Previously on Hijack: >>25591290
Catch up here: http://anonpone.pineapplecomputing.com/hijack/
===
Current Character + Movelist: http://pastebin.com/tHAxiBgZ
Current Inventory: http://pastebin.com/V4h6Wxz7
Current Character's Combo List: http://pastebin.com/Ua26s9is
'Sing' Command Overview: http://pastebin.com/c01PjEAe
===>She might be in a bit of a bind here.>You could help her or...>STop and watch what happens.>Either way>Let's get started.
>>25726535
First for bully
>>25726639
Second for billy
>>25726535
>"Ready to serve the Coven one last time?"
>"Uh. You're just doing this for power. It's pathetic."
>"Well, yes. But we also need this place to fix everyone. You know that, right?"
>Esmeralda pauses
>Her voice catches in her throat.
>"Whatever. You ran out of time. Time to die."
>"...Not today."
>The dog hunches over, and adopts a fighting stance.
>The straps of her gauntlets clink in the deathly silent warehouse.
>Her legs whirr and click with every minute shift in her stature.
>A pair of red glowing plates appear to her sides and follow her arm movements.
>"We'll see."
>Esmeralda's blades hover in the air momentarily
>The two begin a grave staredown.
>Meanwhile, you and your Royal buddy are sitting atop some crates, looking down at the two and their heated confrontation.
>Steel nudges you
>"Looks like nopony is paying attention to Willow."
>He hums quietly, thinking about what to do.
>"On the one hoof, I'd like to get down there and capture them both. Esmeralda for her escape, and the dog because she clearly knows something we don't."
>He groans in frustration
>"Ah... But that might mean Willow could be used as a bargaining chip if she gets targeted..."
>He looks at you expectantly
"What?"
>"Well... YOU'RE the sneaky one. Got any ideas?"
"Let me think..."
>What should we do?
Is this still on the mission with all the crossover characters?
>>25726673
Find out what's wrong with birb first
She looks awful
>>25726673
Stealth over to Willow and check her out.
>>25726673
Just shoot the dog with the pylon.
>>25726673
Use Stealth Camo to extract the bird.
I'm sure Lex will be distracted momentarily.
>>25726673
Stealth to help birb.
Since Essy is helping birb we should not assume she's hostile, yet.
Dog is primary target, Essy is to be captured alive.
>>25726673
What happened to the unstoppable monster? How did they get here from the prison? What have they been up to since we last saw them? Did she get any new catalysts? Did she use any? Did Willow use anything?
>>25726673
Whit all of the monsters running around escaping could've been a necessity.
>>25726779
We CC locked it, then batcancer had a meal.
>>25726673
So when do we pick pocket the cuffs off Steel and make Sweet Ass our love slave?
>>25726673
Save the catbirb
>>25726717
===
>Conceal
>Conceal
>Conceal
>Stealth Camouflage Activated!
HP: 50/50
MP: 35/65
===
>You slink over to Willow as the two creatures continue their standoff.
"Hey! Willow! You okay?"
>She coughs quietly and a bit of blood spurts out of her beak
>"Y-Yeah jus-st peachy."
>She doesn't sound too good.
>Weak, irreduglar hearbeat
>The quiet cracking of her bones.
>She took some hard hits already.
>She'll live, but only if she doesn't suffer any additional injuries.
>You need to get her our, but you're not strong enough on your own to drag her out.
>Lexi barks out
>"Enough of this posturing, time to crush you like the roach you are, Essy!""
>What should we do?
>>25726864
Blast Lexi with the pillar, use the distraction to drag Willow out with Keys. If Lexi's still kicking after that then I guess we fight.
>>25726864
Ask Willow for info on the target.
When there's a chance shoot a bramble back towards steel and hopefully he'll help pull.
>>25726936
yeah, even if she blocks atleast we get whatever she blocks with.
>>25727011
"Did you get hurt from that dog? Give me the skinny, lowlow"
>"Ahg.. Don't call me that. All I know is she called herself a witch of walls, and you do not want to get caught between two shields. I- I think I can get away behind some crates, but I need some time."
"Don't worry, I'm going to stop this as fast as I can."
>You remove the pylon from your bandanna.
>Just like Clid, just point...
>And click.
>You slap the lever down, revealing your position
>Esmeralda is the first to turn around and notice you.
>She ducks to her right as the beam of magic flies past her and heads directly towards Lexi.
>The beam collides with its target
>...And summarily deflects off one of the panes of magic, Lexi had summoned earlier.
>"More friends?"
>You hear two pops in the air on both sides of you
>"More sandwiches, I suppose."
>What?
>How did that deflect?
>More importantly, she's loooking right at you
>And something is off...
>What's next?
Quick pause while I cook dinner
>>25726811
I was talking about the one chasing Esmeralda. Before we took control of Tara we left her on the brink of death in a completely different location. There's a huge plot hole between there and here.
>>25727161
>matter transporter doesnt do shit.
Well fuck, she shoulda atleast lost the glove she shielded with.
She's staring at us? Talk smack while we use our passive.
>>25727247
>Shields shielding means our shit doesn't work
wew
>>25727285
>implying it will ever work until the fight is over.
It's an 'i win' weapon he forgot about. It's never going to work until the battle is over.
>>25727161
Quickly fly out of the way of being squished!
>>25727318
It might've helped if we hadn't fired it from directly in front of her. Just a thought.
>>25727343
We were cloaked and no one suggested shooting from the front.
>>25727318
But it wouldn't be climactic if we just won, right? :^)
>>25727401
No one suggested moving, either. We are next to Willow, who is next to Esme, who dog is facing. From the front. Are you really surprised?
>>25727430
Yes. Tara truly is stupid.
>>25727441
Clid was right after all
Stream when?
>>25727247
>You lock eyes with her
>And an intense buzzing fills your head
>Voices, no, A single voice layered a thousand times
>It repeats the same thing over and overU̘͍̮n͍̲̞̫͉̮͚w̙͖͉̹͚̙ͅi̢s͈͖̯̮e̠̟̭.͙̗̖͈͔͉
>"Hmmm... You've got something that belongs to my friend."
>She scratches her chin idly
>"I think Simone's gonna like getting those back."
>You try to think of something, but your stomach turns
>Whatever was in her eyes was something... terribly wrong
>Like when you have a microphone near a speaker
>That incessant, painful whine.
>You instead focus on teh two walls crashing down upon you.
>>25727339
>You leap back, allowing the walls to clash against each other below.
>The force of the impact sends a shockwave chasing you
>But you're safe for now.
>Your mind cleared, and your body safe from impending disaster, you take but a moment to come up with taunting banter.
>What do you say?
>>25727952
"Well, looks like your plans are FALLING FLAT.GEDDIT"
>>25727952
Well well, another poochy sticking her snout where it doesn't belong. Don't worry mutt, I'm sure we got some kibble around here somewhere.
>>25727994
"That plan fell flat"
>You can hear Steel cringe in the distance.
"Just as well too. A pooch like you shouldn't be sticking her nose where it doesn't belong!"
>Lexi's eye twitches.
"I think we got some kibble t-"
>Your relentless assault is interrupted by a hand squishing your face aside.
>"Out of the way, stupid animal."
>She mutters as she flings something at Lexi while she's distracted.
>You can see the glint of three bits in the air for but a moment efore thy grow and flatten into three vicious sawblades
>The scream towrads Lexi.
>A tinge of surprise crosses her face
>A single red wall appears before her, and the dog's face contorts to one of frustration
>"Only one? Wait, SHIT!"
>You hear the shields that were slammed together dissipate, but it happens a moment too soon
>You hear the carving of metal through bone, and you see Lexi standing still, looking to her sides in awe.
>Why it's not abject horror, you have no idea.
>"Aw man! Essy! As if my legs weren't enough!"
>Esmeralda cakles vilely
>"Don't worry, I'll make sure every piece of you gets back to hell where it belongs!"
>While the two witches duke it out, you notice Steel has arrived.
>He looks shocked, then strangely disappointed.
>"This could have been my chance..." he starts
"Steelie?"
>He shakes his head.
>"N-No, I was saying... Uh.. This is our chance to get Willow out of here. How do you want to do this?"
>Liar.
Get steel to load Willow onto his back. Then, we provide covering while observing the fight to make sure he gets away, delaying anyone with a screech if they attempt to attack.
>>25728650
Save the Birb steel!
Equestria will need your Hippogriff children.
>>25728676
>>25728691
>You instruct Steel to Load Willow onto his back and get her back to the exit as quick as he can.
>Once Willow stopes squirming and muttering about "leg cuddles" you turn to the battle unfolding before you.
>Lexi is standing in place, casually dodging every projectile Es sends her way
>But it looks like she sbreaking a sweat.
>You being to back up, and heep your rear to Steel's to give him cover.
>The second he arrives at the corner, you instruct him to make a run for it
>"Wait, what about you?"
"Worse comes to worse, I'll hide! Save her, Steel. Then come back for me, okay?"
>He nods and gives you a quick salute before galloping past the crates to the other side of the shipping wing.
>You move back colser to the battle, and see that Esmeralda has Lexi backed into a corner.
>They're both panting, but Lexi looks like she's lost a lot of-
>Well.
>You've never seen black blood, but that looks like she might need more fluids than that.
>Quick as lightning, Esmerald throws... Something at Lexi
>Instead of her usual dodge, you can hear her sigh and laugh quietly right before the metal plunges hilt deep into her neck
>Esmeralda quips, "Feels good to be a lefty" before adjusting her hat and staggering towards the downed dog.
>Only one problem.
>Lexi's heart hasn't slowed down.
>She... Not dying.
>Not yet it seems.
>What's the plan?
>>25728766
Warn Esmerelda "She's not dead!" before she makes it there, then step closer to Sweet Ass and get ready in case a fight starts.
>>25728796
this
>>25728766
I'd say to use the pylon on her now, but she's probably just pretending to be stunned.
At least warn Essy.
>>25728796
>>25728829
>You draw the pylon from your bandanna, and attempt to fire it
>But a series of 5 beeps follows the activation of the weapon
>Seems it's not ready yet.
>You yell out to Esmeralda
"Wait! She's not dead yet!"
>Esmeralda turns her head towards you
>And in that moment, the gauntlets spray a web of black fluid and attach themselves to Lexi's stumps.
>The knife in her neck spruting blood intermittently.
>She rises in the air and cackles wildly.
>"JUST KIDDING!~"
>And tries to grab Esmeralda.
>Thanks to your warning though, what could have resulted in Esmeralda being throttled instead leads to her narrowly escaping Lexi's grip.
>Esmeralda leaps back towards you and curses silently.
>"Damn it, of course when I'm out of catalysts."
>Lexi's legs whirr and click as she takes lumbering steps towards you two.
>Athree sheilds form around her and her arms and she licks her teeth.
>"The difference, Essy, between me and you."
>The knife falls out of her neck with a clink
>"Is that I come prepared."
>Her gauntlets clank loosley around her arms.
>She adopts a fighting stance and looks at you, square in the eyes,
>"And you..."
>She readjusts her gauntlets again, securing them by her shoulders.
>"And as if the gauntlets aren't annoying enough, I get to have you, you little shit."
>She growls and rushes towards you two.
===
Player Movelist:
http://pastebin.com/tHAxiBgZ
Current Inventory:
http://pastebin.com/V4h6Wxz7
[[Esmeralda has Joined the Party!]]
Movelist:
http://pastebin.com/ecsWpekL
Spell Arm Readme:
http://pastebin.com/7gyQf1Qd
===
HP: 50/50
MP: 35/65
AP: 3/3
>How shall we begin?
>>25729176
I wonder if she has the same weakness as diamond dogs.
Pass Esmerelda Bob's Feather. It seems high-power but the dice rolls are obnoxious, and her using it conjunction with her Spell Arm might remove the random element.
Afterwards, lets try conceal, conceal in order to bolster our dodge chance while Esmerelda gives the feather a shot.
>>25729176
Can we dump one the the weapons we have on Es. Maybe give her some of our bits.Just a few though.
>>25729231
I'm gonna say insight on the feather.
>>25729266
I think more than one at a time is bound to start causing problems.
>>25729271
More than one what?
>>25729280
Passing more than one item from person to person.
>>25729288
I doubt it. It's a weapon and some bits.
>>25729231
"Esmeralda!"
>"What? Aren't you going to-"
"CATCH!"
>You throw Bob's feather at her and she snatches it out of the air
>"Well, this'll work but I-"
"HAVE SOME MORE!"
>>25729266
>You follow up the first tos swith a second
>This time, you nail her with a hoof full of bits
>The clang and clatter to the floor
>But she can grab them whenever.
>You briefly consider giving her a weapon, but doing so would add more time, and you've already spent a hair too much throwing items at the horse monster.
==
>Give a diamond dog weapon to Esmeralda?
>Costs 1 AP
[Yes/No]
==
>>25729176
Let's start by having Tara access flat space for a harpoon or something. I just want something that could possibly penetrate or maybe break a shield.
Let's give that to Essy to Spell Arm and give it a Strength mod. I don't know what it'll do, but hopefully a magic strength harpoon will do something.
I want to have Tara pass the rest of her turn for some 6ap shenanigans.
Dunno if anything will happen to warrant a change of plans, but I want to have Essy Gazer beam to inflict curse.
The plan for Tara is to
>Bite x 3, possibly heals any damage taken
>Moonlight Strike with curse bonus
>Resonate
This fight screams having to just play around with bullshit.
>>25729370
Oh. Well. Coins works too I guess instead of a harpoon. I think the goal right now is to overwhelm Lexi so her shields don't eat everything next turn. It was shown earlier that she can only summon a finite number of them.
I also say no to spending the 1ap for combo reasons next turn.
>>25729370
Nah, she's good for now.
>>25729399
I agree with this, pretty much. She has the feather, she can use it. Next turn, we have AP saved up and we can start fucking around with combos.
I kind of really want to see a triple moonstrike combo.
>>25729471
Me too, though we don't have enough MP for that next turn.
>>25729657
35mp is enough to do the thing here >>25729399
But yeah, if we wanna see a triple moonlight, we need to sap some mana.
>>25729670
Damn MP system.
Lets just avoid going for the fun stuff and go for the intelligent move. Triple bite, moonlight, resonate.
>>25729688
Are we having Es use curse with that?
>>25729712
Yeah? This is just the plan for next turn.
Right now, Tara is spending her turn throwing coins at Es and passing, while Es throws the coins at Lexi.
my computer crashed while I was working on the battle stuff.
Pausing here.
>>25729724
f u g
u
g
ded computer for Steelie
>>25729399
reminder that you cannot pass the first turn of combat.
You need to perform an action of some kind during the first turn.though it doesnt have to consume AP or MP
>>25730638
Taunt
>>25730638
I was operating under the assumption that giving her the items likes we did would be an action sufficient to allow us to pass.
>>25728766
>>25729164
Top edge
>>25730051
noice
>>25730692
>Well, looks like the doggie already knows 'play dead', but does she know any others?
>Like fetch!
>Or paw>Or beg
>>25729724
rip
>>25730638
Does giving Essy those items not count?
Then use the scrying pearl to check in with Willow and Steel or something.
Lexi is FUCKING INVINCIBLE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chPJ7x9iMw0
did we ever decide HOW we were going to have esmeralda use the items?
the pastebin says we have to pick an item and attribute.
>>25737633
Her shielding us for this turn would be ideal, but I have no idea what does that, or if she even can. Guess we could always just ask her.
>>25737633
I stated Insight for Bob's Feather earlier. We can figure something else out if the ability doesn't do what we're looking for.
>>25736902heh. Cute.Guess this is her theme now.
>You Taunt!
>>25732208
"Looks like you know how to play dead, LExi."
>She huffs with the most quiet chuckle.
"I wonder what other tricks you know? Fetch? Shake?"
>Her brow furrows and you can hear her growl instinctively
"Maybe after this, you can show us beg?"
>"RRRGH! Yeah you're SO funny with the DOG puns! Let's see how funny you are AFTER I smash you!"
>Lexi's strategy has changed!
>She will be more aggressive on her turn!
>You bide your time.
>"Not gonna take the advantage? Don't think cause I've got these shields that all I can do is defend!"
>AP: [6]/3
>Esmeralda produces Bob's Feather!
>Spell arm activated!
>...
>The Wheel of Fate takes control!
>The outcome will be determined by roll of the die!
>>25738731
Roll
>>25738747
That'll do nicely.
>>25738731
Everybodies attacks or just ours?
>>25738747
>>25738803
>The die is cast!
>...
>A spirit takes form above you!
>Your Dodge chance increased!
>"What the? Huh. I was expecting that spirit to punch me or something. Whatever. My turn!"
>Lexi Uses Shield Toss!
>A shield flies out towards you!
>...But it missed!
>Lexi used Status Shell!
>Status Resistances Maxed out
>Two shields remain.
>"I smell a stiff hit coming in. I ain't gonna just take it wholesale, yanno?"
>What's the plan?
>>25738956
>more agressive
Dodge, dodge, dodge for the active camo bonus.
Then we can build up MP for the triple moonlight strike combo.
If it won't cost AP, toss Es the diamond dog weapon and have her use strength.
>>25738976
If it would cost AP to give her the weapon, lets just have her use Insight on Bob's Feather again.
>>25739013
Why?
>>25739030
Better the devil you know, and most of the effects are very good for the opening of this fight.
>>25739044
I'd rather not the devil we know when any other attack will not put us at risk of harming ourselves.
Do you really want critical failures on every attack this turn, with 6AP?
>>25739071
This is all moot if we can give her the Diamond Dog weapon.
Otherwise, applying Curse might not be a bad idea.
>>25738976
What is your plan?
This turn Concealx3 bringing us to 5/65 mp
Infusex3 to get us mana back
Then spend next turn passing again to get that 6ap back for Moonlightx3?
>>25739171
Sure, why the hell not.
>>25739171
Conceal is broken by attacking, so it''ll have to go last.
>>25738956
That's defensive, not aggressive.
>>25739334
maybe it stacks?
>>25738976
>>25739261
>You retrieve the first weapon from your bandanna to give to Esmeralda
>You get the Spear!
>You pass it to Esmeralda.
>"I think I know what to do with this!"
>She grips it and thrusts the spear forward, granting the attribute of strength!
>Several tendrils rip forward from the weapon, twisting and turning
>They clash with another red shield, causing sparks to fly
>It holds for all but a second before the spear tips shatter the shield and stab into Lexi's shoulder
>She grunts in pain, but slaps the twin tendrils out of her shoulder almost immediately
>"Gotta say, I didn't expect that! It won't happen again, either!"
>Attack Punctured!
>Dealt 50 damage!
>1 Shield Remains.
>...
>>25739361
>>25739171
>>25739185
>>25739261
>You Infuse!
>The shield shatters!
>Recovered 10 MP!
>MP: 45/65
>You Infuse!
>Dealt 10 damage!
>Recovered 10 MP!
>MP: 55/65
>You Infuse!
>Dealt 10 damage!
>Recovered 10 MP!
>MP: 65/65
>Your skills comboed!
>Rebound Activated!
>Recover MP for successfully dodging enemy attacks next turn!
>You Conceal!
>Your form is obscured from conventional sight!
>Dodge Chance Increased!
>MP: 55/65
>You Conceal!
>Your form is obscured from conventional sight!
>Dodge Chance Increased!
>MP: 45/65
>You Conceal!
>Your form is obscured from natural forms of perception!
>Dodge Chance Increased!
>MP: 35/65
>Your skills comboed!
>Stealth Camouflage Activated!
>Your form is obscured from all forms of sight!
>Dodge chance increased further!
>Your Skills Comboed!
>Predator Strike Activated!
>Next attack upon leaving stealth will critically strike!
>Total Damage Dealt: 20
>0 Shields remain.
>MP: 35/65
"Out of blocks, Missy."
>"I'm NEVER out of shields."
>>25739503
Taunt.
"Aw, did the little doggy get her favorite toy broken? Don't worry, Tara will play with you."
Then pass.
Lets try insight with the Diamond Dog spear.
>>25739361
>>25739171
>>25739185
>>25739261
>Lexi can't seem to pinpoint you...
>"Alright, FINE! I LIKE it when idiots like you rush me from the shadows! Trains my reaction speed!"
>Lexi used Phalanx!
>Green and Blue Shields form before her!
>They stand strong, ready to deflect frontal assaults
>"Hey you stupid mutt, those are YELLOW."
>"S-Shut up! It's these dog eyes that messed me up."
>You stifle a giggle.
>3 YELLOW Shields Remain
>3 Blue Shields Remain
>Lexi bides her time...
>"Now... Where did that little shit run off to?"
>She remains miffed.
===
>HP: 65/65
>MP: 35/65
>AP: 3/3
>What's the plan?
>>25739527
>>25739487
>>25739503
Have Essy attack first with devour
Triple bite from behind
>>25739521
Passing every other turn is really fucking boring.
>>25739527
I'm guessing one negates magic while the other negates physical.
>>25739546
I can get not passing, but why Feeding Frenzy? We don't need the AP.
If anything, lets have Es use Gazer Beam, Moonlight Strike, Resonate.
Or at least start with Gazer beam and confirm that it hits before we do something.
>>25739546
biting when we're full health, have dodge stacks and low mp is silly.
We should infuse again if we're going that route.
>>25739570
>>25739575
Heavy physical damage on a crit, since she's shown she can block magic at will.
But yeah we don't need the MP or HP
>>25739546
>Esmeralda's...Arm growls?
>"It HUNGERS!"
>She takes a flying leap towards Lexi who merely shows her amusement with a small grin.
>Her grin however is quickly wiped off her face the second Esmeralda thrusts her arm through the gap in the shields.
>Esmeralda used Devour!
>Target will take 100 damage at the end of the turn!
>Esmeralda will be unable to act next turn!
>Lexi grabs Esmeralda by the wrist and begins to struggle with her
>You can hear voices and gnashing of teeth deep in your head as Esmeralda's arm snaps and twists menacingly at Lexi.
>You then hear a quiet snap, followed by a hiss.
>"Damn it, not now!" Lexi curses, looking at one of her armored legs.
>The two continue their dire struggle.
>How should you proceed?
Forgot to mention
Dimensional Pylon Cooldown:
>3 Turns remain.
>>25739805
So if we were to get to the side of them and 'accidentally' hit them both with the beam?
Summon spear from Flatspace, jam into her leg-joint. She's using armor-like constructs for limbs, right?
>>25739855
Scratch this, replace spear with hammer to the kneejoints. Simpler, more effective.
...can we do both? If so, do both.
>>25739855
>>25739878
>You pull awarpickout of your bandanna and slink around to her back
>Esmeralda is thrown away as soon as you arrive, and Lexi is panting heavily
>"Where... Where is-"
>You swing with all your might at the join of her metal leg, point outwards
>The pick smashes her metallic ankle with great force!
>Bits of metal and circuitry flie from the imapct.
>Lexi can stand, but she seems to have difficulty walking anywhere.
>"ARE YOU SHITTING ME? C'MON!"
>Enemy's AP has been permanently reduced by 1!
>Lexi rearranges her shields to all sides of her reflexively.>Consumed 1 AP to use the Warpick to cripple Lexi.
AP: 2/3
>Now what?
>>25740005
Okay, two AP to go?
I'm gonna have to say Double Screech.
Pass the gum to Es for our free item swap this turn.
>>25740005
>Predator's Strike Activated!
>Damage Dealt: 120
>You are no longer stealthed.
>>25740014
>You toss a wad of gun at Esmeralda
>"Wrong time for a snack, isn't it, bat?"
"Maybe for us, but this dog over here looks pretty hungry~"
>You look back at Lexi
>She is surrounded by shields.
>You Screech!
>Hypersonic waves ravage the target!
>A blue shield shatters!
>Lexi's ears fold back.
>You Screech!
>A blue shield shatters!
>Hypersonic waves ravage the target!
>Lexi winces once more.
>1 blue shield remains
>3 yellow shields remain.
>You end your turn.
>"I'm going to remove you from this plane for messing with my leg..."
>The shields around Lexi begin to lock together...
>>25740127
>A huge blade is formed from the combination of the shields Lexi had summoned
>"Y'know, before Igot these gauntlets, there's no way in hell I could swing this bad boy around. Not to any effect, anyway."
>She leans it on her shoulder and tenses her back
>"But that's just history. Just like you two are about to be."
>"Oh, and before I forget."
>Lexi speaks into a small stone in her gauntlet.
>Wait, that's a Scrying Pearl!
>"Simone, I might need some backup here. Make it quick."
>"Now then, where were we?"
>She puts all of her weight into the incoming swing.
>>25740259
Tell Steel that more are coming on our own pearl, see if he can intercept.
>>25740259
>Lexi makes an almighty swing down directly on top of you
>Is she stupid?
>Lexi used Shield Crush!
>...But it missed!
>Rebound activated!
>Recovered 10 MP!
>You soar out of the way, but she's not done yet it seems
>In fact, she was never focused on you.
>Esmeralda had sidestepped the swing, an action that she is likely going to regret in about a quarter of a second
>Lexi forcefully twists the blade sideways, kicking up bits of rubble from the swing
>And twists her body, pivoting on her good leg, to the left.
>The swing slams Esmeralda right in the gut, sending her tumbling to the side of the room.
>Rebound Activated!
>Recovered 10 MP!
>You fish out your Scrying Pearl to relay the news.
"Steelie! We got a problem!"
>"What?! I've secured Willow, and I'm on my way back! What's the issue?"
>You can hear his armor clink in the tune of a gallop.
"The dog is bringing backup! Probably her packmates!"
>"HEY! What is up with these DOG puns?!"
>Hee.
>Steel's voice rattles on the pearl
>"Understood! Hold your ground, I'll be there soon!"
"Keep an eye out too!"
>Back to business.
>HP: 50/50
>MP: 55/65
>AP: 3/3
>Esmeralda is Incapacitated. Recovery in 1 turn.
>Steel Charge is coming to aid. Arrival in 2 turns.
>Dimensional Pylon is Cooling down. Ready to use in 2 turns.
>Lexi is staring daggers at you
>What's the plan?
Its time.
Use the Whirling Dervish.
>>25740381
Follow the Whirling Dervish up with Screech, Bite, Bite.
>>25740389
Scratch that, just start with Whirling Dervish and see the effect.
>>25740381Fucking finally.
>>25740405
>>25740381
>>25740399
>>25740405
>Its time
>Your head itches for what comes next.
>You take off into the sky, high above Lexi and remove your bandanna.
>You've practiced this
>Just to make a show of it.
>You toss the strip of cloth into the sky above you
>"Huh? What the hell is-"
>Then you somersault up to it, spin in the air
>And kick that sucker in the back
>You make sure you activate the sigil while you're at it.
>Suddenly, the force of thousands of weapons suspends you in the air as they all stream out of the bandanna, right at Lexi
>Amid the clattering of metal, you can swear you hear a tiny, "Nuts."
>The stream of weapons clashes against Lexi's weapon
>"YOU THINK I CAN'T BLOCK THIS!? I'M THE WITCH OF WALLS AN-"
>You hear a piddly snap, followed by a hiss of hydraulics.
>"Double nuts."
>What follows is a yelp of pain and a long, sustained scream as the weapons tear into Lexi's meaty body.
>Dealt280Damage!
>Assorted Weapons removed from inventory.
Inventory updated!
http://pastebin.com/V4h6Wxz7
>The weapons finally finish raining down upon the poor creature, and you lightly rouch down.
>A violent pulse of magic rips through teh piles of metal, revealing a haggard and bloodied Lexi.
>"Didn't tell us about THAT, ngh..."
>She looks back at you
>"I'll give ya one thing - that hurt. I'll make sure to return the favor."
>She winces as she tries to stand on her shattered leg.
>Enemy's AP has been permanently reduced by 1!
>Lexi tries to summon three shields
>But can only manage one.
>A single red shield floats above her.
>HP: 50/50
>MP: 55/65
>AP: 3/3
>>25740643
Screech, Screech, Screech.
Damage and get ready to evade.
Next turn, no matter what, its time.Time for the pain.
>>25740645
>You blast her with everything you've got
>You Screech!
>Hypersonic waves ravage the target!
>A red shield shatters!
>You Screech!
>Hypersonic waves ravage the target!
>Dealt 10 Damage!
>You Screech!
>Hypersonic waves ravage the target!
>Dealt 10 Damage!
>Your skills comboed!
>Echolocation activated!
>Enemy's first attack next turn is...>Summon Shield!
>Your combo string's damage was boosted!
>Dealt 40 damage!
>Total Damage Dealt 60
>She crawls a bit, readjusting herself.
>What was once a body littered with cuts and scares has seemed to have healed up tremendously well.
>Lexi Summons a Shield!
>A single Red Shield floats before her.
>She takes out her Scrying Pearl...
>...She begins to speak in it
>"Ah... Simone? Just wait for me back at the checkpoint."
>Lexi begins to chuckle to herself
>You approach, ready to apprehend her
>When she finally whips her head up, her tongue lolling out of her mouth
>"You did pretty good, busting up a good ol' crippled girl like me! Don't think you'll be so lucky next time!"
>You fire out a tendril from the Druidic Focus, only to be deflected by the shield she summoned.
>With a deafening bolt and a blinding flash of red, she's gone.
>Damn it...
>Now what?
>>25740714
Retrieve dropped bits.
>>25740714
Fug and we were so close to finishing her
Check on Sweet Ass I guess, see how she's doing
>>25740714
Stuff allALLthose weapons back in your bandana and recoup.
pausing
we should probably try to find her, she was talking about murdering every pony around for resources.
Esmeralda didn't teleport very far when she did the same thing.
>>25740714
We don't have a lot of time, but we do have a couple of leads.
We know that she had a partner coming to find her. Said partner had to be close enough that she could rendezvous both at the current location and at whatever their checkpoint is.
Thus, I propose we quickly move towards the area that they came from, using super batpony senses to see if we can find her partner.
>>25740731
This, and tell essy to either come with or be taken back to jail by Steelie.
We should tell steelie to cuff Esmeralda. Get it out of the way early.
>>25746075
Your waifu a shit.A SHIT
>>25746075
This tbqh familia
>>25746679
>>25746679
>>25746687
Y'all can get fucked.I'm perfectly aware of this but I love her so.
>>25746075
I want to touch her buttI also want to tear off Lexi's robot limbs and touch her butt while she lays there and wines helplessly
>>25748384
Anon please
late startbetter than no start, I suppose.
>>25740718
>You begin to pick up a few bits from your previous engagement.
>>25740723
>You breifly consider taking all the weapons and putting them back into the bandanna for storage,
>On the one hand, that was pretty baller, on the other hand
>That's a lot of work for a little pony like yourself.
>Maybe later.
>There are more important things to take care of.
>>25744010
>>25740721
>You look at Esmeralda.
>Her heartbeat is steady, but slow
>She's either meditating or knocked out cold
>Either way, calling to her doesn't seem to get her to respond.
>Just the same, the warehouse doors slam open, and you hear the signature gallop of your faithful friend and companion.
>"PREPARE TO FACE JUSTICE, EVILD-"
>He skids to a halt
>"-Oerrrr Ah pony feathers. D-Did you already defeat the evildoers?"
>You shrug.
>"I-It must have been a fearsome battle"
>"You shrug again."
>"One worthy of renown"
"Eh. Yeah I guess? I dunno. I got to shoot, like, a million swords at them."
>"Y-You're not even hurt, either..."
>You beam at him
>Honestly, you're surprised that you didnt get hit at all
>Maybe you're jsut too good at this.
>He seems to be going through a myriad of conflicting feelings.
>Relief, shame, regret, and joy.
>Hm...
>As Steel wrestles with his emotions, you hear a more foreign clicking of tiny hooves on concrete.
>"Finally! Most good circumstances! We must find dish quickly! Relay console is of important!"
>Uhg this bitch.
>Clid stumbles in, checking bloxes on the side, completely ignoring your presence.
>"Must go quickly! Area of influence is of growing to critical mass. If sphere expands to maximum radius, pylon will be of no effect."
>Huh?
>What's the plan?
>>25749359
Grab sweet ass, have Steelie carry her
>>25749359
Ask Ewe Clid to lead us to the sphere. Follow along quickly, making douchey faces at her, and be ready for whatever comes next.
>>25749359
Give Steelie a pat on the back. Rescuing injured is very heroic.
Then help Clid search. Steelie can do... whatever it is needs doing with Assmeralda.
>>25749359
Nobody said anything about a time limit. How long do we have left?
Stream when?
>>25749359
Tell steel how she got away.
>>25749505
>You walk over to Steel, who is still silently cursing himself
>He blames himself for being too slow
>For everythign thing happening all over again
>You place a hoof on his shoulder
"Steelie. Please. You did good."
>He gives you the most desperate look you;ve ever seen before pushing your hoof away.
>"I... I know I did. Heroes always save lives, right? They don't always have to beat the bad guy..."
>He trails off, slowly walking towards Esmeralda.
>He stands by her wrecked body and looks at her intently.
>You can hear him mutter under his breath.
>"...And all I have is you, now. No accolades for repeat captures."
>You start to speak again, as you both look at Esmeralda.
"She used a sigil on her tongue. The dog got away"
>Steel's breathing halts, and he speaks through gritted teeth
>"Let me guess... Red light? Blinding flash?"
"That's the one."
>"SHE used one too. This time though, I didn't stumble upon it like the lucky idiot I am..."
>he pauses a moment
>"They could be anywhere."
>His eyes lock onto the floor.
>"We've lost them for real, this time."
>>25749505
>>25749495
>>25749530
>You walk over to Clid to give Steel a moment.
"Hey, Doctor. You never said there was a time limit."
>"What? You think I need to tell you there is stuuu--- UUDIOUS BATKIN. Yes. Eheh."
>She readjusts her vest and leans on a crate.
>"In one of crate, there is relay dish. Was freshly completed back in homeland. Sturdy Baalkan engineering. Best in Equestria."
"And? Where is it?"
>Clid growls
>"I do not know. Dish is already of on. Emits high pitched note when exposed to canister energy in radius. Need get looking. No time for sightseeing."
>>25749642
Speaking of the wounded whatever happend to the catbird?
>>25749642
Sounds like a job for bat ears.
>>25749642
Got it, fly around with canister until we hear it.
Steel expects too much from himself. we're two competent ponies against an interdimensional monster invasion, saving civies and stopping it is still a sucess even if one of them gets away after being severely thrashed.
Besides, after all that talk about the coven not tolerating weakness Lexi might find herself in Esmeraldas shoes real quick.
No streaming tonight, then?
>>25749749
Told you before boy.
It's over. For good this time.
>>25749757
What?
>You try to get Steel's attention
>He's sullen, but he's responding
>"Why am I even here..?"
>He asks himself as he hoists Clid upon his back
>You take to the sky, and Steel trots behind you
>You close your else, and listen carefully for the whine of machinery.
>Ater a few passes, you begin to hear it
>It's faint, but you follow it as well as you can.
>You set down in a a dark alley located deep within the warehouse
>You're flanked by all sides of huge boxes of all sorts.
>You listen carefully and follow the sound until you come across a shipping container.
>Clid lets out a squeal of approval and leaps off Steel's back.
>While she fumbles around with whatever is in the container, you sit down next to Steel.
>The two of you share a brief silence, looking out over the sea of boxes and shelves.
>He continues to sigh and stare taht thousand yard stare.
>What should we say?
>>25750238
Put a leg round his shoulders. Ask him what's wrong.
>>25750238
We can take this moment to thank him for earlier. What with the whole Clid thing.Kiss his cheek and call him our hero.
>>25750299
This.
But make it his lips for maximum tin-can-pony blushing.
>>25750299
This
>>25750299
This. Fluster the silly pony.
>>25750299
Activate it
>>25750270
>You place a hoof over his shoulder and rub it lightly
>He barely even registers yoru touch
"Steelie... What's wrong?"
>He pauses a moment, thinking over something...
>"I... It's dumb. It really is.
"Oh? I hapen to like dumb things, apparently."
>"It's just... All my time in the Guard, I strived to be the best. Serve to the greatest ability. To do things nopony else could do."
>He scoffs
>"To be a legendary hero, just like my ancestor"
"And what's the problem? You're strong, kind, everything any Guardpony could ever want to be!"
>"It's not just that."
>He looks at his hooves
>"I always got so frustrated with the other Guards. They're just ponies, I'd think to my self. I'd do all the things I didn't think they could do. I ran myself ragged. I got sick of it."
>He pauses for a long while
>"Until I met Willow."
>Huh?
>"She was strong, capable, and had a strong spirit. She was everything I looked for in my soldiers that I could never find."
>"I thought that that was natural. I've heard of griffins being tough customers."
>He turns to you and looks deeply into your eyes.
>"Then I met you..."
>Me?
"And that was such a shame?"
>"You... Did to me what nopony else could..."
>You want to say "make your heart flutter," but this time, you abstain.
>"You've done so much to make this entire situation better and I..."
>He cradles his head in his hooves
>"...Heroes only care about saving ponies, don't they? Make sure everyone is safe and sound?"
"Well, yes, but-"
>"When I came back here, I-"
>He chokes a bit
>"I found out yet another reason why I'll never be a hero."
>Steelie...
>You turn his head towards yours and look into his eyes...
>A few clangs and whirs later, Clid gleefully announces she's almost done
>"An in of record time, no less! Ah Hah!"
>What should we do?
>>25750656
KISS THE STALLION.
>kiss gets 5 votes
>hijacku goes with the 1 vote option.
Pls.
>>25750661
On the penis.
>>25750656
Just fucking kiss already
>>25750656
>>25750661
Here's your confirm, buddy.
>>25750671Later
>>25750656
>Chaste kiss?
>Better confirm with two 100% votes
>Slobbering all over his dick?
>Let's get right into that immediately.
>>25750656
Silly Steel, ever since ive got these eyes i've watched ponies slowly turn on me. I've seen your heart all this time and while you've been mad at me at times, it's never changed. You even stood up to that damned sheep for me. You did more than save willows life today Steel, you were my hero too.
>>25750656
A hero doesn't just beat up bad guys, and a hero definitely isn't perfect. You think perfect ponies are dumb enough to do this kind of work?
No. A hero is someone fights for others and doesn't give up. Sounds to me like you fit the bill.
>>25750656
>>25750729
>You run a hoof down his cheek
>And lighly boop him on the nose
>He recoils slightly and you let out a small giggle
"God, you're such a giant nerd, aint'cha?"
>"What? Tara, I'm being serious I-"
"Nonono. Shhh. Listen Steelie. All my life, I've seen ponies turn on me. Even ones I thought I could call my friends."
>He settles down into his seat once more.
"But you? You're not like them. I know how to listen to the language of the heart, and yours? Yours has been and always will be speaking the same dumb lines of justice for everypone."
>"I'm - I'm a hypocrite! I didn't-"
>>25750747
"So you didn't beat the bad guy. So you've made mistakes. So you have feelings like anypony else. Who cares? Perfect ponies don't do your work. Perfect ponies don't have to put up with... THIS."
>You lean in closer
"Perfect ponies don't associate with ponies like me..."
>You can feel his breath against your lips.
"Perfect ponies... Aren't heroes."
>>25750674
>>25750679
>>25750661
>>25750299
>>25750304
>>25750309
>>25750311
>>25750355
>You press forward into his lips, and while he's shocked for a moment, he returns the favor.
>It's short
>It's sweet
>Its...
>...Kinda nice, for once.
>The two f you break, and when you lean back, you see that Stel is completely flushed beet red and avoiding your gaze.
"That's for standing up for me earlier."
>"I.. I only did what was right."
>You wrap a hoof around him and pull him in for a hug.
"And that's why no matter what, you'll always be a hero to me..."
>A wave washes oer the two of you, ruffling your manes
>What was the oppressive atmosphere of a facility laid seige gives way to a well lit, organized and clean warehouse, missing only ponies.
>"This is of why ponies need my help!"
>Clid states proudly.
>Honestly, you don't even care.
>She can have her own little win, too.
[[MISSION 4 END]]
That was nice.
>>25750832
[cheers and clapping ensue]
Thanks for the fun run, Hijacker!
>>25750832
Good end
>>25750832
r8 8/8 m8.
>>25750832
great stuff
>>25750832
das it mane
>>25750832
Hope the next character is as fun as stupid face.
>>25750832
What a sweet ending
>tfw Steel x Willow is dead now
>You gallop into the warehouse
>From what Steel said, Esmeralda was in here.
>While you wree tending to Dandy earlier, Steel said that once Willow was stable, to get your flank over to the warehouse and secure any survivors.
>You just didn't think there would just be the one.
>Normally, you'd wait for the Staff Sergeant to confirm his orders
>Over the edges of the shelves you can make out a bat shaped shadow making passes on the far end of the warehouse
>They appear to be busy.
>You follow the carnage as best as you can.
>You round the corner only to see your search is already over, before it even began
"Well that's pretty convenient."
>You approach the weakened villain, Shackle in your telekinetic grip.
>>25751068
>Here you were
>Laying around, nursing a broken rib
>When this little shit comes around trying to cuff you
>Yeah, not happening.
>You fire an agile Bit at it
>but your aim is off on account of bleeding internally
>The projectile skids off its bony fa-
>Oh
>It's a skeleton.
>Alright.
>You whisk the cuff out of the air and away from the skelepony's telekinetic grip.
" 'Scuse me. You really think you can cuff me like this?"
>What do you do?
>>25751169
You're bleeding internally.
Maybe you ought to let this one slide and let the pones find you a doctor. The alternative is hobbling out until someone else from the coven finds you half crippled and with only a bag of bits and a feather for defense.
>>25751169
Lock her down and run like hell.
We're not going to get taken alive.
>>25751169
Unless we have a fix for that internal bleeding pretty quick we'll probably have to deal with these ponies. Shake the cuff in the air and say "If you want me going anywhere with you quietly this isn't getting on me"
>>25751169
Where are you going Sweet Ass?
There's nowhere to run.
>>25751169
Submit and stay in pone jail for real this time.
>>25751169
Like we said the first time you asked.
Get back in your cell. :^)
And ask for a damned doctor.
>>25751169
>>25751182
>>25751201
Think I'll go with these.
>>25751201
Thats a nice idea but then they'll just cuff her once she's disarmed and can't resist.
>>25751274
It's either fight now and bleed out somewhere or be compliant and use the ponies inherent goody-two-shoesness to not get shackled immediately. Hopefully that goodwill lasts long enough to stop bleeding out and allowing an opportunity to escape.
Like I said, unless there's a fix for that bleeding the second option is better, slim a chance as it is.
>>25751201
>>25751169
If you seriously are internally bleeding you might want to go with her.
Tell her you won't wear the cuffs, but you need a doctor, so take me to one and I'll come quietly.
>>25751182
>>25751201
>>25751203
>>25751207
>>25751213
>>25751310
>You swallow hard
>Forbidden and liomitless knowledge or not
>They have a point.
>you'll die like this if you cant get a gecko blossom
>You draw your arm back, still holding the cuffs
>And begin to speak to the creature.
>You try to mask any anger or malicious intent.
"I- I'll come with you... But you can't cuff me. Not with this thing."
>"I'm sorry. I have orders."
>Seriously?
"Uh... Pl-Please don't cuff me? I promise I'll do whatever you say?"
>"You... Really promise?"
"Really."
>"Really Really?"
>We aren't doing this.
"Yeah."
>>25751372
Keys is pretty rational. Tell her you need medical attention. You have no reason to disobey her while wounded like this.
>>25751381
>You have no reason to disobey her while wounded like this.
That's basically saying she'll try to escape once she's fixed. She might figure that out but there's no reason to just spell it out for her.
>>25751372
Ya see. All you have to do is play nice and these ponies stop bothering you. Simple.
>>25751372
Careful, equestrian skeleponies have powerful magicks designed solely to enforce promises. Even we wouldn't break one.
>>25751399
Well, we will, right?
>>25751417
Yeah. Don't go back on your word with a skeleton.
>>25751372
Toss the shackle back at her and ask where the medical wing is. Then head off in that direction. Mutter about how you hope the dumb bird got out safely.
>>25751429
Well obviously.
>>25751436
>You try to toss the shackle back to her
>It just drops from your hand
"Where's a bandage or something..."
>You try to get up
>Only to fall back into your crater.
>Thoughts of Willow fill your mind
>You aren't supposed to make friends with the wildlife
>...But you really hope she got out.
>You wince and hold your side
>The taste of iron fills your mouth.
>>25751381
>>25751399
>>25751411
>>25751417
>"You're injured horribly! How are you still awake?!"
"Yeah tell me about it. I just need a doctor."
>The skeleton approaches you and points her horn at your abdomen.
>A light glows from it, causing you to feel a warm sensation in your ribs.
>"That's not good... You need real medical attention as soon as possible.
>A wave of something washes over you all, causing the entire place to change entirely
>What was desolate concrete ground is now clean, well kept tiling.
>The lights above that were broken flourescent bulbs now are instead small LED lights that shine a constant, soothing white light.
>"Ah, perfect! The mission was a success! Here. I'll stay with you and help you cope until we can get a doctor here."
"Y-Yeah"
>You cant help but feel really sleepy for some reason.
"Just do... whate-"
>You're out like a light.
>>25751459
Hey, you'll be ok Essy, right?
Don't die like this Sweet Ass...
>>25751471
Or do. Also fine.
>>25751459
sleeptight, sleepyshit
>>25751459
Imagine if she tried to escape like this. Her internal injury would have been aggravated even worse. Getting some goodwill was about the best thing she could do.
>>25751459
If she makes it through this, it might be her moment of epiphany where she decides that the locals aren't insects after all but rational beings and quite possibly friend material- IF she doesn't get another reaming from the long hoof of the law.
Alright with that we really are done with mission 4.
What hopes do you have for mission 5?
>>25751509
More Steel and Tarawith some Willow on the side.
Ultimate showdown with Seamoan
More flags
More funA fitting moment for "A Perfect Hero" to be played.
>>25751509Hugs.Kisses.Memes.
>>25751509
A bat pregnancy. And a surprising reveal about the father.
>>25751509
Canon lewds.
>>25751509
Sweet Ass making use of her sweet ass
>>25751509
>Es and Willow end up next to each other in the hospital wing
"Hey. Hey. Stupid bird. You alright?"
>>25751618
>tfw if we vote for essy we might get a mission about hospital antics
>>25751509
The revival of Willow x steel
We need that bad ass Hippogriff damn it.
Willow x Es new OTP now that Steel has mango fever.
I told you guys to do ONE THING.
Jeezus Christ. If Es dies I'm gonna kill someone.
I wonder how angry Es would be if she got a hold of her file and saw that it included a full list of her various aliases
>>25754067
"Sweet Ass?"
"Assmerelda?"
"I don't know where you voices come from... but I'm gonna find out."
>>25751618
>>25752147
Phantom Pain style hospital escape with Es and Willow
>>25754211
>They get caught at the end
>Willow just laughs and preceeds to check out normally because she was never a prisoner
>>25754211
>es goes nuclear
>>25753527
Nigga we got her a doctor.
What more do you want!?
>>25754848I just want her to be safe.
You get to live for now.
>>25754211
I didn't know it until now but.
I /really/ need this to happen.You still feel it don't you?
>>25757167
SUCH LUST FOR CATALYSTS!
>>25757167
WHY ARE WE HERE?
>>25756380
Thanks
Letting it die so soon?
>>25761028
Quests on hiatus now.
unles you have a pertinent question, consider this thread permitted to die.
>>25751509
No more crossovers.
>>25763385
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
>>25763385
this kills the quest
>>25757167
You're gonna extract him?
