CHAPTER 5: The Proposal of a Lifetime

Me and Zildjian had just arrived at my go to music store since I first arrived in China. I've known the family who owns the store now since I showed up for the first time 5 years ago. Hell, it was the same day I met Viper. In fact she introduced me to the current manager and owner, Roman. He took over the store after his father sadly passed away from cancer 3 years ago.

Like me, he's a big time metalhead and drummer too. We even sometimes play shows together with our bands when the village has an event taking place. So yeah, we're good buddies.

I walk into the store with Zildjian who gives me a look of nervousness. I reassured her that everything will be fine and there's nothing to worry about. As long as she stayed beside me there was no problem.

Usually I would keep her with someone whilst I go to this store. (yes i'm aware ptsd dogs can't actually do that) because she absolutely hates loud noises. This time however she stayed with me and I decided to come prepared with some ear muffs for her. I had gotten her those when I first brought her along on flights with me. After 3 flights she stopped wearing them because she found out that being in the cockpit of a C5 Super Galaxy isn't as loud as she thought. In a music store, that's a little different. So I kept the muffs with me just in case.

As we were walking along I noticed Roman looking at some of the guitars hanging on the wall. I decided to give him a little scare. So I walk up behind him and;

"BOO!" I whispered in his ear and holy shit I didn't panthers could fly but this man's head almost hit the ceiling. Me and Zildjian were pissing ourselves laughing.

"You Bastard John! Nearly gave me a heart attack mate." Roman shouts holding his chest.

"Oh come on Roman, I had to do it, you were in the perfect setup dude." I laughed

"I've gotta admit, that was pretty funny." a voice behind that all three of us recognized.

"Just the person I was wanting to see." I said

"How are you doing John? And hello to you too Zildjian." Viper said as she started petting Zildjians head.

"Umm, isn't she not allowed to do that John since she's your service dog." Roman asks.

"She has known Zildjian now for years and I trust her along with any close friend of mine. And yes you're included too, you jumpy brit."

"OI!"

"Im kidding." I said.

So me along with Viper and Zildjian got the stuff I needed for me and the boys. After the stuff was both paid for and put in my car, we decided to then grab a bite to eat and talk about some "business."

"So Viper, what was it that you wanted to see me for?"

"Might as well get to the point then." she said.

She took a breath and then proceeded to tell me news that would give me the goosebumbs.

"On Saturday, the Palace will be hosting the biggest event it has ever held. The crowning of the Dragon Warrior. However, that isn't the only thing I wanted to mention. Knowing you are not only my friend but also you've studied so much about the Palace and the Furious 5, I wanted to tell you this personally. Master Shifu and Master Oogway, when talking about the ceremony, they mentioned me and more specifically, a group of friends of mine that 'know how to put on a show.'" she said

"Wait, are you saying what I think you're saying?" I asked because I knew to some extent where this was going.

"They had the idea of inviting your band to the ceremony not to simply watch, but I believe to perform at the show."

My eyes went wide.

"FUCK OFF! Seriously?!" I said shocked out of my mind.

"100% serious. I told Master Shifu about you guys and how you've been performing for villagers now for 5 years. I told him it would be perfect for you guys to do this."

"You are not wrong with that my friend. I'm down to do this. Wait until I tell the others about this."

"So that settles it then, I will talk to Master Shifu later and let him know you agree to do the show."

I then realized that my boss would need to know about this.

"Make sure to tell him he needs to write a letter to the Base Commander. As much as I think he's the best boss ever. He still needs to know ahead of time so that my band can get the all clear. Knowing him however, I doubt he will have a problem with this." I told her.

"No worries John, I will be able to get that letter sent by the end of the day. Well listen thanks for taking the time today to come talk to me. It's been very appreciated and I was looking forward to seeing you again."

"Not a problem Viper. It's always fun hanging out together. Hopefully we see you Saturday."

"You got it. Take care now and drive safe."

"Yes mom." I said, giving her a goofy face. She rolls her eyes in return.

"Oh and Viper, when the letter is ready to be sent. Make sure you send it to the address of 105 Roosevelt BLVD, that is his personal estate. And his name is Commander Arthur Davis"

"Got it, see ya soon."

I couldn't believe it. My band, invited to perform at the Jade Palace in front of the Furious 5 themselves. I was so stoked I let out a scream of joy when I got in my car.

'I'm gonna keep this a little secret until tomorrow just so I can get the confirmation from Master Shifu. I can't wait to see the boys' reaction when I tell 'em this.'

LATER THAT DAY

Nobody's POV

After getting back from her lunch with John. Viper decides to go tell Master Shifu the news.

"Master, can I talk to you for a minute."

"Ah Viper, of course. What is it?"

"I was able to talk to my friend John from the band you and Master Oogway mentioned. He said the band would be more than willing to show up for the ceremony."

"That's excellent, I shall go tell Master Oogway."

"Before you do that. John mentioned that you should maybe write a letter to Commander Arthur Davis about this. Just that he can be aware of the ceremony taking place and because 6 members of the base will not be available that day."

"Very well then, I will get to that. Fetch me Dai, I will have him send the letter once I'm done."

"Yes Master Shifu. The address he wants you to send the letter is 105 Roosevelt BLVD."

"Got it. Thank you Viper."

After finishing up the letter, he hands it over to Dai and once again he flies off to the town of Marshall. The pieces were slowly but surely being put in place for a ceremony of the ages.