//------------------------------//
// Raven of Canterlot 
// Story: Inkwells across Equestria 
// by Keyslam 
//------------------------------//

Raven stares at her namesake item on her desk. 

"Raven."

The mare looks up. Celestia steps into the room, her face obscured by a loose parchment. "I assume the preparations for Twilight's inheritance of the throne have been operating smoothly?"

"Yes, your Highness."

"You don't have to call me that, you know. I consider you a friend, not a subordinate."

Raven lowers her head. "Yes, your Highness."

"You're never going to call me Celestia, are you?"

"No, your Highness. My work supersedes personal relations as instructed. It is the only way to avoid being compromised by potential threats."

Celestia stands silent for a brief moment before continuing. "...Anyway, onto the serious talk. Have you identified any threats that must be addressed?"

"I believe so. My sisters have been informed that there exists a small coalition that appears to be outwardly hostile toward the nation's leadership direction; a report I have received states that they have been sending potentially-lethal substances via mail to the residence of Twilight Sparkle. We believe it may be an act of attempted assassination, though I stand by the honor of my bloodline that the Princess of Friendship remains safe from any threats. I believe they are currently coordinating an ambush to dissolve this faction."

"Your... sisters. How many do you have again?"

"The number of ponies I consider to be siblings is not of importance, your Highness."

"One of these days, Raven, I'm going to dig through last year's census and see just how many ponies are related to you."

"That will not be of any use, Princess."

"Oh?" Celestia raises a brow. "And why is that?"

Raven takes her glasses off, setting them on her desk. "It is of no importance to you. So long as your reign continues, my bloodline shall be at your side."

"Raven."

"Yes, your Highness?"

"I'm serious. I have seen many generations of Raven Inkwell serve before me, and yet I still do not know your origin. Your position was--is of no royal decree, yet even during my younger years as a filly, some version of you has been there for me. Why is that?"

"Your answer comes in due time, your Highness."