The Storm

Chapters

The Storm
Rangers
Tragedy Strikes
School
Change of Life

The Storm

Pazazz Moonbunny, Glimmer Carapace and Night Blaze were hanging out together in the Everfree Forest, exploring; which was one of their favourite pastimes. They were not far from Night’s home, that being the Everfree Castle.

The trio had packed a picnic basket, snacks and towels. There was a secluded spring not too far from their destination.

Pazazz raced her two friends to the spring, laughed hard when Night Blaze outran both her and Glimmer with a grin. He knew his way around the area like a pro, since his Father had a map of the designated region.

Pazazz gave a happy whinny and pranced about when she saw the spring. “Wow, this is such a peaceful area. Who knew such a thing could exist in this forest?”

Night leapt into the spring splashing his two filly friends.

“Come on in, the water's fine!” He said with delight.

Glimmer and Night set up the blanket and placed various foods on it. There was fried fish, salads, iced tea and cake that Bunny had made.

The trio spent the first day of the Summer Holidays relaxing together, when animals suddenly began scurrying by. There were a few animals at first, then many more began running by, all with fear in their eyes.

“My little friends, what is the rush?” Pazazz asked a squirrel who paused only long enough to chatter a response. Night and Glimmer noticed their friend’s eyes turn pin prick.

“We should leave the area at once. There is a storm coming and it’s going to be really bad.” Pazazz said urgently, getting back on her hooves.

Glimmer saw the area already getting dark. It was clouding up rapidly and the wind had begun to pick up also.

“Shish, weather in this area wastes no time forming, does it?”

Sure enough, heavy thunder could be heard in the distance.

—————————————————

The youths began their trek back to Everfree Castle.

They were hampered down by wind and a heavy downpour soon caused the trio go off the path King Sombra had mapped out. Pazazz shivered a bit, since the storm was making visibility impossible and it was scary.

She took off running when a peal of Thunder erupted and startled her. She lost her footing when she skidded on some mud and loose rocks.

Pazazz tumbled down a steep hill, giving a pained whinny as she hit the bottom. The impact knocked the wind out of her.

Glimmer and Night rushed down the hill, being careful not to fall like Pazazz had. Night gently nosed Bunny who was on her side.

“Come on Pazazz we should head back to my home. Can you get up?”

Because it was foggy, he was unable to see the compound fracture on Pazazz’s left rear leg. She tried to get up, but stumbled over from the pain.

“Night, I’m sure my leg is broken.” Pazazz whimpered.

Night’s eyes glowed eerily in the dark. He saw the fracture now and grimaced, since it was bleeding heavily.

“I need to put pressure on the wound, Pazazz. Stay still.” Night said soothingly to his friend, as he pressed one of the towels that was in his saddle bags, onto her fracture. Pazazz groaned, the pain was unbearable!

“I can make a temporary bandage using my changeling slime. It will feel strange but it will stop the bleeding.” Glimmer said helpfully, while stroking Pazazz’s mane.

The patient nodded once.

—————————

“Eww, that feels weird…” Bunny said as the green goop was applied to her wound.

“That should prevent infection and will allow us time to take you to safety.” Glimmer said softly as she tied torn towels and sticks together to help splint the leg.

“Glimmer, watch Pazazz while I go to get help.” Night said as he prepared to leave the area. He soon stopped dead in his tracks when he heard a howl.

“Great, the day just gets better: we need to get out of here, now! Those Timberwolves didn’t sound very far away.”

Glimmer and Night helped Bunny to stand up on the remaining three legs. She could hobble, while they supported her.

—————————————-

The walk was tedious, but they moved as fast as they could to get away from the Timberwolves that would most likely find their trail.

The trio cautiously entered an uninhabited cave and hid. But Night wasn’t done.

He galloped out of the cave and easily attracted the Timberwolves attention.

“Looking for me, you lumbering toothpicks?” He taunted. The timberwolves snarled and chased Night Blaze away from the cave.

Glimmer sighed with relief, since the danger was now averted.

“Sure hope Night knows what he is doing.”

——————————————————

Night knew the forest like the back of his hooves. He ran where mud would be. He managed to avoid danger, but the Timberwolves were less fortunate, sticking themselves right into the mess.

The wolves defeated, Night began his long trek through the Everfree Forest back to his friends. It was mid-afternoon when the storm died down and he was worried about Pazazz and Glimmer.

He galloped back to the cave he had left them in.

——————————————————

Glimmer was relieved when Night returned.

“Those wolves will not harm others for awhile. They are stuck in the mud.” He told her.

Night had found some fallen tree branches on the way, and an idea had formed.

“I’m going to make a travois. It’s the best thing, since Pazazz is in no condition to be walking home.”

He used the picnic blanket to connect the two tree branches together.

Glimmer changed into a bear and gently placed Bunny on the travois.

Pazazz whimpered as she was moved, since the pain was getting to her. Glimmer comforted her friend as much as she could while Night attached two ropes to the travois.

“We will take turns pulling it, so we don’t tire out.” He said as he finished.

—————————————————-

Thus, Glimmer and Night began the long trek back to Everfree Castle.

Glimmer and Night halted their progress, however, when Bunny squealed in severe pain. It was a high pitched sound that ended with her blacking out.

Concerned, Glimmer and Night went to check on Bunny, who was oddly silent. Glimmer gently prodded her friend.

“Bunny?” There was no response.

“Bunny… bun bun… Zazz.” Glimmer was beginning to panic, when Bunny did not answer her.

“Night, I think we broke Bunny… she’s not responsive!”

“WHAT?!” Night gasped, as he dashed to Bunny’s side. He lowered his head to Pazazz’s chest to listen for a heart beat. He could make out a beat as well as faint breathing.

“She is still alive, the pain has only knocked her out.”

Glimmer transformed into a bunny and curled against her friend.

“Good idea, you can keep an eye on Pazazz while I continue pulling the travois. I hope a rescue party meets us halfway at least. We have been out for hours and nightfall is upon us. Dad will most likely have some pony search for us.” Night sighed.

— — — —

Princess Luna was meditating in the dream realm, when a door appeared, much earlier than usual. She saw the door leading to Pazazz MoonBunny’s dream. The door was wrecked, reflecting the fact that something very bad had happened to her.

She woke up in a flash and galloped out of her room. King Sombra needed to know that the foals were in trouble!

————————-

King Sombra was pacing around the throne room when Princess Luna arrived looking worse for wear.

“Sombra, the foals are in trouble-!”

“I knew something was up- since they did not return from their picnic and it’s already nightfall. ShadowFlair! I want you and two guards to help me search for the foals.”

ShadowFlair saluted his King and left the Castle with two other guards.

— — — —

Night Blaze eventually had to stop pulling the travois, since he was exhausted.

“I’m going to have to leave you and Bunny here, while I scout the area for help.”

Off he set, and eventually Night Blaze saw a red light in the distance and relaxed a bit. He would recognize his father’s pony-at-arms’ magic anywhere.

“Night, you are alright! Thank goodness, we had heard the timberwolves and assumed the worst. Where are Glimmer and Bunny?”

“ShadowFlair! Boy are you are a sight for sore eyes. Glimmer is with Pazazz, making sure she is comfortable.” Night said with relief.

“Did something happen to Pazazz MoonBunny?” ShadowFlair asked while he followed Night Blaze to the travois.

“This is a remarkable item you’ve made, Night. Your dad will be proud of you for having such a level head in this situation.”

They reached the girls; ShadowFlair and the two guards saw just how injured Pazazz was.

“We need to rush her to the Hospital.” ShadowFlair said as he helped his guards lift Pazazz and her travois, being careful not to injure her.

ShadowFlair created a transit portal to send both his two guards and Pazazz through. Glimmer and Night Blaze followed the trio through the portal and arrived at Ponyville General.

————————————

Princess Starlight Glimmer was there to greet the rescue team as it arrived. She watched as the orderlies rushed Pazazz straight to the emergency surgery.

Night saw Princess Starlight and leaned against her. The shock of the afternoon was finally catching up to him.

Princess Starlight sent a scroll to Fluttershy’s home to let her know what happened.

————————————

Big Mac and Fluttershy were about to have a wonderful evening, free to themselves, when a scroll dropped on the table.

Fluttershy read the letter and dashed to the door.

“What is it, ‘Shy?” BigMac asked anxiously, already dreading the news.

“Pazazz had an accident late in the day, one that required her to be hospitalized. Our filly is at the Hospital!!”
Fluttershy and BigMac immediately rushed to the Hospital.

—————————————————

“ShadowFlair, I am taking the Prince and his friend to the Palace.” Princess Starlight said to the guard, while she gently had the two youths follow her. Glimmer and Night Blaze were both exhausted from the whole ordeal. The youths followed with their heads lowered to the ground in exhaustion.

Princess Luna and King Sombra were already in Friendship Castle when they got there. Word of what happened to the three youngsters had reached them fast. Princess Luna hugged her son, who was fighting just to remain awake.

King Sombra was relieved to see Glimmer and Night were both alright. He grimaced though, when he thought about Pazazz’s injury. He felt responsible for what happened to her as it was his land.

“Night, what happened when you got caught in the storm?” He asked.

Night looked up at his Dad.

“We were unable to see the path properly when the storm struck. I knew something was wrong when Pazazz fell down a hill. There was no hill on the path to the spring, we had gone off course. Things got even worse when Timberwolves entered the area. Glimmer and I had to move Pazazz to a safety. We made a travois to carry Pazazz, I believe we had travelled a fair distance when ShadowFlair and his two guards showed up.” Night yawned, leaning against his mother.

King Sombra gave his son a hug before Princess Luna marched Night and Glimmer to the common room. She levitated a blanket around each and ensured they had some hot chocolate to relax, then waited as they fell asleep.

——————————————

Pazazz MoonBunny had surgery to clean the wound and set the break in her leg. Her left wing had been set too since it was broken in the fall. The operation was a success and the youth was placed in recovery.

Fluttershy and Big Mac were relieved that the operation went well, with no complications.They had been devastated when they heard their daughter had suffered injuries that required surgery.

Fluttershy and BigMac were allowed to see their daughter after visiting hours, thanks to Princess Twilight insisting that they be allowed to see their daughter.

Fluttershy saw MoonBunny’s left leg in traction and that her wing had a cast on it too. Pazazz was so out of it thanks to heavy duty painkillers and antibiotics that it took awhile for her to wake.

He parents waited patiently.

——————————————

Pazazz heard a beeping sound and woke up. “Where am I…?” the groggy filly asked.

Fluttershy was relieved to see her daughter awake, and gave her a gentle hug, being extremely careful not to aggravate her injuries.

“Bunny, you are in the Hospital.”

Dr. McGrass entered the private room and smiled upon seeing Pazazz was awake.

“Good morning, Pazazz! You are a very fortunate filly, the break in your leg did not rupture an artery. However, your fall resulted in a compound fracture on your left leg and a broken wing. The rest of your injuries are just some bumps and scrapes. You will be staying here for a few days for observation.”

Pazazz sniffled, since she didn’t like the sound of that at all.

“My summer is ruined!” She wailed.

Fluttershy gave her daughter a comforting nuzzle.

—————————————

Night and Glimmer woke up early the next morning and went straight to the Hospital to see their friend.

Pazazz was awake when they arrived and waved a hoof at them. They talked while but soon she had to rest again, so Night and Glimmer went for a walk while their friend was asleep.

“I think I found my calling in life, yesterday. It felt right when I helped you and Bunny make it to safety during the storm. It’s like the forest was guiding me.” Night said while smiling, recalling the incident.

Glimmer nodded, then blinked when she saw a glow on Night’s hip.

“Night- you just got your cutie mark!”

“Really?” Night turned around in circles, trying to see his cutie mark.

“Huh, what does it look like Glim?” He asked excitedly.

“Hmm, it’s a hat with a shovel and sword crossed over it. The hat has a badge with a tree on it.”

Night finally saw the cutie mark and grinned. “That is a ranger hat! I believe it’s saying I should be a ranger.”

“You have your cutie mark now, so when will I get mine?” Glimmer huffed.

“Pazazz doesn’t have her cutie mark either.” Night reminded his friend and she nodded then she hugged Night since this was a special occasion.

“We need to let Pazazz know of this at once!”

—————————————

The friends dashed into the Hospital and ran straight into the private room that had Pazazz in it.

“NO RUNNING!” Nurse RedHeart shouted at the teens as they shot by. Glimmer and Night had the decency to look sheepish about that.

————————————

Pazazz was reading the latest Daring Do book when her two friends ran into the room, very excited.

“What’s got the two of you so excited?”

“I got my cutie mark!” Night said, while displaying it proudly.

Pazazz stared at it in amazement.

“You must have got that from saving me the other night. It makes sense, since we were in Everfree.”

Pazazz was slightly choked up, since Night got his cutie mark whilst saving her and Glimmer.

Dr. McGrass entered the private ward and saw Pazazz chatting with her two best friends.

“You will be able to return home in about a week. I want to make sure you are stable, before I release you. Oh and congratulations on getting your cutie mark, young Night.”

———————————

Fluttershy brought in her homemade stew on her next visit. It was something she would always use, whenever Pazazz was ill or gloomy. Nurse RedHeart tried to stop Fluttershy from giving it to Pazazz.

“Stop! Bunny needs to be on a special diet!” She said.

Fluttershy backed up a moment then advanced again.

“Are you telling me how to look after my own daughter? This stew is a family recipe.” The pegasus huffed a bit.

Dr. McGrass stopped Nurse RedHeart, “Fluttershy’s stew is more than adequate to help Pazazz get better. Go ahead and eat it Bunny, I will make a note on the file so no pony stops you from having the stew.”

Rangers

Chapter Two

King Sombra woke up early and flew into the Everfree forest, he needed to see where Pazazz had tumbled.

The King ventured far into the forest and soon saw a curious sight, a group of Timberwolves were snarling and whining because they were stuck in the thick mud.

“Hmm, however did you get yourselves into that predicament? No matter, you will be relocated, since this area is not for you.”

The King teleported the timberwolves to an uninhabited part of the forest and watched them break off to explore their new home.

The King continued on his search and saw many hoof prints. This must have been where the trio ran to when the storm threw their sense of direction so far off.

As he wodnered, King Sombra almost fell down the same hill that Pazazz had. He corrected himself, then flew and landed gracefully on the ground. There were many hoof prints and a bit of dried blood here and there. He opened the map he was carrying and carefully marked it with the potentially treacherous slope. He would update his other map later, once he was home.

After further exploring, Sombra found the cave his son had mentioned. It wasn’t all that far from his own Castle. Sombra was satisfied knowing what happened to the youths the other day. With his task complete, he flew back to his Castle.

———————————

Once home, King Sombra levitated a diorama he had been working on of the Everfree Forest. He added the hill and cave he had found, thanks to his sons adventures. ShadowFlair watched as his King put finishing touches to the latest diorama of the Everfree Forest, he knew the forest mattered very much to Sombra.

———————————

Night Blaze and Glimmer left Ponyville General, both in high spirits. They entered Everfree Forest and travelled the route Night now knew so well. Night would pause every now and then, listening to the sounds. Glimmer had to suddenly break into a run after Night, when he took off galloping, seemingly at random.

“Night, slow down! what’s the rush?”

“I thought I heard a cry for help.” Night said breathlessly, heading even deeper into the Forest.

Sure enough…

“Help, help me!” a frightened pony cried, their voice strained with fear.

Night entered the clearing and saw two Timberwolves circling a hole, from which the cry for help could be heard. Night pawed at the ground before dashing at the timberwolves. They stopped their hunt, circling and dashing at Night.

Night made an energy sword appear and he slashed this at the wolves. The wolves quickly retreated when he managed to cut a chunk off of one, scaring them off. Night tracked the two timberwolves, making sure they were out of the area and unlikely to come back. His purpose was obvious by now. It felt right to him, that he was protecting others from the dangers of this wild forest.

While he drove the wolves away, Glimmer Carapace helped the dazed pony out of the hole. The shaken pony was glad to still be among the living. Glimmer assured her the wolves were gone now and escorted the dazed pony back to Ponyville.

——————————————

Night came dashing into Ponyville not long after, and he saw his father talking with Princess Starlight Glimmer.

“I am thrilled that you plan to create the Everfree Rangers, your highness. We are aware that many ponies travel through the forest and thus need to be guided to a safe area.”

Sombra bobbed his head in gratitude to the little alicorn. Next, he turned to his son, beaming widely, he is very proud of him for getting his cutie mark.

“How does it feel to have reached the next step of your future?” He asked.

Night pranced on the spot excited. “It’s amazing- I just rescued a pony that was trapped in a hole in Everfree Forest. I managed to lure the timberwolves out of the area and away while Glimmer Carapace got her out safely. It just felt like the right thing to do.”

Sombra considers this and nods, impressed with his bravery. “That took courage and quick thinking, I can see why you gained your mark! The Everfree needs a protector, both for itself and those who traverse it. It could have none finer in you.”

Starlight Glimmer gave her nod of approval. "You have demonstrated exactly what your Dad wants to establish. It could be that you are destined to be the first Ranger in Everfree.”

"I guess the detailed diorama of Everfree Forest impressed the Princess, huh dad?” Night said with a smile.

Sombra nodded.

“Yes, she was very impressed! That forest has long been the subject of many questions and myths, ever since the days of the royal sisters initial rule. Who knows, we may finally be able to put a reason to its madness!”

Princess Starlight Glimmer pranced on the spot with delight. "I am eager to see what you come up with, for making the Forest safe for any pony eager to explore it.”

Night was just as excited as she was, but his father wasn’t done yet.

“Night, how would you like the be the first of the Forest Rangers of EverFree Forest? Princess Twilight Sparkle felt that ponies need guides to get through the Forest unharmed. That would be one of the many duties as the head Ranger. Patrolling the Forest, monitoring the wildlife and watching for freak incidents like storms and fires.”

“I’d love to!”

Sombra can see his son is excited and smiles, always happy to see him in such high spirits.

“I would say this is cause for celebration, your mother will be so thrilled to hear the news!”

Night hugged his Dad, "Mom will be delighted I got my cutie mark. It appeared after I saved Pazazz during the storm, my first ever rescue.”

—————————————

Sombra smiled as they headed to Ponyville General to visit Pazazz. He can tell how fond of Pazazz the young stallion is, and they’ve shared a close bond for years.

“We will ask the cook to make up something special, anything you want! A cutie mark is worth celebrating!”

Night stood there in deep thought. "I would love to have a pizza party! Can we have it in Pazazz's Hospital Room? She is staying in a private, so nopony else will be bothered. Maybe we can hold it in the sun room?” Night was thinking about his best friend and how to cheer her up.

Pinkie Pie appeared out of thin air as was her custom and saw Night’s cutie mark.

“You need a Cutecenera party!” Then the party pony disappeared just as fast.

She soon reappeared with Princess Luna in tow. She was disoriented by the sudden relocation and appeared bemused. Poor Luna had been sleeping when the pink blur had come barrelling in.

Not stopping there, Pinkie even managed to use her party cannon in the hospital room.

“Happy Cute Cenera, Night Blaze!” The pink party mare shouted joyfully.

Dr McGrass and Nurse RedHeart were both very surprised by the randomness.

“Pinkie Pie?! How did you do that?” They asked at the same time.

King Sombra had to face-hoof as he shot them a smile.

“You will get a headache trying to understand Cotton Candy. I learned to just flow with it.”
King Sombra looked at Night’s flank and smiled at the new mark. “That is an impressive Cutie Mark you have Night.”

Princess Luna glared at Pinkie Pie.

“You could have waited to do the party later.” Luna said, rather grumpily. As her name implied, she was a night pony.

Pazazz was clapping her hooves with delight. For a moment she didn’t need to think she was in a hospital room. Pinkie’s parties had a magical way of cheering her right up.

“Please forgive Aunt Pinkie Pie, she was doing this to cheer me up. This party was just the prescription to do that.”

Princess Luna saw Bunny’s left wing and left leg in traction and winced, since that would ruin any ponies mood.

However, Pazazz soon felt lousy towards evening…

Tragedy Strikes

Chapter Tree - Tragedy Strikes

That evening, a nurse went to check on Pazazz and saw her sweating heavily. The mare took her temperature and winced, since it was way too high. A blood test later revealed that Pazazz had developed a severe infection in her left leg.

Doctor McGrass got hold of Pazazz’s parents.

“I recommend that we amputate the leg since the infection is severe.” He said this, looking regretful that it was the only option.

Fluttershy was devastated, but Big Mac understood that this would be the best for his filly in the long run.

“Go ahead with the Surgery, me and Shy will bear the burden. We’ll support her, no matter what,”

————————————

The surgeon had no choice but to amputate the left hind leg from the knee. He administered some really powerful painkillers and antibiotics to deal with the infection. All he could do now was hope for a fast recovery.

————————————

Pazazz woke up feeling really groggy. She noticed that her leg was not in traction any more. She quickly realised couldn’t feel her leg at ALL, and panicked.

“My leg… why can I not move my leg?” She cried, trying to throw the blanket off her. Movement to one side revealed her friends had been there, waiting.

Night and Glimmer gave her a comforting hug with their wings.

“Uh.. there is something you need to know about your leg.” Night said, looking grave, and Glimmer looked just as uncomfortable.

“My leg… what about my leg.” Pazazz said, tearing up. When her friends shared hesitant looks, she yanked her blanket away and squealed in fright.

“My leg….” She burst into tears.

—————————-

The Nurse rushed into the room upon hearing Pazazz squeal. She saw Pazazz crying heavily while being hugged by her two besties. But the hugs weren’t able to stem the tears.

Doctor McGrass entered the room and saw the friends hugging. He knew Pazazz’s friends would play a key part in her recovery and so didn’t point out she should be resting. Even so…

“I think it best that both of you wait in the other room, while I talk with Pazazz for awhile.”

Glimmer and Night stood their ground, shaking their heads and not moving an inch.

“No… we want to stay with her. What she needs to know, WE need to know, so we can help her.”

The Doctor was touched by such loyalty and decided to let them stay, even if it was against protocol.

“Pazazz, you will make a full recovery now that the infection has been removed. Regretfully, to infection was so severe that saving you meant removing half of your left leg. You can be fitted with a prosthetic when you get better.”

“My life is over…” Pazazz wailed.

The emotional outburst and the shock tired Pazazz out so fast that she fell asleep from crying mere minutes later.

Night Blaze and Glimmer were left wondering if their friend would be all right.

————

The next day:

Night Blaze and Glimmer sat in the cafe eating a simple meal of veggie burgers with a side order of fries.

“Why did this have to happen to our friend?” Glimmer groused as she ate.

Night was left pondering that question, but he had no sure answer.

“All I know is; we need to be there for our friend. She will adjust to this change of life with patience. I think I can help, though…”

Night was doodling on a napkin and Glimmer soon saw the image of the prosthetic leg take shape.

“Pazazz will need something light and functional.” Night smiled hopefully.

School

Chapter 5

After Pazazz spent the Summer recovering from her major surgery, she was pronounced well enough to return to School.

Fluttershy smiled softly, watching her daughter enter the School of Friendship for the first time this School year.

Pazazz was very happy to be back and waved to all her friends. Her friends gave her a friendly wave and smiled warmly as they gathered around her.

“Hey Pazazz, great to have you back.” Spring Rain said happily.

“Hi Rainy, it’s great to be back.” Pazazz beamed as she gave her Kirin friend a hug.

Pazazz soon heard whispering in the halls and saw students staring at her amputated leg. Like it was something to gossip over.

“I heard she was a klutz and fell down a hill, severing her leg.” said a griffon student.

“I heard that a tree fell on her leg, almost ripping it off.” Another student said, wide eyed.

“Look at the pity she gets from ponies. They give her stuff just because she is injured.” Scoffed another student.

Pazazz tried to hide her stump with her tail. It hurt her, being reminded how much she didn’t like being pitied.

“Hey Pazazz, isn’t there a video camera you should be supporting? That’s what tripods do, after all. TRIPOD!!” A fourth student said with a sneer, making the other three laugh.

Spring Rain saw Pazazz running from School in tears. Who had done this?!

———————————-

Professor Sombra was taking attendance and noticed Pazazz was missing. This was her first day back, correct? Had she chosen to go home?

“Has anyone seen Pazazz?” he asked the class. Before anyone could answer, the door opened.

“Professor Sombra, you need to see this.” Glimmer Carapace said coldly as she handed him her cell phone, a device powered by a small arcane magic battery.

Sombra watched the video and by the end his eyes were leaking purple mist, his teeth bared in anger. He slammed his hooves on his desk as he glared at the guilty party. They realised they’d been rumbled and shivered in fear.

“You four.” Sombra growled.

They laughed nervously. “We’re in trouble, right?”

Sombra snarled. “You think?! This is the School of Friendship. You are obviously missing the point of the School if you feel that bullying another student is alright. Follow me, we’re going to see Starlight this second!”

Sombra left the class with the four students.

————————————

Starlight Glimmer was enjoying some cocoa when Sombra showed up with four students in tow. And boy was he MAD, she didn’t think she’d ever seen him this furious.

“Sombra, why are there students out of class? Is something wrong?”

“These four bullied Pazazz, who has not showed for class. Their antics are on record, thanks to Glimmer Carapace.”

He levitated the phone over to her, with the promise that Glimmer would have it back once he was finished with it.

“I see.” Starlight said calmly as she observed the video. She had a sip of cocoa. “Head back to your class, Sombra.”

He nodded, tail swishing angrily as he left.

——————————————

The four students knew they were in super deep trouble when Starlight glared at them.

“This is the School of Friendship, not the School of Bullying. You insult the very meaning of this School by doing what you did. You insult Twilight’s vision and ethics. What made you think that bullying your classmate was even acceptable in this School?”

The students couldn’t answer in their defence- only now realising their actions had very severe consequences indeed.

—————————————

Sombra saw Fluttershy in the halls, chatting with Angel Bunny before her next class.

“Fluttershy! Just the mare I was looking for; you might want to sit down for what I want to tell you.”

Fluttershy found the request rather odd, but duly humoured Sombra by doing so. He sat beside her, expression grim.

“Four of my students felt it was okay to make fun of Pazazz and bully her over her disability. The poor dear did not show up in class as a result.”

Sombra handed Fluttershy the cell phone. She watched the video and gasped.

“My…my poor baby! How could they?”

—————————————

Starlight Glimmer was busy lecturing the four students when Fluttershy knocked on her door.

“Excuse me a moment.” She said pausing her solacing for the moment as she opened the door and seen Fluttershy looking utterly distraught.

“Are these the ponies that picked on my daughter?!” Fluttershy said horsely, yet her soft tones still carried.

The quartet of students heard this, saw Fluttershy in tears and felt like somepony had punched them right in the gut. You just don’t upset Fluttershy, it was a golden rule. They hadn’t realised Fluttershy was her mother, Pazazz hadn’t wanted her mother to feel any pressure about it. Their ears drooped as they realise they hurt more than just Pazazz with their cruelty.

Starlight Glimmer returned to them, looking livid.

“You four will be suspended from School for the week. You will write an essay for each of your teachers, detailing what their element means and why bullying is NOT acceptable. The essays are not to be carbon copies. When you return to School, you will be serving a weeks worth of detention with Sunburst. Need I add that you will not trouble Pazazz ever again. Clear?”

They nodded and were released to return to class while Starlight Glimmer went back to consoling Fluttershy.

“We will find Pazazz.” She promised the shaken pegasus.

Starlight Glimmer went to the intercom and hit the button with her hoof.

“Attention, there will be an assembly in the library in five minutes.” Starlight said through the intercom, hearing her voice echoing back at her through the many PA systems.

———————————————

The teachers and students filed into the library. Starlight Glimmer waited patiently to start the assembly.

“Good-morning students and staff! It has come to my attention that there has been bullying going on in the School.”

Gasps could be heard in the crowd, the school was widely publicised for the fact that friendship was its core principal.

“Princess Twilight Sparkle, the founder of this School, would be very disappointed that this assembly was even necessary. The School of Friendship was created as a haven for others to learn about the magic of friendship in a hostility-free setting; the values of Honesty, Loyalty, Laughter, Kindness, Generosity and Magic.

This morning, a student that was away from School an extra month, was going to return to class. She was greeted by taunting and rumours and subsequently fled in tears. That is not how a friendship student behaves to one who is suffering. The individuals who bullied this student have been punished accordingly.”

Starlight Glimmer paused a moment to speak with Night Blaze and Glimmer Carapace, who were anxiously waiting to make a request.

“Night and Glimmer, you are pardoned from classes to find Pazazz.” said Starlight Glimmer, soon as she heard their questions. They owe dither heads in thanks and ran out of the room.

“Sombra, the stage is yours.” Starlight said as she stepped aside to make room for the taller pony.

“Good-morning.” Sombra made a pointy pony puppet show appear on the projection screen. “As you all know, I was not always the kind pony you know me to be. The history of the Crystal Empire will show that I, King Sombra, was a cruel pony that enslaved the Crystal Ponies.”

Students watched the show and saw the Pointy King Sombra making Crystal Ponies work in the mines, serve him against their wills. They saw the soldiers.

“I was a bully, plain and simple. This could have been avoided, had ponies treat me with kindness instead of cruelty. All I wanted was a friend to understand me. I spent a thousand years frozen with only my thoughts for company. I had not learned my lesson and when I attempted a hostile take over a second time, I very nearly succeeded. Cadance and the Crystal Ponies used the power of the Crystal Heart to destroy me once more.

Being the stubborn stallion I am; when I was reawaken for a second time- I enslaved the Crystal ponies all over again! I was swiftly defeated by the friendship beam, but instead of vaporising me completely, a small portion of me was spared, reborn as a foal. Starlight Glimmer raised me with the values of friendship. To make a long story short, I became a Friendship ambassador. I meet with other leaders once a month to go over events and how we can improve them. None of this would have been possible if I were still a cold hearted bully.”

Starlight Glimmer nodded her head in approval, so proud of Sombra’s efforts. Many a pony in the audience was as misty-eyed as she.

“Thank you, Sombra, for the heartwarming lecture. When you return to your classes, I want you all to think about what you learned today, about bullying and what it can do to others.”

The assembly came to an end and the students returned to their classes.

————

While this was going on:

Pazazz flew nonstop, all the way to the Treehouse of Harmony. She dashed into the common room and flung herself onto a beanbag chair. She cried at such length that she cried herself to sleep, where her dreams tried to ease her sadness.

Night Blaze and Glimmer Carapace searched the entire School for Pazazz, not knowing how far shed gone.

“Where can she be?” Glimmer wailed as they hit another dead end.

Night looked towards the Everfree Forest. “Could she be there?”

He flew into the forest with Glimmer on his heels. They had an idea where she was now. Sure enough, Night and Glimmer flew into the Tree house and found Pazazz resting. Their hoof steps echoed in the room and she stirred, opening her eyes…

————

Night and Glimmer gave Pazazz a big hug when they saw her laying down, seen her teary eyes.

“Pazazz, you gave my sire and other teachers a fright by skipping class. We know why you left, but please return to School with Glim and Me.”

“No!” Pazazz said with a stomp. “I’m never going back!”

“You need to return to School to show others that the bullies did not win. We know it hurt, but we need you, the school needs you. We are with you and there are other students who are your friends. The teachers are worried too, especially father and Starlight.” Night said kindly, rubbing Pazazz on the withers.

Another voice chimed in, making all three jump.

“Your friend is right, the guilty parties have been suspended for a week. Your mother is distraught over your disappearing act.” The Spirit of Harmony spoke, having listened in to their conversation.

Pazazz thought about what they’d said. She didn’t want those mean ponies to win. So she stood up and hugged her friends. “Alright, I will go back to School.”

They cheered and hugged her, making her smile.

——————————————

The three flew back in the afternoon sun.

Starlight Glimmer was relieved to see Pazazz return with her friends, trotting forward to greet her at the entrance.

“Welcome back, Pazazz. I’m so happy you returned.” She said gently, giving Pazazz a hug.

—————————————-

Rarity noticed Pazazz as she walked the halls. The filly was always trying to hide her healing leg, even if these efforts made her stumble. That gave the fashionista a brilliant idea. She would do something to make Pazazz feel comfortable in School.

“Pazazz, please come to my office for a moment.” Rarity said to the youth.

“Of course.” Pazazz said, wondering what the element of generosity wanted to talk about?

Pazazz followed Rarity into her office, still pondering as Rarity lifted a package form her desk.

“Darling, I notice how uncomfortable you are about your leg, so I whipped up something to make you feel better. Do you like it?”

Pazazz opened the box Rarity hoofed her. She saw a cape that would cover her legs. There was even a stocking to cover the bandaged knee. It was beautiful, a very kind gesture.

“Thank you! Rarity.” Pazazz said hugging her Teacher. She felt her hope grow stronger, she could wear her cape with pride!

Author's Note

I would love to thank Pixel Spark who edited and made the lovely artwork that is in my story.

Change of Life

Chapter 4

Pazazz was able to return home from the hospital a few days later. Her dad came to the General ward pulling a cart, one that would be used to carry Pazazz home. BigMac gently carried his filly to the cart. She groaned a bit due to some jarring.

“Dad, that hurts.”

BigMac gave her an apologetic look. “Sorry Pazazz.”

———————————

Once home, she soon found herself laying in bed for ages at a time, feeling bored. She stood up on three legs and took a few hesitant steps. She lost her balance and fell heavily on her side. But Pazazz would not be thwarted and soon attempted to walk again. She managed to walk with three legs, even though it was slow going.

“It’s no use, how am I ever going to be useful with a missing leg?” She cried.

Fluttershy panicked upon seeing her precious filly walking about the room on three legs and falling.

“Pazazz, you shouldn’t stress yourself by moving about so soon. You need more bed rest.” She helped her daughter back to bed. But seeing her so down worried Fluttershy deeply.

———————————

Night Blaze and Glimmer showed up later that day, with loads of books. They were hoping to bring. Smile to Pazazz’s day.

“We figured you would be bored and brought you the entire collection of Daring Do books to read.” Glimmer announced, setting her saddlebags down.

Pazazz gave a quiet huff and stood up.

Night and Glimmer watched Pazazz hobble around the room, noting that at least their friend did not give up easily. She remembered that she was a bat pony and flitted about the room. She didn’t need to stand on her legs to do that, after all.

Pazazz was soon able to leave the cottage with her best friends, an outing would do her good. They went to the park in Ponyville. Ponies greeted the group of friends while they went about their day. Pazazz was cheerful, having some fresh air for a change. Being stuck in her bedroom had been tiresome and lonely.

———————————

Not long after, Pazazz began her physiotherapy sessions at Ponyville General, to help her get used to three legs. She was adjusting quite nicely, almost like she had been born with only three limbs. She moved about naturally and her balance was shifting into something like normal.