The Best Night Ever (Private with The_Pariah)

"I have decision to make..." He replied to Insight's silent question.

[Gotta study, back later]

"I see." He sat down beside Paladin, his head still watching the sky. "A hard one?"

((I guess I ought to finish my homework too. See you!))

"A very hard one." He replied, also staring at the sky.

"Can I help?" Insight continues.

"I have no idea." He sighed.

Insight nodded quietly. He stayed beside Paladin, making no move to leave.

"I have to decide whether to love Celestia... or let it go."

Insight pursed his lips. "So this has come to a head at last." He stared out into the night. "You've kept it to yourself for long enough. Why can't you hold it back anymore?"

"Not really." He shook his head. "I have to make a choice."

Insight inclined his head. "Make one, then. Or can't you?"

"I can't Insight. Why do you think I've been here for so long."

Insight opened his milky eyes. "What does your heart tell you?"

"To love her."

Insight closed his eyes again, and turned to face Paladin. "And your mind?"

"To not." He replied quietly.

Insight frowned thoughtfully. "I'm no expert." He stood up. "But I think you should do what's best for her." He began to walk away. "Goodbye, Paladin. The Night Court calls."

"What's best for her? I don't even know that. I've known her for so long, and I don't even understand her."

"Princess Celestia has lived for long enough. I think she knows what she wants." Insight stopped in his tracks, but made no move to leave. "What would she have you do?"

"I'll ask her..." Paladin stood up slowly. "I will follow her wishes... damn the consequences."

Insight nodded quietly. He resumed his journey away from the garden with a measured, thoughtful pace.

Paladin spun, and began to walk back to her chambers.

The night of the garden was somewhat noisier than the day, with crickets now filling the void of cacophony that the birds' absence had left. The bright lights of the palace soon came back into view.

He strode towards the gates purposefully.

The two guards at the gate to the garden moved their spears out of his way as he moved into the palace.

He grinned, his horn flashing as he teleported to her chambers.