I knew that greed motivated all ponies, whether or not they’d admit it. Crankshaft would be no different. “Bits,” I said. “Research and development certainly doesn’t come cheap. If you bring us the distance to Koala Lumpur, or even Maneila, then Madame Fog can arrange to have you thoroughly recompensated. Think of what further funds would allow you to accomplish!”

He shook his head. “I’m doing just fine already. I’m not going to go out of my way and waste my time. How can I even trust you to follow through? You paying in advance?”

“No,” I admitted. “Right now our funds are limited. We just need to find somewhere with a proper bank, though, and arrange for them to wire--”

“No deal,” he said, firmly.

I decided the best approach was to appeal to his pride...
I chose to call upon his sense of honor...