> I'm Sorry it had to Come to This
>  by Bright Keys
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Return
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	It was a bright sunny day in Ponyville. The sky was clear, aside from the odd cloud that was scheduled to be spared from the scrutinizing gaze of the pegasi. The train station was abuzz with purple clad guards, casually interacting as they awaited for the train to arrive from Canterlot. Now that Twilight Sparkle was a princess with her own palace, along with the appearance of a changeling at a wedding, sparked a vote for Ponyville to receive its own guard force. The case took months to go through, in the meantime the small town had expanded, and was now a borderline city. Despite this, life was still sleepy and slow in Ponyville, and while there was still situations the guards had to dissolve, it was mostly mediating petty disputes in the market. Work was slow in Ponyville, meaning that most of the guards were given permission to greet their new leader.
The dull roar the guards were creating died down as the sounds of an engine broke the crisp Autumn air. The guards stood at attention by the time the train screeched to a halt, their breath visible in the cold morning air. A final puff marked the train stopping, and four guards filed out, taking their positions as the Captain of the Guard walked out of the train. She stopped in front of the line of soldiers who had assembled themselves, staring them down with her purple-red eyes. At one point those eyes held a wild spark, a desire for the next big thrill, but as she glared analytically at the guards, it was clear that the Rainbow Dash before them was not the same Rainbow Dash who was known for her arrogance and slothfulness.
“What is our goal?” She asked after a minute.
“To protect the peace of Ponyville.” The guards answered in unison.
“And will we use violence as a first response?”
“No ma’am. We will talk through issues, and safely apprehend those who do not cooperate.”
“How many are you?”
“Thirty, minus the four you brought with you.” One guard responded.
“That's funny, I only count twenty-five.” Rainbow Dash stated, starting to pace up and down the line as the guards she arrived with informed the train it could leave.
“Five of us volunteered to patrol while we greeted you.” Another reported.
Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to speak, but was interrupted by one of her guards who walked quickly up to her and whispered in her ear.
“Let them in.” She replied to the guard, who scurried off once more.
“Introducing to the station, visitors to greet the Captain.” There was a pause as two guards motioned five ponies to enter one at a time.
“Princess Twilight Sparkle, princess of friendship and guardian of Ponyville. Rarity, the seamstress. Fluttershy, animal caretaker. Pinkie Pie, baker. Applejack, apple farmer.” The five ponies entered as they were introduced, smiles on their faces as they greeted their old friend. Rainbow Dash looked at the guards.
“You are dismissed. Tell those five guards I would like to meet with them later.” The guards stated an affirmation and filed out of the train station, greeting the visitors as they passed.
“It’s so good to see you again Rainbow!” Rarity piped up after a while.
“Yeah. It’s hard to believe it’s been a year already.” Rainbow Dash replied, loosening her stance a little. A gaze from one of the four guards who had accompanied her in training watched her carefully. They were her personal elite guards, and they would follow her everywhere unless she told them otherwise, which she did.
“How about you four take the rest of the day off. I’m with my friends, and can take care of myself. The other twenty-five guards can take care of the well-being of Ponyville.” The guards nodded and filed out.
“Ponyville’s changed a lot since you left. New buildings and homes have been going up left and right.” Twilight said, stepping forward a bit.
“Sweet Apple Acres have gotten a little crowded because of this. We’re hoping to buy some property well out of the expansion zone.” Applejack added.
“Ohmygosh! ItoldmyselfI’dbeascalmaspossiblewhenyoucamebackbutIcan’thold itinanymoreImissedyousomuchRainbowDashandIcan’twaittostartworkingonyourwelcomehomeparty!” Pinkie Pie suddenly blurted out.
“It’s good to see you too Pinkie Pie.” Rainbow Dash said with a bit of a chuckle, “in fact, I missed all of you. Training to be the captain of Ponyville’s guard force took longer and was more difficult than I expected.” Indeed the year that Rainbow Dash had been gone had probably been the toughest year of her life. Sunup to sundown she was out fighting and exercising, as well as taking classes on tactics and how to take the diplomatic approach in nearly any situation (a class that Twilight insisted all guards to enter her service take). Despite this, Rainbow Dash had put on quite a bit of muscle just in case talking didn’t work out. This was the first thing Rarity had noticed when Rainbow had stepped off the train in her armor, and she furrowed her brow as she said,
“I’m afraid I’ll need to take new measurements the next time you’re available.” She quickly caught herself. “I’m so glad that the blacksmiths in Canterlot were able to craft the armor so precise to my designs, and that it looks so well on you.”
“If you all don’t mind, I’d like to see what’s changed about Ponyville in the year I’ve been gone.” Rainbow Dash stated, gesturing to the doors behind them.
“Of course.” Twilight Sparkle said with a smile. Rainbow Dash walked past her friends and opened the doors of the station, gazing out at the town. The core hadn’t changed one bit, but it was just that: Ponyville Core. It wasn’t hard to look out in any direction and see the buildings become taller and more “modern,” with the occasional framework being built. Equally different were the ponies. There were so many that Rainbow didn’t recognize. A blue maned yellow stallion, a pink maned purple mare. The changelings that happily tagged along with the two as if they were in love.

> Interlude: Her Country's Call
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

One Year Ago
It was midday in Canterlot, and in the Canterlot Castle Meeting Room, The three princesses, Twilight Sparkle, Celestia, and Luna, as well as the chief military agents in Equestria, Shining Armor and Spitfire, were gathered around the table. The room was dead silent, and had remained that way for a few minutes, due to nobody in the room wanting to be the first to address the situation. Finally it was Luna, tired and irritated from having to wake up in the middle of her sister’s cycle, who broke the silence.
“Twilight Sparkle,” she said as if only half awake, “Due to ponies realizing your regal status, your residence of Ponyville has boomed in population as ponies from all over Equestria have flocked to live close to what they hope will be another focal point in Equestrian culture. As a result, less than satisfactory characters have moved in, raising the crime rate. Coupled with the recent pushes for Changeling rights, it is recommended that you organize a royal guard before ponies rise up to take the place of one.”
“Yes, that much I understand, but Ponies aren’t exactly rushing to my castle doors asking to join the army!” was Twilight’s rebuttal.
“I have thought of this, and have come up with a solution.” Celestia replied, “there are thirty guards currently finishing up training who shine above the rest, which Shining Armor can attest to,” as if on cue, Shining nodded agreement, “these thirty will travel to Ponyville once their training is complete, and will serve as your personal guard force.”
“As I pointed out when we discussed this earlier, they still need a captain.” Shining Armor interjected. “I’d volunteer, but I have a higher obligation to the Crystal Empire.”
“Well, we could train one of the thirty you’re already sending.” Twilight Sparkle replied.
“That’d involve putting them through advanced training that would delay their arrival by at least a year and a half.” Shining Armor informed.
“I might have an idea.” Spitfire spoke up, to the shock of everypony else in the room, seeing as all she had done up to the point was stare down whomever was speaking.
“Well, don’t just leave us in suspense. Tell us!” Princess Luna practically shouted.
“Rainbow Dash.” Spitfire said with a slight smile, placing her hooves on the table as if the choice were obvious. Twilight Sparkle stifled a laugh as Shining Armor looked shocked. He immediately spoke up.
“I cannot even begin to list off the various ways she is not the proper choice.” He placed a hoof on his forehead.
“While I admit that she’s reckless, headstrong, hotheaded, a thrill seeker, irresponsible, and lazy, She’s also surprisingly strong, blisteringly fast, and her loyalty is rivaled by none, a trait that can be attested by Twilight Sparkle. Another plus is that she’s a local who knows the ponies and the area. She’s also a fast learner, and since she idolizes me and the rest of my team, we can use this as leverage, creating a custom training regimen that ensures that in the first phase she works with us, before moving her to Canterlot to begin the core of her training. I’m sure that some time with her idols will humble her, and discipline will come naturally with how we’ll fill up her schedule.”
“I also want some input on the plan. Are those guards ready to go to Ponyville yet?” Twilight added.
“They will be in a couple months. Maybe less.” Shining Armor said with a hint of pride.
“Teach them as much diplomacy and psychology as you can in that time. I’d rather have my guards talk their way out of situations then fight through them.”
“I’ll ensure that is done.” Shining Armor bowed slightly. “But the previous matter is still on the table. What are we going to do about your captain? As much as I’d hate recommend Rainbow Dash, Spitfire has a point. With a strict regimen and close contact with her heroes, Rainbow Dash might just straighten out.” Twilight closed her eyes and thought for a moment.
“Do it.”
> Integration
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Rainbow Dash took in the scene.
“So,” she said after a couple of moments, “I see Canterlot isn’t the only city to adopt Changeling integration laws.”
“Oh yeah, there’s changelings everywhere. It’s actually suuupppeeer fun!” Pinkie Pie shouted.
“A lot of changelings come here to gain Equestrian citizenship, seeing as in Canterlot it’s more expensive and there’s a lot more paperwork. Here, you say the Oath, live under surveillance and in a disguise for a few days, and then you’re given citizenship.” Twilight added, proud that she had helped come up with a way for the weakened changelings to easily find new lives.
“I’ve been working with a few to create dresses that change with their magic. So far they only change color, but I hope with time that we’ll be able to change the entire dress.” Rarity said, thinking of the countless possibilities of being able to create a dress that was actually two dresses.
“I’m just so surprised at how many there are here undisguised. I mean sure, it’s their choice whether or not they want to be disguised or not, but in Canterlot, disguised changelings are required to identify themselves somehow, which often results in changelings getting a lot of streets to themselves.” Rainbow stated, gawking at another couple.
“Well, you have to think. Canterlot was the focal point of the invasion. Any changelings here were either flung here in the explosion, or they wandered here after hearing the news that changelings were being offered citizenship.” Twilight reasoned.
“And what are the rules here for feeding? We both know what happens when they get enough love.” Rainbow Dash asked, raising an eyebrow.
“That’s up to the couple. A changeling is never alone here. They are told to go to Match Maker’s Meet-N-Greet. There they will, if they’re lucky, be able to find somepony to at least be their friend. They can survive off of friendship. Oftentimes, the pony tells the changeling when to stop.” Twilight replied.
“If only it were that easy in Canterlot.” Rainbow dash muttered.
“You have to give ponies time Rainbow. Ponyville is well aware of what the changelings did, but they’re familiar with acceptance and forgiveness. Compare that to Canterlot. A bustling city full of rich ponies.” Twilight stated, putting an arm around Rainbow’s neck and motioning with the other hoof at the city before them.
“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” Rainbow Dash replied, sitting down, “it probably doesn’t help that I’m used to the Ponyville life as well.”
“Well, you’re back home now, and now you can help changelings get the lives they deserve!” Twilight smiled, “and maybe the guards up there will hear about you here and things might change up in the capital.”
“I’m sure you’ll do fine darling!” Rarity assured. Rainbow stood up, shaking off Twilight’s hoof.
“Yeah! I am me after all!” she said, placing a hoof on her chest. As she held the pose, she felt a sudden gurgling. She’d had a light breakfast that day due to her excitement to return to Ponyville and see her friends, and she was starting to regret the decision.
“Could we… stop by somewhere?” Rainbow Dash asked, turning to the rest, “I’m not really supposed to make requests like this, but I’m kind of off hours.” She rolled her eyes over to Twilight Sparkle, who made no indication of disapproval of Rainbow’s request.
“Of course!” Twilight replied, “the more accustomed to the new changes in Ponyville, the more prepared you’ll be to defend it.”
“I was just thinking of going to Sugarcube Corner. Get something light enough to tide me over for a few hours.” Rainbow Dash stated.
“In all honesty, it was in my plans today to go get something to eat. I doubt any of us have had anything too substantial in excitement. That and I’ve gotten us all dinner reservations.” Twilight Sparkle explained as she started walking again.
Rainbow dash couldn’t help but gawk at the changelings that were practically everywhere. After a few minutes she had estimated that for every five or so ponies, there was at least one changeling. Each one seemed to sport a different rate of decay, as lack of a steady supply of love caused the effect seen in most changelings. Some were practically walking on stilts, while others had whole legs and wings. As the group walked along, Rainbow caught something out of the corner of her eye. A pony looked around suspiciously before entering an alleyway, before entering. That would have been odd enough, but the green flash that Rainbow spotted sparked her curiosity, and she broke away from the group, making her way over to two guards leaning against their spears making conversation.
“You two,” she stated. The two guards snapped to attention.
“What can we do for you captain?” One asked.
“I’ve spotted some suspicious activity in that alleyway. You two will block off all possible exits, ensuring that you are not seen.” The two guards nodded with a grunt of approval, marching to the back of the alley. The trap was set up, now Rainbow Dash just needed to catch her prey. 
Taking a deep breath, she lunged up into the air with a sweep of her now much more powerful wings. Despite the force of the take off, her heavy metal armor still threatened to drag her down to the earth. Her armor was meant to be heavier and more ornate than any of the other guards, and she whispered a thank you under her breath to Shining Armor, who had permitted her to leave her helm in Canterlot and have it sent to Twilight’s castle later. Right now the last thing she needed was the heavy, full-face helmet obscuring her vision and weighing her down even more.
Your armor is your best friend. The statement from Shining Armor rang through in her head. He had told her this after she complained about how it hindered her ability to fly. It might not be rational to give a pegasus a heavier set of armor, but it’s there to protect you and set you apart from the other guards.
Rainbow Dash set down on the shingle roof as gently as she could, making little noise. Below her, her fear were realized. Three changelings stood there, talking about something.
“Are the receptacles ready?” The one closest to the back of the alley asked.
“Very nearly. I’ve been sacrificing my own food for months now.” One of the two closest to the street half-whined. Rainbow Dash saw a glint out of the corner of her eye. The guards were in place, hiding behind some miscellaneous debris and using a shard of metal to signal to her.
“You can have all the love you want once we fill the receptacles and give them to Tankrii.” The changeling closest to the wall shot back. Rainbow Dash wasn’t entirely sure what they were talking about, but she didn’t like it. She stood to her full height and glared down at the changelings below them.
“You three have shown that you have intent to betray the agreement between changelings and Equestria!” She declared boldly, getting surprised glances from the three as their conversation was interrupted. The other two guards took this as the signal and leapt out from behind the barrels. In a moment the one closest to the wall was subdued by the first, and the two at the street fled. Rainbow Dash swooped down, allowing the armor to carry her down and land with impressive force in front of one. The other had not been so fortunate, as the other guard had overtaken him and arrested him.
“Conspiracy and resisting arrest. Surrender now kid, before somepony gets hurt.” Rainbow Dash said with a smirk as she stared down at the clearly terrified bug. His eyes darted back and forth, and his face lit up. With a flash of green magic, he disappeared, and Rainbow Dash looked back and saw him running towards… her friends. A new fire lit within her, she ran as fast as she could and took off, plowing straight into the changeling and tackling him to the ground just before he reached the five, hair-thin cracks appearing on his exoskeleton.
“Tankrii!” The changeling shouted up at the group. Applejack hid herself behind her hat. “Tankrii help! They’ve found us!”
“Ah… I don’t know who this is.” Applejack stated. Was that fear in her tone?
“Tankrii, c’mon.. you… you know me! I’m T’zackle!” The changeling, T’zackle shouted back up, the spark of hope that had appeared in his eyes rapidly fading.
“I’ve never seen this changeling before in my life.” Even with her face hidden, it was clear she was lying. Rainbow Dash shifted into a position of more leverage, and applied more pressure onto his back. The sound of cracking exoskeleton broke the heavy air.
“Who is this Tankrii, traitor?” She spat. The changeling simply pointed up at Applejack.
“You’re lying!” Rainbow Dash shouted.
“No! No I’m not I swear! You have things that can nullify a disguise. Use one on her!” T’zackle shouted in a panic. Still pinning him to the ground, Rainbow Dash looked at one of the guards who, after ensuring his quarry wouldn’t escape and was going to the prisons, decided to catch up to the rainbow-maned mare.
“Do you have a revealing stone on you?” Rainbow asked.
“I’m afraid that won’t be necessary.” Applejack said from behind her hat.
“Why?”
“I’m sorry, I really am. I’m sorry it had to come to this, that my plans were revealed prematurely.” Applejack lifted her hat. Instead of their normal green, her eyes more closely reflected that of a changeling queen's. Slowly, a green aura burned across her orange fur, and everywhere it touched revealed black exoskeleton.

T’zackle had been telling the truth all along.
Applejack was a changeling.
> Interlude: Better
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“I can’t fly in this stupid armor!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, throwing her helmet to the ground. This was the third time that day she had run the same drill, and the twelfth time this week she’d failed it. Spitfire landed next to the frustrated pegasus, and flashed a bit of a smile.
“Y’know, All of the Wonderbolts are trained to fly in medium to heavy armor, based on build.” She picked up the helmet and pushed it to Dash. “I’m sure if you asked the right recruits, they could give you the tips you need.”
“Yeah great.” Rainbow grumbled. “Thirteenth times the charm.”
“I remember when I first joined with the Wonderbolts.”
“Yeah. I bet you were the star pupil.”
“Far from it actually. I constantly ruined the formations and patterns, and in my eyes, it was never my fault. One day, my flight commander comes up to me and tells me to fly thirty laps around the island, and read all the current books.”
“That’s a bit harsh.” Rainbow Dash stated.
“Maybe, but it taught me a lesson: the group is only as strong as their weakest link. These guardsponies are going to look up to you to lead them.”
“I’ll try the exercise again tomorrow morning.” Rainbow said with a defeated sigh.
“Maybe you just need to get used to it. You know what? Let’s take the day off tomorrow. It’s our off season, so I have the time.” Rainbow Dash looked shocked.
“You would take the day off?!”
“On the condition that you wear that practice armor all day, and talk to the list of Wonderbolts I’ll drum up for you.” Rainbow’s face lit up.
“Thank you so much!”
“Anything to help. You’re done for the day.” Spitfire said abruptly, walking off to the barracks. Rainbow Dash picked up the discarded helmet, looking over the various dents and scuffs, where other students probably expressed their frustrations in a similar manner. It had already been two weeks since her training began.