Author's Notes:

If any reader out there has any knowledge about editing and proofreading, and is interested in helping out pls PM. My current editor is busy with school.

“Well, this was certainly an unexpected outcome, but at least it has results, and we don’t have to restrain the queen ourselves like I thought we would.” Cyrus commented as he looked at the knocked-out Queen in front of him.

He was prepared to face the Queen himself in the worst case scenario, which was why he and his fellow changelings had to sneak their way to local archives to get what Cyrus needed. An old scroll, written during the time of the older dynasty of their hive, the one which existed before Palmyria’s lineage took over.

But it seemed that his preparations where radically simplified in the end. Thanks to the absence of anymore changeling guards the further they got into the hearth of the hive, and of course Mystic’s own reckless actions. Though he really shouldn’t call her actions “reckless” now, since she managed to accomplish the unexpected by defeating the Queen all by herself. Well to be fair, she just “weakened” the Queen. The real honor of taking down the changeling Queen actually goes to the Zebra King himself, which was a rather odd title to give him, considering what he did and how he even got here.

All of those events were far outside his suspected planning and self-preparations. Which was both good and slightly annoying as well. All the many nights spent thinking and careful planning down the drain essentially. But alas, it didn’t matter. What did matter though was that everything seemed to be over for now. Whatever curse had befallen the hive thanks to the Idol seemed to have been lifted. Because...well, Cyrus and his fellow changelings were right here, with no negatives effects whatsoever.

Cyrus looked down at the Gazelle, who was currently being looked after by a fellow changeling with medical expertise and an antidote for changeling toxins.

Whatever had happened to Mystic to boost her magical strength must have also boosted her physical resilience as well, as she was still very much alive when he and the rest got there.

Any other normal creature or race he knew off would have long succumbed to the level of poison she was exposed too. But again, it was at least good to know that she was going to make it, especially now that she was being treated.

As for the King, well...he was just being himself, rather careless and more interested in the baby drake on his arm and that mysterious egg he had.

The egg in particular seemed to be the most mysterious thing so far. From what he learned so far, by talking to the King himself, the egg actually came from the Idol itself.

Though thinking back on the Idol, Cyrus quickly remembered that he still needed to sever the mental link the Queen had with any other changelings nearby, basically de-powering her and removing her legitimacy of being the Queen.

How to do so was actually written down inside the scroll Cyrus managed to dig up from the hive’s archives. It was how Palmyria’s ancestors succeeded in usurping the last dynasty of Queens and creating a new one.

With that done, the title of the next Queen would then go to her closest bloodkin, which would be Palmyria. She’d ascend into an actual changeling Queen; becoming the new beacon of the collective mind of every changeling nearby was still a mystery. He had stated that doing so would be straight forward, but the truth was that he had no idea what would happen, though for now he needed to do the required procedure in severing the current queen’s link to the hive mind and therefore de-powering her.

Better to do it now while she’s unable to resist. It’s a cruel fate for any changeling, but it was one that needed to be done if killing her was out of the question.

Cyrus then eventually focused his attention to a couple of changelings behind him. Giving them a mental message that it was time, the two changelings nodded before moving closer to the downed Queen along with Cyrus. Those two were simply there to act as stabilizers while Cyrus did most of the magic.

While that was going on, a random changeling had come trotting into the room with another Gazelle following it from behind. This Gazelle was none other than Little Steppes, and at the sight of her unconscious sister she immediately ran past everyone in front of her to get to her sister as quickly as possible.

“Oh dear mother, what happened to Mystic?!” She asked, naturally shocked to see her sister unconscious. Though she also noted the new looks her sister was sporting as well, which only helped to widen her expression even further.

“She was poisoned. But don’t worry, I’ve already neutralized the toxins and she should be doing fine from this point on. She’s just unconscious for now, but she should wake up soon.” The changeling answered before finally getting back up after having finished his job.

Steppes was relieved to hear that before once again focusing back on the extra runes and markings covering her entire body. She knew that the blue swirl runes were usually only present on the horns of those magically gifted, but seeing her sister suddenly sporting them all over her body raised a lot of questions in her mind, even more so when she saw the blue hooves she had as well.

“What...happened to her?” She wondered to herself while looking down at her still form.

“I think that she got a ‘Level Up’ from what I can tell. Quite a typical occurrence in these magic-filled worlds. Well...in video game worlds that is. But so far, this world has pretty much operated like a video game from my perspective, so my stance still stands.” Alexander suddenly piped in, having taking enough time out of his lollygagging to address someone other than Penelope or Cyrus for a change.

Little Steppes flinched back a bit, a sense of surprise washed over her features as she finally noticed his presence for the first time. She naturally began to look around herself to see if there was any other entry or exit into this room until deducting that there wasn’t. She quickly turned her head back to the waving monarch in front of her, in all of his pajama wearing glory.

“What the...I...I didn’t know that His Highness was down here as well. The last time I saw you was...before I went down to town to look for my sister this morning.” She commented, fairly surprised to see him here, in the heart of the changeling hive and so far away from the surface.

The king just hummed while unconsciously swapping Penelope's claws away from his shirt. She was about to chew on it again, which Alexander heroically thwarted with her expert swatting skills.

“Well...” He began before looking back at steppes. “I am full of mysteries and surprises. My existence...is an enigma in this world.” He stated with a hint of mystery in his tone which only made Steppes tilt her head.

A bright flash suddenly illuminated the room, which forced both Steppes and Alex to turn to its source. What they saw was a panting Cyrus standing in front of an unconscious Queen with two of his lackeys.

Alex was already coming up with a dirty joke with that realization, while Steppes focused more on the downed Queen herself. She raised a surprised eyebrow when she noticed that the orange color within the Queen’s hair was dulling, her mane and tail slowly becoming shorter and her horn also receding in size.

She didn’t know what Cyrus and the other two did, but it didn’t matter. As long as she stayed unconscious while she was here, it was fine with her.

She then also took notice of the last remaining light source within the room, the source being the Idol itself, which caused Steppes’ eyes to widen for a second time. She carefully approached it, taking in its design and level of detail, while also being able to sense its aura coming from it, despite not sharing an affinity with magic like her sister.

She knew that this was the Idol no doubt, despite never having seen it until now.

“The long lost Idol, I can’t believe that it’s truly here, right in front of me. Being one of the first to see it after many generations. It’s just...unbelievable, in a way.” She muttered while allowing herself to be entranced by its beauty.

It was then that someone else suddenly came through the door this time. It was none other than Farries and few others of Cyrus team. He looked a bit around at first before his gaze fell on Cyrus’ exhausted form.

He approached him. “Cyrus, just heard that the large army of changeling guards in front of the eastern gate have all suddenly falling unconscious without warning. Could this maybe be link with the fact that the Queen is knocked out as well?” He reported, before looking a bit curious himself.

Cyrus nods. “Could be, a Queen needs to be conscious in order to communicate or manipulate a changeling via her mental links with them. I guess my theories were correct after all, that she had a certain level of personal control over the military, turning them rather aggressive and fiercely loyal to her.“He responded while rubbing his chin.

Farries then eventually looked down at the Queen. He once served as her local infiltrator and information agent, before he then learned what true love tastes and feels like. Both literally and... physical.

His switch then to the other side was rather easy at that point, especially when he now found a mate to be with.

After a couple of minutes of self reflections, Farries then turned his attention back to Cyrus with one important question.

“So...what are we going to do with her now? She no longer has the mental connections to be a Queen as far as I know.” Farries questioned.

This made Cyrus think. “Well, we can’t have her wake up and run around freely. At least down here or above on the surface. I guess we have to let Palmyria decide what to do with her mother. She is the new Queen of the hive after all.” He responded.

“Or...” The Monkey King suddenly perked up. “...we could integrate her into society. Rehabilitate and make her less of a bitch.” He openly proposed.

This caused everyone to look at him before turning to one another. For most, this sounded like a horrible idea. Even for Steppes, despite not knowing to much about the Queen and what she had generally done to make her so dangerous and unstable.

“Well, again, I would still suggest to let the princess decide her fate. After we tidy everything up here and get a large majority of the nobility on her side. I am sure some are going to oppose the idea of allowing the Queen’s daughter to step up to the throne, especially when those that actually favored her mother heavily from her crazed rule. Such are the natures of politics, sadly.” Cyrus stated with a sigh.

It was then when Penelope also made her presence know by a low, but still audible rumble coming from her belly.

This forced Alexander to switcher his attention back to his little drake with a realizing expression.

“Oh, what’s this? Is little miss Penelope hungry again? Well, it is almost time for dinner after all. Better get you something to chew on before I lose yet another shirt of your insatiable hunger. Heaven knows that my royal tailors are not going to be pleased with the fact, that all of their hard work and time is simply being eaten away by a weedy little drake.” Alex stated before getting up. Dusting himself off before making sure both his drake and the egg were fairly gripped within his arms.

“Well then, time to teleport back to the surfaaaaaaa I can’t teleport back because I left the ring thing Mcguffin back at the vault before getting here. Great, that means I have to walk. And I hate walking...sometimes.” The King openly complained after realizing that his trip was more of a one trip pony.

Cyrus looked at him, before fixing his gaze back to Farries. “Well, I guess Farries here will be able to escort you back to the surface. Being a previous spy and intelligence gathering means that he’s pretty well versed with the hive layout and other tunnels. It should be quick.” Cyrus offered to which Farries simply sighed.

“Fine, I can do that.” He answered before looking up at the king.

Alex hummed. “Well, fair enough, as long as I don’t have to climb too many stairs, I guess it is fine. Lead the way then dear Zebra lover, because my little drake here is very hungry. And let me tell you. You do NOT want her to stay hungry for too long if you value your personal possessions’ safety. She can be quite the fire hazard if she has any form of stomach problems.” The king stated, which got solidified by the fact that Penelope quickly burped out a small flame after he said that.

Proving his point.

.............................................................................................................................................

Bakuss was silently strolling through the Palace Barracks, which had been momentary converted into a hospital to treat the injured and those who survived the fights underground. It was sad to know that during the first engagement, a sizable number of guards met their ends almost instantly during that one devastating strike the changelings pulled, but it was nothing too short of the casualties which were suffered during the defense of the Eastern Bridge. Not saying that Bakuss was ok with the idea of his fellow kin dying out in the battle, but that was just the general nature of war; people will die with destruction and sorrow not far behind. Being surrounded by possible enemies and ancient rivals pretty much makes it a guarantee that further conflicts in the near future are a possibility. Especially with their desire to retake old borders and frontiers.

There certainly will be a handful of neighbors who are going to be against their ambitions.

Bakuss was sure that this would certainly not be the last time he would come across a room filled with the injured or recently retired. It certainly wasn’t pretty, but it was still a view he would have to get used to, one way or another.

“I would say that we need to start drafting more Zebras for the army pretty soon. We only have a limited number of guards at our hooves as it is with so much extra room for more. I wonder how the king will respond to the idea of expanding his army as well, besides just adding those more specialized warriors from all the other Zebra tribes, like those Sand Hunters.” Bakuss muttered to himself as he continued to watch the local herbalists, alchemists and even members of the temples helping out the sick and injured.

“Greetings, sir.” Lieutenant Liuanda suddenly greeted as she came waddling over to the captain, one of her hind legs being encased inside a cast, which forced her to use a crutch to support her weight properly.

Liuanda’s presence made Bakuss shake his head, as he knew that she should have been resting and not running about with a crutch under her leg. But alas, he also knew that she could be rather thick headed sometimes, so he decided to not comment on her disregard for her own health and just focus more on the scene in front of him.

“Well, greetings to you as well Liuanda. How are your injuries doing?” Bakuss asked, just for the sake of starting a conversation.

Liuanda looked down towards her injured hind leg before replying. “They’re doing fine, the worst being my leg as you can see sir, but nothing to discomforting.” She replied.

Bakuss just hummed while keeping his attention fixed on the room in front of him. Liuanda just did the same, watching as priests and herbalists were doing their jobs.

That also reminded her that their would be another mass funeral taking place soon at the Temple of the Dead. Another moment where a lot of family members and friends have to watch their loved once depart for the afterlife. Sad, but something that was unavoidable, whether you were a soldier or not.

.............................................................................................................................................

“Well...I did as much research as I could, but I still have no idea what this egg might be. Its yellow and gray patterns are like nothing I’ve ever seen or read about before. It certainly isn’t a dragon egg, that's for sure.” Akunezzar answered as he looked at the egg resting on a very, very...like a very large pillow in front of my equally supersized bed.

Why is it resting on an almost bed size pillow some may ask? Well it's simple, I found it in my room-sized closet this morning and just thought to myself. “Hmmm, why not use it to act as an egg pillow?”

A completely random thought for sure. But hey, I am all about random shit and ideas that are not seen as normal by your average simple-minded citizen. Keeps my enemies on their toes and my allies confused. What more could you possibly ask for?

Either way, I was still truly disappointment with Aku’s lack of actual information as to what this egg is. I was really hoping that it my be another drake, one which may be magically gifted, as it did come from a Magic god’s Idol. You can never have enough drakes in my opinion, plus getting Penelope a brand new sibling would also be a good bonus as well. It would then at least secure me a lot more free time in the foreseeable future as the two would then keep themselves busy while I could focus more on my Kingly things and more lollygagging.

I mumbled to myself unintelligent for a bit while looking down at the egg. “Well, you tried Aku, you tried. Dear God knows that I would have never succeeded in searching through an ENTIRE library for one book. I would have certainly lost my enthusiasm to keep going after the fiftieth or sixth book or so. So you, my dear Aku, are truly a lifesaver sometimes.” I stated, giving the old geezer a pat on the back and a well deserved thumbs up for his efforts.

“Uhm...thanks...your Highness. As you local advisor it is my duty after all to assist you in the fields of knowledge.” He responded.

I hummed before moving my head closer to the egg to have a better look at it for like... the tenth time since bringing it here. It wasn’t particularly noticeable, but when looking at the egg from a certain angle I could swear that I can see a bit of a halo surrounding the egg’s outer shell. It was strange, perhaps even a bit intriguing, but again the angle wasn’t always consistent for me to openly point out. Seriously it was only at some very specific angle when you hold your head still. Which is an almost impossibility for me, given my hyperactive nature when I’m not being lazy instead.

“Is there something you see on it?” Aku asked as he watched me watching the egg. This might be my new TV but I doubt that Aku even knows what a TV is.

I hummed to myself, stroking my chin for added character and pressing my lips together. “Well...I am not sure. But I could swear that this things has a bit of a glow to it. Could also just be the glare of the sun or some reflection maybe? Because you can only ever see it when you look at it from a very specific angle.” I stated, deciding to just spill the beans.

Aku stroked his beard. “Is that so? Well, I put this egg under much study and observation earlier and can assure you that I haven’t noticed anything odd with its outside appearance besides the strange color combination.” Aku answered.

I sharply turned my head to him which made him flinch. “Are you saying that I am crazy?” I asked which made him shake his head.

“No, no of course not. I never stated that you are.” He quickly defended himself.

“Hmmm, that’s fine. I know what I am. It is all part of my collective psyche.” I responded before looking back at the egg.

I eventually picked up it. Giving it a bit of a shake while holding my right ear against it. As expected, there was nothing. No sound and certainly no indication that it was occupied with something. Well, i mean nothing inside that would allow me to actually feel it by shaking it, besides its obvious weight.

“Well, I guess all we can do know is wait for this thing to hatch or whatever. Shouldn’t take to long...before I feel the need to have an oversize omelet or something. Of course that last one was a joke.” I stated before placing the egg back down.

Though speaking of omelets, I could actually really use one, despite the fact I only just had lunch around an hour ago. I love in-between snacks when I can get the opportunity to do so. It's a miracle that I haven’t blown up already around my midsection after all these years. But that’s yet again a story for another time.

“Maybe we could just...” I was about to propose before I was halted by a knock on my 2000 EURO door. Because pairing an items value with dollars is super cliche and I typically don’t like these bland green things of folding paper.

Either way, besides mentally shitting on the dollar before finding something else I can personally make fun off, it was clear that someone was standing right behind the closed doors to my private chambers, which wouldn’t be the first time.

I fixed up my shirt and pants before dragging myself over to the door. I opened it, only to be met with the visage of a certain high priestess of this Zebra cult. Susara, or as I like to dub her, Susi.

“Ah Susi, I was wondering where you ran off too. I certainly missed your presence for most of the day. You weren't even present during breakfast and lunch.” I greeted her with my trademark grin, which she returned with a simple smile of her own.

She bowed, as she usually does before finally addressing me directly. “I apologize for my day long absence, your highness. As a dedicated high priestess, I am obviously obligated to also do my part as a spiritual link for everyone who seeks the gods’ blessings or guidance. Basically doing a lot of ‘religious thingies’ as you like to call it.” She responded.

“Anyway, besides you doing your job, what exactly is it that leads you in front of my over-expensive door with way to much gold and far less wood exposed on it. There is certainly a reason why the call for your king is somehow stronger than your spiritual responsibilities.” I asked, going straight to the point for once as I personally just wanted to go back and watch my new Television program.

A program staring an egg, and the rather inconsistent glow it gives off when only looking at it from the right angle. Seriously this is going to drive me even more mad then I already am at some point. I want to know what that egg is and I want to know it now. At times like these I can really act or think like a complete immature child.

Never claimed to be perfect.

“Well...” She began, like how she always does. “I just wanted to personally inform you that the Idol has finally been carried back up to the surface. It has been currently placed in a random guest room along with the two Gazelle sisters at the western wing of the Palace. They are in fact waiting for you there. Little Steppes wanted to personally see you to ask you about something.” Susi explained.

This caused me to remember about the Idol again. This whole talk and mock about this mysterious egg had really diverted my mind from all the other more important events that transpired here. I also just managed to remember that I will have to attend another mass funeral for those who gave up their lives for the future of this quickly rebuilding nation.

Like seriously. I only gave the plans and orders to expand the city borders this morning, and a large sum of workings has already been organized to start digging on the outskirts of the city. Preparing the grounds for the necessary foundations to come.

I feel both proud of my little Zebra’s and also quite shocked at their level of dedication and ambitions. They would easily give the Chinese a run for their money, if not beating them to it entirely.

I eventually scratched myself back to the reality at hand before giving Susi the answer she desired. No matter the circumstances, I will always be prone to losing myself in my own thoughts in any situation. If there's any way in which I would most likely die from, it would certainly be this one.

Getting killed by a train of thoughts. Sounds rather fitting end for someone if I had to be honest.

“Sure...why not.” I casually replied without little fuzz or thought process.

I mean how can I even form more thoughts when I already did a lot of pointless thinking before while wasting everyone's time? A memoir of my life right here.

Though before Susi could reply, I turned my attention back to Aku behind me. “Say Aku, can you be so kind as to keep an eye on both the egg and Penelo while I go talk with the horny folk. Won’t take to long...or so I think.” I requested.

Aku nods. “No problem your highness, I can easily accomplish that.” He replied which finally gave me the freedom to skedaddle out of here to annoy both misses grump and lady submissive.

This should certainly be a great distraction to remind me again of the more important things which I should normally be more focused on.

“Well, you heard the man. Lead the way then Susi as I still have problems with navigating myself in this endless maze of hallways and outside courtyards.” I requested to which Susi nods.

“But knowing your way from the kitchen, to the dining hall and back to your own rooms seems to be rather easy for you compared to the rest.” She trollishly replied as she lead the way.

Snarky little chick. She has certainly learned a lot through my influence alone. I’m not a hundred percent sure if I like this or not. But either way, it doesn’t matter as long as she keeps it on a manageable level. Though beyond that...I might have to actually start introducing a “re-education program” to these Zebras if that ever happens.

Dark humor aside, the rest of the trip was again rather silent and uneventful. Not that either of us where shy or anything, its just that there wasn’t really a lot to talk about along the way. Plus, I was mentally too occupied on the egg again, which is why I almost managed to walk myself into a few pillars decorating the halls of the Palace, if it wasn’t for my own quick intuition and a warning call from Susi.

I can veer off quite easily to either the left or the right when thinking and walking at the same time.

The more you know.

“Alright, here it is.” Susi eventually stated after she stopped in front of a door. One very specific door in a hall filled with many. I am not even sure where all of these doors lead too. Maybe one will actually transport me to mystical land of Narnia if I explore these doors long enough. But I doubt that would ever happen, as I don’t possess the patience nor the energy to actually do that.

I fixed up my shirt for the second time in the past ten minutes before reaching out for the doorknob, only to stop when I realized my manners and knocked on the door instead.

There was some momentary shuffling coming from the other side afterwards, which in turn at least meant that this room was indeed occupied.

“Hold on.” I heard someone call out from the other side before more shuffling could be heard.

I just patiently waited. I know better then to just barge into a girl’s room without permission. Which is where I got my love of boobs from.

Ah yes, those melons. I still can’t believe that teens of that age could already sport such jugs. High School was certainly one crazy time for me, like getting tricked into the girls changing room instead of the boys. Good time, good times.

“Alright it's ready...I mean we’re ready.” I heard someone call before a set of clip clopping hooves could be heard getting closer to the door.

The door eventually opened, revealing the distinct visage of a certain submissive character, or as she is called, little miss Little Steppes of the Gazelle tribe, sister to the more bitchy side of her family, little miss Mystic Gem. Though why I’m telling this to anyone as if they have never met them before until now wis beyond me.

I still hold to the notion that my misadventures are going to be recorded or heard by someone in the future. Surly believing that doesn’t automatically make me into deadpool 2.0 does it? I am still beautiful...unlike him.

Little Steppes was expectantly surprised to see me at first, before quickly regaining her composure and giving me a quick bow. I am personally indifferent about this whole “bending over for me” thing. So for the most part I just let people do their thing as long as they are facing me when bending over.

I am still not yet prepared to get a face full view of animal genitalia just yet. The sight I was given with the two twins was good enough for me at this point. Though again, i am a bit curious about what those two fuckers are up to again.

Certainly something which would make my story not suitable for watchers. But let's not focus on that as I have a doe to address in front of me.

“Well hello there Little Steppes. I heard that little ol’ you was looking for me. So here I am. What is it exactly that has been bothering you widdle little mind that would warren me to get off my ass and walk over here? Not that I was sitting down to begin with when Susi here came knocking on my door to relay the news. But it's the principle which matters.” I greeted, before going on my usual unrelated rambles just to stall.

What I’m stalling for is not important. As long as I have a legitimate reason created in my mind to justify the actions I am taking it’s all good. Most of them are just trivial things anyway, like talking just to avoid the inevitable even further.

It’s something I got used too rather quickly during my early years as a school kid, and one which has stuck with me to this very day. So far it has been pretty good strategy in achieving my goal to procrastinating through life. But now I am most likely just wasting everyone’s time with this unrelated rumbling. So I will just stop. Especially when Steppes was about to finish off from whatever it was that she was talking about while I was busy being spaced out.

I blinked before scratching my head. “Uh...can you maybe repeat that again? I was kinda spaced out there for a moment.” I stated, which in turn made Steppes tilt her head in confusion while Susi just shook her head.

I am pretty good at this, but it also seems kinda trivial for someone who is tasked to rule a freaking nation.

Steppes was about to repeat herself before a certain other decided to do that job for her. “She was asking if we could maybe go home now with the Idol? We have been occupied within your city for far to long and wish to finally go home.” Mystic’s voice called out, before seeing her crawl out of her bed from around the corner of the room.

She still seemed to be a bit tipsy by the looks of it. Could be from the so-called “poisoning” she suffered from. But I obviously can’t be sure. Though she still looked as nicely decorated as ever. Those swirls around her body still present, along with her sky blue colored hooves.

If she and her sister didn’t stick out like sore thumbs before in a city filled with nothing but Zebras, Mystic certainly does now with her new complement of brightly colored body tattoos all over her...well, body. Though this also meant that she would most certainly be sticking out back home. But that is her problem, not mine.

I began to scratch my chin. “Ah, so the two of you just want to go home now that you two have your Idol? Speaking of which, where exactly is the Idol anyway? I certainly don’t see it around.” I asked while trying to peer deeper into the room from my position.

Mystic on the other end of the room sighed before grabbing a curtain and pulling it to the side, exposing the aforementioned thingy in all of its shining glory. Seriously, the thing still had that ethereal shine to it when you look at it a bit longer. Though obviously not as a noticeable in the middle of broad daylight.

I nodded. “I see, well if you are going to ask me for permission, then I certainly have no objections in letting you go off with your physical depiction of your god or whatever. I personally wish to move on from this topic as well, and finally focus more on expanding the city like how I originally wanted to before all of this started to happen. The sudden appearance of changelings was also completely unplanned.” I responded, also just remembering to myself that I will also have to talk with Palmyria as well at some point.

Maybe even today, after the funeral or whatever.

Little Steppes nods. “Well, thank you then your highness. Despite our original reasons of coming here, you still showed us great hospitality and tolerance despite the trouble we have caused, and even helped us to achieve something which we would have never dreamed off. For that, I’d like to personally thank you.” Little Steppes responded before giving me another respectful bow.

I just waved my hand in front of her. “Ah, no problem. It’s what I do. Even though my decisions really make no sense from time to time. Such ways of thinking are all part of my overall philosophy really. Whatever that means.” I answered.

A little tap on my chin though forced me to turn my attention to Susi, who then ushered me to get closer with her hoof, which I did after a few seconds of thinking.

“Are you sure that it will be okay to allow them to go home with a potent magical artifact? From what I can gather of our history, is that the Zebras of old and the Gazelles also used to be rivals in the past. We would just be empowering them if we allowed them to return with their Idol.” Susi asked with concern, which was kind of to be expected, as her concerns were not entirely false.

It is very much true that my decision in letting them go with the shining statue could very much end up to be a shot in my own foot. But I am also trying to act a bit more...diplomatic you could say, and hope that my act of generosity is actually going to bare fruits.

If not...well...then I will just have to rely on my good ol’ Deus Ex Machina to save my skin and that of Penelope’s as well. Oh, and the egg too, because why not.

I pucker my lips in thought before just shrugging. I guess that Little Steppes and Mystic have eavesdropped on Susi’s open concerns, because both of them looked fairly confused or even a bit suspicious.

I grinned, in order to defuse the fuse. “Well anyway. As I stated, feel free to leave the city along with your Idol whenever you like. Though of course, I won't be able to offer you any escorts or general help in getting you two back home with your magical Idol. We here have a lot of sorting out, rebuilding to do here on our own here. Same as you two I would imagine when you bring your reclaimed Idol back to your people. Especially you...” I pointed at Mystic. “You seem to be the most essential piece in the future of your race. If I look at you new markings correctly. Just seems to make sense that way.” I stated before rubbing my chin.

Mystic looked down at herself and noted her new exterior. Specifically her blue tinted hooves.

Little Steppes, on the contrary, looked over her shoulders towards her sister, before eventually witching her gaze back on me with her usual kind hearted smile.

“Anyway, thank you again for letting us go like this. We shall leave as soon as we can and no longer be a burden to you and your people. I will make sure to inform the tribe elders and our father of your generous help. I’m sure they will appreciate this as well.” Little Steppes again thank me.

I nod. “Sure thing. Anyway, if that is all then I guess I shall take my leave then so that the two of you can focus more on your upcoming departure. I have a lot of things to do as well. Like meeting with the changeling princess again for example. Or should I say Queen.” I announced before excusing myself.

Or rather I would have, if a certain gangster didn’t just call me out.

“Hey wait. What about the egg that spawned from the Idol?” Mystic shouted.

I began to think. “Well yes, the egg, I still have it of course in case you ask.” I responded before turning around.

“Well...” She began while stepping closer, or rather wobbling a bit closer.”...since the egg specifically came from the Idol itself. I would say that it more or less belongs to it, and should therefore be carted off to our lands alongside with Idol. It just seems right that way.” Mystic stated while giving me her usual glare.

This caused me to pucker my lips at her request. Personally I didn’t like it, especially when the egg was only summoned into existence when I made first physical contact with the Idol on my very calculated teleportation into the belly of the beast. But I guess it does make sense, given the Idol’s origin.

I guess giving it away would be the best. If not help with the diplomatic relationship even further by granting this to Mystic and her leading family. Plus, it would also mean far less responsibilities for me in the long run. God knows that I am already pretty full with my responsibilities in taking care of Penelope. That little girl can really be a handful, a bottomless pit, and a fire hazard. My fire hazard if I may add.

I hummed. “Weeeell...okay, I guess. Just for the sake of simplicity. I’ll head back to my chambers and get the oversize omelet maker. I’ll be right back then, just sit back and be happy.” I stated before attempting to take my leave for the second time.

“Actually...” Mystic began. “I'm going to come along with you instead. Just to get some feeling back into my legs from having been dormant for so long.” She announced before walking past her sister.

“Wait sis...you can’t even walk straight! Let me just go with him and...”She was about to offer before Mystic placed a hoof on her mouth.

“No thanks sis, and also, as I stated, I want to get some motion back into my legs. So stop worrying so much.” She stated before continuing on.

I just let Mystic be Mystic before leading the way back towards my room, which went just as smooth as you would imagine, which in turn, forced Susi to do most of the leading rather quickly.

We eventually reached my private chambers just as quickly as Susi and I have left it. I entered through, gave Aku a simply greeting who was in the middle of examining the egg even further while I was gone. I grabbed the egg from its oversized cushion and again gave it a little shake in between my hands just because.

I could have sworn that I saw a little tint on the eggs shell when I did so, but shrugged it off as nothing, especially with the open window I was facing. Just like any other day in these sun blasted lands. The day was fairly bright and very hot when you go outside. A typical weather for desert focused regions and the likes. Makes you question how the Egyptians managed to build their civilization on such an annoyingly hot region in the first place. But that is not the main focus of this topic. Rather, it was the egg which I was still holding in my hand and a rather tilted headed Gazelle next to me.

I pressed my lips together in thought for a couple of seconds before finally offering the egg towards Mystic who already looked a bit impatient.

“Well, here you go, the gold and silver egg of your Idol. Still not sure what it is, or what may be inside of it. But at least try to inform me in the future when it does hatch, as I would be quite interested to know on what might be inside this thing. Curiosity kills the cat after all, and I am super curious about it.” I explained before offering her the egg.

She nods. “Sure, I think either my mother or father could send a courier to your city to inform you of just that. If not them, then maybe me, as I am the oldest child of the tribe’s leader.” She responded before cupping the egg in between her forehooves.

What happened next though was quite unpredictable for everyone, even for me.

The moment I let go of the egg physically and handed it over to mystics opened hooves was the moment where the egg suddenly blink off from existence and immediately reappeared fully in my still semi opened hands which almost caused me to drop the head sized thing.

Everyone was stunt at this. Particularly Aku behind me, who immediately started to write something down on a piece of paper he must have kept inside his Babylonian style robes along with a feather.

I gave the egg a raised eyebrow, before handing it back over to Mystic who looked fairly confused. She did accepted the offer though, before the same thing happened twice with the egg disappearing from Mystic’s grasp and reappearing again in mine.

To say that this identical reaction from the egg was intriguing would have been and understatement. It was pretty clear that after the third and fourth try that the egg itself was not happy with the fact that I was giving it away to someone else to be carter of somewhere far away for some other purpose.

It wants to stay here, specifically close me its seems as it only ever appeared into my hands and not per say, Aku or Susi behind me. It could also be because that I am the only one who has their hands or rather appendages ready like this to catch or hold an egg. But whatever, as long as it can make me feel and seem more important than anyone else, it very much worked for me.

I am not yet power crazy, nope, not at all.

“Well...this certainly changed everything I believe.” I casually stated after the egg has warped back onto my hands for like...the fifth time already.

It was fairly clear that the egg doesn’t want to go anyway. Made even funnier when Mystic was giving the egg this child like glare with the puffed out cheeks and everything.

“Stupid egg.” She quietly stated which I was thankfully able to hear.

This certainly just made it even funnier then it should be. But alas, it was just a small moment of joy, because the egg suddenly began to glow and wiggle in my grasp.

Everyone was stock still at that moment. Expecting that the thing was suddenly about to hatched in the most magical way possible. Because from what I know, eggs don’t start to glow when hatching. Penelope’s egg hatched just fine so that was that.

Though our expectations were quickly dashed when the egg quickly began to calm down. The light around it faded and along with it the wiggling. A small chime like squeak suddenly came out of the egg before finally going still.

The room was silent afterwards. With the only sound coming from Aku’s furious scribbling on his piece of paper.

“Hmmm...I suddenly feel the need to put this egg back on its pillow and out of my hands. Strange isn’t it?” I casually stated before doing just that. Placing the thing back on its cushion and pretending that this never happened.

Hard to do when it literally just had an epileptic seizure. But who am I to judge?

“Well anyway, it seems the egg doesn’t want to go anyway Mystic. Though I guess that this would be a good thing for you and your sister respectively. As you two don't have to bother yourself in hauling a body sized statue back to your home along with an equally sizable egg. The less luggage, the better.” I casually stated, with my trademark grin back and in full force as it should be.

Damn I missed my trademark grin. It's just so wonderfully creepy or crazy looking for everyone. My jam.

Mystic sighted. “Oh well, whatever. Not like I wanted the egg to actually come along anyway.” She stated before casually trotting out of the room.

I guess that she can’t really take rejection to well. Judging by how childish she was acting. An interesting character quirk I have to say. But not the focus now.

“Well, that pretty much solves the issue then.” I stated before rubbing my hands together. “Anyway...uhm...Susi?” I asked while turning my attention to the aforementioned mare next to me.

“Uh...yes?” She responded after shaking herself back to reality.

“When is this mass funeral taking place? I’m positive that it will happen today. Or am I maybe mistaken?” I curiously asked before looking thoughtful.

Susi shook her head. “No, your highness, it IS actually planned to take place today in the Temple of the Dead. In fact, I better head back there now to help with the preparations and sanctification of the honored dead, before they can finally move on to the afterlife.” Susi stated before quicky excusing herself as well and cantering out of the room.

“Wait, in that case let me join you. Better for me to be there as well in case I forget about it again later. It is kinda important after all for me to be present.” I called after her before giving chase.

“Again Aku, just be a dear and keep an eye on both Penelope and the egg, will ya?” I called out before focusing more on my task in catching up with the priestess mare.

Today is going to be all gloom and doom again I’m sure. Funerals are always so...dramatic and sad...mostly sad, until the food arrives that is.