Duck and Cover

Thanks for the info axelgreese and VasikkA. I do have good karma, but my speech leaves a lot to be desired and my perception is a 5. I'll give the bb gun a try though.

I have arrived at Modoc, but I cannot get the Johny quest. Whenever I see Balthas, only options I get are to trade or ask him about the Garden of Eden Kit. Is there any particular reason why this might be happening?