Dirty Work (Thread 31)

>>29775567
[sweating]

>>29775567
[Worry intensifies]

>>29684569
>>29684579
>>29684599
>>29684610
>>29685097
>You shake your head, tears dripping onto Tally's chest.
>It wasn't supposed to go this way at all.
"I-I'm sorry Tally, it's all true. I tried to compartmentalize it. T-Twitch was the name I made up, it was all her doing the bad stuff... Twitch did what she was told, Twitch did all those jobs because she "had to." Twitch was the criminal, and when I got home every night, I got to be Sharp again. B-but recently, something clicked, I realized that there never was a Twitch, it was me who did all that stuff. I just lied to myself to feel better. I was just doing what I was told, I did these things because I had to."
>You bury your head for a second before continuing.
>But it doesn't solve anything.
>You burst out with emotion, bawling into Tally's chest.
"I-I don't want to be a bad pony Tally. I-I don't want to be a criminal, I don't want to be Twitch! I just want to be the same old Sharpie. T-The Sharpie who loves you."
>But even as the words come out, you find yourself horrified to feel a small bit of doubt in that statement.
>Because Twitch, you, were enjoying yourself in the act of those misdeeds.
>It's only with hindsight you feel like this, and as you stare down at your hooves, you feel sickened.
>Can you even trust yourself?
>Still quivering, you push through the guilt and self doubt to keep going.
>The words echo in your mind.
>Keep going.

>>29775782
"I-I'm so, so sorry I didn't tell you in the beginning, when you asked if I had gotten myself in to deep. I-I just felt ashamed, scared, sad, I-I don't know! I built up a web of lies to hide from you, h-hide from myself too! So many nights I'd stumble home sad, crying, or exhausted, and you were the only thing that made it bearable Tally. Kept me going. I-I really couldn't have gone on if I didn't have you to come home to every night. To cuddle, to cook for, to curl up and listen to the radio with. I-I can't go back to lying anymore Tally, I can't do that to you. I-I can't do it to myself. I-I love you too much…"
>You trail off, dejected.
"If you hate me now, I understand. But please don't hate me Tally, please."
>Tally looks on with an expression of tender, unfathomable hurt.
>”I don’t hate you Sharp, a-and I don’t think I can ever stop loving you either…”
>She stammers, still trying to make sense of everything you’ve dumped upon her.
>”All the time we’ve spent together, through thick and thin. I just feel—“
>She slams a hoof into the grass.
>”I-I don’t know. Betrayed. Deceived. Is the Sharp I knew just fiction? All those times I asked if you were okay, all the times you lied… Can I even trust you now?"
>Her voice rises towards hysterics, a pained wail of sorrow interspersed with labored whimpers.
>"Even if you were just doing it to make me happy, or hide from yourself, that’s not how a relationship works! You share things, you work out problems together!"
>She pleads to nobody in particular, then goes silent for a long time.
>”Why didn’t you just tell me… W-Why.”

>>29775789
>Through your tears you try to make eye contact, pull her close.
>Something to connect with her, comfort her, comfort yourself.
>But she merely sobs and turns her back to you, shrugging off your hooves and covering her face.
>You feel the last of her warmth start to fade, when she first broke away from your embrace, and you start to notice just how cold it is tonight.
>After a little while, Tally stands shakily and listlessly starts to wander back towards the path you took to enter the park.
>She says nothing as she goes.

>input action

>>29775853
All we can really do is follow her home and try to make up for it, make it up to her.

>>29775853
We should stay here a while and give her some space.

>>29775888
Sure

>>29775888
This

Sorry folks, out getting lunch. Should be back with hopefully rapid-fire update speed after that.

>>29775888
>>29776080
>>29776106
>You stay behind in the park, sobbing and sniffling in a little ball.
>You tell yourself it's to keep warm, but even that you're unsure about.
>After a while, Tally's silvery red fur disappears behind the hills and you plant your cheek into the grass.
>You feel spent.
>Emotionally and physically, like an empty shell.
>Hollow.
>It almost feels like you're looking down at yourself, a shivering, weeping little mare, from some place far and distant from Canterlot Park.
>When you finally shift to look back up at the sky, the moon is well past its apex, and you feel an immense sense of weariness.
>At least the crying's stopped.

>input action

>>29776702
We should probably get some sleep. Tomorrow is a big day.

>>29776771
>You sigh and stumble to your hooves.
>Sleep.
>You start to wander back over the hills, until you eventually reach the path back home.
>The park is empty now, as are the streets leading back to your apartment.
>You trudge up the stairs, heart straining to go on with every step.
>But you keep going.
>Up and up, keys jingle and you stumble back inside your apartment and collapse to the floor.
>Why go on?
>A voice asks inside your head.
>After awkwardly pulling yourself back to your hooves, you mope over to the bedroom and pop your head inside.
>Tally is awake, moonlit eyes staring blankly towards the ceiling.
>She shifts slightly as she notices your presence, but doesn't say anything.

>input action

>>29776900
Good night, Tally. Hope you sleep well.
Time for couch bed.

>>29776987
This.

COUCHED

>>29776987
I'll sleep on the couch tonight.

>>29776987
>>29776990
>>29777009
"Good night Tally. Hope you sleep well."
>You stammer, then hang your head.
"I'll sleep on the couch tonight."
>You say as you trot away, no response coming from the bedroom.
>Everything feels awful.
>You're too tired and broken to even want to wash up tonight, instead making for a beeline for the couch and collapsing upon it.
>It feels a lot different without someone else to cuddle with.
>Quickly, you realize you forgot the covers back in the bedroom, and shiver in the cold as you try to settle in for the night.
>It's a restless night, to say the least.

>You wake with a start in the morning, mane a mess, eyes sore and freezing cold.
>After tumbling off the couch and shakily getting to your hooves, you look about the apartment.
>The clock tells you it's nine, still have three hours until your big day starts.

>input action

>>29777128
Become showing pone.

>>29777128
Guess we might as well get ready. Go through the motions of showering, eating, all that.

>>29777128
Shower and make breakfast.

>>29777206
>>29777219
>>29777236
>You rub your eyes and huff, going through the motions again.
>You decide breakfast first today, don't want to risk getting dirty after taking a shower on your big day.
>You make a bowl of cereal and some toast, then trot to the shower and let yourself go.
>It's refreshing, the hot water cascading through your mane down your fur.
>Washes the matted fur under your eyes away, washes the memories of last night away, at least for a little while.
>After you get out, you brushie up your teeth and mane before braiding up and staring into the mirror.
>Your eyes are still a little red, and there's deep bags underneath them, and you can't seem to pull your lips to make a smile.
>Your eyes stray towards a certain drawer, and you take a deep gulp.

>input action

>>29777346
I would vote to take the gun, but then again we WANT to get arrested. If things go wrong a gun wont defuse the situation, only escalate it further. They really should have just given us a taser or something.

>>29777346
>>29777396
Probably this, yeah.

>>29777346
If we take the gun we'll lose it when the police take us in.

>>29777396
>>29777526
>After a second, you shake your head and trot out of the bathroom.
>A gun would cause more trouble then it'd solve today, and you're not looking for trouble.
>So after that, you trot into the livingroom and look out the window.
>Cloudless sky, sun up high.
>It's prospecting to be a really nice day outside.
>Really is a shame you'll be spending it getting arrested.
>You turn back around to find Tally slouching out of the bedroom with her head cast down.
>She spares a quick look at you before sighing and walking into the kitchen.

>input action

>>29777610
Let's make her some breakfast or something before we head out.

>>29777610
Today will hopefully be my last day working for the laugh. Wish me luck.

>>29778040
>>29778046
>You follow her into the kitchen and give her a sheepish grin.
>She doesn't see it, focused intently on grabbing a box of cereal and pouring it for herself.
>To help out, you slip some toast into the toaster and take a seat with her at the dining table.
>She pokes at her corn flakes melancholily and looks at you with tired eyes, still saying nothing.
>After a deep breath, you break the silence.
"Today will hopefully be my last day at the Laugh. Wish me luck."
>You say quietly, and Tally nods.
>In a shaky and hesitant voice, she responds with,
>"I'm glad. Be safe."
>And returns to poking her food.

>input action

>>29778300
I will Tally.

I dunno how, but I'll find some way to regain your trust. I promise.

>>29778326
"I will Tally."
>You nod, then sit back in your chair.
>After a moment, you put a hoof to her shoulder.
>She jumps, then looks to you with wide eyes.
"I don't know how, but I'll find some way to regain your trust. I-I promise."
>Tally bites her lip, then tentatively moves a hoof to touch yours.
>"I-I really hope so Sharpie, because right now, I'm feeling a bit lost."
>She mumbles.

>input action

>>29778493
The Sharpie you knew wasn't a lie, I can promise you that...

I hope your day goes alright, Tally.

>>29778574
"The Sharpie you knew wasn't a lie, I can promise you that too."
>You nod with determination, and she forces a chuckle as she turns away.
>"I-I hope so."
>She mumbles, and your ears fall back against your head as you retreat to nurse your wounded heart.
"Have a good day."
>You mumble, and she nods back solemnly.
>"You too Sharp."
>After an awkward pause, you remove your hoof from her shoulder and shift uneasily in your seat.

>input action

>>29778791
Guess we should go to work, then.

File: PicsArt_04-01-12.59.13.jpg (53KB, 748x521px) Image search: [Google]

53KB, 748x521px

>>29775567

>>29778804
this

>>29778804
>>29778979
>You say nothing as you leave, merely give her a wave as you walk out the front door.
>On the walk to work, things start to come tumbling down again.
>It starts with worrying about Tally.
>What if she doesn't come home today?
>If she just abandons you, can't take it anymore?
>She wouldn't do that, would she?
>And from there, the next logical conclusion is it being your fault.
>The jobs, the ponies you hurt, for what feels like the millionth time it runs through your head, and it stings just as much as it did the first time.
>Job.
>Work.
>You're heading into work today.
>For the last time.
>It's a funny feeling, knowing your doom and willingly walking into it.
>And there's something darkly humorous about the best case scenario being getting arrested today.
>Worst case, well...
>You don't want to think about that.
>As you come around the corner to The Laugh, you suddenly feel a little lightheaded.
>Over the past few weeks, you'd been waiting for this day with an odd sense of excitement and fear.
>For good or worse, everything ends today.

Tomorrow, I'm hoping to start wrapping Sharpie's story up. For realsies. Cheers folks.

>>29779237
Cheers mate, see you tomorrow.

22 hour bump

I had fun today

>>29779665

>>29781101

>>29781710

>>29782080

>>29782766

>>29783414

>>29783886

>>29784700

>>29779237

Well if we come across as sort of out of it during the meeting, at least we have the cover of not having slept well and having relationship issues; it'll help cover up our nervousness and keep them from getting suspicious that something's going down.

>>29785346
Should we go so far as to tell them that we confessed to Tally? We could chalk it up to private relationship issues.

>>29785773
Not into specifics. Those wouldn't matter and we'd be expected to keep personal issues at home anyway.

>>29785773

I don't see any need to, that might just make them more nervous that something might go wrong. Better to be having normal relationship problems without seeming unprofessional.

>>29785773
That sounds like a nice way to pin the blame on Tally.

>>29785263

>>29786944

I'm glad the quest didn't run today because I was super busy and would have missed the whole ending.

>>29787517

>>29788784

>>29789646

>>29790302

>The cool air of the Laugh rushes out as you pull open the door and trot inside.
>It's a rather busy morning today, with almost the entire bar and most of the tables filled.
>Odd, but not uncommon.
>Just a bit unfortunate on a day like this.
>A particular group of suited ponies sticks out to you, occupying a corner table and surveying the customers with interest.
>They look like they might be a band, a few have instrument cases, and one seems to be eyeing the stage with interest.
>Their eyes aren't on you, so you trot over behind the bar and into the back room.
>Things are hustling and bustling there too, as usual.
>A few are playing cards, others lounging around, a few in line to speak with Main.
>You barge past the group into Provvie's office, where she sits unoccupied.
>She gives you an uneasy look as you walk in, then peers through her front window.
>"So... Looking like it'll be a bit of an interesting day. Sleep well?"

>input action

>>29792491
No. I'm ready to get this over with though.

>>29792491

No, rough night last night. Don't worry about me though.

>>29792598
>>29792616
"No, rough night..."
>You sigh,
"Don't worry about me though, I'm ready to get this over with."
>She nods,
>"Neither did I really... Too much worrying about all this. Nevertheless, we're here."
>She then stands.
>"So we've got a little while to prepare for before the two come in. I assume you've got a plan to keep them occupied once they come in, and from there..."
>She trails off.
>"Well, we both know what happens after that. Just have to wing it from there. Drachma's known for being punctual, so I wouldn't doubt him arriving just a few minutes before noon. Switch will probably show up early, so I hope you can think of something to keep her busy while we wait for Drach. Additionally, do either of them know the other is stopping by?"

>input action

Sorry to yank your chains, but something just came up. Should be back in an hour or two. Cheers.

>>29792738
No they don't. You think that might be a problem?

>>29792738
Switch should be aware Drachma is coming. I mentioned him being involved.

>>29792882
>>29792924
"No, they don't. Switch might be aware because I mentioned it off the cuff, but I'm not sure. You think that might be a problem?"
>She strokes her chin.
>"Not necessarily... At least I hope not. Worst I can think of is them being a bit more suspicious. I don't know if the two have ever met in pony actually, despite the amount of work they've done together."
>She sighs.
>"Whatever, can't worry about it now. Got any last minute preparations? And ah..."
>She motions towards your saddle-bagless self.
>"Guessing you didn't bring the gun, eh?"

>input action

>>29793577
I didn't think it would be a good idea. It shouldn't be needed and the only things I could use it for would mean actually going to jail.

>>29793577
No. I thought it best to leave it behind, knowing what I'll be going through today.

>>29793624
>>29793796
"I didn't think it'd be a good idea. It shouldn't be needed, and the only things I could use it for would mean actually going to jail."
>Provvie chuckles darkly.
>"Well, technically not thanks to the contract we negotiated, but I understand what you mean."
>After a brief pause, she then stands.
>"Goody. Now, my plan is to get things prepped upstairs for the meeting. Papers, seats, and alerting a few of the ponies I supposedly had slated for the job. Except Nel, called in sick again..."
>She then raises an eyebrow and smirks.
>"Now you wouldn't have anything to do with that, would you?"

>input action

>>29793844
Maybe.

>>29793844

Well, Nel's an intuitive girl, I suppose it's always possible she picked up on something despite my best efforts...

>>29793844
I like Nel. Glad she's out of the way today. As for those ponies, you think you could have them head to the bar first? I think an informal meetup would be a great way to kill time with Switch if she's early.

>>29793888
>>29793896
>>29793911
"Well, she's an intuitive girl, I suppose it' always possible she picked up on something despite my best efforts."
>You smirk, and Provvie laughs.
"Anyway, I like Nel. Glad she's out of the way today. As for those ponies, think you could send them to the bar first? I think an informal meetup would be a great way to kill time if Switch."
>Provvie lights up.
>"Hey, not bad! I'll make sure to do that, if you want to go sit out there. Any last thoughts before we split?"

>input action

>>29793998
Uh, you want a code word maybe? In case something is wrong?

>>29794024
"How about a code word? In case something goes wrong?"
>She nods.
>"Solid idea. Something we can actually use in normal conversation, but not something we'd ever say unless the situation needed it, as any out of place sentences might garner suspicion... Beautiful sound good? I'm not sure, can't think of much off the top of my head."

>input action

>>29794065
Sure, beautiful works.

>>29794069
"Sure, beautiful works."
>You say as you trot towards the door.
>"Goody. And I'll have some of your "colleagues" right out."
>She winks as she follows after you, and you make your way back to the bar.
>Shortly after your arrival, two stallions and a mare pop out from the back, looking about, then one points to you and the triplet walks over to you.
>The stallions are blue and grey respectively, with a white and a black mane.
>The mare is pretty short, even shorter than you, and is yellow with a red, sleek mane.
>One of the stallions takes a seat, calls the others over and grins.
>"So, you're Twitch then? Think we'll be your getaway drivers!"
>He then gives the mare a noogie, and she scrunches up,
>"And this here might be your radio operator! Say hi, sweetie."
>She rolls her eyes before extending a hoof.
>"Those two are Brite and Overtake, and I'm Click."
>The first stallion barges in again and grins,
>"Brite, charmed. Anyway, why exactly were we called out here?"

>input action

>>29794241
Nothing official. Just a little informal time beforehand that we can use to get to know each other.

>>29794241
We'll be talking about a job in a little while. For now though I thought we could have a little informal meeting. Make some introductions and the like. I'm pretty sure we're just waiting on one more now, so feel free to relax for a little while.

>>29794282
>>29794345
"Well, we'll be talking about the job shortly, so I thought we could have an informal meeting. Make some introductions and the like. Pretty sure we're just waiting on one, so feel free to relax a while."
>They nod and settle in, ordering from the bar before striking up chat.
>Brite quickly scoots over to you and asks,
>"So, my name's Brite, and I drive criminals around for a living."
>He says with just the lightest hint of a smirk.
>"What exactly do you do around here? You seem to be..."
>He looks you up and down.
>"Well, I wouldn't expect it, but you seem to be someone of importance."

>input action

>>29794849
I used to do subterfuge and social work, but I've been working my way up into management recently.

>>29794849
I'm pretty sure a good criminal doesn't look like one. I'm usually working on information gathering. Decided to make the move into managing.

>>29794882
>>29794896
"Well, I'm pretty sure good criminals usually don't look like them. I used to do subterfudge and social work, and I've been working my way up into management recently."
>He nods.
>"Ah, neat! Sounds like fun, least, more fun then sitting in a carriage and waiting around for possibly hours on end."
>He then nods to the bartender as he grabs a cup of coffee.
>"You want anything? I can cover the cost, considering you'll be paying me later anyway."
>He chuckles.

>input action

>>29795034
Sure, I'll have a coffee thanks.

>>29795034
A coffee would be nice.

Watch the drink. We have much cause to be cautious today.

>>29795055
>>29795065
"Sure, why not."
>You shrug as he orders one from the bartender.
>After it brews, he passes it to you and sighs.
>"So uh... Outside work, what's your life like? Friends, hobbies, the like. Personally, I live with Click, so we spend a lot of time doing stuff together."

>input action

>>29795160
I live in a little apartment with my marefriend. In general, I'm a very organized mare. Cooking, cleaning, the radio. That's my kind of stuff.

>>29795160
>>29795202

May as well tack on that we're having relationship trouble, might get some advice or at least sympathy. Avoid mentioning the reason for it though.

>>29795272
Not a bad idea.

>>29795202
>>29795272
>>29795277
"I live in a little apartment with my marefriend. I'm organized, I like cooking, cleaning, the radio. That's my kind of stuff."
>He nods.
>"Ah, so you're the type that likes to take it slow. I get that. Not really my style, I prefer a night on the town to staying home, but I understand what you mean."
>You nod.
"Having some relationship troubles at the moment, so that's a bit distracting, but outside that, things are going well."
>He shakes his head.
>"Ah, that's no fun. Hope you end up working things out with her. She also work in this business?"
>He asks nervously.

>input action

>>29795433
She does not.

>>29795441
"She doesn't."
>And he nods.
>"Ah, that's good. Something I often worry about finding love in this business, if one of you gets mad and turns the other in out of spite..."
>He shrugs.
>"Eh, can just turn into a load of other nastiness. Glad you're not in that situation."
>He then takes a long slurp of his coffee, and somepony behind you ruffles your mane.
>"Hiya Twitch!"
>A rather feminine voice says, and you turn around to spy a grinning Switch, who takes a seat next to you.
>"Out at the bar, eh? Busy day around here."
>Brite points and asks,
>"This our plus one?"
>And you nod.
"Indeed!"
>You declare, and after some more introductions, settle back into pleasant conversation.
>"So these the guys I'll be meeting with today?"
>She asks with a nudge,

>input action

>>29795565
Sure are! These are Brite and Overtake, our drivers, and Click, our radio mare.

>>29795565
Yup, this is them. Figured we'd get to know each other a little first.

>>29795598
>>29795613
"Sure are! These are Brite and Overtake, our drivers, and this is Click, supposedly who'll be the mare in your ear. Figured we could all use a chance to get to know each other."
>Switch grins and shakes with all of them.
>"Awesome! It's a pleasure to meet you all!"

>The chat goes pretty well!
>When time start to turn towards noonish, everyone leaves in a great mood, and full of different brunch foods.
>You lead everyone upstairs and into the meeting room, where Provvie stands outside and pulls you aside.
>"Sorry mares and stallions, give us just a moment!"
>She says as she takes you downstairs.
>Once there, she pulls you to a corner.
>"Okay, bit of a wrench in our plan, and not one I think will end well. I believe Drach's bodyguards are here, and telling him they need to go would going to look super, super suspicious. Plus, the fact he didn't alert us about them probably meant he didn't want us to know anyway. So things might get loud, alright?"
>She whispers rather nervously, and you suddenly notice a thin leather strap around her hind leg.

>input action

>>29795822
Alright. We just have to trust that our ponies will get their jobs done today, and that we don't get caught in the crossfire.

>>29795822
Not great, but manageable. It's not going to be us dealing with it if they resist. If things get loud we'll be getting out of the way.

>>29795864
>>29795890
"Not great, but manageable. It won't be us they're dealing with if they resist. And if things get loud, we'll be getting out of the way anyhow."
>She nods and shudders.
>"I know, I know... I just worry. Might get chaotic. Lots of ponies are packing around here, and I thought you deserved the heads up. Just get up there and keep them busy. Drach should be here soon."
>She says as she trots towards her office.
>"If you do need me, just excuse yourself real quick and grab me. I'll be down here shredding... Sensitive documents."

>input action

Last post for the night. Thanks for playing/reading. Should be back tomorrow for another session. Might be able to finish the whole shebang before the week is out, but who knows. Cheers!

>>29796051
Head back to the meeting room.

Sorry guys, something came up but it's not important now.

>>29796680
What are we going to the meeting room for?

Bumpo

>>29797022
That's where everyone is right? Or should we be doing something else.

>>29798079
You mean the bar?

>>29798090
Nah, we moved on from the bar. We're moving on to an actual meeting room now, to brief everyone on the job.

>>29798900

>>29799659

>>29800157

>>29796680
>You turn away and head up to the meeting room, entering with a confident smile.
>Additionally, doing your best to hide as much of your nervous shaking as possible.
"Sorry guys, something came up, but it's not important right now."
>You say suavely as you take a seat and steeple your hooves before looking about the table.
>"So, small meeting for today..."
>Switch muses, then turns to you and whispers under her breath,
>"So you mentioned you were looking for management help before... Ever led a meeting?"

>input action

>>29801022
No, but I did lead an argument about the pay for one. Can't be too different.

>>29801022
Not exactly. I've moderated disagreements mostly.

>>29801042
"No, but I did guide a couple ponies through an argument about their pay once. Can't be too different."
>You shrug, and she nods.
>"Ah, gotcha. Guess you won't need much coaching."
>She then turns back and clops her hooves together,
>"So, seeing as we have our getaway drivers here today, I think a good start would be to talk about entry and exit."
>She declares as she pulls some papers out of her saddlebags and sets them down on the table.
>"Unless you had other ideas, eh Twitch?"

>input action

>>29801185
Thats fine. We need to work out the best possible parcing spots first. Then we talk about the initial approach and the actual getaway. Last some details like the cars we are using and a emergency route.

>>29801185
Sure, it's a good starting point. She seems to have some material of her own too. Does she want to start with that? We're better off planning around her take on the location.

>>29801266
>>29801311
"Sure, it's a good starting point. You do seem to have some material yourself, so would you like to start with that? You're the one going in, so whatever you're comfortable with."
>She nods.
>"I'm happy to start!"
>She grins before putting forth a map of the building and starting to gleefully point out entrances and exits.
>"Here, we've got the front, which I think will be rather guarded but considering my cover as a cleaning-mare it might be an option. And of course we've got the side entrances for the servants, and..."
>Her voice slowly starts to trail away as she drones on about each and every nook and cranny of the place, along with careful consideration with each of their advantages and disadvantages.
>A lot of work for an imaginary job.
>You almost feel sorry.
>Yet as her voice fades, nervousness replaces it.
>Every bump in the building, it's the police setting up the raid, every small tap on the table is a gunshot in your mind.
>On the outside, you keep cool, these past few months have taught you that at least.
>But on the inside, you're screaming in terror.
>A bead of sweat runs down your forehead, your mouth is dry and you start to feel a little lightheaded.
>To distract yourself, you try to work yourself back into the conversation, but a knock on the door makes you jump out of your skin in fright.
>To hide your trepidation, you quickly hop up and ease it open to a rather tense Drachma.
>"This is where we're meeting, right?"
>He asks, still unsure even seeing you in front of him.

>input action

>>29801878
I'm glad you could make it, Drachma. This is the right place, please do come in.

>>29801878

>>29801914

This. And think about Tally to calm ourselves down, we're doing all of this so we can be with her. Ponies like Drachma can sense fear; the calmer we are the calmer he'll be. Be sure to smile.

>>29801878
We just started. Where you searching for us?

>>29801878
Calm the hell down. All we have to do is have a meeting, everything else is on other ponies head.

>>29801878
Why so nervous? We are at a meeting and we literally DINDU NUFFIN.

>>29801988
Why do you want us to be a basket case and jump at shadows in a room with an EXTREMELY paranoid crime boss?

>>29802321
I thought your post was dialogue directed at Drachma. That's why I deleted it.

>>29801914
>>29801927
>>29801971
>>29801976
>>29802213
"Glad you could make it Drach."
>You say politely, and add a smile as you swing the door open.
"We just started anyhow. Where were you looking for us?"
>He chuckles.
>"Just wanted to make sure I wasn't walking in on anything. From my last memory, these rooms can be... Multipurpose."
>He then trots in and looks about the room, eyes settling on Switch with a rather surprised expression.
>Switch's face contorts to an expression of confusion, and she looks to you for some sort of explanation.
>Lacking one, you simply escort him to sit next to you and smile back at her, doing your best to keep yourself from keeling over.
>Oh Celestia Sharp, just keep it together for a little longer, think of Tally!
>You're doing all of this for her.
>You have to think of Drach like a bear, or a tiger!
>He can sense fear, and if you're scared, he'll be scared too.
>Anyway, all you have to do is have a quiet meeting, everything else is out of your hooves.
>That last part doesn't really make you feel any better, but it does detach you a little from the situation.
>Slowly but surely, your heartbeat slows, as does your breathing, and everything starts to get a little more clear again.
>Back outside your head, Drach and Switch are a bit surprised and unsure of what to make of this surprise meeting, but Drach seems pleased, Switch perhaps bordering on uncomfortable.
>"Anyway, I'm glad to be here to help out in any way I can."
>He muses and sits back in his seat, Switch taking a big gulp and fidgeting with her saddlebags a little as she speaks,
>"S-So, Twitch! D-Did you have a date in mind for this job yet, or is it still up in the air? I was thinking a weekend sometime in the next few weeks, as there might be less staff on duty then, a-and there doesn't seem to be a time crunch."

>input action

>>29802343
There's no hard time limit, but the sooner the better. How does next weekend sound? Will everyone be good to go?

>>29802343
A weekend sounds like a good idea, Switch. I'd rather get this done sooner rather than later. I believe next weekend would be a good candidate, if everypony can make it.

>>29802343
Soon.

>>29802571
>>29802577
>>29802689
"No hard time limit I'd say, but the sooner the better. Weekend does sound like a good idea though Switch. How does next weekend sound? Will everyone be able to make it then?"
>There's a couple chuckles from around the table, and nods.
>Switch giggles a bit and whispers,
>"Usually you want to be a little more firm with decisions like that,"
>But she quickly nods along with the others.
"Great! So it looks like we're all set with a date then!"
>You conclude happily, then sit back in your chair.
>The table goes silent for a few seconds before Click stretches out and asks,
>"So, you mentioned I'll be working as the eyes in the sky for this mission. Or, at least Switch and somepony else's guardian angel. A couple questions. First, would you want me in one of the getaway cars, or a nearby building? Both have pros and cons, getaway car being a bit more mobile with the caveat of my equipment being a little more unreliable. If you want something safer, I'd suggest putting my up in a nearby building, but if someone catches us I'll have a harder time moving the equipment."
>She shrugs.
>"You have a stance on that?"

>input action

>>29802839
How much less reliable? I need to know to make an informed decision.

And don't laugh. This is important and I want to make sure this happens with no conflicts or distractions. You want a definite time I can give you one.

>>29802926
"How much less reliable? I need to know to make an informed decision."
>You ask, but before you can respond append,
"And I just wanted to make sure this happened without conflicts or distractions, which is why I asked."
>There's another round of giggles, and you scrunch up.
"Hey, you want a definite time, I can give you one."
>You say and cross your hooves, to more snorts and chuckles.
>Drach even cracks a smile, and whispers,
>"Need some help reining them in?"

>input action

Think this'll be the last update for the night. Cheers!

>>29803143
Please.

>>29803143
I expect you to make at least one of them wet themselves.

>>29803143
Oh bless Sharpie, she's too nice for this sort of thing.

>>29803895

>>29804570

>>29805012

>>29805538

>>29806374

>>29803174
>>29803234
>>29803251
"Please."
>You whisper back, and he nods.
>Just for fun, you slip in,
"And I expect you to make at least one of them wet themselves."
>He smirks back,
>"I'll do my best."
>And claps his hooves before barking out.
>"The four of you are going to settle down, and listen to Twitch right now, alright?"
>His voice, while not loud echoes for a second, and everyone instantly straighten up.
>Eyes wide, their eyes bounce back and forth between you and Drach, and you do your best to stop yourself from bursting out into laughter of your own.
>Now cementing the floor he's procured for you, he nods to you and sits back into his chair, chuckling to himself.

>input action

>>29807607
Now, Click. Exactly how much less reliable will setting you up in the getaway car be?

File: IMG_1545.png (599KB, 3388x4378px) Image search: [Google]

599KB, 3388x4378px

>>29807607
I'm quite offended that I needed to have Drach do that to get your attention. We're supposed to be professionals here.

Say that while making this face.

>>29807699
I miss being able to recognize your posts, Dox.

File: wake me up.png (12KB, 554x616px) Image search: [Google]

12KB, 554x616px

>>29807706
>your posts are too recognizable
>I miss being able to recognize your posts

>>29807772
I wasn't one that complained about your posts being recognizable. You were always one of my favorite anons.

>>29807629
>You transition quickly post-scrunch to a look of mild disappointment and annoyance.
>Overtake teeters a little in his chair, and you drop your eyelids a bit more for a bit of added effect.
"I'm quite offended that I needed to have Drach do that to get your attention. We're supposed to be professionals here."
>You chastise to the four.
>Brite takes a big gulp, and you continually struggle to hide your smile.
>Back to professional work, you turn towards Click.
"Now that we're all done messing about, Click, Exactly how much less reliable will setting you up in the getaway car be?"
>She puffs, still a little mentally off balance from Drach's commanding voice.
>"I-I, uh... There might be some static and occasional short drop offs. That alright?"

>input action

>>29807820
Yes. Let's keep you in the car. Moving your equipment will take setup and will impose more unnecessary risks.

>>29807820
That sounds acceptable.

>>29807848
>>29807886
"Yeah, let's keep it in the car. Moving your equipment will take setup, and it's just more unnecessary risk."
>She nods.
>"Goody. Hope you're alright with that Switch."
>She shrugs,
>"If it comes down to it, I can wing it."
>And the two give each other a quick smile before returning to their previous serious stares (after stealing a look in Drach's direction).
>Things get quiet after that, your first thought being that nobody wants to speak out of line in fear of Drach's wrath.
>Thankfully, Switch breaks the silence with a sigh and leans back in her chair.
>"Okay, so we've got comms and an entrance. How about backup? Had anything in mind Twitch? Are you thinking of stationing a couple ponies inside or outside the house to help if things go wrong? Or are you going for a lower profile?"

>input action

>>29808262
Outside the house. Putting ponies inside the house is too high profile and not having backup is too risky.

>Things get quiet after that, your first thought being that nobody wants to speak out of line in fear of Drach's wrath.
You know that Sharpie has wrath too, r-right?

>>29808295
What's she gonna do? Take away their naptime?

Also this.

File: tired scoots.png (246KB, 1280x720px) Image search: [Google]

246KB, 1280x720px

>>29808308
You don't want to see what ponies are like without their naps.

>>29808982

>>29809860

>>29810453

>>29810909

So are we basically just waiting for the police at this point or is there something left for us to accomplish? Did we still need to get more incriminating info from Drach?

>>29811833

>>29813084

>>29812280
At this point I doubt we'll have the alone time to get him to talk about the things we need him to talk about, nor are we wearing a wire to get audio evidence of the things we need.

I think we're just waiting for the cops. Dunno what you think, though.

>>29813973

>>29814833

>>29815401

>>29815865

>>29816458

>>29816852

>>29808295
>>29808308
>You bite your lip and after some thought go with,
"Eh, outside the house. Putting ponies inside is too high profile and not having a backup is too risky."
>Switch sighs again, this time out of relief, and lets out a,
>"Ah, good. Was worried I might be going in blin--"
>She's interrupted by the unmistakeable crack of a gun going off somewhere outside the meetingroom, and she instantly trails off, eyes wide in surprise.
>Everyone else looks a little confused, but after another burst of shots, the whole room is on their hooves.
>Drachma calmly removes a pistol from his coat, and after seeing his Switch does the same from her purse.
>"Well..."
>Drach muses as he trots towards the door and peers through it.
>"This is shaping up to be an interesting day."
>The six of you nervously push open the door to the sound of more gunfire, and ponies running wildly about on the ground floor.
>"Police, police!"
>Someone shouts, and upon hearing that the other three ponies you were interviewing take off down the stairs in a flash.
>They leave behind you, a rather nervous looking Switch and a blase Drach, who merely raises an eyebrow and asks,
>"Well Twitch, where's the closest exit or way to the roof?"

>input action

>>29817795
Downstairs, we use this area for holding ponies so there aren't any quick exits.

>>29817795
As far as I know there's no roof exit.

>>29817795
A-ah fuck. These rooms are for holding ponies. We have to go down.

>>29817845
>>29817887
>>29817965
"Downstairs, we use this area for holding ponies so there aren't any quick exits. And as far as I know, there's no roof exit."
>Drach bites his lip.
>"Just lovely. Downstairs it is then."
>He muses as he starts off in the hoofsteps of the other three ponies, you and Switch following closely behind.
>As you step off the stairs there's a loud crack of wood, and some screams from the rear of the building.
>You can still hear gunshots raging from the bar area, and the common area is readily clearing out, with ponies rushing to and from the bar, into Main/Provvie's offices or towards the rear.
>Provvie stands shell-shocked near her office, eyes darting across the room multiple times before she eventually rushes for the closet.
>Drach and Switch both look to you, the former with narrowed eyes and a oddly serious expression, the other with worry.

>input action

>>29818044
Provvie, don't be an idiot. The closet isn't an IF they catch you it's a WHEN. We're leaving. Get out of there and come with us.

>>29818044
They're in the front and back. there any side exits or windows to head for?

>>29818065
Provvie does know more about the area than us, so we should go after her. It'd also be a good excuse to waste a bit of time.

>>29818176
Don't forget that we don't want to do to well.

>>29818201
We don't want to be suspicious either. Police should have the building surrounded by now.

>>29818065
>>29818176
>>29818201
>>29818208
"Exits are in the front and the back, and I know there's windows in Provvie and Main's offices."
>You say as you trot over to spy a writing mass of ponies trying to force their way out of said windows.
>There's no way you're escaping through either,
>Drach and Switch follow, mesmerized momentarily as they watch ponies squirm for freedom.
>While they're distracted, you rush to the closet to pull out Provvie, saying,
"Provvie, don't be an idiot. The closet's not an if they catch you, it's a when."
>And to your surprise get roughly yanked inside.
>Provvie pulls you close and points to the wardrobe.
>It's not open, but you remember the passage hidden behind it.
>"Listen, the bunker doubles as a place to crash and an escape route, remember? Now, I was going to duck in there and skedaddle through the sewers since I still don't know if my immunity is certain. A-Are you sure you want to bring Drach and Switch?"
>The door then pops open, both your marks standing in the light and watching intently.
>"There a reason you decided to pop in here?"
>Switch asks intensely, eyes darting around.

>input action

>>29818247
No we don't, they are far more likely to get away if we use a route that the police won't know about.

>>29818247
Dang it Provvie, you could have at least ducked in there before they saw you.
If we take them down there we're going to end up being fugitives while they just hide again.
There's nothing for it, we need to convince them we're just cowering together.
Inform Provvie we think she's beautiful and there's something we need to do before it's too late.
Then kiss her.

>>29818247
I was saying the closet was stupid so they wouldn't follow.

>>29818358
I like the overall idea behind this better than the execution. Maybe just look like we're trying to calm her down and then lead her out of the closet?

>>29818370
I wanted them to lose interest in us rather than continue following us around. Also beautiful is the safeword, so I figured using it was how we'd say no to taking them down there, seeing as we can't say no directly.

>>29818401
Ech, fine. I guess it works.

>>29818427
Also I thought it would be funny.

>>29818336
>>29818358
>>29818362
>>29818370
>Your mind goes blank with fright for a few seconds, before some reflex leaps in and takes control.
"P-Provvie."
>You stammer.
>It's an awful idea, but you're really not seeing another way out of this one.
>Oh Celestia, are you really going to do this?
"I-I think you're beautiful, and there's something I need to do before it's too late."
>You then pull her into a kiss.
>It feels strange, nothing like the kisses you've had with Tally.
>Her trembling lips, as well as the two ponies behind you breathing down your neck, make you feel incredibly vulnerable and exposed.
>Provvie's eyes go wide, and out of the corner of your eye you can see Drach roll his eyes and grumble before closing the door to the closet.
>There, the two of you sit in liplock for a brief second before Provvie breaks it off and whispers,
>"Holy shit, Sharpie you're a genius!
>And gives you a bonecrushing hug.
>"Okay, no escape route then. D-Do you think we stay in here now, or pop out?"

>input action

>>29818500
We've chased them away from the best escape route and the windows are blocked, but there's still a chance that they can escape. Can she think of any way to lessen their chances without putting us in to much danger?

>>29818500
Unless there's something we can do out there we might as well stay here. Probably less likely to catch a stray bullet. Hell, best case scenario we can wait for the police to take most of the building and then go through the hatch.

>>29818536
"Well, we've chased them off the best escape route and the windows seem... Blocked."
>Provvie chuckles.
>"Oh yeah, I saw to that pretty quickly."
"However, they still might have a chance. Is there any way we can sabotage them without getting into too much danger?"
>She shakes her head.
>"At this point, none. Outside this room nowhere is safe, so we either get out there or stay in here and hope for the best."
>She bites her lip.
>"I'd prefer getting out there again, but if you do want to stick around we've got a pretty good cover story now..."

>input action

>>29818567
I'd rather not rely on the deal either, but if anyone ever found out we didn't get arrested it would look pretty bad.

>>29818584
"I'd rather not rely on the deal either, but if anyone ever found out we didn't get arrested it would look pretty bad."
>She shrugs.
>"I mean, we wouldn't have to escape. At this point it's a bad idea anyway, as they know we're in here. If we up and disappeared they might start poking around and find it for themselves, and then we'd be in a right pickle."

>input action

>>29818604
How much did she tell the cops about the layout of the area? Any gaps in information they might be able to slip through?

>>29818611
"How much did you tell the cops about the layout of the area? Any gaps in information the two might be able to slip through?"
>She chuckles.
>"Well, this is the only secret exit that I know about, and the cops have the full building plans. Therefore, I think we've Drach and Switch caught like rats in a trap. Unless they somehow mange to squeeze through one of my office windows or shoot their way to freedom, they're out of options. I mean, I guess it's possible for them to force their way out, or find something I haven't thought of, but off the top of my head, I can't think of anything else they could try."

>input action

>>29818775
We've done our best. I'm glad I have a friend here for this at least.

>>29818775
Did that window upstairs that somebody tried to escape through ever get repaired?

>>29818817
>>29818846
"Did that window upstairs ever get fixed?"
>Provvie nods.
>"Yeah, had a couple guys go patch it up recently, just in case. It isn't very viable for escape anyhow, considering it overlooks the front of the building where the cops are right now."
>She then lights her horn and the room is suddenly filled with a bright aqua glow.
"Well, we've done our best... I'm glad I have a friend here at least."
>She nods.
>"Me too. This whole affair's been too damn stressful. I'm going to take a long vacation after this."

>input action

>>29819012
Cuddles?

>>29819012
Sooo... there any way I could get in touch after this is over? I just realized it might be hard to find one another after this.

>>29819135
>>29819209
"So, is there any way I could get in touch after all this is over? I just realized it might be hard to find one another after this."
>She chuckles darkly.
>"Don't worry, I know where you live."
>And gives you a deeply unsettling look that quickly fades into a manic grin.
"D-Don't scare me like that. I might be moving soon anyhow."
>You stammer somewhere between annoyance and fright, and she puts a hoof around you.
>"Well, guess I'll have to visit quick then, so we can exchange numbers or something. And I'll get to meet your marefriend too."
>She says happily as she settles down on the carpeted floor.
>You join her and ask,
"Cuddles?"
>The mare looks toward the door, where bullets are flying and ponies are shouting and wailing behind a mere inch or two of wood.
>Now that you think it over, it's a bit of a strange request.
>Cuddles wouldn't be high on most ponies' priority lists in the middle of an urban warzone.
>"Eh, why not."
>She decides, and snuggles up to you before whispering,
>"And I know you enjoyed kissing me, but no homo."

>input action

>>29819314
Purely platonic.

>>29819314
Y-Yeah well, you need to work on your technique.

>>29819351
>>29819354
"Purely platonic."
>You assure, slightly offended, and after a long while of considering witty comebacks, you eventually formulate,
"Y-Yeah, and you need to work on your technique."
>There's a long silence (taking the slowly lessening gunfire out of account), before she giggles.
>"Y-Yeah, it's probably true. I haven't really kissed anyone on the reg in a long time. Need to get my practice in. And of course, you'd be willing to help, right?"
>She asks with a smile, one that you can't quite tell if she's serious or not.

>input action

>>29819457
H-Ha, I think Tally would have something to say about that. Oh, I could you a date though. I've got a talent for fixing ponies up you know.

>>29819551
>You blush a little and stammer
"F-Funny."
>And Provvie instantly cracks up.
"I think Tally might have something to say about that... I could help you get a date though, I've got a talent for fixing ponies up you know."
>She sighs.
>"I might have to take you up on that. Don't really think I'm in great shape for dating right now, am I."
>She then cocks her head and after a brief pause asks,
>"How are things with her anyway?"

>input action

>>29819667
...Not great. Hopefully better soon.

>>29819667
I kinda told her about work. She didn't take it well

>>29819714
...n-not that you need to worry about her or anything. It's all good. We can trust Tally. No having her whacked.

>>29819705
>>29819714
>>29819747
"I kinda told her about work. She didn't take it well."
>Provvie's eyes go wide, but you quickly give her a squeeze and add,
"N-Not that you need to worry or anything. It's all good, we can trust her. Don't have her whacked, alright?"
>Provvie nods slowly,
>"Okay, if you say so. Just another liability makes me nervous. A-And I know that's a bit of an impersonal way to think about it, but..."
>She then pauses, looks up to the ceiling, and sighs.
>"M-Maybe it's for the best that I haven't gotten myself into a relationship."

>input action

>>29819766
Maybe, but now's a good tie to start thinking about it. There are some problems with it sure, but it's still really nice most of the time.

>>29819806
"Maybe, but now's a good time to start thinking about it. There are some problems with it, sure, but it's still nice to have most of the time."
>She scratches her head.
>"Suppose so. A mare goes crazy without cuddles you know, and having those on demand would be a godsend."
>Outside, the shots are starting to lessen in frequency, and there's another round of hoofsteps and shouts starting up.

>input action

>>29819893
Sounds like they'll be here soon.

>>29819986
"Sounds like they'll be here soon..."
>You muse, thinking about what it'll be like to get arrested.
>The scene's played out in your head thousands of times, but you do wonder what it'll actually be like.
>The gunshots continue to dissipate, and the two of you spend a minute or so in silence before the door bangs open.
>The two of you expect to see cops, but instead, it's Switch and Drach.
>This time, their guns are leveled at you.
>"Up."
>Drach grunts.
>"I'm going to try to get us out of here."

>input action

>>29820123
You found a way out!?! Make sure to act at least somewhat excited, since we're pretending we gave up hope.

>>29820123
Go ahead and go for it. I'm staying here until the gunshots die down.

>>29820123
Please don't point that in my direction. You got a plan I hope.

>>29820160
>>29820150
>>29820290
"Go ahead and go for it. I'm staying here until the gunshots die down. And please don't point that at me."
>Drach chuckles as the two of them step forward, and Switch presses the barrel of her gun to your forehead.
>"I don't think you understand."
>Drach laughs.
>"You two are our way out. So get walking."
>He continues as he grabs Provvie, pulls her to her hooves and sticks his gun against the back of her head.
>Switch motions for you to stand up, keeping the metal pressed into the center of your forehead.
>Gone is her worry, now replaced with a cold glare.

>input action

>>29820363
What the hell, are they going to use us as meat shields!?!

P.S. >>29820150 and >>29820160 are kinda opposite.

>>29820363
GGGGGGGGGreat.

Go along with them for now I guess. Dont really wanna get shot. Wait for an opportunity to get free of em.

>>29820363
Switch, I'm not your enemy, so don't look at me like that. I will happily be your hostage if you are sure that this works. But how do you know they won't just shoot us the moment we step out?
There has to be a better way. As much as I don't want us to go to prison, death isn't a better option.

>>29820389
I know. I waited 30 minutes to see if anyone would respond to either post.
>>29820392
>>29820425
>You begrudgingly stand and look to Provvie, who gives you a frightened shrug.
"Listen Switch,"
>You beg as she stands you up.
"I will happily be your hostage if you're sure that this'll work. But how do you know they won't just shoot us the moment we step out."
>She shrugs.
>"I don't know."
"Then there has to be a better way! A-As much as I don't want to go to prison, death isn't a better option."
>"Is there any other way? Exits blocked, trapped on all sides. I'd say this is the best shot we have."
>Drach growls as he starts walking Provvie towards the back of the building.
>"Everything goes well, we all go our separate ways after this and never see each other again. Whatever gross incompetence resulted in this, I don't even want to know, and won't have to."
>He continues as he gives Provvie's mane a yank, and her legs buckle slightly beneath her.

>input action

>>29820475
Fine, Drach. You and switch go with that plan. One of you take the other as a hostage and try to sell that to the cops. I'm taking my chances with the closet. I don't want to risk getting shot.

>>29820475
Alright you seemed nice Twitch so I'm going to trust you. Think of this like a job, you need to make sure that your body is hidden behind me or you could get taken out by a sniper. What should I say or do to sell it? What are you going to say?

Tiebreaker pls?

>>29820642
Man. I don't know. I don't really want to just leave it up to chance whether or not Drach and Switch get arrested, nor do I want to leave Provvie's life on the line.

But at the same time, I really don't want Drach to get away either. That chance would be greatly increased if we went with them as hostages.

My vote is for >>29820575, seeing as there is a gun pressed to our forehead, but I do think we need more of a plan to go off of.

>>29820724
I don't like that idea because the whole plan relies on THEM getting taken in and US not. If we are their hostages then the cops can't do that reliably. If they were our hostages it would work, but they seem to have already decided what order they want to do it in. I say tell them to try the hostage plan on their own and that we will stay here. If they really insist, switch tactics and ask why WE have to be the hostages. Try to get them to agree to the hostage role and then we can just turn them over to the police. Maybe we can at least convince one of them to give up the hostage taker position. If they both refuse adamantly I am going to assume they suspect us of betraying them and are not good enough liars to avoid us seeing that.

>>29820767
>I don't like that idea because the whole plan relies on THEM getting taken in and US not.
That's kinda wrong, though.

>>29820767
Still >>29820774. I really don't like this plan. Firstly, we intended to get arrested today. We have immunity, getting arrested was part of the plan, the best case scenario even. Even if we convince them, it's walking armed into a line of even more heavily armed policemen. It's asking to take a bullet.

Even if we then just turn them over to the police while we're walking out, that's a terrible idea. A lot of high-ranking mob bosses don't just go away when they get put in jail. They still have connections, and the hooves don't end with Drachma. Some other member may catch wind of what we did, which may lead to really, really bad stuff down the line for Sharpie.

I'm very against this plan.

>>29820774
Then I'm remembering it wrong.

>>29820801
We can get arrested just fine. What matters is Drach and Switch getting arrested.

>>29820767
>>29821091
It doesn't really matter if Drachma or Twitch get arrested, we did our part of them being there and have immunity. We won't lose that for getting taken as a hostage. Plus if they do get away or remain powerful while in prison they won't suspect us if we cooperate now.

>>29820575
>>29820724
>>29820799
>>29821241
"Alright Switch, you seemed nice, s-so I'm going to trust you on this one. Think of it like a job. Make sure your body is behind me, or you might end up getting hit by a sniper. What are you going to say to sell it?"
>She looks to Drach, who nods.
>"Well, the plan is to walk you out the back, where there'll probably be less resistance. There, we're going to push you two out the door first and make it abundantly clear that we're doing so. After that, shout that we have you hostage. They're going to storm the place soon, so I'd give you a gag if I could but we don't have time. So just plead for your life or something once we're out there."
>She says this as they continue marching you towards the rear of the building, until you eventually reach a cluster of scared ponies, some with weapons, others without, and a bashed in rear door.
>A couple wounded ponies sit near the rear of the pile, nursing scrapes and one with a rather nasty looking leg.
>Blood is leaking out through her blue fur, matting it purple-brown, and you think you spy a shard of bone sticking through the skin.
>You almost vomit as you're walked past, but pull your stomach together and take a big gulp as you arrive next to the entrance outside.
>"Alright ladies... Showtime."
>Drach mutters as he pushes Provvie out into the sunlight.
>Switch follows closely behind, forcing you along with her pistol.
>The sun beats down, and you try to shield your eyes from it, but all that does is earn you a metal jab.
>Outside, a row of cars are surrounding the alley into the street, cops stationed behind them with rifles trained on you.
>Someone holds up a hoof as you're trotted towards them, and the rifles go down.
>"What's this?"
>A pony asks through a megaphone, and Drach responds.
>"I'm pretty sure it's clear what this is. We have two ponies here, innocent customers. You let us walk past that little blockade and we don't shoot. Tell them girls."

>input action

Ending the session here for tonight. Cheers all.

>>29821419
>innocent customers.
Hey with some luck, Sharpie shouldn't even go to jail, this is nice.

>>29821419
[Actually terrified horse noises]

>>29822053

>>29821419
P-Please don't shoot!

>>29822605

>>29823127

>>29824140

>>29824615

>>29825120

>>29825621

>>29826678

>>29827447

>>29827954

>>29828404

>>29829218

>>29829450

beb

File: 1459897212346.png (82KB, 800x800px) Image search: [Google]

82KB, 800x800px

COP KILLA MARE THRILLA SO MISUNDERSTOOD
GONNA TAKE YOU FOR A RIDE THROUGH THE ORGANIZED HOOD

File: 1471492546234.png (15KB, 400x420px) Image search: [Google]

15KB, 400x420px

Let somebody do it all for free
Let somebody do the dirty work
Let somebody do it all for free
Let somebody do the dirty work
Let somebody do the dirty work
Pushing it harder, pushing it harder

>>29821448
>>29821460
>>29822740
"P-Please don't shoot!"
>You stammer as Drach and Switch slowly walk you forward.
>Provvie follows up with a,
>"I-I don't think they're bluffing!"
>And earns a cuff to the ear from Drach for it.
>The officers are looking to who you assume is their sergeant, who paces back and forth as the blockade grows closer and closer with every step.
>At about ten feet from the cars the sergeant stops pacing, and waves towards Drach before approaching.
>A few of the rifles come back up, and the sergeant hides himself away in a crack between two cars, eyes fixed on you.
>The pony with the megaphone speaks up again, and Switch and Drach's heads swivel towards him.
>"Alright. What's it going to take for you to let the mares go?"
>Drach points briefly with his gun,
>"You making a small opening and letting us walk right out of here. We'll drop the mares when we feel we're safe."
>The stallion with the megaphone winces, but out of the corner of your eye you can spot something moving.
>It's the sergeant, his eyes still locked on you.
>He's moving his head up and backwards, and repeating the motion.
>"Sorry, but that isn't going to work for us."
>The megaphone blares, and a nasty grin comes over Drach's face.
>"Are you sure about that?"
>He asks as he cuffs Provvie forward again, slowly approaching the cars.
>Switch does the same to you, following parallel with Drach's motion.
>The sergeant's eyes go wide, and he makes the motion one last time before turning to his officers.

>input action

>>29832440
>up and backwards
Is he telling us to move towards him? To get out of the way?

>>29832440
Look where the officer's head is pointing. He may be telling us where a sniper is.
If we see one, we should get out of the way so that they do have a clear shot.

>>29832440
I wonder if it's possible to trip and "accidentally" knock down Drach.

>>29832856
Sounds really risky.

>>29832856
Meh, real hard to make that look accidental.

>>29832596
>>29832610
>You try to puzzle out what he could be trying to tell you.
>First you steal a glance where his head was going, to see if there's a sniper.
>But the building behind him doesn't have any good vantage points, nor can you see any ponies lurking inside.
>For a second you consider "tripping" and knocking Switch down, then decide it's too risky.
>So what is he telling you?
>Your slow march continues, on towards the cars.
>The sergeant steals another look at you, sighs and makes the same motion.
>Seeing your confusion, he now shakes his head solemnly and points towards the ground.
>From behind you, you hear a growled whisper.
>"Eyes on the prize Twitch. Don't screw it up now."
>Switch says, catching your gaze.

>input action

>>29833113
I think he wants us to drop? Don't wanna risk it though. Just listen to Switch if we can't figure it out. The last thing Sharpie needs is the death of somepony on her consciousness.

>>29833113
Look at Provvie and figure what she's doing, maybe the Sargeant told her something too.

>>29833113

I'm pretty sure he wants us to rear back and headbutt Drach, then hit the floor so they can take shots.

Let's do it. YOLO.

>>29833313
And then get killed later when Drach told his friends.

>>29833313
Haha no.

>>29833313
No

>>29833113
Now would be a good time to trip over. Just trip over though, not trip over and try to kung fu someone behind us or whatever. We can turn back to look at Switch while we do it, so it seems legit.

>>29833113
I have a plan.

Pause for a second in fear to earn us a rap on the back of the head with the gun, and fall over forward when she does.

>>29833370
>>29833379

Combination of these could work.

>>29833370
>>29833379
>>29833390
And then what? Twitch gets killed because of us and Drach still has Provvie. Do you want to traumatize Sharp?

>>29833443
I don't want them to get away, for certain.

>>29833443
>Twitch
You mean Switch?

>>29833461
Yeah, sorry. I always get them confused.
>>29833456
Not a good time for misplaced morals. We can only lose if we don't play along.

>>29833478
I'm worried we won't get the Twiggy job if both Drach and Switch get away.

>>29833478
We're wanted criminals who aided the escape of two of the polices top targets if we play along.

>>29833443

Presumably the cop thinks Provvie will catch on and do the same, or there would be no point in them shooting. And there's no saying for sure that Switch will be mortally wounded, especially if the cops have good marksmen and can aim for limbs. And the alternative is that they get away, in which case there's a serious risk that Drach will investigate what happened, find out our role in it, and come kill us. This is the safer route for us; someone getting hurt was just a risk of the plan. If anything her death would be on the cops for botching the raid, not us.

>>29833491
We are a intel with amnesty that got taken as a hostage and acted liken an idiot if we play along.
FTFY

>>29833505
No, our amnesty literally disappears if they escape. Try actually reading the quest before you play.

>>29833498
If we get Switch killed Drach will get after us for sure. All you're telling me is how we still have a chance if we don't.

>>29833521
>Drach will get after us for sure

He can't come after us if he's in prison, which is the whole point of the plan. And he wouldn't come after us if he has no reason to think any of this is our fault, which as I understood was the point of faking tripping rather than headbutting.

>>29833498
>>29833511
Cops don't shoot to incapacitate and we get amnesty regardless. Provvie does not, but I do agree that we should sabotage this.

>>29833545
>we get amnesty regardless
Uh, no? The condition is they don't get away. Otherwise the dirt they have on us comes back.

>>29833539
He's the leader of a mafia, so prison won't stop him from contacting someone to go after us. Not wanting to get him in trouble won't matter to him, he'll still kill us if it's completely our fault that his last attempt at freedom failed.

>>29833561
Wrong.
>"Okay, I think we can work something out here... How about this. Would you take amnesty for yourself and amnesty for Kismet and Providence upon successful arrest of Drachma?"

"Okay, but what happens if one of them doesn't show?"
>Ward laughs,
>"Well, that's your problem then, not mine. Your responsibility was to make sure they're in the building, and ours was to grab them. What are you worrying about anyway, the contract guarantees your safety regardless of what happens."
>He finishes with a chuckle.

>>29833581
Safety =/= Amnesty

>>29833572

This was his escape plan, I highly doubt he would spend his time arranging from prison to have us killed just because we tripped in a high stress situation. It's much MORE likely that he'll have us killed if he escapes and freely has all the time and resources in the world to investigate the raid and find out we were behind it. If your real concern is Drach having us killed then it makes far more sense to get him imprisoned than let him go free. Also just because someone is the leader of an organized crime group doesn't mean he can freely communicate with associates and arrange hits from prison, this isn't exactly a new phenomenon and prisons work hard to prevent such activity.

>>29833592
The contract was:
We get amnesty as long as Drach and Switch show up
Kis and Provvie get amnesty upon successful arrest.

We have amnesty.

>>29833607
No. Safety isn't amnesty, it's protection.

>>29833592
Can you not read?
>amnesty for yourself
>AND amnesty for Kismet and Providence upon successful arrest of Drachma
Our amnesty was never an issue as long as the raid happened. Just read the quest if you don't believe me and the other anons.

>>29833618
You're a moron. Read the quest.

>>29833620
>>29833622
Even if that's true you're just fucking over Provvie and Kis. We're not doing that kind of thing anymore.

>>29833631
Youd rather risk our life, Provvies, Twitchs and even Drachmas. Much better, how nice of you.

>>29833646
>risk our lives
They're already at risk dumbass, we're literally hostages at gunpoint. And who gives a fuck about Drachma?

>>29833666
Hostages tend to not get killed if the criminals get what they want. It's kinda how hostages work. This plan is going to get us killed no matter what happens.
It fails: We die because of the police.
It works: We die because Drachma will go after us.
We know he will go after us because of him going after Kiss over a petty amount of money. Also there's still Switch in case you missed it.

>>29833733
You really think that if Switch gets shot, that Drachma and Provvie will just continue onward as if they're in a vaccuum? Provvie ain't stupid either.

>>29833733
Then he'll go after us regardless of what happens, and letting them shot him right now is our best option.

Alright, I'm seeing two ideas have been proposed here.
The first is going along with the plan.
The second is dropping to the floor, either by prompting a whack from Switch or tripping.
If you do have a third idea feel free to post it, otherwise, I'd like a vote.

>>29833769
Drop to the floor by prompting a whack from Switch is my vote.

>>29833748
We unfortunately cannot mindcontrol her or read her thoughts. Also Drachma doesn't have another option then to continue onwards if Switch gets shot. He'll simply hire someone later to kill us for fucking up.
>>29833755
There is no reason for him to go after us as far as he knows. That will change if we get Switch killed. I gladly take the chance to survive over certain death. We can't rely on Drachma getting killed.
>>29833769
Go along with the plan.

>>29833769
Drop to the floor. We're not fucking over our friends and wasting all the effort we've had to put in to this.

>>29833769
This isn't a vote, but if we do end up dropping, try to get Provvie's attention beforehand so she knows to drop when all hell breaks loose.

>>29833769

Voting to drop to the floor

>>29833774
>>29833821
>>29833970
>>29833869
>You steel your resolve and turn to Provvie, trying to catch her attention.
>It's a bit hard to do so in a way without getting spotted by Drach or Switch, but eventually, she finally notices.
>Now that she has her eyes on you, and as the cop cars steadily approach, you freeze up.
>Hopefully it looks to be out of fear, and probably does, considering how absolutely terrified you are at the moment.
>Switch pauses for a confused second, then shoves you forward.
>You take the opportunity to fall face first, and a gun cracks as soon as you hit the floor.
>Time suddenly becomes impossibly slow as you turn about
>Switch's face is contorted in surprise as a bullet smacks through her forehead and she stumbles to the floor.
>You feel paralyzed as you watch her body fall, her hooves buckling and crumbling beneath her.
>Slowly, you turn your gaze to watch Provvie trying to dive with you, but Drach holds her tight and keeps her up.
>The bullet connects with both of them because of it, grazing Provvie's neck and smacking Drach's shoulder.
>He quickly lets go, the leg holding her falling uselessly to his side, and wobbles towards the floor.
>The gun gripped by his magic wobbles and shakes, and you see him wince as he fires it off.
>He gets off two shots, one aimed towards you, the other at Provvie.
>Something hits you in the hind leg, but it just feels like someone flicked you.
>The gun then turns to fire at the police, but another shot rings out from behind you and his pistol clatters to the street floor.
>After that, silence.

>input action

>>29834529
Hope that the grazed neck didn't hit an artery. If it didn't this actually turned out pretty damn well.

>>29834529
Turn to provvie, quickly

>>29834529
Oh dear. I hope we were just grazed there. Both of us.

>>29834529
It's like the ending to Urban except only the assholes died.

>>29834606
>tempting fate

>>29834529
Ow? Ow.

>>29834529
Crawl to Provvie and check her injuries.

>>29834532
>>29834557
>>29834569
>>29834606
>>29834686
>>29834739
>You quickly turn to Provvie, hoping she's okay.
>She's a bit dazed, and there's a bit of blood trailing down her neck, but beyond that she appears fine.
>You're about to crawl over to help her when cops flood out from behind the blockade, lifting you up and carrying you out to the civilian side of the cars.
>The last thing you see as blue coats envelop you is Switch's dull, lifeless eyes staring at you as a trickle of red runs from the hole in her head.
>You feel sick.

>The cops put you down on your back, and everything goes out of focus.
>It almost feels as if you're watching your own life happen in third person, everything feels detached and numb.
>Someone tells you not to move, another crouches with you and puts a damp towel to your head.
>There's blood on your leg that wasn't there before.
>A lot of blood.
>After a few minutes, an ambulance arrives, and you're put inside on a cot next to Provvie, who's neck is now stained with blood.
>"Y-You feeling alright? You look a little pale..."
>She stammers as a nurse dabs at her fur, and she winces.

>input action

>>29834795
I'm much better now that I see that you didn't get shot in the carotid or the jugular.

>>29834795
I-I got them killed.

>>29834795
Somebody just died because of us.

>>29834795
I have a small leak h-haha.

>>29834795
They made their choices, you made yours. Hopefully this is the last pony that dies because of you.

>>29835119
I hope this is internal monologue.

Well at least the cops were good shots.

>>29834795
It's all over Provvie.
You did good.

>>29834816
>>29834820
>>29834810
>>29834821
>>29835327
"I-I got them killed."
>You murmur quietly, glassy eyed.
>And Provvie shakes her head.
>"No, you didn't do anything Sharp. It was their decision to lead us out there."
>You tremble a little and take a deep breath, not really believing her.
"W-Well, I'm better now that I can see you didn't get shot anywhere important."
>You say in an attempt to deflect the subject, and Provvie nods.
>"Just stings a little. He also got my side, but not as bad as..."
>She then looks to your leg and winces.
"I-It's just a small leak."
>You say with a halfhearted smile, doing everything you can to stop yourself from actually looking at the wound.
"All in the past now."
>You say quietly, unsure if you're trying to tell Provvie or convince yourself of that fact.
>She grits her teeth.
>"You don't have to feel bad Sharp, if he had a better shot, neither you nor me would be here right now..."

>input action