5 months earlier...

     "You don't have to do this." Victoryroar said, shifting her position on the crumbling pavilion of the old NightWing palace.
     "I know," Strike said, not looking at her. "But I want to."
     "It's too dangerous, to high level for you!" Victory growled, grabbing his wing.
     "I know, but-"
     "You're untrained! You can't do this, even if you want to!"
     "I know, but-"
     "And I won't let you!"
     "I know!" Strike finally shouted over her voice. "Do you think even for a second I don't know the danger I'm putting myself in? Because of recent events I am now willing more than ever to risk my life. I'm already Oasis' guard, all I have to do is get in a higher rank."
     "And what about Queen Copper?" Victory demanded.
     "SandWings are already chummy with the SkyWings. I just have to be sent on... I don't know... a mission of some sorts to get close to Copper." Strike assured her. Victory glared at him, then shifting her gaze to the ground.
     "I always knew this would happen," she whispered quietly. The sudden change in her voice made Strike look around at her, surprised. "You always volunteer at meetings whenever there's a mission. It's only natural you'd eventually get picked." Victory flicked her tail forward and tied it around her front talons. "And you're right."
     "I am?" Strike asked. Victory nodded sadly.
     "You are the best dragon for the job. If I was in Darkcloud's position I would choose you too," she flung her arms and wings around Strike. "Please stay safe." she whispered in his ear.
     "Don't worry," he said, his voice cracking. "I will. You know I'm tough." Victory nodded again, not sadly this time. But determined.
     "You will stay safe. You better." Strike smiled, unfolded his wings, and took off. A lone pale figure, flying into the moonlight. Going, going, gone.

     There was something wrong. Something didn't feel right between them now. It was not because Strike had left, Victory knew why he had to leave. Well, not had to. But there was something that Strike was hiding, not from Victory but possibly, everyone. Everyone they worked with, and Strike was hiding something.