Spray Kicker didn't win any favours from his family by walking away from his "destiny." He wanted to paint; they wanted him to serve. Spending time pursuing his true destiny was rewarding, except to the ponies who were related to him.

So, he dropped by Fort Lancer in the San Paolomino desert, accompanied by Twilight Velvet, one of Equestria's most accomplished authors, in search of inspiration. What he found was...himself. Himself, and a lot of other, less pleasant, things.

Tangentially part of the Winningverse.

Following graduation, Twilight accompanies Shinning Armour to his favourite watering hole, which happens to be the sketchiest dive bar in Equestria, for a post graduation celebratory drink. What could go wrong?

Well, aside from everything.

Shinning Armour starts his career in Equestria' Royal Guards, and his experiences and adventures within his first year dealing with the delusional and insane...and maybe finding a moment to do his service for Equestria. That too.