it will more or less blow your chitin mind, especially when compared to the feedings that you previously used to get. Either from the caretakers or from feeding on someone else.” Farries announced cheekily, much to the Captain’s annoyance.

The Captain just huffed. “Me, jealous? Ha perish the thought. At least I don’t possess a personal track record of me abandoning those I am expected to be loyal to. I have always stood true to the Princess since the very beginning, even when the actions of the Queen began to slowly become more questionable with each day, and since then, I have never faltered in my beliefs in her. “He stated, causing Palmyria to blush a bit at the comment before he continued.” Not like you who has more or less committed treason towards the entire hive for some “true love and affection”. Never knew that the once famed Farries of the Queen’s personal spy and infiltration brigade could fall so low just for the promise of one of these surface dwellers. Says alot about your previous “dead silent and serious” reputation now does it?” The captain mocked back, holding a smirk himself while Farries glared.

He was about to say more when a certain Noble quickly stopped by stepping in. The glare he was giving both sides quickly forced them to shut up immediately.

“By the love of our foremothers. You two suddenly act like a herd of pre-fresh nymph’s who have just gone past their first moment of adolescents. This is a time of serious endeavors and you two start your first meeting with one another by arguing on Love and loyalty? Two very important topics for sure, but topics that help us with anything in terms of helping us to survive the next day.” Cyrus argued, causing both parties to flinch at his volume.

He eventually signed. “With that said, I would like to expect nothing more then to act upon your illegit expertise that the two of you are famous for. Which is something that I expect, and also even rely upon if our cue against the queen is going to be meant with success. So, if you could just pull yourself together, that would be highly appreciative.” Cyrus added, giving the now shunted changelings one last glare each before finally calming down.

Palymria on the other end just kept quiet, watching the display unfold with little else to add or to say. Besides the obvious.
“Uhm…anyway Cyrus, about your excavation down in the tunnels?” She openly asked, bringing the conversation back in track and to the point of interest.

Cyrus nods. “Of course, well for starters…Cyrus began before a sudden set of, and very loud sounding knocks erupted all throughout the interior of the warehouse. Knocks coming directly from the front doors themselves if their senses could be trusted.

The collection of lings perked up at that, and so where a couple of changelings down below as well, at least not those who were busy practicing or carrying crates around.

Though a group of seasoned changeling guards immediately sprung into attention at that, buzzing their way over to the large double doors with their weapons and horns firmly trained at the doors.

“Huh, funny. I wasn’t really planning any visitors to suddenly come by, if at all, given the fact that this warehouse is fully abandoned and far outside the city limits for any of the locals to care.” Cyrus commented while curiously rubbing his chin.

The knocking though persisted, even going harder and rougher as time passes.

“Hey, I know for a fact that you bug equines are all in here. I can remember your scents from anywhere, even as far away as from the city gates.” Someone shouted. The voice and tone of this individuals immediately summoning up memories of who this person could possibly be?

“Is that, Mystic Gem? One of the two Gazelle sisters that currently live in the Palace?” Palmyria question, more to herself then really anyone else around her.

Cyrus on the other hand just raised a curious eyebrow as the knocking continue. Looking down at the catwalk they were standing and pointing at the closest ling below him.

“You there, please open the doors. Let’s see what our unsuspected visitor wants.” He requested. Receiving nod from said changeling before acting on his given task. Buzzing over to the door and removing the large blanks of wood keeping it closed, with the added help of another changeling nearby.

Once opened, the previous prediction of their princess was quickly confirmed as the ever-frowning visage of a well know (or rather infamous to some) doe made herself know. Strangely alone, with neither of her other half or any of the Zebras accompanying her this far out of the city limits.

This caused both Cyrus and Palmyria to raise their brows as the does entered. Keeping a close eye on every changeling around her and even shining both her gem and horns a bit to show that she is not afraid to use them.
Which was already made clear on their first encounter.

“Better go down there before she starts slamming changelings into one another like she did last time. Don’t need another scene after all.” Cyrus commented, before buzzing off the catwalk and down onto ground level to address this unexpected visitor.

So did Palmyria, and the two changelings behind. Once there, they were meant with the ever-present frown and un-intimidated look of Mystic Gem. An incredibly feisty young doe that doesn’t seem to fear or worry about anything outside her own kind and her tribe.

Which could be both good and bad given the situation, but then again, she seemed to have some incredible luck on her side as well. Especially considering the King’s overreaching tolerance.

She just kept her unimpressive look as the group of four approached her.

Cyrus spoke. “Well this is certainly a surprise. Miss Mystics Gem was it…?” He questioned, which she confirmed with a simple nod.

Cyrus was about to continue when the Gazelle swiftly stopped him by speaking first. Somewhat rudely in fact.

“I have heard that you guys were planning to search for some secret tunnels down there that could even lead into the main Hive itself and presumingly even further. Is that correct?” She immediately asked, getting straight to the point and causing some brows to be raised because of that.

But more for the reason that she somehow knew of their task rather then the bluntness of her question.

The captain looked VERY suspiciously at her. “How in the forefathers names do you know of that?” She naturally questioned, even going so far as to subtly reaching for his obsidian blade next to his belt. A move which was thankfully not noticed by the Gazelle, otherwise she would have made good use of her magic once more, though this time more lethally most likely.

Either way, Mystic simply stayed casual as she replied. “Simple, I overheard some of your…changelings was it? Yes, changeling talking about something like that. So I just came here afterwards to confirm if their words where true or not. And judging from your reaction, it seems they are.” She replied, holding a somewhat noticeable smug tone as she said that.

This caused the captain to groan. “By the Ether, can’t even trust simple civilian changelings these day to keep more to themselves.” He muttered before Cyrus stepped up.

He gave the doe a somewhat reluctant nod. “Well, yes, yes we are.” He confirmed, even though it wasn’t really necessary anymore at this point.

Mystic also nods to that before finally getting to the point as to why she tracks them all the way here in the first place. She took on a more neutral look as she began.

“Let’s just get straight to the point then. Whenever you guys finally find these elusive tunnels down below and start whatever operation you are planning to use them for, I want to join in. Go down there with you all and find the idol of our ancestors. Oh and by the way, I am NOT taking a no for an answer.” She laid out, stomping her hoof onto the sandstone covered floor to emphasize her point.

This of course caused pretty much everyone to stop and stare at her, with the exception of the princess.

The first to recover was the captain himself as he scoffed at Mystic’s request. “What?! Are you even aware what you just requested ?” He called out, sounding not particular amused at the Gazelle’s request.

Mystic just nods, matching his glare with her own. “Of course. I know exactly what I am getting myself into, and frankly I don’t care either.” She again boldly stated.

But before anyone could reply or retort to her response, she continued. “I don’t care, how insane my idea is or how much you changelings think that I might end up as a liability or whatever. This is far more than just a personal fetch quest for me, not just for selfish reasons as some of you might think but for more…family related issues that I won’t spew out because…you are all just strangers to me who don’t even understand the norms and costumes of our peoples. And beside…” She pointed up at her gem and horn.” …this opportunity will also finally solve one of the biggest weaknesses that our kind has been cursed with ever since the gift of our god has been taken away from us many generations ago. The lack of magic and the ability to effectively survive and maintain a world that our ancestors used to be thrive in many generations ago. A forgotten civilization of magic and mysticism, and the ability to keep our lands safe from the ever hunger presence from the far south, by keeping its expanding clutches at bay with our long lost abilities. A fight which our ancestors obviously lost thanks to the slowly descending absence of our natural adept abilities. Snatched away by the zebra’s…or so we thought.” She looked at the changelings in front of her with great suspicion.” Or, it could have still been taken away by the ancient zebra’s, only to be repossessed by your kind at some point. Who knows, and honestly, I don’t care either as the hour of finally retrieving a piece that once made us what we used to be is finally drawing near. I MUST retrieve the Idol and finally end the one thousand year exodus from our original homelands. This piece of chance has vastly more to do with US then it has to do with me and my sister. This is our ancient history, and a chance to finally retrieve it, and relive it.” She finalized, allowing herself a small break after her long rant with a loud sigh.

“Also, you still might actually want ME to be present with your team once one of your changeling actually comes in contact with the physical depiction of Shahr-Mukahn. For you own mental sake that is.” She added, which in turn caused Cyrus to look at her with a raised brow.

“What? What do you mean by that?” He naturally questioned.

“Simple…”She began before trotting about. Moving to the right side of the group and away from the more seasoned looking changeling guards that stood behind her this entire time defensively.

The group obviously followed her with their eyes. The captain in particular keeping a still untrustworthy look at her.

She continued after she stopped. “Well for starters, to keep the spirits that are meant to represent Shahr-Mukahn gift from aiming their ire towards you as well, feeding off the memories and personalities of those not worthy of their magic, or so the story goes at least.” She added, looking rather thoughtful at the end while rubbing her chin.

This only made Cyrus more curious, though this time it was Palmyria who spoke up after she stepped closer. “Spirits? Wait…is that what I may have heard when I tried looking into the hive link myself? The allure and whispers of spirits?” She asked, which in turn Mystic just shrugged.

“Not sure about the hive link part but still could be possible. The anger of those inside for having been mistreated and misused for who knows how long.” Mystic answered before getting back on track. Evident on her usual frown and seriousness that she sports.

“Anyway, as I said, you might be better off if you have me with you when you get down there. You changelings obviously possess a more adept sense of mentality then most other races. Which could make you easy targets to reach for the ancient spirits. I could possibly calm down when they do however for just being there. The idol would surely recognize the presence of those it was meant to bestow blessing upon. Possibly attempting to call out to me and in hopes of me finding it, thanks to my inborn magical ability that is normally only associated with those the idol gives. Being and Charbakat and what not.” She again stated, more added information that the Changelings are mostly unaware of for obvious reason.

But one thing was sure. “If you truly think that these dangers and reasons are justifying the need for you to take part in the upcoming infiltration then I guess I have no issues in letting you join up after all.” He decided, allowing himself a certain level suspension of disbelief.

Again, he wasn’t really sure if the doe was telling the absolute truth or not. But given that this was THEIR idol and that some of her points had some striking similarities to the stories that he heard so far, especially regarding the whole
“alluring whispers” part associated with the hive link issue, it’s not too hard to make some connections. At least it also now explains the ever increasing hostilities of the queen, if her mind and personality are being sucked dry by whatever the idol harbored. Allowing its magic to be used for the queen’s endeavors, while unknowingly feeding of her mind.

Nothing is for free after all, and sometimes the price easily outweighs the rewards which seemed to be the case here. But how the Gazelles seem to be getting around that is still somewhat a mystery towards Cyrus.
But then again, it was personally given to them to whatever deity they aligned themselves with. So they could easily be the exception to the rule.

Either way, Mystic just nods and triumphantly smirks at the victory she managed to achieve before just cantering off. Probably to just have a closer look around the happening of the warehouse and to await Cyrus call out for either another expedition down below, or for the infiltration to finally begin.

The captain tapped on his shoulder to get his attention.

“By all do respect sir Cyrus, but I still personally think that she won’t have staying power down there, given her most likely poor eyesight in the dark and added weaker mental signature for us changeling to keep tabs on.” He criticized, keeping her tone low just for Cyrus’s ears.

Cyrus just gave him a smile. “Possible, but you can deny that her kind must have some pretty sensitive noses if she was able to track us down all the way out here with nothing but out natural scent. I am sure she will do fine down there even without any artificial lights guiding her.” She stated before turning around and trotting off as well. Leaving the princess, Farries and the captain to their own devices.

“Well, I guess nothing better to do then simply prepare. “The captain muttered before heading off too. Followed by the princess and the infiltrator as well. Because why not, these two also have nothing better to do before the next event.

All the necessary preparations were being conducted at this point. To finally end the madness and bring things back to normal. Oh…and to give a certain king more room to expand as well.

In power and territory, not talking about the side effects of consuming to many dearie products.