TumblerXAzureby WillodyChaptersBeginningMeeting UpPreparationsFirst DateAt The HospitalChapter 7Chapter 8Chapter 9Chapter 10AwakeningChapter 12Azure's SearchAftermathLife as we know it?BeginningWaking up in my small cloud home outside of Ponyville, I gave my wings a short stretching routine. My name is Windy Tumble but most people call me Tumbler, mainly due to me always managing to tumble. I can fly and walk well at times, but I sometimes lose my balance more than usual, hence why others call me Tumbler. I’m dark grey, with a medium length mane, that was always spiked around. My tail is also of medium length, but isn’t as messed up as my mane. I’m about the average size of a regular stallion, but most people are still taller than me. Others tell me that I look tired, maybe even sleep deprived, but I always shrug off those words, I am who I am, right? After finishing my morning routine, I went on one of my many daily visits into Ponyville. The town is always bustling with activity and I passed my way around crowds. I never really was the most social pony in town, but striking up a conversation every once in a while usually disproved that. Looking around, I start to go into various market stalls for some groceries. Approaching an apple stall, I look at the salespony; she was bright orange, and was also wearing a hat. I’d assume she was of the apple family, and after a long season of harvesting the apples, she wanted to end the season with some profit made. “Howdy Partner!” she said to me. “Hi there, lovely day we are having today.” I said. She simply nodded her head, and after showing me a basket full of apples, “So how many apples do you need?” she asked. I thought momentarily, and after hastily making up my mind, I held out an assortment of bits, “I’ll just have a bushel.” I said, handing over some the bits. The orange pony took off my saddlebag, and after a few minutes, she had it completely loaded up with apples. Handing it back to me, I wandered around the marketplace for some time, retrieving more fruit to last me the week. The midday sun still in the air, and I soon decided to return back to my home. Trotting off into an empty area of town, I started to prepare to take off. Gaining a running start, I started to sprint down the street. The run wasn’t long; I actually was expecting myself to take off into flight, with the wind in my face and feeling the freedom of flight. Instead, I face planted into the ground, with my saddlebags opening up and the contents spewing out along the street. “Hey Tumbler! How was your flight?” a voice rang out. I turned my head and I could see a dark blue earth pony across the street, he was laughing. I gained a reputation for botching off my takeoffs, and it really bugged me knowing that I would be remembered as a tripping Pegasus, never able to take off on my own. “Are you ok?” I heard a soft voice say, most definitely a mare’s voice. I stood up and looked around, and after turning my head back towards a nearby house, I could see a light grey Pegasus. Her mane was light blue and stopped at the back of her neck. Her tail was of medium length, and was the same color as her mane. It fluffed out and the most beautiful trait I could see that she had was her eyes. Her eyes were also light blue, but they were friendly, and welcoming. I tried to reply to her, but my tongue was in a bunch. After somehow managing to speak, I introduced myself, “I’m fine. My name’s Windy Tumble, but most people call me Tumbler. What’s your name?” The mare looked at me intently, apparently trying to see who I was, “I’m called Azure by most people.” She said. I found myself staring into her eyes; I quickly averted my gaze, and started to pick up my fallen fruit. I didn’t want to talk to her much; I really don’t know what to talk about. I soon found Azure helping me retrieve the various amounts of fruit scattered on the ground. “Thanks.” I said, while placing a majority of the fruit back in my saddlebags. “Maybe if you’re in town, you can come visit me sometime.” Azure said. I nodded my head and took off into the air successfully. Flying into the clouds, my thoughts went on about today’s events. That Unicorn was quite the sight, and I did want to see her again. I know it seems to be hasty but, I actually like her; just staring into her eyes just made time itself freeze. Approaching my home, I started to unpack the many things I had acquired at the marketplace. The sun started to fall and I took the moment to sit on a cloud, watching the sun slowly begin its descent. My eyes started to close before the moon rose into the sky, I was enjoying this happy moment. I was enjoying life. Meeting UpWaking up the next morning, I was ready to take on the day. I felt overjoyed and excited that I’ll be able to see Azure again. Maybe the two of us can go have dinner and get to know each other more. I knew I was slowly starting to fall for her, but hey, I still want to have that special somepony. Leaping from a cloud, I started to slowly descend down into town; I wanted to go out for a walk, and also wanting to see Azure. After a few moments of flight, I soon landed a short distance outside of Ponyville. I began a slow trot, enjoying and examining the wonderful sights that the ground world had to offer. It was approaching fall, the leaves were starting to turn a crisp brown. The air was becoming chilled and windy, but I never minded the cold. With the wind always flying past my mane when I’m in flight, I had gotten used to the icy chill. The sun was in the air, bringing warmth only to be quickly snuffed out by the wind. Entering town was always a wonderful sight. Ponies of all sorts entered my vision, giving me warm welcomes and a quick wave. I always waved back at them, and looking at everypony pass by, I still haven’t noticed Azure. I was happy on the outside, but thinking that Azure isn’t here had sadness creeping up against me. I resumed my trotting pace, and I soon stopped myself at a brightly colored house. Looking at it, I saw that it looked completely edible. Noticing a sign at the door, I read it to myself quickly, Sugar Cube Corner My stomach soon growled at me, and I suddenly felt ravenously hungry. “Oh well, might stop for a bite to eat in here.” I thought to myself. Entering the shop, the complete atmosphere of the place took me off guard. Cakes stood on shelves, various candies and sweets were in a display case for eager customers to look at, and the aroma of baked goods filled the place. Approaching the counter, I rang the bell that was placed on it and waited momentarily. Suddenly, a bright Pink earth pony popped out into my view, and was erratically speaking to me, “Hi there, I’m Pinkie Pie and I am doing great! How are you? Is this your first time in here? How’s Ponyville for you? It seems just wonderful that we have a new guest in here, I should sing a song!” she said to me ecstatically. I shyly grinned at her and started to answer her questions. I have been in Ponyville for a matter of months and this new place seemed to be a hangout for everypony. I explained to Pinkie Pie that this was my first time here and she happily gave me a cupcake on the house. Taking her generous offer, I sat down at a nearby table and began to eat. Looking around, I could see various ponies, Unicorns, Pegasus’s and earthen ponies alike. They added to the happy atmosphere of the place and looking around, I still couldn’t see Azure. Sitting in the corner, my eyes were on the door, watching ponies enter and exit the place. After waiting for a few tedious minutes, I was about to finish my cupcake and leave, but then the door suddenly opened and in entered Azure. She walked up to the counter and was happily greeted by Pinkie Pie. “Oh, hi Azure! The usual?” Pinkie asked. “Yes, thanks Pinkie.” Azure said, handing over a few bits to Pinkie. Pinkie Pie went into the kitchen, and after a minute or two, Pinkie had a medium sized cup in her hooves and was exchanging it to Azure, a milkshake, I presumed. I waved at Azure and motioned for her to come over here, and, after she noticed me, she trotted over to me and sat down across from me. “Hi Azure.” I said, starting up a conversation. “Hi Tumbler.” Azure said, giggling at my infamous nickname. I simply smirked at her and started to speak to her again, only to be interrupted by Pinkie Pie who somehow was in between us, “Hey you two! I just noticed that you were together and all and just so you know, he was waiting here the whole time Azure, can you believe that?” Pinkie Pie said. With the two of them looking at me, I started to blush from embarrassment. Pinkie Pie somehow pulled out a second straw and added it to Azure’s milkshake, “There! Now you two can share, I’ll just leave you two love birds alone.” Pinkie said. Now Azure was starting to blush. Pinkie Pie slowly backed off, staring at the two of us, even from behind the counter. I took a small sip of the milkshake, and Azure was glaring at me, “Just go with it.” I whispered. Azure giggled nervously and started to sip the milkshake with the other straw. Pinkie Pie could be heard giggling constantly. After a few awkward moments, I started to make my move, “So, Azure, think you can have dinner with me sometime?” I asked. Azure was surprised at my sudden offer. She was so surprised; she nearly fell out of her chair. “Well, um, sure.” Azure said, starting to blush. My thoughts were in a race, she said yes! I didn’t know what to say next, I had wanted to go up and hug her but I was reminded that we were being watched. Azure soon stood up and began to leave, “I have to go, meet me at town hall tomorrow afternoon, ok?” she said. I nodded my head and watched her leave. Pinkie Pie suddenly jolted up next to me and started to ecstatically speak to me, “Oh my gosh! You are so lucky! I can’t believe she said yes! It is just amazing! You know, she never ever says yes to people, maybe you’re an exception” “Yes Pinkie, thank you for telling me that, now I’ve got to go too.” I replied to her. I rushed outside of Sugar Cube corner and hastily took off into the sky. Everything was smooth until my left wing twitched unexpectedly, and I fell into a nearby cloud. My left wing started to hurt like crazy, I don’t know what happened, and I probably pulled it when I took off or during flight. Using my remaining wing, I went into flight again, but was completely lopsided and unbalanced. I could see my cloud home in the distance, and after a few minutes of frantically flapping my good wing, I made it home in one piece. Inside my house, I drew out a piece of parchment paper and a quill and started to write a quick note to the hospital. PreparationsAs the sun started to fall, I could see in the distance, a mailpony. After waving my arms at her, she flew over to me and landed. She was greyish, with a yellow mane and tail. Her eyes were also yellow and seemed to be moving all over the place. “Can you please deliver this to the hospital?” I asked her. The mailpony looked at my letter and after taking it out of my hooves and placing it in her bag; she simply nodded her head and took off. Rubbing my sore wing, I decided I would rest for a bit maybe that would help it, but I wanted to wait and see the doctor’s opinion. The moon was still in the sky, giving off its pale glow throughout the darkness. A sudden knocking at my door was heard, and I opened it to see a doctor. “Oh, thank you, my wings been in pain and I think you should take a look at it.” I said. The doctor nodded his head and I welcomed him inside. He took his time examining my wing, noting at which points he made contact with gave me an excruciating pain. After jotting down some notes, he finally gave me his opinion, “Well, your wing is pretty beat up, I recommend it that you don’t fly for some time and to bandage it up. You can stop by the hospital some time to get some medicine for the pain, but for now, just wrap it up and rarely fly.” I only nodded my head. No more flying for some time, that’s going to be a bit tough. Standing up, I looked down towards the sleeping town. How will I get down? I don’t know, but I was thinking of a quick solution and an idea suddenly sprung up in my head. I went back into my house and started to work on my idea; it wasn’t foolproof, but there is a high chance that it will work. The morning sun soon rose and I had a lot to do. Stepping outside, I prepared myself for the moment of truth. Holding a rope in my mouth, I soon leapt from my cloud home and started to fall. *** I was completely in a rush. I was plummeting through the sky at a fast pace. My cloud home wasn’t as high as most homes, but I still was a decent height up. Pulling on the rope in my mouth, I put my life at stake for this, and I was praying to Celestia herself. The latch the rope was attached to was pulled from its home and let loose a white bed sheet, which was rapidly unfolding. Attached to my body, was a mass of tied up rope and it was connecting to the two ends of the bed sheet. The wind caught up against the sheet and was slowing me down dramatically. My makeshift parachute worked. My fall was slowed down just enough so I can make a safe landing. I landed somewhere in the forest, but I knew Ponyville was nearby so I began a short trek through the woods. Arriving in Ponyville, I made a walk towards the hospital to get some medicine for the pain I’ve been experiencing all night. The pain still bothered me up to now; it was a sharp, twisting pain that seemed to burrow itself deeper into my wing. And before I now it, the pain dissipates and comes back again and again to haunt me. Entering the hospital, I saw a secretary at the front desk and went up to talk to her, “Hi, I need some medicine for the pain I have been experiencing in my wings.” I said. The secretary brushed back a few clipboards and after skimming some information, she began to speak, “I’m sorry sir, but you need a doctor’s approval to-“ The nurse was abruptly interrupted by the same doctor that saw me at night, “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” He said, giving off a disarming smile. He went into a back room, presumably where they stored the medicine, and he handed me a bottle of pills. “Take one once a day and it will relax your pain a bit, don’t take more than one at a time and come back soon if you run out.” He said. I nodded my head, and after putting the bottle in my saddlebags, I trotted out of the hospital. Wandering around town in one of my many walks gave me a basic mental map of the place. I changed directions and decided to go to the library. I had plenty of time to spare and getting a book for later use will definitely pass the time until my wing gets better. In the distance, I could see a trio of fillies; one was driving a scooter while the other two were in a wagon that was attached to the scooter. The wagon itself was loaded with all sorts of various supplies, rolls of fabric, a fan, basic building materials, and a book. It seemed odd for fillies to have those things, but I didn’t mind them. Entering the library, I saw the librarian, Twilight. I usually come in for a visit and to pick up some books at times, she noticed me and after shelving some books, she approached me. “Hey Tumbler, need a book?” Twilight asked. I nodded my head in response to her question, “Could you get me the next book in the Daring Doo series?” I asked. Twilight started to look around and after finding the book, she levitated it using her magic and she handed it to me, I read the front cover, Daring Doo: Ahuitzotl’s Revenge “Thanks Twilight.” I said. “Anytime, and also, have fun on your date.” Twilight replied. First DateTime began to fly by as I trotted around town. Arriving at the town hall, I saw Azure was waiting for me. She trotted over to me and gave me a friendly hug, “Hi Tumbler.” Azure said. She than noticed that my left wing was bandaged, and was starting to worry, “It’s fine.” I said, trying to calm her down. Both of us trotted down to a nearby restaurant, it wasn’t exactly fancy, but with the prices that high, I could say it was. We both took a seat outside and looked around. The schoolhouse was nearby and we could see all the little fillies playing around. A waiter appeared with a notepad trailing behind him, “May I take your order?” he asked. Azure thought momentarily and started to ask the waiter some questions, giving me enough time to think of something to eat. “-so I guess that I will have some hay for now.” Azure finished. The waiter soon turned towards me, “And you?” he asked to me. I froze for a moment, then quickly made up my mind, “I’ll have a dandelion-daisy sandwich.” I said. The waiter simply nodded his head and left us alone. I couldn’t think of any way to start up a conversation, I was mainly silent, barely even touching the appetizers that were laid out in front of us. Azure soon broke the silence, “So Tumbler how’s life here in Ponyville?” she asked. I thought momentarily, “Well, I’ve only been here for a few months, living in a cloud house nearby, and everything’s great here.” I answered. Azure nodded her head; the both of us started to talk about many things, from Pinkie Pie’s abnormal behavior to simple, daily things in our lifestyle. I told her about my occupation in the weather patrol, also about my hobby on working on mechanical contraptions, and she replied back to me about her job working abroad. She used to travel a lot but after managing a stable income, she decided to settle down in Ponyville for the time being. Our food soon arrived and the both of us started to eat. We remained quiet afterwards, but after soon finishing up our meals, the two of us started to walk together throughout town. “Hey Tumbler, follow me.” Azure said. I didn’t have any time to reply, she simply ran off, taking brief looks back to make sure I’m still close by. Going into the outer regions of town, I realized where we were. Azure stood on top of a nearby hill, watching the setting sun. I soon joined her and the two of us were together, watching the orange beacon of light slowly drift down. Turning my head towards her, I looked into her beautiful eyes. She stared back at mine, and we were both locked in a sort of trance. I didn’t know what to do; I was just as frozen as she was. My brain didn’t know what to do, but I guess my heart took direct control. I leaned my neck forward, slowly rotating to my right, and kissed her. At first, she started to resist, but she relaxed and soon opened up to me. I don’t know how long the moment lasted, but we soon broke apart and resumed our gaze at the setting sun. Azure started to sit next to me, and she was starting to lean against me. Putting my hoof around her shoulder, I relaxed. The two of us, together, I wished the moment had lasted longer. We both fell asleep in each other’s arms, everything was seemingly perfect. *** I woke up, the sudden chill of the night wakening me from my slumber. Azure was still next to me, and the moon was giving its pale glow throughout the darkened land. I woke Azure up and her eyes soon opened up, her light blue eyes seemingly sparkling in the moonlight. We both trotted back into town, nopony was outside, and everything was closed and empty. Approaching a small house, Azure gave me a hug and a short kiss on the cheek, and said goodbye to me. I was trotting on my own when I recounted the many events of today. Suddenly, the thought came to me, how was I supposed to get home? My wing was still in pain, being slightly dulled by the medicine I had received earlier. I didn’t want to show indecency and to wake somepony up. I tried to take off into flight, but my left wing was becoming unresponsive and I soon face planted into the ground painfully. My left wing now started to flutter uncontrollably, giving me a sharp pain, constantly increasing in intensity over time. I frantically tried to pull out the medicine, but after dumping out the contents of my saddlebag, the container rolled out of view. I started to gallop towards the hospital, leaving my belongings behind. At The HospitalArriving at the hospital, I was exhausted, and in a huge amount of pain. I nearly collapsed at the entrance, and a nurse grabbed me and placed me in a room. A doctor soon arrived, starting to examine my wings and taking x-rays on it. I was patient most of the time, but this was driving me crazy. I wanted to know what was wrong with me, and my questions were met with silence. The doctor cleared his throat, than started to speak to me, “Your wing is a rare case, its muscle is deteriorating at a rapid pace, and the bone structure is falling apart.” He said, nearly emotionless. I started to scream in outburst, “What!?” I yelled. The doctor remained silent, and let me continue my outburst, “You mean I can’t fly anymore! Just why did it have to be me! How am I supposed to live with only one wing!?” I yelled. I felt like blaming him for everything, but deep down, I was afraid. I couldn’t show the fact that I was afraid, nopony truly knows how I feel deep down inside, I was soon gasping for air; that yelling fit I threw took a lot out of me. “You’re going to have to stay here for a while, we will figure out a solution.” The doctor said. “Just rest for now and wait until morning.” A nurse said. I reluctantly embraced sleep, my mind in a rush on all of these events from happening. True sleep was hard to come by for me, the sun was beginning to rise, and it disrupted my sleep. I ended up not getting much rest, since I was dealing with constant pain throughout the morning. A nurse walked into the room and gave me the regular slop they server at the hospital. I’ve only been to the hospital once as a filly; I had my back injured from an incident at flight school. From my short experience at a hospital, I knew things weren’t so well. Trying to at least enjoy the meal they gave me, I was left alone. *** A knock on my door brought me out of my sleep; I saw that it was Azure. She was happy to see that I was safe, but highly worried about me. She was soon next to me, gripping my hoof as if I was on my deathbed. “Please, tell me you’re alright Tumbler.” Azure said. “I’m fine.” I said, trying to reassure her, but it didn’t work. Azure was soon starting to cry, making no effort to quiet down. I pulled her close to me and started to embrace her tightly, her sobs still echoing throughout the small room. “Don’t worry.” I whispered. Two other ponies soon entered, I recognized them as Twilight and Pinkie Pie. “Azure, come on, let’s bring you home.” Twilight said. Pinkie Pie soon grabbed Azure and started to slowly push her out. I held out my hoof as a way of saying goodbye, and the door soon shut, leaving only silence. I felt like bursting into tears myself, but I just couldn’t; I just wanted to be with Azure. I realized how a majority of my life was alone, and that I’ve missed out on all these things. These new feelings and experiences, they were like heaven almost. My wing was starting to get better, but the doctors said that it would be a miracle if they could save it. The muscle and bone in it is severely weak and can be very brittle. They want to conduct a surgery to fix it, but they also gave me another option, amputation. I didn’t want to lose my own wing, it didn’t seem fair. The doctors patiently waited for my answer, their casual smiles doing nothing for me. I was nervous, my lips shaking, I muttered out my decision, “Just, just get my wing off.” The doctors soon left me alone yet again; I couldn’t believe I took that choice. Only a few moments until they get everything prepped and then off goes my wing. I looked at my left wing; it was still heavily bandaged so I took my time removing it. Looking at it, I noticed that it was significantly thinner and looked frailer than my other wing. I sighed, and started to watch the minutes tick by. *** Azure was able to be the last person to visit me until my surgery. She hugged me tightly, “I don’t want you to do this.” She said. I nodded my head, I understood her completely, but with this decision already stuck in my head, there was no turning back. I nuzzled up against her, ignoring the slight pain my wing was still giving me. I was starting to cry, and Azure tried her best to cheer me up, “I’ll see what we can do to help you afterwards, just be strong Tumbler.” She said. Her words only made me cry harder, I wanted to do one last thing before she goes away from me for who knows how long. I give her a quick kiss just before the doctors arrived for my surgery. Chapter 7I stopped my work suddenly, where was Azure? I started to go into a brief sense of panic, before it became my mindset to go out and find her. Leaving the house, I saw that the moon was barely in sight, giving all of Ponyville an eerie mood to it. I slowly started to trot outside, looking around the empty town constantly. Nopony was in sight, and I was starting to get afraid myself. Nearing the outskirts of Ponyville, I started to go towards the hill me and Azure always went to. I somehow felt her presence at the hill, so I started to gallop, wanting to see her again. Nearing the top of the hill, I saw a horrible sight. There was Azure; I could see her eyes faintly reflecting in the moonlight. My first expression was of joy but soon shock as I noticed the dark blue earth pony; he looked obviously angry and I soon grabbed onto him tightly. “What did you do!” I yelled, demanding an answer. He simply smirked at me, “She made me mad.” He simply said. I screamed at him in rage and pushed him forward. He went back a considerable distance and started to roll down the hill. Throughout the darkness, I could see him disappear into the forest, than my attention went to Azure. I ran over to her, and saw that she was injured. It looked like she was smacked across the head, with a mixture of blood and mud over her face. Her hooves were trembling and she was curled up into a ball. I tapped her slightly, a sort of silent gesture to know that she is safe. She slowly uncurled and I grabbed her quickly and started to carry her on my back. “Tumbler?” Azure said quietly. “No, don’t speak; just let me get you home.” I said, nearly bringing myself to tears. “Take me home than…” Azure whispered before she went silent. I was starting to go into a full gallop; I wanted her to be safe. I didn’t want to be alone. In my mad dash towards the hospital, I could hear her faint breaths, going slower and slower as more time passed. I could see the hospital in the distance, but I was starting to get exhausted. I pressed on, and started to feel dizzy. I couldn’t give up, not now. I felt my legs screaming at me to stop, but I ignored them as I crashed into the hospital. Shocked screams and all sorts of yelling could be heard, and ignoring them, I turned my head towards Azure; her eyes closed, and her breathing slow, “Your safe now, just don’t leave me.” I said before passing out. Chapter 8I woke up back in the familiar bed. Looking to my sides, I could see that Azure was calmly asleep in the bed next to me. Her wound was bandaged up and I could see that she was calmly breathing, thank Celestia for that. I stood out of my bed and started to walk around. My legs were still sore from all the running I did, so I soon found myself sitting down. Azure’s eyes were still closed, I could have waited by her side all day if I had to, but a nurse kicked me out and said that I will know when she is all better. I was overly glad that she was alive, but there was also some bad news. They said that the blow that she suffered to the head put her in a coma, I was devastated. I tried to hold back the tears, but I soon found myself bawling on the floor like a filly that just broke their mother’s vase. After calming down slightly, I soon left the hospital; visiting hours were over. Returning back to the house that me and Azure both lived in, I found myself working on my many projects; most notably my new wing. I felt that it was finished and I decided to take it on a test run. Strapping it on over where my left wing once stood, I walked outside of the house, ready to take off into flight. It’s been months, maybe even almost a year since I last flew, but I took off into the skies maybe even better than I had ever done. Feeling the wind in my face, it brought back all of those memories, I flew through the clouds, embracing the slight chill it gave me. My new wing creaked and nearly bent in half with the sheer force I was using, but it still held on. My thoughts went through the clouds too, and gave me new ideas of all sorts. After a few minutes, I decided I could visit Azure. Even though she is in her coma, I just hope that she will wake up someday, but for now, I know she would do the same for me. Flying back towards the hospital, I got new stares from patients and the hospital staff alike. Walking into Azure’s room, I saw that her eyes were still closed, her hair in a tangled mess; with arrays of devices attached to her. I started to talk to her, hoping that she could hear me. “Azure, please tell me that you are alright.” I whispered. She remained silent, as I expected. I wanted to hear her voice, to see her eyes. Seeing her like this, it just broke me. I lowered my head and started to leave the room. Chapter 9Now that I had my left wing replaced, I decided to visit my old home in the clouds. The place was slightly run down and things were missing due to some of it being put back in Azure’s home ever since I moved in with her. Walking through, I saw my old workbench, with all sorts of projects strewn across. Most of it looked untouched for months, but ignoring them, I moved on through the rest of my house. The house has seen better days; I’ve known that for sure. Suddenly, I heard a whoosh of air outside and I went out to investigate. I could see a light blue Pegasus flying by; my mind recalled that her name was Rainbow Dash. She soon noticed me and landed a distance in front of me. “Hey, I sorta heard what happened.” She said. I slightly cringed at her words; I didn’t know what to say. She gave me a friendly pat on my back with her hoof, “Come on, cheer up, I’ve had everything ruined for me too.” She said. I simply moved away from her, “How?” I demanded. She simply glared at me, “I could have been with the Wonderbolts! But you don’t get it, you’re not like me. So you should get yourself back in line and make sure everything turns out fine…. Before they end up like my crushed dreams.” Rainbow Dash said. She was starting to cry a bit, from those shattered dreams that she had to suffer through. I tried to console her the best I could, but she flew off. I knew it wouldn’t make any difference; she just wanted to be alone. And well, I guess I wanted to be alone too, in this mess of a house. Chapter 10I visited Azure as much as I could, even though those visits left me even more depressed. With her being unresponsive, I just couldn’t take it anymore; it made me almost lose my mentality. I was soon seeing Azure less and less, I felt as if I’d have given up on her. I would cry myself asleep in the house that we had lived in together. I began to neglect myself, everypony could see that, others worried about me, and I shrugged their words off of me. In one of my aimless walks, I just felt a sudden rage. I felt mad. Mad at everything that this world has done to me; first my wing and then my lovely Azure. How could this have happened to me! I was walking, away from Ponyville, away from all this sadness. I blamed myself for all of this, and as Ponyville went out of view, I continued on. AwakeningWhere am I? I’m in a hospital? My eyes soon opened and a sudden ringing brought me to a stand. My legs were all wobbly and I could barely walk. A doctor and two nurses soon rushed on in and began to sit me back down on the hospital bed. My head felt horrible, I couldn’t remember most on how I came here, I put my hooves to my head; then, I felt the bandage. A sudden torrent of memories went through my head, that earth pony, Vincent, he hit me and I wound up here. My throat was dry, but I managed to speak to the doctor, “How long was I here? Where’s Tumbler?” I asked, begging him to answer. The doctor cleared his throat and answered me, the whole reality of his answer hitting me hard, “You’ve been here for months, and well, Tumbler, he has been visiting you ever since you were here. He stopped visiting you a few days ago, and well, he seemed quite depressed.” The doctor said. I started to cry, I was crying harder than I ever had before. I was hearing him talk to me ever since I was here; his calming voice begging me to wake up. He loved me; and he cared for me, maybe even more than himself, and now he is gone. I stood up out of my bed, determined to find Tumbler and for everything to be alright. I have absolutely no idea where he is, but I will find him, even if I have to travel throughout all of Equestria to find him. Chapter 12I was soon lost. I somehow found myself wandering through Everfree Forest, which turned out to be a bad mistake. My prosthetic wing had snapped under tension while I was flying and I had no choice but to resort to walking. I didn’t want to go back to Ponyville; I could live here in the forest for the rest of my life if I had to. Azure was pretty much the only pony who knew me; it wouldn’t matter if I disappeared from this world. A thorn bush snagged at my right hind leg, tearing it up a bit and giving me new sensations of pain. I ignored it, I didn’t mind at all. My vision soon blurred, but I pressed on. I just wanted to escape this mad world; this living nightmare bent on giving you one of the worst days of your life. I’ve heard all that talk those doctors did behind my back; how visiting her was futile and that she might not make it. I ignored them, but those thoughts leeched itself into the back of my mind, and began to spread. I couldn’t live without her, I can’t, and leaving Ponyville behind seemed to be the right thing to do. Darkness began to rise yet again, and I blindly walked through the terrain. I reached a clearing, where I could see a beautiful view of the forest. I didn’t savor the moment; for I was in such a daze, I could barely keep myself up. Collapsing on the ground, I soon embraced sleep. Azure's Search“Where is he?” I thought. I had to get help if I ever were to see Tumbler again; somepony had to at least know where he is. I went outside of Ponyville, I knew I could ask at least one of my friends for help, Fluttershy; she would keep things discreet and low-key. Arriving at her cottage, I waited for her to answer. When she did, she was surprised to see me. “Azure!? What are you doing here?” Fluttershy asked. I barely had anytime to answer, I quickly explained to her about Tumbler’s disappearance, and that I needed her help. She agreed, and after we had a plan hastily made, she flew off towards his old home in the clouds; I at least hope that he is there, but if not, I have my own search route decided. While Fluttershy would check up above, I decided to check around the border of the Everfree forest. It would be abeit dangerous, but I would risk anything to make sure Tumbler was safe. Trotting along the forest, I noticed some faint hoof-prints throughout the dirt paths leading in and out of the forest. Taking one of them, I noticed a set of wires; mangled, bent, and strewn across the path, almost hidden in the nearby trees. Pressing forward, I what seemed to be a metal frame; it appeared to be snapped in half. Looking at how the hoof-print’s suddenly stopped, I inferred that it was a Pegasus that had flown in wearing this, which snapped it and he or she went on foot outside of the forest. I soon turned around and galloped back to the outside border of the forest. Turning down a windy path, I saw a beautiful clearing. It looked as if nopony was here, and under all of the darkness it was hard to see if anypony was here. I tripped over something, and turning back to look at it, I realized in shock that it was Tumbler! AftermathI eventually awoke, this time inside a house. My eyes adjusted and I could see that I was back home. I don’t know how I got here, but I realized I wasn’t alone. Standing up, I realized Azure was looking at me! I was shocked, I didn’t know what was going on, but I knew that my Azure was back and out of harm’s way. I literally galloped up to her in full speed and embraced her. “I missed you.” I managed to say through a fit of tears. Azure was starting to cry too, she was overly joyful that her beloved was safe, and that the two of them are finally back together. I was also overjoyed; I probably had a lot to explain, but for now, I know that the two of us are together again. “Tumbler, I never knew you cared so much for me.” Azure said, looking at me. I smiled back at her, “I will always care for you, no matter what.” I replied. We embraced yet again and we soon got to work. We cleaned the place up; mainly due to the fact that in my depressed state I never even bothered to clean up the house, and I managed to make a second model for my replacement wing; this time, it was more sturdy and was more comfortable for me to wear. Putting it on and grabbing Azure, we both flew through town together, enjoying the moment, and enjoying everything that we had together. We were both flying through the air, Azure was holding on tightly, and well I could assume that she isn’t used to it. I slowed down slightly and hovered a distance above Ponyville, Azure whispered to me, “Maybe you can make some wings for me.” I thought about it, a lot. It would take so much time to at least make it for a non-Pegasus pony to have wings. There would have to be many changes made, for instance, my wing was attached to my other and mimicked it; but for any other pony to actually fly, it would have to have some sort of power supply. I snapped myself out of those calculating thoughts and replied to Azure, “Sure, I’ll see what I can do.” My flying with this second model was making my flight rougher than the first model; mainly due to the fact that it was sturdier and took more energy to move it. Azure gave out no complaint as we flew through the sky, and I wanted to at least give her a memorable moment. I decided that it would be fit to go to the hill. We always spent time there; it was our special spot and always will be. Instead of a lovely sunset greeting us as normal, we saw the sun high in the sky, we were early, but we were prepared. We had a whole picnic set up, just for the two of us, to enjoy this day and hope that it would last forever. All those memories that we had together seemingly merged itself into one, ending with the sun beginning to lazily descend downward, leading back to the darkness. “I love you Azure.” I said. “Love you too Tumbler.” Azure replied. With the last of the sun’s rays disappearing into the sky, the two of us huddled up against each other, feeling chilling sensation of night. We stood there, at the top of the hill, for hours; watching the full moon light up the land. We later embarked back to town, where we returned safely home. I was happy, she was happy. Everything was just perfect and just how it should be. Life as we know it?Time has passed, and living together with Azure made things better for me. She had a friend who got the stuff out of my house and moved it over here. I was grateful of her; she said something about her name being Rainbow Dash if I remember correctly. The medicine I’ve been given has eased the pain a lot and I soon began my work on a new mechanical project, one to replace my missing wing. Working day and night in my makeshift workshop has left me exhausted, but I still have found time with Azure. We would usually go out together and spend the day together, but we’ve been more distant ever since. I attached a few pieces of brass metal together and, after welding them together, I gave them a little bend to test on how flexible they would be; this would be the frame of my new wing. My concentration was soon broken by Azure entering the workshop and giving me a short hug, “Come on, let’s go out somewhere.” She said. Looking back at her, I knew I couldn’t say no, so I removed my safety goggles and left the workshop with her. We walked throughout town, passing by the many citizens of Ponyville. I would get the occasional stare at others when they noticed that I had only one functioning wing, but those stares soon went away, and the two of us moved on with our happy day. “Tumbler, can we please go back?” Azure said. This wasn’t like Azure at all, “Why?” I asked her. She didn’t answer me, but she started to drag me away from a crowd, into a nearby alleyway. “There’s a person, who is just, jealous of us. I don’t want him to hurt you; you’ve already been through enough.” Azure explained. I nodded my head and the two of us set of for home. We tried our best to stay together as much as possible, but with her having to work more; it just left me alone. I used that time to work on my replacement wing. I added on an intricate wire system, one that would mimic my right wing in an almost perfect way. Sipping some water, I went to work on one of the hardest parts ever, the wings itself. Taking some old bed sheets, I began to cut them into a curved shape. Taking some more wire, I began to weave the wire through the now shaped bed sheet. Repeating the tedious process again and again took a lot of time, but eventually I had twelve pieces of cut out bed sheet with a wire weaving through it, all of them coming together to form the wing.
BeginningWaking up in my small cloud home outside of Ponyville, I gave my wings a short stretching routine. My name is Windy Tumble but most people call me Tumbler, mainly due to me always managing to tumble. I can fly and walk well at times, but I sometimes lose my balance more than usual, hence why others call me Tumbler. I’m dark grey, with a medium length mane, that was always spiked around. My tail is also of medium length, but isn’t as messed up as my mane. I’m about the average size of a regular stallion, but most people are still taller than me. Others tell me that I look tired, maybe even sleep deprived, but I always shrug off those words, I am who I am, right? After finishing my morning routine, I went on one of my many daily visits into Ponyville. The town is always bustling with activity and I passed my way around crowds. I never really was the most social pony in town, but striking up a conversation every once in a while usually disproved that. Looking around, I start to go into various market stalls for some groceries. Approaching an apple stall, I look at the salespony; she was bright orange, and was also wearing a hat. I’d assume she was of the apple family, and after a long season of harvesting the apples, she wanted to end the season with some profit made. “Howdy Partner!” she said to me. “Hi there, lovely day we are having today.” I said. She simply nodded her head, and after showing me a basket full of apples, “So how many apples do you need?” she asked. I thought momentarily, and after hastily making up my mind, I held out an assortment of bits, “I’ll just have a bushel.” I said, handing over some the bits. The orange pony took off my saddlebag, and after a few minutes, she had it completely loaded up with apples. Handing it back to me, I wandered around the marketplace for some time, retrieving more fruit to last me the week. The midday sun still in the air, and I soon decided to return back to my home. Trotting off into an empty area of town, I started to prepare to take off. Gaining a running start, I started to sprint down the street. The run wasn’t long; I actually was expecting myself to take off into flight, with the wind in my face and feeling the freedom of flight. Instead, I face planted into the ground, with my saddlebags opening up and the contents spewing out along the street. “Hey Tumbler! How was your flight?” a voice rang out. I turned my head and I could see a dark blue earth pony across the street, he was laughing. I gained a reputation for botching off my takeoffs, and it really bugged me knowing that I would be remembered as a tripping Pegasus, never able to take off on my own. “Are you ok?” I heard a soft voice say, most definitely a mare’s voice. I stood up and looked around, and after turning my head back towards a nearby house, I could see a light grey Pegasus. Her mane was light blue and stopped at the back of her neck. Her tail was of medium length, and was the same color as her mane. It fluffed out and the most beautiful trait I could see that she had was her eyes. Her eyes were also light blue, but they were friendly, and welcoming. I tried to reply to her, but my tongue was in a bunch. After somehow managing to speak, I introduced myself, “I’m fine. My name’s Windy Tumble, but most people call me Tumbler. What’s your name?” The mare looked at me intently, apparently trying to see who I was, “I’m called Azure by most people.” She said. I found myself staring into her eyes; I quickly averted my gaze, and started to pick up my fallen fruit. I didn’t want to talk to her much; I really don’t know what to talk about. I soon found Azure helping me retrieve the various amounts of fruit scattered on the ground. “Thanks.” I said, while placing a majority of the fruit back in my saddlebags. “Maybe if you’re in town, you can come visit me sometime.” Azure said. I nodded my head and took off into the air successfully. Flying into the clouds, my thoughts went on about today’s events. That Unicorn was quite the sight, and I did want to see her again. I know it seems to be hasty but, I actually like her; just staring into her eyes just made time itself freeze. Approaching my home, I started to unpack the many things I had acquired at the marketplace. The sun started to fall and I took the moment to sit on a cloud, watching the sun slowly begin its descent. My eyes started to close before the moon rose into the sky, I was enjoying this happy moment. I was enjoying life.
Meeting UpWaking up the next morning, I was ready to take on the day. I felt overjoyed and excited that I’ll be able to see Azure again. Maybe the two of us can go have dinner and get to know each other more. I knew I was slowly starting to fall for her, but hey, I still want to have that special somepony. Leaping from a cloud, I started to slowly descend down into town; I wanted to go out for a walk, and also wanting to see Azure. After a few moments of flight, I soon landed a short distance outside of Ponyville. I began a slow trot, enjoying and examining the wonderful sights that the ground world had to offer. It was approaching fall, the leaves were starting to turn a crisp brown. The air was becoming chilled and windy, but I never minded the cold. With the wind always flying past my mane when I’m in flight, I had gotten used to the icy chill. The sun was in the air, bringing warmth only to be quickly snuffed out by the wind. Entering town was always a wonderful sight. Ponies of all sorts entered my vision, giving me warm welcomes and a quick wave. I always waved back at them, and looking at everypony pass by, I still haven’t noticed Azure. I was happy on the outside, but thinking that Azure isn’t here had sadness creeping up against me. I resumed my trotting pace, and I soon stopped myself at a brightly colored house. Looking at it, I saw that it looked completely edible. Noticing a sign at the door, I read it to myself quickly, Sugar Cube Corner My stomach soon growled at me, and I suddenly felt ravenously hungry. “Oh well, might stop for a bite to eat in here.” I thought to myself. Entering the shop, the complete atmosphere of the place took me off guard. Cakes stood on shelves, various candies and sweets were in a display case for eager customers to look at, and the aroma of baked goods filled the place. Approaching the counter, I rang the bell that was placed on it and waited momentarily. Suddenly, a bright Pink earth pony popped out into my view, and was erratically speaking to me, “Hi there, I’m Pinkie Pie and I am doing great! How are you? Is this your first time in here? How’s Ponyville for you? It seems just wonderful that we have a new guest in here, I should sing a song!” she said to me ecstatically. I shyly grinned at her and started to answer her questions. I have been in Ponyville for a matter of months and this new place seemed to be a hangout for everypony. I explained to Pinkie Pie that this was my first time here and she happily gave me a cupcake on the house. Taking her generous offer, I sat down at a nearby table and began to eat. Looking around, I could see various ponies, Unicorns, Pegasus’s and earthen ponies alike. They added to the happy atmosphere of the place and looking around, I still couldn’t see Azure. Sitting in the corner, my eyes were on the door, watching ponies enter and exit the place. After waiting for a few tedious minutes, I was about to finish my cupcake and leave, but then the door suddenly opened and in entered Azure. She walked up to the counter and was happily greeted by Pinkie Pie. “Oh, hi Azure! The usual?” Pinkie asked. “Yes, thanks Pinkie.” Azure said, handing over a few bits to Pinkie. Pinkie Pie went into the kitchen, and after a minute or two, Pinkie had a medium sized cup in her hooves and was exchanging it to Azure, a milkshake, I presumed. I waved at Azure and motioned for her to come over here, and, after she noticed me, she trotted over to me and sat down across from me. “Hi Azure.” I said, starting up a conversation. “Hi Tumbler.” Azure said, giggling at my infamous nickname. I simply smirked at her and started to speak to her again, only to be interrupted by Pinkie Pie who somehow was in between us, “Hey you two! I just noticed that you were together and all and just so you know, he was waiting here the whole time Azure, can you believe that?” Pinkie Pie said. With the two of them looking at me, I started to blush from embarrassment. Pinkie Pie somehow pulled out a second straw and added it to Azure’s milkshake, “There! Now you two can share, I’ll just leave you two love birds alone.” Pinkie said. Now Azure was starting to blush. Pinkie Pie slowly backed off, staring at the two of us, even from behind the counter. I took a small sip of the milkshake, and Azure was glaring at me, “Just go with it.” I whispered. Azure giggled nervously and started to sip the milkshake with the other straw. Pinkie Pie could be heard giggling constantly. After a few awkward moments, I started to make my move, “So, Azure, think you can have dinner with me sometime?” I asked. Azure was surprised at my sudden offer. She was so surprised; she nearly fell out of her chair. “Well, um, sure.” Azure said, starting to blush. My thoughts were in a race, she said yes! I didn’t know what to say next, I had wanted to go up and hug her but I was reminded that we were being watched. Azure soon stood up and began to leave, “I have to go, meet me at town hall tomorrow afternoon, ok?” she said. I nodded my head and watched her leave. Pinkie Pie suddenly jolted up next to me and started to ecstatically speak to me, “Oh my gosh! You are so lucky! I can’t believe she said yes! It is just amazing! You know, she never ever says yes to people, maybe you’re an exception” “Yes Pinkie, thank you for telling me that, now I’ve got to go too.” I replied to her. I rushed outside of Sugar Cube corner and hastily took off into the sky. Everything was smooth until my left wing twitched unexpectedly, and I fell into a nearby cloud. My left wing started to hurt like crazy, I don’t know what happened, and I probably pulled it when I took off or during flight. Using my remaining wing, I went into flight again, but was completely lopsided and unbalanced. I could see my cloud home in the distance, and after a few minutes of frantically flapping my good wing, I made it home in one piece. Inside my house, I drew out a piece of parchment paper and a quill and started to write a quick note to the hospital.
PreparationsAs the sun started to fall, I could see in the distance, a mailpony. After waving my arms at her, she flew over to me and landed. She was greyish, with a yellow mane and tail. Her eyes were also yellow and seemed to be moving all over the place. “Can you please deliver this to the hospital?” I asked her. The mailpony looked at my letter and after taking it out of my hooves and placing it in her bag; she simply nodded her head and took off. Rubbing my sore wing, I decided I would rest for a bit maybe that would help it, but I wanted to wait and see the doctor’s opinion. The moon was still in the sky, giving off its pale glow throughout the darkness. A sudden knocking at my door was heard, and I opened it to see a doctor. “Oh, thank you, my wings been in pain and I think you should take a look at it.” I said. The doctor nodded his head and I welcomed him inside. He took his time examining my wing, noting at which points he made contact with gave me an excruciating pain. After jotting down some notes, he finally gave me his opinion, “Well, your wing is pretty beat up, I recommend it that you don’t fly for some time and to bandage it up. You can stop by the hospital some time to get some medicine for the pain, but for now, just wrap it up and rarely fly.” I only nodded my head. No more flying for some time, that’s going to be a bit tough. Standing up, I looked down towards the sleeping town. How will I get down? I don’t know, but I was thinking of a quick solution and an idea suddenly sprung up in my head. I went back into my house and started to work on my idea; it wasn’t foolproof, but there is a high chance that it will work. The morning sun soon rose and I had a lot to do. Stepping outside, I prepared myself for the moment of truth. Holding a rope in my mouth, I soon leapt from my cloud home and started to fall. *** I was completely in a rush. I was plummeting through the sky at a fast pace. My cloud home wasn’t as high as most homes, but I still was a decent height up. Pulling on the rope in my mouth, I put my life at stake for this, and I was praying to Celestia herself. The latch the rope was attached to was pulled from its home and let loose a white bed sheet, which was rapidly unfolding. Attached to my body, was a mass of tied up rope and it was connecting to the two ends of the bed sheet. The wind caught up against the sheet and was slowing me down dramatically. My makeshift parachute worked. My fall was slowed down just enough so I can make a safe landing. I landed somewhere in the forest, but I knew Ponyville was nearby so I began a short trek through the woods. Arriving in Ponyville, I made a walk towards the hospital to get some medicine for the pain I’ve been experiencing all night. The pain still bothered me up to now; it was a sharp, twisting pain that seemed to burrow itself deeper into my wing. And before I now it, the pain dissipates and comes back again and again to haunt me. Entering the hospital, I saw a secretary at the front desk and went up to talk to her, “Hi, I need some medicine for the pain I have been experiencing in my wings.” I said. The secretary brushed back a few clipboards and after skimming some information, she began to speak, “I’m sorry sir, but you need a doctor’s approval to-“ The nurse was abruptly interrupted by the same doctor that saw me at night, “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” He said, giving off a disarming smile. He went into a back room, presumably where they stored the medicine, and he handed me a bottle of pills. “Take one once a day and it will relax your pain a bit, don’t take more than one at a time and come back soon if you run out.” He said. I nodded my head, and after putting the bottle in my saddlebags, I trotted out of the hospital. Wandering around town in one of my many walks gave me a basic mental map of the place. I changed directions and decided to go to the library. I had plenty of time to spare and getting a book for later use will definitely pass the time until my wing gets better. In the distance, I could see a trio of fillies; one was driving a scooter while the other two were in a wagon that was attached to the scooter. The wagon itself was loaded with all sorts of various supplies, rolls of fabric, a fan, basic building materials, and a book. It seemed odd for fillies to have those things, but I didn’t mind them. Entering the library, I saw the librarian, Twilight. I usually come in for a visit and to pick up some books at times, she noticed me and after shelving some books, she approached me. “Hey Tumbler, need a book?” Twilight asked. I nodded my head in response to her question, “Could you get me the next book in the Daring Doo series?” I asked. Twilight started to look around and after finding the book, she levitated it using her magic and she handed it to me, I read the front cover, Daring Doo: Ahuitzotl’s Revenge “Thanks Twilight.” I said. “Anytime, and also, have fun on your date.” Twilight replied.
First DateTime began to fly by as I trotted around town. Arriving at the town hall, I saw Azure was waiting for me. She trotted over to me and gave me a friendly hug, “Hi Tumbler.” Azure said. She than noticed that my left wing was bandaged, and was starting to worry, “It’s fine.” I said, trying to calm her down. Both of us trotted down to a nearby restaurant, it wasn’t exactly fancy, but with the prices that high, I could say it was. We both took a seat outside and looked around. The schoolhouse was nearby and we could see all the little fillies playing around. A waiter appeared with a notepad trailing behind him, “May I take your order?” he asked. Azure thought momentarily and started to ask the waiter some questions, giving me enough time to think of something to eat. “-so I guess that I will have some hay for now.” Azure finished. The waiter soon turned towards me, “And you?” he asked to me. I froze for a moment, then quickly made up my mind, “I’ll have a dandelion-daisy sandwich.” I said. The waiter simply nodded his head and left us alone. I couldn’t think of any way to start up a conversation, I was mainly silent, barely even touching the appetizers that were laid out in front of us. Azure soon broke the silence, “So Tumbler how’s life here in Ponyville?” she asked. I thought momentarily, “Well, I’ve only been here for a few months, living in a cloud house nearby, and everything’s great here.” I answered. Azure nodded her head; the both of us started to talk about many things, from Pinkie Pie’s abnormal behavior to simple, daily things in our lifestyle. I told her about my occupation in the weather patrol, also about my hobby on working on mechanical contraptions, and she replied back to me about her job working abroad. She used to travel a lot but after managing a stable income, she decided to settle down in Ponyville for the time being. Our food soon arrived and the both of us started to eat. We remained quiet afterwards, but after soon finishing up our meals, the two of us started to walk together throughout town. “Hey Tumbler, follow me.” Azure said. I didn’t have any time to reply, she simply ran off, taking brief looks back to make sure I’m still close by. Going into the outer regions of town, I realized where we were. Azure stood on top of a nearby hill, watching the setting sun. I soon joined her and the two of us were together, watching the orange beacon of light slowly drift down. Turning my head towards her, I looked into her beautiful eyes. She stared back at mine, and we were both locked in a sort of trance. I didn’t know what to do; I was just as frozen as she was. My brain didn’t know what to do, but I guess my heart took direct control. I leaned my neck forward, slowly rotating to my right, and kissed her. At first, she started to resist, but she relaxed and soon opened up to me. I don’t know how long the moment lasted, but we soon broke apart and resumed our gaze at the setting sun. Azure started to sit next to me, and she was starting to lean against me. Putting my hoof around her shoulder, I relaxed. The two of us, together, I wished the moment had lasted longer. We both fell asleep in each other’s arms, everything was seemingly perfect. *** I woke up, the sudden chill of the night wakening me from my slumber. Azure was still next to me, and the moon was giving its pale glow throughout the darkened land. I woke Azure up and her eyes soon opened up, her light blue eyes seemingly sparkling in the moonlight. We both trotted back into town, nopony was outside, and everything was closed and empty. Approaching a small house, Azure gave me a hug and a short kiss on the cheek, and said goodbye to me. I was trotting on my own when I recounted the many events of today. Suddenly, the thought came to me, how was I supposed to get home? My wing was still in pain, being slightly dulled by the medicine I had received earlier. I didn’t want to show indecency and to wake somepony up. I tried to take off into flight, but my left wing was becoming unresponsive and I soon face planted into the ground painfully. My left wing now started to flutter uncontrollably, giving me a sharp pain, constantly increasing in intensity over time. I frantically tried to pull out the medicine, but after dumping out the contents of my saddlebag, the container rolled out of view. I started to gallop towards the hospital, leaving my belongings behind.
At The HospitalArriving at the hospital, I was exhausted, and in a huge amount of pain. I nearly collapsed at the entrance, and a nurse grabbed me and placed me in a room. A doctor soon arrived, starting to examine my wings and taking x-rays on it. I was patient most of the time, but this was driving me crazy. I wanted to know what was wrong with me, and my questions were met with silence. The doctor cleared his throat, than started to speak to me, “Your wing is a rare case, its muscle is deteriorating at a rapid pace, and the bone structure is falling apart.” He said, nearly emotionless. I started to scream in outburst, “What!?” I yelled. The doctor remained silent, and let me continue my outburst, “You mean I can’t fly anymore! Just why did it have to be me! How am I supposed to live with only one wing!?” I yelled. I felt like blaming him for everything, but deep down, I was afraid. I couldn’t show the fact that I was afraid, nopony truly knows how I feel deep down inside, I was soon gasping for air; that yelling fit I threw took a lot out of me. “You’re going to have to stay here for a while, we will figure out a solution.” The doctor said. “Just rest for now and wait until morning.” A nurse said. I reluctantly embraced sleep, my mind in a rush on all of these events from happening. True sleep was hard to come by for me, the sun was beginning to rise, and it disrupted my sleep. I ended up not getting much rest, since I was dealing with constant pain throughout the morning. A nurse walked into the room and gave me the regular slop they server at the hospital. I’ve only been to the hospital once as a filly; I had my back injured from an incident at flight school. From my short experience at a hospital, I knew things weren’t so well. Trying to at least enjoy the meal they gave me, I was left alone. *** A knock on my door brought me out of my sleep; I saw that it was Azure. She was happy to see that I was safe, but highly worried about me. She was soon next to me, gripping my hoof as if I was on my deathbed. “Please, tell me you’re alright Tumbler.” Azure said. “I’m fine.” I said, trying to reassure her, but it didn’t work. Azure was soon starting to cry, making no effort to quiet down. I pulled her close to me and started to embrace her tightly, her sobs still echoing throughout the small room. “Don’t worry.” I whispered. Two other ponies soon entered, I recognized them as Twilight and Pinkie Pie. “Azure, come on, let’s bring you home.” Twilight said. Pinkie Pie soon grabbed Azure and started to slowly push her out. I held out my hoof as a way of saying goodbye, and the door soon shut, leaving only silence. I felt like bursting into tears myself, but I just couldn’t; I just wanted to be with Azure. I realized how a majority of my life was alone, and that I’ve missed out on all these things. These new feelings and experiences, they were like heaven almost. My wing was starting to get better, but the doctors said that it would be a miracle if they could save it. The muscle and bone in it is severely weak and can be very brittle. They want to conduct a surgery to fix it, but they also gave me another option, amputation. I didn’t want to lose my own wing, it didn’t seem fair. The doctors patiently waited for my answer, their casual smiles doing nothing for me. I was nervous, my lips shaking, I muttered out my decision, “Just, just get my wing off.” The doctors soon left me alone yet again; I couldn’t believe I took that choice. Only a few moments until they get everything prepped and then off goes my wing. I looked at my left wing; it was still heavily bandaged so I took my time removing it. Looking at it, I noticed that it was significantly thinner and looked frailer than my other wing. I sighed, and started to watch the minutes tick by. *** Azure was able to be the last person to visit me until my surgery. She hugged me tightly, “I don’t want you to do this.” She said. I nodded my head, I understood her completely, but with this decision already stuck in my head, there was no turning back. I nuzzled up against her, ignoring the slight pain my wing was still giving me. I was starting to cry, and Azure tried her best to cheer me up, “I’ll see what we can do to help you afterwards, just be strong Tumbler.” She said. Her words only made me cry harder, I wanted to do one last thing before she goes away from me for who knows how long. I give her a quick kiss just before the doctors arrived for my surgery.
Chapter 7I stopped my work suddenly, where was Azure? I started to go into a brief sense of panic, before it became my mindset to go out and find her. Leaving the house, I saw that the moon was barely in sight, giving all of Ponyville an eerie mood to it. I slowly started to trot outside, looking around the empty town constantly. Nopony was in sight, and I was starting to get afraid myself. Nearing the outskirts of Ponyville, I started to go towards the hill me and Azure always went to. I somehow felt her presence at the hill, so I started to gallop, wanting to see her again. Nearing the top of the hill, I saw a horrible sight. There was Azure; I could see her eyes faintly reflecting in the moonlight. My first expression was of joy but soon shock as I noticed the dark blue earth pony; he looked obviously angry and I soon grabbed onto him tightly. “What did you do!” I yelled, demanding an answer. He simply smirked at me, “She made me mad.” He simply said. I screamed at him in rage and pushed him forward. He went back a considerable distance and started to roll down the hill. Throughout the darkness, I could see him disappear into the forest, than my attention went to Azure. I ran over to her, and saw that she was injured. It looked like she was smacked across the head, with a mixture of blood and mud over her face. Her hooves were trembling and she was curled up into a ball. I tapped her slightly, a sort of silent gesture to know that she is safe. She slowly uncurled and I grabbed her quickly and started to carry her on my back. “Tumbler?” Azure said quietly. “No, don’t speak; just let me get you home.” I said, nearly bringing myself to tears. “Take me home than…” Azure whispered before she went silent. I was starting to go into a full gallop; I wanted her to be safe. I didn’t want to be alone. In my mad dash towards the hospital, I could hear her faint breaths, going slower and slower as more time passed. I could see the hospital in the distance, but I was starting to get exhausted. I pressed on, and started to feel dizzy. I couldn’t give up, not now. I felt my legs screaming at me to stop, but I ignored them as I crashed into the hospital. Shocked screams and all sorts of yelling could be heard, and ignoring them, I turned my head towards Azure; her eyes closed, and her breathing slow, “Your safe now, just don’t leave me.” I said before passing out.
Chapter 8I woke up back in the familiar bed. Looking to my sides, I could see that Azure was calmly asleep in the bed next to me. Her wound was bandaged up and I could see that she was calmly breathing, thank Celestia for that. I stood out of my bed and started to walk around. My legs were still sore from all the running I did, so I soon found myself sitting down. Azure’s eyes were still closed, I could have waited by her side all day if I had to, but a nurse kicked me out and said that I will know when she is all better. I was overly glad that she was alive, but there was also some bad news. They said that the blow that she suffered to the head put her in a coma, I was devastated. I tried to hold back the tears, but I soon found myself bawling on the floor like a filly that just broke their mother’s vase. After calming down slightly, I soon left the hospital; visiting hours were over. Returning back to the house that me and Azure both lived in, I found myself working on my many projects; most notably my new wing. I felt that it was finished and I decided to take it on a test run. Strapping it on over where my left wing once stood, I walked outside of the house, ready to take off into flight. It’s been months, maybe even almost a year since I last flew, but I took off into the skies maybe even better than I had ever done. Feeling the wind in my face, it brought back all of those memories, I flew through the clouds, embracing the slight chill it gave me. My new wing creaked and nearly bent in half with the sheer force I was using, but it still held on. My thoughts went through the clouds too, and gave me new ideas of all sorts. After a few minutes, I decided I could visit Azure. Even though she is in her coma, I just hope that she will wake up someday, but for now, I know she would do the same for me. Flying back towards the hospital, I got new stares from patients and the hospital staff alike. Walking into Azure’s room, I saw that her eyes were still closed, her hair in a tangled mess; with arrays of devices attached to her. I started to talk to her, hoping that she could hear me. “Azure, please tell me that you are alright.” I whispered. She remained silent, as I expected. I wanted to hear her voice, to see her eyes. Seeing her like this, it just broke me. I lowered my head and started to leave the room.
Chapter 9Now that I had my left wing replaced, I decided to visit my old home in the clouds. The place was slightly run down and things were missing due to some of it being put back in Azure’s home ever since I moved in with her. Walking through, I saw my old workbench, with all sorts of projects strewn across. Most of it looked untouched for months, but ignoring them, I moved on through the rest of my house. The house has seen better days; I’ve known that for sure. Suddenly, I heard a whoosh of air outside and I went out to investigate. I could see a light blue Pegasus flying by; my mind recalled that her name was Rainbow Dash. She soon noticed me and landed a distance in front of me. “Hey, I sorta heard what happened.” She said. I slightly cringed at her words; I didn’t know what to say. She gave me a friendly pat on my back with her hoof, “Come on, cheer up, I’ve had everything ruined for me too.” She said. I simply moved away from her, “How?” I demanded. She simply glared at me, “I could have been with the Wonderbolts! But you don’t get it, you’re not like me. So you should get yourself back in line and make sure everything turns out fine…. Before they end up like my crushed dreams.” Rainbow Dash said. She was starting to cry a bit, from those shattered dreams that she had to suffer through. I tried to console her the best I could, but she flew off. I knew it wouldn’t make any difference; she just wanted to be alone. And well, I guess I wanted to be alone too, in this mess of a house.
Chapter 10I visited Azure as much as I could, even though those visits left me even more depressed. With her being unresponsive, I just couldn’t take it anymore; it made me almost lose my mentality. I was soon seeing Azure less and less, I felt as if I’d have given up on her. I would cry myself asleep in the house that we had lived in together. I began to neglect myself, everypony could see that, others worried about me, and I shrugged their words off of me. In one of my aimless walks, I just felt a sudden rage. I felt mad. Mad at everything that this world has done to me; first my wing and then my lovely Azure. How could this have happened to me! I was walking, away from Ponyville, away from all this sadness. I blamed myself for all of this, and as Ponyville went out of view, I continued on.
AwakeningWhere am I? I’m in a hospital? My eyes soon opened and a sudden ringing brought me to a stand. My legs were all wobbly and I could barely walk. A doctor and two nurses soon rushed on in and began to sit me back down on the hospital bed. My head felt horrible, I couldn’t remember most on how I came here, I put my hooves to my head; then, I felt the bandage. A sudden torrent of memories went through my head, that earth pony, Vincent, he hit me and I wound up here. My throat was dry, but I managed to speak to the doctor, “How long was I here? Where’s Tumbler?” I asked, begging him to answer. The doctor cleared his throat and answered me, the whole reality of his answer hitting me hard, “You’ve been here for months, and well, Tumbler, he has been visiting you ever since you were here. He stopped visiting you a few days ago, and well, he seemed quite depressed.” The doctor said. I started to cry, I was crying harder than I ever had before. I was hearing him talk to me ever since I was here; his calming voice begging me to wake up. He loved me; and he cared for me, maybe even more than himself, and now he is gone. I stood up out of my bed, determined to find Tumbler and for everything to be alright. I have absolutely no idea where he is, but I will find him, even if I have to travel throughout all of Equestria to find him.
Chapter 12I was soon lost. I somehow found myself wandering through Everfree Forest, which turned out to be a bad mistake. My prosthetic wing had snapped under tension while I was flying and I had no choice but to resort to walking. I didn’t want to go back to Ponyville; I could live here in the forest for the rest of my life if I had to. Azure was pretty much the only pony who knew me; it wouldn’t matter if I disappeared from this world. A thorn bush snagged at my right hind leg, tearing it up a bit and giving me new sensations of pain. I ignored it, I didn’t mind at all. My vision soon blurred, but I pressed on. I just wanted to escape this mad world; this living nightmare bent on giving you one of the worst days of your life. I’ve heard all that talk those doctors did behind my back; how visiting her was futile and that she might not make it. I ignored them, but those thoughts leeched itself into the back of my mind, and began to spread. I couldn’t live without her, I can’t, and leaving Ponyville behind seemed to be the right thing to do. Darkness began to rise yet again, and I blindly walked through the terrain. I reached a clearing, where I could see a beautiful view of the forest. I didn’t savor the moment; for I was in such a daze, I could barely keep myself up. Collapsing on the ground, I soon embraced sleep.
Azure's Search“Where is he?” I thought. I had to get help if I ever were to see Tumbler again; somepony had to at least know where he is. I went outside of Ponyville, I knew I could ask at least one of my friends for help, Fluttershy; she would keep things discreet and low-key. Arriving at her cottage, I waited for her to answer. When she did, she was surprised to see me. “Azure!? What are you doing here?” Fluttershy asked. I barely had anytime to answer, I quickly explained to her about Tumbler’s disappearance, and that I needed her help. She agreed, and after we had a plan hastily made, she flew off towards his old home in the clouds; I at least hope that he is there, but if not, I have my own search route decided. While Fluttershy would check up above, I decided to check around the border of the Everfree forest. It would be abeit dangerous, but I would risk anything to make sure Tumbler was safe. Trotting along the forest, I noticed some faint hoof-prints throughout the dirt paths leading in and out of the forest. Taking one of them, I noticed a set of wires; mangled, bent, and strewn across the path, almost hidden in the nearby trees. Pressing forward, I what seemed to be a metal frame; it appeared to be snapped in half. Looking at how the hoof-print’s suddenly stopped, I inferred that it was a Pegasus that had flown in wearing this, which snapped it and he or she went on foot outside of the forest. I soon turned around and galloped back to the outside border of the forest. Turning down a windy path, I saw a beautiful clearing. It looked as if nopony was here, and under all of the darkness it was hard to see if anypony was here. I tripped over something, and turning back to look at it, I realized in shock that it was Tumbler!
AftermathI eventually awoke, this time inside a house. My eyes adjusted and I could see that I was back home. I don’t know how I got here, but I realized I wasn’t alone. Standing up, I realized Azure was looking at me! I was shocked, I didn’t know what was going on, but I knew that my Azure was back and out of harm’s way. I literally galloped up to her in full speed and embraced her. “I missed you.” I managed to say through a fit of tears. Azure was starting to cry too, she was overly joyful that her beloved was safe, and that the two of them are finally back together. I was also overjoyed; I probably had a lot to explain, but for now, I know that the two of us are together again. “Tumbler, I never knew you cared so much for me.” Azure said, looking at me. I smiled back at her, “I will always care for you, no matter what.” I replied. We embraced yet again and we soon got to work. We cleaned the place up; mainly due to the fact that in my depressed state I never even bothered to clean up the house, and I managed to make a second model for my replacement wing; this time, it was more sturdy and was more comfortable for me to wear. Putting it on and grabbing Azure, we both flew through town together, enjoying the moment, and enjoying everything that we had together. We were both flying through the air, Azure was holding on tightly, and well I could assume that she isn’t used to it. I slowed down slightly and hovered a distance above Ponyville, Azure whispered to me, “Maybe you can make some wings for me.” I thought about it, a lot. It would take so much time to at least make it for a non-Pegasus pony to have wings. There would have to be many changes made, for instance, my wing was attached to my other and mimicked it; but for any other pony to actually fly, it would have to have some sort of power supply. I snapped myself out of those calculating thoughts and replied to Azure, “Sure, I’ll see what I can do.” My flying with this second model was making my flight rougher than the first model; mainly due to the fact that it was sturdier and took more energy to move it. Azure gave out no complaint as we flew through the sky, and I wanted to at least give her a memorable moment. I decided that it would be fit to go to the hill. We always spent time there; it was our special spot and always will be. Instead of a lovely sunset greeting us as normal, we saw the sun high in the sky, we were early, but we were prepared. We had a whole picnic set up, just for the two of us, to enjoy this day and hope that it would last forever. All those memories that we had together seemingly merged itself into one, ending with the sun beginning to lazily descend downward, leading back to the darkness. “I love you Azure.” I said. “Love you too Tumbler.” Azure replied. With the last of the sun’s rays disappearing into the sky, the two of us huddled up against each other, feeling chilling sensation of night. We stood there, at the top of the hill, for hours; watching the full moon light up the land. We later embarked back to town, where we returned safely home. I was happy, she was happy. Everything was just perfect and just how it should be.
Life as we know it?Time has passed, and living together with Azure made things better for me. She had a friend who got the stuff out of my house and moved it over here. I was grateful of her; she said something about her name being Rainbow Dash if I remember correctly. The medicine I’ve been given has eased the pain a lot and I soon began my work on a new mechanical project, one to replace my missing wing. Working day and night in my makeshift workshop has left me exhausted, but I still have found time with Azure. We would usually go out together and spend the day together, but we’ve been more distant ever since. I attached a few pieces of brass metal together and, after welding them together, I gave them a little bend to test on how flexible they would be; this would be the frame of my new wing. My concentration was soon broken by Azure entering the workshop and giving me a short hug, “Come on, let’s go out somewhere.” She said. Looking back at her, I knew I couldn’t say no, so I removed my safety goggles and left the workshop with her. We walked throughout town, passing by the many citizens of Ponyville. I would get the occasional stare at others when they noticed that I had only one functioning wing, but those stares soon went away, and the two of us moved on with our happy day. “Tumbler, can we please go back?” Azure said. This wasn’t like Azure at all, “Why?” I asked her. She didn’t answer me, but she started to drag me away from a crowd, into a nearby alleyway. “There’s a person, who is just, jealous of us. I don’t want him to hurt you; you’ve already been through enough.” Azure explained. I nodded my head and the two of us set of for home. We tried our best to stay together as much as possible, but with her having to work more; it just left me alone. I used that time to work on my replacement wing. I added on an intricate wire system, one that would mimic my right wing in an almost perfect way. Sipping some water, I went to work on one of the hardest parts ever, the wings itself. Taking some old bed sheets, I began to cut them into a curved shape. Taking some more wire, I began to weave the wire through the now shaped bed sheet. Repeating the tedious process again and again took a lot of time, but eventually I had twelve pieces of cut out bed sheet with a wire weaving through it, all of them coming together to form the wing.
