# story
Premise: A royal guard gets to join Celestia's most elite unit, the Royal Paladins. But her training is cut short when duty calls the unit to a far away land for a rescue mission.

CHAPTER 1: THE LETTER

Private First Class Sword Glitter's took the turn onto Florist Road, to take over from the night shifters, and begin the day portion of the patrol routine. She was still a bit groggy, as the incoming day was going to be her fourth day of duty straight, but nevertheless, she looked forward to it with the same enthusiasm as ever. The bit chilly early morning weather was going to clear her head anyway, and then everything would continue as normal.

Looking up at a street clock, Sword realized there were still a few minutes until 7 AM, when her patrol would officially start, so she slowed down a bit. She was always in a bit of a hurry, as she liked to be on schedule, not allowing herself the luxury of even being accidentally late. After all, if the Princesses themselves could be on time with raising the Sun and Moon every single day, it was the minimum she could be on time regarding her own duties, Sword liked to think. And the Princesses didn't have days off, unlike her!

Being May, the early Sun provided much light, but not that much warmth. The street lights were already put out by the lamppost-ponies, and they just walked past Sword, making their way to the next street they had to deal with. Aside from them though, the guardsmare still didn't meet her comrades, who should've came back the way she was just walking.

'Just a bit more time.' Sword thought.

Passing the many restaurants and storefronts, as central Canterlot were full of these, Sword admired herself in the glass panes she was passing. All of them were still closed, so the darkness inside and the light outside created many makeshift mirrors along the street. Sword looked into them, as a mare who was a bit full of herself, and liked what she saw. The toned body, the nice aquamarine coat, the always perfectly groomed torquoise mane... And of course, her tail, which was always left long, despite the guard code recommendations. Who said a guardsmare couldn't look pretty?

In front of a small café, Sword gave herself one last good look. She posed a bit, extending a back leg, and stroked her mane jutting out of her helmet. She pouted a little, and said to herself, semi-loudly:

"I'm pretty even in armor, no two ways about it!"

As she was posing there, the door of the café opened, and a young mare came out, levitating table covers. She probably saw from inside what Sword was doing, because as their eyes met for a moment, the waitress smiled, and couldn't hold back a giggle. Sword blushed, but not losing her cool, greeted the mare casually:

"Good morning, miss! Starting the day early, I see."

"Good morning, officer!" answered the mare, starting to take off the chairs from the tables in front of the café "Yes, yes, there is no downtime in this business... Just starting my morning shift."

Sword Glitter smiled a bit at how she was addressed. Most civilians called every guard "officer", despite most of them being enlisted, or NCOs. But she didn't want to correct her, as she liked how that sounded. "Officer." Well, not yet, far from it, but maybe one day...

"Sounds familiar." Sword replied, as she heard a clock tower not far beginning to strike 7 o'clock. "And that's exactly my cue. Time to begin my shift! Have a nice day, Miss!"

The waitress waved Sword a goodbye, and the guard went on her merry way. Soon, she met the night shifters, coming from the opposite direction. After the obligatory hoof bumps, and changing a few words about the highlights of their patrol (which were not many), they continued their way towards the castle, while Sword assumed duty for good. Walking forward, she didn't expect an eventful morning, indicated by the empty streets. In this part of Canterlot, ponies usually had the luxury of beginning their work hours at 9 AM, which Sword was jealous of in itself, although those ponies weren't royal guards. So all things considered, she wasn't that jealous!
***
Some time later, after the morning rush hour has passed, Sword was enjoying her peaceful, and eventless patrol. Many guards found that boring, but Sword learned to appreciate days like this after her trouble with a griffon gang just a few months earlier, which earned her a promotion, and a story she could recite for a lifetime. The Sun was much higher in the sky by then, and the morning chill was all gone. It was the perfect weather for a guard, being warm enough for walking outside all day, but not so hot as to get steamy under the bronze armor plates.

Pfc. Glitter was walking at a leisurely pace, as her current patrol route was a relatively short one, so she could complete a round on a pretty short notice. She was scanning the street in front of her for any crimes, or malicious activities, but being in one of the safest districts of Canterlot, Sword didn't expect any trouble, and indeed, nothing unlawful happened at all.

Regardless, Glitter was always on the lookout. That old mare trying to cross the street on the other side? No issue, cart traffic is forbidden here. That stallion groping that bit uneasy mare on the bench, thinking he couldn't be seen? Well, the mare is blushing profusely, but otherwise doesn't resist, so they must be a couple. Still, they should get a room... Too bad in her guard capacity, Sword couldn't tell things like that. And what about that other stallion, that was following Sword for the last ten minutes? Well, that was a bit strange to her...

At first, the guardsmare thought he was just merely going in the same direction as her, but when she slowed down, the stallion slowed down too. And when she gained some speed, the stallion did likewise. Sword was glancing back, and decided she will just let the stallion catch up to her. After reaching a part of the street that was basically empty, Sword slowed to a crawl. And sure enough, the stallion started to catch up. And when that would happen, she'd make a routine check, just in case.

The light brown unicorn stallion, roughly middle aged, walked up next to Sword. She looked at him, but before she could speak, the stallion began:

"Private First Class Sword Glitter?"

"Good morning, Citizen. Yes, that's correct. Can I help you?"

"Yes. I have something for you." said the stallion, and momentarily looked back to take out a letter from his saddlebag "Here, this is yours."

Sword's first thought was how rude this fellow was for not greeting her, and not even saying a name, despite he apparently knew her from somewhere. But the stallion wasn't familiar to Sword, not even after she quickly juggled through the faces she knew in her mind. Maybe he was military. Even if he was, he wasn't wearing a uniform. Hmmm...

"Take it." the stallion said sternly, after seeing Sword's hesitation.
The guardsmare slowly took over the scroll with her own levitation, and looked at it for a moment. It had the dual alicorns on it, the Royal Seal, not the EUP's. So, government matters? And what that would have to do with her? But, Sword still didn't know the identity of this strange stallion. And she was about to find that out first.

"Can I ask who are you, Citizen? Your name, and address, maybe?"

"Listen closely: the letter I just gave to you is confidental. It means it's for your eyes only. So make sure to only read it when you're alone. And do so today, that's imperative too. Understood, private?"

Sword was taken slightly aback by the answer. Confidental? Not many times she got a letter like that from anyone. Actually, she got a letter like that zero times. So far.

"Um, right. So you won't tell me who you are? Government? Military? Who do you work for? Who is this letter from?"

"I'm not supposed to tell any of that." the stallion answered without a hitch in his voice, still keeping up the pace with Sword "But you can potentially find out those answers in the coming days. Just read the letter first. Alone."

"Alright..." Sword answered, starting to feel the situation weird. There was something about this stallion that demanded respect. He oozed confidence, and had a good flair for authority around him. She was sure now he wasn't just an average, run-of-the-mill citizen.

"Splendid. Then we're done here. Good day."

"Good day..."

With that, the stallion turned back, and walked away in the direction he came from. Sword looked after him, but he quickly disappeared in one of the side streets. Well, he wasn't checked on too much, was he? Sword felt a bit bad about that. She was always in such control in situations like this, but this guy was just felt different. Was he some spook? She heard that military intelligence strutted about military bases undisturbed, and then just disappeared. Of course, Sword had no direct knowledge of such things. He was too low of a rank for that.

Sword looked at the letter again, at the seal specifically, and a dozen different thoughts went through her head. Who could have sent it? Could it be...? Nah... Then again, she was too unimportant for that. But at any rate, she shouldn't be so distracted by this. Right then, she had a duty. So Sword put away the letter, and resumed her designated patrol route.
***
Breaktime came, and Sword's first thought was obviously the mysterious letter she got from that mysterious stallion. Breaking off from her patrol route, she headed south, knowing a place close enough where she could read it indisturbed.

Soon, she arrived at the great Southwestern Platform of Canterlot, one of the many overlooking central Equestria. These architectural marvels allowed a great view for dozens of miles, and being a military mare, Sword wondered if Canterlot ever fulfilled a fortress role, as it has a great location for that. Her history lessons in school never indicated such a thing though, but she still found the thought interesting.

The left side of this platform was basically city limits, indicated by one of the many waterfalls from the mountain falling under. As the water crashed on the rocky mountainside in several places, it created many smaller rainbows in good weather such as that day. Moving right to the edge of the platform, Sword took in the serene sight, almost forgetting for a moment why she was there in the first place, but she quickly refocused. Knowing there she would be undisturbed, as moving so close to the edge of the platforms were forbidden (but she could get away with it, being a guard), Sword took out the letter that was eating away at her patience for a few hours by then.

Having more time, Sword gave the seal on the scrolled up letter a better look. Yup, indeed, this is the Royal Seal, only present on letters directly involving the court. Not keeping her curiousity back any longer, Sword broke the seal, and unfurled the letter. He began to read.

*To my most faithful and inspired guard, Pfc. Sword Glitter

*Dear Sword Glitter! I've been tracking your progress in the last few months, and I found that you are one of the best that served within my ranks in the last few years. I think it's time for you to move to the next level, and meet some very special ponies, that could use your skills just as much as you could use their guidance. If you feel like you're ready, and up to this, report to me in my throne room, tomorrow at 8 AM.

*I'm eager to meet you, Corporal Sword Glitter

*Yours sincerely, Princess Celestia*

Sword Glitter's mouth remained agape by the time she finished reading the letter. Can this be? Princess Celestia herself wrote a letter to her?! Her, a simple royal guard? And it's such an informal one! And to top it off, she wants to meet her too...

Sure, Sword already "met" Celestia once when she was officially inducted into the Guards, and took her oath, but that's protocol, every new guard gets to experience that. But aside from that, only the highest ranking guards get to meet her. The ones guarding the throne room, and the inner chambers. Veterans. And Pfc. Glitter was far from being a veteran. What could she want from her? Or, those "very special ponies", for that matter?

But another thing caught Sword's attention in particular: the end of the letter. Did it say Corporal Sword Glitter? Did Princess Celestia promote her? Just like that, in a letter? Technically, if there is one pony who could do that, it's her. And her sister, maybe.

Beside these, a hundred other questions swirled inside Sword Glitter's head, and very few of them had an answer, or even something resembling one. She lowered the letter, and looked up at the spires of the royal palace.

Tomorrow, she's gonna get some answers.

CHAPTER 2: THE MEETING

The next day, Sword woke up earlier than usual. With still everyone snoring, she slipped out of the barracks, and went to the armory. She wasn't sure what she was supposed to wear to an audience with a princess, but technically, that same princess was also the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. Also, she was going to be on duty by then, and her on-duty uniform was the standard issue armor of the Canterlot Royal Guard. So by her logic, her armor would be the most fitting outfit.

After gearing up, and putting this issue into the back of her mind, Sword went to find her commanding officer, Lieutenant Ironclad. She wanted him to know what was up with her, in the case he wasn't informed. Sword knew he was an early riser, and he must have been already in his office, in the appropriate section in the commanders' barracks. So the guardsmare headed there, and arriving in front of his door, gently knocked.

"Come in." came the answer from a familiar, deep voice.

Sword entered, and stopped with a salute in front of her officer's desk.

"Lieutenant Ironclad, Sir!"

"At ease, Corporal. Aren't you a bit too early riser? You could still be sleeping." Ironclad answered with the slightest hint of a smirk.

Sword didn't notice that, but she noticed how she was addressed. "Corporal". So Ironclad knows... So far, everyone addressed her as Private. Seemingly her very promotion have been a secret. She was a bit surprised, but not too surprised. Ironclad was old bread in the Guard, and often knew about many things other company commanders wouldn't. So maybe, just maybe, she could also enlighten Sword about some details.

"Um, Lieutenant, it's just that... I have a meeting with... A very important pony. I'm not sure if I can..."

Ironclad put up a hoof, and her subordinate stopped mid-sentence.

"You're supposed to meet Princess Celestia this morning, I know. You are excluded from duty for today."

"I won't need a whole day... Probably the meeting will be over quickly."

"If the Princess wants to meet you personally, it's probably pretty important, and will probably take some time. Besides, I don't even know if you're ever gonna serve under me again." answered Ironclad, and turned back to his paperwork.

"Because?!" Sword blurted out, suddenly realizing what "special ponies using her skills" must mean: she'd be transferred to another unit, some unit she didn't even know the identitiy of. She wasn't sure if she wanted that. She liked being in Delta Company, and she liked serving under the Lieutenant.

But the Corporal also realized just how rude and undisciplined she was, and quickly corrected herself.

"Er, I mean, could you please elaborate, Sir?"

Ironclad answered, without sounding offended, or even looking up from his papers:

"I can't. I don't know any details. Really. Maybe the Princess has plans for you. But she's gotta tell you whatever it is."

"You don't know, Sir?!"

"No, I don't."

"Princess Celestia's letter mentioned some special ponies. Please Sir," Sword insisted "just give me a hint. Who are they? What should I expect...Sir?"

The lieutenant smiled and stood up from his chair. He circled around his desk, and stopped right in front of his freshly-hatched NCO.

"Listen, Corporal Sword Glitter. I. Don't. Know. Even if I knew what the Princess wants from you, I couldn't tell you anyways. But please, go now. We both have our duties."

"Sir..."

"Dismissed, Corporal."

Sword understood the intonation of those final two words. Ironclad must have known something, but simply had to keep his mouth shut. She didn't want to press the issue any further. She saluted, and began to leave the room. But as she reached out for the doorknob, Ironclad stopped her:

"Corporal?"

Sword stopped, and turned towards his officer:

"Sir?"

"I just want to say... If you indeed happen to get out of my unit, know this: You were one of the finest guards that have ever served under me. But maybe you were made to be more than just a simple Royal Guard. So if you get a chance for greatness, take it."

Ironclad's tone turned a bit somber, and looked at the ground for a few seconds. When he looked back at the Corporal, he pulled up his right hoof into a salute.

"It was a real honor, Sword."

"The honor was all mine, Lieutenant Ironclad." the mare smiled, and saluted back. Then she turned around, and left the office for good. She feared if she stalled even a second longer, she'd have dropped a tear. It couldn't be helped, Sword Glitter had sappy tendencies like that.
***
After leaving her commanding officer's -maybe only her former commanding officer's- office, Sword began to walk back towards the barracks. And from there, she would go to the Palace. She still had plenty of time until 8 AM, so she didn't hurry.

Actually, she made it back there faster than she expected. It was still just 7:15. Sword was getting more and more nervous, as she was getting closer to getting answers. Silly thing, why was she even nervous? She would be just meeting one of the rulers of Equestria! No big deal, right? Oh wait, it is. Sword tried to calm herself, but it didn't really work out. Maybe she should've just distracted herself somehow. But she couldn't think of anythink that could've served as such. These 45 minutes were going to be her longest 45 minutes ever. Eventually, she just let out an annoyed snort, adjusted her spear on her back, and peaked up at the spires of the royal palace. With nothing better to do until the meeting, she very slowly started to walk towards there.
***
Getting into the inner castle was easy. Probably being the most well-guarded place in Equestria, the guards there had to stop even their fellow guards trying to enter. But all Sword had to do was showing her military ID. Officialy, after that point she should have been also questioned of her intentions, and her exact destination. But unofficially, there was much leeway in that, and RGs were just let go on their business. Sword was actually happy about that. She wouldn't want to babble about her secret meeting to any guard. That would have been just awkward.

Once inside the palace proper, Sword became a bit confused as where to go next. Not even her expert navigational skills as a city guard helped her here, as the samey corridors of the palace were easy to confuse for each other, and overall, the whole place felt a bit like a maze. Shame or not, Sword resorted to asking for directions, but not from a fellow guard of course, as that could have lead to questions in return.

Sword caught a maiden just exiting a hall or some big room, and asked her where the throne room would be found. The maiden gave her a weird look, but Sword just said she was new here, and didn't know the palace yet (which was both true, from a certain point of view). After receiving the directions, and trying to make sense of them, the Corporal begun towards the throne room, and after only two more circles in places she already visited, she finally arrived at a guarded corridor.

Of course at this place there was no leeway for anyone, and the four guards asked Sword what would be her business.

"Corporal Sword Glitter, reporting. Princess Celestia is expecting me for a meeting, at 8 AM." the guardsmare saluted to the honor guards in front of her.

"Greetings Corporal" they saluted back, with their senior officer speaking "I'm aware of the meeting. Advance to the throne room, it's at the end of this corridor. But leave your weapon with us. You won't need that for anything."

Sword was a bit surprised at the officer's words, but she quickly realized she should make nothing of it. It must be protocol that only the Princess' very own guards could wield weapons this close to her. So she gave up her regulation spear, and one of the guards took it over. Then all four of them stepped out of the way, and the majestic corridor with its red carpet, lined with stained glass windows, was revealed to Sword. From here, she surely wouldn't get lost, as the only door in sight was already the throne room's.

The Corporal began walking towards it, and she felt the small lump already present in her stomach growing bigger. She gulped, and slowed her steps. What... What if the conversation with the Princess will go bad, and she will be angry with her? No, no, that is just silly, silly and impossible. Princess Celestia have been widely known as the most experienced diplomat ever. She could talk equally pleasant to anyone, be that a peasant from the countryside, or a noble from Canterlot.

So Sword just had to calm down, but her steps already brought her to the heavy double doors leading to the place. There, two more sentries stood guard. Sword went through the formalities again, and stated her business.

"Yes, the Princess is expecting you, Corporal. I'll notify her of your arrival. Please wait here."

One of the guards opened his side of the heavy double doors just as much so he could fit through, and closed it behind himself. Sword waited. A few minutes passed like this. She just stood there, in front of the other honor guard. He didn't say anything, and just stared straight forward. Sword knew these guys were very disciplined, but holy-moly! This was something else. She actually felt it a bit silly, but she also deeply admired their discipline. After making eye contact with him for the fourth or fifth time, the guard finally spoke up:

"Something probably came up for the Princess. It's always like this, even when she's expecting audience. But don't worry, I'm sure you'll be able to enter soon."

Sword smiled a bit at the guard, and nodded. Another few minutes passed, and nothing happened. Sword took a few steps back, so she wouldn't be so much in the guard's face. Not that he minded either way. To distract herself a little, she looked at the stained glass windows in the hallway. The very first, closest to the doors, depicted the Royal Sisters defeating Discord.

'What a glorious battle that must have been!' Sword thought.

The second one recounted the Princesses' triumph against King Sombra.

"He deserved it then, and he deserved it now." Sword muttered, with a righteous smile.

The very next one was about something Sword herself heard about, read about. It was the second defeat of Nightmare Moon, that also marked the return of Princess Luna. But not by Celestia, but by six heroes known as the "Wielders of the Elements".

'They must be pretty skilled. Ponies like them could surely teach the Guard a thing or two! Too bad they would probably never speak to a common guard. They are probably in the highest echelons of Canterlot's society. But honestly, heroes like them actually deserve the riches and grandeur.'

Sword Glitter could have stared at the window panes depicting history even longer, if not for the throne room doors opening getting her attention. The previous honor guard came back, with two others in tow.

"Corporal Glitter, the Princess will see you now. Please, enter."
***
Sword saluted as she passed the guards, and walked into the room where probably not many ponies were able to enter. And there, in the middle of it, stood the co-ruler of Equestria herself, Princess Celestia. Sword was so awestruck, that for a moment, she almost bowed. But before the motion happened, she quickly remembered that she, as a guard, must salute, as it was to honor the Princess as Supreme Commander.

So the Corporal stood to attention, and raised her right hoof to her forehead. The Princess was still talking to another mare -probably a secretary of sorts- and only took a momentary glance at Sword. So she remained like that, standing to attention, motionless.

"...and please make sure that the law proposal gets back to the minister today. That is all for now Raven, thank you."

The pony named Raven nodded, and holding a good bunch of papers in a hoof, passed Sword, and exited the throne room. Finally alone, Celestia sighed, and muttered to herself:

"Ah, politics... How tiresome."

Then she turned to the guardsmare, who immediately begun:

"Corporal Sword Glitter reporting, Your Majesty!"

"At ease, Corporal Glitter." the Princess gestured with a foreleg "I am happy you could make it!"

Sword relaxed, and answered:

"And I am honored you're receiving me, Your Majesty. And I admit, pretty nervous too... Your Majesty."

"But you shouldn't be. Nothing bad is going to happen. I didn't set you up an ambush." Celestia smiled "Oh and please... Stop with the "Your Majesty". "Princess" is well enough."

"Understood...Princess." the Corporal answered, and nodded an affirmative.

"So, how are you today? I hope things are going well for you."

Sword was a bit surprised at that. She expected a more direct approach from the meeting, not small talk.

"I'm fine, Princess, thank you very much. And I'd like to think I'm in a good place in life right now. Good job, good mood, good health, everything."

"That's good to hear. I'm also aware you used to be quite the sportspony. You did fencing. You were even the youth champion in the unicorn league a few years ago, am I correct?" answered Celestia, continuing the small talk.

"That's quite correct, Princess." said Sword, and hesitated if she wanted to continue the thought, lest it came off as bragging. But a second later, she decided to finish it.

"...And I fenced in a team, too. We achieved third place just last year."

"I actually remember it, that was quite the achivement. I did root for the Canterlot team, like always. Too bad I never have too much time to visit sports events."

"Mm-hmm, uhm... that's... I'm sorry about that, Princess." Sword answered, although she originally wanted to say, "busy is as busy does", but thought that would have been a tad disrespectful towards someone like her.

"You're still nervous..." Celestia smiled "I mostly get it ponies expect some omnipotent, larger-than-life figure when they meet me, and they act accordingly. But that pertains even after I start to talk to them just as another pony. So strange."

"I think that cannot be helped. I'm sorry Princess. But in my case, maybe that's just because..." Sword paused, then continued in an uncharacteristically low voice for a royal guard "I am uncertain about the prospects of my future right now."

"If that is so, maybe I'll just cut to the chase. But before that happens, let me ask a question: What makes a good soldier?"

Sword Glitter was surprised again. That was a complex question. And complex questions are trick questions, at least in the military. So she was going to give the most satisfactory answer there is, at least according to her drill sergeant from basic.

"A good soldier follows every protocol correctly. A good soldier follows every order to a T, Princess."

Celestia raised an eyebrow, and cocked her head a little. It seemed the answer didn't fully satisfy her.

"Seriously, Sword? That is all?"

Sword? That is so informal. Just as the Princess previously implied: talking like just another pony. So Sword should have also dropped some protocols, and gave an answer more true to herself.

"Well, Princess... My unit commander always said: "A good soldier thinks using his mind, but sees using his heart" I think that's the most true statement out there. Probably because that doesn't just apply to soldiers."

"A very wise statement indeed." Celestia smiled "Courtesy of Lieutenant Ironclad, yes?"

"Yes. That's him."

Celestia went silent for a minute, and walked to one the large windows overlooking the Equestrian landscape. Then spoke up again:

"In the aftermath of the...banishment of Nightmare Moon, I realized I'll need an armed force, protecting Equestria. But I also realized, and pardon my wording, that the average soldier of the EUP wouldn't be able to protect Equestria from the most special threats."

Celestia looked back a bit, as if awaiting an answer from Sword. Thinking she has one, the Corporal interjected:

"And that's why you formed the Royal Battlemages. Right, Princess?"

"Well, yes. But against the most vile threats the world could throw at Equestria, not even they were adequate. And there were always... more delicate matters, that I wouldn't just let anypony to handle."

Celestia paused again. Sword started to guess where the conversation was heading, but she asked anyway:

"Wouldn't the Battlemages be able to handle anything? They are widely known as your most elite unit."

Celestia turned to Sword, and walked back to her.

"They are very capable, yes. But there is one more unit. One much less widely known."

Celestia lowered her voice, and continued:

"Tell me Sword Glitter: Have you ever heard of the... Royal Paladins?"

"No, never. Who are they?"

"Hm... and you were not supposed to. They are my special unit, ready to strike in the blink of an eye, if the situation requires. They were my sword and shield in situations where even my Battlemages would not have been adequate, but my presence would have been... diplomatically unacceptable"

"So they're a secret unit?" Sword raised an eyebrow.

"Very much so. Outside of me, only about a hundred ponies know about their existence. And now, you do too."

"It's an honor that you entrust me with such information. But why? You don't suggest that...I join them?"

Celestia began to pace slowly.

"Yes, that's exactly what I'm suggesting, Sword Glitter. Ever since Captain Twilight Velvet retired, I was looking for a new member."

"Yet again, I'm honored." Sword bowed her head a little "But I'm hardly a veteran soldier, Princess. My short service record might seem...impressive, but that doesn't replace experience. So why me?"

"As I stated in my letter, I was tracking your progress. But that doesn't just mean your service record. I was looking for a pony with your mindset. Humble and friendly, yet strong and focused. I wanted to introduce some new blood into my unit anyways, and for a good while now. You wouldn't be just a replacement. I know you're probably a bit overwhelmed now, but things will come together on their own. You are young and determined, Sword Glitter. I know you can do it. So, are you in?"

The Corporal exhaled audibly. What the Princess just dumped on her was indeed a lot to digest at once. She? Being part of a super-secret special unit? The previous day, she was just a run-of-the-mill royal guard making her rounds around the city. Now, she was expected to make the hardest decision of her life. Sword was tapping her front hooves nervously on the marble floor of the throne room.

"Must I give an answer right now?" she asked, looking up at her ruler.

"Of course not. You can think for a bit." Celestia gave the answer, with the slightest bit of smirk on her face.

"Then maybe we should just meet again tomorrow, Princess." Sword said, thouching a foreleg with her other hoof "This is really tough. I should think about this..."

"Although I appreciate that you don't take this lightly, I'd expect an answer sooner. After all, a great soldier can make big decisions quickly. Perhaps one day, a matter of life and death might depend on your quick thinking."

Although so far the conversation felt, all things considered, relaxed, even despite Sword's nervousness, she suddenly realized that the Princess was subtly demanding an answer from her, right there and then. Maybe this was the first test? The first test on the road to becoming something greater? A chance at greatness, just as Lieutenant Ironclad said.

The severity of the decision weighed down on Sword. She knew she wanted it, but she was unsure.

"So you think me a great soldier Princess? Do I take this right?"

"You have the chance to become something greater, Sword Glitter. To become a pony who could make a difference when it would matter the most. Isn't that what you always wanted? Wasn't that your biggest reason signing up to the Royal Guard?"

It was as if Celestia was reading her mind... How would she know??? Sword began on this path back at the battle of Canterlot. She saw the chaos, the fear in ponies' eyes. The fear, uncertainty, and confusion in her mother's eyes, while not knowing if father would come home or not. Luckily, he did. But on that day, with a teenager's impressionable mind, Sword Glitter decided that one day she would become something, something that could prevent ponies feeling what she and her family had to feel that day. The most obvious route to that was becoming a royal guard, she tought. But now, she could take that a step further.

"Of course, I can take "no" for an answer." Celestia's words snapped her out of her thoughts "In that case, you can return to your original unit among the Guards. And don't worry, you will retain your new rank, whatever you answer."

The prospects of the future made Sword afraid. All what Celestia proposed to her felt like too much, too soon. Even including basic training, she was a royal guard barely for a year at that point. And Celestia already wanted her in an elite unit, that she didn't even know about ten minutes earlier. But one thing echoed in Sword's head:

*You have the chance to become something greater, Sword Glitter. To become a pony who could make a difference...

If Celestia had faith in her, why shouldn't she have faith in herself? She always wanted to be there for ponies when they simply wouldn't be enough to defend themselves. Maybe this would be her big chance to do that even more effectively. And a chance like this surely wouldn't come back if she turned it down. So why did she hesitate?

No.

There was only one possible answer.

Sword Glitter locked her eyes on Celestia, with an expression that suddenly oozed determination.

"Princess Celestia? I'm in."
***
Celestia gently nodded.

"Then follow me please."

Both ponies left the throne room. Celestia indicated to her guards that they may return inside. She then walked past her perimeter guards too, with Sword following her. But the guardsmare stopped there, trying to get back her spear. Celestia glanced back, with a smirk that she hid with a wing:

"Where we're going, you won't need that anymore."

Sword let out a silent "Oh", and left her spear with the guards. She catched up to her ruler, and she was led to the other wing of the castle. Eventually, guards became scarce, and the silence they walked in was only broken by the metallic clopping of their hooves. This part of the palace could be considered abandoned, much to Sword's surprise. After taking some turns in the maze that was the palace, they both arrived to a dead-ended corridor, with many paintings lining the walls. It was a proper little art gallery.

Celestia walked to the painting that rested on the wall closing the dead end. She talked to Sword, in a hushed voice:

"Please, take a good look around. Where we're going isn't known by most palace guards."

The Corporal backtracked a little, heeding Celestia's words, although she had no idea what was their destination. Why was that dead end so special? She didn't know, but she was gonna find out soon anyway. And seeing no one in the vicinity, Sword trotted back to her princess.

"We're clear."

Celestia nodded, and twisted the painting in front of her using magic, roughly ten degrees clockwise. Then she pushed a button in the wall, that was basically invisible to the casual observer. The stone button slid back slowly, until it was flush with the wall again, and the floor opened right next to Celestia.

"This way please." the alicorn urged with a front leg extended.

Sword didn't expect to take the lead, but nevertheless, walked to the sudden gaping hole in the floor. She looked down into it. All she could see that there was a staircase leading down, otherwise, the darkness consumed everything even a bit further down.

"Quickly, Corporal. It will close on its own very soon."

Corporal Glitter stopped hesitating, and took the first step down. Then another, and another, and as she was getting deeper down, she expected to see some light source. As there wasn't any, she casted a simple light spell, basking everything in her pinkish-purple cone of light.

"All the way down." Celestia said from behind her "And be careful, there isn't any railing."

"Where are we going?" Sword inquired, as the situation started to remind her the turning point of some horror novel.

"The Paladin headquarters." came the answer.

After several turns, they arrived in some corridor, that was at least lit up, but still, everything was stone and rock, without any facings. For a special unit's headquarters, it was rather lousy, Sword thought. Of course, she would keep that to herself.

As the corridor was bit a wider than the stairs, the two mares could walk side by side. Luckily for Sword, as the tight staircase just before brought out her ever so slight, but still present claustrophobia. This place was much more comfortable.

The sconces on the walls held no fire, but magical orbs of light instead, looking like little suns. They were yellow even, and gave away the illusion of warmth, despite having no such quality. Sword could testify to that, as she passed some of them really close.

Just like topside in the Palace, the princess and soldier took many twists and turns toward their exact destination. If Sword found the Royal Palace confusing, this would be really something else. Eventually, Celestia talked, slowing down a bit:

"We're almost there, Sword. So I think this is also the time to give you some final warnings. You might have guessed already, but the job of a Paladin is risky, highly dangerous. They often have frontline missions, sometimes far from Equestria. Sometimes, they even have to indulge in missions which, as I implied earlier, might be diplomatically risky too. In these cases, they are alone, and can expect no help. During the unit's history, not one pony lost their lives, fighting for me, but basically under no flag. Even with this knowledge, do you still want to proceed?"

Celestia stopped near a bigger archway, and looked at Corporal Glitter with a focused glare. Sword wasn't sure if that kind of expression was supposed to intimidate her, or strengthen her resolve, but either way, she had her answer.

"Yes, I do Princess. I understand the risks."

"Are you absolutely sure?" Celestia looked at her sideways "This is your last chance to opt out if you changed your mind."

"No, Princess. I am ready. This is what I want. I want to make a difference. I want to fight for Equestria, if need be."

Celestia gently nodded, and took a few steps forward. She was now right next to the entryway to what seemed like a really large, well-lit up room. Sword followed.

"Then enter the arena, Sword Glitter, and meet your new unit. Meet Phoenix Squad."

CHAPTER 3: PHOENIX SQUAD

Corporal Sword Glitter entered the big, circular room, called an "arena" by the Princess, who followed her inside. The first thing Sword noticed were the six ponies standing near what seemed like a makeshift obstacle course. The ponies, who must have been Phoenix Squad, wore armor that seemed heavier than Sword's standard issue Guard outfit, with blue robes underneath that actually made the whole setup similiar to the Battlemages' gear.

As Sword entered with the Princess, every head turned towards them. The guardsmare immediately stood to attention, and raised her right hoof into a salute.
"Corporal Sword Glitter, reporting for duty!"

A mare, looking about 40 years old, with a short, silvery-white mane, stepped out from the group, and walked up to Sword. After she measured her up a bit, she started to talk in a rather deep, somewhat abrasive voice.

"At ease. So, you are the famed Corporal Sword Glitter, eh? The best the Royal Guard has to offer nowadays? You don't look too tough to me..."

Sword opened her mouth to react something, but could only let out a silent gasp. The gray mare turned away from her anyways, and stepped closer to Celestia. As Sword peeked back, she saw the mare taking a disapproving look at her untrimmed tail. Maybe there was a different rule for that among the Paladins? Nevertheless, the mare was now talking to Celestia:

"So, are you SURE about this, Princess?"

Celestia rolled her eyes, then answered:

"We've gone through this a few times by now, Major. She's going to be just fine. She is the best Royal Guard that served in the last few years. She won't disappoint. You'll see."

"Okay, then I guess it's final..." the Major sighed, and stepped back to Sword.

Being this close to each other, Sword now could take out the details of the unit's insignia, worn on the chest portion of the armor. Fittingly, it depicted a rising phoenix. Around it on both sides, the armor sported feather-like decorative elements. It looked pretty cool, she thought, much better than the simple star on the royal guard armor. But her attention was recaptured by the Major's voice just a moment later.

"So, I guess an introduction is due, considering you don't really know any of us yet. I am Major Starstorm, the commander of Phoenix Squad, and its ranged combat specialist."

Starstorm turned around, and pointed at an off-white stallion, looking quite old for someone in a special forces unit. Actually, to Sword, he looked older than Starstorm.

"The old guy here is Captain Scroll Writ, the second-in-command of the unit, its magic expert, AND the intel specialist for the entire Battlemage Corps. He basically knows everything about anything. Some say there's a whole library in his head."

"Welcome among the Paladins, Corporal." he nodded.

Sword nodded back, and did a quick salute for good measure. She was also relieved that the Captain seemed much friendlier at first glance than the Major. He also found his rather deep, soothing voice quite pleasant. Reminded her one of the instructors from basic.

"The big lad over there is Lieutenant Breakpoint, our close quarters specialist." Starstorm continued "He excels at hoof-to-hoof combat, and as you could have guessed, he's also very strong. Of course, he can also cast some nasty spells. If something needs to be cleared out at extreme close range, he is my go-to guy. 'Nuff said."

Breakpoint gave Sword a friendly nod. Sword saluted, and looked at the stallion with some awe. Even if the Major wouldn't introduce him as very strong, she could have guessed: the brown(???) pony with a crew cut was really huge, and considering from the volume under the armor, very muscular. Surely, with that kind of build he could mess up anything. But his apparent nature belied the intimidating looks.

Meanwhile, Starstorm went on to the next pony. Her voice also took on a slightly exasperated tone.

"And he's Gunnery Sergeant Longrun, our recon specialist, and the squad's resident funny guy... But at any rate, he's a damn good scout and pathfinder. Also, he's quicker than a pegasus in flight."

"Well, howdy-do, Corporal Sword! You'll have a mighty good time here among us, we'll make sure of that!" came the greeting from the beige stallion, wearing a mischievous smile. As a closure, he also winked at the Corporal.

That wasn't very professional, thought Sword, although she had to admit, he wasn't half-bad looking... Another thing she noticed, was the accent. She couldn't put her hoof on it, but it sounded pretty southern. Not many like that could be heard in Canterlot. Sword nodded, and tried hard not to also smile. She didn't want anypony to even accidentally think she would start her Paladin career with flirting.

"Right..." Starstorm sighed "With Funny Gunny done with, the lady over there is Staff Sergeant Sabersong, our long range combat specialist. She can put a magic bolt downrange that hits the bullseye even at a hundred meters. But no hostile messes with Sabersong, be that close or far."

Sabersong, unlike the others, didn't greet Sword at all, just gave her an unimpressed look. Sword, nevertheless, nodded with the friendliest smile she could muster. The pink maned mare, with an aggressive-looking undercut, just raised an eyebrow, then averted her gaze. Well, so much for good first impressions...

But the Major ignored Sabersong's attitude, and began introducing the sixth member of the squad, an azure stallion, with friendly looks, and a prim-and-proper mane.

"And last, but not least, this young'un is Sergeant Shield Edge. He doesn't have a special role yet, but he's shaping up alright. And as he's no longer the resident rookie here, he'll gladly pass that title to you."

"Hello there, Corporal. Glad to have you here." came from Shield, accompanied with a warm smile.

Sword had a primal urge to become smittened by the nice (and by the way, handsome) stallion, but she composed herself in a moment's notice, and just waved back a little. Yet, she still had to hold back a grin, which probably resulted in a weird grimace. She was actually glad she didn't see herself at that moment. As she must have looked stupid.

"So, that would be us." Starstorm resumed once again "Now, don't think we're some rock-paper-scissors unit, each one of us could carry out any of these special roles. It's just that, with time, you gonna find out what you really have a penchant for, and hone those skills even more. Okay... Any questions so far?"

After the more or less formal introductions, Sword of course could have had a hundred questions. About the unit, about its members, the missions they usually go on, and how would she fit into this whole thing. But more than probably, she would get an answer to those in due time, and so, the Corporal answered accordingly:

"No questions, Ma'am. And I'm honored to be a part of your team. And I guess now I will also introduce myself a bit better, since you..."

"Spare the words, Rookie." Starstorm interrupted "We already know plenty about you. We read your files. Or actually... You could introduce yourself to us, by running our little obstacle course."

"Right now, Ma'am? Er, I mean, sure Ma'am..."

"But of course right now!" Starstorm smiled with half-lidded eyes "Think of it as a little entry exam. But you have nothing to fear, as I suppose the best royal guard could do such a course in her sleep!"

Sword glanced up at Celestia, almost instinctively. She didn't like the Major's tone, there was something about it that told her this "little obstacle course" would hold her some surprises. Maybe she wanted some reassurance, but she very quickly looked back forward. Although the Princess noticed, and glanced back, then said:

"Ah yes, the combat automaton course! Such a classic! You don't mind Commander, if I stay and watch as the Corporal ACES it?"

Starstorm turned back towards Celestia:

"Sure, I don't mind. And I don't mind your overconfidence either."
***
An automaton? What the hay is an automaton?! Is that like some sort of golem? Sword heard of such things, usually in the context of mages, but never saw one, let alone fought one. But of course, she as a royal guard should have always fought automatons though, if she took it out correctly from the Major's words.

Celestia and Starstorm walked back to the rest of Phoenix squad, and Sword followed suit a few moments later. Celestia had an anticipating look on her face, as someone who was sure her newest pick was indeed the best of the best.

"What was the holdup, Rookie?" said Sabersong, the mare with the undercut "Afraid of a little shooty-shooty boom-boom?"

Then she also let out a little sadistic laugh. Sword didn't want to react, although she felt this Sabersong character could couse her problems in the future. Not a good start... Although right then, she was more preoccupied with the task at hoof. At least the rest of Phoenix Squad didn't seem unfriendly outright, and they looked upon the unfolding situation with a sort of satisfied neutrality.

Also, there was Celestia. She wore her trademark warm smile, that she was known for, but all the sass Sword got didn't seem to register with her. Of course, Sword wouldn't want her to interfere too much. After all, what happened between her and the squad was her concern only. Well, sort of...

"Okay, Rookie. In this test" said the Major, pointing a hoof behind herself "you have to navigate the arena grounds, while defeating enemies on the go. Skipping an enemy unless I specify you can do so results in a ten second penalty. Otherwise, you have sixty seconds."

"T-there's a time limit, Ma'am?"

"Why, what did you think? That you can stall until the Princess has to set the Sun, so she wouldn't see you fooling around? For a Paladin, time is of essence, always!"

"For the record, Commander" interjected Celestia, smiling a bit smugly "I can set the Sun from anywhere."

"Right..." said Starstorm, obviously a bit surprised at the "Prinsass" "So, as I said, sixty seconds. And here's a good piece of advice: don't get hit. These automatons can cast combat spells, and powerful ones. Forget the make-believe "live fire" exercises you had with the Royal Guard, Rookie, this is for real. If you get hit it, you will go down. That paper armor you're wearing won't protect you. And you don't have the "alicorn skin" either that we wear, but more about that later. So, is everything so far clear?"

"Y-yes, Ma'am." Sword gulped, uncomfortably shifting around. She felt she was sweating under the "paper armor", despite the cool atmosphere of the underground base. The situation was definitely starting to get to her. And of course, the Major noticed that.

"You afraid, Corporal?"

"N-no, Ma'am!"

"To me, it seems the opposite..."

"No, I was just wondering if... I may request a weapon? As I left my regulation spear in the Palace... Ma'am."

The Major raised an eyebrow, and smiled a bit, then looked behind at her squad. And Celestia herself visibly held back a chuckle. Sword didn't want to say it was by Celestia's suggestion to leave her weapon behind. Now, she also saw why that was also part of the plan...

"Corporal, do you see a weapon on any of us?" the Major answered, after turning back to her.

Sword looked at the team, and she saw a variety of expressions, but no weapons at all. But she could see Sabersong's condescending smile. She locked that out from her mind, and answered the Major:

"No Ma'am, I can't see any weapons at all."

"Wrong!" said Starstorm, and pointed at Sword's forehead "We all have a very effective weapon on us, all the time! Our horns! And if that wouldn't be enough for you, improvise. A good Paladin uses her wits if firepower fails her."

"But you know" Sabersong chimed in "You can just turn tail now, and leave if this is too much for you. This unit needs warriors, not cowards."

"Can it, Saber!" Starstorm snapped at the Staff Sergeant "So Rookie, are you ready or not? You don't want to prove the Sergeant here right, do you?"

Although so far Sword could remain calm, Sabersong's comment enraged her. She didn't show it, but she was seething inside. She and cowardice?! She was just merely trying to be careful, which was a time-honored Royal Guard skill. So to vent a bit, she said out really loud:

"I am ready to start the course, Ma'am!!!"
***
"That's what I like to hear." said Starstorm, and turned to her second-in-command "Captain Writ, you may activate the automatons. Adjust the leg servos to medium strength, but turn up the spell intensity to MAXIMUM. And close range detection only, let's give our Rookie a little leeway."

Captain Writ worked his magic, and the pony-shaped brass machines sprung to life. Their glass eyes glowed up, with a golden light. Sword looked at them curiously. If not for the eyes, she would've said they were ponies in full armor. She also begun to think how would she defeat them. Sure, she knew the basic combat spell most unicorn guards get to learn, but would that be enough for these machines? How heavy could their armor be? If it's too thick, she couldn't penetrate that. That's why she would've liked to have her trusty spear around, as that can be an absolutely deadly weapon in the right hooves... or in the right telekinetic grip. But alas, that was not the case.

"Fine, they're all set." said Captain Writ once he was done fumbling with them, and added "And remember Corporal, right now they are quite deadly, so using cover or a barrier spell is a must if you can't instantly take them out."

Oh, barrier spells? Suuuure... She totally knew those!

"Then it's time for the Rookie to impress us." Starstorm took over "Step to the starting line over there. We'll be on the observation platform, overlooking your performance. I'll indicate when you can begin. Then you'll have one minute, as discussed."

"Best of luck, Corporal Glitter!" Celestia added, and the group walked away accompanied by their armor's unique jingle-jangle. It was an unfamiliar sound to Sword, who was used to the metallic creaking of her Royal Guard armor.

After Phoenix Squad and Celestia took up position on the scaffolding-like platform, Sword also stepped to the starting line, looking right at the two automatons on the obstacle course. The whole course overall seemed to imitiate a forest, with wooden logs for trees, and a gratuitous amount of camouflage nets substituting for bushes and other foliage. She could only hope all that didn't hide more of the artificial hostiles.

Starstorm took out a stopwatch, and peeled her eyes on the Rookie.

"Okay. Ready... Get set... GO!!!"
***
Sword Glitter shot herself out from the starting line like she was some self-propelled cannonball. Just as she got a little closer to them, the two automatons left their idle state, and started to fire at her. Sword got startled a bit, but regained her composure in a second, and shot at the hostiles, but her magic bolt didn't seem to register. Zigzagging between the magic bolts flying towards her, she looked for cover, and slid behind a tree.

The suppressing fire continued, and the automatons got closer. Also, the Major yelled at Sword from the observation platform:

"Hit 'em harder, Rookie, that tickle you cast won't cut it!"

Sure enough, she used her most basic combat spell, that couldn't kill a living target either. But charging up the spell could do the trick...

So Sword collected all her internal magical energy, and peeked out from behind the tree. The closer automaton was a nice clean target, so the Corporal released the spell, and the hostile got a burnt hole in its neck. Although it didn't seem to do much, the machine shut down regardless.

'Success!'

But the other one was still advancing, and for the moment, Sword expedited her magical reserves. And she knew the clock was ticking...

'Think Sword, think, think, think!'

Then she realized the massive log she was using as cover wasn't bolted down or secured in any manner. She repositioned herself, and leaned against it. It fell over, smashing the automaton.

Satisfied with herself, Sword moved on, galloping along the only route that lead anywhere. A few seconds later she arrived in a wider, more open area. Here, three automatons waited for her, and they started casting as soon as she moved a bit closer to them.

Luckily, there were many fallen trees on the Corporal's side, and she used one of them to take cover. Feeling her magic flowed back to her, at least partially, Sword popped out her head, and fired again. Although it was just a grazing hit, the brass thing remained motionless, apparently shutting down.

'Hmm, they must have some detection enchantment going on. That hit wasn't deadly enough.'

Not sweating it, Sword begun thinking about the other two, and feeling her magic not up to snuff, she resorted to telekinesis, as that was much easier to cast. She looked around, but she didn't find an appropriate projectile to hurl at her enemies.

'Improvise, improvise!' it rung in Sword's head.

Then a second later, she got it. Of course! The very piece of cover she was behind. She grabbed it, and threw it at the closer brass combatant, and it fell back, going out of comission. But now all outta magic, and out of cover too, Sword realized she oughta do something about the last one quick. So she charged it, strafing, rather than head on. The automaton had a hard time hitting her, and Sword closed up the distance. Without magic, she initiated a close-quarters takedown, a rarely seen, but useful move in the disposal of a royal guard. After kicking out one of its legs from under it, Sword planted the automaton on the ground.

She was most surprised that it actually worked.

But she didn't have time to celebrate, and ran to the next section, which was a thicker woodland area, at least that's what it imitated. Here two automatons waited for her, but instead of offense, they were on the defense, shooting at the Corporal from cover. Sword knew she must have been on borrowed time at that point, and luckily, had just the idea. She took cover behind one of the trees, then grabbed it right away, moving forward with her mobile cover. The brass enemies shot magic at her wildly, but none hit Sword behind the tree. When the distance was closed to one of them, she used it as a massive bat to strike it down, then wanted to do the same to the other but...

"FIVE SECONDS CORPORAL!" shouted Major Starstorm.

Sword dropped the wooden log, and charged straight at the last enemy. She had nothing to lose. It started to fire at her, and scored a hit. Sword flinched, but it wasn't a pentrative hit somehow, and she ended the gallop with a savage forward hoof strike. The automaton's glass eyes shattered, and it fell backwards.

Now seeing the finish line, she made a run for it, and finished the course. The only question remained was if she made it in time. That last rushing strike felt like it took more than five seconds in itself. Nevertheless, all Sword could do was waiting for the verdict.

***
Phoenix Squad and Celestia left the observation platform, and made their way towards Sword. As only the Major measured the time, and her expression didn't tell Sword anything about the result, she bit her lips in anxious anticipation. Did she do it? Probably not... She's couldn't be that good. Or maybe, she did. Maybe, but just barely...

Sword took a few steps forward. She wanted to know the result badly. But as Major Starstorm started to speak, her hopes were quickly dashed...

"Sixty-point-zero-three." Starstorm showed the compound pocket watch towards Sword "You failed, Rookie. Barely, but you failed. You had EXACTLY sixty seconds to finish. I'm sorry, but it seems you don't have what it takes to be a Paladin."

Sword couldn't say any words. She opened her mouth, but no sound could come out. And she felt tears could swell in her eyes at any moment. She tried so hard! And it's only failure she got as a result? So far in her life, everything she was trying hard enough eventually lead to success. But it seems that streak had to come to an end...

"Now don't be so sad, Corporal. For a Royal Guard, you ran a TERRIFIC time. I bet nopony else there could do this after you. Celestia was right: you are the best of the best among the RG. But you're not up to this. For comparison, Longrun holds the squadron record with nineteen seconds. That's the kind of times we should be talking about."

Sword was devastated, but she could see Celestia's expression. She had an eyebrow raised, but didn't say anything yet. Instead, the bulkiest squadmember, Lt. Breakpoint spoke:

"I think that time is within the margin of error, Major. The Corporal here did her best, and this was the first time she ever saw this training course. I say: she passed."

"Yup." added the pony named Longrun "I myself wouldn't be so nitpicky either. And that nineteen second time was well into my second year of service in this unit."

"I measured the time perfectly." answered the Major, turning back to her squad "And this kind of watch is used in professional sports tournaments as well, so the only error here is in the Corporal."

Sabersong let out a chuckle, and shook her head. Now, Sword wanted to cry HARD, but finally, Celestia spoke up:

"I don't think that watch is so extremely precise, Commander. I measured Sword's time as well, using the micro-fluctuations in the magical netherworld, and I counted 159 124 of them. Which translates to exactly 59.89 seconds. So, the Corporal has actually passed."

A mood change ran through Sabersong. Now her mouth hung open. The rest of the team seemed just a bit baffled, except for a smirking Captain Writ. And Major Starstorm, who squinted her eyes at Celestia, and answered slowly:

"I know you want your candidate to pass, Princess, but admit you just made that up..."

"I swear I did not, my good Commander. I know chronomatic spells are elusive to most ponies, but they are the most precise method of time measurement."
Starstorm raised an eyebrow. She turned to her second-in-command.

"Scroll? Can you back that up?"

"Chronomatic spells DO exist, Major. And I wouldn't put their knowledge past the Princess."

"Uh-huh..." reacted Starstorm, then after a little hesitation, she put away her watch. She turned to Sword.

"Then It seems you DID pass, Corporal. Welcome among the Paladins. But don't get too comfortable. This is just the beginning."
***
After congratulations from the squad (with the exception of Staff Sergeant Sabersong, of course), Celestia took her leave, and left Sword with her new unit. She cited her neverending responsibilities as a ruler, although added that being with Phoenix Squad would be more enjoyable than the company of most of her ministers.

Now that Sword passed her high-intensity entrance exam, it was time for some paperwork. As of course, bureaucracy didn't elude even the most elite unit of Equestria's military.

Sword was following Major Starstorm to her office through the maze-like underground complex. Despite being several meters underground, the air didn't feel damp, actually, there was a bit of draft. As it eluded the Corporal how that could be, she couldn't stand not to ask:

"Major, pardon the question, but if we're so deep underground, how is that the air is moving? Are we open to the outside world somewhere?"

Starstorm answered, in an unexcited tone:

"No, we're not. The Paladin headquarters are sealed pretty tight. Of course there are air ducts leading to the surface, but the reason air can move throughout the base is because of the wind spells we're using. You'll see in the coming months that we're using magic for far more purposes than you could imagine."

"Ohhh... Thank you for the answer Ma'am, that's mighty interesting."

Starstorm didn't react, just walked on. Sword followed the grey mare along the grey stone corridor. Actually, it was kinda depressing. The Corporal hoped that not all training and education would happen down here. It felt a bit like they were locked in a crypt. And the last thing Sword would've wanted was that, with her claustrophobia, and all.

Eventually, the duo arrived in Starstorm's office. It was an unassuming room, with utilitarian furnishings, and a big map on the wall. Starstorm sat down at her desk, and urged the Corporal to do the same.

"Now, since you're military" started the Major "It's not required to take your oaths again. But you ARE required to sign this pact of confidentality."

Starstorm slid a sheet of paper in front of Sword. The Corporal peeked at it, and the Major continued:

"Unlike your service in the Royal Guard, your service here can't be talked about to anyone. And I mean, ANYONE. As the missions we go on are often the kind the average Equestrian citizen shouldn't know about. And actually, probably they are happier that way. What we do include, but not limited to: taking down monsters, highly dangerous criminals, and the stray merc group infiltrating our borders. But there's more. Deep reconaissance. Black ops. Assassinations. Anything that ensures Equestria can remain as peaceful as it is, but the Princesses would rather not get involved with, for obvious reasons."

Sword furrowed her brows. There was one word that caught her interest in particular. One that made her uneasy.

"I'm sorry Ma'am, but did you say: assassinations?!"

The Major leaned back in her chair, and tapped her hooves on the table a bit. She didn't make eye contact for a few seconds, then looked back right into the Corporal's eyes.

"Well yes, we sometimes need to do that too. As much of a peaceful ruler Celestia seems like, she sometimes needs to pull the plug on some ugly characters that would want major harm upon her ponies. So then we go in, and make short work of the bastard. Nasty I know, but truth be told, it's so very rare that current Phoenix Squad didn't have even one. Except me, but I wasn't even a Paladin back then."

Sword slowly nodded. It dawned on her that being special ops won't exactly be that upstanding role as being a city guard. And also, that being a Princess isn't all about endless bureaucracy and law-making. Or smiling and waving at your citizens. Sometimes, it involves hard decisions, like deciding over life and death. And when that former would happen, Phoenix Squad would carry out the pertaining order.

Noticing Sword was just looking at her desk, deep in thoughts, the Major spoke up again:

"Look, I know what you're thinking. This is nasty stuff. And I couldn't force you into any of this. I know Celestia must have said something along the lines of "once you enter this base, there is no turning back", but that is simply metaphor. I don't want to discourage you, but you can still opt out. You can remain a honest-to-goodness corporal in the Royal Guard."

Sword looked up at Starstorm. Now her expression became serious, determined. Starstorm, on the other hand, was still looking with half-lidded eyes, like someone who went through this exact same conversation a dozen times before. She continued.

"But... If you you decide to go along with this, expect forty weeks of grueling training. Forget basic. This will be something else. And if you're indeed what Celestia made out you to be, you will become the most elite, the absolute best of the best at the end of your training. And you can definitely help keep Equestria safe that way, more so than any royal guard could."

Sword locked eyes with the Major, and put her right hoof upon her chest:

"Ma'am, I have already went through this with the Princess. I want become a pony who can truly make a difference, I want to become a fully trained Paladin. I won't let the unit or the Princess down, I promise."

Starstorm slightly cocked her head, then pointed at the paper in front of Sword.

"If that is indeed your final word, sign the pact. From now on, you're Corporal Sword Glitter, Battlemage Corps, Seventh Squad, designation "Phoenix". This is your official position within our ranks you should use during official introductions. Yours is a non-combat unit, conducting weapon testing and evaluating new technologies. NO ONE shall know what you're TRULY a part of."

"Understood Ma'am." Sword declared, and picked up the quill from the inkwell, levitating it over the dotted line. The form was simple, it mostly contained what the Major just summarized. Except for one thing...

*In the case of the combatant's demise during a clandestine operation, his/her status will become indefinitely MIA in official military records.

So if she died, her parents wouldn't even get to know her ultimate fate... Sword wanted to ask about that part, but after a moment of consideration, decided not to. After all, it made sense... Phoenix was a secret unit, so what they did was also a secret. So without further ado, she signed her name, and looked back upon the Major.

"Good." said Starstorm, and levitated the paper back to herself. She looked at it for a second, then put it aside. "For now, you can go home, say goodbye to your old unit, get ready mentally, whatever goes. Your training begins tomorrow. You will meet Sergeant Shield Edge in the west castle courtyard at 8 AM, and he will escort you here."

The Major paused, and stood up from her chair. The Corporal did likewise.

"So that's all for now, Rookie. Welcome to the show. Dismissed."