"Why wouldn't I?" he responded. "I'd hate to leave you all hanging without me. It's going to be an event to remember, I'm sure."
"Hey Az," Asmo said through snickers, "I bet Rave could kick your flank with the sweet new moves she learned." Azrael shook his head. "Doubtful. I've yet to meet my match. And I doubt a teenager would do me in."
Nightshade shrugged. "I think you need a couple more years of practice before you're ready to take him on. I've fought against him, and I've fought beside him. It's fair to say he's one of the best fighters in Equestria." ****************************************************** Rose nodded. "Great! I'll let the sisters know. I'll be in touch soon. Bye!" In the puff of a smoke bomb, she was gone. ******************************************************** Silver watched as Nightshade approached the mansion. Raven was with her. Good. That made things easier.
Raven sighed. "Awwwww... alright, I'll wait. Think I could get him with Sweet Chin Music? Hold that thought, we're here."
*In the Mining Camp, Xion finally figured out the proper theorems and equations to start the interdimensional tunneling device that he would need to use to get home*
Blackheart returned to the camp, after stopping at home to place Black Flag's locket in his safe. He'd find a place for it soon. Perhaps in his office. He entered Xion's tent, offering him a cup of coffee. "Good evening, friend. How goes your work?" ****************************************************************************************** Silver nodded in greeting, and got right to the point. "Nightshade, I believe it is time for you to rejoin the Night Guard." Nightshade laughed bitterly. "Like hell, dad. We both know Celestia's condition, and I'll never apologize to that smug little prick." "This has been dealt with. The false prince has lost Princess Celestia's favor after a recent video came to light. One recorded at Maya's, as I am sure you already know." "You're serious? Just like that? Dad, I have a life now! I have my dojo! I have Raven..." "I would invite her to join the Guard, as well. She has clearly inherited her parent's skills."
Raven shook her head without a moment's hesitation. "Nnnnope. Hope I don't have to explain that one." ~~~~~~~ Navaja turned his attention to Rain. "So, beautiful... I have an offer."
Silver shrugged. "It was worth a shot. Should you ever change your mind, the offer will stand." He sighed. "But you, Nightshade. The Guard was always your calling. You cannot deny that you loved it. I am leaving soon. I do not know how long I will be gone. While I am away, Blackout will take command of the Night Guard. He will need a lieutenant. Somepony who is not afraid to question him. Come home, Nightshade." She hesitated. "I've been a long time, dad. I've changed. I've changed a lot. And I made a promise..." She stamped the floor in frustration. "Dammit! Raven, what do I do here?" ***************************************************************** Rain cocked her head. "Of course I'll marry you," she replied, half-joking.
"I don't uhh..." She looked nervously between Nightshade and Silver. "Buck. I dunno." ~~~~~~ Navaja took a step back. "¿Qué? No, not yet. We need a new medic."
Rain laughed. "Kidding. We've known each other all of a week. But yeah, I could use a change of scene. The merc job was always more Flair's thing anyway." ******************************************************************************* Silver shook his head "This is your decision alone, Nightshade. But I already know what your choice will be. Blackout will be waiting for you at the barracks at noon tomorrow. Do not be late."
Navaja breathed a sigh of relief. "I thought you'd need more convincing." ~~~~~~~~ "Yeah, bet you have psychic powers," Raven snarked. "Nighty. Are you gonna do it? We won't get much time together anymore, but..."
Silver smiled calmly. "I have known her longer than you have, little bat." Nightshade sighed. "Yeah. He's right. I'm gonna do it. We'll find a way to make us work, Raven." ********************************************************************** Rain shrugged. "It's not like I can just go work in some hospital. I... uh... I don't play well with others."
"Nighty..." Raven's heart visibly sank. "I've got my music. I'm gonna be touring and stuff. What are we gonna do, chat with carrier pigeons?" ~~~~~~~~ Navaja nodded. "I guess you're right about that one."
