“Because ponies are such good hackers.” Sarah took a step back, towards the door. She ignored Pharynx’s angry gestures this time, just kept walking backwards. “Look, I was never smart enough for the Pioneering Society. I scammed my way in there too. But I knew what we wanted. Those are some good people—all they wanted to do was get to know every civilization out there, and fill up all the empty worlds with people. I promise once you meet them you’re going to change your mind. But this… this is stupid.”