Moonshine had somehow managed to set up a large temporary forge just outside of the camp, and was barking orders at a group of blacksmiths who were busy making equipment for army. She grinned when she noticed Nightshade and Raven, and motioned them to come over. "You know, most ponies get their marefriends a nice dress or a bit of jewelry." Nightshade shrugged. "Later. For now, I'm gonna focus on keeping her alive." "Fair enough." She turned to Raven. "So let's start with the basics, then. What kind of armor do you prefer? Most bats go for chain or medium plate, but Shady tells me you fight like a pega, so you might want something lighter.
Maya took the hit again, stumbling to the side. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Raven nodded. "Lot lighter."
He looked back, noticing that she was still on all fours. "Wow, you're strong," he remarked, planning to land another blow.
Maya dodged by jumping up, then landed on him, standing up on his back. "I'm not as top-heavy as Az, y'know."
Moonshine nodded, and held out a thin, grayish panel. "How about something like this? It's a layer of dragonforged silver wire mesh sandwiched between layers of tightly-woven spider silk. Lighter than leather, and stronger than steel."
"Hope you don't mind if I..." Raven took the panel and held it, testing its weight. "Nice! Didn't know this kinda armor was possible. We can change the color later, right?"
Moonshine nodded. "Of course. That's just a sample panel. We can make it any color you want." She levitated over a sketchbook and pencil, as well as a large binder full of pictures of various weapons and armors. "Now, let's talk design. Anything in particular you'd like?"
"First," Rave replied, "I think it ought to be grey and pink. You know, so ponies know it's me. Also think it's best if it covers up vital organs, so I don't insta-die if I get hit, but I also don't want it to restrict my movement."
Moonshine sighed. "Dear, I've been doing this for thirty years, and I'm very good at it. I know the basics. What I'm asking is what style you want."
"Sweet." Raven took the paper and, in a few minutes, drew up what was essentially a ponified version of the following, with notes specifying dark grey armor and pink cloth to match her mane: "I saw a biped wearing something like that once," she told her, giving back the sketchbook. "Called it wolf-knight armor, I think. Looks pretty brutal, if you ask me."
"Alright. I'll get started." She walked away, muttering under her breath "Kids today and their crazy fashion. How the heck am I supposed to tatter spider silk?!"
"I knew you would," Moonshine called back. "Shady's dad's my best customer!" Nightshade yawned. "Sorry. She's a bit cranky when she's sober, but she's the best armorer in Equestria."
