Captain's CYOA: Fair Winds and Following Seas.

>>29610797
Hi there, new player. Is there somewhere I could get more context? What's the situation now?

>>29606849
>>29606966

You were about to respond to CMC Bellows that there wasn't anything that you needed for her to do when an errant thought changes your mind. "Yes. Master Chief, I want you to be my eyes, and get the next watch and rove in on it as well." You say.

The salty old pegasus mare gives you a flat look, obviously waiting for you to continue.

"Due to the... nature, of what I've found so far during my investigation, which we will discuss LATER, I want you to watch for anypony trying to slip off the boat. I'm going to be restricting everypony to the boat for now."

"Sir!" Bellows says, her wings spreading in what you pray to Celestia is shock.

"No Master Chief, I'm not compromising on this. We. Will. Discuss. Later." You say, giving her a firm glare.

The mare snorts, looking very, very displeased with that.

Placating her might be a good way to get her to back off, at least till you're done addressing the crew. You do have a few moments still, after all.

Or you could flat out pull rank. Dick move, yes, but considering the damage that those so-called 'allied' nations that are so close to EUP Olympia could do with the plans for the Risen Glory? Might be worth it.

Or you could just ignore it all together and consider the matter settled and grab her right after you're done addressing the crew. Or something else.

You're frowning, mostly because you're starting to feel the weight. The Risen Glory and her Crew are yours, right now. You've been an Engineer for too long to do any less then Keep the Fleet.

>>29610854
[Hello new player! Sorry for the troubled wait, I'm sort of going off the cuff.

The last thread will be paste-binned soon, and I'll be making a important-pony roster and probably a military acronym cheat sheet at some point soon.

The short, short version of the current situation is that >>>> line just above 'Your story continues now'. Sloppy, I know, but I'll hopefully have something better and cleaner to look at soon, I apologize for any trouble or confusion, and will do my best to answer questions either in character or like so as need be.]

>>29610854
>>29589331

>>29610858
Tell Bellows we will discuss it after we have addressed the crew.

>>29610858
Tell her drinks on you the next time there's R&R

>>29610858
>welcome back OP

We've talked like grown pones several times. We've a job to do and if she keeps pulling this shit, she'll need a different approach.
Settled for now.

>>29610907
>>29610944
"Bellows. This is really not the time for this discussion. Once I've dismissed the crew we'll talk and I'll explain what I've found, in private." You say, before sighing. "If you dislike what I have to say, first rounds on me."

The mare glares at you for a few moments longer before she sighs as well, tension dropping and her wings folding again. "Aye Skipper, I don't like it, I really don't, but we'll push on."

She turns. "I'll lead you in and call the crew to attention. It's your show, Skipper."

With that, She leads you to the front of the formed up ponies, where one of the Chiefs, who was leading the formation, barks out, "RISEN GLORY, ATTEN-SHUN!"

The whole deck snaps to attention, standing by for you as CMC Bellows leads you to the front of the crew, standing on your left and just behind you as you step in front of the Chief, a unicorn you note, your silver horseshoes glinting in the last glimpses of sunlight and the spotlights.

"Report." You command as you and the Chief salute.

"Sir, all Enlisted and Chief personnel present and accounted for, Sir!" He barks out.

"Very well. Post." You say, dropping the salute as the Chief drops his before he sharply turns and marches to the back of the Chief formation.

You turn to Lt. Wilko, who salutes a little shakily as you salute him. "S-sir, T-three officers present or accounted for, s-sir."

This causes a bit of muttering, which earns a glare from Bellows, before you nod. "Very Well, post."

Wilko drops his salute with a quiet sigh before stepping back beside Lt. Commander Time.

You frown a bit. Now comes the tough part. Explaining things to the crew and introducing yourself, as well as the fact that you're the acting Captain. But where would be the best place to start, in the end? Silencing the murmurs, explaining the missing officers?

>>29611003
Introduce yourself and inform them you have been sent by the princesses to take command of this ship and get it ready for action again.

Hopefully learning the princesses have taken an interest will cause whoever is behind all this to panic and do something stupid.

>>29611003
Not in favor of revealing more than necessary. Explain there's a temporary lockdown.

[Alright, I need to take a quick break, but I'll be back presently. In the meantime, for new players, here's the archive, hot off my copy-pasta, with short notes for where player decisions were made.

http://pastebin.com/UJRpRzWy ]]

>>29611044
>>29611074
[And we're back!]
"Good Evening Risen Glory. My name is Warrent Officer Third Class, Air and Surface Warfare Specialist, EUP ERN." You speak loud and clear, your horn shimmering just a bit as you use your magic to amplify your voice.

Not everypony can have the Royal Canterlock after all.

"I've been serving for ten years now, as a Engineer of many talents, and have worked in every shop from Machinist Mate to Lift Gas, and have been stationed on three different ships till this point in time- HRMS Sol Invictus, Surface Warfare, HRMS Little Wonders, Air Resupply, and HRMS Manehatten, Air Scouting. Make no mistake, I'm very well acquainted with my job and yours, and looking forwards to working with all of you."

A little frown crosses your face before you let out a little sigh. "As of today, however, I've been reassigned from my normal duties to a new duty. By Orders directly from the Commanding Officer, Naval Operations and the Princesses themselves, I've been assigned to be acting Captain for HRMS Risen Glory, due to an ongoing investigation."

You hold up a hoof, gesturing to the crew. "I expect you all to act like the dignified sailors you all are, and to assist the investigators as they work. The full details of the investigation will not be disclosed until the investigation ends, but do not be afraid to come talk to me if you have questions or concerns. I held an open door policy when I was working on the deckplate, and I see no need to change that now."

You hold your head high as you scan the herd, looking to see if somepony breaks ranks.

They're quiet, and you see ponies looking at you in shock, surprise, and awe. Now's the time to bring it on home, but should it be encouraging, or what? You'll have to explain the lockdown too.

>>29611280
Encouraging we are going to fix tge problems on this ship and get us up and running.
Tell them the ship will be on lockdown for 2 days.

I mostly suggested keeping an eye out for those trying to leave for clues a 2 day lockdown is short enough the crew will not get to angry but long enough a traitor may panic and try to get off the boat before they are discovered. If we catch them leaving it will be a huge help to our investigation.

>>29611335
"I'm not going to lie to you." You say, looking at as many ponies in the eye as you can, pleased to see Seaman Shanty in the front row. "The Risen Glory has seen better days. She's in rough shape for a lot of reasons."

"We haven't had the pony-power."

"We've been missing the gear."

"We've been being run into the ground."

"Parts that have been on order for ages still haven't shown up."

"I understand."

You stand tall and proud, your eyes glinting in challenge.

"These things will pass, but the boat will not! We are SAILORS, and Our Ship is our Home! WE WILL NOT GIVE UP THE SHIP!"

"We will get the parts, we will have the ponies, and we will get the rest we need to do these things properly, by the book, and return the Risen Glory to what she deserves to be."

A predatory grin splashes across your face. "The most dangerous ship in the sky. Am I understood?"

"SIR! YES SIR!"

Now -that- was some motivation from the herd if you've ever heard it. Now the bad news.

"Unfortunately, as part of this, we've been put on a mandatory lockdown for the next forty-eight. No ponies are allowed to leave the ship for any reason. I'll see what I can do about getting us some shore time and a good long weekend to unwind after this, but all personnel are to stay on the Risen Glory, and the Quarterdeck will be closed. Am I understood?"

"Sir, Yes Sir."

Ouch. There goes that moral. Not much you can do about it though.

"Again, feel free to approach me while I'm making rounds or come knock on my door if you have any questions or concerns. That will be all. Risen Glory... Dismissed."

And with that, the ponies fall out of formation and start to leave the weather deck. Well, that's -one- situation defused. Now you have to deal with CMC Bellows, and you're not exactly looking forwards to it.

>>29611426
Lets go see what bellows concern was.

>>29611426
We should get the rest of the trusted officers in on this discussion as well so we can all be on the same page.

>>29611426
We've been somewhat intense lately. Use a calm approach. We need some trust around here.

>>29611467
>>29611584
>>29612839
After a few moments of letting the ponies filter out, you send a small flare of magic over to Lt. Commander Time and Lt. Wilko, and nod to CMC Bellows, who follows you.

You don't go far, simply a little ways away from the island, and wait for the three ponies, who soon gather around you.

After a moment, you put up a mild sound-scrambling field. Just enough that somepony would have to be actively trying, and standing right on top of one of you to hear what the four of you are discussing.

"CMC Bellows. Before you say anything, I'd like to remind you that I don't play these Fuck Fuck games, and if you got a problem, just -tell me-." Your voice smooths out a bit to be calm. "Like I told the crew, we aren't giving up the Glory, but damn it Bellows, there's something seriously wrong going around here- Stolen Blueprints for the boat wrong."

Bellows swings spread in shock before you turn to Doc Time and Wilko. "Doc, LT, I need your assistance with this. Wilko, in particular I need you to keep your eye on the Ensign, and assist Bellows with ensuring that nopony leaves the ship. Doc, your medical staff is obviously yours, and you have the only authority to break the lock, should there be a medical emergency."

You look around the trio, who have looks of understanding and agreement. Well, that went over nicely.

"Excellent. Bellows, come with m-" You suddenly have the sensation of tripping over nothing, and your eyes widen.

The 'seal' spell. Somepony opened the door!

>>29613203
rush over there have the doc prepare for potential injurys in the near future and get a medical team to the captains cabin and have the other 2 come with you as backup time is of the essence though if they are slower then you leave them behind.

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>>29613203
Meeting Over.

>>29613203
Did we bring a weapon?

>>29613226
>>29613248
>>29613286
Your horn flashed when you 'tripped over air', getting the attention of Doc for sure, seeing as he most likely knows the same spell.

"Alert trigger?" He asks, making Wilko gasp and Bellows narrow her eyes.

You shake your head a bit to clear it of the ringing tone before growling under your breath, resisting the urge to draw your saber. "Doctor, prep a medical team for the captain's cabin. Wilko, Bellows, on me, we're going hot."

Without waiting for a confirmation, you whirl and gallop away, noting the lack of clip-clopping from your hooves before letting out a little relieved sigh.

The rubber padding for the silver horseshoes, to keep them from getting scuffed up and ruined on the non-skid, is making your hoofsteps muffled. That'll make it easier to get the drop on whoever is in the cabin.

Your saber, a multitool of a sorts, was gifted to you by your family, in particular, your mother, when you made Warrent. She said every good Officer should have a good blade.

Momma always was a smart one. Her saber has treated you well, not only making a decent tool to deal with piping issues in some places, but of course being an excellent tool to handle combat on deck...

Or in the cabins.

You slow to a trot and then slowly make your way to the corner of the Captain's P-Way, the blue tile the only way to or from the Cabin...

>>29613360
Slow our breathing and listen carefully. What do we hear?
Not like we can catch them red-handed since we took the files with us. Better to spring in quick and catch them rummaging at best.

>>29613360
in b4 its some bumbling wet behind the ears colt cleaning

>>29613360
Draw that sword, mean business

Bumpin this

>>29613732
>>29614283
>>29614867
You take a slow breath, your ears flicking as you lean in to get the most out of your hearing, carefully moving forwards, your cutlass drawn in your magic aura.

"-ing thing. Where is it? Got to report back to Captain Cross."

Well well well.

What do we have here? Ensign Douch-L rummaging around, under the bed's mattress?

How unfortunate.

For him anyway.

>>29615729
Lets just wait here for the idiot to say something incriminating.

>>29615729
Shiet. Should've placed a decoy or something for him to steal. I don't see any charges we make sticking.
Whatever, get in there and arrest that fucker! Details later

>>29615769
>>29615931
You freeze for a moment, chewing on your lower lip as you try to decide to charge in or not, when your ears perk.

"Captain Cross said that he put the files under the bed. There's no way that coltcuddling femcolt actually found the blueprints yet."

At that point in time you feel a slight breeze roll past you...

*SLAM*

"TALK YE LETTLE SHITE BEFER I RIP YE'RE HEAD SQUARE FROM YE SHOULDERS!"

Bellows followed you apparently.

You quickly turn the corner to find Ensign Dumb-L pinned up against the wall by the irate pegasus, her hoof drawn back to turn his skull into finely pulped mash against the bulkhead of the cabin.

>>29616031
Only intervene if it looks like she's actually about to kill the guy.

>>29616031
gee.. uh, I guess we're going to be a little slow to react here. She'll need to be disciplined for this later.

>>29616045
>>29616083
You simply trot through the door, saber at the ready. Judging from the way her wings are twitching she's resisting the urge to turn this piece of shit into a literal pile of shit.

"CMC Bellows, at ease." You say firmly. A few moments pass before she lets her other hoof down, though she keeps her firm grip on the Ensign.

"So... Ensign... DL, you prefer to be called?" You say quietly, trotting up to CMC Bellows side. "How interesting to see you in the Captain's Quarters. And looking for something. Some kind of files?"

You glare at him. "Files that have gone missing? Files that are part of this investigation? And who is Captain Cross?"

Ensign growls before trying to hock a loogy at you, making you roll your eyes as said loogy is idly snagged out of the air with a bit of magic.

Really? He tried to -spit- at you? This idiot's brain must have been the part that drooled down his broodmare of a mother's leg.

>>29616031
You are in a lot of trouble ensign.
Take the ensign to the bridge and then contact command tell them the captain himself may have been selling plans (it is possible the ensign is lying to get the captain in trouble)

>>29616195
Oh wait cross was not our captain.

>>29616195
He hasn't said anything to us yet. What we overheard was the idiot thinking out loud.

>>29616168
Why engage in treason ensign.
Have him taken to the brig and contact command you have made a breakthrough.

>>29616208
Could still have been a trick to throw anybody listening off the trail.

>>29616235
You think he's smart enough for that?

>>29616168
Lock him up. We've got a name. When we find out who Cross is we can do some grilling. Only thing I care about is if he's working alone or not.

>>29616244
Could be a clark kent pretending to be bumbling type.

You close your eyes, humming for a moment before looking to CMC Bellows. "Captain Cross is?"

"The Skipper, sir." CMC Bellows growls out, "Our Commanding Officer, till those orders were delivered."

Well shit.

You glare at the Ensign. "Ensign, what were you searching for, and assisting and abating AWOL personnel?"

"GO TO TARTARUS YOU PANSY FLANKFAG!" The Ensign spits out. "CAPTAIN CROSS WILL HAVE NO ISSUES DEALING WITH YOUR IDIOTIC PRANCING! YOU HAVE NO CLUE WHAT YOU GOT YOURSELF INTO!"

You narrow your eyes again. "Interesting. Apparently you do. CMC, take the Ensign to the brig, and then come to the Bridge."

You resist the urge to take your saber to the idiot, sheathing it after checking for any other ponies in the room besides you and CMC Bellows.

"He's alone, but that doesn't mean he's the only one on the boat. I was all of the Security forces for the Brig on watch. Two hour rotations, and a muffling spell on the idiot."

"Aye Sir." Bellows growls.

You step over to one of the piping's that allow for announcements all over the ships, and tap it a few times to make sure it rings true before taking a deep breath and barking into it. "NOW HEAR THIS. SECURITY ALERT, SECURITY ALERT, CAPTAINS QUARTERS, SECURITY WATCHSTANDERS REPORT IMMEDIATELY.

>>29616446
We need to contact comand and tell them what we found.

>>29616513
You turn to CMC Bellows and give her a nod, and she nods back as you leave and start making your way up to the bridge.

At the Bridge of every ship there is a single lighter, behind three panes of glass with a mark 'in case of emergency'.

All ships had access to a single lighter with burst of dragonfire in it, particularly for sending what could be called the 'final' distress signal.

This is not it's intended use, but you need to get this message out immediately, so, you know, needs must.

>>29616656
Do it this is to important to worry about wasting supplys.

>>29616668
Of course it's too important to worry about using supplies.

You quickly scratch out an overview of what you've discovered, where you've hid the blueprints, and Ensign DL's little... mistake, and then kick the glass in before grabbing the lighter with your horn.

You pull the top off, making sure to hold the lighter directly below your scroll and watch is vanish in a burst of ash before it goes soaring out and away, and you can clearly see it's heading towards Canterlot.

You let out a little sigh of relief.

Good! Maybe you'll be able to get off of this boat, or actually do your job instead of having to play at being captain!

>>29616857
Guess we should look for the reports on what's wrong/missing on the ship.

>>29616857
Lets inspect the ensigns room.

>>29616857
Message sent, suspect got, ship on watch and lock. Just need to wait.

Check the time. If still waiting on reports, take a breather, find some chow and improve social skills. Preferably with a fit navy mare.

>>29616950
I get the feeling the pony we wished to avenge was a wife if that is the case it may be to soon to jump back into dating.

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>>29616996
>dating ?
Maybe we just like talking to cute navy mares, anon

>>29616915
>>29616923
>>29616950
You blink in surprise before a dark gloom falls over you, making you bow your head.

In all the excitement you almost forgot.

You grit your teeth in anger, your tail lashing about for a few moments before it stills, your hoof pawing at the deck.

No. Pull it back.

Bottle that rage.

You'll need it later.

When you find -them-.

A evil, wicked, pain-filled smirk crosses your face.

Yessssss, not today. But soon. You'll find those bastards. And they'll pay.

But not today.

You let go of the tension, taking a deep breath before you frown, checking the time.

2030. Great. Chow hall will open soon, and a small growl from your stomach reminds you that you haven't eaten all day outside of that cup of coffee earlier.

You haven't seen the reports yet, and with everything going on right now, you're probably not gonna see them for a few hours yet.

You sigh, before looking down at your dress uniform.

... Right, stop by your cabin first, and get out of the fancy duds and these damned shoes, and then get dinner. Sounds like a good idea.

Then you can rack out while planning out every inch of Justice you'll deliver and how, just like you do every night.

>>29618569
Think about the pony you seeking to avenge.

>>29618621
*you are seeking

>>29618621
You close your eyes. There aren't any tears to cry anymore.

Only rage.

A mane the color of a wheat field, swaying in the breeze. A darkish-blue muzzle, grinning wildly and telling the most outrageous stories and horrible jokes that always made you cringe. A purple magic field and a mare's shadow hanging over the next great masterpiece of poetry of this day and age.

The blond mane surrounding you as you're being put to bed. The muzzle softly kissing you on the forehead. The purple aura picking you up and gently putting a bandage on your scrapes.

The rage returns, burning hotter then ever as you force the memories back and lock them way.

Not again.

NEVER. Again.

But the memories surge again as you step into your cabin, the door swinging shut and locking behind you.

Your seabag falling to the pavement as your world is lit up in a sea of flames.

Screaming. Pain. Burning. Broken.

Dying.

Save them.

Help them.

Protect them.

... You can't.

>>29618656
Calm down, we must keep our composure while we're anywhere the crew can see us.

>>29618656
Shut the memorys back out for now.

>>29618670
>>29618707
You stumble a bit, resisting the urge to drop to your flank.

No.

No more.

But the memories rage on as you see the three figures slipping out of sight.

Coiffed mane.

Bobbing tail with silver pin.

Collared Shirt with poof at the front.

White, White, Blue.

"Nobles"

Not after you're done with them they won't be.

The streets will be filled... with... b-blue... blood...

You choke a bit as you continue to pull yourself back from chomping at the bit.

Focus. Control. Don't lose it now.

Slowly you calm down, your room a bit of a blur as you shuck off your uniform, resisting the urge to kick it aside, instead letting your horn spark to life and take hold of it, gently folding it and stowing it in your locker, your cover being neatly laid on top while each shoe is carefully positioned next to it.

By the time that task is done, you're composed, and you can look at yourself in the mirror without the hate intensifying.

You're better then that because you're going to need that rage.

Bottle it away Fair... bottle it away.

>>29618738
Finish changing and than get some food.

>>29618757
This

>>29618738
Serenity now, serenity now...

>>29618757
>>29618810
>>29620428
Minutes tick by as you drag your composure back, stowing your emotions fore letting out a long, quiet hiss from your mouth and slumping a bit.

Enough.

You move like a ghost just going through the motions of life, dragging on your normal uniform and double-checking your braids before you go to eat.

No Serenity here.

They took everything from you already anyway.

>>29620529
I hope they have spicy curries.

>>29620529
Eat.

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>>29620529

>>29620982
>>29621550
You blink and then lick your lips a bit.

Mmm... spicy foods.

Then you remember your last trip to Saddle Arabia and exactly how spicy they make their curries.

It burns burns burns...

You wince in pain before shaking it off, making your way out of your cabin, pulling your saddle bags on and idly checking the inner pocket.

Good, everything is still there.

You make your way down to the Chief's Mess. No sense in using the Officer's Mess when there's only three officers on board, not including 'bread and water' dipshit in the brig.

You quickly make your way down and collect your meal, getting some greetings but most of the crew staying slightly out of your way, a little weary of their new Commanding Officer.

Except for one of course.

"Skipper!" A very excited Seaman Shanty calls out as the younger mare trots up alongside you.

"Ah, hello Seaman Shanty. How are you?" You respond politely.

>>29622193
Wasn't she the idiot's subordinate?

>>29622193
Ask her how the crew are taking the lockdown.

>>29622248
You think it over for a moment, and then resist the urge to smack yourself.

Being posted on watch doesn't make you subordinate to anypony, it just means you have to work with this pony or that pony for your watch-duration. In some cases this can go anywhere from four hours to twenty-four hours.

Seaman Apprentice Shanty was on watch, and considering how excited she seems to be, she isn't part of any kind of treasonous conspiracy.

Maybe.

"Skipper, you should sit with us tonight, let the crew get to know you!" She says excitedly, dancing around on her hooves. Energetic to a fault.

You glance at the ladderwell that leads to the Chief's Mess one deck down. You know that, technically, it would be more proper for you to eat with the Chiefs.

On the other hoof, you're the new commanding officer of this scow, and you really should get to know the crew.

Your head twinges a little. And maybe you're having a bit of rage bleed over. Just a little. You're tired, maybe it would be for the best to eat alone?

>>29622393
Tell her you will do so tomorow
Ask her how the crew is taking the lockdown

>>29622413
You give Shanty a smile, but gently shake your head. "I'll be eating with the crew tomorrow Shanty. I need to meet with the Chief's Mess tonight."

You tilt your head as you look at her. She looks a little disappointed but that bubbly enthusiasm she has quickly powers it away, especially when you said that you'll be eating with the crew tomorrow. "Oh, ok Sir!"

You hum a bit before you look at her again. "Tell me, how is the crew taking the lockdown so far?"

Her eyes go wide and she glances about a bit before she leans in and speaks with a suppressed voice. "There's been a few complaints because plans were ruined, but after Ensign DL was taken to the brig with CMC Bellows escorting him and the security team, everypony's been more curious about why more then anything else."

You smile again, shaking your head. Figures the scuttlebutt would have gotten around already. "Once the lockdown is over I'll have an explanation for everything. Thank you for your time Shanty."

She smiles brightly before trotting off with her meal, and you are left to your thoughts.

>>29622658
Lets go eat.

>>29622413
>Tell her you will do so tomorow
WaitGod dammit why?

>>29622658
Go eat with the stiff chiefs and pencil her in for later then! Fuck

>>29622952
>WaitGod dammit why?
Why not we need to meet the crew but we are not in the right frame of mind right now.

>>29622690
>>29622952
You make your way into the Chief's mess and settle into a table, letting out a slow breath before you look up and look at the mess.

Quite a few of the Chiefs are there, and you're glad they are. Of the Twenty-Seven Hundred or so ponies that are supposed to be stationed on the Risen Glory, you've got a crew compliment of about nine hundred ponies total.

Of those numbers, the Chiefs are supposed to make up a silent but powerful minority, for Chief Petty Officers are experience, knowledge, skill, and leadership wrapped up in a single package, from Chief, to Senior Chief, to Master Chief. E7-E9, these ponies are the highest of the Enlisted ranks, and their skill and knowledge is critical.

So when you've only got about a hundred, total, you're still thankful, because it means that at the very least you have -some- experience on your hooves.

A few moments pass before several of the Chiefs get up and make their way over to you, sitting down at the table you chose in a round-table fashion.

You inspect them one by one, glancing at their names and what they're wearing, and realize that each one of these Chiefs, Senior Chiefs, and the two Master Chiefs that sat with you, are the Leading Chief Petty Officers of their divisions for the boat.

In short, these ponies are the ones that make the gears turn and make the ship move.

You nod in greetings before taking a bite of your meal, and the Chiefs go back to eating, including the herd that has joined you, both sides a little tense as you all wait for somepony to open dialog.

They know you were a Chief once. You can't become a Chief Warrent Officer without having been a Chief first. You're welcome here, respected for being a Mustang.

But that doesn't change the fact that you're an unknown, and they want answers.

(F)

>>29623514
Ask them for what things have been like before we arrived.

>>29623514
Ask the ones around you what they are in charge of.

>>29623778
>>29623859
You look at the gathering before letting out a little sigh. "... Fillies and Gentlecolts... Chiefs. It's a pleasure to be among colleagues and professionals again."

The gathered LCPO's blink at these words and look to one another before they all smirk at one another before you smirk back.

A few moments later they're all laughing, you along with them.

Finally, one of the Chiefs, a bulky earth pony that reminds you of a work horse you saw working on a farm once that easily outweighs you by at least a ton cuts the laughter.

" 'Guyliner' Fair Winds, back in the Chiefs Mess where he belongs, mustang or not." The Chief says with a grin. "Still haven't taken that makeup off yet Fair?"

You roll your eyes and glare at the Chief. "I'm gonna need you to that that opinion and shove it up your flank next to the metal pole you keep there Torque. You know as well as I do that my highlights are natural."

This leads to a few more chuckles as you consider the Chief. Lock Torque, Machinist Mate. He's been in for ten years as well, and was a bit of a nonstart till you started dragging him to work.

You're surprised you've seen him again, though you both were never really close friends or anything, but he was one of your workers when you were a First Class Petty Officer, so you feel a bit of responsibility.

Weren't aware he made Chief though. Good for him.

The other Chiefs go around, introducing themselves. Communications, Navigation, Propulsion, Lift Gases and Cryo, the Duty Section Leader, Galley Chef, and then the Gunners Mates...

One for each Battery.

"Master Chief Rapid."

"Master Chief Effect."

"Master Chief Explosive."

"S-senior Chief Guard."

The four ponies you're looking at are, surprisingly, brothers, one year apart, both in age and in time in the ERN, and somehow all serving on the same ship, which was a big no-no, but here they are.
(c)

>>29624162
Interesting that Senior Chief Guard is so quiet. You feel a little pang of sympathy for their mother. Three, maybe four, rather boisterous colts in the same household? Her house must have been a real warzone.

You shake the thought off as you continue your introductions- Deck Crew LCPO, the Damage Control and Firefighting LCPO, and the Security LCPO.

A few others introduce themselves and you nod, trying to memorize as many faces and cutie marks as possible as they're introduced. You'll stick with titles for as long as possible just to avoid having to remember so many names.

The Security LCPO, a salty Master-at-Arms that looked to have been in as long as CMC Bellows finally sets her hooves on the table and lean forwards, looking right at you.

"Alright Mustang, you've been doing real nice so far, and I speak for all of us when I say we're glad to see you at it, but you're not here to chit chat." The mare growls, giving you a flat glare.

"So. Why are you here?"

You sit back, rubbing your muzzle with a hoof before you sigh. "I need to know what's going on with the boat."

"Seems simple to me so far. Somepony's been trying to screw us out of personnel and gear and fucking over our work orders so we can't actually fix this scow!" The Maintenance Master Chief huffs, to nods from the other Chiefs around the table as he leans forwards. "Frankly, we're being screwed out of two things- Ponies to do the job, and actually being able to DO those jobs without being thrown on frivolous time wastes, like the gun from this morning."

You blink, tilting your head a bit. Guess things have been ever worse then what CMC Bellows made them out to be if the Chiefs Mess is being so straightforwards with you, former Chief or not

It's a basic rule- Cover your flank, and then your subordinates flanks. Superiors can cover for themselves.

This is a good opportunity to get some answers, but the pressure you apply needs to be subtle if you don't want to end up making them clam up.

>>29624309
Tell the comunications cheif (or whoever is in charge of it) he will need to arange for a new distress message fire I deemed informing the princesses of my discoverys with the ensign urgent enough to use it.
Hopefuly that will at least be able to get ordered in without issue.

>>29624459
You turn to the Comm's LCPO, a recent rank-up by his stripes and the way that he's sort of 'back of the pack' of the Chiefs, and address him directly. "I had to use the distress message fire in order to get the report of Ensign DL's actions and the missing Officer's mess. We should be getting a response soon, but we'll need to put in for new glass for the box and a new lighter."

The Chief lets out a little laugh and gives you a smile. "Sir, if that's the least of my problems, then I'll happy deal with that, you can trust me on that."

You spend some time talked with the chiefs as you eat, and quickly come to the conclusion that they're absolutely correct- most of the problems they have are minor issues that could easily be solved by application of actually having the tools, equipment, and ponies necessary to do the damn jobs.

Now all you need are the material and maintenance reports from Admin, and you might be able to start unfucking this whole problem... preferably starting with that gun barrel stowed down on the dock.

>>29624556
Are there any records of past communications? If they exist, they should be protected for future investigation.

>>29624590
You blink and turn back to the Comm's LCPO, questioning that.

He shakes his head, with an annoyed frown. "No Sir. The Emergency Distress Lighter hasn't been used since the Risen Glory's commission and naming. As for communications to and from the boat, there aren't any records kept of voice communications, nor duplicates of letters and other messages, which as you're aware are sorted and sent out from the boat often, and new letters and messages are delivered just as often."

Little patrol skiffs, often called the Postal Guard by the big ship crews, or The Pony Express in a more teasing light, was the EUP's postal service, by air, land, and sea. They generally were quite capable combatants themselves, but they were dedicated to ensuring that Equestria's fighting forces would always get their mail, no matter where they were.

Messenger Bolts were also on each of these skiffs- A single Wonderbolt Class pegasus who's sole job was to deliver a message to any base, at any time, as quickly as possible. Often these pegasi were either reserve members for the Wonderbolts stunt team or washed out Wonderbolt recruits that just couldn't make the cut for stunt flying but still had the speed required to make it.

But while all that information was well and good, it sadly didn't leave any kind of paper trail to be followed. Comms sorted through hundred and hundreds of letters every week, so they wouldn't remember which letter when where, only that 'these letters were in this pile, and these letters were in this pile, so they could be sorted and taken to these places by the skiff.'

Oh well, that would have been helpful.

>>29624710
I wonder what happened to those messages that never saw the light of day. Also, how recent was his promotion?

>>29624710
Ask if not using the crane to move the gun like they should is a regular occurrence.

>>29624755
>>29624899
[Two sets of Dubs compel me... one last post before I crash out.]

You ask the Comms LCPO about his promotion. He got promoted at the start of the year, at the end of the Chief Petty Officer testing cycle, being rated quite highly on the board he did. He shares how angry he was when he discovered he was being sent to the Risen Glory. Apparently he used to be a lighthouse/air traffic communication jocky for Canterlot airspace, and his wife is stationed out there.

She's in the Royal Guard, and here he is, stuck in the northern flankcrack of Equestria, much to the sympathetic nods of the ponies around him.

You ask the Maintenance Master Chief about crane and why it hadn't been set up and he lets out a sigh, rubbing his forehead with a hoof.

"Long story short, ponies are skipping tasks or cutting corners because they simply don't have the time to do everything. We've been practically chained to our desks in order to do the paperwork so we can get the equipment we need to actually do maintenance, as well as ensure the colts n' fillies on this scow actually get paid and fed and have somewhere to sleep!"

No wonder that something like this would be a regular occurrence. Bad maintenance practices being given to new sailors who don't know any better, who teach newer sailors their bad habits, who teach newer-er sailors their bad habits, and so on.

And without having the experience and leadership of the Chiefs or even First Class Petty Officers standing there, supervising the tasking, you're surprised things have only gone this tits up right when you showed up.

>>29624972
Ask if there are any emergency supplies missing if so that should be the first thing we focus on getting in do we have all our firefighting supplies.

>>29624972
Gotta be some favours we can cash in or backchannel fuckery we can do to get that equipment

>>29625361
>>29626074
You turn and question the Damage Control and Firefighting Chiefs. Thankfully, all of their equipment is on hoof and calibrated. It's just maintenance equipment and the medical equipment that's gone missing.

Which is a blessing, one less thing to worry about.

You think over the many favors and debts you're owned by various ponies from the boat's you've worked on/with, but unfortunately, nothing that could get you supplies any quicker then dealing with the inspectors the princesses are probably going to send down to collect a listing of what's missing and take your report and search the boat for clues.

You finish your completely uninteresting meal. Trouble with Galley food- you can never remember if you actually ate or not because it's so bland. Oh well, you feel full, so that'll do. Shouldn't be much else to do here, but you decide to spend a few more moments chatting and searching your mind to see if you have any more questions for the Chiefs at this point in time.

>>29626227
Ask if there have been a lot of fights breaking out.

>>29626280
You pose one last question, this one to the Security LCPO, asking about fights among the crew.

The Chief shakes their head and informs you that while the crew has been stressed out, outside of the 'fight club' that took place in the training rooms that wore proper safety equipment, nopony had to be detained in the last two years... well, outside of the Ensign.

With that, you decide to take your leave, bidding the Chief's a good night as you start to make your way back to your cabin.

>>29626325
Lets go to bed we certaintly were not expecting to be sleeping here.but we better get used to it.

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Bedtime

>>29626461
>>29627060
>>29629363
You step into your cabin and shake out your mane and tail as you undo the braid and thongs with your aura, letting out a slow breath.

You're exhausted, and you know that you've barely even started.

But you need to sleep. It's been a long, long day.

You consider the time before digging through your seabag and pulling out one of the first thing you ever made, what gave you your cutie mark.

A little wood and steel alarm clock with intricate gears.

You muse at it for a few short moments before gently winding it up and setting the alarm, ignoring the scorch marks and the slightly warped metal.

You also also ignore the picture you know is hidden in the back of the clock, and climb into your rack, letting out a little groan before finally allowing yourself to relax, your saber gently settled on the other side of you, hidden from view.

Tomorrow... is another day.

Good Night.

>>29630417
Is this supposed to be a prompt because if so it is the weakest prompt I have ever seen.

Wake up in the morning I suppose.

>>29630417
Best I can come up with is "dream of pleasantly lewd things"

Dream of excessive hoof holding and being warmly embraced bump

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>>29630417

File: Mare-y-Fair.png (1KB, 128x128px) Image search: [Google]

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~???????~
Fire.

Fire everywhere.

You're galloping so hard, you almost feel like the wood is splintering beneath your hooves.

It is.

You're flying through the house in Lower Canterlot.

You ignore the pictures as you see them fly by.

Happy memories of better days.

The pictures ignite and are turned to ash.

The hallway you're charging down is burning hotter and hotter as you gallop down it.

Almost there. Almost there. Almost there. Almost there. Almost there.

You can save them.

You have to save them.

Just... need... to run... faster...

FASTER!

You burst through the very very long hallway and shoulder through the door only to skid on something wet.

You slam into the floor and skid a bit, bumping into something still warm.

You open your eyes and see blue eyes like yours gazing right back at you.

"Why... couldn't you protect us Fair? You promised... you broke your promise."

You look around frantically- Blood. You're covered in blood.

Your alarm rings.

... Alarm?
--------
~HRMS Risen Glory, Fair Wind's Cabin- 0600~

You resist the urge to bolt up in your bed or consider the tears on your pillow.

Funny, haven't had that nightmare in a while.

You shiver, feeling unclean as you think about the blood that you went for a tumble in while you were dreaming.

You sigh, your long mane spilling over your shoulder as you get up, letting it darken your face for a moment and cover your eyes, letting out a slow breath.

You don't want to move... but you're going to need to get ready for the day eventually. Somehow.

You're not sure if you want to, not with the weight of your failure grinding into your shoulders.

>>29637932
Maybe we should use a few minutes to hug the pillow, calm down and relax.
Then we can get presentable, can't let anyone see us like this.

>>29638043
You groan, letting your head flop back onto your pillow.

A few moments pass before your drag the pillow around and curl around it a bit, taking shaky breaths.

Pathetic.

---------
~0615~

You roll out of bed, settling your hooves on the floor before your horn sparks up and your bed is swiftly and efficiently made perfect, with crisp 45% corners and inspection ready to the centimeter.

Of course, you're currently in a position where you don't really need to make your bed anymore, but it's the PRINCIPLE of the matter, damn it!

You glance out the porthole of your room and sigh at the slowly rising sun, enjoying a moment of the sunrise before you throw on your uniform, making sure to pull out your hoof-boots as well.

You have no doubt today is gonna be a long day, and you want to make sure that your hooves are protected.

Now that your dress, mane and tail braided and locked in their respective thong, and your boots are on and laced, you've got about thirty minutes to kill before the Galley opens up for breakfast.

You could stop by admin, try to seek out CMC Bellows who you have no doubt is awake, stop by the brig... you're awake, you might as well make use of your time.

>>29638211
I say the brig. I'm curious what motivated our burglar.

>>29638211
That gives me an idea maybe we should inspect the crews bedding later.
I would say stop by admin or maybe the brig, probably admin.

Bemp

>>29638424
>>29639250
You blink, tilting your head a bit.

You -did- find important documentation hidden under a mattress. It would be a good idea to inspect the crews bedding.

You nod your head. Berthing inspection. You can issue it during Cleaning Stations, get the whole chief's mess on it, to ensure there isn't anything hidden away.

Plus it's a surprise inspection, considering you just thought of it, so if somepony is hiding something, it'll be quickly found, so long as the Chiefs handle it properly.

You mentally add that to your 'to do' list as you stretch a bit, rolling your head from side to side before flicking your braid from over your shoulder so it's laying on your back before trotting out your door, making your way down to the fifth deck.

The Brig.

You step onto the deck and the MA's on duty quickly snap to attention. "ATTENTION ON DECK!"

There's only six ponies on the deck, plus the prisoner, and they all quickly brace up, turning their attentions to you.

You blink in surprise before you remember that you're the Skipper of the boat, which means you get the O6 and above honors, including having your presence announced. You resist the urge to shy away before speaking up. "At Ease, Gentleponies. How's the prisoner?"

A pony steps up, and a quick glance at his collar device tells you he's a Petty Officer First Class- E6, just a step below a Chief.

"MA1 Keys, Sir. Prisoner's been real loud, till we slapped a silencing spell on his cell. Demanding we let him free and that his father will hear about this." The petty officer says with a snort, obviously unimpressed

Oh really now? Looks like your original thoughts about him were just as accurate as you were considering before.

Well, 'Daddy dearest' won't save this poor sap now. The EUP Uniform Code of Military Justice would see to that.

The UCMJ was something that you swore to abide yourself to and uphold in every action you made, to ensure good order and discipline among the ranks. Time to find which.

>>29641822
Prideful and easily agitated, perhaps we should rile him up so he spills information?

>>29641822
That last paragraph seems incomplete.
Ask him why he did it and tell him he better speak up because the princesses themselves are interested in whats happening on this ship and he does not want to fuck with them.

>>29641857 >>29641962
You snort, a plan of action forming as you nod to the Master-at-Arms, who salutes before stepping back into a guard position at your side.

As you're about to step forwards, CMC Bellows steps into the room, calling a greeting to MA1, who nods in greetings before she falls in next to you.

"Good Morning Skipper. You have a plan?" She says, straight to the point.

You nod. "Just let me do the talking Master Chief."

You step forwards, CMC Bellows and MA1 following you as you move to the cell in the back of the brig, idly undoing the silencing spell.

"-uckwits, I'll have you all hung for- Oh. It's -YOU-."

Well, he seems to be in a pleasant mood.

"Good Morning, Prisoner Seventeen." You say flatly. Rank and Name are stripped from Ponies in the Brig, to signify exactly how badly they fucked up and also to show that rank means nothing when you're in the brig.

"Go fuck a colt, femcolt faggot." DL hisses at you, obviously not pleased to see your face.

You raise an eyebrow before sighing. "You're just digging yourself deeper and deeper with every word." You drawl out, tilting your head a bit. "I'm sure the Princesses will be very excited to hear every word."

His eyes widen a bit before narrowing, growling at you. "Please, as if a fucktoy like you has any authority. Go suck another dick and leave these matters to a real stallion."

You resist the urge to roll your eyes before you lean in a bit. "Prisoner Seventeen, this is your one, and only chance. You can cooperate, and work with us, and maybe, just maybe, you'll be able to go home to Daddy Dearest and suckle off his teat for the next few years and not have a dishonorable discharge slapped all over you, preventing you from ever being anything of value to Equestria ever again. Frankly, I've got more impotent things to worry about then the two-bit 'noble' that your dam should have swallowed. You're a spare, worthless and unimportant, and you have zero military discipline or order to yourself." (c)

>>29642012
You pace in front of the cell, enjoying the dumbfounded look on the orange pony's face as you do so.

"Tartarus, I'm going -easy- on you. I could call you out for a duel instead, take you by the flank and proceed to turn you inside out. Instead, I'm giving you a chance. A single opportunity to TELL ME what Captain Cross was up to, and what you were doing to assist them. This is your only opportunity for a plea bargain, Seventeen."

You turn, looking the pony straight in the eye. "I can Guarantee that Princess Luna will not be so kind. She doesn't suffer fools nor traitors lightly, and from what we can tell you're both. So unless you fancy a permanent stint on the Moon, you tell me what I need to know, and maybe I'll be able to talk her down to simply throwing your flank out of the Guard."

The pony is now cowering a bit, and you feel some grim satisfaction in the fear on his face.

"N-no! Please, NO! Not that!"

Bingo. That's a broken pony. Time to start pulling answers to some of the questions you've got about what's going on from him, not that you believe he knows that much.

So where to start... the copy of the blueprints and the dead-drop might be a good place to start, but if he was taking them somewhere, that would be good to find out as well, especially if that somewhere is also where Captain Cross and the rest of the AWOL officers are.

(f)

>>29642038
Most important thing to find out would be where was he planning to take those blueprints to, so we can set a trap there.
Might also wanna get him to give us captain Cross's location. Why did he decided to help Cross? Should warn him that should any of his information turns out to be false, there'll be consequences.

>>29642012
>"Go fuck a colt, femcolt faggot."
>not taunting us by telling us to go get fuck by a stallion like the slut we are

>>29642038
Ask why the captain did it.

>>29642090 >>29642143
"... I'm going to warn you right now, Seventeen... lying to me will have consequences far, far beyond your wildest imaginations. Remember how traitors are treated during wartime." You state almost casually, your voice tinged with steel.

The sack of shit in front of you gulps in fear before you speak up again. "So. Captain Cross. What is he doing, why is he AWOL?"

The prisoner shifts a bit before he hangs his head. "C-cross... He was working..." The prisoner shifts again before he blurts out, "He sold the designs to the Griffins! The pick up is in a week, a few miles away from here, that's all I know, I swear!"

Uh huh. You highly doubt that's all he knows, but how to push him on it?

>>29645230
A few miles in what direction exactly.

>>29645230
He was going to deliver those files somewhere. Also, that doesn't explain the sabotage.

>>29645418
>>29645419
"You're not helping me here Seventeen. I need numbers, places! Who's meeting you, where are you going? Do you -want- me to give a subpar briefing to the Princesses? That Moon-walk is getting closer and closer..." You say smoothly before Seventeen starts to panic.

"A few miles means -nothing- to me, Seventeen. Where were you going with the files?"

"F-feather and Claw Inn! In Griffinstone! That's all I know, PLEASE DON'T KILL ME!" The pathetic excuse for a officer shrieks in fear, making you flat face.

Griffonstone is a small fort/city near the Yakistani boarder. Which is really, really unhelpful because it's also distinct for being just slightly off of the Equestrian boarder, which makes it difficult to get to by a normal traveler.

"What about the sabotage? Why were tools and equipment stolen?" You ask, glaring at him.

The pony in the cage cowers from your glare, shivering a bit. "H-he said that the Risen Glory should have been put out of commission years ago. The other officers agreed so they took parts and equipment that would be wasted on the boat."

You frown deeply. Sure, the Risen Glory wasn't the newest airship, but she still had a place on the battlefield.

This is starting to sound worse and worse. The tenuous 'alliance' with both Yakistan and the Griffion Empire made Northern Equestria a particularly dangerous place to live sometimes, but also the first engagement area of a two-sided front if the two ever teamed up to attack Equestria.

The Risen Glory is a Battleship, one of the last in the world, with the biggest guns and the strongest armor. If someone or somepony is actively trying to sabotage it, then they're actively trying to weaken Equestria.

And make a hole where the Griffons and Yaks can slip right into Equestria and start taking and killing Equestrians.

You grit your teeth. Suddenly you're not sure if you want to keep personally interrogating this slimeball. Do you have any more questions?

>>29648974
Just one more, Is there anyone else on this ship working for Cross?

We should report this asap. Can we even do anything If those officers left the Equestrian borders?

Bump while I read

>>29648974
How did they keep supplies out.

>>29651163

>>29649011
>>29650168
"... How did 'Captain' Cross keep the supplies and equipment from getting to the boat?" You ask, fixing Prisoner Seventeen with a flat glare.

"T-the Material Control Officer, Quick Counting would cut them off at the docks! I don't know what they did afterwords!"

Hmmm. That's a lot of supplies to move around. The Material Control Officer is in charge of balancing the ship's budget and ensuring that supplies and equipment orders are fulfilled. Ten-to-one they were fudging the documentation as they worked with 'Captain' Cross to steal the gear.

You lean in a bit. "Last question scum. Is there anypony else working for the good 'Captain' on this ship?"

"N-no, we didn't want any of the lowborn involved and the scum that accompany them taints the highborn chiefs. That's all I know, I swear."

You snort softly at that. Nobles, the bucking idiots. You decide to leave a parting shot as you consider your next move. "I'm sure Princess Luna will be the judge of that. Good Day, Seventeen."

The pony blanches and goes pale again as the silencing spells are reapplied, and you trot away, frowning as you consider what you've been told.

If the traitors -did- run for the boarder, then your 'allies', as fair-weather as they may be, have to return them to Equestria, as part of the treaties.

It's looking bleak, and the first thing that pops into your head is the worst possible outcome from these traitorous actions.

War. A two front war with Yakistan and Griffonia, with only EUP Olympia standing in their way from piercing down through the northern boarder into the heart of Equestria, give or take a few forts along the way.

You rub your head. The Princesses can't get here soon enough, and you haven't even had a cup of coffee or gotten a response yet, and you need those reports.

Maybe breakfast would be a good place to start, or skipping to get the reports would be beneficial, or talking it out with CMC Bellows.

>>29653529
Search the material control officers working area and quarters

>>29653529
We should talk to Bellows, see what she thinks of the situation. Can we just talk to her during breakfast?

boop

>>29653529
Reports while we have breakfast. Time is of the essence.

>>29655436

>>29656749

>>29653536 >>29653565 >>29656066
You huff a bit and motion for Bellows to follow you. "Lets walk and talk. I still need to eat and I need those reports, do you have anything for me, Master Chief?"

The mare falls in with you as MA1 calls attention on deck as you step out in the P-Way, and you absently call for them to carry on as CMC Bellows follows you.

"Skipper, the reports are done. The full documentation was delivered to me about fifteen minutes before I joined you for your interrogation." She reports crisply, unfurling a wing with a large folder in it, holding it out for you before refolding it under her wing.

"I've yet to look through it myself, but I was hoping to discuss it with you." She says, looking at you questioningly.

You nod at the Shetlands Pegasus agreeably.

"We're going to be eating among the crew, so we'll have to keep it quite, but these are all maintenance reports, I take it?"

"Aye Skipper, no classified information. All the accounts and maintenance records are open to review, any member of the crew can have a look at them under the supervision of the LS's and YN's.

You nod. LS, Logistic Specialists, were the parts and materials crew members, ordering and requisitioning everything the crew needed from food to PPE, personal protective equipment, and Yeomen, YN's, handled all the paperwork of the boat, from Maintenance Records to Personal Information, and more.

Every bit of information had to go through them, so everything had a paper trail. Anything that wasn't there would be a very important clue as to what 'Captain' Cross and his flunkies did to the Risen Glory.

You soon arrive at the Galley, and move to the head of the line with CMC Bellows in tow, much to the awe of many of the sailors lined up for their morning chow.

All of the crew had heard what you said at the Captain's Call last night, and saw you, but so few have met you, or seen you in your working uniform. No wonder they were a little surprised to see you. (C)

>>29659876
You smile kindly at them before ordering your breakfast, a large omelette with all the fixings, CMC Bellows following in suit.

You're gonna need all the energy for what you're doing today, you have no doubt.

Finally, you sit down at a table with CMC Bellows and start to eat, Bellows following in kind as she unfurls the wing to you again, passing the folder with you grasp with your aura and open, starting to read through it.

As you read, you notice that several of the tables around you have filled up, including your table, several ponies of varying rank, from a Seaman Recruit to a Petty Officer First Class, all sitting around you.

They're all eating, but slowly. They look a little nervous.

Maybe you should say something to get them all to loosen up?
[Prompt- Say something to relax the crew, if you can't come up with something to say, back the poster who's suggestion you like the most]

>>29659913
Just assure them that you are making progress and the problems on this ship will soon start to be fixed.

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>>29659953

>>29659953
[Not... quite the response I was hoping for, so I guess the Dialog prompts aren't coming back.]

You smile at the crew, giving them a warm nod. "Good Morning Risen Glory. Don't mind me, just relax. I'm not here to rant and rave at you all or give any speeches. I want to get to know my crew so we can continue to make progress on the problems that seem to be plaguing our ship so we can return to being the forefront of Equestria's military might, as we should be."

That earns you a few smiles and the crew relaxes a little bit and the mess deck is soon full of it's normal morning chatter, talk about this and that and complaining about this problem or that, the usual routine.

You nod before returning your attention to CMC Bellows, who gives an approving nod of her own before she gestures to the reports.

You read through them and note that a lot of the issues that are currently keeping the Risen Glory in dry-dock are mostly minor issues, plus the broken gun.

A key problem that has 'resolved' marked on it is the compressor for one of the float-gas pumps. Apparently it broke twice, once after a brand new piece was put in, but the one that broke was repaired by... CMC Bellows and installed? Interesting.

Could be worth looking into, maybe that'll give you more of an idea of what could be causing all of these little maintenance problems that aren't getting resolved, but what specifically to ask her, if anything?

It's a resolved problem, so in the end it might not be worth looking into at all, and you can move on to other issues. To ask or not to ask...

>>29665365
We should try to get details about how it was broken. Could help us at identifying what else was specifically sabotaged. Also, it's possible some thing are sabotaged in a way that would make them break later.

>>29665365
May as well look into it.

[Not a update, just bumping for survival because I can't make an actual update till later.]

>>29667184

>>29665418
>>29665452
You hum before leaning in, looking to CMC Bellows. "Master Chief, what happened with the float gas cryo separator? It says here that the compressor has failed..." You turn a page. "Three times in the last few months."

The Pegasus nods. "Aye, The compressor shattered, started spittin’ fanblades out and into the ballistic safety blanket..." She frowns. "Twice. In almost the exact same way."

You lean forwards, frowning a bit. "I know the damn things are stressed four ways out since Celestia’s birth, but they’re designed to handle that. Second failure was a new unit right?”

A pained look from the Chief. “As was the one before, Skipper. The first went bad on the cold side bearing, but she was near rated life, and I had the replacement in hoof for swapout.”

You feel your blood run cold in sudden worry. "Master Chief, what's running in the Fart Room right now?"

CMC Bellows looks at you as if she expects you to burst into flames for calling the Lift Gas plant the nickname that the Engineers have for it, even though you used it yesterday.

“Nae tae worry, Sir. I rebuilt the original unit. Had some liquid nitrogen in a dewar, cold-soaked the old bearing,verrrytiny tap with a ball peen, out she comes. No cracks in the housing, so I’s soak the new one, drop ‘er in with a placement chuck, warm ‘er up slow as she seated. When that other dry humpin’ son of a rig blew, already had her ready, though I need a new pair. Tae others are manure on toast. Beggin’ the Chief’s pardon, Sir.”

You blink a few times before smirking at Bellows. "No shit. You went to Fart School, and now I -really- believe it."

You mentally jot a note to add two compressors to the list of 'supplies the boat needs' before continuing your conversation.

(c)

>>29668097
“Aye. Can’t learn that from correspondence. Cracked two housings, meself, ‘fore I got the hang. Unis had it easy, can hold onto the bearing with Magic instead o’ special tools as she warms and seats tight." Bellows says, giving a slightly humble grin before her smirk hardens. "O'course, I been doing this since ye were in nappies and started wearing makeup."

You roll your eyes and chuckle when one of the sailors near you chimes in. "Sir? What's... Fart School?"

You and Bellows blink and turn to look at Seaman Apprentice Shanty, who's ears are perked up in attention and her eyes wide. She and a few of her friends are sitting next to you and Bellows and intently listening in. You mentally shrug- you've come this far.

“Gas Cryogenic and Applied Materials School. Cryo is a very specialized field, Shanty. Tolerances that would drive a Machinist’s Mate insane within two hours. The liquid nitrogen the Chief was talking about starts to boil off at 320 degreesbelowzero. Side products of manufacturing lift gas, though this has its uses. This doesn't leave the table, but how much does the Doc pay for a dewar nowadays, Bellows?” You say, giving Bellows a side glance.

She blanches, “Sir, I’dnever…”

“Don’t shit me, Chief Of the Boat; I told you that. Every pony worth a scrounge has a hoof in with the Doc for skin lesion treatment. Hundred bits or so now?”

Bellows is flushed red, rubbing the back of her neck as she speaks up. “Down to eighty. Erryponey can get nitrogen in port. Bit different on the float.”

You grin leaning back in amusement. "Helped me pay for my post-secondary before I got serious about going officer."

Shanty and her friends giggle and you look at them with a warm smile. "Just remember what I said, that doesn't leave the table. I want my ponies able to complete there post-secondaries as well, yeah?"

"Aye Sir!"
(c)

>>29668140
You nod at the group before looking back to Bellows and then glancing down at your plate, realizing you've been absentmindedly eating your omelette this whole time. You sigh a bit- as important as the investigation was, you were kind of enjoying being able to talk to another Engineer about actual jobs and techniques, not having to worry about being a proper gentlestallion or running a boat.

But you've got to get back to work just like everypony else does.

"Thank you for your time CMC. I'm pretty sure I need to find Lt. Wilko and find out what exactly happened with that working party yesterday, and inspect the pieces of the gun." You say, nodding to Bellows who smirks at you before she gets up herself. "Aye Skipper. Have a good day."

You leave the mess deck in thought, considering the reports.

So far you're on track to fixing the boat, but those compressors failing as quickly as they did, on the same side at that, makes you think it wasn't an equipment failure.

But to know for sure... you're going to need to look at a few things for yourself.

You open the reports again, finding the maintenance record for the gun yesterday: Preventative maintenance against sheering, metal rub, and corrosion after one of the bearings was found sheared off, needing a replacement bearing and new grease. No wonder they had the gun barrel abeam.

You consider the report, wondering if you should lay into that as soon as possible with Lt. Wilko, or maybe if you should get to know your fellow officer. You need to know your command team, and Doc unfortunately doesn't count, as his orders are only really effective in the Medical Bay or during Medical Emergencies. Work... or personal life?

>>29668191
We better check out the gun.

>>29668191
Knowing him a bit better could help us get the info we're looking for. Off topic stories might even turn up a couple leads.

[Bump yet again. Sorry, few players that I have that may be eagerly awaiting updates? There's going to be more, but it's gonna take me some time. Expect at minimum one post before the end of the 15th.

Also, if you could break the tiebreaker between talking to Lt. Wilko or looking into the actual Gun, which would you all prefer?]

>>29672185
+1 vote for >>29668303

>>29669139