Arcane hums happily as he glides down to the castle door before stopping at the entrance. "Hey Mila," he greets, looking at one of them. The changeling smiles, giving a happy wave with her hoof.

"Greetings, my prince. The queen and others are eagerly waiting for you," Mila informs, opening the door for him.

Arcane nods as he walks inside, finding Twilight looking excited, and rushes over to hug him. "Woah. Mom. I wasn't expecting this kind of hug," Arcane chuckles as he wraps a hoof around her. "But I am not complaining," he laughs and nuzzles her.

Twilight hums happily. "My little boy," she gushes and hugs him tighter while her tail wags.

"Big bro!" a cacophony of cheers sounds out as Arcane is suddenly knocked down to the ground. He cries out in sudden pain and surprise as many mares and fillies pounce and pins him down. "Did you make a ton of credits?!" one voice asks.

Arcane groans as he feels all of his close sisters lying on painful spots. "Girls…my body…ow. And no. Not yet," he painfully lets out.

Aether giggles as she pushes Linda off Arcane's flank. "Sisters, don't sit there. Not a good place," she lectures.

"Thank you," Arcane strains through the weight.

Twilight giggles and pets her son's mane. "We all miss you. Great to have you back. If only for a little while."

Arcane then picks his head up before stopping at the sight of a new baby filly on his side. "Where is Xing?" he asks, noticing his other sister missing from the pony pile. Melinda is lying on his shoulder while Linda is on his flank. As for the new filly, she is sitting on his side.

Twilight looks around before smiling. "Oh. Xing is running an Ogres & Oubliettes game with her friends. She's perfect at organizing and coming up with games," she praises her daughter.

Arcane sighs before looking at the little filly. "Who's the new sister?" he asks before noticing the embarrassed look on his mother. "I will say it," Arcane mutters as he uses a wing to pet the filly on the head. "You and dad are fast, even with eggs. At least I got another sister," he shrugs, picking himself up to lay on his side. He smiles happily at the filly while brushing her with his wing and offering the little one a warm makeshift blanket.

Aether giggles as the filly yawns and snuggles into Arcane's side. "Sorry, we didn't tell you. This little one just hatched yesterday," she apologizes as she adjusts his wing with her magic, so it covers the little foal better.

Arcane shrugs before looking at Twilight. "Mom, I need a favor."

Twilight looks at her son in curiosity before sitting down with him. "Sure. What do you need?"

Arcane smiles as gently as possible. "Momma Zecora. I need one of her contacts," he asks and sees the surprised look on his mother. Twilight tilts her head before raising a hoof to speak but stops short. Arcane sighs before speaking up to explain himself, "I remember that momma Zecora was one of the planet's ambassadors at one point. So I know she must have had a contact list for interplanetary ones. I need one for finding recruits."

Twilight slowly nods in understanding before looking up at the ceiling in silence. "Okay," she speaks up after a while. "She should be here soon. But I can understand your intentions. Because I am more for major alliances?" she asks, pointing a hoof at herself.

Arcane nods sadly. "Plus, I don't want to bother you too much. I often notice you are busy with everything with the Citadel also. I know dad hates that."

"No shit," all the mares say at the same time.

Arcane chuckles before seeing Zecora walk up to them. "Hi, mommy Zecora," he greets while his tail wags in the air.

Zecora smiles as she sees the filly sleeping against him. "Hello, young Arcane. How are you and your adventures?"

Arcane gives a playful hum. "Dangerous adventures, narrow escapes, bullets are whizzing by and saving the damsel in distress. All the stories are true," he describes before laughing and tapping a hoof on the ground. Arcane then sighs and looks at them calmly after seeing the growing worried look on Twilight's face. "I am fine, mommy Zecora. But I do need your help. Do you still have the contact information for some diplomats and others when you were an ambassador?"

Zecora blinks before looking at her omnitool, sitting down on her flank and flipping through it with her other hoof. "Yes. I have a few. I understand from the changelings you wanted to find recruits?" she asks for clarification.

Arcane nods while using his magic and grabs the filly in a telekinetic hold. "Yep. Need to find some for my crew," he confirms. Arcane carefully sets the filly on Twilight's side, making sure she is tucked in under the wing. "I need to fill the beds and positions on my ship. And also finding more ways to earn credits."

Zecora slowly nods before finding one name that can help him. "This zebra will help you find some members to bring onto your group. He helped me with finding some advisors before your mother took them for the planet," Zecora seems to scold Twilight, who blushes and giggles nervously, very playfully.

Arcane's omnitool beeps as he receives the contact. "Thanks, momma Zecora. For now, though, it would be great to get some sleep. After that hunt, I need it," he groans, standing up on his hooves once again.

Aether smiles as he walks before saying, "Make sure to enjoy your victory treat," she calls. She receives a wave of his tail in return as he limps towards his old room. Aether then hums and looks at her mother, feeling a bit off. "Mother, did it feel odd about big brother's magic? It almost felt…strange. It's tough to describe," she tries to interpret but comes up with nothing.

Twilight nods but returns to prodding and nuzzling the little filly laying against her. "Yes. But I am sure it is only temporary. It may be because he just used it in the hunt and needs to recover his mana pool," she explains while the filly yawns and rolls over in her sleep.

Zecora smiles as she pets the tuft of mane on top of the filly. "I can provide a potion if it lasts longer than the night."

Twilight smiles up at her wife as she watches the zebra soothe the filly. "That would be wonderful, Zecora. I think Blitz will need it too."

Arcane yawns as he walks to his old room before entering. The door creaks open as he looks to his bedroom as the bed remains made and nothing moved. But he does notice hardly any dust. Arcane smiles as he looks at the changeling guards outside his doorway, and they smile back. "We have kept your quarters cleaned and ready for your return, my prince," one of them explains.

Arcane chuckles. "Thank you. You guys can head off for the night," he requests, to which they nod and walk away. Arcane sighs as he slowly closes the doors before stopping as a ghostly hoof prevents him from closing all the way. He tilts his head as he opens the door again and sees his auntie Terra floating before him. "Auntie Terra."

Terra smiles and holds up a hoof. "Just Terra, please. Auntie makes me feel old," she asks as she hovers inside and looks around. "I hope you liked your treat," she voices before seeing the covered cupcake sitting on his desk still.

Arcane sighs as he closes the doors on reflex before walking over. "I just got in, Terra. Didn't have a chance to look around and was about to fall asleep," he explains while using his magic to unwrap the plate holding a cupcake. He hums as he takes the cupcake in his magic and then takes a bite. He hums in happiness as he chews. "Amazing taste," he compliments.

Terra smiles while floating around him. "Your sister will be happy to hear that. She and I worked hard on this when we heard you won the hunts," she explains before seeing the treat float up near her in the air. Terra looks past the cupcake and notices Arcane smiling at her as he chews. He hums, chewing through the cream filling as he holds the rest of the cupcake in his magic. Terra then giggles before leaning her head over and chews on the bakery item. She licks her lips as she chews with him. Both of them are enjoying the taste and frosting as some are stuck to their muzzles.

Terra giggles and points at Arcane's muzzle. He wrinkles his nose before licking up the rest after noticing the frosting. Terra keeps giggling as she watches the grown stallion walk to his bed before laying on it. He yawns and nuzzles into the sheets before seeing Terra float before him. "It's still early for you. You can go. I would guess you have to deal with stuff for the rest of the family," Arcane yawns out and nuzzles his head into the pillow.

Terra sighs and smiles as she floats over and runs a hoof along his mane. "Sure. If you need me, I will be a changeling call away," she assures before floating out of his room. Arcane watches through a tired gaze as she phases through the wall without disturbing anything. He gives another yawn as he falls into a sound sleep while using his magic to pull the covers over him.

"Oh. A little treat to play with."

"Don't you mean toy?"

"No. Of course not. A toy is something you use over and over again until the usefulness is gone. A treat is used once."

"So what do we need to change here? I assume it would be easy."

"Move these to the front…and there. Done. Come on. We got more work elsewhere."

"I still want a shootout. I'm getting bored."

"Go to Omega."

Sahel taps his hoof against the desk. He looks over the paperwork before his terminal rings for a call. Sahel then answers without looking as he wonders how his assistant let this through. "Yes? This is Sahel," the zebra greets.

"Hello?" Arcane speaks up. "I am told you can help me find some potential recruits?"

Sahel looks up and freezes as he sees the pony on the other end of the call. A black coated and white-maned alicorn famous only because of his parents and species type. "Prince Arcane Read. So you want recruits? I assume for your mercenary group?" he asks, wondering how Arcane got his number.

Arcane nods, letting Sahel look behind the alicorn to see him walking through a town. "Yes. I was told by one of my mothers, Zecora is her name, that you can help me. You helped her when she was an ambassador." Arcane takes the time to study the zebra. He notes the dreadlock mane style with a gold clasp on each bundle while a wiry tail whips around behind him. Arcane hums at himself as he notes the piercing green eyes coupled with the two gold bands on his neck and one of his forehooves.

Sahel brings a hoof up before looking like he is thinking. "Yes. I remember her. Practically every zebra knows her as she is married to your father. Though, to come to me? Let me see what I have," he says before pushing away from his desk on his rolling chair. Arcane smiles as he waits and watches. He sees the zebra open a file cabinet drawer, taking out the front bundle of files before placing them onto the desk. "This, my good prince, is the files on different champions who won in tournaments and fought for their homelands. Or just notable because of their standing. Best to keep an eye on the strongest warrior after all," he winks, and Arcane chuckles knowingly.

Arcane hums as he moves over to a restaurant table and sits down at it. "Well, the first thing is I need a close combat warrior. Not mostly melee, but also weaponry," Arcane requests as he wonders who he might get.

Sahel hums and goes through the pile, sorting them out at the same time according to styles and jobs. "Well, I have a few. How about a zebra warrior? He won the tournament when my land held where they had many strong warriors in. He is proficient in many weapons, specializes in staff weapons though," he offers, looking up at the screen and holding the file up to the camera.

Arcane smiles as he sees the picture of the zebra warrior and nods. The straight mane stallion does look tough. He even holds a slight smile as Arcane notes the bead around a part of his mane tied into a ponytail style. A few small gold rings even line one of his ears rather than just one. "Sure. He can do. Anything I should know about?" he then looks up as a waitress mare shakily walks up to him. He notices she is nervous as he is a big stallion and a notable pony. "Hi. One hayburger and a drink, please?" he asks politely, bending his neck down as much as he can to her height.

The waitress nods as she writes that down before being given some bits. She looks up at him as he nods his head. The mare smiles before walking away, pocketing the pay for the meal and her tip.

Sahel chuckles and places the file to the side. "None at all, sir. What do you need next? Maybe a potion master?" he suggests, bringing up another file.

Arcane becomes interested as he leans closer to the screen. "How good a master we are talking?" he asks, tapping his hoof against the mushroom table.

Sahel smiles as he opens the file. "Well, she is very much an expert. She has won the potion tournament and has held it for quite a while—even one of the foremost advisors when it comes to this subject. If you need help, I am sure she will go if you ask. It would be quite an experience for her," Sahel explains before showing the picture of the zebra mare.

Arcane hums. He tilts his head at the sight of the mare and takes an interest in the way she looks. For one, he can see she is taking ideas from both pony and zebra styles. Her mane is a mix of white and black hair that comes up in slight curls that stand up while a few tribal bead strands hang from both sides of her mane. A few hairpins even line the hair over the top of her face, holding the fur up out of her view. Her ears are pierced on the lower half with gold barbell pieces. Arcane then raises an eyebrow as he notices how she wears a green turtleneck sweater with a white lab coat over herself. And also, her tail is tied by gold rings and cut short into a tuft of hair. The last thing Arcane notices is the glasses on her face while giving a sweet smile. "She doesn't look half bad. Seems smart and cute."

Sahel nods while packing the file to the side to call later. "As I said, she is one of the foremost potions masters in the world. She will help out immensely. Who else? More warriors, maybe? A front runner possibly?" he asks, flipping through the files.

Arcane nods and sees the waitress come back with his meal. "Thank you," he appreciates as he gives a soft smile to the mare, who blushes at the praise. Arcane then looks back at the screen, now grabbing a small bite to eat. "Yeah," he acknowledges with his mouth full. "Someone tough and willing to take shots if need be."

Sahel hums a cheery tune as he places more files to the side before picking up one. "Got a griffon. He won a fighting tournament in his kingdom. You can consider him the best of the nest over there," he smiles, giving a pun. Arcane sighs with a roll of his eyes as he drinks his soda. "Anyway," Sahel continues, "he is good with various weaponry, armor, and fighting styles. Bested most of the masters too. He should be a good one to have. I have another as well if you want two front liners."

Arcane hums as he chews on a hay burger. "Go on," he mumbles. He then notices the waitress watching him from a distance. Arcane rolls his eyes before waving at her in a friendly gesture, and she sinks back into the restaurant once she realizes she is caught. 'Ah, excellent. Another one after my purse…or dick. Can't deny that part after what Ruby said,' he thinks, rolling his eyes. He does wonder what other mares might think, though. Just to be safe, though, he moves his hindleg, so it covers enough of his crotch as he has been sitting with his legs spread a little.

Sahel hums as he moves the files on his desk aside. He seems to be concentrating more than what Arcane has been noticing of him. At some point, he frowns and places a file to a spot on the far side of the desk before sighing. He is now out of files below his hooves. "Damn," he mutters while turning around to the open file cabinet. "Okay. I got one more, but I don't know if you will like it," Sahel warns. Arcane raises an eyebrow as he watches the zebra reach over and picks up the file placed down a moment ago on the far side. "I will warn you. This one is quite infamous," he explains, holding up the file to the camera. Then, when Sahel opens it up, Arcane also frowns as he sees the picture.

A caribou male is on it, looking as stern as ever.

Arcane sighs and lowers his head slightly, his eyes closed. The caribou is a tricky subject matter on the planet. Arcane remembers what his father has told him in a private meeting if his son ever met any.

The history of the caribou is a troubled one. Their land suffered from a terrible disease and drought that caused all the clans to fight for females and food. It wasn't until Dainn came around that he united all the groups together after beating the troublesome leaders. He then pulled the entire land under one rule, but the famine held. So Dainn ordered an immediate relations meeting. This meeting, which caused a lot of worry among other nations and governments before the space expansion, only came out with one successful relationship. Dainn was able to broker a peace and trade deal with the Saddle Arabians. This allowed them to trade supplies and slaves freely without interference from the outside world. Part of the agreement is that others can not interfere, or Saddle Arabia will cut off contact and take back all the riches and what they are owed—possibly stopping other nations from taking the chance to attack a weakened group if they want their own to suffer. Seemingly, this was part of Princess Celestia's reason to show off to the rulers so the ongoing peace and trade deals would remain steadfast or become better. After the space expansion, though, things only got worse for the caribou.

Once news of the planet, cultures, and nations was placed among the extranet, the caribou nation only became common knowledge at that point. From their history, their troubles, and even their practice. The Saddle Arabians knew this as it seems they have witnessed the caribou use and torture their slaves to their liking. Both in the sexual and just painful enjoyment. This led many to distance themselves from the nation outright, with Saddle Arabia being the only lifeboat for the caribou. Celestia has mentioned to Blitz in secret that an understanding among the world leaders was reached. Saddle Arabia is the only nation that shall trade and give supplies as the famine seems to be ongoing forever. However, other countries must talk with others if they wish to broker a deal, but so far, no one is willing to do so because of being on any terms with a culture such as theirs. Arcane knows that Blitz has held off from talking to the caribou and giving them any quarters to move around in. He has joined the boat among the other nations.

As for personal level to each caribou, they haven't gained any help in technology or military assistance from the outside world. One conjecture added to the trade deal between the caribou nation and Saddle Arabia once the space age came around was that no new technology must be shared. It is hard to get new technology for anypony in Saddle Arabia since the thought of it being smuggled to the caribou is in other nations' mindset. Only royalty even has the chance of acquiring anything of the sort. Though, that does bring a question to mind for Arcane. How did this caribou end up on the list?

Sahel sighs as he flips through the file begrudgingly. "So, and you are not going to believe this, the caribou in this file is the king's son. The only heir. Spirits, these guys fuck more than us, and Dainn only has one son. Imagine that," the zebra scoffs but also sounding miffed that he and others of his kind aren't getting that much action. "We have him on file just in case he makes a move. Because everyone thinks Dainn won't move, but his son will. If you want, he would be allowed to go. We need to get in talks with King Dainn through the Saddle Arabians since they have better immediate contact if this happens," Sahel explains.

Arcane closes his eyes and thinks. If there was also something to be feared of the caribou, it was their military prowess. Even while suffering a famine disease, the remaining military under Dainn's control is one to be treated with caution. Their soldiers are heavy hitters and strike fast and loose—pure shock troopers on the battlefield based upon old reports and writings during the clan wars. Though caribou can not harness magic like other beings on Equestria, they turned to runic magic. Although similar to drawing spell circles and pushing magic on them, rune magic allows the user to harness the mana in the air rather than the living being. This gives the species a near unlimited source of power when used correctly. And under Dainn, it has. Spies and drones recently have reported that the army's armor is outfitted with runic scribes embedded in the metal while weapons and other objects have a varying degree of effects. If one thing is real, never corner a wounded or hungry animal.

"Alright," Arcane decides, looking at Sahel now. "I'll take him. But he better not…"

"Stab you in the back. We all feel that," Sahel mentions as he closes the file. "Your father is doing damage, seems like. Hardly any knowledge of the world or anything. So…watch yourself," the zebra warns before noticing his long gaze to the side. "Don't be too commanding to this guy. It might cause too much trouble in the future."

Arcane scoffs. "I got an entire ship filled with gun-toting and lightsaber-wielding soldiers. I'll be fine," he waves off with a smile. "Thanks for the help, man."

Sahel smiles. "Anything for the prince and son of a good mare," he replies.

Arcane sighs as he ends the call. At least he will have three out of four that will be easy to handle. And he can get them into the practice more quickly than others if they are champions of their lands.

Arcane nervously waits near the academy, stretching and winding his hooves once in a while to deal with the pain and uneasiness. He had a long talk with his father last night. Arcane explained everything of what happened. From the needing of recruits to the call, which he got, and especially what species they are. The last one that Arcane chose made Blitz freeze in his seat. Arcane swears he has never seen a more vile hatred for something in his life. But Blitz now knows something feels off. Dainn's son will only be detrimental to Arcane's group if he isn't lectured well on technological advancements. And if he chooses to allow the teachings, that caribou will take it all back to his father and others. So, Blitz made a very…weighty decision on his part.

Arcane ignores the laser sight going over and past his shoulder. Blitz takes no chances and sees an opportunity to strike a hard blow to what he considers an already dead nation. But Arcane feels off. Sure, he wants to end this trouble with a quick and easy victory. Sure, he wants to make sure this country has no chance to recover. But what kind of pony does that make him?

He has no chance to wonder about that as dropships slowly arrive onto the landing pad he is sitting down on. Three airships fly above the air as one comes in for a landing. Arcane puts on his best gentle smile as the door opens up. Two zebras, one stallion and one mare, walk onto the platform. He looks over the mare as Arcane sees she is exactly like the picture, but somehow, her body is more developed and curvy than whatever the picture was of her. That outfit on her is even making her sexier than she should be. As for the stallion, if there was a muscled hunk and Arcane was a mare, he would be on the stallion in a heartbeat. Almost every part of him is defined, and every movement and flex of his body makes the muscles under the skin twitch and show off the shape. Arcane can not understand the cutie marks on them, but he can learn them later once he is better acquainted.

"Welcome, you two. I trust you have been briefed?" Arcane asks, looking between the two.

Monifa smiles and tries to give a small sultry look at the alicorn, though her expression seems more awkward as it wavers a little. "O-Of course! I, um, I-I am all set and ready to start experimenting. I can't wait to see what space has in store for me," she says a bit hopefully while her little nub of a tail wags around as she leans toward Arcane. Only when she does so, she trips forward, crying out and landing on her face. Monifa moans in pain as she pushes herself off the ground while her flank hangs in the air. "Sorry, sir," she quickly apologizes. A heavy blush forms on Monifa's face as she adjusts her glasses that haven't been crushed in the fall, surprisingly. Now that Arcane looks at the mare, he has to admit. She doesn't seem to have the same stature as even one like mommy Zecora. Her legs are tall and thin, possibly causing the uneven balance she is experiencing.

Arcane raises an eyebrow as he wonders if the file ever captured how clumsy she is in person. "Well, great to have you aboard either way. And you, my good sir?" he asks, turning to the stallion.

The zebra stallion steps forward, crossing his right hoof over his chest where his heart is. "It is a pleasure to meet you, prince Arcane. Be at ease; I am more than prepared for the journey to the stars," he responds respectfully, but it does have a hint of playfulness. "You can count on me to handle any trouble that arrives and my weapon to hold," he informs, grabbing the staff off the bag on his back with a hoof. The zebra clacks the weapon against the ground, making it ring out through the area.

Arcane hums as he uses his magic and grabs the staff, pulling it towards him. "Amazing. Finely detailed, strong wood, and has traces of wood carving. Not factory-made at all," Arcane compliments while looking over every inch.

"But of course," the warrior responds, looking proud that Arcane picked up on how his weapon was created. "A warrior is expected to create and care for his weapon for his life. I have left many markings of failures and victories, never once taking them out as they are my proud marks," he describes while looking at the mare next to him who blushes and shrinks away. Next to her, the imposing male makes her feel small that such a champion is just standing right next to her.

Arcane smirks as he looks behind him to a few crates waiting at the edge of the platform. He then grabs something lying on top of one and floats it over with his magic. The zebra smiles and stands tall, not expecting to be gifted a possibly important treasure off the bat. "I figure this weapon would be better suited for you," Arcane starts, dropping an electrostaff into the stallion's hooves. The long metal staff seems relatively small as the most defining feature is its ends, where it appears to be made in a club's style. "Press the yellow button to extend, and the red one to activate," Arcane explains as he points out the controls.

The stallion hums curiously before pressing the yellow button that causes the staff to extend from both sides. The size then increases to just about more than his size. The stallion smiles before pressing the red button, causing the ends to light up in a purple electrical field. The zebras stare in awe as they watch the electricity dance around while Arcane takes out his lightsaber and activates it, making them hear the famous sound. The two look and watch as Arcane slams the heated blade onto the shocking end, causing it to slam into the ground with a surprising result. The lightsaber doesn't cut through the weapon and is even holding it back. Arcane winks at them as he brings up a metal sheet left behind and cuts through it quickly, turning parts of it into heated slag on the ground. The two pieces clatter to the ground, ending Arcane's little show and tell.

The zebra then turns off the staff and shrinks it down before placing it on his back. "Prince Arcane, I was not expecting for you to give me such a weapon. Thank you for the gift. I will be sure to repay this favor," the stallion promises, bowing his head respectfully.

Arcane hums as he cranes his neck down, so his head is almost level with the two. "I keep forgetting. What is your name?" he asks. He does forget that he never looked up the name on the file either—something to remember for next time.

The warrior picks himself up, looking proud and happy as he salutes with his hoof over his chest again. "Kondo, prince Arcane. My name gives excellent strength to my practices," he assures as Arcane can see a few theatrics from him but thinks of it as his upbringing.

Arcane nods before looking behind him. "Your crates full of supplies for your journey is over there. You will have necessary supplies of food, drinks, medical even, and equipment waiting for you. I suggest you guys get used to it all as a simple turtleneck and coat isn't enough," he teased with a grin, causing Monifa to have a blushing breakdown from the prince looking at her like that.

"Thank you, prince Arcane. We will prepare," Kondo accepts as he bows his head again before noticing the mare stuck in a blushing mess. He sighs and rolls his eyes before pushing the mare along. "Come on. It must be easy for you to even walk around foreign lands," he comments, and Monifa gulps as the blush returns and becomes red all over her face.

Arcane raises an eyebrow and scratches his head confused. "Must be a zebra thing," he mutters to himself as the first shuttle leaves, and the next starts to land. He puts on a smiling expression as the door opens up, and out steps a griffon with a sword at his hip and armor adorning his torso and legs. The armor stands with a golden sheen to them, while the griffon looks like auntie Gilda in a way. Only this one has green plumage around his head, neck, and chest area. A few red dots even litter the spots, looking akin to freckles on the cheek. The griffon stands tall and clicks his heels together, looking straight and narrow—the behavior of a real soldier. "Sanson the Shield. At your service, prince Arcane," Sanson greets, bowing his head.

Arcane smiles brightly. "Pleasure to meet you. I have a feeling we will be getting along quite well. I assume you have been given some space gear to work with? Suits, armor, and weapons?" he questions, happy to have one ready to go out into space. The first two seem raring to go. It's only natural this champion of the griffon kingdom is too. Though, Arcane sees the griffon wavering mood and his eyes flying around as he seems to look at everything at once. 'A way to study the environment maybe. The file didn't mention anything like it, though,' Arcane thinks, wondering if something spooked the bird.

"Space…right. Yes, I am ready," Sanson answers but has an airy tone that Arcane immediately catches. Arcane hums as he turns around before looking at what he can use. He then notices the guards at the platform's entrance and whistles over to them. The guards see the call before one walks over to the group. Arcane leans over to the guard and whispers into the helmeted ear. Sanson leans over as he attempts to hear but only captures the word of 'bolt.' The guard walks past Arcane as the alicorn remains turned around, watching the two zebras look over their given gear.

Sanson wonders what is going on before he looks at the guard, who suddenly aims his rifle at the griffon. Sanson immediately becomes confused before squawking as he is shot and knocked back. He groans on the ground, picking himself up before being reshot and sent sliding back. "Why are you hitting me with training arrows?!"

"Stop," Arcane orders, stopping the guard. "I have seen enough," he voices, sounding disappointed. Arcane holds a frown on his face as he turns back around while the guard walks back to his position. "You don't know what this life I am giving entails, do you?" Arcane questions, eyeing the bird as he looks at where the guard shot him, seemingly unable to comprehend how the training blaster bolts went through his armor. "You're a greenhorn, which makes you a liability. I need one who understands this life out there in the stars. I am sorry, but it seems I can not take you," Arcane sighs, shaking his head.

"Wait!" Sanson calls, frowning that he will be passed up for a lifetime opportunity. "I can prove that I can still work towards this," he pleads. Arcane raises an eyebrow as the alicorn looks over the griffon for any signs of lying. "I have trained with many masters to learn about various weapons and how to fight against them. If anything, I can take on anything space-related or new. Just give me a fair chance to try," Sanson asks, almost begging before the alicorn.

Arcane slowly taps a hoof as he looks over the determined and begging griffon. He then sighs and points to a spot across the platform from the crates and zebras. "Stay there. Do not bother me or the others until something is figured out," he orders. Sanson bows his head and walks over to the designated area.

Arcane sighs deeply before turning to the next dropship. The laser for the rifle over Arcane's shoulder slowly rises above him, aiming at the doorway. He can see the small green dot move around and waiting for a clear shot when it comes to it. The airship makes the landing on the metal ground before the side door opens up. Arcane's wings twitch under his cloak as the sight of the caribou comes into view. Arcane frowns as the caribou steps out onto the platform, a spear in one hand and a wrapped cloth bag in the other. He didn't look over the picture quick enough as he set up more for the arrival rather than studying the appearance and information.

The alicorn looks over the male caribou and his outfit. A set of metal plates is wrapped around his torso, held by leather straps and a bandolier shoulder piece. A thick-looking white loincloth hangs around the waist while the buckle carries a cleaned skull in the middle with a few belt cases hanging off the side. A set of armor leggings is also wrapped around the side of his legs. Arcane then looks closer and notices the chest armor pieces have carvings that seem to let off a faint glow. A set of metal bracelets is wrapped around his wrists, having many carvings etched into the metal. And then the weirdest sight to Arcane is staring at him right in his face. The antlers on top of the caribou heir have many markings carved into them. However, they don't seem to be letters like the armor. In fact, they seem to be more like pictures. Tiny detailed ones much more so. If anypony has done those, they must have both perfect eyesight and a steady hoof.

"Trond, I presume?" Arcane asks, narrowing his eyes as he notes the green dot is briefly appearing on the armor plates before winking away. "Son of King Dainn?"

Trond gives a deep hum as the stance seems to stiffen. But those eyes watch Arcane like a hawk. Under the steel gaze, Arcane feels as though he can not make a move without having to explain or talk at the same time. But the alicorn holds firm while his earpiece crackles once. The strike team is ready to kill Trond at any time, but Arcane knows doing so will only incite Dainn and his kind. It would be a massacre. For the caribou, for themselves, or both, it won't matter who gets caught and who wins or loses. Arcane has to keep this under control and steady. "Yes. And you are Prince Arcane? Son of Blitzkrieg the Undefeated?" Trond asks, his voice deep and almost feeling like it can push other weak-willed creatures to bow before him.

"That's a new one."

Arcane uses his magic and shuts off the communicator for a second. Blitz just had to comment on that line, and not anyone else? Then again, he was waiting for Trond to step out and then get involved. "Yes. I will assume you have been told about what you will be doing from now on?" Arcane questions, watching as Trond lifts a hand into the air. His cloven hooves clop against the metal and make a small clanging noise.

Trond moves his hand around before he hovers it over his heart, palm facing towards the alicorn. Arcane seems confused and guesses it can be a respectable greeting but then notices something. The laser pointer from the rifle is on Trond's hand. The light steady as Trond gives the stallion a hard stare. "Yes. I will comply with your orders. However, if you feel this uneasy about me, then you might as well fire that bolt," Trond seems to request back.

Arcane is taken aback by this statement. Is Trond, the son of King Dainn, really ordering the team to fire? And he found out this fast? Arcane switches the communicator back on as he hears the group ask if they have the authorization to fire since they have been found out. Even Blitz is talking to them and telling them where to aim. But then the chatter goes wild in a few seconds.

Arcane steps to the side, getting in the line of sight for the shot as the laser ends up on the back of his head. He hears Blitz telling him to move and even the team still asking for orders. "You must have keen eyes to know about this plot," Arcane observes, figuring he can boost this caribou's ego and buy himself some time to figure things out or de-escalate it all down.

Trond huffs, a visible puff of air escaping his nostrils. "Everyone back in my lands knows of the hatred we have garnered. It will stand to reason that if the son of the king is coming to a foreign land, you might as well kill him off. Save yourself the trouble. But you are asking yourself, why would my father allow me to come here, are you not?" Trond questions, and he can see the stallion tilt his head slightly, but just enough that the team does not have a clear shot without going through him. "Because relationships and diplomacy are the key to our survival. He knows that going on a warpath, especially against the famed Blitzkrieg, will lead to our extinction. A needless death and one where we shall be written off in the history books. That shall not be our legacy, and I will not allow it to be so," Trond finishes, glaring a hole into the alicorn.

Arcane can hear Blitz that he is taking the shot, so he better move now. This caribou is ruthless. A goal, a righteous one in his view, is burned into his soul. Who wouldn't want to do the same thing? It would be horrible that with all you have done, good or evil, it would be taken away just as quickly as your death. It would damn your soul to the pit of Tartarus, and you will only be remembered by the jailer who walks by once in a while.

All in all, the most pleasant end for everyone else on the planet, but not with the caribou. And indeed, it does not sit well with Arcane as he feels an inkling that he should not move from this spot. Just that speech alone, even if laced with poison and lies, is one spoken from the heart. That much Arcane can tell.

"Stand down," Arcane calls out as he steps forward. "All strike teams, stand down—override code, Alpha, Beta, Zulu, Tek, Eight. Blitzkrieg, you are relieved of this mission," Arcane speaks, silencing everyone. He then hears confirmation from the teams before their communication is cut off. As for Blitz, however, he only has a few more words.

"After you are done, my office."

Arcane winces as he hears this tone and the fact that the communicator is crushed right from his ear. Arcane groans, picking it out and tossing it to the side. "Listen well, if you have those ambitions, then never lose them," he warns, turning a glare at the caribou before him. "Everyone here is ready to shoot you down like the rabid dog you are. Be on your best behavior. Even going to a strip club is enough for them to take you out. So keep your horniness and war tendencies in check. It will save your life," Arcane explains, poking a hoof against the metal chest plate. Trond gives no visible reaction, but Arcane can feel the heart beating heavily underneath. It even skips a beat. It seems everyone is afraid of something.

Arcane sighs as he turns around and starts to walk down the steps. "I want all of you prepared and acquainted with your new supplies and tools. After three days, go to hangar bay three. For now, you can go into the temporary quarters at the academy. The guards will escort you," he explains as he walks past the two guards at the base of the platform. "Gentlemen, please lead our guests," Arcane requests while walking to the headmaster's office.

Blitz slowly lifts a dice with his magic and drops it onto his table. Six. The door to his academy office creaks open as Arcane enters. "You know what I will say next."

"How can I not when I disobeyed you twice?" Arcane asks sarcastically as he walks over. He hears the dice clink against the table as he sits down in a chair in front of the desk. Four.

"No…jokes," Blitz sighs, shaking his head. "What were you thinking? He figured us out right off the bat. If anything, the fact he knows about the laser sight is proof, they must be getting knowledge of the world somehow. We cut off the trade for new technology for a reason." His force moves the dice and rolls it again. Three.

Arcane nods slowly while his tail flicks around behind him. "I was about to let that bolt fly," he admits and makes Blitz look over at his son. The dice rolls again. Five. "But that argument he made…shook me for some reason. Just the fact that they will be wiped off the face of the universe and then any books too. Just…nothing left. It felt…wrong. And I couldn't shake it off. I know what they do and their history, but…"

Another dice roll. Two.

"It felt like it could eat me alive if I allowed it to happen," Arcane finishes. He looks up at his father, his eyes looking done with this plot to kill the heir. Blitz even sees a set of bags under his son's eyes. How much did this eat the alicorn's mind?

Blitz sighs, mindlessly rolling the dice. "Son, you know the danger by bringing one of them on board your ship? More so since you have to work and fight with him? The heir of the king no less." Five.

Arcane slowly nods. "Yes. And if I don't take the chance, then it feels like just killing him too. It just stabbed me every time I thought about it." Seven.

Blitz taps his hoof against the desk before leaning forward in his seat. "Son, if you need to speak, I am here. Your mothers are too. If there is anything else you want to get off your mind, go ahead." Eight.

Arcane gives a soft smile. "Yeah. Let me handle the heir…and the king," he asks but doesn't see a reaction from Blitz. "If you or others try anything while we are away, the heir might never trust me. He won't even give his favorite food if something happens to his father or his kind. If we are going to handle these guys, we need to start with the king and his son. If we do, then everything else can be done, much easier," Arcane explains. Ten.

Blitz lightly taps a hoof against the desk, now picking up speed. "Alright. But at the first…significant sign of trouble, detain and warn us. We might get a reaction from down here too," the unicorn orders. Ten.

Arcand nods while his tail wags a little. "Sure, dad. Also, I need a favor." Twelve.

Blitz smiles as he wonders if it will be about the ship. "What is it?"

Arcane looks nervously to the side before sighing and shaking his head. "Can you teach Sanson? The griffon is horrible for space life. Good for down here, not good for up there," he explains. Six.

Blitz gives an interesting hum. "Horrible space-age griffon, huh? Must be all kinds of wrong if you need me," Blitz comments while Arcane nods in agreement. "Alright. I will take the bird brain under my wing and show him the ropes. Just don't expect the same superb knight that file made him out to be," he jokes, smiling. Six.

Arcane chuckles. "Yeah. I am not hoping for it. He's a bit too proud for my liking. Trond is just as proud but manageable. If anything, I am glad I have new members. It might make things interesting."

"I bet," Blitz agrees as he keeps smiling but hides the worry for his son behind his expression. Arcane and Blitz need this decision. It would only make them all the better because of it. Even the stuff the force puts them through is worth the trouble as it teaches all of them. Blitz laughs in his mind at the thought of Arcane being a force driver for many things in the family's and others' lives. "Go on. Give everyone the good news and get some sleep. I say you earned it."

Arcane nods as he stands up on all four hooves again. "Thanks, dad. Night or rather evening," he ends with a chuckle as he walks toward the door.

Blitz hums along while he looks back at the dice and rolls it again. The door shuts closed as the dice finishes the roll.

Six.

A very high roll once again. But Blitz hardly paid attention as his son is the most important thing at that moment.