Okay, interested.
I just need to choose the right pony for this...I know! I'll have the host decide on his fate.
Ahem.
As Crossed Swords entered the castle grounds, one of the first things he noticed was...
1. A young unicorn noblemare in heated discussion with what seemed to be her seniors, gesturing to the palace and a blueprint. Though her companions were indeed older, it seemed the fill- young mare was calling the shots, ordering in a confident, commanding tone.
2. An elderly, former guard pegasus land behind him, with an earth pony maid in tow. The pegasus' armour suggested great responsibility, a former guard of the princess herself, whilst the mare, not that young herself wore simple garb, but had a look as sharp as knives.