Title:           Pocket Watch - day 2
Author:          CGen
Pastebin link:   http://pastebin.com/9zWN6hNv
First Edit:      Wednesday 20th of April 2016 08:54:10 AM CDT
Last Edit:       Last edit on: Monday 16th of May 2016 07:40:46 AM CDT

>Another day begins. The sun rises, and so do you.
>After all the usual stuff you do in the morning, eating, changing, setting up shop, greeting your mailpony, you set yourself behind your counter once again.
>The workload for pending orders has gone down some, well except for that repair and replacement for that one businesspony's watch.
>The ring of the doorbell brings you out of the newspaper. Always another customer, another watch to service.
>Its not like the average contents of some celebrity's saddlebag was very interesting anyway.
 
>Hey, its whats-her-name from yesterday!
>Another pony accompanies her into your store.
>A bat pony, in fact. He's stallion with a slightly unusual appearance for his race. A little more toned than most ponies too.
>The purple tinged gray coat and navy blue mane aren't new for 'bats', but the bright green eyes and lavender streak in his mane are.
>The mare whom most certainly didn't see you exit a lingerie store yesterday places a watch on the counter. The same one you sold her, in fact.
>"Good morning! We were just passing by and I thought we'd come in. This is my nephew, Night Skies."
>The stallion gives a 'hello' with a curt nod and smile.
>"I've uh, lost the winding key before I gave it to him you see. Could we get a replacement?"
 
"Sure. Let me take a look."
You accept the watch and examine the arbor in the hole at the back.
Lost winding keys are relatively common, so you've made sure to keep a few spares at the counter.
You take your first guess in your wing and try the fit.
>Let's see...a size 6? Too small. Size 9? Too big.
>The mare has started looking around browsing the displays, but her nephew is just standing there staring...its a little awkward.
Perhaps it'll be good to make some small talk to keep him occupied.
"I...didn't expect you to be a Thestral. Its nice to meet you."
>"Likewise." The stallion does a small bow with his wing. How formal of him.
>"I get that a lot. Being introduced as the nephew of a unicorn tends to turn some heads."
>He flashes a smile at that, showing his fangs.
>"Not all of them polite..." He mutters under his breath.
 
>Size 7...almost there.
>He watches you try the different keys. Your fine feather control seems to intrigue him.
>"I've never seen a pegasus use their wings like that before, how do you do it?"
>Size 8, perfect.
 
You try to keep modest...but your super fine wing control was always something you've been proud of.
"Oh you know, just had a lot of practice...not to brag, but I doubt there are other Pegasi in this city as dextrous as me~"
You finish off your sentence with a flourish of your wing, weaving the winding key in between your primaries. And a smile, always with a smile.
"Is there anything else in here that caught your eye?"
>Night Skies mumbles out an 'ahem' and looks around quickly. You notice his wings twiched too. Is he...?
>"Your, uh, store looks lovely. The watches you make are very nice pieces."
>Perhaps Thestrals aren't blushing types, but his voice and mannerisms tell you he's embarassed all the same.
>You did spend a lot of time observing ponies, after all. Body language is as good for finding marks as it is reading customers.
>"Auntie, the key's ready!"
Smooth...
 
>The mare quickly returns to the counter and collects the watch and key.
>"Oh thank you! How much does it cost?"
You wave her bit purse away.
"Its free. Don't worry, keys like this are cheap, and I have plenty to spare."
>She smiles warmly at your generosity, resting her hoof on the counter.
>"Well thank you again, Mr...?"
"Pocket Watch, Ma'am.'
>"Pocket Watch, that's a nice name. I'm Blank Ledger. Thank you for your help."
>She turns to leave.
>"Come along, Skies! You're going to have to go back in the afternoon, your graduation's tomorrow night!"
>The bat stallion rolls his eyes, and smiles and nods at you as he turns to follow her out.
>"Yes auntie, I told you that earlier."
You return the gesture, finding five bits on the counter as you look down.
 
You pocket the coins and look down at your watch to check the time once again. (pun)
Its just after ten.
Hmm...better keep an eye on guardpony Skies if you meet again. Welp, back to the paper.
>'Trade agreements necessary for prosperity of both Equestrian and Gryphon nations.'
>It looks like a reply from an economist at the paper to a letter 'concerned' about the effects about the upcoming trade meetings.
>'Concerned' is the word used, but some of the quotes seem more serious than that. Maybe its just out of context.
>Apparently whomever wrote the letter was wondering about the necessity of having such trade in the first place, if Equestria really needed such agreements.
>The article then goes into detail about the country's natural resources, the importance of diplomacy, Harmony as one of the tenents of the country and so on.
>It read like a propaganda piece, no matter how valid the points were.
 
>You were happy to put down the paper when the doorbell chimes once again.
>Snail Mail is there, holding a letter in his mouth. Looking a little sweaty too.
>He comes up to the counter, dropping a blank white envelope with a plain wax seal on it.
>"Sorry to come in so late, Watch. This one was an urgent delivery."
 
"You look like you could use some water, Snail. Why don't you take a seat? The letter can wait for a few minutes."
>The mailpony shakes his head.
>"Nah, I don't need a seat. I'm an Earth Pony remember? Stamina's kind of our thing. I won't say no to a free drink though!"
You bring down some water for him as you open up the letter.
>Its adressed to one Pocket Watch, watchmaker & proprietor of Timless Timepieces
>'Mr Pocket Watch, we are an interested party with a proposition for a pony of your unique skills.'
Well that doesn't sound omnious at all.
 
>'Your dexterity and experience with the manipulation of fine objects is something few other ponies possess.'
>'Our representative shall wait till noon at the Green Mug tavern. They shall contact you upon arrival. From there, further details may be discussed.'
This sounds like that recruiter pony Copper mentioned...
>'Should you be absent or otherwise unavailable, the aforementioned pony shall arrive at your store at 2pm.'
>'Ignorance of this letter or representative shall not be considered a rejection of the offer, which may only be accepted once all relevant details are discussed.'
Scratch that, its obvious that this is exactly the kind of thing he was talking about.
>'We urge you to consider offer fully. It shall prove beneficial for you, as well as others.'
>Snail Mail nonchalantly takes a drink from his glass.
>"You didn't get another letter from some stuck up noble, did you?"
 
You fold the letter and put it in your pocket.
"No, I don't think so...say, did you get this from the office, or some other pony?"
>Snail Mail looks as if the answer should be obvious.
>"The office, of course. Its how I'd known to send it to you. I don't accept any urgent deliveries with no addresses from just any random pony."
Maybe what Copper said about that mare 'working for the crown' isn't too far fetched after all?
"Well thanks for that." You point to his now empty glass.
"Do you want a refill? Or did you have to get going?"
>The Earth pony sets his glass on the counter.
>"Nah, I have to get going now. I've got packages to take care of in the afternoon."
 
You stop him before he leaves, and push over the bits Blank Ledger gave you.
"Thanks for the trouble, Snail."
>He looks surprised, but takes the tip anyway.
>"Wow, five bits for showing up sweaty with a late letter? I should do this more often! Thanks, Watch."
>The door shuts once again, leaving you alone once again.
Now that you've got some piece, what will you do about the letter?
Its definitely no prank letter, Copper wasn't kidding about them knowing all the personal details.
Either now or later, you're going to have to go to them, or they'll come to you. At least they won't kidnap you or something, right?
 
...maybe meeting the pony first would give a better impression, not that it would matter much. You wanted to go out anyway.
You check the time. Quarter to eleven. Too early to leave just yet.
>Its nearly an hour before you can leave, looks like you'll just have to wait.
>The time passes slowly, each glance at the clock reminding you of what's going to happen. And you're in a watch shop.
>That has given you plenty of time to think. And worry some, too.
>What will they say? How will they act? Will they be alone? Sure, it'll probably be the same mare Copper met, but there's no guarantee.
>Eventually, the time comes for you to leave.
 
>Setting out the sign and locking the door, you take flight to the Green Mug.
>Its looking as it always does. Steel Plate is at the bar again, but Banana is doing tables this time.
>Though for this visit, another pony stands out.
>Its a light brown unicorn mare in a clean black suit. She's sitting in a booth at the back, and she's looking right at you.
 
Maybe its best to pretend that you haven't seen her yet, but you still keep an eye out just in case.
You greet Steel and place your order first, it is still your lunch break, after all.
Approaching the mare's table, you don't seem to notice anything out of place...
You slide into the bench and take it upon yourself to start the conversation.
"Uh...Hello. You wanted to meet me?"
Such confidence.
 
>The mare smiles lightly and pushes aside a cup of tea.
>"Good day, Mr Pocket Watch. You're right on time. I take it you've already placed your order?"
 
"Yes I have. I have other matters to take care of later, so I'll cut to the chase."
Maybe going the direct approach will help?
"What did you want to discuss, Mrs...?"
>The mare nods in agreement, and leans foward.
>"A stallion of action, I see. To the point, then. My name is Charmed Wit. And I see you've received the letter about the job offer."
>She gestures to the piece of paper sticking out of your shirt pocket.
>"I work for the Princesses, for the safety and security of Equestria against threats too delicate to solve with words or weapons. And I'm here to give you a job offer."
>"We know about you, Mr Watch. You were an orphan, a thief on the streets with your twin brother Copper Cog until you were taken in by an old unicorn."
>"Under his care, you discovered your talent for precision machinery. Now, you have his shop, and you're doing quite well for yourself, if I may say so."
>She takes a sip of her drink.
 
>"You are good with your wings, fine feather control such as yours is a rare trait for a Pegasus. Not to mention your talent for stealth."
>"There's other, minor details of course, such as your previous job for the magazine Canterlot Cloths."
>The corner of her mouth moves upwards slightly, but quickly becomes more serious.
>"We have reliable information that an attempt on a magical artefact shall occur during the upcoming meetings with Gryphonia.'
>"Almost all other ponies are otherwise unavailable, so we need help. We need help from ponies like you, to help everyone in Equestria."
>She leans back in her seat.
>"You are the kind of pony we need, because you only stole when you had to. And that is an admirable trait. We can trust that."
 
You're having a little trouble taking this mare seriously. A few compliments and vague statements aren't going to win you over so easily.
"...what the hay do you need *me* for? This proposition isn't very clear. Do you want me to counter this heist, or partake in it?"
Because you have some very choice words involving 'dick' and 'eat' for the latter.
>Charmed Wit smiles, like she expected your response.
>"Just making sure you were paying attention. I wasn't completely finished yet."
>"We need to work for us, as an agent of Equestria, to prevent this theft. And if all goes well, we will approach you again with more offers as they arise."
That doesn't answer your question completely.
"And should I agree to this, exactly what will I be doing? And when? You know I have a shop. Spontaneous closures are bad for business."
>"If you agree, then you will work for us for the week of the summit until said artefacts are either taken, or the heist is prevented."
>"There will be different tasks you will need to do, and they will range from gathering information to procuring documents. There are many events occuring then, after all."
>She follows up quickly before you can respond.
>"Any equipment or assistance you need shall be provided, and your business shall be compensated generously - within reason, of course. This is still a matter of national security."
 
>She leans foward once more. She looks...pleading?
>"This artefact is something that has kept Equestria safe for a long time. It is powerful, and could do untold chaos if it was possessed by anyone with malicious intent."
>"Not to mention the immediate risk of these trade agreements falling through. We rely on Gryphon imports for many important things. Metals, technology and skills to name a few."
>"And they rely on us for our magic, our bits, and our gems. A breakdown in relations with them could cause great consequences for both ponies and gryphons. You know how bad this could get, you've read the news."
>"This may not be clear to most, but diplomatic relations are a fine, fine balance to hold. We are at peace now, but it was not many generations ago we were at war, not that this city felt much of it.
>'There are ponies and gryphons who would use this heist to accuse each other of Celestia knows what."
>"The Princesses can do many things but they are just two voices. And they can easily be drowned out by two populations calling for each other's blood."
>She inhales. For a moment, there was no other sound.
>"We need you, because you are a good pony, Pocket Watch. And we will all the help we can get to keep everyone safe."
 
You look around when you realize the sudden silence. No one seems to be listening in...maybe it was just you?
>Banana arrives with a hot plate of food and your usual cider. She gives you a quick smile as she trots off to deliver the other meals on her tray.
Huh. Perhaps it was. You push aside the plate for now. Right, time to respond.
"Miss Wit, what of my brother? I would assume you would want him to be doing the same, did you already go to him?"
>The unicorn takes another sip of her tea.
>"Why yes. Mr Cog was unsure about accepting, but was adamant about getting your opinion first. It seemed he would follow whatever decision you made."
 
Now you have even more questions.
"So...you're telling me that the Princesses know about an impending heist, but then decide to consult some stallions with a shallow criminal background?"
Your eyebrows furrow.
"How do I know you're telling the truth? Either you're lying or you know more about me than I do, and I do not like being lied to."
>Charmed wit just smiles. The first you've seen her make, actually.
 
>"You have a sharp mind on you Mr Watch. You have a point. Why would the Princesses, as old and wise as they must be, seek the help of two ordinary stallions against a simple theft?"
You raise an eyebrow, waiting for her elaboration.
>"You give yourself too little credit. I wasn't lying when we said we knew you. We knew about you for some time, in fact."
>"You haven't done any outstanding heists, you haven't stolen anything more noteworthy than a rich unicorn's jewellry."
>"What you *have* done, is not get caught. Not even once. You and your twin were ghosts."
 
The food would have cooled down perfectly by now, ready for eating. But for now, you listen to the mare in front of you.
>"The truth is, we were looking to hire you for a while now. But circumstances demanded that your proposition be brought forward."
>"We always plan for such attempts, but only recently the true credibility of the threat known."
>"The agents we have now are not enough, yes. And the ones already deployed are too far to return in time to stop it. Thus, we are forced to find...alternatives."
 
Well you know why she's here at least. But there's still one more thing, and the question shows on your face.
"You still know much about Copper and I, even though we're ghosts...why didn't you find us earler?"
>Wit makes a soft 'tsk' sound, barely loud enough to hear. Apparently the answer should have been obvious.
"Like I said, you have not done any outstanding heists, nor stolen more than a noble's jewellery."
>"We work in intelligence, Mr Watch. The affairs of local crime are not under our control, nor do they often affect us."
>"Besides, there were worse things we had to worry about, if I may be so blunt."
 
>She repositions herself in her seat. Its her turn to ask the questions now.
>"So that's the offer Mr Watch. Do you accept? This will be the only chance to walk away, I assure you."
 
You take a moment to consider your next words. Do you say yes? There's a lot that might go wrong if you don't, and if you do, too.
But the gains, you decide, outweigh the possible faults. For the ones around you...and your brother.
"Very well, Miss Wit. I accept. What happens now?"
>Charmed Wit nods her head and pulls out a briefcase from beside her.
>"Now, you may go about your business. We will begin preparations tomorrow night at six on Palace Grounds. You and Mr Cog shall wait by the main entrance."
>She hops out from the booth. And gives you a genuine smile.
>"And thank you, Mr Watch."
 
As she leaves, you look down at the table. Your food has become a little cold...
You take a sip from the bottle.
...at least the cider's still good.
>As you eat in silence, you can only think of two things:
>What did you get yourself into?
>And what will you do next?
>That mare didn't finish her tea, either.
 
Even more thoughts run through your head, now that you have some time to think.
Even if you were never caught, that's hardly a special qualification. Most other young thieves would have been the same, right?
...dammit, should've asked her that earlier.
For now, you finish up what's left of your lunch and check the time.
 
It's almost one. You must've spent quite some time talking to her.
Which reminds you....
>The abandoned tea cup still sits across you.
>Half empty. She must have had refills.
>Should you...?
You lean over and take a sniff.
>It seems pleasant enough. For cold tea.
>How about the taste?
Eugh! Maybe not this time...
 
Considering the time, you don't really think its worth it to go back to the store just to be open for a few hours.
>So that means you've got the afternoon off! The benefits of being your own boss.
>Now where to go?
>Its still a weekday, so most stores will be open at least.
>But what can you do for something fun?
 
>The library is always open. Though the peace and quiet probably means you'll spend more time sleeping than reading.
>Shopping could waste an hour or two. And you've already got a shop in mind...
>Or else, you could wander around. Maybe visit your friends?
 
Shopping it is! You get out of your seat and wave your goodbye to Steel and Banana.
>It takes only a few minutes to find the way back to the 'clothing' store.
>And a few more minutes to check nopony's around to see you enter.
>After all that stuff with Charmed Wit, who knows who's watching you?
 
>The store is the same as it was yesterday. Smooth door,nice carpets, sleeping attendant...
>It seems hardly anything happens in this store during lunch.
>The sound of shuffling hooves catches your ears, it seems you're not the only one around here.
>With the luxury of time, you're free to browse the stock as you wish.
There's the 'clothes' section right in front of you. Mare's and Stallion's both.
And the changing rooms at the far end. As well as the 'other' products.
The rest of the store is still open, of course.
 
You find where you left off yesterday easily enough. One particular outfit is one you especially want to try on.
>The leotard-tux made of strings is as you remember it, and you take it with you.
>And a few other pieces too.
>A set of swimwear, a pair of more conventional underwear, and a pair of socks. Because why not?
>There's enough hooks in the changing rooms to hold all of your choices.
>First thing's first, the tux on strings.
>It's a little tough to put on, especially the bottom half. There's a reason ponies don't normally wear pants.
>This thing is *light*! Its like you're wearing nothing at all!
 
>Silk is the main material, along with a bit of elastic in the waistband, and satin for the chest.
>The top part looks like the front half of a tux, though with an opened collar. It'd probably look better with some kind of neckwear.
>It tapers all the way down to the bottom, leaving the back exposed. The bottom itself frankly isn't much more than a thong for stallions.
You stand on your hind legs to get a clearer look.
>Usually, most clothes divert attention FROM the body. This one draws it.
>*Especially* the groin. The straps hug the contours of your hips, practically framing your flanks and the Mark on them.
>The view from behind hardly leaves anything to the imagination either.
>A pair of cuffs that came with the thing complete the outfit.
>All in all, you'd now look right at home spinning around a pole. Or a really lewd waiter, at least.
 
The sight makes you wonder how you would look in other outfits.
>Your old model piece, a prench maid outfit, a frilly dress, a ball gown and veil, even a t-shirt and cap that says 'Make Equestria great again!'
>The mental image of that last three makes you chuckle. Your brother would probably approve if he saw you in those.
>The last few ones probably aren't available here, its a lingerie shop, not a costume store!
>But the others might be outside, though, on the mare's side.
>The thinner build you have probably won't look too good in such extravagant mare's clothes either.
>Besides, your face isn't feminine enough to pull that off. Not convincingly anyway. You've still got the other pieces on the hangers with you.
>A single pair of pale gray socks with white stripes,a set of black briefs and silver swimming trunks that look a little like the ones you modelled in.
 
Removing the uni-tux, you hang it on the wall and slip a pair of socks onto your rear hooves.
>The socks alone bring a bit of contrast to your dark coat, reaching to just above the knee. Though they do make you look more...monochromatic.
>Perhaps the front hooves instead..? Nah, they look better on the back.
>They're pretty comfy though. When the months get colder, they'd probably sell pretty well!
The briefs are next up, you try them on next.
>...maybe black wasn't the best colour choice. Nor the size.
>The grey of your coat doesn't make the underwear stand out too well. And it's a kinda small too.
>You can feel the fabric dig into your upper thighs as you move them.
Removing the undersized underwear and putting on the silver swim trunks feels like a relief in comparison.
>The slightly metallic trunks hug your hips, but aren't as revealing as the tux on strings.
>Sort of reminds you of the pair you used to wear, actually.
>The square shape cuts off on your upper thighs, while form fitting enough to be a little tight without discomfort.
 
That leotard-tuxedo looked good, you think, as did the swimwear. You wonder if you should get them...even though there isn't anypony else to see you in them.
>The price tag on that thing though...two hundred bits! And that's rounding down! The swimwear was loads cheaper than that.
You turn it around, looking for some reason for the high cost.
>Tailor made, magically enchanted to resist stains and stretch comfortably across most sizes.
>Well that explains it. Enchanting services don't go cheap, and underwear like this only makes it even more expensive.
You'll keep it in mind first, perhaps you'll find something elsewhere in the shop.
>Gathering up your selections, you move out to place them back where they belong.
 
>And walk bump straight into another pony. Two, actually.
>The young unicorn stumbles backwards into a rack with a small 'oof!', causing a few panties to fall off.
>"What a suprise to see you here, Watch. You should be more careful."
>The other pony is none other than Pearl. Though out of her work clothes and her silvered mane let down in a more natural style.
>She looks to the pony you oh so gracefully walked right into.
>"Are you alright Garnet, dear?"
>The black chitin you see isn't the same brown coat from before.
>Though that quickly fixes itself with a flash of green across it.
>A short brown unicorn with a wine red mane is shaking their head.
You would think he was actually a mare, due to his size, if not for his angled muzzle.
 
Your ears fold back in embarassment as you help steady the...er, stallion.
"Sorry...uh...Garnet."
>Garnet assists you in placing the hangers back on the racks.
>"Oh! Are you going to get that?"
>He points his hoof to the outfit hanging on your back.
 
"What, this?" You turn to show the leotard, and look to Pearl for her opinion.
"I uh, was thinking of it. Hey Pearl, do you think this would look good on me?"
>She holds up a hoof to her chin.
>"While that would be a rather fetching outfit on you dear, I was joking about you demonstrating those toys in use last night."
>Her look turns inquisitive.
>"What brings you to a place like this in the first place? I'd have thought that modelling job was just a temporary job for you?"
 
Your eyes dilate as you realize exactly who you're talking to.
>Pearl. The lady who runs a brothel, a place where plenty of words are spilt, whom is friends with your friends.
>And she's seen you've tried on a really skimpy outfit.
>Sure, she can keep a secret, but there's no guarantees if its only dignity on the line.
A blush starts appearing on your cheeks. Your eyes dart from side to side.
"Uhh...yeah! It was. I'm just...looking for something new to wear!"
>The young unicorn beside you holds up the outfit in question with his magic and an impish grin.
>"With a piece like this? Is there someone you're looking to get in bed with? I'd suggest a rose, for first dates."
Your sheepish smile betrays your pasta spilling.
"Its just,um..for fun. More of a personal selection, really."
>Pearl decides to take pity on you, and ushers Garnet away to another part of the store.
>"Now Garnet dear, whatever Pocket Watch decides to do with his bits is his own business."
>The smaller stallion only laughs.
>"I'll see you later." She says to you before she walks away.
What were they doing here anyway? She wasn't due at Geoff's for another hour at least.
 
You place the others back where they were. Its not a good idea to spend so much on things you'll hardly use.
...he says, as he goes to pay for a 230 bit piece of lingerie.
>The mare at the counter seemed to have been awoken by the little disruption earlier.
>She lazily processes your purchase with a droll 'thank you for coming'. It must be really boring for her here.
You walk out of the store with a brown paper bag on your back. You've got sexy underwear now! For...something.
>Back at home you place the outfit at the bottom of your wardrobe, right next to the purple briefs you've never really worn more than once.
>There's still a little bit of time left before you have to leave.
>You could do...something. Now that you've got nothing to occupy you thoughts about the upcoming 'meeting' start coming.
>Maybe you could prepare for that?
 
It might be a good idea to bring some stuff with you, even if its just moving boxes.
You take a courier bag from the wardrobe. Not just any bag though, its the bag you've had back in your thieving days, changed to fit whatever the need.
>You take some time to gather some tools.
>Lockpicks into a pouch on the strap, a small crowbar, wrench, and razor.
>All the tools you need to steal things from paintings to plaques. Not that you'd expect to use them tonight...
>Too bad you don't have any weapons with you, even if its a small dagger for self defence. Then again, you never really had to use it.
>Besides, you've been out of practice. Maybe you should do some tomorrow...
 
>Things ready, you leave them in a corner and get a book to pass the time.
>'Pony anatomy and physiology'. Wait, what? Where did this come from?
>...well, its better than nothing.
>Time passes quickly enough. Plus, you got to learn about the many qualities of Unicorn horns!
>You never knew they were so sensitive when they were being used for magic.
>Time to get going. You make it to Geoff's without any touble.
>The gryphon himself greets you at the door with some cardboard boxes.
>"Watch! You're here. Come in, things are just getting prepared."
>Geoff points a talon to the door at the far end of the room.
>"Copper's inside the closet sorting everything out, Pearl will be come by later."
 
Copper's already here? Well then, better see if he needs any help.
You tell Geoff you'll be helping Copper out and head into the storage closet.
>The gryphon nods as he goes back to his boxes.
You go to the end of the room, and open the closet door.
 
>Its dicks. Dicks as far as the eye can see.
>Which just about reaches to the other side of the room.
>And standing in that veritable conrnucockia, is your brother.
>Copper is examining one hot pink piece, modelled after...you don't really know, but you DO know its huge.
>"Hey there bro! Did you see the size of this thing!? How do ponies get things like this-" He holds it up against his face. "-to fit inside them?"
>Its longer than his head. And drooping onto it too.
 
"I dunno,maybe we should find out? Ha!"
>Copper chuckles at your joke. He tosses the pink thing into a pile in the corner.
>"It'd have to be a big mare to try that out. Its probably reaching dragon size anyway."
>Around the room are phallus of all shapes and sizes. Some of them are brightly coloured like candy, others made as Geoff said:'practically lifelike'.
"So, uh...how are we supposed to sort all this out? Its only a few boxes, right?"
>Copper moves next to you to get a look at the bigger dick picture.
>"It is, but Pearl is coming to see which ones she wants, remember?"
He looks to you, and you nod back.
>"So these are going to be sorted out, by size and, uh-" He motions with his hooves looking a little pensive. "-'firmness'. Yeah."
>He points back towards the door.
 
>"Then they're going to be lined up in here while any extras are going to go into boxes Geoff's leaving outside. Simple enough, right?"
>Your twin turns and moves to a corner.
>"Lets get to it. Pearl's going to be here soon enough."
You move to the opposite side and take a seat.
>There really is quite a variety here. Some of them you think are supposed to be different species.
>Pony, Gryphon, Diamond Dog...heck, even Minotaur and Dragon, for the larger ones. And that's just the ones that don't look fictional!
>There's even a few you spot that look like hybrids, like some penis obsessed artist decided to create every one imaginable. It looks like they've succeeded.
>And they're all sized from something that won't look out of place on an average pony to levithians that would make a dragon faint from blood pressure loss.
You can't help but feel a little incredulous at the sight.
>This will take some time to sort out...and Pearl isn't even going to take all of it.
 
With as many variables as there are, perhaps it'll be best to sort them out in detail. You call out to Copper.
"Is there any other way I could sort these out? Colour? Uhmm...species?"
>The pegasus tosses a few more toys out of his pile.
>"I suppose? Do it however you want, it just has to be sorted."
Well that's that then.
 
>It doesn't take very long before you've got the start of a small system set up.
>Each species has its own column. Pony, then Gryphon, Diamond Dog and so on.
>The ones you couldn't identify or neatly organize like the hybrid designs and those like ol' floppy the were off to the side.
>Within those columns, they went from the smallest in front, to the largest at the back. Sorting by colour would just have been redundant.
>Running your own accounts does have its benefits...even if it does mean you've just made a spreadsheet out of dildos...
>And there's still more to go.
A stray thought crosses your mind. Turning around to look, you see Copper's still busy.
>...surely Geoff wouldn't miss one. Or even a few? You've got your bag, no one would know. And even if they did, surely they wouldn't mind?
>Well Geoff would laugh, at least...actually, they all would. Probably be surprised too. Its not like you've had a long standing affair with dicks...that you've told them.
>Maybe you could pass it off as curiosity? A gift? Prank material?
Ears flattened and lips pursed, you look at the selection before you. Is it worth the potential embarrassment?
>Still, even if you did swipe one, which would it be?
 
>A few ones in particular stand out to you.
>A navy blue cone shaped like a rather well-endowed gryphon, a draconic looking wedge coloured dark violet, and more two pony shaped toys.
>One has got two colours, deep red at the bottom and fading to pink, and the other is a very translucent deep blue. It seems to almost sparkle.
>That last one better not actually be made of real gemstone. That can't be comfortable to use.
>Then again, you've seen ponies owning things made of stranger materials...
 
Your ears twitch as you hear the sound of the front door opening. The sound is muffled some, but you make out a conversation.
>"Ah Pearl,...early."
>".....afternoon to you too, Geoff...assume the twins...?"
>"They're inside...are...take a look?"
>You don't need to hear the rest. Pearl's here early, and you don't really want her to see you holding dick(s) in your hoof.
>Not after that embarrassing session earlier...
 
You quickly grab the one that caught your eye, place it in your bag, and close the flap.
>The sparkling one, to be exact. Shiny stuff always caught your eye.
>It seemed to be modelled as a Crystal Pony, you think.
>Just in time then, as Pearl walks in right through the door.
>She greets the two of you, and takes a look around.
>Her gaze lingers on each pile for but a moment,'hmm'-ing in thought then she steps right back out again.
>That was fast.
 
>Copper and you poke your heads through the door.
>Pearl grabs a few boxes in her magic and moves back in.
>"What, you've decided already?" Geoff asks.
>Pearl only turns her head, barely even looking back.
>"I know what I'm looking for, darling." And she shuts the door.
>A few moments pass as Copper shoots Geoff a questioning look. He only shrugs while you stare on.
>"...so I guess this means we'll-"
>Geoff is cut off as the door is abruptly opened. Pearl and a few boxes, now filled, move through.
>"All done~! We can start moving these now."
 
>Copper steps forward to take a box.
>"Great. We'll get this done quick with some flying."
>Geoff puts his arm out to stop him.
>"Not so fast, they're not even sealed yet."
>"And these boxes are cardboard, if one drops from high up in the air, those dicks are going to spill all over the street. We should walk."
>"Well I certainly agree." Pearl speaks up.
>Copper turns to look at you.
 
>Part of you wants to try flying anyway, just to see what happens.
>'Local watch store owner spills dicks onto the streets' the headlines would say...nevermind, walking it is.
>Its going to take quite a while to get all these boxes over to Pearl's 'club' since you aren't flying, its on the other side of the district.
"Not this time bro, we're walking." You shake your head and move to tape up one of the boxes.
>Copper rolls his eyes, letting out a small sigh, and moves to help you. "Well at least we'll get it done faster with all four of us."
>"Just three of you for now. I've got to sort out whatever's left in the closet." Geoff points out and starts walking to the store room.
>He's in and closes the door before any of you can object. Pearl only shrugs as she joins in.
>The boxes are sealed up as best they can with the old tape Geoff has, and you set off.
 
>It takes twenty five minutes of walking to get over to Pearl's establishment, by your count.
>The bustling streets with ponies leaving shops and closing up didn't help with your travel times at all. You even lost each other in the crowds a few times.
>But you manage to deliever the first few boxes regardless. Pearl leads you to the back entrance, a simple wooden door fenced in with vines leading into the kitchen. She thanks you and Copper for your help and takes them inside to get them sorted out.
>And to tend to one of the undisguised changelings that asked her attention for...something you didn't quite hear, but you're sure it was important.
>Seems its just just the two of you now...no wonder Geoff wanted to get your help.
>"First three boxes in and its just us...no wonder Geoff wanted our help." Copper laments. Took the words right out of your mouth.
>He suddenly throws a challenging smirk your way. "Hey Watch, think we can move all the boxes here before Pearl and Geoff finish up their business?"
 
"I'm sure we can." You nod your head in affirmation.
>"Come on, its - wait, really?" Copper cuts his pleading short. It seems he didn't expect you to agree.
"No." You reply flatly.
>He groans and his ears fall back. "Fine, fine. But I'm flying back, and don't expect me to wait!" He crouches down and takes off into the air, heading back to get the rest of the boxes, persumably.
>You only let out a 'tsk' in response. Wasn't he the one who volunteered in the first place?
>The return trip was much shorter at least. And it seems you took long enough for Geoff to finish up too, since there's two less boxes than when you left.
>Hefting up the last of the medium sized containers onto your back, you begin to make your way to the Blooming Rose.
 
>Walking through one of the main streets you notice the crowds have gotten a little busier. Seems some have already left the shops and are now heading home, or to get dinner.
>When shops and stalls have their shutters coming down and 'closed' signs put out, you don't need the slight orange tint in the sky to know evening's coming.
>All the noise of the crowds, the sight of patrolling guards and the last few calls from salesponies are comforting, in a way. A sign that nothing too 'exciting' is happening.
>You feel somebody bump into your side, making you stumble, and the weight of the box slides off your back.
You turn and stretch out your hoof, expecting the box to have fallen, but there's nothing to catch.
>It takes a split second for you to realize what's happened. The box was stolen right off your back!
>You've gotten rusty...bustling crowds sometimes carried pickpockets, and you would know that better than most.
>A few wing beats and you're up in the air, scanning the crowds.
>...There! You spot the box on the back of an Earth pony making his way to a side street.
>And he spots you back, hastening his pace into an alley.
 
You pump your wings hard, trying to catch up to the would-be box snatcher.
>He didn't seem to have anything on him...but who knows what following him to a secluded alley network would bring?
>You'll just have to be fast then, no sweat. You've taken your fair share of shortcuts before.
>The stallion starts juking and weaving around the stacks of crates and dumpsters behind the brick walls of shops and houses.
>Good thing you're not on the ground then. It doesn't take long to gain some distance on him like this...but you can already feel the burn creeping into the base of your wings, lungs huffing harder than usual.
>You really should spend some time to get back into shape.
>He makes a sharp turn around a corner, momentum scaring some poor cat into a trash can with a metallic crash and loud yowl. Seems like he's starting to use more evasive maneuvers.
 
Flapping harder to gain some height you try to find a place to cut him off before you tire out.
>From this high up you can see the alley split up ahead.
>Straight into a fence, the alley continuing behind it.
>Right going to the main street you came from, and back into the crowds.
>You're nearly on top of him now...just a little more.
 
You figure he'll try his luck jumping the fence. After all, you have wings. He can't hide from that.
>You lean forward and down to gain enough speed to get ahead.
>He cries out in alarm when notices your shadow swooping down above him, and tries to dodge out of the way.
>'Tried' being the word because he didn't succeed.
>With a grunt he turns right into you, your combined momentum throwing the two of you to the ground right in front of the fence.
>The box itself goes flying off him and you hear it thud against the wall.
 
>The impact is more than enough to make your head spin, rolling along the ground entangled like a ball of yarn.
>It's a few seconds before you manage to see clearly again, your side dully aching...you hope you aren't bleeding...
Gah...that hurt...
>Your target is in much the same way as you, though in better shape, it seems.
>He's grappling under you, trying to remove himself throw you off. But you fight back, making quite the ruckus as you tip trash cans and flower pots.
>"HEY! STOP THAT AT ONCE!!"
>You can't see who said it, but it sounded loud, authoritative. The both of you freeze.
 
You quickly seperate from him and stand up, hooves awkwardly clacking on stones.
"This pony tried to steal from me Sir! That box right there," You point out to the side "is min-oh."
>The main strip of tape holding the box closed was ripped off by the impact, now hanging off a lid.
>Apart from a few scuffed corners, the box was intact. Though it was now showing its lewd contents to the both of you.
>Oh hey, you can see the floppy pink one in there!
>"That's Ma'am, to you." The actually female guardspony grunts.
 
>A tan hide stands up beside you, though obviously dirtied some.
>He blinks the stars from his eyes and gives an audible yelp as he realizes what exactly he was carrying.
>The white mare rolls her eyes with a groan, and steps forward.
>"Right. So the both of you were fighting over a box of dicks that Mr Earth pony here stole? Is that it?"
>"N-no! That's not it! I-uh..was being mugged! Those things had nothing to do with it!"
>Miss Guard raises an eyebrow at the two of you.
 
Honesty is the best policy for this, you decide. You don't have time to play games with him.
"I'm telling the truth, S-er, Ma'am! This is a delivery for a friend, but it was stolen by this pony, and so I chased after him."
>"A-alright, those things were involved, I admit, but who openly carries dildos in public? I-I didn't steal them!" The stallion beside you manages to make a more coherent response this time.
"Oh don't act embarrassed, you're the one that tried to steal it. Don't make things harder than they have to be." You cast a glare at the thief.
>"Whatever the reason, you're both going to have to come with me to make a statement so we can sort out who owns what." She scolds the both of you.
>"Ugh...grown stallions fighting over dicks. Now I've seen everything..." She sighs.
 
>You take a step to follow her as she turns, but Mr. DickStealer decides that's enough of an opening to make his escape.
>He quickly turns to hop over the fence, and dashes away like a madpony.
>The guard stops, closes her eyes, and takes a deep breath and exhales.
>"...you know what? My shift ended a while ago and I'm sure you have your delivery to make. How about you take the box while I just make a report about him? Okay? Good."
>She turns and walks away without another word.
 
Well...okay then...no point staying around here.
>You pile the toys back into the cardboard box and seal it back up. Though the flaps could use an extra layer of tape.
>It takes the greater part of half an hour to get back on track to the Blooming Rose, and after that little chase the evening is fast approaching.
>Through the back door into the kitchens you enter, passing by a small crew of a few ponies and gryphons cooking meals for the guests and staff alike.
>You don't seem to see any sign of Copper or Geoff around, though its reasonable to expect at least one would be waiting somewhere for you.
>Pearl would definitely be around, of course. Probably working somewhere else in the building.
 
>Still, you know where to take the box. Geoff did mention he went to the room upstairs yesterday.
>At the corner of hallway past the kitchens, you bump into someone. It nearly sends the box off your back again.
>Its one of the changelings, shorter than you, wincing. Their indented hoof rubs across their orange crest right where they hit you.
>"Oops, sorry....Mr. Watch? What're you doing here? Come to visit the Madame again?"
 
The sight of those big solid blue eyes and tiny fangs staring back at you is just adorable. It makes you want to pet his head and call him cute.
"Sorry about that, are you alright? What's your name? And did you see Geoff or my brother around?"
>He tilts head and blinks twice, as if he didn't understand you.
>"Umm,we met earlier today? I'm Garnet, remember? Though I guess we never really met before..."
>He leans over to the side to better see the box on your back.
>"iiis that the rest of the dildos Madame Pearl said Mr Geoff would bring in? They're going upstairs, I think. Mr Cog should be there too, the last I saw him."
>He moves to take a peek inside.
>"Woah, that's much better than the ones we already have..."
 
"Whoops, I didn't realize...but hooves off the merchandise." You push him away by the snout.
>Garnet makes a little pout when you do.
"Is it really so much better though? You make it sound something horrifying."
>You begin to make your way up the stairs, and he moves to follow beside you.
>"Horrifying? Well, maybe. The ones we had were all solid, hard things. With spikes. If they weren't so brightly coloured, clients would start thinking they were in a dungeon!"
>The drone then starts talking about how he heard earlier customers didn't often choose toys with their service, then somehow managing to start talking about various methods of stain removal from cloth.
>For someone you've never really met before, he sure can keep up a conversation. Though considering his work,it's no surprise, really.
 
>"So I think they were supposed to go into that one at the end of the hall." A black chitinous hoof points straight ahead, past rows of numbered doors.
>"Now I've got to get back down and into uniform before the food's ready to go. We can't have any random client see us out of disguise."
>Well considering current opinions of Changelings he's breaking the rules a bit escorting you to a 'public' area au naturel, even if there's no one in yet.
>You do manage to get your own goodbye in before he takes off buzzing down the stairs.
>The carpet feels warm on your hooves as you move to the dick storage.
>It looks like the others were already done, considering how the room mirrors the one back at Geoff's place, except for one empty shelf. That must be where your delivery is supposed to go.
>The space is filled up easy, and you place the now empty box in the corner with the others you see, filled with what can only be the old stock.
Err...looks like Garnet wasn't kidding. Some of them looked...painful.
 
Are those spikes? How...?
>Well you know that Geoff would probably say:'These spikes are for their pleasure'. He'd be able to find a way to sell those too.
>No one else is in the corridor that you see, nothing but closed doors and lamps on the walls the way you came from.
>It stretches further on your left, ending in another corner that turns right. That leads to the stairs that go to the front door.
>The door's on that side are all closed too. Except for one.
>That one lies ajar. Maybe Copper's in there? There shouldn't be anyone else up here anyway.
 
>You make your way down the hallway with the soft clip of your hooves on the carpet and the faint din of the business below.
>A creak sounds as you push the numbered door open. The lamp in the room is on, though dim. But the light from behind you is enough to see with.
>The kind of room Pearl uses for her clients is certainly beats your bedroom...the four poster bed with violet sheets and mood lighting makes it obvious.
>And there's Copper Cog, taking an nap right in the center of it.
>Now what would Pearl say if she saw your twin lying face-up knocked out like that? Lucky for him you found him first.
 
Well since no one's coming up, you might as well have some fun while you can hm?
>Crouching down into stealth mode you tiphoof your way to the side of the bed, watching his chest rise and fall like a cat stalks its prey.
>You take a moment to observe him...perfect. He doesn't seem to know anything.
You jump up on top of him and yell out his wake up call.
"HEY COG!"
 
>The pony underneath launches himself right into you with a (totally masculine) squeal.
>Somehow defying physics, he shoots straight up, throwing you off in the process.
>You land on your back with a soft thud, right about where Cog was laying.
Wow, the sheets are REALLY comfy. Are they satin?
>"Oh hey there bro, heheh, I see you're finally done. What're you doing down there?"
 
You can see why he picked one of the rooms to nap in, this bed's pretty awesome...but you roll off all the same.
"I should be asking you that question. Who knows what kind of lewd things ponies did on this?"
>Copper looks down on you, somehow clinging onto the top of the bed frame with nothing but the soles of his hooves.
>"Its clean, I checked it myself! Looks, feels, smells and tastes just fine. Besides, you know Pearl washes the sheets after every use. "
 
>He hops off and lands on the bed with a soft thud.
>"Speaking of her, she should be sorting out stuff in the main hall, if she hasn't already. Geoff's probably down there too...somewhere."
>Cog squints a little at you and points to your side with a wing.
>"Say, what's happened to you? You're looking a little dirty there."
 
Tastes?...eww.
You clear the implications from your mind and shrug in response.
"I just ran into some would-be shatcher. They probably wouldn't have tried if they'd known what I was carrying in the first place. Funny, that." You grin.
>"Oh yeah? The look on his face must've been priceless when he found out! Most ponies carry don't carry boxes of dicks around in this city, I bet."
>The two of you make your way back out into the corridor
"Oh it was! It looked something like this-" You do your best impression. "-the guard mare that found us didn't seem to care much though."
 
>As the two of you make your way to the stairs going down to the main hall, you can't help but ask one more question.
"So, uhh...why would you taste the bed?"
>Copper stops in his tracks for a brief moment.
>"Well they passed the smell and touch checks..." He says softly.
>"So I'm just going to get some food now...you coming?"
 
>You walk back to Copper and boop his nose before you turn down the stairs.
"You dork, why care about the taste? But food sounds nice, we don't have to move anything else now do we?"
>Copper's scrunch reflex kicks in yet again and follows up behind you.
>"You've been doing that a lot lately...no, there's nothing else."
>The start of the evening heralds some early birds to the establishment; a few ponies are seated at the tables, waiting for the shows to begin, probably.
>Sitting down at one of the tables Copper waves over a waitress and the both of you place your orders.
 
>The stage curtains aren't open, only showing an unused set of stools and instruments.
>By most appearances, this would be just another fancy pub. The thin metal pole right in the center of it all is a bit of an eyesore though.
>From your side of the table you can see Pearl in her working outfit walking around the area,  checking on her workers. She nods at you when she notices you
>The food and drink soon arrives, courtesy of Garnet now dressed up in a waistcoat and bow tie.
>Copper has already dug into his food, but you can't resist teasing him one more time.
"So since the sheets passed the taste test, does that mean they're pure satin then?"
>A few heads turn at that moment as he nearly chokes on his sandwich. Fortunately, he only gags on it instead.
>"Heh,you're not going to let me forget anytime soon, are you? If you must know, I give it my seal of approval!" He says with a pretentious air. "It actually tasted a little like soap."
>"What tasted like soap, dear?" The sudden voice behind him wipes the snooty look off his face and nearly makes him drop his food.
 
>"Oh, just some food I had the other day...it was bad."
>Pearl looks like she might say something. But she simply takes a seat.
>"Well in any case, I'd like to thank you two for your help. You can consider your dinner free, for tonight."
>Copper thanks her and moves to get back into his meal. But she speaks up before he can continue.
>"And I know you took a nap in one of the guest rooms."
>You don't bother hiding your grin at that one. Copper can only groan at being caught.
>"Don't 'ugh' me, its my business to know what happens in my business." She scolds him.
>"Taking care of my employees is worrying enough as of late, I don't want to have to worry about complaining clients too."
>By 'employees' she probably means changelings...they never really had the best relationship with ponies in general.
 
"I'm sure the clients will be happy with the new toys. The old ones seemed they would have been just painful to use..."
>"Only some of them were, but those things were never our main service." She shrugs. "The previous owner of the building happened to have...unconventional tastes."
>The Blooming Rose used to be part of some richer pony's estate, you were told. Before Pearl moved in and started her business.
>You never really knew what she did before that. Though you never did ask, either.
 
>"Well it seems those tastes aren't so unconventional anymore!" Copper quips. "Ask Watch."
"The last box I carried was almost stolen." You speak plainly. Its not like anything too interesting happened. "Clearly, they thought it was something else."
"It can't be easy though, taking care of all the kinds you have here. I hope there haven't been any major issues." The fact she said 'as of late' implies things.
>"Nothing more than a few rough customers," Pearl leans in and speaks softly. "some rumors of Changelings preying on travellers have put a few ponies on edge, probably another stubborn nymph who can't ask nicely."
>"But it'll pass eventually." She says, as her voice returns to normal.
>"You don't do very much asking either." Copper points out.
>"Well yes, I suppose it is usually the other way around." She says with a smirk. "But I do take care of all kinds here. Ponies and Gryphons can't live off hugs and kisses alone."
 
>"Hey Pearl, how did you become a Courtesan anyway?" Copper asks from across the table.
>A trio of pony musicians take places on the stage. Looks like the music's starting.
And speaking of business...
"Yeah, you never really did tell us how you got into all this in the first place." Maybe she'll tell you how she got those soft sheets too...
>"It's quite a tedious tale, dears." The 'Earth Pony' waves her hoof nonchalantly. Pausing to check for any ears close enough to overhear. She nods, satisfied.
>"Well I suppose I will just have to skip the little details. When I first arrived in this city, I was just another infiltrator for my Hive sent to spy and learn how to act like a Pony."
>"But I had nothing else. I had the luck to find a mare fresh form 'house call' on one of the earlier nights. Before then I had just drifted between taverns and inns. The ambient joy and love in places like that is enough to sustain any changeling."
>"The lingering emotion was intoxicating. Love was something I didn't expect to feel on a whore. So I followed her, all the way back to her brothel."
>"I stayed around quite a while. Feeding off the ambient Love and watching the ponies come and go. I even spent some bits there myself." She cringes. "It was awkward for both of us."
>"I approched the Madame for a job as just another mare down on her luck, and got a job. Eventually I had an idea: Wouldn't it be more practical to collect Love like this instead of impersonating a pony, or draining them? I thought so."
 
"What about the pony that last owned this place?" You never heard about what happened to whoever last owned the place either. Now's as good a time as any to find out.
>"Rich ponies can be weird, but they don't just give out buildings to strangers...do they?" Copper asks.
>"It just so happened that the the mare who owned this place was a frequent client, and she really liked complaining."
>"Her restaruant was failing and wanted to move somewhere else. It was a simple matter of going up to her and offering a price. Any more questions?"
>"Ooh, I have one. Pick me." Copper waves his hoof. "Why do you usually go all 'dear' and 'darling' even when you're not working in your disguise?"
>"Because that's part of the disguise." Pearl rolls her eyes.
 
Wait, restaurant? What would a storage closet of dildos be doing in a restaurant?
"But weren't the toys upstairs from the old owner too? What kind of restaurant was this?" You cock your head in confusion.
>"Oh, it scretly held the mare's private sex dungeon." She replies candidly. "There was a secret menu, and the customers would pay to have their meals while sitting on them."
>You pause your eating for a moment. The music goes on in the background, but you can only think of the mental image of what Pearl said.
>"You gotta be kidding me." Copper says with disbelief. "There's no way a place this big would be just a restaurant. Not with the second floor."
>"That was a joke." She sighs. "She really did have a resturant, it was just somewhere else. The mare lived here but worked elsewhere."
>The mare stands from the chair and bids you goodbye.
>"I'll leave you two to continue your meal. As much as I'd like, I cannot spend all night talking."
>"You could, you just don't want to!" Copper calls out. The glare she gives in return only makes him grin wider.
 
>You meals are finished soon enough, but the night is still young.
>The watch in your pocket reads half past eight.
>"Are you going to be staying longer?" Copper asks, the candle centerpiece flickering with each pass of his hoof.
 
"Ehh...probably not. Pearl said we've got a free dinner tonight. That means free food. For the whole night." Free stuff is not to be wasted.
>"Well yeah, but what're you gonna do after you're full? Hijack one of the rooms upstairs?"
Well now that he mentions it, you wouldn't mind spending a night on that bed...
>Copper pokes you in the nose, bringing you out of your fantasizing.
>"Hey! Cut that out. If I don't get to enjoy a nap there, then you don't either."
"Alright, maybe. Why, did you want to go somewhere? I'm all ears if you've got a suggestion."
 
>The stallion shrugs.
>"I was wondering if we could take a walk. There's some stuff I wanted to talk about. For tomorrow night."
Ah. You'd almost forgotten about your appointment with Miss Wit. What will she have in store for the two of you?
>Noticing your pause, Copper takes the liberty of informing the waitress of the free meal.
>You lean to move your bag out of the way, but grab the wrong end, sending a familiar sapphire blue object onto the floor with a soft thud.
Uh oh. Looks like you've almost forgotten something else too.
>"So are you coming, bro?" He asks.
 
"Oh no....uh, I mean yes! I'm coming."
>You kick your bag over the 'crystal pony' with a quick flick of your hoof. Don't want any prying eyes getting a look at that...thankfully, no one around seems to have noticed.
>waving your brother off, you bend down to grab it.
"Let me just get my bag...I'll meet you outside."
>You still haven't really decided what want to do with the thing. You could...use it?
>Pearl's little joke attempt makes its way back into your head.
Gah, now's not the time, Watch!
>Securing the toy back in your bag, you stand and sling it back over your shoulder. A quick glance tells you no one paid attention to you, their eyes now drawn to the mare singing on stage.
>Garnet smiles at you as you pass by him on the way out. You hope that doesn't mean he saw anything...but you keep your cool and smile back.
 
>Copper is waiting for you outside, and you both start off along the quieter night streets, much emptier than before save for the occasional group of ponies walking around.
>The shops that were once open are now closed for the night, lights all off save for the street lamps and homes and restaurants. The district is still nowhere near asleep yet, but the difference is noticeable.
>He's the first to break the silence.
>"So, uhh...I was told about that meeting tomorrow night. Palace Grounds...so this is really happening. Its a little of ironic actually, years running from Guards and now we're going to pay a bunch of them a visit on their graduation day...kinda."
>"What do you think about all this?" He turns to ask you.
 
Hmm, that's a hard question to answer.
>Eyes focused on the swaying tail in front of you, a few things come to mind.
Does your butt look like that from behind? As your twin,  his butt is your butt too, right?
"Well, its kinda bi-uh, bizzare. I'm not sure what to make of the whole thing...we'll be stopping a war, and helping ponies and all that stuff while we're at it. So that's nice."
>Copper keeps his pace as your lazy stroll takes the two of you past the densely packed shops and into the more spacious residential areas.
>"Heh, well helping completely strange ponies was mostly your thing, remember? Besides, I'm sure Charmed Wit and the Princesses or whoever she works for are perfectly capable of handling things by themselves. It'll just be easier if we're involved. Don't worry Watch, we'll just find out as things go on, won't we?"
 
>"I wonder if I could pitch some of my designs...a regular paycheck would be nice sometimes..." He muses.
>If what Miss Wit said is true, this arrangement might work out well for him. He's never been the type to be tied down to one kind of work for too long.
>"Is there anything we should prepare, before we go? I mean, I can see you've got your bag."
>Suddenly, a face-full of hair appears, tickling your nose.
>"And I can see you admiring my tail too." He says with a cheeky grin. "You could get like this too, if you'd spend less time sitting down all day~"
 
>You rub a forehoof on your nose to get his tail off it[spoiler] thankfully smelling like clean sheets.[/spoiler]
"Hey! I HAVE been spending time outside...I just can't go out whenever." You move up and check your hip against his. "Besides, I like sitting down just fine!"
>"Oh yeah? Well then maybe we should go back to Pearl's place an-" His mouth is quickly covered by your hoof.
"BUT, but. I think we should look presentable when we go tomorrow. And by that, I mean I get to pick your clothes."
>Copper rolls his eyes and pulls his mouth free.
 
>"In what? You do know I have any clothes like that, right? And less than a day isn't enough to get more,-"
>He's right though. You can't think of any tailor would could or would make something on such short notice. Well except the one you visit.
Unless...
>"-unless you want me to wear your clothes."
>Well that certainly is an option. But you hardly have anything too fancy either, apart from your work clothes.
>Vests and shirts are not that kind of formal wear, but its better than nothing...and lingerie doesn't count.
 
"Eh, if we had known earlier we could prepare something fancier...something simple should do. We're not there to impress ponies."
>After all, your own work uniform doesn't go past your hips. Outside of really special events, ponies are practically naked ALL the time.
>"Like...just a tie? Or a bow tie?" Copper asks.
"Sure, why not?" You nod. "We could play up the twin angle, have matching ties and everything."
>"So just ties then?" He repeats. "Did you want me to comb back my hair too? Go over to your place so you can do my makeover? Will I need to visit the dentist?"
"Well as long as you're being receptive," you grin. "you could wear that old pair of trunks to the Palace. Nothing screams CONFIDENCE like lingerie in public."
>"I don't know what you heard, but a Royal Guard graduation isn't THAT kind of party."
"Okay, okay. Just ties then." You chuckle.
>"Why can't we just bring a few things and decide there? We have bags, and clothes are light."
 
>But which outfit? You do have some regular neckties, as part of your uniform.
>Bow ties too, but those usually aren't seen outside of cocktail parties. Then again, the event might be just that. Its not like you'll have to attend the full ceremony anyway.
>A certain 'tux' comes to mind...you doubt ANYONE would fit in with that outfit though.
>Maybe Copper has a point. No one brings bags to parties like that though.
 
As fun as the skimpy tux would be...nah. Ties will do fine.
"No need for that, I'll just pick one and give it to you when we get there, or something."
>It should just be a breifing, from what you know.
>The night has well and truly begun now, the ponies have almost all cleared off the streets, leaving you all alone. Except from the occasional Night Guard partrol or Bat pony.
>Copper and you continue your walk into a small park. Completely empty and lit by street lamps. The sound of the small fountain in the centre is all there is.
>Your twin stops and turns to you.
>"So I guess there's nothing else then? I'll meet you tomorrow night at the main entrance of the Palace?"
 
>Well maybe there's one thing...
>You gesture for Copper to follow you over to the fountain and take a seat.
>Looking up gives you a clear view of Luna's night sky. Not as clear as if you were on a rooftop, of course, but still a pretty sight.
>Pinpoints of twinking lights smeared across the black canvas like from an artist's brush. With the white noise of the fountain, its almost...serene.
"It has been a while since we did anything together...I kinda missed hanging out with you and the others, you know. We should do that more often." Keeping your eyes on the sky.
>Its been months since you last saw Geoff and Pearl...and Copper only slightly less. Running the store took up all your attention then, the only friendly faces you've seen were Snail Mail and Steel Plate and his family.
>Well except for Lemon and Banana's mum, you technically haven't seen Cream Tea in a while, either. They were always fun. Kind of noisy, but that's just their Trottingham culture, right?
>"Well we did do stuff together last night, remember? With the bar and the story about how Geoff got his own dildo museum? We could do that again, except for the bar fight part...my friend probably wasn't too happy about that."
"Not like that, I meant on a vacation. Visiting other places, things like that. We might get enough bits to do that after all this. It would be nice to see what's outside this city...maybe we could bring our friends along too."
 
>"Already thinking about the money, hm?" He chuckles. "And you've only had the shop for a year! This 'capitalism' bug sure sticks fast, doesn't it?"
"I've OWNED the shop for a year. I've been working there for longer. You should know, you were there too."
>You've said it before, but that old unicorn was one of the only nice things to happen to you back then. And you probably would be a different pony if you'd never met. Copper too, you think.
>There's little point staying longer, its getting late. You put your arm around your brother's shoulders for one last thing.
"Well, I'll see you tomorrow. How about we meet up a little earlier so we can chat some more?"
>"Alright, sur-AGH!" The stallion yelps as you pull hard, sending him head over hooves into the water behind.
>He says something you can't hear too well. Actually, you could. You were just too busy laughing.
>But your giggle fit is cut short by a wet hoof dragging your collar into the cold with it.
>The two of you spend a few more minutes having a play fight in the water until the sound of approaching hooves on the stones make you scatter.
 
>Damp and cold, clothes clinging uncomfortably to your coat in the cold mountain air, you finally make it back an hour and a half before midnight.
 
Getting out of these wet clothes would be good...
>Making sure the front door is properly locked you make your way upstairs.
>Its all silence except for the sound of creaking floorboards under your hooves. You turn left into the small hallway at the top of the stairs and enter your bathroom.
>The shirt, vest, and tie prove a little fiddly to remove, but the dampness coming off you is a welcome relief as you towel yourself off and hang up your clothes and bag to dry.
>Once again, the sapphire dildo makes an appearance, tumbling out onto the floor.
 
>A few seconds is all it takes to consider what you'll do with it.
You went to all that trouble to swipe one...why not use it now? There's a first time for everything, right?
>Though the 'first time' part presents a problem.
>You've never used one of these things before, and you don't have the...'equipment' to use it the usual way either.
>Time to improvise.
 
Okay, first things first. You need some lubricant. Sliding that thing up your butt dry is probably going to hurt. More than you expect.
>You pick up the thing and get a feel for what you're working with.
>Not too differently sized from what you have, an average phallus by pony standards. A mostly smooth texture and a little stout, tapering gently up the moderately firm shaft.
>Small details become apparent as you examine it like you would one of your watches.
>If not for the colour, you'd think you were looking at the real thing. Little imperfections like wrinkles in skin, veins and muscle, and a ring of bumps under the tip.
'Almost lifelike' Geoff said...you've already seen it before, but he REALLY wasn't kidding.
 
>The realization makes your groin swell, and you feel your own pony phallus reach out of its sheath some.
>Your other hoof reaches down to wipe the bead of clear fluid off.
You could coat the thing with your saliva...though it seems more likely to dry off than keep things smooth. Maybe you could use some other thing?
>Looking around the bathroom you spot a few possibilities. Water? Soap? Toothpaste?
Okay, maybe not those.
>You're no masseuse, but you think massage oil has been used before at Pearl's place. Perhaps other oils could do. Then again...maybe that wasn't actually oil...
>Back down at your own half erection another bead of pre forms.
Maybe a different kind of bodily fluid would work...?
Gah, all this thinking is killing the mood. You've got half a mind to just go to sleep cuddling the thing.
 
Its just not worth the trouble, not without proper lube.
>You take the dick and bring it with you to bed, placing the rest of the stuff on the night stand.
>You're going to have to make another visit to that lingerie store to get some damn lube.
>At least you can enjoy it some other time...
Look at you, so eager to get your butt stuffed.
>Well there's no denying that...your fantasies usually involve some other pony taking it.
>So with the night come to an an anticlimatic close, you curse your lack of preparedness for cockblocking you and begin to fall asleep.