<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en" dir="ltr" class="client-nojs">
<head>
<meta charset="UTF-8" />
<title>"Blue Moon" (CYOA)(Bats-General) - MulpWiki</title>
<meta name="generator" content="MediaWiki 1.24.0" />
<meta name="robots" content="noindex,nofollow" />
<link rel="alternate" type="application/x-wiki" title="Edit" href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=%22Blue_Moon%22_(CYOA)(Bats-General)&amp;action=edit" />
<link rel="edit" title="Edit" href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=%22Blue_Moon%22_(CYOA)(Bats-General)&amp;action=edit" />
<link rel="shortcut icon" href="../favicon.png" />
<link rel="search" type="application/opensearchdescription+xml" href="../opensearch_desc.php" title="MulpWiki (en)" />
<link rel="EditURI" type="application/rsd+xml" href="../api.php?action=rsd" />
<link rel="alternate" hreflang="x-default" href="&quot;Blue_Moon&quot;_(CYOA)(Bats-General)" />
<link rel="alternate" type="application/atom+xml" title="MulpWiki Atom feed" href="../index.php?title=Special:RecentChanges&amp;feed=atom" />
<link rel="stylesheet" href="http://mulpwiki.org/load.php?debug=false&amp;lang=en&amp;modules=mediawiki.ui.button%7Cmobile.pagelist.styles%7Cskins.minerva.chrome.styles%7Cskins.minerva.content.styles%7Cskins.minerva.drawers.styles%7Cskins.minerva.tablet.styles&amp;only=styles&amp;skin=minerva&amp;target=mobile&amp;*" />
<meta name="ResourceLoaderDynamicStyles" content="" />
<script src="http://mulpwiki.org/load.php?debug=false&amp;lang=en&amp;modules=startup&amp;only=scripts&amp;skin=minerva&amp;target=mobile&amp;*"></script>
<script>if(window.mw){
mw.config.set({"wgCanonicalNamespace":"","wgCanonicalSpecialPageName":false,"wgNamespaceNumber":0,"wgPageName":"\"Blue_Moon\"_(CYOA)(Bats-General)","wgTitle":"\"Blue Moon\" (CYOA)(Bats-General)","wgCurRevisionId":57327,"wgRevisionId":57327,"wgArticleId":33669,"wgIsArticle":true,"wgIsRedirect":false,"wgAction":"view","wgUserName":null,"wgUserGroups":["*"],"wgCategories":["Anon","Bats-General","Blue Featherpen","Botv1.4","CYOA","Revision","Story"],"wgBreakFrames":false,"wgPageContentLanguage":"en","wgPageContentModel":"wikitext","wgSeparatorTransformTable":["",""],"wgDigitTransformTable":["",""],"wgDefaultDateFormat":"dmy","wgMonthNames":["","January","February","March","April","May","June","July","August","September","October","November","December"],"wgMonthNamesShort":["","Jan","Feb","Mar","Apr","May","Jun","Jul","Aug","Sep","Oct","Nov","Dec"],"wgRelevantPageName":"\"Blue_Moon\"_(CYOA)(Bats-General)","wgIsProbablyEditable":true,"wgRestrictionEdit":[],"wgRestrictionMove":[],"wgWikiEditorEnabledModules":{"toolbar":false,"dialogs":false,"hidesig":true,"preview":false,"previewDialog":false,"publish":false},"wgCategoryTreePageCategoryOptions":"{\"mode\":0,\"hideprefix\":20,\"showcount\":true,\"namespaces\":false}","wgMFUseCentralAuthToken":false,"wgMFAjaxUploadProgressSupport":true,"wgMFAnonymousEditing":false,"wgMFPhotoUploadAppendToDesc":"","wgMFLeadPhotoUploadCssSelector":"img, .navbox","wgMFEnableCssAnimations":true,"wgMFPhotoUploadEndpoint":"","wgPreferredVariant":"en","wgIsPageEditable":true,"wgMFDeviceWidthTablet":768,"wgMFMode":"stable","wgMFCollapseSectionsByDefault":true,"wgTOC":true,"wgMFPageSections":true,"wgMFShowRedLinks":false,"wgMFThumbnailSizes":{"tiny":80,"small":150,"medium":300},"wgImagesDisabled":false,"wgUserCanUpload":false});
}</script><script>if(window.mw){
mw.loader.implement("user.options",function($,jQuery){mw.user.options.set({"ccmeonemails":0,"cols":80,"date":"default","diffonly":0,"disablemail":0,"editfont":"default","editondblclick":0,"editsectiononrightclick":0,"enotifminoredits":0,"enotifrevealaddr":0,"enotifusertalkpages":1,"enotifwatchlistpages":1,"extendwatchlist":0,"fancysig":0,"forceeditsummary":0,"gender":"unknown","hideminor":0,"hidepatrolled":0,"imagesize":2,"math":1,"minordefault":0,"newpageshidepatrolled":0,"nickname":"","norollbackdiff":0,"numberheadings":0,"previewonfirst":0,"previewontop":1,"rcdays":7,"rclimit":50,"rows":25,"showhiddencats":0,"shownumberswatching":1,"showtoolbar":1,"skin":"vector","stubthreshold":0,"thumbsize":5,"underline":2,"uselivepreview":0,"usenewrc":0,"watchcreations":1,"watchdefault":1,"watchdeletion":0,"watchlistdays":3,"watchlisthideanons":0,"watchlisthidebots":0,"watchlisthideliu":0,"watchlisthideminor":0,"watchlisthideown":0,"watchlisthidepatrolled":0,"watchmoves":0,"watchrollback":0,
"wllimit":250,"useeditwarning":1,"prefershttps":1,"language":"en","variant-gan":"gan","variant-iu":"iu","variant-kk":"kk","variant-ku":"ku","variant-shi":"shi","variant-sr":"sr","variant-tg":"tg","variant-uz":"uz","variant-zh":"zh","searchNs0":true,"searchNs1":false,"searchNs2":false,"searchNs3":false,"searchNs4":false,"searchNs5":false,"searchNs6":false,"searchNs7":false,"searchNs8":false,"searchNs9":false,"searchNs10":false,"searchNs11":false,"searchNs12":false,"searchNs13":false,"searchNs14":false,"searchNs15":false,"gadget-topCats":1,"variant":"en"});},{},{});mw.loader.implement("user.tokens",function($,jQuery){mw.user.tokens.set({"editToken":"+\\","patrolToken":"+\\","watchToken":"+\\"});},{},{});
/* cache key: wikidb:resourceloader:filter:minify-js:7:40df167353da3a21ba04b8119194408a */
}</script>
<script>if(window.mw){
mw.loader.load(["mediawiki.page.startup","mobile.head","mobile.site"]);
}</script>
<meta name="viewport" content="initial-scale=1.0, user-scalable=yes, minimum-scale=0.25, maximum-scale=5.0" />
</head>
<body class="mediawiki ltr sitedir-ltr stable mw-mobile-mode skin-minerva action-view">
		<div id="mw-mf-viewport">
			<div id="mw-mf-page-left" class="navigation-drawer">
						<ul>
		<li><a href="../index.html" class="icon-home icon icon-text">Home</a></li><li><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php/Special:Random/#/random" class="icon-random icon icon-text" id="randomButton">Random</a></li>		</ul>
		<ul>
		<li><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&amp;returnto=Special%3AWatchlist" class="icon-watchlist icon icon-text">Watchlist</a></li><li><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Special:MobileOptions&amp;returnto=%22Blue+Moon%22+%28CYOA%29%28Bats-General%29" class="icon-settings icon icon-text">Settings</a></li><li><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&amp;returnto=%22Blue+Moon%22+%28CYOA%29%28Bats-General%29&amp;returntoquery=welcome%3Dyes" class="icon icon-anon icon-text">Log in</a></li>		</ul>
		<ul class="hlist">
		<li><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php/MulpWiki:About">About MulpWiki</a></li><li><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php/MulpWiki:General_disclaimer">Disclaimers</a></li>		</ul>
					</div>
			<div id="mw-mf-page-center">
				<div id="siteNotice"></div>				<div class="header">
					<a title="Open main menu" href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php/Special:MobileMenu" class="main-header-button icon" id="mw-mf-main-menu-button"></a>							<form action="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php" class="search-box">
							<input type="search" name="search" placeholder="Search MulpWiki" title="Search MulpWiki [f]" accesskey="f" id="searchInput" class="search" autocomplete="off" /><input type="submit" name="fulltext" value="Search" title="Search the pages for this text" class="fulltext-search no-js-only icon icon-search" />							</form>
											</div>
				<div id="content_wrapper">
				<a id="mw-mf-last-modified" data-timestamp="1453042619" href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php/Special:History/%22Blue_Moon%22_(CYOA)(Bats-General)" data-user-name="HotRobotSlave" data-user-gender="unknown" class="top-bar truncated-text">Last modified on 17 January 2016, at 14:56</a>		<script>
			if ( window.mw && mw.mobileFrontend ) { mw.mobileFrontend.emit( 'header-loaded' ); }
		</script>
				<div class="pre-content">
			<h1 id="section_0">"Blue Moon" (CYOA)(Bats-General)</h1><ul id="page-actions" class="hlist"><li id="ca-edit" class="icon icon-32px icon-edit" title="Edit the lead section of this page."></li><li id="ca-talk" class="hidden icon icon-32px icon-talk"><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Talk:%22Blue_Moon%22_(CYOA)(Bats-General)&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Discussion about the content page [t]" accesskey="t">Discussion</a></li><li id="ca-watch" class="watch-this-article icon icon-32px"><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&amp;returnto=%22Blue+Moon%22+%28CYOA%29%28Bats-General%29" title="Add this page to your watchlist [w]" accesskey="w"></a></li></ul>		</div>
		<div id="content" class="content" lang="en" dir="ltr">			<div><center>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<div style="border:1px solid #000000; background: #EEEEEE">
<p><font size="2">
This page was created by a <a href="./User:HotRobotSlave" title="User:HotRobotSlave">bot</a> and has not undergone revision yet.
</font>
</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
</center>
<p>No Summary is available for this Article. 
</p>
<table class="wikitable" style="float:right">
<tr>
<td><b>Writefag</b>
</td>
<td>Blue_Featherpen
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Pastebin link</b>:
</td>
<td><a rel="nofollow" class="external free" href="http://pastebin.com/NtH6vDbz">http://pastebin.com/NtH6vDbz</a>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Pastebin creation</b>
</td>
<td>Monday 13th of April 2015 02:48:30 AM CDT
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Last Pastebin update</b>
</td>
<td>Last edit on: Thursday 8th of October 2015 06:16:50 AM CDT
</td></tr></table>

</div><h3><span class="mw-headline" id=".22Blue_Moon.22_.28CYOA.29.28Bats-General.29">"Blue Moon" (CYOA)(Bats-General)</span><a href="&quot;Blue_Moon&quot;_(CYOA)(Bats-General)#/editor/1" title="Edit section: &quot;Blue Moon&quot; (CYOA)(Bats-General)" data-section="1" class="edit-page icon icon-32px icon-edit enabled">Edit</a></h3><div>
<div dir="ltr" class="mw-geshi mw-code mw-content-ltr"><div class="gettext source-gettext">&#160;<br />&#160;<span class="co4">&gt;Midnight Flicker turned another page, tired eyes scanning symbol after symbol, transcribing the words onto paper.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She cursed Starswirl internally for encoding his research, why couldn't he have been not paranoid? Like Clover?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Clover's writings were in normal Equestrian.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not like Starswirl's chicken scratch at all. Finding the cipher had been hard enough, she'd been told.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare startled as the clock on the wall chimed twice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Burning the midnight oil was all the little Unicorn seemed to do these days.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It had to be her destiny.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Because that's what my cutie mark is telling me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was definitely prepared to call it a night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Midnight levitated her work into a neat pile and closed Starswirl's book. As far as she'd been able to tell, this particular volume dealt with Starswirl's attempts to 'Invoke the powers of a Unicorn', as he put it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It had been written during Starswirl's years of madness, so his chicken scratch was even less legible than usual.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She'd figure it out, though. There wasn't a thing she couldn't decipher if she put her mind to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Good evening... Midnight, is it? Or should I say good morning?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare startled again and spun around to find an Earth Pony stallion standing in the doorway, eyeing her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What are you doing here? The Starswirl wing is off limits.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion walked forward, eyes roaming the room methodically, &quot;Oh, of that I'm well aware. However, the guards are currently indisposed.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Behind him, another two ponies moved into view at the doorway.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Midnight became nervous, she didn't like what this stallion had been implying when he said 'indisposed'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wh-What do you want?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion eyed her up and down again and gave her a smile that set Midnight's nerves on edge, &quot;You, my dear. Your current... work.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His eyes strayed to the sheaf of papers she'd just been working on, &quot;...Is of great interest to my employer, and you are the best in your field. Believe me, we've checked.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Midnight took a step backwards and thought frantically.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She didn't know any spells, just basic levitation!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Should she even try to fight? These ponies looked dangerous, they could hurt her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She swallowed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;T-Take it, just take it and leave me alone... Please...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion clucked his tongue and smiled wider.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If only I could do that, but you see, Midnight, we need you as well.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I would hate to have to resort to unpleasant measures to ensure your co-operation, my lady.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He took one more step forwards, now face to face with Midnight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If you would kindly come with us.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies at the door moved into the room and to his side, silently watching.</span><br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And it's a wonderful day, the sun is high, the crisp morning air blew through the window...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you did not want to be awake just now, it was too early.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, somepony was knocking away at the door downstairs, seemingly insistent on gaining entry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Let's see how he likes the blood-sucking bat act.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You jumped out of bed and wiped the sleep out of your eyes.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Get your mane straight and go down there. Be prepared for a vacuum salespon]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The knocking continued incessantly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Knock, knock, knock.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was worse than an all girls college dorm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrugged and easily made you way to the vanity, picking up your brush to straighten out your mane before Anon saw.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Every time, you swear.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Brushie, Brushie, Flare!&quot; He'd shout before restraining you to brush your mane.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd admit that it encouraged you to look after yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Knock, knock, knock!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;By Celestia, was he persistent, probably some star damned vacuum salespony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or insurance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You idly wondered why Anon hadn't answered the door yet, he was awake, you were sure of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Plotting revenge on the salespony and Anon both for waking you up this early, you made your way downstairs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Knock, knock, knock!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'm coming! I'm coming! Hold on!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You got to the door, fit to blow with rage at the offender before opening it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What?!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In the doorway stood one of the day guard. It took him a moment, but his ears flopped down and he adopted an expression of apology.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt like a horse.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Be relieved it isn't a saleshorse. But still be irritated and ask why all the ballistics on your door. I mean, he might as well of been ramming the door.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;On the up and up, you were relieved it wasn't a saleshorse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On the other hoof... The silly stallion had been pounding the door pretty hard, and that made you hopping mad.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You eyed him silently, and his look of apology turned to one of confusion.</span><br />&quot;Why the ballistics on my door? Seriously? Do you take work as a battering ram or something?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, uh, sorry, ma'am. It's just that I have an urgent delivery and... I'm sorry.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And waited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion just stood there looking abashed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Checking the rank on his armor, you saw that he was just a private.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fresh green, straight out of boot. No wonder.</span><br />&quot;Private.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Y-Yes, ma'am?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Your delivery.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He froze and nodded frantically, &quot;Yes, uh, here!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard stallion presented a sealed scroll to you, bearing the Princesses signature. A Phoenix clutching a bundle of arrows in one claw and an olive branch in the other.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Princess Celestia's seal, specifically. It made sense, it was day time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took it from the nervous stallion, eyes travelling between him and the scroll.</span><br />&quot;Was there something more, private?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, Lieutenant. You have to uh... D-Dismiss me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally you understood, he was afraid of you because you were a Bat Pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Go figure.</span><br />&quot;Don't sweat it private. I only bite mares... and only when I'm in bed with them.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;His reaction was immediate and typical, his cheeks went tomato red and he opened and closed his mouth like a gaping fish.</span><br />&quot;You're dismissed.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turning your back on him, you kicked the door shut with a hind leg.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Open the scroll]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really wanted to take vengeance on Anon for letting that pesky stallion wake you up before letting business take the head, but one doesn't simply ignore a scroll sent by Celestia.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Had to be important right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It better be, or you'd grumble because you couldn't exactly tell off the solar princess for waking you up in the morning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That was kind of her m.o</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You opened the scroll right there in the entrance hall and read over it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a summons to the castle</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Scratch that, an urgent summons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And she wanted you to bring Anon with you as well, citing that his expertise could be useful.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Other than that, it didn't say anything indicating what this was all about.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your curiosity would have to wait until you got there, you suppose.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You should look presentable when you go up there, and you still had to rouse Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were also kind of hungry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Princess surely wouldn't begrudge you a slight delay for food, right?</span><br />&#160;<br />{Turn to page <span class="nu0">6</span> to go look presentable}<br />{Turn to page <span class="nu0">104</span> to rouse Anon}<br />{Turn to page <span class="nu0">27</span> to find food}<br />{Turn to page <span class="nu0">9</span> to open the door, get on the floor, everybody do the dinosaur.}<br />&#160;<br />[<span class="nu0">104</span>, <span class="nu0">6</span>, and <span class="nu0">27</span> in that order]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rousing Anon seemed like the best course of action for starters.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could take revenge on him at the same time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that thought in mind, you snuck towards his room and nosed the door open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was unconscious at the desk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perfect.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You flapped you wings and kept in the air silently, hovering with your muzzle by his neck, you opened your mouth and...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br />&quot;EEEEEEE!!!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon screamed and fell off of his chair, looking around in a blind panic before his eyes settled on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare, what the fuck!?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wild snickering escaped you as you fell out of the air and on your rump, breaking out into full blown laughter.</span><br />&quot;Your... Oh Luna... Your face... It... Ahaha!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon made a face at you and got up, dusting off his suit, &quot;One of these days Flare, bang, zoom...&quot;</span><br />&quot;Ooooh noooo! Anon's gonna send me to the moon for a thousand years!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You made a face back at him.</span><br />&quot;You're hardly an alicorn princess, Anon.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Fine. I'll just have to rape you instead.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pfft!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You rolled your eyes and got up, trotting out of the room.</span><br />&quot;You can try. Anyway, get ready, we need to go up to the castle today.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anonymous has joined your party.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now you just needed to eat something quick and get ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor first. Then food, you can eat on the way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You went back upstairs to your room and pulled your shiny night guard armor out of the closet, removing the oiled leather wraps gently.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spent the next few minutes putting it on, listening to Anon moving about downstairs, probably changing suits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armored up, you got to your hooves and did a few stretches to get used to the weight again, seeing as it had been a while since you'd even worn it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Saliva began collecting in your mouth as you thought of food.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You settled the armor around yourself and headed back downstairs to find Anon raising an eyebrow at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Expecting trouble?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Expecting guard stuff.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon nodded, no doubt figuring out that you had no more idea than he did.</span><br />&#160;<br />{With the perspective switching, you'll have the option of switching between characters any time they're together or if the character you're currently 'riding' has a certain consumable object in their inventory which I'll introduce}<br />&#160;<br />[Get some easy food, you know, pop tarts. Or something healthy, just that snack you go for by impulse if you're pressed for time. And go to the castle.]<br />[Be Anon maybe]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be Anon, now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Expecting guard stuff.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nodded, Flare really had no idea, did she?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little pony went past you and straight into the kitchen, biting into an apple and removing it from the bowl, sucking the juices out of it as she spoke around the fruit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Kay less goh.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that she was out the door, and you followed, wondering just why you were being dragged up to the castle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With Flare, usually it was just you for... Reasons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrugged it off, they'd tell you when you got there, end of story.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Canterlot was up bright and early in the chill mountain air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Things were getting boring, and your only company was a guard mare who was content to trot in silence and devour her apple.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Ask her why she likes apples so much. Give a somewhat uncomfortable stare while doing so.]<br />[When she might not respond, snag the scroll out of her pocket if she has one and read up. Once Anon knows it's nice and vague and completely uninformative, speculate with Flare.]<br />[Just to be a little annoying. You weren't about to let her enjoy her apple after she earraped you.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes fall on Flare again, happily sucking on her apple.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The cunt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A wonderful idea comes to mind and you cough into your hand</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She doesn't notice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;So it's gonna be like that, huh?</span><br />&quot;Hey, Flare!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare grunts at you.</span><br />&quot;Flare.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She rolls her eyes and munches on her apple.</span><br />&quot;Flare. Hey.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With an irritated whine, she brings a hoof up and pulls the apple out, taking a bite out of it and chewing slowly, giving you a playful glare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You return her gaze with an uncomfortable stare, like that of a guy who must tell his best miniature horse friend that she's contracted cancer and that she will never live out her dreams.</span><br />&quot;Why do you like apples?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Huh?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shake your head.</span><br />&quot;Apples. Why do you like them so much? Like, to the point of shoving one up your cooch.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare blushed! You had her now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wait... did she actually...? Nevermind, you don't want to know.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;They're... Good? Yeah. They're good for you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare's not getting out of this one, not after that ear raping.</span><br />&quot;Good to know.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding, Flare went to put the apple back in her mouth and you interrupted her just as she was about to.</span><br />&quot;Only...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What.&quot;</span><br />&quot;There are a lot of fruits that are good for you. Why this specific one?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare whined in frustration, she knew why she was being punished. The bitch.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I went to the summer sun celebration years ago in Ponyville as a foal, you know, when Nightmare Moon came back?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She slipped into an uncomfortable silence.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You prompted her with a nudge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, when the sun didn't rise... A lot of ponies began to panic, I uh... Got separated from Mom and, well, I thought the world was ending.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I got lost. In the dark.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A bat pony? Lost in the dark?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pssh!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Shut up, Anon! I kinda went to Sweet Apple Acres and got trapped in a ditch. There was a big red stallion, Big Mac I think his name was, he found me, fished me out and gave me an apple while we looked for my Mom.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She took another bite out of her apple.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That apple was the best thing I'd ever tasted after being stuck in a hole for three hours. I've loved them ever since.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tried to keep a straight face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Naturally you failed and burst out laughing.</span><br />&quot;Oh my god, what? You got lost in the dark? You? A Bat Pony?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare's cheeks went red and she stuffed the apple back in her mouth, sucking more juices out of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was clearly pretty embarrassed, most Bat Ponies had an affinity for darkness, and Flare here had been scared of eternal night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ha ha ha.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oh wow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lapsed into silence for a minute or two.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare began to become comfortable, complacent.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't have that, now could you?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Actually, you were curious about the scroll you'd seen sticking out of Flare's saddlebags.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching a hand down and snatching it out was easy, and Flare gave you a look of annoyance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You retaliated by poking your tongue at her like a retard as you opened the scroll and read.</span><br />&#160;<br />&lt;To Lieutenant Flare<br />&#160;<br />&lt;Your presence, along with Anonymous, is required at Canterlot Castle immediately. There is something I could use your help with, and Anonymous's too, his expertise may come in useful.<br />&#160;<br />&lt;Signed, Princess Celestia of Equestria.<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Heh, formal of Sunbutt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;An idle thought occurred to you of calling her a filthy peasant girl the next time you saw her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just to see how she'd react.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Scratch that, how would everyone within earshot react?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In any case, the scroll was vague as all hell and completely uninformative.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It basically just said, 'Hey, come're, I've got a secret.'</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After reading out loud to Flare, which in itself annoyed the mare, you put it back in her saddlebag and gave her rump a pat.</span><br />&quot;Well that was vague, what do you think she wants?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare once again removed the apple from her mouth and gave you a desperate look, &quot;Anon, please, can I just eat my apple in peace?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />[Let her have the apple, you can just bug her later. Later being when she's done with her apple. She didn't say anything for -after- she's done with it.]<br />[Go to the castle, await judgement before the sunbutt.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You experience a moment of mercy and smile.</span><br />&quot;Sure.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'll leave her be with her apple, at least until she's done with it. That's when you'll continue annoying the piss out of her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For now, the castle loomed ahead, all bright and cheery.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was disgusting, castles were meant to be foreboding, and filled with rape dungeons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe that'd be something to ask the princesses, if they had a rape dungeon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards gave the two of you odd looks as you passed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A big monkey thing and a bat pony with an apple in her mouth like a gag?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Who wouldn't question that?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you were used to stares, you'd gotten a lot of them that one time you went around Canterlot shouting 'pomf!' every time a Pegasus opened their wings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare led you into the castle, one of the guards approaching and asking her to follow him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She grunted around the apple and turned to follow him, with you trailing behind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion led the pair of you towards the Canterlot Archives. It left you wondering why Princess Celestia was there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Soon enough, the stallion halted outside what you recognised as the Starswirl wing. The room inside was a mess, papers scattered the floor, the table had been overturned and a bookcase had fallen over, spilling its contents everywhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Princess just stood in the middle of the room, looking directly at the pair of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare, Anonymous, thank you for coming.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />[swat the apple out of flare's mouth, you've got business to talk about]<br />[Finish consuming your appul, listen to the butt of the sun.]<br />[Ask what's going on]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We're happy to help in any way we can your highness.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare did a little bow and proceeded to put the apple back in her mouth</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waited until the half finished fruit was almost in before reaching down and slapping it out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One more for the road, right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was also business to talk about, so that was that, too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare turned to you and gave you a hurt look, she looked almost as if she were going to cry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You regret nothing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Princess Celestia shot you a look and levitated the apple before her, making the apple itself glow brighter and brighter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a few seconds, the glow died down and the apple was completely whole again, as if it had never been eaten.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The solar princess returned the fruit to Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Eee!~&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare happily took a bite out of it, working to finish the apple.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looks like it was up to you.</span><br />&quot;Anyway... What can we do for you, Sunbutt?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Princess Celestia sat on that big plump rump of hers and began to explain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Some time early this morning, a student of mine was in here deciphering one of Starswirl's works.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She looked to the clock on the wall, drawing your eye as well.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The hands were frozen a little after two a.m.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Odd.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Clearly, somepony took interest in her work. She, Midnight that is, along with a certain tome have gone missing. I'd like you two to find out who.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare munched slowly on her apple thoughtfully, not saying anything, but looking around and then turning her gaze to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was clear what she was thinking.</span><br />&quot;Why us, Princess? I'm sure you have the best detectives in the kingdom at ha- hoof.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare looked up at the Princess and oddly enough, Sunbutt avoided her gaze.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As a... Canterlot Ranger, Flare is better suited to go after the perpetrators.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She paused uncertainly, as though unsure how to continue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I only wish Midnight's safe return. That cannot be done through normal channels.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia continued to avoid Flare's gaze.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Say yes, but you need more informations, you know nothing about what happened. Ask where Midnight was last time, send Flare there and tell her you will join soon. Ask Sunbutt why she avoided looking at Flare.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Sure, we'll do it, but I'm going to need to know more, Princess. Where exactly was Midnight last night?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Princess Celestia nodded in thanks and gestured to the far end of the room, where it looked as though the struggle had began.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was also well out of earshot, at least you hoped it was out of Flare's earshot.</span><br />&quot;Hey Flare, could you go take a look? See if you can find anything.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare finished her apple and looked up at you, &quot;Sure. Anon, Princess.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She snapped a salute to Celestia and trotted off to the far end of the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Princesses gaze followed the little pony for a while before returning to you.</span><br />&quot;So. Sunbutt. You seemed a little nervous, why did you avoid looking at Flare?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia's eyes widened and she lifted a forehoof as though she'd been slapped, or caught with her hoof in the cookie jar.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Avoided? I don't know what you mean.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Yes, avoided. Princess we can't help you if we don't know everything.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia now avoided your gaze, &quot;I detest asking my little ponies to walk into possible danger.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You observed the mare and let your eyes stray to Flare, who was lurking about at the far end of the room, unaware of your conversation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Princess looked almost ashamed of herself.</span><br />&quot;Princess. That's not all, is it?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anonymous, please...&quot;</span><br />&quot;Princess.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She sighed and walked past you one of her wings nudging you to follow and you took one last look at Flare before doing so.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare led you to a secluded corner of the wing, separate from the guards milling about.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I cannot tell you, and especially her if my suspicions are correct. I need you to trust me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Princess gave you a pleading look, which seemed odd coming from her.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Reluctantly agree, but be suspicious. Check up on Flare maybe, looking for signs or clues on the way over.]<br />[Apple slap was rood.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You give Sun Horse a stare and finally relent.</span><br />&quot;Fine. I trust you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia breaths a sigh of relief and steps forward, pressing her muzzle against your chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thank you, Anonymous. I knew I could count on you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She stepped away after a moment, she looks to the side again, &quot;However, I should warn you that this may become a personal matter for Flare. I'll leave you two to your investigations.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, the Princess wandered off and you watched her go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She really did have a nice ass.</span><br />&quot;Mmm...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As soon as she rounded the corner, you snapped yourself out of it and made your way back to Flare, thinking about what the Princess had said.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Personal for Flare? You'd hang onto your suspicion for now, Celestia clearly knew far more than she was letting on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Doubtless you'd find out eventually, but for now, it was forensics time, without the trashy lab montage.</span><br />&quot;What do we have, Flare?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little horse turned to you and up turned a hoof, a little slip of torn paper resting on her frog.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Just this so far, looks like it was torn from whatever Midnight was working on.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You reached down and took it from her, reading it.</span><br />&quot;To invoke the power of a unicorn? Seems run of the mill. Anyone could walk up to a random ass unicorn and hold onto their horn until they magic everywhere.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare blushed and facehoofed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No. No, Anon, that's not what it means.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She paused and scuffed the tiled floor idly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;At least I hope that's not what it means- Ah! It was Starswirl! I'm pretty sure he didn't write a magnum opus on how to bring unicorns to orgasm!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snickered.</span><br />&quot;So Starswirl wanted to invoke the power of the Unicorn, that doesn't even make sense, it happens every day.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare brought a hoof to her muzzle thoughtfully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We could ask the Princess, she was around back then. On the other hoof, we could question some of the guards that were here when Midnight was taken, maybe they saw something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What should we do?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />[Ask the goddess what the paper meant, and see if Flare can egg stuff out of the guards.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Thinking about it, I'll go pester Celestia again about this...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waved around the slip of paper.</span><br />&quot;...While you go poke at the guards for information.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Right. See you soon, Nonny.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare left for a nearby group of guards and began to converse with them as you left to find Celestia.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you actually knew where she'd gone.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You poked a guard and figured you'd ask.</span><br />&quot;Hey, did you see where the Princess went?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard looked up at you with that stoic look that they had all seemed to master and told you that she'd gone to one of the historical halls.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thanked him and left off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The historical halls pretty much held the history of the country in stylised windows. Whole wings of the castle were cordoned off for them, and Equestria had a long history.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were never quite sure how the interior of the castle seemed more spacious than the exterior, so you had put it down to magic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They don't gotta explain shit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching the wings, you found the Princess standing at the intersection between three of the halls, two of which were open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The final one being closed and, presumably, locked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was the one she was having a staring contest with.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stood behind her silently.</span><br />&#160;<br />[show the paper and ask what gives]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Oi, Sunbutt! We found something.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The solar princess startled, dragged out of whatever private thoughts she'd been in and turned to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anonymous! Sorry. What do you need?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Panic? That's not suspicious at all.</span><br />&quot;What do you think of this? Flare found it where Midnight had been working, I think it might have something to do with what she was working on.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You handed her the slip of paper and she took it in her magic, eyes taking it in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She levitated it back to you with a heavy sigh, &quot;That's what I was afraid of.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Oh?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nodded, &quot;In his later years, after Luna's... banishment. Starswirl lost his mind, he became obsessed with 'leveling the playing field' as he put it, to that end, he researched all kinds of magic and science.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Princess shook her head woefully, &quot;The silly pony. He did much good with what he learned, but he also did much harm. I'm not aware of what he means by invoking the power of a Unicorn, and that means that it was definitely something he had been doing during his final years.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;So Starswirl became a mad scientist, and someone out there in Equestria had their hooves or claws on his work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That couldn't end well.</span><br />&quot;So any ideas? Any at all? It could help.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia turned to you fully and frowned, pointing at the slip of paper in your hand, &quot;If that was part of Starswirls work of levelling the advantages each tribe held over each other, then it means that there's only on pony behind Midnight's foalnapping.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Who?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia looked towards the locked door and whispered, &quot;Blue Moon is back.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />[Ask who they is and what he/she does.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Uh, I'm sorry, you must have mistaken me for someone who knows what you're talking about.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia gave you an apologetic shrug and walked towards the locked door, running a hoof over it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blue Moon was once a student of mine forty years ago. Equestria was a very different place back then, a center of industry and progress, the arm of the Equestrian government stretched far and influenced much. One could say it was the most powerful nation on Earth back then.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia spoke with a degree of detachment and shame, as though she didn't approve of her ponies having that much power.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blue Moon was the perfect example of the kind of ponies of that time, though I did not realise it then. She was ruthless and cunning, advancing fields of science magic regardless of the cost, regardless of the harm it could bring. The worst part was that at her core, Blue Moon's intentions were pure.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Equestria a center of industry? You could hardly believe it, these days it looked very much medieval with a scattering of technology here and there.</span><br />&quot;What happened?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia sat, a pained look on her face, and you could see how the centuries weighed down on her, how holding up a country weighed down on her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I have not always been a good ruler, and the thousand years Luna was gone almost broke me. I spend years, decades, even centuries secluded from the world. Once I saw the kind of pony Blue Moon truly was, I looked at the world I had allowed to happen in my absence.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia then went on to tell you how the government she'd put in place to rule in her stead had grown corrupt and power hungry, and how she'd stepped forth to put a stop to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She had outlawed the more dangerous sciences and magic, to which Blue Moon had not taken to kindly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blue Moon swore that she would see Equestria progress at any cost and vanished, it seems that she's up to her old tricks.&quot;</span><br />&quot;And now she's stolen Starswirls work and a pony to figure it out for her?&quot;<br />&#160;<br />[What was it BM was making? Weapons I guess?]<br />[Ask where to look]<br />[Sneak glances at butt.]<br />[Don't get caught.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You can't help but sneak glances at Sunnybutts sunny butt as she speaks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes, and I dread to think what she has in mind.&quot;</span><br />&quot;So what exactly was it that Blue Moon was doing? Making weapons?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia nodded, &quot;And not only that, mind control, space programs, genetics, cloning, she even dabbled in time travel and expanded on Starswirl's work on travel to other worlds. I have long suspected that your own appearance in Equestria was orchestrated by her. There are some workings of the world that are not meant for us, and she was driven to crack them all wide open.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This Blue Moon didn't sound so bad, apart from the mind control it seemed like she was pursuing everything that humanity had ever dreamed of.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could see how it could bring harm, sure, but there was also great benefit.</span><br />&quot;I'm sorry, Princess but... Blue Moon sounds like she just wanted to bring Equestria forwards-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No! The cost was too great. The suffering she wreaked bringing those advancements was horrific. Blue Moon was responsible for countless deaths in her experiments, and those are just the ones I know of.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You put your hands up in a calming gesture.</span><br />&quot;Alright, alright, I understand. She was like a Nazi. Have you any idea where to begin looking?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia took a moment to calm down, glaring at the locked door once again, it was clear that behind that was a period of Equestrian history Princess Celestia did not wish to repeat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a deep breath, she finally calmed herself and shook her head, &quot;No. Even before she vanished, Blue Moon always worked through others, and when she vanished she became a ghost.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br />&quot;Princess, I'll ask you again. Why do you need Flare to do this?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia, closed her eyes and frowned, &quot;Because Blue Moon is responsible for her birth mother's death, I don't know why, but I believe Blue Moon had her killed.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took a moment to sink in.</span><br />&quot;You're using Flare as bait... To draw her out.&quot;<br />&#160;<br />[<span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You're using Flare as bait... To draw her out.&quot;]</span><br />[Get her to spill more beans and be slightly peeved about pic related. http://i.imgur.com/ESF0MBc.jpg]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia nodded staring ahead blankly, looking at nothing in particular.</span><br />&quot;You...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were actually angry about this, here was a ruler that was meant to be benevolent, and here she was using Flare as a disposable piece in a very large, very dangerous game of chess.</span><br />&quot;Do you even realise how much Flare idolises you?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She looked down in shame.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The rabbit hole went even deeper.</span><br />&quot;But then, you know that already, don't you? Having her raised by Spring Breeze, a captain of the day guard and a Pegasus, you could tell her that she's the bait and she would do it anyway. You've been shaping Flare her whole life to be little more than a pawn, haven't you?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia shook her head, shooting you a dirty look, &quot;Flare is a Canterlot Ranger, Human. I've made sure she has the tools she needs to survive.&quot;</span><br />&quot;But at what cost?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It's an acceptable price to stop Blu-&quot;</span><br />&quot;I bet Blue Moon also thought that sacrificing ponies was an acceptable cost to advanc-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia's hoof swiped across your cheek, it was clearly intended as a slap, but it felt like a fist to the face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt the temperature raise considerably and Celestia looked as though her very stare could incinerate you where you stood, &quot;Never... N-Never compare me to her. You didn't see the suffering she left behind her, she needs to be stopped.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Flare deserves better for her loyalty to you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The fire in the Princesses eyes died down and she looked aside, the weight of centuries pressing down on her again, &quot;I know. They all do.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Damn straight. Now spill it, Princess. Everything.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia nodded and levitated the amethyst out of her peytral, moving it over to the locked door and pressing it into a little slot, a dull thunk sounding from within the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She replaced the amethyst and walked past you, &quot;Everything you need to know is in there.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You heard a flutter of wings and turned to look at her, only to find that she'd vanished through some non-magical teleportation.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Go in and look, see what you're dealing with.]<br />[Tell Flare about the lead.]<br />[But not about how she's involved.]<br />[Not yet. But be ready to.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ignoring Celestia's quick departure, you push open the doors and enter the hall, it's considerably darker in this hall in regards to the others, mostly due to the fact that this hall in particular extended into Canterlot mountain itself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stained glass window in here were lit up from behind by torches, giving the hall an overall depressive atmosphere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No wonder the Princess kept this wing locked, even at a casual glance, you could tell that this period of Equestrian history hadn't been spectacular.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The first window portrayed the Princess herself, weeping at the moon, her ponies gathered around at her hooves with concern.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving down the hall, the second window showed a pair of golden doors emblazoned with the sun swinging shut, which you recognised as the throne room. Just before the doors lay a round table with four ponies seated, one of each tribe and the fourth being a unicorn wearing a crown. The others appearing to defer to the mare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next showed a picture of prosperity, nothing grand, it seemed like life as usual, however up on a stylised cloud sat the golden doors of the throne room, still shut. Some of the ponies, but not all, looked up at the door in concern.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even you could tell that this window was supposed to indicate years passing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next up was an image of other species, with a scattering of some monsters surrounding a group of three small ponies, shrinking back from the demonised enemies, fearful, while still the golden doors remained shut.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The images continued, with Griffins, Zebras and other intelligent species and nations taking whatever they wished from the farming Earth Ponies and the magical Unicorns while Pegasi tried and failed to protect them, above them the golden doors remained ever sealed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you came to a window depicting a blue Unicorn in rags, weeping at the devastation around her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It seemed as if she journeyed to Canterlot and begged at the throne room doors for the Princess to save them.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The doors opened a crack and the mare stepped inside, while the devastation continued, the government struggling to hold onto their land and wealth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The next window depicted the blue unicorn again, which at this point you'd come to identify as Blue Moon, as her cutie mark represented a half cog as a crescent moon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She stood proudly in front of the golden doors as they once again swung shut, she possessed a stylised golden halo and magnificent golden ethereal wings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This probably represented a mandate from the Princess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She took charge of the floundering government, bringing invention and progress and soon the tides were turned.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earth Ponies, Unicorn and Pegasi alike drove back enemies and monsters, reclaiming land and wealth through force, all while the unicorn stood on high before the doors to the throne room, wings and halo outstretched protectively.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You began to see tanks, war ships and zepplins. Fertile land became industrial blocks. Metal barding and melee weapons were replaced with uniforms and firearms.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the windows progressed, the image of the blue mare became more and more insidious, the golden wings darkening, the halo beginning to fade, indicative that she'd begun to stray from the mandate of the Princess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then came the last few windows, the Unicorn depicted with demonic red eyes, the wings and halo gone, the ponies under her surrounded by flame and evil looking machinery, soldiers once sworn to protect the country becoming oppressive towards their charges and those they had conquered, the Griffins and Zebras the monsters laying dead or dying.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You halted at the next one, staring long and hard at it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The unicorn mare stood before what was definitely a mushroom cloud, the ponies she ruled over too fearful to do anything to stop her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That's when the golden doors finally opened and the Princess stepped out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The unicorn and Celestia fought, but it was a one sided battle, the unicorn being defeated and stripped of her position.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She then fled into the darkness and the Princess sat at the table, representatives of all the species of the Earth sitting at it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You guessed Celestia had negotiated with them all and brought peace, because the next window showed the golden doors standing proudly open, with Celestia standing over a fire, burning many of the machines Blue Moon had brought into the world.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The final window had the Princess sitting on the throne once again, sun on one side, moon on the other, the ponies below her happy and playful once again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was peace.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You knew enough about history to know that it was written by the victor, but would Celestia really spin historical events to her favour?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon had been depicted in such a good light at first, perhaps the lesson that was to be learned here was that power corrupts.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In any case, Blue Moon had Midnight Flicker, and the implications of invoking the power of a Unicorn were much more daunting now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You needed to get back to Flare and see if she had discovered anything.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If what Celestia had said was true, Blue Moon would still be working through others, trying to stimulate industry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And who was better at industry than Flim Flam Inc?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wondered if you should tell Flare about how she was being used by a pony she considered a god.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No, she idolised Celestia, you'd let her maintain the illusion for now, but you'd tell her immediately if it put her in any extreme danger.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare's loyalty may be to Celestia, but your loyalty was to Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You left the hall and closed the door on that part of Equestria's past, understanding now just why she kept it under lock and key.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You made your way back to the Starswirl wing, still irritated with the Princess for her manipulation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, she had a country to run, what was one person in the grand scheme of things?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't allow yourself to think like that, that way lay edge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And Flare had enough edge for the both of you anyway.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Speaking of, you came across the little pony conversing with one of the guards, and she turned to you smiling, waving you over.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was smiling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't figure out if that was a good or a bad thing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey, Anon! I think I found something.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nodded at the guard, who, like all the guards in the castle, had a completely stoic look on his face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was also one of the few Night Guards that weren't bat ponies, and you recognised him as belonging to the magic squad or whatever they called it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was more of a regiment, all unicorns, because you know...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Magic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He managed to maintain his neutral look while you stared at him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were going to have to make one smile one of these days.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Cobalt, this is Anonymous. Anonymous? Cobalt.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turned to the stallion, &quot;Why don't you tell Anon what you saw?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion looked up at you, craning his neck like all the ponies did when they had to talk to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dragged a seat over and sat down so he wouldn't hurt his neck too much.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were considerate like that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sometimes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, Mr Anonymous-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You put a hand up.</span><br />&quot;Let me stop you right there. It's just Anon, Mr Anonymous was my father.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion corrected himself, &quot;Anon, sorry, sir. I was on patrol last night when the break-in occurred, and I heard them talking to that poor mare who's been foalnapped.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He shook his head.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I know I should have done something, but I was outnumbered.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He looked away shamefully and you guessed that he'd been a little scared as well.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare put a consoling hoof on his shoulder and urged him to continue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...They were talking about her work, and how it was of interest to whoever employed them. They never said who, but when they came out, they saw me and I managed to get a good look at them before they knocked me out.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He rubbed the back of his head and winced slightly from some head wound beneath his mane.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;They were dressed all fancy-like, kind of like those special operators from those old moving picture programs they used to broadcast.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare piped up, turning to you, &quot;You wouldn't have seen those, Anon, T.V is rare enough these days, not a lot of broadcasts happen anymore, think hide tight suits and... I don't know, ninjas?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You got the gist.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Well, we need more info, like if he saw faces of kidnappers, or at least their fur colour. Everyone can take off that suit.]<br />[And what about their voices, were they stallions or mares, the other thing- how many of them were here?]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;What else did you see? Faces? Fur color? Cutie Marks would be ideal. Tell me everything about them.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I uh... I didn't recognise any of them, sir, and their Cutie Marks were all covered up. One was sort of... Beige? There was a tan colored one, too. Those were stallions. There was also a pink mare.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He rubbed his muzzle, trying to focus.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Their leader was the only one who spoke, he had one of those fancy accents, like from Trottingham. That's all I can think of, I'm afraid, if there were others, I didn't see them.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare nodded in agreement and chimed in, &quot;They were wearing sneak suits, too, so they didn't leave any Keratin for identification purposes, and without knowing what their Cutie Marks were, tracking the foalnappers themselves is impossible.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She grinned at you and gave a wink.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;But! They were wearing sneak suits, and there's only one company that makes those these days, and that's Flim Flam Incorporated. Chances are they left a paper trail, but that's just the hope.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nodded in agreement, things seemed to be pointing towards the two business ponies. Especially with Blue Moon's possible involvement.</span><br />&quot;That's what I was thinking. I got some... Interesting information from the Princess that leads in that direction.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare beamed eagerly, &quot;So... Road trip?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Looks like it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare struggled to contain a burst of joy, giving Cobalt a sidelong look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, uh... Sorry, ma'am. I should go.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave him an uncomfortable look as he left.</span><br />&#160;<br />[Well, I don't know, prepare with Flare to the trip?]<br />[Just a tip, maybe ask us about what we should do when options are visible for us.]<br />[For now we could say &quot;wait for the guard to leave, ask Flare if she wants some fun sexy time before the trip, proceed to the nearest empty room if she agrees&quot;, but... we don't know if it is out of character for Anon and/or Flare.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;So... Flare.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare gave you a look and tilted her pretty little head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You try not to spill your spaghetti.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really do.</span><br />&quot;D-Do you want to have some fun sexy time...?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bat pony just stared at you, not even a blush showing through.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, please.&quot;</span><br />&quot;I'm n-not hearing a no...~&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tried your best to summon a seductive expression and tone, even licking your lips slowly after.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, please!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Spaghetti overload! Abandon ship!</span><br />&quot;I'm sorry, okay! Maybe we should just get ready to head over to Flim Flam Inc.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare had a confused look on her face and stuttered, cheeks red.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tfw no gf...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You left the wing quickly and put it out of your mind, as you recall, Flim and Flam had their corporate headquarters based in Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If there were going to be sales records, they'd be found there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare followed you, calling out to you to slow down, &quot;Anon, wait! Anon!&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Stop and let Flare catch up?<br />b) Keep going home to prepare for the trip and talk to Flare then?<br />c) Switch Character?<br />d) <span class="co4">&gt;rape</span><br />&#160;<br />[Switch character to Flare.]<br />&#160;<br />[Get prepared for the trip]<br />&#160;<br />[b)]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're Flare, and you struggled to keep up with Anonymous without outright galloping.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It would be poor form.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your friend, the human, had just asked you if you wanted to have sex with him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What's more, you'd even considered it for a moment on pure curiosity alone.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sound of your clippity cloppers on the tiled floor of the castle hooves reminded Anon that you were right behind him, and he quickened his pace.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were forced into a quick trot just to keep up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn his superior human strides!</span><br />&quot;Anon! Come on. Wait up!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon mumbled something incomprehensible and turned out of the castle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rude.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Soon, you made it outside with Anon and flapped your wings, quickly shortening the distance between you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Who's the slow pony now?!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hovering by his head as he walked, you tried to figure how you'd go about asking him just what in Tartarus that was.</span><br />&quot;Anon...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The man ignored you and kept his eyes forward, you really couldn't tell if his cheeks were just ruddy from the cold or if he were blushing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Normally you'd go with the former, but considering he'd just outright asked for sex...</span><br />&quot;Anoooon...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You prodded his cheek with a hoof, and he did his best to ignore it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Admirable, but you weren't easily deterred, and he'd been annoying to you earlier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maneuvering in the air, you came up behind him and settled on his shoulders, your fore hooves on top of his head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon kept walking.</span><br />&quot;Anoooon...!~&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He finally snapped.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What...!? It was a joke! I plead the fifth.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Huh, you hadn't planned this far ahead.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Ask him why he asked for sex.<br />b) Don't press the matter and try to comfort him<br />c) Be autistic and shout 'beep beep!'<br />&#160;<br />[Tell him that you took it as a joke and he should no worry about the spaghetti in his pockets.]<br />[Ask him however what would he react if she said yes.]<br />&#160;<br />[I vote for b)]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Anon, settle down, I'm sure it was just a joke.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt him sigh with relief.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He seemed pretty chill, relaxed even.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Content...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't have that!</span><br />&quot;So what would have happened if I'd said yes?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anonymous seized up, his steady pacing faltering for a moment before getting back on track.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Spaghetti everywhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh uh... Ha. G-Good one, Flare, you sure got me with that hilarious joke! Ha Ha!&quot;</span><br />&quot;I'm serious.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You clutched at his head, smiling as you kept up your ruse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To that end, you stroked a fore hoof just softly, ever so softly against his cheek, whispering softly against his ear.</span><br />&quot;Flare is here for you, big guy.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could feel Anon tensing up between your thighs and you giggled, patting his head in a friendly way.</span><br />&quot;I'm kidding, Anon. Don't worry... I'm only into mares. So you're safe from this sexual predator.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon reached his hands up and plucked you off of his head, setting you back down on the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You flashed him a triumphant grin and snickered.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You're the scum of the Earth.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Says the alien who asked me for sex.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Scoffing, you trotted up to your door and opened it, swishing your tail lewdly from side to side, giving Anon quite the view of your hindquarters.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gosh, you could be slutty at times.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had room in your saddlebags for a few items, what should you pack?</span><br />&#160;<br />Flare has room in her saddlebags for various items, what should she pack?<br />&#160;<br />a) More weapons.<br />b) Medical supplies<br />c) More Apples<br />d) Other [Or Combination]<br />&#160;<br />[Med supplies, apples, and a weapon Anon can carry.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Keeping your mind on more serious matters, you decided that you'd need to pack more than just the basics if you're going after foalnappers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You decide that if you're going to Manehattan, you should take a healthy mix of supplies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To that end, you pulled out your first aid kit and packed a tub of healing salve and bandages, leaving the expensive healing potion where it lay. If what Cobalt the guard had said held up, you were likely dealing with professionals, and you'd like to think that you could deal with any injuries that would result if you ran into them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next up was apples, you had no reason to take them with you, but you didn't need reasons. So you took three.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were dealing with dangerous people, so you'd need more than hoof blades.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were a couple of firearms you owned a single action revolver, the typical sort used in run-of-the-mill home defense and one repeating carbine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was a special one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nosed the glass case open and reverently pulled the gun out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a valuable family heirloom, sort of...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The rifle had been upgraded a few times during its service, including the trigger mechanism so you could use it with your wing hooks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon came up behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Expecting more guard stuff?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Trouble.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wise.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned and offered the gun for him to carry.</span><br />&quot;I'll be carrying quite a few things, so the least you can do is hold onto this, lose it and I'll do edgy things to you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He took the weapon off of your hooves and you pulled out three cartridges of ammunition, five rounds each, along with a couple cylinders for the revolver, and stowed them away in your pack, separate from the guns.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon did not need to be walking around with a loaded gun, ponies didn't trust him that much.</span><br />&quot;I'm serious, Anon. Mom'll kill me if I lose that gun.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What's so special about it?&quot;</span><br />&quot;It's an heirloom.&quot;<br />&#160;<br />a) Explain Gun<br />b) Decide on method of travel<br />c) Take the gun off of Anon so he doesn't cause a riot<br />d) Switch character<br />&#160;<br />[Vote for b) so we can find a path that would be far enough from someone who can start a riot.]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;or way to hide our friend with gun</span><br />&#160;<br />[A and B]<br />[And about C, is there a rifle bag?]<br />&#160;<br />[<span class="co4">&gt;a) Explain Gun]</span><br />[<span class="co4">&gt;b) Decide on method of travel]</span><br />[Why not both?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon handled the rifle, and you were surprised to note that it just seemed to look right in his hands.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Like it was a better fit for hands than hooves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon looked at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Look, I'm pro open carry, but you wouldn't happen to have a rifle bag for this, would you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nodded in agreement, you don't know why you didn't think of it earlier.</span><br />&quot;I think so, hold on.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Opening a nearby storage closet, you rummaged around in the dust and moth filled space and pulled out the the rifle bag for Wisp, luckily the moths had not eaten it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blew a heavy layer of dust off of it.</span><br />&quot;Here we go!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tossing it to Anon, he unzipped it and slid the rifle in, slinging it over his shoulder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Closing the closet before the moths could fly out and invade your home, you turned back to Anon.</span><br />&quot;Now, we need to decide how we're going to Manehattan, because that's where Flim Flam Inc is set up, right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon nodded a tad stupidly and waved his hand dismissively, &quot;I've been here a while, but I still don't really know how you ponies get around, I suppose we could go on foot.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On foot.</span><br />&quot;Anon, that'd take days, Midnight may not have that kind of time, though it would be good for not causing a riot. I suggest we either take the train or go by Sky Barge. I've never gone by Sky Barge before.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The two of you headed out the door, with Anon waiting at the gate while you locked up the house.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On the way, you grabbed your bit bag and slipped it into your saddlebags, reasonably confident that you had at least fifty bits in there that you might need.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So... Since you're the party leader here. Train or Barge?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Train<br />b) Sky Barge<br />&#160;<br />[<span class="co4">&gt;b) Sky Barge]</span><br />[That sounds interesting.]<br />&#160;<br />[SKY BARGE]<br />[FJORD THE SKY]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thought about it for a moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The train would be safer, as it was firmly rooted to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But then again, Sky Barge!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It sounded much more interesting than a horse draw train.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She'd always wondered why they never brought back the coal engine for those.</span><br />&quot;Sky Barge it is!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, you began to trot off in the direction of Canterlots Barge tower, which lay on the other side of the castle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You flicked an ear back at Anon as he muttered something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It sounded like 'Fjord the sky', whatever that meant.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The human caught up to your side and cleared his throat, &quot;So what's so special about this family heirloom of yours?&quot;</span><br />&quot;It's a family heirloom.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Snickers internally.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Come on, it's got to have a story.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had a while before reaching the barge tower, you might as well.</span><br />&quot;Alright, but it's a long story, so listen up, I'm not gonna tell it twice!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon made a zipping motion over his mouth and prepared to listen intently.</span><br />&quot;Alright then, she's called 'Wisp', it was Mom's old rifle, been passed down from Dam to Filly for generations, it's a Carbine now, but believe it or not, it used to be a musket, you following?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon nodded, &quot;Used to be a musket.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Right, yes it did, but as firearms were improved, so was the gun, the only original part of the gun is the stock, to hear Mom say it, that stock is a little over fifteen hundred years old.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon opened his mouth, brow furrowed, &quot;But that's fucking wrong, dead wood doesn't last that long.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waited for him to finish, eyebrow raised.</span><br />&quot;No, but this isn't normal wood, the stock is made of Wyrmwood.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What wood?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Wyrmwood, as in Dragon Wood. There's a Wyrmwood tree in the Canterlot botanical gardens actually, been there longer than the castle has.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What's special about it?&quot; Anon asked, eager as ever to learn something about Equestrian history.</span><br />&#160;<br />&quot;The wood of the Wyrmwood tree is almost as resilient as a dragon and completely immune to fire. They'd have to be, since the trees are native to the dragon territories. Legend has it that each one marks the final resting place of a dragon, that the tree gets its strength and longevity from it. I think that's all hogwash, though, a tree would have to be as hard as a dragon to survive in their lands.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pointing at the rifle bag, you continued.</span><br />&quot;Anyway, if family legend is to be believed, one of my Mom's ancestors was taken by a dragon for her singing voice. Yeah, I know, dragons usually go for gold and gemstones, but sometimes you get a dragon that assigns value to other things, like virgin maidens.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon snorted and you gave him an unamused look, even though you contained a giggle of your own.</span><br />&quot;Anyway, this particular dragon was nearing the end of her life, but her captive pony still spent almost thirty years living with her, singing for the dragons entertainment. Go figure, the dragons name was supposedly&#160;?Wisp', like this rifle.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pondered that for a bit, it was either embellishment, or one hell of a coincidence, but you continued anyway.</span><br />&quot;When Wisp lay dying after millenia of life, her captive stayed with her, call it Stockholm Syndrome. This is where things get foggy, either Wisp gave her companion a shard of Wyrmwood, or told her how to harvest it from the tree that was to grow from Wisp's body after her death.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a very suggestive story, could a pony even have... relations with a dragon? You didn't know, and you weren't sure it would be pleasurable to find out.</span><br />&quot;In any case, the stock of that gun is that original piece of Wyrmwood. Harder than steel, can't be burned or damaged in any way, and when the gun is fired, well... My mother fondly calls the gun&#160;?Whisper' rather than&#160;?Wisp', because of how loud it is when it's fired.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You paused and gave Anon a grin.</span><br />&#160;<br />&quot;I've never heard it fired, or even used it before now, but Mom says when that rifle goes off, you can hear Wisp's soul in the rifle, roaring in defence of the pony she once took captive.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon gave you a credulous look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then he raised an eyebrow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You relented.</span><br />&quot;Basically, it's a very loud gun, and despite being centuries old, it's never misfired once.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon looked at the rifle bag in disbelief, &quot;So you're telling me that the soul of a dragon is bound in the stock of this rifle?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrugged as you walked, you didn't believe it personally.</span><br />&quot;Well... No, I personally think the wood's been enchanted, but Mom swears by the whole dragon thing, I guess we'll never know for sure. What I'm certain of is that Wisp has far more power than a gun of its size should.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon chuckled.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It's a very romantic notion, though. The soul of a benevolent dragon guarding your family through the centuries.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nodded in agreement.</span><br />&quot;Like we'll always be part of her hoard.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You then sighed and shook your head.</span><br />&quot;Unfortunately, I'm adopted, so the rifle being passed on to me kind of breaks the tradition.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon frowned in concern and stooped to give you a hug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Don't be stupid, Flare, I'm sure your mother considers you her foal just as much as any blood relative could be.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Settling a wing around Anon and hugging back, you kept your tone thankful.</span><br />&quot;Thanks, Anon, you always know what to say.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;In the time the two of you had been talking, you'd reached the barge tower and Anon stared up at it.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon looked as though he didn't quite know what to say until he opened his mouth and looked at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You guys never had a Hindenburg, did you?&quot;</span><br />&quot;A what?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He grinned and shook his head, but you could tell he was nervous.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Nevermind, it's a human thing.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You looked between him and the dirigibles moored at the top of the tower, some few taking off or coming in.</span><br />&quot;What's wrong with Sky Barges!?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your tone had gone up a few decibels in borderline panic and Anon leaned down to scratch behind one of your ears.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That calmed you right the hell down and one of your fore legs lifted in appreciation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Don't worry about it, Flare. You haven't had a Hindenburg, which means Equestrian engineers did something right.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He kept scratching for a while and you prayed to Celestia that he'd never stop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Who invented them...?&quot;</span><br />&quot;E-Earth Ponies. They wanted t-to fly...~&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You desperately hoped he wouldn't stop, but he did, his hand pulling away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No tears now, only dreams.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Of course it was the Earth Ponies. You never look for anything until you need it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sighed and clarified.</span><br />&quot;They've been around for centuries, not to sound like a broken record about these kinds of things, but legend tells that they built it to reach the Pegasus city of Stratopolis.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Stratopolis? Never heard of that place before.&quot;</span><br />&quot;You wouldn't outside of fairy tales and folklore.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon frowned, &quot;Ah. Well anyway, we'd better buy tickets for Manehattan. Or rather... You should, I've got to use the mens room.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, he was off.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Be a peeping pony and follow Anon<br />b) Go buy tickets to Manehattan<br />c) Buy tickets to Vegas.<br />d) Watch ponies come and go until Anon returns.<br />e) Buy some apples.<br />&#160;<br />[Acquire tickets to Manehattan. Joke that you bought ones to Los Pegasus]<br />[Don't buy apples.]<br />[Maybe buy apples. Depending on how much dosh we have.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dismissed the idea of lollygagging or trying to touch Anon's peepee entirely and headed over to the reception area to buy tickets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You only had fifty bits after all, and after a quick check of your bit bag, you killed Schr�dinger's cat by confirming the number of bits you had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;See? Dad's history and science lessons had come in useful!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lamenting parts of how you'd spent your foalhood, you purchased two tickets to Manehattan, costing you thirty bits in total.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn taxation laws, now you only had twenty bits left, you might have to pick up some work when you got to Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not that kind of work! You didn't want to mix business and pleasure in that way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe Anon could be convinced to loan himself out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nah, he'd never go for that. Not even for 'horse pussy', as he put it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Currently, being down to twenty bits as you were, you didn't have enough dosh to buy apples from a stand you'd spotted.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They were Sweet Apple Acres apples to.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The pony at the stand shouted at passers by with his sales pitch.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Buy some apples!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Forward...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon left the public toilet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waved at him and he came over, grinning stupidly, &quot;You ever realise how hilarious it is talking to stallions at the urinal? I do.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shot him a slightly disgusted, but amused look and continued.</span><br />&quot;Anyway, I bought us a couple tickets to Vegas!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Vegas?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Yup!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare, we're meant to go to Manehattan.&quot;</span><br />&quot;And now we're going to Vegas. Isn't that fantastic?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The pair of you stood in place for a moment, with Anon frowning at you and you returning his look with a big old grin on your face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You're rusing me again, aren't you?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Yup!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Go fuck yourself.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snickered and trotted off towards the elevators.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon soon joined you on the elevator, along with a half dozen other ponies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Elevators themselves were rarities, even in cities like this. As the abolishment of coal power meant that great demands couldn't be placed on the nations remaining power grid.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Although in Canterlots case, it was better, because there were a series of heavy duty turbines beneath the castle that supplied the majority of the city's power.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Therefore, elevators.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were glad that your destination, Manehattan, also had a stable power supply, meaning you wouldn't have to take the stairs down from their barge tower.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While you'd been thinking about this, the elevator rose up all eight hundred meters to the top, and you took the time to give Anon his ticket.</span><br />&quot;Okie dokie, it looks like we'll be taking Dirigible number seven, otherwise known as The Silver Lining.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well that doesn't sound stuffy or shady at all.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nudged Anon with a wing and made your way through the crowds.</span><br />&quot;Shush.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The two of you quickly found the Sky Barge that was to carry its passengers to Manehattan. Except it hadn't docked yet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The aircraft was coming in around the mountain, its gondola sagging slightly beneath the weight of so many passengers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The enormous airship safely made its landing, however, and the pair of you boarded after all the ponies had departed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Being the first two on, you and Anon got to pick your seats, Anon went for one right up the back and you were inclined to agree, although, you pulled him from the center row and towards the window for the view of Canterlot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were above everything but the castle, which still stretched higher into the sky, its fragile structure seemingly, and for all you knew, definitely, held up by magic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could almost swear you saw Princess Celestia watching you from one of the windows, but upon closer inspection, the window turned out to be empty.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd be some time before the Airship took off, so you leaned back into the comfy chair and relaxed.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sitting in one place on a Sky Barge really didn't suit you, but you remained in your seat as ponies slowly filed onto the craft and took their seats.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least the captain of the craft, somepony named Wind Skimmer, promised that movement in the gondola would be allowed after The Silver Lining took off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For his part, Anonymous simply sat there, staring at the floor with disinterest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Which meant that there'd be no fun allowed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you didn't know better, you'd guess he were afraid of heights.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, after almost half an hour, you heard the engine below deck rumble to life.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Outside the window, enormous propellers stuttered and began to whirl, the sound of it was like a changeling swarm, and reminded you of the time they'd invaded Canterlot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had slept through the entire thing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ever so slowly, the barge left its mooring and turned away from the tower, gaining altitude slowly as the propellers maneuvered on their arms.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Causing a lurch in your stomach, The Silver Lining was on its way, the city of Canterlot fading away beneath the craft as it lifted into the air, eventually surpassing the highest tower of Canterlot and even the mountain itself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The speakers lining the inside portion of the gondola crackled to life and the captain spoke up, informing the passengers that free movement was now allowed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Some of the ponies around you left their seats and roamed about the cabin while others left the confined space for the balconies that lined the exterior of the gondola, preferring the view.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However restless you had been earlier, you now weren't quite sure what you wanted to do.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Go find the Captain.<br />b) Explore the cabin.<br />c) Explore the balconies.<br />d) Remain with Anon.<br />e) Other.<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br />[We need to find a cafeteria.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Figuring that Anon was going to be morose for the entire flight, you clambered over him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon gave a disgruntled grunt at your clumsy, armor laden movements, &quot;Where are you going?&quot;</span><br />&quot;I am stretching my legs, also, you're being incredibly dull and it's rubbing off on me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anonymous gave a huff and moved to take your seat by the window, leaving Wisp, still in her rifle bag, in the seat he'd just vacated.</span><br />&quot;You could join me, you know.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I think I'd rather stay seated, if you don't mind.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Like you had said. Dull.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned away and began to explore the confines of the cabin, casually overhearing some of the conversation between the other ponies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nothing important or threatening, just small talk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You also spotted a Crystal Pony heading out to the starboard balcony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Which was interesting in itself, they usually didn't stray far from their empire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't concerning in itself, what was concerning was your need for food.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had apples, but you didn't want to use those just yet, and maybe The Silver Lining had a small cafeteria.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Apart from the view windows and seat, the main cabin also contained a small set of stairs that led down to the lower decks, where you guessed the engine room would be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Towards the bow, the captains cabin and control center lay cordoned off from the rest of the gondola.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Back in the stern lay what you guessed to be storage for things such as luggage or light cargo.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No cafeteria.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just the balconies on the port and starboard sides.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Go to the Captains cabin and control center<br />b) Venture below decks<br />c) Exit out to the balconies. Port/Starboard.<br />d) Check out the Stern storage closet.<br />e) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Why do we need to sneak around? We can try to talk to somebody or return to our place if there is no place for ponies to visit.]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or we can exit to the balconies and look around.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Feeling as though you'd been sneaking around, you decided to go talk to someone and see if you could make a friend.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The other ponies were still somewhat wary of Bat Ponies, even if they were guards, so you figured you'd go find the one other pariah on the dirigible that wasn't Anonymous.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd never talked to a Crystal Pony before, so you made your way to the Starboard balcony and looked around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching the balcony edge, you looked down and found that the airship had climbed even higher.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Silver Lining had to be higher than Cloudsdale at this altitude!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking around yourself again, you found a few scattered groups of ponies, one or two enjoying the view on their own, like yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But no Crystal Pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could have sworn you saw one heading out here!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe you'd been mistaken...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're not sure how, though, Crystal Ponies didn't exactly blend in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regardless, you knew you could approach a Crystal Pony out of curiosity, but any other pony? Pegasi, Unicorns and Earth Ponies?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...Not so much. It brought up too many memories of your isolated foalhood.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cast your eyes towards the stern and caught sight of one of the enormous propellers that powered The Silver Lining, it was working at full capacity, and even at this distance, you could just barely feel the powerful stream of air it pulled in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anyway, having lost the Crystal Pony you were certain had come out here, you'd totally failed to make a new friend.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Princess Twilight would be disappointed in you.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Continue searching for the Crystal Pony.<br />b) Re-enter the cabin.<br />c) Enjoy the view.<br />d) Be unwise and fly around.<br />e) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[C. And we can try to think about our situation and about anon spilling spaghetti around last time.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You decided to stay at the railing and enjoy the view for a while, putting the disappearance of the Crystal Pony out of your thoughts for later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Over the better part of an hour, you watched as the airship passed over farmland and a few small towns.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You even passed over Hollow Shades, though you could not see anything below the thick canopy that enshrouded the place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Bat Ponies down there would be sleeping for the most part, with a few guard patrols roaming around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Echo was probably still down there on assignment, along with a few other acquaintances you'd worked with.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blushed hotly as you were reminded of that one time Echo went around being a 'serial butt toucher'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Soon, though, Hollow Shades passed by and far off in the distance, you could make out the ocean and the city of Manehattan on the horizon, you guess that it would be another hour or two of travel before the Sky Barge would reach it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking up and squinting a bit, the sun hit its apex, the life bringing rays it cast warming your back, even through the armor you wore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a welcome sensation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Casting a glance at the view windows, you saw Anon gazing out of the window, not at you, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not at anything in particular, really.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thought back on how he'd outright asked you for...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't swing that way normally, but you found yourself blushing anyway.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps you were just into exotic things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe it was something more?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You did take the stray alien into your home out of the goodness of your heart.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The money he brought in from the royal treasury didn't hurt either.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, you wondered why he'd done that? Was it a human custom to just ask for it?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His Earth must be a strange place.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Locate Crystal Pony.<br />b) Take shelter in the cabin.<br />c) Observe the other ponies.<br />d) Find Captain Wind Skimmer.<br />e) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />[Serial butt toucher, lel]<br />&#160;<br />[I guess we certainly need to find a captain for some reason.]<br />&#160;<br />[Find that crystal pone]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Putting Anon out of your mind for now, you decided you would try to find that Crystal Pony again. You know you'd seen one and there were only so many places on the airship a pony could be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Failing that, you figured a talk with the captain might be in order. Working the route between Canterlot and Manehattan, he might be able to give you some pointers for navigating the city.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Making your way back inside, away from the crowds, the first place you decided to check was the port balcony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, a cursory glance out of the window revealed that the pony wasn't out there either, and he certainly wasn't in the cabin.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You frowned in concern, passengers weren't allowed anywhere else on the airship.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Either you were hallucinating, or something was very wrong on The Silver Lining.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Picking up your hooves, you made your way over to the stairwell and entered the confined quarters of the lower decks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Across from you lay the door to the cafeteria.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Huh, you could have used that earlier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turning the corner, you saw something that shocked you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In the corridor beyond, you saw two of the engine personnel laying still, from where you were standing, you couldn't tell if they were breathing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right at the end of the hall, you saw a third worker engaged in a fight with the Crystal Pony you'd been looking for, and the worker was clearly out-matched.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Crystal Pony stallion, flicked one of his fore hooves up into the workers guts, causing him to cry out as a pair of wounds seemingly materialised out of nowhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Upon closer inspection, you saw that the stallion was armed with hoof blades like your own, but they were almost transparent, you have never seen them if the workers blood hadn't been running over them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Withdrawing from the badly wounded, but still living stallion, the Crystal Pony cast a glance at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And turned invisible.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;It had almost looked like each individual strand of hair had vanished from existence in a wave of blue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cried out in shock and took cover around the corner, flicking your hoof blades out and at the ready, a crackle of electricity lancing along the blades length.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Invisible Crystal Ponies!?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took a deep breath and calmed yourself, using your hearing, you could hear the stallion moving away from your position.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Peeking around the corner, you found that the other two workers were alive, but unconscious, the third was groaning and clutching at his wound.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least he had the sense to maintain pressure, but you couldn't help him right now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pulled out your revolver and loaded it, keeping an ear out for the invisible pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Stepping out into the hallway, you readied your weapon to fire at the slightest shimmer in the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not a moment later, you felt a detonation emanating from the direction of the engine room, the airship lurching to one side, throwing you against the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies above deck could be heard screaming and shouting in panic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you cursed whatever hellish pit of Tartarus that pony had come from as you made your way back up the stairs and into the cabin.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sight that greeted you was one of chaos that would make Discord himself blush.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ponies were scrambled for hoof holds as the entire craft lurched to one side, outside, you saw the cause.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That stallion had blown off the starboard propeller, and the craft was now turning circles in the air uselessly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could worry about the saboteur right now, you had to protect these ponies!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Everyone listen up! Get in the stern storage room, now!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A few of the duller ponies reared away in fear of you, but a sensible few recognised the Lunar Guard armor you wore and did as you said.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon, however made his way straight to you, shouting to be heard over the din of panic and shearing metal, &quot;What the hell is happening!?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Trouble!&quot;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You opened up your saddlebag and tossed him a repeater cartridge.</span><br />&quot;Take them into the cargo hold and keep them there! If that door opens for anything that's not me, you shoot! Even if you can't see anything, do you understand!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon shook his head and stumbled as the craft lurched even more as another part of the propeller arm fell away.</span><br />&quot;Anon! Do it!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He nodded and grabbed Wisp, pulling her out of the rifle bag and loading her, corralling the panicked horses into the back room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next, you opened the door to the control center and strode in to find the captain occupied with the rudder wheel, desperately trying to maintain control of the failing Sky Barge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't bother with an introduction.</span><br />&quot;Captain! Can you keep us in the air?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wind Skimmer didn't turn to look at you as he replied, the rest of his bridge crew at their stations, scrambling to maintain what little was left of their control over the ship.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As long as we aren't interrupted here, maybe! But if we lose one more propeller, we'll drop.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Alright, keep the door to the bridge locked, you have a saboteur!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned and left the bridge, one of the crew locking it as you exited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was no one left in the cabin or the balconies that you could see, so you readied your weapon.</span><br />&quot;Alright, Mr Invisible, it's just you and me.&quot;<br />&#160;<br />a) Return to the engine room.<br />b) Search the cabin.<br />c) Exit the airship and survey the damage.<br />d) Ready weapon. (Range/Melee)<br />e) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Ready your melee weapon, search the cabin, but don't go too far from the bridge.]<br />&#160;<br />[Use your 9kg of kee and scree to echolocate that faggot.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Knowing that the stallion'll get the drop on you first, you holster your revolver and ready your hoof blades.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You steadily move through cabin, clicking your tongue to get a sense of the room, but you felt nothing out of the ordinary.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Out of the ordinary being a pony who could turn invisible!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Seriously. How?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Outside, you could see a gaping hole in the side of the gondola and straight into the engine room, from which black smoke poured forth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Approaching the cargo hold, you knocked twice on the door.</span><br />&quot;You all good in there?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon spoke up, keeping the door shut, &quot;Sure! It's a picnic in here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckled quietly and move off towards the stairs, noticing smoke coming out of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The saboteur was probably still down there. He certainly wasn't up here still.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Go down the stairs to the Engine room.<br />b) Exit the airship and enter the Engine room from the outside.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking at the stairwell, it was more than likely your saboteur was waiting to ambush you in the narrow corridors, and you needed maneuvering room if it came down to a fight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;So you did the next best thing, you left the cabin and took off, flying towards the breach in the hull plates.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took a deep breath and flew in, landing deftly with a light thunk, as the metal of your hoof guards touched down against the wooden floor boards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The room was filled with smoke and a portion of the engine was on fire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Again, you clicked your tongue to get a sense of the room, and got nothing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or rather, you got too much feedback, the ash floating around in the smoke made echolocation useless, so you'd have to rely on your eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You found another unconscious worker slumped against the wall, having suffered a head wound.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You approached to make certain she was alright and got kicked in the side for your trouble.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The saboteur had been lying in wait for you here, the large amounts of swirling smoke in the air serving to disguise the distortion he caused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You flew a bit from the force of the kick, your armor having absorbed most of the blow, the rest serving to knock the wind out of you as you scrambled on the floor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After the kick, the stallion had become visible once again, but quickly vanished again in another wave of blue enveloping his body.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kept low to the ground, refraining from focusing on any one spot so you could catch the smallest movement.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It came in the form of a tiny ripple in the air, and you leaped back just in time to feel a small breeze as the stallions hoof blades graze past your cheek.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You managed to dash forwards and tackle the stallion to the ground, causing whatever was keeping him invisible to fail.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He slashed at you again and this time you caught the blade with your own, turning it aside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion was now vulnerable.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Kill him.<br />b) Spare him.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />[A]<br />[YEAH KILL HIM FUCK HIM UP]<br />&#160;<br />[Give him a good whack with your hoof across the head if possible.]<br />[You know, a nice good night pat on the head, so to speak.]<br />&#160;<br />[Spare and disarm him.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blood pounding in your ears, you slash down to end the ponies life, but you're interrupted as one of his hind legs comes up and kicks you in the chest, knocking you off of him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're able to regain your balance and, having thought about it in a split second, you realised that you wanted him alive for question.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flaring your wings, you prepared to take him down in a flying tackle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you could, however, the stallion again went invisible and sidestepped just as you flew at him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He managed to get a swipe in at the base of your wing, and you cried out as the weapon slashed against you, not cutting too deeply thankfully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His weapon now freshly bloodied, you could easily tell where he was and you slashed at him, forcing him to defend.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Using the momentum of your attack, you spun around and clipped the invisible stallions head with a hind leg, concussing him</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever magic he'd been using to make himself invisible apparently required concentration, because he immediately became visible as he slumped to the floor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Unfortunately, the blow to his head hadn't quite knocked him unconscious, but you did take the opportunity to disarm him and remove his saddlebags.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion seemed to be recovering far more rapidly than he should, and he struck out at you again, forcing you back if you wanted to keep your sensibilities.</span><br />&quot;It's over! You lost, now give up!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion said nothing, instead glancing between you and the weapons you'd stripped from him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In an act that shocked you, he turned and ran for the opening in the wall, leaping out.</span><br />&quot;NO!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ran to the edge and prepared to jump out after him, but cried out again, as your wing had been made useless by his attack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were forced to watch him plunge to down to Earth, unable to save him.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) ...What do you do?<br />&#160;<br />[Eh, maybe he had a magic bobcat's coat, so he will be able to land safely, fuck him. Check Anon and others.]<br />&#160;<br />[Can we switch character to anon?]<br />&#160;<br />[Take note of the fire and stuff and take the stallion's stuff to Anon/Captain and tell them it should be safe now.]<br />[Also get bandages on that wing]<br />[How disturbing.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sick at heart you turned away from the breach and set about setting the engine room to rights, using a nearby fire extinguisher to put out the flames before moving the unconscious worker mare from the smoke filled room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking at the saddlebags and hoof blades you'd stripped from the Crystal Pony before he jumped, you hoisted the bags on your back and slipped the now opaque hoof blades into your saddlebag.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Out in the hallway, the first two workers that had been knocked out were beginning to regain their senses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sadly, it was too late to do anything for the wounded one, and he had bled out while you were fighting with the Crystal Pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Death toll at two.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You brought the surviving three workers above deck and set the unconscious mare you carried on the seats to recover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The gondola still sagging to one side, however, thanks to the captains piloting skills, it wasn't so bad.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You made your way to the cargo hold and knocked twice on the door once again.</span><br />&quot;Anon... Anon, it's over. We're safe now.&quot;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You opened the door, Wisp still in hand and looked down at Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little mare was smudged with soot and bleeding a little on her right wing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It's alright now, we're good...&quot;</span><br />&quot;Flare, what happened?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shook her head and pushed the door open all the way, gesturing for the other ponies to file out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard looked beat up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The crazy pony jumped, he probably magicked his way safely to the ground, I don't know, he could turn invisible.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Invisible?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd be time for questions later, for now, it looked like Flare needed medical attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Without much effort, you picked the pony up and took her over to one of the vacant seats, away from the others.</span><br />&quot;Here, let me take care of that.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't anywhere near an expert when it came to dressing wounds, but how hard could it be?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare fidgeted and complained, insisting that she were fine, and that you should look after the others.</span><br />&quot;Ah-ah. Shush.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She adopted a neutral look and stared straight ahead as you rummaged through her saddlebags, finding something that resembled salve and bandages.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tenderly, you stretched her wing out and applied a little of the paste to the dual cuts.</span><br />&quot;Okay, fold it back, please? What happened down there? We could hear the scuffle from up here.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare complied and folded her wing back in, wincing and shaking a little as you did your best to bandage her wing up carefully, but firmly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;There was a Crystal Pony and he was somehow able to turn invisible. He... Blew out the starboard rotor. I'm guessing he wanted to crash the barge with no survivors.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You finished bandaging her and gave her back a pat.</span><br />&quot;There, healthy as a horse.<br />&#160;<br />a) Interrogate.<br />b) Comfort.<br />c) Go to the captain.<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Comfort the bat]<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />[Then A]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even after your little pun, Flare seemed distant and you rubbed her shoulder gently, consoling her.</span><br />&quot;Flare, it's not your fault. It's his, whoever he was.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Probably. But I saw him earlier and what did I do? I went and enjoyed the view, I should have picked up that he was up to no good.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave her a little punch and stroked behind one of her ears, hoping to elicit some kind of positive response.</span><br />&quot;So your bat sense wasn't up to par today, so what? You're not infallible, no one is. Besides, look around at all the other people you saved.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;And Flare did look around at all the other ponies, some of them casting grateful glances at her, crew and passenger alike.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt more than saw her smile, &quot;Yeah... I guess you're right, I did save the day.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You began rubbing her shoulders slowly, feeling her relax.</span><br />&quot;You're so tense here...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Leaning in close, she flicked an ear back at you as you whispered, giving her a massage.</span><br />&quot;For you...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckled, these ponies would never understand half the shit you said.</span><br />&quot;Nothing, but in any case, we do need to talk about what happened.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She relaxed and leaned back against you, letting her eyes close as you worked to loosen the little Bats muscles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I don't much, but those are- were... his saddlebags right there, there might be something in them.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Continuing to work her with one hand, you opened the extra set of saddlebags and began rummaging through it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Mostly casual stuff, but your hand did close around a parchment and you pulled it out, the seal catching your eye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For a minute, you thought it was the seal of Princess Celestia, but the Phoenix was looking to the right, rather than the left and lacked the words identifying it as the seal of Princess Celestia.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Casting a glance at Flare, she seemed fairly relaxed, and wasn't paying attention to anything.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Keep the parchment to yourself.<br />b) Mention it to Flare.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B, and the do what she say us to do.]<br /><span class="co4">&gt; -&gt;</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smack Flare gently on the muzzle with the scroll, delighting in the muffled eep she makes.</span><br />&quot;I found a clue.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She focused on it, going a little cross eyed and taking it in her hooves, freeing you to go back to your massage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That looks an awful lot like Celestia's seal.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were inclined to agree, it had to be more than a simple forgery and you told her so.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What? You think it's a mockery? Why? Who would do that?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon for one. Every other villain Equestria has had to deal with for seconds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, that's what Celestia told me, apparently there's this pony called Blue Moon who used to run things, she got power mad, then overthrown by the Princess, and now she's looking to reclaim what's hers.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I knew it was going to be guard stuff.&quot; Flare unrolled the scroll and began to read.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I can't understand any of this, it's in some kind of code, but I don't recognise it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took a look over her shoulder and saw something that was comparable to the wingdings font, but more complex.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There'd be no breaking it without the cipher, but it did strike you as a military code, one that Blue Moon would definitely use if you had her personality pegged.</span><br />&quot;So we're dealing with an insurgent who can make ponies turn invisible? I kinda wish we'd stayed home now.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn Celestia, she had to have known something like this would happen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Not an option, if this stems from Blue Moon, then she just endangered a Sky Barge full of innocents and caused the death of one, and that's just terrible.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Captain Wind Skimmer's voice suddenly came out over the speakers just as teams of Pegasi took up positions at the sides of the barge, tossing ropes to the crew.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The captain informed the passengers that they'd be landing at an airfield close to Manehattan due to the damage they'd taken.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He did make a special mention of how Flare had saved all their lives, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare became embarrassed, and you chuckled.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everything went better than expected.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The engine of The Silver Lining had failed on the way to the airfield, so the Sky Barge had to be towed completely under the power of the Pegasi teams.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a delay, but at least you weren't crashing, or falling apart.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare stood by your side on the balcony, fore legs leaning on the railing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her wing was treated and she'd informed you that, thanks to the healing salve, she'd be able to use her wing by tomorrow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Zebra recipe or something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Other than her wing, the bat was still smudged with soot, her mane was frazzled in places and she had a tired look, but she was otherwise as hearty and hale as you were.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Somewhat, you'd spent the entire time standing by the storage room door with Wisp in hand, the danger having passed, the rifle was back in its bag.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It remained the only other thing you carried apart from the cartridge now stored along with the rifle</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On the hand, you felt kind of guilty for using Flare as a pack horse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She carried her own saddlebags, full of various items, and now carried the Saboteurs saddlebags as well, which the two of you had yet to sort through.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare hadn't complained about the extra load so far, though, so you put it down to her current load not even reaching the maximum amount normally carried by a night guard</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Down below, on the city outskirts, lay one of Manehattan's two airfields.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could just barely make out crews on stand-by, ready to take the damaged airship into one of the hangars</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The airfield grew inexorably closer as the Pegasi guided the barge down to one of the landing strips</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you knew it, the craft shuddered as it came to a rest on several metal frames, providing wheels so the craft could be moved easily</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Other ponies on the ground set up ramps so that the traumatised passengers and workers could depart the craft</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, end of the line, Anonymous.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Jump off heroically.<br />b) Depart like a normie.<br />c) Carry the bat.<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[C. Batpacks need to be a thing]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You looked at Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare returned with a stoic look, like a normal guard would give.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching down, you plucked the bat off of the deck and slung her across your back, her fore legs securely wrapped around you neck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She squeaked and struggled, her good wing flapping a few time half heartedly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anoooon!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bat was heavier than you thought, the combination of her armor, the saddlebags she carried, and her own body weight threw you off balance for a moment.</span><br />&quot;Hang on, stop squirming, I've got this.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You leaned forward slightly, Flare's weight settling onto you as she wrapped her hind legs around you in fear of falling off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The result was a bat shaped backpack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Unfortunately, this precluded you jumping off of the airship heroically, therefore, you joined the line of ponies departing the craft, ignoring the looks they shot at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For her part, Flare submitted to her fate and rested her muzzle on one of your shoulders, taking care not to hurt you with the armor she wore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Down below, there were several Manehattan police officers taking care of the passengers and workers, questioning them as paramedics checked for any injuries.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once there was solid ground beneath your feet, the pair of you were approached by one of the officers, though this mare looked to be in charge of the lot as indicated by her sergeant badge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She tried so very hard to contain a smile at the sight of you carrying Flare and failed dismally.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sir, ma'am? If you'd care to follow me, we have some questions about what happened.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had been about to reply when Flare cut across you, muzzle still on your shoulder.</span><br />&quot;Of course, sergeant, if at all possible, could we take this down to the station? I need your radio.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare looked over Flare's armor and nodded, snapping a salute, &quot;Yes, ma'am. I was actually going to suggest we go there now, my officers can handle things here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turned and walked off, indicating for you to follow.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ahead lay a horse drawn carriage with police markings, however, unlike the others, this carriage had no team.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now there's something you don't see every day.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even looking at it, you knew it was a fuel powered carriage.</span><br />&quot;I didn't know you ponies had these.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare shook her head as you set her down, the mare climbing into the carriage with the police sergeant.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sergeant spoke up as she took her place at the wheel, &quot;You wouldn't, we only have three of these babies for all of Manehattan.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare nodded and offered a hoof to help you up and into the carriage, which you took, &quot;That's right, general use of coal power was abolished, but personal use for these is allowed since Manehattan... Well, it's a big city. Bigger than Canterlot.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sat by Flare and put Wisp down by your feet.</span><br />&quot;To keep the carbon emissions down, right?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Carbon emissions?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right, so they didn't know what that was.</span><br />&quot;Nothing, never mind.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare quirked an eyebrow at you and then turned to the sergeant.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sorry, Lieutenant Flare, Anon. What's your name?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sergeant started the vehicles engine and put it into gear, replying as you made your way off of the airfield, &quot;Sergeant... Blueberry... ma'am.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;snnrk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare slapped your arm subtly with a hoof, &quot;Blueberry? That's a nice name.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If you say so, ma'am.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Talking over the rumble of the engine, she continued, &quot;Anyway, pleasantries aside, I may as well question you on the way to the station, what happened up there?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Tease Blueberry about her name.<br />b) Tell her what happened.<br />c) Remain silent and let Flare tell the story.<br />d) Lie.<br />e) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[<span class="co4">&gt;a) Tease Blueberry about her name.]</span><br />&#160;<br />[C]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Dodging the question, because honestly, you had a fantastic view of the situation from inside the cargo hold, you leaned on the back of the front seat.</span><br />&quot;So, how does a mare with a name like 'Blueberry' get to be a sergeant?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The teal mare blushed and furrowed her brow, muttering, &quot;By tasing people who disrespect the law.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oh shit, nigger!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;An inaudible sigh escaped from Flare and she pressed her hoof to her forehead.</span><br />&quot;Whoah, calm down, Robo-cop. It's a cute name, really. I just figured with a name like that, you'd be into... I don't know, baking.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry guided the powered carriage over a bridge and into the city proper, jockeying for position amongst the regular, pony drawn carriages.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What makes you think I'm not? Baking is a hobby I enjoy, but I'm not about to let my talent rule every aspect of my life, not in this city. You'll find few who do.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your respect for Blueberry went up considerably, as you'd seen more than a few ponies in your time here who seemed little more than slaves to their talents.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To hear that this city was filled with ponies who weren't like that made cutie marks seem much less depressing.</span><br />&quot;Huh. Good philosophy, I like it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare nudged you into silence and spoke up, &quot;Aaanyway. The Silver Lining had a saboteur on board, Crystal Pony, Stallion, don't know what his name or cutie mark was, he was the strong, silent type. Tried to crash the barge by blowing the engines.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sergeant Blueberry considered everything Flare said stoically.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'll assume he got away then?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare remained quiet for a good few seconds, her gaze going far before snapping back from whatever memory she'd been in, &quot;...He went skydiving... Without the parachute.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police mare winced, &quot;Geez. I'll uh, I'll send out a search party to look for the remains.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You noticed that Flare conveniently 'forgot' to mention that the stallion was able to turn invisible, or that she had looted his personal effects.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Mention the things Flare 'forgot'<br />b) Remain silent. (time skip to station)<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A.]<br />[If she doesn't believe the invisible bit, see if the blades still do their invisibility thing.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're not sure why Flare failed to mention the invisibility, but Blueberry may be able to help.</span><br />&quot;Also, he could turn invisible, purportedly.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry's voice caught in her throat and she coughed, casting a glance back at you, &quot;Wh... What?!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You noticed Flare shooting you a dirty, irritated look, however she relented.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He could, no unicorn magic that I could see, if something can even be enchanted with a light bending spell.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare rummaged through her saddlebag and brought out a curious looking hoof blade, it was an opaque white and looked to be formed of crystal. The blades themselves were an impressive six inches in length.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He wore these, I'm guessing they weren't as hard to enchant as the rest of him, but they were almost transparent while he wore them.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once again, the carriage stopped at the lights and Blueberry turned an appraising eye toward them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She looked surprised.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That's odd, crystal weapons are notorious for being unable to contain magic, are you sure they were transparent?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare rolled her eyes and removed one of her own hoof blades, replacing it with the crystalline one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Almost immediately, it faded from view, leaving only the barest hints of white lines, indicating the edges of the hoof guard and attached blades, &quot;Very sure...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare removed it and you watched as the crystal structure once again turned an opaque, off-white.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She replaced it in her saddlebag and put her regular hoof guard back on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hm, did you get anything else off of him? I'll have to take anything you recovered as evidence.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare maintained a neutral, if slightly irritated look, &quot;Of course.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In a matter of minutes, they'd reached the station and Blueberry guided the carriage into one of the indoor garages.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You all departed the powered carriage and Flare surrendered the Crystal Ponies personal effects to Blueberry.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry then led them into the station proper, and you felt uncomfortable as Flare kept shooting you angered, dirty looks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You probably should have kept your mouth shut, as Blueberry had now taken the encoded orders and with it, your only real clue about the Crystal Pony and who had sent him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare cleared her throat and reminded Blueberry that she needed to use their long range radio.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'm taking you there now, ma'am. Am I right in guessing that you need to contact Canterlot?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare nodded, &quot;Yes, that's right, I also have another favour to ask. Anonymous and I have some investigations to carry out, unfortunately, we haven't got anywhere to stay. You wouldn't be able to arrange a place for us, would you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sergeant Blueberry guided the two of you through the crowds of officers, and opened the door to the radio room, gesturing the two of you inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Preceding her, you and Flare entered and Blueberry followed, closing and locking the door, talking over her shoulder as she moved to the radio, playing with the controls.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We have a few apartments reserved for witness protection, I'll loan one out while you're here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She then turned to Flare, eyes travelling between the two of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I know I probably don't have the clearance to pry into military affairs, but this is my city, I'd just like to know if the citizens under my protection are in danger.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare shook her head and joined her by the radio controls, &quot;That's confidential, Sergeant, but don't worry, your citizens are safe as long as they have nothing to do with why we're here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wisely kept your mouth shut, as Flare gave you a pointed look as she said the word 'confidential'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry looked uncomfortable, but she was outranked here and had no choice, &quot;Of course, ma'am.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare nodded gratefully and her expression softened considerably, &quot;Now, if you could show Anon to that apartment, I have to make a call.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Argue to stay. (specify)<br />b) Go with Blueberry.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[b]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were about to argue, but Flare shook her head minutely and you shut your mouth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes, ma'am. Shall we, Mr Anonymous?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little forget-me-not blue Earth Pony looked up at you with a smile and you couldn't help but return it.</span><br />&quot;Sure, I'll see you later, Flare.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Have fun, Anon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, Flare turned away towards the radio while you and Blueberry left, closing the door behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry muttered, &quot;Talk about ice queen, I thought she was going to pull a gun on you in there.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckled, fighting off a small urge to pet the Sergeant.</span><br />&quot;No, she's just irritated at... Something I said.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I won't pry, sounds confidential.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, she moved off and you once again fell in behind the pony.</span><br />&quot;So where're we headed?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She slowed her step so that the two of you were walking side by side, &quot;First off, I gotta drop these off by evidence, then we'll head out to that apartment I mentioned.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That sounded good, maybe you'd be able to get some Blueberry pie.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes wandered to her shapely flank and blueberry cutie mark as you thought this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You averted your gaze before you were caught, and made small talk with the sergeant, getting her to open up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It turned out that her talent for pastry had been determined her destiny by her parents as much as her cutie mark, but she'd said to Tartarus with them and pursued a career in law enforcement instead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While in the academy, Blueberry had been the underdog compared to those whose talents dictated their place in society, yet she worked twice as hard to get where she was than any of them had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hadn't asked for her life story, but the mare was cheery and happy, so you couldn't find it in your heart to stop her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Dropping off the Crystal Pony stallion's personal effects off at evidence had occurred with nary a pause in her narrative.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you knew it, the pair of you were leaving the station and exiting out onto the street.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Scenic route.<br />b) Direct route.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[a]<br />&#160;<br />[a]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Say... Sergeant?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She lifted a fore hoof into the air as she corrected you with a smile, &quot;Blueberry.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Blueberry. Have you got time for the scenic route? I've never been here before and I could use a tour guide.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She gasped, &quot;Never been to the city that never sleeps? Princess Luna would be disappointed, but sure, I've got the time. I honestly expected to be tied up with The Silver Lining investigation all day.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The streets were bustling and filled with ponies, both hoof traffic and pony drawn carriages, the murmur of conversation and travel pervading all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could get very lost in this city if you wanted to.</span><br />&quot;So, where to first?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Times Square! You tourists seem to love that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You frowned at her comparing you to a mere tourist.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She laughed, &quot;Oh cheer up, Anonymous. It's the only real place I can take you within reasonable walking distance.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking back towards the station, you gave Blueberry a sly look.</span><br />&quot;You know... we could take a patrol carriage for a joy ride.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry gave you a somber look and shook her head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Patrol carriages are not for joyriding.&quot;</span><br />&quot;I was kidding.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't, but you didn't want to get tased for disrespecting the law.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Great! Let's go!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Without even looking back to see if you were following, Blueberry set off at a trot, you'd have lost her right there in the street if her uniform didn't make her stand out so much.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You did manage to keep up with the mare, though, despite the crowd.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Understandably, the parted for you, if only slightly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You must not have been the first weird thing to happen to the city.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Block by block, the buildings began to get higher and grander, until finally, they got so tall that the sky above could only be seen between the rooftops as a narrow slit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then suddenly, it opened out as Blueberry led you into Times Square.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It looked similar to New York's version, but more...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Horsey.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd learned to stop questioning the similarities between Equestria and Earth, all it ever brought on was a headache.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry stood by your side and scanned the place with her eyes, the sight wasn't new to her, all she probably saw here was a stop on a patrol route.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Granted, it wasn't new to you either, and you ditched the sights for observing the ponies bustling about, trotting to and fro, each of them on some errand in their small slice of life.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It occurred to you just how big the world could be, and how compartmentalised everyone kept themselves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could lose sight of yourself if you kept looking at everyone else.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Here we are, the busiest place on Earth.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry swept a hoof at the sight, &quot;Just think, all this used to be a small town with a well.&quot;</span><br />&quot;It sure is impressive.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And rife with pickpockets, hold on to your moneybags.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She then led you into the fray, even here, you had a small advantage, as your height and strangeness made the ponies around you part, although not too much.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They barely even noticed you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something glinted in the corner of your eye and you turned to look at it, finding a few small souvenir stands.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Approaching the one that had caught your eye, the grinning vendor grinned even wider, which was kind of creepy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The vendor seemed to sell little silver coins, not unlike bits, but you'd never known ponies to use any other currency than the gold plated coins.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey there, stranger! I see my selection has caught your eye!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry stood by you, looking at the coins with interest.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Ask about them<br />b) Ask about Times Square.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[a) Ask about them]<br />&#160;<br />[Ask about these coins. Bluebutt seems to like them, make her a gift and buy one she likes the most.]<br />[If she will ask a question why you bought her a coin, tell it's for good luck or something]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;That it has, what are these? I've never noticed you ponies using any other form of currency.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion leaned on the vendor stall a gestured for you to pick one up, &quot;They used to be valid currency from way back when. You know, from when the three tribes were at each others throats.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The coin you held was slim, and plated with silver, the engravings were still legible, even after so many years.</span><br />&quot;Earth Pony Confederacy, Three twenty seven. Hang on, are you telling me this coin was minted almost seven hundred years ago?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Longer actually. Almost two thousand years, since we switched to the Celestian calender a little over a thousand years ago.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry piped up with a question of her own.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;How is it still in such good condition?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now there's the sales pitch, darlin'. When the tribes unified, they also unified their currency, so all these confederate coins had suddenly become useless. Many of them were melted down for the nickle and silver, but a great many survived, us Earth Ponies are a sentimental lot.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry nodded, conceding the point.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So... The coins took on a sentimental value, Earth Ponies back then would give these as gifts to remember each other by, but there weren't enough to go around, so somepony probably figured they'd start the tradition of flicking the coin onto the ground to 'invoke the coins powers'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave the stallion a skeptical look.</span><br />&quot;So they're magic?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The salespony scoffed, &quot;'Course not! It's just a wacky little tradition, but flicking them onto the ground ensured that somepony could just come across it later for themselves. There's a whole bunch 'o ponies who hunt around for these things to sell to yours truly!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He thumped his own chest with a hoof for emphasis, &quot;And I one hundred percent guarantee that my selection is all legit, no forgeries here, no sir!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You considered buying a few, but realised that Flare had all the money.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, Blueberry had fished out her own bit bag and dumped a modest number of bits onto the counter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'll take ten!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallions eyes glinted with glee as he eyed the pile of bits and rubbed his fore hooves together, &quot;Thank ya kindly, ma'am!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave the stallion an apologetic look.</span><br />&quot;I'd love to, but a friend of mine has all the money.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That's just fine, sir, I'll be here all week iffin' ya want to make a purchase later.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He then gathered ten of the coins and placed them into a small silk bag, handing it over to Blueberry, who took it in her mouth, presenting it to you after.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't understand what she was saying, but she looked unbelievably cute saying it while trying to keep hold of the bag.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching a hand down, you took it from her, &quot;Thanks, Anon, I was asking if you could hold onto it for me. You're much harder to rob with those pockets all the way up there.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She thanked the vendor who tipped his hat at her in farewell, his attention soon claimed by another prospective customer as the two of you moved off.</span><br />&quot;So, where to now?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hm, I don't know, really. We've still got daylight left, and... I'm having a great time with you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She gave you a little smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What do you want to do?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Suggest you go to the apartment.<br />b) Sight-see some more<br />c) Head back to the station to find out where Flare went.<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Why not C?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;Because we want to spend more time with police horse</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not wanting to end things just yet, you tell Blueberry that you'd like to see more of the city if she had the time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare eagerly agreed and over the rest of the day, the two of you walked the length and breadth of Manehattan isle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You caught a show at the theatre, a cheesy romance movie that Blueberry denied enjoying adamantly, but she certainly didn't look as though she'd hated it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She took you the top of the Equestrian State building, and not the top that was for tourists, she used her rank to get the pair of you to the very top to see the city skyline.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The only other thing above you being the lightning rod of the building and a few high flying airships.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then finally, she took you to the seaside to see that Statue of harmony. An enormous steel representation of Princess Celestia, rearing and majestic.</span><br />&quot;No Luna statue?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry shook her head, &quot;Nope, they started construction of one for her off the east coast of Las Pegasus a couple years after she returned from her exile, it's still going actually.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd wager it was because manufacturing the steel for it took longer these days.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right here, right now though, the sun was beginning to set behind you, casting the shadows of the sky scrapers across portions of the sparkling blue water.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ahead of you, the horn of Celestia's statue caught the waning light just so with a few reflective panels, making it glow gold, as though the solar princess herself were there, lowering the sun for the day.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a fantastic sight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon? I really enjoyed myself today...&quot;</span><br />&quot;I'm glad you did, you'd make a great tour guide.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She hummed lightly, &quot;I suppose I'd better get you to that apartment. It's not far from here, actually...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sliding a subtle look her way, you saw Blueberry blushing oh so lightly as she looked out over the water.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Wait until you get to the apartment.<br />b) Fug her now.<br />c) Friendzone.<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[D]<br />[Stay with her a bit longer, scratch gently behind her ears, tell her she is a great and beautiful tour guide, if she doesn't protest crouch and hug her from behind, let her lean and rest on your chest, enjoy the view with her and then slowly kiss police horse]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;I think we could enjoy the view for a little while longer, don't you?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her slight blush went full red as you spoke and she looked up at you, eyes twinkling a little.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Either she had literal stars in her eyes, or those big, beautiful teal orbs of hers were actually just reflecting the starlight above you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As one, both of you turned back to the view, although you reached a hand over and scratched behind one of her ears gently.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare let her eyes slide shut and a quiet, amorous whimper welled up from within her. The sight of her enjoying herself was starting to get even you hot under the collar.</span><br />&quot;I mean it, you did a fantastic job today, you'd make a great and beautiful tour guide...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry was far past the point of responding coherently, her only acknowledgement coming in the act of her leaning her head back into your hand.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maintaining the gentle rubs and scratches, you crouched down behind her, the mare flinched a little in surprise, but otherwise didn't protest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In fact, she leaned back into you and you wrapped your arms around her, just letting her lean and rest against you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anon...~&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turned her head slightly towards you, one eye partially open. Against your chest and through your arms, you could feel Blueberry quivering ever so slightly, her breathing deep and as she began to give in to the feelings you were giving her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Cupping her muzzle with a hand, you turned her muzzle up and towards you and kissed her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little police mare gave a muffled, emotional 'eep', but seemed hardly surprised and leaned into it softly, working her lips against yours.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The two of you spent the rest of the sunset like that.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Fug her rite inna pussy.<br />b) Take her to the apartment.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A) RIGHT IN THE PUSSY]<br />&#160;<br />[Scratch her fur on the chest, go slowly south, rub belly and, if she is okay with this, go right into her fun place.]<br />[Don't force her if she doesn't want something, we want to say &quot;thank you&quot; for spending a nice day together, not to use her as a sex toy- make her feel nice and warm. She is leaning into our chest, so nobody should notice our fun time]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;One hand resting on her cheek, the other on her chest, you began to rub slowly, working your way down her fluffy chest fur down to her belly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare squeaked lewdly as your hands brushed over her crotch tits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anon, that's... Mmh... That's not a-allowed...~&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her mouth said no, but her eyes were saying yes, and she didn't move to stop you as your hand snuck further down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry moaned quietly as your hand came into contact with her, cheeks growing even hotter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took the opening she gave and kissed her again, muffling her moans as you thanked her for the day you'd spent together.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little mare leaned back against you comfortably and relaxed into it, accepting her reward.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) What now, /bat/?<br />b) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[<span class="co4">&gt;That's not a-allowed]</span><br />[Forbidden fruit is the sweetest.]<br />[Find the most pleasurable thing to do with her body, we are near her boobies, then why not to massage them, gently pinch her nipples, then slowly go even lower, but not exactly to the prize; rub around her happy place, the skin between her ponut and slit, then slowly tease her entrance.]<br />[One finger on the start, make her ask for more.]<br />[The second hand can do interesting things too, you can choose between scratching her belly and, if she is into it, teasing her butthole.]<br />[Kisses her neck and whispering lewd thing to the ear can be the third fun thing to do with police pone.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry squirmed in your arms pleasurably as you played with her nipples, pinching and massaging them, your free hand still rubbing her chest and belly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you began to go lower teasing the flesh around her opening, taking note that she was quite moist at this point. skirting around her lower lips, your fingers found their mark.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The nice warm flesh that lay between her labia and ponut. you caressed the spot gently at first, her moaning muffled by the kiss you still maintained, keeping her safe in your arms.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a while, you lightly dragged a finger around the edges of her opening, causing her to squeal with arousal, her clit beginning to wink in and out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were fascinated with the movement, it was by far the first time you'd seen it, but it never lost its charm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly, ever so slowly, you inserted the smallest tip of your finger and guided it up and down her slit, watching her flesh part around it, her lubricant collecting on your finger and her lips.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At this point, you'd broken the kiss and left her panting and moaning as she rested against you, her body quivering with pleasure as you working her breasts and marehood.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;M-More... Anon... Pl-Please...~&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nibbled at her ear gently.</span><br />&quot;Beg for it...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ooh... Anon, please, I n-need this...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Obliging, you added another two fingers and pushed them in deeper, feeling her inner walls contracting around them, trying to pull them in further.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her clit winked out and grazed against your thumb, it was accidental, but the blissful pony in your arms squealed again softly, overcome with pleasure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You began kissing her neck and whispering sweet nothings into her ear as your free hand moved from her crotch tits to her ponut, playing with it lightly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry didn't resist and instead moaned.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily for the two of you, this portion of the seaside was deserted, and no one could hear her moan.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Free choice is overrated.<br />b) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />&#160;<br />[Just continue, but a bit faster, give her the sweet release she needs and kiss.]<br />[Give her some time to calm down, enjoy the moment, and carry her back to the apartment]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You keep working her, Blueberry's moans gaining in volume and passion as she nears her edge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her hind legs kicked lightly, your fingers causing a small torrent of mare cum to flow out every time they pushed in, her clit winking rapidly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You did everything you could think of, from grinding her clit between your forefinger and thumb to pumping your fingers in and out like a piston, you even worked her crotch tits and ponut.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Through all of this, she'd yet to reach orgasm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry must do this pretty often to have held out this long.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a telltale rhythm, her walls began to milk your fingers desperately, and you could almost feel the shout of bliss welling up within her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not wanting to draw attention to the two of you, you silenced her with a kiss, Blueberry sounding off a muffled yelp as she moaned and orgasmed, her sweet smelling lubricant gushing out, coating your hand.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You continued to work her marehood through her orgasm, the quivering police mare becoming little more than putty in your arms, her eyes rolling up into her head as she kissed back deeply.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, she settled down, but you kept your fingers hilted inside her, stroking occasionally to bring her down slowly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, she broke away from your lips and panted, remaining limp in your arms.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry opened her eyes and looked up at you softly and contently, clearly satisfied for the time being.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a smile, you withdrew your hand from her and she shivered, moaning quietly.</span><br />&quot;Thanks for showing me the city today...~&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry recovered her breath and replied, &quot;N-No problem...&quot;</span><br />&quot;Now, where's that apartment?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry nuzzled into you, &quot;It's not far from here, Boardwalk View Apartments... Just behind us... Apartment three seventeen.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turning your head in the direction indicated, you found it was just a short walk away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Convenient.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Figuring Blueberry would be too worn out to walk, you picked her up in your arms and made your way up to the apartment.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Take her to bed.<br />b) Ask if you can use her radio to contact Flare.<br />c) Step up the lewdness.<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[C) STEP UP THE LEWDNESS]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;B after &gt;&gt;22829838</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nudged the door to the apartment open and walked in, Blueberry still curled up in your arms.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was pretty high end for a witness protection suite, and you took Blueberry to the bedroom, setting her down on the bed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She gave a content purr and wiggled her rump into the sheets, dripping a little on them.</span><br />&quot;Mind if I use your radio to contact Flare?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Almost as though she were drunk with bliss, she pulled the portable radio off of her uniform and handed it to you, &quot;Sure... Whatever you want, Nonny.~&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thanks. I'll be right back.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You leaned down and kissed her gently, with her returning it, hooves wrapping around you as though afraid to let you go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Managing to pry yourself away from the amorous police pony, you left the room quietly and keyed the radio.</span><br />&quot;Uh... Hey, Anonymous here. Any officers on this frequency?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lifting your finger from the button, you waited for a response.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nothing, just static.</span><br />&quot;This is Anonymous, accompanying Lieutenant Flare of the night guard, any officers, come in.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Static...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You got a sinking feeling in your stomach, which was relieved when the static ended.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, is that you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was Flare, she sounded out of breath, and was whispering, you could faintly hear the trotting of hooves on the street and trundling carriages.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something was wrong.</span><br />&quot;Flare? Where are you, what's happening?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Okay, Anon, Lis-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare was cut off by a gunshot, and after a moment, you heard struggling and then static.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon! Whatever you do, do not tell me where you are! Do you understand me? Don't reply, just stay where you are, stay quiet, and keep Sergeant Blueberry with you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Another trio of gunshots.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Someone attacked the station, but I managed to draw them off before they hurt anyone. Okay? Stay. Low.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The radio cut off.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You put the radio down on the table, heart pounding.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;First the Sky Barge and now this? Just who were these ponies?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regardless, Flare seemed adamant that you remain where you are, and that Blueberry stay with you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You re-entered the bedroom, calming yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry dozed lightly on the bed, having stripped her uniform off while you'd been on the radio.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Likewise, you began to strip off your own clothing and slipped into bed beside her, wrapping an arm around her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Mmh... Anon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare turned to you and planted a kiss on your mouth, one of her hind legs draping itself over your waist.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Keep Blueberry with you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was one really easy way to do that, so you put Flare out of your mind, forced to content yourself with the knowledge that she could fend for herself as you rolled Blueberry onto her back, preparing to make love to her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On the vanity, the small bag of memory coins fell out of your suit pocket, and subsequently, one of the coins inside fell out also, the coin glinting in the candlelight.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Have a pony struggling to escape your grip fruitlessly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tightened your stranglehold, waiting for the Pegasus to pass out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once he had done so you rolled him off of you and stood, dusting yourself off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Around you lay five other unconscious ponies, all of which had come after you, or rather, the encoded orders you had managed to recover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You set about stripping the ponies of anything useful, bits, ammunition, even a taser.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That'd come in handy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;All the while, you'd had to favour your right fore leg, one of the ponies had put a round through it and it hurt like all Tartarus, it was all you could do not to cry out in pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Crying out would reveal your position.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Figuring that now was as good a time as any, you pulled out your tub of healing salve and bandages, smearing the paste over the wounds, as the bullet had gone straight through.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You then bandaged it up firmly and replaced your supplies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't remain here.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;No doubt the ponies out on the street had heard the shots, and with that, the police would come running.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't risk losing the Crystal Pony's things again, they were your best lead if you could break the code on those orders.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was also Flim Flam Inc, but it was a flimsy lead at best.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even treated, you wounded fore leg wasn't exactly reliable, thankfully, you felt confident enough that you could fly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even though it hadn't had the chance to heal fully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Carefully, you unwrapped the bandages around the wing and examined the slashes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They were mostly healed over thanks to the magical salve, but the muscles beneath were still tender.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nothing you couldn't cope with.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Unfurling your wings, you took off into the air, rising higher and higher until you were above the buildings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The recent chase had taken you far from the city center, you'd somehow ended up in downtown Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no idea where Anon was, and thankfully, neither did whoever was after you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The extra weight of the Crystal Pony's things on your back also clamored for attention, as you'd yet to sort through them for anything else of use.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Keying the radio, you were somewhat worried that the police band was still down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Either they were monitoring it closely or had decided to jam the transmitter entirely after your contact with Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were also beginning to run low on medical supplies, so you'd need to see about getting more without drawing attention to yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was also the problem of these ponies who were literally gunning for you, either you had to start shooting back or buy some non-lethal ammunition, your newly acquired taser was a good step in that direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't want to kill...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hovering right there in the air, you were unsure of what to do.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Return to the police station and check on the radio tower.<br />b) Find some more medical supplies. (specify plan of action)<br />c) Locate non-lethal ammunition. (specify plan of action)<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[We still have some medic stuff, so maybe we should locate the Ammu-nation store.]<br />[Maybe we will find something interesting there, besides rubber bullets (maybe some kind of magicked thing that generates force field or something?).]<br />[Keep you eyes open and be careful.]<br />[I think if we want to take the non-lethal route, we need to be even more sneaky than we are now. ]<br />[Acquiring/capturing the device that allows us to become invisible would be good for that.]<br />&#160;<br />[D fly around for a moment and look for a building to land on that has some cover like an air conditioner or pony equivalent, just stuff on the roof.]<br />[Try to make sure you aren't being followed by pegasi or something.]<br />[Look through the crystal pony's stuff but make it brief and get in the air again. Being pursued at a distance is detrimental to one's security.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Propelling yourself forwards, you scanned the surrounding rooftops for some place with cover, if you got into another fight, you wanted to be able to take cover so you could avoid getting shot up any more than you already have.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Spotting a good wide rooftop, you touched down and hid by some ventilation units, large contraptions that would catch wind currents coming in from the ocean and deliver it through the building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They were made of quality steel, too. So they made perfect cover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You unclipped the saddlebags you carried and brought the Crystal Pony's deep purple one before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A moment passed as you considered a stallion carrying a purple saddlebag, snickering a little.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a finely made thing, weaved from strong materials and adorned with extra pockets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The saddlebag was of much higher quality that yours.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flipping it open, you rummaged through his things, there were a few gemstones, however, whatever magical energy they held were drained except for two of them, probably for refreshing the enchantment on his hoof blades.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The drained gems were still valuable in themselves and you pocketed them all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In his saddlebag was an assortment of useless junk, clothes and such, but when you came to the side pockets, you found something curious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was some kind of injector filled with a liquid, it was wispy, and you couldn't quite tell if it really was liquid or gas.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It glowed a very slight blue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You decided against injecting yourself with it, but your best guess was that this was what allowed the Saboteur to turn invisible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finding nothing else of use, you figured you'd trade up for the better saddlebag, moving your things into it before folding up your own and placing it in there as well.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Strapping it on, you found the collective weight of everything you carried was nicely distributed across your flanks, though that could have just been less weight from all the clothes and useless knick knacks.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Having dumped the extra weight, you took off again and circled higher, eyes scanning the streets for anything that even remotely looked like a weapons smith, or whatever equivalent Manehattan had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had some money, maybe you could buy some of those newfangled rubber bullets, it'd let you shoot something back without killing and without overusing your taser.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Soaring above the streets, you did eventually come across what looked like a street dedicated to storefronts and warehouses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe you'd find what you needed here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To do so, however, you needed to touch down amongst the crowds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hate to put civilians at risk, but it was one you had to take.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;More than likely, these ponies wouldn't dare start anything out in the open and so it was decided.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gliding lower and lower, you touched down just inside the mouth of an alley and began to walk down the street.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The crowds parted a little before you out of respect, as your armor marked you clearly as one of the night guard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You might have to do something about that later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Along the street were late night stores, sundries, news outlets and other such small stores.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you came across a weapons smith, or rather, the distribution part of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No blacksmith working his trade, no forge, inside the store were just weapons and weapon related articles on display like it was a grocery store.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was nothing like you'd ever seen in Canterlot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stepped up to the counter, &quot;Howdy there, ma'am.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The clerk noticed your armor and straightened a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What can I help you with today?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least he was direct.</span><br />&#160;<br />---------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />Weapons: Ranged<br />&#160;<br />5x [Double Action Revolver]{20x Bits}<br />1x [Luger Pistol]{35x Bits}<br />3x [Dart Thrower]{10x Bits}<br />7x [Bolt Action Rifle]{30x Bits}<br />4x [Winchester Rifle]{15x Bits}<br />1x [Lightning](Special Longrifle){500x Bits}<br />3x [Crossbow]{25x Bits}<br />&#160;<br />Weapons: Melee<br />&#160;<br />3x [Field Knife]{5x Bits}<br />3x [Combat Knife]{8x Bits}<br />3x [Broadsword]{12x Bits}<br />3x [Longsword]{16x Bits}<br />3x [Dual Bladed Staff]{22x Bits}<br />3x [Polearm]{18x Bits}<br />3x [Quarterstaff]{10x Bits}<br />3x [Hoof Blades]{20x Bits}<br />3x [Plated Hoof Guard]{25x Bits}<br />&#160;<br />Munitions:<br />&#160;<br />99x [Round Cylinder](6x Chambers)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {1x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {0.5x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />99x [Pistol Clip](12x Rounds)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {1x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {0.5x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />99x [Repeater Cartridge](5x Rounds)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {1x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {0.5x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />99x [Crossbow Bolt](10x Bolts/Case)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {1x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />99x [Dart](10x Darts/Case)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {1x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Stun {3x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />---------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />[Buy pr0n.]<br />&#160;<br />[These darts looks interesting, maybe something with stunning or ice? Ask how exactly those work.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you looked over the selection, a silly little thought of buying porn here crossed your mind, but you discarded the idea, as you had more important things to worry about for the moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Dart Thrower looked interesting. You picked one of them up.</span><br />&quot;How do these work?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The clerk leaned on the counter as he explained, &quot;That's a new addition to our range here, Flim Flam Inc developed those beauties for subduing wild animals without killing them. Darts enchanted with a stunning or sleeping spell, you know? More ethical that way.&quot;</span><br />&quot;It looks like you're selling some lethal darts there, though.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion chuckled at you and pushed up the brim of his hat, &quot;Yes, well... Since it's powered by compressed air, it's a quiet weapon, and you can imagine how some less than savory individuals would take advantage of that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could imagine, the gun itself was a little larger than a pistol, but far from the size of a rifle. It had a slot for dart casings to be loaded and a thin tube under the barrel with a handle, almost like a pump action shotgun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Closer inspection revealed that the tube was meant for compressed air, which could be pumped into it with the handle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You figured if the darts had an ice or stun enchantment, this would make quite the non-lethal weapon, and a quiet one at that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You only had fifty bits, though.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Buy something<br />b) Buy nothing<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Buy dart thrower + <span class="nu0">3</span> stun darts.]<br />[By the way, we can get back these darts from stunned enemies, so even if the spell is no more active, we can still recharge them/dip in the sleeping potion or something.]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;This.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;we can get back these darts from stunned enemies</span><br />Is this the case or are they tipped with a one-time drug (that can maybe be refilled?)<br />&#160;<br />[Ask about Lightning. We obviously can't afford it but it sounds pretty neat-o]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lay the Dart Thrower on the counter and take three Stun Dart Casings.</span><br />&quot;I'll take these then.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion quirked his eyebrow at your questionable purchase, but his eyes went to your armor and he figured it wouldn't be wise to ask.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He rang up the purchase, &quot;That'll be nineteen bits, ma'am.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pulled out your bit bag, and payed him, your eyes falling on the mounted long rifle on the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It. Was. Gorgeous.</span><br />&quot;What is that thing?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion didn't need to follow your gaze to know what you were looked at and grinned.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ain't she a beauty? That's Lightning. The pride and joy of the store, unfortunately for us, she's up for sale, five hundred bits, too.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Why's she called Lightning?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tried to disregard the fact that you tended to refer to certain guns as mares, like with Wisp.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The gun's been heavily enchanted, from way back before the Disarmament, there used to be a line of these things, though not anymore, this is the only one left and when you pull the trigger, she strikes forth like the wrath 'o Celestia, or Lightning, rather.&quot;</span><br />&quot;So how exactly is she enchanted?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anything this gun fires keeps going, no bullet drop, no slowing until it hits something, and any unenchanted rounds fired by this thing get a lightning infusement before it leaves the barrel. Apart from that, it has a nice scope with an effective range to match the weapon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That sounded awesome, you really, really wanted this gun, but you were nowhere near being able to afford it.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Leave store<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[http://i.imgur.com/NkmQgNm.png]<br />[So it's like pic related, but Jakobs actually made an elemental. I need to not be as nerdy.]<br />[Ask him where to get medical stuff and shop around there for a bit. Running low on money. Where/how do contracts work. Perhaps the shop guy can offer?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As long as you were here, you might as well ask him if he knew where you could buy some medical supplies, if he couldn't tell you, you could always just appropriate some from the hospital.</span><br />&quot;Before I go, you wouldn't happen to be able to direct me to a pharmacy, would you?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallions eyes fell to your wounded fore leg and he nodded, &quot;Sure... It's just down the street. You're... Not going to start shooting things up, are you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quirked an eyebrow at the stallion and gave him a reassuring smile.</span><br />&quot;Not unless they shoot first. One last thing, have you got any work you need done? I kinda need the bits.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;His ears perked up and he nodded, &quot;Sure! We've got a shipment coming in tomorrow morning and I've been looking for an extra hoof to help out, if you come by then, I'd be happy to pay you for your trouble.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thanks. See you then, maybe.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, you left and wandered down the street in the direction the stallion had indicated, slipping your newly purchased Dart Gun in your saddlebag.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sun was fully down now and with it, the stars had come out, you had immediate goals in mind, but you weren't sure how you were going to link back up with Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With these thoughts in mind, you entered the pharmacy, looking over your shoulder and scanning the crowds for anypony that might be following.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Satisfied that you weren't being tailed, at least as far as you knew, you began to browse the pharmacy for goods.</span><br />&#160;<br />---------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />Medical:<br />&#160;<br />10x [Bandage Rolls]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {1x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Healing Infusement [Minor/Major/Great]{4/6/8x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />10x [Healing Salve](7x Uses/Tub)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular Strength {10x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Healing Infusement [Minor/Major/Great]{14/16/18x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />10x [Healing Potion]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: +25% HP {15x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: +50% HP {25x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: +75% HP {35x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />Enhancement:<br />&#160;<br />3x [Strength Potion]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: +33% {20x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: +66% {30x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: +100% {40x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />3x [Agility Potion]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: +100% {50x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: +200% {110x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: +300% {170x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />3x [Focus Potion]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: +10% Aim {6x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: +20% Aim {12x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: +30% Aim {18x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />Detriment:<br />&#160;<br />3x [Sleeping Draught](7x Uses)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: 3 hrs {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: 6 hrs {4x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: 9 hrs {6x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />3x [Stunning Draught](7x Uses)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: 3 hrs {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: 6 hrs {4x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: 9 hrs {6x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />3x [Depressive Draught](7x Uses)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Minor: 3 hrs {2x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Major: 6 hrs {4x Bits}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great: 9 hrs {6x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />Special:<br />&#160;<br />1x [Regeneration Tonic]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grand: +25% Recovery Rate {200x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />1x [Health Tonic]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grand: +25% Max health {200x Bits}</span><br />&#160;<br />---------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />[Too expensive, for now at least. We have figures now though which is good.]<br />[<span class="co4">&gt;Be nighttime]</span><br />[<span class="co4">&gt;Be batpony]</span><br />[<span class="co4">&gt;It's generally harder to see at night for most]</span><br />[Police station check time?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everything in the pharmacy was extremely expensive, things back in Canterlot were cheaper than this!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You looked at your sad little bit bag, the few remaining coins jingling together, reminding you of your dire finances.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really should have considered leaving Canterlot with more money.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Feeling almost like a hobo, you left the pharmacy without buying anything, although you now had figures, so that was a good thing should you need to buy things later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For now, though, you needed to head back to the police station and find out where Anon and Sergeant Blueberry were.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopefully your gambit to draw the attackers off had succeeded.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rising into the air once again, you flew back towards the center of the city. Even at this distance, you could make out the Pegasus air patrols and flashing sirens from the police station.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been shocked at the boldness with which your enemies had struck, right in the middle of Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If those ponies were acting on Blue Moon's orders, she really didn't want you finding out what that saboteurs orders said.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You rose higher, settling in above the air patrols, gazing down at the carnage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The entire block out the front of the police station had been cordoned off, a few pony drawn carriages tipped over as makeshift cover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Surprisingly, there'd been no casualties during the entire shoot-out, the exceptional aim of ponies on both sides keeping each other bullet shy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You silently sent a prayer of thanks to Luna that the attackers had, in fact, retreated when you'd left the site.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Touch down in the street.<br />b) Land on the roof to check the radio transmitter<br />c) Continue circling.<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Try the radio again and see if they brought the band back up, but don't say anything. I doubt these are truncated radios.]<br />[If the band is down do (c) and after a minute or two go check the transmitter, ending with (a) in a way that doesn't make the officers get spooked.]<br />&#160;<br />[D) DO A BARREL ROLL!]<br />&#160;<br />[We should check out the radio transmitter.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something seemed a little off about the air patrols, so remained at your current altitude and keyed the radio, remaining silent.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police band was still washed out with static, but the transmitter was right there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, the air patrols seemed edgy, so you continued to circle above the station for a few minutes, taking note of the officers on the ground and in the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lazily do a few barrel rolls, hoping to pass the time more quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, you kept any plane sounds you felt like making to a minimum.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reasonably confidant that you could avoid the air patrols, you dropped in altitude, slipping through their ranks and touching down lightly on the roof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Spooking the police wasn't high on your list of priorities, and there was still the matter of how they'd found out where you were so quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You made your way quietly for the transmitter tower, opening one of the panels on the side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What you found was some kind of device connected to the electronics, and you guessed this device was responsible for the jamming.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gripping the box in your hooves, you heaved to pull it off and failed spectacularly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You now lay on the ground like an overturned turtle, while the device remained securely fixed to the radio controls. It hadn't even budged.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Dusting off your armor and your pride, you glared at the defiant device and inspected it again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The thing seemed to be clamped in place with some kind of magnet, the low hum of electricity keeping it powered.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was unlike anything you'd ever seen before, and was far beyond the capabilities of modern manufacturing, as far as you knew.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A small dial, like one would find on a safe looked as though it'd take a combination that would power down the magnets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't have time for this, the police band needed to be restored now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flicking out a hoof blade, you stabbed into the metal hard</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever you'd done worked, as the enchantment on your blades fried the thing</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The device was now, without a doubt, broken. So you slipped the remains into your saddlebag.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Another clue you couldn't figure out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You moved to the edge of the roof and leaped off, gliding down to the street gracefully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Unfortunately, your entrance spooked the poor, worn out officers on the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least they hadn't shot you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They recognised your armor, and like everypony else, avoided the night guard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It's not like you'd bite them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You keyed the radio again, and was pleased to hear the police band back up, filled with chatter and status updates as the law enforcement throughout the city reorganised themselves.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Investigate the interior of the station.<br />b) Investigate the exterior.<br />c) Radio Anon again.<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B at a glance but go back inside, and ask the nearest officer what went on.]<br />&#160;<br />[Check out the interior.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;At a glance, the street was a mess, overturned carriages were riddled with bullet holes and there was a patch of soot where a unicorn had set off a flash spell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Further out, you could make out barricades at either end of the street, officers keeping the crowds of civilians and the press back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Overhead, the air patrols still circled, though it seemed like there were less up there now than there were a minute ago.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned quietly and entered the police station, reasoning that it wouldn't by wise to radio Anon just yet, in case they were still monitoring the police band.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pulling one of the higher ranked officers aside, you asked him what was going on, and what had happened after you'd left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He gruffly explained that a few of the attackers had gone after you, but a majority stayed for a few minutes before retreating inexplicably.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police forces had been unable to arrest any of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As he spoke, your eyes looked around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a mess, even in here. There were tables and filing cabinet blockades in the hallways.</span><br />&quot;Did any of them get in here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion followed your gaze towards a few of the makeshift barricades, his expression that of worry, &quot;We're... Not entirely sure. We think there was, but we couldn't see anypony. A couple guys were knocked out, and more reported hearing hoofsteps, but no one saw anything.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Interrogate officer.<br />b) Search interior.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Search interior.]<br />[Interrogation could lead to bad news and more suspicions.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thanked the officer for his time and let him go on his way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was getting late, and you still needed to figure out where Anon and Blueberry had gotten off to, you could just easily radio him and live with the consequences, or you could do it the hard way and visit each apartment the police had listed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that thought in mind, you vaulted over one of the barricades and wandered through the station.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were a few officers patrolling the halls and none of them payed you any mind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The place looked ransacked, the evidence locker had been broken into and the interior looked as though a whirlwind, or a mare on a mission had gone through the place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No doubt one of them had indeed gotten in and tried to make for the saboteurs equipment, which you had removed from the locker prior to the attack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This part of the station seemed abandoned, as the whole force was out on the street or in the main atrium.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was eerily silent, your only company being the distant echoes of activity in other parts of the building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you came across an office of interest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sergeant Blueberry's.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Files were strewn about, desk drawers were opened and filing cabinets had been rifled through.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If there'd been any doubt before, it was gone now, somepony had gotten in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You heard a clatter in a room down the hall and froze.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That somepony was still here.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Use Radio<br />b) Investigate noise<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Was the noise coming from down the hall where you came from, or further down?]<br />[And assuming it wasn't turned over, is there an ink well for a would be quill.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving to the door as quietly as possible, you twitch your ears, trying to pinpoint where the sound had come from.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You began to hear hoofsteps coming from further down the hall, in the opposite direction you'd come from.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was no way an intruder would remain undetected in this building without being seen, so you had to assume invisibility.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you were going to deal with this again, you needed an advantage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A glance at the desk revealed no ink well, a shame, you could have used it on whoever was up there.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Set a trap<br />b) Go on the offensive<br />c) Learn more<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Do c.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your desire to know more won out over your need to act, and so the course was set. You snuck out of the office as quietly as possible and set off towards the noise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As it turned out, it was coming from a records room, case files, witness protection, statements...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Witness protection!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They were trying to find Anon and Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching the door with a held in breath, you peeked around the corner and saw...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was in the shape of a pony, a stallion by the heavyset shoulders and hooves, but completely invisible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The only indication of its presence at all was the way the air seemed to warp and bend around him, like a river breaking around a rock.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you hadn't been paying attention, or noticed his movements with your finely tuned sense of hearing, you'd have never seen him at all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whoever it was, he moved towards a filing cabinet and began to search it, files seemingly lifting up on their own.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You crept back around the corner.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Attack<br />b) Set a trap<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[So he's a -big guy-]<br />[Dart him and hopefully he isn't some kind of PCP wired junkie. Whoever he is, he shouldn't be allowed to leave.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Keeping your breathing slow and steady, you removed the Dart Gun from your saddlebag and quietly slid a dart case into it, wincing at the slight click that sounded off as the case was locked into place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Holding the handle with one hoof and the pump with the other, you filled the tube with air, compressing it with each pump.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion hadn't noticed and you had the advantage as you leaned around the corner and took aim.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a suppressed thump of air, you sent a dart into what you were pretty sure was his flank, watching him grunt in surprise, falling forwards against the filing cabinet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Starting from the tip of the dart, the stallion became visible in a wave of blue light.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was the same stallion from The Silver Lining! How had he survived that fall?!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shakily, he recovered and got up, turning towards you in anger.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't understand, you'd fired a stun dart at him, he should be a drooling mess on the floor right now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You barely had time to react as he suddenly surged forwards and planted a kick right into your breast plate.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The force of it sent you flying backwards into the opposite wall, and while the armor absorbed most of the impact, you were still left with a slight depression in your finely crafted armor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Behind you, the wall had caved in slightly and you cried out at the shock, sliding down to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking up, you saw the stallion leaning against the door frame, limbs shaking as his body seemingly fought a battle against the stunning spell that would have been enough to take down a Manticore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were seeing double as his shaky hoof entered his pack and pulled out an injector, like the one currently in your pack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Almost feverishly, he plunged it into one of his forelegs and pressed the button, a hiss of air accompanying the sight of the entire dosage entering his body.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before your eyes, the stallions muscles rippled along his body for a brief moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then he straightened, unaffected by the dart.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still stunned by your impact with the wall, you could only stare up at him weakly, your armor seemingly too heavy for you to lift, head pounding as the stallion approached you and lifted you up, pushing you against the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He seemed to inspect you for a moment with mild disinterest before opening his mouth, voice gravelly and deep, &quot;Much as I'd like repay you for our bout on the Sky Barge, my orders are to deliver a message to you and that freak that follows you around.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion tossed you to the ground, hard, earning another cry of pain from you as the dent in your armor grated against your bones, making it harder to breath.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt his muzzle next to your ear, one of his hooves just in sight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your Dart Gun lay uselessly on the floor, just out of reach.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Don't come after us, or that pretty little mare you're after is dead.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, you got a close up of him vanishing, his fur standing up all over his body, crystalising as the light began to bend around his body, hiding him from view.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You last sight was of him moving towards the roof access before you lost consciousness.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were on a cloud, lingering in that place between wakefulness and sleep, not quite aware of the world, not quite sure of your own mind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Bit by bit, memory settled in around you, marking out and defining who you were and what had happened.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And like that, you were up in a flash, sitting bolt upright, half expecting that stallion to be standing over you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had, in fact, been resting on a couch, stripped of your possessions and armor, heaped under a few blankets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The room you were in was unfamiliar, but outside, you could make out the statue of harmony, the sun just beginning to lift over the horizon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been out all night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lifting a hoof to your chest, you rubbed carefully, wincing as the area felt tender, but otherwise fine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bullet wound on your leg had also been healed, but was still tender.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking around, you found the cause of your rapid healing in the form of a Great Healing Potion bottle, empty on the counter, along with the tip of a bloodstained bandage peeking out over the lip of the bin.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Rest some more.<br />b) Explore.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[b)]<br />&#160;<br />[Where are the bags]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Leaving the comfort and warmth of your spot on the couch, you stretched your legs, wandering around the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was decent, if sparsely furnished.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You found your gear piled neatly by the couch, including your armor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The chest plate bore a hoof sized depression, and you wondered just who in Equestria that stallion was that he could damage some of the strongest armor in the guard with just his bare hooves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In any case, you wouldn't be able to wear this until you could get it repaired or replaced.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Searching your pack, you were relieved to find that nothing had been taken, it seemed that the clues you carried were now irrelevant.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They had a hostage to ensure that you behaved, after all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Going back to your explorations, you found an attached kitchen, bathroom and three other doors, two of which led into bedrooms, the third of which was closed and locked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to assume you'd been found unconscious on the floor, and then brought here, where you'd been healed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Mostly, you were still tender in places.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry had mentioned a witness protection suite, perhaps this was it?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your thoughts were interrupted by a growl from your stomach.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Find some food.<br />b) Explore some more.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br />[Food!]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You searched around some more, but there wasn't really anything else of special interest in the apartment, apart from the view outside, which was a little grand for witness protection, but who were you to complain?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What you needed right now was food, and to that end, you dug through you pack for an apple.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your old saddlebag had prevented any bruising from the knocks you'd taken.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The skin was a little dry, and you thought that it'd lost its magic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Biting into it, however, you were proven wrong. Sweet Apple Acres apples were always sweet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Risking the other two was out of the question, so you moved those to the fridge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was the best apple you'd ever had, and Celestia damn it all, you'd earned it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thoughts of Midnight entered your mind again, you had to remain focused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her foalnappers knew you and Anon were here in the city, and so far had outright attempted to prevent you from reaching it, done all they could to deny you leads.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And finally, they'd threatened Midnight's life to keep you in check.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Either they were acting extremely preemptively, or Midnight was actually here in Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It made sense, this was the closest major city to Canterlot, and it was hard to find anypony in the larger cities, let alone if said pony didn't want to be found.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had nothing solid, but you certainly had a place to start.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The original lead that brought you here, Flim Flam Inc, still needed to be investigated.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That saboteurs encoded orders needed to be quietly decrypted.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Figuring out just what you'd pried from the police transmitter tower should also be on the list.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And last, but not necessarily relevant, you needed to earn more money. If you were taking on an organisation that could field ponies with super strength, you were going to need more supplies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a click, the locked door opened and out stepped Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your heart fluttered with relief, but he hadn't seen you yet.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Call out.<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[a]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smiled.</span><br />&quot;Anon.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The man looked at you, eyes wide in disbelief, &quot;F-Flare? You should be resting, you were in a bad way last night.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He approached you with a worried look on his face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon was also only in his undergarments.</span><br />&quot;Yeah, well, healing potions tend to fix a lot of things.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon shook his head, &quot;You should still rest, we can take care of things today.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Anon, I'm fi- Wait what? 'We'?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The man did something you rarely saw, and blushed, &quot;Yes... Blueberry's here still, and she offered to help us out with Midnight after she heard what had happened down at the station.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kept trying to make eye contact with him, and Anon kept avoiding it deliberately, you wondered why, it's not like getting shot was his fault.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, it hit you like a hundred hammers hitting you.</span><br />&quot;You didn't!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anonymous slumped his shoulders in shame, but you knew from experience that he felt anything but.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon, you sly dog, you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I did... And it was great.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shame... She had a nice ass that you were hoping to tap.</span><br />&quot;So, how was she?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare, please.&quot;</span><br />&quot;What?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He sat down beside you and began to scratch behind an ear.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oh boy, here we go!</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Plan today's events<br />b) Wait for Blueberry to make an appearance<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Enjoy ear scratch and B]<br />&#160;<br />[Plan events with Flare, then wait for policepon]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd want to plan things out with Anon, but all of that hardly mattered in the face of ear scratches.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a happy sort of sigh, you fell on Anon's lap contently, his hand still working behind your ears, his other one now petting you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could die like this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So... What happened to you? The police just said they found you unconscious on the floor looking like you'd had a run in with a Manticore.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry had come out at this point and simply watched the two of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She had sex hair.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was cute.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Meanwhile, Anon kept handling you like a pro, and you succumbed, letting him pet and scratch behind your ears as you answered his questions.</span><br />&quot;I ran into that colt from the Sky Barge, and he got the better of me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We saw that, but I meant before, what happened at the police station?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sighed and rolled over, remaining in Anon's lap as his hands shifted to your belly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry had moved to take a seat on the couch, and listened intently.</span><br />&quot;Bl- Some thugs came for the saboteurs equipment, but I'd, ah...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You looked away from Blueberry quickly, &quot;re appropriated it before they could get to it. I had to draw them off so they wouldn't hurt anyone.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So that's when you got shot? When you were on the radio with me?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nodded and winced at the memory.</span><br />&quot;Yes, anyway, enough about me, we still need to figure out what we're going to do today.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You mean Blueberry and I, right? You're gonna stay here and recuperate.&quot;</span><br />&quot;But, An-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No. You were shot, your ribs were cracked, you suffered one hell of a concussion and you're exhausted. You're staying put today.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You opened your eyes and looked up at him with determination.</span><br />&quot;Anon, they have a mare held captive, she never asked for this. I can't just sit idly by, so you're stuck with me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon sighed and rubbed behind an ear some more, &quot;Okay, what should we do today?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Investigate Flim Flam Inc<br />b) Decrypt [Encoded Orders]<br />c) Identify [Injector]<br />d) Identify [Strange Device]<br />e) Send party member on contract work. {100x [Bits]/Day}<br />f) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Flare knows what the injector does, to an extent.]<br />[The orders are possibly outdated but can offer an idea of what they're doing, even if they're old.]<br />[The device is a scrambler of some kind maybe. Perhaps there's something on it that can give insight to who/where/etc.]<br />[We're near broke too. Damn.]<br />&#160;<br />[If we can do more than one a day]<br />[D, B, and E.]<br />[If Flare's uninjured she can go help the gunshop guy with his thing.]<br />[Maybe even get info out of him, he may have even sold stuff to the culprits without realizing it.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Well, we're short on money, so I'm gonna go out and find work, you and Blueberry get to figure out what this is.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lean across the pair and drag the damaged remains of the device from your pack, handing it to Anon, who took it with interest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You then gave Blueberry the encoded orders.</span><br />&quot;I guess since you're a part of this now, you can try and crack the code on this, whatever it says, it's likely outdated by now but it could still tell us something useful.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry unrolled the scroll, eyes glancing over it, &quot;I've never seen a code like this before, but it reminds of the old encryption methods used forty or fifty years ago, I think I know a guy who can crack this.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thanks, Anon, you used to be a science guy back on your world, right? What do you think that is?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon pulled you off of his lap and set you down on the couch, moving the device over to the table, &quot;I'd need to get the casing open to know for sure, but... Are these magnetic clamps? You ponies don't have these! Where'd you get it?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thought back to how difficult it had been to get the device off of the transmitter tower.</span><br />&quot;I found it attached to the police station radio tower, it was scrambling the frequency, I had to uh... smash it to get it off.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You would have had to unless you had super strength or a team of ponies to pull it. In any case, it definitely sounds like an on site frequency jammer. I'm gonna need to go out and buy some tools to get into this girl.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Help yourself to mine, it's not much, but it might get you what you need.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Leaving your pack where it was, you got off the couch and headed towards the front door, giving Anon and the police pony a smile.</span><br />&quot;Guess I'll see you guys tonight.&quot;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waved at Flare as she left the apartment before turning to Blueberry.</span><br />&quot;So, do you know where I can get some tools?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare swished her tail as she gathered her things, slipping the encoded orders into a satchel, &quot;Give me ear scratches like the ones you gave her and I'll tell you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You rolled your eyes, you'd spent much of the night doing nice things to her.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Gib her wad she wands&#160;:DDD<br />b) Ask her why she's willing to help with this<br />c) Other (specify)(Inventory management)<br />&#160;<br />[B then A]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You observed the little police mare for a moment, watching her get ready to go out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It occurred to you that she could be killed, any of you could be killed, you'd never taken ponies to be the violent sort, but there were violent ponies out there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And here was Blueberry, a law enforcement officer charging headlong into the thick of what was almost certainly a dangerous situation, when she could have just as easily turned her back on it and let things handle themselves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You already figured part of the reason was you, but there had to be more?</span><br />&quot;Why are you helping us?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hmm? What do you mean?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You move over to her and began to scratch behind her ears as she'd requested, asking again.</span><br />&quot;You don't have to help us, so why are you?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry inadvertently lifted a hind leg, closing her eyes as your magical fingers subdued yet another small colorful horse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could use this as an interrogation tool.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This is my city... I can't just walk away from something this big and expect things to take care of themselves, it goes against every reason I joined law enforcement...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That's a nice sentiment, but you had the impression that she didn't really realise that her life could be in danger, but maybe that was just your worrying.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry yelped in surprise as you pick her up and carried her over to the couch, arms wrapped around her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As she was currently dressed in her uniform and had yet to correct her disheveled mane from the previous nights activities, the image was a cute one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon! What are you doing?!&quot;</span><br />&quot;You know exactly what I'm doing.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You begin to rub her belly, keeping her firmly in your grip</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anooooon.~ We've got to go.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little mare squirmed, but made no other attempts to escape.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Keep going<br />b) You have more important things to do<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B ]<br />[Good interrogation tool indeed]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Much as you'd like to have more 'fun' with Blueberry, she was right, you had to go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You carefully set the now amorous mare on the ground and stood up, pulling Flare's bit bag out of her pack.</span><br />&quot;So, tool store?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Y-Yes... Tool store...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She finished getting ready and moved to meet you by the door, trying to fight her blush.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry could be adorable when she wanted to be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You definitely wanted to disrespect the law right now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had also left Wisp behind since you didn't need to be walking around the city with a gun. A rifle at that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry smiled up at you, &quot;Ready to go, Anon?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a quick, last minute check of the apartment, you find little else of use.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Some apples in the fridge, which you assumed were Flare's.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare's pack and armor, which she'd left behind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And your dignity back in the bedroom.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wouldn't be needing that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry stood by the door patiently, shifting her weight from hoof to hoof to keep herself occupied.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You occupied your hand by slapping her rump soundly, bringing forth a squeak of shock, and a lewd little 'eep'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Were the pair of you ready to go?</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Leave<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Well, leave.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry, having had enough of waiting, took your hand in her mouth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Unf.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And dragged you out of the apartment, afterwards, she spat your hand out and continued on down the hall, hooves sounding off against the floorboards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;clippity clop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Since she knew her way around the city and you didn't, it was probably best to follow her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So, I know this great little general store a few blocks from here, I think they sell tools. I'll drop you off there and then go get this scroll decoded.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You opened your mouth to argue the wisdom of splitting up, considering last night's events. It occurred to you then that Flare had already split away from the group, unarmed and cheery.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Would it honestly be any worse if Blueberry were on her own?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thinking about it, you were the real dead weight in this, your expertise was purely of an intellectual capacity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While you had the advantage of height and physical strength to subdue a pony, you hadn't gone up against anyone trained, or even unwilling.</span><br />&quot;Are you sure that's a good idea? Splitting up?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The two of you stepped out of the building and into the light, the sun having cleared the horizon by now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The statue of harmony still sparkled, and it almost looked like the enormous visage of Celestia gazed right at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, upon blinking away the blinding light, the eyes of the statue once again stared dead ahead, focused on nothing in particular.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, we'll cover more ground that way and get this over with faster.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She had a point, time was not a luxury any of you could afford, and every moment Blue Moon had Midnight in her clutches was another moment she drew closer to unlocking Starswirl's work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, there was safety in numbers, and there had already been attempts to slow your efforts.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Split up<br />b) Stay together<br />c) Think about it<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[C? This is a <span class="nu0">50</span>/<span class="nu0">50</span> situation, we need something to make it at least <span class="nu0">49</span>/<span class="nu0">51</span>.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Well, we're not deciding here, let's go.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Right, this way!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry set off at a steady trot which you were able to keep up with by walking quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Although, it did work up a bit of a sweat.</span><br />&quot;So! Who's this guy that's gonna decode the orders?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hrm? Oh, an old friend of mine, he's... Not exactly Lawful Good, if you catch my meaning, but he's useful, so I leave him be.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Was this police corruption?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ask cautiously, ready to escape her taser.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Getting tased was not something you wanted to experience.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Again...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry turned a reproachful glare at you, &quot;Of course not! He's not a criminal! He just doesn't have as much respect for law enforcement as he should. I helped him out a few years ago, somepony had framed him and... Well, I'm the one who cleared his name, so he at least respects me if not the uniform.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Mulling over this information, you gained a mental image of a stallion smoking a cigarette, sporting a five o'clock shadow with a husky voice.</span><br />&quot;So what does he do, exactly? Apart from crack codes for kicks, that is.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry shrugged, a difficult movement to pull of while she'd been walking.</span><br />&quot;No idea, I'm not even sure he does that, but he seems well connected. If he can't do it himself, he'll at least no somepony who can.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Great.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least you'd get something out of that device Flare had given you, which now lay at the bottom of a small sack you carried.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Some time passed quietly, and Blueberry bought you both some coffee to counteract the lack of sleep the both of you had experienced.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was pretty good, although Blueberry had hers laced with honey, which shocked and appalled you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But a part of you still wondered if her mouth would taste like honey now.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finishing off your coffee, the pair of you reached a small general goods store.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To be truthful, you couldn't make out what the store was called with how dusty and generally unkempt the storefront was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd never have noticed it at all if Blueberry had not stopped and turned in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The place almost looked like it was deliberately dingy to camouflage it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Entering the store, you found the interior mostly better kept than the exterior.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And how!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At a glance, you found a wide array of items and oddities, ranging from highly useful, to utterly garish.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You almost thought you'd seen an old iPhone, but a glance back at the spot revealed a clay brick.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In fact, every time you looked around, the contents of the store seemed to shift in subtle ways, things would move or pop in and out of existence, yet never visibly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even the stands felt like they moved or changed arrangement when you weren't looking.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The result was a store that was full of movement and life, despite it only being yourself and Blueberry occupying the space.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Speaking of, you felt a small tug at the hem of your blazer and looked down to find Blueberry looking up at you with concern.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Try to ignore it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been about to question her when she shook her head subtly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Doing your best to filter out the store from the forefront of your mind, you quickly found that the store became still, at least to your perceptions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry lead you to the counter, towards a Unicorn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He didn't look at all surprised to see you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Welcome to my store. Where anything you need is right at your fingertips, guaranteed!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His smile was just a little too wide, and it unsettled you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And welcome back Blueberry, I must say, you're becoming quite a regular here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry gave a nervous chuckle, and upon observation, you found that her muscles were bunched.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was tense.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, we need a tool set for Anon here, he's got some... Uh... Home improvements?</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion leaned back in his chair and tapped his fore hooves together, his eyes only on you as he replied the Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now, now. Sergeant, your mother taught you not to lie.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He leaned forward, still smiling at you, regarding you with extreme interest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You need some very special tools to crack open that casing, don't you Anonymous?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Every part of you was screaming to grab Blueberry and get out of this place, and suddenly you had the distinct impression that you weren't even in Equestria anymore.</span><br />&quot;Y-Yes. How did you know?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He seemed deadly serious as he replied calmly, &quot;Anything you need, right at your fingertips, guaranteed.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To your shock, there was such a tool box on the stand next to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wanting to get this strange experience over with, you grabbed the tool box and set it on the counter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Excellent choice, you won't find another set of tools such as these, there's one for every occasion! That'll just be five bits.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Only five?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You're gonna need it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He rang up the purchase and held out his hoof for payment.</span><br />&quot;Oh! Right.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pulled out Flare's bit bag and gave him the requested amount, his grin all the wider, &quot;Thank you very much, Mr Anonymous. A pleasure doing business with you, as always.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As always?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry's words came back to you as it seemed the store began to shift around you again, calming yourself, the store settled around you again and you went to take the toolbox, finding your hand halted by the stallions hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The deep blue Unicorn slipped a small leather folder into your hand and closed your fingers around it, &quot;Here. A gift for Flare, she's going to need it later.&quot;</span><br />&quot;...How did you...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Listen carefully.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt like the rest of the world vanished and that it was now just the two of you, &quot;The path you and your... Friends... Are on... Well. Let us say I have a... vested? ...Interest in seeing you succeed. So take the gift... My friend. And do not so readily question this... world you're in.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion withdrew his hoof and leaned back in his chair, his smile back in place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Happy trails, Mr Anonymous.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry nudged you after a moment, her voice strained.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, let's go.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She tugged you away and out of the store as it began to shift again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once again, the two of you were out in the fresh air, and it seemed the sun was considerably higher than it should have been for how long you'd been in there.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Freak out<br />b) Follow the Unicorns advice.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You refrain from questioning just what had happened and instead opened your closed fist to look at the small leather folder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A lock picking set?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slipped the little folder in your pocket and kept the toolbox in your hand.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Down beside you, Blueberry looked shaken, but quickly recovered, shaking off the tension she'd been experiencing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anyway... You've got tools now, shall we go?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Sure.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave Blueberry a comforting ear scratch and left with her, looking back at the store, you found that it was no longer there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...At least to your perceptions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now was the time to decide what you would do, you couldn't put it off any longer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Do you let Blueberry go off on her own and return to the apartment to crack the device open?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or do you stay with the little police pony.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Stay<br />b) Go<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Is this the dangerous point when we decide about someone's life? I'd say split up, but when she is so nervous and distracted it would be not the best choice.]<br />&#160;<br />[Then split up, switch to BB butt]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be Police Pony!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon had been quiet for a while now, and you were worried that he was thinking of that store, you tugged on his blazer again and the man looked down at you.</span><br />&quot;Something troubling you?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Trying to figure out if I should stay with you or not.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Aw... How sweet of him.</span><br />&quot;Don't worry about me, Anon, I'll be fine. You go get that thing figured out.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pull your radio off of your uniform and hold it up to him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anonymous took it and gave you a questioning stare.</span><br />&quot;I can get another one, if you need to contact me or... Just want to know I'm alright, get me on the radio, okay?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He then reached into his pocket and pulled out five of the memory coins you'd bought yesterday, giving them to you. &quot;So you know that I'm thinking about you. I'll see you tonight?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave him a saucy wink and shook your rump at him as you walked away.</span><br />&quot;You know it.~&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The man blushed and you held in a giggle, walking off down the street.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest, the stallion you were going to see, would likely have a few radio's lying around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tuning them into the police band wouldn't be hard, Earnest was good at that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was disrespectful towards the law, but... You didn't want to worry Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Trotting along, you found it odd that so many things weren't far from where you were, though you reasoned that it was Manehattan, there was always something not far from where you were.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well, it wasn't far comparatively, it took you a little over an hour to get there on hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest's 'shop'</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't actually a shop, he'd just set his home up within what used to be one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You entered and knocked on the door frame.</span><br />&quot;Earnest! You home?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Of course he was home, the door was unlocked.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Wait outside<br />b) Enter anyway<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br /><span class="co4">&gt; I'm suspicious of that but B</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Figuring Earnest was in his workroom, you entered anyway, closing the door behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took you a moment to find a path through all the haphazardly stacked electronics that cluttered the main room, but once you did, you quickly wound up before his workroom door, knocking on it.</span><br />&quot;Earnest!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sounds from within the room stopped and a moment later, the door swung wide open, your vision filling with the stallion himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was still as rough looking as always, although his lifestyle didn't lend itself much to general upkeep.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His dusty brown coat and silvery brown mane and tail were messy, and his muzzle was adorned with an ash grey five o'clock shadow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You walked past him and rolled your eyes.</span><br />&quot;You really need to take better care of yourself, Earnest.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Just mah luck, if anypony had ta follow up on me, 'course it'd be you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You leaned on a stack of boxes and knocked on it with a hoof, metal clangs sounding from within.</span><br />&quot;Is that anyway to treat such a 'good' friend, Earnest?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave him your best pout and was rewarded with a blush from that stallion, &quot;That was a one time thing, Sergeant, ah ain't gonna be shackled to ya for the rest of mah life for that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion spoke in careful, measured tones, his southern accent still strong, even after all the years he'd spent in Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kinda missed being with the colt, he was surprisingly tender at times.</span><br />&quot;I don't intend to,&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion opened his mouth to reply, but you cut him off.</span><br />&quot;But!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest snapped his jaw shut obediently.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was almost adorable.</span><br />&quot;I do have some business for you, and something interesting too.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This for the station, ma'am? Ya know how much ah dislike the authorities.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Here was the hook, and you grinned as you dropped the bait into the metaphorical water.</span><br />&quot;Not at all, they don't know anything about this.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion quirked an eyebrow with interest, &quot;Ah like it already.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Give him [Encoded Orders]<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[give it to him, I don't know what anything else we could do there]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You removed the scroll from your satchel and tossed it to him, Earnest catching it with his hoof as only Earth Ponies like yourselves could.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Unrolling it, Earnest glanced over the contents, his expression shifting subtly to one of mild surprise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Where'd ya get this then, Blue?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Uh...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right.</span><br />&quot;You know what happened yesterday? That whole fiasco with the Sky Barge?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion nodded and moved over to his desk, depositing the scroll there, &quot;Knew about it before you folks did.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You disregarded his statement, resolving to ask him how he'd known before the police did later.</span><br />&quot;Yes, that. This was on the culprit, I need you to decode it and find out what it says.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest sat and spoke over his shoulder, &quot;Well, ah can tell ya now that this reminds me of them old military codes the Equestrian Guard used way back in the day, looks a little different, though. Shouldn't take me long to figure out.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Right-o, mind if I borrow one of your spare radios? Mine's misplaced.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Not a problem at all, Blue, just don't make a mess o' things.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kissed his cheek lightly.</span><br />&quot;Thanks, Earnest, you're a life saver.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest successfully fought his blush away and set to work on the scroll, &quot;Don't get all mushy on me, Blue. Ya still ran out on me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave a huff and left the stallion be, grabbing one of the spare radios in the room before finding a seat in the main room, watching carriages and ponies pass by the shuttered windows.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Pass the time.<br />b) Look around.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Look around, of course. don't forget to iddly brush your tail against Earnest back, he looks like a guy who knows more than a regular pony. Maybe, besides decoding that scroll, he can tell us something more, for fun time?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After tuning the radio to the police band, you get up and wander around a bit, you occasionally check up on Earnest, 'accidentally' brushing your tail against his back to keep him on his hoof tips.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Curiosity getting the better of you, you found his room, wondering what he'd been up to ever since you left Dodge City for Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A framed photo caught your eye and you picked it up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In it sat your younger self, happy and hugging Earnest, showing off an engagement band.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A feeling of guilt overcame you as you remembered those times and set the photo back down on the little bedside table.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been engaged to Earnest, the pair of you had been pushed into it by both your parents, but you were at least happy with each other.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One more than the other though, if you'd stayed and gone through with the pseudo arranged marriage, you never would have become a police officer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ran off and left Earnest, pretty much at the altar.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Of course, later on, he'd come to Manehattan and gotten in some trouble. A framing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't even know it was the same Earnest until you met face to face, and he hadn't known you'd come to Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That had been awkward.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He didn't blame you, despite his jab earlier, he knew that you wanted to be a police officer and weren't as into your pairment with him as he had been.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You remained good friends, though, and you wouldn't deny that there was chemistry there, but it'd never work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whereas you'd left behind all traces of your younger self in Dodge City, Earnest still clung to the past as strongly as he clung to his accent.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah found somethin'.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking up, Earnest stood in the doorway, his expression non-judgemental.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kind of hated that about him, how he always understood, but it was at the same time, his most endearing trait.</span><br />&quot;Shoot.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He led you back to his workroom, saying nothing about what he'd no doubt seen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah haven't finished with the decoding just yet, but ah found somethin' else.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion brought the scroll before him and lightly scraped his hoof along it, a fine coating of ash coming off.</span><br />&quot;Ash...?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Eeyup. Only one thing leaves a coatin' like this, an' that's when somethin's sent by magical fire.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tried to process that, but you really had no idea what the significance of that was, so you asked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;There aren't a great deal o' ponies that can send anythin' this way, you've got certain dragons, like Princess Twilight's and then you've got the Princesses themselves, though ah only know of Princess Celestia that does that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You still failed to grasp the significance.</span><br />&quot;So...?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest sighed and put the scroll back down, &quot;So... It means that whoever yer after's got government pull or the resources ta rival it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well that sounded serious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Listen... Blue, ah may not wholly approve of the police here, 'cept you o' course, but are ya sure ya want ta be takin' these fellers on all on yer own?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thought about last night's events, how the police station had been attacked just because there'd been evidence in the lock-up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How whoever these ponies were, they'd been willing to crash a Sky Barge with no survivors.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flare was right to want to keep this low key, it only put other ponies at risk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your blood froze as you realised that you'd callously exposed Earnest to the same danger.</span><br />&quot;Damn it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blue? What's wrong?&quot;</span><br />&quot;I'm sorry, Earnest... I've made a serious error in judgement.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest turned to you, &quot;Talk to me, Blue.&quot;</span><br />&quot;I... I've put you in danger by showing you this... I'm sorry, I j-!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Earnest plugged your muzzle with a hoof and waited for you to run your course.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you settled down and he removed his hoof from your mouth, &quot;Ah can handle mahself, Blue, don't you worry none about me. Anyway, ah think ah got it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He turned back to the scroll and pointed at a specific segment, &quot;This bit says somethin' about meetin' at a warehouse down at the seaside, but it don't say which one 'xactly.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />&quot;Well, that's more than we knew ten minutes ago.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah'd say so, if ya leave it with me, I'll work on decodin' the rest, ya look like ya haven't slept. Go home and get some rest.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You rubbed your face with your hooves, knowing he was right, if there was anything more to be learned from the scroll, you wouldn't be doing any good hanging over Earnest's shoulder.</span><br />&quot;I guess you're right. Last night was pretty rigorous for me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah bet.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shot him a look, knowing that he knew exactly what you'd been up to the previous night, stallions could always tell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And still, he wore that non judgemental expression.</span><br />&quot;Well, I owe you one Earnest, thanks...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion nodded and went back to work with a muttered, &quot;Eeyup.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Frowning slightly, you didn't feel you could leave just yet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned his muzzle to yours and planted a soft kiss on his lips.</span><br />&quot;I mean it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;E-Eeyup.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His cheeks were on fire again and, satisfied with the effect you'd had on him, left him to his work.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Return to the apartment<br />b) Linger around<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[W-Well, maybe it will be more safe to stay with Earnest...]<br />[I mean, we have a taser to protect both of them, right? Show him how you &quot;mean it&quot;]<br /><span class="co4">&gt; Maybe you have more important things to do and shouldn't waste the time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; Right, less buttfun, more working, get your cute but back to the apartment, give Earnest at least a nice kiss</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;&gt; This a</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You step back in and grab Earnest, kissing him deeply and... well, earnestly, which he returned after a moment.</span><br />&quot;I really mean it, after all this is over, I'm coming back for you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion was shocked and stuttered, a state that you left him in as you exited back out to the street, hurrying back to the apartment, mind buzzing with new information, and quite possibly hope for something more afterwards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no reason to believe Anon would stay in Manehattan for you, much as you'd like him to.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pushing your conflicted thoughts aside, you kept up a steady gallop.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Use memory coin (Because, you know, it's like you guys have forgotten what they do.)<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[switch to Anon?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pull out one of your memory coins, practicing the ages old tradition of thinking of somepony, or rather someone and flip the coin from your hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The coin glinted in the air before clinking to the pavement, being left behind by the galloping police pony.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be on the floor amidst a mess of tools, casing parts and electronics.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A few of the circuit boards...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ponies with circuit boards, by the way, had come as a shock to you, but they did have radios, so that was a forgone conclusion you'd been too stupid to see.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anyway, a few of the circuit boards had been utterly fried by what you figured had been Flare's hoof blades.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, it had blown the power source first, which seemed to consist of a battery that used certain crystal to store and distribute power.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You guessed that, if you had a microscope, you'd find micro-filament wires throughout the crystals.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Magic batteries.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That little revelation asides, what had interested you the most was the serial coding on the device's parts.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They were listed as being manufactured at Flim Flam Inc, normally, you'd figure that it was just a coincidence, but Midnight's kidnappers had also been using equipment from Flim Flam Inc.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was clear now that the company had it's ha- hooves in some dirty backdoor dealings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, Blueberry's radio crackled to life, &quot;Anonymous? Are you there?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Dropping everything, you grabbed the device and keyed it.</span><br />&quot;Blueberry? Are you alright?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wrong...? Oh! No, actually, right. I've got a solid lead, maybe.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Oh?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br />&quot;Blueberry, the lead?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;S-Sorry, I'm a bit occupied.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She sounded out of breath.</span><br />&quot;Why are you out of breath, Blueberry? Are you running from someone?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Uh, no! No. I'm coming back as quick as I can.&quot;</span><br />&quot;The lead?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smiled as you heard Blueberry curse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That stallion, the one who sabotaged The Silver Lining? He was supposed to go to a meeting at some waterside warehouse right here in Manehattan!&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />&quot;Blueberry, that's hardly solid, there must be dozens of warehouses in this city.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment of silence Blueberry spoke up again, exasperated.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well...! Have you got anything?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You picked up one of the casing shards again and made sure.</span><br />&quot;Well, another arrow pointing at Flim Flam Inc. Probably should have just started there first today.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry gasped over the radio.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, Flim Flam Inc leases some of their seaside warehouses!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckled and nodded, realising afterwards that she couldn't see that.</span><br />&quot;Alright, change of plans, Flare's... I don't know where, so we're going to have to follow up on this ourselves. I'll meet you out front when you get here.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Okay, see you then.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, the radio burst back into static and you put it back down, moving to the bench, you grabbed a slip of paper and a pencil writing a quick message for Flare in case she got back before you did.</span><br />&quot;Following a lead with Blueberry. Flim Flam leasing seaside warehouses. Will contact if we find anything.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pausing for a moment, you figure you'll take Blueberry out on the town afterwards if you find nothing, and add that to the end of the message.</span><br />&quot;Going out with Blueberry afterwards. Love, Anon.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pulling open the door of the fridge, you set the note underneath one of the apples there, knowing full well that Flare would go to them first.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You also set the lock picking set next to the note, remembering the Unicorns words.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At last, you left the apartment just in time to see Blueberry trotting up to the doors.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her cheeks were flushed red from all the galloping, you guess.</span><br />&quot;I'm sorry to make you run around so much.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, not at all, it's fine. I should be embarrassed that I'm this much out of shape.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Hire a carriage (20x [Bits])<br />b) Walk<br />c) Carry the pone<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Do we have the spare bits for a carriage?]<br />[If it empties our pockets, walk instead.]<br />&#160;<br />[Carry the pone! Carry the pone! And be prepared, because that meeting at the warehouse smells like a trap.]<br />&#160;<br />[I vote for the carriage then we can spare the bits.]<br />[But don't tip the driver.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Deciding that you'd rather sit than walk, you hire a carriage, handing twenty bits to the driver.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Why did it need a driver?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anyway, you picked Blueberry up and carried her onto the carriage, causing her to eep in surprise and blush heavily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You set the mare in your lap.</span><br />&quot;To Flim Flam Inc headquarters, and don't spare the whip!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Both driver and team looked back at you oddly.</span><br />&quot;What? I've always wanted to say that.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;They all exchanged glances.</span><br />&quot;Hey! You're the ones who're all gimped up to draw a carriage around, not me!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, the carriage set off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spent about an hour just sitting there, holding Blueberry, who'd settled into your arms comfortably.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She'd...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She'd fallen asleep!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was too adorable to mess with, and you let the mare rest, petting and stroking her casually.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Anything specific you'd like to do or say? This may be the last chance you get.<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[I don't think so.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Silence is the best time killer, and you pass the ride with that, simply holding Blueberry close as she rests.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, the carriage pulls up in front of the headquarters of Flim Flam Inc, a skyscraper that dominates the buildings around it in height and splendor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The glass window exterior reminded you of the buildings back home.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Here were ponies who understood that the only way forwards was up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you were about to accuse them of a kidnapping.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well, it wouldn't be the first time corporate secrets were involved in state affairs, though it might be a first for Equestria.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If they really were leasing a warehouse to Blue Moon and her minions, you had to figure out which one and where, and that meant getting into company records.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nudged Blueberry awake and the mare mumbled, eyes fluttering open as she took in the sight.</span><br />&quot;We're here.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You picked Blueberry up and set her on the ground, watching as the police pony shook herself awake.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Alright... Uh, what now?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Go in loud and proud<br />b) Trojan Horse your way in (Heh)<br />c) Try to sneak in the back<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Nice trips]<br />[What do you mean by B, pretend we have other intentions?]<br /><span class="co4">&gt; {Whatever you want it to be, bluff your way in, hide in the laundry, pretend to be a jewish accountant.}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; A would be too obvious and she'd probably die if they are actually associated with them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; &gt;13 hours to Midnight, Blue Moon sure does have a -Flare- for the dramatic</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; You're implying we need Flare for this aren't you. That's what I feel.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; C is hella sketchy. Flare would have been perfect for it but guess who sent her to work with the shopkeep. Fug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; And I mean.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; &gt;Anon, basically an alien</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; &gt;Blueberry, adorable cop</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; If those two walking in prying for information isn't fishy, I don't know what is.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; Ok. See if there's a way in through the back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; inb4 I killed the cyoa</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking up, you found the sun to be slowly crawling slowly into the afternoon from its zenith.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly assessed your options.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was a slight chance of bluffing your way in, as both you and Blueberry were hardly inconspicuous.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Trojan Horse method had little chance of failure, but you couldn't afford to wait for a delivery.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looks like you were going in the back door.</span><br />&quot;Come on, we're not getting in through the front without drawing attention to ourselves.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry followed as you led her around the block towards the rear of the building, where a delivery bay sat, not quite bustling with activity, but nowhere near unmanned.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was only one security guard in the booth, though, and he seemed enraptured by a comic, paying no heed to his surroundings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Apart from that, there were three or four workers moving about, looking as though they were taking inventory.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry might be able to get herself in without getting noticed, but it was going to be harder for you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could try sneaking, but being the size you were, and ponies being the prey animals they were, you'd no doubt be detected easily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As if reading your thoughts, Blueberry nudged you, &quot;Anon, I don't see how you're getting in there.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Any ideas?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry thought about it, eyes darting around the bay.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The two of you had to hurry, loitering here was beginning to look suspicious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It might not have worked if we tried it at the main entrance, but we could try bluffing our way in here. That security guard in the booth probably wouldn't notice if we just walked past, so that just leaves those laborers over there.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Three of them looked bored, and didn't seem as if they particularly cared about what they were doing, the fourth moved about as though he were a supervisor, but was dressed in the very same uniform as the others.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Bluff<br />b) Sneak<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />&#160;<br />[Let's bluff, sneaking is bat's job.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Right, let's try bluffing. Time to put your charm on, Blue.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little pony chewed her lip for a moment as she either thought of what she were going to say or grappled with her moral compass regarding breaking and entering.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever it had been, she settled and nodded, walking past you confidently, but not quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You followed at much the same pace, keeping rapid movements to a minimum.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, the guard in the booth didn't notice either of you at all and you passed undetected.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry then boldly approached one of the workers, who turned to her in surprise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police pony put on her police voice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Good day, sir, would you mind letting us in? My partner and I have some questions for your manager.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion was at a loss for words for a moment before managing to find his voice, &quot;Uh... Is there a problem, officer?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry shook her head, while the stallions attention wavered between her and you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Every time he looked at you, you'd return his look with an uncomfortable glare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It seemed to intimidate him and keep him off balance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Not at all, we're just following up some leads in an investigation.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A lie of omission? Blueberry was good.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, uh, okay, it's just through he-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The laborer with the inflated sense of self importance approached, &quot;What's going on here, Dubs?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your guide turned to him, &quot;Just some investigation stuff, they want to see our manager.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Really?&quot; He turned an appraising gaze at the two of you, seemingly unaffected by Blueberry's authority and your strangeness.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'll take it from here, I need you to run a check on allocation.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Right, 'boss'.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, the two of you were now left with what was an undoubtedly nosy pony with an ego.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was trouble.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nevertheless, he led the two of you into the building, asking questions as he went.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry managed to deflect most of them with non answers, but you could tell that he was growing suspicious.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, the three of you reached an office and the stallion gestured at the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thank you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No problem, it was my pleasure.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He continued to stand there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hated this horse, this was exactly the kind of pony who messed plans like this up, and here you were thinking that nothing could go wrong.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry tried again, more clearly, &quot;You're dismissed, you can go back to work now.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion stood his ground by the door, &quot;Are you sure you wouldn't like me to stay? I may be able to answer some of your questions, as I'm here most of the time.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You desperately wanted to tell this horse to just fuck off, but you kept your silence, as this was Blueberry's plan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry, for her part, seemed to deal with him easily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If I have questions for you, I'll be sure to seek you out later, but this is police business, so I'm going to need to question you separately.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her reprimand seemed to have worked and the stallions ears folded back in embarrassment, &quot;Sorry, I'll be in the loading bay if you need me.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He walked off, but he kept casting glances back at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry opened the office door and walked in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Was she crazy? They weren't actually questioning the manager.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regardless, you followed, the mare looking up at the pair of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Police? Is something the matter?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was not part of the plan.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Bluff more.<br />b) Crouch and hope she doesn't see you.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />[If she will notice you, you just tied your shoes, you know?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You immediately dropped down, hoping she wouldn't see you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, she only furrowed her brow in confusion at you, still staring.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, you made as if to tie your shoe, fumbling with the laces.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What are yo- aggh!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry had used the distraction to get close, and had stuck her taser in the pony's side, holding it there until she was unconscious, drooling into the carpet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fug!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police pony switched the taser off and re-holstered it, looking at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What was that?&quot;</span><br />&quot;I-I was trying to sneak!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She opened her mouth to reply, but figured it wasn't worth pursuing and instead, dragged the mare behind the desk, hiding her body from casual view.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Okay, we haven't got long, she'll be out long enough, but I can't guarantee that she won't be noticed missing.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We need to move.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Search office.<br />b) Locate records department.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B, we have no time.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Well, we need to find some kind of records department, then, should be somewhere upstairs.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry moved to the door and nudged it open, looking out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The coast is clear, you go out first since you're the distraction.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving to join her by the door, you hissed out as silently as you could.</span><br />&quot;Why am I the distraction?! You've got the booty!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry pushed you out into the hall and moved past you, heading down the hall, looking about cautiously, ears twitching every which way as she listened.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Okay fine! Be useless, then.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wending through halls and office blocks, you eventually came to emergency stairs, which the two of you used to make your way higher into the building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Neither of you had any idea where you were going, really.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Each time you would reach a new floor, Blueberry would silently open the door a crack and peer through, shaking her head and uttering things like office blocks and presentation areas.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This must have gone on for around an hour, and suddenly, the both of you were becoming fatigued, having checked fifty seven floors.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, Blueberry had some luck, but it came with bad news.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I think this is it! But there are guards everywhere.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took a spot by the door with her and peered through the crack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There must have been six guards that you could see, all moving about in patrol routes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, you were in agreement with Blueberry, this seemed like it was where records were kept.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were cardboard boxes filled with papers and even a few computer servers that looked as though they'd been ripped right out of the eighties.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No way both of you were sneaking through the guards, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And definitely not you.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Bluff<br />b) Sneak<br />c) Cause a distraction<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[We need a distraction. When one is distracting, the second one is sneaking.]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;We need a distraction.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Are you sure that's a good idea?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrugged and idly petted Blueberry.</span><br />&quot;You got any better ones?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry chewed her lip thoughtfully, &quot;Do you have any rifle cartridges or magazines?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were about to say you didn't when you remembered the one Flare had given you back on the Sky Barge.</span><br />&quot;I do, actually!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pull it out and hand it over to Blueberry, who then begins to pry the rounds out of it, passing them back to you and pocketing the now empty cartridge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She then gives you her radio and explains her plan, &quot;You're going to key that radio every so often, and draw them away, while I get in there and find what we need. Head downstairs and make sure you keep them following you...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She reaches up and grabs your cheeks, kissing you lightly, &quot;Don't get caught, I don't want to have to bail you out.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Remain as Anon<br />b) Switch to Blueberry<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Switch to BB.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Be Blueberry</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After kissing Anon, and resisting the urge to tongue him, you snuck into the records room, keeping low.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, the windows were tinted, so it was semi dark.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment, you heard the burst of static from the radio you'd given to Anon, watching as three of the six guards peeled away to investigate, leaving you with the other three.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sent a prayer to Celestia to keep Anon safe as you began to search for the information you needed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to fight the urge to hyperventilate every time one of the security guards came close to where you were hiding, and the urge to move quickly, understanding that rapid movements were more likely to draw their ire than slower ones.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Carefully and cautiously, you made your way around the edge of the room, searching as you went.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sales, distribution, quarterly figures, none of these were what you were looking for.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you came to one of the storage rooms, the printing on the glass indicating it as leasing records.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was what you were after!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, there was a guard standing by the door stoically.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd come prepared for this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Removing the empty cartridge from your satchel, you drew your hoof back and tossed it towards the other side of the room, the clatter it made as it hit the ground drawing the guards attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Huh?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He moved towards it, leaving you free to sneak into the records room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly drew the blinds shut and looked around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was a large pile of boxes with paper records and a computer terminal, screen dimmed for electronic ones.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Searching the paper records would take time, time Anon didn't have, but going through the electronic ones came with the risk of detection.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Search paper records.<br />b) Search computer terminal<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Fuck it, let's computer.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Deciding to risk it, you sat down at the computer and took the stylus in your hoof, tapping away at the keys.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Most of the leasing within the last week was innocuous enough.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A few smaller companies had hired Flim Flam warehouses as temporary storage because of an influx of trade goods from Cervidas.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Others were for more private enterprises, ones that you were pretty sure were linked to illegal smuggling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took note of those for later reference.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One in particular stood out, not because of who hired it, but who hadn't.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't in use at all, according to the file, and yet it was here in the leasing records.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The warehouse had been hired by a small fishing business for storage up until a week ago, when Flim Flam Inc had cut off the contract.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No one had hired it since, it wasn't even on offer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took note of the address and closed the terminal down, peering back out of the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard you'd distracted had moved away on a patrol route, so you took the opportunity to reclaim the empty rifle cartridge in case you needed another distraction, making your way back to the stairwell stealthily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You rapidly made your way back down towards the ground floor, repeating the address in your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was the most suspicious one you'd been able to find.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you passed the third floor stairwell, you found your radio sticky taped to the wall, the button held down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You reclaimed it, wondering where Anon had got to.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, the buildings fire alarms went off and you hurried.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If Anon was going to be anywhere, it'd be in the office where you'd tased that manager.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, as you rounded the corner, there were security guards milling about the office, along with that pony from earlier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Someone grabbed you from behind and pulled you away from the corner, a hand over your mouth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As that fact settled in, you relaxed, Anon pulling his hand away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to get out.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Loud<br />b) Quiet<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B If possible]<br />&#160;<br />[DO IT LOUD BBY]<br />&#160;<br />{I'm sensing some conflicting ideas...}<br /><span class="co4">&gt; Be quiet as loudly as possible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; Muffled action scene, go!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; But really, might as well bail asap without drawing more attention. B</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tried to think over the blaring of the fire alarm, and it suddenly occurred to you that the guards didn't seem to be panicking.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We're not getting out that way, let's try another way.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon took you back along the corridors and towards the main atrium.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Peeking in, you saw ponies rushing to get to the exits.</span><br />&quot;I'm guessing you did this?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon grinned and nodded, &quot;Yep.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave him a look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You told me to cause a distraction.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had told him that.</span><br />&quot;Maybe we could just run out normally. Nopony'll notice in the panic, right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon shrugged and checked behind him, &quot;Maybe. But I'm still going to draw attention.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was now or never, the flow of ponies out of the building was beginning to thin out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grabbed Anons's hand and tugged him out, urging him to run as you cantered beside him towards the exit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies around you didn't seem to notice Anon in their fear of a fire, and as easily as that, you and Anon had made a a loud escape without drawing attention to yourselves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, the two of you kept going for a couple of blocks before stopping for breath.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now, where are we going...?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You passed the empty cartridge back to Anon as you replied.</span><br />&quot;We're going to wharf three, the warehouses there don't seem to be hired by anypony, and that's suspicious for a company like Flim Flam Inc.&quot;<br />&#160;<br />a) Hire a carriage.<br />b) Walk.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Probs do A, Think we have enough bits.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise your hoof and whistle, a carriage pulling over as you stepped up and onto it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It looked a little different than the standard taxi carriages, probably a private enterprise.</span><br />&quot;We should hurry, we can radio Flare when we get there.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You helped Anon onto the carriage and sat beside him, telling the driver your destination, passing over the standard fare of twenty bits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was getting late, the sun dropping lower now, and you guessed that it was somewhere around three pm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For his part, Anon set about reloading the empty cartridge, even though he didn't have that rifle with him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You leaned against his side comfortably, prepared to take another short nap.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The carriage had been about to take off when you heard a shout, a call for the carriage to wait.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For a moment, you thought that one of the security guards had followed you, but looking across from Anon, you saw a big guy getting on the carriage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hated that, when other ponies would hitch along with other fares.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thank the heart, I almost missed you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He gave the driver his own fare and destination and then turned to you and Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sorry about this, I was telling somepony just last night to stay out of things that didn't concern them, but they didn't listen. Now I have to clean up the mess. Imagine that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He recovered from his mad dash for the carriage and held out a hoof to Anon, who then took it and shook.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was then you noticed that the big pony was a Crystal Pony, you didn't see too many of them this far south.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion spoke up in greeting, giving the both of you a friendly smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;My name's Rough Diamond, pleasure to meet you.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />... ... ...<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Back from your day of hard work with bits in metaphorical hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nudging the door open, you were greeted by the silent apartment, devoid of any occupants.</span><br />&quot;Hey guys...? Anon? Blueberry?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Silence.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Those two crazy kids must be having a night on the town.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How adorable.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smiled to yourself in the dark and flipped the lights on, dropping your bag of hard earned bits on the counter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next, you rummaged through the fridge for one of your remaining apples, eyeing a note beneath one of them, along with a leather folder that you recognised as a lock picking set.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Odd place to put it, but it made sense.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A frown replaced your smile as you read over the note, Tartarus be damned, of course it was Flim Flam Inc.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Considering neither of them were here, the note seemed to confirm that they were having a night out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something felt off, though. You'd done some investigating at the gun store and found invoices for bulk munitions orders from Flim Flam Inc.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were too many leads pointing in that direction, and Anon hadn't contacted you yet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps he had missed something while there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In any case, with fresh evidence in mind, you could hardly sit on your rump here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You glanced at the clock on the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A little past eight pm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perfect, you would have done things the sneaky way anyway, it would be easier under cover of darkness.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You placed the bits and the lock picking set in your saddlebags and did some other sorting, removing the unnecessary things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Idly, you wondered if there was anything else you should do.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wisp had been left in her rifle bag leaning against the wall, and there was a mess of equipment on the ground where Anon had clearly been working.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Final check. (specify)<br />b) Ready to go. (You will not be able to return here)<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Rifle isn't too heavy right? Grab it and jam to Flim-Flam.]<br />[B.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ignoring the mess on the floor, you pulled your beloved rifle out of the bag and slung it to your side, moving to the balcony and taking flight directly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shivered a little at the cool night air against your wings, but it was well within tolerable limits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The city glimmered in the night beneath you. It almost seemed like day down there, still.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;All the lights, carriages and ponies just as busy, in just as much of a rush.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Truly, Manehattan never slept.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After half an hour of steady flight, you spotted Flim Flam Inc coming into view, towering above the surrounding buildings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Down on the street around its base, ponies bustled busily. It seemed as though there'd been some kind of catastrophe.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or false alarm, at least.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Worry for Anon and Blueberry grew within in you, but you dismissed it, likely this had happened hours after their visit, right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Swooping in, you touched down on a rooftop across the street, observing the front entrance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Private security guards were everywhere, and even a few police officers were there, investigating whatever had happened most likely.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police you could deal with, but private security was another matter, especially if Blue Moon was in charge here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Time to get your sneak on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to decide how you'd get in.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Front.<br />b) Back.<br />c) Roof.<br />d) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Do the back]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were too many out front for you to sneak in undetected, and more than likely any roof access was looked down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe the back door would be easier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a shake and a few hard flaps, you took to the sky again and gained some altitude, circling around the building to the back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was also bustling with activity, but not as much.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A number of crates from deliveries had also built up during the investigation, so there was ample cover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, it was crawling with private security.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even from above, you could tell they were on edge, almost like they were waiting for something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They moved about like ants, roving between the crates in a staggered patrol, bright and alert.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If any of them went missing, it would be noticed in short order.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If the alarm was raised at all, you were done. They'd lock down the building, whether you were inside or not wouldn't matter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finishing your reconnaissance, you touched down a short distance away, thankfully unseen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Using a wing hook to lift your Dart Gun out of its holster slightly, you took it in your hoof and chambered an extra dart, pumping air into the canister, replacing the weapon afterwards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A few different paths presented themselves to you, and you could almost hear Night Watch in your head, sounding off training drills.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Along one edge of the delivery bay lay several crates stacked closely together.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Plenty of cover, but the low visibility worked both ways, and you'd be up close and personal if you had to subdue a guard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In one portion, you'd noticed a slight gap in their patrol patterns where you could slip in unseen. However, it was a very small gap that would close quickly, and there'd be no where to hide if you were seen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The third path you'd taken note of was one you were suited for, having wings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could just fly over the worst of it, as people seldom looked up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pegasi did, however, and there were one or two on patrol.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Crates<br />b) Patrol Gap<br />c) Flight<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Do A]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Deciding heavy cover was your best bet, you crouched low and moved over there slowly, ears twitching this way and that, eyes darting around to keep track of the guards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You came across a final obstacle between you and the crates.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was a short stretch of a few meters between the gatehouse, near which you remained hidden and the crates.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd be in full view for however long it took you to get there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At first, your instincts told you to make a dash for it, hoping that by going quickly, you'd reduce your chances of being seen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, you could almost feel Night Watch's hoof slap the back of your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Speed was no substitute for stealth, the rapid movement would draw attention like a... Well, like a flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A strained smile adorned your muzzle at the pun as you took a deep breath and moved forward, keeping low, and moving slowly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Time seemed to stretch out, every little movement you made was carefully measured, and it seemed you had dozens of eyes on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You broke out into a sweat from the nervousness alone. A small part of you screaming to dash the rest of the way, that the guards would see your brightly colored mane, that they might just look it your direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your world shrunk to the size of a pinpoint, all that mattered was each step forwards, inch by inch, the safety of the crates grew closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In the end, you relented to your instincts a little bit, moving at a bit of a faster pace towards the shadowy lee of a large crate, pushing up against it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took you a few moments to calm yourself, your muzzle pressed to the cold wood of the crate, keeping your eyes closed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In a moment, the night air seemed to dry away your sweat and you were ready to move on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Amongst the crates, you winced at every little sound you made.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Surely the guards could hear you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could certainly hear them in the adjacent rows, occasionally a pair of them would meet up and talk in hushed tones.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Eavesdrop<br />b) Move on<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[a) Eavesdrop]<br />[You can get info while remaining mostly still so you don't make noise]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards were far too close for you to move undetected, so you might as well listen in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sat cautiously and perked your ears in their general direction, straining to hear them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Know why we're here still? It's been hours, and nothin's happenin'.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A mare's voice piped up, hushed, but easier to hear than the deep rumbling voice of the colt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Why're you asking me? They don't tell me anything. Far as I know, we're just supposed to keep on guard until midnight.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion spoke up again, his voice even quieter, so much that you had to strain even further just to make out a few words.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Apparently... Break in... Afternoon. Some of the guys... Someone else... Try.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sounded like Anon and Blueberry had been busy. Although, you couldn't really understand what he'd said afterwards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, we'd better get back to it, you know how much of a hardass the chief is.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Right.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, it sounded as though the two guards had parted ways, and you froze as one of them made their way towards you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You moved back a bit, Dart Gun in hoof as one of the guards, the stallion, walked past the intersection, tired eyes not bothering to search.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You caught your breath, praying to Luna that he wouldn't turn his eyes to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He passed without incident, Luna be praised.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Silently, you moved through the intersection yourself moving ahead, weaving your way steadily through the collected crates.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oddly enough, all of them were stripped of identifying codes, which you found suspicious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no time to search them, unfortunately, Blueberry would have to deal with it after all this was done.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up ahead, there was one final stretch between you and the building proper, but there was a problem.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was a guard by the door.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Wait for him to move.<br />b) Cause a distraction.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Stay put for A.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards were so high strung, you weren't sure what a distraction would do, so you did the next best thing and sat on top of a crate, keeping low as you eyed the guard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Seconds turned to minutes, and minutes stretched on until it felt as though you'd been there for an hour, your muscles stiff from inactivity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard had remained as still as you had until moving on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not wanting to waste the opportunity, you stretched as quietly as possible and crept towards the door, slipping in silently while the guard was elsewhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd made it inside.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Search the offices.<br />b) Search the upper floors.<br />c) Other. (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[b]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;What you were looking for wouldn't be in the delivery bay, you'd need to go higher, and there'd be no telling if the guards wouldn't come in while you were searching.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving quickly now, you found an elevator.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little panel on the wall indicated that the car was currently on floor fifty nine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't want to trigger some kind of alert by using the elevator, and you certainly didn't want to take the stairs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rummaging around in your saddlebag, you pulled out your lock picking set, finding something you could use as a screwdriver.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, but quietly, you removed the elevator panel and cut a couple of the wires with your hoof blades.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't an electrician, but if you could just spark the wires a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a ding, the elevator doors opened to the shaft, heavy cabling running up through the building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You replaced the panel and flew into the shaft just as the doors closed with a ding.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was dark and cold, a draft chilling your wings as you looked up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flapping your wings, you steadily ascended through the building, the only source of light were those of maintenance panels, blinking with soft red light.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was tiring, but eventually you got to floor fifty eight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One floor below the elevator car.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The only issue was that you had no idea if there was anypony else on the other side of the elevator doors.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One could say that you were as blind as a bat right now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There might be another way through if you look around, though.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Splice the elevator doors.<br />b) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Elevator doors aren't entirely soundproof, see if you can hear anything, if not splice the doors.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe you couldn't see through the door, but you might be able to use your super bat hearing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hovering close to the door, you pressed your ear to the cold metal, right along the crack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Focusing, all you could hear was the steady hum of computers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No hoof beats, no voices.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They could be stationary, there was no way to tell for sure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regardless, you brought out your lock picking set again and worked at a maintenance panel, splicing the door open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a ding, the elevator door slid open, the draft blowing through the room, upsetting a few papers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Huh?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a cry of shock, one of the guards approaching the door and aimed his weapon at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Time seemed to slow as he prepared to shout.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were faster in drawing your dart gun, firing a pair of darts at him. The first hit his chest, pushing him back as the spell worked to stun him, the second impacted his leg, overloading his body with the spell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He fell back against a pile of paperwork, knocking it over with a racket as you touched down at the elevator door, sweeping the room for anypony else.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, it seemed that he had been the only one stationed here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wouldn't have long before he would be noticed as missing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What you needed was... Well, was anything you could get your hooves on that could tell you where Blue Moon would keep a foalnapping victim.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You searched boxes of paper records and several computers, finding little more than sales figures and resource expenditures.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That's when you finally spotted the records room, barging in and heading straight for the computer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Someone had already searched it, allegedly, as the screen was open on a particular page, showing a warehouse that had been reserved for no one in particular.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wharf three, warehouses A through D.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That was a bit excessive for a foalnapping.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had a bad feeling about this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Someone had searched the computer, and it had to be Blueberry and Anon, yet the note had said they'd contact you if they found anything.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They may have bitten off more than they could chew and went straight there, in which case, you needed to get over there right now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A crackle of static behind you caused your ears to flick back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hay, you there? Post wants an update.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia banish you to the moon, your luck had to run out right now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hay. Report!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't even wait for him to finish before crushing the radio beneath a hoof to buy time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopefully they'd believe his radio was just broken.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You needed to get out, now.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Exit via the roof.<br />b) Escape from ground level.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[The roof is closer]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cantered for the stairs, kicking the door open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The roof was your only hope, they'd figure out they had an intruder sooner or later, and you didn't want to be stuck in the building when they did.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The clatter of hooves coming up the stairwell could be heard, and upon listening more closely, you could hear that there were guards on their way up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had a minute a best.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;All thoughts of stealth abandoned, you flew up the stairs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Floor fifty nine, sixty, sixty one...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up you went, you weren't entirely sure just how many floors this building had, but you had to be nearing the roof being this high up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was certainly closer than the ground floor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After passing floor seventy five, you ran into a fire exit, pushing it open and stumbling out into the night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And straight into five Pegasi security guards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Stop right there!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Almost as one, they raised tasers at you and you halted, sitting and putting your hooves up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Five of them and one of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Come on, think, think, think!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One of the guards keyed his radio, keeping his eyes and taser trained on you, &quot;Control, this is roof detail, we've got an intruder up here. Lock the building.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A dull, resounding thud could be heard behind you as the fire escape deadbolt slid into place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Retreating into the building wasn't an option, outflying a team of Pegasi would prove difficult without being tailed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't sure what to do.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Fly for it and hope for the best.<br />b) Draw!<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Fuck, I drew!]<br />[But really we're pretty fucked/<span class="nu0">10</span>. Did the other four drop their guard because Flare put her hooves up or no?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You observe the other four ponies, all of them are at attention, one or two of them seemed a bit green, the other three had steady aim on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could probably take one taser.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But certainly not five of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Cuff her.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Two of the Pegasi, the junior ones, holstered their tasers and moved forwards, one withdrawing a set of hoof cuffs, the other with wing restraints.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could probably get two shots off before any of them were able to react, there was no guarantee either of them would hit anything, but it was better than nothing.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Fly.<br />b) Draw!<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[draw n make em dance]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fly too, don't forget that</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;They were getting closer, it was now or never.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking a deep breath, you close your eyes and draw your dart gun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everything slowed down, the two Pegasi that had been nearing you startled and pulled back slightly, dropping their restraints and going to draw their tasers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They weren't fast enough and your first shot zinged by one of them, miraculously hitting one of the other Pegasi behind them, causing him to stagger and fall against one of his comrades, tangling them up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The remainder of the three, their leader, managed to fire his taser, the twin darts travelling towards you, electrical current sparking between them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were close enough to one of the guards, so you grabbed him and pulled him in front of you, letting him take the taser instead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up came your dart gun again, the poor stallion in your arms writhing and collapsing to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Again, you shot at the closer Pegasus just as he pulled the trigger on his taser, forcing him to shoot wide of you as the stun dart did its work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That left two, one almost having untangled himself from his comrade and their leader, already in the process of drawing his baton with his teeth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned and galloped straight for the edge of the building, keeping your wings closed as you leaped, dropping like a rock.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Real time set back in and you looked back as two of the Pegasi gave chase, and with that, you opened your wings, gliding out and away from the building, angling down towards the closely grouped apartment blocks and businesses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopefully you'd be able to lose them in there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd be tight maneuvering, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your only other option would be to try and outpace them through speed alone.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Outfly (Speed)<br />b) Outfly (Agility)<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Batponies were slated as faster than the average pegasus in flightCitation needed.. A]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't waste time trying to lose them in the alleys, you needed to end this now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Putting your all into it, you began to gain distance on your pursuers, you never thought you'd be able to outfly Pegasi like this, but Luna be praised if you weren't doing it now!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Keeping your pace was a challenge, however, and soon you broke out into a sweat, the wind zipping by, cooling your damp body.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dared not look back for fear of ruining your aerodynamics.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ahead of you, the city center loomed ahead, and having noticed it, you were suddenly amongst it, taking a hard left and gaining in altitude.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Down below, the Pegasi passed a moment later, flying steadily, searching for you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Having mostly lost them, you rose up above the skyscrapers and turned your eyes seaward.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On the coast line, all but one of the wharfs were quiet, the one that wasn't was a hive of activity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The beams of search lights lanced through the sky, guiding flying machines in and out of the area, at this distance, you could make out ponies moving crates and other supplies, but not much else.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That was definitely wharf three. It couldn't be a coincidence.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The wind whipped at your mane and tail, the buckles on your saddlebags jingling, the cold weight of Wisp at one flank and your dart gun on the other.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave your wings a determined flap and took off for the wharf.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Throughout its recent history, wharf three had been leased to a small fishing company who'd use the warehouses for storage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before that, it had been leased by a myriad of minor and major companies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In all that time, wharf three had never seen such an abundance of activity as it had seen over the past week.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Passers by had not remarked on the many Gyrocopters flying in and out, both carrying supplies to and from the wharf. They hadn't remarked on the armed and armored ponies standing guard over the place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To most, they had assumed that a private military company had hired the area for something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They wouldn't be half wrong.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tonight, however, they were in a buzz of activity, equipment had been taken down and flown out, ponies had been boarding the aircraft and flown off to destinations unknown, and a strange ship, low in the water had been on stand-by.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd thought about all of this as you touched down a block away, leaning around the corner to gauge the area.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ducked back again as one of the Gyrocopters, its storm cloud battery sparking to life, lifted out of the compound and flew over you, back towards the city.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Back towards the gate, you took note of the guards, they wore armored uniforms rather than the metal plating common to the Canterlot guard, and every one of them had their faces and heads concealed beneath a filtration mask.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They stood silently, at perfect, well trained attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could spot no hole in their patrols, no weakness in the guards themselves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Stun darts may not even reliably penetrate their uniforms.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There had to be a way in, though, you just had to keep looking.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Attempt entering through the gate. (specify)<br />b) Look for another entry point. (specify)<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[It's a wharf, see if there's a way to get underneath the pier unseen]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The gate was far too heavily guarded, not even a disguise would help you get in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You withdrew from the gate and left for the edge of the pier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The water slapped gently against the concrete walls.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There wasn't any direct way under the pier, but there were storm drains along the walls, just above the water line.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Further ahead, you spotted a pair of guards walking patrol along the edge, eyes searching the water for intruders.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even further ahead, you could just about make out the silhouette of the ship moored alongside the pier, most of its hull rested below the water, those parts of it above the surface were smooth dark painted metal in angular shapes, giving the vessel a somewhat predatory look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Occasionally, it would bob up and down with the sea, revealing the same seal you'd seen on the encoded orders. The Phoenix looking to the right.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In a flash of realisation, you recognised the vessel as a submarine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was no doubt about it now, this is where you had to be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You flicked your attention back to the guards. This portion of the pier wasn't so heavily guarded, perhaps they weren't expecting anyone to get in through the storm drains.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps it was a trap.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Either way, you couldn't sit here all night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You waited for an opportune moment and jumped off the pier gliding out and in towards one of the storm drains, landing as silently as possible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, you hadn't been seen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;it seemed your luck had come back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving forward through the drainage channel, trying to ignore the foul smell coming of the water, you came across an intersection.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One would go straight towards the other side of the pier, heading right would take you beneath the gate, while heading left would take you deeper beneath the warehouses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Left or right?</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Left<br />b) Right<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />a) Left<br />We can probably see more of what's roaming around the surface that way.<br />&#160;<br />Wait. She still have the Crystal Hoofclaws? Those could be very handy while sneaking the Warehouse/Sunmarine.<br />Also Left<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;No point heading back to the gate, you guess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Left it is!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The drainage tunnel seemed to stretch on and on, while outside, you could hear the muffled sounds of more Gyrocopters landing and taking off, orders being shouted and other such noise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you came to a wide area that you guessed was some kind of water treatment plant.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The reasoning for putting one at the end of a storm drain was lost on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The room was immense in that it took up much of the pier's interior.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In the center was some kind of filtration device, pumping gallons of water a second.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Several catwalks crisscrossed the room, connecting different levels, a few of them patrolled by more guards, alert and well armed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrunk back and replaced your hoof blades with the crystalline one, watching as the enchantment made them fade from view.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If only the rest of you could go so invisible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, between the roar of rushing water and all the pipes and catwalks, you were confidant you could stay out of sight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Upon looking again, you found there were two clear exits, one was a ladder and hatch at the far end of the room, the other was a valve operated blast door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd need to decide which you would attempt to go for.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The blast door might not even lead to the outside, however.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Blast Door<br />b) Hatch<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />See about the hatch.<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The hatch was exactly across the room from you, between you and it, was the pool of collected sewage water, and the pump.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd need to work around the edge of the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Remaining in place for a moment, you kept track of the guards, plotting out their movements and taking note of any blind spots.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were two in total, neither of them left you much time to get up the ladder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You also spotted a maintenance panel by one of the pipe lines, you might be able to cut the lights from there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While it would keep you unseen, it'd alert the entire base that they had an intruder if they had any brains. It was also out of your way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you acted quickly, you could simply incapacitate the guards, but that would leave you with a limited window to act in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the first blind spot came up, you slipped out of your hiding spot and moved quickly, relying on the noise of the pump to mask your movements.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One of the guards turned in your direction and you barely had the time to take cover before he saw you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your heart pounded in your chest as he passed by on the catwalk above you, looking around before turning back and heading the other way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One more blind spot left, you could either use it to get through the hatch, or cut the lights.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd be a close thing either way.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Cut the lights<br />b) Make for the hatch.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />It's either risk getting caught with no cover at all, or alert everyone and have cover. Or maybe they've had electrical issues before.<br />Try to make for the hatch<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Counting down in your head, you marked the blind spot and slipped out of cover, all but dashing for the ladder, you began your climb.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thirty seconds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The hatch grew closer as you made steady progress, the quiet 'clink clink' of your hooves against the metal rungs drowned out by the pump.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fifteen seconds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reaching the hatch, you flexed your wings, hooks helping to keep you steady against the ladder as you worked the valve, hearing the thud as the bolt slid out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Five seconds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Panicking, you pushed the hatch open pulled yourself out, tail just barely making it out of the room in time to close the hatch without anypony noticing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You breathed a sigh of relief, that had been cutting it close.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking around, you found yourself in an alley between warehouses, at the end, you could see ponies loading containers of water into metal crates, which were then being loaded onto the submarine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What were they doing with all that water?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Movement caught your eye and you spotted a large pony walking alongside a mare, you couldn't make out much, but you noticed that the guards by the door saluted to the pair and moved away from the door as they entered, leaving it unguarded.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was fairly dark, and the guards were busy with their tasks, sneaking around wouldn't be difficult.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Board the submarine.<br />b) Follow the ponies into the warehouse.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Probably B, there isn't time<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you were going across the courtyard, you'd need a disguise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Subduing one of the passing guards and taking her uniform didn't take much time, you had the element of surprise and the training.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A minute of redressing later, you stepped out of the alley and circled around to the warehouse those two ponies had entered, pushing the door open and stepping inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd expected some kind of command post, however, it was pitch black inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And silent.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A shiver traveled up your spine as you got the distinct impression that something bad was about to happen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had reached a decently clear space in the middle of the warehouse when several flood lights turned on, all trained on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sudden light blinded you for a moment, and when you recovered, you found yourself the target of no less than twenty guards, rifles all trained on you, positioned on the catwalks to the left and right of the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ahead of you, stood him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That saboteur.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could almost swear he'd gotten even bigger.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was no getting out of this one, but they hadn't shot you yet, so you maintained your position, glaring right back at the crystal stallion, which he returned with an impassive, almost bored look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sound of hooves against the catwalk drew your attention away from him, and you found yourself looking at a Unicorn mare in her middle years, her coat a deep, ocean blue, her mane and tail several shades lighter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She wore a crisp, black business suit with a red tie, reminding you of Anon's suit, and upon her flank, was a Cutie Mark depicting a light blue gear shaded to look like a crescent moon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare finally stopped and turned, standing by the crystal stallion, appraising you silently.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even from your position, you could make out slight crows feet by her eyes and one or two strands of grey in her mane.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But despite her visage, the fire in her eyes bespoke of anything but an elderly mare.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She took a breath and spoke loudly and clearly, her voice carrying throughout the warehouse easily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I had wondered when you would be joining us here, Lieutenant Flare. Rough Diamond here had his doubts about your abilities, but I just knew you would find a way in without being seen.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She gave you a smile and continued to appraise you, apparently liking what she was seeing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You must forgive my curiosity, I've not had many dealings with your kind before, even back in my day, they were very isolationist. Granted, they had good reason to be, but you...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She tapped a hoof against her muzzle and slid a glance at each row of guards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Standing there, defiant, not at all fazed by the very real threat around you. Color me impressed!&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />What say?<br />&#160;<br />Ask why she kidnapped Midnight and what it has to do with &quot;Invoking the power of a unicorn.&quot; And what all this hardware she's packing is for.<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare gazed down at you quietly, like she was expecting questions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Stall for time.</span><br />&quot;Why did you kidnap Midnight? What has she got to do with invoking the power of a Unicorn?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon, waved her hoof in the air dismissively.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Unfortunately, despite my numerous resources, I was unable to find anyone capable of translating Starswirls works, Miss Midnight is the nations... Possibly even the worlds... only expert on his later writings.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She put her hoof down, a look of derision adorning her face as she replied to your second question.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As for what it means, I'm afraid you'll get no exposition from me, but I will say that our work will return our great nation to the foremost power of our world!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You looked around at all the crates.</span><br />&quot;What do you mean by that? We're at peace! What could you possibly need all this hardware for?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon followed your gaze towards the various crates.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh these? Vital equipment for various operations across Equestria and beyond. By now, you've likely noticed our Deuterium stockpile.&quot;</span><br />&quot;You mean all the water, right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, so you're not completely ignorant, that's good. Yes, Deuterium is what we use as a fuel source, it's not as efficient as those used back in the day, but it's difficult to track.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She looked straight into your eyes seriously, &quot;Princess Celestia has sent you to stop me, and she has no doubt informed you of my perceived crimes. I'd like to take a moment of your time, if I may, to correct your view.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raised an eyebrow skeptically, here was a mare who'd ordered the destruction of an airship full of civilians.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I used to run this great nation in time of desperate need, I saved Equestria from its enemies and worked tirelessly to ensure our country could be free from hostilities, both foreign and domestic. Some called me a patriot. The Princess declared me an extremist.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />What say?<br />&#160;<br />So she's probably staging a coup. So what's she going to do with Midnight anyway? Kill her off?<br />&#160;<br />&quot;So, what? A coup? What happens to Midnight when she's no longer useful?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon feigned a look of insult.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A coup?! My dear Flare, you wound me. If I had wanted to regain control of the country, I could very well have done so by now. No, now is not the time for a coup, that comes later.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She tapped her hooves together, judging you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As for Midnight, you're correct in that she's no longer of use to me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She waited a moment longer, and you noticed Rough Diamond flexing a little, his eyes fixed on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This brings us to your predicament, I believe. Were the circumstances different I would relish the chance to study you further, even to recruit you in service to the Equestrian people.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sadly, I don't have the time, and my attentions are required elsewhere. So I shall lay it out simply for you. There is an abandoned hotel building half an hour's flight from here named 'The Silvery Thestral'&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smiled.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Your friends, Mr Anonymous and police Sergeant Blueberry are being held there until midnight. As for Midnight, she's right here, in one of these warehouses, she is also, incidentally, being held until midnight.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon checked her pocket watch, &quot;It is currently nearing eleven thirty, so I'm afraid you haven't the time for both.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You near growled at her, the horse!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Around you, Blue Moon's troops tightened their grips on their rifles, and you knew that one wrong move would mean your immediate death.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon had also noticed your change of stance and returned your glare with a triumphant look, &quot;So! You must choose, Lieutenant. The mission or your friends! For now, I leave you in the capable hooves of Rough Diamond, he has expressed a... Desire... To engage you in combat, believe me when I say he will fight to the death. Farewell, Lieutenant, it was a pleasure to make your acquaintance, but I'm needed elsewhere.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon turned and made for the door behind her, pausing and turning her head back to look at you, &quot;Should you survive this, I look forward to studying you in greater depth.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare passed through the door, leaving you with Rough Diamond.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For the first time since you entered, a smile had crept onto his features, with a shake of his head, he dismissed the soldiers and retrieved an injector from his bandoleer, the liquid passing into his body.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion leaped over the railing and fell the equivalent of two stories, landing with a crack of the pavement, unharmed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The soldiers filed out of the warehouse after Blue Moon, leaving the two of you alone.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You crouched low and extended your hoof blades.</span><br />&quot;If I took your injectors away, would you die?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion readied himself, his heavily plated hoof guards, combined with his strength, would be capable of crushing you, &quot;It would be extremely painful.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was enormous, bigger than Big Macintosh had been.</span><br />&quot;You're a big guy.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;For you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, Blue Moon's personal attack dog dashed right for you.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lunged to the side as Rough Diamond charged past, barreling straight into a stack of crates.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sheer mass of him shattered the wood, revealing the Deuterium tanks encased inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The reinforced glass container cracked beneath his weight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took the moment to size him up, from the dual bandoleers of injectors to the heavily plated hoof guards he wore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From you previous encounter, stun darts would only slow him down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you were going to win this, you'd either have to kill him, or outsmart him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion pried himself away from the wreckage and turned back to you, preparing to charge again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You readied yourself.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Offensive<br />b) Defensive<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Defensive. Mostly evasive maneuvers, given he's so huge.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd need to come up with a plan to take him down if you weren't going to just shoot him outright.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond charged again, but feinted left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd barely dodged back to the right before he hit you,</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion skidded to a halt, turning slowly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was then you realised that his sheer muscle mass was inhibiting his movement.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That gave you a little breathing room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Stand still, so I can crush you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Was he serious? He was serious.</span><br />&quot;How about no, instead?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been expecting another blind charge, but were surprised when Rough Diamond began to approach you steadily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There'd be no desperate dodge once he got in range.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Backing up, you found yourself with your back against the damaged Deuterium tank, cornered.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd either have to shoot him or come up with something else.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Evasive<br />b) Offensive<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />[Bait him into hitting the Deuterium.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion adopted a savage grin as he approached, seemingly confidant that he'd won.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ensured that you were between him and the worst of the crack in glass shielding.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As soon as he got in range, he raised one of his plated hooves, ready to strike you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just as he swung his hoof forwards, you dove forward, past his strike and to his left side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned in time to see his considerable strength drive his plated hoof through the glass shield, shattering it and causing the Deuterium to rush out, soaking Rough Diamond and coating much of the floor with a pool of heavy water.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond cursed and lumbered around to face you.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Offensive<br />b) Defensive<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before he could recover, you drew your dart gun and fired twice. The two darts punching into his coat with a 'thwap'</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The dual shots sent him staggering, collapsing against the broken Deuterium tank.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yet still, he was otherwise unaffected.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a groan, Rough Diamond retrieved one of his injectors and plunged it into his fore leg, the luminescent liquid flowing into him, reinvigorating him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next, he pulled the two darts from his shoulder as he stood, turning to you again, water dripping from his coat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He actually looked angry now.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Offensive<br />b) Defensive<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Defensive]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond swung at you again, however, you weren't quick enough to dodge, and his plated hoof grazed your flank, knocking you off balance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you fell to the ground, your saddlebag opened and out slid one of your lightning infused hoof blades.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your flank was on fire, it felt like train had just hit it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Flexing your hind leg, you were just thankful that he hadn't broken your hip.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond came at you again, and you barely had the time to roll out of the way before his hoof came crashing down, splashing the water about and cracking the pavement.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Defensive<br />b) Offensive<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Also check your surroundings to see if something like that mech from the Alien movies is around or something crazy</span><br />&#160;<br />[Grab the blades, focus your ass, get the defensive pose and if he attacks you again, go offensive and stick your claws into him.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really didn't want to shoot him, but looking into his eyes, you saw the intent to kill.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was either him or you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The big guy attacked again, and you used the moment to roll to the side, retrieving your lightning hoof blade, replacing one of the transparent ones.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a flick of your hoof, the blades flicked out and sparked to life, the lightning reflecting off of the water eerily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been about to put your hoof down when you noticed the pool of water you were both fighting in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond seemed oblivious to this and charged again, but this time, you dove right at him, entering his guard before he could strike you, you slashed across his shoulder, bringing a growl of rage from him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The big stallion bucked and writhed, tossing you off of him and across the warehouse, right into another crate.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The wood splintered behind you and the impact drove the wind from you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Guy had quite a buck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You needed to end this, so you looked around for anything to help you, seeing nothing but crates and a few overhead floodlights reflecting off of the water on the floor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pulled yourself back to your hooves and re-entered a defensive stance, waiting for him to come at you again.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Offensive<br />b) Defensive<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Bait him into a pool and see if you can't topple a floodlight to electrocute him.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Water.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Overhead lights.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Electricity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You knew what you had to do.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was water everywhere, so you didn't need to do much luring.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a few beats of your wings, you flew up to one of the lights, wing hooks wrapping around the cable.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond paced about beneath you, grinning menacingly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You don't have much time to save your friends, Flare. You gotta go through me first and the clock's ticking.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was right.</span><br />&quot;No, I don't have much time, but neither do you!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You drew your hoof blades across the cable and held it in your mouth as the light fixture fell to the ground uselessly, without power, it didn't do what you were hoping it would.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Cursing inwardly, you gathered your strength and dove down, dragging the electrical cable with you, thrusting it into the pool of water.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took everything you had to remain in the air as the current ran through the water, electrocuting Rough Diamond.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion screamed, then took a few steps towards you, his hair and coat standing on end.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, he succumbed to the current and dropped into the water, a few wisps of smoke rising from his body.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You tossed the cable away and landed, breathing hard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond was still breathing, you'd only stopped him for the moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking at the clock on the wall, your blood froze as you saw the time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eleven twenty seven.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon's ultimatum came back to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't have time for both.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Your mission.<br />b) Your friends.<br />&#160;<br />[rooftop a]<br />&#160;<br />[Buy porn]<br />&#160;<br />[Up to the roof with you.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hated yourself for it, but you couldn't trade one life for two.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No matter how important the mission was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Giving Rough Diamond a light kick, you told him to stay down as you took what you could from him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion struggled to rise, you knew he wouldn't be giving you any trouble.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No, the legion of armed ponies outside the building would be the ones giving you trouble, and after your confrontation with Blue Moon, they surely knew you were in here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As far as you could tell, there were two ways out of the building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The main door you'd entered through or the roof access Blue Moon had left through.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Roof access<br />b) Front door<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The arithmetic was obvious, you could either deal with a certain number of armed guards, or every single guard that was still outside at ground level.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A few flaps of your wings brought you up to the catwalk where Blue Moon had stood moments ago. A groan from Rough Diamond drew your attention and you found him glaring at you, still struggling to get up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't linger, the stallion was done for the time being.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up the stairs you went, dart gun at the ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After this was all over, you were going to buy a copy of Hoof Fetish weekly and hole up in your room for a week.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was an odd thing to think at a time like this and you brought your mind back to the task at hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nudged the door open slightly, and remained there for a moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Twenty armed soldiers had gone this way after all, and finding yourself on the receiving end of so many barrels was uncomfortable in the extreme.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nevertheless, you pushed through a moment later and reached the top of the stairs unimpeded</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stairwell circled back around and opened up to a roof supported Gyrocopter pad.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, it was currently unoccupied, and it seemed that the soldiers who'd come up here had already been airlifted out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon sure was in a rush to get out of Manehattan, whether that was a result of your intervention or something else was up in the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Literally.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The final Gyrocopters were flying out and south.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to move back into the shadows of the building as another Gyrocopter came in, landing upon the adjacent pad.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It sat there, a pair of troops standing guard by it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nothing seemed to be loaded onto or retrieved from the aircraft, it just sat there, waiting.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could fly to the Silver Thestral yourself, but that would take time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or you could 'appropriate' one of these flying machines.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Hijack the Gyrocopter<br />b) Use your own wings<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Dubs demand]<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br />[Where would we stash a gyrocopter anyway?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;What were you gonna do with a Gyrocopter? You couldn't even fly one of those things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that thought in mind, you took off from the building, flying away from your responsibilities and towards another.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You did, however, take note that the Gyrocopters were universally flying south, looking back, you found no sign of the submarine that had been moored at the pier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd have to get Blueberry to monitor the radio chatter later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you ever got to her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The wind cooled your wings as you glided across the city, mentally kicking yourself for letting Anon and Blueberry get into this mess. If you'd been with them, you may have succeeded here tonight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or perhaps not.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blue Moon had proven already that she plans ahead, however deranged she might be now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She claimed to be working for the good of Equestria, but the good of Equestria does not lie in underhanded tactics such as she were using.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It's almost like she thought the country was at war, or under a tyranny.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After some time, you reached the down town area and touched down on the highest roof top you could find.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Silvery Thestral wasn't all that difficult to find, as a Gyrocopter waited on the roof of the building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The name of the hotel also happened to be stenciled on the side of the old, decrepit, abandoned building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Guards milled about the entrance, and you could just barely make out movement at the windows by the top floors.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From the edge of your vision, you caught the movement of an armored vehicle waiting in the shadows.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The moon was almost at its zenith, whatever they were to do with your friends, they were going to do it soon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Going in quiet would be difficult, the area was well lit and the guard patrols were tight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you were going to go in loud, you had to be as loud as possible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The armored vehicle came to mind.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Loud<br />b) Quiet<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Go loud]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;If anyone were watching, they'd catch the moonlight glinting off of your fangs as you grinned mischievously.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt like sending a message.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quietly, you glided down from the roof into the network of alleys that separated the buildings of the block you were on, dart gun holstered.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were better able to make out the armored vehicle as you got closer to it, recognising the thing as a Little Willie armored cannon platform. Thankfully, they weren't much harder to operate than a carriage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Having this thing barrel down on you was a sight, however, it didn't leave you much room for aiming the cannon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The door seemed like a good target.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mechanical beast rumbled quietly as you took refuge in the shadow it cast.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What in Tartarus did they need a tank for anyway? Were they expecting a griffon invasion?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Possibly if Blue Moon's sentiment was anything to go by.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Dart gun at the ready once again, you knocked twice on the rear hatch and waited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment, the hatch opened and out popped the head of a stallion, whom you immediately clapped around the ears before firing a dart into his chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He let loose a muffled cry and fell back as you clambered in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, he was the only pilot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He'd be drooling into the base plate for a while.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You closed and sealed the hatch, taking a seat at the controls by the main cannon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Through the viewport, you had a fantastic view of the front door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Seven guards, four stationary, three patrolling, to within the blast zone of the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't want to kill them, so you'd have to spook them away from the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The tank waited for your input.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) The tank is waiting for your input, what do you do?<br />&#160;<br />[Maybe just shoot somewhere to scare them away?]<br />[Does this tank have machine guns?]<br />[Open fire above their heads or on the sides to let them know you are not joking.]<br />&#160;<br />[Maybe the tank has smoke rounds?]<br />[I don't think that'd seriously harm anyone unless they got hit directly]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You searched the rest of the operating cabin, hoping for smoke grenades or gunner turrets to scare them off, or at least cause confusion.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No such luck on the smoke grenades, but the tank did have two side mounted gunner turrets, both modestly loaded, using them would preclude you from moving the tank itself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The primary cannon's firing angle could be adjusted to a limited extent, but more than enough to fire at the first floor, which appeared to be disused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd be able to drive the tank and fire the cannon at the same time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If all else failed, you could just ram the thing into the building, that'd cause all hell to break loose.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The masonry in old buildings like these tended to fill the air with powder when shattered, if you crashed the tank into a sufficient amount of it, that would provide you with sufficient smoke screen to move around in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Opening the viewport again, you took note of the ground between the tank and the building, which consisted of the street, the boulevard of the hotel which led up a short set of stairs to a large set of glass doors.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The lobby of the building itself was rather spacious with a few columns arranged in a 'u' shape, likely for decoration rather than load bearing structures, those would be contained in the walls.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wouldn't be hard to crash a tank into the building, the guards wouldn't be willing to stand in front of a tank going at ramming speed.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Ramming speed, captain!<br />b) Open fire<br />c) Both<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Ramming speed]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking a seat at the controls once again, you began to gun the tanks engine, drawing the attention of all the guards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One of them began to approach, weapon ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Boy was he in for a big surprise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You put the pedal to the metal and the armored vehicle lurched forced, the metal treads screeching against the concrete sidewalk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard in front barely had enough time to get out of the way before he was crushed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The others began to shout and fire at the tank, the rounds pinging off of the armor plating.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up the vehicle went onto the boulevard, cracking the marble tiling before tearing its way up the stairs, forcing the guards out of the way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a crash, you were through into the lobby, the weight of the vehicle making short work of the two pillars and still you kept the pressure up, crashing the tank straight into the elevators.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The shock of the abrupt stop jolted you to the bone, the tank half into the elevator shaft, hanging slightly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shaking off the daze of crashing into the building, you fell out of the seat and crawled towards the hatch, unsealing it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A cloud of powdery masonry began to fill the cabin and you made out the damage you'd caused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Those pillars had, in fact, been load bearing structure for the floor above, and it had all collapsed into the lobby.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pulled yourself out of the tank, coughing as the smoke and dust clogged the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The other guards seemed to be hanging back, possibly worried of another collapse, but they wouldn't wait forever.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Fly up the elevator shaft<br />b) Use the stairs<br />c) Use the pony made hole in the ceiling<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Go with c]<br />&#160;<br />[C]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Opening up your wings, you lift off of the ground and take off through the hole in the ceiling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turns out you brought down more than just the first floor, the first five floors had collapsed during the sudden loss of support.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least now you were above the debris and cloud of dust.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This particular hotel had around fifteen floors, the final three had looked like they had the most activity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If they didn't know you were coming before, they knew you were here now, and would be on high alert.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;More than likely, they were expecting you to come by the elevator shaft or the stairs and would be standing ready at those places.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was also possible that they were moving to get Anon and Blueberry out of your reach as quickly as possible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If that Gyrocopter took off, you wouldn't be able to give chase to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your ear twitched as you heard a quiet zing, followed by shattering glass and blinding pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cried out and fell against the wall as another two rounds were fired at where you'd just been standing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The pony on the opposite rooftop had a bead on you, gladly, the bullet had only glanced past your shoulder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You checked and found that the armored uniform had taken away most of the velocity, it had still left you with a flesh wound.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't bad, but it was painful and felt like somepony had just attempted to brand you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your dart gun wouldn't be able to put a dart that far, and the only other weapons you had were lethal.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The windows of the building were grimy in places, perhaps you could lose him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Another trio of shots reminded you that unless you acted fast, other guards would soon arrive.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Engage the sniper<br />b) Retreat<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Do you still have those sneaky claws that makes you invisible? If yes, use them try to rape the sniper]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;{The sneaky claws go invisible, they don't make you invisible, that's something else you picked up from Rough Diamond}</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt; &gt;that's something else you picked up from Rough Diamond</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;uh, like what?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;&gt;Think those injectors Diamond uses are what makes them work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;Then use that injector, and slap the bitch</span><br />&#160;<br />[Use an injector and the invisibility hoofblades to sneak up on the sniper]<br /><span class="co4">&gt; &gt;and the invisibility hoofblades</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But don't kill him</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rummaging through your pack, you came across the bandoleer of injectors you'd taken from Rough Diamond.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Six of them had a greenish liquid, while the seventh was blue, the one you'd taken from him in your first encounter,</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't know what effect it would have on you, exactly, but hopefully it'd make you like the Invisible Mare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Closing your eyes, you pressed the injector into your foreleg and pressed the button, a slight hiss sounding off as the contents were pumped into your body.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment, the breath was driven from your body, as though you'd been dumped in icy water, simultaneously shivering and overridden with the sensation of having your muscles locked in place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It soon passed and you watched as one by one, the hairs of your coat seemed to crystallise and fade from view, even extending over your clothes and bags.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oddly enough, your weapons did not fade from view and you set them down, figuring it only worked on fabric.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hence the transparency enchantment on the hoof blades you wore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Acting fast, you took off out of the window and towards the sniper, hovering over him for a moment before dropping down, stabbing your hoof blades through the clothes he wore, pinning him to the roof, but leaving him unharmed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion yelped in shock and tried to pull away.</span><br />&quot;You shot me!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion writhed more, quite obviously spooked out of his mind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You relieved him of his scoped rifle and slung it over your shoulder, noting that the strap quickly faded from view.</span><br />&quot;I'll be taking this.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You looted him where he lay.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;When you were done, you used your free hoof to slap his cheek playfully.</span><br />&quot;Now play nice.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once you were finished with him, you took off and let him go, flying back to recover your weapons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever was in the injector hadn't worn off yet, and you wrapped the weapons you had in cloth to keep them out of sight.</span><br />&#160;<br />------------------------------------------------<br />You have gained:<br />+<span class="nu0">1</span> Long Rifle<br />+<span class="nu0">8</span> [<span class="nu0">12.70</span> mm](Long Rifle)<br />&#160;<br />You have lost:<br />-<span class="nu0">1</span> [Stealth Injector]<br />------------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />a) Take the stairs<br />b) Fly in through the window<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[go b, you are invisible]<br />&#160;<br />[I don't know, B]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were still invisible! Whoever made these, you had to get more, you could do so many things while invisible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up the stairs you went, feeling energetic and hopeful that you'd find Anon and Blueberry soon, perhaps they'd learned something about where Blue Moon would take Midnight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You burst through the door to the roof and happened across a scene that felt like it was straight out of a movie.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The lone Gyrocopter, looked ready to take off, a slim, dangerous looking mare standing in the cabin of the aircraft, looking over everything as a pair of guards dragged a still resisting Blueberry towards her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As for Anon, he appeared to be unconscious, already loaded onto the Gyrocopter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare herself was armed with... A really big gun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;An anti-tank gun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You acted almost without thinking, going straight for Blueberry first, tackling the guard to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your brash action alerted everypony that they were not alone on the roof, and the mare on the Gyrocpoter shouted for the pilot to take off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Take off! We have the valuable one! Take off, now!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oh no she didn't.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You charged for her before the Gyrocpoter could take off, but she was faster.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She swung the anti-tank gun towards you and fire in one smooth action.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The resulting blast as the explosive round hit the roof between you and her threw you back, setting your ears ringing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The dust cleared quickly beneath the gale the Gyrocopter set off as it rose into the air, with Anon on board.</span><br />&quot;No! You get back down here!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You opened your wings, preparing to fly up to the Gyrocopter just as she fire again, sending you tumbling away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She couldn't see you, but she didn't have to.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;By the time you recovered, the aircraft was already a block away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;By the time you were in the air and after it, it was three blocks away.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Continue to give chase<br />b) Give up and go back to Blueberry<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br />[That's too fast. You'd be wasting your time, b]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The aircraft was heading south at speed, and having taken note of that, you gave up and flew back to Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd have to find out where they went later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Touching back down on the roof, you found Blueberry cuffing the stallions on the rooftop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You half wondered where she even got the cuffs from.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Soon after that thought, you were relieved that she was okay, at the very least.</span><br />&quot;Blueberry!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare found herself on the ground and in your hooves, having tackled her much as you'd tackled the guard earlier.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry panicked and struggled batting at you with her hooves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was then you realised that you were still invisible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You got off of her and stood back.</span><br />&quot;Berry, calm down, it's me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She propped herself up and stared in your general direction, quite literally seeing right through you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare? Where are you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You rubbed the back of your head, then promptly dropped your hoof.</span><br />&quot;Invisibility thing. I feel like I'm covered in sand.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry's eyes widened.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon! Where's Anon!? They took him!&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Reassure her.<br />b) Ask her if she knows anything<br />c) Save it for when you're out of immediate danger<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[c]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;I know, I'm sorry Berry, but there's nothing I can do right now. We need to get out of here, there are still a dozen guards downstairs.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She opened her mouth to argue and promptly snapped it shut, seeing the reasoning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She got to her hooves with a crestfallen look on her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Had Blueberry been able to see you, she'd know that you felt exactly as she did.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving up close to her, you nudged her with your flank.</span><br />&quot;Get on, I'll fly us out.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took her a moment to get on safely, the first attempt had Blueberry riding you backwards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After giving her some manual direction, she was safely settled on your back, hooves around your neck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your only concern was whether you could actually carry her weight in flight. You were no Pegasus and it was a long way down to the street for the both of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After several flaps of your wings, you were confident that you could at least glide with Blueberry on your back, and so you leaped off the edge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry whinnied and squirmed at the sudden drop in altitude, however, you were able to slow the descent enough to glide.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With effort, you might even be able to gain some altitude.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Go for full flight<br />b) Get back down to the street<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[b, to be safe]<br />&#160;<br />[B.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd been a long night for you, so you didn't want to take any chances.</span><br />&quot;Berry, I'm bringing us down, hold on.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The police pony nodded her assent and tightened her grip on you, strangling you a little bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't too bad, but it'd be best to get back down to the ground quickly. Earth Ponies never dealt well with being air borne.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You angled your wings downward slightly and began your descent, picking up speed as the ground grew closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A meter or two from the ground, you pulled up and let yourself touch down, feeling Blueberry dismount soon after.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Appropriate that the Stealth injector should choose that moment to wear off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your coat warmed again as they lost their crystalline properties, you body becoming visible for all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry squeaked a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your foreleg itched slightly where you'd injected the liquid and you scratched at it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry noticed this, &quot;Are you sure taking that stuff is healthy?&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) You're fine, just a little itchy<br />b) Maybe, maybe not.<br />c) You should go<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[a]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;I'm fine, just a little itchy.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry looked skeptical.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If you say so.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking back at the hotel, it was buzzing with activity and you had half a mind to go back and engage them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They'd know where that Gyrocopter was headed, what Blue Moon wanted with Anon, where they were keeping Midnight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't know how you'd do it, but you had darts for all of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You even took a step.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare, no. Leave them.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt Blueberry's hoof on your shoulder and felt her tug lightly.</span><br />&quot;They know where Anon is!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry tugged again, pulling you away, &quot;So do I, come on, let's go back to the police station... Or anywhere away from here, and I'll tell you, just leave them.&quot;</span><br />&quot;What's the problem? It's not like I'm going to kill them.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry shook her head and managed to turn you away, pushing you ahead of her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You've the look of somepony who's about to lash out and you have guns. This is Blue Moon's doing, not theirs. Come on, let's go.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You give up and walk with her. Blueberry placed the blame with Blue Moon, would you?</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Ask her about what she knows.<br />b) Wait until the police station, where you can do something about it.<br />c) Ask if Blueberry is alright.<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[a]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;You can't be liking this any more than I do, Berry, where did they take him?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry kept her mouth shut for a while, and it was only after having traveled several blocks away from the carnage you'd left at The Silvery Thestral that she opened her mouth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;When that pony, Rough Diamond I think his name was, took Anon and I. He mentioned that we were to be taken to some base they have set up way down in Sao Palomino.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sao Palomino? What could Blue Moon be doing down there?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You asked Berry, but she shook her head, &quot;I don't know, he just said that was where we were to be taken. They may have changed their plans since, but it's something.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To your knowledge, Sao Palomino was far to the south of Equestria, beyond the deserts, beyond the deep jungles and nestled on the coastline.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a tropical area, very remote, and very hard to reach by anything but air due to less than friendly Sea Serpents, Dragons and Changelings in the jungle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was odd that Blue Moon would settle somewhere so remote, though you supposed being that far removed from any element of the Equestrian government would suit her purposes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On top of that, there were a large number of islands and archipelagos that she could hide on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd be like finding a needle in field full of haystacks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you were just one pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But even so, you couldn't let that horse win.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Question Blueberry further<br />b) Focus on getting to the police station<br />c) Ask police pone what she's going to do now<br />d) Other (Specify)<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;Is there anything else you remember?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry seemed to think about it for a moment as she walked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The steady clip clopping of hooves served to calm you down, loosening muscles you hadn't even noticed were bunched up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even your wings had been flared out ever since you'd crashed the tank into the hotel.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;They seemed really interested in Anon. That pony you're after, Blue Moon, even came around and asked Anon a few questions.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Questions? What kind?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;At first, they were about you. Then she asked him about where he came from. Anon got real quiet after that, and she seemed almost excited.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're not sure what any of that meant to you, or why Blue Moon was excited to learn where Anon was from as it was no secret that he wasn't of this Earth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps there was now something she wanted from Anonymous.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thought back to what that mare had said.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;'We have the valuable one'</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How was Anon valuable? More and more questions and you still didn't know what Blue Moon was planning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hadn't even retrieved Midnight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The walk continued in silence after that as the pair of you entered the more active part of Manehattan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe you could do something to pass the time.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Play around with your radio [Science]<br />b) Examine the green liquid filled Injectors [Medicine]<br />c) Learn more about Police Pone [Speech](Specify Question)<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B, bb]<br />&#160;<br />[B. Let's check out the green stuff.]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been taught basic medicine as part of your induction into the Canterlot Rangers, but this was beyond your meager skills to full identify.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The injector itself was a stainless frame housing a glass tube filled with a viscous green liquid.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It didn't take a master to tell that this would have a different effect on you than the Stealth Injector.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you had to take a guess, you'd say that this had been brewed from the Sinew Vine found in the Savannah's of Zebrica.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Considering the effect it had on Rough Diamond when he used it, you guessed it would increase your strength.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finding out who was making these should probably be a priority.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They represented too great an advantage to just leave it be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Replacing the Injector back into your pack, you looked up to find the police station in view.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There wasn't much you could conceivably do right now.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Get some sleep.<br />b) Radio Canterlot to arrange transport down to Sao Palomino<br />c) Other (Specify)<br />&#160;<br />[b, rest can wait]<br />&#160;<br />[B) sleep can wait, radio for the transport]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry lead you into the building, head hanging with fatigue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was hard to believe this all started barely even two days ago.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You left the mare to her own thing as you made a beeline to the radio room, claiming it from the attendant.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You just sat there for a minute, collecting yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After all, you were about to inform the Princess of your failure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The room was much as you'd left it the previous day apart from the officer who was now operating it, with a gesture from you, he saluted and left the room, closing the door behind him and leaving you alone with the radio.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The last time you were in here, you'd reported to your superiors in the guard about the events that occurred on The Silver Lining.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They'd been shocked to say the least, but thankful that you'd managed to keep the airship in the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sat at the desk and began operating the radio, tuning it to the Canterlot frequency and keying the microphone.</span><br />&quot;Canterlot command, this is Ranger Lieutenant Flare, come in. Repeat, this is Lieutenant Flare with a status report, over.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The radio remained awash with static for a moment before crackling to life. The voice on the other end of the line wasn't who you were expecting at all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Princess Luna herself was on the line.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Lieutenant Flare, greetings. I trust you and Anon are well?&quot;</span><br />&quot;I...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You paused and shook your head, it may be over the radio, but you were still speaking to a princess.</span><br />&quot;Ma'am. Lieutenant Flare reporting.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;At ease, my little pony. What have you learned?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You told her everything. About the events aboard The Silver Lining, the attack on the police station and subsequent chase.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your encounter with Rough Diamond and leaving the investigations to Anon and Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You told her about Wharf Three and The Silvery Thestral.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You told her about your failure to even keep Anon from harm.</span><br />&#160;<br />&quot;Blue Moon... She made me choose between Midnight, Anon and Blueberry...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The was silence over the radio waves as Luna digested the information.</span><br />&quot;They're gone, Princess.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The silence was oppressive, and you were suddenly worried that the signal had cut out until Luna spoke again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Lieut-... Flare, I'm so sorry, we should have given you more support.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gripping the microphone, you replied heavily.</span><br />&quot;It's okay, Princess. It's not your fault, you couldn't have seen this coming.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna was silent for a few seconds, only the sound of movement on the other side of the line coming through.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Is there anything you need?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Yes, uh... I need private transport, I don't want to risk taking public again. An airship if you can spare one, I have it on good authority that I need to head down to Sao Palomino.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Of course, whatever you need, Lieutenant.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna still sounded as though she blamed herself, though you weren't sure why, perhaps because she'd allowed her sister to send you alone?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'll have an airship organised for you, it should be at Manehattan tomorrow morning.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Princess, I swear I'll handle this.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Like you'd handled Wharf Three?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I know you will. Now try to get some rest, Lieutenant. I suspect the worst is yet to come.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That didn't sound good, you didn't like the sound of that, not one bit.</span><br />&quot;Yes, Princess, thank you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Static washed over the line again as Luna closed the connection while you just sat there a while longer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rest. The Princess had told you to get some rest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A yawn left your mouth at the thought of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were in no condition to fly back to the apartment, even if you wanted to. It'd just remind you of what you lost.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe they'd let you sleep in the infirmary, you could get the wound on your shoulder treated at the same time.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Find Blueberry<br />b) Head to the Infirmary<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B, rest is for te weak and you are Flare]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You trudged through the police station, seeking out the infirmary.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Beneath the armored barding, your shoulder was beginning to ache.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were laden with ammunition and guns, like some kind of mobile armory.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In your heart, you just wanted this to end, you wanted Anon back so you could go back to just living with him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In your mind, though, you knew you had to press on. Blue Moon was delusional, a serious threat to the peace.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wasn't she?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shook your head and walked into the infirmary. You knew enough about first aid to treat yourself and 'commandeered' some supplies, replenishing your stocks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Beneath the armored coat, the graze on your shoulder wept a small amount of blood. Carefully, and with gritted teeth, you cleaned it out, applied some healing salve and bandaged it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It still twinged a bit, but the salve would heal it up nicely in a few hours.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes began to droop, and sand filled your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You needed some real sleep</span><br />&#160;<br />------------------------------------------------<br />You have gained:<br />+<span class="nu0">4</span> [Bandage Rolls]<br />+<span class="nu0">9</span> [Healing Salve]<br />------------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />a) Sleep.<br />b) Other (Specify)<br />&#160;<br />[b. go find a comfy spot AND THEN sleep]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rest sounded good right about now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that in mind, you clambered onto the nearest Infirmary bed, not even caring whether you shouldn't do it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Compared to how you were feeling, laying down on a hospital grade bed was heavenly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even with the room itself in a kind of half light, you were able to fall asleep fairly quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your head hadn't even hit the pillow.</span><br />&#160;<br />... ... ...<br />&#160;<br />Somewhere off the coast of Sao Palomino...<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;When one imagines the deep sea, often the first thought to come to mind is the color blue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, it isn't like that at all. It's just black, darker than a moonless night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Millions upon millions of amounts of tiny flotsam floating in the water of the ocean block out the light.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The deeper you go, the darker it gets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This particular stretch of ocean floor was exactly like that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, a light soon began to grow, a piercing white and red.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The inky black of the sea was first pierced by dozens of red lights, their beams feeling the ocean floor like the feelers of an Octopus.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Next, the bright white light grew stronger and stronger, lighting up the area before a great behemoth of the sea.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was no animal, however, its shell was constructed of cold metal, cold as the sea and propelled by turbines through the water.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If one kept still, you could feel a slight pulse emanating from the object every couple of seconds along with a metallic 'ping'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Steadily, the Submarine inched forwards, the red beams of light finally touching upon a deep sea trench.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The vessel came to a stop and waited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever was going inside was a mystery to the ocean creatures who hid from the great metal beast.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A moment later, a dull thud sounded off and a long metal tube propelled itself away from the main craft.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Through the water it went, and just when it seemed it would pass the chasm by, its fins altered the tubes path, angling it down into the chasm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It passed from the sight of the Submarine for a second, two, four...</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, the sea floor quaked, a flash of light billowing from the inky blackness of the chasm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yet still the Submarine waited, and waited.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ocean had gone still.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What followed that stillness was something the land, and even a great deal of the ocean had never seen in a good many millenia.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From the chasm rose creatures, serpentine, yet bequeathed with arms and elaborate fins.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Their scales gleamed in the light cast from the Submarine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;More rose from the depths, dozens, a hundred.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The moved to surround the vessel, closing in with their weapons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just when it seemed they would attack, the vessel screamed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A long, drawn out whine replaced the steady pinging, forcing the creatures back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just at that moment, the submarine fired a trio of torpedoes into the chasm, driving the creatures up and away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Another trio of detonations forced more and more of the serpents out of the chasm, and up they went, fleeing from the sound the Submarine made.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Up they went to the surface.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Submarine drifted forward, taking position over the territory it had conquered, the Phoenix emblem on its side shimmering in the light the floodlights cast off.</span><br />&#160;<br />... ... ...<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're Flare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you were beginning to think that sleeping in the infirmary was a bad idea.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bed may have been comfortable last night, but upon waking up you found it to be stiff.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It had just enough give to make it not seem like a rock, but it was stiff enough to be infuriatingly uncomfortable.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Woe is you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least your shoulder had healed up, at least it felt like it had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A quick check beneath the bandages confirmed this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spent a minute sitting there, collecting yourself and rubbing the sleep out of your eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The morning sunlight streamed in through the few windows and the quiet hum of power running through the building buzzed through your ears.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were also alone, and somepony had drawn the curtain partway around the bed you'd been using.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your thoughts turned to Anon, and you wondered where he might be and if they were at least treating him well.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He might at least be with Midnight now, so she wouldn't be alone.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was very little left in Manehattan for you, but you might have some things left to do before you made your way to the Airship Mooring.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You definitely had enough bits to buy that special long rifle, or pick some things up from the pharmacy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It might be best to save the money, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a difficult decision.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry had also vanished, you should probably go look for her before you leave, whether to ask her to come with you or to say goodbye, you weren't sure.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Buy some stuff.<br />b) Find Blueberry first.<br />c) Head to the Airship Tower without doing anything.<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br />[A]<br />&#160;<br />[Buys stuff, A]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Might as well go see Blueberry first, there was something between her and Anon, so she might want to tag along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If not? Well, it was rude to ask so much of her and not at least say goodbye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd go buy some stuff afterwards, there was no telling when you'd get another chance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And liquid assets were only good for bribes anyway.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;On your way through the police station, you got directions to Blueberry's office.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sadly, you hadn't thought to ask where the mare herself was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yawn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were still tired, give yourself a break.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry's office was...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Neat, to say the least.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, it was lacking in the amount of Blueberry it had inside it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lots of dust, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ran your hoof along the desk, leaving a track in the fine layer of dust.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She definitely didn't use the office much, which made sense.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry seemed very much the hooves-on type of police pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps she was at the apartment?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could do some shopping on the way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And add...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To..</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your gun collection.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was almost like you were from Hooveston or something</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It might be prudent to buy more darts though, however, you'd used surprisingly few.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Most of them had gone into Rough Diamond to no effect.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Against everyone else, it was a one hit knockout, so far.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You left the office as it was and left the police station.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopefully things would be quieter for them now.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Guns, guns guns, guns.<br />b) Do some other shopping.<br />c) Beeline to Blueberry.<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[We need more gadgets, B]<br />&#160;<br />[Yeah, b]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You needed more gadgets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The problem was finding a place that sold them</span><br />&quot;Uh...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You figured you'd just wander about in Blueberry's general direction until you found something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that in mind, you set off, preferring to fly rather than wend your way through the crowds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Did these ponies not sleep at all? Because you'd never once seen the streets completely clear in this part of the city.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was also still fairly dark, as the buildings and irregular gridwork of the city blocked out the sun, and would keep it blocked out until later in the morning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The result was something of a cool atmosphere, filled with noise and ponies dressed warmly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not in winter clothes, but just generally clothed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The morning air was making your wings cold.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&#160;:^(</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You should probably buy some wing warmers too if you could, though you weren't sure if they sold them for bats here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a pretty niche area of clothing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You passed by the gun store and shot a wistful look at it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lightning would use up most of your six hundred bits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The pharmacy wasn't far off, either.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were a couple of other stores on the street and one mall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Including an odd little general store squeezed in between sundries and such.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Check the mall out<br />b) Gun store<br />c) Pharmacy<br />d) General store<br />e) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[odd generals store for odd things to buy]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;That little general store gave you the creeps, but it definitely gave you the impression that it had just what you needed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dropped to the ground and entered the little store, shivering as you did.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This place had no heating.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, you were hit with a killer headache, everything around you seemed to shift, but when you focused on anything, it sat still.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Things would move just at the corner of your eye, or you would feel things change behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was no one else inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What the hell was this?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moving forward into an aisle you were at least pretty certain hadn't been there earlier, you tried not to think about it, and your headache subsided and everything became still.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps you had just been under a lot of stress and needed to relax.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you thought this, you spotted a set of lavender scented candles just within hoof reach.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not the time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You continued towards the front and found the clerk standing ready and watching you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Welcome to my store. Where anything you need is right at your fingertips, guaranteed!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He shot you an unnaturally wide, unsettling smile which quickly faltered.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;My my, I'm having a spot of trouble figuring out just what you need. That makes my whole guarantee a null point.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He eyed you, seeming to wait for something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Some input from you perhaps.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) What is it that you need?<br />b) Other (Specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Uh, someting useful during the combat, to hide, to stun, to move faster, anything?]<br />&#160;<br />&quot;I... Need something, to help me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion blinked at you, obviously unsatisfied with your vague answer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Something...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He seemed to roll the word around on his tongue a bit, eyes on the ceiling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Something to help you..., I see. You require something to help you with your task.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His demeanor was totally unsettling, but you found yourself standing still regardless of your every instinct telling you to leave immediately.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You will have an opportunity later to build something, this will help greatly.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He reached beneath the counter and pulled a large, round and pink crystal, setting it down between you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It glowed softly and you could hear it humming with power from where you were standing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a battery, you knew that much.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But that wasn't going to help you move faster, or hide.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just as you thought of this, you noticed a small hoof brace.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallions eyes followed yours impassionately as you picked it up silently and set it on the counter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Somehow, you intrinsically knew it would help you hide.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Excellent choice. Be wary of its power requirements, though.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He eyed you further, as if waiting for you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wondered if there might be anything else you'll need.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Look around more [Firearms]<br />b) You have everything you need.<br />c) Purchase [Magical Energy Gem](specify amount)<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[Firearms. Also, how much monies we have?]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look around some more and spot Lightning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From the store across the street.</span><br />&quot;...How?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Whatever you need, right at your fingertips, guaranteed!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fingertips?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever, you're not going to think about it.</span><br />&quot;How much does it cost?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The unicorn looks between you and the gun, gauging you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;For you, I'm willing to make an offer of three hundred bits. The Stealth Brace is one hundred. The Power Crystal is... A gift.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had six hundred and thirty seven bits in total, along with some things you could sell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lightning was extremely tempting, even if its presence here was unexplained. It was definitely cheaper here than it had been at the gun store.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't want to think about what the stallion had said about the Power Crystal, or how he knew that you needed such a thing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't even know. You still didn't.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was also a small basket of Energy Gems, likely compatible with the Stealth Brace, at ten bits for three.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't have all day, and you had more than enough bits to buy plenty. The issue was keeping some for future purchases.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, you could simply work for more money.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Finalise<br />+ [Stealth Bracer]<br />+ [Power Crystal]<br />- <span class="nu0">100</span> [Bits]<br />&#160;<br />b) Finalise<br />+ [Stealth Bracer]<br />+ [Power Crystal]<br />+ [Lightning]<br />- <span class="nu0">400</span> [Bits]<br />&#160;<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br />[B]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You decide to buy Lightning along with your other purchases, a long rifle like that could come in handy down south.</span><br />&quot;I'll take the rifle as well.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion smiles his wide smile and levitates the gun down to the counter, &quot;Would you like that gift wrapped?&quot;</span><br />&quot;N-No.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He rings up the purchases and holds a hoof out for payment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment, you pull out your bit bag and count out the required amount of four hundred bits and give it to him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you're taking your newly purchased gun and bracer the stallion gives you a sympathetic look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A word of advice, Flare. You might want to work on your unarmed skills, you're definitely going to need to be able to do more than hold your own.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You swallowed, unsure how you should be taking that. The store around you began to shift again as you thought about how strange the stallion was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you began to leave, he called you back, &quot;Flare. Don't forget the Power Crystal.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He levitates the soft pink crystal towards you and you take it from his magical grasp, shivering as the magic sends a tingle through your body as the field intersects with your hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I look forward to doing business with you again, Lieutenant.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thanks...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pocketing the crystal, you finally leave the dingy little general store and step back out onto the street, releasing a breath you hadn't realised you'd been holding.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking back, the store was gone, all that was there was a small gap between the two buildings the strange shop had been wedged between.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now you just needed to find Blueberry and get out of Manehattan.</span><br />&#160;<br />Inventory:<br />&#160;<br />+ [Lightning](Enchanted Long Rifle)<br />+ [Stealth Bracer](Turn invisible for x3 Turns (<span class="nu0">3</span> minutes), consumes x1 [Magical Energy Gem], attacking cancels invisibility)<br />+ [Power Crystal](Crafting Item)<br />- <span class="nu0">400</span> [Bits]<br />&#160;<br />a) Go find Blueberry<br />b) Do some more shopping. (Pharmacy/Gun Store)<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />[C: Skree]<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you're standing in the street, a pedestrian accidentally bumps into you in his rush down the street.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The shock of it makes you scree loudly in surprise!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, everyone in the street is looking at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Abashedly, you cover your muzzle with a hoof and blush.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Soon, they all go back to their business and you figure it's time to go.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Find Blueberry<br />b) Throw some more dosh around (Pharmacy/Gun Store)<br />c) Other (Specify)<br />&#160;<br />B. Use it up for more supplies<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After that embarrassing little display, you went trotting down the street for one of the other stores.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You figured you'd hit the gun store for ammunition first, since you didn't have enough room in your bags for potions and medical aid.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before heading in, you were careful to wrap and conceal your newly acquired rifle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It'd be difficult explaining why you were carrying an exact replica of the stores pride and joy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If they even still had theirs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The door bell tinkled as you stepped in and the clerk looked up, then looked at how heavily armed you were.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't the same clerk from yesterday, which wasn't surprising.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare snuck a hoof under the counter, likely to a gun in case you were thinking of anything.</span><br />&quot;Whoa there, I'm not here to rob you. I'm here to buy, maybe.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;To reassure her, you shake your bit bag in a hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your effort succeeds and the mare place her hoof back on the counter, releasing a pent up breath.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What can I do for you today?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What can she do for you today...?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hardly the time for that.</span><br />&#160;<br />---------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />Weapons: Ranged<br />&#160;<br />5x [Double Action Revolver]{20x Bits}<br />5x [Luger Pistol]{35x Bits}<br />5x [Dart Thrower]{10x Bits}<br />10x [Bolt Action Rifle]{30x Bits}<br />10x [Winchester Rifle]{15x Bits}<br />5x [Crossbow]{25x Bits}<br />5x [Shotgun]{30x Bits}<br />5x [Hoofgun]{50x Bits}<br />&#160;<br />Weapons: Melee<br />&#160;<br />3x [Field Knife]{5x Bits}<br />3x [Combat Knife]{8x Bits}<br />3x [Broadsword]{12x Bits}<br />3x [Longsword]{16x Bits}<br />3x [Dual Bladed Staff]{22x Bits}<br />3x [Polearm]{18x Bits}<br />3x [Quarterstaff]{10x Bits}<br />3x [Hoof Blades]{20x Bits}<br />3x [Plated Hoof Guard]{25x Bits}<br />&#160;<br />Munitions:<br />&#160;<br />20x [10.9mm](Revolver)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {10x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Round)</span><br />&#160;<br />20x [9mm](Hoofgun)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {10x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Round)</span><br />&#160;<br />20x [7.62mm](Rifle)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {10x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Round)</span><br />&#160;<br />20x [12.70mm](Long Rifle)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {10x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Round)</span><br />&#160;<br />20x [12.70mm](Long Rifle)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rubber {10x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Round)</span><br />&#160;<br />20x [Crossbow Bolt]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Bolt)</span><br />&#160;<br />99x [Dart](10x Darts/Case)<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regular {20x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Armor Piercing {40x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Infusement [Lightning/Fire/Ice/Other]{4/6/8/10x Bits}(Per Bolt)</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Stun {60x Bits}(Per Stack/20)</span><br />&#160;<br />---------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />Damn, it looks complicated, buy some fire crossbow bolts, shit is good on the long and short distance.<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're not sure where it would come in handy, but these crossbows were much more stealthy than one would think.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were an excellent stealth weapon, and as a bonus, its range far exceeded that of your dart gun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even if it was a lethal weapon, you were pretty sure you could find some non lethal uses for it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Especially if you grabbed some enchanted bolts with it.</span><br />&quot;I'll take the crossbow and two cases of fire bolts.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mare complies with a raised eyebrow, &quot;Doing some hunting?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You make a face.</span><br />&quot;I guess you could say that.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were still wearing the armored barding, so the mare likely didn't recognise you as a commissioned officer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That could come in handy now that you thought about it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The clerk placed a fine looking carbon fiber crossbow on the counter along with your requested cases of bolts.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The tips of which glowed a light shade of red.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The enchantment would only take effect upon hitting something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Say a barrel of oil.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It also looked like the crossbow had room for a scope to be attached, though sadly, it lacked a scope currently, and this store didn't seem to sell separate weapon parts.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wondered if there was anything else you should buy.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Finalise<br />&#160;<br />+ [Crossbow]{<span class="nu0">25</span>}<br />+ <span class="nu0">20</span> [Fire Bolts]{<span class="nu0">26</span>}<br />- <span class="nu0">51</span> [Bits]<br />&#160;<br />b) Anything else?<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Yee, finalise.<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;That should be all you need.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly wrap up the purchase and add your new crossbow to your dangerously large collection of weapons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You might need to see someone about your weapon obsession.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Having left the store, and being somewhat satisfied with your purchases, you figured it was time to get to Blueberry, if she even was at the apartment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took off flying, struggling a little beneath the weight of so many weapons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It just wouldn't do to walk through the street looking like a heavily armed mercenary.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The sun was a little higher in the sky now, and being above the buildings did wonders for you as the sunlight warmed your wings up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You allowed yourself to mostly glide, enjoying the heat the morning sun brought to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you reached the apartment, and rather than go up through the building, you simply landed on the balcony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least you hoped it was the right balcony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Poking your head in, you were met with the site of Anon's mess on the floor and your damaged guard armor off in a corner.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry herself was nowhere to be seen, however. Not in the immediate area anyway.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were getting pretty hungry, having not really eaten properly in a couple of days and all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had a couple apples still in the fridge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe it'd be best to find Blueberry first and say hi, though.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Look for Blueberry<br />b) Acquire apple.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />You can grab an apple with you gob and go find Blueberry<br />&#160;<br />Grab and apple first<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Apple first.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You set off straight for the fridge and nudged the door open, taking the remaining apple in your mouth, teeth sunk into it as you sucked some of the juices from it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You proceeded to search the house in this way, it must have seemed a ridiculous sight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A heavily armed Bat Pony sucking on and apple while looking for a police pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You found Blueberry sleeping in the bedroom, the one herself and Anon had 'shared'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yup.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was definitely something there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You munched quietly on your apple and watched the police pony sleep for a while.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Evidently, she'd been tired out by last nights events.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was all way above her paygrade, and yet she'd offered her help anyway. She'd have made a great Ranger.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You might have to put her in for a promotion, or at least a commendation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, you were debating on whether or not you should ask her to come along with you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was capable, there was no doubt about that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What you worried about was her well being.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, you wouldn't even know where you'd be going if it wasn't for her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What should you do about the police pony?</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Wake her up ask her<br />b) Wake her later<br />c) Leave her be and head to the Airship Tower<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could ask her later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Might as well start packing for the trip.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Heading back out into the main room, you take a look at Anon's mess on the floor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The tangible pile of scrap, wires and components from the jamming device had been veritably pulled apart by Anons technical expertise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A little tool box sat nearby and you made your way over to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a fine thing, and contained a wide array of tools.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd best keep this on you, you doubted Anon would appreciate you leaving it here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gathered all the tools together, placed them back into the box and packed it away in your saddlebags.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The next thing you needed to consider was your old armor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Only the chestplate was damaged, which could be repaired, but it'd take some doing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rough Diamond sure did pack a punch, you were grateful that you'd never need to go up against him again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least, you hoped you didn't.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your problem was carting it around with you, as there was little space left in your pack for it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a dilemma, to be sure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You munched slowly on your apple and glared at the offending apparel for daring to make you think so hard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How should you proceed?</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Make Blueberry carry it.<br />b) Leave it here.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />See if Policehorse will carry it<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe police horse could carry it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nudging her door open, you find that the mare is still sound asleep.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With nothing better to do, you head back out into the main hall and sat on the couch.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even your apple was finished, and a quick toss saw it arc through the air and into the trash.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking at the mess of scrap on the floor, you idly wondered if something should be done about Flim Flam Inc for supplying Blue Moon a base of operations.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Had they known who they were dealing with? Or was Blue Moon really in control of the entire company.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia had told you that she prefers to work behind the scenes, so it was possible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And the presence of such a large amount of deuterium likely meant that Blue Moon had a nuclear generator somewhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not an easy thing to hide.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to wonder where she got the resources to do all of this and remain out of the public eye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd never even heard of her before this all started, even your parents had been around back when it was fresh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something didn't add up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now that you thought about it, the mare herself didn't look much older than your mother.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And if everything you knew was true, that must make Blue Moon almost sixty.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yet she looked not a day older than forty.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Either she kept in shape, or there was something the Princess hadn't told you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The inconsistencies ran around and around in your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Probably best just to wait for Blueberry to wake up. Focus on immediate goals, and worry about the bigger picture later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You might as well sleep for a while.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were groggy when you woke, but you could make out a blue silhouette above you, she said nothing, simply looked at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She hadn't yet noticed that you were awake</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Surprise!<br />b) Not so surprise.<br />c) Where were you, you stupid slut?<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Surprise<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;There's nothing else for it, this was a perfect set-up</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You briefly thought of surprising her with a kiss, but thought better of it since she was involved with Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Instead, you grabbed her cheeks and closed the distance between your muzzles.</span><br />&quot;Boo!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry flailed and squeaked in shock, her cheeks lighting up like a Hearth's Warming tree as she fell back on her rump.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Mission accomplished.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sat up and looked down at her with the best grin you could muster.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No words needed to be said, she knew what she'd been doing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever had been on Blueberry's mind, she was too bashful to speak it now, and quickly left the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took stock of your surroundings, the light streaming through the window was of the warm midmorning sun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Good, you hadn't slept for long.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now that you knew where Blueberry was, you had to decide on whether to take her with you or not.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or whether to even ask.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She deserved to come along, didn't she? She was involved with Anon, after all.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Go see Blueberry<br />b) Pack your stuff up<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Most of your things were already packed and in your saddlebags, you still had the dilemma that was your scuffed and dented armor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Again, Blueberry could carry it. Or you could make like a pack pony and carry it yourself, you'd be over encumbered like a bad Caves and Manticores character, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, it was just a trip to the air tower.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What could go wrong?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You figured you'd at least put the Mercenary uniform on again, minus gas mask.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That might freak customs out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;All that was left now was whether Blueberry should come along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was just a police officer, this all might be way over her head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then again, it was over your head as well, you might have the training but you definitely didn't have the experience.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You found yourself wishing Night Watch were here, you were much better at following orders than giving them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It wasn't to be helped though, your mentor was outside your reach.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to decide.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Find Blueberry and force her to come.<br />b) Find Blueberry and politely ask if she can come.<br />c) Leave without Blueberry<br />d) Leave after telling Blueberry that she can't come with you.<br />e) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Do b, kinda dickish to do otherwise<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to at least give her the choice, to do otherwise would be wrong of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The little Earth Pony had gone to her room, following her to the door, you knocked cautiously.</span><br />&quot;Blueberry?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;No answer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't sure if you should intrude, but then you remembered that she wasn't Anon, she didn't have the privacy taboo that he did.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd been away from other ponies for too long.</span><br />&quot;Blueberry? Are you in here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sticking your head into the room, you found yourself looking at Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And she...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Was...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Naked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Like almost every other pony on the continent.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You needed to get out more, seriously.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Mmm?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How to break it to her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Flare, I've decided that I'm coming with you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wait, what?</span><br />&quot;Oh, really? I was actually coming to ask if you wanted to, because of Anon and all...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;...</span><br />&quot;Are you sure? It could be dangerous.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry sat on the edge of her bed, kicking her hind legs in the air idly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I thought that I only cared about Manehattan, and doing my job, but seeing what that mare's doing. I can't just walk away, I can't just walk away from Anonymous, either.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sat there and let her puzzle things out, she'd need to find something to believe in if she were going to do this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blue Moon needs a good tazing.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Does that mean you're coming?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry met your eyes, &quot;If you'll have me.&quot;</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Are you sure you want her? You can say no.<br />b) Blue Moon needs a tazin'<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />A, let her come<br />you were expecting cum weren't you, you aussie bastard? well hah! you didn't get it<br />&#160;<br />B: Taze. Send to gulag. Is cause too many distraction.<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Guess she's coming then.</span><br />&quot;Alright, uh...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You make a face.</span><br />&quot;Okay, I hate to ask you this, but can you carry my armor? Please? &lt;<span class="nu0">3</span>&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wai-</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sure, but I don't see why you can't just leave it, it's all scuffed and dented.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Should you tell her?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You think she deserves to know if she's going to carry it.</span><br />&quot;It's got sentimental value, it used to belong to a very good friend of mine.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She'd be disappointed that it got as damaged as it did.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Like I said, sure thing. I've got little else to carry anyway.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Smiling and prepared to leave, Blueberry interjected, a sarcastic lilt clear in her voice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'm gonna get paid for this, right?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Of course she would, you'd make sure of that, but you couldn't help but play along with the joke anyway.</span><br />&quot;Nope! You've been volunteered.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry let off the cutest giggle you'd ever heard and hopped off the bed, following you down the hall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were pretty sure you hadn't missed anything, but it might not hurt to do one last check of the apartment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then again, you'd dallied enough here, and it'd be two weeks travel by airship to Sao Palomino.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't want to think of it as down time, but that's exactly what you'd be using it for.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry would be too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd at least use the time productively.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While you'd been stuck in though, Blueberry had neatly packed the armor and wrapped it in cloth, sitting it squarely on her back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were grateful to her for coming with you.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Time to go? Time to go!<br />b) Pilfer the apartment for all its worth, you jew.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />&#160;<br />B, colleckle the shekels<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Guess you better look around a bit more.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Behind the couch, you found the mess Anon had made with the device you'd brought him, from which you salvaged a few components.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry pretty much just watched as you mechanically searched every searchable container.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You found a few bits!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ten of them, but that was pretty cool.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And a pillow, you were taking the pillow too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They can bill you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Quite done?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Bashfully, you pocketed the bits and components.</span><br />&quot;Y-Yes, let's go.&quot;<br />&#160;<br />------------------------------------------------<br />You have gained:<br />+<span class="nu0">20</span> [Components](Crafting Materials)<br />+<span class="nu0">10</span> [Bits]<br />------------------------------------------------<br />&#160;<br />a) Anything left to do in Manehattan? Be advised, once you leave for the tower, you will not be returning here.<br />b) Other (Specify)<br />&#160;<br />nah, let's go<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could feel her judging you, and in an effort to avoid her gaze, you brushed past and left the small apartment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was nothing left in Manehattan that you wanted to do, so it was straight for the tower for you and Blueberry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It occurred to you that you didn't know which airship you'd be taking, or who its captain would be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna had forgotten to mention it and you'd failed to ask.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a fair bet you'd find out when you got there, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The carriage ride was spent in silence, and despite Blueberry tagging along with you, she seemed happy to pay.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once there at the tower, you looked up at the airships jockeying for position, only one of them stood out as your potential 'ride'.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You recognised it as one of the swifter vessels on hoof, a Pegasi built Skycruiser. Luna must have guessed you'd want to move quickly rather than heavily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It suited you just fine, anything bigger would be flagged immediately.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry, for her part, had her attention focused elsewhere, a flick of your ears discovered why.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Some stallion was apparently being refused entry to the tower.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was almost like looking at a train wreck, it was morbidly fascinating.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion in question was a bat pony like yourself, who appeared to be wearing the navy colored protective coat used by fireponies, it even had the reflective stripes still on it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The pony himself was a light yellow with a rust red mane. You were unable to see his cutie mark from where you were, though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something about him drew your attention, and it certainly wasn't the twang of his accent as he verbally abused the customs officers, either.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then again, the same could be said of everypony else in the area, there were few heads that weren't turned his way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The customs officer was leaning back, looking nervous.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could step in if you wished, but it was your choice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry had a look on her face, as though she were going to taze him.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Intervene?<br />b) Stay out of it.<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />A for interesting<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;This interested you greatly and you had a little time to spare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopping out of the carriage, you weaved through the crowds to get closer to the disturbance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry followed closely behind, ears folded back with the irritation plain on her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It might be best to settle things before she pulled her taser out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Having gotten closer, you were beginning to make out what it was all about.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'm sorry, sir, we can't let you on board due to your record! Step back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And like I keep telling ya, mate, it was a misunderstanding with the authorities! I just want to get down south.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And it kept going back and forth like that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bat pony in question was definitely wearing the coat of a firepony, being closer now, you made out his cutie mark as a small fire contained within a red triangle much like a warning sign.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He also appeared to be wearing some kind of... Hat?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The base of it was ringed with teeth from an animal of some sort, and his accent sounded outlandish, but somewhat familiar to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry glared at the offending pony and had her hoof on her belt, fondling the holster strap of her taser.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You'd better act quick.</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Side with the security guard (What say/do?)<br />b) Side with the bat pony (What say/do?)<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Find out what that bathorse did allegedly<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You figure you should learn more before siding either way. After all, this pony might be a psycho.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Time to put those charms and good looks to use.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You step forward from the crowd and put on your best guard voice.</span><br />&quot;What's going on here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn it, there're those generic guard lines again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The security guard turned to you and looked you up and down, &quot;Step back, citizen, we're handling it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right, mercenary uniform.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bat pony stallion just eyed you out of the corner of his eye, his wings shifting slightly under his coat before settling again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you could explain who you were, Blueberry stepped forward up beside you and stole your thunder, so to speak.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sergeant Blueberry, answer the mare's question. Just what's going on here?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard flopped his ears down and shot an irate glance at the offending bat pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This stallion here wants to book passage on an airship, but he's on the no fly list due to his criminal record.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At this, the bat pony spoke up, cutting across the guard, &quot;A misunderstanding! I'm not no psycho, ma'am. Just want to be allowed to go on my way.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You eye his wings.</span><br />&quot;Couldn't you fly yourself?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He huffs a little and retorts, eyes narrowed a bit, &quot;Couldn't you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rude.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry looked to you, apparently ceding the situation to you, however, she did not look to be in favour of the bat pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He said it was a misunderstanding, and what reason could he have to lie?</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Question the bat pony (specify)<br />b) Question the guard (specify)<br />c) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Question both starting with bathorse, what he did, circumstances<br />Ask the same question to the guard<br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Might as well learn more.</span><br />&quot;Okay, you, rude pony. What'd you do to get on the no fly list?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Nothing!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Uh... Huh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gave him a skeptical look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion made a face and relented, &quot;I may have been accused of starting a bush fire back home, and there was nothing proving my innocence. I swear it wasn't deliberate, ma'am, I was doing contract work as a fire control pony and the blaze got out of control.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;So he'd been accused and convicted of Arson, it wasn't hard to see why they wouldn't let him on an airship.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then again, it was extremely odd for the court system to convict someone with no proof, at least it was that way here in Equestria, this pony didn't sound like he was from around here.</span><br />&quot;So where are you from? Why were you convicted without evidence?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The stallion flopped his ears down and avoided your gaze, &quot;The controlled burning was meant to preserve a wildlife sanctuary, and when it spiraled out of control, a large portion of it went up. About twenty hectares. I don't know why they convicted me, I think they just needed someone to be accountable.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment, he met your gaze again after a moment, &quot;And I'm from down in Hosstralia, didn't find myself welcome there anymore so I worked my way up here. Doing some sightseeing, you know?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Down south, right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, as far as the airship lines'll take me. Which isn't a bloody meter right now.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was plausible, justice wasn't as fairly applied outside Equestria's borders, blame was tossed about all too easily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That's if it were true.</span><br />&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turned to the guard.</span><br />&quot;Is that accurate?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard cast a glance at the bat pony and nodded.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;More or less, it just says here that mister 'Jack' is responsible for two counts of Arson, one of which was perpetrated against a protected sanctuary resulting in damage to over twenty hectares of land.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Two counts?</span><br />&quot;What was the other count of Arson?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Starting a fire in a woodland area.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The bat pony cut across him, &quot;That was a camp fire and it was cold. Hardly Arson. I was a foal at the time.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right, so. Here you had a pony who was likely wrongly accused of setting a protected sanctuary alight because of his prior record.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A terrible thing happened and he was just unlucky enough to be assigned the blame.</span><br />&quot;Sight seeing down south, right? Any place in particular?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I'll go wherever the winds take me, don't particularly care.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Most of the crowd that had gathered up to this point had dispersed, and the guard looked visibly relieved that he may not have a fight on his hooves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then again, that might just be because Blueberry was still fondling her taser.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The solution here was pretty simple, you could give him a ride to wherever he wanted to go, so long as it wasn't out of your way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then again, he might actually pose a risk if he was guilty of his crimes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blueberry would certainly disagree with bringing him along, but he'd be off the airship before long anyway.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What to do...</span><br />&#160;<br />a) Hey, do you want to join our club?<br />b) DO YOU WANT TO JOIN OUR CLUB???<br />c) Leave him, it's not your problem.<br />d) Other (specify)<br />&#160;<br />Bring him but keep an eye on him.<br />&#160;<br />------------------------------------------------<br />Stats, Inventory, Skill Trees: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1M6jLEwfBzVzXMPlkQR7BTj-RWVVVjutixhjdqEVIqtI/edit#gid=<span class="nu0">519785513</span><br />------------------------------------------------</div></div>




</div><div id="page-secondary-actions"></div>			</div>
							</div>
						<div id="footer">
							<ul class="footer-info">
					<li id="footer-info-mobile-switcher"><h2>MulpWiki</h2>
<ul>
	<li>Mobile&zwnj;</li><li><a id="mw-mf-display-toggle" href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=%22Blue_Moon%22_(CYOA)(Bats-General)&amp;mobileaction=toggle_view_desktop">Desktop</a></li>
</ul></li>				</ul>
							<ul class="footer-places">
					<li id="footer-places-privacy"><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php/MulpWiki:Privacy_policy" title="MulpWiki:Privacy policy">Privacy</a></li>				</ul>
					</div>
					</div>
		</div>
		<script>if(window.mw){
mw.config.set({"wgBackendResponseTime":172});
}</script><script>/*<![CDATA[*/window.jQuery && jQuery.ready();/*]]>*/</script><script>if(window.mw){
mw.loader.state({"user.groups":"ready"});
}</script>
<script>if(window.mw){
mw.loader.load(["mediawiki.toc","mediawiki.user","mediawiki.hidpi","mobile.search","mobile.startup","mobile.stable","mobile.issues","mobile.editor","mobile.languages","mobile.newusers","mobile.toggling","mobile.loggingSchemas"],null,true);
}</script>
		</body>
		</html>
		