Author's Notes:

BOOK 1: PART 4: COMMITMENT

Shadow walked into the Headquarters. General Red River had asked him to come. Shadow had been at the range with Lieutenant Marble Falls. It was no surprise. The day before they had officially tested him with everything and he passed easily. He was able to use the E.F.S. mod pretty well, despite it not being part of the ‘Heavy Weapons School.’

“Sergeant Shadow Flare come in,” General Red River greeted him. “My, you look good in that power armor. I didn't know Lieutenant Marble Falls had you change gear. You look like a whole different Stallion, in a good way. That backs how strong and unyielding you are.”

“Thank you Sir. I know, my size can be laughable.”

“It has it's advantages,” The General said. “Fast and agile. But I had you come here because your next training orders have come. I am to put you in the Aerial Combat School.”

“You had a slot open from the start, didn't you?” Shadow asked.

“Sharp and intelligent mind is also a plus,” General Red River added. “I was asked to wait until you passed your impromptu Heavy Weapons School. They are only a week in. Do you have training magazines for those weapons?”

“Yes Sir.”

“Good. You will stay in that armor and with those weapons for everything, unless specifically told not to be. I have no idea what armor and gear you will be getting for you upcoming mission, but that will be more than sufficiently cover all types and models.”

“The unit you are in will be back from training after dinner. You can have the rest of the afternoon off to move your personal items. I would eat early. I have no idea what they have been doing or if they plan on night activities.”

“Thank you Sir. And thank you for the advice, and thank you for allowing me that personal leave.”

General Red River chuckled. “I got a report that said it went great, and then in the morning the first one on my desk was a report of the whole incident. You are always a surprise. I thought I had seen everything, but you kept your head about you. That is what matters. And enough that the Lieutenant really trusts you to be able to handle yourself properly, even with crowd control.”

“Is the Aerial Combat School going to learn crowd control?” Shadow asked concerned.

“It is a new addition this cycle. First class to have it. Just a week, but better than nothing.”

“Wonderful Sir. Well, not that it needs to be required...”

“I know what you mean Sergeant. That is all. You may go.”

“One question if I may Sir?”

“Yes?”

“You said sergeant. The others I graduated with are private first class or specialist. Not even corporal for Deke.”

“That was Major Winters Breath's call. Something about needing higher access. I didn't ask.”

“Thank you for the clarification Sir.”

General Red River just silently nodded and Shadow left. He went to the barracks and found Master Wind inside, cleaning.

“Ah, Filly Fooler, I mean Shadow Flare.”

“It is okay Sir. Filly Fooler is still fine. Lieutenant Marble Falls only calls me Shadow Flare if it official. It is a good nickname, with a good story and a happy ending.”

“Prestigious ending.”

“I hope I have not made things terribly messy. Let me help you.”

“No, no,” Master Wind said. “You all kept it wonderfully cleaned like I taught you. I just like to do the final clean up and remember fond memories of the class that just graduated.”

“Well, I am here for my things. I am a late transfer to Aerial Combat School.”

“I figured you would end up there,” Master Wind smiled. “Good Luck.”

Shadow's things took no time at all to pack nicely. Master Wind just kept silently cleaning as if he wasn't there. Shadow took off and found himself back out to the flight decks. This time they were not at the recruit flight decks, but at the big one behind the Squad Barracks. The original Flight deck. It was bigger than all the recruit flight decks combined.

The Squad Barracks only housed instructors. Shadow had to find unit 41 where his new Squad was staying. It was just six beds with two toilets, two sinks and two showers. The back right bed was open, just like the other barracks.

Shadow looked around at the very neat and clean unit. Six beds expertly made, floor clean and there was no sign of a jumbled up locker that needed to be fixed before next inspection. Of course, there were only six single regular beds, unlike the smaller, bunk beds in Black Barracks. It looked cleaner and neater without bunk beds.

Shadow put his stuff away. Their lockers had a lot more space and there was a foot locker for armor. It was too small for Shadow's power armor. Shadow found an envelope with his name on it in his locker. When he opened it, several patches fell out with a small bag with a needle and thread. Sergeant Patches.

Shadow took his armor off and sewed the patches on. Everypony in his community knew how to sew. It was a vital skill. Shadow could hoof stitch his own clothes and his mother had him do it once as a final test. Still, his mother did most of the repairs as part of her chores.

Shadow put everything away and then put his armor on again. General Red River said to do everything in it. He was not going to be lax about it even with this 'free' time. He was heading out to the early dinner so it did matter.

Shadow showed his ID at the Squad Barrack's mess hall. They had served him before, but when he was a recruit. They were not paying attention since they did not have their full IDs yet.

“A lot of stuff to be wearing out here,” The cook said as he scooped food onto Shadow's tray.

“A lot of stuff happening for me,” Shadow smiled back.

He thanked him for his food and sat down to eat. Shadow was still getting used to sitting on a bench in the armor. He had only done it for lunch so far. That ended today.

After, Shadow watched the flight deck. Pegasi were coming and going. Usually in groups of six with the odd mix of four and five here or there.

“I don't even get an afternoon off?”

Shadow was pulled out of his thoughts and turned, smiling at Lieutenant Marble Falls.

“I guess not. It is like Equestria wants us together.”

Lieutenant Marble Falls chuckled. “Friends for sure. But it better not mean marriage because then we would have some problems.”

They chuckled and stood watching from the sidelines for a while.

“What unit are you in?”

“41 Falls.”

“That was my unit when I trained for the scouts. What spot?”

“Back right.”

“Front left. They beat the bunk beds, that is for sure. You will sleep better without somepegasus sleeping above or below you.”

“I assume that will be countered appropriately?”

“It won't be as hard as I pushed Black. You do not have to worry about learning and combining all these skills and techniques. Now it is about techniques that have to do with just Aerial Combat. Taking what you know, or should know, and tweaking it to make it better.”

“But, you have all your armor on, so I assume orders were to do everything in it?”

“Yep,” Shadow said. “Unless specifically ordered, power armor.”

“I do not know who is in 41, but you should not have any problem blending into their squad and flying with them. They do not have armor yet and won't get it for another week. Team building right now.”

“Great, I missed an important week.”

“Better than missing all of it, or coming in halfway into training.”

“True. Very true. I will see you around Falls. I think a nap is in order for me.”

Lieutenant Marble Falls just chuckled quietly as Shadow walked away.

In the Unit, He put his armor in between the bed and the wall and laid down. Next thing he knew there was a commotion at the door and the clock had been turned ahead an hour.

“Finally you arrived,” A pegasus said.

Shadow yawned as he sat up and turned to see his squadmates.

“Shadow Flare,” He said, turning to sit towards them.

“No way! Arrow Heart. I was in Blue. So was Dipper and Chocolate Rain.”

“And I am Sergeant Flags, here to change jobs. Just call me Flags. Our fifth disappeared on us at dinner. She is Cardinal Spitfire.”

Shadow sat there shocked. He shook his head finally.

“I forgot she was at this school. She was in Black with me. And my battle buddy.”

“That explains a lot,” Flags said. “That is why she was left without a teammate. But what took you so long?”

“Recon wanted me to be tested on some weapons,” Shadow said.

These were his new squadmates, he should be more open.

“Oh, and I had to make a five day trip for a family emergency in between.”

“Everything okay back home?” Arrow Heart asked.

“Now it is,” Shadow said. “Everything worked out well enough. I will have to wait for a letter to come to hear more, but it can only be good news.”

“Wonderful,” Flags said. “It can be tough to deal with family matters while serving. I missed my brother's wedding, but I got two weeks leave a month after to catch up. Duty first.”

“Shadow?” Cardinal Spitfire said softly from the door.

“There she is,” Flags said. “We turned around and you were gone.”

Cardinal Spitfire was nervous but trying to hide it. “They pulled me aside to let me know my teammate had arrived, but not who. Lieutenant Tuff didn't have the file yet.”

“But how? Why?” She asked Shadow softly. The confusion and pain was written in her eyes.

“Recon and a family emergency. Had to pass my weapons training first. But I made it.”

“You knew?” She asked hurt.

“No,” Shadow shook his head. “General Red River called me in earlier this afternoon to inform me of the change. This should be it until the end of school.”

Cardinal Spitfire laid down on her bed, the one next to his like before. Her mane was back up in its braids.

“So, family emergency?” She asked more like her normal self. “That is why your sister came?”

“Yep,” Shadow nodded. “Simple enough. It is done and over with and things can go on and will be better from it.”

“You used a lot of words but never actually said anything,” Cardinal Spitfire said annoyed.

“And that is how it will be for now,” Shadow replied.

“If you wont share it with me, then it was something very private,” Cardinal Spitfire said laying on her back. It hurt her obviously.

“Catch me up,” Shadow said trying to distract himself. “Thankfully it has just been a week, but I am at a major disadvantage.”

“Not too major,” Flags said. “Its been conditioning and team building. None of us have gear yet, so you won't have to go alone. And I am the only one behind on the conditioning.”

“Already got gear from the weapons training,” Shadow said. “They didn't want me to change since it was already drawn.”

“Well then,” Flags said trying to figure out what else to say.

“Oh, I know. I have been teamed with Arrow and given lead. That leaves Chocolate and Dipper together.”

“They wanted the most senior member to take official lead,” Cardinal Spitfire yawned. “We all will get plenty of time to lead though.”

“Sergeant Shadow Flare?” Tuff said coming in.

“Lieutenant Tuff,” Shadow said. “Good to see you again.”

The Lieutenant looked at the file and then back at Shadow Flare.

“Okay then,” He said walking out.

“Sergeant?” Flags looked at Shadow. “Didn't you just-”

“Graduate,” Shadow finished. “Blame my Major. He made that call. I also found that out a few hours ago. It makes no sense to me and the General only knew that was my assigned rank. It wasn't like I had some official presentation on my promotion.”

“Good to see you again?” Arrow said completely satisfied with his answer. She was peppy and full of energy.

“Umm… I don't want to say long story don't worry about it,” Shadow stated. “But I guess it isn't really long.”

Shadow told them about New Heaven and being saved by Lieutenant Marble Falls.

“You and the Lieutenant have become buddy buddy,” Cardinal Spitfire commented.

“Sort of,” Shadow chuckled. “Equestria wants us to be friends, I think. I got an early dinner and was watching the flight deck when we ran into each other again. Neither of us can seem to shake the other outside of training. And if Lieutenant Tuff is teaching us, she will be nearby.”

“Why do you say that?” Flags asked.

“They are in the same squad,” Shadow said laying down.

“Why do I have a feeling you know more than we do,” Dipper said.

“I am starting to think I do too,” Shadow chuckled. “And I know they are purposefully keeping me in the dark. What time does everypony have to up?”

That started a whole other discussion. It reminded Shadow about the end of the first day of Basic when a very angry Cardinal Spitfire ended up explaining and defending his speech. At least this time she wasn't directly angry at him. Hurt and confused, but not angry.

“I do not know how Lieutenant Tuff will take that,” Flags said.

“As far as I know, the order still stands,” Shadow answered. “I can use pegasus and had to while traveling on the family emergency trip. But if I am not paying attention, it comes back. It is hard to change such a simple word. One that, for my life, growing up was a staple. You can reverse it and find out yourselves how difficult it would be to switch to pony.”

“Fair,” Flags said. “Very fair. But this all started with sleep. 0700 in front of our Unit for PT and then breakfast.”

“That is early,” Shadow said. “Its been 0900 at the range for me. A good flight away, but 0900.”

They were all shocked and envious.

“I look forward to 0700 and real PT,” Shadow said getting up to use the restroom before the lights were turned out.

“That is more like it,” Flags clapped.

Shadow settled into bed. Sleep didn't find him right away. The next bed over, Cardinal Spitfire was asleep. She wasn't herself. She was quieter. Unsure. Sad. Grief would be a better term. The last time they had really talked was before graduations, as he ran, afraid of what his orders meant. She had not only been by his side as a friend, but finished with a kiss on his cheek before running away.

Every time they spoke after that, it was with their friends or other ponies around. He didn't confess his love to her in her photo book. He expressed how it felt to have her as a friend and how much he valued it, along with how special she was as an individual. It was meant to forever be a reminder to her whenever things got tough. Shadow had no idea if she had picked up any of his feelings for her going farther than just really good friends.

Shadow was the last out of bed in the morning.

“And you had the lightest week,” Arrow poked at him.

Shadow chuckled and put his armor on, piece by piece.

“Okay, maybe not that light,” Arrow corrected.

“It isn't as heavy as it looks,” Shadow said. “No joke. It is light and I can fly easily.”

“But you are going to wear it?” Flags asked concerned.

“Orders,” Shadow smiled. “Things are really just beginning for me. And I have no actual goal. My superior is keeping me blind. It is how it is.”

“He says that a lot,” Cardinal Spitfire rolled her eyes. “One of his catch phrases. It will get annoying as hell and we should openly mocked him for it.”

Shadow chuckled. “I deserved it.”

They formed up in a single line, based on your bed's location in the unit. They were in their primary formation. Shadow was at the left tip, Cardinal Spitfire next to him.

Lieutenant Tuff dropped out of the sky. Cardinal Spitfire jumped.

“You are going to have to get used it sometime Specialist Cardinal Spitfire,” Lieutenant Tuff said. “And if you want to make it into the Wonderbolt, you will have to get very used to doing it.”

The Lieutenant’s voice showed a general disapproval. The Lieutenant looked at Shadow in his armor. “I should have spoken to Falls. Mark 1 Power Armor?”

“Mark 4,” Shadow replied. “With a GPER 76-2 Delta and EMG 55-6 Delta. Her picks.”

“E.F.S. qualified?”

“No Sir. I did some good training, but not required for my impromptu Heavy Weapons School. I never was tested on it directly.”

“I wonder what she was thinking,” Lieutenant Tuff said.

“Get me to pass the weapons test,” Shadow clarified. “That was it. After was an unknown.”

“Watch out for his tail,” Lieutenant Tuff stated. “It is sharp. You will get your own later.”

“Sharp?” Chocolate asked concerned.

“Are you afraid of a tail?” The Lieutenant asked.

“No. No Sir. Surprised Sir.”

“Lets get some laps in. Sergeant Shadow Flare, its in formation. I see you know your position. We will make sure everypegasus is trained at all positions including lead. However, real squads require the lead to be at least a Second Lieutenant which means officer school. Now everypegasus go!”

Flag led them to the flight deck and then into the standard trot to flight start. They looped back over the flight deck where they began their laps. After twenty laps, they were given a hundred wing ups to do before breakfast.

Shadow sat down with his tray at the end of the table and promptly slipped off. Everypony looked at the loud crash. Cardinal Spitfire was able to save his tray.

“I am done sitting down in this,” Shadow said splayed out on the floor. “Whoever cleaned this floor, it smells nice. Like lemons. Not a lot of lemons are grown. They did a good job with the synthetic smell.”

Deep laughter from the other side of the mess hall suddenly rang out. “Nice job Filly Fooler. Learn how to sit like a proper filly!”

“Yes Lieutenant,” Shadow called back as he stood up.

Shadow looked at the bench for a few second and then sat down again. He had no sign of trouble this time.

“That was the first time. I swear,” Shadow laughed.

“You have to roll with Filly Fooler,” Cardinal Spitfire chuckled. “Things just happen, so just laugh.”

They lined up outside when they finished. The Lieutenant had weights tied together and laid out for them.

“Individual conditioning,” He said. “Drape the weights around your necks and then your job is to fly up to the green flag, where you will balance them on your wings and glide. When you drop them, start again. You have to make it to the other green flag. Power armor, your get two.”

They all took their weights and flew up. Everypony touched down on the cloud except Shadow.

“Afraid?” Dipper asked.

“Filly Fooler is an acrobat,” Cardinal Spitfire said not looking. “He has something cooked up.”

“Something to try at least,” Shadow said. “Never done anything close to this, ever.”

Shadow dipped his neck and then popped it up. The weights came up as planned. Only one landed on his wing, another smashed into it and the other two went nowhere and slammed him into the cloud.

Cardinal Spitfire gave a short chuckle and then jumped. She lasted a whole second before her wings collapsed

Shadow was back up and standing. He stood this time when he flipped them up. With their balance learned, they landed one on top of the other. Shadow locked his wings tight and then did a short hop off the cloud.

His wings felt like they were on fire. His eyes were getting watery and his vision reduced to blurs. He could make out the flight deck and the target flag by their shape and color.

Shadow's wings give out with a large grunt. He pulled his wings in for a second and then unfurled them, catching the weights evenly around his neck. He glided back up and around, right in front of the Lieutenant.

“Nice job,” Arrow said to Shadow. “Halfway.”

“Thanks,” Shadow replied.

Cardinal Spitfire launched.

“COME ON CARDINAL! HOLD!” Shadow yelled.

She was shaking and on the verge of a wobble. She held out another second before dropping.

“Team spirit,” Flags awed. “Forgot what that is like.”

“Well I will make sure you are reminded,” Shadow said giving it another go.

He adjusted the pitch to a more forward angle. Two degrees made a big difference while flying normally. Here, it shifted the weight and locked his wings in nice and tight. He glided smoothly and with little difficulty to the target flag.

“Luck,” Lieutenant Tuff said. “Do it again.”

“You never said to stop sir, only make it to the flag with each glide,” Shadow replied as he effortlessly glided back up to the flag.

The others had launched and he watched as they each collapsed. Nopony made it halfway. Shadow flapped up a bit before he tossed the weights and locked his wings in the same position. He glided to the flag again.

Shadow landed next to an annoyed Lieutenant Tuff. “Sir, my orders were to wear this armor at all times unless instructed otherwise. Permission to do the exercise without the armor. I am wearing a flight suit underneath.”

“Yes. That armor is giving you the heavy advantage.”

Shadow ditched the armor and left it with the care of the Lieutenant. He flew up, carrying both weights.

Cardinal Spitfire was shaking from the stress. “Please tell me you figured this out.”

“Yeah,” Shadow smiled. “But I had to ask permission to ditch the power armor because of my orders. Let’s test. If I am right…”

Shadow said nothing more. He jumped up, catching the weights which locked his wings in the same position and began to glide. He felt the extra weight this time. A lot more. But he was able to hold it and glide past the flag.

“Damn it Filly Fooler!”

Shadow landed next to both of the Lieutenants.

“Sorry Tuff. I didn't mean to get in your way. It is your squad. I should have sufficiently warned you ahead of time about his knack of getting into situations and somehow figuring ways out of situations easily. Just like this.”

The Lieutenant just grunted.

“What did you do?” Lieutenant Marble Falls asked. “We ran this exercise a few weeks back. I hate it. I am a stronger, better flier and you make it look easy.”

“Pitch forward two degrees,” Shadow said showing her the position. He tossed the weights on and let her look. “It isn't easy. It is a lot of weight. But the position is optimal for locking the wings in. The weights keep them in and your flying muscled can focus on just holding up the weights.”

“Damn you to the wasteland and back,” Lieutenant Marble Falls said walking away.

Shadow flew up and set up again. Cardinal Spitfire hadn't tried again, But she was shaking less. With Shadow's instructions, they were all gliding much better. Cardinal Spitfire barely made it before she dropped the weights. Flags got close and Arrow was slightly behind him. Dipper and Chocolate made it halfway for the first time before the weight was just too much.

Shadow just kept gliding down and flying back up. By the time they were called back, Dipper and Chocolate were the only ones who had not made it. Their performance had significantly improved each time they tried.

“You are explaining Filly Fooler as soon as lunch hits,” Flag stated quietly.

“Of course,” Shadow replied.

They were called back and quietly formed up in front of the Lieutenant. His back was to them and he was with another pegasus. They stood by, waiting. What was being discussed, they could not hear.

“Squad! Break!” Tuff said, suddenly walking off with the other.

“Filly Fooler story,” Flags immediately said.

Shadow and Cardinal Spitfire began to tell the tale from day two until graduation. They others laughed and Shadow's nickname was sealed again. At least with them.

“It is really quiet,” Shadow said as they finished the story. He looked around. There were no teams in the sky and plenty were sitting around. No instructors were to be seen. Aerial Combat School required few others outside their squad's instructor, but it was too quiet.

The doors burst open and Lieutenant Tuff dashed out, taking to the sky.

“TUFF! GET BACK HERE!” Lieutenant Marble Falls called.

“I'll go Falls,” A stallion said. “But he won't-”

“I know,” Lieutenant Marble Falls said hurriedly. “Go. I can't get through to him. He won't let me. Anypegasus else can go. I can handle things.”

“There are a lot of squads,” A mare stated.

Lieutenant Marble Falls chuckled sadly. “I deal with more while I train the recruits. And they are bad fliers when they come in.”

The others took off after Lieutenant Tuff.

“Everypony gather around,” Lieutenant Marble Falls order. “DAMN IT FILLY FOOLER! No punishment this time, just everypegasus gather around.”

“A year ago, my squad had an accident while training. A collision. That is why we focus on spin outs so much. Recovery from anything. Our Squad's Captain took the brunt of the collision. He has been in the hospital since. He had started rehab and was doing well, but he just unexpectedly retired.”

“The Lieutenant blames himself,” Shadow said quietly.

“Filly Fooler is right,” Lieutenant Marble Falls said. “A lot happened fast. It is one of two times I can say, I have no idea what happed because that is how hard and fast the shit hit the fan. I blacked out for a few seconds and had to recover from a bad position. I was able to nab our Captain who had not recovered and was out cold.”

“We all were grounded for a month and spent at least two weeks in the hospital. It shook up all flight squads and instructors. A lot saw it happen and even more saw the immediate results.”

The Lieutenant mood dropped. “Now with the Captain retiring, he put his wingpegasus in charge, promoting me to Captain. We knew I would be promoted when he eventually retired, but that is a sad promotion and it hits the whole squad hard. The Lieutenant will make it. Like any spin out he will get back in control and come back in to land safely.”

“The Lieutenant also just backed out of teaching. Understandable, but sudden. He needs some good rest. I think we pushed him too far.”

“You did your best,” Shadow assured her.

“Thanks Filly Fooler,” Captain Marble Falls smiled at him. “It is impossible to stay sad too long with you clanging around like a giant magnet of trouble.”

Shadow laughed along with her. She stopped and just continued to stare at the ground.

“Captain?” Shadow asked after minute.

“Lieutenant?” He asked again.

“Falls?” Shadow tried.

“Falls? Right. Sorry recruits.”

After waiting another minute Shadow spoke up. “Perhaps we should go roll out with the Barrack recruits? I saw they are here.”

“Damn it Filly Fooler,” She said. “Go tell Lieutenant Razzleberry. On Filly Fooler's lead. I really need the day off.”

Shadow shot straight up and then began to order them into an organized loop before forming up behind him. 41 was without him for now, but they were used to not having him. All squads stayed back as Shadow Flare flew in close to approach Lieutenant Razzleberry on his hooves.

“What is going on?” The Lieutenant asked meeting Shadow halfway.

“Sergeant Shadow Flare, Sir. The Captain retired out of the blue, and Lieutenant Marble Falls was promoted. They all broke down and apart. We are supposed to come to you and your recruits for the day while they recover.”

“You suggested this I assume?” He asked.

“I had a plan when she had none,” Shadow replied. “She could handle all of us normally without a problem. And she was personally training me for special assignment over the last week by orders. I got to know her well enough-”

“Understood Sergeant. How many teams?”

“All 14 Sir,” Shadow said.

“It was a really bad collision,” Lieutenant Razzleberry stated. “Put three squads at each Barracks, except for Black. Put the squad you are in and another squad with Black. Tell each commander what you told me and that I said to use them to help train the recruits. It is day one for us.”

“Yes Sir,” Shadow said turning back to give orders.

Shadow just pointed to three teams and led the others on.

“Flag, take 41 and the squad off your left to Black,” Shadow ordered. “I will be right back.”

“Yes Sergeant!” Flag said. Both squads broke off perfectly.

Like at Blue, Shadow just picked three squads, explained the full situation, and then moved on. Every commander was understanding. It was really obvious they too had been shaken up by the collision. Green was commanded by a Captain, not a Lieutenant. She was happy to have willing wings take the Green Barrack's recruits under their wing.

Shadow landed at black and explained the situation to their new lieutenant, Lieutenant Glitter. Her voice was soft and kind, but Shadow knew it was hiding something.

“Well Sergeant, it is a difficult situation we are all in. You wings will be put to good use. I could really use you and Cardinal Spitfire. I know the others are great fliers, but two Blacks from the last batch of recruit, when you all did so well. That will be a moral booster.”

“Lieutenant Razzleberry sent my squad personally to you,” Shadow said. “The others were randomly chosen by my wing.”

“He always has it out for Black, but he is playing fair and what is best for the recruits. One less squad of helpers, but I have One and Four from last recruit cycle and they are both from Black. That more than cover one less squad by moral alone.”

“Half of Squad 41 is Blues,” Shadow stated.

The Lieutenant shrugged. “Your reputations matter more. The others made it from Basic which means they are good and teachable as well. Lets roll out.”

Lieutenant Glitter waved them all over. “How many are you straight from Basic? Great, just you five. There goes that idea.”

“Lets get the recruits into the Air running laps,” Carding Spitfire suggested.

“Right,” Lieutenant Glitter agreed.

She got them into the sky doing laps by their partner's side.

“Sorry,” She said coming back. “They only got in ten minutes before you showed up. I was still introducing them to the training schedule. Shit! I never did get to teaching them safety on the flight deck.”

“Leave it and lets game plan,” Cardinal Spitfire said keeping them engaged. “All of us! Come one! Together we are more and smarter.”

That was more of the Cardinal Spitfire Shadow was used to. The other squad with them was Squad 15, all seasoned light troopers.

“Training, training,” Arrow said getting her mind moving.

“GEAR! Filly Fooler! Shadow!” Cardinal Spitfire exclaimed a minute later. “We do not have gear. They do. But they have us. Lets get them familiar with the proper team forms and use all of us to help them adjust to flying with gear on, from the very start!” She was hopping with excitement

Lieutenant Glitter smiled. “Shadow Flare and Cardinal Spitfire? Can you two put on a demonstration? I know how you two fly together from helping out around here.”

“Definitely,” Cardinal Spitfire grinned. “Lets get this rolling! Good brainstorm everypegasus!”

Shadow and Cardinal Spitfire stayed on the deck while the others helped teach the recruits proper formation. It wasn't long before they were working well together. As they flew, they also taught them the flight deck safety, signals and rules. After that, they landed and formed up on the side.

“Recruits, I have two special soldiers for you to meet. Every single one of our helpers today are in Aerial Combat School for a reason. They are all very talented fliers, some of the best in the whole Enclave. They are training for a very difficult roll in the Enclave military.”

“But what makes these two special is… well this is Cardinal Spitfire. She was first in her class, LAST cycle. Both are from the class before you. I did not teach them aerial combat, but I helped out in ways they didn't know I did. And the second is Shadow Flare. He placed fourth last cycle. They were battle buddies and an amazing flying team. Arguably the best Fort Wind has every seen.”

“Best of all,” Cardinal Spitfire said taking over and beginning to walk in front of the recruits. “We both were from Black Barracks. We might have placed high personally, but we both can attest to how much teamwork and selflessness made Black the best barracks. Helping each other to shoot, fly, nav, LEAD, and think together to overcome every obstacle.”

Shadow wasn't going to let her have all the fun. “We will show you some of the awesome stuff we learned on this very flight deck. That way you can really picture what a two pegasus team looks like before transferring it to a squad. Our Squad would go on to easily dominate the sky the rest of training, but that will be for battle formations later. Ready?”

Cardinal Spitfire nodded and Shadow walked up on her wing. They made a quick trot together and began to fly, letting loose into the freedom. Cardinal Spitfire had to make sure they stayed within sight. It would have been very easy for her to lead them out of sight as she put them through a marvelous performance.

They came back around and turned on their side so they all could watch Shadow switch to lead. He put them into multiple rolls, twists and separated them into a mirror formation before coming back together as if they had never split. It was all easy things and without great speed.

“They look so young,” Shadow said as they came in to land.

“I can't believe that was us several weeks back.”

Shadow didn't have time to respond. He had the recruits in front of them.

“Armor, NOW!” Shadow ordered.

The recruits rushed to throw it on and then line back up.

“You better be familiar with wearing your armor and gear by now,” Shadow instructed. “They do make flying a bit uneven to start. But I know you, I was you not long ago. Black Barracks can handle the adjustment. When I took lead, I hope were able to see to see the optimal position for the wingpegasus. Out of the way of the gun and it's hot cartridges so you do not get blinded, but still close it to make a smaller target.”

Shadow showed off his armor a bit. “And if I can learn to fly in this, you can learn to fly in your gear.”

“What are you wearing Sir?”

“I am learning Aerial Combat right now for work on special assignment with a future reconnaissance team. This is a special type of armor is called power armor. Some of you might get trained on a type of power armor. It works with my body to protect me, in different ways, but the same idea as the plates you have on. It is a giant metal suit. Strong, lightweight, and protective. This one is designed to protect for specific close air support missions and other things for aerial teams like Aerial Combat Squads and Scouts. Honestly, my special instructor last week told me to wear it. You now know what I know.”

The recruits laughed.

“So you carry two rifles?”

“Currently, yes,” Shadow answered lifting his wings to give them the full view. “Those are training mags in my rifles. Two rifles. Makes sense. If you can put on one, then you can put another one on the other side. Or just one on the opposite side. The mission and your future job will dictate weapons, and for me, that means I am learning to carry two. The big advantage is that this gives me two different guns. Every advantage is an advantage.”

Cardinal Spitfire seamlessly took over. “We are here to give you a huge advantage. Learning how to fly with your combat gear at the start of day one will only make you better, stronger and more agile fliers. You will excel more over the rest of training. Blue isn't on gear yet but they will be soon. Blue and Black are big rivals during aerial combat training. So lets get you flying! Start with laps, in the two pegasus formation. We will come alongside you and guide you.”

The recruits took off and then the squads soon followed to begin instruction.

“I am impressed,” Lieutenant Glitter declared. “This is my first go at leading a barracks in aerial combat. I am so glad you two are here. You just finished up with the best aerial combat instructors we have.”

“She also is the one who trapped me in this,” Shadow chuckled. “We are just following what she did to us. You have been watching barracks learn. Put it all in a basket and use those techniques and tactics to shape your recruits. Like kick starting armor by just ordering 'Armor. Go.'”

“I see a wobbling team,” Cardinal Spitfire said taking off.

“You two are a special pair,” Lieutenant Glitter commented. “The way you read and work together in the air and together talking to the recruits was fluid and instinctual. I know it is matched on the ground. Life?”

Shadow felt his cheeks get slightly warmer. “Life is training. I am going recon and am getting brief training orders. I have no idea where I will be next week. I could be pulled out of the school. And she is bucking for a Wonderbolt. No time.”

“You two have chemistry,” The Lieutenant pressed. “I know you are paired tightly again for training and you can't mess that up, but don't let those different future paths dictate everything. At some point, training stops and you settle into a nice routine before they inevitably transfer you and you have to settle back into a new routine. And eventually, you retire. Which means you will want somepegasus as your special one. Plenty of families have both parents as active duty soldiers. It does work. Often.”

“They are going down,” Shadow said bolting after a failing squad. “THANKS!”

Shadow got them to compensate and then form up on his wing positions while they made several passes finally figuring out the tricks on their own. Shadow shifted to another team already with a Squad 15 member. Together, they gave them the one on one training needed. Shadow didn't realize the adaptation and teamwork their Barrack's did until he was side by side with these recruits.

Their yellow flag was up and Shadow saw it was him Lieutenant Glitter wanted. He landed next to her and another pegasus in a plain soldier uniform.

“Are you Sergeant Shadow Flare?” The soldier asked. His stripes were those of a First Sergeant.

“Yes Sir. What can I do for you?”

“I have orders for you,” He said extending the envelop.

Shadow took it and opened it. This time it was on official paper.

Leadership training begins now. As of now, you are Acting Captain over the Aerial Combat School. The next three days are on your shoulders Acting Captain Shadow Flare.

– General Red River

Shadow shook his head and read it again.

“DAMN IT FALLS!” He yelled, reversing things.

He handed the orders to the Lieutenant, unable to find the rest of his voice yet.

“Interesting that he thinks you are ready,” Lieutenant Glitter said intrigued. “I mean-”

“I know what you mean,” Shadow said politely cutting her off. “I am not and he knows that. But I was aware they wanted me to show more leadership and take every opportunity they can to push me. I spent the week after graduation doing a personal, condensed Heavy Weapons School. They are aggressively taking every opportunity they can.”

“Do you have any orders for me Sir?” The Soldier asked.

“Give me a minute First Sergeant. I need a flight to clear my head and take this in. Then I should have orders.”

“I will stand by. But Sir, your coms can now reach dispatch and they will pass anything on that isn't high security.”

“Wonderful,” Shadow said saluting him. “Thank you Sir.”

Shadow took off and came up behind Cardinal Spitfire who was leading two recruits in personal training. There was no way she didn't see him so he tilted back and forth three times. She responded with a quick flutter.

Shadow pulled away from the group. Cardinal Spitfire joined him a few minutes later. She let Shadow lead them through five minutes of aerial acrobatics before he slowed down drastically and she pulled up alongside him.

“What is up?” She asked.

“New orders,” Shadow replied. “For leadership training.”

“Already?” She asked shocked. “You haven't even been here a day!”

“I am not leaving,” Shadow stated, passing the orders to her. The had come to a full stop in the air.

“They...” She stuttered. “They are really throwing you into anything they can do. What are you going to do?”

“I have no idea what to do,” Shadow replied. “That is why I pulled you out here.”

“Why is leadership so important that they want you to do this insanity so early?”

“All I know is that everypony else in the recon team I am in is specialized in something. I have the job of being the 'most soldierly' of the group and second will fall on my shoulder.”

“Second? You all are fresh troops then.”

“Not from what little I got. This is all highly classified. No talking about this, ever. I am the greenest soldier forming up on this team.”

“Okay, so second the first time you head down, you can deal with that. At least the others will know what they are getting into.”

“Not from what I understand. Captain Nova did a great job for soldiers, but not recon. I was informed of a few secrets that we will have that counter his training. After his catastrophic mission, all scouts were grounded and there was no recon teams left. They have been working hard to overcome all the mistakes they made. Deadly mistakes.”

“Captain Nova had over twenty successful missions, the final was not his fault at all. He still took a mental beating from it like Lieutenant Tuff. Captain Nova is one of two surviving pegasi who went below that are still in the military. And I got the feeling that few of them had the chance to retire.”

“Who is the other?”

“Classified beyond what I need to tell you to solve this immediate problem. I am only telling you this little because I need help sorting this out. Pure necessity.”

“Together, we will do this,” She smiled and put a hoof on his shoulder. “Think about our training. By the time we enter the final test, we all were familiar with leading 8 squads. What is that command wise? At least the ranks of Captain. You led us to a very successful mission on your own, which included battle. You can do this.”

“You are right,” Shadow said take a deep breath. “Play?”

Cardinal Spitfire looked at the recruits and squads.

“What do you see?”

“Recruits from each barracks being hoof trained in formations by experienced soldiers.”

Shadow smiled. “The Blue and Black recruits are already flying in gear and the squads helping are not. I can't see the other Barracks, but there is a good chance all are in gear, including Red.”

“Play?” Cardinal Spitfire asked him.

“Inform the squads and instructors of the development. Inform the quartermaster office all 14 squads will be coming late, after dinner, for an unscheduled gear pick up after new developments. Gather the squads in the mess hall after gear is drawn and directly talk to them about my goals for the next few days.”

“Brainstorm with them, but I think I have it. Solid morning PT, Breakfast, make sure the recruits get a amazing updraft and then skills in the evening.”

Shadow smiled at Cardinal Spitfire. His 'I know before you know' smile. “I know you have to have noticed the difference between the Black Barracks and how much we learned on our own. But I found myself learning a whole lot by teaching. Having to explain why.”

Cardinal Spitfire rolled her eyes indicating he was right.

“Family?” Cardinal Spitfire asked since they were alone.

Shadow shook his head.

“I will inform Black last,” Shadow said dropping into a dive and then opening his wings to carry himself to the other flight decks. When he got back to Black, they were on break. Shadow approached his squads.

“Alright. 41 knows some of what is going on, but new developments. 15, I am a recon soldier and here for further training. I was randomly tossed into this armor and rifles and am not allowed to take it off. Recon already had me spend over a week intensely learning advanced weapons before I came here, a week late.”

“I wish I knew more of their plans. I found out yesterday afternoon of my transfer to this School. They had a slot secretly held for me, but it would have been closed if I failed my weapons test.”

Shadow pulled out the envelope. “New orders for me are leadership training. Acting Captain over the Aerial Combat School Units for the next three days. I assume they have grounded everypegasus for recovery. I feel like a colt again, when my father literally kicked me off a cloud to learn to fly. And he is a hearty farmer, it wasn't gentle.”

Cardinal Spitfire snorted a laugh.

“It is okay to laugh at my weird raising on the edge of the Enclave,” Shadow chuckled before continuing.

“I have learned the importance of working together as a team, even while leading in Basic. I take questions. I take suggestions. I take them to make sure the group succeeds because that is what matters most. While training combat, that meant that no mater who was leading, my barracks took significantly less casualties and took objectives twice as fast as any other barrack.”

“Today, we will work here until dinner, eat and then draw the appropriate gear for Aerial Combat School. There will be a meeting after in the Squad Barrack's mess hall.”

“My planned schedule for the next three days is 0700, in gear, at the flight deck for morning PT. Breakfast, and by 0900 at the latest, back to the flight decks to assist in training recruits under the Lieutenant you are working with today. Then after dinner, working on skills before bed.”

“I hope that by the end of the day, you will see how much you have learned just by teaching these recruits. You know these flying techniques, and will become better masters of those techniques because of teaching them. I already am learning a lot more about flying in combat situations by being forced to think and explain things to them, not just do.”

“Do you know how to actually teach and lead Aerial Combat School?” One from 15 asked.

“I actually do know the tactics and can teach them to you. I can not teach the crowd control segment that has just been added to the program. Captain Marble Falls was our Barrack's aerial combat instructor and taught us how actual aerial combat is supposed to be. She also was my advanced weapons trainer.”

Shadow continue. “Aerial Combat isn't all in the sky. Yes, a very important part of combat is air superiority and providing close air support. But real aerial combat is landing first to secure the drop zone, or be the first to create a new, advanced front, take a building or something behind enemy lines. It is the regular soldier's job to hold the lines the aerial combat teams set up. You will clear the way for them to safely land and bring in the big guns and do the heavy lifting.”

“I successfully led all 8 of our squads in our final test, which was only a few weeks back. I led complex maneuvers and went on to successfully take three objectives, heavily reliant on aerial combat and skills we learned in training.”

I know, I am not seasoned like most of you are. But I have the small advantage of coming right from intensive training and the tactics of leading squads are fresh in my mind. I paid attention to how my instructors were teaching us. Had to pay attention if you were going to survive out where my family's farm is.”

“What missions did you run?” Arrow asked.

Shadow smiled. “I led the strike team to assassinate Yellow's only commander, Crystal Bliss. After, it was a hide mission, which ended with orders to eradicate Blue and Green since both barracks didn't find us and were right there for us to strike at.”

“Damn it!” Arrow swore. “That mission was horrible and embarrassing to us. Pathetic you were able to avoid us and flip the tables. That took skill.”

Shadow chuckled. “Any other questions before we get back to helping out?”

There were none and they got everything going again. Lunch was late for them all. 41 and 15 ate in the mess hall. No field rations for them. Shadow took some breaks to think and plan for the next few days. How he conducted everything mattered, but he was putting his chips on his time training them in the morning and evening.

Shadow was back in the air when two teams collided and began to fall. Squads dove to catch them.”

“DON'T!” Shadow ordered them. “Be ready to assist but let them try and recover. Failure is the best teacher.”

Three recovered and only one had to be scooped out of the air. The others teams were kept in the sky like nothing happened as the officers dealt with the collision.

“Tough call Captain,” Lieutenant Glitter said as they approached the injured. “The right call that I would have missed. But lets turn attention to their injuries.”

Medics landed a minute later.

“Bumps and bruises, and she might have a broken wing,” A medic said. “All are coming in for rest and further evaluation. We will keep you posted Lieutenant.”

“Thank you. First time leading and a collision,” Lieutenant Glitter sighed.

“We collided all the time,” Shadow informed her. “Spin outs included. But we never hit like they did. Surprising now that I think about it. Narrow track at high speeds. They will come out of this better off. Even if it is a broken wing.”

“What if my wing is broken?” She asked scared as they secured her to the stretcher.

“Then you will heal up and be put in the next cycle,” The Lieutenant said.

She started shaking.

“It's okay,” Shadow cooed. “I almost drowned when my instructor put us under extreme weather. If it wasn't for my teammate… I just dropped out of the sky unconscious. You will walk out of this, armed with a new experience and valuable lesson under your hooves and be a better flier. So long as you believe and take confidence. Minor mishaps happen, you can't let them get to you. All of you.”

The medics took them off to be treated.

“I remember that day Captain,” Lieutenant Glitter said as they watched the medics take them away. “I didn't realize it was you, but it was the talk of the Squad Barracks. Lieutenant Marble Falls almost drowning her recruits.”

“If she teaches again, she wont let up even a drop,” Shadow chuckled. “All other teams stayed airborne and continued as normal. Same goes to you. Don't hesitate from a single thing that happen which you can not control. You can not control everything and this was very minor. Push, don't baby. Soft, yet firm.”

“You may have just graduated, but you are wise,” She replied.

“Nah,” Shadow said waving the compliment off with his wing. “I just learned a lot from home and all the work. And I watched and learned from all of my teachers here. That is where I am wise, but that wisdom was taught as I grew up. Otherwise, it isn't something that I have discovered, just learned.”

“I do not know the others at all, by Acting Captain fits you.”

Shadow just shrugged. “I can not agree or disagree. It is not something I can judge.”

“Officer School will be next. It is better to train a soldier in one run and then assign them to a unit, rather than break it up and often be forced to assign them to a whole new unit.”

“We will see,” Shadow replied. “I don't even recall how long Aerial Combat School is.”

Lieutenant Glitter giggled. “Ten Weeks total Captain.”

“It may be eleven with the addition of crowd control.”

“They are adding it to even Aerial Combat School?”

“I won't be surprised if a two if a two or three week segment is added to Basic,” Shadow sighed. “I ended up once in basic and then last week with Lieutenant Marble Falls being thrown into helping. Just bodies, but present. Sad. But I should get to helping.”

Cardinal Spitfire pulled right up besides them, ending the discussions. “We need to switch this up. They are handling it fine. Past day two for us.”

“Play?”

“Other direction and switch wing sides.”

Shadow nodded and got them all changed up.

“Smart move again,” Lieutenant Glitter said as they watched them make the adjustments.

“That would all be my teammate, Cardinal Spitfire,” Shadow said. “Take the time to listen, take suggests and and do your best to answer questions. That is how we pulled together and came out so prepared. Thanks to the Lieutenant, well Captain.”

“How many Wonderbolt are stationed here?” Shadow followed up. “We left that question alone.”

“Three squads,” Lieutenant Glitter said. “Lead was their team. Part of their training is what you are teaching your squads. Explaining and teaching are great methods to perfect your own flying. But otherwise, I know nothing else about the Wonderbolts.”

“Glad to know I am getting one thing right,” Shadow said. “And thanks for the clarification.

“We both are helping each other,” Lieutenant Glitter replied. “Both fresh into new positions. Long or short. Adjusting your duty can be difficult. It was a good thing the Captain stepped away from teaching this cycle. In the end.”

“We wore her out,” Shadow chuckled. “She loved every minute of it, but we wore her out. Especially since she continued training us for the rest of Basic. Tomorrow, these recruits should be tossed onto a track and challenged.”

“Lets put our minds together and design it right now,” Lieutenant Glitter smiled. “Are you going to call your teammate in?”

“No,” Shadow pondered. “I think it is best for her to work with them. She is looking herself again. Separating from our Barracks hit us all hard. We got really close. We knew it would come, would do it again, but it hurt. Neither of us were expecting me to join the school, or expect they purposefully left a spot open, her teammate.”

By dinner, they had planned out 15 tracks of varying lengths and difficulty. The last one was a mean one and they were hoping the recruits would prove they deserved to try it. They looked capable of achieving it, which is the point of proper training.

Shadow grabbed a field ration from a box to eat while they planned. He needed to be at quartermaster's office first. He left the final instructions with each Lieutenant and headed over.

“Hello Captain,” He was greeted. “Things are prepared and ready for your squads.”

“Wonderful,” Shadow said. “I have a few questions about what exactly they are getting, but lets transfer the gear Lieutenant Marble Falls signed our for me to my name.”

The paperwork wasn't too long thankfully. The Aerial Combat School loaded out their trainees out in a similar manor to Shadow's set up. It was a medium weight plate armor with duel battle saddle. They used two GPER 55-6 Alpha rifles. Shadow had them add on 5 training magazines for each rifle. It was going to add weight, but be more realistic for combat. And it was the good training magazines, not the individual cased ones.

When all squads were armed, he headed back to begin the night's discussion.

“Okay,” Shadow said walking to the front. “We survived a very odd day one. The call for me to lead us out to train with the recruits was given purely because I had just ended training with the Captain less than 24 hours before, so I was fresh on her mind.”

“Can we see your orders? I let it run earlier since it was still following her orders.”

“Of course,” Shadow said giving them to him. “You can pass it around. Everypegasus on the same page only makes this better. This is free and open to talk.”

“Are you really this special?” Another one asked.

“No,” Shadow said shaking his head. His response stunned half of them. “But the recon assignment apparently is. I am kept blind, but I know they need me trained in certain areas. They have shown nothing but aggressive tactics to produce the outcome they want. Special advanced weapons training with no break after graduation, starting E.F.S. training, and I knew leadership training, but that was supposed to come from the school's regular program.”

“E.F.S.?”

“You may learn it here,” Shadow informed them. “It is a targeting program that is attached to the armor I am wearing, as well as other armors and combat systems. I never thought to ask if your combat gear is equipped with it.”

The door to the mess hall opened. It was just them, so the noise overpowered everything.

“Can I help you Lieutenant?” Shadow said, looking at Lieutenant Autumn leaf.

“I am to lead this for the next few days,” He said walking over to him. He was also wearing power armor. It was the first time Shadow had seen him in anything but an officer's uniform. It was not the same model as Shadow's power armor.

“Excuse me?” Shadow politely asked.

“Step down recruit. I am leading the Aerial Combat School,” Lieutenant Autumn Leaf demanded.

“To start, it is Sergeant, and currently Acting Captain,” Shadow informed him. “I have orders and I can not, and will not, step down without new, proper orders.”

“You will if you know what is best for you,” The Lieutenant said getting in Shadow's face.

Shadow acted like he wasn't that close and kept his composure.

“Take it up with my Major,” Shadow replied.

“That is all you have to fucking say?” Lieutenant Autumn Leaf replied. “You are just a, pathetic recruit who doesn't even deserve that rank, let alone know what to do with it. I should physically show you where you belong!”

“You think you are safe? Your Major can not be reached and General Red River is overstepping his boundaries by placing you in command instead of me. It is a part of my assigned duties. I may be here, but I do know the recon team and plan.”

“Prove it,” Shadow scowled. “Because I am not stepping down without the proper orders from my chain of command. Who else is in the team?”

“That is classified,” Lieutenant Autumn Leaf deflected.

Shadow took a step in, resulting in them pushing their chests against each other. They continue to push, neither yielding.

“You don't know,” Shadow smiled as he pushed forward. “You don't know shit and you don't scare me. I now outrank you and you fear me. You have always feared me. I do not know why, but you see me as a threat.”

“LEAVE!” Shadow order as he shoved him back with another step forward. The Mark 4 was stronger than whatever the Lieutenant was wearing.

The Lieutenant walked away. “I will be back,” He said. “You will regret it.”

“Bring my Major or General Red River with you,” Shadow kindly said.

“You are a retard,” Cardinal Spitfire said when the Lieutenant was gone. “Have you forgotten what he did to us?”

“Pitted two struggling and scared recruits together in an attempt to make them fail, but instead creating what could be argued as the strongest team Fort Wind has ever seen?”

“You left out how much we hated each other,” She smiled. “But when you put it like that.”

“Always annoyed or angry at our barrack without reason, loved verbal abuse, attached to our barrack for no reason, forced his way to be with us during our aerial combat phase when he wasn't supposed to be there, let alone needed since he just stood there. Every day I wanted to push back and tell his vile mouth and arrogant attitude to learn some respect and humility.”

Shadow looked at everypony. “I know. I just put all my chips in the pot without seeing the other cards, only what is in my hooves. I am that confident they will hold.”

Shadow shook his head to clear it. “Now. Concerns? Mostly about me leading and the upcoming tasks.”

“Observation. You stayed with Black. You never checked in on Yellow.”

“Good observation,” Shadow smiled. “I did not check on my other squads or the Lieutenant they were put under temporarily. I will follow up periodically with at least somepegasus in a squad. 14 busy squads on field exercises. I will be around to check on them all. Was there are problems I should know about?”

Nopony had any.

“Can you go over the planned schedule again?”

“Yes. But first a question. Did any Barracks not fly in combat gear?”

Everypony was silent.

“Good. 0700 for PT. Form up at the flight deck in front of the Squad Barracks in your full gear. After a short PT, breakfast. We will be out with the recruits by 0900 at the latest. You will be in your gear so that you will be able to relate better to recruits as they fly. I know Black is starting on tracks. I am sure you will be able to continue teaching right alongside them while on the tracks.”

“Did Black have a collision? I was all the way down at Green.”

“Yes,” Shadow answered. “Two recruit teams bumped into each other, hard. Bruised and one injured wing. Three of them should be out in the morning with the rest of their barrack. I do not know the extent of the wing injury.”

“I never had a collision while in Basic,” He replied concerned.

“Cardinal Spitfire and I took so many slams and hits while training. All of Black did. Had to deal with spin outs all the time. Nothing head on or coming in from the side, but we got a lot of bruises.”

“Blue as well,” Arrow pipped up. “Really competitive and pushed hard. We just dealt with it. Our two injuries were not due to collisions.”

“The Captain face planted on a hot touchdown,” Cardinal Spitfire giggled. “Had to ice his eye the rest of the day or risk a bad black eye and being grounded.”

Shadow chuckled. “I forgot I did that. But it is late by that clock. Any more questions, comments or concerns?”

Nopony had any. “Alright. I am always available for them. See you in the morning.”

Flags was the last one into their Unit.

“Interesting day,” Flags said as soon as he closed the door.

“That is why you sit by and laugh,” Cardinal Spitfire yawned. “Stories of his face plants and falling off a benches, luck is always on his side despite something interesting always happening.”

“After dinner agility training?” Cardinal Spitfire asked Shadow.

“Yes. You know personally how much it helps,” Shadow replied.

“You are going to be teaching us acrobatics?” Flag asked confused.

“You have not actually seen me do anything yet,” Shadow smiled. “A master at ground acrobatics and I was able to transfer it to the air. But now I am transferring to bed.”

0700 meant that Shadow had to be up quietly and ready by 0600. The others would be up at 0630.

0700 had them all lined up and looking spot on. Shadow took them out to follow and do some laps. He brought them in for ground sprints and then sit-ups. Breakfast was quieter without the instructors present. It hung in the air as if there was a dark cloud brewing above the mess hall. By 0830 they were touching down at their assigned flight decks.

Most of Shadow's flying was spent checking on all of his squads. He did make sure he got time to run through the track with Cardinal Spitfire. They shocked the recruits and dazzled the other ACS units.

That brought Shadow to give a new order. All individual teams in Aerial Combat School were to make specific runs together in the tracks. It made it so that they were actually focusing on aerial combat techniques throughout the day. It was at least something like they normally would be doing as trainees during the day.

“Welcome to skills,” Shadow said after dinner. “Go put your gear away and meet back here. You don't want it on.”

Shadow was not wearing his armor either. He needed them to see his body's movements and joints. And, he was in command. The power armor was now optional for him. He still planned on following those orders. They were obviously for his own good.

“Acrobatics isn't just some thing you mess around with as a foul,” Shadow began. “Somersaults are not acrobatics. Aerial combat often requires you to dance through and around things rather than fly. So we will start with the basics. Master these on the ground, and you will find you can transfer that knowledge to the air. It also dramatically helps with a spin out.”

“First up, getting you used to blood to your head,” Shadow easily rolled up into a hoofstand. He walked around a bit before rolling over into a bridge and back to all fours, making a complete flip.

“I've been training for years. Keeping track of where you are and where you want to go is important or you will fall over. We will work within teammates. Cardinal Spitfire?”

Cardinal Spitfire joined him and they showed them how to begin to hold up the other and how to roll up into the stand. Shadow left her standing alone as he walked along their line, helping and teaching. They fell and rolled over a lot, even with their teammate helping.

“I am thoroughly surprised and happy with what I saw,” Shadow praised them when they were done. “The only pegasus I have to compare you to is when I taught Cardinal Spitfire. It isn't easy. It is called acrobatics for a reason. You are dismissed.”