If those two anons who said things were dull are still here, could you go into detail? What would make things more interesting?
Things aren't even past the first day, but is anyone interested in a pastebin of the story so far?The practice lewd will be there too

>>27039105
Get something interesting to read from upstairs.

i'm not the anon that thought it's dull, but i guess most of them thought the plot is moving too slowly. Also, a pastebin would be cool.

>>27039125
like I said last time. You have a character, but you don't have a story. Even SoL has arcs.

>Next to the workbench is a wooden bookshelf, filled up with technical manuals and logbooks and refrence tomes. All you need to run your business.
>The more interesting reads are upstairs, where the bookshelf there has books you've collected and and been given.
>There are more varied books there, from a few cookbooks to one on criminal deduction to even a little bit of romantic fiction.
>What can you say? Its not like you had much of a social life back then to do much else.

All the interesting books are upstairs, but you could just bring one down and read it at the counter anyway.
>You straighten things out in the back room once more, and make a mental note to sort out the unopened boxes in the corner.
>Climbing up the stairs to the second level, you enter the living area. Your home.
>On one side of the stairs, is your bedroom and the bathroom. On the other, your kitchen and dining room.
>The bookshelf is in the bedroom, next to a desk with a window overlooking the street in front of your shop.
>You take a moment to consider your choices:
>A cookbook, pretty self explanatory.
>A book titled 'How to think like Sherlock Hooves'. This one is basic intro to deduction.
>A dictionary. Because why not?
>A biology textbook.
>A sappy romance called 'Wizards of love"...you don't remember actually getting this one.
>Pick one at random (suggest a book)

>>27039307
Well you've got me there. The story I've thought of so far doesn't go on for very long. I'll need time to come up with things to do. And to think of what characters I'm going to use, too.

Would you say part of it is because things are going so slowly?

>>27039373
Probably, but I didn't read any of thread 2, and from the look of it, neither did most people.

>>27039353
bring the sappy romance with us... it sounds interesting... can we also bring the dictionary with us for... reasons...

I would play but I was literally about to go to bed.

As has been said, your story needs direction. There just isn't anything happening or for the player to work towards. Which doesn't mean there should be a surprise changeling invasion or something stupid and abrupt like that, it should feel natural and appropriate for the setting. The opportunity to work for the griffon was in the right direction, but the player has to actually have motivation to do it.

Maybe something along the lines of someone from the character's past showing up and blackmailing/convincing us to do something we otherwise wouldn't want to, a la John Marston?

The sappy romance isn't something you've read before. You decide to take that one down with you. And the dictionary too.
>Back at the counter you place the books on top, and open up the novel.
>"Wizards of love", by P. Flowers. This really isn't the kind of book you usually read, did someone leave this here the last time they visted?
>You flip to a random page. Well no use stalling now, onto the story!

>It became clear a few minutes into the book, that this kind of romance story isn't the typical 'two ponies meet and gradually fall in love' story.
>In fact, 'Porn for housewives' would be more appropriate. So many sentences dedicated to describing the length and texture of a unicorn's horn, slow motion scenes of ponies swalling phallic food items, you even found a few new ways to say 'bulge'.
>Still, if you ever needed to seduce an old mare, or, say 'plow your creamy fudge nugget into a fuzzy haddock pasty into a stew until it foams in the morning', you know what to do.
>You make a remind yourself to steer clear of this P. Flowers' books in the future.

>The sharp ring of the doorbell thankfully brings you out of your 'reading'.
>Another pony has stepped into the store, an Earth Pony stallion. From the looks of his neat appearence and collar with tie, you'd say he's a businesspony.
>"My watch is broken. I assume you do repairs here?" He says with an air of haughtiness. Oh boy, this one's going to be fun.

>>27039591
That's an interesting idea, though I haven't developed Watch's potential acquaintances to the point that one could try to blackmail him though. Seems like a deus ex machina if I do that. But maybe to someone else...

>>27039599
Yes sir, may I examine the watch sir?

Sorry about that, I fell asleep.
Be back in an hour or two

You put away the book and straighten up. "That's right sir. May I examine the watch?"
>The businesspony walks over and takes out an item wapped in a handkercheif. "Here it is, try not to damage the thing more than it already is, would you?"
>He places the package on the counter, and you unwrap it. Its an open face model.
>You've seen worse watches, you suppose. But the piece is hardly in good shape.
>The back cover fell off as soon as you tried to lift it, the crystal face has a small hole, the second hand is missing, and the square arbor in the winding hole is gone too.
>At least the winding key came with it.

>The thing's serviceable, at least. But it will take time to find all the replacement parts in the back.
>You turn it over to take a look at the insides. All the parts are there, but some are rusted. And you'll have to take it apart to tell how many parts will need replacement.
>All in all, its a few days work. And that's if you ignore the non-urgent orders.
>While you examine the watch, the stallion has taken it upon himself to look around the room.
>"There's a missing watch here. Are you running low on stock to sell?" He points out the case you made a sale from this morning.
>You could just turn away the pony, its not like you'll ever see him again. But the rich have connections, who knows how that would hurt your business?
>He's moved onto another case, breathing on the glass and rubbing his elbow on it. Is he looking at his reflection?
>With how damaged the thing is, you could just save the trouble altogether and persuade him to just get a new one. You could get the same bits from a repair job, though.

pastebin:http://pastebin.com/u/CGen

I suppose no one will mind if I just skip to the meeting tonight after dealing with this customer

>>27040399
let's just repair the watch. It'll be easier than attempting to persuade him.

>>27040399
Let's fix 'er up. We're happy to help.

>>27040500
Not at all.

Skipping/summarizing uneventful parts of the quest would help a ton with the pacing. Unless something particularly pivotal is meant to happen, you can make good use of narrative summary.

Trying to persuade the pony would be too much trouble, you think. "Its missing quite a few parts, but I can replace them."
>"And how long would that take?" He hasn't looked up from the display case.
Well he's certainly not worried about money. "The crystal will need replacing, and some internal parts too. I can have it ready in 3 days."
>He turns to look at you. "Is that so? Other watchmakers I know would take longer. Very well. I will be paying you after its done, then?"
You nod. That was easier than you thought. His type usually tries to bargain before settling on an order.
>He turns and leaves without another word. While you bring the watch to the back, and get started sorting out the parts you'll need.

>A few hours later, and its closing time.
>You've done some more work on your orders, a few ponies came to collect theirs, and some more came in just to look around.
>There isn't any other business to take care of, so you get to tidying up the shop before you leave to meet Geoff.
>Door's locked, books kept, everything's in order. Time to leave.
>When you arrive at Geoff's 'office', there's a pony waiting there already.
>Its Copper Cog, your twin brother. He looks almost like you, except for his mane and Cutie Mark: Three interlocking gears of different sizes.
>He doesn't look like he usually does, eyes down staring off like he's thinking about something. He looks up when you come closer.
>"H-hey bro, haven't seen you in a while." He's got a nervous smile on. What's going on with him?

Last post for tonight. I'll be back to do a few posts if the thread's still up tomorrow.

>>27040607
Thanks for the input. Any more advice? I think my descriptions could use some work, it sometimes feels...clinical.

>>27040800
Hey, are you okay, bro?

>>27040800
Yeah, a while. Look him in the eyes and ask what's going on.

Your descriptions have hardly been an issue to me.

It's not a concern, normally; you can use your descriptions for a slew of things, like adding to a prompt and establishing characters. But in general, if you get carried away with descriptions you risk overwhelming your audience and killing immersion.

Just one more. Because screw Mondays.

"Its been some time, yeah." You maintain eye contact. "Are...are you okay? Did something happen?"
>His expression relaxes a little at your show of concern. "Well..um..you know how I'm sorta between jobs at the moment?"
You nod. Unlike you, he didn't want to settle down to a single job once you both retired from the stealing business. He didn't feel as strongly about it as you did, but he still went with you regardless.
>It takes a while before he continues."So yesterday..somepony,um, approached me. Not like that! They were wearing a suit, looked almost official, even. Anyway, they-"
>Copper's next word is interrupted by the sound of the door opening, and you both flinch a little at the slam of the wood. Geoff must have heard you two had arrived.
>The gryphon greets the two of you with a smile. "Hello there boys, you've arrived just in time! Come in!"
>You look to your brother. He shakes his head with a small smile. 'Nevermind, we'll talk later.'
>A pair of talons wraps around your foreleg and Cog's as you are pulled inside. "Grab yourselves a seat, I'll be done in just a minuite." Geoff goes into the next room.

Now's good a time as any to investigate. But with how he's been acting, holding an interrogation in on Geoff's couch might not be the best place. He seemed reluctant enough to tell you in the first place.
A few drinks could loosen his mouth a little. Alcohol is surely going to be involved this evening, it might be easier to get him talking when he's more comfortable.
His business is his business though, and you're all here to have a night out catching up with old friends. Why get in the way of that now? Its not like you don't know where he lives.

Gryphon or Griffon? Copper or Cog?
How's my dialogue, then? That last customer didn't feel right.

>>27041427
let's ask our bro questions later... we'll have to avoid getting drunk. For now, let's just make small talk with our bro.

both is fine with me, maybe gryphon because it sounds cooler.

>>27041427
I want to know what's going on. Tell him to please at least finish what he was going to say. We can probably ease a bit more out after a few drinks.

Either, just be consistent. Copper and Cog both work.
I think you shouldn't worry so much. If there's a complaint or gripe, it'll arise.

midnight bump

here is a bumop

>>27043510

>>27044706

Before work bump

boop for time poner that'd be pretty cool actually

>>27045647

>>27047380
What do you mean by that?

worried about our bro bump

>>27048633
some idea autistically irrelevant to the quest

Bum

You lean over to him and make some small talk. "So, what did they say?"
>"Huh? Oh. Right. The pony in the suit asked me if I was interested in a job offer. They said it was something I was good at, and it could help ponies. More than just ponies."
>He scratches the back of his head, a sheepish smile on his face.
>"But I guess you're wondering what's got me so nervous, right? They mentioned you, used your name. They wanted you to join in, but I wasn't sure if you'd be comfortable with it."

Concern shows on your face. 'Something you might not be comfortable doing?' He better not have signed up for another borderline porn studio. Or an actual porn studio, even.

>>27051214
......you didn't sign me up for some creepy porn studio... did you?

>>27051214
Grab his hoof tenderly and say, "Bro, I'd be comfortable with anything as long as you're by my side."

Burst into laughter and ask what he's talking about for real.

No use beating around the bush. "You didn't sign us up for some kind of porn studio, did you?"
>Copper's eyes widen. "Wait, what? No, I-"
You place a comforting hoof on his shoulder, and look him straight in the eye. "I'll be comfortable with anything, brother, as long as you're with me."

>A smirk forms on his face, growing until he bursts out in full blown laughter.
You can't help but join in yourself. Tension broken. "But really, what're you talking about?"
>He holds up his hooves in surrender."Okay, okay, you got me. The job offer was from a Gryphon company called 'Claws and hooves'. They want us to star in their new incest portfolio."

...he's serious?

>>27051363
surely this is a joke, might as well play along.......okay... you want to do it?

>>27051363
Wew.

Come on, I already beat you to the punch. What is it really?

You roll your eyes."Come on, Copper, I beat you to the punch on this one. What is it really?"
>"What? It'll be just like puberty all over again!" There's the brother you know, pity he came back a little too soon.
Keeping up the stare, you manage to break through.
>His expression becomes a little more serious. "Heh, guess I was too late for this one." He moves over to whisper in your ear.
>"The pony claimed to be working for the crown. They wanted me, us, to break out the old lockpicks for them. To 'help others'. But I got the feeling they wouldn't mind airing our dirty secrets, even if they didn't say anything."

>He leans back. "And that's it. I just happened to get to you first." He grins. "Besides, I really did get a job offer from that Gryphon company."
>"What's all this about a job offer?" Geoff asks as he enters the room. Looks like he's finally ready to go. "You found another job then, Copper?"
This is new. Granted, you never were too fond of stealing family heirlooms, aside from the occasional noble that bought trinkets like a baker buys flour.
Doing work for the Princesses, helping ponies, could really be more your thing, lockpicks *are* part of your talent...assuming whoever approached Copper really meant it.

Goodnight, see you tomorrow.
Now I know the hook is too obvious, but you really can choose either option. No guarantees on quality, though.

>>27051653
We probably shouldn't let Geoff know about this... should we? Tell our bro we'll talk about this later...

Well... my dear brother here has signed us up for an incest portfolio... you want a copy when it comes out? I heard there'll be gryphons in it too...

>>27051653
"Yep, my bro's gonna be a pornstar. Isn't that great?" Boop the Cog pony.

We need to find out who these "others" are before we consider anything.

G'night.

proud of pornstar bro bump

bemp

>>27054060

>>27054902

It's too early for this, but... romance options?
Any mentioned characters you're eager to meet? So far, there's that Unicorn lady's nephew and the one that plays chess with Geoff

>>27055837
huh... didn't thought much about that. i figured it'll happen when it happens, the nephew sounds interesting.

homo bump

>>27055837
None I'm rather eager to meet. I'm sure we'll be surprised.

Halfway through work bump
Don't know about romance, but you're welcome to try for it anyway

romantic bump

>>27058935

A quick one. I'll be back later

You turn to Geoff and respond before Copper can. "Yep. Copper's gonna be pornstar! I hear its a Gryphon publication, want a copy when it comes out?"
While putting your arm around his shoulders, you quietly tell him you'll talk to him later.
>"Right then, how about you take my dildo collection with you?" He replies flatly.
You can't tell if he believed you.

>>27060396
Aw come on... don't be like that, you'll have to help me encourage Copper to take the job offer! Don't you want to see him in those hot and sexy lace dresses?

"Don't be like that, don't you want ponies to see him all dressed up in lace?"
>Copper pushes you back across the couch. "Oh don't listen to him. He wasn't being serious."
>"Yea, I figured. You were trying too hard, Watch." He replies with a coy smile.
>Geoff grabs his cap hanging by the door and puts it on. "Come on boys, let's get some food. Were wasting moonlight!"
>"Sun hasn't set yet, G." Copper gets off the couch to follow.
>As you follow suit, Geoff turns his head. "So, where are we going?"
The Green Mug is always an option, decent food and familiar faces don't disappoint.
You could always try your luck and see if you can find somewhere new. There's no guaranteeing for taste, but that's all part of the excitement, no?
Perhaps the other two have their own ideas?

Your boys' night out has begun! Where do you want to get your grub?

>>27060586
Let's follow their lead, so if anything terrible happens... we can blame it on them.

"Do you two have any ideas?" You figure its best to let them lead on this one, so if anything bad happens, it won't be your fault. Not directly.
>Geoff shrugs. "Nothing right now. Anything's fine, I just want a drink."
>"I think I know a place. Its a bar not too far from here. I don't remember the name...but I know how to get there." Suggests Copper.
Without any other alternatives, you decide to follow his lead.
>As the three of you make your way across town, into one of the quieter areas, Geoff takes it upon himself to start some conversation.
>"I wasn't kidding about the dildo collection, you know." He blurts out.
>You almost miss a step. "Wait, what? How the heck did you get that? *Why* do you have that?" Copper has an incredulous look on his face.
Your face shares his expression. Is Geoff leading in to one of his 'adventures' again?

>To his credit, the larger gryph doesn't miss a beat."Well ya see, this unicorn came in one day. She had a cloak on, and a bit of a prissy attitude too..."
You can't really say you didn't see this coming, he's always loved telling stories. That, and hearing himself talk.
Do you really want to listen in?
If some mare somehow pawned off a bunch of toy dicks to Geoff, its not as if he bought the things himself. He'll find a way to get rid of them eventually, he always does.
Then again, its not like you have anything better to bring up, do you?

I'll stop after the next post. Slow night tonight, isn't it?
How many players do I really have? 16 IP addresses hardly means 16 people. Anyone coming in to catch up while I'm sleeping?

>>27060772
Not much to talk about... unless we want to bring up how someone has seen that magazine that has featured us and our bro and probably, totally imagined us doing each other......

You can expect me to be around... I'm the anon with the same time zone as you. 4-5 of the addresses is probably from my phone though.

>>27060772
We get the message pal. Ask Geoff if anything special happened after we left the bar.

Yeah, pretty slow night. I've been here, just busy.

Might as well humor Geoff, you don't really have anything you want to really bring up anyway. Nothing you're sure of, at least.
>"...so she says she's got a bunch of cooking things to sell. Silverware, glass, that kind of stuff. So, she brings them in and they're in boxes this big-"
>He holds his talons a moderate distance apart. "-and quite a few of them too. So I ask her where she got them from, and she tells me they're from someone else."
>Copper slows down to walk next to him. "It all seems okay so far, someone brings in loot for someone else, done it before-"
"We get the message Geoff. Just how exactly did you get saddled with them anyway?" You interrupt with your own question.
>Geoff takes a moment to clear his throat."The first box was the real deal. I had no reason to doubt her, and I'd already paid her the bits when I checked the rest. Shame she'd already left, she had some nice loot herself, ifyouknowwhatimean~"
>He winks at that. "So it turns out the second 'O' on the labels was actually a really badly drawn 'C'. And now I've got half a closet full of dicks I don't know what to do with!"
>That earns a few laughs from you and Copper. "You could just see if Pearl wants 'em, we can go see her later." He suggests.

You change the subject after the laughter dies down."So Geoff, anything special happen after we met at the Mug earlier?"
>"Nothin' much." He replies. "Just went to pay a visit to your brother here, invite him along. He's been working on that little project of his, haven't you Copper?"
>He nods. "Yep. I was doing some tweaks on the old bow and crossbow pieces I was working on. They're still nowhere as powerful as regular ones, though."
>Mechanical projects was how your twin applied his talent. He's always held an interest in small, compact systems. A collapsable shortbow, a single-hoof crossbow, and a collapsable baton are some of the things he's working on. You're a little proud to say he was a little inspired by your work on watches, at first.

>>27060827
Its not like Watch knows that though...yet

>>27061120
So... are we there yet? Bro, how far is 'not too far'?

>>27061120
Pull out pocket watch and check the time. Not sure what else to do or talk about on the rest of our way.

before bed bump

bemp

Will that mysterious totally-not-porn recruiter pony come to us, or will we find them first?

dildo collection bump

Hi. How are you today?

>>27061120

We can use one of the dildos on ourselves and then give it to Banana as a special gift.

>>27067203
In any other quest, I'd have considered this shitposting.
But since we've got like 3 players, I could do that if the rest of you agree...

>>27068156
No, just no. I'm okay with using a dildo and whatever if has something to do with the quest but giving it to Banana as a gift is just weird.

>>27068195
shit, I missed the 'then' part

File: 1454116230451.jpg (123 KB, 1169x800) Image search: [Google]

123 KB, 1169x800

pls no dildo spagoots

What Geoff said earlier gets you thinking a little. You come up with a few uses for his surplus 'loot'...most of them inappropriate.
You pull out your own watch and check the time. Half past six. You turn to Copper
"Are we there yet?"
>"Actually, we got here a few minutes ago!" Copper waves his hoof at the building before you. "I just didn't want to interrupt the story."

>He wasn't lying, the three of you were standing outside your destination the entire time!
>Its a small-ish place, with a set of wooden doors and a 'bar' sign above them. No mention of a name though...curious.
>The place looks bigger on the inside than the outside. You're greeted with the sight of the bar itself to your left, a bunch of standing tables in the middle, and a string of booths along the far wall.
>"Huh. Cozy..." Geoff starts walking around, looking at the tables, the ponies sitting at them, and the drinks they're having. Especially the drinks.
>"Welp, here we are! You go on ahead and find a table or something, I'm going to use the restroom." Copper walks off to the far end of the room, and turns a corner.

So you've arrived at the place Copper was talking about. What will you go see first?

>>27068475
Is there a jukebox? Get some ragtime playing then sit at the bar counter.

>>27068475
Try to subtly observe what everyone is doing.

A place like this should have some kind of music....ah! There's a jukebox opposite the bar.
>You start walking, and hit the play button as you pass by. The label on the disc was worn, so you didn't get a good look at the title. Eh, you'll find out soon enough.
>Your ears twitch a little as you pick up the first notes. The upbeat and chipper tones of a ragtime song fill the air.
>A head or two turns to look at the new sound, but by then you're already halfway to the bar.
>Hopping up on a stool and turning around, you take a moment to observe the patrons. Old habits die hard.

>Two stallions sitting at the other end of the bar, wearing nothing other than saddlebags. Must be here for a casual visit.
>A group of five is sharing a platter at one of the larger booths. All unicorns, all with drinks. They look a little younger than the other patrons.
>A pair of earth ponies standing at one of the tables. They're having a pretty animated conversation, and the partially empty steins of ale says their night's just beginning.
>A pegasus stallion, a batpony mare, and a gryphoness are playing a card game in one of the other booths.
>The bartender herself is at the pass through into the kitchen. A basket of crisp fries appear, and she takes the order to the stallion pair. Guess its too early to break out the waitresses.
>The sound of a door closing alerts you to Copper's return. He takes a seat next to you and leans back against the bar.
>"Hey, what'cha lookin at?"

>>27068684
Just checking out the place... and the other patrons.

>>27068684
A nosey horse that I hope washed his hooves.

Boop him. Let's get some drinks and ask about the place.

You turn around on the stool. "Just taking a look around...and I see a nosey horse that better have washed his hooves."
His snout makes that annoyed scrunch that always happens when you boop him. Good thing you don't need your nose in the restroom, or else you'd have to wash YOUR hooves.
"So, what's up with this place?" You wave to the bartender and she nods in acknowledgement. She'll be coming by for your order soon.
>"What, this? This-" Copper waves his hooves around. "-is a bar. You come here when you wanna consume some form of alcohol, with or without food to go with it. I find its a nice kind of place to talk to ponies."
>"Besides, you didn't answer my question." He prods back at you. "Bet you were looking at that pair at the table? Or was it those three playing cards? I didn't take you for a gambling pony, brother."

Is that one anon who suggested piano still around?

>>27068856
"Well if I play my cards right we might score you a date. Celestia knows you need one." Punch his shoulder and grin.

Just enjoying the music right now. The atmosphere is pretty mild.
>>27068883
For the jukebox? Ye.

It's your turn now, you playfully jab his shoulder.
"Well if I play my hoof right, we just might score you a date. Celestia knows you need one~. Besides, I was just enjoying the music. A little quiet here, isn't it?"
>Copper feigns a look of shock.
>"Well I'll never! I'll have you know I've been on plenty of dates! They just never worked out. As for the crowd, its hardly late enough for more ponies to come in."
He's right about that you supppose. You check your watch, its only about a quarter past seven.
>"Hello there. What's your order?"
>The bartender,a teal pegasus mare with a white shirt stands in front of you.
>Geoff takes this moment to rejoin the party.
>"I'll have a beer, and something fried."
>The mare doesn't seem fazed in the slightest. She motions to you.

>"Here, use this." Copper passes you a menu from the side. "An ale please, dark."
You look down at the food list.
Seems like typical bar fare. Fried, starchy foods, ales, beers, liqueurs, you even see meat on the menu. Well that explains the gryphon lady earlier then.

Next post will be last, but I'll make it a little longer.

>>27068994
Actually, I meant the one who suggested Watch took piano lessons in the first thread. The ragtime reminded me of that.

>>27069080
Do they have wine? If not, maybe herbal liqueur? Maybe also get a basket of crisp fries...

You ask for one of their specials, a mulled wine, and a basket of fries for yourself.
>The three of you pay for your orders, and Geoff turns to Copper.
>"Say, how did you find out about this place?"
>"I did a job at the place the owner used to work at. We got along well enough, and when he opened up the place, I was invited. That's it, really."
>The three of you spend the next hour or so just chatting and catching up. As the food comes, you finish them and order more.
>Soon enough your bellies are filled and feeling comfortably buzzed from potatoes to cider to even a bit of ham when Geoff swapped your sandwiches. You'd thought it tasted odd. Copper didn't like the texture.

>Patrons came and left, the young unicorn group and stallion pair departed, leaving the trio playing cards and the now more drunk pair earth ponies still at their table.
>What has your attention now is one of the new arrivals. A group of a few big, burly ponies came in, clearly more than a little sloshed, judging by their swaying gaits.
>One of the newcomers, a pegasus, stumbles onto the floor by the table of the drinking pair. Now you never knew if he was tripped or just fell, but the fact is, they're arguing.
>It's caught the attention of everyone else in the bar, the bat mare beigins to stand, but her pegasus and gryphon friends hold her back.
>"Is this really happening right now? It's just so stereotypical!"
>Geoff throws up his talons as one of the ragtime songs on the playlist starts for the upteenth time.
>"Think they'll start fighting?"
>Copper munches on some onion rings eagerly watching the scene. Seems someone's enjoying things, at least.

Trouble's brewing...what will you do?
'Night. Here's one of the songs I found searching ragtime:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChJfObFw3co

>>27069357
Let's stay where we are... where it's safe... no need to be involved in anything... plus, we probably are a squishy rogue...

>>27069357
We ain't a hero. Spectate, lazily sip our drink, the works.

bed bump

bomp

Only 2 players? bump

at least it feels kinda personal bump?

bar fight bump

pg 10 bump

Ever think my writing will be good enough bump?

yeah, it'll improve as you go on bump

>>27075157
The biggest issue right now is still the solid mundanity of the quests events so far. The characters seem fine at this point, they just don't have much conflict to react to. And the plot hasn't developed in the few weeks you've been running.Also, what quests do you follow?

Being the squishy, fragile rogue you are, maybe it'll be better to just watch this one. Where its safe.
You take a sip of your drink and observe.
>The buff pegasus is really getting into the personal space of the earth pony stallion.
>His friend is trying to break it up, but the larger pony just ignores her.
>The rest of the drunks are standing by too. Some clearly don't want to start a fight, not that it's helping much.

>The spark that sets him off is the glass of liqeur on the table.
>It spills over Mr big, buff and angry, and the smaller stallion ducks in time to avoid getting punched.
>His mare friend though, doesn't take too kindly to being under a quarter ton of drunk pony.
>A few of the pegasus' friends join in the brawl, three on two isn't a fair fight...
>You narrowly miss getting brained by a stray bottle, but Copper doesn't.
>At least the glass didn't shatter completely, but it does knock him off his seat.
>The fight soon devolves into a proper brawl as a few random ponies join in on the action.
>That bat mare and her friends join in too. Though you did hear them shouting about the Royal Guard...not the best time to start a bar fight.
>"I think we should leave."
>Geoff hands over a few napkins to Copper. He's bleeding a little, and looking a quite dazed. Maybe its time to look for somewhere else to go to?

In my defence, it hasn't even been a few weeks. More like nearly two.
But what conflict could I reasonably make? By day, a watchmaker doesn't see much crazy stuff.
As for the plot, I was just going to ask if everyone didn't mind seeing spoilers. Cause I wanted to ask and discuss some about future ideas. For both plot and characters.
Only quest active now is Stuck. But I also read JAD, Night Delivery, DiTA, ButtQuest and a few other dead ones.

>>27076751
Tend to our brother, duck out of the bar with him and Geoff. Ask him if he's alright and help him treat the wound. Hug.

I don't doubt you, I was just giving a rough estimate. Still, most quests had *something* going on within the first session or two. Otherwise it wouldn't hold a playerbase.
A watchmaker in Equestria is bound to see something unusual. If not, the idea wouldn't be very fit for a quest, if even a standalone greentext story. You're the QM, introduce something "more" if you want to keep people interested.
I wouldn't mind discussing spoilers, though I know meta discussion during sessions is usually frowned upon.

>>27076844

You take a closer look. Copper has a large cut on his head, not enough to scar, but it is bleeding some, and he can't sit straight either.
>You motion Geoff to get moving, and he helps you by taking your twin's left side while you carry his right.
>As the two of you move towards the front door, a loud thud sounds as a pony falls before you, followed by a few glasses and some half eaten food from the table he's landed against.
>The drunk stallion had grazed Geoff in his short flight, making him lose grip on Copper and dragging him off you as he stumbles.

>In his drunken haze, the pony is still rearing for a fight, and with your friends momentarily knocked down, he's coming for you.
>From this distance, it seems he plans to tackle you, judging from his lowered head.

Well, I guess its just my own fault then for not thinking of more ideas and starting so soon. I realize I could have rearranged the plot a little, made the first pony we met the recruiting pony instead. Among other things
So it'll be fine off sessions then? There's discord, but I could never keep up.

>>27076982
What the fuck is wrong with everybody? Ask Geoff for help, we ain't looking to pick fights right now.

I don't think the quest is unsalvageable, really. But if you want more players you might have to pick up from somewhere that doesn't require them to read the last few threads. Not sure how else to word it.
It'd be fine by me.

>>27076982
dodge to the side, as soon as he passes us, make sure Geoff is okay, then grab copper and run.

>>27077086
You're right. Even if the pace picks up now, most people that have dropped it are long gone.

I'm going to stop here. And skip tomorrow night too, I'll be too busy to do proper posts. Discussion's fine though.
>>27077086
What do you mean? Start over? New thread with a super summarized intro? Make a break to review all the important bits, then continue from there? Rewrite the pastebin?
Honestly though, biggest problem I have is still thinking up names for the ponies

>>27077139
I have to admit, only reason I haven't dropped it is because I'm autistic enough to try to follow everything I can. I love CYOA, and I like trying to help QMs get on track. Plus I have a lot of time to do so.

>>27077151
Not restart exactly, but you may have to do things like reintroducing characters and stuff; it all depends on what you choose do do.
Try not to think so hard about them, especially if they minor characters. Interest + personality seems to work fine for basic naming. It's completely up to you on how to branch from there.

>>27077227
On one hand I've gotten a little comfortable with the few players here now. On the other, more players is better.

So it'll have to hook more in by making a lull in the story, then using it to basically review everything? I'll admit, I'm not exactly sure how to do that.

I sometimes wish I didn't have to do this temp job on doing now. I'll have more free time after June but that's 2 months away, and a few months might as well be a whole year on 4chan

I'll be home late tomorrow, so nothing long then. I'd like to work out some ideas, if you guys would like to help?

>>27077287
Well, I'll help however I can... I tend to lurk cyoa threads... the only reason i'm participating here is because there seems to be no players at all...

>>27077287
You can't go wrong with starting the quest off with a problem. It doesn't have to be a grave problem, either; although exaggeration can be used in a comedic way.

Mostly, you shouldn't focus too strongly on the story, because a defining aspect of CYOA is the story wildly straying from what the QM had planned anyway. Focus on your world/setting, your characters, both of them in some sort of depth, as well as how they interact.

I know that feel. As long as your upfront and consistent with your schedule, your playerbase will never complain.
Gladly. I'll try to help anyway that I can.

>>27077337
Fellow H&H anon?

>>27077392
Which H&H? I might be thinking of the wrong one...

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>>27077456
Does pic related jog your memory? If not, I'm mistaken.

>>27077506
Oh, I am thinking of the right one... has been quite a while since I last saw it though...

>>27077595
Yeah, I miss it too. It's strange how we're once again the only two players in a given quest.

>>27077694
I wasn't really a part of that quest though... I was lurking the thread, but I was too unconfident in myself to actually take part in anything...

>>27077988
Come on anon. Your input's valuable.Did you enjoy the lewds we got him to write?

midnight bump

>>27078130
I did enjoy them...... they are pretty awesome...

>>27078130
You mean H&H?
Which quest was that?

>>27080299
Coltshan.

What would be a good time to have the story pause?
I was thinking either just before the first mission gathering intel on the gryphon smugglers (whose details I don't know yet, but I do want a embarrassing name for their leader), or while considering the offer from the not-porn recruiter pony

>>27081267
Pause for what? The timeskip?

>>27081707
Not a timeskip, more like a break in the 'action' so I can do some character reintroduction, if need be

>>27082271
The current part of the quest? Or are you referring to something else?

>>27080299
The full name was hand & hoof or something like that... sad thing was we never got to see his lewds improve...

>>27082271
So, you mean like a big recap at the start of 'chapter two'? Or a slice of life event that reintroduces everyone important and vital to the story?

>>27082606
I'm not sure which to use, that's why I asked.

>>27082846
well, the slice of life event would allow you to introduce everyone and maybe give a bit more character development... I'll prefer the slice of life over boring recaps... unless you can make it work.

>>27082964
You use a lot of ellipses. Why are you so shy anon?

>>27083181
It's not a bad thing... is it? I'm not really sure when I started doing that... I guess I'm just nervous about everything all the time?

>>27082964
Well, making it work is the hard part.
Some kind of party could work, but who would hold it, where will it be and why?
I'll just have to work it out eventually

>>27083430
well, an idea would be some sort of ball/gala/party held by some noble to make connections with the gryphon delegates... Geoff would want to be involved in it for some reason i haven't figured out yet and somehow drag us and our bro into it? depending on how you do it, we can end up sneaking in or something else... it'll be like, a sidequest of sorts...

>>27083847
I had an idea for something like that, but not so early on.
Basically him and Copper ideally get hired by the government spook as counter-espionage agents. It's so short notice, because they don't have any ponies available since the tip off was so sudden. The ball would be part of the prep to gather info. Not sure how I'm going to work in other ponies though.

Surprised it lasted this long without bumping

So...looks like my plans tonight were cancelled, anyone around to play?

>>27085572
i'm here...

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>>27085572
Possibly.

What is wrong with these ponies? How does two guys carrying an injured pony equal a challenge to fight?
Your first move is to get away, diving into a roll to your right just as the charging stallion plows through where you were. Geoff is just getting back up himself.
"Hey G! You alright!?"
>"I'll be fine! Where is he?"
You jump to the side again as he makes another pass at you. He grazed your sleeve that time.
"Right here! I'll need some help!"
>The gryphon wastes no time as he moves to intercept the earth pony. Geoff counter's his charge with a bodyslam of his own, sending them over a table.

You hastily move to pick Copper off the floor, and help moving him towards the exit.
>His steps are picking up speed, and you soon make it out through the door. It looks like he's starting to recover. Time to get outta here.
"Geoff! We're leaving!"
>"I'm a little busy at the moment!"
>The drunkard from before has managed to get himself on Geoff's back. The gryphon is trying to throw him off, but he's clinging on stubbornly. Another table of drinks gets knocked down.

Thanks for being here, and for all your help. I haven't said that before, have I?

Thanks

>>27085719
Shout "Hey!" at the stallion on Geoff's back to get his attention. Whip your hair and say "caught you 'miring."

Geoff better take advantage.

You're very welcome. Hope you have better luck.

>>27085719
You're welcome.

>>27085748
This... just, this.

One thing you always hear about drunks is that they can find the ugliest faces attractive, so why not put that to use?
You get within shouting distance, and get the stallion's attention.
"Hey! You!"
>The pony looks up, confused at your action.
You wink and flash the most charming smile you can manage at him while whipping your mane.
"Caught you 'miring~"
Well, you try to.
>Downside of keeping your hair neat is, you can't move too much at once with a single motion.
>Still, it works as intended. The stallion blushes lightly, and after the second of silence Geoff takes the oppourtunity to toss him into a booth.

>"'Caught you 'miring'? That's what you do? There are literally dozens more things you could have used instead!"
>Well he's clearly not too banged up to be snarking like that.
"Hey, it worked didn't it? Let's get Copper."
>The three of you are now outside the bar, mostly still in good condition, though Copper's head could do with a check up.
>He's still holding the napkin to his forehead. The bleeding's stopped, for the most part.
>"Think we could go see Pearl? A comfy chair would be nice right about now."

>>27085821
Does Pearl have bandages or something? Copper needs medical supplies... it might be faster if we carry him too.

>>27085821
We need to get you treated. If her place is closer than the hospital, then sure. We can make a stop by her place.

"You sure the hospital wouldn't be a better choice?"
The hospital would be the better place to go, but at the moment, Pearl's place is nearer. All the clinics are probably closed anyway.
>"I was hit with a bottle of alcohol, not a knife dipped in pus. It'll heal on its own, I just need to get cleaned up."
>Well, arguing isn't going to get him help any sooner, so you decide to go along.
You hoist your twin onto your back. The faster he gets help, the better.
>Geoff takes this chance to butt in.
>"You might have been hit with clean glass, but I think there's a wet spot on my back!"

>With Geoff guiding you from above, it isn't very long before you find yourself in front of the Blooming Rose.
>A two storey building with, what else?, rose bushes and silk under the windows.
>Copper's cut has stopped bleeding now, but its still open, and is starting to swell.
You make your way inside.
>The place has some customers, as is usual for the night. A few mares in revealing dresses move about. Some carrying trays of drinks, others carrying ponies on their arms.
>A stage is set up at one end of the room. The dim lighting there provides ample focus for the mares in burlesque outfits performing on stage.
>It's not too hard to find Pearl, the cream coated Earth mare and her big hair isn't hard to miss. Even with her red dress concealing her open oyster for a Cutie Mark.
>She's currently busy talking to a stallion customer.
>"So what can I get with 50 bits?"
>Her response is quick, and dry.
>"Somepony may touch you. Briefly."

>>27086092
Eavesdrop momentarily.

>>27086092
Is Copper still conscious? Get her attention without drawing the attention of other ponies in the area.

Eh...it'll be rude to interrupt, you suppose. You wave your hoof at her.
>"Hmm...I'll take it!"
>Pearl nods, her eyes flashing briefly at you, and motions to the nearby hallway.
>"Just get over to room number four. I'll send a girl in shortly."
>Just as he leaves, she pulls aside a passing waiter.
>"Tell Galina her talons would be appreciated by a customer, room four."
>The pony nods in affirmation and hurries off.
>She notices Geoff and Copper, and beckons the three of you to follow her.

>The three of you end up backstage by the kitchen, and Pearl is quick to pull up a seat for Copper and some bandages out of a cupboard.
>"You don't come to visit in weeks, and this is the condition you present in?"
>Her tone is disapproving, like the teacher that caught their student peeking at answers.
>"What's happened to you, dearie?"

>>27086395
Spontaneous bar fight, nuff said.

>>27086447
This.

You grab a wet cloth and start to clean Copper up.
"A bar fight happened, that's what."
>Green magic washes over her as she speaks to you.
>"And you! I haven't seen you here for even longer, and the first thing you say is: 'A bar fight happened'?"
>A chitinous hoof bops you in the back of the head.

>Geoff pulls up a chair himself, passing some water to Copper.
>"Your disguise is off, Pearl..."
>"We're in private dear Geoff, no reason to stay disguised here."
>Copper raises his hoof.
>"I'm feeling better, in case anyone's still interested."

One more post

>>27086680
Scratch head and scrunch muzzle.

Going to the bar was his idea anyway. Geoff and I had no idea what to expect.

>>27086680
Glad that you're feeling better... by the way, this is your fault.

Bumping in hopes of having our brothers cawk in our mouth at some point.

>>27086757
Anon pls.

>>27086757

Bedtime.See you in about 10 hours. Probably more.

You scratch your head where she hit you and scrunch your muzzle.
"For the record, going to the bar was completely his idea..."
You turn to your brother and point your hoof at him.
"...and this is your fault by the way. But its good you're feeling better."
>Pearl raises an eyebrow. "Oh is that so, dear?"
>Copper only gives a sheepish smile in response.
>The Changeling shakes her head.
>"Whoever's fault it is, you three can work it out by yourselves. I've got a business to run, we can catch up later."
>Pearl moves back towards the main room, donning her big hair and red dress once more.

>Geoff puts a talon to his chin.
>"Well there's that. I wonder if she's in the market for some toys..."
>Copper takes a sip from his glass.
>"She might be, that storage closet upstairs is bound to have some things that need replacing."
>"Good idea, I think I'll just go check it out myself..."
>The gryph stands up and makes his way to the stairs by the kitchen.
Speaking of which, is probably still serving.
The main room is open to you of course, as is the rest of the building, private rooms excepted.
Though you could keep Copper company until Pearl comes back, content as he is to lie in that chair.

>>27086757
You know the rules anon.
All lewds are practice only, and of questionable quality. [/spoiler}

>>27086979
Then give us some more practice lewds~

>>27086979
Let's stay with our bro... this is a chance to continue our talk... alone, in private.

>>27086979
We never got our food before the brawl at the bar, so that's on the list of things to do. Other than that, this >>27087024. He needs to fill us in on some details he held out on earlier.

>>27086979
Certainly we have a few other friends here. I wonder is Geoff is doing a thorough check of the stuff in that closet.

super late night bump

5am bump

>>27088997

Anyone awake?

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>>27091460
You.

>>27091460
Isn't it better to post in discussion?

>>27091650
Yes, but the thread needed a bump.
And I forgot it existed for a moment

noon bump

Part of you wants to go after Geoff and see what he's doing, but this might be the only chance to talk to Copper about that mysterious job offer he got.
The small gurgle your stomach makes will have to be ignored for now, you never did manage to finish your meal back at the bar.
You take the seat Geoff left behind and get straight to the questions.
"Now that we're alone, could you tell me more about what that mysterious pony said?"

>Copper sits up straighter in his chair.
>"Right, now's a good time to talk about that, I guess. What do you want to know?"

>>27093325
Was the mysterious pony a stallion or mare? How did they approach you? Do you want to take the offer? They... didn't threaten you... did they?

A few obvious questions come to mind.
"Was the pony a stallion or mare? How did they find you? Do you want to take their offer? You weren't threatened, were you?"
>Copper takes a moment to to think.
>"First, it was a mare. She found me outside, at a cafe, and was polite and professional about it. She said I could walk away if I wanted, but when a stranger approaches you knowing the fine details of you and your brother? That's more than a little unnerving."
>He looks straight at you.
>"I'm...unsure...about the offer. She probably wasn't lying, it would be good to do something to help others in this city. Besides, being a spy sounds exciting!"
>"But that kind of stuff is a dangerous job, more that what we used to do. I'm not sure if I want to take that risk...or put you through it, or that matter."

>>27093781
I still have a shop to run... but I don't want you doing this alone. I meant it when I said I'll be comfortable with anything, as long as you're with me. So... I'm willing to do this if you are.

"I still have my shop to run...but I don't want you doing this alone. I really meant it earlier when I said about being comfortable with it as long as you're with me."
You put your hoof on his shoulder.
"I'm ready, if you are."
>Copper smiles warmly, and does the same.
>"I'm glad to hear that, brother. But don't tell just me that, she'll probably be looking for you too."

Be pausing in about 30 minutes

>>27094081
wow... I've just noticed how that sounds out of context
Are you feeling okay now? I mean... you took a glass bottle to the face... and we never got to finish the meal...

>>27094081
No. We don't fork over our illicit servitude to some shady figure just because they might have dirt on us.

>>27093781
>the idea of blackmail is more than a little unnerving
>b-but we'd get to be spies!
Our brother is a fucking ninny. We don't consider taking up any of this shit until we actually meet the pony in question. Remarkably weak word of mouth doesn't get you more than a raised eyebrow.

The thought of some mysterious mare recruiting you for who knows what does set off a few alarms in your head...even if you don't say it out just yet.
"Yeah, probably. Still, I want to hear the details from her myself before I really agree. I'm with you on this - not her."
Even though he's your brother, he's still just one voice. Going from 'worried about blackmail' to 'excited at being a spy', doesn't lend him very much credit. Though that's probably why he's so unsure about the whole thing in the first place.
"Anyway, you feeling better now? I could get us some food - we didn't really finish our meals, did we?"
>Copper shakes his head.
>"You go on ahead, I'm not really hungry just yet...I'll get my own food later."

>The kitchen is mildly busy at this time of night. Some ponies are moving around, preparing food for clients, others are off-duty staff are having a snack.
Searching the fridge and pantry you find enough ingredients to make something yourself, if you wanted to.
Though your curiosity wonders if Geoff found anything interesting upstairs, he's got to get rid of that collection somehow.
Pearl would be clearing up some of her immediate business right about now too, she'll want to catch up with you and Copper both - though maybe not necessarily at the same time.

>>27094458
Where were your responses a few hours ago?

Practice lewd suggestions?

>>27094761
A sandwich would be fine by me. Whip one up for our brother too then feed it too him like he's a baby.

I was asleep. Hence the anons that gave you flack in the discussion thread.
... Surprise us pls.

>>27094812
This. Make baby coos at him while we're feeding him.

A fun thought crosses your mind when you see him waiting with his forehead all bandaged.
>"I did say I was going to get my own food...but thanks anyway!"
>He starts to stand and reach for one of the plates, but you pull them away.
"Nuh uh." You shake your head. "An injured colt like you shouldn't be moving so much with a head wound like yours. Now open up!"
>Copper is unamused. He reaches for the sandwich again.
>"Come on, this isn't a concussion or anything...okay, it kinda is but I can feed myself."
You just keep pulling it back.
"Nuh uh."
>"Yea uh!"

>This goes on for a while. But Copper relents...eventually.
>"Okay fine! I'm hungry now - so just feed me the damn sandwich!"
>He crosses his hooves and scrunches his muzzle in annoyance. Its always fun to mess with siblings, isn't it?
You hold a sandwich up to his mouth and coo at him.
"Open up wide! Who's a good colt?"
>"Hey, am I a colt or a do-hmmf!"
You cut off his quip by shoving the PB&J into his mouth while you take a bite out of yours.
>He chews and swallows, glaring at you the whole time.
You simply ruffle his mane when he does.

>Pearl returns to the room while the two of you are halfway through your milk.
>"You two have helped yourselves to the kitchens, I see...where has Geoff gone?"
You point your hoof upwards.
>"Well then, he'll be coming along eventually." She takes a seat in the empty chair. "Tell me, how have you been?"
>Copper replies first.
>"Its been interesting enough so far. I'm between jobs now, Geoff came to invite me out while I was working on my projects, we met up at his place and went to a bar to enjoy the night out. You already know the rest."

>>27094812
With how far ahead I am, I probably won't get any new players awake unless I stay up really early. Like past 12am kind of early. And that's on weekends, which is also one day ahead of everyone else.

So that just leaves Saturday nights and Sunday, except the afternoon.

>>27095052
Fine I suppose, I have a steady stream of customers, found and chatted with Geoff at the mug, got invited to a night out that resulted in random bar fights...

>>27095080
It's best that you don't stay up too late... your health is more important than this...

>>27095145
This. All of this. Take care of yourself. Run when you can, but don't lose sleep you need.

"I've had a steady stream of customers so the shop's doing well. I found Geoff at the Green Mug earlier today, had a night out, got into a random bar fight..."
>"You two should really take better care of yourselves, you're not big burly ponies. A good hit in the right place isn't something you'll be able to walk away from."
>"Business has been the usual with me I suppose. Ponies come in, they get company, we changelings get fed and the others get paid in bits. But you wouldn't believe the things some of the ponies we serve get up to."
>"Just yesterday a mare was becoming too foward with one of my boys at the stage. 'But what else is he for?' she said. We eventually had to show her the door."
>She sighs.
>"Working as a courtesan is about more than just sex. Its about providing comfort, intimacy that can only be had with another individual. Not many customers understand this."
>"But enough about that. Here's something you two might find interesting: We've had a request to send a girl to the Palace grounds for tomorrow night. At the Royal Guard academy no less. Its probably just-"

>Geoff chooses this time to walk in, holding a crude model of what is supposed to be a Gryphon's equipment.
>"Copper, Watch! If this isn't a dick that needs replacement, then I don't know what is. Its downright ugly, compared to the others I got which are practically lifelike! I would know, I have one."
>Geoff looks between you and Copper and Pearl while the three of you stare back in silence.
>"Ooh, sorry...I wasn't interrupting anything, was I?"
>At least he has the courtesy to look embarrassed about barging in. The Changeling however, isn't as delighted.
>"So I guess something else 'interesting' happened tonight, boys?"

Oh, don't worry about that. I'm a student. I know about the importance of a good night's sleep.

Maybe one more before bed. Maybe

>>27095386
......What do you mean by 'interesting'? Geoff here is just planning to sell you dildos... that may or may not have been used...

>>27095386
Not yet... Smirk to emphasize the innuendo.

Sleep tight, clocksock.

night bump

here is a bump

tick tock

"Interesting? Not yet..." A smirk grows on your face.
>Pearl fires back with a smirk of her own.
>"Oh is that so? Perhaps the three of you would like a private room tonight? Or the stage, even? I'm sure we could bring in enough bits to last a week from the stallions alone..."
>Geoff quickly shakes his head in rejection.
>"What? No - I was simply thinking of selling you a bunch of dildos I was unfortuante enough to tricked into. I would rather your own ponies test them themselves."
>"They may or may not have been used..." Copper mutters under his breath, and quickly hides behind his glass of milk.
>"What was that, dear?" Pearl enquires.
>"Oh, nothing~"
You manage to stifle your own laugh just in time.

>Pearl turns to Geoff.
>"But you do raise a point, dear. The things I already have are old, and some could certainly use a replacement. How much are they?"
>Geoff pulls his head back in surprise.
>"Wait, you DO want 'em? Well, I've got half a closet of boxes stacked up, how many do you want?"
>Pearl leans back in her chair.
>"Oh not too many, though I certainly will have to see them for myself. You will be in your office tomorrow, won't you?"
>"'Course I am. If you need somebody to carry them, I'm sure Copper and Watch will be happy to help! Right, boys?"

>>27104548
Oh no... my brother and I are simply too fragile and weak. I'm sure a strong gryphon like you will be able to do it yourself. If you want, we can be there for moral support, nothing more.

>>27104651
Normally I'd have posted by now, but since the other guy is probably asleep, I don't think its too fair to keep going right now...
So, I'll get back to it this evening.

>>27105617
Sure... I'm okay with that.

'Surprise me' is proving hard to write

>>27106699
If you need an idea... I guess you can write on Watch and Copper 'modelling' when they were younger? or elaborate on Banana's fantasies?

Post pending bump

You wave your hooves out in front of you, attempting to be as modest as possible.
"Oh no, no. Copper and I are simply too fragile and weak, better at moral support really. A big, strong gryphon like yourself should be able to do it all no problem!"
>"Sure, we could help out. Its not like I have much else to do tomorrow anyway." Copper sets his glass back on the tray.
"...thanks for the help bro." You tell him flatly.
>"Anytime!"

>"Great! I'll see you tomorrow, boys!"
>Geoff turns back to face Pearl.
As they carry on their conversation about the specifics of fake penis delivery, you check your watch. Twenty minutes to ten.
Its a little late, and you could certainly go back and turn in early if you wanted.
But there's still time left you could use, and you'd barely spent much time in the Blooming Rose anyway, or talked to Pearl very much.

Monday tomorrow....ugh

>>27107657
There're gonna be busy talking about the delivery... I guess we can head back, finish repairing some watches or something... wait... they didn't specify when exactly we should show up to Geoff's office... ask them that before going.

>>27106699
First rule of lewds: Listen to your boner.

>>27107657
>>27107687
This. I want to get some sleep tonight so we can have some time to wander before opening up shop in the morning.

Unlike the rest of your friends, you can't afford to stay up as late with your shop to take care of.
"Sorry to leave so soon everyone, but I've got a store to open up in the morning. When should I show up Geoff?"
>"Leaving so soon Watch? Alright. How's four in the afternoon sound?"
"That's good. See you tomorrow."
>Copper and Pearl wave you off as you leave.
>"See ya bro!"
>"Don't be a stranger, dear. You're always welcome here."

You make it back home, and everything is as you left it.
While laying in bed after everything's done, a worrying though crosses your mind.
That recruiter mare is going to be something you're going to be seeing sooner rather than later.
How will you deal with her when she comes? You know nothing about her, or who she works for.
But that's just something you'll have to deal with, tomorrow.

Day one is over, so the pastebin will get updated.

I wonder with all these timezone problems, if I should still bother trying to get more players, aside from the occasional advertising.

>>27107834
That's really up to you. But hey, at least you have the two of us...

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>>27107834
>four in the afternoon
>walking in broad daylight with dildos as precious cargo
If someone trips, there will be spagooters.

Stop worrying, time horse. We'll cross that bit- I mean, bridge, when we get to it.

I hate to say it, but I still think timezones are the least of your worries when it comes to getting more players.

>>27107873
For now, mate. I'm getting rescheduled at work so I might not have as much time on weekday mornings, if any.

>>27107932
...Am I gonna end up being the only player in the end? I don't want the first cyoa I've actively participated in to die because of that...

>Another day begins. The sun rises, and so do you.
>After all the usual stuff you do in the morning, eating, changing, setting up shop, greeting your mailpony, you set yourself behind your counter once again.
>The workload for pending orders has gone down some, well except for that repair and replacement for that one businesspony's watch.
>The ring of the doorbell brings you out of the newspaper. Always another customer, another watch to service.
>Its not like the average contents of some celebrity's saddlebag was very interesting anyway.

>Hey, its whats-her-name from yesterday!
>Another pony accompanies her into your store.
>A bat pony, in fact. He's stallion with a slightly unusual appearance for his race. A little more toned than most ponies too.
>The purple tinged gray coat and navy blue mane aren't new for 'bats', but the bright green eyes and lavender streak in his mane are.
>The mare whom most certainly didn't see you exit a lingerie store yesterday places a watch on the counter. The same one you sold her, in fact.
>"Good morning! We were just passing by and I thought we'd come in. This is my nephew, Night Skies."
>The stallion gives a 'hello' with a curt nod and smile.
>"I've uh, lost the winding key before I gave it to him you see. Could we get a replacement?"

>>27107932
Would the experienced thief and fence be dumb enough to package sex toys in such fragile and obvious ways?
Well I suppose its too much to assume timezones are the ONLY reason I've got so few players. I know I'm no novel writer. What should I be worrying about then?
I suppose its just as well anyway. I've got a report coming up next month, might as well start early.

Last post

>>27108088
Sure, don't lose this one......
Huh, I didn't expect you to be a Thestral... It's nice to meet you...

Hey, even the experienced makes mistakes from time to time... of course, we won't be making such a silly mistake, right?
Night

>>27107946
Hell no. I might not be able to play as often, but I'll be right here with ya whenever I can.

>>27108088
How much are winding keys? If it's not much to replace in inventory, we can part with one.

There's still no real plot hook. That's the brunt of it.

Midnight bump

Bat bump

Any lurkers here bump

>>27112990

>>27113784

Mondays bump

Does anyone else without a weird time zone read this quest bump

>>27116851

Yeah, I'm sometimes around but just recently caught back up with the thread. Usually I'm just going to bed when you start up, though. If school wasn't on your timing would be perfect.

Ah, Mondays.
Post is coming up soon, any last minute replies?

"Sure. Let me take a look."
You accept the watch and examine the arbor in the hole at the back.
Lost winding keys are relatively common, so you've made sure to keep a few spares at the counter.
You take your first guess in your wing and try the fit.
>Let's see...a size 6? Too small. Size 9? Too big.
>The mare has started looking around browsing the displays, but her nephew is just standing there staring...its a little awkward.
Perhaps it'll be good to make some small talk to keep him occupied.
"I...didn't expect you to be a Thestral. Its nice to meet you."
>"Likewise." The stallion does a small bow with his wing. How formal of him.
>"I get that a lot. Being introduced as the nephew of a unicorn tends to turn some heads."
>He flashes a smile at that, showing his fangs.
>"Not all of them polite..." He mutters under his breath.

>Size 7...almost there.
>He watches you try the different keys. Your fine feather control seems to intrigue him.
>"I've never seen a pegasus use their wings like that before, how do you do it?"
>Size 8, perfect.

>>27118693
oh... just had a lot of practice... doubt you'll find another pegasus as dexterous as me in the city... I would say not to brag about that but I don't think most people would be able to resist bragging about super dexterous wing control.

>>27118693
Oh, you know. Just plenty of... practice~

Ask him if anything else about our store caught his eye.

>The mare quickly returns to the counter and collects the watch and key.
>"Oh thank you! How much does it cost?"
You wave her bit purse away.
"Its free. Don't worry, keys like this are cheap, and I have plenty to spare."
>She smiles warmly at your generosity, resting her hoof on the counter.
>"Well thank you again, Mr...?"
"Pocket Watch, Ma'am.'
>"Pocket Watch, that's a nice name. I'm Blank Ledger. Thank you for your help."
>She turns to leave.
>"Come along, Skies! You're going to have to go back in the afternoon, your graduation's tomorrow night!"
>The bat stallion rolls his eyes as he turns to follow her out.
>"Yes auntie, I told you that earlier."
As they leave, you look down and find five bits on the counter.

>The mare quickly returns to the counter and collects the watch and key.
>"Oh thank you! How much does it cost?"
You wave her bit purse away.
"Its free. Don't worry, keys like this are cheap, and I have plenty to spare."
>She smiles warmly at your generosity, resting her hoof on the counter.
>"Well thank you again, Mr...?"
"Pocket Watch, Ma'am.'
>"Pocket Watch, that's a nice name. I'm Blank Ledger. Thank you for your help."
>She turns to leave.
>"Come along, Skies! You're going to have to go back in the afternoon, your graduation's tomorrow night!"
>The bat stallion rolls his eyes, and smiles and nods at you as he turns to follow her out.
>"Yes auntie, I told you that earlier."
You return the gesture, finding five bits on the counter as you look down.

Damn captcha

>>27118943
Did you miss something? Feels like the conversation with Skies is missing, or were we interrupted by Ledger?


>>27118950
huh, collect the bits and check the time.

inb4 Blank Ledger is actually a retired super spy

>>27118950
Collect bits, pay the kindness forward next time we go out to eat. Tip graciously.

Not sure what there is to do besides wait for more customers.

Whoops! Sorry.

You try to keep modest...but your super fine wing control was always something you've been proud of.
"Oh you know, just had a lot of practice...not to brag, but I doubt there are other Pegasi in this city as dextrous as me~"
You finish off your sentence with a flourish of your wing, weaving the winding key in between your primaries. And a smile, always with a smile.
"Is there anything else in here that caught your eye?"
>Night Skies mumbles out an 'ahem' and looks around quickly. You notice his wings twiched too. Is he...?
>"Your, uh, store looks lovely. The watches you make are very nice pieces."
>Perhaps Thestrals aren't blushing types, but his voice and mannerisms tell you he's embarassed all the same.
>You did spend a lot of time observing ponies, after all. Body language is as good for finding marks as it is reading customers.
>"Auntie, the key's ready!"
Smooth...

>The mare quickly returns to the counter and collects the watch and key.
>"Oh thank you! How much does it cost?"
You wave her bit purse away.
"Its free. Don't worry, keys like this are cheap, and I have plenty to spare."
>She smiles warmly at your generosity, resting her hoof on the counter.
>"Well thank you again, Mr...?"
"Pocket Watch, Ma'am.'
>"Pocket Watch, that's a nice name. I'm Blank Ledger. Thank you for your help."
>She turns to leave.
>"Come along, Skies! You're going to have to go back in the afternoon, your graduation's tomorrow night!"
>The bat stallion rolls his eyes, and smiles and nods at you as he turns to follow her out.
>"Yes auntie, I told you that earlier."
You return the gesture, finding five bits on the counter as you look down.

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>>27119056
Wew. Keep an eye out for that one.

>>27119003
This. Also, newspaper? There's gotta be something going on.

You pocket the coins and look down at your watch to check the time once again. (pun)
Its just after ten.
Hmm...better keep an eye on guardpony Skies if you meet again. Welp, back to the paper.
>'Trade agreements necessary for prosperity of both Equestrian and Gryphon nations.'
>It looks like a reply from an economist at the paper to a letter 'concerned' about the effects about the upcoming trade meetings.
>'Concerned' is the word used, but some of the quotes seem more serious than that. Maybe its just out of context.
>Apparently whomever wrote the letter was wondering about the necessity of having such trade in the first place, if Equestria really needed such agreements.
>The article then goes into detail about the country's natural resources, the importance of diplomacy, Harmony as one of the tenents of the country and so on.
>It read like a propaganda piece, no matter how valid the points were.

>You were happy to put down the paper when the doorbell chimes once again.
>Snail Mail is there, holding a letter in his mouth. Looking a little sweaty too.
>He comes up to the counter, dropping a blank white envelope with a plain wax seal on it.
>"Sorry to come in so late, Watch. This one was an urgent delivery."

>>27119003
>spoiler
Don't give me ideas, I just might use them

>>27119315
Urgent? You look tired, why don't you rest for bit. Do you want some water? Read the envelope after that.

>>27119337
But that's a good thing in my opinion, as long as those ideas don't result in pain and agony for us...

>>27119315
I'll say. You're all sweaty. Clock pls stop giving lewd thoughts.

Tip him for his trouble and say thanks. Inspect letter before opening it. For any clue of who it's from.

"You look like you could use some water, Snail. Why don't you take a seat? The letter can wait for a few minutes."
>The mailpony shakes his head.
>"Nah, I don't need a seat. I'm an Earth Pony remember? Stamina's kind of our thing. I won't say no to a free drink though!"
You bring down some water for him as you open up the letter.
>Its adressed to one Pocket Watch, watchmaker & proprietor of Timless Timepieces
>'Mr Pocket Watch, we are an interested party with a proposition for a pony of your unique skills.'
Well that doesn't sound omnious at all.

>'Your dexterity and experience with the manipulation of fine objects is something few other ponies possess.'
>'Our representative shall wait till noon at the Green Mug tavern. They shall contact you upon arrival. From there, further details may be discussed.'
This sounds like that recruiter pony Copper mentioned...
>'Should you be absent or otherwise unavailable, the aforementioned pony shall arrive at your store at 2pm.'
>'Ignorance of this letter or representative shall not be considered a rejection of the offer, which may only be accepted once all relevant details are discussed.'
Scratch that, its obvious that this is exactly the kind of thing he was talking about.
>'We urge you to consider offer fully. It shall prove beneficial for you, as well as others.'
>Snail Mail nonchalantly takes a drink from his glass.
>"You didn't get another letter from some stuck up noble, did you?"

Good night
To that anon who said I needed a story hook: Did you mean that I was missing a long term goal for the characters in the quest? Because I had thought of a few , like improving the shop, finding a mcguffin, descending into an underwear stealing spree. Which I'm not sure how to reasonably work in, since the backstory was: retired thief that didn't really like stealing.
To that other anon who's awake when I'm asleep: So does this mean I can expect a post from you from time to time?

>>27119713
No... or at least i don't think it's from a stuck up noble... did you get this letter from someone or the mail office?

descending into an underwear stealing spree could still work... like we're embarrassed about actually buying the underwear so we 'steal' them, leave the money and slip away unnoticed back to our shop... where we'll admire ourselves in private... and inevitably get found out by someone...

>>27119365
Sorry anon, didn't update before posting
If I could draw things, sweaty Snail Mail at the door with a letter in his mouth, mane damp from all the running, would be one of them.
Unfortunately I'll just have to describe it instead.

>>27119801
u-unf

Before bed bump

>>27120290
sleep ok

let's leave 10.

I am lurking too.

Bump in hopes of "testing" out one of the "products"

You know exactly what I mean.

>>27119713
Hopefully not. Could you use a refill? Or do you have to get going? If the latter, thanks for stopping by~

No. I mean a plot hook. Google it.
I'll still play as much as I can. But I might be around less often during weekdays.

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>>27119801
You tease. This would make for a good practice lewd.

>>27122761

>>27122778
Next time

Morning bump

Totally just flunked an exam bump

already page 10 bump

>>27125728
My condolences

>>27122767
So I'm missing an opening to get as many as possible interested in playing. I kinda feel stupid now for forgetting that. And I studied Lit for two years

You fold the letter and put it in your pocket.
"No, I don't think so...say, did you get this from the office, or some other pony?"
>Snail Mail looks as if the answer should be obvious.
>"The office, of course. Its how I'd known to send it to you. I don't accept any urgent deliveries with no addresses from just any random pony."
Maybe what Copper said about that mare 'working for the crown' isn't too far fetched after all?
"Well thanks for that." You point to his now empty glass.
"Do you want a refill? Or did you have to get going?"
>The Earth pony sets his glass on the counter.
>"Nah, I have to get going now. I've got packages to take care of in the afternoon."

You stop him before he leaves, and push over the bits Blank Ledger gave you.
"Thanks for the trouble, Snail."
>He looks surprised, but takes the tip anyway.
>"Wow, five bits for showing up sweaty with a late letter? I should do this more often! Thanks, Watch."
>The door shuts once again, leaving you alone once again.
Now that you've got some piece, what will you do about the letter?
Its definitely no prank letter, Copper wasn't kidding about them knowing all the personal details.
Either now or later, you're going to have to go to them, or they'll come to you. At least they won't kidnap you or something, right?

>>27129599
I guess meeting the representative at the mug now would be the better idea... since we should make a good impression, not that it matters. Plus, we still want to visit that clothing store...

...maybe meeting the pony first would give a better impression, not that it would matter much. You wanted to go out anyway.
You check the time. Quarter to eleven. Too early to leave just yet.
>Its nearly an hour before you can leave, looks like you'll just have to wait.
>The time passes slowly, each glance at the clock reminding you of what's going to happen. And you're in a watch shop.
>That has given you plenty of time to think. And worry some, too.
>What will they say? How will they act? Will they be alone? Sure, it'll probably be the same mare Copper met, but there's no guarantee.
>Eventually, the time comes for you to leave.

>Setting out the sign and locking the door, you take flight to the Green Mug.
>Its looking as it always does. Steel Plate is at the bar again, but Banana is doing tables this time.
>Though for this visit, another pony stands out.
>Its a light brown unicorn mare in a clean black suit. She's sitting in a booth at the back, and she's looking right at you.

>>27129696
be ready to react to anything as we move closer. Um... hi, you wanted to meet me here?

>>27129696
Greet Steel/order first, then meet her at the table. This is still our lunch break.

Maybe its best to pretend that you haven't seen her yet, but you still keep an eye out just in case.
You greet Steel and place your order first, it is still your lunch break, after all.
Approaching the mare's table, you don't seem to notice anything out of place...
You slide into the bench and take it upon yourself to start the conversation.
"Uh...Hello. You wanted to meet me?"
Such confidence.

>The mare smiles lightly and pushes aside a cup of tea.
>"Good day, Mr Pocket Watch. You're right on time. I take it you've already placed your order?"

>>27129809
yes, i did... what do you want to discuss about?

>>27129809
Indeed I have, Mrs...?

This meeting is happening on my schedule, so please cut to the chase.

"Yes I have. I have other matters to take care of later, so I'll cut to the chase."
Maybe going the direct approach will help?
"What did you want to discuss, Mrs...?"
>The mare nods in agreement, and leans foward.
>"A stallion of action, I see. To the point, then. My name is Charmed Wit. And I see you've received the letter about the job offer."
>She gestures to the piece of paper sticking out of your shirt pocket.
>"I work for the Princesses, for the safety and security of Equestria against threats too delicate to solve with words or weapons. And I'm here to give you a job offer."
>"We know about you, Mr Watch. You were an orphan, a thief on the streets with your twin brother Copper Cog until you were taken in by an old unicorn."
>"Under his care, you discovered your talent for precision machinery. Now, you have his shop, and you're doing quite well for yourself, if I may say so."
>She takes a sip of her drink.

>"You are good with your wings, fine feather control such as yours is a rare trait for a Pegasus. Not to mention your talent for stealth."
>"There's other, minor details of course, such as your previous job for the magazine Canterlot Cloths."
>The corner of her mouth moves upwards slightly, but quickly becomes more serious.
>"We have reliable information that an attempt on a magical artefact shall occur during the upcoming meetings with Gryphonia.'
>"Almost all other ponies are otherwise unavailable, so we need help. We need help from ponies like you, to help everyone in Equestria."
>She leans back in her seat.
>"You are the kind of pony we need, because you only stole when you had to. And that is an admirable trait. We can trust that."

>>27130069
What exactly will I be doing in this, and when? I still have to take care of my shop you know... spontaneously closing my shop is really bad for business...

>>27130069
... The fuck do you need me for? The call of duty is unclear.

If you're asking me to help with a counter offensive, I'll think it over. If you're asking me to connive and partake in a heist, eat a dick. I'm sure it's somewhere on the menu.

You're having a little trouble taking this mare seriously. A few compliments and vague statements aren't going to win you over so easily.
"...what the hay do you need *me* for? This proposition isn't very clear. Do you want me to counter this heist, or partake in it?"
Because you have some very choice words involving 'dick' and 'eat' for the latter.
>Charmed Wit smiles, like she expected your response.
>"Just making sure you were paying attention. I wasn't completely finished yet."
>"We need to work for us, as an agent of Equestria, to prevent this theft. And if all goes well, we will approach you again with more offers as they arise."
That doesn't answer your question completely.
"And should I agree to this, exactly what will I be doing? And when? You know I have a shop. Spontaneous closures are bad for business."
>"If you agree, then you will work for us for the week of the summit until said artefacts are either taken, or the heist is prevented."
>"There will be different tasks you will need to do, and they will range from gathering information to procuring documents. There are many events occuring then, after all."
>She follows up quickly before you can respond.
>"Any equipment or assistance you need shall be provided, and your business shall be compensated generously - within reason, of course. This is still a matter of national security."

1/2

>She leans foward once more. She looks...pleading?
>"This artefact is something that has kept Equestria safe for a long time. It is powerful, and could do untold chaos if it was possessed by anyone with malicious intent."
>"Not to mention the immediate risk of these trade agreements falling through. We rely on Gryphon imports for many important things. Metals, technology and skills to name a few."
>"And they rely on us for our magic, our bits, and our gems. A breakdown in relations with them could cause great consequences for both ponies and gryphons. You know how bad this could get, you've read the news."
>"This may not be clear to most, but diplomatic relations are a fine, fine balance to hold. We are at peace now, but it was not many generations ago we were at war, not that this city felt much of it.
>'There are ponies and gryphons who would use this heist to accuse each other of Celestia knows what."
>"The Princesses can do many things but they are just two voices. And they can easily be drowned out by two populations calling for each other's blood."
>She inhales. For a moment, there was no other sound.
>"We need you, because you are a good pony, Pocket Watch. And we will all the help we can get to keep everyone safe."

2/2

Whew, that was a bunch of exposition. Sorry it was so wordy.
I'd wanted to hit at this in the papers, but I don't think I did enough, while trying to keep things light.

>>27130322
That felt weird... check if anyone around us is eavesdropping.

Miss Wit... What about my brother? Will he be doing the same thing as I? I assume you already went to him.

>>27130322
So let me get this straight. The princesses know about an impending heist and decided to consult some run of the mill stallions with a relatively shallow criminal background?

Either you're bullshitting, or you know more about me than you've let on. Fill me in or I won't pay this a second thought.