Hello! As we begin to build up the story to Volume 3, here are a couple of short stories to entertain yall! This will be one of the few (probably three or more), subchapters of my fic! Now, what do we call this? Yeah, that's right, soldiering!

Beacon Academy, Vale

"Are you sure Captain Sixers can handle a week sir?" asked Moris as he followed Beacon's Chief of Security. The white-coated Marshal walked briskly towards the docks of the Academy, his face fixed into an unreadable expression. "I can assure you Moris, Sixers knows this academy like the back of his hand. He's also been here with me since I first accepted the role as chief, so he's more than familiar with the administrative responsibilities of my job."

Moris knew better than to question Azure's faith in the abilities of the troopers who serve him. The only concern was the potential nagging from the Guard Captain for a ridiculous request, like a new caf machine. An incident on Kamino came to mind as he shuddered with the thought of countless requests for a turbolaser cannon to be added to the company's list of equipment. It's rather unprofessional for a clone captain, even more so for a Guard Captain, but if Azure sees him fit, then he probably won't cause a headache for the foreseeable future.

It does make one wonder where the Marshal is going.

Officially, he and Commander Moris are on a paid vacation that extends over a whole week. This was surprising for the students since the Chief never took a vacation. Such a premise was unheard of, even for the likes of Professor Goodwitch, who took short vacations every two months. Azure, however, never took on in his whole year of serving as the BSF's commanding officer.

Unofficially, the Marshal and the Commander are to return to the fleet above for reasons pointing towards the 501st Guard Regiment. Prior to the beginning of the school year, two companies of the unit failed to pass their retainment requirements, thus leading the two units to be broken up and reassigned to other units in the Legion.

Upon arriving at the docks, an entourage of the 5th Fleet Marines stood guard around a Nu-class shuttle. The military vessel had its engines primed, and the pilots outside waved at the two officers from within the cockpit. A sergeant of the Marines approached the two and saluted them. "Shuttle Triberium ready to depart sir. Just need to complete the final bioscan before we go."

The sergeant gestured to a scanning crew of four who sported his own armor adorned with the blue stripes of their unit. The crew began to enter the shuttle with a cumbersome scanner.

"I thought we stopped using those," said Azure, his eyes locked into a look of confusion at the sight of the scanner.

Moris shrugged, "We did, I guess we just got this last model in the hold. Most likely the Admiral's way of getting rid of it."

"How thoughtful of you James," dry-panned the Marshal to himself as he and Moris continued to wait for the crew to finish.

Soon, the four marines from earlier exited the shuttle and nodded to the sergeant. The two officers thanked the squad before prompting themselves to board the shuttle that would take them back to the fleet. In the cockpit, the pilots began to prepare for take-off by doing their routine fuel, engine, and weather checks.

"Alright Zipper," the pilot said to his co-pilot as he switched on the repulsors, "You ready to do this?"

"You know me, Teal," replied Zipper as he checked his flight instruments, "Mind getting us our departure vector so I can hook it up to the computer?"

Teal smiled under his helmet, "Don't even have to ask. Beacon Tower, this is shuttle Triberium, requesting departure vector and clearance for dust off."

"Shuttle Triberium, you're cleared for vector 204. You're cleared for dust-off, tell Indie tower that I miss them."

"Will do tower, see you when we see you."

The shuttle's engines began to roar with life as the craft began to ascend before flying off toward the skies above. To the naked eye, the shuttle simply flew off into the clouds, to be seen again in a week if their story were to be believed.

RWBY Security

Chapter 24: The New Guard

RSD Independence, Remnant

Above the planet of Remnant, was a grand fleet of some of the Republic Navy's finest ships. From the small support ships to the grand Venator-II class star destroyers, this fleet would be the foreseeable home of the stranded soldiers of Azure's Aurek Corps. Sitting as the crown jewel of the expeditionary fleet was Azure's flagship, the RSD Independence.

Her bridges were painted a beautiful shade of red that matched the main hangar doors that formed the famous red stripe of her class. As shuttle Triberium flew closer to the grand ship, a display screen showed the passengers the view of the fleet. Currently, the flagship was farther from the fleet than it usually is, and flying by its side were small pods, moving at incredible speeds around the flagship.

Then, the pods were blown up by cannon fire from the side deck guns of the Independence. It was then, did everything cleared up for the passengers on what was going on with the ship. When in blockade duties, it was standard protocol for one ship of any fleet of the Grand Navy of the Republic to practice their gunnery with training dummies. Apparently, it was the flagship's turn as the deck guns continued to open fire and hit shots with precision and accuracy that only a few armies could accomplish.

As they got closer, the shuttle's pilot, Teal, began to hail the ship. "Shuttle Triberium to Indie Tower, Aurek Actual, and Blue Leader are onboard and bound for the flagship from Beacon Academy. Requesting permission to land at the main hangar."

"Triberium, Tower, we read you, you have the Admiral's permission to dock at Hangar A2."

"Copy that, thanks. Oh, and message from Beacon tower, the flight officer says he misses you."

A mutter could be heard from the other side, "I bet the kriffer does."

The shuttle began to line up with the main hangar of the Venator-II class ship, and the latter of the two began to open the main hangar doors. Passing through the atmospheric shields, Teal and Zipper landed their craft in the designated hangar, deploying their gear as the hangar doors behind them began to close again. Inside the passenger bay, Azure and Moris began to loosen their safety restraints as they stood up from their seats.

A hissing noise began to gain their attention as the Triberium's ramp began to lower, greeting them with a sight of a platoon of 5th Fleet Marines, lined into three ranks. At the head of the formation was Major Church as he began to issue orders.

"MARINE GUARD! PRESENT... ARMS!" The troopers soon held their rifles vertically, saluting the two senior officers as they exited the shuttle.

Both of the senior officers returned the salute, prompting the Marines to shoulder their arms as Church stepped out of formation and walked towards them. "Welcome back aboard sirs. The Admiral wishes you to know that the assembly deck will be open for your use."

"Very good," nodded Azure, "Take our wardrobes back to our quarters if you please. Come along commander, we have work to do."

Church saluted again as the Marshal and Moris made their way to the ship's assembly grounds. It was an open area, akin to that of a hangar bay, albeit no entrance or exit for such vehicles. Assembled within and in the parade formation were six companies of the 501st. At the head was Colonel Maitland, adorned in traditional 501st officer armor, with a kama, a rangefinder, and a pauldron, with the usual 501st markings, with the only exception of the chest plate which bore the Guard Regiment's insignia, that being a clone helmet with two crossed rifles with bayonets attached. Below the symbol was a text in aurabesh that read `Spearhead of the Corps`.

The Colonel saw the two as he greeted them with a salute, before turning his attention to the parade. "COMPANIES! ATTENTION!"

Thousands of boots stomped in quick succession as the assembly stood tall and proud in the presence of the Aurek Corps' Field Marshal. Stepping up to a podium next to Maitland, Azure cleared his throat before his mouth opened to speak.

"Good day to you all. As you are all aware, everyone assembled on these grounds is here for one purpose, and one purpose alone. Just to get the record straight, I shall remind you again. All of you are here to go through the selection process for the 501st Guard Regiment. Today, there are six companies assembled here, but by the end of the week, I aim to see only two have the honor of being Guardsmen. Colonel Maitland, if you please."

Maitland then walked up to the podium, "All six companies will be rated based on the following abilities. Parade discipline, bayonet combat, close order tactics, open order tactics, teamwork, and officer abilities. We will be looking for all of these within each and every one of you. Should you fail, then you fail. Pass, then you have the honor of joining the crown jewel of the legion. Is this understood?"

"Yes sir!"

"You think that's Guard material? Louder you waste of birth tanks!"

"Sir, yes sir!"

"We'll cancel the selections if you don't speak up! UNDERSTOOD?!"

"SIR YES SIR!"

"COMPANIES, DISMISSED!"

As soon as Maitland finished his orders, the assembly of troopers began to disperse in an orderly fashion. The Guard Regiment's Colonel crossed his arms as he watched them march off.

"Which companies are these Maitland?" asked Azure, his hands placed behind his back while he waited for an answer.

"6th, 97th, and 81st Infantry Company, 8th Press Company, 62nd Light Company, and 1st Star Company." Moris said as he read the datapad that Maitland gave them.

"Reading their records, I don't like the first three," said Maitland, "They're too used to using the entire armory, and rumor has it that a whole platoon got caught smuggling disruptors once."

Moris interjected, "Allegedly, Maitland. Allegedly."

"It doesn't change the fact that there was still bad press," scoffed Maitland, "If it hadn't been for General Skywalker and Marshal Azure, then this Legion might've been-"

"That's quite enough, both of you," snapped Azure as he looked away, "We'll begin the simulations tomorrow, in the meantime, I want all Company captains lined up at my office in two hours."

"Yes sir!" said the two troopers as they walked off to execute the new orders. A sigh escaped the Marshal as he removed his cap and rummaged through his raven-black hair.

"How fortunate I am to be graced with your presence again," said a voice that was as dry as the sands of Tatooine. Lo and behold, the master and commander of the Independence and the Aurek Corps' Fleet, James Vaux, walked towards the white-coated officer with a warm smile that betrayed the tone of his sarcasm.

Azure smiled as he extended his hand towards his friend, "James, good to see you again."

The Admiral shook his hand as he replied, "Good to see you too, Garreth. I couldn't help myself when you sent me a notice about your return."

"Only for a week, I'm afraid."

Vaux laughed, "Better then! You usually stay for a day or two then disappear!"

The Marshal paused before he chuckled lightly at the quip, "I suppose so. Shall we have lunch in my office? I brought some fresh beef from Remnant's markets. It's probably not the same as the shaak roast back at Dex's Diner, but I figured it's similar enough."

"Very well, but for safety reasons, I'll have a fire extinguisher on standby."

"That stove was faulty and you know it!"

...

Mors waited in anticipation outside the Field Marshal's office.

An hour ago, Colonel Maitland gave him orders to report to the office for an interview. If the exit of the 8th Company's captain was any indication, this was most likely an interview to gauge his abilities to lead his unit as a potential Guard Captain. While his friendship with Captain Sixers allowed him to learn the standards and disciplines that the Guard Regiment practices, applications in the simulator with his men saw little success.

Still, he ought it was better than the rest of his counterparts, with the captains of the 6th, 97th, and 81st being rather lax in this process unlike him and the 8th's captain, Irons. The 62nd, to his surprise, was a special case due to their roles as sharpshooters instead of mainstream infantry. This meant that they were only really applying to either get a spot within the Regiment like the rest of them are, or simply because they thought it'd be fun, which is a common thing for clone sharpshooter units.

Speaking of the 62nd, the Captain left the room, his helmet removed showed a face of calm and collectedness, as did his posture which could mean that the interview was rather successful.

...or he just didn't care what happened in there.

Regardless, when he heard the Marshal's voice call for him, Mors was quick to enter. Standing to attention, his helmet held by his side, he introduced himself, "Captain Mors, 501st Legion, of B Regiment. 1st Star Company of the 1st Battalion, reporting as ordered sir."

The Marshal, his cap and cloak removed, motioned for him to sit down. His face was unreadable as Mors allowed himself to take a seat in front of the Marshal's desk.

"Very well Captain Mors, before we begin, I am correct in assuming that you are well acquainted with Captain Sixers of the 2nd Toro Company, yes?"

Mors nodded, "Yes sir, he was my mentor before the Ord Mantel campaign."

Blue eyes stared at him before their owner began to write on a datapad. "I see, do you aim to use your potential status as a Guard Company as a way of making planetfall?"

"No sir, I only wish to garner more experience in this line of work," replied Mors, unsure why such a question was asked.

"Truly?" Azure raised an eyebrow at him. "Very well then, tell me this Captain, what do you know about the discipline of the bayonet?"

Mors had to sigh in relief at the question. A few months before the Aurek Corps' fated expedition, he and Sixers talked about the famed bayonets that solidified the fame that the Regiment would have. Choosing his words carefully, he answered, "The fixing of the bayonet is more than just attaching a blade to the end of the rifle, sir. It is the discipline of preparing one's self to kill the enemy face-to-face."

Azure did not look impressed as he wrote down something in his datapad. If the answer was wrong, he wouldn't know as the next question was asked, "It has come to my attention that the reason that you are in command of your company was because of the attack on the fleet. Is that correct?"

...

Florrum System, Months before the Aurek Corps' arrival at Remnant

"Hands to battle stations! Hands to battle stations! Enemy ship attacking!"

Mors then ranked as a Lieutenant, felt his head spinning as the sirens of the Independence blared out across the ship. The hallways shook as turbolaser fire rocked the mighty vessel, causing a few clones to lose their balance. The events overtook him as he braced himself from the tremors that threatened to make him fall and injure him.

Prior to the attack, he was due for a meeting with the 1st Star Company, then led by Captain Juno of the 2nd Battalion. The company's barracks were not too far off from where he stood, but before the Lieutenant could open the door, the ship was attacked.

A muffled voice from behind the door started to yell, "We have to go! Bridge reports that the port side shields fluctuated! We'll be blown to- ARGH!" Whoever was on the other side of the door was silenced as an explosion engulfed the other side of the room, much to Mors' horror.

Several more sirens began to wail as a clone naval officer announced the damage. "Damage report! We have a hull breach on the port side barracks! Any close-by units are to seal the main doors till we can conduct repairs!"

Looking behind himself, the Lieutenant found the door controls as he began to make a break for it. A loud crash stopped him in his tracks as the door where the shouting originated broke open, revealing a clone officer in full 501st gear. Behind him, the vacuum of space was pulling him in, but the officer whom Mors now recognized as Juno refused to die yet.

"YOU!" he yelled towards him, "HELP ME, BROTHER!"

Without hesitation, Mors pushed himself back to reach Juno, activating his magnetic boots to remain still as the vacuum continued to pull both of them. He reached out his hand towards Juno, whilst using his other to grab a wall to prevent any further risks.

Juno managed to grab his hand, "Thank you Mors! Now pull!"

Mors nodded as he began to reel the captain towards him, but just then, a shake made Juno lose his footing as he felt himself get off his feet and start to drift into the hole where his bunks were.

"Gah! Pull harder Mors!"

"I'm... trying!"

Unfortunately, another explosion rocked the ship, making the Lieutenant shake his grip and Juno let go entirely as the cold void of space sucked him back into his bunks.

"NO!" cried the two troopers, but it was too late. A second later, Juno was no longer inside the ship, his corpse flying away from the Independence's port side as the battle outside raged on.

Mors soon crawled towards the door controls where he slammed a button, sealing the doors entirely as the PA systems were suddenly filled with the fear of the Admiral's voice.

"ALL HANDS, WE ARE ENTERING A SUDDEN HYPERSPACE JUMP! BRACE YOURSELVES!"

...

Present Time

"I see..." mused Azure, albeit more soft-spoken as he wrote down more notes on his datapad. "Very well, one last question Captain. As you are already aware, every company in the Guard has a specific culture on which they base themselves. Some from systems within the Republic, and some from the Unknown Regions. The companies of the 1st Battalion for example are all made of cultures of the Solar System. Do you have any idea as to what culture your company will be based on?"

Mors had to suppress his shock as he was not prepared for such an inquiry. He was already aware that the Regiment has distinguished units such as Kryze Company of the 2nd Battalion, and the crown jewel of the Regiment, Toro Company of the 1st. However, despite his recognition of these units, he was completely blindsided by the preparations for his unit that he forgot to look up any other cultures.

Deciding it was better, to be honest than dodge the issue, he answered, "Forgive me Marshal Azure, but I can't give an answer yet as to which culture to choose."

Azure looked up at the now Captain Mors before nodding. "Very well, if you do pass, I expect you to have an answer. Report at 0930 tomorrow for your next phase. Dismissed."

The clone stood up again before saluting and leaving the office, hoping that the next day would be better.

The Bridge, RSD Independence

It was early in the morning (as far as mornings go in space) and Azure was faced with the multitude of his Corps Command Staff, ranging from the Marshal Commander of the 501st, the Commanders of the Supplementary Legion, the Commander of the Depot Legion, and finally, the attached 422nd Legion led by Commander Stagger. It was the weekly command briefing today and the objective of each meeting was for the commanders to report the army's actions onboard the ships.

Admiral Vaux was also present, alongside the Navy's captains to confirm any validity of the reports. As expected, the meeting was very much the same as the last meeting, which kept the Field Marshal pleased.

"Thank you, gentlemen, that will be all for this week's meeting," said Azure as he tapped on the bridge's main holotable, "You're all dismissed unless anyone wants to raise any concerns."

A cough from the hologram projection of Commander Jolt caught his attention. "If I may sir, my armored division commanders are wondering about the possibility of an armored deployment at the southern area of Vacuo. I've spoken to Commander Stagger about this and he also agrees that all of our tank divisions could use more practice on solid ground."

"I'll see if I can make an arrangement, Jolt." The Marshal then looked at the projection of Stagger, "I almost forgot Stagger, how is Commander Eadrass?"

Stagger straightened his posture as he replied, "He's currently in the hangars making some adjustments to his ship, sir."

"I see," Azure nods again, "Very well. You're all dismissed, have a good day gentlemen."

As the holoprojections of all the officers faded, the Marshal began to tap in a new frequency into the console. Vaux sought out a wrinkle on his coat as he quipped, "Do you know how much I dread the army?"

"Oh," said Garreth as he continued to work on the console, "I thought it was only me you dreaded."

"I still do Garreth, but I dread the army because the artillery range can only be so loud until I hear it from the bridge," laughed Vaux as he left the command room and toward the bridge, "If you'll need me, I'll be with the more sophisticated gentlemen of the Republic Navy."

"Hmph, those gentlemen can also heed the army's orders too, you know?"

The doors behind the admiral began to close as he replied, "What was that? I can't hear you over the sound of the sophisticated members of my crew-" And then just like that, the elderly man robbed Azure of the chance to make another reply.

"You're impossible old man," chuckled the Marshal as the holoprojector began to display another clone officer. It was hard to mistake for anyone else as the distinct paint job of the traditional 501st markings, and the small touches of red on the helmet and chest plate gave away which officer it was.

"Good morning, Marshal Azure," greeted Sixers as he saluted his officer from the hologram. From the look of the background, the captain was most likely in Golf Shed Headquarters or his barracks.

Azure nodded, allowing the Sixers to drop his salute. "Good morning Sixers, how goes the day today?"

"Nothing major, fortunately," began the captain, "Most of the students have been training for the festival all day, so I'd guess they have less time to cause any trouble."

"And what about our resident false maiden?" asked Azure, a more tense tone lined up in his voice.

"Nothing from her either. I've had Foster run a diagnostic scan on the CCTS, not with our datapads of course, and so far we haven't found anything unusual inside the system."

"Hmm... how about Mister Arc? I hope he's still honing his skills."

Sixers scratched the back of his helmet, which did not do any favors for the Marshal's hopes. "Well... I've actually stopped training him in leadership, sir. The kid's a natural at it, so I've had him take on a few of the men to help his combat."

"And...?"

"He can hold his own against a squad but against the likes of me, not exactly favorable," reported Sixers, unsure if that was the right thing to do.

"Sixers, be serious. You managed to beat Weiss Schnee of all people last week," deadpanned the Marshal, remembering the dirty tricks that the Toro Captain used.

"When you put it like that, then I guess the kid's coming along just fine in that department too. Maybe just a bit dense from what I hear though..." The last part was more of a mumble, and it didn't sound right to Azure. "What do you mean by that last part?"

"Just some idle gossip that Gus got," replied Sixers. "He says that Miss Nikos has a thing for the kid, but he hasn't noticed the signs. I wouldn't know about that stuff anyway."

Azure couldn't help but rub the bridge of his nose as he carried on. "I'll ask for military gossip below when I'm planetside again. Is that all?"

"Actually, one more thing sir," said Sixers as he looked through a datapad, "I was reading a medical report on Lieutenant Stoic the other day and it left me wondering when he'll actually wake up."

The question caused Azure to blink twice, but he replied regardless, "The good doctor is still unconscious I'm afraid. His seniors think that it'll take another month for him before he wakes up."

"I see... very good sir. Will that be all?"

"One more thing actually Captain," said Azure as he pulled out, "Did you know your old friend Mors is applying for a spot in the Guard Regiment?"

"He is? Huh... I didn't even know he got promoted..."

"The circumstances were rather unfortunate if you remember Captain Juno."

"Oh! He's leading Star Company then?"

"Indeed, I also know he understands that just because he's friends with my prized Company captain, doesn't guarantee him a spot on my blue-spearhead," quipped Azure.

"Well, what stage is he in now?"

"Combat trials. Maitland is overseeing them."

...

Simulation Room 24, RSD Independence

"Rear rank! Fire!"

"Advance!"

The simulation room was as noisy as it usually is as two ranks of the 1st Star Company demonstrated their closed-order tactic of firing and advancing. The colonel of the Guard Regiment stood behind a fence as he watched the display before him. After watching the rest of the companies perform this drill, Maitland was only really impressed with two of the companies.

The 8th Press Company was a well-oiled machine that moved in perfect cohesion as they fired and advanced through the simulated masses of Grimm. Their movements were comparable to that of the discipline that a Terran army had, specifically the Prussians if his memory served him correctly. The 1st Star Company also showed similar results as their timing and accuracy were on point as they snapped into position after position.

"Halt! Engage at will!" shouted Mors as he and his men broke the two ranks and scattered into an open-order formation akin to that of a skirmish line. Without firing in turn, the troopers allowed themselves to either fire in bursts, or fully automatic as they reached the end of the simulation.

When the last "Grimm" died, Mors ordered his men to cease fire and return to their double ranks formation. His men quickly followed the orders as they presented themselves before Maitland, who finished writing on his datapad.

"Good," was all the colonel could say about the display, "Now listen up! The last simulation will involve bayonet combat drills. You'll be fighting requisitioned and reprogrammed IG-100 Magna Guards as your opponents."

As if on cue, a platform began to open up, revealing a platoon-sized unit of the aforementioned droids with metal poles instead of their dreaded stun staffs. It was then announced that the 6th Infantry would go first. The troopers began to grab their rifles from an armory rack and fixed the bayonets given to them.

Maitland tapped on a console and began to gesture for the platoon of the company to get ready. The rest of the troopers were ordered to stand on the sides as they anxiously watched.

The 6th's troopers soon moved up towards the waiting Magna Droids and were immediately met with heavy resistance as their opponents rushed to the center of the platoon's formation. The troopers were thrown off by the momentum, especially since they weren't braced to receive such a push as the first line collapsed in a heap of men.

Troopers behind them were fortunately quick to pick up the slack as they thrust their bayonets right into their attackers. The blades managed to penetrate the metal sheets of the droids as the collapsed men from earlier rose to their feet and pushed forward, using their momentum to compensate for their earlier blunder.

Soon, the training field was a scattered mess of troopers and droids as one-on-one fights broke out between the two. The 6th's Captain was currently in a deadlock with the droid's leader, with its indicator being a white cloth wrapped around the droid's head.

CT-8220 better known as Captain Kilo was an excellent hand-to-hand combatant, but unfortunately, he could only match commando droids according to his record. It showed when the IG-100 managed to sweep him off his feet before swinging its staff toward the blue-striped helmet, an audible thunk echoing on the grounds as the clone officer collapsed.

Without their captain, the unit barely held together, while the platoon's lieutenant rallied them again before coordinating an assault as the troopers followed their leader into the fray.

Above the rafters of the training ground, were Commander Moris and Colonel Maitland, the latter looking displeased at the display while the former held a bit of sympathy for the small platoon of soldiers.

"Sloppy," remarked the Colonel of the Guard, his arms crossed as he watched the poor performance of the soldiers below. Moris thought that it wasn't exactly poor, but if compared to the standards required by the Guard.

"Could be worse," quipped the 501st's Commander, "The droids could've broken them instead."

"Yeah, that's not exactly a good thing, sir."

Something told Moris that Maitland was being harsh, but looking back at the display, he could not deny that there was merit in his dismissal.

"62nd, you're up!", shouted the Colonel, his voice bellowing with authority, prompting the next company to move to their position as quickly as possible.

1st Star Company Barracks, RSD Independence

Mors stared at his datapad intently, his eyes making sure to understand every significant and minute detail of the video. The content he was watching was a video of the 2nd Toro Company's parade drills. Each step they took was well timed and well placed as the company advanced in the column on the grounds of Coruscant's military depot. This was a few days after they were risen to the status of Guard Company, and were expected to display themselves in front of the Senate and the public.

At the front of the formation was Captain Sixers, armor showing no stain nor dent as he led his men in the column. His vibrosword was drawn and at his side, as he marched to the beat of the drums, his own men mirroring his example as they marched in perfect unison.

The display troubled Mors as he watched on. A lieutenant from behind him watched over his shoulder, and mused, "We can do the basic drill sir if that's what you're worried about."

Mors turned to face his visitor as he raised an eyebrow, "Ah, lieutenant, sorry didn't see you there."

The helmetless officer grinned, "Ah don't sweat it, Captain. I know you're worried about the drill test tomorrow, so I have the company assembling at an empty hangar at Deck 2."

Eyebrows were raised as the lieutenant continued, "If you'd like to join us and help us practice, then I think we can all benefit from it."

"Well..." Mors couldn't argue with that, "Anything that helps I guess."

In minutes, he was in full armor and was being led to the hangar that was mentioned. They would pass crew members, marines, and soldiers of the army alike. Sooner still, he was in the hangar, where the soldiers of his company...

His company... he's still not sure what the Marshal thinks of him after being raised to the position by only sheer chance. While he was proud to call himself a competent soldier, he wasn't sure if the staff of the Aurek Corps thought the same. Each officer within the corps had been raised to their position through merit. Mors considered himself the exception to the rule, as his duties since his officer graduation in Kamino were staff duties, and never once did he lead a combat unit until he was temporarily placed under the command of Sixers back when Toro Company was just a regular trooper unit.

During that time, he was able to show his skill... as a man of logistics. When it came to combat, Mors was barely able to keep his blaster on him before he found himself back on a datapad, rummaging through paperwork of any variety. There he earned a nickname he came to dread, pencil pusher, some troopers said when they watched him busy himself with his datapad.

It was made in poor taste, and Sixers was swift and merciless when he heard the comment. It made Mors thankful that Sixers accepted him, despite his background, and felt a certain need to one day repay the favor. Still, when Toro Company turned into the 2nd Toro Company of Guardsmen, he was left behind as the company was at full strength at the time, which meant he didn't need to transfer. This left him rotating between units until his appointment as the leader of Star Company.

The first few days were rough. After losing all the officers, and he did mean that all the company's previous officers had perished during the attack on the flagship, he had to start raising a new staff, with sergeants being raised to lieutenants, and corporals being raised to sergeants. The ordeal was quite eventful for Mors, but luckily, he was good at logistics. The next couple of months were dedicated to training the unit to better both himself and the new leaders of his unit.

Soon, with enough work from his... yes... he guessed that he'd served alongside them enough to call them his own. Afterwards, he and his unit soon managed to prove themselves to be a formidable unit, passing various simulations and field practices day and night. However, this selection was something new, and Mors wanted to win more than anything, not just for himself, but for the soldiers under his command.

"Company! Captain on deck! Attention!" announced the lieutenant as he and Mors entered, his company rising to their feet as they shouldered their rifles before it was followed by a united stomp.

Mors nodded at them before speaking, "Right brothers. Tomorrow, the company will be run out for our final test, which involves parade drills and I'll be very blunt when I say this, we aren't the most capable when it comes to marching in rigorous maneuvers."

Several helmets looked at their CO in confusion.

"But right now, that won't matter. Today, we have time to prepare and better ourselves just like the first time we reorganized. Now's our time to... reach for the stars- pun not intended."

Now several giggles from his unit circled around.

"...I don't know how else to say this, but it's time for us to move up in the Legion. This our chance to show to the Marshal that we are capable of being the elite guardsmen he needs," continued Mors, "I asked every one of you, and all of you said the same thing. So I swear to you as your captain, that tomorrow, we'll be Guardsmen of the 501st. So, who's ready to work for it?"

"I DO SIR!"

"Good, company, form the column!"

Star Company was quick to respond to the command, arranging themselves by platoon as the makings of a column began to take place. The clones were shoulder to shoulder, ready to receive their next orders. His lieutenant dutifully approached him, a level of uncertainty in his body posture, "Sir, what about being in sync? We can only do so much until our march looks out of step."

"Shoulder arms!" continued Mors, his gaze looking around the room.

Rifles were immediately rested on their right shoulders, done so in excellent synchronization. Then, as Mors was about to say something about crossing the bridge, he found the possible solution to their problem. Their drummers in training were practicing their needed beats for the final trials, and then it hit Mors.

"Drummers, front and center on the double, beat the marching pace!" exclaimed the captain as he gave his lieutenant a look, "Everyone listen up! The key to marching is to follow the drums. We sync our step to the beat, and we might just pull this off! Understood?"

"YES SIR!"

"Star Company, prepare to advance! Right shoulders forward, march!"

RSD Independence, Remnant

Azure watched with a small grin on his face as he watched the 8th Press Company march towards his stand in perfect order, their DC-15As were adorned with bayonets that shone under the light of the room. Captain Irons was at the front of his troops, a training sword in his hand as they continued forward.

"Company! HALT!"

Press Company stopped moving, their last step was a single stomp that echoed across the assembly ground. Schmidt took two paces forward before yelling, "Press Company, general salute! Present ARMS!"

As expected, the troopers held their rifles in position, while their Captain saluted the Marshal with his sword before announcing, "8th Press Company, at your service, sir."

The Marshal nodded, looking towards Maitland who was dutifully writing down on a datapad. The Guard's Colonel nodded at him in approval of the display which prompted Azure to wave the unit off to the side to make way for the next and last company.

Drums began to beat a rhythm as the sound of Star Company's approach began to fill the air. The unit was formed into a column with Mors at the head of the formation. The troopers marched with the same professionalism as Press Company, as each step accompanied the beat of the drums.

"Company! HALT!"

Sergeants began marching up and down the line, as the rest of the men held their place. Once satisfied, Mors began to issue the next order, "Company, forward... march!"

Like an arrow from a bow, the column of men shot forward as they moved with the precision that could mimic the performance of Press Company. Drums allowed them to stay in perfect order as they maneuvered through the marching grounds of the ship.

This was exactly what Mors had planned last night as he felt glee each step of their march. It was true that at best, his company was slightly behind at marching, but a beat was all he needed to get them moving, and their drummer was on point.

"They seem to be on top of things," remarked Azure as he watched the clones continue their routine. Maitland said nothing as he continued to observe Star Company to every small detail. Moris spared a glance at the Colonel, but could only make heads or tails on what he had in mind. Looking back at the parade, he observed the drummers as they shifted their beat, rapid taps indicating the preparation of their maneuver, which was to wheel their line to the left as they neared the parade corner.

Mors then moved to the side as he placed himself on the corner, providing Star Company with the marker they needed to execute the maneuver. Soon, platoons began to wheel to the left in an almost fluid-like motion, their march still in sync with the drum beats. If Colonel Maitland was disappointed or impressed, he didn't mention as much, but to his credit, he gave a nod towards the Azure. The latter continued to watch the display before him and if one would look carefully, one could catch a feint grin behind his hand.

Maitland, finally spoke up, "That trick isn't unheard of, and from their previous practices in marching, then this is practically their best one yet."

"That almost sounds like a compliment Maitland," smiled Commander Moris, a slightly cheeky tone hidden in his voice.

The Guard Colonel looked to his commander, "I don't do compliments, sir. I'm simply stating that this is a positive improvement."

"Dare to say that they could make guard material then?" asked Azure, joining the two clones.

"You and I both know that you have the final say in the matter sir," replied Maitland, his gaze returning to Star Company as they halted in front of them, almost completing their maneuvers.

The troopers had done well in their wheeling, their formation not breaking in the slightest due to Mors' guidance, and now they were off to complete their trials. The drummers continued to dictate the speed of the marching as they approached the three superior officers at the stand awaiting to receive their salute.

Mors looked in the distance between them and the officers and then finally shouted, "COMPANY! HALT!" His men grounded to a clean stop and awaited their final orders, their captain rested his practice sword on his shoulder before he yelled, "Star Company, general salute! Present arms!"

Star Company was quick to respond as they unshouldered their rifles, holding their rifles vertically at the center of their torso. The whole unit then stomped as one, completing their trial as Mors saluted with his sword, "1st Star Company, reporting for duty sir!"

Azure nodded towards the Captain, "Very good captain, reverse wheel your company to the right. Maitland, summon the rest of the companies to the parade grounds."

Soon, the room was once again filled with all the six companies who were vying for the two vacant spots of the guard regiment, everyone now wandering the final verdict as the three senior officers discussed amongst themselves. One would occasionally look at the gathered troopers before returning to the discussion. Mors looked after his men as they waited for the verdict. Other captains were doing the same to certain degrees, with the 6th's leader not looking all too concerned most likely due to him not being too serious in joining the guards. The 97th and 81st were jeering at each other in good spirits due to a rivalry they had if Mors had to guess. Then there's the steeled look of the 8th Press Company as the officers and sergeants were discussing amongst themselves as well.

Just then, Maitland came to the head of the stand and began barking out orders, "6th, 91st, 87th, and the 62nd, stand down and ground arms!"

Immediately, there was a flurry of motion as troopers began to position themselves accordingly while the Press and Star Company watched dutifully, awaiting their own orders. Azure's own voice soon echoed out, "Captain Irons and Mors, step up to the front!"

The two looked at each other and then nodded as they approached the stand. Their Marshal's gaze was unwavering as they stopped in front of him, both standing to attention as they waited for the next step.

"Take off your helmets gentlemen."

They did as such.

"Captain Irons, your company has performed admirably and has met all expectations. As such, you and your men will be elevated to the position of Guardsmen, and will be rebranded as the 8th Preussen Company of Guardsmen."

Behind the Field Marshal, came Colonel Maitland, a sword, and a pole in hand. He handed these to the latter who then turned back to Irons, "Your sword, made into a traditional and sleek saber. May it serve you well as you have and will serve this Galactic Republic." Irons then grasped his new sheathed weapon, removing it from its scabbard to reveal the whitened steel of the vibroblade, its blade as sharp as physically possible, and its handle adorned in black and gold with the switch at the base. Then he returned it into its sheath as he turned to the pole.

"This is your company's standard," Azure continued, "You will endeavor to use it as a symbol to rally our soldiers in times of difficulty, and to celebrate serenity in times of peace. It shall be one of your vital tools as you continue your duty as a soldier of the Republic and its principles."

The 8th Preussen Company captain grasped the pole in his right hand, his helmet still clutched in his arms as he looked at the pole where he would put his flag to finally complete his unit's identity as 501st Guardsmen. At the bottom of the pole, he noticed a small button that looked out of place. The top of the pole also had a strange shape at the top.

Maitland then spoke up, "You will be debriefed alongside the other captain about equipment later. Stand easy Guardsmen Captain Irons."

"Captain Mors," said Azure, now looking at him, "Your company has also performed admirably, meeting expectations and defying some. You've proven to me that your leadership since you took over Star Company is as solid as your will to be made guardsmen. You and your men will also become guardsmen of Aurek Corps' spear and will be rebranded into the 1st..."

The pause left many dumbfounded as the Field Marshal pondered. "Hmm... it escaped my mind that you never told me what culture you'll be following. Have you thought of an answer?"

Panic came over Mors as he wracked his brain for an answer. Despite his conversation with the Marshal a few days ago, he still hasn't taken the time to choose a culture that his company will adopt. Then, he thought hard about one of the journals he read from the official documentaries of the Aurek Corps' expeditions. His company was new to the concept of being guardsmen, but even then, they carried on with the drills and training with much vigor that few outside the 501st would display. They were loyal to a fault not only to the Republic but also to their commanders. General Skywalker, Commander Tano, Commander Rex, and now Field Marshal Azure. The traits of his company were hardly anything new to the Clone Army, but he had imagined that perhaps he could match it akin to a fondness of their leader due to their experience.

The Garde Imperiale, he recalled, was a unit of soldiers that were loyal not only to their leader's cause but to their leader himself. His unit was too fresh to consider themselves the creme of the crop of the Guard Regiment, but the tenacity that he and his men were willing to offer could certainly be matched by the..."

"Sir, I believe the Young Guard of the Terran French Empire would make a perfect unit to base ourselves on," Mors said, hesitant at first, but firm as he looked at Azure for his dismissal.

Instead, he got something else entirely.

"Interesting choice Mors, I would ask why, but I think I'll ask that for a later date. Very well, Captain Mors, your company will now be renamed into the 1st Juenne Company of Guardsmen."

Maitland once again gave Azure a sword and a pole, and like last time, offered them to Mors.

"Your sword, also made in a traditional fashion. Its craftsmanship is as fine as your dedication to being more for the Republic. May you use it as a fine instrument of war, so that this galaxy may know peace." The sword was removed from its sheath by Mors as he inspected the blade, which was the same as Irons' own. He supposed that he could make his own adjustments later as he returned it into its sheath as he received his flag pole. "Your company standard. It will be your tool to ensure that your brothers know that this company will know no fear as they are together as one in rallying behind this flag for the good of the people of the galaxy. May those who wish to smother this bright flame that is our cause know fear as they gaze upon this."

Then, the pole was passed to Juenne Company's captain as he held it with a firm grip. Azure smiled at his new guard captains, "You may fall in gentlemen."

The two put their helmets back on as they saluted the Marshal before returning to their companies. Maitland then spoke up, "As for the rest of you, your volunteering to these trials has been noted and will reflect positively for trying." He turned to the 1st and 8th Companies, "Captain Irons and Mors, welcome to my regiment, you will be folded into the 1st Battalion's reserve as you begin your induction."

"Brothers of the 501st," began Moris as he finally took to the stand, "A round of cheers for 8th Preussen Company and 1st Juenne Company!"

Despite what some would assume, the losing companies accepted that they were not cut out for guardsmen, so they celebrated the success of their winning counterparts with a round of cheers. Some clapped, others yelled their congratulations.

Through all that, Mors had a bright smile under his helmet, his first step into bringing his company to success has now been taken. He is now ready for the next few, be it on the training grounds of the RSD Independence, or the fields of Remnant.

It's been almost 10 months since I last updated, and my only excuse is laziness and writer's block. I'm already in university so it's been a very solid while. I cannot guarantee a full comeback again, but I'll try. Also, this particular chapter is a filler that I've had in reserve since 7 months ago, the fact that I finally finished it might be my chance to get this ball rolling again.

Anyways, season three begins, and we might finally see the biggest change to the main story that I've had planned. Make sure to leave a review so I can always improve on my storytelling and my plotline. Until then, this is where I get off!

Stay healthy and stay frosty because that's soldiering!