Title:           Space CYOA: Hunter's Merc adventures Main paste 1
Author:          SpaceBug
Pastebin link:   http://pastebin.com/LXLayvbb
First Edit:      Monday 5th of September 2016 09:32:27 PM CDT
Last Edit:       Last edit on: Sunday 4th of December 2016 04:14:50 AM CDT

>You panted slightly, picking up your sword again as the unknown beast roared at you.
>The battle is fierce, but you know you must win.
>No. you WILL win.
>lives depended on you, and you were determined to succeed.
“RAAHHH!”
>You yelled as you charged towards the beast, heart pounding.
>You smiled as you hit your mark, the monster’s chest, the creature howling as it stumbled to the ground
>You stood valiantly as you held your sword up high, standing on top of your kill.
>“You… got me.”
>The epic world around you seems to fade as you lower your cardboard sword, looking down at your grinning Earthpony father and dropping on top of him to have a hug.
>”Oof!”
>The past few years have been the best ever since your parents finally got married and settled down, ending their carrier as mercenaries.
>While you missed the crew very much, you were plenty happy with the new house that your mom and dad got from the Hydra Corporation, one of the more important companies that your parents did plenty of work for.
>Your dad looks to the clock in your room, keeping his smile.
>“Come on Kiddo, your mother and sister have been quiet for too long.”
“Doesn’t that mean that mean that she is sleeping? Mom keeps telling us to be quiet so we don’t wake up RosePedal.”
>“Your sister has napped long enough if anything, come on, it’s about supper time.”
>You get off your dad and leave your room with your dad, putting your fake sword next to your manticore plush before you do.
>As you both go down the stairs, you follow your dad into the living room, the room oddly dark.
>The lights flash on, multiple voices yelling.
>“SURPRISE!”
[1/2]
 
>Your heart pounds as you jump up a little, looking around the see the source of the voices.
>You see the entire crew of your mother’s ship, all of them smiling at you.
>“Happy 11th birthday, Hunter!” your mother says, the Changeling holding your baby sister.
>A big smile forms on your face as you look at each of the crew as they say happy birthday to you, some presents around the room.
>The first is your aunt Cobalt, a happy and cheerful Batpony who always had candy with her and kept her mane in a braid. She was the youngest and always made time to play with you, spending almost all of her time with you or your mom and dad.
>Next was Mich, one of your uncles and a Changeling like you. He was slightly smaller then your father and other uncle, but just as nice. You can remember that he took care of a rifle he had very often.
>Surge went after, being one of the crew you don’t remember too well. What you do remember is that he was generally friendly unicorn with a dead eye under the hair that covered it, being able to do amazing magic spells that were super strong.
>Charon, the Zebra doctor, smiled happily at you as she said happy birthday. She lived close by in the same colony as your family now, being the family doctor after your parents retired. She helped educate you before you started to go to a real school.
>Sky and his marefriend Cerb were next, Sky being the Griffon engineer of the ship. He had a few scars from working with your mother, his Unicorn marefriend seeming not to care one bit for them. From what you remember she was the captain of another ship.
>Lastly your uncle Chaos and aunt Fixer spoke, your uncle looking exactly like your dad in almost everyway, except he was much more rough and rowdy Earthpony who knew a lot about explosives. And your aunt was a very small Pegasus with a robotic forehoof that was a master at making things. Her height making her only an inch taller then you, she always wore this odd red collar.
>“Told you that we would scare the crap outta him.” Your aunt Fixer says.
>“Watch the words you.” Your uncle Chaos shoots back.
>“Come on, I didn’t swear.”
>Your aunt Cobalt giggles, smiling at you. “We didn’t scare you too bad right Hunter?”
>“I’d say not, but I bet the smile is for the presents.” Your uncle Mich says.
[2/2]
 
“Aunt Cobalt!”
>You run towards your aunt and jump up, Cobalt catching you in midair and giving you a hug.
>You can feel the familiar happiness that she always had, the Batpony mare giggling.
>“You were always his favorite.” Sky says.
>“Corse she is! She spoiled him all the time.”
>When your aunt pulls back from the hug she keeps smiling at you, reaching into one of her pockets.
>“Here, I brought your favorite gummies. And I still have a present for you.”
“Yay! Thankyou aunt Cobalt”
>“We didn’t scare you too badly though, right?” she asks, giving you the bag of gummies.
>You look to your aunt, scrunching your face a little.
“N-no, I wasn’t scared!”
>Everypony laughs, Cobalt nodding.
>“Of course, you are a big colt now!” she says as you eat the gummies
>“Come on though, Let’s let the kid have his fun stuff.” Your aunt Fixer says, Resting one of her hooves on a big wrapped box.
>“It is his birthday. Go on hunter who’s present you wana open first.” Your mother says.
 
>You look around at the presents, smiling at all the gifts.
>Seeing the biggest one by Fixer, you walk on and grab at the wrapping paper.
“This one!”
>“Yes.” Your aunt Fixer says, pumping her hoof in the air.
>You tear at the wrapping, opening the gift.
>When the gift is opened up you see… metal.
>“A pile of scrap metal Fixer? Really?” Sky says
>“Stow it feathers, I got the best gift of all.”
>Your aunt presses against the metal object, a series of clicks and whirrs sounding.
>The object starts to move, unfolding from its odd shape and beginning to move and turn, beginning to show signs of legs.
>When the unknown metal object is done moving, you can see the outline of something like a dog or pony as it stands, being slightly higher then you.
>Your eyes widen as the robotic moves toward you, seeming to move like an animal as it examines you with its one eye.
>“Sit!” Fixer commands.
>The robot sits, waiting as it looks at you.
“A robot?”
>“A robot companion! Complete with at AI based off of SID. He can play and learn what Hunter likes! Get things for him too.”
>“Show off. What is it called?” Surge says with a smile
>“K8 because K9 was too obvious.” Your aunt says sarcastically, “it’s whatever Hunter wants, up to him when the time comes.”
>“Is it safe? SID was a battle AI.” Your father asks.
>“Totally. Based off of, but not exactly like him.”
 
“Thanks aunt Fixer! He can be called Fixit, named after you!”
>There is a wave of happiness through the room as a small snicker fills the air, your aunt Fixer’s face a little red as she smiles then laughs.
>“You are welcome Hunter.”
>You touch the metal surface of Fixit, the robot dog responding by pressing back gently.
>You then laugh and smile, pulling your hoof away, Fixit following it as you move it.
>“Yep, he likes it.”
>“Come on Hunter, how about the next one?”
>You smile and nod, leaving Fixit be for now.
>You go through the other presents and get some nice toys and games to play with, time moving quickly with all the fun you are having.
>When it is al done, you dad pats you on the shoulder, smiling at you when you look at him.
>“Having fun kiddo?”
“Yes! This is the best!”
>“Good, come with me, there is one more thing for you.”
>“Angel?” your mother says, looking confused
>“What we talked bout.”
>Your mother nods and your father motions towards Chaos, the three of you going though the house.
>You all head into the garage, your dad pulling out an object wrapped in fabric.
“What is it?”
>“Something that your grandfather did for us when we were the right age.” Your uncle says.
>Your father sets the object down, letting you move the fabric away when you sit.
>As you move the fabric, you see wood and metal, a large object taking shape.
>A gun
>“The model is old, but it is yours. A simple, single shot, break action shotgun.” Your father says. “You were a responsible and well behaved colt growing up, so you can be trusted with this. Being supervised of course.”
>It is a little big for you at the moment, but you are able to lift it up.
>“Just watch where you point it. It’s not loaded but you should treat it like it is.” Chaos says.
>“And don’t worry, I’ll handle your mother.” Your dad says as he rubs the back of his head. “I may have only gotten her to agree to a BB gun for now.”
>Your uncle laughs, shaking his head
>“Easy job for you captains bitch.”
>Your father points a hoof at your uncle.
>“Language Choir colt, and you,” he continues turning to you, “what happens in the garage stays in the garage. Don’t say that word.”
 
“So, I can say it here then? It is in the garage…”
>Your father snickers, then laughs as he shakes his head.
>“I can’t tell if it was me or your mother taught you to be a smart ass like that. Maybe.”
>You set the shotgun down, getting up and hugging your dad.
“Thanks dad. When can we do some target practice?”
>Your dad returns the hug, happiness coming from him.
>“Tomorrow if anything, or when your mother finished beating me.”
>He lets go, smiling at you.
>“But for now, how about we go inside? We still need to give you your cake!”
>You nod happily, following your father and uncle back in.
>It was one of the best birthday’s you ever had.
>That was ten years ago.
>Now you are 21, hitting 22 in about a month and packing up to adventure out of the house.
>Clothes, some food, your shotgun, and Fixit. All ready to adventure out in the universe.
>“I’ll miss you Hunter…”
>You turn to see your little sister and your newer little bother, their ages 14 and 6.
>Your mother and father both walk in after them, smiling.
>“We all will, but Hunter has made his choice.” Your mother says.
>“Probably influenced from us when we were mercenaries.”
>“Probably… But don’t worry, Hunter is smart and will be safe.”
>Your mother looks up to you, a look of worry appearing though her smile.
>“Won’t you?”
 
>You smile and go to your mother, giving her a hug that she returns, hugging you back tightly.
“Don’t worry mom ill be as safe as I can. I won’t always be, but I promise I will come back, and I will visit often.”
>your mother keeps a hold of you for a little longer, reluctant to let go.
>“Remember, you did this to my ma.” Your father says, smiling to your mother.
>“I know. I know… Just be safe Hunter”
“I will, don’t worry.”
>Your father nods, smiling.
>“Then you’re set to go I suppose, best to do what your mother did and choose a station to start off in, that way you can get a good idea of where to go and what kind of ship you man want to buy.”
“Yeah… just wonder how ill get all the money for it.”
>Your father’s smile grows.
>“Think we didn’t consider you may do the same as us?”
>Your father pulls out… 60000 credits!
“What?!”
>“It was to be if you wanted to go to a more advanced school, but now that you have chosen this, it is yours to use. Plenty enough for a ship a crew member or a new gun if you need it.” Your mother says.
>“Now get out there and cause some trouble, the more you wait here the more opportunities you may miss!”
>You smile and take the credits, saying your final goodbye to your family and your sister and brother, Rose Pedal and Shine.
>You leave the house with some of your things and Fixit by your side, shotgun on your back as you head to a transport staton.
>As you go to where you can choose a station to go to, you glance up to a news broadcast.
>”…And in one week we will celebrate Unification day! The greatest day in equestrian history where peace was finally made with the Changeling hive…”
>You return your focus to the task at had an look at the possible sectors you could go to, one near a pirate border, an industrial sector, one of the central sectors in alliance space, or one of the sectors on the outskirts of the galaxy.
 
>You decide to take a transport to one of the central sectors in Alliance space, heading to one of the stations.
>The ride to the station feels short, some ponies taking a look at Fixit as you reach stops in your travel.
>Eventually you get to a space station called Tundra, getting off and heading to the line at the security clearance.
>The guard there goes through your information and happily approves your entry, turning to you after.
>“Have a good time here, you seem like the good type so I wont bother with the don’t cause trouble speech. Just watch yourself alright? Not because you are a changeling, but you don’t want to wind up in one of the protests.”
“Protests?”
>The guard looks at you, sizing you up and nodding.”
>“Ahh, ya look young enough that you may not know about it too much. The protests are nothing bad, its just that sometimes we need to step in for some of them and we don’t want to hurt bystanders who just happened to get caught in the mess, most of them are peaceful.”
“What are the protests about?”
>“When we made peace with the Changeling hive about 18 years ago, they helped release a genetic modification that allowed Changelings to have kids with any species. Turns out it worked with ALL species, causing a new race of Hybrids to emerge. Half Pony half Griffion, A Pegasus with minotaur horns, all kinds of new life came to be. But, some ponies argued against the new Hybrids, said it was against nature. And now both sides argue, protest, and fight.”
>The stallion sighs, shaking his head.
>“A new minority for a new generation I suppose. Anyways, go on and have fun, I need to keep ponies moving. Next!”
>You grab your things and take off walking into the station.
>looking around, the station feels kind of homey, many houses and education centers around. It almost feels like a colony, rather relaxed and peaceful.
 
>You decide to look for a few stores first, hoping to buy a ship.
>As you walk you spot some stores of interest, some selling weapons and another selling armor.
>Finally you spot one that sells ships and entering the store.
>When the clerk spots you, she smiles and nods.
>“Nice gun, looks a little outdated, beginner mercenary?”
“Yes, what kind of ships do you have?”
>“All kinds, not many military ones, but they are all in good condition. Here, let me bring some up that may interest you.
 
Ship type: Gunship
Name: Thorn
Cost:50000
Offensive Weapons: 20MM automatic Ballistic cannon (360 rotation on bottom of ship)
50MM forward Beam canons X2
Defensive weapons: Anti-missile machine guns X2
Shield: Basic light shield
Armor: Medium Standards Armor
Crew Capacity: 6
Cargo Capacity: 100 tons
 
Ship type: Cargo Freighter
Name:  Shooting Star
Cost:35000
Offensive Weapons: none
Defensive Weapons: none
Shield: Basic medium shield
Armor: none
Crew Capacity: 5
Cargo Capacity: 600 tons
 
Ship type: Frigate
Name: Vanguard
Cost:60000
Offensive Weapons: 150MM beam cannons x2 (360 rotation on top)
Defensive weapons: none
Shield: Medium Military shield
Armor: Improved lightweight armor
Crew Capacity: 8
Cargo Capacity: 400 Tons
 
Ship Type: Modified Cargo Ship
Name: Striker
Cost: 45000
Offensive Weapons: Electromagnetic cannon
Defensive weapons: EMP pulse emitter
Shield: Basic light shield
Armor: Basic light armor
Crew Capacity: 4
Cargo Capacity: 300 Tons
 
>You tap the Vanguard description, smiling as you put every last credit you have onto the counter.
“The Vanguard.”
>“Big badass Frigate, nice. Here, enjoy! It should be at the docks.”
>You take the access pass for your ship and leave, heading towards the docks.
>When you find the Frigate, you take a look at it.
>You aren’t sure how big it is compared to the Artemis, but you can see it is well cared for, a grey-white paintjob with a light orange stripe on it being fairly new.
>You board your new ship through the cargo door that lowers down, taking a small tour.
>The cargo bay feels oddly shaped seeming to take up the left side of the back of the ship.
>When you go up the stairs at the end of the bay, you see a long hall that runs the length of the ship, a door to your immediate right.
>Poking in, you see that the door leads to the engine and power generator, taking up the other half of the ship beside the cargo bay.
>You go back down the hall, Fixit keeping close as you look in other rooms.
>There is a small sized medical bay next to a bathroom that has two showers, a good sized kitchen and dining area across from the two rooms.
>Further down the hall, you spot 9 rooms and set your stuff down in the hall for now, 8 of them being the same kind of bedroom, and the last being a storage
>The bedrooms are fair-sized but not too big, each of them having a single sized bed and a storage dresser.
>You catch Fixit looking up when you leave the bedroom, looking up with him and seeing a hatch.
>Flying up, you open the hatch, seeing that there is a large space above, easily big enough to house some kind of ship sized weapon or be converted into a room.
>Flying down, you check the storage, seeing space suits for all of the possible crew.
>Finally, you go to the end of the hall and open the door, looking inside a slightly small bridge.
>There are five seats, one for the pilot, two for each of the cannons, one for the sensors and radio, and the last one being for managing shields and power.
>You step forward and touch the pilots seat before sitting down in it, sighing.
>You idly reach for the controls, smiling as you remember how your dad taught you to fly a ship.
 
>You stop and turn in the chair, looking towards Fixit.
“Fixit, see of you can interface with the ship’s systems.”
>Fixit gives a few whirs in response, giving a tiny salute before he moves to a console and plugs into it with his robotic leg.
>A screen folds out of his body and you move over to him, reading what the screen says
>>CHECKING CONNECTION… > OK
>A bunch of code you don’t understand goes by, ending on a blank screen before more text appears
>>CONNECTED TO: SHIED SYSTEMS-POWER SYSTEMS-ENGINE SYSTEMS
>The next lines of text appear as red.
>>ERROR: CONNECTION TO CANON SYSTEMS DENYED-INTERNAL AI WEAPONS LOCKOUT IN PLACE >WEAPONS STATUS REPORT DENYED INTERNAL AI WEAPONS LOCKOUT IN PLACE >ADMINISTRATIVE ACCESS REQUIRED.
“Need to look into that later…”
>You not and leave it be for now, asking Fixit to unplug for now.
>You leave your things in the hall and head out, locking your ship up as Fixit follows you.
>Finding directions to a bar, you head into it.
>The bar is average sized with a vintage, a TV displaying a sports game, a few ponies in the bar.
>You take a seat when you spot the bartender, the old stallion looking up at you for a moment as he cleans a glass.
>“What can I get ya?”
“Actually, thing you could tell me something? Any rumors?”
>“Rumors? I got one for ya. Word it there’s a new comer who doesn’t know that I’m a bartender and not a fuckin news colt!”
>You feel surprised for a second before the stallion looks up to you with a smile, happiness coming form him
>”Just messing with ya kid, not much going on though. There are a few wanted ponies around here, simple drug runners and smugglers, but this is a rather peaceful station. Hell, I think the most violent thing that has happened in the past year is those protests. All stupid stuff that just disturbs the peace if you ask me, regardless of who is right or wrong.”
 
“Where could I get more information about them? Or any other bounties?”
>“Well, you best try a security station, they can kinda give you more information. Apparently they have a repetitive meeting place but know any and all cops around here, so they scatter if they even smell trouble. You might just be what is needed to catch them.”
“There any other jobs you know of?”
>The stallion smiles at you.
>“Merc and not just a bounty hunter then? Well, ponies love express shipping if you have a ship. This space is very secure so no patrols needed, Pirate attacks still happen but not often. Ships leaving the sector may want an escort I suppose. Sorry kid, but the bartender part I said earlier is true, don’t know too much.”
>You shift and lean against the table, moving slightly closer.
“That’s fine. Any under the table jobs?”
>“Well, if you really wana help me wash cups that badly.” The bar tender says with a smile. “Not really, but I know that me and a few other ponies would be thankful if some of the smugglers stopped nicking our incoming and outgoing products.”
“Alright, Thanks then.”
>“No drink?”
“No money.”
>The stallion nods with a smile.
>“Fair enough, come back sometime though kid. Good luck.”
>You smile back and leave the bar, turning to Fixit after.
“Open up the local job listings.”
>Again the screen on Fixit opens up, showing some of the jobs.
>The bartender was right, there are mostly only security and shipping jobs, the bounties being hidden.
>Shipping materials: 2000 credits
>Escort mission to outer region: 4000 credits
>Shipping pickup: 1000 credits
 
>You accept the shipping job, heading back to your ship.
>Along the way, you stop at a security station and get Fixit to download some of the bounty information for you to read over later.
>When you get back to your ship, you find a worker and loader waiting, opening your ship for him to load the supplies onto.
>Once loaded you lock up and go to the bridge, sitting in the pilot’s chair.
“Alright, just like dad did.”
>Mussel memory starts to kick in slightly as you start the ship and clear yourself from docking, the docking doors opening up for you.
>Once they open all the way, you press forward and take off, slowly getting the Vanguard out of the dock and clearing the station.
>The ship is much faster then the Artemis was, while you are able to maintain control, you find yourself being hesitant to push it to full speed.
>Checking the controls, you can see that while you can’t aim the beam cannons, you can still fire them in the forward direction.
>You sigh and nod, calling Fixit over to look over the bounties.
>There is two drug runners and Three smugglers, all of them being wanted for 1000, alive or dead.
 
"Keep searching for any information on those ponies."
>Fixit gives a little salute again and sits still, code flying by on the screen.
>You keep focused on piloting, beginning to smile as you settle in to the seat more.
>The bartender was very right about how clam this sector is, though you see many ships going by, they all seem to be very civilian or just marked patrol cruisers.
>You shake the feeling of calmness and keep watch as you pilot, making sure that you don’t get caught off guard somehow.
>Sure enough, within half an hour you get to the other station with no issues, docking and having somepony unload the supplies you transported.
>You check your account and sure enough, you were paid 2000 credits for the job.
>Just as you finish, Fixit comes up to you and displays new information about the bounties.
>While he didn’t find any information about the drug runners, he shows information that the three smugglers keep meeting in the same spot at about the same time, an hour from now.
>Fixit shows a picture of the three stallions, one a red Earthpony, the other two being a yellow Pegasus and a white Pegasus.
 
“Fixit, mark the location where they gather. Are there any nearby armor or weapons stores?”
>Fixit marks the location, the spot being on Tundra station where you began.
>Fixit brings up a map with the locations of the stores on this station, along with their inventory.
>Your ears slightly droop at the prices.
>Most of the weapons prices are too high for you at the moment, few options being available to you.
>looking through the prices though, you see you can at least buy some light armor and other ammo types.
>Shotgun Airshock shellsx50 (Stun ammo): 100 credits
>Shotgun Flechette roundsx50 (Armor penetration): 200 credits
>Ballistic Vest: 500 credits
>Very Light armor: 2000 credits
 
 
>You use Fixit to check the prices on the other station, getting the exact same ones.
>Not wanting to lose any more time, you quickly go to the armor store and buy the Very Light Armor.
>The armor fits well, covering your shoulders and body in armor.
>You move around in the armor, the whole thing feeling light enough that it shouldn’t hinder your flying at all.
>You spare a moment after going back to the docks to check for a shipping job, finding one that pays 1000 credits.
>Once loaded and ready, you head back to Tundra, having about 45 minutes when you leave.
>You arrive in good time and get the cargo unloaded, having 15 minutes left once you get paid.
>Loading your shotgun, you head out towards the spot with Fixit.
>Having 10 minuets to spare, you look around the docks.
>There is a few large shipping containers piled up on one side of the docks, most of the area being open with some smaller crates being around the area.
>You can see an alley way and the shipping buildings have rooftops that would be out of view.
>Looking way up, you also see an opening to the stations ventilation.
 
>You fly up, going up to the vent.
>The vent is secured by some screws.
>You fly back down, thinking of what to do.
>You get a nudge from Fixit, looking to your robotic companion.
>Fixit stares at the vent then looks to you, holding out his leg.
>Out of his leg pops one of his screwdrivers, a click sounding as it detaches and falls to the ground.
>levitating it up, you see that it is a perfect shape for the vent screws.
 
>You smile and laugh, looking at Fixit.
“Thanks Fixit, good boy.”
>You fly up to the vents and undo the screws, being able to bring the cover and pieces into the vent.
>The vent is big enough to easily walk in, a stern draft going through it.
>Laying on your stomach and looking down, you can see the entire area easily with a birdseye view.
>Looking down you see Fixit looking up at you, sitting in place.
“Go hide.”
>You motion Fixit to move and he does so, going to the shipping processing buildings and laying down.
>You wait, watching for the smugglers as ships come and go.
>Suddenly, out of the alley way, the red stallion and white Pegasus walk out into the open.
>You watch as them move right under you, meeting the yellow Pegasus by one of the smaller crates.
>They open the crate, clothes inside it.
>When they move the clothes, you see some blue packages, the sound of the vent muffling their voices.
>They all seem unarmed and unarmored, dressed to blend in.
>One of the stallions produces a bottle, giving it to the yellow Pegasus.
 
>You reach out a hoof and wave to Fixit, the robotic companion looking up to you from where he sits.
>You motion towards the smugglers and make a surprise motion, remembering a trick you once used to scare your dad as a prank.
>Fixit gets up and moves to the stallions, keeping out of view by using the crate.
>When he rounds the corner of the crate, Fixit stomps and produces an audible mechanical noise.
>The stallions jump a little in surprise and all pay attention to Fixit, moving towards him.
>You make your move and drop down, aiming for the yellow Pegasus.
>As you fall, the red stallion pulls out a pistol and points it at Fixit.
>You land on the yellow stallion’s head with your hooves, knocking him out as you break your fall with his head, a smashing sound filling the air as the bottle breaks.
>You point your shotgun at the back of the white Pegasus, yelling.
“Don’t move!”
>The Pegasus freezes solid as the red stallion looks towards you, then diving towards Fixit and behind the crate.
 
>You keep on the Pegasus, holding your ground.
“On the ground!”
>The Pegasus shakes slightly and he just drops to the ground, hooves on his head.
>“Fuckin thing!”
>Two shots get fired by the stallion behind the crate, hitting Fixit’s head and making small sparks fly.
>Fixit runs towards and past you, your heart pounding as you take aim towards the crate.
>The red stallion leaps out and shoots at you and you can feel three hits against you, chest shoulder and middle of your leg.
 
>You shot your single loaded shot, hitting the stallion in the chest and face, the bottom of this face becoming a bloody mess of flesh.
>You can hear ponies yelling and see them running, your heart hammering.
>“Freeze!”
>Your turn your head and see three security guards, all of them pointing their guns at you.
>“Easy now.” One of them says.
>“Hold on a second…”
>You can see the face of the same stallion who checked you in, his eyes on the unconscious Pegasus.
>You keep still as he approaches the yellow Pegasus, a smile forming.
>“Shit kid, these guys are on out list, nice work! Three hours and you do what we were trying to do for three months.”
>The other guards lower their weapons slowly, you doing the same as they pullout cuffs and move to the white Pegasus.
>You catch a glance of the stallion, looking away.
>There is a pat on your shoulder as you stallion smiles at you.
>“Not bad, Hunter was it? Kinda ironic with your name.”
>You feel sick.
>Your leg hurts slightly.
>“Ouch, they got you in the leg.”
 
>You feel dizzy, nauseous.
“H-how bad it it?”
>You keep telling yourself to not look at your wound of the body.
>“Not too bad, should still get somewhere to have it looked at though.”
>Don’t look at the body.
>Your eyes wandered down towards the body, the sick feeling you have getting worse as you start hyperventilating.
>“Whoa, whoa. Easy kid.”
“I’m going to puke.”
>The stallion pulls your head away from the body and towards him, making you look at him.
>“No, you’re not, just listen to me. One, two, three, four. Breathe in and hold.”
>You do as instructed, the stallion counting to four again before he tells you to exhale.
>You repeat this a few times, still feeling wrong but much less nauseous.
>“Alright kid, come with me, we can get you patched up.”
“Wait… Fixit?”
>You hear a whirring sound and look down next to you, not noticing that Fixit was there the entire time.
>You can see a very small dent and scuff marks on his metal head.
>“Your robot dog looks fine, come on, You are the one that is bleeding.”
>The security guard gives a few orders and escorts you off, helping you a little along the way.
>You find yourself sitting on a medical bed with your foreleg healed by a unicorn and Fixit laying down in the room within half an hour, the security guard returning.
>He puts 3000 credits on the bed, next to you, looking over at you.
>”You feeling alright?”
 
”Better… I think. I’m sorry for the breakdown, I never killed anypony before.”
>“Don’t be, it’s good that you reacted like that.”
“Good?”
>You look up to the stallion, seeing him nod.
>“Keep that feeling with you, life being stopped in any way isn’t something you should just blink at and not care about, even if the pony dying is the evillest pony you ever could imagine. It’s never supposed to feel good, killing is sometimes necessary, but you should remember that it shouldn’t be easy or fun.”
>You give a nod, looking towards the floor for a moment.
“Thank you for calming me down also. And the money too I guess, what do I owe for the medical bill?”
>The stallion chuckles, you can see him shaking his head out of the corner of your vision.
>“Call it a bonus for helping us out. And don’t mention it, the rookies get the same treatment. Just remember how to clam yourself down like I showed you.”
>He moves to you and pats you on the shoulder again.
>“Regardless, you did good today Hunter, they probably racked up half a million credits in stolen goods in addition to what they were shipping. You stopping them helps.”
 
 
“Do you know anything about the two drug runners around here?”
>The stallion laughs slightly.
>“Plan on getting all the bounties do ya?”
“Possibly, do you know anything mister… Actually, I didn’t get your name.”
>“Forest. As for the drug runners, they work separately and wander the station. They are clever, always watch for any of us when they move around late in the day, both of them unicorns.”
“What colour?”
>“Orange for both of them, one being darker, the other has a nasty scar. Saw him today I think.”
“You saw him?”
>Forest nods, frowning.
>“I think. They seemed to be oddly informed of our positions, so I could be wrong. We know that they keep to the alleys, but when we try to corner them they seem to be one step ahead and know where not to go.”
>Forest looks to you, looking thoughtful.
>“Some of the guys think that they are a distraction, like they have help at all times and are just keeping us busy for whatever reason.”
 
 
 
“Where do they usually show up?”
>“Between the residential and industrial area of the station, the area there is kind of like a slums. Not sure where they pick up their supplies.”
“Anything else you know?”
>“No, sadly.”
“Alright thanks.”
>Forest nods, looking at you.
>“If you are sure that you are alright… Good luck and watch your back.”
>You thank Forest and leave the security station, Fixit behind you.
“Fixit, bring up a map and mark the slums area he mentioned.”
>Fixit’s screen pops up and displays the map of the station, the location blinking with a dot.
 
“Alright Fixit, let’s go.”
>You take off towards the slums, seeing the slow urban decay as you head towards the industrial area.
>Walking along the border of the industrial sector, you survey the area.
>While not completely run down, you can see how this area has signs of poverty, some graffiti and trash around the area.
>You can also see some dark alleys through the housing, plenty of spots to disappear and hide, the same can’t be said for the industrial area.
>As you keep walking and get to the area, you can see some groups gathered here and there, all of them looking kind of like they are part of a gang of sorts.
>There are a few homeless and poor looking ponies too, come just sitting on the edge of properties.
 
>You keep looking around, looking for a shady individual who is separate from the groups.
>You spot a lone Griffon wit a heavy looking coat, trying to casually approach him.
>The Griffon eyes you up as you approach shifting a little.
“Hey um… know where I could get a fix?”
>The Griffon gives you a questionable look, glaring at you.
>“Well, aren’t you direct? The hell happened to you? You look like hammered shit.”
“Just looking for something to help me, know somepony? Had a rough day.”
>The Griffon stares at you for a bit before looking away and speaking again.
>“Back alley’s, should be a stallion the comes by in a few, might have something.”
“Thanks.”
>As you go to leave, the Griffon speaks again.
>“Hold it.”
>You feel your blood run cold, reluctantly turning to the griffon.
>“That shotgun been through the system? Want some blank upgrade cards?”
“Upgrade cards?”
>The Griffon flashes you a grin.
>“Never seen the new system that just came out? Old guns like yours get scanned and modernized, lets you use upgrade cards on them to… Well, take a good guess.”
 
>You give your head a shake.
“I think I’m good right now, but thanks, I’ll keep the offer in mind.”
>The griffon nods, a slightly irritated look to his face when he turns and takes off.
>You and Fixit head to the alley, the area being slightly dark.
>The alley is full of trash and other garbage items, the area being quite cluttered.
>You wait, looking around here and there.
>Suddenly, you feel something cold against your side.
>“Who are you?”
>You look to the source of the voice, seeing the orange stallion with the scar.
 
>You swallow, feeling nervous as you look at him.
“Hunter. Who are you? Why the gun?”
>You can feel, whatever it is, being pushed into your side even more.
>“I’m the guy with the gun, asking who the hell you are. And because I don’t know or trust you. Why are you here?”
“Looking for somepony I was told could help me get a fix, a Griffon said there would be someone back here.”
>“Then maybe I’m your somepony.” The orange stallion says, easing off with the object against you. “What do you want or need? Better yet, do you even have the credits?”
“Possibly. Do you treat all your customers like this? Kind of odd given what we are both here to do.”
>You feel him easing off you even more, not being able to feel anything being pressed against you anymore.
>“No, but like I said, I haven’t seen you before.” He says, lowering his guard slightly. “But I know who you mentioned, though I was a gun dealer too until we had a little chat. What do you want?”
 
“Well, first…”
>You use your magic to briefly levitate out some of your credits, the stallion’s eyes lighting up a little at them before you put them away.
>“Well then.” He says, seeming to relax.
“What do you have?”
>The stallion nods, lifting objects and bags from his coat with his magic and showing them to you.
>“Well, have your classics that you roll and smoke. Not laced, but it’s the real stuff, not that “legalized” stuff you can buy at a store. Simple and relaxing stuff… Next, the bigger stuff. Needles, some sand and other nose candy. And…”
>The stallion lifts up a small bag, little shiny blue crystals that look like sault or sugar inside.
>“I have this stuff.”
“What is it?”
>“Something special, one go and you wont ever stop wanting to use it.”
“It’s that addicting?”
>“Not the drug that is addicting, its the power.”
“The power?”
>The stallion nods, smiling.
>“This stuff amplifies magic powers, one sniff and you can lift cargo containers as if they were made of foam. Expensive, but it works.”
“How much?”
>“Any grass is 100 credits, pack of loaded needles are 300, same with the sand and such. But this special stuff? 800. Well worth it, I tried it myself and it really works.”
 
“What do the needles do?”
>“Most of them just get you high, some of them flood you with adrenaline and endorphins. Special stuff for the adrenaline junkies who like skydiving and such.”
“Where did you get your supply? None of it is from the hive right? I‘m not on good terms with them.”
>The stallion shakes his head.
>“From a ship that stops by time to time, don’t worry, not a changeling one.”
>You smile and nod, taking out some of your credits.
“Give me three of the needle packs and some of those blue crystals, they sound good and useful.”
>The stallion looks down and levitates more needle packs out of his coat and you look over his shoulder when he does.
“Shit! Cops!”
>“What!?”
>The stallion turns and points his gun away from you before quickly pulling out a device and looking at it’s screen.
>You grab your shotgun with your magic, swinging it and hitting the back of his head with it.
>There is a good thud as you make contact with his head, the stalling falling to the ground and trying to stand up before he slumps against the ground.
>You breathe heavily as you aim at the stallion, sighing when you know he is unconscious, the drugs on the ground next to him.
>Fixit stands next to you and looks at the stallion, making a few whirs and buzzes in a pattern, the whole thing sounding like a baseball theme.
 
>You smile and roll the stallion over, first grabbing his pistol.
>You examine it with a smile, the laser pistol looking dirty, but new.
>Then you open up his coat and search him after you put the pistol away, emptying out his pockets.
>You find a total of 6 needle packets, three of the blue crystals, a large package of The smokable drug he mentioned just simply labelled “grass”, and 4000 credits!
>Putting everything away and keeping it hidden, you finally look at the device he had.
>It is just a small map, several dots on it with a green dot at the center.
>You shrug and lift the Stallion onto your back, beginning to head back to your ship, using the alleys as much as possible.
>On the way back, the device starts buzzing and vibrating, making you look at it as you walk.
>It seems to be like a GPS, tracking your position, more blue dots appearing close to you.
>“Hey, he alright?”
>You look up in surprise, seeing a security guard looking at you.
“Uh, yeah! Friend of mine that got too drunk for his own good.”
>“Right. Sounds like you got a call, stay safe.”
>You thank the officer and keep walking, watching the blue dots.
>You notice that one of them just passed you, making you look back.
>All you see is the security guard and a few other races, the guard walking towards a store to the right.
>looking back at the device, you see the dot go the same way as the guard.
 
>You smile and continue back to your ship, opening it up and bringing the stallion aboard.
>You set the stallion and the things you brought back down, running to the kitchen to grab a chair.
>After some time, and emptying one of the duffle bags you had your clothes in, you get to work.
>You tie the stallion up with some tethers from storage, putting the duffle bag on his head and zipping it shut, making sure there is a hole for the stallion to breath.
“Fixit, get some water for me.”
>Fixit takes off and brings back a bottle of water from your supplies, giving it to you.
>You splash the stallion with some water, waking him up.
>“W-wha?”
“Who is the other dealer? Where is he?”
>“What? Where am I? What other dealer?”
“What is this tracking device? How does it work?”
>You can feel fear from the stallion as he struggles with his binds.
>“Fuck you! Who are you? Why should I say anything?”
 
>You hit the stallion in the stomach, his struggles stopping.
>“Ooff!”
“Because you are the one who is tied up, I’m the one asking the questions…”
>You point the pistol at him and push it against the bag enough so he can feel it.
“And I’m the one who has a gun to your head. Now, answer me before I get some torture tools.”
>You can feel the fear from the stallion increasing, his struggles staying stopped.
>“W-what do you want?”
“Answers to the questions I asked. Where did you get that tracker, how does it work?”
>“T-the ponies I buy from gave it to me, said it would help me avoid the cops by tracking their radios.”
“Who are they? The ponies you buy from.”
>“Just a supplier that comes by frequently! They leave dead drops for me to pick up after I send money to them the same way. Never met them after they contacted me offering drugs to sell and money!”
“What about the other orange stallion?”
>“Other stallion?”
“Yes! The other drug runner!”
>His fear shoots up again.
>“I don’t know any other drug runners! Anypony who was near where I was selling I chased off, I almost did the same to a gun runner until I found out we dealt different things!”
 
“When do they come again? Your suppliers.”
>“They come when I send a message for more supplies! I tell them a dead drop spot and they give me the pickup the next day. I swear!”
“What else can you tell me? Are you leaving anything important out?”
>“NO! no, I’m not. I just sell drugs for money, buy form them when I need more, they gave me that tracker, and they gave me money as an incentive to start and continue with them.”
“Just you, nopony else?”
>“Yes!”
>Silence fills the room as you think of your next move, the stallion having a small shiver.
>“W-what are you going to do to me?”
 
“For now? Nothing. You get to stay here for a bit and if you do one thing that I count as causing trouble, my friend Fixit here will be sure to bite you and keep you here for when I get back.”
>You close the distance a little, getting close to the bag over the stallion’s head.
“And then, if you have caused trouble, you’ll get a love bite from me that will kill you slowly. So, be good, understand?”
>The stallion whimpers slightly and nods.
>“Yes… goddess damnit.”
“And before I go, how about telling me how you contact your suppliers? Might sway my opinion of you a little.”
>“…Alright.”
>The stallion explains how he contacts the supplier through a message system and how you can do it.
>You then bring the stallion to the corner of the cargobay, checking his bindings and leaving Fixit to guard him.
>You head out to the station again, looking around for spots you could make a dead drop for the dealers.
>You can see a few hidden spots of alleys where you could watch from a roof or behind a dumpster.
>As you keep looking, you pull out the tracker again when it buzzes.
>You see a nearby cluster of dots and look up to see three guards on patrol, walking away from you.
>When the guards get about 20 feet away, the buzzing stops, the dots still moving as the guards walk.
 
>Picking a spot near an alley where you can watch from the roof, you quickly make a decoy package from garbage and find a public terminal to send a message to the supplier.
>You send the message the same way the dealer told you he did, getting a reply that they will deploy in a few hours.
>The device buzzes again, having you take another look at it.
>You hum and take a look at the back of the device, popping the back off and looking inside.
>You see chips, wires, and a bunch of other parts that just confuse you.
>Sighing, you close it up, lacking the technical understanding to do anything to the device.
>Thinking of how you could stop the device from buzzing, you get an idea in your head.
>The screen pops up with the familiar face of a peach mare with a red collar, Fixer smiling.
>“Ultimate Forgery, what can I do for ya?”
“Hey aunt Fixer.”
>“Oh shit, Hunter! Chaos just told me that your dad said you went the way of the mercenary!”
“Yeah, and I encountered something that I don’t know about, I was wondering if you could help me?”
>“I’ma need about treefiddy. What do you got?”
>You smile and you hold up the tracker so your aunt can see.
“I found this tracker on a drug dealer I captured, it shows the position of where security guards are, he said it used their radios.”
>“Hmm… open it up?”
>You do as instructed, your aunt humming.
>“Cant tell much from here, I’d need to see it myself.”
“Could you tell me how to make it so it doesn’t buzz? It vibrates and makes some noise then security gets close enough.”
>Your aunt keeps looking at it, giving a smile.
>“Second black wire from the left is connected to a small motor, just pull it out.”
“Thanks aunt Fixer.”
>Your aunt just smiles, nodding.
>“No problem. How is your first day going? Still have Fixit with you?”
 
“Its kinda bouncing back and forth… I killed somepony today when they shot at me.”
>Your aunt nods, smile faltering slightly.
>“Yeah, that may be a downer. Try not to think about it too much I guess, Cobalt had some nightmares over hers. But that aside, any good things happen?”
“I bought a ship, a frigate.”
>“Ha, bet it’s nice to have your own ship!”
>You smile, nodding.
“It is, one problem though, it said that all the weapons were locked.”
>“Locked?”
“Yeah, when I asked Fixit to interface with the ship, his display said they were locked out or something.”
>Your aunt pauses… looking nervous.
>“Oh, that’s not your ship, that would be Fixit who is locked form using them… and…”
“And?”
>Your aunt sighs.
>“Please don’t tell your mother or they won’t find my body… All right, maybe they will but it will be me with a broken mind.”
“What do you mean? What’s going on?”
>“Fixit… wasn’t originally meant to only be a pet or helper, he was the prototype design I made to be an internal defence drone that would be friendly enough to watch you while we were aboard the Artemis. I owe your mother huge and wanted to give her some kind of thanks by doing the one thing I could best, building something to protect her son. I just never got around to doing it or didn’t have the funds to do so at the time.”
“Fixit is a defence drone?”
>“A defence drone… With a SID AI clone in him. I never remade the AI that drives Fixit, I just copied SID and made new shackles so he wouldn’t use any weapons, or his weapons.”
 
“Wait, can it be unlocked? Can he be prioritized to use non-lethal weapons?”
>Your aunt perks up a little, nodding.
>“Yes, hell, I could even send a program over to you now that could do it. And he does have a short range taser in addition to an internal laser rifle, you just need to tell him what to use. Just because it is a clone of SID, doesn’t mean he won’t listen to you. You have been his best friend and owner for years now, he is mart enough to recognize that.”
“Could you?”
>Fixer nods.
>“I’ll do it now. Just… please don’t tell your mother, Vex will hunt me down for sure.”
“Thank you.”
>“Also, if you want me to look at that tracker, just stop by and I will look at it.”
>There is a small noise, a female voice Calling.
>”Mom! Customer!”
>“Shit, gotta go Hunter, good luck. I sent the program to you.”
>Your aunt ends the call, leaving you looking at a black screen.
 
>You move away from the terminal, flying up to the rooftop to watch over the fake dead drop.
>You wait. And wait. And wait.
>You give a small yawn as you watch over the dead drop, noticing a Pegasus and a Griffon walking down the alley and ducking down.
>“Why all the way out here? He usually keeps it close-ish”
>“Probably knows that the cops are looking in the area, we did give him that tracker with good reason, so he keeps out there and keeps making money.”
>“Still, it fuckin’ reeks! The whole drop will smell like garbage now!”
>“Well hide the drugs in the garbage as payback, he may just be playing smart because he likes the money he pockets.”
>“Think he knows we are charging him double?”
>“Nope.”
>The two of them stop at your fake dead drop, the Pegasus picking it up.
>“Fuck sakes…”
>“Told you, keeping it disguised in the trash, the cops may be onto him.”
>“Think we should just take the money and cut him loose?”
>“Nah, wait till he gets caught, more money for us. Besides, we can supply the other one while we are here.”
>“Fine, but you get to carry this, I am NOT dealing with the stink.”
 
>You look down at the two of them, getting a good look at them.
>The Griffon is grey all over, some of his feathers having black tips, the Pegasus being a very light blue with a white mane.
>“Fine, let’s just get back to the ship and grab the drugs from Pin, he should be done making it look inconspicuous.”
>“Good, I need a drink.”
>The two of them start to walk away, bringing the fake dead drop with them.
>“Think we could stay here for one night? Find some mares?”
>“We will see what Pin thinks when he gets back, none of the cops here know about us so we may be alright. He may want to leave the next drop early, so we don’t need to come back so soon.”
 
>As they walk away, you take flight and go building to building, making sure to keep hidden as you follow them.
>Eventually, you get to the ship docks, the two drug suppliers boarding a small ship.
>You fly down into the alley, watching them from a distance and being too far away to hear.
>The Griffon and Pegasus you were following are now talking to a Zebra, the Zebra carrying two packages of sorts.
>There is a bad reaction for the Zebra as he covers his nose, shaking his head as he says something.
>They all keep talking and the Griffon sets the fake dead drop aside as they talk, all three of them gathered closely.
>The zebra nods and the Pegasus looks happy, quickly trotting off further into the ship.
>You watch as the Griffon and Zebra talk a little more, The Zebra turning and beginning to exit the ship with the packages.
 
>You watch as the Zebra goes, making sure it is safe to move before you return to the rooftops and seeing the Griffon head deeper into their ship as well.
>you fly up again, repeating the same process as before, keeping an eye on the Zebra as you follow.
>As you follow him, you start to notice the station quieting down, fewer ponies about.
>The Zebra walks and goes into an alley near shipping crates, looking down the alley before moving closer to the crates.
>You settle quietly on the rooftop and watch him, the Zebra pushing one of the packages between the crate and the wall it is against.
>The Zebra then pulls out a spray can and begins to mark the wall with a red dot.
 
>You stay put and watch as the Zebra finishes up marking the wall, keeping low.
>When he is done he begins walking down the alley and out of view, leaving you to watch over the dead drop.
>Waiting for a bit again, you yawn again, keeping watch for the other dealer.
>Within some time, you notice something walking down the Alley.
>As they get closer, you see that it is the other drug dealer, the stallion looking around cautiously.
>He heads to the marked spot and pulls out the package, setting it on the ground and opening it up.
>You see the exact same items the other dealer had, except there is more.
>The stallion smiles and nods, beginning to stuff a bag he has with the products.
>“Perfect.”
 
>You stand up and drop down, aiming for the Unicorn’s head.
>The unicorn perks up and looks up to you just as you drop, only being able to look at you before all four of your hooves collide with his face.
>”Fuc-!“
>There is a good crack as you land on him, his entire body going somewhat limp, the sound of crushed glass following.
>You stumble slightly when you land a little badly, stepping on something.
>Looking to the stallion you see he is out cold, the unicorn bleeding from his nose and marks on his face.
>You can see some liquid that is not blood on him and his coat, seeing fragments of glass as well.
>Looking down you also see more glass and liquid by your hooves, come of the needle packages destroyed.
 
>You smile a little and begin to search the stallion, getting what he has.
>No credits this time, but you find a fairly new and sharp knife, its condition practically mint.
>You also find a few of the same drugs and another tracker, most of the needle packs destroyed.
>Storing the dugs in the bag the stallion was using, you then lift him onto your back and carry him back to your ship.
>You unlock and board your ship with no incident along the way, seeing the tied up unicorn right where you left him and Fixit watching him.
>“Hello?”
“Fixit, any issues?”
>Fixit shakes his head, the stallion sighing.
“Good.”
>“Oh…”
>You put the stallion down and go down the main hall of the ship, going o get some more tethers to tie the stallion up.
>You pass over the slight mess of your stuff in the hall and set the drugs you collected down with the ones from earlier, going into the supply closet and getting the tether.
>Within a few moments you tie up the other stallion and call Fixit over, making a call to Forest.
>”Tundra station Security.”
“Forest, it’s Hunter.”
>“Hunter? Everything alright?”
“Yes, I just caught the two drug runners and need you to pick them up.”
>You hear Forest laugh.
>“Damn Hunter, I’ll be right over with a team.”
>The call ends and you wait with the cargo bay doors open, seeing a security team in a few minutes.
>They all come aboard the ship and cuff the stallions after disabling their magic, one of them still being unconscious.
>Forest approaches you, nodding with a smile.
>“Nice work Hunter, maybe we can figure out how they were avoiding us now and use it in the future. Figure out their little operation too.”
 
“About that actually, hold on a second.”
>You go back to the hall o your ship and gather all the hemp and needle packages you took off the smugglers, grabbing one of the trackers too as it buzzes.
>You put all the drugs except for the blue crystals into the bag you got from the dealer, heading back out to Forest and opening the bag to show him.
“Here are the drugs that they had on them, and this too.”
>You hold up the buzzing tracker to Forest, seeing him examine it.
“This is how they avoided you, I talked to one of them and he told me it works with your radios. It shows the position of all the security forces on the station and buzzes when they get close.”
>Forest looks surprised, grabbing the device to look over it more.
>“You are shitting me. No wonder.”
“That’s not all.”
>Forest looks up to you, paying attention.
“I know their distributers as well, and they may just be staying the night at this station. A Zebra, a grey Griffon with black feather tips, and a light blue Pegasus came in on a ship to collect a money dead drop and deliver the drugs.”
>Forest’s jaw drops slightly, the stallion looking serious.
>“How the hell did you manage that?”
“I made a decoy dead drop for them to grab and followed them to their ship, it’s a small one at these docks.”
>Forest holds up a hoof to his mouth, speaking.
>“Emergency raid team requested at the docks now.”
>He returns to you, smiling.
>“Amazing job Hunter, even if we don’t get these guys, you just made my year today. Can you tell me where that ship was?”
>You nod and quickly give direction to Forest, watching him turn and walk away when you do.
>“Check will be in the mail Hunter, remind me to buy you a drink sometime.”
>He turns and smiles at you again.
>“Oh, and keep an eye out for a bonus that may come your way for helping stop a drug ring.”
>Forest winks at you and charges off, quickly meeting a group of other security guard before they all run down the docks.
 
>You sigh, beginning to feel the fatigue of the day set in.
>Turning around, you see the mess that was made by you interrogating the stallion and keeping the two of them tied.
>You get to work and clean up the mess, neatly rewinding the tethers and bringing the chair back to the kitchen.
>When you start on your scattered things in the hall, Fixit helps you a little and retrieves some of your clothing you brought and dumped to clear the bag.
>You settle for the room closest to the bridge and across from the supply closet, bringing your things to the room.
>You set all of your things down in a corner by the dresser in the room, some of your things looking like you just moved the mess to the corner.
>Sighing and then yawning, you just sit on your bed.
“I’ll just unpack later.”
>You set your shotgun up so it leans against the wall, levitating the knife you got to the dresser.
>Looking over the laser pistol, you grab a fabric cloth from your things, trying to clean it up as you think about your day
>Your first ship, your first paycheck, your first job.
>Your first kill.
>You shake your head a little at the last thought, feeling a little uneasy again and even more tired.
>You set the laser pistol down on the dresser in the room and stretch, then proceeding to take your clothing off for the night.
>Soon you lay in bed and begin to drift to sleep, hoping to be spared from any nightmares for the night.
 
 
Level up, 10 points to be distributed
 
 
+5 to Piloting and Magic
 
>You wake up slowly, opening your eyes to your room and then jumping awake.
>You look around at the unfamiliar room, feeling a little panicked before your memory catches up with you.
>You’re on your ship, not at home.
>You can’t help but smile at your slight panic, looking over to see Fixit laying on the ground by the wall.
“Fixit.”
>Your robotic companion lifts his head and gets up, giving an imitation of a stretch before moving to the side of your bed.
>You pat Fixit on the head, smiling at him.
“Pull up my account please.”
>Fixit nods and his screen pops up, showing your current amount of credits.
>You have 13000 credits from all the work you did yesterday, the number making you smile slightly.
>As you keep looking, you notice a little digital mail letter icon in the bottom corner of Fixit’s screen.
“Go to mail.”
>Your inbox pops up, the message from your aunt Fixer being in your mailbox.
>You also see a message from the security station, opening it up immediately.
>The message is from Forest, detailing that the department decided to send you 3000 credits for helping them secure the drug distributers and the product they had on their ship.
 
“Open up the message from aunt Fixer.”
>Fixit does as instructed, letting you read the message
>All that it tells you is that you just need to have Fixit run the program.
“Alright. Fixit, run the program that came with the message.”
>Fixit gives the same little salute, a progress bar appearing on his screen.
>The bar runs by quickly, the screen suddenly going blank and Fixit collapsing.
“Fixit!”
>You look over him, watching as he reboots himself and stands again before looking to his screen.
>>SYSTEM CHECK… OK >AI LOCKOUT REMOVED – SYSTEM CHANGES FOUND > MOVEMENT SPEED INCREASED FROM 25% TO 100% >LASER RIFLE READY >TASER READY >ALL OTHER SYSTEMS OK.
>You sigh, smiling.
“You are alright then?”
>Fixit nods, looking up at you.
“Good. Come on, let’s go for a walk.”
>You get dressed, grab your gear, and leave your ship.
“Fixit, please download a list of ponies searching for jobs aboard ships.”
>Fixit makes a few sounds as you two walk to the weapons store, confirming what you asked.
>When you get to the store, you approach the clerk, the mare looking at you with a smile.
“Hello, do you have any weapons that are non-lethal? Anything that won’t kill?”
>“Sure we do! We have stun batons, and I even think there is a tranq rifle in the back somewhere. We also have non-lethal ammo for ballistic shotguns, and we have plenty to chose from for shotguns too!”
“Well, I do have my own already”
>You gesture to your break action, the mare smiling.
>“Looks like an old one, ever wanted to put it into the system and upgrade it?” "I heard something about it, think you could give me the prices for the other things first?"
>"Sure."
 
>Stun Baton: 1500 credits
>Shotgun Airshock Shells x50: 100 credits
>Tranq rifle + 100 rounds: 5000 credits
 
“I’ll take the Baton and two boxes of the Airshock shells, please.”
>“Sure thing!”
>You put the credits on the counter as the mare grabs the ammo and baton, giving them to you and taking the money.
>“So, before you go…”
>You look back up to the mare, seeing her gesture to you.
>“I know you may be busy, but hear me out. You are probably going to be using that shotgun all the time, right?”
“Possibly.”
>“Well, wouldn’t you rather want to make sure it gets the job done? Or is able to make up for it’s downfalls? Not that it is a bad gun, but it could also be better.”
“The upgrades you mentioned, right?”
>“Exactly! Even with one you will see a difference, not sure what kind, but it can be quite amazing.”
“How do you not know what kind of difference it will make?”
>“Because it is different for every gun, and even more odd, it only works on the older ones. Nopony is sure where this new system came form, but it has exploded in popularity.”
>The mare gestures to the back of her store, smiling.
“I just got one of the machines needed to make said upgrades an make the guns able to accept the upgrades. Since it is so new at my store, I wana cut you a deal. You give me 2000 credits now, and I will put you in the system and give you a free upgrade of your choice! My only condition? Just make sure you buy upgrades from me and tell ponies that they can get them here!”
 
“What kind of information are you needing for me? For both this system that is. Also, this isn’t a contract right?”
>The mare’s eyes widen a little, and she waves a hoof at you with a smile, looking a little sorry.
>“Oh! No, no, no! it’s kind of hard to understand, the “system” is just what we call it all over the galaxy, just what we call the machine that does the upgrading. No trackers, no ID codes, No nothing! Your shotgun will never be the same, but you only get upgrades from this process! And no, not a contract, I’m just taking a gamble to try and bring more business.”
>You nod, smiling back.
“Think you give me more information? I am tempted, just concerned though.”
>”How about I show you then?”
>The mare beckons you to follow her to the back room, looking excited.
>When you do follow her, you see a big machine with a glass window, the rest of the area being a firing range with a target dummy at the end.
>The mare pulls out an old rifle, smiling at you as she loads a round.
>“That target at the end there is equipped with your standard shield, the sign above it will tell us what percentage of the shield this rifle takes away!”
>The mare takes aim and shoots the target, the display above it reading 45% when you look at it.
>“See? It would take three shots before this rifle took down that shield. Now, watch this.”
>The mare moves to the machine, the rifle levitating when she lets go of it.
>She presses a few buttons and the machine starts hitting the rifle with tiny blue lasers, starting from the tip of the barrel.
>As the rifle gets hit with the lasers, the barrel slowly changes from a rounded shape to a pentagon shape, the entire thing slowly changing.
>When the lasers get to the wood of the rifle, the wood changes drastically, becoming a shiny plastic-ish looking substance.
>When the process is done, the metal of the rifle looks newer, the entire thing looking different.
>“New, redesigned metal and carbon fiber parts.” The mare says, loading another round.
>She shoots the target again, the counter now reading 65%.
“Wow!”
>“Wow? I just put it into the system! NOW for the upgrade.”
>Again the rifle goes into the machine, this time the mare swipes a red card.
>“Now, with a damage upgrade.”
>The lasers attack the rifle again, the change being easily seen.
>The barrel of the rifle is much larger now, still having a pentagon shape on the outside.
>Again, the mare loads the rifle, this time with a much bigger bullet.
>When she fires and hits the target, the display reads 100%.
>“Bigger, badder, better. And that’s just the damage mod! You can also get mods for Fire rate, Accuracy, Concealment, Ammo capacity, And Reload.”
>The mare smiles at you.
>“My offer still stands.”
 
“Oh wow… that is so cool.”
>“Then let’s do this!”
“Wait a second though… I’m planning on traveling around, it will be hard for me to buy just from you if I’m so far away. Not to mention, it would take a long time to come back for an upgrade.”
>The mare frowns, looking thoughtful, then smiling.
>“You have a point, but, you could just buy the upgrade cards from me and I can send them to you! That way you only need to find a store with a system and you can use it there! They were made like this to be given as gifts time to time, so no worries!”
“What about shipping? It could cost a lot to get it to me.”
>The mare frowns again.
>“You have a point… I could just mail them through small packages, it would take a day or two, but it could get to you without needing to pay a fee…”
>She sighs, looking a little down and smiling.
>“Didn’t quite think this all the way though I guess. Then again, there is nothing really preventing you from just buying from somepony else…”
“There is something else also I want to ask about, something else then what you offered me.”
>The mare looks up to you, looking interested.
>“What is it?”
“Some shady guy offered me blank upgrade cards, what are they? Are they illegal?”
>The mare looks surprised, nodding a little after.
>“Yeah, they are. Real blank upgrade cards are just like the regular cards, but you can choose the upgrade. All the cards are blank before they are shipped, and you can find some here and there. But the reason why they are illegal is because of how easily fake ones can be made, they look like the regular blank ones, but don’t do anything. Kinda like a placebo upgrade card, looks real but is worthless. Fake product for easy money.
 
>You give a nod, smiling.
“Thanks. And how about this? I’ll make sure to come back time to time and buy from you when I can, in addition to telling ponies about your store.  Could I have your name and your contact?”
>The mare smiles brightly, nodding enthusiastically.
>“It’s Fire Heart, and sure thing! But first, let’s get the fun stuff done!”
>You nod and give Fire Heart the 2000 credits and your shotgun, watching as she examines it.
>“Now, for a control test.”
>She loads your shotgun and shoots the target, the display reading 35%.
>Fire Heart then buts your shotgun into the machine, turning it on.
>Before your eyes the shotgun transforms exactly like the rifle did, the only difference being that your barrel ends up being octagon shaped.
>Fire Heart pulls out your shotgun, loads it, and shoots again.
>You smile when the display for the target reads 55%, looking to Fire Heart.
>“Now, what do you want… ha! I didn’t ask your name!”
“Hunter. And give me the ammo capacity please.”
>“You got it Hunter.”
>Again the process repeats, Fire Heart using a different card this time.
>You watch as your shotgun’s barrel becomes wider, now having two holes at the front of it and the body being a bit wider.
>Fire Heart pulls out your shotgun when the process is done, giving you your double barrel break-action shotgun.
>You look over your shotgun and smile, the whole thing feeling much lighter then before.
“Amazing.”
>Fire Heart giggles a little, nodding.
>“Glad you like it, I bet with a few more upgrades it could become really amazing.”
>You both head up front after, you and Fixit taking off after you say goodbye.
>“Bye Hunter! Come back any time!”
 
>You turn to Fixit as you walk, smiling at him.
“Bring up some jobs Fixit, I want to see what we may have today.”
>Fixit nods and you both stop, Fixit displaying some jobs.
>Out of system escort wanted: 4000 credits.
>Building materials shipment pickup wanted: 1000 credits.
>Night time Guard wanted: 2000 credits.
>Cybernetic communications tester wanted: 3000 credits.
>You think about the jobs, remembering what you asked Fixit earlier.
“Did you find any ponies who are looking for a job aboard a ship?”
>Fixit nods again, displaying a list of profiles.
 
Name: Soaring Aces
Race: Unicorn
Gender: Male
Occupation: Pilot
Cost: 4000 credits
 
Name: Gentle Breeze
Race: Pegasus
Gender: Female
Occupation: Engineer
Cost: 6000 credits
 
Name: Ash
Race: Griffon
Gender: Female
Occupation: Gunner (Specializes in using ship based weaponry)
Cost: 5000 Credits
 
Name: Jakx
Race: Zebra
Gender: Male
Occupation: Engineer
Cost: 8000 Credits
 
 
Name: Iron Hoof
Race: EarthPony
Gender: Male
Occupation: Doctor
Cost: 8000
 
>You look closer at the profile’s of Ash and Gentle Breeze, thinking about how to approach them.
>You start with ash, giving her a call through Fixit.
>”Hello?” a voice sounds, sounding a little tough.
“Hello, is this Ash? Are you looking for a job?”
>“Yes and yes, you hiring?”
“I am, just one thing though. I’m going to be short on credits now but I can promise by the end of today that you will have your full starting fee. Between you and another pony I’m only short by 1000 credits for both of you and know a job that can get it easily.”
>“… throw in a case of Beer and we will be even. Where is your ship? What’s your name?”
>You give your name and where your ship is located, Ash hanging up after.
>You give Gentle Breeze a call next, getting a gentle but energetic voice.
>“Hello? How can I help you?”
“Gentle Breeze? I’m looking to hire you but I’m just a little short right now, by the end of the day I will have your payment though. Would you still be willing to join my crew?”
>“Oh! Yes, that’s fine, I don’t mind a bit”
>You give your name and ship location to the mare before hurrying back to your ship, smiling at your success.
>When you arrive you already see a well kept but tough looking Griffon with a vest and large cart waiting outside of your ship as she smokes, a large object on the cart being covered by a tarp.
 
>You walk up to Ash, smiling.
“Hello Ash.”
>The Griffon turns to you, giving a nod before pointing at you.
>“Hunter, right?”
>You extend your hoof to her.
“Yes, looking forward to working with you.”
>Ash cracks a small smile and grabs your hoof to give a firm shake, taking a drag and making sure to blow the smoke away from you before she puts her cigarette out.
>”The feeling is mutual. Figured it was you, you sounded on the younger side.”
“What do you think of the ship?”
>You open up the cargo bay door, letting you both inside.
>“Honestly? Like what I see,” Ash says as she halls her cart into a corner, “Took a look at the guns and I think I’ll be right at home in here. Don’t mind the cart, just a project that I keep busy with.”
“What is it?”
>“Just a little vehicle project. Hope you don’t expect me to play engineer on the ship though, I know things but ships aint my field.”
>Ash looks down at Fixit, nodding.
>“Neat pet by the way.”
>“Hello?”
>You both look to see a Pegasus mare with a tool box, four heavy looking boots on her and dressed in coveralls that are tied so the front part is around her waist.
>You also see that you can’t see her tail, her back legs looking heavily clothed.
>“Is, Captain Hunter here?”
>“This guy here.” Ash says, pointing at you.
 
>You smile and give a wave.
“Yep, that’s me. Welcome to the crew Gentle Breeze.”
>Gentle Breeze walks forward to the both of you, the young mare giving a smile back.
>“Thanks. And thank you for hiring me.”
>You smile, looking at your new crew members.
“So, now about a group hug?”
>Gentle Breeze looks away, giving a quiet laugh while Ash scoffs.
>“I’ll just that that case of beer, thanks.” Ash says with a tiny smile.
“Come on, let’s get you two settled in.”
>You lead them both down the hall and show them to the crew rooms, noticing Gentle Breeze staring at Fixit with interest.
“Just take whatever one you guys want, I’m the one closest to the bridge across from the supply closet.”
>“Cool.” Ash says, just walking into the closest room and setting her stuff down. “Gonna take a look at the Bridge.”
>Gentle Breeze looks away from Fixit and to you, nodding with a smile as Ash walks to the bridge.
>“Thanks.” She says before choosing one of the rooms.
 
“If either of you need anything just ask.”
>“Yep!” Ash shouts, continuing her walk to the bridge.
>You poke into Gentle Breeze’s room, seeing the mare unpack some of her things.
“You can take a look at Fixit by the way, he doesn’t bite.”
>The Pegasus mare looks up from her things to you, a confused look in her red eyes.
>“Fixit?”
“Yeah.”
>You gesture to Fixit, your robotic companion looking over at Gentle Breeze.
>“Oh!”
>She trots over and sits down in front of Fixit, Fixit taking a step back before staying still.
>“Where did you get him? I never seen anything like him before.”
“My aunt gave him to me for my 11th birthday. Copied the ship AI that was on my mother’s ship.”
>Gentle Breeze looks up at you with a surprised look, her eyes full of curiosity.
>“He’s an AI?”
“Yep, smart too.”
>Gentle breeze looks back to Fixit, extending her hoof.
>As Fixit approaches her and presses his head against her hoof, you pay a little more attention to what Gentle Breeze looks like, seeing that in addition to red eyes she has a light grey-blue coat with a purple mane.
>“He’s really cool… By the way, Breeze is just fine, it was always easier on everypony.”
 
 
>You nod, giving a smile.
“Sure thing Breeze, I’ll remember that. Mind if I ask you some questions?”
>Breeze looks a little nervous and concerned, giving a nod as the pets and looks over Fixit.
>“Um, sure, I don’t mind.”
“Well… what’s your skill set? How did you learn engineering?”
>She looks up at you, her pervious emotions quickly fading.
>“Well, I’m good with all kinds of engines and computers, I was just talented with technology and mechanics of all kinds. Most of what I know was self taught, but last year I passed every certification I could for ship engines and computer programming. Technology… just seems to be a second language to me.”
“Is that why you are interested in Fixit?”
>“Yes, I find everything we ever built fascinating, how we figured it all out is amazing. Colonies, ships, guns, robots. All the things we built and how they are differently used are just interesting to me.”
>You give a nod.
“Any other interests? Have you been with another crew or is this the first ship you’ve been on?”
>“I like reading and puzzles, anything that makes me think, sometimes philosophy. And no, this is my first job on a ship. I’ve just been on this station for my whole life and want to explore a little.”
“Me too Frankly, yesterday was my first day as a mercenary.”
>“Oh? Was it because of your parents? You said they have a ship and I doubt a basic ship would have an AI.”
 
“Yeah, it was a bit. My mother abandoned the changeling hive and set out to make her own life. I can remember some parts when I was very, very young. But all of the stories that my parents told me were what tempted me the most, I wanted to have my own fortune and adventure. But I did think about all of this before I committed to it, I knew what I was getting into and that I had to be sure that it was what I wanted.”
>Breeze nods, smiling.
>“Well, I don’t think that you are in over your head. I kind of know the feeling, I was very unsure if I wanted to work on a ship because of the dangers before I decided it is what I wanted.”
>Breeze gets up, smiling at Fixit.
>“I’ll have to talk to your aunt sometime, talk about things with her.”
>She then turns and grabs her tool box, clipping it to her belt.
>“I’m going to go and take a look at the engines, so I know what I’m working with.”
“Alright, by the way…”
>You give Breeze 5000 credits, the mare looking a little surprised.
“Here’s most of the money I owe you, you will get the rest soon enough.”
She smiles, nodding.
>“Thank you.”
>She sets her credits aside before you both exit her room, Breeze turning to you before she goes.
>“By the way, thanks for talking to me, I was nervous about getting hired and working with a crew.”
 
“No problem, just talk to me if you need something.”
>“Sure thing Hun- er… Captain!”
>Breeze quickly trots off in the direction of the engine room, leaving you and Fixit alone.
>You turn and head for the bridge, looking to check in on Ash.
>When you get to the bridge, you see her kind of lounging in one of the gunner chairs with her eyes closed, claws behind her head with her back legs crossed.
>it makes you smile a little for an odd reason, the white feathered and brown furred Griffon looking almost asleep.
“Settled in?”
>She opens her eyes and sits up, giving a nod.
>“Yeah, everything looks about as standard as it gets. The controls look familiar and the seats are comfy.”
 
“Good to hear, know any way we could test the cannons?”
>Ash shrugs, looking at the controls.
>“Find some pirates, fine some asteroids, take a job where we get into a fight or blast debris away. Anything that gives us a target honestly. I wouldn’t doubt their performance, sure we don’t have many guns, but we could still do good damage.”
“You think we are set up alright?”
>“Well, yeah, depending on how fast this thing goes we have good odds. Just never hurts to have some extra firepower.”
“Any recommendations?”
>Ash hums, looking thoughtful.
>“A ship I worked on before did pretty good with rockets. Sure, they rack up cost, but against multiple ships they can be great. Once we shot rockets at a ship and made it so the other ship couldn’t shoot them down without shooting their allies.”
 
“I’ll try to keep rockets in mind then.”
>Ash shrugs, smiling.
>“Just one idea, I know that the Pegasus will have more or better ones.”
“What were the other ships you were on like? Tell me about your past work experience.”
>“All of it was the same really, just different guns. Shoot. Boom. Ship is gone. One ship I worked on, the Relentless, was really special though. Big ass battle ship, it was oddly fun just making bases and vehicles explode from orbit.”
“Why change jobs? Sounds like you were happy.”
>Ash nods, looking nether sad or happy
>“I was, kinda. More so with the Relentless, the only reason I stopped was because the captain retired and the crew disbanded. That was when I was 27, the other three I worked on since I was 24. Just kind of got bored and decided to move on, wanted to try different ships. Only got fired once.”
“Fired? Why?”
>Ash rolls her eyes, looking annoyed.
>“Because the captain lost her mind that I gave her bubble wrapped kid a smoke for his 17th birthday, and offered him a night on the town. God forbid that the kid lives a little.”
 
 
“Well… if you still have those credits, you could take me out for a night on the town.”
>You give a smirk and Ash chuckles softly, raising her brow.
>“Ain’t you brave. Don’t you owe me first?”
>You pull out 4000 credits and the Combat Knife you have, levitating them to Ash.
“Most of the credits I owe, and something as a gift. Think of it as something to say “Welcome Aboard”.”
>Ash smiles and nods, grabbing the credits and then the knife.
>She holds the knife sideways and twirls it around her claw before tossing it up and catching it by the handle.
>“Nice. Thanks Hunter. Maybe I’ll forget about that beer case and actually take you out.”
“You’re welcome. You will get the rest soon, we have a job to do now.”
>Ash nods and then you turn to Fixit, setting up the escort.
>Within no time the job is finalized, and you sit in the pilot’s seat to launch the ship.
>You take off gently and get into open space, waiting outside the destination for the ship needing the escort.
>Soon, you are contacted by a cargo ship.
>“Hello Vanguard, this is the Afterburn, we are ready when you are. The destination is a station outside of Alliance security. Uploading coordinates to you now.”
 
>You press a button, opening the communications.
“Hello Afterburn, know what kind of trouble we could see?”
>“Pirates. Just because there is a border doesn’t mean they aren’t waiting for a ship to stray too far. doubt they will be much trouble though.”
>Letting go of the button, you look to Fixit.
“Bring up the route Fixit.”
>Fixit nods and opens his display to show you, the route being mostly straight and going over the border to a station.
>Pressing the button again, you reply.
“Alright, we are set then.”
>“Roger. Departing.”
>You begin piloting the Vanguard alongside the cargo ship, starting to feel very comfortable behind the controls as you both travel.
>As you go, you hear the door to the bridge open.
>“Ah, I knew we took off.” Breeze says. “What are we doing?”
“An escort mission.”
>“By the way Hunter, want me to have both guns or just one of them?” Ash asks. “I could easily use them both and target one ship at a time when it happens.”
 
“Honestly Ash? Go crazy if you are feeling up to it, both are yours”
>“Oh hell yes. Saves me the trouble of coordinating. Both guns are slaved to station A.”
>You keep an eye on the cargo ship, turning your head slightly as you keep your eyes forward.
“How do you like the engines and tech that the ship has Breeze? Settled in alright?”
>“Yep! Nice and cozy in my room! And the ship is pretty up to date and standard, the engines seem a little more advanced though. I measured out the cargo bay and gave everything a once over in engineering, we have good room to upgrade and add more systems! I even have a few creative ideas for later!”
“Good, glad to hear.”
>“Power systems good too? I remember an engineer from an old ship that kept warning us to watch how much we shoot.” Ash asks.
>“Yep, they are up to date and are working at a relaxed pace. I think this ship was meant to have more guns but had them taken out to be sold to the regular market.”
>“Good.”
“So, question, why are you two out here? What is it you are both after?”
>“A bit of adventure and something to test myself. I want to see what is going on in the universe, see different places and different opinions while I solve problems and build great things.” Breeze says.
>“Not much for me. A good time, a few drinks, and money for my bike.” Ash says
>“Ohhhh, one of the ones for space? What model?”
>“Not quite, I’ll show you later.”
>You see a series of dots on the radar display in front of you.
 
“Oh crap. Get ready everypony!”
>“What?”
>“Ohhh yes!” Ash says.
>You look closely at the dots, then out into the distance.
“We have three unidentified ships closing in!”
>“OH, u-uhhh. Everything looks ready and powered from my station.” Breeze says
>“I see the ships, 12 o clock.”
>You press a few buttons and get a picture of the ships will all kinds of skulls on them, seeing three cargo ships with weapons crudely attached to them.
“Pirates!”
>“I got em. little baby ships in a V formation. We can crush these no problem once we get a little closer.” Ash says.
>“Vanguard, this is afterburn, we are picking up ships on our sensors.”
>“Ready to fire Hunter!”
 
>You press the button, contacting the cargo ship.
“Relax Afterburn, we see three pirate ships. We are engaging.”
>You let go of the button and look to the ships.
“Ash, use your expertise, which has the best guns?”
>“The one to the left, big twin cannon.”
>“Wonder how they power it with such a small ship.”
“Then give them hell Ash.”
>You push the controls forward, you ship taking off in a burst of speed towards the pirates.
>The pirates quickly begin to split up, going in all directions.
>“Yeaaaah! Hunter! Look at em scatter!” Ash says as you hear a click.
>One beam goes through the void before you, shortly followed by another.
>Both beams hit the pirate ship to the left, the shield breaking with the first and the second hitting the center of the hull.
>“HA! All that power pull from your guns and your shields can’t handle shit!”
>Ash shoots again, sending the pirate ship to oblivion.
>You steer the ship to the right, going after the other ships.
>Again beams fill the open area, going for the ship to the right.
>Both the pirate ships charge towards your ship, one shooting with a beam cannon and the other firing three lasers as they attack you from the front and right.
>“Shields are taking hits but holding!” Breeze says.
 
 
“Ash! In front!”
>“Got it!”
>Ash switches targets, shooting the ship in front and hitting its shields.
>You steer your ship to the left as Ash shoots, putting the pirate ship between you and the other pirate ship.
>“Die!” Ash shouts.
>Three more beams and the Pirate’s shield breaks, the forth hitting their engines.
>The ship explodes, your ship shaking from the explosion.
>You look at the colourful explosion, feeling a little surprised.
>“Their reactor then critical! We got caught it the explosion but our shields took the hit!” Breeze says.
>Ash laughs.
>“We were not the only one.”
>You look and see the last pirate ship, the ship damaged as it floats in space
>You can see the beam cannon rotating to your ship.
>“Think you can still fight huh?” Ash says.
>”Our shields are almost done for Captain.”
 
 
“Hold fire.”
>“Wait what?”
>You press a different button, opening up the communications to the pirate ship
“Attention enemy ship, this is the Vanguard, you are ordered to surrender! We just destroyed both of the other ships without taking a scratch. It is easy to see the result of you attacking us. If you cease now, you will be spared.”
>“Ahh…” Ash says.
>You can feel some happiness within the bridge as you watch the pirate ship, seeing the cannon stop moving.
>There is no communication, nothing but silence from the pirate ship.
>Suddenly there is a blue light flying from the ship, the light becoming very bright.
>”A flare!” Breeze says, sounding happy.
 
“I don’t like this… Keep on them Ash.”
>“Got it.”
>You open the communications again, keeping an eye on the pirate ship.
“Take this to heart and learn to live more honest lives. And remember, shoot and you are done for.”
>You then tell the cargo ship to move forward with you, Ash keeping on the pirate ship as you and the cargo ship keep moving.
>After a good distance, Ash sighs.
>“They are out of range.”
>“I’m glad they stopped.” Breeze says.
>“I’m not. I’m no saint, but a good pirate is a dead pirate.”
>“Maybe… but still, I doubt they will be up to trouble for a while. With the damage to their ship, they will probably be taking a long break form raiding.”
“Either way, we have a job o do. Keep an eye out for more.”
>The journey continues with little incident, the cargo ship keeping close.
>Eventually you arrive at an old station, the cargo ship pulling ahead.
>“Thanks Vanguard, that was some good piloting and fighting. We are docked here for a bit so your job is done. Take care.”
“Fixit.”
>You check your account when Fixit moves to you, smiling at the 4000 credits.
“And now, as promised the rest of the money for both of you.”
>“Sweet.”
>“Thank you!”
>You transfer 1000 credits each to your two crew members, finishing of their needed payments.
>You then check the time, seeing it has only been 5 hours since you woke up.
“Pull up a set of jobs from this station Fixit.”
>“More work then?” Ash asks.
“Possibly, I have other things on my mind too.”
>Shipping food supplies: 3000 credits
>Patrol wanted: 3000 credits
>Debris clearer wanted: 2000 credits
>Pirate station assault: 6000 credits
 
>You accept the shipping job and dock with the station, informing your crew as you do.
"We're going to do another shipping job while we are out here."
>"Shipping in pirate space is always bound to be fun." Ash says.
>"I'll go to the cargo bay and make sure things get loaded." Breeze says, getting up and trotting off.
>"Anything happens to MY bike while we are here and i'll be pissed!" Ash shouts after her.
>You finish docking with no problem, hearing Ash get up and turning to look at her.
>"Just gonna unpack my shit while we load up, will be back in a moment."
"Alright. Fixit, pull up the shipping route."
>Fixit does as instructed as Ash walks off, displaying the route.
>You are staying in pirate space for this job, but thankfully keeping close to the border of Alliance space.
>As you look at the map, your stomach growls.
>You start to feel pretty hungry suddenly as you remember that you haven't eaten for the past day, the only thing you have eaten being the big breakfast you had before you packed up and left home.
 
"Guess i have a moment."
>You get up and head to the kitchen in the ship, your hunger being a distraction now.
>You get to the kitchen and open up the storage doors for the preserved foods...
>Nothing.
>Heading to the fridge and doing the same, you get the same result.
>You smack your hoof over your face, probably a little harder then necessary.
>You haven't gotten any supplies for your ship...
"Damnit..."
>Remembering that you packed some food for yourself, you go to your quarters and dig through your things.
>You grab the simple nutrient bars and eat a few of them, drinking some water before heading back to the bridge.
>Your two crew members are there, Breeze turning and smiling.
>"Everything is loaded and secured captain!"
 
 
"Thanks Breeze. And call me Hunter, we're all friends here."
>Breeze nods, smiling at you.
>"Alright, i will."
>You walk to your seat and begin taking off, smiling.
"So, either of you know how to cook?"
>Ash scoffs.
>"Never mind Breeze, he wants servitude and not friendship."
>You can hear the two of them laughing, joining in yourself.
>You clear the docks and accelerate, getting on with the job.
>"Ahh, if the old man taught me anything, it's bikes and grilling." Ash says.
>"My dad was about the same, Mom was the enforcement business, but he taught me all kinds of recipes. I'm not five-star material, but i can cook almost anything."
 
"Lucky you then, i never learnt how to cook too much. Some of my childhood was just spent playing or learning on my parent's mercenary ship. I think my dad cooked for me once, but most of our food was just preserved rations when i was old enough."
>"So, you came out here because you missed eating MRE's?" Ash says with a small chuckle.
"Ha, something like that. I just want to have my own adventure and have my own fortune."
>"So, you are like me then? Just want to live like your parents did."
"Kinda."
>You all continue talking about your family and some of the old crew, time going by fast.
>"It mush have been hard for a Changeling family, not too long ago they were hated as much as Hybrids are today..." Breeze says.
"Actually, my dad and younger brother and sister are all Earthponies. Only my mom and me are Changelings."
>"Oh! so, are you a Hybrid then?"
>"Come on, look at him! He doesn't have any of the odd, weird, or freaky extra features!"
>"Right..."
>A pair of dots show up on the radar, alerting you fir a moment.
>You relax a little seeing it is a licenced cargo ship being escorted by another ship, the mercenary ship being armed.
 
"Hey Ash, just be ready."
>"What for? More pirates?"
"No, just two ships i want to be careful of."
>You watch the ships closely as you go by, keeping an eye on them until they disappear.
>Within minutes you arrive at the station, easily docking.
>You and your crew head to the cargo bay, Breeze paying plenty of attention to Fixit as you do.
>Once there, you open the doors and drop off the supplies as a pony greets you.
>"Thanks. Here."
>The mare gives you the 3000 credits, walking away shortly after.
 
>You look to your crew, smiling.
“I’ll be back in a moment guys. Come on Fixit.”
>You get walking onto the station, Fixit bounding to catch up then walking beside you.
“Pull up some jobs that this station has for me.”
>Fixit does as instructed, displaying the jobs
>Nighttime security wanted: 2000 credits
>Salvage team protector wanted 4000 credits
>Patrol wanted: 2000 credits
“Thanks Fixit.”
>You keep walking around the station, finding a colourful and large department store.
>You head inside to look for larger supply options and end going around a group of five young stallions and three young mares, one of them looking like he works there and is being bothered by the others.
>Getting to the back, you spot a less busy employee and flag him down.
“Excuse me, do you sell ship supplies?”
>“Yep! A months worth of preserved food is 1500 credits, everything from canned goods to noodles. We also sell ready to eat meals, the same amount is 1000 credits. It’s cheaper, but more plain.”
 
 
“I’ll take the preserved food.”
>”Sure thing! Just tell us where your ship is and we will bring it to you.”
>You give the pony what he needs and begin heading back to your ship, looking to Fixit.
“Accept the Salvage protection job for me Fixit, please.”
>Fixit nods, the both of you heading back to your ship.
>Once there, you notice a large container now in your cargo bay with a supply code on it.
>“So yeah, it’s all mostly easy from here. I just can’t figure out the heat distribution.”
>“Could I help? I am good with this stuff”
>“Thanks, but no thanks. This is my project, and my project only.”
>You look to see both Ash and Breeze looking at some kind of personal vehicle, the whole thing looking like a mixture of old and new parts.
>Ash looks up and gives a small nod to you, Breeze looking to you with a smile.
>“Hey Hunter, what’s up?”
 
“Nothing. That your bike?”
>“Yep.” Ash says, looking at the vehicle made of odd metals
“What makes it so special?”
>Ash smiles, looking proud.
>“Because, this is a mix of new and old designs. I took the design of the first bikes that were made when Equestria first began its age of industry and made it, then adding new age parts to it. You see, the old bikes were not like how the ones from today are, the old bikes had to make physical contact with the ground to move instead of hovering. I made it so it does both, I can have it so it uses tires or hovers! It even is space worthy, so I can keep up with the modern bikes.”
“Wow. Why exactly are you o insistent on building it yourself?”
>“Ehh, just runs in the family. Dad was into bikes, gramps was, and so on. Everyone me and my parents knew and were around were into bikes, either talking about or working on them. Kinda just stuck and made me want to be like them, like how you mentioned you were with being a mercenary.”
>You give a nod, smiling before turning to the container.
>“What is this by the way? More shipping jobs?” Breeze asks
“Nope, this is ours. I bought food for the ship. Though we do have another job today.”
>You open the container and begin levitating out some of the food, carrying it to the kitchen.
>With some help from your crew, you fully stock up the kitchen with food and leave the rest in the container for now.
 
“Alright, now for the job.”
>“What are we doing anyways?” Ash asks
“Protecting a salvage team.”
>You all head to the bridge, taking your seats and launching.
>As you finish leaving the dock, you look to Fixit for the directions.
>The destination is not far once you get a direction, the ride there being very short.
>Once you arrive, you see tons of scrap and large debris everywhere.
>“What happened here?” Breeze asks.
>“Looks like there was a ship battle, big one too.”
>You see two dots appear on your radar, two cargo ships flying in
>“Greetings Vanguard. This shouldn’t take long, but we do have trouble.”
>You open the communications.
“How so?”
>“Took a wrong turn, four pirate ships are already on their way.”
 
“Damn. Ash, think you can target two ships at the same time?”
>Ash laughs.
>“Shit, Hunter, giving me a challenge on my first day? Let me see what I can do…”
“Alright.”
>You hail the cargo ships.
“We are going to surprise and ambush them, make sure to stay clear.”
>“Roger. Moving.”
>You pilot your ship into the debris, getting behind a large destroyed ship part.
“Get ready everypony.”
>“Hey Breeze, get to the console next to you. I want you ready to take the gun if need be.”
>“Alright, I’ll be ready.”
>The radar pops up with four dots, all of them moving fast.
 
“Get ready… Target the first two ships that we see.”
>“Got it.” Ash says.
>You watch as the dots get closer, looking up to see the ships appearing as you stay hidden.
>“There you are.”
>the communications come to life.
>“Get the hell outa here! This is ours now.”
>“Nope.” Ash says in a smug tone.
>The two cannons on your ship fire, hitting two of the pirate ships shields.
>“Shit! Scatter!” comes from the communications again.
>You watch as the pirate ships turn and go off in all kinds of directions, two going left and one going right, the last ship going in the same direction but upwards.
>”Where are they?!”
>“Captain, the coms!”
>“FUCK!”
>The pirate ships fall silent.
 
 
“Ash, target the one that went right. I want to stay hidden as long as we can.”
>“Got it, switching.”
>The pirate ships keep moving, going to the opposite side of the debris you are behind.
>Within seconds, both beams fire at the pirate ship to the right and bring its shields down.
>“There we go.”
>Again both beams fire, hitting the ship and making it explode.
>“Got em!”
“Next one.”
>Again the beams fly and hit the ship that when up, its shields protecting it from damage.
>The ship quickly turns and fires lasers at your ship, hitting your shields.
>“They found us!” Breeze says.
>Beams fly by in front of your ship, hitting your shield or the debris the odd time.
 
“Keep at it!”
>You start to move the ship, the pirates getting a few hits in before you get up to speed and get to the next large amount of debris.
>“Breeze! Second gun is yours! I can’t keep switching between views with all this shit in my way!”
>“Okay!”
>You keep focused on piloting, glancing at the ship above time to time.
“Breeze, lead your shots! You keep missing!”
>You look up just in time to see the pirate ships bridge get hit badly, its shields down.
>“I got them!” Breeze shouts.
>As the damaged ship just floats in space, you look to your radar.
>One of the last two ships is circling around and trying to get behind you, the other staying mostly still.
>Another few shots fly by, all of them hitting your shield as the debris starts to thin out.
 
>You speed towards the damaged pirate ship, getting behind it.
“Ash, one is trying to flank us. Focus fire on it!”
>“Got it, move just a little more forward.”
>You move the ship a little, Ash saying when to stop.
“Breeze, what is the strength of our shields?”
>“Hang on, I need to switch stations.”
>“Press the red button first, give me the other cannon.”
>“Done.”
>You wait a few seconds, not seeing any shots for a moment.
>“We are pretty low, about 35%.”
>You see some flashes of green, looking to see that they are coming from your ship as the beam cannons fire.
>You see your shields light up again, shots now coming towards your ship.
>“Make that 28%!”
>Just before you move, you look to the radar, seeing the dot that was the flanking ship disappear.
>The last pirate ship begins to retreat at a rapid pace, the dot moving away from you and the cargo ships.
>“Only one more.” Ash says.
 
>You make your ship move forward.
“They are trying to run, Disable them Ash!”
>“Got it!”
>Once you start chasing after the pirate ship, beams start flying towards it.
>The beams hit the shield of the pirate ship, the ship not slowing down before it gets further away.
>“Shit… they are out of range.” Ash says.
>You communications suddenly come to life.
>“Vanguard, is the area safe?”
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
>You sigh, easing off the thrusters and turning your ship around.
“This is the Vanguard. Yes, the area is safe. We will continue to patrol and watch for more.”
>“Roger, and thanks.”
>“Ha, you sound disappointed Hunter. You enjoying the combat and chase?” Ash says.
>You look back, a small smile on your face.
“Possibly. And congratulations you two, you guys did great!”
>“All in a day’s work.” Ash says
>“I can’t believe I hit that ship!” Breeze says, sounding excited.
>“Yeah, you did alright for your first time. Good shot Breeze”
>You and your crew keep up the patrol, watching for more pirates.
>Nothing else happens as you keep watch, the cargo ships quickly getting out of the area.
>“Thanks Vanguard, nice shooting and piloting.”
 
>You look back to your crew with a smile.
“Great job guys, I’d say we are done for the day.”
>“Back to a station then? Are we staying in Pirate space or are we going back to Alliance space?” Ash asks.
>You think for a moment, unsure.
“I don’t know… but first, one little thing. I want to check that pirate ship we damaged. There should be survivors or something of value aboard.”
>“Ahh, one space walk won’t hurt.” Ash says.
>“Hmm…”
>You pilot the ship closer to the destroyed ship, seeing nothing happening.
>“Cap-… Hunter, I gave the ship a scan, there is nothing alive aboard it any more.”
>“Then we can take a look in peace. Come on, time for a walk.”
>You all get suited up and open the cargo bay, floating around in zero gravity.
>You kind of wobble around, not used to the difference.
>“W-woah” Breeze says.
>You all get to the ship and go through it, seeing nothing of value inside and only seeing floating dead bodies.
“Damnit, nothing here.”
>You feel a little uneasy, some of the bodies being rather gory looking.
>“Not quite, there is something we can take.” Breeze says. “If we take some time, we could cut some of the better ship plates off and use them later! Or sell them.”
 
>You pause, thinking for a moment.
“All right, cut them out and let’s take them. But let’s make it quick, I want to get out of here.”
>“Same, I feel like a few drinks.” Ash says.
>Breeze smiles, giving a nod.
>“No problem!”
>She floats to one of the better ship plates and quickly pulls out a device that uses a laser, cutting a corner of the plate.
>She does the same to the other corners, the whole plate just floating away.
>“Easy! You guys bring this back.”
>Within no time you all cut away some of the ship plates, getting at least 10 good ones and bringing them aboard your ship.
>Eventually you all get out of your suits and go to the bridge, Breeze arriving last.
>“Oh come on, drop the work cloths and boots.” Ash says to Breeze, “We’re done for the day.”
>Breeze shakes her head, sitting down.
>“I’d rather keep them on. Are we going back to alliance space Hunter?”
 
“Yep, back to Tundra.”
>“Nice, there are some good bars there.” Ash says.
“Why not take your coveralls and boots off though Breeze? No sense in having all that on if we are going to have drinks, go window shopping, or just have some fun.”
>“I’m… just comfortable in them. I like having them on.”
>“Ohh? You sure you’re not hiding something?” Ash says in a teasing tone, letting out a laugh.
>“No, I just like them.”
>You feel an odd feeling in the air over the happiness that Ash has, an emotion you can’t quite place.
>“Hunter… I think we have someone who hates fun.” Ash says, teasing Breeze more.
>“I don’t hate fun!”
>Time goes quickly as you all make your way back to the station, docking with Tundra when you get there.
 
>You get up from your chair, smiling at your crew.
“Come on you two, let’s go to a bar. We all deserve a drink.”
>“Rrrright behind you” Ash says.
>Breeze just nods, looking happy as she follows Ash.
>You call Fixit and the three of you head out, looking for a bar.
>You spot the one that you got information from before, heading inside.
>The bar is much busier, but not too chaotic, some stallions cheering at a TV.
>The three of you sit at the bar, the bartender walking up to you with a smile.
>“You amazing little fucker.” The stallion says to you.
“What?”
>The stallion laughs, shaking his head.
>“One day, and you stop the smugglers and the dealers. Don’t think information travels, the police reported that a mercenary helped with the captures. No name, but I think I know WHO it was.”
>He leans against the bar, smiling at you.
>“Those fuckers stole 30% of my incoming product, don’t think I don’t appreciate that. First round is free, name your poisons. Assuming that these two beauties are with you.”
 
>You put your hooves around your two female crew members, bringing them close and smiling smugly.
“Oh they are with me alright.”
>Ash does something of a growl and scoff before smacking your hoof away, her expression something between amused and annoyed as she smiles.
>Breeze just giggles before pulling away a little, a red tint to her face.
“Well, what is the best thing you have? What do you two want?”
>“Just me some of the imported griffon lager.” Ash says.
>“A venom if you have it.”
>“Sure thing and Yep. As for you, I’ll get you something good.” The bartender says looking at you.
>Within the minute Ash has a bottle and Breeze has a can, the bartender putting a large mug in front of you.
>“Just for you. That stuff is usually saved for the celebration of Unification, it’s an unusual brew, got all kinds of flavors that blend together for just a slight sweetness. One sip and you will be hooked.”
>You take a drink of… whatever this is called, getting a big grin on your face.
>You can’t describe what it is, but it tastes like every favorite food you ever had as it bounces between sour to sweet.
“Oh wow!”
>“Told you.”
>You smile and drink more, turning to your crew and telling them about your first day.
>Ash seems impressed at you being able to take down the drug dealers and smugglers, getting a kick out of the interrogation part.
>Breeze seems equally impressed with your thinking, playing close attention to how you dropped on the ponies and decided to knock them out.
>Both time and the drinks seem to fly, you and your crew paying for the drinks before going back to your ship.
>All of you are rather happy and rather drunk, Breeze stumbling and wobbling as she walks and giggles
>You’re not sure what you all talk about when you get to your ship, but you all are laughing.
>Breeze stumbles as she gets into the cargo bay, tumbling over and laying on her back.
>Both her and Ash laugh, Breeze looking embarrassed.
>“Oops.”
 
>You smile, looking down at Breeze.
“You okay Breeze? Can you walk?
>“Yes, I’m fine.”
>“She’s not fine.” Ash says, grinning.
>“Nooo, I am! Watch.”
>Breeze tries to get up, not even getting to her hooves before she falls back onto her side.
>You use your magic and lift up the Pegasus mare, her face getting even more red.
>“N-no! I’m fine! I got this.”
>Ash just shakes her head, walking off to the crew rooms.
>You follow Ash, carrying Breeze to her room as she giggles away.
>You open the door to Breeze’s room and move some of her things off of her bed, gently lowering her onto it after.
“Goodnight Breeze, just sleep it off.”
>Breeze nods, smiling at you.
>As you walk off, you hear a thumping before a weight around your shoulders.
>You look at breeze as she gives you a big hug, the mare smiling.
>“Thanks Hunter.”
>She lets go of you and stumbles back to her bed, just falling on top of it.
>You smile and head back to your room, almost tripping over Fixit along the way.
>You get to your room and everything goes black.
>You open your eyes to find your face deeply pressed into your pillow, being half dressed as your clothes from yesterday lay scattered around your room.
 
>You groan slightly and pull back your covers, crawling under them.
>Your head doesn’t hurt, but you certainly don’t want to get out of bed.
>You just lay there for a bit with your eyes closed, awake and not wanting to move.
“Damnit….”
>You sigh, groan, and pull the rest of your clothes off before getting a new set.
>Bringing the clean clothes with you, you head to the crew bathroom with Fixit following behind.
>After you start the shower and just stand under it to soak for a bit, you get to cleaning yourself.
>You get dressed and go to the kitchen after you finish getting ready, Fixit getting up from waiting in the hall.
>Both your crew members are there, some food on the table.
>Ash looks perfectly fine, Breeze looks tired as she sits with her boots on and the upper part of her coveralls tied halfway up her body just like yesterday.
>“Hey.”
>“Good morning Hunter.” Breeze says.
“Morning, you guys sleep alright?”
>“Like a rock.” Ash says with a smile.
>”Kinda, I feel alright.”
>”Feel alright Hunter?”
“Yeah, just tired.”
>You sit down after grabbing some food, having Fixit open up some jobs.
>Cybernetic communications tester wanted: 3000 credits
>Station materials pickup wanted: 1000 credits
>Wanted alive: Local Hacker : 2000 credits
>Demolition team wanted: 4000 credits
 
“Hmm…”
>“You look interested in something Hunter.” Ash says.
“A few jobs, we may have some good things today.”
>You open up the jobs, getting more details.
>The demolition job wants a pirate base to be turned to rubble, the request mentioning that there are no more pirates, the only danger being that there are automated turrets in the building and outside the base.
>Opening up the bounty job, apparently an unknown hacker has been hacking ATM machines and stealing money from accounts.
>The report says that they don’t know what the hacker looks like, but shows that they have a pattern for what machines they go to and are willing to give a program that lets you know what machine is being hacked.
>Reluctantly… you open the cybernetics tester job.
>There are two prototype communications implants that a company is wanting to test, both of them being marketed as “Perfectly undetectable”.
>”Sooo….. I didn’t do anything bad last night right?” Breeze asks.
>“Why? Don’t remember some things?”
>Breeze looks a little worried and embarrassed.
>“Kinda, I can remember fragments, but I can’t tell where the things that happen end and the dream I had starts. It all felt too real and all is kinda fuzzy.”
 
>You accept the bounty on the hacker, smiling when you look up at Breeze.
“Nah, nothing much. You got pretty hammered and fell down a few times, I had to carry you when we got to the ship.”
>Ash starts to quietly snicker, Breeze nodding.
>“Yeah… I think I remember that.”
>You smile a little wider.
“You also called me a handsome devil, and give me a huge hug for carrying you back.”
>Breeze’s face goes very red, her eyes wide as Ash’s snickering turns to laughter.
>“W-what?”
>”Aww, taking a sudden liking to our boss Breeze? Think he’s handsome?”
>“N-no, I-”
>Ash grins, a big wave of joy coming from her.
>“Oh, so he’s not handsome then?”
>“No! I don’t think he’s not handso- Wait! GAAH!”
>Breeze just brings her head to the table and covers her red face with her hooves, Ash laughing louder.
>As you smile widely, Fixit nudges you, showing you a message.
>The employer you accepted the job from has sent over the program to help you find where the hacker is hacking from.
>“Why me?” Breeze says.
 
“Relax breeze, we’re just teasing you.”
>Breeze just gives a small “humph”, keeping her face covered before she looks up.
“Anyways, we have a bounty today, a hacker is wanted alive.”
>You quickly go over the mission, telling Fixit to run the tracking program.
>Fixit does as instructed and his screen pops up, showing several locations that the hacker goes to.
>“Wow, I wish I had something like Fixit.” Breeze says.
>“Ha, you and me both, looks like an impressive battle buddy.”
>Looking at the map, you see that you recognise the area, the area being the slums.
“Alright everypony, grab your gear. Let’s get this hacker.”
>You all suit up and grab your weapons, and you load your shotgun before leaving the ship.
>As all go to the slums, Fixit starts urgently nudging you.
>You look at the screen to see one of the hacking locations blinking.
 
“He’s close! Hurry!”
>You sprint off, all of your crew running with you.
“He’s just around the corner! We need to surround him.”
>“Which way is he?”
>You look at the map Fixit is showing, quickly gesturing to the right.
>“Breeze, with me!” Ash says.
>Both Ash and Breeze take off, flying over the buildings to your right as you and Fixit run on the ground.
>Just as you get to the corner, you give the map a glance.
>The dot blinks twice and disappears, not blinking anymore.
“Shit!”
>You round the corner, looking around the area.
>You see Ash on a rooftop looking around and Breeze down the way a little bit doing the same, none of the ponies in the area running or trying to get away.
>Looking at who is in the area, you see four of them.
>There’s a Batpony stallion with a plastic bag on his side, a Unicorn colt trotting along with a backpack, a Zebra mare just walking, and familiar looking Griffon with a heavy coat.
 
“Fixit, watch that Zebra. Ash and Breeze, watch the Batpony and Unicorn. Be ready to move.”
>“Roger.” Ash says.
>You walk up to the Griffon, seeing him spot you and look angry.
“Hey.”
>“The hell do you want?”
“Just a question I want to ask, nothing big. You just see what is going on here and there.”
>“Oh really? Don’t suppose you are planning anything? Because I saw some report that drug dealer got caught suddenly.”
>You feel your blood go cold for a moment, then you shake your head.
“Nothing with you, I just want some information from you about a hacker.”
>“Really? Why should I trust you? Or even give anything to you?”
“I’ll pay you.”
>The weapons dealer pauses for a moment, looking at you.
>”1000 credits, What’s the question?”
>You give the griffon the credits.
“Do you know about the hacker? Or somepony using a device of sorts on an ATM?”
>The griffon shakes his head.
>“Nope, I know no hackers. And I didn’t see anything along the lines of a device either.”
>You feel a bit of anger before the griffon turns his head, looking to the unicorn colt.
>“That being said, isn’t it odd that I see that kid every so often down here? Better yet, what is he doing near the industrial zone on a school day?”
 
>You smile at the Griffon, giving him a nod before taking off.
>You motion Fixit to follow, looking to your crew then the colt.
>Ash moves along the rooftop, following you as you approach the colt from the back, breeze waiting inconspicuously in front of the colt.
>You use your magic and grab the colt’s ear, getting a yelp from him.
“Just what do you think you are doing here? Shouldn’t you be at school?”
>The colt makes a few high pitched noises of pain.
>“I’m on my way there, OW!”
“All the schools are the other way!”
>You ready your baton and take a swing, only to have it bounce off nothing.
>You notice the little Unicorn’s horn glowing, a flip knife suddenly flying at you.
>There is no time to react as the colt uses his magic to stab your shoulder with the knife, the sudden pain making your magic falter just enough for you to let go.
>The colt begins to run as you let out a painful noise, only to be tackled by Ash.
>A sudden light flashes from the Colt before he kicks Ash’s face, the griffon’s claws leaving one or two cuts on the colt’s body as Ash covers her eyes
>Before he tries to run again, the colt is pinned by Fixit who produces an almost terrifying electrical sound.
>The colt is electrocuted by Fixit, shaking a little before he lays still and breaths gently.
>Ash looks up and around, blinking constantly and yelling.
>“Where is that little shit! I’m gonna beat his ass black and blue!”
 
“Calm down Ash, we got him.”
>“Fuuuck, blinded by a stupid kid, I’m still seeing blue.” Ash says, getting her bearings.
>Breeze finishes running to all of you, grabbing the bag that the colt dropped.
>“Hunter, Look!”
>She shows you the bag, the whole thing filled with credits.
>You nod and walk up to the colt, seeing him move a little as Fixit keeps him pinned.
>Looking at your shoulder, you see your green blood running down your clothes as you feel a pulsing pain
>The colt glares up at you with tear filled eyes as you grab his knife, making sure it is out of his sight.
“Just what are you doing?”
>The colt keeps quiet, looking upset and a little hurt.
“Search the bag. Fixit, keep him pinned.
>As Breeze searches the bag, you carefully go through the colt’s pockets and only find a candy bar.
>“There’s mostly credits in here Hunter, I found some thing that may be what he was using to hack. He also has a very home made grappling hook.” Breeze says.
>The colt tries to move again and Fixit makes the same electrical sound as before, not tazing the colt again.
>The colt shakes at the sound, sniffling a little.
 
>You sigh, looking at the colt.
"Since you're just a kid, I’m going to give you one more chance to explain yourself before I turn you to the authorities. Why are you doing this?"
>The colt sniffles again, staying silent until he mumbles something.
“Pardon?”
>“Why does it matter? You caught me. I had no reason to do it this time, of the other ten times. The first gave me the money I needed, now I just take to have more.”
>“So, you like stealing? Or did you find the challenge of hacking fun?” Breeze asks.
>You can feel some positive emotion from the colt, even though his expression doesn’t show it.
>“I just wanted the money, the hacking was a joke. Anypony could do that stupid security system.”
“How much is in the bag Breeze?”
>“I don’t know, thousands of credits.”
 
>You look at the colt again.
“You know, not just anypony could figure out what you did to be easy. It’s awful that you are wasting a talent like this when you could have a bright future.”
>The colt smiles, more so smirks at your words.
>“Name one place that likes child labour. Paid or not, you think some industry wants me?”
“How about your home? Is it close?”
>The colt sneers at you, having newfound confidence.
>“Might be. My house though, so I’m not telling.”
>“Don’t you think your parents would be worried or mad if they found out about this?”
>“Why? Dad wasn’t worried when he dumped me here three years ago, so why would he care?”
>“You’ve been living alone and hacking for three years?” Ash asks, sounding like she doesn’t believe a word he says.
>“Yeah! Daddy Rune said “Fuck you kid!” before he threw me off the ship! The cops must be really stupid to have not caught me for this long!” the colt says with a smug look.
>“Or you just fucked up finally.”
>The colt growls at Ash before she raises her claw and makes a fist, the colt’s ears falling flat as he looses his attitude.
>“I wouldn’t give looks like that kid, I’d be beating your ass if you weren’t already pinned.”
 
“Hmm…”
>You look over the colt, seeing how young he is.
“How old are you?”
>The colt looks to you, looking a little lost.
>“14, why?”
“I’m curious, you seem impressive for how young you are. Did you learn some of this in school? How about a name?”
>The colt looks confused, shaking his head before getting another smug looking expression.
>“No, I taught myself. Besides, to be in a school I would need parents.”
“How about that name?”
>“It’s…”
>The colt goes silent, speaking up again after.
>“It’s Astray.”
>You give a nod.
>“Well, are we going to keep playing 20 questions or turn this little shit in?” Ash asks.
 
“Well…”
>You look over Astray again.
“Would you want to work for me? Get payed for hacking?”
>“What?” Ash says.
>“Deal.” The colt says.
>“What!?” Ash says again, louder this time. “Hunter, boss or not, you do know that he just stabbed you right?”
>Ash then turns, looking at Astray.
>“And you, how the hell do you just agree to what he said? All of us just attacked you, you just got fucking tazed!”
>“Well… I didn’t attack him before Fixit stopped him…” Breeze says.
>“Regardless!”
>“It’s the smartest move for me.” Astray says, getting a smile on his face. “You guys caught me, and that means that the cops are onto me. How long until another group comes after me? I’m 14, but I’m not stupid like you think I am bird brain.”
>Ash scowls, Astray looking to you.
>“This place is boring anyways, I already hacked everything I could. Let me make a stop to grab my things, no tricks, and I’ll join you.”
>“And… the credits?” Breeze asks.
>“Keep em! 6000 credits that can be all yours. Not like I was stealing from actual accounts, that money is almost harmless to take. I think the only sad pony from taking that is the corporate CEO piece of shit that can’t wipe his ass with that money.”
 
“Fixit, get off of him.”
>Fixit does as instructed, the colt getting up.
“Alright, we can grab your things. And I want you to keep in mind that if you keep insulting Ash, that there will be consequences.”
>Astray nods.
>“Fair enough, but if she does thing to me I’ll do things back.”
“Good. Now let’s hurry, I’m wanting to have this looked at.”
>Astray’s horn lights up and sends magic at you, Ash’s feathers puffing up.
>“Hey!”
>“Re-fucking-lax, I’m helping a little.” Astray says.
>You look to your wound, seeing that it has been healed shut.
>Astray’s magic then covers himself, the cuts from Ash closing.
>“I didn’t live this long without having bad luck.” The unicorn colt says, looking tired. “Just don’t expect me to play doctor, I’m already drained form that.”
“Well… thanks then.”
>“Come on, let’s go.”
>You all follow Astray to an alley way, the colt unlocking a dumpster when you get there.
>Astray hops into the dumpster when he opens it, a clatter following.
>“Living… in a dumpster?” Breeze says, looking sad.
>Two bags are quickly tossed out of the dumpster with magic, Astray emerging with a new pair of clothes that don’t have blood on them.
>He quickly grabs a container and tossed it in after and closes up the dumpster, hopping down and pulling the two big bags onto his back.
>The tan brown colt looks up at you with golden eyes, smiling as he magics some of his black and yellow mane out of his face.
>“There, all set.”
 
“Good, come on, let’s go. But first…”
>You get eye level with Astray.
“You need to Pinkie Promise to never say bad works like “Fuck” or “Shit” again. you are still a little foal, you know?”
>You give a smirk and Astray grins, giving a laugh.
>“Not fucking happening. But I may tone it down.”
“Here, let me help.”
>You take one of the bags and help carry it, all of you getting back to the ship.
>Once there, you show Astray the ship a little and let him know where things are.
>“Nice, this is a cool ship.” He says.
>“Yeah… Touch my bike and I’ll take your leg off.” Ash says
>“I’ll keep that in mind.” Astray says.
>The colt heads into the room next to yours, dropping his bag down and tiredly smiling at the room.
 
“Like it?”
>Astray nods, smiling.
>“Yeah, it’s kinda nice.”
“Good.”
>You set the bag you have down, smiling at the colt
“Go ahead and have some rest if you feel you are needing it. Need anything else? Some food?”
>The colt looks to you, smiling still.
>“I mean, I’d like my knife back as some point. But sure, I feel hungry. I’ll go and get myself something”
“Alright, just say if you need anything.”
>The colt nods and sets his bags aside for now, walking outside of his room and heading down the hall.
 
>You leave Astray’s room and grab the tracker that you got from the drug runners, looking for Breeze after.
>You end up in the engine room, seeing the Pegasus mare with the front of her body in some part of the engine.
“Breeze?”
>Breese turns her head and smiles at you, backing up and turning around to face you.
>“Hey, Hunter! Just looking at the engine. Need something?”
>You show her the tracker.
“I wanted you to take a look at this. I got I from the drug dealers I told you about, if you do remember that.”
>Breeze looks embarrassed for a moment before she nods.
>“Yes, I do.”
“I just want you to take a look at it, it apparently tracks radios, so I’m wondering if you can modify it to track the radios of any enemy.”
>Breeze grabs the device, looking excited.
>“Cool, I bet I’ll have plenty of fun with this. I’ll see what I can do.”
“Good. By the way, what do you think of Astray?”
>Breeze puts the device down, giving a shrug.
>“I took a look at what he used for hacking, and it is really advanced. There is nothing like that available for stealing, so he somehow made it I think. Not the physical part that is, but the programing for it. I’m not perfect at programing, but this hacking device is super heavy duty for a colt his age. I wonder how he got so smart…”
>She taps her boot against the ground, giving her head a shake after.
>“Besides that? I don’t think he is exactly a bad colt, but not good either… He seems very egotistical, he looked self absorbed whenever you said he did good or talked about him hacking. I bet he will be very useful for all kinds of hacking, but I do have a little concern about him and Ash getting along…”
 
“Yeah, they both seem a bit spunky. But don’t worry about that, I’ll solve any problems that happen. I won’t have my crew fighting.”
>Breeze smiles, happiness coming from her at your words.
“Besides, I bet they will get along eventually. Also, I wanted to ask. Those ship plates we took, you said things can be done with them, got anything in mind?”
>“Yep! Come here!”
>Breeze practically skips ahead as you follow her, moving to a bench.
>She crouches down before she jumps up and grabs a rolled object from a shelf above, landing without using her wings.
>She spreads the roll out, revealing the blueprint of the ship.
>“I was looking at the ship, and I have a few ideas! We could use them to improve the armor of the ship, or at least reduce the cost of doing so. We could also use the metal to reduce the cost of making the cannons into dual cannons, or adding other weapons. I know they take up space in the cargo, but if you don’t want to sell them for credits, we could also keep them to replace damaged armor plates if we ever take damage. Also, It would be super risky, but I could armor up and re-enforce the front of the ship with them. That way we can ram ships if need be.”
>Breeze smiles at you.
>“Just some ideas.”
 
“Ahh, I want both the cannons and the ram. How much is it? I’m guessing we can only choose one?”
>Breeze giggles.
>“Yes, but I can give you the prices on both. It should be 6000 credits, 4000 for the ram and 2000 for the guns if we use the plates to reduce cost.”
>She points to the cannons on the blueprint.
>“We need all of them for the cannons because we are going to rip apart the old ones and use them with more parts to build the new cannons.”
“Hmm… I’m thinking about it. Either way, would you like some help?”
>Breeze nods, smiling.
>“Even if you don’t know much about how to get them together, I would be super grateful if you could use your magic to help hold and lift things. Magical precision is much more useful then a silly crane. Not to mention, it wouldn’t take all day that way and there would be more time to relax after.”
 
 
“Let’s go with the cannons”
>You give Breeze the credits, the mare smiling as she grabs a data pad.
>Within moments the parts needed arrive at the dock, both you and breeze heading up to where the cannons are.
>The two of you work at it, Breeze doing all the cutting and technical things while you play the muscle, lifting and moving metal with your magic.
>You watch as Breeze works away, the mare being excited as she builds the new cannons with your help.
>Eventually, once you two remove the old cannons and build the new ones, you help finish up by holding things in place as Breeze installs them.
>By the time everything is done, you feel magically drained, fatigue setting in as you look up at the new dual cannons.
>“So cool!” Breeze says, happily looking at the cannons.
>You smile as you look up at the cannons, noticing something other then feeling fatigued.
>You hunger slightly, and not for food, but emotions.
>Thinking back, you’re not sure when the last time you fed was.
>“Thank you so much Hunter!”
 
 
“You’re welcome Breeze. …uh, hey, Breeze?”
>You look you Breeze, seeing the mare look confused.
>“Hmm? What is it?”
>You smile, feeling a bit awkward.
“Changelings need to feed off of emotions to live, so, um… would you mind if I feed off of you? Please?”
>Breeze looks a little surprised before she smiles and nods, plenty of positive emotions coming from her and making your hunger more apparent.
>“Sure! I don’t mind.”
“Thanks.”
>You move a little closer, your horn glowing as your magic reaches out to her.
>As soon as it makes contact, you begin to feed and feel the flood of sweet emotions flow through you.
>You feed until your hunger is no longer there, looking over Breeze after.
>See seems fine, looking like she wasn’t affected by you feeding off of her.
>“Better?”
 
“Much better! Thank you. You feel alright right? Sometimes feeding can make ponies tired.”
>Breeze nods.
>“Yep, maybe a tiny bit more tired then i was, but I feel fine.”
“Good. So, if I may ask, do you mind if I feed on you regularly?”
>Breeze looks thoughtful, sitting back and crossing her hooves before looking at you.
>“What do I get out of it?”
“Um.”
>Breeze starts giggling, a big smile on her face.
>“I’m kidding! Sure you can Hunter, just say when.”
 
>You smile at Breeze, nodding.
“Thanks Breeze. And actually, I think I do have something as payment.”
>You quickly move to Breeze and hug her, the mare jumping in surprise a little before she giggles and hugs back.
>“I think I can accept this as payment.”
>The both of you let go after a moment, Breeze beaming.
>You both fly down and head inside the ship, seeing Ash work away on her bike as you both walk inside.
>Ash looks to the two of you, throwing her claws up in a fake upset.
>“Wow, Breeze. I know you said he was handsome, but at least bring me along if you two are going out!”
>”Stop that!” Breeze says, giving an annoyed smile.
>“I’m kidding! I saw you two working on the guns, they were looking great when I saw them.”
>Remembering that you took Astray’s knife, you give a wave to both of them.
“I’ll be back, I just remembered something.”
>You head further inside the ship, not seeing Astray until you see him walk out of his room.
>The little colt looks a little tired, rubbing one of his eyes before seeing you.
>“Oh, uhh… Hunter?” he asks, sounding confused.
“Yes, that’s my name.”
>“Right, just checking.”
“Here.”
>You give the colt his knife back, Astray beaming as he twirls it with his magic.
>“Thanks! Was hoping to have this back.”
 
“So, Astray, What exactly can you do? Besides hacking ATMs, I want to know, what’s your skill set?”
>The colt puts his knife away, giving a nod.
>“Well, if it has tech in it, I can hack it. If I can hack it, I can do anything to it. Believe me, if it weren’t for the fact that there is a law where the parents must see their foal off, I’d have bought a ticket out of here earlier.”
“There’s a law for that? How did you come across that?”
>“Hacked a terminal and bypassed the firewall to the security here, but never got to foraging an ID. Guess that means I can find information for you too. But basically, if you give me a computer I can work some magic, Even that attack dog you have that got me is something I could work with once I know what I am dealing with. Would you believe me if I said that I could blow up this station if I wanted to? …And trust me, I won’t go around doing that.”
“Well then… I’ll keep that in mind.”
>You pause for a bit, looking over the colt
“So… what happened? Why did you get thrown off the ship and out here?”
>The colt scoffs, shaking his head with a smile as he sits back.
>“Because daddy is an asshole? I don’t know… one day I was happily playing, wanted a snack, and I found out that he came home early form whatever “job” he had. Ask him where mom is, and then I wake up on a ship!”
>Astray crosses his hooves, still keeping a smile
>“Just in time for me to experience him to throwing me onto the docks and give a well worded goodbye. Told me to fuck off and not bother trying to come back, that him and mom didn’t want some garbage colt.”
>You can feel traces of sadness and despair from the colt, the two negative emotions quickly disappearing.
>“Fine by me, fuck him, I became I computer hacking god!”
>Astray beams with pride, plenty of positive emotion coming for him.
 
 
 
>You sit down next to Astray, nodding.
“Any idea where he is? I could see about abandoning him on a barren planet, possibly give him a few “words” before I do.”
>Astray shakes his head.
>“I wish, just so I can show him up and prove him wrong. I honestly don’t know where that house is anymore.”
“How about your mom? Was she any better?”
>“Oh, hell yes. Dad always paid attention to her and not me though… I think… It’s all hard to remember now, but I think he only came to the house for her. I don’t know… But yeah, she was great. Toy’s, cookies, nice stuff. But she would always stop what she was doing for him, no matter what. I didn’t pay much attention, the shipping business they had was keeping me distracted with the fun things I got.”
>You look down to his keyboard cutie mark, smiling.
“A keyboard huh? Did you get that from hacking?”
>Astray nods, looking proud.
>“Yep! Got that form my fist computer hack when I got dumped here.”
“How did you learn to hack?”
>“Well, before I was able to make a home in the dumpsters, I’d go to the library to keep warm. I got bored and played on the computers, but the owner forgot to log out of the computer I was on. I learned that all the terminals were connected, and that I could mess with other ponies as they were doing research. When I got caught, I wanted to continue having fun and messing with ponies, so I started to read the books on programming. One thing lead to another, and then I figured out that the ATM’s could be hacked too. I was hungry, so I taught myself and learned to hack it.”
“Then you wanted more and learned more to get what you wanted.”
>“Yep! I made mistakes at first, but I built up to be the unseen king of this station.”
“Ever get caught before us? Did you need to shoot ponies?
>“No, I never shot anypony. Never even used a gun before… I just used my magic and cut ponies to get away. It’s why I built that grappling hook, to help me."
 
>You think for a moment, getting an idea.
“What does your dad look like? Down to the last detail.”
>“Well… he had a brown coat, eyes like mine, a silver mane and a blue cutie mark that just had a bunch of symbols. Oh, and he is a unicorn”
>You grin and transform into the unicorn Astray described, feeling some hate from the little colt.
>“Well now I just want to stab you.”
“Oh? How about this? Duuuuuuuuh!”
>You make as many stupid sounds as you can, hutting your head with your hoof.
>Astray suddenly starts laughing, giving a snort as he does.
>“Alright, that’s good. Still want to stab you though.”
>You smile and transform back.
“Think you could please teach me that healing spell? Do you know any other spells?”
>Astray shrugs, giving a nod.
>“I could… but the way I learned kinda sucks. after I read how to do the spell, I had to find some way to practice… As for other spells, I know that deflection thing that saved me from getting hit by you. And, well, there is the one thing good my dad indirectly taught me.”
“What is it?”
>Astray draws his knife, horn glowing as he holds it in his mouth.
>Six other magical images of the knife appear, all of them looking the same and twirling.
>“Had to use this once when a bunch of ponies tried to mug me, they all ran scared when they found out that they actually can cut.”
 
“Wow, how much control do you have over them?”
>“Total control.”
>Astray twirls the other knives around, making them move in a pattern.
>You smile at the colt.
“Oh… teach me grand master. If you can spare the time.”
>The colt looks smug as he nods.
>“Sure, I suppose I can spare the time.”
>The two of you head to the kitchen, sitting down together.
>He describes how he does the spell, the both of you practicing with spoons.
>Most of it is just picturing you magic as a solid object, just like how picturing something moving with your magic makes it move.
>You are able to get two copies of the spoon available, easily moving them like they were real spoons held by your magic.
>As you practice, both Breeze and Ash walk in.
>“Ohhh!” Breeze says, watching as you both move the spoons around.
 
“Isn’t it cool Breeze?”
>You twirl the spoons more, smiling before you tap them together and produce a metallic sound
>“Really cool, where did you learn that?”
>Astray loudly whistles a tune, polishing his hoof against his chest and looking at it.
>“That’s cool Astray!”
“I wonder if the same thing can be done with guns?”
>You pause and stick one of the spoons in your mouth, tasting nothing.
>Both Astray and Breeze laugh, Astray shaking his head.
>“Maybe? I don’t know. I tried it with a soda can and I only was able to copy the unopened can, there was no soda inside.”
>Ash walks up to the table, holding a beer bottle.
>“Hold one still Hunter?”
>You do as Ash asks, the Griffon wedging the bottle cap on the spoon before knocking it open.
>“Well that works! Thanks.” she says, taking a drink.
>Astray’s magic falters and his spoons disappear, the colt giving a stretch and yawn.
>“Goddess damn magic limits. food time.”
 
“Here, I’ll grab you something.”
>Astray scoffs and shakes his head as he gets up
>“Come on, I’m not helpless.”
>You shrug and get some food yourself, sitting back down.
>All of the crew sits down as well, each of them eating food
“Fixit!”
>You can hear Fixit coming from down the hall, your robotic companion looking up at you.
“Open up some jobs for me.”
>“Thinking of a last minute job Hunter?” Ash asks
“Possibly.”
>Station materials pickup wanted: 1000 credits
>Night time guards wanted: 2000 credits
>Fuel shipment escort wanted: 3000 credits
>Distress Beacon investigation: 3000 credits
 
“There we go!”
>“What?” Ash asks
>You accept the distress beacon job, looking up and smiling
“There’s a distress beacon that needs to be investigated. I’m hoping there is some salvage there.”
>Ash nods, smiling.
>“Sounds like a perfect job to end the day with.”
>“I hope everypony is okay.” Breeze says.
>“So this is how things go? You guys just do whatever pays?” Astray asks
“Yep, it’s how the mercenary business is.”
>”Oh I can definitely dig this then.”
>“Your tone might change there kid, it isn’t all fun and games.”
>You look into the job more, the only detail is that the beacon is outside of any sectors and is not too far from the station.
 
“We will go as soon as w finish eating. Breeze, think you can instruct Astray on how to watch our shields?”
>”Sure!”
>Once you all finish eating, you take off and depart for the destination.
>AS you pilot along, you look back and see Breeze telling Astray what to do.
>“…And that is it!”
>Astray reclines in his chair, the chair almost being comically too big for him.
>“Easy enough, hardly a job if you ask me.”
>“It looks that way, but it is probably as important as any other job on this ship.”
>“Fair enough.”
>About an hour into the flight, your ship picks up the signal of the beacon.
>You direct your ship toward it, seeing an absolute wreck of a ship.
>“Oh goddess…” Breeze says.
>Ash whistles, sitting up in her chair.
>You look at the radar, seeing no other ships.
 
“Come on let’s get out there and look for survivors.”
>“Awesome!” Astray says, hopping out of his chair.
>“Nope, you get to stay.” Ash says.
>Astray scoffs
>“Yeah, right, last I check you aren’t the boss.”
>“No, you get to stay even if Hunter says you can go or not. None of the suits will fit you.”
>“What!? That’s bull shit!”
>“No, it’s not. You get a long sleeve caught and tear a hole in your suit, you will die before you can try to do an emergency patch.”
>“She’s right Hunter… It’s too dangerous if the suit doesn’t fit properly.” Breeze adds.
>You sigh, nodding.
“Then you need to stay back Astray.”
>“Fuckin bull shit…”
>You, Breeze, and Ash all suit up, leaving the ship to look around.
>You and your crew split up, you navigating through all kinds of destroyed parts to head for the bridge.
>You can see that the ship looks very old when you get to the bridge, none of the controls or consoles looking familiar.
>You also see a lack of bodies, none of the crew being present.
>You begin searching for something that recorded any data, having trouble figuring out what is what.
>“Oh goddess…” Breeze says.
“What is it Breeze?”
>“The name of this ship is the SS Angelo.”
>“Why is that important exactly? All ships have names. Found some cargo by the way.” Ash says.
>“Because the SS in names were discontinued 200 years ago… Hunter, this ship could have been floating in space for a very long time.”
 
 
“Then that bothers me.”
>“Why? There’s nothing alive here.” Ash says.
“I know. That’s why.”
>“Oh… uhh.”
>Breeze gives an uncomfortable whimper.
“Just be careful you two, I’m on my way to you Ash. Keep an eye out for whatever is sending the signal, or valuable old tech.”
>You make your way through the wreckage, finding Ash near some cargo containers.
>“Bad luck so far, three containers are just spoiled food.”
“Well, let’s see what the others have.”
>You go through the containers with Ash, opening them one by one.
>The first one is filled with dead power cells, all of them looking somewhat intact
>The next two are filled with various chemicals, from coolant to other gasses used in industry.
>The last container you open is very odd, a second container with an electronic lock in place.
>Touching the buttons, you see that the unit has no power.
>“Holy shit!” Ash shouts.
>You turn to see the Griffon smiling a huge smile, looking into the container.
>“W-w-what whatisit?” Breeze says sounding panicked
“Easy Breeze, Ash just found something”
>You float over to Ash, looking into the container.
>The container contains various types and amounts of ammo, small rockets at the back.
>“Um, Hunter? I think I found the source of the distress signal. You need to see this.” Breeze says.
 
 
“I’ll be there in a moment.”
>You go into the container, grabbing any shotgun shells you find.
>You find plenty of them and two new types of ammo, Explosive and Slug.
“Ash, think you could get the locked container and this ammo one back to the ship?”
>“Yep, I’ll get it done.”
>You not before heading out to find Breeze, eventually finding her in a long hall with odd looking storage containers.
“What did you find Breeze?”
>“This.” She says, gesturing to all the containers. “Cryopods, dozens of them. All of this stuff was discontinued because of the hazards, but there is life in three pods.”
“The crew? What about the others?”
>“I don’t know, and most of them are open or unoccupied. Maybe this was a rescue ship of sorts? With the way the three pods are ladled, I don’t think that they were organised, I think they were put in there in a hurry.”
“So, how does this fit in with the distress becon?”
>“The beacon activated because the power for the pods is about to run out, but that’s the problem…”
>Breeze gestures to one of the empty pods.
>“I remember looking into cryosleep for my own interest. If the power is suddenly cut form a pod, the subject dies. And the subject needs to have a wakeup time before they can be moved, a sudden shock like no oxygen could kill them. With the power running out in an hour, we don’t have enough time to get a system working that will keep them alive for proper rescue.”
“We can’t use the power from the Vanguard?”
>“No, the systems are too different, we could overload and make the whole thing go up. My only idea is to pump all the power into a pod’s power supply, and hope it keeps whoever is inside alive for us to try and open it about the ship… Oh! But that is your choice.”
 
“Well, if it is the only thing we can do then we should save somepony. Any way I could help?”
>“Just stay here for now. I may need some.”
>You look around at the old ship, seeing all the old looking things on it as Breeze works away.
“Anything catch your eye? See something that could be valuable?”
>“Honestly? Everything catches my eye. This whole ship is full of so may old things, it’s honestly like a discovery.” Breeze says in a happy tone. “I saw some power cells, but they were all badly damaged. No use to us, but we could sell them so they can be recycled. But… since they are destroyed… Other then that? I bet a museum or collector would love a cryopod. We wouldn’t get too much, but one could be worth something.”
“Got a good guess at a price?”
>“5000 credits? Might be a little high… Got it.”
“Got what?”
>“It’s ready, so we will just need to move it when we do the power transfer. Now we just need to choose.”
>Breeze motions you over, showing you a working display with the rows of cryopods.
>“Out of the three that are active, we can only choose one. We have a pod that was labeled “Security”, another labeled “Civilian”, and another labeled “VIP”.”
“A VIP?”
>“Yes… but I don’t know what kind of VIP.”
 
>You give a sigh.
“Damn… the VIP…”
>Breeze gives a nod, pressing a button.
“Breeze… do you think I’m doing the right thing here? I’m not used to making decisions like these.”
>There is a silence that makes you feel guilty, until you feel a pressure around you.
>You look to see Breeze giving you as best of a hug that she can with the suits you have on, smiling up at you.
>“I know, I kinda feel the same. When we were hunting Astray, I thought about the ship I shot. Yes, they were pirates, but they still must have had somepony to go back to. I felt bad knowing that I kind of cheered for hitting and killing them, but I also thought about what would have happened if I didn’t shoot. They could have killed us or the ponies we were protecting, and they could have gone on to hurt more ponies. It doesn’t make killing the pirates right, but it must be a lesser evil then doing nothing. Right?”
>Breeze nods, keeping her smile.
>“So, yes, you are making the right decision. You are choosing one pony over two others, but you are also choosing one pony over none. It’s not a perfect outcome, but it’s better then the worst.”
>You turn your attention away from Breeze when you see a red light flash, seeing the cryopod unlock and pop out.
 
“Come on, let’s get the pod back and open it.”
>“Everything is aboard Hunter.” Ash says
“Good, we’re coming back.”
>Breeze lets go of you and you both move to the pod, carefully moving it back.
>Within a minute, you get back to the cargobay with the pod and seal it up.
>As soon as the cargobay is pressurised, the door bursts open with Astray walking down.
>“Finally! I was getting bored. Anything cool?”
>You pull off your helmet, nodding.
“Yes, but something important too. Breeze? Can we get it open now?”
>“Yes, I’ll open it.”
>You ready your baton as Breeze opens the pod, looking to your crew.
“Just keep back as he wakes up.”
>You change into a unicorn, watching as the pod cracks open and ice falls to the floor.
>A thick white mist pours out of the pod as it very slowly opens, the mist preventing you from seeing the pony.
>Once the mist settles, you see a scruffy looking Earthpony stallion with an orange shirt sit up.
>He cracks his neck and stretches his hooves up, large and heavy looking shackles that cover the bottom of his hooves keeping them bound together.
>“Oh shit.” Ash says.
>The stallion looks around with a yawn, smiling a little as he yawns.
>“Not an alliance security ship… Good!
>He stops at you, still smiling.
>“Stunbaton… Baaaaaaad.”
>He then looks away, taking in the ship again
>“What fresh hell am I waking up to now?”
 
>You can feel your ears fall.
“Fuck…”
>Looking back up, you keep your eyes on the convict.
“You are on the Vanguard. I’m captain Hunter and this is my crew, Breeze, Ash, and Astray.”
>The stallion looks to you again, smiling with a nod.
>“Well, nice to meet you. I’m Torch.”
“Well, Torch, there’s something you need to know. We found you oon a ship that probably broke down 200 years ago.”
>Torch’s eyes go wide.
>“200 years?!”
>He throws his head back, laughing.
>“That is either 200 years of cakes I missed or 200 years of birthday beatings I missed.”
>Torch settles down, snickering.
>“Well. Shit.”
>“I’ll say…” Ash says.
>You sigh, shaking your head and wanting to say fuck again.
“Why are you wearing that orange jumpsuit? Rather, what did you do?”
>Torch wiggles around and makes it so he can sit on the side of the pod, the same shackles on his lower legs.
>“Killed a few cops in self defence… Or was it in rage? It was the two hundred mobsters… the drug dealers that ripped me off… that incident at the bar… the vending machine I accidently threw… the other vending machine that I “accidently” threw… the burning cruiser… bottle to the head… shot with a shotgun…”
>Torch shakes his head.
>“Killed a few copes in a self defence/rage. Can’t remember exactly after hitting so many heads with my hooves, doing so many drugs, and being pissed off.”
>Torch yawns again, pointing both hooves to you after.
>“So it’s your dick I need to suck for food?”
 
>You shake your head.
“I’d say you could, but it’s going to be the dick of a pony named Forest. You will meet him soon.”
>“Ohhh, he a hunk? I like strong stallions and mares.”
“You will see.”
>You carefully escort him to one of the empty crew rooms, Torch being very slow and tired.
>You leave Ash to guard him, telling her to come get you if he does anything.
>After getting to the bridge, you quickly pilot the Vanguard back to Tundra station.
>You give a yawn when you arrive and dock, calling Fixit and putting a call through to forest.
>“Security.”
“Hey Forest, it’s Hunter. I have a convict to turn in.”
>“Ahh, nice! Can you give a name?”
“Torch. We… found him in a cryopod on an abandoned ship.”
>“Oh really? Doesn’t sound too impossible, you will need to tell me the story sometime. Just let me do a search… and…”
>Forest falls silent.
“Forest?”
>“Yep, I’m here, sorry. Have him ready at the docks, we will be there in a second.”
 
“Yeah, may wana bring some extra guards… he did admit to killing a bunch of ponies, come cops and… Forest?”
>You get no response, the call not ended yet.
>You sigh as you end the call, getting up from your chair and heading down the hall.
>Getting your crew together, you start to escort Torch through the ship and to the docks.
“Breeze, open the cargo doors.”
>Breeze does instructed, the door lowering.
>You watch as Breeze’s face goes pale from looking outside, looking outside to see what she is seeing.
>“Fuck…” Ash says.
>Before you and your crew is about 50 armed and armored security guards, a small armored vehicle pointing its gun in your direction.
>“Shit, an APC? Usually they bring two. The economy must be fucked in the future.” Torch says.
>All of the ponies charge forward and surround you and Torch, Forest looking at you.
>“Step aside Hunter.”
>You do as instructed very quickly, some of the guards pinning torch and the rest keeping their guns pointed at him.
>You see the guards inject Torch with something, Torch’s eyes closing.
>“Weeeeeeee……”
>The guards drag Torch off, Forest looking at you with an expression that is both relieved and distressed.
>“Thank. Fuck. You kept his shackles on…”
 
 
“That…Wow… just wow… What did he do exactly? Can you please show me his record?”
>Forest shakes his head, looking uncomfortable.
>“it’s… big. Let’s put it that way. But, I’ll save you time and just show you a video we have on file. Thank Celestia and Luna that we never throw profiles away. It was the first thing that popped up when I opened up the file.”
>Forest pulls out a data pad, turning it to you.
>“This was captured by a security cam during one of the biggest riots 205 years ago.”
>You watch as an armored vehicle rolls up with troopers next to it, the vehicle stopping and shooting.
>A pony runs up to the vehicle as troopers shoot him, the pony wearing very heavy armor.
>As he jumps on the armored vehicle and begins to pull at the turret, you can see that the pony is Torch.
>Torch lifts the entire turret off the vehicle and sends one of the ponies inside flying, bringing the turret down and crushing the troopers in a bloody mess.
>Though there is no sound, you can see Torch roaring as he begins to whail on the armored vehicle and crush the front armor.
>Forest pulls the data pad away, shaking his head.
“So… what are you going to do?”
>Forest scoffs.
>“Pray that we don’t need to hold him or more then a day? The sooner he is off my hooves the better. I’ll try to get something as a reward… but… this is going to be a fun couple of hours…”
>Forest sighs.
>“Sorry Hunter, but I need to go. I have so many ponies to call it is not even funny.”
 
>You give a nod
“Yeah… sorry for giving you such a burden Forest. Ill be rooting for you at least.”
>Forest nods, smiling.
“Thanks… see you around Hunter.”
>Forest takes off, leaving you and your crew.
>“Fuck it... after that? Beer then bed, I’m done.” Ash says
>Astray just yawns, walking off without a word
>“Me too… I need a shower…” Breeze says.
>You give Fixit a call as your crew walks off, sending a message to your employer.
>Once you send your report, you soon receive a message of confirmation and payment for the job.
 
>You sigh, then yawn as you begin to drag yourself to your room.
>Once you get there, you just undress and fall into bed.
>You fall asleep almost instantly, feeling comfortable in your bed.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
+5 to magic and piloting
Magic:10
Piloting: 10
 
>You open your eyes and give a huge yawn when you roll over, and over the edge of your bed.
>You quickly recover and land on your hooves with a small stumble, giving an annoyed grumble at the disturbance of your comfort.
>After a sigh, you toss the covers on you on top of your bed and move you’re your bags, digging into them once again for clothes.
>Pushing the blue crystal packets you kept inside the bag aside, pulling out your clothes for the day and bring something along with them.
>You watch as the familiar object gently lands against the floor with practically no noise, it’s soft structure still holding to this day
>You pick up your stuffed manticore with your magic, looking over the first toy you ever had.
>Thinking back, you don’t remember packing this at all.
>As you keep looking over the toy, you see a small paper note attached to it and pull it off to read it.
“Snuck this in when you weren’t looking. Just to remind you of Home and give comfort if you are away for a long time. -Mom.”
 
 
>You pull off the note and look at the face of the manticore, giving a smile as you see how well kept it still is.
>You give the old plush a hug, feeling an odd comfort come over you as you do.
>The still soft body, well defined colours, not a single tear in the fabric body, the-
------------------
>You walk down the long hall like area, looking at all the toys.
>So many colours, so many things, everything here is amazing.
>A sudden noise makes you jump back, and you bump into the large wall like structure that has toys on it.
>Two of the stuffed toys fall on your head, and you look to the large figure that is your mommy.
‘Oops.’
>Your daddy smiles and laughs asking if you are okay, turning to your mommy after you give a nod.
>You look up to where the toys fell from, seeing the empty spaces.
>After you manage to get one back up, you look to the other.
>You have no idea what this creature it, but something about it makes you happy.
>You decide that this will be one of the toys, continuing to look around.
------------------
>You open your eyes as the memory comes to an end, an odd mix of emotions flowing through you.
>Smiling, you set the manticore on your dresser and get dressed.
>Once dressed, you look to Fixit and see him get up as you begin to head to the kitchen.
>When there you see Breeze and Ash, Astray nowhere to be found and Breeze dressed the same as usual.
>“Morning Hunter.”
>“Morning”
 
 
 
 
“Morning Mmmmm-… you two.”
>“You alright Hunter?” Ash asks.
“Yes, just tired.”
>You grab some food, giving a yawn before you get some hot water and make some oatmeal.
>Sitting down, you give your food a stir and look to your crew.
“Sleep well?”
>“After yesterday? Like a rock. It is not often you get to see that many guns pointed at one pony.” Ahs says
>“Yeah, after I showered I fell right asleep. Though we didn’t really do anything, that experience was draining.” Breeze says. “What about you Hunter?”
>You take a bite of your oatmeal and swallow before speaking.
“About the same, for both sleep and what happened.”
>“What did that security guy show you anyways?”
“Footage of Torch during a riot, he was very strong and very angry. And I think that is an understatement.”
>You hear the door open, looking to see Astray drag himself in.
>“Mmmmrg”
>Ash snickers as the colt slowly walks into the kitchen.
>“Looks like someone is not a fan of the morning.”
>“Shadap” Astray groans
>You watch as the half asleep colt gets some food and sits down, almost struggling to keep his head up as his eyes stay mostly shut.
> Astray looks to Breeze, tilting his head.
>“Din you wear the samee thing yeshterday?”
>Astray yawns as Breeze shakes her head.
>“Not exactly, I have a few pairs of coveralls.”
 
>You call Fixit and have him open up some jobs, looking through what is available.
>Armed quarantine team wanted: 4000 credits
>Rescue team wanted: 5000 credits
>Patrol wanted: 2000 credits
>Food shipment: 1000 credits
>Guard team wanted: 3000 credits
>You open up a new page, searching for cybernetics and other implants.
>Though you feel a little nervous, you also feel a little excited looking through the implants.
>Hidden weapons, hidden communications, enhanced vision, squad monitoring devices… all kinds of things are available to you.
>You do a search for social enhancing cybernetics, getting sadly very few results with most of the implants being only slightly useable for negotiating.
>The first one you kind of shrug off and deem it useless to you, the implant saying it can tell you what kind of emotions a pony is feeling just like a changeling can.
>The next one is almost the same, but more based to be used for sexual desires.
>The implant apparently enables you to tell if a pony is in the mood for some fun and if they have any health problems, part of the description saying it was made from a medical monitoring implant.
>The last one is a little more closer to what you searched for, the implant being able to describe the pony’s personality and their preferences.
>“Hey Hunter, mind if I borrow Fixit to search something when you are done? I need to check some things.” Breeze asks.
 
"Sure thing Breeze, just a sec."
>You consider the possibility of having an easy day, looking into the rescue job a little.
>The job is requesting that you save hostages from a facility that has been taken over by an unknown force, the hostages being employees a colony fabrication plant that are being held for ransom.
>You set the jobs aside, looking into the implant more.
>Reading up on it, you see that the implant will replace your eyes and that you can choose what your new eyes will look like.
>You can have the same blue eyes that you have now, or you can do anything from making your eyes look like a pony’s to just changing the colour.
>As you go through it, you see that the first procedure will cost 2000 credits, but any additional eye related implants will cost less after.
>You then do a search on magic related implants, getting sent to a notice.
>The notice reads: “Due to the tragic and harmful events of magical enhancing implants, new system laws have come into effect for Alliance systems to prevent repeats of supercharged telekinesis accidents. Due to these new laws, all magic related implants have been discontinued. We are sorry for this inconvenience and are willing to provide compensation and refunds to those who are victims of their implant or have scheduled such an implant before this law has come into effect. If you know of a pony who is misusing such an implant, please report them immediately.”
 
>You look into the patrol and shipment jobs, seeing that they are both rather close and that you could drop off the shipment mid patrol.
>Moving back to the implants, you look to the questions asked by ponies to find more information on them.
>Apparently once you choose what your eyes looks like they will stay that way unless you pay to get them changed, however they also shouldn’t impact your abilities to disguise them when you transform.
>You smile and look to the other implants, seeing if there is anything for piloting.
>There is two of them, both of them also being able to be combined into a package.
>One of them replaces your eyes just like the social implant you were looking at, allowing for computer assisted flight patterns for evasion and navigation.
>A little automated notification pops up, saying that both the eye implants you were looking at could be used at the same time and buying both would reduce total cost by 1000 credits.
>The second implant would involve some surgery to your right foreleg, allowing you to hook into any ship and have immediate access to it’s sensors and status for rapid response and enhanced piloting.
>The base price for the flight patterns is 2000, the uplink implant being 3000.
>“Just what are you looking at Hunter? That smile is pretty big.” Ash asks
>You look up at your crew, seeing Ash and Breeze smiling at you, Astray still looking tired.
“Just somethings I want to buy. By the way breeze, while you are looking at your things, think you could find a buyer for that cryopod?”
>“Sure!”
“Thanks. Also, Astray, think you could hack open the container we have?”
>“Yeah… just give me five-ish.”
>You open one last tab, looking into spell books that a local spell store has.
>There are a few legal spells, but you narrow your search down to the more psychic related spells
>Noise maker: 1000 Credits (makes the target hear a noise in a direction.)
>Mind reader: 5000 Credits (reads the target’s current thoughts, can sometimes be detected by target.)
>Telepathy: 4000 Credits (can silently send a message to a target, will be detected by target.)
 
>You bookmark two of the spells and buy the Telepathy spell, the order being placed and a notice saying that the spellbook will be delivered to your ship.
>You also send the credits over for the implants, a reply coming through saying that they will be ready for you in half an hour and that you should decide on what your eyes should look like before the surgery.
“There, all yours Breeze. Want to try to get that container open Astray?”
>“Sure.”
>You and Astray leave the kitchen and go to the cargo, looking at the container.
>Astray pulls out his device and plugs it in, a few beeps sounding as he presses away at it.
“So, Astray. Do you know anypony who sells some more… exotic items?”
>The colt looks up, looking a little surprised as he works away.
>“What? Why?”
“Just wanting to look and buy some of the better available items. See what kind of goodies we can get our hooves on.”
>Astray keeps silent, glancing up at you.
>“I may… but I’m not telling you yet.”
>You look at the colt, seeing his rather straightforward expression.
“Why?”
>“Because I don’t know if I can trust you just yet with that kind of information. Or rather, that the ponies I know will trust you not to stick them in their back and then make them come after us. You brought me aboard and gave me a nice place and all, and I can tell them that you are cool with keeping quiet, but that doesn’t mean I just can give out numbers and locations. The ponies I know aren’t your basic “exotic goods” kind of dealers, they are experts. They will come after you, if not all of us, getting both their friends and the cops after us. I’m willing to bet that you are alright with getting dirty and breaking some laws, but I need to make sure you won’t screw them over and get us all fucked. No offence.”
>Astray’s device beeps, the container uncocking.
>You both look inside, seeing clear fridges of sorts and a power generator that is running.
>You see blood bags, bandages, and all kinds of well stored medical equipment.
>“Wow… looks like a portable clinic or something.”
“Looks like…”
>There is a small silence, Astray speaking slightly hushed.
>“So, not judging… hypothetically… What are you looking for? Guns? Ship parts? Something… or rather somepony, more personal?”
 
 
“Weapons, ship parts, implants, gear… anything what could give me or us an edge. Also, I may be nice, but I’m not a snitch. We are mercenaries, nothing we do is always legal or clean, we are far from heros.”
>Astray smiles, nodding.
>“Fair… or you could be playing the long game with both me or my friends. Like I said, no offence, but I’ve done business before and need to know when to make a move. But… I may just give you the benefit of the doubt and see what I can ask about. I’ll even keep that last exotic item of the table just in case. Like I said, these guys are experts. You would have to be the buyer or the seller to know, they don’t mark their flanks like the rookies do and they know how to make them blend both physically and socially.”
>You pause for a moment, looking at the colt.
“How do you know that exactly?”
>Astray gestures to himself, smiling.
>“I’m kinda the perfect middle pony and advertiser, the school colt act works well.”
 
>You check the time, seeing you still have a little bit.
“Well, when I get the credits I will be sure to have another talk with you.”
>“Alright, I’ll take a poke at what I can find. No promises though.”
>You smile, nodding.
“Any tales? Sounds like you have plenty of adventures.”
>Astray shrugs, sitting.
>“Daring escapes, B n’ E, close calls… most of my tales are just me getting in and shutting things down before I waltz around and get out. Biggest tale though? When I almost lynched myself during an escape.”
“Lynched?”
>Astray nods, looking uncomfortable as he rubs his neck.
>“Yeah. Once when I got cornered and some ponies tried to mug me, I used my grapple to escape. It slipped and got coiled around my neck before catching on a building, I was fuckin’ lucky that I cut the tether in time. I made it to another dumpster to hide behind and passed out.”
>The colt shrugs again, smiling.
>“Still here, so whatever. What about you? Anything cool you done or saw?”
>You smile and tell Astray about the tank suit your uncle used, the clot’s eyes light up as you talk about it.
>He seems really interested in the exosuit part of it, asking a bit about it here and there as you tell what you can.
>The colt seems to really relax and pay full attention to you, the two of you talking for a bit.
>Eventually you look at the time and say goodbye to Astray, seeing that he looks a little disappointed.
>Navigating through the station, you get to the clinic and check in, giving your decision to keep the look of your eyes.
>Within a little bit, you find yourself undressed and laying on an operating table with doctors around you, a mask going over your face and putting you asleep.
>As soon as you go to sleep you wake up, laying in a white bed with sheets over you.
>Everything looks and feels normal as you look around, your eyes being the same when you look at a mirror, like nothing happened.
>When you go to touch your head, you can feel a slight weight to your hoof and look at it, seeing a metal port on the bottom of it.
>As you examine your hoof, a nurse walks in you smiles at you as she looks over a chart.
>“Good! You are awake. You can go as soon as you feel ready… Hunter. You should take it easy and get used to the implants you got when you can, I am to also recommend you avoid docking with the uplink until you get used to it..”
 
“Thanks nurse, how long was I out for?”
>“About an hour. That reminds me, a pretty young mare showed up looking for you not too long ago.”
“Pretty young mare?”
>The nurse nods, giving a giggle.
>“Yes, a Pegasus mare. Apparently you forgot to tell your marefriend and other friends where you were going, they were all worried about you.”
>You think for a moment and feel your ears fall slightly, feeling guilty and speaking again.
“Well, she’s not my-“
>“Either way, have a good day and stay safe. You should get back to your friends soon. Be careful with those piloting implants.”
>The nurse walks away, leaving you alone.
“…shit.”
>You get up and get dressed, heading back to your ship.
>When you get back, you spot Ash working away on her bike.
>Ash looks up and waves with a smile, returning to her bike after.
>“There ya are, wondered what you were up to.”
 
“Hey Ash. Yeah… sorry… I had an appointment for implants and rushed out, I didn’t think to tell anypony where I was and how long I would be gone. Everypony is aboard right? Breeze here? I heard that she was worried and looking for me. We also have a job or two.”
>Ash nods, looking up from her bike again.
>“Well, we all were technically. Both me and the kid were confident that you were fine, but after about 45 minutes I had to agree with Breeze that you disappearing with no warning seemed odd. Just because this is Alliance space doesn’t guarantee that you wont get stabbed. But yeah, after Breeze called us and told us where you were, we all come back. I think the colt is with Fixit and Breeze is working away in the engine room.”
“…is she pissed off?”
>Ash just smiles at you, saying nothing.
“Is she?”
>The griffon laughs.
“Ash!”
>“Nah, I’ll keep you in suspense for pulling me away form my bike.”
 
>You give a sigh, Ash still laughing.
“Damnit…”
>You head for the engine room, feeling even worse then earlier.
>You find Breeze working away at… something when you look inside, her flank slightly in the air as she works in an open engine compartment.
>You try your best to look sorry, walking in.
“Hey Breeze…”
>The mare turns and looks at you, not smiling as she stands up.
“Look… I’m sorry alright, i-“
>A small giggle makes you look right at her, seeing the mare shake her head with a smile.
>“I’m not mad! I was just worried. Ash said something didn’t she?”
>You just stare at Breeze, the mare laughing.
>“It was her idea to mess with you, sorry. But no, I’m not mad or anything. Sure, I was worried because you disappeared, but you were safe when we found you.”
 
 
>You growl a little at your crew getting back at you, sighing after.
“Still… I’m sorry Breeze. I shouldn’t have taken off without mentioning it to any of you, I just had an appointment and rushed off. I be super worried if you disappeared suddenly, so it’s not fair to do that to any of you.”
>Breeze smiles, her ears falling only slightly as she moves and gives you a small hug.
>“Awe. It’s fine Hunter, just don’t make a habit of it.”
“I’ll make sure not to, and I’m glad none of you are upset. Are the engines good? Or are you working on them?”
>Breeze shakes her head, smiling still.
>“We are good to go, I was just looking at them. Work time?”
“Yeah, work time.”
>“Good! About time!”
>You both look and see Ash, the griffon holding a book.
>You stick your tongue out at Ash, the griffon laughing.
>“This book came in for you by the way Hunter. Catch.”
>You catch the book and look at it, smiling when you see it is the magic book you ordered.
>“See you on the bridge.” The griffon says, walking off.
>Breeze leans close to you, whispering.
>“For the record, it was HER idea.”
 
“I’ll keep that in mind. Come on, let’s get rolling.”
>After you accept the jobs and load up the cargo, you head to the bridge and take off with your crew in their spots.
>You call Fixit and get the patrol route into the ship, the drop off for the food being halfway through the patrol.
>You and your crew just idly talk as you pilot normally for a bit, Ash speaking up.
>“So, Implants Hunter? What did you get?”
>“Ohhh, that’s what you were there for. All I was told is that you went in for an appointment.” Breeze says.
“Yes, and some piloting enhancements.”
>“Sweet.” Astray says.
>“That’s good I guess, I bet it could help. Is piloting hard?” Breeze asks.
>“Depends on who you ask.” Ash says, “I can pilot and it is alright. Bet it’s not hard for Hunter, whoever taught him is good.”
>You can see some debris and other space rocks to the right of the route, all of them just floating in space.
 
“Honestly, I just wanted an edge. It was my dad who taught me, and not to brag, but he is the best pilot on this side of the galaxy! Honestly though? It’s not hard, just takes practice.”
>Looking at your hoof, you look at the metal hole again.
>When you think about using your implant to pilot the ship, a metal prong pops out.
>You can feel a chill go down your spine as you look at the bit is metal poking out of your hoof, the whole thing making you a little uneasy.
>You sigh and look for a slot to plug into, spotting one on the console in front of you.
“…Here goes nothing.”
>You plug into the console, feeling nothing happen.
>Suddenly the walls and controls disappear in a quick fade, nothing but open space being in front of you.
>You are at a loss for words, you can still feel your body but see nothing but open space.
>Just as quick as everything faded, you can see orange outlines and meters appearing within your vision.
>You see a meter, two sets of three triangles that are side by side, a circle with some dots, lines at the center of everything.
>You try to turn your body, the debris to your right now being below the ship.
>“Hunter? You alright?” Ash asks.
>Everything then starts to become clear to you, almost like you suddenly understand what everything means.
>Shields, targeting reticules, radar, flightpath.
>You can feel how the ship shifts at your every will and movement, how close and far some of the asteroids are.
>When you think about the asteroids, you get a better picture of them, seeing that the debris are nothing but rocks and old metal of no value.
>You can feel a smile on you face, giving the ship a spin before stopping back how you were.
>“Ohhh… he’s trying his implants” Breeze says.
>“Are you piloting the ship like that?”
>You think about the other implant, getting a quick popup of words.
>E.R.S. can not compute, no obstruction to flightpath or enemy found.
 
>Your smile gets bigger as you play with your ship’s movement, twisting and turning the ship like you couldn’t quite before with ease.
“This is so fucking awesome!”
>You can hear your crew laugh as you unplug, everything snapping back to normal.
>You fell as a slight loss without the senses of the ship, everything feeling slightly less then before.
>“Have fun Hunter?” Ash asks.
“Oh hell yes! I literally was the ship for a moment!”
>You tell your crew about the experience as you pilot normally, getting to the station where you need to drop the food off at.
>You quickly dock and deliver the food supplies, getting payed right away.
 
>You head up to the bridge, grabbing your spell book along the way.
>When you get to the bridge, you look at Ash.
“Hey Ash, think you could pilot for a bit? I want to try reading my book.”
>“Sweet. Sure thing.” Ash says, hopping from the gunner’s chair to the pilot’s
>You sit down in the gunner’s chair, opening the book to read it.
>You go through the spell as Ash pilots the ship, getting a good grasp on how to use it.
>You finish the spell, only now needing to test it.
>Looking up from your book, you see and hear your crew just idly chatting until Ash speaks up.
>“Huh… look at that.”
“What?”
>“Nothing, just a small unmarked station. No need to worry about it, I’ve been to that one of a trip once i think. They sometimes move around, kind of like pit stops for ships on super long journeys that can’t or don’t want to deal with the regular station docks.”
 
“Well, we still have a job to do, so if there is nothing we need let’s keep moving.”
>“You got it.” Ash says.
>You relax a little as ash moves the ship away, looking to the screens in the gunner’s chair to check to see if you are in open space.
>Seeing that you are in open space, you smile and look towards Ash.
>You begin to use your telepathy spell, broadcasting subtle fuzzy and mareish things to Ash.
>Dresses, pink bows, ballerina dancing, skirts, cheerleading.
>You can see that the spell is working, Ash’s feathers looking slightly ruffled as she sits there looking a little confused.
>You amp up the mental assault, going from more sexy poses with her in the girlish outfits to her exposing herself slightly in the outfits.
>Not waiting for a reaction, you go right for the kill and broadcast mental images and thoughts of stallion’s members.
>Ash clears her throat, shifting in the seat.
“You alright Ash?”
>“Yeah, just not used to a ship like this. Biggest I’ve flown was a small cargo ship.”
>You can feel lust from Ash, a very small pink tint to her face.
 
>You keep quiet, broadcasting the same images to Ash.
>Taking it one step further, you jump right to Ash wearing a collar and lustfully bushing against a stallion’s member, mouthing the words please.
>It’s then that Ash practically jumps out of her seat, looking very confused and now annoyed.
“You alright Ash? You seem tense or something… need some help? I could help you somehow if need be.”
>You broadcast very suggestive and sexy looking male changelings on bikes, trying not to laugh.
>It’s then that Ash’s head snaps towards you, her jaw dropping and her feathers puffing right up.
>“YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!”
>You can’t hold it any more as you burst out laughing, howling with laughter as both Breeze and Astray look between you and Ash.
“I-I-I-I-I Bhahahahahah!”
>“I was wondering where all that girly shit came from!”
>What? What is happening?” Breeze asks.
>“This fucking asshole was fucking sending me fucking girly shit and images me by begging for dick, the fucking give away was changelings on bikes! You mother fucker Hunter!”
>Breeze snickers but Astray is the one who losses it first, the whole crew except or Ash laughing.
>“OH fuck you Hunter, I got a good question for you, where did all that sub shit come from? There were A-FUCKING-LOT of dicks there! Got some kink you want to share with us? Because you seem to have one to many references as to what a stallion’s cock looks like! Fucker.”
 
“Don’t pretend you don’t like it babe.”
>You give one last good image of you princess carrying Ash with a bike like hers behind you, an explosion going off as a background as Ash happily snuggles against you.
>”HUNTER!”
“Revenge is a bitch, Ash! You deserve this! Besides that, good luck trying to shame a changeling about their sexuality. We are meant to be sexually flexible and change genders like they were a pair of socks. So yeah, I like stallions wearing girly things too! Just like how you like wearing them!”
>You can feel your face grow hot a little, smiling as Ash squirms more at your words
>“I do fucking not!”
“Don’t lie Ash!, I could feel the lust coming from you, nothing to be ashamed about.”
>“It was because you sent me mental pictures of mares and griffons getting fucked and dicks! How much fucking porn do you watch?”
“Well, it that is the case, I could take over and you could relieve yourself. Nothing to be ashamed of even if you won’t admit to enjoying the girly things.”
>Ash puffs up and gets up, stomping off.
>“The ship is fucking yours! I’m going to get a fucking beer!”
>You laugh and quickly get up to the pilot’s seat, taking control of your ship.
>You are almost at the destination, Breeze and Astray settling down.
>“Oh… fuck.” Astray says, snickering painfully.
>“Oh my goddesses Hunter! What and how bad of things did you make her see?”
>Breeze pauses, quickly sounding worried.
>“Nevermind! I retract my question!”
>“Holy shit, Hunter, I don’t think I could top that in a million years!”
“The book is yours if you want to read it.”
>“Yes!”
 
 
 
“Have fun with it, but just don’t do it while ponies are working or abuse it too much. Who am I kidding? You will abuse it, but just don’t be a dick with it all the time.”
>Astray laughs.
>“I’ll be fair with it, but I am totally going to have fun with this.”
>You look back at Breeze and smile, sending her some of the images you sent to Ash.
>The girlish and sexy posing mares and griffons, a few stallion’s members, and the be all end all of Ash begging to a stallion.
>Breeze’s face lights up cherry red, some slight lust being felt from her.
“That’s some of what Ash saw.”
>“R-right.”
>Breeze’s face stays red as you turn back to piloting, feeling slightly fatigued from the magic use.
>You use your implant’s again and practice piloting, still only being able to test one of them in open space.
>Near the end of it, you stop using your implants and pilot normally until you dock at another station.
>When you finish docking, you send a report and receive the credits for the job.
>Looking back you see Breeze stretching as Astray still reads the magic book.
 
>You check the time, seeing that you could still get plenty of work done or even do a small job before spending time with your crew.
>You open up a job list for the unknown station, seeing what is available.
>Parts shipping: 2000 credits
>Cartel assault: 4000 credits
>Exploration team wanted: 3000 credits
>You take pause for a moment, opening up a list so see who you could hire while here.
 
Name: Fuse
Race: EarthPony
Gender: Male
Occupation: Demolitions expert
Cost: 4000
 
Name: Midnight
Race: BatPony
Gender: Female
Occupation: Heavy weapons expert
Cost: 6000
 
Name: Twitch
Race: Hybrid
Gender: Male
Occupation: Combat Medic
Cost: 7000
 
>Your thoughts are quickly taken from you as your thoughts become a picture of Breeze, getting a clothed but good view of her curvy flank.
>You turn and look at Astray, the colt smiling.
>‘Figure I should test it, may as well give some eye candy as payment too’ he says with the spell.
>Breeze suddenly turns to you, smiling.
>“I forgot! I sold that cryopod Hunter, Here!”
>She tosses you 4000 credits, smiling.
 
 
>You smile at Breeze.
“Thanks Breezy~”
>Breeze blushes and shakes her head, turning back to her station.
>You look back to Astray, smiling at him.
‘I can appreciate that kind of eye candy.’
>The colt nods, giving a knowing grin.
>You look at the exploration job, seeing that the job is asking for a team to explore a possibly dangerous planet.
>You leave the job alone to think about it, sending a message to Twitch asking about him a little.
“What ..kind of hybrid… and work experience.”
>“Hmm?” Breeze says.
“Nothing, just asking somepony about himself.”
>“Who?” Astray asks.
“Twitch. A Hybrid who could be the doctor of the ship, though his position says he is a combat medic.”
>Breeze looks over to you for a second, returning to her station after.
>You get a reply from Twitch getting the information about him.
>He says he has seen a lot of combat and has plenty of experience from it, being able to have helped ponies and make sure that they stayed alive.
>He also says he is a mix of an minotaur and earthpony.
>”Hey Hunter… mind if we have a chat whenever we are done for the day?” Breeze asks.
 
“Sure thing Breeze, we probably only have one more job today.”
>“Thanks.”
>You go back and send a message to Midnight, asking what she brings to the table as you look over what Twitch sent you again.
>“Ohhh, I know that face. That’s the I don’t know face.” Astray says.
>You look up to the colt and can’t help but smile at him.
>“Not to sure about that medic guy?”
“I just want the right kind of pony to be our doctor. I’m not saying no, but I don’t want to hire the wrong pony for so much.”
>“Ahh.”
>You get a message back from midnight, beginning to read through it.
>The message reads: you get a tough and cute cyber mare with a big gun. The 20mm kind.
>You open up an attached picture to see a large minigun with a big ammo container next to it.
>The door to the bridge opens and Ash walks in, the griffon sitting down silently and bring a slight cigarette sent with her.
 
>You put out a message to both of them, saying that you can’t get full payment right away but can easily get it done by the end of the day.
>You get messages back that neither of them agree, Midnight stating that she needs the money for ammo while Twitch just says no.
>You sigh and make sure to bookmark the both of them, thinking about who to hire.
>Back and forth, back and forth, your decision weights between the two ponies.
>As you weigh your options, you think back to how you want a doctor similar to Charon, wondering if you could hire her even.
>You sigh and grab a credit, flipping it and leaving it up to fate.
>When it lands and you call it, you see that the end result is Midnight.
>You get up and head out to the cargobay to greet your new crewmember.
>“Going to greet the new crew member?” Breeze asks.
“Yep”
>Ash just kind of grumbles, getting up along with Breeze and Astray.
>When you all get to the cargobay, you see a BatPony mare with four robotic legs already getting aboard the ship with a cart.
“Midnight?”
>The mare looks up and smiles, her short navy mane having a hot pink stripe through it.
>”Yep! That’s me! And-“
>Midnight gasps slightly, moving to Astray and picking him up.
>“Awww, aren’t you a cutie?”
>“Put me down.”
>Ash snickers as the mare holds Astray, the colt looking unamused.
>”Come on, mommy and daddy don’t do this to you? Which one are they? Is it the good looking captain?”
>“Put me fucking down.”
>Midnight looks surprised and shocked at Astray, the colt squirming free.
 
“Now son, Don’t talk to the nice mare like that. We talked about this if you remember, Do you want another spanking? And you midnight, Do you want one from the captain too?”
>Midnight’s jaw drops with a surprised blush on her face, you having a smug grin on your face as her surprise turns to a smile.
>“Fuck sakes Hunter, what is with you today? Just go beat one off already.” Ash says with a smile.
>You laugh and shake your head, giving a friendly smile to Midnight.
“He’s not actually my son, but he is our cyberwarfare specialist, so he is and treaded as one of the crew. So he could hack your legs and make you do the pony pokey”
>Midnight laughs a little, giving her head a shake.
>“I’ll keep that in mind. This should be a fun crew.”
>“It is.” Breeze says, smiling.
“Welcome aboard the Vanguard, Midnight. I can see you weren’t joking about the cute and badass cyborg. The colt you were cradling is Astray, and this is Gentle Breeze and Ash.”
>They all say hello to each other, you looking to Midnight after.
“Need help coming aboard?”
>“Nope! I’m all set! I’ll be sure to keep my things ready and make sure that I follow your rules! I only have one personally and it’s don’t shoot me.”
>”Gee, why would we?” Astray says, sounding annoyed still.
>Midnight smiles it him.
>“Its really simple, it’s because your gun goes pew pew and my gun goes… well, you will know when I shoot.”
 
>You look to Astray
‘Her gun is much bigger then your body, so try not to piss her off.’
>You then look back to Midnight, smiling.
“Well then, you better get set up because we have a job to do.”
>Midnight nods with a smile.
>“I’m ready whenever. First thing though, where can I sleep?”
>“I can show you.” Breeze says.
>The two mares walk off after Midnight pushes her cart aboard, Ash and Astray looking at the tarp covering it.
>You call Fixit and open up the jobs list, accepting the planet exploration job.
>“That’s not her gun is it?”
>“Probably is.”
 
>You use your magic to close the door, still feeling fatigued from earlier.
“Well we should wait and find out, shouldn’t touch things that are not ours. If anything, you two could ask her.”
>You look to the main corridor where the two mares walked away to, then back to Ash.
“Kinda hot though… right Ash?”
>“Right up there with ya Hunter.” Astray says before Ash can even say anything.
>Ash sighs, shaking her head with a smile.
>“She does have a nice punk-ish look to her, bet she has been to a rave or two and knows how to party… But what is with you suddenly Hunter? You mare hungry or something?”
>“Nah, like he said, anything will fly with him.”
>Ash sakes her head again.
>“Aren’t we supposed to be working? Or do YOU need something before we go?” she says pointing at you.
 
>You grin at Ash.
“The only thing I need is for you to be in the gunner’s seat to cover my flank babe! Let’s go!”
>You turn and begin walking with smug confidence, hearing Ash doing something of a groan and sigh.
>“Stop calling me that…”
>There is a silence before Astray sprints off, Ash growling louder.
>“Fuck off! You gave him that fucking book too?”
>You laugh and head to the bridge, finding Breeze showing Midnight the stations.
>You all get seated and take off to the unknown planet, Midnight now taking the other gunner’s seat and Breeze working the radios.
>It is not long at all before you all arrive, beginning to orbit the planet.
>You go over the job description, the job detailing that you are to bring back some plant samples and describe any wildlife you encounter.
>”Ohh, looks like a pretty planet!” Midnight says.
>“Dunes, mountains, forests… What are we doing here?”
“Exploration, we need to look around and do some reports.”
>“So they are probably considering colonizing this planet then” Breeze says.
 
>You steer your ship to the forest, finding an open grass valley to land in.
>Once landed you turn to your crew.
“Alright, we will need some makeshift pots for plants. Any ideas?”
>Astray perks up, smiling.
>“There were some containers in the medical container! How about those?”
“That could work. How about we make this job a little hunting competition too? I feel like an alien hamburger.”
>“I’d be alright with that!” Midnight says.
>“Pass.” Ash says, “I like Hunting, but last time me and the old man attempted something like this we both got put in the hospital. Something about the animals eating plants that were deadly to us.”
>“I need to agree with Ash.” Breeze says, ears falling. “I’m more then fine with hunting for food and sport, but if we accidently get poisoned without a doctor…”
“Fair enough, we can just leave the animals alone unless we get attacked.”
>You get up and gear up, heading to the cargo bay after.
>When in the cargobay, you watch as Midnight pulls the cover off the cart and reveals her gatling.
>She carefully equips it and an ammo container on the other side of her, giving the barrels a spin with a smile.
>You open the door and head out after grabbing come containers, walking out into the long grass with your entire crew.
>Walking forward, you all get to and head into the forest.
>You can see many different kinds of fauna and flora, some of them filled with fruit and flowers.
>“So, can we split up a little?” Breeze asks.
 
“Sure, we can cover more ground that way, but should stick in teams. Me, Midnight, and Astray will be one team, you and Ash can be the other.”
>“Alright.” Ash says.
>“Okay!” Midnight says.
>You all split up, going in different directions.
>Astray seems to wander ahead a tiny bit as you and Midnight walk, You using your magic to pick some fruits here and there.
>You see more plants and mostly tiny insects and animals, nothing too big being present
>You all stop at some point to gather some tiny plants, Astray just walking in and out of some bushes and doing more exploring then gathering.
>As you close up one of your samples, midnight speaks up.
>“So… what is with the colt anyways? He’s kinda young to be hired on a mercenary ship.”
 
 
 
“We originally were hunting him for a bounty, thinking he was just a no-good hacker. When we found out he was an abandoned foal, I decided to take him in and hire him. He’s a godlike hacker, and a mischievous colt with a good heart in there somewhere. That being said, I feel bad for the pony that pisses him off, he can cause plenty of damage with his skills.”
>“I’ll keep that in mind… and yeah, with the way he talks… now I feel kinda sad for him, I hope he has something of a foal in him still.”
>You look over and still see Astray wandering around, exploring.
“What about you though? Anything cool in those cyber legs? What are you good with and what skills do you have?”
>Midnight giggles, smiling brightly as she winks at you.
>“Looking good and shooting things! And not really, they just are super durable and help me lift heavy things. I don’t have any ship experience before this, but I was in a militia for a few years for defending a colony. Before that I just kinda partied and danced professionally.”
>“Hey guys! There’s a cave here!” Astray shouts.
 
“We’re coming!”
>You look back to Midnight, giving a sly smile.
“You have demonstrated one of those skills already, but we can’t have anypony looking better then the captain on the ship. However… I could let it slide for a hug tax.”
>“A hug tax?”
“Yeah, you…”
>Midnight sways as she walks, giving you a half lidded look and she walks in front of you.
>“Just a hug?”
>Her tail flicks against your hoof, sending something like a chill though your body.
>She winks and giggles, smiling.
>“if you do try to beat me in looks, I’ll accept it if you dress the part. But you won’t beat me at go-go dancing.”
>She surprisingly skips a little as she moves to where Astray’s voice came from, you promptly following her.
>When you get to the cave, you can see that it is very large.
“Wow…”
>You use your illumination spell, lighting the way as you all walk in and explore.
“By the way, how did you get your cutie mark? It’s pretty cool looking for what I’ve seen.”
>“Oh, my daddy ran a gunstore. As good as I was at other things, when he taught me to reload bullets he said that I was like a factory. I just made so many one day that I got it.”
>You hear a sudden noise within the cave, Astray freezing in front of you.
 
“Astray, behind us. Weapons ready.”
>You pull out your shotgun and point it forward, Midnight giving her gun a spin as Astray backs up and pulls out his knife.
>“Can I please get a gun at some point?” He says.
>You carefully move forward, your crew following your lead.
>As you go down the tunnel, you begin to see a glow in the cave as a bend occurs.
>Just then you hear the noise again, a loud thump sounding and echoing through the cave.
>“Wait.” Midnight says
>You look to the mare, seeing her ears move with a confused look on her face.
>“Why don’t I hear…”
>Another thump sounds and the ground shakes, making you wobble a little.
>Just then, a huge chunk of rock falls and smashes on the ground in front of you with a loud crash.
>A loud animal like noise sounds, the glow getting brighter.
>“Oh fuck… fuck, fuck, fuck.” Astray says.
>A monstrous glowing bear head appears around from the bend of the cave, its fearsome eyes locking onto you and your crew.
>“URSA!” Astray shouts.
 
 
“Shhh!”
>You use your telepathy to send images and ideas of sleep to the Ursa.
“Back away slowly… Midnight, be ready.”
>You all move back as you keep casting your spell, you carefully opening up and loading slugs into your shotgun.
>You begin to feel tired as you keep casting three spells at once, finishing loading your shotgun.
>The Ursa looks tired but keeps advancing as you all back up, slowing little by little.
“Easy now…”
>The Ursa stops and slumps to the ground, the ground shaking again.
>Just before you can breathe a sigh of relief, a crack alerts you and you se a chunk of rock hit the Ursa on the head.
>The Ursa jumps up and roars loudly, looking very angry.
“FIRE!”
>You shoot both your shots at the Ursa, the bear flinching as you hear Midnight’s gun spin
>A deafening sound fills the air as Midnight opens fire on the Ursa, the large bear seeming to roar in silence as bright flashes fill the cave.
>You can’t hear a thing as Midnight shoots, The Ursa swinging its head in pain as the shots hit it.
 
“KEEP SHOOTING!”
>Your voice is drowned out by Midnight’s shooting, the cave making her gun much louder as she backs up.
>You reload and shoot again, keeping pace with Midnight.
>The Ursa seems to not be able to handle the volume of fire to its face, trying to turn and only smacking it’s head into the wall.
>There is a brief pause in midnight’s firing, you being able to see that the Ursa’s eyes are destroyed from the shots.
>Again you reload and shoot, repeating this again after you fire.
>The Ursa collapses and moves a little here and there, glowing blood spreading across the cave.
>Your ears ring as you finish reloading again, keeping your gun pointed as the Ursa twitches.
 
>You feel a little sick at the bloody mess, quickly running up and putting a shot into where the Ursa’s eye was and killing it for good.
>You turn around and gesture for all of you to leave, all three of you running out of the cave.
>Your hearing returns as you all get out, you feeling tired from the magic use.
>You look to midnight as you pant and smile.
“That thing is so cool!”
>The mare smiles back at you, giving a wink.
>“Yep, best in show like me! Pretty cool right Astray?”
>She looks to the colt and her smile fades.
>When you look to Astray, you see the colt with his hooves over his ears, a pained expression on his face.
>You hear a noise form the trees and point your gun, Ash being the cause of the noise.
>“Woah, Woah, Woah! Easy!” She says.
>You lower your gun, Breeze appearing quickly.
>“What happened? All we could hear was this sound that sounded like a loud buzzing. Something like a Burrrr.”
 
“We had an encounter with an Ursa… Midnight turned its face into Swiss cheese. Anypony want to help me pack it? Could use a nice rug for my room.”
>Ash’s jaw drops, a look of disbelief on her face.
>“Bull shit. Show me. If you are telling the truth, I’ll make you a rug out of it.”
>“He isn’t! He even technically has the kill to his name. Follow me.” Midnight says.
>As the two of them take off, you move to Astray looks like he could cry.
>You pat the colt on the head and gently rub it, moving his mane about a little bit.
“It’s over, you alright? Want to go back to the ship?”
>Astray shakes his head, opening his eyes but still looking ready to burst.
>“I’m fine… it hurts so fucking badly.”
>You keep rubbing his head, giving a sigh.
>“Hey, Hunter, you alright too? We got some good samples also.” Breeze says.
 
“Yeah, I’m fine. Just more worried about Astray. I learned a good lesson too, we need noise canceling gear if we have midnight around.”
>You look back to Astray.
“Your ears hurt, right?”
>The colt nods.
“It will go away soon, don’t worry. …Need a hug?”
>“N-no…”
>You look up at Breeze and she mouths the word hug, making you shift and hug the colt
>”Stop that.”
>Astray squirms but quickly settles, though his face doesn’t show it, you can feel happiness from him.
>You look back up to Breeze as you keep hugging Astray, giving a sly smile.
“So… what did you two do all alone?”
>Breeze blushes with a smile and shakes her head, looking at you.
>“Ash is right, something else happened during that surgery.”
>Breeze gives you a quick description of what they found, Ash and Midnight returning shortly.
>Ash is covered in a glowing blue-purple blood, layers of fur that looks like a night sky on her back.
>“I’ll be damned. Guess I’ll make you a rug then.” She says. “Back to Tundra? Or the other station?”
>“Awww.” Midnight says, looking at you and Astray.
>Astray pushes your hooves away and crosses his, looking a little grumpy now.
 
 
“Other station, whatever it was called. Hopefully that combat medic is still there…”
>You all head back to the ship, carrying the samples back.
>As you all walk back, you look to Astray and smile.
“Hey Astray, here.”
>You levitate the laser pistol to the colt, his eyes lighting up.
>“W-what, really? I don’t even know how to shoot…”
“Either me or one of the others can show you sometime. Either way, it’s yours now.”
>Astray smiles up as you, plenty of tasty happiness coming from him.
>“Thanks Hunter. I ever tell you how cool you are?”
>You laugh and keep walking, getting aboard the ship.
>You all set the samples down, Ash neatly putting the collected fur down too.
>“You look kind of beat Hunter, want me to pilot?” Ash asks.
>Astray yawns, walking forward.
>“I’m gonna lay down.”
 
“Yeah, thanks Ash. That would be lovely. I’m thinking I need a rest.”
>“I got it form here then, I’ll sound an alarm if anything goes wrong.”
>”Just wait a sec before we take off, it takes a little work to get all this off.” Midnight says.
>Ash walks off, Midnight moving to her cart.
>You look to Breeze, giving a smile.
“You wanted that chat Breeze?”
>Breeze nods, not giving a smile.
>“Yes…”
“Private?”
>“Very… follow me.”
>You easily pull of your gear and follow Breeze after, the mare leading her to her room.
>When inside, Breeze locks the door to her room.
“Breeze?”
>Breeze turns to you with a frown, ears dropping
>“I’m sorry Hunter…”
>You feel just a little creped out from this setup, watching as Breeze moves to her bed
“Sorry about what?”
>“For lying, both to you and to the others.”
>Breeze sits on her bed, looking guilty.
 
>You sit down next to Breeze, looking at the guilty faced Pegasus.
“What were you lying about? Something must have changed if you want to talk about this now. And don’t worry, you are my friend Breeze, what ever it is it won’t change my opinion on you.
>Breeze smiles, looking happier.
>“And that’s one of the reasons why I bring this up now, because you are such a nice stallion who won’t care. The other being that I’m tired of lying.”
>You look at Breeze in confusion.
>“It’s all so dumb now, but I lied to get hired. nopony would hire me when I didn’t. when I did get hired, I then realised that I had to keep up that lie. But now that I know that you hopefully don’t care…”
>Breeze sighs and grabs onto the boot on her hind leg, ripping it off before the other.
>You do a double take, thinking it is the fatigue at first making you see things.
>You watch as Breeze flexes the toes on her paws, claws extending and retracting.
>“I wasn’t sure of your opinion until today when you wanted to hire that medic, so I figure I should let you know… It’s all stupid, kinda like a movie sob story… but like Ash said, freakish extra parts and all. I’ve seen ponies you think wouldn’t care suddenly explode, so…”
 
“So, you’re a Hybrid? …That’s it?”
>Breeze crosses her hooves, smiling.
>“Why would I think you would react differently?”
“Well, I mean I do understand that you would be cautious if you had bad experiences before. But I won’t allow discrimination on my ship. You will always have a place here. I thought you were cute then, I still think you are now.”
>Breeze blushes, giving a happy sounding grunt.
>“Thanks… and that’s good, because these coveralls are honestly a little uncomfortable. I’d rather have my other clothes on.”
>You smile at Breeze, seeing that the fur on her paws is a grey that is about the same shade as her grey blue coat.
“So, who are your parents then?”
>“Mom is a griffon and dad is a Pegasus. So you know what I am a mix of now.”
>Breeze pulls the boots off her hooves, giving a groan as she happily stretches.
>”I think my only real worry now is Ash.”
“Well, like I said, I won’t tolerate discrimination. If there is a problem, they will have to deal with it.”
>Breeze hugs you.
>“I know, I’m just happy to have that off my chest now, even if it was minor and a little stupid. Thanks Hunter.
 
“It’s not a problem Breeze, don’t be afraid to come to me in the future for other things. Do you want me there for then you tell the others?”
>Breeze shrugs.
>“I don’t know, it doesn’t mater to me. I think I’ll lay down and think it over, my only plan was to dress what I’m comfortable in and just say when they bring it up… Ash could be the only issue.”
“Well, if she is, just say so and I’ll spam her head full of dicks.”
>Breeze laughs, nodding.
>“I will if it comes to that. Thanks again Hunter.”
>You give a Breeze a hug and get up, leaving her alone and heading to your room.
>You lay down and fall into a nap, calling Fixit and checking the time when you wake up.
>You rested for a good half hour, thankfully not only feeling fatigued instead of tired.
>Checking where you are, It looks like you just docked moments ago.
 
 
 
 
>You get up and head for the kitchen, feeling hungry.
>When you get there, you see Ash, Astray, and Midnight all eating.
>“There he is!” Midnight says.
>“We went ahead and finished that job while you were out Hunter, here” Ash says.
>She tosses you the credits, making your total now 9700
>You smile and grab some food to eat, sitting with your crew.
>As they chat, you check to see if Twitch is still available for hire and see that he is.
>When you take a bite of your food, you see Breeze walk in.
>The Mare Hybrid is now wearing a sleeveless shirt, her tail fed through what looks like a loosely fitting loungewear.
>“Wait, the hell?” Astray says in surprise “You are a Hybrid?”
>Breeze looks a little nervous, nodding and getting some food too.
>”Yeah… I kind of kept quiet about it and hit it.”
>Ash looks over before returning to her food with no comment, seeming not to care.
>”Hehe, do you try to wear long socks with your back legs?” Midnight asks.
>Breeze blushes, her tail swishing back and forth.
>“Why would you ask that?”
>“What? You don’t dress up and check yourself out to see how good you look? The best thing you have can’t be that work uniform of yours. I bet you could pull of a skirt!”
 
>You send the credits to hire Twitch, getting a reply that he will be there in half an hour.
>You smile, looking at Breeze as she sits down.
“You would look sexy in socks Breeze.”
>Breeze blushes more, squirming a little in her seat.
“What about a dress? Bet that would look good too.”
>“Yep!” Midnight says, getting up. “Come on Breeze, wana play dress up? We do have some good judges here, even of one is a little young.”
>“Judges?” Breeze says
>Midnight hugs her from behind, giggling.
>“Come on, you don’t want to impress our captain? He will be one of them!”
>Astray smiles and Ash looks a little amused, you joining in.
“I should send you two shopping. Hell, we should all go! I’m wanting some new clothes.”
>Midnight smiles, still hugging Breeze.
>“Can I dress you both up? Please? Come on Breeze, don’t you want to woo Hunter? He might be sad if you don’t.”
>Midnight winks at you, Breeze blushing and squirming in her grasp with a smile
>“Stop you two! You are trying to get a rise out of me like Ash did!”
>You see Ash break out into a smile, snickering.
 
>You grin at Breeze.
“But what if I am serious, Breezy~?”
>Breeze freezes, Midnight giggling more.
“I’m all for dress up Midnight! if we were to go on a date, what would you have us wear?”
>Midnight smiles, letting go of the blushing Hybrid.
>“Stand up.”
>You do as asked and Midnight circles you, though you cant tell if she’s examining you or checking you out.
>“Well, I’d definitely put you in something that is both formal and rebellious. Not super formal or anarchist level rebellious, but something that says you could sweep a mare off her hooves and still shows that you are a courageous badass. You look strong and heroic, Hunter. May as well capitalize on it! If you mean “we” by you and me, I’m not telling. But if you mean “We” you mean you and Breezy~! I’d put her in a dress that is nice but not too fancy.”
>Midnight winks.
>“Then I’d make her wear some sexy panties under it all, at least sexier then he ones she has on now.”
>“What!?” Breeze says
>Midnight giggles.
>“I know my clothes and style, so I can tell! Naughty mare, Breeze. Why would you need those on?”
>Breeze clams up and eats her food, Astray grinning widely.
>’So, I’m totally allowed in on any events right?’ he asks with telepathy.
 
 
“Wow midnight, you have quite a fashion sense. That’s it, we are going clothes shopping at Tundra as soon as we can! And while I did mean for both me and Breezy…”
>You give a wink to breeze, making her bush stay before looking back to Midnight.
“How about all three of us? You ladies wana have fun?”
>Breeze freezes again, Midnight nodding as Ash sakes her head with a smile as she gets up.
>“You are all nuts.”
>“Sure! come on Breeze! It will be fuunnnn~!”
>As Midnight teases Breeze more, you look at Astray.
‘I can’t stop you from sneaking out. But if they don’t let you in on it, I could share some of the things I get to see. …Although it would be nice if you taught me that spell for that shield in return.’
>‘Deal! Hook me up with what you see or get me involved and I will teach you what I know!’
>“…Hey, Hunter… somepony here for ya.” Ash calls.
 
“Tell him to wait a second, I still need to get pretty!”
>You hear Ash sigh and laugh, looking to the mares.
“Got any makeup you two? I need to look pretty.”
>Breeze shakes her head, Midnight grinning.
>“I’ll save it for when we play dress up.” The BatPony mare says with a wink.
>You all laugh as you get up, passing Ash along the way.
“I can see you are jealous of me spending time with the others Ash, how about you join us? I haven’t been spending that much time with you to be honest.”
>Ash shakes her head, smiling.
>“If you wana spend time with me, then let’s grab a few beers. I’ll pass on playing dress up.”
>You laugh and head down the hall, bumping into a large stallion almost right away.
>The stallion is much bigger then you, also being well built with easily visible mussels on his green coat.
“Uhh, Twitch?”
>The stallion nods with a simple smile, giving a friendly-ish grunt.
“Well then! Welcome aboard the vanguard!”
>Twitch nods again, giving another grunt and saying nothing.
>You can see thick hooves on the stallion, two minotaur horns coming out of his head
 
“You uh… don’t say much, do you?”
>“Just talk when it’s necessary. Or feel like I need to.”
“Right… Anyways, I’m Hunter, let’s show you the rest of the crew and get you settled in.”
>Twitch nods, following you.
>You lead him to the kitchen, Midnight laughing as she teases Breeze more with Astray watching.
>The three crew members turn to you and twitch, midnight giving an impressed whistle.
>“Wow. Minotaur Hybrid? Bet you could even carry my gun.”
“Twitch this is Breeze, Midnight, and Astray. You already met Ash.”
>Twiitch nods, giving a smile.
>“Aww, shy?” Midnight asks.
>“Just quiet.”
“Anyways, I do have a day one task for you. We got in a battle with an Ursa in a cave and had Midnight use her gun, so mind giving Astray’s ears a check?”
>“Colt is part of the crew?” Twitch asks.
“Yes, Cyber warfare and hacking.”
>Twitch silently looks over at the colt before looking back to you, giving a shrug shortly after.
>“Right. Come on, Astray.”
>You look to Twitch as the colt hops down
“There’s a portable clinic in the cargo bay, take a look when you can to se if you want to keep it or not. I’ll show you the way to the medbay.”
>“I’ll just use the clinic in the cargo. Lets me take a look at it. Thanks.”
“Alright then, just say if you need something.”
>Twitch hives an affirmative grunt and nod as he walks away with Astray, the Colt looking over the Hybrid.
>“He might get along with Ash, she mentioned to me she liked working out here and there.” Breeze says
 
 
“He would make a good spotter for any workout, did you see his mussels? He could probably lift two of us over his head!”
>“No kidding, I can be strong but he is probabably way stronger.” Midnight says. “But that is getting away from our original conversation! Haven’t been to a station called Tundra yet. Would we go now for some shopping? I need to get Breeze all dressed up in different things!”
>Breeze slightly hides her face with a hoof, midnight giggling more.
>“Come on Breezy~ don’t like having fun and dressing up?”
>“No… just I know that you want to put me in some things that are going to make me embarrassed.”
>“That’s half the fun! And don’t tell me that you think it will only be you, because after that makeup comment, Hunter might be in trouble too. And besides that, it could be just the three of us for the first time.”
>Breeze falls silent, looking indecisive as Midnight smiles at you.
>“Well, Breeze says yes, what are we going to do? Now or another day?”
>“I haven’t said anything!”
>“You are thinking about it though. Come on, Hunter already expressed interest in seeing both of us dressed up. I’ll let you dress me if you wana.”
 
>You give a nod, looking at Breeze.
“Give it a chance Breeze, you might like what you get dressed up in.”
>“Yeah! Give it a shot Breezy! It’s all for a good time.”
>Breeze sighs, smiling and nodding.
>“Okay, okay.”
“Good! Let’s go now. Also, how about we get Astray in on this? Have him be a judge and dress him up too?”
>“Fine by me!”
>“…He is kinda young.” Breeze says
>“How old is he? By a Guess?” Midnight asks you.
“14? 15-ish?”
>“Oh he’s fine then, I bet he’s already seen plenty of naughty things and is slowly prodding kinks that interest him.”
>You close up the ship and head to the bridge, piloting the ship back to Tundra.
>The ride goes rather smoothly, Ash joining the three of you on the bridge for the ride.
>After you dock at Tundra, Twitch walks into the Bridge.
>“Did expensive testing. The colt’s hearing is damaged but not incredibly bad. Guarantee he has tinnitus.”
 
>You frown.
“He will be okay though right? He is good to come with us for some shopping fun? And will he recover at all?”
>Twitch nods then shakes his head.
>“He can easily do whatever, all yours. And no, unlikely. He will have ringing in his ears that only he can hear, can’t hear quiet noises too well any more, and could have moments where his hearing totally fails for a few seconds. Could get better, might not.”
>You can feel some sadness from Midnight, the mare frowning with you.
“Nothing we can do then? How quiet and how often could he not be able to hear?”
>“Anything lower then a whisper right next to his ear is too quiet. And no idea. Could give him cybernetic replacements if you can get his parent to sign a form. Nothing too serious given the situation. Should invest in some basic protection, he showed me the gun that was used.”
>Twitch shrugs again, giving a smile.
>“All yours though, will be more then fine for anything. Besides hearing hoof steps.”
>You sigh, feeling sad.
“Damnit… we should have never explored that cave. And Astray was abandoned, we took him off the streets because his asshole parents left him.”
>Twitch loses his smile, and though his face doesn’t show it, you can feel sadness and anger from him.
>After a pause, he speaks up.
>“Wartime crisis code 13-576.”
>You give the stallion a confused look.
“What?”
>“An emergency crisis code that was established during the battles with the Frontier Federation. It allowed for a rushed and instant custody or guardianship due to the spike of refugees that couldn’t care for themselves. No evaluation, no inspections, small fee. A medical report on hearing damage and a white lie, along with no proper parent identification, would put the colt in an ideal situation to be filed with that.”
>Your jaw drops at the Hybrid stallion, Twitch shrugging
>“Just a thought. Will be getting settled or in the med room.”
>Twitch walks off, Midnight speaking up.
>“So… any idea what Astray likes? I feel kind of bad…”
 
“Don’t feel bad Midnight, it could have been much worse if you weren’t there. Besides, how could we know that an Ursa was there?”
>“Shit.” Ash says, getting up.
“What?”
>“I owe you an Ursa rug.” She says, walking off.
>You look back to Midnight, smiling.
“He does like computers and tech stuff, so a few games could be good. You could also help me with teaching him how to shoot. And besides, we still have that shopping trip.”
>Midnight nods, smiling.
>“Sure! Let’s get going.”
>You all get up, heading down the ship hall.
>When you all reach the crew quarters, you stop as the two mares keep going.
“Be there in a minute”
>“Alright, we will just wait in the cargo for you two then. Don’t take too long, Breeze might get cold hooves and paws.” Midnight says, giving Breeze a nudge with her flank.
>You open the door to Astray’s room, the colt fiddling with his hacking device and not noticing you.
“Hey Astray.”
>The colt jumps very slightly and turns his head.
>“Oh, hey Hunter. What’s up?”
“I wanted to say sorry about your ears, how are they?”
>Astray rubs one of his ears with a hoof.
>“I wondered why I couldn’t hear Breeze talk for a second, but I’m fine I guess. I hear that ringing like it’s from a movie… but I’m glad that they just don’t hurt anymore.”
>Astray looks a little awkward, avoiding eye contact a little.
>“…Thanks for asking also.”
 
>You move to the colt and give him a hug, Astray Squirming for a second before giving a slightly annoyed sigh.
>Again you feel happiness from him even though he doesn’t return the hug, some sadness present too.
“How bad is the ringing?”
>“It’s really annoying, it feels and sounds like a fly won’t leave me alone.”
“What if we could fix that?”
>“It would be nice honestly, I can feel myself loosing some sleep over this. Why?”
“Well… we could get you some implants, but it requires me adopting you or applying for guardianship. That’s if you want to that is, not like you need to call me your father, we just need the formality.”
>Astray stays silent, a huge mix of emotions coming from him.
“Astray?”
>The colt keeps silent, the tornado of emotions still going.
“Um… well besides that, how would you feel about going shopping and picking out something for the mares to wear? You are more then welcome to join in.”
>Astray perks up a little, looking up at you with a smile.
>“Sure, sounds fun! And…”
>Astray then looks down, avoiding eye contact again.
>“And…I guess… you could. It be nice to get this fucking ringing to stop, can hardly hear myself think.”
 
>You let go and keep one hoof around Astray, giving him a pat on his back.
“Then we will get you those implants, just leave it to me.”
>You then get up, smiling at the colt.
“Come on, we have pretty mares who we get to watch as they try on pretty clothes. Wana bet that I can’t make Midnight try on lingerie?”
>Astray perks right up, smiling.
>“I’d take that bet, but odds are that I’d loose.”
>You both head down to the cargo, Ash working with the Ursa fur as Breeze and Midnight wait.
>You spot Twitch at the medical container, stepping away to talk to him.
“Hey Twitch, think you can make me a medical report for Astray’s ears?”
>Twitch turns around, grabbing a form and showing you.
>“I’ll just make another later. Might be good to just re-arrange the cargo and keep this container, it’s basically the same as the medbay. Closer to the entrance for faster treatment, and we could turn the medbay into something else.”
“Thanks Twitch.”
>The stallion nods, returning to the container.
>“Security station should be able to help you with that form I mentioned.”
>You give your thanks again, moving to your other crew and seeing Breeze look over Fixit again.
>You all get going and head out, walking along the station and talking a bit here and there.
>“So… how did you know… what I was wearing? Could you really tell from knowing fashion that much?” Breeze asks, looking a little embarrassed.
>Midnight laughs, nodding.
>“Well, yes, but I lied about being that good.”
>“What?”
>“Honestly? what gave it away is that your pants are a size too big for you Breeze, I literally saw.”
>Breeze’s ears fall and she lowers her head in embarrassment, Midnight looking up.
>“Here we are!” She says, looking at the large clothing store.
 
“Come on, let’s go.”
>You all walk in, sticking together mostly.
>The place really has everything, from basic things to more exotic and sexy clothing.
>You kind of wander, looking for things for you, Astray, and for the mares.
>Not sure where to start, you just keep going down all the isles, eyeing up everything.
>You look at a few skirts and other more mare-ish things, along with other kinds of clothes, moving on after being indecisive.
>You browse jackets, vests, and shirts for now, happily looking around.
>You grab a nice and slightly loose shirt, the opening for it being quite large and going down your chest.
>After trying it on, you grab a black vest and try it as well.
>You look at yourself in a mirror, smiling at how you look.
>You check the prices, surprisingly just the two bits of clothing so far being 40 credits total.
>“Well don’t you look like a movie star badass?”
>You turn and see midnight, the mare smiling at you.
>You also see Astray, the colt having a leather looking jacket with a fabric hood.
>“Might do better with a dress-ish shirt, leaving the buttons undone. Get a little more handsome in there to be a really handsome badass. But I really like that vest on you.”
“Thanks.”
>Midnight moves to you, looking at Astray.
>“Think that’s good for him? Figure an urban look would be nice.”
>Astray tries to do up the jacket, having some trouble.
>“Kinda small I think.”
>“You aren’t supposed to do it up silly! You look better with it open if you ask me”
>Astray looks over himself, Midnight leaning towards you and whispering.
>“So then, Mister “I need my makeup”, should I be looking for cute things for you too? I already got some things lined up for Breezy~.”
 
>You look at midnight, a sly grin on your face as you whisper back.
“Cute things? Yes please!~ I’ll even help you pick it out and take it off later.”
>“Yessssss.~” Midnight says, looking excited.
>You look back to Astray.
“A size bigger would be good, as he is still growing, but throw in some sunglasses and he is golden!”
>Astray looks up and smiles, nodding.
>“I’ll go find it!”
>The colt trots off, you looking back at Midnight.
“What did you have in mind?”
>Midnight grins, looking very excited about dressing you up.
>“One surprise, you and Breeze don’t get to know what it is yet. But…”
>Midnight giggles.
>“You might just get the same thing I am thinking for breeze, except you get stockings… A short skirt and stockings… either way, panties are a must! Possibly a dress for you…”
>Midnight shakes her head, smiling.
>“Maybe something casual and super simple too, get you just in a loose shirt and panties. Ahh! I’m just so excited that I don’t know, I never got to do fun things like this with a stallion before.”
 
“I have faith in your fashion sense, so dress me up how you want! But just panties? What ab-“
>You are cut off as Midnight puts a hoof over your mouth.
>“Not. One. More. Word.” She says with a smile, removing her hoof from you
“Well, just make sure I have a party outfit for this casual one I’m making. Oh, and one for that date.”
>“For the date? Or for the night of the date?”
>Midnight winks at you, grinning.
>“I’ll get a few things ready for those occasions. One to make mares turn their heads, the other to make stallions.”
>The Batpony mare walks off with a sway, leaving you to keep outfit building.
>You get a pair of pants and a nice belt to go along with your outfit, getting the total to about 70 credits.
>Looking around you see your crew looking at their own things, Astray looking at pants while Midnight and Breeze generally brows the same area of more mare-ish clothing.
>You can see Midnight grinning wildly, the mare looking up at Breeze before back to the clothes.
 
>You grin, using your magic to talk to midnight.
‘If I get to see you and Breeze in lingerie by the end of the day, I will let you put makeup on me.'
>You see midnight’s ears perk up and she looks up, looking around till she sees you.
>She gives a confused look as you smile at her.
‘Magic.’
>She smiles and nods, giving a wink.
>You keep casually browsing, bumping into Astray.
>The colt has chosen a sweater and two pairs of pants, still looking around.
>“I think Breeze is being shy about her selection.”
>You turn and see Midnight, the mare smiling at you.
“Oh?”
>“Yes, I think she like casual and cute sexy things. Both of you are playing so close to my surprise that it is not even funny… you and I have the same idea though, I was planning to get Breeze into something already, your lingerie idea is super close.”
>Midnight winks at you.
>“I do have it too, so you better get ready to become a mare~. I’m also ready to go, you done?”
>You give a nod.
“Yep! All set!”
>When Astray and Breeze finish up, you pay for your things and head back to the ship.
>Midnight has the most things of all of you, Astray happily wearing his new jacket.
>When you all get there, Midnight looks at Breeze.
>“You ready Breezy?~”
>Breeze shuffles a little, a small smile on her blushing face as she nods.
>“Good!”
>She then looks to you.
>“So… where to? Who get’s to be first?”
 
“My room, and how about you go first? Show us how it’s done?”
>Midnight grins and nods, you leading the way into your ship.
>The for of you get into your room, Midnight spotting your plush manticore right away.
>“Aweee! There is a big softie underneath that badass shell!”
>You groan a little and roll your eyes, all of you setting your things down.
>“Alright! Fun time!~” Midnight says.
>You all sit down on your bed, Breeze looking nervous and Astray just smiling.
>Before midnight begins changing clothes, she has you help set up one of your bed blankets so that is acts as a cover for changing, midnight claiming that it is more for surprise then privacy.
>After a minute, midnight steps out.
>The cyber Batpony now has a skin-tight pair of leather looking shorts that really define her flank, a similar tight and sleeveless top just covering the front of her torso and leaving her belly exposed, both a bright green with small black lines going down the sides.
>Midnight also has some similar bands on her fore hooves, having a real “ready to party” look to her.
>She sways and walks with a bit of sass, stopping and giving a very showy and flexible stretch before spinning and giving a wink when she stops.
>“I see somepony like what he sees.”
>You look over and see Astray smiling, a bit of a blush on his face as he glances to and away from Midnight.
>Midnight giggles, Breeze smiling.
>“Wow, you are good…”
>“Well, half my job was making heads turn.”
 
“Damn Midnight, that’s a good start… but can that outfit hold up to dancing?”
>Midnight grins.
>“I bought this outfit for when I do party… but to answer you…”
>Midnight starts with a slow sway moving back and forth and just moving her hips.
>She suddenly jumps up an little and really starts moving, her entire body quickly moving back and forth and all around.
>Midnight moves and sways at a silent beat, turning around and giving you all a good look at the shorts that are right up against her flank as her tail swishes back and forth.
>You swear that you can see a slight outline of her marehood under her dock, her swishing tail moving and blocking any confirmation.
>When she finishes her dance she giggles, giving another wink
‘So… what would you rate her out of 10? I’m thinking a 9.5. A solid 9.5.’
>‘Yep, right up there with ya, 9.5 is a good number. This is great! I owe you big time.’ Astray says back.
>You whistle, grinning at Midnight.
“Wow Midnight… you are… wow…”
>“Looking a little hot there Hunter.~” she says.
>You give a nod, giving a sly grin.
“Can’t wait to top ya.”
>“Define top.”
>Midnight winks again, looking at Breeze.
>“Your turn!”
>Breeze looks nervous, keeping quiet.
>“Come on! You need to go, that way I can get to dressing you and Hunter up! Then the real fun starts.~ Feel like going first then Hunter? Or should we get Breezy?~”
 
“Well, I’m okay with both. How about Breeze chooses? We kinda have been pushing her the entire time.”
>Breeze looks at you and smiles.
>“I’ll go first after my first one. I’m just nervous…”
>Midnight moves to breeze, giving her a quick hug.
>“Don’t be! I’m sure what you got is fine and that you will pull it off, it’s all about the fun here Breeze.”
>Breeze get’s up and nods, moving to the makeshift changing area.
>Midnight acts quickly and gives Breeze’s flank a quick smack, making the Hybrid mare jump and yelp a little before looking back at Midnight.
>“Go get em tiger!” Midnight says with a giggle.
>Breeze sighs with a smile and disappears with her bag, getting changed as Midnight sits between you and Astray.
>It takes a little, but Breeze then speaks up.
>“N-not the best… I can’t do my hair up properly and have no makeup on, but…”
>Breeze walks into view, wearing a shiny blue dress with no sleeves.
>The dress is a little high class but not super formal, the sides of it where the long skirt is having cuts in it from about where her cutiemark should be to all the way down, revealing her legs.
>With the way her dress is, you not only get a good view of her hind legs, but a good idea to the shape of her flank.
>“Awee, you look pretty Breeze! Kinda of the idea I had for dressing you up for that date.” Midnight says.
 
>You give a whistle and clap your hooves together, then making a gesture for the mare to twirl.
“Lookin good Breeze! You look cute.”
>Breeze giggles and gives a spin, the skirt of her dress moving up a little as she spins and stops, smiling after.
>“Really cute!”
>“It does look nice.” Astray says. ‘I’d say a 8-ish, Midnight is more sexy but she looks good.’
>“Thanks guys.”
“Well, if we are trying our date outfits on, could I go next before we really start having Midnight dressing up?”
>Breeze nods, smiling.
>“Sure, you can go again right away if you wana. I want to keep this on for a little.”
>You give a nod, looking to Midnight.
“Show me what you have then Midnight.”
>“Sure thing!”
>You both get up and Midnight gives you a bag before returning to your bed.
>You dig through the bag and get the outfit on, stepping out after.
>”Ohh.”
>“Cool.”
>You look at yourself, seeing what Midnight got for you.
>You have a nice and tough looking jacket on with a simple shirt underneath, a pair of denim pants that are a good fit but not tight at all.
>“I felt it was a bit cliché… but it also gives you a though and handsome look. Too bad that the store didn’t sell holsters, I think that it really would have made it better.” Midnight says.
 
“Well, I do like it! And now that we have the outfits for the occasion.”
>You move to Breeze, smiling at her.
“Breeze, would you like to go on a date with me tomorrow?”
>Breeze’s face goes red again, the Hybrid mare nodding with a smile.
>“Yes, I’d like that.”
>“Aweee, just say that you’d love to Breezy! Promise you can share too!” Midnight says.
>Breeze rolls her eyes as she keeps smiling, happiness coming from her.
>“Now come on you two! It’s time for the fun stuff! Who wants to go first? It’s about time we push some limits, because the last thing I have for you two is something we all have to try at the same time!” Midnight says.
>“Well… I don’t care who goes first, Hunter can choose.”
 
“You have a go Breeze, you might like that Midnight has in mind for you.”
>Midnight giggles as Breeze nods, the two mare’s getting up.
>Midnight gives Breeze one of the bags, smiling.
>“Here, put on everything in this bag.”
>Breeze happily nods, disappearing behind the makeshift changing wall.
>There is a slight silence as Breeze changes, Midnight grinning.
>“…I don’t know Midnight.”
>Midnight giggles.
>“You can pull it off Breezy! Just wait till you get your approval from us!”
>You can feel some nervousness from Breeze as she keeps quiet, Midnight still smiling.
>Breeze eventually walks out, her outfit being dramatically different.
>Breeze has a jacket on, the jacket being undone with a top similar to Midnight’s being underneath it that shows her belly a little.
>She also has a very short red skirt on, a bit of Midnight’s party flare showing on the outfit.
>When Breeze nervously turns to look over herself, you easily catch a glimpse of tight panties under the skirt, the white colour easily noticeable against her grey legs.
>There is a blush to Breeze’s face, the mare looking a little undecided.
>“There’s a fun loving mare in there somewhere, so I figure I’d make her into one.” Midnight says.
 
>You look over Breeze, smiling
“You do look good Breeze! Incredible even… you should hangout with Midnight more.”
>Breeze smiles, nodding and sitting.
>“I do like the skirt… just not the jacket so much, just feels odd and not very me.”
“Not like you have to wear it, I do like it… Hey midnight? How about you go to another outfit and do some posses with Breeze?”
>“Oh, now you are just delaying! However…”
>Midnight moves to Breeze, getting her in a loose hug.
>Midnight then goes nose to nose with Breeze, Breeze blushing as Midnight gives a seductive look.
>The two mares hooves and generally holding the other by the waist, Breeze frozen as they sit with their legs pointed towards you.
>‘Oh fucking wow. Both of them are way up there on the scale’ Astray says to you.
‘I’ll say!’
>Midnight turns to look at you, Breeze doing the same and Midnight pushing their cheeks together when she does.
>“That good? How about we get you dressed up now? Because you have choices, and I want to get to the really good part after, a nice surprise for the three of us.”
 
“Alright, it’s enough delaying. My turn.
>Midnight grins, nodding
>You get up and get behind the setup blanket, Midnight giving you a bag.
>“Mix and match as you please. Have fun.~ Hope they fit right.”
>You undress from your date outfit and go through the bag, being a little surprised
>A skirt, stockings, a mare-ish dress shirt, ripped looking denim short shorts that could be very tight and probably not get past your hips, a tight top, a tight looking pair of pants, a sweater, and a sleeveless shirt that is cut short.
>Once you get through the clothing, you get to two last items, a pair of pink panties and a thong.
 
>You smile, your face feeling a little hot as you pick up your choices.
>Remembering a good idea, you use your magic to alter your body slightly, giving yourself a slightly more feminine look and making your flank slightly bigger.
>You fall back to being tired again from the magical fatigue you had earlier, smiling as you get your selected clothes ready.
>You start with the thong, sliding it up carefully when you get your legs in the holes.
>The thong is a snug fit, your sack being cradled as you finish pulling the thong up, the connecting points on the back of it being just under your tail.
>Next you pull on the stockings and skirt, lastly doing up the dress shirt to almost the top button.
>You honestly feel a little aroused from the experience, the sensations and knowing that you are dressing like a mare being entertaining.
>You pull on the sweater over it all, hiding what you have underneath.
>You step out with a smile, still feeling a little bit of a draft against your flanks thanks to the thong.
>Midnights smiles, Breeze looking at you in surprise along with Astray.
>“Awww, why the sweater? Still do look like a cutie though.”
 
>You grin, beginning to use your magic.
>You slowly pull off the sweater, moving around as you do.
>“Ohhh…” Midnight says.
>You turn to the side as you dance and keep going, guaranteeing that everypony sees that you are wearing the thong.
>As you pull off the sweater entirely, you arch yourself so your flank gets up in the air a little, making sure to move your tail so that you give glimpses of the bulge that is your sack.
>You feel lust in the air as you keep up the striptease, slightly unbuttoning the dress shirt as you keep swaying.
‘So… definitely a 10? Right?
>You stop after a button or two, giving a wink more so in Astray’s direction.
>The red faced colt looks away, keeping silent as he glances back at and away from you.
>“Oh damn Hunter, you had me fooled” Midnight says with a grin, biting her lip a little.
>“Wow… umm…” Breeze says, blushing.
>You can feel lust from all three of them, enjoying the tasty emotion.
>Midnight leans close to Breeze and whispers something, Breeze’s ears perking up and her blush worsening.
 
“What did you say?”
>Midnight giggles, Astray giving a yawn.
>“Well, I just mentioned to Breezy an idea I just had for you.”
“Like?”
>Midnight giggles more, smiling.
>“Like how we should treat you like a mare.”
>Midnight winks, lust coming from her even more.
>You smile, approaching the three of them.
>You walk past the three of them slowly, stopping at Breeze and walking back.
>You give your tail another swing, giving more glances and feeling more lust.
>You look to Breeze, seeing Astray looking to and away from you sill.
“I don’t hear an answer from you Breeze.~”
>“Oh! Umm…. You look very… uhh…”
>“I think the word she is looking for is sexy mare. Or trap.” Midnight says.
>You laugh, looking at the three of them.
“All this magic usage and everything from today has me feeling hungry… Anypony mind if I feed off them during a lapdance? I promise it will be well worth it.~”
>Breeze blushes more, more lust coming from her as Midnight eagerly nods
>“Oh! Sure!”
>Astray gets up, the colt blushing and looking tired as he radiates lust.
>“I’m… thinking I’m done… too tired, and… yeah.”
 
 
 
 
“Aww… Already?”
>“Y-yeah.”
>You give the colt a wink, seeing him blush more.
“Well, Have a good night then little guy.” ‘And don’t feel afraid to ask any questions about what you are feeling or ask for help. Go ahead and take care of your “issue”.’
>The colt silently walks off, lust coming from him still as the door shuts.
>You turn back to the mare’s walking in front of Breeze and stopping so your flank is in plain view.
>You can feel steady lust from her as you sway your tail, smiling at midnight.
“What do you mean by treat me like a mare?”
>Midnight smiles, giving you a half lidded look.
>“Oh… just getting a few toys out for you, possibly tying you up… I’ll be honest Hunter, I’d fuck you hard. Switches like you are so much fun.”
>Midnight looks to Breeze, seeing the mare stare at your flank.
>“Might not be the only one…Hey Breeze?”
>Breeze looks up to midnight, seeing the Batpony grin.
>“Think we should have fun with him?”
>Breeze keeps a steady blush and level of lust, a giving small smile as she looks over you.
>“Well…”
>Midnight nods, looking back at you.
>”I’d say she agrees, knew there was a deviant side to her. Now, how about that dance you sexy mare~? Or should I actually grab some things to help you along?”
>Breeze looks to midnight, looking surprised.
>“Y-you have… toys?”
>“I’m a fun mare.” Midnight says with a wink.
 
“Then go get those toys, I can warm Breeze up in the meantime.”
>Midnight smiles widely, getting up and trotting off.
>You look to Breeze, smiling as you get close to her.
“If you wana keep going then go ahead, you are more then welcome to touch.”
>You get your flank right up to the bed, smiling at Breeze.
>You watch as Breeze smiles and reaches a hoof out to you, feeling your flank.
>You then pull away and hop up on the bed, sitting on Breeze’s lap.
“Feel like a dance?”
>Breeze nods, seeming to lose any nervousness.
>“I thought this was to happen after the first date?”
>You wrap your hooves around Breeze and position your self, your sack against her leg.
“Well… screw it.”
>You grind and press against Breeze, watching as she looks at you with an amused face.
>Breeze explores as you grind against her, her hooves feeling the bare parts of your flank under your skirt.
>“Your… body is really like a mare’s.”
>You smile and give a seductive look, keeping up your grinding.
>You can feel your arousal building, your stallionhood beginning to get a little hard from the sexual fun.
>A giggle alerts you and you turn to see Midnight, the mare setting a box down.
>“Look at you two! Finally break that barrier Breeze?”
>“Maybe…”
>Midnights grins at you.
>“So… did you experiment at all before this? Or do you have experience? This is a little sudden, so I don’t know your limits. If you are feeling ready, come here for a second, I got something perfect for… a mare… like you.”
 
>You smile, nodding.
“I had a few experiences here and there, mostly toys, but this is a first. I never met a mare that was so excited to indulge in this particular “experiment”.”
>Midnight giggles, nodding.
>“I like the fun of it, what about you Breeze? Thoughts?”
>Breeze smiles, blushing.
>“It is a little odd, but I’m kinda starting to enjoy it.”
>You smile and get up, making sure to grind against Breeze as you do.
>Just as you finish getting up, you use your magic to flip your skirt up and press your sack and semi hard member against Breeze’s face.
>Breeze jumps back, her surprise turning into a giggle as she covers her embarrassed face.
>You get down and walk towards midnight, giving a sway as you do.
“Getting fucked by a mare though? It is a little of a first….”
>Midnight giggles again, nodding.
>“Fair enough… but lucky you, you get to have fun with two mares at once! I have a great idea for how this could work well for all of us!”
>You smile, looking at the box of toy’s midnight has.
>There is a little bit if everything, a few gags, vibrators, buttplugs, cuffs, rope, lube…
>“But first… I’m owed lap dance, and you need a snack! And to not waste time getting you ready…”
>Midnight reaches in and pulls out a buttplug, flicking a switch and making it vibrate for a moment.
>“Perfect to start with! …unless you think you need more?”
 
“It’s good as a warmup, can’t go too crazy just yet… Mind help getting it in? kinda been a little bit…”
>Midnight giggles and nods, motioning you to turn around.
>You turn around and feel your thong be pulled down a little, exposing you.
>You feel Midnight move your tail and her gently placing the tip of the toy at your entrance.
>The lube doesn’t feel cold, nicely warm actually, Midnight moving the toy around.
>You then realise that Midnight is taking her time, getting a good sensation as she teases your entrance by just moving the toy there.
>You feel more aroused as she does this, slowly getting the plug in until she gives a good press.
>You give a small pained noise and moan, Midnight giggling.
>“There we go!”
>You feel a quick lick go across your sack before your thong is pulled up back into place, Midnight pressing on the plug for a moment.
>The plug vibrates constantly, sending a subtle but effective pleasure through you.
>You can feel your member grow from everything that just happened, Midnight giggling as she moves to the bed.
>“Come on Hunter, time for you to dance.”
>You move to Midnight and get into position, beginning to repeat the same grinding you did for Breeze.
>Midnight rubs your flank as you grind, your member becoming hard for the grinding and the vibrator.
>You see her motion Breeze closer, giving the Hybrid mare a surprise kiss before returning her attention back to you.
>“So Breeze, wana get fucked by Hunter? Have fun with… Her?”
>The blushing Mare nods, smiling.
>“…Kinda…”
>“Good! Because I have a good idea! You can be on the bottom, Hunter can be in the middle, and I can be on top! That way we all have fun at once. And you!”
>Midnight looks to you as you grind, giving a mischievous smile.
>“I thought you were hungry? So feed! And don’t be afraid to give love bites to us too.”
>Midnight gives your flank a firm smack.
 
>You give a slight pleasure filled noise from the smack, returning it.
“Feeding tends to tire ponies out if they are not fully ready and very lustful…”
>You lean back and look down, seeing your skirt stand up from your now erect member, the tip of your stallionhood being visible
>Midnight makes an interested noise, the lust from her and Breeze going up.
“So I need to make sure you are ready!”
>You shift forward suddenly and push against Midnight’s shoulders, getting the mare onto her back.
>Midnight giggles and fives your flank a squeeze as you practically lay on top of her, looking excited.
>You grind against Midnight more, your stallionhood easily running across her belly.
>Leaning in, you give a small kiss to midnight’s neck before you nip hard and feel her lust shoot up
>“Ahh!~:
>You keep up the assault, making the mare’s lust grow more.
>Once it is enough, you begin feeding on Midnight, drinking up the delicious lust.
>As you feed, Midnight plays with your flanks and does something with the vibrator again, making it vibrate stronger before she bites your neck back.
>You give a moan as you keep grinding, the three pleasuring sensations starting to really get to you.
>You can feel yourself getting lost in the moment, just moving to keep the pleasure going and get you that bit closer to a climax.
>Suddenly, you are going sideways and onto your bed, the feeding broken by your loss of concentration.
>You feel less tired and just a little drowsy now, Midnight getting up with a smile and hardly looking tired.
>“Oh you are just bad!...” Midnight says, looking at her stomach.
>You can see some fluid on her, more then likely your precum.
>Midnight winks at you, smiling.
>“That’s enough of that, time to breakout the real fun. Warm up Breezy a little bit, I’d feel bad if she was completely left out.”
 
>You smile and nod, looking to the Hybrid mare.
>Breeze stops biting her lip and stares at you as you approach her, wide-eyed.
>You kiss her and get her onto her back, feeling her body as you press against her
>Breeze feels you back, lust rising as the two of you keep kissing.
>Slowly, you trace your way down to her marehood, stopping at her panties.
>You can feel some wetness as you rub against them with a hoof, breaking the kiss and grinning at Breeze.
>Breeze gives a very relaxed sigh, going back in and kissing you again before she feels your stillionhood.
>You give a soft moan at the contact as Breeze strokes you, the two of you feeling each other up happily.
>You stop and move away, smiling at Breeze as you move down her body and between her legs.
>Breeze looks excited and embarrassed as you reach for her panties, pulling them down and exposing her.
>Though her lower body is like a Griffon, to your slight surprise you can see that her marehood is actually like that of a mare pony.
>You smile and go right in, pushing your tongue into Breeze and getting an instant reaction from her.
>“A-Ahhh.~”
>Breeze moans as you eat her, her lust shooting up as you keep going.
>You begin feeding again, Breeze placing her hooves on your head as you pleasure her.
>Mixing things up, you stop here and there to give little bites on her legs, teasing her with a hoof as you do.
>Breeze pants a little bit, moaning more and more as you go at her.
>Suddenly, you feel hooves on you flank, a similar warm sensation to the lube from earlier present along with a new sensation.
>You stop and look back, seeing midnight grind a strapon against and between your flanks, her face looking a little heated.
>“Now… ready for this to come out?” She asks, sounding like she has some pleasure going though her.
>Midnight pulls on the vibrating plug in you, enough to make you moan but hardly enough to make it come out.
 
>You pant slightly, giving a nod.
“Yeah, almost… just gotta get into position.”
>You get up and move to be over Breeze, the mare looking very heated and lost in pleasure a little.
>She stares up at you with a smile as you loom over her and lean in for a very deep kiss, Breeze moaning against you as you both wrestle tongues.
>You line up and push your length inside of her, Breeze breaking the kiss and letting out a big moan while wrapping her hooves around your shoulders.
>Breeze is fairly tight inside, the mare panting and looking at you with lust filled eyes.
>You nuzzle and bite her neck a few times before looking back at Midnight, giving a needy look to the mare.
“Alright, now.”
>Midnight grins and teasingly tugs on the buttplug, making you squirm a little as it vibrates.
>Once she pulls it out, she teasingly prods your hole before inserting the length of the strapon into you.
>You moan and press deeper into Breeze as you feel the length inside of you, Breeze giving a pleasure filled sound.
>You all start moving one by one and get into a good tempo with the motions, all of you moaning constantly very quickly.
>You are either pushing into breeze or penetrating yourself on the strapon Midnight has, constantly getting pleasure from the both of them.
>“Hunter.~” Breeze moans, midnight giggling between lust filled sounds.
>You kiss the mare again as you keep thrusting, Midnight Giving your flank a hard spank.
>You all keep at it, Breeze giving a few very loud noises when you hilt her and Midnight pounds into you at the same time.
>Midnight pants and moans loudly suddenly, being shaky and going very hard and fast with her thrusts into you.
>“Ahhhh!~”
>The sudden change in pace makes your head go dizzy in pleasure a little, Midnight hitting just the right spot and making you lose track of your own pace and just rapidly push yourself into Breeze or onto Midnight’s “member”
>All three of you moan and pant, your body shivering as you feel your climax approaching.
 
>Breeze suddenly reaches her own climax, shaking and holding you tightly as you keep thrusting until she goes a little limp.
>Not being sure if you could get Breeze pregnant, you send a telepathic message to Midnight.
‘Pull me up and fuck me till I cum!’
>As soon as you finish saying that, you are pulled up by your forelegs and held up, standing on your hind hooves as Midnight now quickly and roughly fucks you.
>The cyber mare keeps you and her balanced as she pounds into you, making you moan and cry out in pleasure.
>You body quakes as you feel yourself orgasm, your member twitching and your body clenching on the strapon as Midnight keeps fucking you.
>With a loud moan you watch as you shoot cum onto Breeze, getting much of it on her face and chest.
>Your legs go weak and you collapse, just barely stopping yourself from falling onto Breeze as Midnight lets go of you.
>You lay on top of Breeze slightly, Midnight pulling out of your sore body as your flank stays in the air.
>Breeze nuzzles you, hugging you and getting some of your cum on you and your face.
>As you all pant, midnight grinds the strapon’s length against your entrance again, as if teasing to enter and start fucking you again.
>“Have fun Breezy?~” Midnight asks.
>Breeze nods as she nuzzles you more, giving a small “mmm hmm”.
>Midnight presses against your rear, caressing one of your flanks.
>“How about you? Did the mare enjoy that?” she asks teasingly, sounding about as tired as you feel.
 
>You smile as you pant, giving Breeze a nuzzle back.
“Amazing… I think I enjoyed it as much as you did.~”
>Midnight giggles, letting off and laying to the side of you.
>Midnight licks some of the cum off of you, smiling and giving a wink.
>“Somepony has a healthy diet.”
>You all clean each other off, working in pairs.
>When it is all done you all seem to just collapse on your bed, you sandwiched between the two mares with you being a little spoon for Midnight.
“We need to do this all again, even if it happened suddenly.”
>Midnight kisses the side of your head, sighing.
>“I’v had stuff like this happen faster and go more crazy, wouldn’t surprise me. But yes, we NEED to do this again. You in Breezy?”
>“Yes.” Breeze says, nuzzling your chest.
>“You seem comfortable compared to earlier, have that much fun?”
>Breeze looks up, nodding with a slight blush.
>“…I’d be lying if I said I never fantasised about things like this, even if it was nowhere near what I think about. I’m just so used to all that being personal and private.”
>Midnight giggles, laying her head down as she pulls tightly against you.
“Might wana switch roles though, sound good? Also, are you into S n’ M Midnight?”
>“Oh we better switch roles! That’s the great thing about playing both sides and not caring, there is so much fun to be had. And I just might be~ I’m frankly alright with anything kink wise, just nothing that is nasty or too brutal. I want to have fun with my stallion and marefriend, not hurt them for good.”
>“Marefriend?” Breeze asks.
>Midnight giggles, looking up and nodding.
>“Yep! I declare that from now on we are all together! We share Hunter, and Hunter gets two mares to keep him warm. we could knock down a wall and just push two beds together for enough room.”
 
“I’m okay with this! Could we still keep this open and get others involved? Bring others home? And please tell me you are not serous about breaking down walls…”
>Midnight giggles.
>“That could be fun, we can keep it an option. And yes! If we merge two rooms, we could have more space and open up one room! Why keep all our things in separate rooms if we all share a bed?”
>Breeze lifts her head and nods.
>“It would be safe and doable… we are kinda filling up too, I think there is only two rooms left. We could also take that compartment above the rooms or we…”
>Breeze yawns and puts her head down, mumbling as she nuzzles into your chest.
>You nuzzle the Hybrid mare back, Midnight also nuzzling the back of your head.
“And don’t worry Midnight it’s mostly being called names and bratty stuff. Collars too… Don’t worry about breaking anypony.”
>”Still… got to be careful. A good dom is one that cares and listens, I’ve made a few mistakes in messing around alone too… so…”
>Midnight yawns too, you yourself beginning to close your eyes.
>“Should go kink shopping... And collars? You are a naughty mare Hunter.” Midnight says teasingly, giving your flank a squeeze. “Anything… else?”
 
 
“Check later at shop… sleep.”
>“Mmh.”
>You use your remaining energy to retrieve your covers and put them over the three of you, falling fast asleep.
>Your dreams are nothing short of the night you had, you fucking of being forcibly fucked by ponies
>You open your eyes and yawn, a strange rumbling getting your attention.
>You look down and track the rumbling to your chest, Breeze… purring in her sleep.
>“Cutie, isn’t she?”
>Your ears perk up and you turn your head slightly, Midnight smiling at you.
>You feel a small prod against your rear, the Batpony giggling quietly.
>“Forgot to take that off. Sleep good? And here, I got some of today’s clothing for you to wear.”
>Midnight lifts her wing and throws your panties at your head, smiling widely and she suppresses another giggle
 
>You smile and levitate the panties, setting them aside.
“Thanks. Come on, let’s get some food.”
>You try to get up carefully, unsuccessfully doing so and waking Breeze.
>The mare groans, sounding tired as she sits up.
>You strip of the clothes you had from last night and get an outfit ready, grabbing the panties and heading to the shower while Midnight get’s her toys cleaned up and Breeze wakes up.
>After you get clean from the acts of the night before, you get dressed and pull on the panties happily getting comfy in them.
>They are snug but not tight, being very soft and coming up just under your tail like the thong did, and cradling just the same.
>Sparing a look in the mirror, you see that the pink panties give your flank a nice curve.
>You put on your, skirt, stalking’s, and sweater, walking to the kitchen after.
>You can almost always feel the panties as you walk, the feeling getting a small smile on your face in addition to the slight draft.
>When you get to the kitchen, you see Ash, Astray, and Twitch.
>Ash looks at you in surprise, covering her face with a sigh.
>“Oh. Really?” she says with a smile.
>Twitch just looks up and gives a nod, returning to his food.
>“Even you have nothing to say?” Ash asks him.
>“Was military, nothing new. What happened in the showers stays in the showers.”
>Ash just shakes her head, Astray keeping silent and glancing at you.
>You call Fixit and pet the robodog, asking him to open up some jobs after
>Large cargo shipment: 4000 credits
>Base attack assistance: 6000 credits
>Compound takedown: 4000 credits
>As you read over the jobs, Astray suddenly speaks up.
>‘…so…’
‘Need something?’
>‘Kinda… First, if you are going to… “Adopt” me, mind doing something… not like that for clothes?’
 
“Keep the salt in the shaker if you are jealous Ash. You were more then welcome to join in.”
>Ash scoffs with a  smile and keeps eating, giving you a glance here and there.
>You keep looking through the jobs, using your magic to keep talking to Astray
‘What, can’t a stallion be comfy?’
>‘No… it just… I don’t know.’
>You use your magic and change your features a little, looking more feminine and mare like.
‘Look now, better?’
>Astray looks up and back down, looking slightly embarrassed.
>‘I suppose… just make the voice to match then.’
‘If it bothers you that much, I can change it. …But you didn’t seem to mind last night.’
>Astray falls silent, looking uncomfortable slightly.
‘Astray?’
>‘…About that… it’s not bad or too weird to have liked that right? Liked what I saw I mean… fuck it, never mind.’
 
‘Of course it isn’t, it’s perfectly normal! Plenty of stallions like other stallions and some of them just like them a little marelike. I may be a bit mare-ish, so that could be why… but nothing is wrong with liking what you saw.’
>‘…Really?’
‘Yes. And if you are worried about it making you less of a stallion, don’t. I have an uncle who preferred stallions actually and he could shoot a target from yards away, all while rocking a fantastic skirt scarf combo. Some ponies probably did laugh at him, but those ponies likely ended up with a hollow point sniper round in their head.’
>Astray perks up a little, looking over at you curiously for a moment
>‘Really?’
‘Yep, he is one tough stallion.’
>Astray seems to relax, making you smile.
‘You missed out lastnight… if you stayed it could have been a foursome.’
>Astray looks surprised, looking jealous and a little disappointed.
>‘Damnit…’
>You hold back a small laugh, smiling still.
>Reading through the jobs, you see that the cargo is just a large shipment of standard cargo.
>The base attack is much bigger, a small military battalion asking for help in attacking some military compound, not much information being given.
‘Anything else bothering you?’
>‘No…well kinda. but that was the main thing. Everything else is fine, I guess I’m just curious about… that whole thing now. And what I missed… And, I guess you can do as you please with clothes, I just had that whole thing bothering me.’
 
>You accept the shipping job, asking for more information about the base attack.
‘Well… if you are curious I could see about asking Midnight if you could join us. Or, you could even experiment with me. You are the age to be curious and explore this kind of thing, and I’d rather you be in a save environment for then then on the street.’
>Astray keeps quiet, then replying.
>‘…Both are alright I guess. I’d be alright with either or whenever.’
‘Personal and private question… if you don’t mind, are you a virgin?’
>Silence again, Astray being a little reluctant.
>‘…Yes. I looked at somethings but…’
>You smirk.
‘things like this?’
>You send Astray a mental image of when you teased and licked Breeze, The colt’s eyes going wide and some lust coming from him.
>‘Y-yeah, holy shit.’
>You get a reply, a very odd message displaying.
>The message asks you to be completely confidential and deny any of this from happening.
>The situation is that an Alliance military unit has gone AWOL to stop a planned missile attack on a colony, they are asking for any assistance for their rouge mission to stop the attack, wanting anything from a team to help them get into the base to air support for the entire mission.
>Breeze and Midnight finally walk in, both of them happily grabbing food and sitting down on either side of you.
>Breeze gives you a nuzzle, Midnight smiling and doing the same form the other side.
>’…lucky.’
 
>You return the nuzzle to each of the mares, giving Astray a smile
‘I bet you could Hug midnight and she would probably return it. Or, I could nuzzle you.’
>Astray clams up and returns to his food, the same sadness from when you hugged him returning.
>“Oh really now? What happened?” Ash asks as she looks at the three of you.
>“We had some bonding.” Midnight says, giggling.
>You finish eating and look to Twitch, sending Fixit to him.
“Hey Twitch, what do you think of this mission?”
>Twitch looks confused until he notices Fixit, looking at the screen and reading it.
>Twitch suddenly looks up and nods.
>“Take it.”
“It’s a good job then?”
>“Good in all ways. Alliance soldiers are loyal and never abandon their orders, they must think this is important to do this, they risk life in prison.”
 
>You give a nod.
“I’ll consider it, I do have some business to take care of today. Come on Astray, I need you to come with me.”
>You get up and head out, Astray trailing behind and catching up as you leave with a sway in your walk.
>“So… what then?”
“We are getting those papers for you, I figure I may need to bring you.
>“…ah.”
“Just give me a second.”
>You head into your room and pull off your skirt and stockings for now, just grabbing your jeans and keeping your sweater.
>You swear you feel like you were being eyed up as you changed, still able to easily feel your panties under your pants when you get them on.
>Reverting your appearance a little, you and Astray get going to the security office.
>When there, you find your way though guards and other ponies, Astray looking nervous
>‘I fucking hate having all these cops around.’
>Eventually you find a desk you are looking for, approaching it.
>Before you can even begin talking, you spot a familiar pony going through files.
“Forest?”
>The stallion looks over to you and smiles, looking exhausted.
>“Oh, hey Hunter.”
>Forest waves the stallion at the desk away, pulling you aside.
“You look… tired.”
>“I am.” Forest groans. “I wana get back on the street but Torch has me stuck doing paperwork non-stop. Fuck.”
>He shakes his head, looking at you.
>“Don’t suppose you came here for something? I need to take a break form all this, even if it is a different kind of paperwork.”
 
>Your ears fall slightly.
“Sorry about that Forest… it is my fault for choosing that cryopod of the three. I could have saved a better pony and I feel bad about it.”
>“Don’t feel bad, not like you could have known. I just want it done with.”
>You nod, feeling a little better.
“Anyways, I’m here about Wartime crisis code 13-576.”
>Forest gives you a confused look.
>“A Wartime crisis code? Wait, that’s for emergency adoption.”
>You give a nod, and gesture to Astray.
>Looking at Astray, you see that his personality has changed, the colt looking lonely and sad.
“I found Astray here and have been caring for him, but I found out that he has hearing damage and want to help him.”
>“And you need legal documentation for it.”
“Yes, can you help?”
>Forest nods, giving a smile as he looks at Astray.
>“Yeah, and I’ll save you the reading. I know you are a good Stallion, so I have no worries about a little rushed documentation.”
>It takes a moment but Forest comes back with two papers, one for you and for Astray.
>“Give it a read though Hunter. And Astray, I only need you to put your name down. And there is a fee tied to it of 500 credits, but…”
>Forest smiles, giving a shrug.
>“Guess it just got lost in the mail or something.”
>You smile and go through the paper, seeing that most of it is just your legal responsibility to care for Astray.
>The last line asks for your signature and for you to check one of two boxes, weather you want to apply as a parent or a guardian.
 
>You use your magic to talk to Astray
‘Umm...Astray? I have to sign if I want to be your parent or guardian. I think you should decide on this one. I'm OK with either one. Just go with the option you feel more comfortable with.’
>You give a look to Astray, seeing him look actually nervous as he puts the form with his name on the counter.
>Astray keeps even more quiet then before, taking a long time to say anything.
>‘…Parent…’
‘You sure?’
>Astray keeps quiet after, you returning your attention when he doesn’t respond anymore.
>You check the box for parent, giving the form back.
>Within a minute, you get a ID card and a legal form.
>“Well, there you go. Hopefully you can give the kid a good future.” Forest says.
 
 
 
“Don’t worry, I will.”
>Just as you begin to leave, Forest picks up a phone and immediately clenches his eyes before he sighs.
>“Oh goddess damnit… Bye Hunter.” He says, walking off in rush
>You look down at Astray and smile, you colt looking uncomfortable but giving a small smile back.
“Come on, how about we go and get those ears of yours fixed?”
>“Oh hell yes.” Astray says, grinning.
>You both begin walking, you keeping up a bit if a sway as you do.
“So, how would you feel about hacking from the ship?”
>“Huh?”
“I want to see about setting you up with a drone, that way you can hack from the ship. Odds are that we could get spotted or noticed, so I don’t want them doing anything to the ship. You could be more useful that way because you can still hack, but also watch the ship for us and alert us!”
>Astray looks thoughtful, then looking at you with an annoyed look.
>“You want me there because it is safe.”
“Well… that too, but also all the other reasons. You would have better focus when not hearing yelling or shooting, and again you can protect the ship.”
>Astray looks thoughtful again, shrugging.
>“You do have a point…”
“So you would be alright with it?”
>“For SOME missions… just promise you will get me a proper suit and still have me outside on some.”
>You smile and keep going, finding the same place you went to for your implants.
>You approach the counter’ talking to the stallion.
“Hello, I need ear implants for this colt here. I have documentation that gives me legal custody.”
>“Let me see.”
>The stallion looks over the card, giving a nod after and looking to Astray.
>“And you are wanting this sonny?”
>“Yeah, to get the ringing to stop.”
>The stallion nods, looking at you.
>“It will take an hour and cost 1000 credits.”
 
>You give a nod and give the credits, smiling at Astray.
“I’ll wait here for you, see you in an hour.”
>Astray nods, looking a little nervous as the stallion shows him away.
>You sit down, cross your legs, and wait.
>Time goes slowly as you wait and wait.
>Looking at the clock after a long time, you see that it has been a little over an hour.
>Just as you get a little worried, Astray is lead back into the room where you are by a doctor.
>Astray looks a little wobbly and unbalanced, the doctor watching him as they come to you.
>”Here’s your son. He’s coming out of the anesthetic slowly, but he is fine. You two are free to go.”
 
>You give a nod.
“Thanks doctor. How you feeling Astray?
>“Fine… really unbal-anced.”
“Think you can walk? Want a little help?”
>The doctor shakes his head with a smile.
>“Yeah, just let me…”
>Astray walks forward and looks ready to fall over.
>You transform your wings into Pegasus wings, helping steady the colt as you both walk.
“Still feeling alright?”
>“I’d dizzy, not high.”
>Astray quiets down, speaking up after.
>“Hunter?”
“Yes?”
>“…Thank you.”
>You smile and get back to the ship with Astray, spotting Ash working on her bike, the cargobay being almost full of shipping crates.
>Ash nods when she sees you, giving a wave.
>“Got that rug done and in your room… he okay?”
>Ash looks at Astray, the colt still wobbling.
 
 
“Got his ears fixed, so he’s still drugged on anesthetic. I always see you working on the bike Ash, are you close to finishing it?”
>Ash smiles, nodding.
>“Almost! Tomorrow it will be done. Getting the heatsinks to work is a bitch.”
>You smile and nod, helping Astray move again.
“Good. Wrap it up for now though, we need to work now.”
>“Yep, got it.”
>You bring Astray to his room, deciding to use your magic at some point and carry him.
>You levitate the colt into his bed, smiling and giving a nod.
“Just rest Astray, sleep the rest of the feeling off.”
>The colt nods, getting under some blankets.
>As you leave, Astray calls to you again.
>“Hunter… Thanks again, I do mean it.”
 
“You’re welcome Astray. …Astray? I was meaning to ask you, I hope it is not too personal and you don’t need to answer but… you feel sad whenever hugs or anything like them are mentioned, why is that?”
>“What?” Astray says loudly, sounding surprised.
>Astray’s face goes from shock to a thoughtful face, the colt rolling his eyes before giving an annoyed nod.
>“Changelings…”
>Astray sighs, looking down to his hooves.
>He then turns and lays on his side in a slump, facing the wall the bed is against.
>“Just reminds me of my mom, before I got thrown away. Doesn’t matter now though, I’m past all that soft shit.”
 
 
>You move back, getting next to Astray and giving him a hug.
>Astray squrims, trying to get away a little bit.
>“Cut it out…”
“I also feel happiness though, you shouldn’t block out things that do make you happy, even if it is because of some morals. there is no need for you to act tough any more.”
>“Shut up…”
>You let go of the colt, feeling the same emotions as before, but with more happiness then sadness.
“I’m open to hugs at any time you feel like them. Now get some sleep.”
>You leave Astray and head to the bridge, seeing the rest of the crew there as you get to your seat.
>“Huh.. interesting.” Midnight says, looking at Breeze. “Well, do you know about cybernetics as well as robotics?”
>“Not really… they are way too different…”
>“What about hydraulics and fitting?”
>“Much easier.”
>Midnight smiles.
>“You and I are going to have some fun, Breezy.”
>You start up the ship and depart, Twitch speaking up.
>“Still thinking about that other job?”
 
 
 
 
 
“Yeah, and you know what...”
>You call Fixt over and accept the job, getting some coordinates.
>You then get up, looking to your crew.
“We are doing it. Ash, pilot for a bit, I’ll be back.
>“Got it.”
>You get up and walk off to your room, heading inside to find a small surprise.
>Your bed is made and all the clothes from last night are set into neat piles, everything folded.
>You smile and nod, pulling off your pants and sweater and trading them for your more mercenary looking outfit.
>When changed, you head back to the bridge and resume piloting.
>One course alteration later, you keep piloting through open space, a few dots appearing on the radar.
>You are alarmed until you see the military markings on the ships, also noticing that the coordinates are in open space.
>The communications come to life, a male voice speaking.
>“You the mercs?”
“Yes we are, this is captain Hunter speaking.”
>“At least some pony showed up… Alright, we will take anything you can give us. Ground support, air support, artillery… Anything. We have plenty of equipment to try and make this run smoothly, but we can’t afford to fail this… “Mission”.”
 
“Well, we can do anything, but can you give us more information? What is the situation and what do you need most? Who are we up against.”
>“I’m not able to- S-sir?”
>“Move. Enough with the cloak and dagger.” Another male voice interrupts.
>You hear some movement of a microphone, a new voice speaking.
>“This is Major Rose, I’m the acting captain of this operation. We are up against members of the Frontier federation, ones who are claiming to be peacefully disarming the warheads there. I know that this is not the case, regardless of what my superiors tell me.”
“Why is that?”
>“Because captain Shell is a ruthless tactician, one set on doing anything to hit the Alliance. Always has been, always will be. I don’t buy his story of agreeing to surrender and just waking out, no, he is planning to attack and is using his “surrender” as a cloak. I know this is insane and sounds outright like I am paranoid, but I know that he is bullshitting his way into a position to strike. They have missiles that when they reach orbit will warp to their destination, hitting cities and towns without notice. We plan to attack them and catch them by surprise before they launch, and hope we stop them before they catch on and launch anyways. That’s why we need anything you can give us, because it means we can focus troops in other areas. As long as we can help the ground troops advance and stop them, we should be fine. To answer where you would be useful? Anywhere, it is your choice.”
 
“Alright, I’ll send two of my crew for ground support while the rest of us cover from the air.”
>“Understood. Thank you. Just follow us in and drop them off when we drop ours, then do as you please for air support.”
>When the communications end, you turn to your crew.
“Midnight, Twitch, you two are on ground support. You are calling the shots Midnight.”
>“Don’t worry Hunter, your other main mare won’t let you down.” Midnight says, getting up and taking off.
>Once you are sure they are geared up and ready, you follow the military ships in and hook up to the ship.
>Again, your vision changes as you link to the ship, easily piloting it.
>As you follow them, you all arrive at a planet and begin entering the atmosphere.
>As you fly down, lasers and other kinds of shots are fired at your ship and the military ships.
>“Oh shit!’ Ash says
>Just as you think of what to do, your vision flashes with the name of one of your augments.
>A series of gates appear and stray away slightly from the military ships, moving is oddly specific directions.
>You pilot through the gates and avoid the incoming shots easily, seeing the military ships take most of the sudden attack.
>Your ship hardly takes any hits, shields holding strong as you all fly down and touch down on the ground.
>”Moving out!” Midnight says over the communications.
>As Midnight and Twitch get off the ship, you see plenty of soldiers and two tanks offloading from the military ships.
>”Anti -air cannons and lasers are firing, radar is picking up moving troops an armor, and a squad of fighters has been deployed! We don’t have long before they could launch the missiles or get more backup!”
 
“Breeze, Ash! Target any silos and anti-air weapons!”
>“Got it.”
>“Understood!”
>You take off and begin heading to the base, the military ships joining you as shots come your way.
>“Ground team is moving.”
>The radar lights up with dots as you move forward, fighters heading to you.
>“Firing!” Ash says.
>You watch as a beam goes by and hits an anti-air cannon, the whole thing melting from the shot.
>More shots are fired towards you, hitting shields as both you and the military ships attack the base and destroy the defences.
>“I see a silo! I think…” Breeze says.
>You turn your attention to the fighters that are now flying over the base, closing in on you.
>Just as they begin to get really close, a huge explosion goes off.
>You can feel yourself and the whole ship shake, some of the fighters being sent flying and plummeting into the ground from the resulting shockwave.
>“What the fuck just happened?!”
>“One of the silos just blew up!”
>“…Opps?” Breeze says.
>More of the Anti-air cannons open fire as they shift targets, your crew still engaging them as the remaining fighters try to regroup.
>“Ground team has encountered armored resistance.”
>Just as you can hear what sounds like Midnight shooting over the radio, you hear the bridge door open.
>“Why the fuck am I always missing out on the fun shit!”
>You briefly turn off your augments and look back, seeing Astray hop into one of the chairs.
>”Alright, shields are at 72%!”
 
“Astray, is there anything you can do to disrupt the enemy? Hack their communications?”
>“I’d need a terminal or a god wireless connection form a device like you mentioned building. So, no.”
“Shit. Okay, just watch the shields. Keep the pressure on the anti-air, target any silos.”
>The battle keeps going as you re-link with your ship, easily piloting around some of the lasers.
>The implant keeps directing you, letting you navigate past and avoid the lasers.
>As the anti-air guns thin out, the military ships turn their attention to the fighters a little, engaging and destroying them as they start to shoot at you.
>“Shields only dropped to 62%!” Astray says, the anti-air guns and fighters almost completely gone.
>“All ships be advised, enemy ships are approaching from orbit to engage.”
>“All ships this is ground team, we are all pinned by enemy tanks and have lost one of ours. Requesting assistance.
 
>You open up the communications, contacting the military ships.
“Major Rose, this is captain Hunter, we are moving to support the ground team.”
>“Understood, good work so far!”
“How many more silos are there?”
>“Only one got blown up, so about 19 more.”
“Understood.”
>You keep piloting, seeing the ground units.
>You can easily see Midnight engaging a tank, just barely outrunning the turn of its cannon as Twitch drags wounded ponies to cover.
>“Hunter, come at an angle so I have a good shot.” Ash says
“Got it.”
>You tilt the ship slightly, the right side of the ship tilted down.
>Within seconds the lasers fire, hitting plenty of enemy soldiers and enemy tanks.
>After three or four more shots, you begin to see the friendly units and tanks advancing along with Midnight.
>A large tower of smoke grabs your attention, Ash speaking up.
>“Nice, they got another one!”
>“All units! All units! Missile launch! Focus all fire on-“
>Before the sentence can be finished, the launching missile collides with one of the military ships and blows it up.
>”Oh my goddess!” Breeze says.
>Wreckage rains down all over, some of it barely missing you and hitting near the ground forces.
>You look to the radar, seeing four enemy ships flying in.
 
>You open the communications again.
“Rose! Have the ships hold off the enemy ships, we will search for the silos!”
>“…Alright, I’m trusting you with that. Go get em!”
>You quickly pilot your ship back over the base, seeing the military ships fly up to meet the enemy ships.
>“There’s one!” Ash says.
>“I see two!” Breeze says.
“Then bring them down.”
>Your crew members shoot at the silos, huge explosions following each successful hit.
>”Ground forces are entering the compound.”
>“Look at her fucking go!” a voice says in the background of the communication.
>You keep piloting and your crew keeps blasting, s a few lasers and beams coming your way the odd time from the ship battle above.
>“No you don’t” Ash says, shooting a missile that was about to launch.
>“All forces be advised, the compound is secure! All missile launches are aborted!”
 
>You smile and return to piloting normally, looking to the skies.
>You can see the last of the enemy ships retreating, the other remaining military ships going to land like you.
>Once you land, you head to the cargobay along with your crew.
>When there, Twitch and a well dressed military stallion walk aboard the ship.
>Midnight walks behind them, dragging her hind leg ad the others move just fine, some black fluid coating it.
“Midnight?”
>“I’m fine! Bullet just caught a hose. Come here Breezy!”
>The stallion approaches you, giving you a bunch of credits.
>“Thank you captain Hunter, here is your pay.” The stallion says with a smile.
“Major Rose I’m guessing?”
>“Yes. And I suggest you take the credits and go. Heroes or not, we are in more trouble then you can imagine. I don’t think you want to get caught up in the mess we are in from what we did.”
 
“Yeah, I would prefer to not get caught up in the backlash. Hopefully your instincts were right.”
>The stallion nods with a smile.
>“From what we may have stumbled across, I may just not end up in prison.”
>The stallion takes off, you looking to Midnight after.
“You going to be alright?”
>Midnight looks from Breeze to you, smiling.
>“Yep! Just needed to tell Breeze what she will need.”
>You all head to the bridge, midnight insisting that she will clean up any hydraulic fluid.
>Once there, you make a hasty departure and get on track for the shipment.
>Tiny clinks and clanks sound as Breeze repairs Midnight, Breeze speaking up.
>“By the way Hunter, I almost forgot. That tracker you gave me? I think I could make it so it picks up any radio frequency.”
“Good. And good work today everypony, you all did amazing.”
>“Ahh, just all in a day’s work.” Midnight says.
>“The work was reward itself, love a good fight.” Ash says.
>A few more clicks sound, Breeze sighing happily.
>“There, done.”
>“Yes! Thank you Breezy~.”
>A surprised yelp makes you look back, Midnight picking up Breeze and making her sit on her lap as she nuzzles her chest.
>“So! I’m wanting new plates for my legs along with a nice paintjob, think we could work out a deal you sexy thing you?”
>Breeze scoffs with a smile, nodding.
>“Yes.”
>‘…So… how was it with two mares?’ Astray asks.
 
“Come on you two, don’t start a party without me over there. And thanks again breeze, work on it when you have time.”
>“Hey! You could build Hunter a big chair so we could all share!” Midnight says, giving a laugh.
>You return to piloting, continuing the private talk with Astray.
‘About as fun as you would think, and I can guarantee better then one.’
>‘Lucky…’
‘Yep, too bad you had to “sleep” I would have been fun if you were there.’
>There is a pause from Astray
>‘Better?’
‘Yep. But I should also mention that it all depends on who you are with, Midnight is really fun if you are a switch, she loves using toys from what I have experienced so far. And breeze is not as innocent as she looks, but she makes cute noises.’
>‘So… is there a chance of it happening again? Could I get involved? And…”
>There is a small silence, Astray speaking again as you see you are almost at your destination.
>‘And… what made you start wanting to dress like that? …and I’m guessing look into… stallions… Your uncle?’
>Before you can reply, Astray speaks again.
>‘You know what? Another time, when you aren’t piloting and we aren’t working. All this has me lost or going in mental circles.’
 
‘Well, to answer my clothing. I honestly like cute clothes, and all of it is comfy too, my sweater is like wearing a cloud. And I’m sure it will happen again, they are moving into my room with me. Take your time and think about what you want to ask, it will all happen soon enough, so don’t stress over it. Till then and even after, I’ll be here for your questions. Would you want to talk later?’
>‘I guess… I just have so many things that feel… odd… to ask about. But yeah.’
>You think for a moment, wanting to switch topics.
‘What about what you need for cyber warfare? Any ideas?’
>’A few, mostly it’s what will be needed. I have a good computer with my stuff, could use a better one possibly. But all I will really need is the devices to set up a strong connection for the drone and a way for it to plug into things. Beside that? I got nothing. Unless you want to build an expensive monster that has thermal vision and AGM shit so I can drone strike anypony.’
‘That’s it?’
>‘As far as I know, I’m just shooting what I’m guessing is needed, as long as it can connect me I can work.’
>It’s not long that you arrive at the station, docking shortly.
>It takes awhile, but you and your crew are able to offload the food and get paid for the job.
 
 
 
 
>You turn to your crew, looking at Astray.
“How about you search up some computers that would be good for your hacking needs? I’ll look into the other stuff.”
>“Alright, sweet!” Astray says, walking off.
>“Yes! Now we can spend some quality time Breezy! You can measure my plates.”
>Your crew splits up as you call Fixit over, Breeze giving fake protests and laughing as Midnight drags her along.
>You send a message to your aunt, describing what you are looking for before opening up a job list.
>You look through the jobs, seeing what this station has to offer
>Scrap shipping: 1000 credits
>Pirate attack, mercenaries wanted! (takes place tomorrow): 3000 credits
>Planet patrol wanted: 3000 credits
>Miners wanted: 2000 credits.
>Before you can choose or begin searching for parts, you get a message back from your aunt.
>The message reads: “Do I know somepony? Have connections? Who do you think I am? I am the owner of Ultimate Forgery! I’ll charge you at cost and a family discount just this once. 3000 credits, and I’ll build you a drone that will give your hacker connection unrivaled, can be used to find enemies, and do your fucking taxes.”
 
>You send a message of thanks, saying that you will send the money once the specifics are discussed and the design is finalized.
>You accept the shipping job and open the patrol one.
>It’s just a simple patrol of watching over a planet for a few hours, noting too big or too far.
>You accept the patrol job and make sure that the supplies get loaded, heading to the bridge after.
>You set out and take off, leaving your crew to their own tasks for the moment.
>As you pilot, the door to the bridge opens.
>“There you are.”
>You turn to see Midnight, the cyber Batpony smiling as she walks up to you.
>Midnight gives you a firm nuzzle, looking ahead after?
>“What are we up to?”
“Shipping then a patrol, nothing big. Have fun with Breeze?”
>“Yep! And I got some nice ideas going though my head as she gets the proper fitting for my plates, I’ll need to give her a big smooch when this is done.”
>Midnight smiles at you, looking excited.
>“So what’s your favorite colour? I already had Breezy say hers, and I need to know yours.”
 
 
“Well, I am also available for smooches. Just ask and I can give several. As for colour? Orange and purple, mostly purple.”
>You look to Midnight, smiling.
“Why? Are you planning something?”
>Midnight grins and nods.
>“I may be, for both of you, and it is important.”
>You give a nod, using your magic.
‘By the way, Astray regrets missing the rest of the “fashion show”, he could probably hear us too. He wants to join in, but I told him to wait and not rush things. I honestly lacked a proper response because I was fooling around and had my fist time around his age, and feel a little hypocritical by saying that. I want to give him a chance to explore and have fun with his urges, but would rather him do it in a safe environment…’
>Midnight drops her voice to a whisper, nodding.
>“I understand…”
>She looks nervous slightly, then smiling and nodding.
>”He is underage, so we would be breaking the law by doing anything. But, it wouldn’t be the first law I broke. If he is consenting and willing, I can keep a secret. We may need to talk to Breeze though.”
>You nod, smiling.
“Alright then. Also, what is so important?
>Midnight smiles.
>“Fun fact, Batponies have a way to mark ponies that they have or want claim over, even if minor friendships.”
>Midnight returns no nuzzling and drawing circles, happiness coming form her.
>“I need another way of doing so for you and Breezy at the moment… So I need something…”
>Midnight moves from your muzzle to your cheek, your body tingling slightly.
>“And it has to go right…”
>Your jaw.
>“About…”
>Your neck
>“Here.”
>Midnight opens her both and puts her open mouth around your neck, her fangs pressed against you.
>You can’t tell if she is teasing or threatening to bite you, the pressure frim but far from painful, the whole sensation making your whole body tingle and shiver slightly.
>Midnight pulls away, looking at you and giving a wink.
>”Besides that? I need to buy clothes for a cutie mare~”
>Midnight giggles, nuzzling again.
>“Sorry, just love calling you that.”
 
 
“Which one? There were three in bed last night.”
>Midnight smiles, giving a suggestive look.
>“The one that begged me to fuck her with that look she give me, the same one who moaned when I played with her.”
>You grin back, turning your attention to the route and seeing that you are almost at the drop point for the scrap.
“Well, you can buy me cute clothes anytime~ But right now, I’m your captain, and not your cute mare.
>“So you admit to it?” Midnight says with a smile.
>She laughs when you give her a half-hearted look and smile, nodding after
>“Don’t worry, I understand. Just know that I’ll find a way to have you do naughty things all day one day, some how.”
>You arrive at the station, beginning to dock.
“So… odd question. Know how we could prevent an accidental pregnancy? Between what we talked about and why I asked you to do that last night, there could be some issues.”
>Midnight nods, smiling.
>”Fair enough, the introduction of hybrids made everypony take a step back. I can’t get knocked up myself, so I’m good. A friend had the same issue, the genetic mod applies to the child along with the parents. So you two can get Breezy knocked up good. However, there are monthly remedies that would work… Unless you want some rubbers, I could get some when I stop by the kink store later…
>Midnight smiles, looking at you as you finish docking.
>”By the way… you aren’t against “Enchanted accessories” are you? Saw something super fun. And don’t worry.”
>Midnight gets close, whispering.
>“I’ll make sure we keep it slow for you know who. Get him warmed up before we really give him options.”
 
 
“Those remedies sound good, get those. I’ll be back in a second.
>You head to the cargobay and unload the scrap, getting payed and returning to the bridge within minutes.
>You take off again, looking back to Midnight as she sits next to you.
“So, tell me about these “enchanted accessories”. What do they do?”
>Midnight smiles.
>“Many things, plenty of fun things too! They just take regular collars, bands, bracelets or cuffs and give them an effect. They can be simple or special, one of the ones I was looking at was very interesting. It makes it so the one wearer can’t reach their climax until the other wearer does, and it only gives them a short window to do so. No pain or torture, just magic preventing it. There is also one that makes the wearer respond to commands, kind of like hypnotization. Also one that makes the wearer kind of behave like an animal…”
>Midnight then grins.
>”There is also one that I want to get for you, it’s made for changelings. It will lock you into whatever you transform into, and won’t drain your magic! It can also act as a magic jammer. Perfect for my ultimate plan for you at some point. And I’m not telling! But know this, you will not be doing anything else for that day.”
>The door to the bridge opens, both of you turning and looking to see Breeze.
>“Hey Breezy!”
“Hi Breeze.”
>“Hey you two, there you are. Guess what? I think Ash and Twitch are getting along, they are working out together.”
 
 
“Ha, I’ll need to tease her about it later. Thanks Breeze.”
>You use your magic, talking to Midnight.
‘First and last one are fine, but not a fan of the mind altering ones if the pony isn’t aware.’
>Breeze sits down, Midnight nodding at you.
>“No worries about that though, we can talk more later.” Midnight says.
“Say… Breezy… How would you feel about Astray joining in on our fun?”
>Breeze looks surprised and shocked, jaw dropping slightly.
>“He’s a foal!”
>“More like a young stallion at this point, but I am right there with your reasoning Breeze.”
>“You two talked about this already?” Breeze asks, looking at Midnight.
>“Yes, and I agreed to let him join in.”
>“Why? You just said that you were in agreement for my reason.”
>“Yep, and with other reason I think we should let him join, I agree with Hunter.”
>Breeze looks to you, looking confused.
“I had my fun and first time at his age myself. He is going to explore and be very curious, I’d rather help him and make sure he does it in a safe place then on the street or with somepony bad.”
>Breeze looks a little thoughtful as midnight joins in.
>“We both acknowledge that he is underage, but he is hardly at an age where he wouldn’t want explore. When did you start snooping around Breezy? About the same time that others normally did? His age?”
>Breeze nods, scrunching her nose.
>“How about this? He would also be consenting and willing for us to do anything, it’s not like we are forcing him and we won’t hurt him. That is much better then having him be “taught” by some junkie or creep that would not care for him. He has no parents to turn to and ask this about, and isn’t like a kid in school who can trade secrets or moments with friends.”
>Breeze looks thoughtful, looking very on the fence.
>“He’s a foal, but a foal that is asking and saying yes.”
>Breeze huffs.
>“Your point is made… I just… I don’t know. He is asking and all but… he’s five years younger then me.”
>”It seems bad, but compare 15 and 20 to 25 and 30. Not that bad right?”
>Breeze bits her lip, looking thoughtful still.
>“Still…”
 
“Come here Breeze.”
>Breeze gets up and walks to you as you pilot, you hugging her and giving her cheek a kiss.
“You don’t need to be involved, we just wanted to se if you would be. I can’t promise that me and Midnight won’t do it, but you can stay out if you feel uncomfortable.”
>Breeze sighs, nodding.
>“I… I’ll try…”
“You will?”
>“I’ll try. But the second I want out, I want to stay out and not be involved.”
>”Come here Breezy”
>You get back to piloting as Breeze sits on Midnight’s lap, midnight hugging her.
>“Why does it bother you?”
>“Because it’s illegal and bad.”
>“I can’t help with the legal part except for agreeing that me and hunter won’t say anything, but is it so bad to help Astray out when he wants to do this?”
>“Kind of, just….”
“It’s better this way, he can learn how to do this safely and with little trouble. I wasn’t so lucky my first time, I didn’t know some things, and it hurt bad the first time. I wish I had a little more education then guessing.”
>“Yeah, I know. I dislocated my shoulder when I tried self bondage and fell.” Midnight says. “I’m lucky that I had a friend who stopped by.”
>Breeze winces, nodding.
>”Alright, that kinda helps. I feel a little better with it, knowing that we are teaching him and not “teaching” him...”
>You arrive at the planet you are to patrol at, getting into a gentle orbit.
 
 
 
 
>You adjust the ship to remain in orbit, turning in your chair.
“Hopefully we can just relax during this patrol.”
>“I’d say I could help you, but… I’m talking to my captain.” Midnight says with a sly grin.
>”What?”
>“I’ll tell you later.” Midnight says, nuzzling Breeze as she hugs her by her waist.
>Breeze giggles, smiling.
>“We could play a game, cards or something.”
“Possibly… By the way Breeze, don’t tell him, I’m going to place an order for the drone that Astray can use from the ship for missions. It should be top of the line, but there are upgrades that he may want that you could help him with.”
>Breeze’s smile gets wider, the mare looking excited.
>“Sounds good! Honestly I thought about showing him some engineering, he is smart enough to learn how to build a little.”
>Midnight giggles, looking at you.
>“And we can still teach him how to shoot. And… Fuck.”
>Midnight frowns, looking honestly disappointed.
“What?”
>“I messed up… I didn’t get me and Breeze dressed up… Is there another way you will let me put makeup on you Hunter?”
>“Didn’t you have something else for us too?”
>“No! Fuck! I forgot!” Midnight pouts, leaning into Breeze.
>Breeze smiles, looking at you.
>“Should I get that card game?”
 
“Sure. Either of you guys play mana the gathering?”
>“Nerd” Midnight says with a playful grin.
>“It’s a good game.” Breeze says.
>“Nerds.”
>Breeze scrunches her face and flicks Midnight in the face with her tail as she walks away.
“Grab Fixit too please. And Midnight, you can do makeup to me if you make it up to me later.”
>Midnight nods, looking excited.
>“Done deal!”
>Within moments, Breeze comes back with some cards and Fixit.
>You place the order for the drone, sending the credits to your aunt Fixer.
>You all play cards and the patrol goes without incident, having some fun with your crew as you lazily work.
>When everything is done, you quickly travel back to Tundra and receive the payment along the way.
>You give a sigh when you dock, Fixit showing a message that your aunt got the credits.
 
>You get up and stretch, smiling at the two mares.
“Alright then… day should be done with. Who wants to go to the sex shop?
“Yes!” midnight says, looking happy.
>Breeze just smiles, a small blush to her face.
>You lean towards Midnight, whispering to her.
“Go get an outfit for me.”
>Midnight practically bounces and skips off, you smiling at Breeze as you help pickup the cards.
“She is so easy to excite.”
>Breeze giggles, nodding.
>“Good win by the way Hunter, I think that first one was just luck for me.”
“Thanks”
>When you finish picking up the cards, you head to your room to see Midnight looking around.
>She looks at you, giving a suspicious smile.
>“Where are your panties?”
“Guess.”
>Midnight giggles and points towards the bed, your skirt and a simple shirt waiting for you.
>“Come on! Get it on the leeet’s gooooo!””
>You laugh and undress, Midnight giving a whistle when you just have your panties on.
>After getting dressed again, you and the mares take off.
>Some brief wandering around later, you all get to a sex and kink shop.
>Midnight takes off ahead of you two, happily looking around.
>“She… can be something else.” Breeze says with a smile.
 
“Yep, she can be like a kinky puppy, but she gives off such a good energy. She knows places like this enough to know what she wans, do you?”
>Breeze blushes and shakes her head, walking off into the store.
>You smile and set out yourself, searching the shelves.
>Finding a good sized and wireless egg vibrator, you specifically set out to look for the anti pregnancy remedies.
>You see a nice and simple set of pills that work with all races, heading to the counter after.
>You approach the clerk, the stallion giving a warm smile.
“Hello, do you have any spells?”
>He gives a wink, smiling devilishly
>“Oh we have spells, just for cuties like you. Here.”
>He shoes you a list of spells and their prices.
>Sound proofer: 1000 (Soundproofs a room so no noise can be heard)
>Lust inducer: 2000
>Lust reducer: 1000
>Limiter: 1000 (causes subject to not orgasm for duration of spell)
>Binder: 2000 (Magical binds that can attach to a surface or each other)
>Gender Changer: 6000
>The invader: 10000
>”By the way, special sale going on. New clean up spell for bad messes or sleepy ponies, it’s free with any purchase.”
“Cool! What’s this… invader?”
>The stallion smiles.
>“You know those tentacle monsters that attack ponies in some kinky movies and such? That’s that spell. Expensive because you can’t control it or stop it. Defiantly a no-no for those who aren’t ready for it.”
 
“I’ll take the Lust inducer and Binder.”
>“You sure? Not the invader?”
>You glance away, looking at the name.
“…Yes.”
>The stallion gives you the spells and you buy them with your items, getting the free clean up book too.
“By the way, think I could do some work for you and see about a free book or a discounted price? I am a mercenary, I could do any job you give.”
>The stallion eyes you up, smiling.
>“Any, eh? Tell ya what.”
>He gives you a number, smiling slyly after.
>“Call me on a day you have nothing planned cutie, I could have something.”
>It’s not long before Breeze shows up and gets a few items herself, Midnight following and doing the same
>When checked out, Midnight makes sure to hide three of the boxes she has, smiling after.
>“What were those?”
>“You will see! Are we done?” Midnight asks.
 
>You give Midnight’s flank a good swat with your tail, getting a grin from her.
“Yes, now let’s get going. You too”
>You swat Breeze, getting a good eep from her and making her blush.
>You move your tail and give the shop over a view as you walk away, looking back to see a surprised look turn to a devious smile.
>You all head back to the ship and to your room, setting your things down.
>You dive right into the spell books, smiling as you do.
>“Spells?” Breeze asks.
“Yep! Fun ones too. What did you get Breeze?”
>“…well…”
>Breeze smiles and holds up a harness, a blush on her face.
>“I figure we could all share… and that we could find a fun use. I also thought this would be nice…”
>Breeze holds up what looks like a strap on, you giving a confused look.
“What is it?”
>”It’s a gag that is like a stallions member, it is removable too apparently.
>“Oh you naughty mare!” Midnight calls, fiddling with her own bags.
>Midnight then looks to you, grinning.
>“Get over here cutie mare, I have a present for you if you beg nicely and close your eyes.”
 
>You move over to Midnight, smiling.
>You press your lips to hers and close your eyes, Midnight gently humming as she accepts she kiss.
>Opening your mouth, the two of you begin to make out, Midnight’s hoof touching your shoulder and foreleg.
>Eventually you break away, seeing midnight open her eyes with an impressed smile.
“Pretty please?”
>Midnight smiles, nodding.
>“Eyes shut.”
>You do as instructed, keeping your eyes closed.
>“Tighter.”
>You close you eyes a bit tighter, hearing movements of sorts.
>The nest sensation makes you jump a little, some unknown object tightening around your neck.
>You relax when it stops tightening, the soft and oddly comfortable object being easily felt, but not tight.
>One spot also feels cold, Midnight giggling as she hugs you from behind.
>”Eyes open.”
>You open your eyes to see yourself, a mirror standing in front of you.
>Your eyes trace a purple object that leads from a robotic hoof to your neck, a purple leather collar with a shiny heart tag hanging from it fastened around your neck.
>”Just for you, you adorable thing.”
>Midnight pulls on your leash and makes you move back slightly, getting you to sit on her lap.
>She adjusts her legs and uses them to spread yours, firmly holding your leash.
>With the way you are sitting now, you can easily see the curve of your flank in your panties along with your bulge.
>Midnight nuzzles you, giggling.
>“One for each of us.” She whispers.
 
 
>You reach a hoof up, feeling a little stunned.
>That stunned feeling goes away as your hoof touches the tag and then the soft leather of the collar.
>Your collar.
>You can’t help but feel excited in both ways by what you are wearing, what you see in the mirror adding to that.
>The panties you have on start to feel a little tight as you lower your hoof.
>You quickly turn and press your lips against Midnight’s, being more then enthusiastic as you kiss her.
>When you finish, you open your eyes to see the mare smiling at you as you huff and nuzzle her chest.
“I love it.”
>“Hehehe, down girl.”
>Midnight hugs you against her chest, rubbing the back of your head a little.
>”Come here Breezy! Your turn~”
>Midnight lets go of you and you look to Breeze, seeing her blush with a curious smile.
>Midnight makes Breeze sit and puts a dark blue collar on her, grinning widely when she holds both your leashes.
>“Perfect! Now both of you are m-i-n-e. though, I will further affirm that later.”
>“Do you have one?” Breeze asks.
>“Yep!”
>Midnight produces a bright green collar, putting it on herself with no leash.
>“Here’s a fun part.”
>Midnight touches a part of her collar that is a black section, the collar completely vanishing.
>”Something I figure that any of us could like. Just in case we felt like leaving the collars on, without being publicly expressive. Got to love magical enchantments! Now…”
>Midnight reals the two of you in by your collars, grinning at the both of you.
>”What shall I do with you two?”
 
 
>You smirk a little, pulling Breeze close.
“I thin that I, just maybe, will do what I want.”
>You run your hooves over Breeze, feeling your way across her body and to her hind legs.
>Breeze squirms with a blush, giving a tiny gasp when you run your hoof right between her legs and against her marehood.
“I think I will do Breezy right here and now, and there is not a thing that mistress can do to stop me!”
>You stick your tongue out at Midnight with your eyes closed, opening them to see a very displeased expression on Midnights face, with thankfully plenty of happiness coming from her.
>Midnight pulls on your leash and gets you away from Breeze, her stern look growing into something of a disapproving smile.
>“Really now? That hurts… I thought you liked and would love to obey your mistress.”
>Midnight gives you a good shove, sending you stumbling and onto the ground before pinning you on your side.
>“Breeze, come.”
>When Breeze moves to you, Midnight has her hold you in place, moving out of view.
>Suddenly, everything goes black, some fabric over your eyes.
>Something you can’t see covers your nose, making you open your mouth to breath, something being shoved into your moth when you do open it.
>What ever is against your nose is taken away before you feel pressure against your cheeks that goes to the back of your head, the gag being firmly secured as your breathing and arousal picks up a little.
“Mmmmf?”
>“If you haven’t anything good to say, I can stop you from saying it. And you are a BAD mare for that…”
>You have no way of telling what is happening other then sound, Midnight rolling you onto your stomach after Breeze gets off of you.
>You feel your panties being pulled down and your skirt lifted, something then resting against your flanks.
>There is an audible smack as something hits your rear, the pain both being good and bad.
“Mmmh!”
>Again your rear gets smacked, lust and happiness in the air.
>“Come here Breezy.”
>You can hear a whimper from Breeze, Midnight laughing softly.
>“No, no. You are a good girl, bot like this disobedient bitch here.”
>After some hoofsteps, you hear what sounds like a very wet kiss.
>Another smack comes, breeze letting out a small moan as Midnight giggles.
>Midnight continues spanking you for a little, eventually stopping.
>The gag you have on gets removed, left to hang by your neck as you feel something warm and wet against your nose.
>“Have something to say?”
 
>You grin.
“Eat my ass.”
>The wet feeling goes away and the gag is quickly replaced, more hoofsteps sounding.
>A much harder smack sounds, the spank against your rear now being much more painful.
>Midnight gives two more very hard spanks, your body shivering a little from it all.
>You feel your leash being tugged, Midnight directing you to stand.
>She leads you had has you sit, grabbing your fore hooves and placing something on one.
>Midnight then gets your hooves above your head, cuffing you to something so you can’t move your hooves.
>She then moves to your hind legs and puts something in place to keep them apart, also putting something on your right leg.
>Then you can feel a large toy being pressed against your sack, Midnight teasing you before she pushes the lubed toy into you.
“Mmmhmmmmmh”
>You moan at the feeling of something inside of you, the toy beginning to vibrate.
>Your blindfold gets removed, now letting you see the spreader bar and strange device attached to your leg.
>“Well, I think I shall pay attention to the better mare, we can see later if your attitude changes.” Midnight says, walking to Breeze.
>You moan again from the vibrator, looking down to see your erect member pushing the skirt up and twitching.
>You look up to see Midnight gently getting Breeze on her back, both mares smiling as lust fills the air.
>You watch as Midnight teases and nips Breeze, playing with her and making her moan freely.
>The two mares then switch positons as you remain cuffed, eating each other out and moaning happily.
>The sight and toy and everything that happened so far adds to your arousal, your member twitching and begging for any attention.
>You pull at the cuffs, moaning as you feel your self approaching your limit.
>Thrusting forward in vain to give yourself additional pleasure, the device around your leg vibrates, getting your attention.
>Nothing happens as you are kept on edge, you now trying to move you whole body in desperation to get free and finish yourself off.
>This keeps happening, the device not letting you have release.
>A loud moan pulls your attention away, Breeze having a look of bliss on her face as midnight grins in satisfaction.
>She then looks to you, grinning evilly as she watches you struggle.
>“Aww, having fun? Feel like saying something nice?”
 
 
>You bite down on the gag, pulling at the cuffs again.
>You pant and moan before, growling and lowing your head in defeat and submission.
>Looking up, you give a nod, Midnight getting up and removing your gag.
“Please, I can’t take it…”
>“Are you sorry? And please what?”
>You nod, whimpering a little in desperation.
“Yes, I’m sorry mistress… Please make me cum.”
>Midnight grins, nodding.
>She undoes the spreader and cuffs, directing you to go to the bed by your leash.
>Midnight grabs some things as you do as you are told, giving something to Breeze before grabbing your leash again.
>She pulls you down onto the bed, the toy and device still at work.
>Looking up at her, you see her with the strapon on again, resting the member against your muzzle as she grins.
>“Prove to me that you are sorry, bitch. Show me that you give up and are MY good mare. Who knows? I may mark you as mine tonight if you really are wanting to submit.”
 
>You lick the “member” stopping the tip and sucking on it, feeling hooves on the back of your head.
>“There we go, good girl”
>You keep bobbing your head for a bit, then looking up and letting go of the strapon.
“Please mistress, make me your mare. Give me your mark.”
>Midnight grins widely, nodding.
>“Good girl.”
>Midnight pulls on your leash and makes you sit up, pushing you onto your back and climbing on top of you.
>She reaches down and pulls the toy out, then moving to your neck and giving it a lick before whispering.
>“Sorry.”
>She bites down very hard, the pain hurting very badly and making you cry out a little.
>It eventually stops and subsides, midnight pulling away and looking down with an apologetic smile, her fangs having spots of green blood.
>“Now, for the pleasure,”
>She removes the device and lifts your rear up, penetrating you and making you moan.
>Midnight rapidly fucks you, making you shiver and shake before easily making you cum very hard.
>You can feel cum get across your chest and muzzle, seeing Midnight with cum on her chest too.
>She keeps going and making you moan for a bit before stopping and smiling at you.
>“See? Isn’t it better when you listen to mistress?”
>“You alright Hunter? We heard you shout from the kitchen.” Ash shouts through the door.
 
 
“Yep! Fine!, just banged my horn, sensitive and all.”
>You honestly feel yourself being turned on from the secrecy, Midnight grinning and beginning to fuck you again.
>You slam a hood over your moth and moan into it, midnight not letting up.
>“Alright then, good to hear. Almost got the rug done.”
“Good! I-I’ll take a look soon enough!”
>Again you muffle your moans of pleasure, Midnight enjoying this.
>“Cool. Night.”
>Midnight keeps going and pulls your hoof away, letting you moans fill the room.
>You cum again, barely shooting anything of a load this time as you shake in orgasm.
>You pant and your eyes drift almost closed, midnight giggling as she calls Breeze over.
>The two mares clean up the mess of cum, Breeze wincing when she looks at you after.
>“Did you really need to do it that hard?”
>“She wanted to be marked… and now she just may know her place.”
>Midnight nuzzles you and lays down to cuddle you from behind, Breeze doing so from the front.
>“So? What are you to your mistress? Did you enjoy listening?” Midnight asks with a giggle.
 
“I loved it… And I’m her mare.”
>“Good.” Midnight says, nuzzling you.
“Hang on…”
>You use your magic and quickly finish reading the cleanup spell, then using it on the three of you.
>The shirt you have on losses its wet spots right away, looking perfectly clean along with your skirt.
>“Nice.” Breeze says.
>You sigh, getting a hoof under Midnight and bringing her over you.
>You make it so Midnight is in the middle of you and Breeze, nuzzling her after.
“And one night, I’ll make sure you know that you are my mare as well.”
>You nibble on Midnight’s ear, feeling lust and happiness from her.
>“Good.”
>Midnight puts a hoof around you and Breeze, both of you resting on Midnight’s chest.
>You honestly fall asleep instantly, just happily asleep on the chest of Midnight.
 
Level up 10 points to distribute.
 
+10 to piloting
>You give a yawn as you wake up, giving a small stretch, feeling your collar and some pain on your neck.
>A pair of giggles make you open your eyes, Breeze and Midnight smiling at you.
>“Sleepy captian.” Breeze says.
>“I did do a number on her, sleep well?”
>Midnight also winces a little, giving your neck a gentle kiss.
>“Sorry again.”
 
>You move up and give Midnight a kiss, then nuzzling from her jaw to her neck before pressing the sides of your fangs against her.
>Midnight gives a tiny gasp as you pull back with a grin, seeing her smile slyly at you.
“I don’t know what you are sorry about, you will get yours soon enough. And while I hope you enjoyed your snack and my neck feels fine, I could use ice for something else.”
>You look down to your rear is, Midnight giving a small laugh.
>“Yeah, I did get a bit rougher there… but what can I do? I love to make the cuties squeal.”
>You give a yawn, stretching a little before looking at Midnight.
“So, before we go, how do I do the whole invisible thing?”
>Midnight giggles, reaching a hoof up and taking the leash off of you.
>“Easy, feel along it with your hoof for a thicker part, and just press on it!”
>Midnight demonstrates this with her collar, making it appear and disappear.
>Breeze fiddles with hers and takes her collar off, giving somewhat of a nervous smile.
>“I’d rather not get mine ruined while working, it can get super dirty in the engines.”
>Midnight grins and nods, giving Breeze a pat on her head.
>“Just remember who the boss is and listen to them.”
>“I always will listen to Hunter.” Breeze says, smiling.
>Midnight looks at you, giving a playfully grumpy smile.
>“Now look, you are influencing her.”
>You all laugh and get up, getting dressed and ready for the day.
>You look into the mirror and make your collar invisible, smiling as you still easily feel its presence.
>Just as you finish getting dressed, you spot the remote vibrator and smile, getting an idea.
>You secretly hide the vibrator on you, passing the remote to Breeze without a word.
>You then head down to the kitchen to find Ash and Twitch already eating, sitting down with some food yourself and calling Fixit.
>Midnight and Breeze quickly follow, Breeze looking confused as she sits next to Midnight.
>You start looking over the jobs, seeing what there is.
>Secure a facility: 5000 credits
>Runaway search: 2000 credits
>Pirate hunt: 6000 credits
>Cybernetic limb tester wanted: 3000 credits
>A small sensation makes you jump a little, the vibrator moving a little.
>You look up to breeze to see a curious look on her face, the look quickly turning to a small blushing smile as she fiddles with the remote.
>You feel the vibrator shoot up in speed before it completely stops, Breeze trying to keep a straight face.
>A groan turns your attention away, Astray stumbling in.
>“Well, don’t you look like a ray of sunshine?” Ash says, snickering.
>“Fak off” Astray sleepily says.
 
 
 
>You smile, looking at the colt as he drags himself to the table with food.
“Oh c'mon Astray, no need to be rude. What were you doing last night anyways, stay up late?”
>’My room is next to yours. Guess.’
>Astray groans and takes a bite of his food before answering.
>“Lookin’ at the shiit you told me to computers and such. I also hate mornnnin’s.”
>“Bet it was Hunter that work you up with that shout.” Ash says.
>You shake your head and look into the jobs, seeing what they are about.
>The pirate hunt is a small group of mercenaries wanting to hunt an organised group of pirates and raiders, hoping to put a stop to them.
>The other job is that a group of pirates has taken over a fuel factory, asking for a large sum of payment for the safety of the workers.
>You feel the vibrator go off much heavier then before, hearing a small snicker as it rests at a low pace.
>Glancing up again, you see Breeze with a sneaky smile, the mare then leaning against Midnight.
>She nuzzles then moves to Midnight’s ear, whispering something before Midnight takes a glance to you before looking down.
>Midnight gets a small knowing grin, continuing to eat her food as she looks to you time to time.
 
‘Sorry… I should have bought a soundproofing spell. But I can promise that I can make it up to you soon enough. Did you find anything good? Got any prices?’
>Astray continues eating as he talks to you.
>‘Yeah, good stuff. 3000 credits and I could be set up extra nicely, most of it is upgrades for my computer that I haven’t gotten around to… obtaining, by myself. By the way, might wana keep tomorrow free.’
‘Why?’
>‘Been talking with my friends, one could have a job for you that will get you their trust. Very dirty, but not something that is outright murder.’
>You accept the pirate hunt job for now, turning to Midnight.
“Hey, Midnight? Think you would be alright with testing some cybernetic limbs?”
>Midnight smiles and nods.
>“Sure, shouldn’t be too bad, my stuff is “plug and play”.”
>“While we are on the subject, I could have your new plates for unification day.” Breeze says with a smile.
>“Awee, thanks Breezy!”
>Midnight hugs Breeze, ash speaking up
>“How did you get those legs anyways? They look very advanced.”
>“Well… my time in that militia wasn’t exactly fun and games… But their connections got me solid health coverage!”
 
 
>You accept the cybernetics job for Midnight, looking up after.
‘Just tell me where to send the cash and let me worry about getting them.’
>‘Then send it my way, I’ll save you the time and order it myself.’
‘Also, how dirty of a job are we talking? I’m not keen on taking hostages or working with slavers.’
>‘Not too sure, but not trafficking. Something more then simple drop-offs, but not big enough to be super wrong. I don’t know the details yet, but I was hinted that we are going to kick a hornet’s nest to start a fire.’
>You then look to Midnight, smiling at her.
“Thanks Midnight, what happened anyways? If you wana talk about it that is… any interesting stories?”
>Midnight loses some of her upbeat attitude, shrugging.
>“The ponies we fought against were good at rigging traps… I got selected for patrol and… found an anti-tank landmine that had must have had its pressure sensor changed…”
>Breeze winces a little, frowning as Midnight keeps a smile.
>”Hurts… bit it’s all good now though! Besides that? Most of it was plenty of comradery and tough battles.”
 
 
 
 
>You give a nod, all of you just chatting as you finish breakfast.
>Once it is done, you get the vibrator put away in your room and head out to the cybernetics clinic with Midnight.
>Once there, you head to the counter ant talk to the stallion at reception.
“Excuse me, there was an add for cybernetics testing?”
>The stallion suddenly looks up to you, a little surprised
>“Oh! Sure thing miss- erm… we have that available, I’ll just page the doctor.
>Midnight snickers as the flustered stallion puts out a call, a mare doctor soon arriving.
>“Ah, good. I am doctor Root, just this way please.”
>You all proceed down a hall and into a room, the doctor instructing Midnight to sit as she removes her foreleg.
>“Wow, this is nice and advanced.” The doctor says as she sets Midnight’s leg down.
“So… what are we testing exactly anyways?”
>The doctor starts to hookup the leg to Midnight, talking as she does.
>“A new kind of prosthetic leg, based on a hidden weapon leg that some mercenaries use. I wanted to base the same design around a more affordable and more flexible model, something that could hold medicine, tools, or other useful things. Also one that is flexible, something that can be used on somepony who doesn’t need an entire leg.”
>When she is done, she has Midnight test the movements of the leg, explaining that it has a pen inside of it.
>”Just have a small walk and try to write on the paper, or doodle, either works.
>Midnight nods and starts to move, the doctor looking to you.
>“Also, would you mind helping me with one thing? I am also looking into a more affordable and downsized movement frame for the disabled, something that doesn’t take away the limb they have. It is just a few dozen needles that will hook up to something like an exoskeleton. For you to just test movement of.”
 
“That depends, how much would you offer for another test?”
>“I can give an extra 1000 credits I suppose.”
“Alright then.”
>You have a seat yourself as the doctor applies some cleaner to your leg, along with a numbing agent.
>It is not long before more then a few needles with wires are in your leg, the doctor instructing you to move when she hooks them up to what looks like large leg brace.
>As you move, the brace moves too, the doctor still giving instructions.
>About an hour later, you and Midnight are back to normal, the doctor giving you some credits back in the lobby.
>“Thankyou for the help, I could release one of those by tomorrow at this rate.”
>“What else could be put in those legs?” Midnight asks, looking curious.
>”Well anything frankly, medicine, boosters, weapons could still be an option… tools, supplies…”
>You look to the stallion at reception as the doctor goes on, seeing him look up at you.
>You give a wink and see a small blush to his face, the flustered stallion attempting to keep his attention to his work.”
>“-anything really.”
>The doctor nods, smiling.
>“Well, unless either of you are here for anything more… please, have a good day.”
 
“Nope. Thanks, have a good day as well.”
>You and Midnight begin heading back to the ship, the station looking busy.
>As you walk, you spot an armor store and look to Midnight.
“Hey, Midnight? I’ll be back in a sec, would you mind going ahead and making sure the ship is ready to go when I get back?”
>“Sure thing! The engines will be hot.” Midnight says with a nod.
>When she is done, you head into the store and go right to the counter
>Not wanting to waste time, just ask for a catalog and look through the available armor.
>Balistic vest: 500
>Very Light armor: 2000
>Light armor: 4000
>Personal Shield: 5000
>Medimum armor 6000
>Quick shield: 8000
>Heavy armor: 8000
>Strong shield: 10000
>Very heavy armor: 10000
 
>You buy the ballistic vest, heading back to your ship after.
>As soon as you get there, you can hear the engines running, heading right for the bridge.
>Your entire crew is there, Twitch being the only one without a station to be at.
>“Ready to roll Hunter.” Ash says.
“Good, let’s go.”
>You take off and head for the destination, the location hardly being far.
>When there, you spot several ships, one of them being a frigate.
>“Hey, you along for the mission?” the radio crackles, a mare’s voice coming through.
“Yes, are we ready? How many pirates are there?”
>“Six ships, three of them frigates. We are waiting on one more ship before we go.”
 
“Well, we are ready when you are. How many ships do we have? Any chance of reinforcements?”
>“Nope, we planned this just for that. They will be doing a supplies balance, so we will catch them by surprise and all together. We are short a ship, but they are just pirates. Organised or not, they got junk. Not to mention- oh!”
>You look to your radar, seeing another ship arrive.
>“There we go. come on, time to go!”
>All the ships begin turning and moving, you following with them.
>It’s not long before a slightly distant planet seems to become your intended destination, all the other mercenary ships staying in formation.
>As you close the distance, you can see more dots appear on your screen, at least 10 of them.
>Looking ahead, you see that they are all pirate ships, all of them orbiting the planet.
>There are mostly small ships, only three frigates still being present
>“That’s…. more then was said.” Midnight says.
>The coms come to life, the mercenary ships still advancing.
>”Looks like they expanded a little, still, commencing attack!”
 
“Ash, Midnight, open fire! Go for their engines!”
>“You got it!” Midnight says.
>“Done.”
>You plug in your augment and begin charging forward, past the other mercenary ships.
>Before you can even shoot, you see the pirates scramble and turn to attack.
>Three ships immediately turn their attention to you, both you and them opening fire when in range.
>The first series of shots hit their targets, for both you and the pirates.
>”Shields down to 80%!”
>Just as the next wave comes in, you angle your ship down and keep on a slightly new direction.
>All of the shots miss while your shots hit the frigate again, your charge to get around it continuing.
>A pair of lasers from a pirate ship flash and begin to eat away at your shield, suddenly stopping as they begin hitting the shield of the enemy frigate.
>“HA! Nice one Hunter!” Ash says.
>The pirate frigate is too slow for your ship, making it easy for you to get behind.
>Once again you open fire on the enemy ship, this time bringing it’s shields down and hitting the engines.
>“Hit!” Midnight says.
>The other two ships keep going for you having almost no luck hitting you.
 
 
 
 
“Alright, disable it!”
>Again your crew opens fire, hitting the rear of the enemy ship.
>The ship has a small explosion as its engines go into chunks, your crew now targeting the other two small ships.
>You easily evade most of the shots, taking one or two hits as you shoot back.
>As your crew hits the pirates, you spot an explosion in the distance, the colours being almost beautiful.
>“We lost a ship!” the unknown mare’s voice shouts over the communications.
>Your crew continues to fire as you break through the smaller ship’s shields, the ship quickly being excessively damaged.
>You watch as the last of the three ships disappears in a sudden wall of smoke, you steering clear of it.
>”Cleaver.” Midnight says.
>Two ships emerge from the smoke, one of them being another frigate.
>Suddenly, warnings pop up on your display, your implants providing flight path as you keep away from the smoke.
 
“Ash, watch our rear!”
>You turn away from the ships and begin following the path, going through the gates as they appear.
>“Hunter! We have missiles!” Ash shouts.
>You keep going through the gates as your crew either shoots at the ships or missiles, keeping to the flight path.
>Suddenly the flight path stops, Ash laughing.
>”Ya lost em Hunter, nice work.”
“Good. Keep disabling them!”
>You open up the communications, radioing the lead mercenary ship.
“This is the Vanguard, we are going to disable ships for capture and offer surrender, we can make a better profit this way.”
>”Got another!” Midnight says.
>“Capture? Fine. Surrender? No chance.”
>Your display lights up again as more missiles start coming your way, once again you following along the path.
>Though you go through the gates, the ship shakes from an explosion, alerts showing on your display as some shots hit you.
>”Shields are at 61%!” Astray shouts.
>”Cruiser!” the mare’s voice shouts.
>You look to your far right, seeing a large ship with pirate looking markings on it, the massive ship charging towards yours.
>There are four large guns on the ship, all of them pained with a fanged mouth on them.
>“Oh shit!” Ash says.
>Large green beams fly out from the unknown cruiser, making your blood run a cold.
>The beams go right by your ship and hit one of the Pirate frigates, the ship being instantly disabled.
>Again the large ship fires, this time gunning for the smaller pirate ships in the distance.
 
“Oh shit…”
>You quickly change course to move away from the front of the cruiser, getting off to the side of it.
>The cruiser just flies past you, more apparent pirate markings on the ship.
>The cruiser keeps shooting at the pirates, not even bothering with the mercenary ships.
“Unidentified ship, This is the captain of the Vanguard! I request that you state your intention and affiliation!”
>The communications come to life, a sharp and bossy mare’s voice coming through.
>”This is first mate Stream of the Vengeful Serpent, our intention is to end this conflict quickly. Our allegiance is to ourselves. Under orders of our captain are we to not fire upon any mercenary ships unless they intend to destroy us.”
>The ship hits two of the smaller pirate ships, again only disabling them and not destroying them.
>some of the ships are too fast for the cruiser’s guns.
 
 
“Well then, mark us as friendly, we are not getting paid enough to take on a cruiser.”
>“Smart. Better not try anything.”
>You sigh, piloting back to the battle.
“Alright, take out the pirate ships that are too fast for the cruiser, give it some support! And Astray? Do a quick search on this ship. Vengeful Serpent.”
>“Uhh…damn. Fixit, right?”
“Yes.”
>“You’re the boss” Ash says.
>You follow the cruiser and your crew begins shooting at the pirate ships, the pirates too focused on the cruiser to be bothered by you.
>The tide of the battle quickly turns in your favour as you, the cruiser, and the mercenary ships all take down the pirates one by one.
>Your crew leaves the ships damaged, but not destroyed, the same not being said for the other mercenary ships.
>You watch as the cruiser easily takes down another pirate frigate, almost nothing seeming to do anything to it.
>When there are three pirates left, the pirates begin to turn tail, two of the mercenary ships following and shooting them.
>The cruiser charges forward and intercepts the shots with its own shield as the pirate’s shields drop, broadcasting a transmission.
>“Attention all mercenary ships, you have won the day. Should you continue your attack, you WILL be destroyed.”
>All the ships seem to get the message and turn tail, your communications still going.
>“Vanguard, our captain… commends your merciful or tactical decision to offer the pirates a chance of surrender. And before you ask, radio interceptor. And she offers you the chance to profit from either their cargo or salvage. However, should you interfere with our rescue operations, you will suffer the consequences.”
“Anything Astray?”
>“Kinda? There are reports on them, but it’s more questions then reports. They aren’t pirates or mercenaries… Always help ponies, but never work with police specifically.”
 
>You give a sigh, using the coms again.
“I accept the offer to retrieve their cargo. Also, extend your captain an offer to have a drink sometime.”
>You hear a scoff, the bossy sounding mare speaking again.
>“HA. And your name?”
>“Captain Hunter.”
>There is a pause before the mare’s voice returns, the mare now sounding worried and guilty.
>“O-our captain accepts and offers for it to be dinner and her treat… And, I also apologise for my behavior.”
>The communications cut, you shaking your head after.
>as you set out to retrieve the cargo, you see the Cruiser open up, several very small ships departing and heading for the wrecks.
>It is not long before you and your crew start taking the cargo, getting the unknown containers aboard your ship.
>As you load the cargo, one of the small ships gets close and deploys ponies, all of then heading into the damaged ship.
>The ponies retrieve the living pirates and start to treat their wounds, getting aboard the transport and taking them with them.
>All the events pass quickly and you leave the unknown ponies alone, letting them save the dying pirates.
>After awhile, you get 9 cargo containers aboard your ship, your communications coming to life again.
>”Our captain has requested a location of a station where you would like to meet, should you ever actually want to have that drink or meal… She is also wanting to invite you aboard when the time comes, to show some hospitality…
>”Our cook makes a mean apple pie!” a squeaky voice shouts.
>You can hear some laughter as the mare on the communications groans in frustration.
 
>You look back at your crew, giving a suspicious look.
"How about we meet up before that happens? Tundra station has a nice bar.”
>“I will inform my captain, once we drop off our… “guests”, we should be able to”
>You sigh as the communications end, Midnight speaking up.
>“Want us to come?”
“Yes, but I’ll just take Ash for now. I want this to go as smooth as possible, but be ready for a fight…”
>“Well, if you are doing it tonight, it gives us time to get ready. …Also gives you time to possibly change, Hunter.” Ash says.
>“Come on, the skirt looks good!”
>“Kinda fitting.” Twitch says.
>“Regardless! …How about this? Do you feel comfortable fighting in that?”
>“Combat skirts are a thing!” Midnight chimes in
 
“Yeah, but I don’t own one.”
>“Not yet!”
>You smile and shake your head.
“Well, let’s go back and get prepared.”
>You and your head back to Tundra, arriving soon.
>Once there, you go and clean up, putting on the ballistic vest you haven’t shown Astray yet, and putting on some nice pants and your dress shirt.
>When it is all done, you head to the cargo bay, finding most of the crew there.
>Ash stands ready, hiding the knife you gave her and looking a little more well kept.
>Ash glances as you, giving a smile and nod.
>“Nice look for ya.”
>“HE is handsome.” Midnight giggles.
>“Ready?”
 
“Yeah… though I miss my skirt.”
>“I’ll find you a battle one.” Midnight says.
>You smile and nod, heading out with Ash.
>The both of you head to the bar from before and take a seat at the counter, the bartender greeting you with a smile.
>“Hello there, anything I can get for ya?”
“Not yet, we are meeting somepony here.”
>“Just holler if you need anything then.”
>You give a smile before you and Ash keep waiting, Ash sighing.
>“Think this will go well?”
>“I hope so, hopefully…”
>Some movement catches your attention, a blue mare looking around when she enters the bar.
>As soon as she locks eyes with you, you can see the displeased look on her face as she approaches you.
>“You are the captain then?” she asks, sounding like the bossy mare from the cruiser.
“Yes, and you are Stream? The first mate?”
>“Yes I am.” She says sternly
>“Where is the captain?” Ash asks calmly.
>“Distracted with her own… wants. Besides, it gives me a chance to size you two up and-“
>“Stream… we discussed this. Besides, just because he was taught to forgive and has grown to have a kind look about him, he could still very well hold his own.”
>You look up to see a Batpony mare lowering a pirate looking hat off of her head, a fresh looking scar across her eye.
>The captain mare has a red jacket and a nicely done braid, her hair looking singed slightly and a lavender band tightly secured around her upper right foreleg.
>There is something… odd about the look of her though, she smiles at you kindly, a loving look in her eyes.
>“And trust me, ponies will have your head if you try to harm him.”
>“…Do you know about him captain Cobalt?”
>You jump right up, grinning widely.
“AUNT COBALT!”
>You chitter loudly, not caring that probably half the bar is staring at you as you and your aunt hug.
>“A-aunt? Oh no…” Stream says.
>Ash snickers as you let go and look at your aunt, your mouth running a mile a minute.
“What happened to your eye? How are you? Where did you get that ship? Is any of the old crew with you? What-“
>“Easy Hunter! Still as energetic when you were a little cutie.”
>Cobalt nuzzles you, smiling at you after.
>“Work happened, nothing too bad, but I know that somepony will give me trouble. And I’m great, even better now that I get to see my favorite little Changeling! Even if you are grown up. I bought the ship myself, and no, it’s just me.”
“Oh?”
>“I’v kept tabs on all the others, and know where they are and what they are doing. Except for your uncle Mich, he’s like a ghost.”
>Your aunt shakes her head and hugs you again.
>“Still! Look at the handsome captain! I thought it was you when I heard your name, your mother mentioned that you set out.”
>“His mother?”
>“Yes, Vex.”
>“T-t-the changeling who… the one that… y-your stories?”
>Your aunt nods, Stream looking worried.
>“Oh no….”
 
“So… why does your first mate hate me? Also…”
>Your aunt smiles, giving a wink.
>“I know you too well.”
>Cobalt gives you a bag of gummies, getting a big smile on your face as a result.
>“And Stream doesn’t hate you, she just has an attitude about her. It is her strongest quality and worst one too, she can be mean, but there is a hard working and dedicated mare in her. Though, she is probably regretting it now that she knows you are Vex’s son.”
>You look at the blue mare, smiling.
“Don’t worry, my mom is a mother under all those stories. She walks one hoof at a time, and keeps a plasma rifle under the sink. …That’s normal, right?”
>Stream looks even more worried, your aunt giggling.
“Anyways, now that I know it is you, I am much more comfortable coming aboard you ship.”
>Cobalt nods, smiling still.
>“Good! And I would be worried if you weren’t cautious, smart thinking with that ballistic vest and your friend bringing her knife. But this can’t be all of your crew, did you actually want that dinner? You are more then welcome to bring them all.”
 
“Sure! I’ll bring everypony. my marefriends, son, medic, and Ash here. Just let me change into something better.”
>“Son?” Ash says.
>Cobalt giggles, nodding.
>“You must be your mother’s son. Sure thing! I’ll wait outside of my ship for you at the docks.”
>You look to Stream, seeing the mare look more then nervous.
“Ash, as your captain, I order you to give her a hug.”
>Ash stays quiet and watches the mare, smiling.
>“Nah, this is more fun.”
>“See you soon Hunter!”
>You all take off, you heading back to your ship with Ash.
>When you all get there, you find your crew waiting.
>“That was fast.” Twitch says.
>“Everything okay?” Breeze asks.
 
>You grin widely, nodding.
“Better then okay! The captain is my aunt!”
>“What?” Midnight says.
“Yep! We are all going over to her ship for food. Oh and she got me some gummy bears, anypony want some?”
>Aster you share some of the treat, you quickly hurry back to your quarters and get changed, Midnight and Breeze doing the same with you.
>You pull on your skirt and sweater again, feeling much better and giving a sigh.
>After that, and your crew is all ready, all of you head out.
>It is not far from your ship that you spot your aunt, running up to her and hugging her again.
>Cobalt looks over you and giggles.
>“Looks like Mich did leave an impression on you, you are a scarf and rifle away from looking like him too.”
>“Oh, so it runs in the family then?” Ash says, shaking her head with a smile.
 
“Of course! Everypony in my family is a snappy dresser and a badass, just look at my aunt!”
>Cobalt laughs, nodding.
>“I’ll show some pictures later. Come on, welcome aboard!”
>You all walk aboard the ship, the whole thing looking old, but sturdy.
“You need to tell me about your adventures. Also, you aren’t mercs or pirates? What are your goals then? And what is happening to the pirates we fought?”
>Your aunt shakes her head as you all walk.
>“Well, we do mercenary jobs here and there, but we mostly just try to help ponies and stop fights. I’m trying to do the same things that your mother did, turning the lives of ponies around and saving them, but on a constant level.”
>“So, you look for trouble at times, then you use force to end it.” Twitch says.
>“Something like that, you are not wrong. But we don’t just go after any pirate or bad pony we come across, only the ones that are harming others or intend to do so. It isn’t the best method, but it also works very well. Ponies stop when we shoot, and most think twice before disobeying us. Yes, we basically bully ponies into listening to us, but making them stop to think does wonders.”
>“A threat as a deterrent.” Breeze says.
>“Exactly! We don’t mean to kill everypony we go up against, just to stop them and make them think about what they are doing, then let them go to decide if it is worth it. We always let ponies go if we can, but will protect those who are running away or can’t before we do. And if they don’t listen… well… Vex taught me to be a mare of my word. But that is also just dealing with pirates, we also participate in huge search and rescue operations.”
>“What about those pirates? You letting them go too?” Ash asks.
>“We already did. Sometimes I ask them to join us, other times we turn them in. I was a pirate once too, I stole and smuggled to survive, I know that most of the pirates just want to live and do the bad things they do to survive. Sometimes giving them a little money, and a second chance is all they need to change. I know that we don’t always have success, and that there are times where we could be letting very bad ponies go, but they deserve a second chance in my eyes. Far from perfect… but still.”
>You all keep walking through the ship, taking a turn.
“This ship is impressive aunt Cobalt, my mom never mentioned this.”
>“Yes… well… I needed some time on my own to try and be away from your mother a bit, to make sure that I thought what I was still doing was right… I only talked to her yesterday after two months. I’m needing to see her and your father again…”
>“Captian Cobalt!”
>You look to see a Pegasus run up to your Aunt, looking excited.
>“It happened!, it’s a filly!”
>Your Aunt nods, smiling brightly.
>“Then give my best to Mist and her husband, I’ll stop by when she has rested.”
>“Aye! Also, Grease fixed the sprayers, the crops don’t need to be watered manually.”
>“Good.”
>As the Pegasus takes off, Midnight speaks.
>“Filly? Crops?”
>Your Aunt nods, smiling.
>“We try to grow most of our food on the ship. And one of my crew had gotten pregnant awhile back… Oh my gosh, where are my manners? I don’t even know your names yet!”
 
“I’ll introduce you! The colt is Astray, my son. The cyber Batpony and cutie Hybrid are Midnight and Gentle Breeze, my marefriends. You’ve met Ash, our griffon. And the strong and silent guy is Twitch.”
>Your whole crew says hello, Astray looking a little embarrassed or annoyed.
>“Nice to meet you all. And a son Hunter? Does your mom know yet? Regardless, come on, you are all hear for food.”
>Your aunt waves for you all to follow, all of you walking as you lead the way.
>You look to your aunt, sighing.
‘I can't really say I agree with the whole do "what I say or die" thing. I feel like there's a difference between pushing your way into conflicts and what mom did. Frankly just pushing ponies around is a quick way to make enemy whether they're good or bad ponies. A lot of ponies just don't like getting guns pointed at them and getting kicked around. If you hadn't said you didn't want to fight and I had a better ship, things could have ended badly.’
>“I know.” Cobalt says with a slight frown. “Plenty of ponies have mentioned that, even your mother. Like I said, it’s far from perfect and not the best, but plenty of ponies have lived because of us.”
>You feel a little awkward until your and beams at you, continuing to walk.
>“Don’t worry about criticizing me in front of my crew, we all have heard it and all know that it can be foolish.”
>Your Aunt opens a door and leads you all through, a small dining area with an attached bedroom being inside, photos and objects of all kinds being inside.
>“Where is this?”
>“My room, and my personal dining quarters. The crew has their own mess area, though I like to eat with them, I sometimes have guests or want my own time. Speaking of, Who wants what for food? And feel free to look around, you are my guests.”
 
 
“Wow aunt Cobalt, this is pretty cool.”
>“Yeah, you practically live like royalty.” Ash says.
>Your Aunt blushes, shaking her head.
>“Don’t say that! Now you really make me sound like a mean pony who only beats up others and lives off the benefits.”
“Well, I don’t mind anything really, but is a fruit salad alright?”
>“Yep! Who else wants what?”
>Your crew places their orders, all of them then happily looking around as your aunt tells the kitchen.
“What is all this stuff aunt Cobalt?”
>“Oh! Things from adventures, trophies, gifts…”
>Your Aunts shows you around, telling tales about ships she fought, ponies she saved, and other adventures she had.
>When you get to the photos, you look through them and see plenty of her crew and others, a large collection being of foals she saved.
>Then there is one photo that catches your eye, a large group of ponies and other races standing in a field, a bunch of signatures on the large photo.
>Vex, Angel, Chaos, Fixer, Sky, Mich, Surge, Charon.
>Your aunt giggles, smiling at the photo.
>“Who are they?” Breeze asks
>“The old crew, everypony including Hunter’s parents.”
>Midnight gasps, turning to your aunt as the picture levitates down to Astray.
>“Any pictures of Hunter?”
>Your Aunt nods and pulls down a large book, flipping through the pages and showing a picture of you as a hatchling, asleep with your manticore and in an old sweater.
>“Aweee!” Midnight says, her and Breeze looking at the photo.
>“So… Which one is that uncle?” Astray asks.
 
“Oh, you can't tell who he is? Well, he is really pretty it might be hard to pick him out from the mares. He's the second prettiest changeling.”
>You point to your Uncle.
“Right there.”
>Astray nods, giving a hum.
“Aunt Cobalt, have any pictures of uncle Mich?”
>Cobalt nods, giving you some photos.
>You show Astray, one of the pictures being him in a shirt and skirt as he lays on his belly, in a shooting position.
“By the way, what is Sky, Charon, and Surge up to? I haven’t seen them in forever.”
>Cobalt nods, smiling.
>“Sky is with Cerb, still somehow doing mercenary jobs. Haven’t talked to him in a while, he decided to adopt apparently. Charon, if I remember, is still on your colony and running her own clinic. And Surge is at a university, teaching magic and magical spells!”
>“Wow, they all look so cool in these pictures.” Midnight says.
>Your aunt giggles and nods, looking to you again.
>“So, how is the mercenary life so far? Anything you want to talk about? Because marefrends aside, how did you end up with a son? He looks very-“
>A group of ponies come in, carrying food with magic or carts before setting them on the table.
>“Here you are captain! Fresh and hot.”
>“Thankyou very much Flame, you always work quickly. We can talk later, I’m sure you want to get through that food and to your pie!”
 
>You give a nod.
“Sure, let’s eat and then talk.”
>You all sit down, happily dinging into your food, your fruit salad being delicious.
>“Oh wow, these fruits and vegetables are great!” Breeze says.
>“All grown on this ship! Our reactor is our water heater, and was made to be water cooled. Sure, the extra water tanks take up space, but they make the room with the water pipes like a greenhouse. We can’t keep the whole ship fed like that, but we always have fresh food as a result.”
>You all keep eating and chatting, moving onto the desert after.
>The pie is just as good, your mouth watering at every bite.
>When it is all done, you just sit and relax, your crew talking happily.
>“So, how did you get a son? Did you find him?” Cobalt asks.
“Yeah, It was kind of a spur the moment thing, but I like to think of him as family regardless. He might not look it but he's our cyber warfare expert on the ship, turns out he got quite the bounty put on him.
He can pull his own weight, so I thought it would be a waste to put him in the system or leave him on the streets. Kids with skills like that need a proper outlet.”
>Your aunt nods, smiling.
>“Good, I bet your mom and dad would be impressed, if not love to see what you have done. She is super worried about you also, when we talked she wouldn’t stop. It’s kinda funny, given that she caused the same thing for Angel’s mother. How are you doing though? For what I was told, you kinda jumped hooves first into it.”
 
 
“I’m doing okay I suppose, it is hard but getting easier. I think… I really went into all this with a romanticized view of it all, not I fond myself thinking of tactics, outcomes, and what if’s. Epically after having a cruiser catch me with my pants down.”
>Your aunt nods, lowing her head a little with a smile.
>“Maybe I may need to rethink my execution…”
“But still, I am starting to love it! It hasn’t been a week and I have two marefriends and a son, I couldn’t ask for more.”
>Your aunt laughs, nodding.
>“Just don’t let that stop you, there is always more to be had and secrets to keep.”
“Yeah… Anyways, what were you saying about Astray? He looks very what?”
>“I was going to say he looks very old, like he would have been in an adoption agency for awhile. But from what you said, I’m guessing you basically rescued him from the streets. He does have this… odd feeling about him, but he looks like he is nice. I bet you might just spoil him like we all did to you. Speaking of…”
>Your aunt produces another two bags of gummies, smiling.
>“For you and him, to keep your spirit high. And I want to give you something before you go, just as a little treat for taking on such a huge responsibility of being a captain.”
 
“Should I close my eyes and stick out my hooves? Or do I get a kiss on the forehead? And you shouldn’t have, now I feel bad for getting you nothing!”
>“if you want to.” Your aunt giggles. “And besides, it’s just something that you could find useful.”
>You shut your eyes and hold out your hooves, feeling something slightly weighted set onto them.
>Opening your eyes, you see a long metal box of sorts, one ends with yellow on it.
“Umm?”
>”Watch, and be careful.”
>Cobalt presses on the side of the box, a blade springing forward out of the yellow end and making you jump a little.
>“It’s a spring bayonet, you can change what it has and you could have it on your gun or leg. It’s not exactly the nicest thing, but it could save you. It did for me.
>She presses the button on the side of the box again to make the blade retract, then leaning in and hugging you, giving your forehead a kiss.
>You feel her rub the back of your head as you settle into her shoulder a little, relaxing and feeling a wonderful feeling.
>Love, pure and caring love.
>“Please stay safe Hunter, fighting will be unavoidable at times and I don’t and to see you hurt. And at least give your mom a call sometime soon, she’s scared for you.”
 
“I’ll do something, I promise. I feel bad for worrying her. And thank you, I try to take the non-lethal approach, I’ll see if Breeze can tinker with it.”
>“Good. And like I said, it should already be able to do such a thing, but she could make it do more I bet.”
>You move back, smiling at your aunt.
“Thank you aunt Cobalt… for everything. You are the best Aunt ever.”
>You watch as tears fall down Cobalt’s face, her smile wide as she nods.
>“I-I’m happy to hear you say that. I know you will make your parents proud, because I am very proud of you.”
 
>You give your aunt one last hug
“Hopefully I will see you again soon.”
>“Yes… be safe Hunter.”
>You all say your goodbyes, leaving the ship and heading back to yours.
>Midnight sighs once you get aboard, smiling.
>“Your aunt was really nice Hunter, and cool to.”
“Thanks. It was good to see her.”
>Breeze walks ahead, Midnight calling after her.
>“Where ya going Breezy?”
>“To work on your plates! You want them done right?”
>Midnight nods, our crew dispersing to do their own things.
>You call Fixit over, making a call to the sex shop worker.
>“Hello?”
“Hello, it’s Hunter, the Changeling that asked if they could do something for free books?”
>“Ah! Yes, I remember… Hmmm… I can’t give anything today, but I can give you some choices for later. Anything you against?”
“Depends on what it is.”
>“Well… I know some ponies that could use help with “production” of a film… or “volunteers” for events… They could also use some honest security for them too, nothing violent, just ponies to step in if the guests get to rough. You could also help around the store if you really want to.”
 
“Could I do more then one and get more books? What would give me the most value of my time?”
>“Well… if you are up to it, sure! And the film or working at the store, the events can last several hours and will keep you… very busy. You can stop by tomorrow for either or, the event will be in a day or so.”
“Alright. Also, before I go, what would you need help with around the store?”
>“Oh, just cleaning and organising, making stuff look proper and guiding those who seek adventure.”
“Cool. Would I get my own copy of the film if I helped?”
>The stallion laughs.
>“Sure thing!”
“Alright. I’ll see about coming by later then.”
>“Good, have a good one!”
 
“Wait, before you go! If something comes up, you don’t mind a reschedule?”
>”Oh, no, not at all. Ponies have lives to live, stuff like that happens often and is no problem. Besides, it will be late in the day.”
“Good, thanks again.”
>You end the call and begin heading into the ship, thinking of spending some time with Astray.
>As you walk, some singing catches your attention.
>As you pass the engineering, you look to see Breeze working away at metal pieces, bending them as she does a very small series of nods along to some music.
>“Because I’m no loooo…..”
>Breeze trails off as she spots you, covering her face with a hoof as she blushes.
>“Hey Hunter.”
“Hiving fun?”
>“Yes… I wanted to talk actually, about upgrades.”
>You walk over to Breeze, watching as she works.
“I was just thinking that, any ideas?”
>”A few, I want to do something with that compartment above our rooms. While it could be made into more rooms, there are other things too. I’m thinking of putting more guns or lasers up there, or some retractable launchers, all of them being 6000 credits and 7000 for the launchers. The hull it a little weak there, so we need to reinforce it for the launchers. …Also, while an expensive 20000 credits, I also want to put another shield generator and power generator up there.”
“Another shield generator?”
>“Yep! A dedicated one too. We could be fast and tough that way. And finally, my last idea, we put catapults in the cargo bay. There is enough room for two fighters and a catapult, while it would cut back our cargo to near nothing, we could make a good launching and landing system. Give or take 5000 credits without the fighters.”