[RGM] Sword and Shield (Part 2)

 

ACT V: ON A SWORD'S EDGE

 

>you are Corporal Sword Glitter

>now that you have reunited with some of your squadmates, you're on your way back to your airship to get out of here

>the rest of your team is waiting for your return there

>after leaving the barn, you expected to run into hostiles soon, but the streets are surprisingly empty

>Longrun told you most of the Storm Army is converging on the Royal Palace now, hence the lack of enemies

>that's one of the cats' last line of defense, as the rest of them have been already wiped out

>yeah, you noticed that...

>but luckily for you, the temple where the Razor landed is still in Abyssynian hands

>in no small part thanks to your squad

>they fought off the Storm units attacking the feline positions there

>even if that position was attacked again, the rest of Phoenix are still there to assist the cats

>so there is hope it won't be overrun by the time you make it back

>that's what you gathered from the Major's quick sitrep

>now it's a well-paced trot back to the temple square, with Longrun leading the way as usual

>then Starstorm, you and Shield

>and as it was so far, things just can't happen smoothly or without trouble

 

>"Heads up team" Longrun exclaims, after taking a turn to the west "Enemy patrol dead ahead. About five creatures"

>following him, Starstorm gestures a "Stop"

>"Okay, we're on borrowed time here, so we'll just quickly take 'em out. Glitter, Edge, you'll stay on the right, and open fire as soon as they're in range for you. Me and Longrun will hug the walls here, and engage when you do"

"Roger"

>"Roger"

>both you and Shield do as told, and open fire as well, since the Stormies have already spotted you

>but dishing it out from both sides does the trick, and the patrol gets reduced to dead meat in less than a minute

>no doubt, Major Startstorm is a serious force to be reckoned with

>she took out five of the six creatures

>"That's it then. Let's move on" she urges

>all four of you resume the trip back, staying vigilant

>after a few hundred meters, you take a turn to the right

>another wide, sandy street, the usual for the city

>the houses here are larger and more elaborate though, as you're no doubt approaching the city center, as in, the richest portion of the city

>but that matters not here, this street is as empty of cats as any other so far

>this means they either used their leverage and escaped with the help of guards in the very beginning

>or got unlucky, and got enslaved like the group you encountered earlier

>but this is only a fleeting thought as you trot alongside your team

 

>"Alright, after that bend in the road it's a straight shot to the temple square. Cheer up you two, this nightmare is over soon" says the Major after a little while, trying to sound a bit inspirational

>it's a welcome change from her usual, slightly angry monotone

>maybe she feels bad about you?

>that you were left behind?

>but Longrun equalizes the mood immediately

>"THIS nightmare. But the Major didn't speak to you about the blockade yet. Sure, we might very well get back to the ship in one piece now, but once in the air? Those Stormie airships won't just let us pass them, you know?"

>you gulp

>you indeed didn't think about this so far

>getting past a whole fleet of airships gonna be difficult

>but a...

"B-blockade?"

>"Yeah Swordie" Longrun continues in a flamboyant manner "Ya know, lots of airships encircling a place? It's what happening right now. Storm King gonna emphasize what's his, his. No in or out"

>you'd despair, but instead take a peek at the Major

>she's making a pout, or more like, a pout-frown

>"That's a problem for later, Sergeant. For now, let's just focus on getting back"

 

>you're not sure what to make of Starstorm's reaction

>it's hard to read the Major's emotions, but that sounded like a weak cope instead of ignorance

>and that's not good

>you know if the Major is concerned, then there is a REAL problem

>maybe this will be the Phoenix's swan song? It's final flight? Hope not

 

>as you reach the bend in the road, a wall breaks down right in front of you

>it's another one of those damn Tank units!

>"Oh no, not one of THESE guys again!" Shield whines, his reaction being understandable

>you can still see the crinkles in his armor

>regardless, he takes up combat stance, and lights up his horn

>you and the rest of the unit does likewise

>but to you surprise, Scroll emerges from the hole the creature just created

>"Whoah, whoah, calm!" he says, as he envelops the brute's head in magical energy "Hold your fire lads, I got this one"

>you all stand down, except Starstorm

>"You sure you can handle something THIS big?"

>"As I said Major, I got this" comes the answer "He might be very strong, but his mind is weak"

>Scroll finishes casting his spell

>the creature remains in a trance-like state, staring in front of himself

>the most magical Paladin looks into his eyes

>"Look at me. Look at me. I am your master now. You will do as I say. Now, walk forward"

>the Captain points him in the direction of the square

>and the heavy creature indeed begins to walk

 

>this display of magical prowess left you in awe

>you heard of mind-bending spells, but never saw one in effect

>it's one of those "dark spells", the use of which is immoral, and not taught anywhere

>but they exist, and as a matter of fact, you also heard of some Royal Guards who can use them

>technically, it would be allowed to use one of these as a last resort

>luckily, ponies in Canterlot never made a case for their usage

>and when actual trouble hit Canterlot, spears were whipped out, not mind tricks

 

>"Impressive, Captain! Now, do me next!" Longrun jokes, as you trot towards the temple square, with your unlikely ally in tow

>Scroll rolls his eyes, then turns to you:

>"Sword, Shield, you're alive! Didn't think you'd be found so quickly though. I'm beyond glad!"

"Nice to see we reassemble one by one indeed!" you answer, feeling happy that Scroll is happy for you

>like the Major, he is usually much more reserved with his emotions

>but it seems he was worried about you too

>"And I'm glad *I* didn't have to fight that brute!" says Shield

>"What can I say? We work fast!" chimes in Starstorm as well "But what about the square? Is it still secure?"

>"Not exactly. Storm units are converging on it from the west and the north, but the cats are still holding out. Breakpoint and Sabersong are helping them, but they wouldn't last forever. Hence I thought about going after HIM. He would help us in the fight. But with Sword and Shield found, that might not be needed. We might be able to leave as soon as we get back"

>"Then let's not dawdle around now. Forward squad, double time!"

 

>you reach the square with the temple

>and finally, there she is!

>the Wind Razor, a sight for sore eyes!

>it's moored in the middle of the square

>you can also see Breakpoint and Sabersong on the top deck, firing towards the west

>the streets leading to the square are all barricaded off

>you're approaching one such blockade right now

>the cat soldiers manning the barricade recoil in fear

>surely, not at the sight of some armored equines

>with shaking paws, one of them points at the obvious source of dread

>"W-what is that?!"

>"The help we promised to bring. May I?" says Starstorm, as he levitates a table away to get through the improvised roadblock

>you follow her, and the Storm Heavy also stomps into the square proper

>the previous soldier also follows, and addresses the Major

>"You promised a squad of ponies. This...this isn't a pony. What is this even?! And why does it follow you?"

>the Major turns back, and answers nonchalantly

>"This is exactly one unit of Storm Army heavy infantry. Whose control now we relinquish to you...I guess. Scroll?

>Scroll begins casting a spell, again having the creature's head in focus

>"You will remain here. The cats are your friends now. Your former friends are your enemies. Do you understand?"

>the Storm Heavy grunts something unintelligable

>"Good. We're done then" says Scroll, then adds really quietly, that only you can hear:

>"...I think"

>he and Starstorm turn to the cat again

>the feline looks beyond confused, not unlike his troops a bit further back staring at you

 

>"But, but..."

>"He will remain here to fight in our place" says the Captain

>"Because sadly, we have to leave now" adds the Major

>"But don't worry my cat friend! He is docile. Except if he gets the chance to rip off a few Storm Creature arms" says Gunny

>the cat looks back and forth between you and the creature

>then finally his gaze settles on the squad

>"You lied to me! This isn't what you promised! We helped secure your ship, and this is the "help" you bring in return?!"

>"We promised help, and we brought help. I think this was a fair trade. I rest my case" says Starstorm without a hitch in her voice "Okay squad, on me"

>the Major begins to walk towards the airship, and you follow

>but the cat soldier doesn't budge

>"Wait! Do you think you can just get away with this like that? NO ONE ruses an officer of the Armed Forces of Abyssynia!"

>the Major turns back for a moment

>"I just did"

>then resumes walking

 

>the squad walks up to the Razor

>looking back, the cat is still furious, but there is nothing he can do

>he probably saw what Starstorm is capable of earlier, and wouldn't want to stop her, for the obvious reasons...

>but still, you feel bad for these poor cats

>they realy just want to defend their homeland

>but by now you know ACTUALLY trying to help them can incredibly backfire

>so you just sadly accept that you will leave these cats to face overwhelming odds without your help

>"Saber! Breakpoint! We're back!" shouts the Major

>the two paladins stop firing, and lean over the railing on your side

>"Whoah-ho-ho! If this isn't Sword and Shield! Welcome back friends!" Breakpoint exclaims with excitement

>then Saber has her say, too

>"Shield? And...Rookie? I never would have guessed... Well, you're either very lucky or maybe you're indeed tougher than you look. Either way, I hope you were worth this little detour"

"I'm happy to see you too..." you answer

>"Cut it off, Saber. Breakpoint, get under deck, and start the engines!" Starstorm barks the command "Longrun, Shield, you release the anchors!"

>things are starting to speed up

>the major unlocks the ship's ramp with the spell, and folds it down

>but as she starts to walk up the ramp, you hear loud wheezing

>you know what the all too familiar sound is

 

>it's artillery, and no doubt it's targeting the ship!

>you look up, and cry out

"Squad! Artillery!!!"

>you're not sure what to do

>and everypony except Shield, who's readying some spell, remains calm

"Major?!"

>the major looks up into the sky, almost looking bored

>as the sound's increasing, you know the cannonballs will strike soon

>but they simply ricochet off from some surface higher above

>now you see there is an energy sphere surronding the ship!

>barely visible, you could only tell its presence from the ripple the cannonballs caused

>you look at Shield questioningly

>it couldn't be him, but he is the only one you could imagine casting such a strong barrier

>he looks at Starstorm in return

>she says:

>"Yeah, it was Scroll. But he couldn't create such a strong shield without our help, so all of us helped him by supercharging it while he casted it. Advanced mage technique. You two still have much to learn"

>you can see Shield muttering a silent "Whoah" while Sabersong just silently nods with a smug smile

>ah, typical...

>but you're happy the squad thought of everything

>the ship is indeed sitting ducks landed like this

>but you hope not anymore

 

>Starstorm boards the ship now, and you follow

>and that the anchors have been released, the rest of Phoenix walks up the ramp too

>Scroll is the last, he pulls up the ramp-door and locks it

>the Major barks commands:

>"That shield won't protect us while ascending. Longrun, take over the wheel! Scroll, change the propelling direction! Let's speed us up!"

>the Captain enters the engine room at the back, and lifts up a trap door

>he casts a spell, and the Razor suddenly gets an upwards jolt

>now the propellers facing the ground, you ascend so rapidly as if a thousand pegasi were lifting it

>no wonder, the Razor's magitech engine is rated at 4000 pegasuspower max

>"Okay, we're high up enough. Change back to forward propel" shouts Longrun from the front after just half a minute

>you now sit down, and lift the viewing port cover next to you

>you indeed ascended hundreds of meters

>but looking to the horizon, over the harbor, you see exactly what Longrun told you earlier

>the Storm Army fleet has their airships positioned around the city in a perfect circle

>they are only a few clicks out

>you gulp, and just face back forward

>the Hippogriffs are sitting opposite to you

>you barely noticed them so far, but now Coral greets you warmly

>"I'm so glad you made it, Corporal Glitter! You, and Sergeant Edge too! I was so worried!"

>"Yes, it's indeed a relief. We would feel more than bad if our saviours perished" adds the ambassador

"And I'm glad you're alright too. Let's just hope we can say the same a few minutes later as well"

>"We should surely make it now" continues Seabeak "The Major told us the Wind Razor is the fastest airship in the world, AND armored too. What could possibly go wrong?"

>well, you'd rather not answer that...

 

>the Razor is moving at flank speed now

>you have cleared the city, and over the water now

>you're obviously going back the way you came from, over the ocean

>Major Starstorm walks to the front, next to Longrun

>"I really don't like the look of that..." says the stallion at the wheel "That stormcloud doesn't look natural to me"

>you stand up, and try to see what he's talking about

>even from where you are, you can still see through the forward viewing port

>and it's true, some awful blackness is looming in the not so far distance

>as if a part of the blockade were replaced with a stormcloud

>but for what reason?

>camouflage maybe?

>now Scroll walks up next to Starstorm

>he takes a good look, and after a momentary grimace, he speaks

>"Yes. That had to be conjured up. It's sunny skies all around, no other cloud in sight"

>"Well, the Corporal did mention a mage among enemy forces. One she defeated. Maybe they have more than one? Weathermancers, maybe?" reacts the Major

>"I can imagine anything at this point..." says the Captain in a moody tone

>"So, what's the plan anyway? Do I just sail into the blockade headfirst, shooting our way out? I'd appreciate your insight, Ma'am" inquires Longrun, slowing down the ship a bit

>"What are you doing?! Flank speed ahead, aim for that stormcloud!"

>the Major doesn't wait for his officer though, and pushes the gear lever forward

>"I can't believe... That's your plan?!"

>"Got something better? We'll lose them inside that cloud"

>"And what if it hides more ships? We'll just crash into them"

>"That remains to be seen... Just keep this direction"

>Longrun lets out an annoyed snort, and shakes his head slighty

>"Aye, aye, Ma'am..."

 

>the Captain and Major walk back to their seats

>you sit down too

>the squad is on the edge, everyone is visibly tense

>you look at Shield

>he probably sees your despair, and gives you a weak smile

>and a wink

>you try to smile back, but not sure how well it turned out

>Sabersong notices this, and chimes in:

>"Looking after your girlfriend, huh Shield?"

>"Uh, would you cut it out?" comes the answer

>"I'm just jesting you two... You're fine, right Rookie?"

"I'm... I appreciate that you're trying to lighten the mood"

>"We've been through worse!" says your least favorite squadmate "Is that right Major?"

>the Major looks at Saber with a deadpan

>"Sure"

>"Just as I said!" continues the Staff Sergeant

>but as she finishes her sentence, you hear a muffled "Boom"

>all members look around, then lift their port covers behind them

>you too

>what you see, isn't very reassuring, although not surprising...

 

>"Storm Army airships are converging on us from both sides!" shouts Starstorm, standing up

>"Oh, how utterly wonderful!" comes the response from the pilot

>"We'll just outrun them. Maintain our speed"

>"Will do. Also, keep those port covers open for me, would'ya? I wanna see how close those ships are getting"

>you all open up every one of those

>due to the high speed, the air blowing in whistles throughout the crew deck

>the ships giving chase are still firing on you, with more ships leaving the blockade

>no doubt, at this point they are adamant about seeing you crash into the water

>one ship in particular, bigger than the others, is a pretty crack shot

>its cannonballs are wheezing past the Razor, but they don't hit

>but the situation is most concerning, nonetheless

>"Mr and Mrs Ambassador, I want you to get lying down on the deck. Safer that way if we actually get hit" says Starstorm his next command "And you, Phoenix, get up to the combat deck! Be ready to engage any ships once we get close to the blockade"

>Coral gives over the baby to his husband, who indeed gets down on the deck, and wraps the little one in a wing

>but she herself steps forward

>"Major, we will never escape this way. But we have the advantage of speed. Let's climb higher, fly OVER the blockade"

>"I'd rather keep them in my line of sight. And besides, this ship has the weakest armor on its belly. Would be unwise to expose that to the enemy"

>"Then at least let me help fighting! I could fire one of those guns"

>"No way! VIPs are not to get involved! You get down too, stat!"

>"Ma'am" Longrun interrupts "The Hippogriff has a sound idea. Let's just ascend quickly, and leave behind this mess"

>"As I said, if we get hit in the..."

>BANG!!!

>Starstorm can't finish her sentence, the sound of awful shattering and breaking filters it out

>it came from the back, the gondola rocks to the side, and you lose balance momentarily

 

>"Shit, we've been hit!" cries Longrun

>"And so much for our speed advantage" says Coral "Look!"

>looking to the sides, you can tell the ship has slowed down significantly

>and the Storm Army ones have gained a lot of ground

>well, air...

>"Great... Scroll, check on the engine, it must have taken damage!" comes from your commanding officer, pointing her hoof "The rest of you, get up to the combat deck already! Not you Miss, I already said, you remain here!"

>poor Coral wants to help so hard, but it's clear, Starstorm won't take it

>so she gets down to the ground finally, grumbling, although getting some consoling words from her husband

>but you stall no longer, and trot one deck up

>Starstorm arrives too, with only Scroll and Longrun remaining on the crew deck

>you and the squad open up the firing ports, and see that the enemy ships have almost catched up to you

>you can hear them too, and unlike the Razor's subtle whizzing, their engines sound more like a very angry bumblebee

>they also exhaust black smoke

>what sort of engines are that?

>whatever they are, they seem rather potent

>and their guns are potent too

>damn their lucky hit, you can only hope the Captain can fix the damage quickly

>if not, this escape will devolve into naval combat

>and you're not yet qualified in that

>crew served weapons and naval tactics: Week 26

>you had five weeks of Paladin training altogether

>this is not good

>you're eyeing the hardware you're supposed to use soon

>"breechloaders"

>you never saw anything like that

>you only saw those silly, fat, muzzle-loading howitzers in Canterlot a few times

>the "Party Cannons" as the crews nicknamed them

>but this?

>wizard tech in comparison

>although you could still serve as an ammo handler and spotter

>and of course...there is also "the thing"

>if the breehloaders were "wizard tech", then this is simply beyond this world altogether

>the "Firecracker" as your teammates call it

>more precisely the Mark I Magic-Actuated Multi-Firebomb Launcher, Experimental

>four thin barrels, arranged in a 2-atop-2 configuration

>ten 2-bomb clips of ammo for each barrel, 80 bomb capacity altogether

>the clips are along the length of the barrel, stacked after one another

>the bombs use a nonstandard propulsion, apparently some enchantment

>hence why each of the clip holders have a little crystal poking out on the top

>those are the "triggers", which need some magic to discharge a bomb

>but it's still under work, and was never field tested

>and if anything, someone like you surely shouldn't even touch such a thing

 

>you step next to the guns on the starboard side

>you wait for someone more experienced to help you, and of course it's Shield

>he understands your situation in a second, and says:

>"Spotter and reloader? Works for me. We could operate all four guns on this side that way"

"I thought about just...AAAHHH!!!"

>the Razor gets hit again, and it rocks the gondola hard

>this time, on the side, the deck underneath you

>you can only hope it didn't penetrate

>the sandwiched armor should be able withstand this, but the Razor wasn't designed for extended combat engagements

>after both the ship and you regained balance, you'd try to finish your sentence, but a familiar sound beats you

>"Glitter! Edge! Don't just stand there, and start working those guns! We're dead if we don't fight back!"

"Yes, about that Major, I can't actually operate something like these..."

>"Well, improvise!... Argh, Edge, show her!"

>"Um, yes Ma'am!"

>at this point, two ships have completely catched up to you, and fly on both sides of the Razor

>the bigger -you'd think a cruiser- is giving chase on the port side

>on the starboard, you're now facing a ship not much larger than the Razor, outfitted only with a few guns

>Starstorm, Saber, and Breakpoint started to deal with the cruiser, and are firing the breechloaders to great effect

>BLAM! BLAM! BLAM!

>the sound of the guns reverberate throughout the deck, and you feel your ears ringing a bit

>you feel you should start doing the same, but not before you get a crash course in cannon operation

>and you think you have about...five seconds in total for that

"Shield, what do I do?! I don't think I could operate any of these!"

>"Just help me with the ammo dispensers, okay? Make sure there's always a cannonball ready"

"Right, I think I can do that..."

>the ammo dispensers are huge boxes on the walls, one for each gun

>they seem rather intuitive to you, as they have only one oversized button near the bottom

>that operates a trap door, which releases a single cannonball, which then rolls down on a little pair of rails to a small receptacle, right next to the breech

>well, that's not hard to do

>you push the button right after Shield fires a gun

>he moves on to the next one, and loads the cannonball

>then what you think is the wadding, then the powder charge, then the cannonball itself

>finally the fuse, and BANG!

 

>the Razor leaves behind the greyish smoke from the shot in a moment

>although you have slowed down, you're still moving at a significant speed

>but so does the enemy

>your current nemesis already got a few hits, but it's still very well operational

>how do you even take out an airship for good anyway?

>well, shooting the gondola until it falls apart seems a little tiresome

>how about shooting the envelope?

>the airship you and Shield are fighting right now is just a blimp

>it doesn't have the segmented envelope of the Razor, which is a so-called "Zeppelin"

>so maybe it will go down once it has enough holes in it

>slowly sure, but it will eventually fall into the ocean

>you should suggest this

"Shield, how about shooting its envelope? That should take it down quicker...AH!"

>the Razor just got hit again, now as if from both sides

>you can hear Longrun's swearing from a deck below

>also, the Major's inquiring about the Captain's progress on the engine, but her lovely screaming gets no response

>"Swordie, they hold so much gas that it would take too much time! We should aim at tactical targets, like the firing ports!"

>with that, Shield fires the next gun, and actually takes out one of the enemy gun positions on the blimp

>"You can try shooting it tho" he adds

>sure, that won't hurt

>it's not like your assistance would require so much concentration

>so you charge up a combat spell, and fire away

>it strikes the blimp's envelope and....

>BOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMM!

"Whoah! What the...?"

>you felt the heat from that one!

>did you just blow up that airship with a single hit?

>"Dang, what the... do these amateurs fill their airships with HYDROGEN?" Shield looks up from his aiming at you

"Do they?!"

>you know that hydrogen goes boom-boom when shot, but why would anyone use that for filling an airship?

>although honestly, they probably didn't expect to face spellcasters who can just lit up their floating tools of invasion

>Shield cries out to the Major, trying to talk over the sound of the other airship's engine, and the guns firing

>"Ma'am! These airship are filled with HYDROGEN! Sword just took one out with a single hit. You could just..."

>Starstorm doesn't even wait for the sentence to end, and fires a quick shot at the chasing cruiser

>but there's no such luck

>"Well, this one's helium, just like us. Seems like they cared more about their bigger ships"

>well, drat

>no easy way out from this battle

 

>meanwhile, Scroll has returned from his engine-fixing

>and considering the Razor didn't speed up, that means he didn't succeed at his endeavor

>"Major, two of the magic converters have completely fried themselves. It's impossible to fix them mid-flight. We'll have to make due with this speed, I'm afraid"

>"Peachy... Understood, just help here then, we need all hooves on deck"

>the Captain mans one of the guns on the port side, and Shield does too

>now with one pony for each gun, you reach an unprecedented rate of fire

>and with no other enemy ship on the starboard side, you decide to check on the VIPs one deck below

>and on Longrun too

>as you trot down to the crew deck, the ship gets get hit again, then again

>by now, you're expecting the shaking that comes with it, and it barely throws off your balance

>you can see the port covers are closed now, so no cannonballs could be shot inside

>those covers are armored too luckily, wood-steel-wood, just like the body

>although this way, Longrun barely sees anything of the battle that happens around the "lady", as he sometimes called the ship

 

"Mr and Mrs Ambassador, is everything okay?" you ask

>the answer is obvious on the part of Mr Seabeak, as he is shaking, and covering his face with his claws

>Coral, on the other hand, looks to the side, as if she was seeing the enemy ship through the wood

>and for a change, you get hit once again

>where the cannonball strikes, you can see the planking getting bent inwards, although the steel plate stops the penetration

>"Corporal, if we don't do something fast, these Storm Army ships will chip away at us until we fall down in pieces"

"Nothing you can do, but we're on it..."

>"You just chill Miss" shouts Longrun from the front "Hey Sword, we're okay here, shouldn't you help one deck up?"

"All guns are manned on the port side. And they seem to handle this cruiser well....

>BLAM!

>the whole ship shakes again

....enough... Overall..."

>"So glad Swordie, but I still feel we're getting gangbanged. So gimme a precise sitrep"

"Okay"

>with Longrun not being able to see to the sides, you should be his eyes

>you lift a single port cover on the port side

>the cruiser is still chasing, but it's pretty messed up by now, and is slowing down

>them breechloaders did a number on her

>on the starboard you see nothing still...oh wait

"Enemy ship approaching fast, at 4 o'clock!"

>"Then you have something to do, aren't you corporal?"

"Yes Sir! On it Sir!"

 

>you gallop one deck up

>"Where were you Corporal? You're needed!" Starstorm snaps at you

"Just checked on the VIPs, Ma'am"

>"Don't! We have multiple enemy ships converging on us!"

>"The whole damn blockade is trying to hunt us down!" adds Breakpoint

>although the chasing cruiser has been dealt with, two more is already very close

>and they are even bigger, with more guns

>dealing with them will be...most challanging

>you didn't even notice them just a minute ago

>it seems the cruiser itself was blocking them out from view

>but now that has buggered off, two destroyer-sized ships are trying to take its place

>"Everypony, to the cannons!" gives Starstorm the order

>well, everypony does, except the sixth...

"Major, there is another problem...two in fact"

>"What?!"

"First, there is another ship coming at us from the starboard side. Secondly...I still cannot use these guns!"

>the Major shoves you away, and looks out on the starboard side

>"Well, dang... I can't advise anything Rookie, improvise! I can't spare anypony from the port side, those destroyers will mess us up if we don't fight back"

"But..."

>"It's just a cruiser... Use the Firecracker dang it! Just apply some magic to the crystals, it's not hard!"

"Aye-aye Ma'am!"

>with that, the Major returns to the other side, and you're left alone to deal with the cruiser

>you look back at the Major, being all uncertain

>you should do what now?

>you were told before that this experimental cannon is unstable, and should be handled only by a skilled arcane weapons operator

>which are only Starstorm and Scroll Writ

>but it seems right now, you have no chance

>you let out a sigh from really deep

"Okay Sword Glitter... Let's do this"

 

>the enemy cruiser have arrived next to you

>you're facing its guns, and they're opening fire on you, as you'd expect

>their rounds strike the Razor, one right next to your firing port

>okay, let's see

>you aim the Firecracker somewhat higher up

>now, it should strike the side of the enemy ship

>but which triggering crystal should be activated first?

>there are 40 of them!

>maybe the one that's closest to the muzzle?

>after all, the ammo is stacked in this weapon

>so the clip closest to the muzzle should spent first

>maybe this is indeed not that hard?

>you cast a spell on the crystal like if you used a staff and...nothing happens

"THE FIRECRACKER ISN'T FIRING!!!" you cry out in panic

>both Starstorm and Scroll looks back at you

>"Sword! The safety rod! Pull it out!" says the Captain

>you look at the weapon and don't get it

>what rod?

>then you notice a ring at the butt end of the weapon, that's indeed attached to a rod, that runs between the four barrels

>you grab it with TK, and pull it out

>now it should be ready to fire?

>you adjust your aim a bit, and cast

>the Firecracker indeed fires, and a little sphere comes out of the top-right barrel

>it leaves a golden-sparkly trail behind itself, and its sound indeed reminds you of a firecracker

>but you can barely notice that before it strikes the side of the enemy ship

>hard!

>as the projectile hits, it explodes, and it causes some fire too

>firebomb launcher, alright!

>you repeat the process, now with the other barrel

>you score another hit, and the explosion and fire do their jobs as previously

>you aim at the gun ports, and although you didn't score a direct hit, the gun operators have left their positions

>they're giving up so easily, huh?

>you didn't even strike on the full lenght of the enemy ship

>you'd like to do that, but the bulky weapon has very limited horizontal traversal on its mount

>well, it's still experimental, after all

 

>the enemy ship remains silent for a bit, and comes somewhat closer

>now you see dozens of Storm Creatures pouring out from below deck

>maybe they feared they will burn inside?

>as the ship is still on fire

>but the Creatures don't panic

>many of them are armed with bows or crossbows

>and they seemingly all aim at you

>so they want to take out the dangerous gun operator with a precise hit?

>you remember those arbalisters from earlier, and they were indeed a crack shot

>without letting any of them firing a single bolt, you activate the Firecracker again

>PFWHOOSH! PFWHOOSH! PFWHOOSH!

>the bombs fly through the air with their distinctive sound

>as they hit their target, they tear up the deck, and the Storm Creatures fly in all directions

>all right!

>that was at least six consecutive bombs, and they seemingly took out everyone on deck, even the pilot

>with the crew gone, the Storm Army airship flies on aimlessly, slowly veering off from its course

>you decide to share the good news with your commanding officer

"Major, the enemy cruiser has been dealt with!"

>"Good job Rookie, keep it up!"

>"More will come on that side for sure, so put that weapon to good use!" adds the Captain, nodding with approval

"Will do!"

>until then though, wish you could help with those destroyers, but there is only ONE Firecracker on this ship

>and it's on the starboard side

>but it's not like you won't see action very soon anyway, as you already see more ships approaching

 

>the approaching ships seem to be like one cruiser and one destroyer

>you're getting ready to cast, but then you get tossed to the ground

>what the hay?!

>something just striked the ship from the back!

>something really powerful

>no way the Storm Army has a gun of such large caliber!

>and now you feel the ship is slowing down EVEN MORE

>"Ah, don't tell me our engine got hit AGAIN!" barks Starstorm

>"I don't think so..." says Scroll, and he gets topside

>and only about twenty seconds later, he gets back, horror on his face

>"We got hit by a damn harpoon! There's a ship on our tail, and it's rolling up the chains binding us! We will slow to a halt in no time!"

>"We have to remove the harpoon immediately!" answers the Major

>"I think it's got embedded just over the engine. Let's take a look"

>the Major and Captain go one deck below, while the ship is slowing down significantly

>the cruiser and destroyer have also catched up to you, while the two destroyers on the other side are still madly firing

>you're waiting for the enemy on your side to be at striking angle

>you activate the crystals on the Firecracker

>too bad half of them are actually on the bottom of the weapon, as this whole shebang is symetrically built

>why is this even mounted this way?

>nevertheless you fire away, and the satisfying Pfwhoosh-es and BANGs indicate that you're doing a good job once again

>it's almost as fun as using the Storm Mage's staff!

>both ships get hit hard, and seeing the previous cruiser's fate (that has floated away since), they decide to put some serious distance between you

>meanwhile, Starstorm and Scroll have came back

>"It's impossible to remove the harpoon!" she pants "It embedded itself in the ship's aft superstructure! If we tear it out, the engine falls out with it too!"

>"We'll have to cut through the chain holding us somehow. Maybe I can do it using a tandem laser-spell with the Major, but the rest of you will have to cover us, as Storm Army infantry will surely try to stop us from that ship's deck!"

>"Then let's go!" says Sabersong enthusiastically

"Wait!" you shout "What about the two destroyers?"

>"They'll have to wait Corporal, the harpooning ship is now our priority! Let's go!"

 

>sure, the Major's answer makes sense, as until that one isn't taken out, more and more ships can easily catch up to you

>but also, the destroyers are really giving you Tartarus

>how much longer the Razor's armor can hold?

>the sheet metal between the planks is now visible in many places, as the power of the hits has thrown off the planks on the inner side

>you should follow your orders and help the Major, but your gut instinct tells you somepony should continue killing those destroyer airships

>but a rude voice interrupts your logical thoughts:

>"Rookie, you have cannonballs in your ears? The Major said she needs cover fire! So get your flank on the top deck, NOW!"

>okay then, if the Major needs cover fire right now, then you'll provide some SERIOUS cover fire

 

>Sabersong waits for you impatiently, and honestly, she is right

>"Well???"

"I'm coming, just hang on a sec. I have an idea!"

>with that said, you grab a good hold of the Firecracker within your levitation spell

>and yank the whole weapon upwards, trying to strip it away from its mount

>"Wha-WHAT are you doing?" asks Saber with disbelief "You don't suppose you can just... You CAN'T just do that, you know?!"

>you don't answer, just violently pull on the weapon again, then again

>on your next pull, you manage to break the elevation mechanism

>then you pull again, and the screws binding the weapon to its mount give in, and you lift up and out the weapon from its original position

>now you levitate it right before yourself, but making sure its muzzle is pointed upwards

"Okay, I'm ready!"

>Saber has her mouth agape

>"Goshdarnit Rookie... That weapon is EXPERIMENTAL! It was mounted so securely because too much resonance can jam it! You might have just ruined a million bits in research!"

"This thing is our greatest tactical boon. It would be a mistake not to use it to its full potential. If it jams, it jams, but I'll have to try! This is our last chance"

>"Rookie, you're a fool, an undisciplined fool!... Ah, gimme that thing!"

>you walk up to Saber, and past her

"No. Your magic is strong. You can score precision hits on your own. I can't, so my best use will be to operate this monstrosity. Now come on, let's save this ship!"

 

>you walk up the stairs leading to the top deck, with Saber in tow

>the Firecracker is in your magical aura

>the rest of your team took up position at the aft railing, with Shield having a barrier conjured up in front of them

>so the others can thin out the infantry on the harpooning ship, mainly the arbalisters

>meanwhile the Razor has slowed down to well below its cruising speed, pulling the Storm Army one along

>those chains have to be cut real fast, or you'll be COMPLETELY overwhelmed in no time

>but now you have a little something that could turn the tides somewhat in your favor

"Major, I'm here! Let me try something..."

>all members of the squad look at you

>their expressions aren't unlike Sabersong's just a minute ago

>with the possible exception of Scroll, who seems more intrigued than surprised

>"Corporal, you're not serious..." Starstorm mutters

>you don't answer, because you obviously ARE serious, and step to the railing with the Firecracker aimed at the enemy ship

>with no one trying to stop you (and Shield visibly channeling even a bit more magic into his barrier spell), you gently focus on the next activator crystal on your weapon

"Hey Stormies! Catch THESE!"

>you begin to fire your launcher madly, casting magic at the activators one after another

>"PFWOOSH! PFWOOSH! PFWOOSH!"

>the bombs fly through the air, and strike the bow of the ship, tearing off the bowsprit after the first few hits

>the Stormtroopers onboard fall off their feets, but try to get up quickly

>you should adjust your aim, and hit them directly

>but that's harder to do so with such a heavy weapon, then with a staff

>nevertheless, you aim a bit higher, and fire multiple bombs right in the middle of them

>although you probably already took out the most problematic enemies, you don't stop firing, determined to take out the ship wholesale

>it's what keeps you from escaping with its harpoon holding you in place

>as more and more bombs hit, its rigging starts to give in, with ropes tearing apart, hitting the deck already in flames

>that ship is toast, quite literally

 

>"CORPORAL!"

>you turn your head in the direction of the sound

>it was the Captain calling you out, successfully shouting over the PFWOOSH-ing of the Firecracker

>you stop firing to listen what he has to say

>"Corporal, try to aim at the harpoon port! A few good hits might be able to tear it out from its place, setting us free"

>you nod, and resume firing

>you aim just like Scroll said, but the Razor gets hit multiple times just as you fire

>you literally fire around your target, messing up the ship even more, but not hitting the harpoon port

>at this point, the chasing ship is completely in flames, and its ribs are visible in many places

>you adjust your aim, and now score hits where you want to

>the explosions tear apart the whole bow section of the enemy ship, and you can see the harpoon gun falling out

>the same moment, the Razor jolts forward, as the only thing that binds the other half of the chain now is gravity

>the chain flips under the Razor, and you leave your adversary behind, barely intact, completely in flames

>you stop firing, and lower the Firecracker for a bit

>you look around, to perhaps give a word of explanation to your squad, but that probably won't be necessary

 

>the first to speak up is Shield, who just disengaged his barrier spell

>"By Celestia's mane Sword, that was crazy! You showed 'em, you bloody showed 'em!"

>"That was badass, way to go Corporal!" says Breakpoint

>"I can't believe that worked..." says Saber, still in some disbelief

>Scroll just nods at you with a smile

>but Starstorm speaks:

>"This was indeed crazy, but it definitely worked. Good job Corporal. But we're still in great danger. New plan: You take out the chasing ships the same way you did this one" she points at you "Prioritize the destroyers. And Sergeant Edge will cover you with a shield while you do so. The rest of us will get back on the guns"

>Starstorm stops shouting and gesturing, and trots back under deck with Saber, Scroll and Breakpoint

>you and Shield get into position on the port side

>he already has his spell conjured up, and the blue magical barrier forms a wall right in front of you

>you aim the Firecracker at the closer destroyer

>but before you'd fire, Shield's voice stops you for a moment

>"You know Swordie, we might just make it. All thanks to you!"

>he winks at you

"Never fear until you see me!"

>you wink back

>now it's time to finish this battle

 

>you fire away the Firecracker, scoring easy hits on the chasing destroyer

>its hull already wasn't 100% immaculate, but now you'll make sure to mess it up real good

>as there are infantry on this one's deck too, you take those out first

>as the bombs land among them, they panic, and with nowhere else to flee, some just jump overboard, plummeting into the ocean

>surely, jumping from so high, it will be a hard landing, water notwithstanding

>with them gone, you don't have to fear their bolts and arrows, making it easier for Shield to maintain his barrier

>but the Razor is still getting hits, and you're sure she can't take much more of this

>so you aim at the gun ports, and send some bombs there too

>they have good effect on target, and by now, you really got the hang of the weapon

>you can fire it FAST, triggering the activator crystals one-by-one in quick succession

>since you simply levitate the weapon, you won't have a problem with the crystals on its underside either

>by now, one row of clips have been depleted

>firing it this way, you can make sure the weapon remains balanced in your telekinetic grip

>with your adversary being a destroyer, it has many guns, and not having perfect aim, you messed up its hull so much, that it drops burning pieces of wood like if it was some evil pinata

>but the guns are still firing, not giving up on taking out the Razor

>guess the artillery crews of the Storm Army are even more fanatic than its infantry?

>by now, there must be many holes in your hull

>but that's true for the other ship, too

>one of them is so large, you could easily lob a bomb into it

>after a few misses, you manage to do so, and an explosion rocks the ship

>flames shoot out of the gun ports closer to the bow, then another explosion occurs

>as a chain reaction, the rest of the gun ports spout flames too

>and a second later, the ship meets its end in one final, gigantic explosion

>the shockwave throws around the Wind Razor too, and quite a few burning pieces land on the deck

>luckily Shield reacts fast, and turns his frontal barrier into a full bubble shield

>the flaming planks that hit it harmlessly fall of

 

>"Good work Sword! Now get the other one!"

>as the previous ship has been dealt with, with only its envelope left intact, the other destroyer quickly takes its place

>so far, only a few of its guns could hit you, as they didn't have the proper striking angle

>but now, they can fire a full broadside, and they do so

>the Razor rocks hard again, and loses its bowsprit and some of the rigging gets torn apart

>you only now notice that this destroyer has two rows of guns, albeit of smaller calibers

>hence they could hit you higher up, with the upper row aiming at your deck

>good thing you're protected by Shield's barrier spell

>but if you can take down this one, you should be able to deal with the rest relatively easy

>the Storm Army doesn't have anything worse to throw at you, right?

>"Sword, look! Another destroyer coming up, 7 o'clock!"

>Shield points to it, and indeed another damned big Storm Army ship joined the fray

>you take out one, and it gets replaced by another one?

>just great...

>"How much ammo you have left?"

"I have fired away a full row of bombs, plus most of the next row. So two full rows, and a little. Around 45?"

>"Dang, that might not be enough!"

"Do we have any spare firepower left?"

>"No, but...I have an idea. Target the ship's engine compartment, let's just slow 'em down. If they can't give chase, we won"

"Okay. Sounds like a solid idea!"

>you aim accordingly to Shield's instructions, and tear up the aft section of the ship with your bombs

>but it just doesn't want to slow down, despite you being rather accurate with the Firecracker

>"It seems their engines are actually armored? Fire on, some more hits oughta do it"

>meanwhile, the next destroyer have completely catched up, and tails the one you're fighting

>good thing they don't have anymore of those harpooning ships, nor their ships having guns on the front

>otherwise you'd be in even bigger trouble

>so you just fire on, and finally, one bomb penetrates, and the engine lets out flames from its exhaust port

>it seems all the burning stuff from these firebombs did their work, and melted the engine's armor

>with the engines stopping, the destroyer suddenly decelerates, and the other airship tailing so close, runs into it

>with probably the most violent kiss that was ever given in naval warfare, the weakened aft section of the crippled destroyer gets cut in half by the fortified bowsprit of the tailing one

>lodged into each other, both ships get left behind

 

>meanwhile, the Razor is getting closer to the blockade itself

>busting through that will be a challange in itself, but perhaps you can escape by flying through that suspicious stormcloud lingering about, as was planned by Starstorm

>it's as if one part of the blockade was replaced by that cloud for some reason

>but what reason?

>you can't think about it right now, as some ships on the starboard side are still giving chase

>you can hear your own cannons firing, and see those ships getting hit hard

"Maybe I should spare some ammo for the blockade? Our guns could deal with these now, are they not?"

>"We're already like a flying colander, these ships have to be taken out now. We'll deal with the blockade when we get there"

"Okay. Makes sense"

>makes sense, as in there isn't a good decision here

>the Razor is in a very bad shape now, and it's actually resonating a bit in a weird manner

>probably the superstrucure itself got some damage, which isn't good

>so you take aim, and begin firing what's the remainder of your ammo at the enemy ships

>Shield casts his barrier in front of you again, as a precaution

>a cruiser goes down fast, then you introduce the Firecracker to another one

>this one has put some distance between you, so you angle your shots to hit it

>some bombs miss at first, but after finding the correct range through the misses, you score hits

>the bombs explode on the deck, and take out the rigging in a manner, that the gondola remains held by only two ropes in the back

>it dangles from the envelope like some oversized teabag, while its still running engines propel it downwards

>you don't have to worry anymore about this one either

>you quickly take out another ship, a little one, probably just some patrol skiff

>with so many ships destroyed, you realize you are down to only one giving chase

>but it's a toughie, a destroyer

 

>you now know these have armored engines, so maybe shooting those don't really spare ammo, unlike Shield suggested earlier

>instead, you try to go for another chain reaction

>these destroyers must carry some of their blasting powder just lying about, the dumb fools

>and although you concetrate your fire on a single spot, the ship just doesn't want to explode

>maybe only that one crew was so dumb?

>now matter how much bombs you lob in the hole you created with your previous hits, the ship remains intact

>although the section you're pounding looks like some burning skeleton, with the planking completely blown away

>but most of the guns are still intact, and firing

>oh, come on!

>fine then, if you can't do it that way, you will do it the hard way

>you send your bombs one by-one to the gun ports

>but as you'd take out the last ones, you're out of bombs

>the Firecracker is empty

>you quickly try each of the activator crystals nevertheless, but there is no doubt about it now

"Shield, I'm out of ammo!"

>"Dang... Fine, let's not linger here anymore then"

>you drop the empty Firecracker on the deck, and follow Shield under deck

>Commander Starstorm and co. are still firing the guns of course

>maybe, they can finish the job now...

>"Why did you stop firing? There is still one ship intact" shouts Starstorm over the sound of the bang of the guns

"The Firecracker's out, ma'am" you answer

>"Great. Well, then don't just stand there, open up one of the empty ports and use your magic"

"Yes Major..."

>you step to one of the empty gun ports, and Shield to the next one

>you're not sure how much good your relatively weak magic will do, but every little effort counts, right?

>so you open up the port cover, and look at your target

>as you fired a salvo of firebombs at it just minutes ago, it's flaming in multiple spots

"If we could wait a bit more, those flames would just consume it..." you comment to Shield

>"Yeah, it would... Wait, you just gave me an idea!"

 

>"Captain!" Shield shouts over your head "Could you cast one of your wind spells at the destroyer? Your strongest one. Let the flames consume it!"

>Scroll immediately leaves his position, and goes to the hatch leading to the top deck

>"Great idea, Shield. Gimme a moment"

>"Do you need me to cover you?"

>"No, I'll manage"

>Captain Writ gets up to the top deck, and disappears

>from your firing port though, you can already see a strong wind blowing over the destroyer

>the wind makes the fire spread faster, and in half a minute, their entire ship is in flames

>the guns go silent, and with the envelope catching fire too, there is danger the fire will spread to you

>as it seems in a last ditch attempt, the destroyer tries to ram you

>Starstorm of course notices, and gives orders

>"Dangit, we can't let it touch us! Telekinetic blast, on three!"

>you look at the ship through your port, and charge up your spell

>it's indeed almost in your face now, you can feel the heat from its flames

>"One...two...Three!"

>you and the whole squad releases the spell at once, and the flaming ship gets pushed away some

>"Again!" comes from Starstorm "One...two... Three!"

>you all blast again, pushing it away some more

>you also notice that despite all the flames, it's speeding up

>it's probably trying to ovetake you, then brake, so you'd run into it

>well, not if you have anything to say about it

>looking out your port, its rudder and propellers are right next to you

>you grab its rudder in your TK, and turn it right, then tear the whole thing off

>and smash it into the closer propeller

>the airship slows down and veers off, now without a means to change course

>you look after it, and for any other potential ships giving chase

>but it seems they left you alone for now

 

>everypony steps away from the guns

>you step away from your firing port, and close it for now

>Major Starstorm speaks

>"Good job everyone. Especially you two"

>she's looking at you

>Shield steps next to you, and pats on your back

>"Sword here deserves all praise. She's done the heavy lifting after all. And that last trick... That was something else!"

>you blush at these words, but honestly, you feel them kinda justified

>you DID some heavy lifting in the last few minutes...

"But let's not forget about Shield's protective spells either. Or that wind spell suggestion..." you say in turn

>"About that" says Starstorm "Scroll went up to the top deck, but didn't return. Let's check on him"

>as you and Shield are the closest to the stairs leading upside, you take the opportunity

>on the top deck, you see Scrool, looking into the not so far distance

>what you can see is strange, indeed deserving attention

>the Storm Army ships in the blockade are giving way, as if they were too scared to face the Wind Razor

>the torn and ragged Wind Razor, barely able to fly

>the rest of your squad arrives on the deck now, and they are giving the new situation a stare, too

>"I don't like the look of this, Major" says Scroll moodily

>"Why would they just let us through? If they didn't fear us so far, I doubt they just changed their minds" the Major answers

>"That's what bothers me too..."

>and then, you can hear it

>a loud horn blaring, coming from within the stormcloud

>as the Razor is getting closer, you can see the cloud dissipating somewhat, revealing it...

>the largest Storm Army airship you ever saw

 

>the gigantic airship blares its horn again, as if announcing its presence

>the clouds around it are clearing rapidly now, confirming they were magical in nature

>seeing its full size now, it easily dwarfs not just the Razor, but those destroyers you took out, too

>so that's why the ships in the blockade dissipated

>giving way to this monster

>"By Celestia..." mutters Breakpoint

>"That must be the Storm King's ship. So THAT'S what they were hiding" says Scroll

>"Oh snap..." says Starstorm, but her mild reaction doesn't match her expression

>a face of pure horror

>you never saw her like that

>and now, you also feel a chill going down your spine

>not sure if because of her, or because of your new gigantic adversary

>but Starstorm being afraid tells you for sure: Now is the time for fear

 

>the Storm Army's flagship slowly starts to turn, no doubt to line up a broadside with you

>and what a broadside that is...

>four rows of guns, with at least thirty in each row

>the Razor will not survive a salvo from those, not in her state

>and no amount of magic can protect you from such concentrated fire

>even Shield's barrier would break from it, and kill him subsequently

>and you don't have the firepower to take it out, either

>were all your efforts in vain so far? So just to go out in an inglorious blaze of glory at the very end?

>you will find out real soon, but your chances are very bleak at the moment

 

>the enemy airship is really huge, which also means it must be very heavy

>so it's really slow to turn as well, which buys you some time

>but what that's enough for?

>surely that's not enough to get out of its range, especially because you have to get CLOSER at first to pass it

>"Alright team, let's get down to the crew deck. Let's warn the hippogriffs, this mission is now compromised"

>"Which means...?" asks Breakpoint

>"We can no longer ensure their protection. We'll have to let them go"

>"And go where?! They can't just fly home from here. And they even have a baby with them..."

>"I get you Lieutenant, but their chances for survival are even worse if they stay"

>"Come on Major. We are Phoenix Squad! We never back down, and we never falter! Surely, we will think of something, right?"

>"Lt. Breakpoint. Look at that ship. Our survival is also dubious"

>"But if we..."

>you don't hear what Breakpoint answers, as your attention veers off

>you can see an airship in your peripherial vision

>you turn your head to focus on it

>ah, it's just the first cruiser you took out with the Firecracker

>funny, it's still afloat, and mostly intact

>if it continues its course, you would maybe even collide with it

>collide...

>collide...

>wait...

>that gives you an idea

>an idea, that could save all of you

>well, ALMOST all of you...

 

>in ancient Pegasus dramas, the heroes made decisions that served the greater good

>despite all odds, they made a choice, and their sacrifice was worth it in the end

>well, maybe you're no hero, but you're thinking it's worth it...

>your squad don't deserve to die

>and those hippogriffs don't deserve to die either

>all that effort, all that risk and pain to save them can't go in vain now

>but there is not much time left...

>so mustering up all your courage, all your determination, you make your choice

>you take a deep breath, and step forward

"Major Starstorm? I have a plan..."

 

>the Major hastily turns towards you, visibly under stress

>well, no wonder...

>"A plan? Really? And what that would be?"

"Major, I know we simply don't have enough firepower to take out that ship... But I'm sure it couldn't take a direct hit from a battlecruiser"

>the Major's eyes go wide

>"W-what do you mean?!"

"You see that floating ship to the right? I took out its crew earlier with the Firecracker, but it's still in a flyable condition. Bring me closer, so I can board it. I will drive it right into the enemy flagship. THAT will surely take it out. Then you'll have a straight shot to open seas"

>the Major listened with wide eyes so far

>but now her mouth remains agape too, before she can speak

>"Corporal, what you suggest... You know what you suggest is suicidal, right? I simply cannot allow you to do this. If you go through with this, you will surely die..."

"Don't worry Major, I know what I signed up for. We're Celestia's elite, right? We never falter, we never back down. And neither you or those Hippogriffs deserve to die. So I'll take one for the team. This is the only way I see"

>the Major's expression goes from surprised-and-scared to sad, and her voice is almost pleading now

>"Corporal... /Sword/... You don't have to do this. There should be another way! We won't sacrifice you, we can do this together! Shield can erect a barrier that is strong enough, and we will just...

>heh, funny...

>is that the first time she ever called you that?

>simply "Sword"?

>oh, what war does to ponies!

"Major Starstorm" you interrupt "Surely, I didn't make this decision all willy-nilly, but you know our chances as well. Shield's spell isn't powerful enough against a salvo from that ship. And the Razor itself is in shambles, it can't take much more punishment. Just tell Longrun to fly us closer to the ship I mentioned. This is final. We don't have much time left"

 

>Starstorm looks deep into your eyes for a second, then lets out a short sigh

>"Okay. So be it. I understand. I'll instruct the Gunnery Sergeant to make the necessary maneuvers. You just...get ready"

>you nod an affirmative, but before the Major could turn back, Shield jumps to her

>"No, wait! You can't let her do this! Sword, - now he turns to you - you already did so much! I'll go instead! You can't just... YOU don't deserve this! I can do this, you stay!"

>you shake your head

>ah, Shield can't stop trying to be a hero huh?

>sure, he wants to repay you, but when you saved him, the circumstances were different

"Shield, look... This is MY crazy plan. So I have to do it. I appreciate that you care about me so, but you can't stop me either. Let things happen. You said it: Sometimes, you just need to let go"

>"But, but..."

>"She made her decision Sergeant" interrupts Starstorm, putting a hoof on Shield's chest "For better or worse"

>with that, Starstorm disappears under deck

>Shield doesn't resume his pleading, he's just looking at you, with a strange mix of expressions

>for a few moments, there is eerie silence, only the magitech engine's strange whizzing can be heard

>then suddenly, another loud blare from the enemy flagship

>but the squad doesn't even look there

>they're looking at you

>and they all have a frown

>even Saber, despite you know she never liked you

>now Scroll hangs his head

>he speaks

 

>"I know I can't possibly talk you out of this, but I'll try: Celestia instructed me to bring you home safe. She sees much potential in you. And now I know, more than ever, why. I will do this instead. I saw my fair share of action. It's time that I retire finally"

>Scroll looks up at you

>you look into his eyes, then to the sides

>you just passed the flagship, and took about a 45 degree turn to the right

>Longrun is bringing you closer to the cruiser that YOU will use to save the team

>you look back at Scroll

"Then you must tell Celestia to find another replacement. Look, I'm just a Royal Guard. You are all veteran Paladins, Celestia needs YOU in her team. Equestria needs YOU if some danger lurks within or outside its borders that only a Paladin can stop. I'm a small sacrifice, really"

>"No Sword, you're wrong. You ARE a Paladin. You have all the qualities that make one. Believe me"

>Scroll turns to see the enemy ship, then back at you

>you're not sure what answer he expects, so you just smile a bit

>Breakpoint steps to you now, the stallion of few words

>"Corporal, I dunno what to tell you but... It was heckin' great to have you as a squadmate. The Captain is right about you. You are a Paladin through and through"

"Thanks big guy. Was great having you, too" you say, extending your front leg for one last hoof bump

>Breakpoint complies with a smile, albeit a weak one

>and now, Sabersong has her word too

>"You know Rookie... Maybe the others had the right idea about you. Maybe you are indeed Paladin material. If you'll pull this off, well... I'll be impressed. And maybe a bit sad, even. We could have kicked more ass together"

>whoah

>now that's more than she could ever muster in friendliness towards you

>war indeed does break ponies!

"Thanks, I guess. And don't worry, you can kick ass with the others even better. Stay strong, Psychomare"

>Saber tries to force a smile, but fails to, so just nods instead

 

>you now turn back to Shield, as you see he still has something to say

>sure, final words, huh?

>you don't die every day, after all!

>"Sword, I'll respect your decision, so lemme just say: You were the best comrade a soldier could ask for. I'm sad but... I'll think about these few weeks we served together. You really brightened up my days, you know? So you know... Farewell"

>at that last word, Shield drops a tear

>poor guy

>there must be so much he didn't say, is there?

>so you take off your helmet

>as there is something you need before you depart this world

>and you think he needs it too...

>you lean in close to him, your muzzles are almost touching

>and look deep into his eyes, and begin in a soft tone

"Shield, do you know what I considered my middle name so far?"

>"No?!"

"Professionalism. But screw that now. I'll never have to live this down"

>with that, you press your lips against Shield's

>your love interest - why hide it now? - is shocked for a moment, but then accepts it in full

>but the kiss, the sweetest kiss of your life, can last only a few seconds, as you hear Major Starstorm's voice

>"Um... Corporal? We're beside that cruiser. It's time. Now or never"

>you separate from Shield, and caress his helmet, just over his cheek

"Farewell Shield. See you one day. Somewhere else"

 

>the Razor slows down, so you can make a jump to the yet aimlessly floating Storm Army cruiser

>"Corporal Glitter?" the Major's voice stops you for a moment

>you turn back

>"Longrun sends his best regards. And also... It was a real honor serving alongside you"

>Starstorm salutes, then the others follow suit

>they all wear Starstorm's dignified, serious expression

>even Shield, while fighting his tears

>you salute back

"The honor was all mine. See you, Phoenix"

>you wave a goodbye from the salute

>it's time to do this

>what must be done

 

>you step on the railing, then kick yourself off forward with your hind legs

>your jump is long enough that you land in the pile of charred planks that can be considered the enemy cruiser's deck

>there are quite a few Storm Creature bodies around as well, those that weren't blown off from the deck earlier

>watching your step, to don't simply fall one deck down through the holes, you make it to the steering wheel

>meanwhile, the Razor has hurried away

>it better did, as the dreadnaught will have an angle on her in about...thirty seconds by your estimates

>but that should be enough to pull this off, and give your buddies a chance to live

 

>the storm creature pilot has himself entangled in the steering wheel's spokes

>of course, he's dead, so you hastily remove the body, and grab the wheel with your magic

>you begin steering, and the ship turns 90 degrees to the left

>now that you're in the right direction, you push on the gear lever, putting it in its frontmost position

>you can't read the obscure writing on the lever, but it probably says "Flank speed", like on the Razor

>you're not an airship pilot, but you have the basics down just enough to fly this thing

>...into that other thing just in front of you

 

>your cruiser jolts forward with its distinctive "BRRRRRR" sound

>nothing can stop you now, it's a straight shot to the flagship

>your mind is empty, you fear nothing, you feel nothing

>you only have one goal in sight: reach them before they can fire

>the distance is being closed quickly: 700 meters, 650 meters, 600...

>now you're close enough to see the creatures on the top deck

>they are apparently in panic, noticing something is wrong

>surely, as a rogue airship is flying straight towards them!

>now you can even see a creature giving you flag signals

>most probably indicating an order to stop

>yeah, that won't happen

>you don't feel scared

>you feel a kind of freedom

>it's strangely exhilirating, flying like this into something that is inevitable, but is still your choice

>now the ship in front of you stops its turn, and reverses it completely

>now it tries to line up its guns with YOU

>yes it worked!

>the Razor is saved!

>it'll now probably try to stop your ship with a full salvo, but it's too late for her

>you couldn't steer away now even if you wanted to, the collosion will happen

>150 meters, 100...

>the guns closer to its bow begin to fire, and score multiple hits around you

>with a sudden kick in of your survival instincts, you lie down, just before a cannonball trashes the wheel

>no wheel, doesn't matter, a few seconds until collosion

>actually, you don't wanna die that way

>you don't wanna get smashed between two airships

>you choose falling

>you spring up, and make a run for the railing, and jump over

>as you begin to fall, you turn in the air and see the cruiser reaching its destination

>it crashes into the dreadnaught, its gondola quickly becoming one with the bigger ship's

>the planking falls like rain from both ships, indicating the destruction is sufficient to consider this a mission success

 

>well Sword, you did it

>you did what not even you truly believed in

>you took the center stage, and saved your unit

>now you're plummeting towards the ocean, only hoping for a quick and painless end

>it won't be that, but heh, doesn't matter now...

>will the armor help?

>400 meters

>this surely can't be survived, right?

>300 meters

>you did what had to be done

>200 meters

>if you could live again, you'd sign up again, you'd serve again, you'd get that faithful letter again...

>100 meters

>and you'd still say YES to Celestia!

>50 meters

>Because you. Made. A difference!

*SCREEEEEECH!*

 

>you feel a jolt just after a piercing screech

>what's happening???

>you didn't strike the water

>you got whisked away by something, and you're still in the air

>you're moving fast, and towards the shore no less

>"Hang on, Corporal!" comes from a familiar voice

>you gasp a little from the surprise

>it's Coral!

>she flew in to save you!

>you can still hardly comprehend how that could be, instead of becoming fish food, but you're happy nonetheless

"Coral! H-how?!"

>"Did you think I'd leave my little Paladin for death? Brace yourself now, we're turning back to the Wind Razor!"

>Coral makes a huge arc in the air, and she's gaining altitude too

>and she better does, as the airships that moved over just a few minutes ago are now assembling to assist the trashed flagship

>or at least that's what you think they're gonna do

>but simply put, they're flying in the same direction as Coral does

>hopefully, they won't catch up to you

>Coral does her best, she's flapping like crazy

>no doubt this is exhausting even for a hippogriff like her, as you're not exactly light or aerodynamic in your armor and robes

>"We'll make a torpedo. Pull up your hind legs to your body!"

"Okay?"

>you don't know what the hay that means, but you comply anyway

 

>after you pulled up your legs, Coral wraps her own hind legs around you

>now you don't dangle from her claws like some prey, but you're snugly fit to her barrel

>so THAT'S what a torpedo is

>the name of this hippogriff flight move

>now she is able to speed up even more, and fly higher up

>the Razor is moving at its top speed about two clicks in front of you, but the distance is being closed fast

>but you can also hear the sounds of effort from Coral

"Can we make it?"

>"You think I can't catch up to an airship with crippled engines? I'm a hippogriff, pony!"

>you don't answer, just pretend that Coral is as good a flier as she is confident

 

>you were flying for a few good minutes now

>your eyes are watering from the wind rushing into them, but you have almost reached the same altitude as the Razor

>Coral has slowed down a bit, but now she is doing a final push, and ascends above the airship's level

>now there are only a few hundred meters between you

>you'd gladly turn back to see if the Storm Army ships are giving chase or not, but honestly, it doesn't matter now

>you also don't want to create anymore drag than you already are by moving around

>you're in the finish line now, and you can see your squad on the top deck, probably anticipating your arrival

>"Ahhh, I can't take much more of this!" says Coral, sounding exhausted "Prepare for a hard landing!"

"I was prepared for an even harder one..."

 

>"I'll need my legs to slow down my landing! Corporal, I'll release you, just keep your legs pulled up, then extend them at the last moment. If you do it correctly, you'll land safely, and just slide harmlessly along the deck" says Coral on your final approach

"Wait, wait, don't release me yet, I can't possibly....AHHH!!!"

>it's too late, as your hippogriff companion lets go of you, and you fly on with significant speed onto the deck of your ship

>but you don't have to experience what Coral warned you about, as Shield's magical aura wraps around you as soon as you touch the deck of the ship

>you still slide along the deck a significant distance, almost crashing into Coral who landed in front of you, but without the aid of magic

>coming to a harmless stop, Shield's aura dissipates, and Phoenix squad bursts into a cheer

>"Whoo-hooo, yeah! The hero is back and alive! All hail Sword Glitter!" comes from Breakpoint

>"Omigosh Sword, you're alive, I'm so glad, WAHAHA!" says Shield, rushing to you immediately

>you'd try to scoop yourself up from the ground, to receive the inevitable hug in a more dignified manner

>but Shield hugs you right there on the ground, and heck, you gladly recieve, sitting up in the process

>"I was sure you were a goner!" he says "You can't imagine how happy I am that you were not!"

"I can kinda see that, heh!" you answer, your front legs still wrapped around Shield "But all the praise should go to Coral"

>and you just reminded yourself that you didn't even thank her for her deed

>you release Shield, and turn to her

"Coral? Thank you for saving my life. I can't properly express this, but thank you! I... this is a strange feeling, but let it be enough that you earned my gratitude for a lifetime"

>"We're all very grateful for saving our Sword Glitter. Thank you, Miss!" now says Shield too

>Coral is now standing, and although panting heavily, she can't shake the overall dignified appearence that emenates from her species

>she puts a claw clenched into a fist to her chest, and exclaims proudly

>"What can I say? I would never leave a comrade and a FRIEND for dead! Especially one that saved ALL of us"

>you can only smile sheepishly at that

>it feels good that she called you a friend...

>and it feels good she risked her own life to save you

>and honestly, it feels good that you are the hero, and not a tragic one!

 

>now Starstorm has her say, who strangely enough, was just an onlooker so far

>"Sword... Corporal. I don't know how to tell you, but you just pulled off the boldest, craziest thing I have ever seen. And let it be enough, that as a long time Paladin, I've seen my fair share of crazy things. Celestia told me that you're the best of the best before you joined the unit. I had my doubts, but no longer. And I'm also glad that the only one that was killed today was The Rookie... But Sword is here to stay"

>meanwhile your attention shifted to Scroll momentarily

>he seems to be really relieved that you stayed alive

>he backs up what Starstorm just said with a nod

"Thank you Major! That's big praise coming from you!"

>"Come on, Corporal. Any Paladin would tell you that. Even Saber. Isn't that right, Staff Sergeant?"

>Sabersong, so far, took the backstage, although you did see a smile on her face previously

>it's just hard for her to openly praise you, most probably

>not that you require it though

>but dang, does it feel good!

>nevertheless, Saber steps forward for a word

>"Yeah, I agree with the Major. You're tough stuff, Glitter. Nopony could deny that. Not even me"

"Gee, thanks. But I feel crazy describes me more than tough, just as the Major said"

>"Well, we're ALL crazy here, so welcome to the team" she answers, then quickly steps back

>it seems that was enough for her

>you won't blame her, and if she stays like this, you've already made leaps in your relationship

>but to your surprise, she steps forward again, with your helmet on her right hoof

>"And hey.../Paladin/. You dropped this"

>she throws you back the helmet you didn't put back on after you, um... said goodbye to Shield

>you didn't think it would make much of a difference in what you thought would be a suicidal move

>you put the helmet back on, and retract its visor

"Thanks, Saber. Real attentive of you"

>"Yeah, yeah! Just don't forget it next time you go suicidal, okay?"

>you can only muster a silly eye roll in response to her silly tone

 

>among all the praise and pleasantries, the Razor put significant distance between herself and the seaport

>the Storm Army ships didn't give chase after all, instead rushed to the aid of the crippled flagship

>the flagship YOU crippled

>feeling like being in the clear, you let out a long sigh

>maybe, just maybe, this can be considered a successful mission now

>all VIPs secured, and you're moving towards the RV point at last, where the Hippogriff Navy will pick them up

>with that said, Starstorm also thanked Coral for her bravery, as despite a VIP, she flew in for you like she was a part of the team

>"Yes, I'll also consider this joint operation a success!" she laughs "And now if you'll excuse me, I'll go to the crew deck, and calm my husband down. He must be dead worried"

>but before Coral could leave, a very loud Longrun emerges from one deck below

>"Sword! Sword! You rascal, you stayed alive? Well dang, I'll be! But don't you dare trying to kill yourself next time without saying goodbye to ol' Longrun first, eh?"

"Sorry Gunny. You were steering, and there just wasn't...OOF!"

>Longrun engages you in a proper bear hug before you could finish the sentence

"...enough time to do so"

>Longrun releases you, and looks you in the eye

>"Sword, you don't know how much it would've pained me losing you" he says now in a dead serious tone "You're a cute lil' Paladin. I mean great, heh. You're a great Paladin. That's what I meant. Strange wording, I know. Southern lingo, comes back to me from time to time, sorry"

>you raise an eyebrow at that "strange wording", but can't stand to don't smirk a bit, either

>come on Longrun, not you too!

>like, professionalism and all!

>but you're not a great example of that either, in all honesty

"What could I say? I'm glad I didn't die as well!"

>now Shield steps to you

>"Hey Longrun. If you're here, and the rest of Phoenix Squad too... Who steers the ship?"

>"I fixed the wheel in the right direction. It's hundreds of miles of open seas in front of us, so not much steering will be required. Besides, I asked the Ambassador to keep an eye open"

>"I understand your cheer right now, but get back to the wheel, right Sergeant?" chimes in the Major

>"Right" answers Longrun "But maybe you should get below deck too. Get some rest. Especially you, Sword!"

 

>Longrun leaves, and you would follow, but Starstorm stops you and Shield

>"About you two... I saw that kiss earlier. I understood the situation, and I don't want to stomp out any delicate emotions, but keep all that under wraps, okay? You're in the same unit, and you might just risk your lives again tomorrow. It's better for you, and for all of us to just remain comrades. Of course, I don't care what happens between you off duty. But let's keep this professional. Understood?"

>Shield looks at you, and you look at Shield

>you see he's blushing, but you feel you're blushing even harder

>nevertheless, you're the first to answer

"Of course Major. It was just... A moment of weakness on my part. We'll keep this /professional/ for sure"

>"Yes. Professionalism. I consider that my middle name actually" Shield doubles down "It'll be all okay Major, I swear"

>Starstorm raises an eyebrow, and looks back at you, then at Shield, then back at you again

>you're not sure how much any of that convinced her, especially considering your tumbling tone

>Shield could actually say all that with a straight face, being a trained officer and all, but it sounded a bit flaky still

>and who knew, he just inherited your middle name...

>"Alright then" Starstorm says finally "I'm glad we straightened that out. Now get under deck, double time! And get some rest, that's an order!

>you begin to move, with Shield behind you

>and although you manage to stay expressionless, your heart is smiling

>you told the Major, and even told yourself that it was just a moment of weakness

>but now you know, you FEEL that it was not

>that kiss was as genuine as it could be, and would have happened eventually

>at least that's what your young, impressionable heart tells you right now

 

>you're on the crew deck now, and take a seat, just opposite of the Ambassador

>he greets you warmly, and with great enthusiasm

>"Corporal Glitter! I'm so glad you're still with us, and didn't perish in all that daring heroism! And of course, you have my eternal gratitude for saving all of us! I'll make sure to mention your feats -and of course, all of the squads' feats- to Queen Novo when I'll get back to Mount Aris"

>although that was addressed to you, Major Starstorm answers instead

>"Much appreciated Ambassador, but please also make sure to mention the growing threat of the Storm King to your queen. You saw just how powerful he become. You hippogriffs better prepare for war. But I guess with your research secured, you could feasably use the Pearl against him. Whatever that entails"

>the Ambassador instinctively puts a claw on his suitcase, holding his years of research

>"I must stress that using the Pearl would only be a very last resort" he answers "It is a sacred artifact first and foremost, not a weapon, even if it can be turned into one in the right claws. But I'm sure our regular forces will be able to deal with this threat in the... traditional manner. I dare say, our Air Corps is the strongest in the world currently, even notwithstanding the Storm King's airship fleet. Our warriors would board and disable them before they could become an actual threat, in the case of an attack"

>"I hope you're not exaggerating. Could you maybe tell me how many troops your armed forces number, altogether?" comes the inquiry from Starstorm

>ah, politics and strategy

>important and interesting topics, but you don't have the energy even to just listen to them right now

>instead, your gaze shifts to Coral, who's holding Flurry Tides, their baby daughter in her claws

>she is now awake, and looking around without much expression

>it's incredible, but if your memory serves correct, she was asleep during this whole ordeal

"Gee Coral, hippogriff babies are really calm... She didn't wake up nor cry even once, yet we escaped through a war zone!"

>"Indeed they are" says Coral, cradling her baby a bit "In this stage of infanthood, they need 18-20 hours of sleep a day. And they sleep very deeply, too. They are only awake to get fed and to excrete, basically"

"Wow, impressive. I bet many pony parents would take that deal, hehe"

>"Nonsense! She'll become a little crying machine in a year or so. But I can deal with that. As I'm sure pony parents can deal with it too. But you'll see when you'll be one"

 

>Coral's last words inadvertently shocked you a bit

>you?

>a parent?

"No thanks, I don't plan on becoming one. I live for service!"

>Coral chuckles, and lifts the baby right up to her head

>"You heard that, Flurry? She is so devoted!"

>she chuckles again, and turns to you

>"Sword, I was thinking the same way when I was your age. But eventually you'll get more serious, find someone you feel like you can live down your life with, and start to think about a baby"

>yeah, find someone huh?

>well, maybe you did, but that's just some casual love, even if it feels genuine

>in the armed forces, that is already too much

>but your heart isn't a military organization, it's a delicate vessel of emotions

>and you can't order it around like you would a subordinate

>but dangit Sword, why can't you?!

>Celestia's champion should be better than that, right?

>Celestia's champion...

>heh

>that sounds so cool, although you're not even sure you've earned it

>you're only sure about one thing: that this was the longest day of your life, and all the happenings and now these thoughts are a bit too much for you

>you're hella tired, and could use some shut eye

>like, right now

"I think I'll just sleep now" you say casually to Coral

>"Do sleep, brave Corporal. You've more than earned some rest"

>you close your eyes, and can feel you will drift off to sleep in a few minutes

>you can still hear the voices of Starstorm, Scroll Writ, and even the Ambassador, but you pay them no mind

>as Coral said, you have earned your rest

 

>"Sword! Hey, Sword!"

>"Sword, are you still with us?"

>"Hey Glitz, wake up!"

>you are Corporal Sword Glitter, and you haven't been called "Glitz" ever since high school

>you never told about this nickname to anypony in the team, but it seems Longrun has a penchant for coming up with them

>you open your eyes, and see only a partial squad here on the crew deck

>also, you feel like you could have slept more, but this will have to do

>for a change, it's Breakpoint who's at the wheel now, and Longrun is sitting opposite to you

>and as he's the one who woke you up, maybe he will also tell the reason for it

>you can only hope it's not some emergency

>again...

>"Sorry for interrrupting your sweet dreams, but we're nearing the RV point where we'll hand over these VIPs to the 'Griff Navy. If you want to say any goodbyes, now it would be the time"

>you'd rub your eyes a bit more open, but you quickly realize your armored horseshoes prevent you from doing so

>so you just try hard to see through the "dream haze" still lingering over your eyes

"Thanks Longrun. I definitely want. Coral deserves a proper farewell from me" you answer

>"Thought so. She's on the top deck, along with the Major"

>you slide down from your seat, and make your way to the stairs leading one deck up

>you pass the rest of the squad, and they seem to be in almost the same state as you were just a minute ago

>tired, whacked out expressions

>veteran Paladins or not, this was a long day for them too

>they pay you no mind, except for Shield of course

>"Hey Sword" he greets you

"Hey" you greet him back, still a bit groggy

>that's all the conversation you could muster before you take the stairs up

 

>"Damn leaky airship! I can't sleep in this draft!"

>you search for the source of Sabersong's complaint, that you only faintly heard up here on the combat deck

>looking around, you see no penetrative hits anywhere

>so it must be the firing port windows not closing perfectly

>as a quick solution, you close the trap door connecting the two decks

>and you hear an even fainter "Thanks" as a response

>wow, her manners are improving by the hour

>incredible

 

>you make it to the top deck

>Major Starstorm, Seabeak, and Coral with the baby are here

>you walk up to them

"Major!" you stand at attention for a moment

>"Ah, Corporal. Slept well?" asks the Major, without any hint of irony

"I slept so deep like never before"

>"Right. You'll find that ability useful on multiple day long missions. Where you might catch some sleep one day, but not the next. I still remember THAT jungle patrol... But this is no time for reminiscing. Perhaps I will tell you about it one day"

"Sounds tough. Almost as tough as busting through a fleet of airships..."

>"I get ya, but I assure you, we'll have a harder mission one day"

"I think I'm ready for whatever the future could throw at us"

>"Now, now, I'm sure you just became REALLY confident in your abilities, but you still have to finish your training. You're not a full-fledged paladin yet"

"I know. And I'm up for it. Let's just get back to Equstria already. I'm a bit tired of storm creatures and open seas"

>"Aren't we all?" answers Starstorm, then turns towards the Ambassador "Mr Seabeak, can you see your ship yet? We should be pretty close to the rendezvous point by now"

>"I...can? I think I see a ship sailing in the distance" answers the tall hippogriff

>Starstorm walks to the bow, and checks out what was just heard

>"That's indeed a sailing ship, but I can't take out its flag yet. I'll assemble the squad, just in case"

>with that, the Major disappears under deck

"I hope they aren't pirates..." you say, and step to Coral

>"Nah, they wouldn't dare to come this close to Hippogriff national waters" she answers

"I sure hope so. But, we're this close to Mount Aris then?"

>"Yes. You should get closer after we depart, and take a look. Our city looks majestic"

"I'll try to convince whoever piloting to change the course a bit" you say, and look over the ocean for a few seconds

>you continue

"Anyway, I'm glad we came to know each other. And that you turned out to be more than just a mission objective. And of course, you too Mr Ambassador..."

>you say that, but honestly, the Ambassador was really just a VIP to protect

>nothing more, nothing less

>"I'm glad too, Sword. And you ponies made a pretty good impression on me overall. I heard a lot about Equestria and your species, and I'm happy I could actually meet you. Even if under such circumstances"

 

>"I share that sentiment" adds Seabeak "You ponies are noble creatures, just as Queen Novo stated on multiple occasions. And I'm even happier about our encounter because, let's admit, without you my little family and myself would be slaves by now"

>"Now, now honey" says Coral, with an eyebrow raised "Don't you think I wouldn't had anything to say about that"

>she picks up her ancestral trident for emphasis

>you didn't even notice it was beside her

>"I know you would have fought!" snaps the ambassador at his wife "And you would have left little Flurry an orphan, and me heartbroken! Don't worry though, once we get home, we won't even leave our house!"

>"As if!" answers Coral, now equally triggered "You're the most unadventurous hippogriff I've ever met! I'm almost happy I got into some adventure finally"

>"Yes, it was some "adventure". I swear, sometimes you act so daft!"

>Seabeak closes the conversation, and turns his beak up

>"Yeah, he is pissed" says Coral to you quietly, smiling smugly

>you smile back, but their little outfall is none of your business

>you ask Coral instead:

"So, did you accept it finally?" you say, sliding a hoof along the trident's haft

>"Oh sure" she rolls her eyes "He will stay like this for a grand total of ten minutes"

"I meant your trident" you giggle "You said only the worthy should wield it. Don't tell me you don't feel worthy now"

>Coral looks at the ground, and lowers her weapon a bit

>then she answers, looking into your eyes again

>"You know, if anything, I really feel it should be yours now. After everything you've done"

"You've done a lot too. Like, saving me..."

>"Yes, but I didn't kill anyone with it. Or participate in the fight. What would my grandfather say?!"

"You know what? He would say: I am proud. You might have not fought directly, but you were WILLING to help us. And when it mattered the most, you ACTED. And saved one who couldn't have saved herself... And I think the most noble warrior is the one who stands up to the one next to her. If anything, that's worthy of being proud of. And thus, worthy of this weapon"

>Coral looks along her weapon with a serious gaze, and adjusts her claws on it

>"I...I didn't think of it that way. But... you might be right. I'll hold into it. Who knows, maybe I'll fight the Storm Army with it one day. Thank you for your insight, Corporal Glitter"

>she says that with a warm smile

>she reminds you of Princess Celestia yet again, that smile and intonation is all the same

>meanwhile, you notice three flying creatures on the horizon

>as they're getting closer and closer, you see they're armored, and sport sleek figures

>yup, they are hippogriffs

>it seems your mission is almost officially over

 

>the three hippogriff warriors have arrived, and float right in front of the Razor

>meanwhile, the rest of your squad also assembled on the top deck

>the middle warrior of the trio, a blue male hippogriff salutes, and announces himself

>"Captain Stratus Skyranger, of Her Majesty Queen Novo's Royal Guard, requesting permission to land on deck"

>"Major Starstorm, Equestrian Special Forces. Permission granted" says your squadleader saluting back, getting the formalities out of the way

>the small team of guards touch down on the deck, and you can't not notice the momentary horror on their faces as they do so

>that is, the loose planking creaked so bad under their claws and hooves, that one could think it will give in

>"Then you must be Phoenix Squad" their captain continues "And I see you escorted the Ambassador and his family back safely. Mr Ambassador? Mrs Ambassador? Happy to see you alive and well" he nods towards them "We will fly back to the escort vessel shortly"

>Coral salutes back, which the Captain doesn't get at first, but she explains herself

>Seabeak says few standard pleasantries, as you'd expect from someone of his standing

>Captain Skyranger now turns back to Starstorm

>"Let it be known here Phoenix Squad, that you have Queen Novo's most sincere gratitude for carrying out this mission successfully. We both know the details of why this was so important, so I shouldn't restate them. In short, you've done us a great service, that our Queen won't forget"

>the Major's mouth twitches for a moment, then answers

>"Oh yes, Queen Novo is very welcome. Now I sure hope our diplomatic relations will go as swimmingly as this mission DIDN'T go"

>oof, you could almost cut Starstorm's sarcasm, it was so thick

>the two hippogriff guards take a glance at each other, while their captain furrows his brows for a moment

>"I do see your ship have taken damage. I hope you didn't get injured yourselves though. Of course, everything will be compensated by our Queen in a more than adequate manner"

>"I'm sure Celly and Novo have it figured out more than we realize. And don't worry about us, as you can see we're all in one piece"

>that one was so cold, that the air have almost frozen around the Major

 

>"I admit, I feel a little uneasy right now. I have spoken on our Queen's behalf, but as a soldier to a soldier, I'll admit: we should have taken all this risk, not you"

>"Then we agree about that" Starstorm nods approvingly, with similiar reactions coming from your squad "And just for the record: I'm angry at our leaders, and not at you. You're following orders, just like we did. But what was done is done, we all survived, the mission is complete, and let's leave it at that. Anything else?"

>Captain Skyranger lets out a silent sigh

>"No, I don't think so. But I believe that's our cue. Mr and Mrs Ambassador, you're ready?"

>"Yes" Seabeak answers "But let me say goodbye to this heroic squad of ponies first"

>"On my behalf too..." adds Coral

>"Yes... So let me and my wife thank you for everything you've done. You are truly noble and brave, just like your legendary namesake"

>as Seabeak says that last part, he looks at you for a moment, then he continues

>"So farewell to you all, and if we meet again, I hope it will happen in more peaceful circumstances"

>"Farewell, Ambassador" Starstorm simply says

>Seabeak waves back once, then takes flight

>the two guards extend their wings, and follow suit

>but Coral is stalling

>"Honey, you're coming?"

>"Yes, yes. Just fly ahead, I'll follow soon" she answers, then turns to the squad

>"Thanks for protecting his ass" she smiles "And Corporal Glitter...Sword. You're the best! Remain the best!"

>you walk up to Coral

"Thank you! But I'm sure any of us here could go for that title... Including you"

>"Ah, so humble. But let's not flatter each other any longer" she says, then lowers her voice "Come and visit me in Mount Aris if you'll have the time. And bring Shield too, if you wish"

>she winks

"Eh...heh... I'll consider it, hehe" you answer, blushing heavily

>"We should really go now, Miss" you hear the hippogriff captain, already hovering

>"Well, goodbye Sword!" says Coral, shaking your right hoof "Goodbye Phoenix Squad! All the best to you!"

>Coral waves as she lifts herself into the air, then turns around, and flies away with the captain

>your squad says their farewells too, as it seems they grew to like her as well

>except Sabersong of course, but you're hardly surprised at that

>you and the squad look after them until they get back to the hippogriff ship, then Longrun is the first to speak up

>"And I guess that's a wrap. Another job well done!"

>"Indeed" comes the Major's reaction "Let's head home already. I think we saw enough of the world for a while"

 

EPILOGUE

 

A few days later...

 

>you're looking at the pony, wearing her full dress uniform, being all happy and confident

>she's almost ready to move out, just needs to adjust her sash a bit...

>ah, perfect!

>as Sword Glitter is looking back at you from the mirror, you see the cutest and prettiest trooper to ever serve in the EUP

>you might be full of it, but it's still true

>as a matter of fact, you will get reassurance right now

>"I never liked uniforms too much Sword, but you make it work" says your mom, walking just behind you

"Thanks. Thought so you will warm up to them one day"

>Mom steps a bit to the side, so she is more visible to you in the mirror, then continues

>"It's not that. It just looks good on you. But I'll admit, this Battlemage dress uniform looks better than the Royal Guard one"

>although mom is right about the uniform, she doesn't know in what unit you actually serve

>she is not supposed to, like anypony else

"I'm glad you like it better" you answer

>"So this medal ceremony you're going to partake in... Who gets awarded exactly? You never told me too much about your unit. Phoenix Squad is it? I'm still a bit confused about what you exactly do"

>your gaze shifts away from the mirror for a moment, and scrunch up your nose instinctively

>if there is one part you really hate about your "new" profession, it's this

>the part where you have to lie...

>or at least, only telling a very small part of the truth

>"Phoenix Squad is "platoon zero" of the battlemages, and we basically just test new weapons and technologies. Nothing too serious, or dangerous. Veteran members of the other platoons get awarded now for their long service. Of course they get honored by all of us being there"

>Mom puts a hoof to her mouth, thinking about what you just said

>"So, that means... You would never be actually deployed against an enemy, if it came to that, right? Because you and your unit only...test weapons. Right?"

>oh boy, if she only knew...

>"Yes, correct. That would only happen as a last resort"

>mom lets out a relieved sigh

>"I'm so happy!..."

>but then she tenses right back up

>"I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to my baby! Sword, promise me you'll never get into something that could be fatal. Please... You're my only child. Your father and me would be devastated if..."

>you feel bad about this, but you have to interrupt

>you went through these same arguments after you signed up to the Royal guard, but unlike back then, she hit the nail on the head this time

>you turn back, facing her

"Mom, we've been through this already back when I signed up, and nothing bad happened to me. And besides, I'm an adult and can watch after myself. I'm part of a new unit yes, but this doesn't change things as much as you'd think. Everything will be okay. You can stop worrying"

 

>Mom scratches the carpet with a hoof for a few seconds

>she's looking down, but then looks back up at you

>"Fine, fine, very well. I'll calm down. But you can forgive a mother for worrying about her daughter, can't you?"

"Aw, how could I be mad? I just don't want you to become a nervous wreck is all" you say, and hug the pretty mare, from whom you definitely inherited some of your features

>Mom hugs you back, but you hiss up, and push her away some

"Ahh, please, not so tightly, oww..."

>despite her dainty hugs, that hurt

>of course, it's your fissured rib

>it's only a small fissure, but still

>she releases you, and gives a bit surprised look

>"What's the matter dear? I barely even touched you"

"It's my side... A small injury. Nothing serious, really. Just go easy on the hugs for a few weeks, huh?"

>Mom just started to calm down, but now she is back to concerned mode again

>meanwhile, your father came to you too, but he didn't say anything so far

>"WHAT injury? You said you didn't do anything dangerous in your new unit!" she says, with one eyebrow almost sky high, and her voice booming with concern and demand

"I... fell off a ladder. While affixing an experimental weapon system to our unit's airship. It's just a fissure in one of my ribs, and it was all my fault. And it's a VERY small fissure. You don't have to worry about it"

>of course, that happened either during the embassy collapse, or when the Storm Mage smacked you with his staff

>but that's all top secret Paladin stuff that civvies aren't supposed to know

>it's all covered up, not like there would be anyone aside from a few handfuls of ponies knowing about it

>"A rib fissure?! You didn't even..."

>"Honey, please" your dad interrupts now "Sword just didn't tell you, because she knew you would be FAR TOO worried. But she said it's just a SMALL fissure. She'll be okay in no time"

>you smile at both of them as your dad says these words

>unlike her, Dad pretty quickly accepted that you wanted to be a Royal Guard

>and although he also only knows the official reason for your injury, he's probably aware there is some mishy-mushy stuff behind it

>but he didn't insist upon inquiring too much

>you told him early there WILL be things you won't be able to tell

>in that sense, he is more "in" than Mom

>but now she gives him a piece of her mind

>"So you knew it huh, buster? And you didn't tell me our poor dear was injured? I...I... Well, we'll see about that!"

>"Fine, but let Sword go now, okay? I think she's already too late"

>one of the (many) things you like about your father is that he always knew when to break up arguments

>just like now

>it's for the best if he'll handle Mom from now on

>he has his way of sweettalking her, that usually works

"Dad's right. I'll have to be in the Palace in forty minutes. So goodbye you two! And please, don't tear each other apart while I'm away. I'd be a shame if I had to call a /Royal Guard/ because of that!"

>you turn around, and open the door

>the last thing you hear is Dad's laughter

>and also Mom's voice, but you couldn't make out what she said, you're on your way now

>because you really shouldn't be late from your OWN medal ceremony

 

>you arrive in the castle

>what you feel really bad about is that you had to lie about YOU being decorated

>it will be a private ceremony, only Phoenix, the Royals, some of the top brass, and select troopers from the Battlemages will be present

>or they are already being present

>you are almost late, and should go to the throne room

>despite the fact you were inside the castle a few times, you don't actually know the way

>you never actually guarded the inside of the castle

>and you feel too proud to ask for directions from any of the guards

>so you just walk on at a good pace, hoping you will find your way

>oh come on, will a silly labirinth-like castle stop you?

>Corporal Sword Glitter, the "Zeppelin Buster"?

>that's what one of the battlemages called you just the day after you arrived from the mission

>heh, it has a nice ring to it, but you better not let this go to your head

>nevertheless, it seems most of the battlemages are in the know, and aware what does Phoenix partake in

>that, or just Longrun ran his mouth too much again...

 

>while you roam the castle, you're thinking about your medal

>the Grand Cross of Bravery, with the Sun and Moon and Star Cluster

>the highest tier of a relatively common medal awarded to troops for bravery

>this makes it the second highest award a member of the EUP can get, and you're brimming with pride that you will get it

>Starstorm herself recommended you for this one

>although it was only said "Phoenix Squad's medal ceremony", and it wasn't said specifically you will get this medal, you don't think the Major's recommendation got rejected

>after all, you very clearly risked your life to save your whole squad

>you easily fit the criteria for the award

>your head is in the clouds as you almost bump into Shield

>"Hey Sword, where were you? I almost sent a few guards to look for you. The ceremony is beginning in five minutes!"

"Hi Shield... Whoah..."

>you are taken aback for moment by just how dapper he looks in his full dress uniform

>as if thinking about your medal wasn't enough for your excitement

>you almost reach to your collar to let out the hot steam, figuratively

>"Something wrong?" he reacts in a bit flamboyant manner

"No... Nothing. Everything's fine"

>"Then let's go. And yeah, you look killer too in your uniform"

>you begin to walk with Shield, who seems to know the way

"I guess I don't hide my emotions too well, huh?"

>"I think you didn't even try. But hey, fine by me..."

"Actually, I just wanted to ask what the therapist said. Will you get back your normal gait?"

>you try to change the topic quickly, but your cheeks are still rosy

>but honestly, you DO care about Shield's well-being

>it's just that you really like how he looks right now

>"He said I'll be able to gallop with full speed in two weeks if I follow the healing regimen closely, but my strange new gait will remain somewhat. I guess not even Celestia's healing magic is perfect"

>during talking, Shield picks up the pace

>you really only have a few minutes now

"Be glad that some gait is the only thing that will remind you of Abyssynia. Those healing sticks saved your life. Celestia DOES care about us"

>"Yeah, she really does. That's why she sent us directly into a war zone at the last possible moment. But hey, that Wound Medal and Combat Cross are totally worth it!"

>was that just...sass? Coming from Shield? The officer from the Academy?

"Whoa Shield" you answer "Didn't know you can speak against Celestia like that. I'm in disbelief"

>"Don't be. It's just that a good soldier has to realize mistakes, whether he or others made them. Regardless of rank, title or standing. But shhh, here we are"

 

>you arrive at the throne room

>the rest of Phoenix are already here, all dressed up too

>"Took your sweet time" Starstorm addresses you "Will you two continue being separated from us, no matter the place?"

>you look at the Major as she says these, and although she sounds serious, you can see the hint of a smile in the corner of her mouth

>next thing you notice, is the number of service ribbons on her uniform

>to say the least, it's stacked

>the Major never particularly bragged about them, but you knew that she was decorated

>you just didn't know she had so many awards

>the others also have badges, or medals on their chests

>even Shield has a "Unicorn Sharpshooter" badge

>only your chest is empty

>but not for much longer!

>you hear the fanfares from inside

>you and the squad enters the throne room

 

>the fanfares stop, and you stand between two rows of battlemages, facing the royals

>yes, both Celestia and Luna are here

>this is the first time you see Princess Luna up close

>on her right, there's Celestia herself

>on her left, a batpony mare, wearing silvery armor, without a helmet

>she's probably captain of the Nightwings, Princess Luna's elite company of guards

>in role, they are somewhat akin to the battlemages

>except they don't use magic, and are fanatically loyal to Luna, and Luna only

>the captain's dark coat, slit pupils, and stern look make her a bit scary sight to behold, to say the least

>good thing she and her kin are on your side, or at least on Luna's

>beside her, here is the Captain of the Canterlot Royal Guard, Major General Highwind, the chairpony of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Commander Spearfeather, and Colonel Roughspell, the commander of the Battlemage company

>and of course here are you, Phoenix Squad

 

>Princess Celestia starts her speech:

>"We have gathered here today to honor the heroism of the Royal Paladins, Phoenix Squad, who are back from an incredibly difficult mission from a far away place. They were tasked with extracting the Hippogriff ambassador from Felin al-Kot, the capital city of Abyssynia, the realm of the cat folk. Their task was not an easy one. They not just had to race time itself to get there before the Storm King's army did, they also eventually had to fight this mighty force itself. Added to their hardships, the Ambassador also had a family there, and they also needed extraction. It's as if fate itself worked against these brave ponies, but despite all odds, they prevailed, completed their mission, and returned home safely"

>you shift your eyes a bit towards your squad

>the "returned home safely" part is a bit wonky, but you see no reaction

>oh well, victory speeches be victory speeches

>you notice that though, Princess Luna looks a tiny bit bored

>she stands straight and dignified, but that belies her feelings you think

>funny...

>you revert your attention back to Celestia

>"You might ask why this mission was important, why partake in such a rescue. The hippogriffs are our longtime allies. They're much alike us. I'd like to say they are as much the center of culture and civilization in the south as we are in the north. But right now they are facing a war. The brutal Storm King will eventually reach Mount Aris, and try to take down this noble race. What we did now was buying them time. If Novo had sent her own forces to rescue this diplomat, the Storm King easily could have turned his fleet against them in retaliation. Of course, by engaging him we have presented ourselves as a new potemtial target. But I believe Novo will deal with this tyrant before it would come to a conflict between us and the Storm King. If you had any doubts, now you see why this mission was both importand AND justified"

>the Princess pauses for a few seconds, then continues

>her so far pretty serious expression changes to her trademark moderate, but warm smile

>"And now, to present the awards to the unit. To say they went above and beyond the call of duty is an understatement. They always do. They are some of the best of the best. But a few of them even went that extra mile this time, that deserves extra credit"

>a military aide gives Princess Luna a decorated box

>that must contain the medals

>you should remain humble and patient, but your excitement starts to increase

>you?

>getting decorated?

>goodness, this is so awesome!

>"Lieutenant Breakpoint, step forward!" Celestia calls out the first medalist

>Breakpoint steps out from the group, and in front of Celestia

>the huge stallion has a proud smile, but otherwise he is totally calm

>"Lieutenant, time and time again you have proven to be the backbone of your unit, that calm and dependable pony who doesn't seek glory, but always there as support when support is needed. This wasn't different during this mission either. That is why I award you the Good Soldier Medal"

>Celestia levitates out the aforementioned medal from the box Luna is holding

>and pins it on Breakpoint's chest

>"Please, continue being like this, soldier. We all appreciate your efforts"

>Breakpoint salutes, and returns to the group

 

>the ceremony continues with the next awardee

>"Sergeant Shield Edge, please step forward!" Celestia calls out your friend

>Shield walks in front of Celestia

>again, you aknowledge to yourself that his gait is barely noticable

>lucky pony, his adventure could have ended worse

>"Sergeant, although you are far from inexperienced, this was your first mission of this scale. I was made aware that with your bravery and combat skills you tremendously helped your team succeed. But also, you have been through the worst of the worst during the mission. Alongside Corporal Glitter, you have been separated from your unit, and also got heavily injured. Not once, but twice. You've been saved both times by your comrades' intervention, but you never would have gotten into these situtations if you didn't risk your life for the success of the mission. Despite it all, you've never given up, and carried on with good conduct. Thus, I award you the Combat Cross AND the Wound Medal"

>Celestia's aura wraps both medals, and they get pinned on Shield's uniform

>Shield is happy, you can tell

>he well deserves those, maybe even more

>"Your devotion would provide a fine example to every young officer coming out from the Academy, Sergeant Edge. Carry this mindset on"

>with these words, Shield gets dismissed

>he smiles and salutes, and returns among you

 

>the next award should be yours

>oh boy, oh boy, oh boy!

>you can see Luna is aware of your excitement

>she looks into the medal case, then at you

>her mouth turns momentarily upwards, as if saying "This is gonna be good, you see!"

>"Corporal Sword Glitter, front and center!"

>reacting to Celestia's words, you get in front of her, beaming with pride

>you puff out your chest, and await her award speech

>"Corporal Glitter, it was a long time ago I saw so much heart and dedication from a soldier as I did from you. Despite the fact you didn't nearly finish your Paladin training, your wits and pure will shone through, and helped win the day. But leaving it at that would be an understatement. As I mentioned, Sergeant Edge and you got separated from the rest of the team, and he got gravely injured. Despite facing an extremely dangerous enemy mage in combat, you persevered, and healed the Sergeant, then helped him and yourself back to your airship, fighting hostile forces along the way. And during your getaway, when everything seemed lost, you were very obviously willing to sacrifice your own life to save your squad and the Hippogriff VIPs, with a daring manouver against the enemy flagship. Corporal, these feats prove that you are a true Paladin in spirit, and someone every soldier of the EUP could strive to be. For these reasons I award you the highest decoration I can bestow upon a member of our armed forces, the Equestrian Medal of Eternal Fortitude"

>GASP!

>no way!

>you're getting THE Medal of Eternal Fortitude?

>only a few dozen ponies got awarded with this ever since its founding, centuries ago

>and a bigger number of those were posthumous than not

>you must be dreaming right now!

>but you are obviously not, as Celestia grabs this final medal from the case...

>...and pins it on your uniform

>you are so overtaken by this, that you almost forget to salute

>"Wear it with pride, Corporal. And remember: it's not simply the medal that honors you. You honored yourself by acting the way you did"

>you now salute, and return among yours

>you must be grinning, because Shield also does

>Longrun winks at you, and Breakpoint lets out a "Nice one!"

>of the two mares, Starstorm just nods, while Saber has a grimace mixed with a smile that you can't really place anywhere

>maybe, you shouldn't

>Scroll, reserved as ever, just smiles at you

>it's the same smile he had after you returned to the Wind Razor with Coral

>but the ceremony is not over yet

 

>Celestia speaks yet again, while Luna just seems relieved she no longer has to play medal case-holder

>"And now it's time for me to award the unit as a whole. The feats of some members may be more extraordinary than those of others sometimes, but Phoenix is one. They achieve their victories as a team ultimately. Commander Starstorm, please present the unit colors"

>Starstorm walks forward, with the unit's flag held up high

>she stops, and lowers it, so the flag is exactly face level for the tall Princess

>Celestia presents the Major with the unit's newest battle honor

>it says /Rescue mission at Felin al-Kot, 1107/

>the Princess places it under the previous one, and affixes it with her magic

>there are a LOT of battle honors already

>dozens

>/Yak raid on the Crystal Empire, 1103/

>/The battle of Canterlot, 1101/

>/The great Southern Jungle patrol, 1092/

>it goes all the way back to the very first mission of the unit

>to a certain /Mission under the mountain, 121/

>that nopony ever explained what was...

>but beside these, there is a separate little banner hanging alongside the unit's colors

>that you didn't see before

>one with names

>dozens of them...

>more than likely, the names of the squadmembers Phoenix has lost during its very long history

>you're glad that this time, no more names got on that banner

 

>with the newest battle honor in place, Major Starstorm turns around, and presents the unit's flag to the whole throne room

>everypony, except for the royals, audibly snaps to attention, and salutes the flag

>after everyone paid their respects, the Major returns with the unit colors to you

>"One more for history" she says very quietly, as she lowers it

>she isn't the very sentimental type (that would be you), but this sounded like that

>but this isn't her first "slip" either, so the observant trooper could tell that indeed, Major Starstorm does have a soul, and isn't just a war golem camouflaged as a pony

 

>with all eyes being on Celestia again, she continues talking

>"Once again, I want to thank the Paladins for their continued service. Phoenix Squad, you were my sword and shield during history, being there for me when I needed you the most. And I'm sure you will continue being by my side, no matter what happens"

>with that, Celestia lowers her head, as her sign of respect

>Luna does so too

>and for the first time, she speaks too

>"And let me also personally thank you for being by my sister's side during all her years ruling alone. I know it was hard for her, but it gives me some ease that a noble group of warriors were always ready to aid her, if she needed it. Carry on that legacy"

>Luna deeply lowers her head once again, and the squad salutes her back

>and although you should probably feel humbled and dignified right now, you just can't

>your medal, Celestia's speech, Luna's speech, all that honor expressed towards you

>all you feel is pride and joy

>well, not everyday does a pony get the Equestrian Medal of Eternal Fortitude!

>although too bad you can't even present the medal to your parents because of your unit's secretive nature...

>...you are still convinced that this is your

>BEST

>DAY

>EVER!

 

SOME TIME LATER...

>you are Captain Scroll Writ

>you're in Princess Celestia's private quarters, standing on her balcony next to her

>you look over the horizon, with the sun crawling ever so close to it

>it's almost dusk, and time for Celestia's daily duty again soon

>"Thank you for bringing those maps over, Scroll. Most appreciated" speaks the Princess next to you

"Don't mention it. It's for the best if you have them now, here in your quarters"

>"Indeed. I might be paranoid, but I'm trusting less and less ponies with such sensitive information nowadays"

>Celestia sighs, and looks at the ground

>it's as if her ever-flowing mane are doing the flows a bit slower than usual

>but it's probably just your imagination

"Better safe than sorry. But you can trust us"

>"I know. Like I always could, for the last thousand years. And although I found the Bearers for the Elements, I feel that your role in protecting Equestria is far from over..."

"Princess, whatever fate could throw at us, we're ready for it"

>Celestia just gently nods as an aknowledgement

>you both remain silent for a bit

>after a few minutes, you continue

"I have to admit that without Sword, I wouldn't be here talking with you. Nor the squad. You were right about her"

>for the first time since the conversation started, Celestia smiles

>a bit wryly

>"See Scroll? I still know how to pick 'em"

"You sure do Princess. If only Starstorm could trust you as much as you trust her"

>"She's just like that. She can't fully trust anyone. But I don't fault her for it. That's probably the reason after all these years of service, she is still alive and standing"

"True. And considering her childhood, I'm not surprised"

>Celestia's expression darkens somewhat, her voice is moody again

>"For centuries I picked those I should have helped instead. Orphans, ponies lost in life, young impressionable fools, even convicts sometimes. All because I knew they would serve me without hesitation, and they would put their everything into the fight. And what they always got in return? Another chance to die next time, whenever I said so. A shiny piece of metal, on occasions"

"Don't be so hard on yourself. You always did what you did to serve the greater good. So that ponies could sleep safe and sound, night after night"

>"In blissful ignorance. Unaware of the dangerous world around them" Celestia adds

>you think about that for a bit, then answer

"Maybe for the better. Look at those of us non-ignorant: jaded and weary. Those ponies at least live a happy life"

>"And that's all I want for them" the Princess answers with a slightly bitter smile

"And that's what you always provided" you say, and try to cut the conversation short. It turned a bit sour, and you wouldn't want to sadden her even more

"I think I'll take my leave now, Your Highness. Have a peaceful night"

>you salute, turn back, and make your way towards the door

>almost there, the ever-calm voice stops you

>"Captain Writ?"

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

>Celestia has your attention, but she hesitates to speak

>she has something on her lips, but eventually decides to keep it to herself

>"It's nothing, Captain. Have a good night"

>you nod, and leave the room

>you're a mage, a paladin, and an intelligence officer

>but not even you could crack an immortal

 

SOMEWHERE ELSE IN CANTERLOT...

>you are Corporal Sword Glitter

>here you are, on one of the platforms overlooking central Equestria

>and you're looking at the beautiful sunset

>you're sitting on the very edge of the platform, which, as a former Royal Guard, you know to be forbidden

>but you don't bother now, the sight is just so serene, that you have to experience it from as close as possible

>and indeed, from here, it looks like as if you could touch the Sun if you jumped

>but you had enough excitement during the mission, now you just want to sit here, enjoying the view

>along with...Shield

>yeah, after the medal ceremony, he proposed he will escort you home

>taking the scenic route...

>he suggested he would show you a path that is absolutely breathtaking

>he did, but he was surprised that it didn't take your breath

>as a former City Guard, with a fair amount patrols behind yourself, you knew the route well

>still, you appreciated the effort

>then after a good walk, you ended up here

 

>so now you just sit here, overlooking the setting Sun

>"This is just so beautiful, isn't it Sword? As the reds and oranges dip below the Unicorn Range..." says Shield suddenly, audibly overtaken by the sights

"Indeed it is! Mhhh, and heh... I guess a poet is lost within you!"

>Shield puts a hoof behind the back of his head

>"Come on! It wasn't that poetic... I just stated a fact"

"I know!" you giggle "I meant it literally. A poet is lost within you...VERY deep inside!"

>"Sheesh, Sword... I know it was a bit cliché and far too cheesy, but that was the best line that came to my mind, okay? I just wanted to break the silence a bit"

"But...why? Silence isn't necessarily bad..." you inquire, tilting your head a bit

>"Yeah, but... I just thought, well... What sort of date is this if we just stay completely silent? I wanted to say...something"

"Ohhh... A date? Whoever told you this was a date?!" you say, putting a hoof to your chest, fiegning obliviousness

>"Well, uh...yeah. I was jumping to conclusions, then. Sorry about that. It's not a date, then. Okay. Duly noted"

>Shield droops his ears, as if his stuttering wasn't enough of an indication dating isn't his forte

>oh come on, is this silly serious?

>you slide a bit closer to him

"Well, it's not a date, but... We can MAKE it a date, hm?"

>"We...can?!" he looks back at you from the kilometer-long drop underneath you

"Duh! You just need to try! Gee El-Tee, they really don't teach dating at the Academy, are they?

>"They don't. And I'm sure I would've failed at it even if they did"

>and he lowers his head again...

"Sheesh, come on!" you say, and put a hoof under his chin, turning his head back to facing you

>then you continue

"Shield, you dared to stand up against some of the worst this world can offer, but you don't dare to say what's on you heart? Because that's all you need! Now come on, don't let me spell it out for you"

>Shield looks deep into your eyes

>then covers his own with his hooves

>"I'm...so silly. We already kissed... And I wanted to pretend it didn't happen, because it was a sort of in-the-heat-of-the-moment thing. But I have to realize I was probably wrong"

"It was exactly that... But isn't that what this feeling is all about?"

>as you say that, you start to wrap your hooves around his neck...

>...and at the same time, he encircles your croup with his forelegs

>"You must be right... I think you ARE right. Actually, I KNOW you are..."

"Then what are you waiting for?! Say it!"

>"Sword? I love you!

"And I love you too! You silly-willy-nilly!"

>you hug him and giggle

>then you kiss

>and unlike on the airship, this isn't a kiss of desperation, but that of confirmation

>and you remain like this, entangled, for Celestia knows how long

>happily, lovingly...

>perhaps even a bit unprofessionally...

>because sometimes, you just need to let go

 

*screen wipe*

 

THE END