//------------------------------// // Resolute // Story: The Mixer Chronicles // by Mixer //------------------------------// The Mixer Chronicles: Book Seven: Resolute Shining Armor was standing outside Mixer’s house in the Crystal Empire. That morning an angry group of ponies had gathered outside to do something about Sombra. When Shining Armor arrived the crowd seemed to be scared instead of angry. When he tried to get in the door crystals grew from it, blocking all entry. Shining Armor was getting worried, he had been waiting for some time now, and the longer he waited the more likely that Sombra had gone evil. When the crystals around the door retracted he readied his magic, he had to be ready for the worst. Shining Armor’s heart sank when he saw Sombra standing in the doorway. Just before Shining Armor released his magic on Sombra he stood aside and let Mixer walk out. “Mixer, that was too close, don’t scare me like that.” he said. I agree that was close, but its all right now.” I said. “I’m sorry Shining Armor, I won't pretend like I don’t have my memories back, but I will work to overcome my past.” Sombra said. "Boy am I glad to hear that. I’m sure Cadence and the whole Crystal Empire will be glad to hear that too.” Shining Armor said. We went back to the palace and Cadence called for the the crystal ponies to gather for an announcement. When all had gathered around she began. “Crystal ponies, I thank you for all gathering here today. Now there is somepony that wants to talk to you.” she said letting Sombra step up. There were gasps and murmurs as he came into view. “Citizens of the Crystal Empire, I know that I have done horrible things in the past, but I want to apologize and say that I will try my best to make up for what I’ve done.” Sombra said. There was silence for a few moments, then Sombra began to speak again, “I know that it is hard to believe but I want to prove to you that I have changed, and I would be willing to do anything you want to prove it.” The crowd was starting to speak amongst themselves now. The commotion was promising, they were thinking of accepting that Sombra had changed. Eventually the crowd came to its conclusion that Sombra was changed but would have to prove it by doing a service for the whole Crystal Empire. They started a list of things that Sombra would have to do for the good of the Crystal Empire. “This list Is getting pretty big, are you sure you can handle it by yourself?” I asked. “I can handle it, I have to.” he said. “And you’re sure you’ll be fine here by yourself?” I asked. “Yes, I want you to go to Canterlot and tell Celestia and Luna what happened, then I want you to go and spend time with your friends in Ponyville.” Sombra said. “Ok, well don’t get into any trouble while I’m gone.” I said. “Knowing you, I could say the same thing,” Sombra said, “Now go, spend some time with your friends, you haven’t had a chance to for a while from what I understand.” “Ok, I’ll see you in a week right?” I asked. “Yes, as soon as I’m done here I’ll go to Canterlot, and then I’m going to visit you in Ponyville,” He said, “Now move along; if you don’t hurry you will miss the train.” I said goodbye to Sombra and went to the train station and boarded the train for Ponyville. I didn’t just want to leave Sombra like that, but what he said was true, I did want to spend some proper time with my friends. I also wanted to try my luck with Fluttershy. The train ride seemed to speed by, and before I knew it I was getting off in Ponyville. I was surprised I did not see anypony when I was walking home, but I didn’t think too hard on it, they were probably just inside. After relaxing for a bit I decided to go and see if anypony was out and about. I found Twilight and her friends walking out of the town hall. “Oh, Mixer. When did you get here?” Twilight asked. “Not too long ago. Why?” I asked. “You didn't see the stampede of Pinkies?” she asked. “The stampede of Pinkies, what?” I asked. “It’s a long story,” she began, “But what are you doing here? I thought you were in the Crystal Empire.” “I was, but I had to deal with Sombra regaining his memories.” I said. “Oh no, what happened?” she asked. “Nothing to worry about now, he is stable and working to gain the crystal ponies’ trust.” I replied. “Phew, that’s good to here,” she said, “But that makes you being here make less sense. Shouldn’t you be with Sombra?” “He told me to go here and spend some time with my friends while he did his work.” I said. “Wow, he said that?” twilight asked. “Yeah, those exact words.” I answered. “Wow, maybe he has changed.” she said. “You still didn’t think he had, even after the gala?” I asked. “I wasn’t one hundred percent sure, but now I am.” she replied. “So what was going on earlier?” I asked. “I kinda used the Mirror Pool one too many times.” Pinkie said. “The Mirror Pool?” I asked. “Yes, it made copies of her, that made copies in turn until we were inundated with Pinkie Pies.” Twilight said. Ok..., what?” I asked. “There were Pinkie Pies running rampant in Ponyville until we made them take a test to determine the real one.” she said. “What kind of test?” I asked. “Something that was impossible for any Pinkie but the real one.”Twilight said. “Watching paint dry.” Pinkie said. “So that’s what you were doing when I arrived, watching paint dry?” I asked. “Yeah, and it was about as exciting as it sounds.” Rainbow Dash said. “But it worked.” Twilight said. “It sounds like you six had an exciting day, what are you going to do now?” I asked. “Well, we have to go and make sure that we seal up that Mirror Pool so that this doesn’t happen again.” she said. “Need any help?” I asked. “No, we should be fine, you can go home and rest, I’m sure you could use it.” she replied. “Well, I have had an exhausting past few days.” I said. So I went back to my house to pass the rest of the afternoon. After an hour or so I heard a knock on my door. I wondered who that could be so I went to the door. When I opened the door I was greeted by Vinyl and Octavia standing at my door. “Hey Mixer, what’s up?” Vinyl said. “Oh hi, what are you two doing here?” I asked. “Vinyl and I heard that you were back in town and we wanted to see how you were doing.” Octavia said. “Well, I’m doing fine. It’s good to see you two.” I said. “It has been a while since we last had the chance to hang.” Vinyl said. “Well, come on in. I am, after all, here to see some old friends.” I said. “So, Mixer, what have you been up to?” Octavia asked. “You two have heard about the Crystal Empire by now right?” I asked. “Yes, it sounds like a beautiful place to visit.” Octavia said. “I guess it sounds ok.” Vinyl said. “Well, I’ve been there, studying crystals for Celestia. More recently I helped make Sombra good.” I said. “Really?” Octavia asked. “Who?” Vinyl asked. “You two didn’t see me at the Gala?” I asked. “Vinyl said that you were there, but I did not see you myself.” Octavia said. “Then you probably saw Sombra there too. He was there with me and Twilight and her friends.” I said. “So how’d you like the music?” Vinyl asked. “It was great, both of you. I think that it was a nice change to have some more high energy songs playing.” I answered. “Yeah, thats what I’m talking about, something to get all those ponies on their feet and on the dance floor.” Vinyl said. “Yeah, dance tunes are good, but sometimes it is nice to have more relaxing classical songs.” I said. “I guess.” Vinyl said. “Oh, don't be like that Vinyl.” Octavia said. “It’s ok, you don’t have to get in an argument over something I said,” I began, “Everypony has their own taste in music.” “Yes, I suppose that’s true. Sorry if I got a little carried away.” Vinyl apologized. “You know what though, we haven’t had a chance to jam yet.” she said. “A jam session sounds like fun.” I said. “Tavi, you in?” Vinyl asked. “I suppose that sounds like fun.” Octavia replied. “Alright, lets get jammin’” Vinyl said. “But I don’t have my cello, and you don’t have anything to play either.” Octavia said. “Whoops, guess I got too ahead of myself. Some other time then.” Vinyl said. “Any time you want to is fine.” I said. “Well, it was good to see you again Mixer, but its getting late so we’ll leave you to relax now.” Octavia said. “Ok see you soon.” I said as they left. “See ya.” Vinyl said back. I was looking forward to having a jam session but it would have to wait for a few days. I wanted to at least try and establish a relationship with Fluttershy, and soon. I wondered how Sombra was doing with his list of tasks while I tried to fall asleep, but I didn’t end up getting much sleep that night. The next morning I woke up early and went to go see Twilight. I wanted to ask her if she knew about a certain spell. “Oh, good morning Mixer,” Twilight said with a yawn, “What do you want this early.” “I wanted to ask you if you knew any transformation spells.” I said. “What kind of transformation spell?” Twilight asked. “Something that could make one kind of pony another.” I said. “I think I have something in here like that.” she said turning to search her library for the appropriate book. “Why did you want to know?” Twilight asked. “I kind of wanted to, um...” I trailed off, finding the words rather hard to say. “What was that?” she asked. “I wanted to try and...” I trailed off again. “To try and?” Twilight pressed. I sighed and try to unknot my tongue. “I wanted to try and get into a relationship with Fluttershy.” I rushed the words out. “Then why are you here?” she asked. “I wanted to see if you had a spell that could, you know, make me a pegasus temporarily.” I replied. “Well, you’re in luck, I happen to have the spell right here, but its effects last three days.” she said. “Thank you Twilight.” I said relieved. “But, why did you have such a hard time saying anything?” she asked "I don’t know, I just thought you might say something, or not like what I said.” I answered. “Aw, you should never be afraid to share your emotions, especially with friends.” she said. “Thanks Twilight, I needed to hear that.” I said. “You’re welcome, now hold still.” she said starting to cast the transformation spell. She strained at first but then the spell came easy enough. I could feel the magic running through my body. At first it felt like I was getting really hot, then I felt my horn start to shrink to nothing, and wings grow out my back. It felt strange at first then I felt sore all over. “Ugh, I felt like I just slept wrong for a day.” I said stretching. “It worked,” Twilight said, “Are you ok?” I think I’ll be sore for a bit, but I should be fine otherwise.” I said. “Ok, find me if you experience anything strange.” Twilight told me. “Ok, I think I’m going to stretch then try to fly.” I said. “Hey Twilight, you in here?” Rainbow Dash asked walking in. “What the feather is going on here?” she asked seeing me. “Oh, hi Rainbow Dash.” I said sheepishly. “Is somepony going to tell me why you’re a pegasus now and not a unicorn?” she asked. “He asked me to turn him into a pegasus for a few days.” Twilight said. “And you just did it?” Rainbow Dash asked. “No, I asked him why and he told me, so I used the spell on him.” Twilight said. “So why did you want to be a pegasus anyways?” Rainbow Dash asked. “He’s got a crush on Fluttershy.” Twilight said. “Hey!” I said, my face getting red at her bluntness. Rainbow Dash started laughing, “Aww, isn’t he cute, he blushing.” “Be nice Rainbow Dash.” Twilight said. “Sorry, its just kind of funny to see him acting like a confused colt. I mean, you faced down Chrysalis and Sombra by yourself, and now you all clumsy. You gotta admit that’s kind of funny to see.” Rainbow Dash said. “And you were acting like a scarred filly at last years young flyers competition, but you didn’t see any of your friends laughing then, did you.” I said getting aggravated with her. “Hey, I had to pull off the sonic rainboom in front of hundreds of ponies, you just have to talk to a mare.” she bit back. “Stop it, the both of you. What’s gotten into you? Since when did you get so insensitive Rainbow Dash; and Mixer, I’ve never seen you get upset like this.” Twilight said. “I was just having a little fun, then he had to get all defensive.” Rainbow Dash replied. “This is why I didn’t want to start telling everypony about this.” I said slamming the door as I left. I didn’t want to deal with that right now, I just wanted to have some time to practice flying. As I was walking out to find a nice spot to start, Pinkie Pie just showed up out of nowhere. “Hi Mixer whatcha doin?” she asked. “Nothing.” I answered flatly. “What's wrong?” she asked. “Nothing.” I said. She paused before following me again, “So what’s with the wings?” she asked. “I don’t want to talk about it.” I said. "Why are you so grumpy today,” she asked. “Rainbow Dash.” I replied. “Did it have something to do with your new wings?” she asked. “Yes.” I answered. “So where are you going now?” she asked trying to change the subject. “To practice flying.” I replied. “Why, did Dashie make fun of your flying?” she asked. “No.” I replied. “Come on, you can tell me what's wrong.” she said. “No.” I said. “You can’t stay mad, turn that frown upside down.” she said. “NO!” I yelled. She stopped and looked like she was going to cry. “I’m sorry,” I sighed, “I asked Twilight to turn me into a pegasus and Rainbow Dash made some comments that I didn’t take kindly to.” “Do you feel any better?” she asked. “Yes, I do feel a little better.” I said. “Do you want me to watch you practice flying?” she asked. “Sure, you can come along.” I replied. And we walked a little further until there was a large enough space. I stretched my wings out. “Ok, here goes nothing.” I said preparing to take off. I jumped and flapped my wings but didn’t stay in the air; instead I just fell right back down to earth. I tried twice more with the same result. “Maybe you’re doing something wrong.” pinkie said. I flapped my wings without jumping and felt a little lighter, but didn’t leave the ground. I heard Twilight and Rainbow Dash calling for me in the distance. I flapped harder to get free of the ground, but to no avail. Uh oh,” Pinkie said as she saw Twilight and Rainbow Dash approach. “There you are.” Twilight said. I tried to fly one last time. “You’re doing it wrong,” Rainbow Dash said walking up to me. “Look, I’m sorry about what I said earlier, I didn't know I would hurt your feelings,” she said. “Now let me show you how to get some air beneath you wings," she got into a jumping position, “Now for first timers it’s a good idea to get a good launch.” “Thanks Rainbow Dash.” I said. “I couldn’t just let you go without learning how to fly. And I needed to apologize for what I said,” she said. “What’s going on now?” Pinkie asked Twilight. “Mixer came to me asking to be turned into a pegasus,” Twilight said. “I know that, but what happened?” Pinkie asked. “I can answer that,” Rainbow Dash said, “I was trying to make a light hearted joke, but I hurt Mixer’s feelings.” “What did you say?” she asked, “He was pretty grumpy when I found him.” I sighed and said, “She was laughing at me liking Fluttershy.” “Awww.” she said. “That's so cute.” she said giving me a hug. “Pinkie, you can let go now,” I said squished. “So, now that that’s out of the way, let’s get you flying,” Rainbow Dash said. “Now I saw you before, you can’t just flap your wings up and down, you've got to put some more motion into it.” she said demonstrating a more circular wing pattern. “Like this?” I said imitating the slow circular motion. “Yeah, that's it. Now just put it together; get a good jump with the downward stroke,” she said. did as instructed and the first few tries I got some lift but did not stay in the air. Then I jumped and I stayed in the air. “Wohoo,” Pinkie cheered. “Not bad, with some more practice you’ll be flying around in no time,” Rainbow Dash said. It was new to feel weightless, to not feel the ground under my hooves. I landed and took off a few more times until I was satisfied with my ability to get into the air. I found it a little hard at first to move around in the air but after falling out of the air only a few times I could fly around without worrying about falling. “I think, you’re ready,” Rainbow Dash said. “I have to be, it’s already afternoon,” I said. “Good luck,” they said as I took off towards Fluttershy’s cottage. I was determined now, I could fly, I had the support of my friends, I wasn’t going to lose my nerve now. When I got there I walked up to the door and knocked. Angel opened the door and crossed his arms. We stood there staring at eachother until Fluttershy asked, “Angel, honey, who is it?” Then she opened the door and said, “Oh, Mixer, what are you doing here?” she asked. Then she asked, “My goodness what happened to your horn?” “I came here to tell you that I want to be more than friends; I care about you and I want to be in a relationship with you,” I said. “That's why I had Twilight transform me into a pegasus, so that I could do things that I would be able to do as a unicorn, like fly.” “You gave up your magic just to be with me?” she asked. “It’s not permanent, the spell will wear out in a few days, but yes.” I replied. “You didn’t have to do this, I liked you before.” she said. “I know, but I wanted to, for you.” I said. “How could I say no,” she said, “Of course I’ll be you special somepony.” “You don't know how glad I am to hear that.” I said. “Would you like to come inside?” she asked. “Sure.” I said. “So, what did you want to do while you have your wings?” she asked sitting down. “I don’t know, maybe have a nice leisurely flight, or maybe a picnic on a cloud.” I said. “That sounds like a great idea, so when do you want to have the picnic?” she asked. “How about tomorrow at noon?” I suggested. “I’m not doing anything tomorrow.” she said. “So its a date then.” I said. Angel came over and tugged on Fluttershy’s leg. “What is it Angel? Are you hungry?” she asked. “Oh, would you excuse me while I get something for Angel.” she said. As soon as she left the room Angel looked at me with his arms crossed, tapping his foot. “What?” I said. He kept looking at me. “Don’t look at me like that.” I said. “Here Angel,” Fluttershy said walking in with a carrot. “It’s getting kind of late, I think I’ll head home now.” I said. “Oh, but you just got here.” she said. “But I don’t want to be a bother.” I said. “Oh, it’s no bother, you can stay.” she said. “Then at least let me go get something from my house.” I said. “Oh, ok.” she said. So I went to my house to get a bag of specialty feed for her critters. It was kind of heavy but I managed to fly it the whole way. “What’s that?” she asked. “Some specialty feed for your critter friends.” I said. “Oh, they’ll be delighted to see that you brought some, they just loved the last batch you made.” she said. Some critters started to appear from various holes and burrows. “Looks like they already want some.” I said. “It is almost time for dinner.” she said, “Would you mind helping feed them?” “I would be glad to.” I said. We feed the critters, much to their delight, and I said goodnight to Fluttershy. I flew home and slept like a rock. The next morning I ate a light breakfast and went out for some flying. I was flying past the library when Twilight signaled me down. “Morning Twilight.” I said. “Well, someone sure sounds excited.” she said, “I take it it went well yesterday.” “Oh yes, quite well.” I said. “That’s good to hear. So where are you going in such a hurry?” she asked. “I’m getting some flying in before meeting Fluttershy for a picnic at noon.” I said. “Well then, I won't keep you any longer, it’s almost noon.” Twilight said. “Ok, gotta go.” I said taking off. I was really getting used to flying by now. It seemed like so long ago that I was using magic and walking everywhere, even though it had only been a day. I arrived at Fluttershy’s and found her gathering the things for our picnic. “Need any help there?” I asked. “Oh you’re early. sure can you grab the blanket from inside?” she asked. “Sure.” I said going inside to look for it. I found Angel sitting on a folded blanket inside waiting for me. “What now?” I said. He grabbed the blanket and started to run around the house. “I don’t have time for this Angel.” I said chasing him around. I kept stopping to settle disrupted furniture every time I got close to catching him. “What’s taking so long?” Fluttershy said walking in. “Angel doesn’t want to give up the blanket.” I said, steadying a vase. “Angel, what has gotten into you?” Fluttershy said. stopped running and gave her the blanket. “I don’t know what got into him, he never acts like this.” she said. “Well, whatever the case he seems over it now. Is everything ready?” I asked. “Yes, I have everything we need for the picnic.” she said. “Then, let’s get going, after you.” I said, holding the door. So we left in search of a good cloud to have our picnic on. We settled on a medium sized cloud over Saddle Lake. “The view is wonderful from up here.” Fluttershy said. “And we can just move another cloud in if we need shade.” I said. We enjoyed a pleasant picnic, then we went back to Fluttershy’s cottage. I said farewell to her and left thinking of what I could do to spend the rest of the afternoon. I hadn’t shown Rarity or Applejack my new wings yet, so I decided that I would do that to pass the time. I decided to visit Rarity first. I knocked at her door and waited for an answer. “Come in.” I heard her say from inside. I opened the door and found Rarity rushing around her shop with bolts of cloth and other tailoring equipment. “Is this a bad time?” I asked. “Oh, I’m just trying to prepare a new fashion line to drum up business. Things have kind of slowed down lately.” she said. “What did you have in mind?” I asked. “That’s just the thing, I haven’t been inspired by anything as of late so I’m trying to think of something.” she said. “Maybe I could help?” I asked. “Oh, I don’t want to concern you Mixer, I’m just having a hard time,” she said turning around to look at me, “Oh, my, when did you get those wings?” “Yesterday, I asked Twilight to make me a pegasus for a few days.” I replied. “You look rather dashing with them.” she said. “Thank you, but what about your new line?” I asked. “Oh, yes, well I don’t know. It’s hard not to do something that has not been done already.” she said. “What about the beauty of the elements: Fire, Wind, Water, and Earth?” I asked. “Hmm,” she said looking at some different colors, “You might be onto something. Yes, I think that will work.” she said grabbing collections of different colored cloth. “Fire, fierce, beautiful, yes.” she said already beginning to put together a design. “I’ll just leave you to that then.” I said. “Oh, thank you Mixer, you’re the best.” she said going to work. “Any time.” I said leaving. I left Rarity to her work and went to go see Applejack. She was working in the orchard bucking apples when I got there. “Mixer, is that you?” Apple Bloom asked when I landed. “Yep.” I replied. “Well shoot, when did you become a pegasus?” Applejack asked. “Just yesterday, I had Twilight make me a pegasus for a few days.” I answered. “Looks like you already got the hang of flying.” she said. “Eeyup.” Big Mac said. “Yeah, Rainbow dash gave me a few lessons yesterday. I really like flying, but I can’t wait to be a unicorn again.” I said. “Do you need any help?” I asked. “No, we’re just about done for the day.” Applejack said. “Oh, ok, I’ll see you later then.” I said. “See ya later.” Applejack and Apple Bloom said. It was getting later in the afternoon so I decided that I would go home and play some music for a bit. I was a little rusty but I could still play after not picking up an instrument for a while. I messed around for a bit then got bored and decided to make some potions. I did not realize that not having magic would make potion brewing so difficult for me, or as time consuming. By sunset I had only made one potion, a weak energy potion, just something to put a little pep into somepony. After that I was tired and went to sleep. The next morning I woke up ate some breakfast and went to decided to go see Fluttershy. The sky was clear except for a few lonely clouds lazing in the distance. I knocked on the door and waited for an answer. Fluttershy came to the door and said, “Oh, good morning Mixer. What is it?” “Oh, just wanted to say hi, you know, maybe we could make some plans for something.” I replied. “Wait, do you hear that?” she said. I listened and heard a faint buzzing noise coming from the Everfree Forest. “What the..” I began but was cut off by the wave of changelings that broke over the treetops, headed straight towards Ponyville. There was a similar sized swarm headed to Canterlot. “Stay here, I’m going to help the others.” I said. “I’ll send the others this way, you tell anypony that passes by to go to Zecora’s hut.” I told her turning to take off. “Be careful.” she said as I took off towards town. The changelings had brought some dark clouds with them to dim the skies. While I was flying I saw a barrier start to form around Canterlot, a crystal barrier. Sombra must have gotten to Canterlot before the invasion, although, he could not have kept all of them out. I had to fight through a few changelings to get to Twilights but I was still fresh and ready to keep going. I found the door to her library broken down and five changelings inside attacking Twilight and Spike. I jumped in the fray and we quickly dispatched the assailants. “Mixer! What's going on?” Twilight asked. “The changelings are invading, we need to evacuate Ponyville.” I said. “But what about Canterlot, and the Elements?” she asked. “Sombra is protecting Canterlot right now.” I replied, “For now, we need to gather the others so we can use the Elements.” “Ok, where to first?” she asked. “Rainbow Dash and a few pegasi are fighting outside, Rarity is probably in her shop, Pinkie is most likely with the Cakes, in Sugarcube Corner, and the Apples are at Sweet Apple Acres.” I said. “What about Fluttershy?” Twilight asked. “She’s safe at her cottage.” I said, “Now we have to go, I think we should get Rainbow Dash first.” I said. “Ok then.” Twilight said following me outside. There were ponies running all over, being chased by changelings. In the sky above Rainbow dash and a squadron of other brave pegasi were fighting changelings. “Twilight, I’ll help Rainbow Dash, you help some of these other ponies.” I said flying up to help Rainbow Dash. “You’re a little late to the party.” Rainbow Dash said knocking a changeling tumbling to the ground. “Sorry, but we have to help the other ponies, if they capture any of our friends then they’ll have won.” I said joining her. “I can’t just abandon these pagasi.” she said. “You don’t have to, bring them with you. You wanted to be in the Wonderbolts? Well, show some leadership and lead your squad.” I said. “You’re right,” she said. “Everypony form up on me.” she shouted to the others. “Thunderlane, Cloudchaser, Blossomforth, Airheart, and Bluebell, you’re with me. The rest of you help the other ponies get to the Everfree Forest. she commanded. “Very nice.” I said. “Thanks, now lets do this.” she said. Rainbow Dash and her squad followed me to where Twilight was fighting some changelings with some other ponies. “Rainbow Dash, you help Twilight, I’m going to help Rarity.” I said splitting off. I got to Carousel boutique and found Rarity protecting Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo from three changelings. “Back you brutes.” she said brandishing mannequins as weapons. I jumped on the nearest one and watched as she took care of the other two. “Rarity, go find Twilight and Rainbow Dash and tell them to meet me at the town hall.” I said. “What about Sweetie and Scootaloo?” she asked. “I’ll take them to Fluttershy’s where they’ll be safe.” I said. “Ok, be safe.” she said as she left. “Ok, you two, hop on.” I said spreading my wings to make room for them. “What about Apple Bloom?” Sweetie Belle. “Her big sister and brother can protect her for now. Don’t worry, we’ll save them too.” I said preparing to take off. I flew fast and low to Fluttershy's and left them with her. I flew back and met the others at the town hall where there was some fighting going on. They were inside protecting the mayor from changelings. When I joined them and we quickly finished them off. “They’re not too strong, but there’s so many of them.” Rainbow Dash said. “Dash, follow me, we need to help Applejack. Twilight and Rarity, you go and help Pinkie.” I said. “Are you guys alright to keep going?” Rainbow Dash asked her squad. “I’m still good.” Thunderlane answered. “A little tired, but I’ll make it.” Cloudchaser said. “I, don't think I can keep this up.” Blossomforth replied. “Me neither.” Airheart said. “I’ll make it.” Bluebell said. “You two can help the others get out, the rest of you get ready to fly.” Rainbow Dash said. “Let's go then.” I said. We went outside and separated into two teams, Twilight’s team to save Pinkie, and our team to help Applejack. We flew hard out to Sweet Apple Acres and found the barn surrounded by changelings. “You four clean up out here, I’ll help Applejack.” I said. “Roger that.” Rainbow Dash said leading her squad into battle. I flew into the barn and found the Apples besieged by changelings. “You ain't gonna lay a hoof on them.” Applejack snarled as a changeling tried to get past her and Big Mac to Apple Bloom and Granny Smith. “Nope.” Big Mac said swatting two more away. They were keeping them off but I saw one sneak around them and grab Applebloom and take off. “AppleBloom!” Applejack said. “Not on my watch!” I said giving chase. I was hot on its heels from the barn and knocked Apple Bloom free from its clutches. I swooped down and caught Apple Bloom far from the ground. “Thanks for saving me.” she said. “I wouldn't let them hurt you.” I said. “Watch out!” she said pointing behind me. I barely had time to get a hold on her before a changeling collided with me. I went tumbling down toward the orchard trying to get air under my wings. I was able to pull up out of a dive but crashed through a tree before hitting the ground. I slid for a few feet and came to rest on my side. I loosened my grip on Apple Bloom and asked her if she was alright. “What about you? You just crashed through a tree.” she said. I staggered to my feet, my left wing hanging limp to my side. “Just a scratch.” I said. “Just a scratch? Your wing is broken.” she said. I saw a changeling searching for us. “Quick get up in this tree.” I said boosting her up. “What about you?” she asked. “Just stay hidden.” I told her. The changeling spotted me and descended to finish me off. I was hurt, but I could still hold off a single changeling. We traded blows until I tripped and fell. He stood over me and then staggered sideways, hit it the head by an apple thrown by Apple Bloom. I took the chance to get back up and floor the changeling with a hit to the head. “Thanks Apple Bloom.” I said. “Are you ok?” she asked. “I need a second to rest.” I said sinking down next to a tree. “What’re we gonna do?” she asked worried. “Your sister will find us once Rainbow Dash helps her fend off the changelings.” I said. “What if changelings find us first?” she asked. “You don’t have to worry about that.” Applejack said as she and Big Mac walked around a tree. “Where is Rainbow Dash?” Apple Bloom asked. “We left her to fight the changelings while we came after you.” Applejack said. “Eeyup.” Big Mac added. “You know that I can’t trust you, especially after last time.” I said standing up. “Mixer, you’re hurt. Let us help you back to the barn.” She said “I may be hurt but I don’t need help to walk.” I said. “We’re not leaving you here.” she said. “And I can’t stop you. But I can still hold off a couple of changelings while Apple Bloom escapes.” I said. “That’s why we’re here.” she said. “Well, I’m not going to just let my guard down.” I said. “I wouldn’t expect you to, there are changelings everywhere.” she said. I drew Apple Bloom close to me with my good wing and said, “Let’s go.” We walked through the orchard, one on either side of me. “So what happened to your wing?” Applejack asked. “I saved Apple Bloom from a changeling, and crashed.” I said. “And you still were able to defeat a changeling?” she asked. “Yeah, and I could fight more to protect Apple Bloom, or any of my friends.” I said. “I’m surprised, you’re pretty beaten up already. How much more could you take?” she asked. “As much as need be,” I said, “Including fighting till I drop.” “Look out!” Apple Bloom said. I instantly crouched protectively around her. A second later I saw a multi colored blur crash into Applejack and Big Mac. “Get away from him you slimy bugs.” Rainbow Dash said. “Gah! Stupid pony.” one of the changelings said. “You can’t beat both of us by yourself.” the other said. “I don’t have to.” she said as the real Applejack and Big Mac came running up followed by the other pegasi that followed us there. The changelings didn’t stand a chance against the six of them. “Oh, Apple Bloom, I’m so glad you’re ok.” Applejack said drawing her into a hug. “Thank you Mixer.” she said. “No problem.” I said. “Yes problem,” Rainbow Dash said, “You’re hurt bad and we need your help.” “I need to get to Twilight so she can transform me back into a unicorn.” I said. “How bad are you hurt?” Rainbow Dash asked. “I have a broken wing, possibly some broken ribs, other cuts and bruises, and I’m tired from fighting.” I said. "We have to get you to the hospital.” Applejack said. “I don’t think I could walk that far.” I said. “We can fly you there.” Cloudchaser said. “Yeah, we’ll give you a lift.” Thunderlane said. “Ok, you two take him to the hospital, you too Bluebell. Applejack, Big Mac, let’s go find Twilight and the others.” Rainbow Dash said. So Thunderlane and Cloudchaser picked my up and flew me to the hospital to get some medical attention. The hospital itself was not surrounded by too many changelings, but there were some inside terrorizing the nurses and patients. Bluebell and Thunderlane helped out the patients while Cloudchaser and I looked for a doctor. We found a doctor and he did some minor fixes; he put my wing in a sling and bandaged some of the worse cuts. “You’re not going back out there are you?” the doctor asked. “I have to, my friends need me.” I said. “But your injuries.” he said. “Won’t stop me,” I said, “Let’s go Cloudchaser.” We went back out to find that the hospital had been cleared and some of the staff were evacuating to help other ponies that needed it. Twilight and the others had succeeded and brought Pinkie Pie with them. “Oh my goodness. Mixer what happened to you?” Twilight asked. “It’s not important now, I need you to transform me back into a unicorn.” I said. “Ok, let me cast the counterspell.” she said. The process felt better being reversed. It relieved some of my pain getting rid of my wings and I felt more powerful with my horn back. “That’s better, now lets hurry and get to Fluttershy’s cottage right away.” I said. “You sure you’re ok to move?” Rainbow Dash asked. “I’ll be fine, but lets go, we need to help out the other ponies of Ponyville as we go.” I said. “We can handle that.” Thunderlane said. “Eeyup.” Big Mac added. “You six go and help Fluttershy.” Cloudchaser said. “Thank you.” I said, “Now let’s move.” We went straight to Fluttershy’s cottage and found her door was ajar. I charged in to find her, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo cowering in a corner while two changelings were bearing down on them. I picked one up with my magic and threw him out the door and fell upon the other with furious blows. When I was finished I got off him and asked the three if they were alright. “Yes, thanks to you.” Fluttershy said. “Let’s get you to Zecora’s.” I said. “Ok.” Fluttershy said. “Woah,” Rainbow Dash said walking in, “remind me to never get you mad.” We walked to Zecora’s hut and found a large percent of the ponies from Ponyville had made it. “Ok, I’m going to put a barrier of crystal over Zecora’s hut. Rarity, I need you and Twilight to let any stragglers in.” I said. “What about you?” Twilight asked. “I’m going to get the Elements and bring them back.” I said. “Not by yourself you’re not.” Rainbow Dash said. She had gathered her squadron back together. “We’ll run interference for you.” Thunderlane said. “You don’t have to put yourselves in anymore danger.” I said. “After what you’ve done, we couldn’t let you go alone.” Blossomforth said. “And we couldn’t just sit here and let you have all the glory.” Cloudchaser said. “So let’s go out there and kick some changeling but.” Bluebell said. “Well, I can see there’s not talking you out of it. My plan is to get to the train station and take a train to Canterlot, then get inside and get the Elements of Harmony. Then get back here so you can use the Elements to get rid of all the changelings.” I said. “Ok, so we’ll fly defence for you while you get to the train.” Rainbow Dash said. “Ok, give me a second to put up the barrier.” I said. I had plenty of magic left in me so creating the barrier was not too hard. “Let’s go.” I said once I finished. We hurried to Ponyville and fought through the changelings to get to the train station, but when we got there the changelings had derailed the train. “Now what are we gonna do?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Stand on the track.” I told her. “What?” she asked. “Just do it, I have a plan. “Ok.” she said standing on the track. I formed a crystal ball around her and one around myself. “What are you doing?” Rainbow Dash asked. “We’re gonna roll up to Canterlot.” I replied. “In these?” she asked. “Yes, now hold on.” I told her as I started to push us. “Need a shove?” Thunderlane asked. “Sure.” I said. He and the others gave us a good starting push so we could keep moving by ourselves. We keep up a good pace until we hit the climb to Canterlot, then we slowed down. When we finally got to the edge of the barrier that Sombra put up I had to crack open our balls so we could go in single file. The only problem was the fact that the outside was crawling with changelings trying to get in. “What are we gonna do about them?” Rainbow Dash asked. “We have to get in, so we’ll just have to fight some of them.” I replied. We fought off a few while I made a hole big enough to get through. On the other side guards were waiting to push back the changelings as soon as I opened the hole. We rushed in and I closed the hole before any more than a few could get in. “What are you doing here?” one of the guards asked. “We came to get the Elements of Harmony.” I said. “Follow us to the castle.” another said. “How many got inside?” I asked as we walked. "More than a hundred unfortunately.” he replied. “Are the princesses secure?” I asked. “Yes, Sombra has personally seen to princess Luna’s protection.” the guard said. We were stopped at the front gate by two more guards. “Halt.” one said. “It’s ok, it is Mixer, he’s here to get the Elements of Harmony.” the guard leading us said. “How can we be sure that it’s him?” the other guard asked. “He opened a hole in the crystal barrier, do you know any changeling that can do that?” our guard answered. “No, I suppose not.” the other guard said. We went inside and saw a guard giving out orders to the others. “Mixer what are you doing here?” he asked as we approached. “We’re here for the Elements of Harmony. I said. “You probably don’t remember me, but I was there in the desert when they found you.” he said. “I didn’t catch your name.” I said. “It’s Trottson.” he answered, “I’ve been coordinating the guard since the attack.” “Well Trottson, can we get to the Elements?” I asked. “Unfortunately we can't get to that part of the castle. We have been busy securing the princesses.” Trottson said. “Where can I find Sombra?” I asked. “In Luna’s chambers, he’s been there since the attack. You should be careful though, we haven’t been able to get in.” he replied. “Ok, Rainbow Dash, you stay here while I go find Sombra and the princess.” I said. “Ok.” Rainbow Dash said. I ran through the castle until I found the princess’s chambers. The door was covered in crystal preventing entry. I removed the crystal and opened the door. I was greeted by a changeling being thrown my way. “Sombra, Luna, are you ok?” I asked. “Mixer, it’s good to see you’re ok.” Sombra said. “Same here, I’m glad you two are safe.” I said. “Is Ponyville safe then?” Luna asked. “Most of the ponies got to safety yes, but we need the Elements to push the changelings out.” I said. “Let’s get them then.” Sombra said. “It’s not that simple, the changelings have taken that part of the castle.” I said. “Then let us show them what happens when you mess with Equestria.” Luna said. We returned to Trottson and assembled a party to get the Elements. Luna led Sombra, five guards, and myself to get the Elements. We pushed through to the vault where they were being kept and grabbed them. We had to fight our way out, but the changelings did not stand a chance against the combined might of Luna, Sombra, and I. We returned to Rainbow Dash and Trottson and then prepared to go back to Ponyville. “We need to get out without letting anymore changelings in.” I said. “How will you do that?” Trottson asked. “Sombra and I create a separate chamber that lets us get to the train tracks. Then we close it off so we can open it without letting any changelings into Canterlot.” I said. “Why the train tracks?” Sombra asked. “So we can ride them in crystal balls.” I said. “Clever.” he said. “Ready Rainbow Dash?” I asked. “Always.” she said. We went to the wall and we created the chamber that we needed to get out. Then we closed it off and got into our crystal mode of transportation, and opened the end of the tunnel. As soon as it was open there were several changelings already pouring in. They were greeted by three crystal orbs rolling towards them. “Ha, this was a great idea.” Rainbow Dash said as we rolled over them. I was rolling up front to clear the way and Sombra was in back making sure Rainbow Dash stayed on the tracks. “Sombra, give us some more steam.” I said. He pushed us on till gravity took hold and we started accelerating down the hill. I had to correct us a few times on the turns to keep us from flying off the tracks but we made great time and got to Ponyville in no time. Thunderlane and the others were still fighting when we arrived but they looked tired and were losing ground. “The cavalry is here!” I said as we jumped out. “You got the Elements?” Thunderlane asked. “Right here.” Rainbow Dash said. They gathered around us and we got into a defensive formation. “Sombra you ready to carve a path through these changelings?” I asked. “Thought you would never ask.” he said. “Get Rainbow Dash to the dome.” I told Thunderlane. “Got it.” he said. “What about you two?” Rainbow Dash asked. “We’ll be fine.” Sombra said. We jumped into the changelings and started bashing away with crystals. The changelings ignored the others and focused on Sombra and I. He was using a large crystal to supplement his hooves, while I used several smaller crystals to do most of the damage. We fought like that for a minute till the tell-tale gleam of the Elements heralded the defeat of the changelings once more. Following the changelings being defeated again I lowered the barrier around Zecora’s and Sombra did likewise with the barrier around Canterlot. After that the staff from the hospital began treating the injured ponies in an open air clinic. I got patched up and fell asleep. When I woke up Fluttershy was sitting by me and it was well into the afternoon. “Oh, good you’re awake.” she said. “Ugh, I could use some down time after that.” I said. “Unfortunately you won’t get the chance.” Chrysalis said as she strode towards us, flanked by six changelings. “Chrysalis?” I said dumbfounded, “But we defeated you.” “You only defeated my changelings.” she said. “They made for an excellent distraction. Now that you are defenceless and the Elements are on their way back to Canterlot, I stand unopposed in my conquest of Equestria.” she said She picked me up with her magic and brought me face to face with her. “I think I will start with her.” she said gesturing towards Fluttershy. “No,” I said in a whisper. “Oh, is that so? And how will you stop me without your magic?” she asked. “You should know, Chrysalis, that you never threaten somepony that I care for. And you never threaten the pony that I love.” I said raising my voice to a shout. Chrysalis laughed in my face, “It’s so funny that one of the bravest ponies in equestria is in love with the most cowardly.” “Don’t you ever insult Fluttershy!” I yelled channeling my magic. The clouds that were left overhead started to swirl around above us. “What is this?” Chrysalis asked. “I will not let you hurt Fluttershy.” I said, dark fire burning at the corners of my eyes. “Impossible!” she said. Tendrils of magic started to reach up out of the ground and claw at the changelings the Chrysalis had brought. “I will not let you hurt her or any other pony in Equestria ever again.” I said. “No, this can’t be happening. I was supposed to win this time.” she said as crystals began forming under her feet. “I’m sorry Fluttershy.” I said as the crystal encased Chrysalis and I. I made sure that it would be impossible for anypony to free Chrysalis and unleash her evil upon Equestria ever again, but at the cost of entombing myself as well.