Sergeant Major Windshear, with respect, is this wise? Would it not be more prudent to merely dismiss her from the service here and now?”

“V-very well, miss. Since you are so insistent and know the rules so well, I shall have the papers readied and sent to the appropriate officers for approval.” He steadied himself, taking a deep breath, trying to still his twitching tail. “Methinks it necessary to warn you, however—even if they approve your application, ‘tis certain you will not have an easy time of it. The Armored Guard is a proud group who do not take kindly to those they see as interlopers. And you will be in for it from the start—the Sergeant Major in charge of pegasus training is hard on everypony, especially those who stand out. And ‘tis certain you will stand out, Miss…?”

“F-Firefly, My Princess.” He bowed his head low as he answered, his tone nervous. “Perchance you have already heard of her—the first mare to attempt entry into the Armored Guard?”