>>25540189

>With the boss-pony, Electrum Ingot, having temporarily departed to look up blueprints of the Covenantor tank for you so you can get a baseline price on the parts you need to upgrade that tank's engine, his skittish underling Soldering Iron has taken over as tour guide.

>He cautiously leads you back into the main area of the machine shop where a worker is cutting a gear for some internal component of a tank or other on a lathe.
>"OK, so err, this is our main lathe," Solder exposits nervously. "We have a couple of smaller ones, but this is where we make most of our err, our finely machined gears and stuff. You'll find gears in lots of your tank's equipment, especially the err, the gearbox... as err, as its name suggests... eheheh!"
>He sweatdrops and seems really uncomfortable.
>"Any err... any questions?" he asks.

Response, commander?

>>25540189
>tank cyoa
>pic is not a tank

>>25540203
Looks like a tank to me.

>>25540240

Tank destroyers and assault guns actually aren't technically tanks, but their use is permitted in Tanksport.

>>25540195
"Could I have a closer look at the gears? What exactly do these go to?"

I mean, we do have one for a cutiemark.

>>25540195
This is the part where I wish I knew a lot about the inner workings of vehicles.

I so want to rattle off questions about the intricate workings of a tank's transmission and engine to make this person as uncomfortable as possible, but I don't exactly know what to ask.

>>25540195

>>25149533
>gears
>buttmark is gear

Sounds like Treads would be VERY interested.

>>25149533
>>25149856
Yes, we need to find out more about this gear

>>25149533
And what purpose will this gear ve serving?
Which tank will it be fitted on? Where exactly will it go?

>>25540195
How faithful are these parts to the originals used in the war?

I recall the radios are modernized for general quality of life purposes, but what about the transmissions?
Are they near-authentic recreations for better or worse or do you build them with at least a little more reliability and modern mechanical know-how in mind?

>>25540279
>>25540268
>>25540341

>You can't help but be a bit enamoured with the lathe. A gear IS right there in your cutie mark, after all, so you'd like to think it's a speciality of yours.
"Could I have a closer look at the gear?" you question eagerly, much to Solder's chagrin. "Where exactly will it go? Which tank will it be fitted on?"
>"Oh, these are for that bucket of bolts outside," the pony working the lathe, a well-built young mare, replies proudly, ceasing operations for a moment so you can safely get a better view of the half-finished gear. "We're having to rebuild the entire transmission assembly.The tank had been sitting in a swamp since the war ended and up until a few years ago. Everything in the bottom rusted out..."
"I see," you smile. "How faithful are these parts to the originals used in the war?"
>You further explain about the modernised radios and question whether things like the transmission are also modernised.
>"Well, performance-wise they should be similar to historical, but we DO rebuild with reliability in mind," the mare explains.
>"That's right," Little Star agrees with a hearty nod. "It's not as much fun if a team with Germane tanks loses by default because they broke down. Ponies wanna see them actually fight!"
>"Exactly!" the mare agrees, grinning at Star. "There's only so much we can do on our end, though. Tanks that were just poorly designed from the start are still gonna to have problems and the moment the parts leave our floor it really comes down to how good a team is at maintenance, especially for things that like to overheat. There's A LOT of things from this period that like to overheat."
>"Don't we know it?" Star giggles, the mare clearly oblivious how close to home that hits.
>"You're welcome, Solder," the mare suddenly says, prompting Soldering Iron to turn beet-red. He probably mouthed the mare a 'thank you', but you can't be sure... "Heheh, silly pony. Anything else you kids wanna know about?"

What say you, commander?

>>25540703
Ask if she knows anything about the tanks we use.

>>25540703
We can only imagine what a mechanical nightmare fixing a tank that's been sitting in a swamp for decades might be.

>>25540703
Keep the tour going
Pretty sure they dont have ice cream shaped like tank
And i would like to continue searching for some

>>25540703
Onward.

>>25540776
>>25540750
>>25540782
>>25540825

"I can only imagine what a mechanical nightmare fixing a tank that's been sitting in a swamp for decades must be," you relate sympathetically.
>"Fhah, tell me about it!" the mare replies. "Not something you kids need to worry about, though. You just need to make sure you enjoy the fruits of our labour when it's all said and done."
>You consider asking if she knows anything about the particular tanks you use, but it would take time and you feel like you'd prefer to keep the tour going, especially as there isn't likely to be any tank-shaped ice cream around here.
"Welp, let's keep the tour going," you smile.
>"O-oh... Oh!" Solder stutters, apparently having allowed himself to tune out for a second. "Right, the tour. Err, could you, err...?"
>"Sorry Solder," the gear grinder replies, a horseapple-eating grin on her face. "I gotta get this gear finished."
>"R-right, of course..." Solder nods, thoroughly disappointed. "Well err, this way then. Come along... err, don't touch!"
>Nervous as ever, Solder tentatively leads you deeper into the warehouse from which emanates the sound of heavy panel beating. It is soon revealed to be coming from a section of sheet metal that, on closer inspection, appears to be one of the large hatches from the side-hull of the M3 currently being worked on. Shiny new hinges rest on a nearby work bench waiting for the door to be straightened out, cleaned, polished, and repainted.
>"That's... err... a crew hatch!" Solder explains. "It was damaged by an anti-tank round. We're err... we're fixing it up, good as knew!"
>"They're probably having to replace most of the delicate working parts," Star whispers. "I'm guessing only the basic steel hull was intact. Maybe the guns were salvageable too... Maybe..."

Have a closer look at the bodywork, or continue on, commander?

>>25541268
Such a terrible tank, no reason to look at the coffin for seven brothers.

>>25541318
Treads probably doesn't realize how bad it is but yes, let's move on.

>>25541485
I'm sure Little Star's ranted about it at least once.

And it's not like it was an unfunctional tank, it was just way too tall and far outperformed by everything the German army was fielding.

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>>25541503
The fact that it has a turret on it's turret and another gun on it's hull will always make it an amusing tank to look at for me.

>>25541318
>>25541485
>>25541503

>Although he's keeping quiet about it right now, Little Star has, in the past, made it very clear to you the numerous disadvantages of the M3 medium tank. The ponies of Stalliongrad derisively referred to it as a coffin for seven brothers. As such, you see little need to dwell on the work being done to it for long and indicate to Solder that you'd like to move on.
>He approves (seeming eager to be done with the tour) and shows you to a door with a peep window. He gestures at the window and when you look through you can see a pony in protective gear using a water jet machine to cut sections of thick glass.
>"We can't go in there right now," Solder relates, sounding all too happy about it. "But err, as you can see we make custom bulletproof glass cuts to order for vision slits. OK! So that's that. Moving along... moving along!"
>His hoof physically bumps against your leg as he hastily ushers you further, rudely shepherding the two of you around the machine shop and always carefully interposing himself between you and anything that looks dangerous. This continues past several more work stations making parts of various types for various sections of a tank until at last you step past a wide doorway (apparently with no actual door) into a partially sectioned off area of the warehouse.
>Guns.
>Wall to wall guns.
>Mostly machine guns, but some cannon barrels and breach assemblies are also present. A wily looking older unicorn mare sitting at a workbench across the room is diligently polishing an MG with a square box breech and a long barrel covered in holes, a cloth in her hoof and a cloth held aloft by telekinesis. She looks up at you after a few moments and smiles.
>"In the barrel again, 'ey Solder?" she playfully jeers.
>Solder just blushes furiously and pushes the two of you forwards towards the older mare.
>"Haha, and what can I do for you youngsters?" she asks. "Here to browse tank weapons?"

>What say you, commander?

>>25542283
Indeed. We're part of the local Tanksport team.

Though I do have a question. This factory specializes in tanksport parts, yes?
What purpose does an MG like that serve in tanksport?

>>25542283
Did she work on all of the guns in the place?

>>25542283
İm sure im not the only one thinking this
So wheres the biggest gun?

oh sweet

this is bump

pls

Pike nose

Here's this for anyone that's interested. Or Senpai Panzermane if he hasn't seen it.

http://pastebin.com/VhV4SrKx

>>25547975
Ralls pls

>>25547975

Nice!

>>25542315
>>25542419
>>25542526

"Indeed," you reply brightly. "Were part of the local Tanksport team."
>The mare smiles warmly and gives a knowing little nod as you glance curiously around the room, the sheer number of MGs piquing your interest.
"Though, I do have a question," you muse, thinking it odd you never questioned this before. "This factory specializes in tanksport parts, yes? What purpose does an MG like that serve in tanksport?"
>The mare stares at you for a moment and tilts her head back to enjoy a hearty, almost derisive laugh.
>"Hahaha, oh rookies," she chortles. "So many things to learn. I remember when I was in your place. Y'see, you probably think the machine guns are useless because they don't penetrate armour, but the truth is, you just have to be a TINY bit creative. For one thing, MG tracer is a great way of signalling your allies. For another, there are times when you want to draw attention to yourself and away from your buddies. A steady rain of bullets pattering against the hull is more distracting than bouncing one shell off them, believe me. You bust up some kinds of soft cover to give your gunner a better shot with her main gun, too."
>She leans in close.
>"And... don't tell anypony I told you this," she grins conspiratorially. "But if you get REAL lucky, you can sometimes even knock out a track with those things..."
>She leans back, looking self-satisfied.
"I... see..." you reply, gradually processing all the new information. "So do you work on all of the guns in this place?"
>"Well I have help, obviously," she replies. "But yep, I'm the gunsmith around here!"
>"So where's the biggest gun?" you question, noting the lack of large calibre weapons in the room.
>"Biggest gun? What, for the M3 we're working on?" she asks. "We do some of the larger tank guns out in the yard. It's easier than hauling a Stalliongrad 122 in here! I can show you if you want."

What say you, commander? Also, any other questions for the gunsmith?

>>25542315
Star could probably answer that.

>>25549430
Seems like an MG would be a pretty big safety liability though, since commanders tend to hang outside the hatches.

>>25549430
>>25549443
İ need this question answered
Can we still get shot by these things?

>>25549430
Yes please.

>>25549443
>>25549622
>>25549488

>You respond with the first and most obvious question that comes to you. Does that mean you can get shot by these things...?
"That... seems like an MG would be a pretty big safety liability, though," you respond concernedly. "Since commanders tend to hang outside the hatches."
>"So you stay buttoned where possible and aim carefully," the gunsmith replies with a wry grin.
>She retrieves a box and presents a few Tanksport machine gun bullets for you to examine.
>"Hehe. Not really, o'course. These aren't you're grandma's military grade bullets," she explains. "But they'll still hurt if they hit you, so I'd advise buttoning up when the tracer starts flying."
>"I've read that it's like getting hit with a BB," Little Star relates. "Not pleasant, but it won't kill you."
>"Usually..." the gunsmith teases. "But yes, they're designed to be as non-lethal as we can make them. It's still metal whizzing through the air at ridiculous speeds, though... Mind your eyes..."
>She puts the box of bullets away.
>"Anything else you wanna know, kids?"

Any other questions, commander?

>>25549666
You seem to have alot of wisdom in this field. You play alot of tanksport before? I'm... admittedly very new to it all, even if it's all my driver here talks about. I guess I should specify that I am the commander of Compass Rose's newly formed team.

>>25549666
Good to know then
One last thing though
What about a shot from a cannon?
After this is answered we can continue with the tour

>>25549818
I think this one was covered already.
A shot from a cannon would kill us, but that's pretty unlikely, since aiming for cupolas is very much frowned upon.

>>25549818

>>25549829 has the right of it.

Equestria: Very much not a nanny state. Although, Hell, at least in Tanksport the tanker ponies wear helmets. In GUP they don't even bother with that!

>>25549775

"You seem to have a lot of wisdom in this field," you muse. "Did you play a lot of tanksport before? I'm... admittedly very new to it all, even it's all my driver here talks about."
>You gesture to Little Star, who blushes and smiles.
"I guess I should specify that I am the commander of Compass Rose's newly formed team."
>"Compass Rose, huh?" she questions. "Never expected they'd get in on the action. Haha, so you kids really are completely new to this, then, aren't'cha? Can't way to see how you do!"
>See goes back to polishing the machine gun for a moment before remembering you had a question.
>"Oh! Anywho!" she starts. "Yep, I was a Fairweather gunner back in the day! Pretty good shot if I do say so myself.
>She beams proudly.
>"Oh, I could tell you kids stories..." she reflects, full of nostaglia. "Buuut I'm sure you kids don't want to hear an old mare ramble, do you?"

What say you, commander?

>>25549957
Probably be better than the lackluster tour.

>>25549957
>>25550012
But there is no ice cream
Unless there is ice cream I would keep going so we could keep searching for it
But story time is always nice

>>25549957
I wouldn't mind it at all.

>>25549957
Stories are nice

>>25550129
I don't think there's going to be any ice cream here

>>25550511
NONSENSE
we just aren't looking hard enough

Sorry for the lack of posts today. Being dragged out to some silly dinner thing and had to get ready for it. We'll do old timey Tanksport storytime either when I get home or tomorrow.

>>25550817
No worries, Tankhair. Enjoy your supper.

>>25550827
>tank hair
Good one
Just got that
Also before bed safety bump

creamed corn

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We need more art of Star.

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>>25553353
soon

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Bumping with slave booty

>>25550012
>>25550129
>>25550240
>>25550247

>You decide that storytime is probably better than the thus-far lacklustre tour. Of course, you do need to continue your quest for the ever-elusive tank ice cream, but hey, there's still a good few hours left in the day yet.
"I wouldn't mind at all," you smile politely. "Stories are nice."
>"Oh, really now?" the gunsmith smiles, quite pointedly pushing the machine gun she is working on to one side and clasping her hooves on the bench in front of her. Little Star is already listening intently. "Haha, well, you certainly are keen to cheer me up, aren't you?"
>She zones out for a moment, eyes glazed over as she seemingly works to dredge up all the memories she was to share with you.
>"It was..." she suddenly says, eyes snapping back into sharp focus so suddenly that Star actually flinches. "It was ten years after the war ended. What we now call Tanksport was juuust finding its hooves with the help of the Princess of Friendship. You'll never find a finer mare than her, you know. Sharp as a tack, that little alicorn. And kind as a puppy."
>She gives a nostalgic little sigh.
>"Anyways, it started mostly with Fairweathers and T-34s... there were thousands of those mass-produced buckets in surplus... We added more machines as time went by, o'coruse, but I still sometimes long for when it was just those two, hunting each other in great packs. All in good fun, mind!"
>She giggles.

-----

>"You're on track, driver, just keep going straight! Streak wants us to meat shield, we meatshield!"
>"Contact!"
>"Loader, round!"
>"Up!"
>"Gunner, eighty-five, three o'clock!"

-----

>"It takes you out of the battle, starring through the gunsight. Makes you forget you're being shot at..."

(cont.)

>>25557599

-----

>"Two more of them incoming!"
>"Radio, fire your MG! Light 'em up for the others!"
>"Inbound rounds!"

>Take a deep breath...

>The interior of the tank rocked unhappily, jostling the ponies in their seats and leaving their heads ringing.

>Adjust azimuth...

>"They took our track off, we're stuck!"

>Adjust elevation...

>"Gunner!?"
>"There's too much powder, I can't see anything!"
>"We gotta get outta here!"

>FIRE!

-----

>"I threaded the needle between two other T-34s driving in close formation and smacked the shell straight into the driver's hatch of the eighty-five!" she beams. "Covered the whole front plate in white. We didn't have all your fancy electronic sensor do-dads back then y'know... we had to use shell casings filled with flour! We were knocked out about a second later, of course, but it gave us the match when the two remaining tanks, with 76s, couldn't get through the armour of the Jumbo our squad command was in!"
>"Wooooow..." Star marvels, eyes wide with fascination.
>"Ehehe, it's not THAT amazing, really," the gunsmith replies, modestly waving her hoof. "But I did love being a gunner... It's a special thing. Most ponies won't ever even see a 76er, much less touch one!"
>"Unless they watch Tanksport!" Star grins.
>"True..." the gunsmith agrees with a smile. "But you see what I mean I'm sure. It was a real privilege."
>"She's awesome!" Star, after leaning into you, whispers excitedly.
>"So wadda you kids think?" the mare smiles, sitting back in her seat somewhat. "You bored of me yet? I could tell you another story, maybe the time they first introduced Stalliongrad heavies to the game. I've got a million of 'em, though. I'll let you ponies pick!"

Choose another story to listen to from a list the gunsmith will provide you, commander, or leave it at that? Alternatively, any follow-up questions for the first story?

>>25557704
As much as I would like to hear more stories we need to continue with our quest
Maybe another time

>>25557704
If only somebody like this could be the teacher in charge of our team. Ask is she wouldn't mind us bringing more of our teammates some other time for stories.

>>25557704
>>25557768
>>25557853

I agree with these. She's been there since the beginning and a goldmine if experience. But for now thank her for her time and say we'll probably be back another day.

>>25557853
>>25557768
>>25557893

>It's a shame, you reflect, that you can't have a pony like this as your Tanksport teacher, instead of Quiet Halls.
"Maybe another time," you decide, feeling that as much as you'd like to hear more stories from such an experienced pony, your quest should take priority for the moment. "Thankyou for your time, though. Would you mind us bringing more of our teammates some other time for more stories?"
>"Not at all!" the gunsmith grins. "I'd love to bore you kids some more! Haha! You'll have to ask Electrum if you want to do storytime here, though."
"Alright," you reply. "We'll probably be back another day."
>"Looking forward to it!" the gunsmith calls out as you make motions to depart from the room.
>Soldering Iron, who had been standing in the wings, is just taking a deep breath ready to continue the tour when you bump into Electrum coming the other way.
>"Ah, there you two are," he says brightly, a clipboard in his hoof. "I've pulled the Covenantor's blueprints for you and I've got an estimate on the parts you need."
>Looking at the document he's written up, what immediately strikes you is that getting the engine upgrade from Electrum will cost about double what Starry was estimating. Of course, it's also a sure thing whereas Starry has been casting around looking for a cheaper deal with no guarantees of finding it.
>"We can have this ready for you in a few days if you'd like to place an order," he says.
>A few days. That means it might be in time for the first real match. On the other hoof, it might not be...

What say you, commander?

>>25557994
Eh, we're strapped for cash anyway, let's not.

>>25557994
>>25558000
This
Wouldn't want to go into debt for something that might not get there in time

>>25557994
I don't think we have the cash but it's nice to know where we can get the parts. We should buy from these guys.

>>25558000
>>25558035
>>25558025

>You quickly decide that you're already strapped for cash enough as it is.
"I don't think we have the cash," you explain. "But it's nice to know where we can get the parts."
>You should, you feel, definitely buy from Electrum in the future, but for now it's not worth going into debt over something that might not be ready in time for the first match.
>"Of course," Electrum smiles, ripping the piece of paper from the clipboard and passing it to you. "I'll let you keep that in case you change your mind."
>He looks past your shoulder, sees Soldering Iron looking as uncomfortable as ever, and chuckles.
>"Solder been looking after you alright?" he asks. "I can take the tour back over if there's anything else you still wanna see."

What do you reckon, commander?

>>25558477
You know the place better than I do
But I heard there was a gift shop here
And I would like to purchase some things

>>25558528
I does? Guess I forgot about that.

>>25558528
>>25558582

"You know this place better than I do, sir," you reply with the subtlest of shrugs. "But I heard there was a gift shop here, and I would like to purchase some things."
>"Eeeh, well, I wouldn't really call it a 'gift shop'," Electrum replies modesty. "But we have some pins and a couple of pieces of... I guess you could say memorabilia? I guess I could show you. Soldier, what've you shown these ponies so far?"
>He takes the pony to one side and they mutter between themselves for a few moments. Solder looks reluctant and Electrum gives him a funny look.
>"Nnn, oh... that'll do, I suppose," he finally concludes, much to Solder's relief. "Just, try to keep calm, OK? These ponies aren't made out of glass."
>"Y-yes sir..." Solder replies, his cheeks bright red as he hastily excuses himself.
>"Poor kid..." Electrum sighs. "Oh well, let's get you two your souvenirs, yeah?"
>He starts leading you back to the front office.
>"What do you suppose all that's about, Treads?" Star whispers to you.

What do you think, commander?

>>25559114
Worried about us getting in some kind of accident, I'd assume. He did kind of shepherd us about the whole tour, kept us mostly on a leash.

>>25559114
Is there some reason he was terrified of us getting hurt?

>>25559154
Not that there's anything wrong with being on a leash
:^)

>>25559114
Maybe he was afraid of being sued or something.

>>25559154
>>25559191
>>25559165

"Worried about us getting into some kind of accident, I'd assume," you reply, giving another subtle shrug. "He did kind of shepherd us about the whole tour, kept us mostly on a leash. Maybe he was afraid of being sued or something."
>"Well yeah, that was kind of obvious," Star replies. "But why?"
"You mean is there some reason he was terrified of us getting hurt?" you question. "I haven't got a clue."
>"Didn't think you would, just... weird, y'know?" the lanky unicorn mutters. "Think we should ask Electrum what it was about? He seemed to know what was going on..."

Ask Electrum what Soldering Iron's deal is, commander?

>>25559287
Doesn't really seem like our business.

>>25559287
Nah, it's no biggie.

>>25559287
I'm kinda worried about him actually.

>>25559368
>>25559296

"I'm kinda worried about him, actually," you relate. "But it doesn't really seem like our business."
>"I suppose you're right," Star replies, mildly disappointing, but understanding. "I guess there'll be time to find out in a less intrusive way since we're gonna come back for that mare's stories. Heeey, I just realized we never even got her name!"
>Star giggles as you trot back into the main office. The receptionist and Electrum nod at each other, then Electrum opens up a cabinet with some company momentos inside.
>"So how much you kids looking to spend?" he questions, placing several things on the desk ranging from the pins he mentioned right up to a fully articulated model of an armored car.
>"Oooh, a Staghound," Little Star beams.
>"Yep. My grandad served on one," Electrum smiles. "So anyway, we got pins, we got bits and pieces from the period... so like actual gears and switches and things from actual tanks during the war, not reproductions... we've got a baseball cap with our logo on it. We've got the model Staghound... Is there anything else?"
>"Err, lemme check the drawers..." the receptionist replies, dipping their head down under the line of the wood.
>"Aheh, sorry, we haven't actually had any sales of this stuff in a while," Electrum chuckles.

You looking to be thrifty and save money for the rest of the quest, commander? Or will you live large?

>>25559815
Wouldn't be much of a quest if we dropped all our funds the first chance we got.

>>25559815
Because the school isn't really going to put much effort into supporting the team we'll be limited to what we can raise ourselves until we get sponsors. Also ask for the gunsmiths name since we plan on dropping by in the future.

>>25559829
>>25559881

>You decide that it wouldn't be much of a quest if you dropped all (or most) of your funds the first chance you got.
"Well, because the school isn't really going to put much effort into supporting the team, we'll be limited to what we can raise ourselves until we get sponsors," you explain. "Also, I forgot to ask, what your gunsmith's name? We plan on dropping by in the future."
>"Enthralled by her yarn-spinning, 'ey?" Electrum chuckles. "She's called Saltpeter. Odd name, I know. She tells those old stories of her Tanksporting days to anypony who'll listen. Best not let her get too carried away or you'll never leave that room alive!"
>He chuckles and shakes his head slightly.
>"Anyway," he continues. "If it's sponsorship you're looking for I'm afraid I can't help you with that... advertising budget's a bit tight at the moment... but I'm willing to bet there's other businesses out in the district who can. Some ponies'll plaster their logo on almost anything... and pay you for the privilege!"
>The receptionist pops back up at that moment.
>"Find anything else?"
>"Just some loyalty cards..." the receptionist shrugs.
>"Aheh, well, maybe you'd just like the pins for today, then?" Electrum questions.

Want to buy one of the souvenirs, commander?

>>25560602
Loyalty cards?

bump 10

>>25560602
I will get 1 pin
Then we must be on our way
Lots of questing that needs to be fone

Page 10

Here, a bump

>>25562106

>>25560602
Don't forget our cloud before we leave. Mention to Star that Fountain would probably like Saltpeter's tales. Maybe we can invite her to our garage and tell stories.

>>25564399
I like stories.

>>25562101
chugging along

Ugh. Sorry, anons. I caught a cold from my stinky brother and I'm just not feeling up to it today. I'll pick this up again tomorrow.

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>>25568388
>The one night I don't have to be up early for work or school

Are you shitting me?

>>25568388
Panzermane, I love ya man but your timing couldn't possibly clash harder with mine if it tried.

>>25568460
Don't blame him
Blame his stinky brother
It's his fault

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>>25568388
Just gunna pull up my games here
And play all night without worries of missing out on tenk
Always an upside to everything

>>25568548
God damnit Panzermane. Why don't your disease ridden brother to shower every now and then? Sure, whatever feces he wallows in must cover his scent from the dog-sized spiders, poisonous flying snakes, and vampiric kangaroos but surely that still shouldn't be a problem in Australia in this day and age, could it?

>>25570365

Bump again

>>25573208

Security bump for finale

Wow

I think it's over

Wow. I'm kind of astounded the thread survive the flurry of finale-related threads. Thanks anons!

>>25560618
>>25561515
>>25564399

"Loyalty cards?" you question, tilting your head slightly.
>"I was joking," the receptionist chuckles. "Buuut, Electrum here DOES like to give a discount to his best customers from time-to-time."
>"Gotta look after your friends," the stallion smiles.
"Anyway, I will get one pin," you decide, feeling that you don't really need a button each. "Then we must be on our way. Lots of questing that needs to be done."
>"Right, right," Electrum nods hastily, passing you a small hinged felt box. "That'll be four bits..."
>You nod and pay for the pin before delicately clipping it into your mane. Now you'll be spreading the good word of Tanksport's supporting infrastructure wherever you go! After thanking Electrum for his time, you retrieve your little cloud car, still hovering patiently for you in the corner of the room.
"You know Star, Fountain would probably like Saltpeter's tales," you reason. "Maybe we can invite her to our garage to tell stories,"
>"I like it!" Star beams eagerly. "I think this Saltpeter lady's great. I wonder what model of Fairweather she was in. She said her commander was driving a jumbo, but..."
>He pauses.
>"Hmm, well considering the sloping on a T-34-85's upper plate, it was probably an Easy Eight or other 76-armes Fairweather," he prattles as you motion to exit.
>"Oh hey, you two!" Electrum calls out just as you reach the door to leave. "Just before you go, I just gotta know... what's this 'quest' of yours all about?"

Response, commander?

>>25589172
Oh, to find ice cream shaped like a tank.

>>25589172
Oh. We are simply looking for a good icecream parlor, nay the greatest icecream parlor in Fillydelphia. Now before you mention it, going through the industrial districtis merely a detour. The journey not the destination and all that, right Star?

>>25589325
>>25589334
These about sum it up

>>25589325
I'm kinda afraid saying it outright may make us look childish to him. On top of riding a cloud around anyways. Plus, it adds to our original goal to merely find tank shaped icecream.

>>25589325
>>25589334
>>25589429

In fairness, you did expand the objective to include other tank-shaped memorabilia. Want to mention that also?

>>25589476
Why not?

>>25589476
Yes

>>25589476
Sure.

>>25589325
>>25589334
>>25589476
>>25589496
>>25589511
>>25589582

"Oh," you reply, about-facing hastily to address the stallion. "We are simply looking for a good ice cream parlor, nay, the greatest ice cream parlor in Fillydelphia. To find ice cream shaped like a tank."
>Electrum quirks an eyebrow.
"Oh, and we're also looking for other tank-shaped memorabilia," you hasten to add.
>"I see..." Electrum nods slowly, seemingly not sure if he understands. "Well, if it's memorabilia you're looking for you'll probably want to hit up the gift shop at the tank museum."
>"They probably will have some new stuff in the gift shop relating to the A7V they dug up," Star muses. "But like I said last night, it's better to wait until at least the day after a new exhibit opens. Avoid the crush."
>"That was today?" Electrum questions. "Huh... Fair enough, I suppose. Well, all I can suggest for ice cream is heading west. That's where the big shopping center is."
>He shrugs, obviously not too well-versed on the subject of frozen dairy treats.
>"There's a tank factory around here, too, but they're not as receptive to unannounced visitors," the factory boss further.
>"Yeeaaah, we were already there," Star chuckles awkwardly.
>"I see," Electrum nods knowingly. "I... guess... there'll probably be some old tanksport stuff... used helmets and such-like... in any thrift shops you happen to stumble across too? Maybe? Beyond that I dunno what to suggest. Sorry I'm not more help on your quest."
>Electrum glances around awkwardly, knowing the conversation has stalled out somewhat and with his guests still hanging in the doorway. He doesn't seem sure what to do now...

What next, commander?

>>25590376
We'd best be getting along. Have a nice day.

>>25590376
Tell him we're very greatful for all his help and leave. I guess we should head west, seems our best bet.

>>25590376
Thank him for his time and information and also ask if he wouldn't mind if we came back with more teammates someday. Also get sure we get some contact information so we wont drop in unannounced again.

>>25590437
If west is where the ice cream is then we go!

>>25590437
>>25590387
>>25590466
>>25590542

>You decide to break the awkwardness with a friendly farewell.
"We're very grateful for all your help, sir," you smile, nodding in acknowledgement. "But we'd best be getting along. Have a nice day."
>You half-turn before deciding to add a little more.
"Oh, would you mind if we came back with more teammates some day?" you question. "Also, can we get some contact information so we won't drop in unannounced again?"
>"Certainly!" Electrum smiles, quickly retrieving a business card and handing it to you. "Ha, wow, you kids REALLY wanna get your ears talked off by Saltpeter, don't'cha? Anyways, happy to help. Give us a ring and come back any time!"
>"Everypony here seems really nice," Star whispers with a smile. "Guess it takes a certain type..."
>He doesn't elaborate, but still looks distinctly cheerful as you depart from the converted warehouse, Electrum and the receptionist offering a wave before you close the door behind you. Back out into the noise and smell of the industrial district (as opposed to the noise and smell that was inside the warehouse. Six in one?)...
"Well Star," you grin. "West seems our best bet and if west is where the ice cream is then we go!"
>"Lead the way!" Star replies. "I know they're expensive, but... think we'll be buying any upgrades from Electrum at any stage? I'd like to support his business if we can."

What do you think, commander?

>>25590943
If we get sufficient funds to support such purchases, I'd be glad to do so.

>>25590967

"If we get sufficient funds to support such purchases, I'd be glad to do so," you smile.
>"Yes!" Star beams. "Hehe! Always gotta support small business!"
>It occurs to you that the suppliers Starry is digging up are probably going to be even smaller than Electrum's crew (or else will be wreckers and scrap merchants no more corporate than him), but it might be unkind to mention that right now given how elated Star is. Keeping your trap shut for the moment, then, you proceed north west out of the district and back into the more populated parts of town. Taking the quickest route, it doesn't take you too long before the factories give way to less impressive structures. You eventually emerge out onto a street with rows of shops. Judging by the enormous, "Gardenglow Mall" sign visible in the distance, this is very much the commercial shopping district of the city. Even here, mid afternoon on a random Thursday, there is still a goodly number of ponies trotting around, bags of shopping slung around their shoulders or held aloft by unicorn magic.
>"Where do you think we should start, Treads?" Star questions, still smiling.

Your tank ice cream is (hopefully) out there somewhere, commander. Take a look at the strip shops or head for the big shopping center?

>>25592035
Smaller shops, preferably family owned, might be more willing to oblige sillier requests like the one we're after.

>>25592075
this

>>25592075
>>25592135

"Smaller shops, probably family owned, might be more willing to oblige sillier requests like the one we're after," you reason musingly.
>"I guess that makes sense," Star nods. "Smaller shops it is!"
>You begin trotting down the street and around the district, looking for a likely candidate for the production of tank-shaped ice cream.

Roll for the results of your search, commander.

1: Disaster! Little Star trips, falls, and gets hurt.
2: You somehow end up wandering around the big shopping center.
3-4: You find only a diner that serves ice cream, but not as its primary business.
5-7: You find a chain ice cream parlor.
8-9: You find a nice family ice cream parlor with nothing outwardly unusual about it.
10: You find a family ice cream parlor with a big sign boasting 'custom ice creams today only!'

>>25592993

Whoops. Forgot the random event:

1: Disaster! Little Star trips, falls, and gets hurt.
2: You somehow end up wandering around the big shopping center.
3-4: You find only a diner that serves ice cream, but not as its primary business.
5-6: You find a chain ice cream parlor.
7-8: You find a nice family ice cream parlor with nothing outwardly unusual about it.
9: You find a family ice cream parlor with a big sign boasting 'custom ice creams today only!'
0: Receive a random event and re-roll.

>>25593012
Rollin

>>25593012
rerollin'

>>25594411

>>25594411

>>25593030
>>25593157
Nice

>>25594411

E50 M is a weak tank.

File: 1436494298604.jpg (62 KB, 486x486) Image search: [Google]

62 KB, 486x486

>>25593030
Oh boy!

Boop.

>>25593030
Does this mean we have to fight another theif?

Panzermane plz.

>>25604784

Sorry I'm late.

>>25593157
>>25593030

>A search down the strip soon yields a promising result. One of the stores seems more well-populated with kids than any of the others and a closer inspection reveals a sign proudly boasting, "Nicest Ice Creams, finest since 1116!" The place has a fun, friendly feel to it, with a colorful hoof-painted facade featuring the stereotypical cone in various flavors and streamers.
>Just as you're getting close, though, something catches Little Star's eye and he turns away. He stares blankly for a moment, then taps you on the shoulder.
>"Umm, Treads?"
>You turn in time to see the rear of a flatbed truck trundling down the road, a small tank with a little round turret and tracks in kind of a right trapezoid shape (with a much larger front roller than rear roller) loaded onto the back of it, strapped down with heavy chains. It is covered in dents and rust, and the barrel of the (very short) main gun appears to be bent.
>"Is that an... FT-17?" Star questions aloud. "Doesn't look in very good shape. They're either hauling it off to get repaired... or they're taking it to the junkyard and they're gonna scrap it. Darnit, I missed if there was a company name on the side of the truck..."
>He looks increasingly sad as the truck drives further away.
>"I think we should follow," he decides. "I wanna know what's gonna happen to that tank."
>Of course, there's no way Little Star is going to be chasing down a truck, but with all the turns and stops and starts a vehicle in the inner city has to make, you might just be able to keep up with if you fly.

It's just about to turn the corner, commander. Pursue? You'll have to leave Little Star behind if you do.

>>25605797
I'd hate to let down FTAnon

>>25605797
Little Star, you're in command of the ice cream search. We'll follow that tank!

>>25605797
Give immediate pursuit.

>>25605797
Mount up on our cloud and fly!

Tell Star to scope out the ice cream joint and we will persue the FT-17.

>>25605859
>>25605930
>>25605980

>You react swiftly and sensibly to this turn of events.
"Little Star, you're in command of the ice cream search," you command. "We'll follow that tank!"
>"Yes ma'am!" Little Star agrees, sharply saluting with a smile before heading into the ice cream parlor. "Good luck, commander!"
>Mounting up your little nimbus, you flap your wings hard and soar into the sky, allowing to make a bee-line straight over all the ground-level obstacles. You can't go as fast as a truck at top speed, but by going as the eagle flies you have much less distance to travel. You can soon see the truck below you, rolling inexorably towards wherever its destination may be.
>Several options immediately occur to you. It might take a while, but you could follow the truck all the way to its destination. You could also try to dive down to street level and see if there are any markings (such as a company name) on the truck that will tell you where it's headed. You could even wait until it stops and try talking to the driver. And there are surely other alternatives besides.

How are you going to approach this pursuit, commander?

>>25606457
Lets wait until it stops and check for markings so we don't dive into moving traffic and if there's still time we can talk to the driver.

>>25606556
Sounds good to me.

>>25606556
yup

>>25606556

You follow along cautiously until the truck stops at a traffic light, at which point you swoop down to look for markings. And sure enough, Little Star was right...
>"Burnie's Disposal."
>The name is followed by a phone number. Unfortunately, before you can memorize it, the light turns green and you are forced to bug out as the cars and the truck speed away down the street, leaving you in their proverbial dust. Damn, that had to be the shortest light change in Equestrian history... and to think ponies normally complain about the green not being long enough...
>You can probably catch up again if you wish, however.

What now, commander?

>>25606813
If it's off to the dump, we could probably get it for the university.

Heck, if we could get it fixed, we could probably sell it off to another university for money, or scrap it and use the parts.

>>25606813
We have a company name so we could look in a phonebook and get the number.

>>25606813
>Burnie's Disposal
>Burnie's
>Burn

They're going to melt that son of a bitch.

>>25606938
Maybe we should stay after it?

>>25607008

Up to you, commander.

>>25607008
At least keeping it in sight is important, but if we see find a place to check a phonebook or we can read the number we should call and try to talk to somebody that can prevent the tank from being destroyed.

>>25606938
>>25606859
>>25606848

>You figure three things. First, that judging from the name they're probably going to melt the FT-17 down for scrap metal. Second, that since you have the company name, you can probably get the phone number from a phonebook. And thirdly, that if you can get the FT for the university, you could either use it or sell it off to another university. Scrapping it for parts also occurs to you, but you know enough abut period tank to know that the parts aren't typically cross-compatible with other tanks (unless they're very similar machines, such as all the endless Fairweather variants).
>Concerned that said melting may be scheduled for today, you decide to stay after the truck, but you keep an eye out for a telephone box so you can hopefully call ahead and tell them to keep the tank on reserve for you. You soon find that whilst there are phone boxes to be used, the truck (having pulled onto the main highway now), has picked up enough speed that you'll definitely lose it if you stop to make a phone call.

What will you do, commander?

>>25607396

I should point out that I mean this kind of highway:

http://images.realestateview.com.au/pics/832/270-Burwood-Highway-Burwood-VIC-3125-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-9252832.jpg

>>25607417
Are you sure that's the right type? I saw stoplights in that picture.

>>25607482

You Americans probably don't ever call roads like that highways. In Australia we do, hence the clarification (was a poor choice of words, really. I should've said "main road").

>>25607546
Time for some exercise.
Us yanks and our obsession with doing things differently.

>>25607546
oh I see