> Being Brave Part II
>  by artman7391
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> New Teacher
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was late in the afternoon. Cory had just returned from the local school in Ponyville, where he was just assigned by Miss Cherilee a new set of algebra homework. Knowing that he had struggled through the years with his math skills, he decided to pursue Princess Twilight Sparkle for after school tutoring. But not only did he struggle with his basic skills, he also struggled with life itself. 

Before his seemingly accidental stumble from his world into Equestria, Cory Agees was the loneliest boy anyone could imagine. His parents had abandoned him, his accommodations were all but squalor, and his friends had been taken away by the most wicked of schools in the world. But when all hope seemed lost, he saw a rainbow coated glimmer from his dirty windowsill, giving him the courage to walk away from his humdrum life and go wherever his feet may carry him. It just so happened those feet transported him into the most unfamiliar and obscure of places. Now with a new lease in life (a home, several respected positions, and a talent in the arts) he was ready to start all over again. 

Cory approached the residence of Twilight, which was a brightly colored crystal castle situated at the edge of town. On closer inspection, it seemed to resemble a combination of a treehouse and a palace merged into one gargantuan construction. With his studies tucked around his arm, he climbed up the stairs and knocked on the golden door, with a heart in the center. A few moments later, the door opened. It was Twilight who answered. 

"Oh hi Cory." She said. "You're right on time." 

She showed him in as he wiped his feet on the mat. He looked around, and noticed how the interior was just as magnificent. The grand entrance was a cascading beauty of murals and crystals, complimented by drapes flowing against the outdoor breeze made by tiny windows from above. The floor was shining marble that reflected the colors from above, with a deep magenta rug covering the center, so as not to make the ground too bland and empty. 

Twilight escorted Cory through the entrance, up the stairs, and down through the hallways, until they reached a door at the very end that led them to her private studies, which was redesigned to look like a small classroom. The place had very warm, welcoming colors and shades, which were mostly thanks to the stacked books and papers that made up for the walls, except for the stained glass windows that transformed the light from outside into a reassuring glow.

"Just find a place to sit and we'll get started." Twilight said as she gathered her things. 

Cory took a moment to look around the room. The walls were decorated with bookshelves and photos of Twilight's friends and family. On the top of a warm fireplace was a large picture of the Mane 6 all huddled into a group photo. At the bottom was a smaller image of what looked like a humanized version of her and her friends and a dog version of Spike, only they had sprouted tails, wings, and pony ears. The background seemed to be from a school dance, presumably Canterlot High. 

"Is that you?" Cory asked as he pointed to the picture. 

"Yep." Twilight replied. "That's me as a human."

"Boy what a crazy adventure that was huh?" Said spike as he entered the room with some scrolls. "And luckily, no side effects. Although, I do get a crave for some dog biscuits every once in a while." 

He then proceeded to grab a bag of some and stuff a few in his mouth, to which Twilight giggled. 

At that moment, Cory observed carefully a rather peculiar looking girl in the background. After closer examination, he recognized it was the girl that picked up his pencil the day before he saw the light.

"Cory would like a snack while we..." She noticed his close observation. "Are you ok?" 

"Oh nothing, nothing I'm alright." Cory said shyly. "I just thought I saw something. 

Twilight shrugged at that comment and took out the chalkboard, escorting Cory to his desk. Now their lessons could begin. 

"Today we're going to discuss if rational expressions are equal, and then multiply and divide them." Said twilight as she drew on the chalkboard. "Now let's look at this equation and see if we can solve it through variables." 

Cory raised his hand. 

"Yes Cory?" Twilight asked. 

"What's a variable?" Cory asked. 

"Good question." She replied. "A Variable is a quantity that may change within the context of a mathematical problem or experiment. Typically, we use a single letter to represent a variable."

Thought Cory hardly had any idea what as being said, it was still enjoyable to know that a teacher took the time for his needs.
> New Coach
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So, you wanna learn some self defense huh?" Rainbow Dash asked after demonstrating some moves in the air.

"Mmm-Hmmm." Cory replied with a nod. 

"You've come to the right pony. After all, what better than to put some Tae-Kwon-Dash, in your routine."

It was the next day. Cory had found himself in the middle of a large track and field, complete with goal posts and painted stripes. The sky was fitted with a few tufted clouds and the temperature was just right. AJ had helped him find some old but efficient jogging wear they used to use. A good fit for such an occasion.

"Alright, today we're gonna start with some cardio exercises." Rainbow proclaimed. " I like to see you take about 3-4 laps around this field. Can you do that?"

"Are you going to laugh and make fun of me for the way I jog?" Cory asked. 

"Of course not." Rainbow reassured him. "It's only your first day." 

Cory shrugged and took his position. He focused on the white line in front of him as he started to jog. At first, everything seemed easy to him. After all, he did run a lot to escape from his troubles. But eventually, his limits caught up with him and he ran out of breath. Next was jogging in place, and though it seemed less challenging, it was nonetheless excruciating. This was followed by lifting some weights, punching some bags, and doing a few sit ups, which he of course did lousily on. 

"I told ya I was awful." Cory said under his exhausting breath.

"Hey don't sweat it kid." Rainbow Dash replied. "I've had my share of pitfalls in my day. But I just got better each time." 

"How." 

"With some training of course. Now let's move onto what we came out here for. Some serious self-defense." 

She put her hoof to her mouth and gave a sharp whistle. From out of the sky came a gray Pegusi with a set of eyes that looked like she made a funny face and it stuck. As expected, she made a clumsy landing on the field, leaving a small crater in her wake.

"This is Derpy." Rainbow exclaimed. "She is our dummy..I mean, assistant for the day. I'm going to use her to demonstrate how to defend yourself against certain attacks. Now, suppose one of your opponents is sneaking up right behind you."

She gave Derpy a signal, signaling her to come forward. 

"When he/she grabs you by the shoulder, you twist you same forearm around theirs, trip their bottom leg, and thus will pummel them to the ground." 

She proceeded to do so with a demonstration, much to Derpy's discomfort.

"But obviously that's not all your opponent can do." She continued. "Suppose he or she plans a sneak attack on you when you're looking face down on them." 

"How so?" Cory asked. 

"Well, let's say, her bottom limb tries to kick you in the shin when you aren't looking." 

"How do you avoid that?"

"Simple. All you've got to do is to tighten your lower limbs together, plant them on the ground, and muscle yourself onto the other's body, until they have no choice but to tap out."

Derpy took a worried sigh as Rainbow planted herself onto her like an overweight teddy bear on a bed.

"But suppose you're the one who's being planted on the ground." Rainbow dash warned as Derpy shrugged and pinned her down. "What do you do then?"

Cory shrugged. 

"Well this is where you're in luck." Rainbow replied. "If you're opponent has your knees pinned to the ground and is holding your arms apart.."

She nodded and Derpy spread her forelegs out, stretching them in both directions. 

"...all you've got to say is just two words." 

"What are they?" Cory asked. 

"Heads up." 

And with those words Rainbow head butted Derpy right in the forehead, causing her to fall a few feet back. After which, Cory could swear he saw some stars spinning around Derpy's mane. 'No wonder her eyes are so messed up' he thought. 

"So, are you ready give it a try?" Rainbow asked. "Oh, and Derpy you're done for the day." 

Derpy took a sigh of relief and flew back into the clouds. 

"I might as well." Cory replied.

So Cory took his fighting position as Rainbow Dash tried to sneak behind him. Though he clumsily failed the first time, he got up and tried again. As they moved on to the other two routines, he noticed something he never experienced in P.E. no one booing at him, or calling him names. In fact, his coach was cheering him on saying things like 'nice try' and 'good effort.' These were things no ever said to him before, with the exception, or course, being his old friends. Still, these words of encouragement were more than enough to keep him going, to get through the day without worry.
> Glass Murals
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A week and a half had passed since Cory started his educational and physical training with Twilight and Rainbow. Though he had made very little progress, it was nice to know he had backup support for a change. Plus the setting and atmosphere proved most sufficient to his studies. 

Today, he found himself in an immense library of books and scrolls, rivaling that of most libraries in his world. Twilight had given him an assignment where he was to look for any grammatical errors in a paper she wrote when she was a filly. As expected, this proved exceedingly difficult, as he had never been tasked to proofread someone else's work. At that moment of frustration, there was a knock at the door. 

"Don't worry I'll get it." Said Twilight as she headed towards the door. "Just keep on thinking about your spelling and punctuation Cory. Remember, I before E except after C."

Twilight opened the front door to reveal it was Mayor Mare, who had arrived with a few blueprints floating beside her. 

"Hello Mayor." Twilight greeted. "What brings you here?"

"Well, I have the most fun and engaging assignment for your student." Mayor Mare replied gleefully. "Our town hall is in in need of few new stained glass windows to decorate the walls, and I've heard Cory here has a knack for visual storytelling. So I was just wondering if he would be willing to help us with designing a draft? " 

"That sounds like a wonderful assignment Mayor." Twilight replied. "Let me tell Cory the news."

She rushed back into the library and told Cory the information. At first, he seemed a little unsure for a few reasons, one, he had never been given commissioned to design an entire room before. Second, the idea of a stained glass exhibition in the middle of the town seemed overwhelming. 

"Don't worry Cory." Twilight reassured him. "I will be right beside you if you have any trouble." 

Cory thought for a moment and nodded back in agreement. And with that, he set the paper aside and the two of them headed to town hall. The location was situated in the center of Ponyville. It's architecture had the combination style of a gazebo, and a merry-go-round, as seemed fitting for a town populated by small horses. Mayor Mare guided them up the steps and into the main hallway, which was a vast rotunda of railings, balconies and drape, each with with their own individual style. There were a few ladders and scaffolding tied around the room's edges. The floors we're covered with drapes and sheets, so as not to let any debris or fragments detriment the marble texture. 

"Well here we are." Said Mayor Mare. "I'll just give you these blue prints and you can get started at your own pace." 

As the mayor trotted away to a group of assistants in the back, Cory took a moment to stare at the prints he had just been given. Each was covered in different equations, geometrics, and algebra related problems, almost too mind boggling for him to comprehend.

"Don't worry Cory." Twilight said as she rubbed his back. "Just remember our geometry courses and you'll do great. I'll be right behind you." 

"Ok." Cory replied with a sigh. "I'll do the best I can." 

He spread the prints onto the ground and taped each of the corners. Then he took a moment to examine the windows from above. He looked below to see buckets filled with shards of cut glass, each in a different, colorful hue. Next to each bucket was a pair of safety gloves, so the user couldn't cut themselves. With another sigh, Cory placed the gloves on his hands, which were actually only looked like thumb-less mittens, as the residents of this world didn't really evolve with fingers. Twilight chuckled as she magically fashioned the gloves to fit his human hands. Now he could begin to work.

He decided to start by separating each piece of glass by color and value. Then he began to arrange each section by size, giving him an impression of which pieces were more or less important than the other. He took a moment now and then to look at the blueprints, giving him instructions as to how to get the job done. Apparently they wanted an abstract design on each window: One a star, another a sun, a moon, a leaf, a flower, etc.

Cory could easily understand the subject matter now. He closed his eyes and envisioned how each mural should be. After a few moments and deep breaths, he came up with a plan. He would divide the pieces of glass like the color wheel on a spectrum. For instance, the moon mural would use blue and violet, the sun would have yellow and harvest orange, the leaf would use lime green and aqua, and the stars would implement purple and bright magenta, almost like Twilight's cutie mark. With each delicate handling of the shards, he placed them into the most beautiful patterns imaginable. They started off as simple shapes, then into forms, then figures, and finally mosaics that would make the most skilled of greek artists rage in envy. Sometimes he would stop along the way to look at the geometric instructions on the blueprint, reminding himself of what Twilight taught him at his after-school class. 

Before he knew it, the task was complete. He stood up and took a moment to look at the artwork he had put together, and for the first time in who knows how long, he felt a sense of pride and satisfaction in what he had accomplished. It was only when he turned around that he realized the mayor and the board were watching his every move, both intrigued and proud of the art, murmuring to each other their positive opinions. 

"My, now this is truly a spectacle to behold." Said one posh Pegusi. 

"Look at the hues and shadows he put together." A Unicorn added. 

"Our town hall is going to look marvelous now." Mayor mare concluded.

"Really?" Cory asked. "I..I don't know what to say about that...No one's ever given me that kind of compliment before...thank you."

"We understand Cory." Twilight reassured him. "You've gone through a lot, and you're not used to such flattery." 

"I guess so." Cory replied. 

"But I bet it feels really good doesn't it?" 

"It sure does Twilight...It sure does." 

The two of them took a step back as they watched the unicorn members of the board carefully erect the glass murals on the windows above. Cory just stood there, with his hands in his pockets, and a small smile on his face.
> Meltdown
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A few more weeks had passed since Cory began his studies. Still little progress had been made in his basic skills, and he could see the frustration in his tudors faces. Regardless, they managed to cheer him on in his curriculum. With every wrong answer, or missed push-up, they still said things like "Good effort" or "Keep it up" to have his spirit going. However, he felt worried, anxious, even concerned he may have been only burdening his pony friends, making himself a waste of time in their lives. Still, he was amazed they were able to keep their temper after all this time. 

Today was no exception, finding himself in the comfort of Twilight's bedroom, and focusing on a grammar problem that was presented to him. Even more challenging, there was a timer to see how fast he could get it done. He fiddled with one punctuation, and he toiled with a sentence structure, but he just couldn't seem to figure out what was right or wrong about this essay. And yet, he persisted, recollecting what Twilight had taught him earlier in the weeks. But just as he was about to finish the last problem, the timer went off. 

"Alright Cory," Twilight said calmly. "Let's see what you got."

He handed his paper over to his tutor, and she brought it to her desk. With the magical assistance of a quill and bottle of ink, she carefully examined the changes he made. Cory looked on with the most worried look on his face. Twilight gave him a smile of reassurance, and told him to sit back in his seat. He twiddled his thumbs, patted his legs and toyed with eraser shavings, making a nice small pattern on the desk. About 5 minutes later, Twilight handed back his paper. As she turned away, he nervously looked at the score at the top of the paper. Just as he had feared, a large score of 54% appeared on the corner, wrapped around in a red circle.

Once again, Cory had failed to achieve a passable grade. It was practically the same feeling he had to endure back in his world. He thought 'What's the use of trying?' 'What's the point of going on?' 'Why continue to persist if I'm going to fail each time.' His hands began to shake, ruffling the paper, aggravated at his own personal failure. tears of rage streamed down his exhausted cheeks as the inner emotion grew more and more outer. Finally, he snapped. 

"WHY CAN'T I GET IT RIGHT!!!!!?" He shouted at the top of his lungs as he ripped the paper up and threw his pencil to the ground. "IT'S HOPELESS!!!"

Then, to Twilight's horror, his hands turned to fists, and he began to brutally beat himself up. He beat his chest, he landed blows in his face, he kicked himself in the shin, and tore a little hole in his shirt. He was so mad at himself, he didn't even care if he made bruises to his skin, or even bled for that matter. Twilight immediately flew over to him and record speed, and smacked him in the face to come to his senses. She then placed her hooves on both sides of his cheeks and made him look straight in the eyes. It was the sternest, strictest, most un-funny face she had ever made to him. 

"Never...Do...That...Again." She said coldly.

He bowed his head in shame. 

"LOOK AT ME!" She said as she reinforced his eyes. "Don't Ever..EVER...Hit yourself, Kick yourself, scratch, punch, or harm yourself in the face ever again! UNDERSTAND!?" 

Cory nodded as if his life depended on it. 

"Alright." Twilight sighed in exhaustion. "I need to lie down now." 

She flew over to a nearby sofa, fluffed a fancy looking pillow, and made her self comfortable. Meanwhile Cory just stood there for a few minutes, not knowing what to say or do. Then he shrugged and picked up the shredded pieces of paper and pencil he just threw.

"I'm sorry I got the answer wrong again." Cory said solemnly as he paper in the trash bin. 

"It's not that you got the answers wrong." Twilight replied. "It's how you react to getting them wrong in the first place."

"What do you mean?" He asked. "I've always been told to feel bad when I fail a test or exam." 

"Exactly. You should be doing the opposite. You should just keep a steady, calm demeanor when you're wrong, not beat yourself up about it." 

Cory looked down again in shame, as Twilight flew to him and turned his head up.

"I know you've been taught differently on how to handle these things." She said. "But you no longer have to follow those kinds of rules. You have friends now, with all the support you could possibly ask for. All you need is a way to control your stress load in a simple, practical way, and I think I might know somepony, or zebra in this matter, who can help." 

"Zebra?" Cory asked, to which Twilight smirked and gave him to nod to hop on her back.
> Meeting Zecora
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cory rode on Twilights back with his hands tightly clenched onto her mane as the two flew over the vast thickness of the Everfree Forest. On this particular day, the mysterious habitat seemed to convey more welcoming territory. With its lush vegetation and enigmatic variety of trees, the aerial view made it almost a duplicate to the amazon. The two searched until they found an opening of the forest floor where Twilight softly landed on.

"Now before we meet Zecora, are you able to remember where you were the first time you came into this world?" Asked Twilight as Cory hopped off her back.

"Why do you ask?" asked Cory

"I might need to know in case...well...it doesn't really matter, yet. Could you just tell me where it was?"

Cory thought really hard as to how he got here. It was hard to pinpoint the exact location where he first landed in Equestria, what with the dense forestry and almost un-transparent fog. But if there was one thing he was actually good at, it was photographic memory.

"There." he said as he pointed in the direction.

In front of them was a large, smooth stone slab covered in discolored moss and twisted vines. Twilight approached it and using her magic, removed the unnecessary greenery for closer examination. Then, she levitated a thick piece of wood off the ground and mended it to make it look like a boomerang. She flung it towards the slab, and to her surprise, it went right through the solid material, as if it were nothing. A few seconds later it flew back out and landed softly on the forest floor.

"Amazing." she told herself. Then she turned to her left and saw a flickering light through the vines.

"Oh, and what luck." She said. "It's right next to Zecora's hut."

Twilight opened the vines like theater curtains to reveal what looked like an African equivalent of Twilights home. The design and decor made it look like Yoda's house and Rafiki's canopy if the two decided to live together. With it's curved trunk and twisted branches, it seemed like a perfect fit for the African savannah. Surrounding it were tribal masks and medicinal bottles hanging by rope, indicating the resident was possibly a witch doctor of some sort. The two slowly approached the door as Twilight gave it a knock. The door opened to reveal a rather attractive zebra with a mohawk for a mane. She sported a set of two large golden earrings as well as a row of rings wrapped around her neck and right foreleg. This accessory seemed to compliment her stripe pattern which looked like black, tribal paint rather than natural skin pigment.

"Ah, Twilight Sparkle." She said with a soothing chant. "What a pleasant surprise, and what is this creature before my eyes?"

"Hi Zecora." Responded Twilight. "This is Cory, he's a creature from a world I visited once. He's my private student, and..."

"A Human? My my. After all these years. The creature who walks on two legs reappears." Replied Zecora as she approached him for further examination.

"Wait! What do you mean by after all these years?" Asked Twilight.

"I'll tell you later. Now come in my hut, and perhaps I can help with what puts him in a rut."

The interior looked no less complimentary than the exterior. Surrounding the air was an intoxicating incense of various spices and herbs. It's sources obviously coming from the various racks that filled the walls, which contained an infinite assortment of bottles, jars, cups, cans, and other items containing medicinal elements. It gave him the feeling he was entering a shop in New Orleans. Though faint, he swore he could hear the music of The Lion King. But then again, it was probably his imagination.

Zecora fixed the two of them with cups of her special herbal tea. As he took a few gulps, he wondered how it was even tea. The flavor was more along the lines of silky hot chocolate mixed with fresh raspberry and apricot. Every sip filled him with a zen like energy as if he were becoming one with himself.

"Now tell us what bothers our bipedal friend, and perhaps there is something I can recommend." Said Zecora.

"Well," began Twilight as he scooted her to the corner of the room. "From what Cory tells us, he hasn't really had the happiest of childhoods."

So Twilight started telling her about his sad upbringing, how his parents abandoned him, how he was sexually harassed, how his friends were taken away from him, and how he struggled with his basic math, writing and athletic skills. A tear was seen falling down Zecora's cheek when Twilight finished, to which she promptly wiped it away with her hoof.

"His tale of woe upsets me so. It is so undeniably unfair, for a child to go through all that despair. " Said Zecora.

"And that's the reason why we came here." Said Twilight. "We were wondering if you could help Cory with his concentration skills so he can be better at his general studies."

Zecora thought for a moment. "Cory, may we see the marks on your back?"

Cory hesitated for a moment, then turned around and lifted his shirt.

"My, my. That is one nasty attack." she commented as she lightly touched the whip marks.

"I know the just the trick, that can get rid of those lashes quite quick."

She swiftly ran over to her brewing cauldron and mixed and few herbs and spices that filled the room with a sweet aroma. Then she mixed it together with her ladle until everything blended as one. Then she carefully poured the brew into a wooden tray and gently rubbed the mixture on her hooves.

"Please bend over so I can see closer." Zecora requested as she went over and touched her hooves on Cory's back.

He lied down on his stomach as she began to rub her remedy all over his lash marks.

"There is an old prose in my homeland which goes: 
Ujasiri si kupatikana kwa nini unaweza kufanya 
Pekee ambaye yeye anafanya hivyo kwa ajili hawezi kuvumilia dhoruba" She recited as she continued rubbing his back

"Huh?" asked Twilight and Cory with confused looks.

"It means, Courage is not achieved by what you can perform
Only whom he does it for can he truly brave the storm."

The two were still puzzled as to what it meant. Then she lifted her hooves from his back and Cory walked over to a nearby mirror. To his surprise, the marks on his back were gone, as if it hardly been touched.

"Are you some kind of angel?" Asked Cory as he put his shirt back on.

Zecora chuckled. "I wish I had a bit for every time I'd find, a compliment like that from your humankind."

"Speaking of which," Twilight intervened, "What did you mean by seeing a human after all these years?"

Zecora walked over to her cauldron and dashed a few clay fragments into the bubbling brew. Then, before their eyes, a few shadowy figures appeared on the hut's ceiling.

"In my homeland, in days of yore." Zecora said "A creature roamed the grasslands on two legs, not four. Though forbidden it was to talk or employ, it was I, a young filly, who befriended their girls and boys."

As she continued with her story, the smoke figures moved along to her words, almost like a virtual storybook.

"As time went on, I became a secret teacher, educating each day this homo sapient creature. I taught them my ways and traded them my herbs, and, most importantly told them how to calm thier nerves. But just as fast as a hummingbird steers, all the humans one day, unexpectedly disappeared. Since then, I had become a nomadic vagabond, to ask myself where the humans had gone. Then I finally lost the will and settled in Ponyville. Then one morning, not long ago, as I was returning with my stash, I could have sworn I heard from nearby a muddy splash. I went over to see what it could be. It was an imprint of the back of a human body."

Then she clicked her heel and the smoke vanished into the cauldron.

"So, can you help him?" Asked Twilight.

Zecora nodded "I can teach your student how to ease his stress. For a steady mind and soul is the key to success."

A smile grew on Cory's face as Zecora led him to the back of her hut.
> Meditation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cory found himself in a more peaceful part of the Everfree Forest. He had taken off his shirt, had his body painted with tribal like symbols and sat in a meditative position in front of her. Surrounding the two of them were trees that seemed to reach to the sky, giving it a cathedral like feel. The smell in the air was clean and refreshing, as if god had breathed a bunch of mint flavored orbit gum. The forest floor was soft and cushiony since it was covered completely by thick moss. There were flowers and leaves that were almost as big as him, with colors almost impossible to describe. An incense filled the air akin to roman scented candles and newborn saplings There were the occasional falls of petals from one of the trees as they gently landed beside the two of them. It was the perfect place to meditate and calm ones thoughts.

"Now, it is important to know that no sound, din or fuss must interfere with your focus." Said Zecora to which Cory nodded back.

"Rid of doubt and clear your mind, and the answers you seek may not be far behind. First, Close your eyes, and breath deep, but try not to fall completely asleep."

So Cory closed his eyes and took a deep breath. At first, he didn't feel any different.

"Take deep breaths in, take deep breaths out, think only of the air that channels from your snout."

Eventually, he started to have an indescribable feeling, as if something was beginning to transform within his soul. Before long, Zecora began to sing perhaps the most beautiful chant he had ever heard:



As he breathed in, an imaginary presence tightened against his body easing him of any tension and shielding him against any incoming negative chakra. And as he breathed out, these unseen, unwanted forces oozed out of his flesh, cleansing him of the past. He had never felt so one with himself in all his life.

"Now that you're calm, let us proceed. Stand upright and follow my lead." Said Zecora after an hour or so.

Cory stood up fully energized as he prepared himself to mimic Zecora.

"So what are we doing now Zecora?" asked Cory with a confused look.

"It's a simple dance from your human elite, a age old rhythm called tai chi. See?"

Then, miraculously, Zecora stood upright on two legs, much to Cory's surprise. She placed herself in a lunge position and thrust her forelegs forward. Then she gave him the nod for Cory to copy the position, to which he promptly did. As he continued to mimic her movements, he felt a feeling of the removal of pressure against an unseen force, as if all his doubts and worries we're beginning to melt away. In addition he noticed how he and Zecora were commanding with their hands and hooves a group of petals that seemed to magically levitate off the ground and form a wave of color and light.

It was a spectacular moment not just visually, but spiritually. With the afternoon dew trickling against his flesh, the clean, unpolluted air flowing through his veins, and the soft earth pressing through his feet, he seemed fused with all the natural elements of the world. Every step of his feet, every curve of his hands, every stance of his limbs was almost in perfect balance with the forces of nature surrounding him.

"Fear not mistakes, welcome them as gifts, for they may be a beneficial shift." Said Zecora as she and Cory continued Tai Chi together.

"It is not how we deal with mistakes from past, but how we live now that makes our impressions last. I was not always the skilled one myself, For trial and error, did I understand oneself. We try, we fail, we fly and we fall, but through these mistakes, only then we stand tall.

Then she picked up her nearby staff, jumped in the air and did a hoof stand on the handle. Cory's eyes widened and his jaw dropped at this sight. Other than Pinkie Pie, he had never seen a creature so flexible and defiant of the laws of physics. As Zecora gently landed on all four hooves, she gave Cory a nod, to which Cory implied as a signal to demonstrate a martial arts like movement. He didn't know how, but for some reason, as he started to execute whatever random pose popped into his head, he felt a presence surging throughout his body. It was like an ancient being locked inside him was finally released ready to follow his command. Though he stumbled over a few times, he couldn't seem to stop. With every flick of his arms, every pivot of his legs. It felt calming, powerful, and surprising at the same time. He never thought he could do these moves before. He wasn't even thinking of doing it. It just happened automatically, like some instinctive power had kicked in thanks to this new found land he discovered.

"Now that you're calm, and your doubt is at rest, lets put a basic skill to the test." Said Zecora

Twilight came over and levitated a piece of paper and pen towards him. It was a math problem he always got stuck on. He remembered how Twilight taught him tricks as to how to remember these problems. Now, since all negative thoughts were in the back of his head and he could focus on the task at hand, he saw a clear image as to how it could be done. He laid his pencil on the paper and got started. First, he solved what was underneath the square root to figure out what it was. Then, he could solve the variable below the dash line by dividing and adding the numbers together. From there, all he had to do was divide the number on top by the number below. Finally, he finished the answer and encircled it around a bold oval.

Now came the moment of truth. As he handed over the paper to Twilight for her to grave, a sense of tension began to creep into his soul. Then after a few moments of examination, Twilight calmly put the paper down and stared at him.

"Did I do it?" he asked.

"Yes! Well done!" Twilight replied as she gave him a high hoof.

"I did it!! I Actually Did it!!" Cried Cory.

He jumped for joy and Hugged Twilight. He didn't care it was a small victory. He had never solved a complex math problem and got it right before. Now that he had, it all seemed so surreal.

"You see my human friend, a bit of confidence makes it worthwhile in the end." Commented Zecora.

Cory blushed as she said this.

"Lets go home Cory." Said Twilight as he hopped on her back. "I think there's a few writing games you will really enjoy."

"Thanks for everything Zecora. I'll meet you same time next week?" Asked Cory as he put his shirt back on.

Zecora nodded with approval. And with that, Cory and Twilight flew up into the sky and back to Ponyville. Cory took a sigh of relief and hugged Twilight by the neck.

"Thanks Mom...I mean Twilight." He said as he caught himself and let go of her. "I couldn't have done it without you."

Mom Twilight thought as a motherly smile grew across her face.
> Mountain Trek/Assignment Results
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Wow Cory! I must say. You've really improved in your writing skills these past few weeks." Commented Twilight as she examined Cory's essay. "In fact, I don't see any grammar or spelling errors to fix. How did you do it?"

"Well I suppose it was thanks to two friends of mine: Inspiration and Editing." Replied Cory

It was the day before Cory was to turn in his essay. He stopped over at Twilight's place to see if there were any last minute errors to fix. Suddenly, in came Rainbow Dash with her customary enthusiasm.

"Hey Cory." Said Rainbow Dash "Ready for today's awesome fitness lesson?"

"We sure are Rainbow Dash." Replied Twilight

"Wait, what do you mean we?" Asked Cory.

"Today," Said Rainbow Dash as she swooped up to him and threw him on her back. "You are goin on a special hike up a nearby mountain to test some of your new athletic skills."

"And we're here to be your cheerleaders." Said Twilight.

Pinkie Pie then dashed in without warning like a speeding bullet. She sported what looked like a cheerleader uniform complete with rainbow ponytails and a giant red megaphone.

"GIVE ME A C FOR CORY!!!" She shouted "CEEEEEEEE...CORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Cory covered his ears as the noise of Pinkie's megaphone vibrated across the library. Then in came Rarity, Fluttershy and Applejack who tossed a hiking backpack over to Cory.

"Howdy Cory. Hope ya don't mind but I packed ya some sandwiches and a container full o water in case ya get hungry." Said Applejack.

"And I brought my first aid kit if you get into a bad accident." Said Fluttershy

"So ya ready for your little expedition?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

Cory Thought for a moment. "Yes, I'm ready for the challenge." He answered with confidence.

"C IS FOR CHALLENGE!" Shouted Pinkie Pie as she waved her pom poms in the air.

Soon, Cory found himself flying on Dash's back over the rooftops of Ponyville. Twilight and Fluttershy was flying by her side making sure he wouldn't fall off. He could see off in the distance a nearby, narrow mountain. As it got closer and closer, he noticed a steep rocky trail spiraling around its mighty natural structure. On the snowy peak, he could make out a small green dot painted in the middle.

"Now Zecora has agreed to meet up with us so you can take your necessary meditative breaks whenever you feel spiritually doubtful. Is that alright?" asked Twilight.

Cory nodded. He didn't see why he needed so much support. He felt so confident already. Ready to take on a challenge as big as this was opportunity knocking. Eventually, the mane six met at the foot of the mountain as Dash took him off her back and gently flew him onto the ground. Just as expected Zecora was waiting for all seven of them donning an obi wan like cloak. On her back, she carried a walking staff and a bag full of seeds. She approached Cory and began to speak:

"Now that you've learned a skill, trick and trade, it is time to show that you are not afraid."

"Huh?" asked Cory.

"Up this mountain you are too climb, and reach the top at a reasonable time. But be warned my fellow student. It is not all that translucent."

"What do you mean?" asked Cory

"Well." Said Rarity bashfully, "We sort of wanted this to be a bit challenge. sooo..."

"We kinda set up the mountain with about 3 or 4 mini obstacles within the obstacle itself....." Added Rainbow Dash

Cory gulped as she said this

"But don't you fret sugarcube." Said Applejack "Most of them are pretty easy, like doin pushups, liftin weights, solvin a math problem, fixin a grammatical error.."

"But we think you're pretty capable of doing it." Said Fluttershy.

"C IS FOR CAPABLE!!" Shouted Pinkie Pie over her megaphone. "You are gonna be so good climbing to top of that mountain. But for the record, I don't think anypony's ever been able to make it to the top. And since you just got started, you'll need all the help you can get and...."

Everypony covered her mouth and gave her a stern look as she solemnly scooted off a few feet.

"Do not fear my protege." Said Zecora. "I shall help you stay calm, so you won't go astray."

Cory stared at the magnitude of the mountain as Applejack placed the backpack on him. He knew he made a lot of progress since the day he arrived. But was he really up for a test as huge as this? Then he took a deep breath as walked towards the base of the track. He placed the tips of his fingers on the hard surface of the trail like a runner at the starting position. His muscles tightened and the beat of heard pounded against his flesh. He took one more glance at the mane 6 as Zecora stood by his side.

"We're right behind you." Reassured Pinkie Pie.

He turned towards his obstacle and took another humongous breath.

"Alright." He said "Lets climb!!"

And off he went.

"C IS FOR CLIMB!!" shouted Pinkie off in the distance.

The sounds of cheers grew fainter and fainter as Cory began his ascent with Zecora. At first it seemed pretty easy. Just a simple afternoon jog while enjoying the scenery of an uphill habitat. A few natural images seemed to catch his eye. Among them being an eagle flying to it's nest and feeding it's young, a pair of bighorn sheep sparring each other, and the occasional abnormal sized moth fluttering by. But after while, as he climbed higher and higher, and the air grew thinner and thinner, he started to feel a little faint. Then he remembered the jug of water Applejack had supplied him. He grabbed it out of his backpack and slugged it down like a water buffalo on a hot day. Suddenly Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Twilight appeared at the edge of the mountain.

"Yeah! that's it Cory!!" Shouted Twilight
"C'mon!! You can do it!!" Shouted Rainbow Dash
"Yay." Whispered Fluttershy.

Cory nodded with a look of confidence and continued with his run. In spite of his exhaustion, he was ready for whatever challenge lied ahead of him. It was then that he stopped at his first mini obstacle. It was a simple series of sit ups and pushups whilst solving a math problem. But first, Zecora led him with a little Tai Chi and meditation warm up. After that, it was smooth sailing as he did the push ups and sit ups and finished the problem with ease. Thus, he was able to continue his upward job. Up above him, he could see two Pegasus cheerleaders.

"Give us some courage! Give us some speed! and what do you get? CORY!!!" cheered the two pony cheerleaders.

Out of nowhere, Pinkie Pie appeared on top of them, forming a mini pyramid.

"C IS FOR COURAGE!!!!" cheered Pinkie Pie

His next stop was a ready made ladder. Here, he was to climb it while at the same time, fix grammatical errors engraved into the stone. After meditation and Tai Chi, he started his steep ascent. Surprisingly, these purposeful errors felt pretty easy to solve. Suddenly, as he was halfway up, his foot slipped on a wet handle and he started to fall. Luckily, Rainbow Dash caught him by the arm with her foreleg just in time and gently placed it back on the handle.

"So, how is our star pupil holding up?" Asked Rarity who was standing on a nearby ledge to which Cory replied with a thumbs up.

"Hey Rainbow Dash?" he asked. "What were those two cheerleaders back there?"

"Those are some old friends from Cloudsdale who agreed to be part of the pep team." She answered "C'mon Cory!! You're doin great!"

Soon, he was able to climb up the entire ladder and solve each grammatical error with the greatest of ease. By now, the sun was setting into the west mountains. As he reached the top of the ladder and stood back on the trail, he could the marvelous array of natural hues that filled the sky.

"Come my human friend." Said Zecora "There will time for all of that in the end."

Cory nodded and continued his trek

"You're halfway there Cory!!" Cheered Twilight who was flying in front of him. "I know you can make it."

"Goooooo Cory!!" Shouted Pinkie and the cheerleaders in the back.

Before he knew it, he heard his stomach growling. Remembering the Sandwiches Applejack packed for him, he took one of them out and snarfed down it's juicy essence like a vacuum cleaner. Then, he washed it down with his jug of water and poured some of it onto his sweaty forehead as he continued jogging.

He and Zecora had now reached the third mini obstacle. It was more challenging than the others, but more or less, fun to do. Here, he was to practice his self defense moves while reciting some historical facts about the founding of Equestria. After a bit of Tai Chi and meditation, he was ready to go. Rainbow Dash flew onto the podium a gave a pose as if ready to pounce on him. Cory took his position and made a self defense pose.

"Don't worry." Said Rainbow Dash "I'm not really gonna hurt ya."

She trotted forward and slowly swung her right hoof in the air, as if about to throw one in her face. Luckily, Cory dodged it in the nick of time. Then she attempted a fake blow to his stomach with her back legs, to which he blocked with his arms almost immediately. At that moment, Twilight flew to his right.

"The three original tribes of Equestria were stricken by a blizzard made by what creature?" She asked.

Cory bend back, avoiding another blow to the head.

"The Wendigo!" He said.

"Correct. Who were the leaders of the three original tribes?"

Rainbow Dash started to sneak up behind Cory and touch him on the shoulder. He responded by locking her foreleg with his arm, twisting behind her back and and throwing her to the ground until she tapped out.

"Chancellor Puddinghead, Princess Platinum, and Commander Hurricane." He said as he committed this action.

"Right. What was it that caused the Blizzard to end?"

Rainbow Dash pulled Cory into a headlock.

"It was the fire of friendship." He said "Heads...Up!!" Then he headbutted Rainbow Dash and chest palmed her a few feet back.

"Excellent!" Twilight responded. "Who was the mentor of Princess Platinum's advisor?"

Cory thought for a moment as Rainbow Dash dug her hoof in the dirt and started to charge at him. He jolted to his right at the last minute as She lost her balance and crashed against the side of the mountain.

"Starswirl the Bearded." Replied Cory.

"Yes! Well Done!" Replied Twilight.

After a few more questions and karate kicks, Cory continued on his trek. He was nearing the end of the day long journey, and could barely go through another mile run. But his friends were still cheering him on in the back.

"C'mon Cory, you can do it!" Shouted Applejack.

"Yeah, that's my boy!" Shouted Rainbow Dash.

"We have faith in you!" Shouted Twilight.

"I know you can do it!" Shouted Rarity.

"You rock. Woo-Hoo." Whispered Fluttershy

"GOOO CORY!!" Shouted Pinkie Pie and her cheerleader friends.

With those sounds of support, Cory wiped away his sweat, drank the last bit of water from his container, snarfed the last sandwich he had in his mouth, and took the final steps to the mountains peak. With every foot touching the ground, and every breath from his lips, he felt a surge of confidence he never heard before. Every doubt he ever had in his life was now behind him. 
Then, with final push of his exhausted body, he felt the ground flatten again. There was no place left to climb.

Cory had reached the top.

He was about to collapse in triumph when his four legged friends all caught him just in time and gave him a big group hug. At that moment, all the negative energy those bullies and teachers gave him had finally melted away. It was as if a large boulder had been released from his back and he wipe all the sweat away. This was the most relieving feeling he ever had.

"Yee Haw!! You did it Cory!!" Cried Applejack.

"I knew you could do it!!" Cried Pinkie.

"My hero!!" Cried Rarity

"We saw the whole thing." Said Fluttershy.

"You are one awesome kid Cory!!" Said Rainbow Dash as she gave him a noogie.

"See? All you needed was a great big bunch of support." Said Twilight.

"Thanks for showing me the way Twilight." Said Cory as he wiped away his sweat.

At that moment he realized day had turned into night. All 10 of them sat down and took a moment to admire the view of Ponyville. The sky was filled with stars that twinkled like sequins on a well suited gown. It was beautiful. So beautiful he felt his heart would burst.

"Your other friends would've been very proud of you today." Whispered Twilight into Cory's ear. And with that, he smiled and drifted to sleep on her lap.





Cory woke up the next morning back in his room at Sweet Apple Acres. He looked up on the wall to check the time and saw that class started in 20 minutes. Noticing he was already dressed and his backpack was full, He sprung out of bed. Then he rushed downstairs, got a quick bite of eggs on toast and ran outside with Applebloom close to him.

He could see the school bell ringing as he sprinted closer to the entrance. Though his first experience there wasn't the happiest one, he was still pretty excited with what today had in store. Upon arrival, he could see all the young fillies and colts all scattering inside, taking their seats and ready to turn in their essays. Miss Cherilee stood up from her writing desk and did roll call. At that moment, Cory sprinted inside, sat at his desk and took out his paper. He was very confident he would ace this assignment.

"Allright class." Said Miss Cherilee with a gleeful voice. "Time for you all to turn in those papers I assigned you. I can't wait to see what you've written."

As she started collecting them with her mouth, an unexpected chill ran up Cory's spine. it was the first time he was actually given an assignment this big since he arrived in Equestria. But after that little adventure yesterday, he wasn't as nervous as he used to be.

Finally, Miss Cherilee approached him and picked up his essay. She walked over to her desk and started to grade the papers. 
Cory tweedled his fingers, shook and legs and took a good look around the classroom. His classmates were murmuring to each other, making a few innocent jokes, eager to know what Miss Cherilee would think of their assignment. At the back he noticed Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon with powdy looks on their faces.

"What's up with them?" Asked Cory as he leaned over to the CME.

"Oh, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon got suspended for two weeks for the way they treated you a few days back." Answered Applebloom.

"Now they have to spend the next few months sitting in the back of the class and cleaning up the room." Said Sweetie Belle

"If you ask me, they got what they deserved." Chuckled Scootaloo.

The three of them gave each other a high hoof upon stating this. But Cory couldn't help but feel sorry for the two. Though he felt it was a fair punishment, he wished they could somehow amend their ways and turn a new leaf. In the end, he decided to cut his losses and brush it off his shoulder.

At that moment, Miss Cherilee began to hoof out the graded papers. Cory took a big gulp as she walked closer to his desk. But what was he to worried about? After all, he did just climb to the top of the mountain yesterday.

Finally, it was his turn. His paper had been placed on his desk, checked and graded. The moment of truth had come. Cory hesitated to see the results. He took a deep breath and slowly began to turn the paper right side up. His heart beat, his muscles tightened, his brow began to sweat....

"Why you so nervous Cory? You got an A!" Said Applebloom.

And she was right. Cory looked straight at his essay and saw a large, sparkling "A" with a star sticker next to it. Cory tried to say something, but he couldn't think of the words. They were too feeble to describe the joyous feeling bursting inside him. He never got an A in class before. He was lucky enough to even get a passing grade. It all seemed so surreal for him. He walked outside the schoolhouse looking at his almost perfect grade when he noticed the Mane 6 and Spike waiting outside for him, including Pinkie, who was still wearing her cheerleader garb.

"Congratulations!!" They all said together.

"How did you all know about my grade?" Asked Cory.

"Sweetie Belle and her friends told us all about what happened." Rarity answered.

"Plus ya dozed off the other night before we could give ya an adequate congrats." Added Applejack.

"We're all very excited for you Cory." Said Fluttershy.

"Well, I can't believe it myself." Said Cory "I feel like I'm already in the same boat as everybody...I mean...everypony else.

"Hold on there sport." Rainbow Dash intervened. "Ya still got a ways to go if you wanna keep up with the rest of us."

"But don't you worry." Said Twilight. "We're gonna make your learning both fun and education."

"C IS FOR CUE...AS IN CUE THE TRAINING MONTAGE!!" shouted Pinkie Pie.
> Foal sitting the CMC
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was nighttime at Sweet Apple Acres. The sun had shown its last glow over the sky before succumbing to the stars. Tonight, Cory was put in charge of babysitting the Cutie Mark Crusaders and their slumber party, while the rest of the Apple Family were to haul a load of zap apple jam to a market over in Baltimare. 

"Now you make sure Apple Bloom and her friends don't get in any trouble alright?" Applejack asked Cory as he was staring out of his window. 

"I will make sure of that." Cory replied, and with that, AJ, Big Mac and Granny Smith set hoof on their journey.

A few hours passed and Cory was found still in the confines of his room whipping up another one his artistic creations from a pile mismatched items. As he was putting the finishing touches, the floor board opened. It was Applebloom dressed in what looked like an aluminum based armor in the style of a knight. 

"Hey Cory." She said gleefully. "Wanna play with us?" 

Cory thought for a moment and nodded back. He followed them to the living room which had now been arranged to look like a fortress from a forgotten land. The couches were made into mountains, the lamps were flagstaffs and the curtains were patches of grass. The CMC were found wearing a rather peculiar set of costumes, assumed to represent knights of the round table. 

"So what do I do here?" Cory asked. 

"Simple." Sweetie Belle replied. "You rescue us from one of the everfree forest creatures." 

She pointed her hoof towards what seemed to be a large blanket draped over the back of another table and set of chairs. The CMC had really put thought and effort to their game of pretend. So Cory shrugged and put on the tinfoil armor, sword and shield that had been offered to him. 

"Are you ready?" Applebloom asked, to which Cory nodded back. 

"Rawr." Scootaloo sounded as she went behind the creature and the other two got involved in the . "I am a dangerous creature form the everfree forest." 

She threw a piece of the blanket around Sweetie Belle and Applebloom as if capturing them in an invisible forcefield. The three signaled them and gave him the cue to hold his plastic sword in the air. 

"Um," He thought. "Halt dangerous creature. I'm here to defeat you. I guess." 

"You can never defeat me." Scootaloo proclaimed. "I'm am far too dangerous and powerful." 

Cory just stood there and did nothing. 

"Now you try to rescue us." Applebloom whispered. 

"Oh yeah, right." 

He charged towards the pretend creature and made a slight jab to the right. Before he knew it, he was tossing and turning around the floor, wrestling with Scootaloo's creation. After a few kicks and tugs against the pillows and sheets, he collapsed onto the rug. When he lifted the covers, he realized he was all alone. The CMC were nowhere to be found. 

"Kids?!" He shouted. "Kids?" But nopony responded. 

"Applebloom? Sweetie Belle? Scootaloo? Where are you?"

Cory Started to panic. Applejack, Big Mac and Granny Smith would be home tomorrow. He couldn't imagine what they would feel if his fun took hold of his responsibility. So he began to frantically search the house. He went through the kitchen, across the bedrooms, into the cupboards, and even in his upstairs sleeping quarters. Not a trace of them could be found. Cory was almost about to give in until heard some faint giggles coming from the barn next door. That must've been them, as only a trio of ponies could make that noise. 

He cautiously entered the barn doors. It was dark and quiet in there. Only a fool would think somepony was hiding in here. The place looked deserted without a living soul to be found. That was until he saw some shadows moving on the far back wall. He cautiously stepped forward and moved in their direction. After a few tense moments...

"AAAhhh!! You found us!!!" The CMC shouted as they jumped out of bales of hay and landed on top of Cory, giving him a near heart attack in the process. 

"Yeah, I guess I did." Cory proclaimed, whom was still in a state of shock. 

"You've been a good playmate and foal sitter tonight Cory." Applebloom said. 

"In fact, we'd like to give you a special surprise." Scootaloo added. 

"A surprise?" Cory asked. "I think you surprised me enough already for one night."

"Don't worry sugarcube." Said Applebloom. "This is somethin yer gonna love."

So they quickly guided Cory to what was revealed to be a quaint treehouse nestled in the middle of the apple forest. It was rather impressive for its size, complete with a rickety staircase that let to the entrance door. The CMC grabbed him by his hand and escorted him in that direction. 

"Since you've been such a great helper at sweet apple acres..." Said Applebloom.

"And that you've helped us make some amazing artwork on the side..." Added Sweetie Belle. 

"And that you just might be the most awesome foal sitter we've ever had.." Scootaloo added as all three of them opened the door. 

"We decided to go a little further!!" They all said together. They displayed in front of him what looked like a magenta colored sash and beret, perched on top of a wooden chair. 

"Wh..What is this?" Asked Cory. 

"This is your new status Cory old pal!" Applebloom claimed. "That is of course if yer up for it."

"We'd like to make you an honorary Cutie Mark Scout Master." Scootaloo explained. 

"I don't know what that means." Cory said in confusion. "What is a Cutie Mark Scout Master?" 

"It's just a fun little status we only recently made up." Sweetie Belle explained. "It reminds us that whenever we have our secret meetings, you are more than welcome to join in and lead in whatever activities we have in mind." 

"That sounds promising." Cory commented. "Alright, I can have a go with that." 

The CMC squealed and took their places at the far end of the room. Sweetie stood front and center and took out a large parchment for what was presumably a speech. 

"For his tireless efforts in making Ponyville a happier place, and making our sleepover more awesome than ever, we, the cutie mark crusaders elect Cory Agees to be our friend, bosom buddy, chum of chums, homeboy, amigo, pal, confidant...." 

Applebloom gave her the cue to speed it up. 

"Oh yeah." Sweetie Belle giggled. "And fellow "CUTIE MARK SCOUTMASTER!!"

They all cheered and fastened the sash and beret on his hand. At first, he felt a little ridiculous, but after a few more adjustments, it made him feel proud and high above everypony else. So, soon after, they continued their little game of knights and creatures, played with a few jokes and ran around the house, until they all decided it would be time to tucker out and head to sleep. 

"Thanks for hanging out with us tonight." Sweetie Belle stated as Cory hopped into his bed. 

"Well, for what it's worth." Cory replied tiredly, "It was my pleasure." 

"Can't wait to have adventures with you in the near future." Scootaloo added as all three of them trotted back downstairs. 

"Good night bru...I mean Cory." said Applebloom. 

Cory made a little, warming smile and said "Goodnight" as well.
> Heartswarming Eve
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Thanks so much for coming with me to Hearthswarming Eve Cory." Said Twilight. "My Family is very eager to meet you."

"Well, the pleasure is all my." A shy Cory replied as he looked out the train window. "This really is the first time in a year I've actually spent a holiday with someone." 

"Do you have a holiday like this back in your world?" Twilight asked. 

"Almost identical." Cory replied. "It's called Christmas, or Hannukah to others." 

"Well I bet it is just as fun and amazing as here in Equestria."

For Cory, the holidays were those rare times where he and his five other friends would gather together to escape from the problems of the world. As he continued to gaze at the snowy railway path, he reminisced how those golden those moments were. It was a time when he and his five friends back home would all meet at their club shack, giving each other a present to show their gratitude. Cory's was always the most humble, giving his current living conditions. Usually, they were tiny sculptures, or wooden boxes he crafted from the junkyard nearby.  But they were enough as his friends appreciated them nonetheless. 

The train hissed to stop as it arrived at the Canterlot station. When Twilight and Cory stepped off, they stared in awe at the vast and decadent decorations of the town. Shops and buildings tainted with snow and silver tinsel complemented the sides of the winter street. Small colts and fillies were seen building snowponies and forts with the gleefullest of delight. An occasional decorated pine tree was nestled in certain corners of the town. Above them were bells and ribbons that glided like waves over the outside windowsills. 

Everypony was enjoying the holiday spirit whilst shopping for their last minute gifts. It was at that moment Cory saw what appeared to be a sad colt walking down the street with a hockey puck tied to his back. 

"What's wrong buddy?" Asked a tall stallion who was presumably the colt's buddy.

"Oh, we just lost the hockey game today dad. I really worked so hard to win and now I feel like it was all for nothing." 

"Oh, It's alright son. What matters is you gave it the best you could. That's all I expected from you. Now, let's go home and have a nice Heartswarming dinner. Mom's cooking your favorite. 

"Oh boy, Spaghetti and Hayballs?" The foal asked excitedly, to which the dad nodded back.

As he responded with a yay and followed in his parents direction, a few tears ran down Cory's cheeks. He slumped onto the ground, wishing his parents were like that to him. 

"What's wrong Cory?" Twilight asked, to which Cory pointed at the father and son from before. 

Twilight's look grew from worried to sympathetic, understanding what he was yearning for. 

"Don't worry Cory," She continued. "When we get to my old house, I'll show you what a true family really is about." 

Cory made a weak smile and the two continued their walk. No sooner than expected, they arrived at their destination. Like most houses around the block, it was decorated with the typical Hearthswarming garb and attire. The steps were still tuffed with a few centimeters of snow, most of it neatly scooted to each sides. On the door was a wreath with a note in the center that read "WELCOME TWILIGHT AND CORY." 

Twilight tapped her hoof on the door. Within a few moments, it was opened by a light violet mare and a navy blue stallion. 

"MOM! DAD!" Twilight shouted as she gave both of them a big hug.

"Happy Heartswarming Sweetie." The mare replied affectionately. 

"It's so happy to have you here." The Stallion added. 

It was then they turned to see Cory standing shyly at the corner of the steps. 

"And this must be your student, Cory." Twilight's mom replied. 

"It's a pleasure to meet you son." Twilight's dad added as he extended his hoof. "I am Night Light." 

Cory responded with a shy shaking of the foreleg. 

"And I am Twilight Velvet." The mother added. "Our daughter has told us many great things about you."

"Well let's not just dilly dally and count snow."  Night Light insisted. "Let me show you in." 

The house of the Twilight family was a standard style for a Canterlot dwelling. The hallway was of pretty up to date material, a mixture of magenta and blue with a small coffee table topped with a bouquet of lilacs. The furniture consisted of a medium sized sofa and chair for relaxation and reading. Speaking of which, as expected for this kind of family, there was a large wall of books that adorned the sitting room from a far.The only things out of place of course the garments and wreaths that covered the rails and beams for the time of year. It was then Cory noticed a familiar painting hanging on one of the walls. It was a canvas he had commissioned to an unknown client of the city of Canterlot composed of pieces of painted wood and scrap metal. He was now relieved to know who it was for.

"Hey Sweetums." Night Light said affectionately. "I believe there is a certain brother and his wife who are waiting for you in the living room." 

Twilight shouted with glee as she pranced towards that direction. On a cushy sofa was a big, white, brawny stallion with a blue mane and a knights shield for a cutie mark. 

"TWILY!!" It shouted upon noticing her presence. The two of them leaped in the air and gave each other the warmest hug they could give. 

"Oh, I missed you Shining Armor!!" Twilight replied with tears of joy. 

"And look who also is here!!" Shining Armor added, to which he pointed his hoof to a pink Alicorn with a purple mane and crystal heart shaped cutie mark. Like Princess Luna from his dream, she adorned a crown and slippers for horseshoes. On her neck was a familiar looking pendant Cory could've sworn he'd seen before.

"CADENCE!!" Twilight shouted as she ran towards the other alicorn. 

"TWILIGHT!!" Cadence shouted back. "It's so good to see you!!"

It was then the two giggled and performed what looked and sounded like a little nursery rhyme together. 

Sunshine, Sunshine
Ladybugs Awake
Clap Your Hooves and
Do A Little Shake

"I wish I had a family like this." Cory said to himself.

"Oh where are my manners?" Twilight said upon noticing him. "Cory I'd like you to introduce you to my BBBFF, Shining Armor." 

"BBBFF?" Cory asked. 

"That stands for Big Brother Best Friend Forever." Twilight replied. 

"Hey there champ." Shining Armor said as he approached Cory. "So you're one of those humans Twilight met in that other world huh? I gotta say, not bad at all."

"And this," Twilight continued, "Is my sister in law, Princess Cadence."

"Hello Cory." Said Cadence. 

A nervous Cory quickly went on his knees and bowed onto the floor. 

"Cory, what did we talk about?" Twilight reminded him. "You don't have to be so formal." 

"Oh, right." Cory remembered, after which he got back on his feet, made a slight bow and shook her hoof. 

"Twilight tells me you're an exceptional artist." Said Cadence. "In fact, I believe this pendant I'm wearing was made by you."

"Oh yeah," Said Cory. "I think I must've made that last month. How did you get it?"   

"I snuck it from your desk while you were sleeping." Twilight whispered. "Mailed it to the Crystal Empire." 

"Well then," Twilight Velvet said. "Let not just stand here and count dust. I've prepared a delightful feast for Heartswarming Eve." 

"Sounds good to me." Night Light said. "Let's eat." 

Everyone gathered around the dining room table nearby. The tabletop was decorated with a wide assortment of foods and drinks. Everything ranging from Hay Nuggets, to Oat Burgers, To Tofu Squares glazed in the most decadent sauces were neatly spread across the table. The sides came with horseshoe fries, chocolate coated strawberries, sugar tainted pineapples, and cupcakes as an authentic centerpiece. Other pieces of the menu Cory couldn't name, yet they looked delicious nonetheless. So Cory and Twilight's family picked what they could from the table and began to eat, either by putting their mouths on their plates, or through magic. Cory wondered how he was supposed to eat, as he belonged to a different species. So he picked up a napkin and started to delicately eat what he could. 

"Son, could you bring our guest some silverware?" Night Light asked upon noticing to, to which Shining Armor nodded and magically took out a fork, knife and spoon for Cory. 

"No need to worry Cory." Cadence said. "We have utensils in this world as well."

So Cory began to dig in with his fork and knife  not minding who was watching. 

“So tell us about yoirself.” Said Cadence. “Twilight says you’ve made big progress on your basic skills.”

“Mmm hmm.” Cory nodded with a mouthful of food. 

“He has certainly been a star pupil.” Twilight giggled. 

“Rainbow dash has been taking time out of her day as my personal coach. “ Cory said as he put another hay burger in his mouth (which was actually tofu and soybean mixed together to form a patty). “I was able to learn a few self defense skills.” 

“Well I happen to be a little expert in that art myself.” Shining Armor bragged. “Maybe later on I can teach some of the ways of the royal guard.” 

“I think that might be a little too advanced for him at this point.” Said Twilight.

“Well either way I think your talents are a big gift to this world or any other.” Twilight Velvet complimented. “Your parents must be very proud of you.”

It was at that moment Cory dropped his utensils and scooched his chair back. Covered his face with his hands and made a face that was both angry and sad at the same time. All the memories of abuse started to go back into his brain. It was agonizing.

“I’m sorry, was it something I said?” Asked Twilight Velvet, To which Cory shook his head.

“It’s not your fault.” Cory replied. “You just didn’t know. You... just...didn’t...know.” 

It was there and he solemnly  stomped Out of the room, grabbed his suitcase from nearby, went up the stairs and slammed the door behind him. 

“Twilight?” Twilight’s father asked. “Is there something that you’ve been hiding from us?”

After a moment, Twilight’s eyes became sad and regretful. After a deep breath... 
“I hesitated to tell you about this beforehoof.”  She said. “I just didn’t want to spoil heartswarming eve. It’s just that Corey hasn’t had what you say a happy life.”

After a little egging on from her family she proceeded to tell them about the life Cory had lead. From his abusive parents, to his place in the orphanage, to how he was bullied miss treated and had his friends taken away from him so violently. Then she went on to tell how he ended up nearly ending his life, How strange glow in the distance inspired him to run away from it all, And how he ended up in Equestria. When she finished the family was in shock, anger, and sympathy for Corey’s plight. 

“I can’t believe his own parents would just abandon him like that.” Said Cadence. 

“He must be very brave to endure all of that,” Twilight velvet said. 

“Boy if I had my way, I’d lock up those parents for life for what they did to him.” Said shining armor in a furious rage. 

“I’m sorry I spoiled heartswarming for you guys.” Said Twilight. 

“Don’t be sweetie.” Said Night Light. “Now we know she is in need of help. Shining armor, Cadence, why don’t you go with twilight and help talk to him for a little while your mother and I will set up dessert.”

“That sounds like a wonderful idea.“ Cadence commented. 

And with that, the three of them went upstairs to comfort Cory.
> Comfort
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cory was found in the guest bedroom on packing his suitcase when Twilight Shining Armor and Cadence entered. All three of them lightly tapped the door to catch his attention.

“Cory?”  Asked a worried Cadence. “Are you ok?” 

Cory just  looked at them Blankly and the next moment continued unpacking. 

“If there something you need to discuss we’d  be happy to talk about it.” Twilight suggested. 

“Everything is fine.” Cory replied.  Nothing is wrong, go back to doing...”

“Cory, it’s all right to be mad at your parents.” Said Shining Armor. “You have the right to be.”

“Mad?” asked Cory. “Why should I be mad? I’m happy. I’ve never been more happy in all my life. You’re the one who should be banned for having me spoil your night. Please go back downstairs, I need to think this out myself.”

“Cory, we know something is on your mind. That would probably know what it is. So please just let it out.” Said Cadence. 

“Please don’t worry about me. You all have great lives.” Cory said. “I mean look at yourselves: Two princesses and a captain of the Royal guard from one Twilight told me. What have I got.  Nothing. I have no family, no friends, no home, only  some tattered clothes  and the skin off my back.”

“Kid,” said Shining Armor. “We understand...

“NO YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND!!!” Cory shouted. “So why even bother coming up here?”

“We’re just trying to help you” Said Twilight. “There’s no need for you to let out your anger on us.”

“Well you know what it doesn’t matter.” Cory continued. “I have a great life right now. I have a home, I have a job, I have friends, and an amazing teacher. What more could I ask for? I just  wish I didn’t waste my time holding onto this stupid drawing I have.“

He grabbed into his pocket and took out a crumpled up piece of paper. Twilight unfolded it with her magic that’s her brother and sister-in-law took a look at it. It was a small drawing of what looked like two humanoid creature was caressing a smaller, younger thank you. Almost like two parents hugging their child.

“I drew that on the day my parents abandoned me.” Said Cory. “It was to thank them for taking me on a trip.  Boy what a fool I was that day. I should’ve just torn it up to pieces long ago.”

The three ponies just looked at the sample but heartwarming drawing as tears started to go down their eyes. 

“I did plenty fine without those deadbeats.” Cory continued.“I learned to walk without them, I learned to speak without them, I learned how to dress, tie my shoes, make friends, make art, I had four great birthday parties and mom never even bothered to send a card. FUCK THAT BITCH!!!!”

“Cory!” Said Twilight. “Watch your language.”

“I don’t need them now and I don’t need them ever.” Said Cory, after which he continued to unpack. 

The three ponies just looked at him with the most concerning of faces. After a few moments, cadence try to walk over to him and place her hoof On his shoulder, to which he nudged away. 

“Cory...” Said Cadence 

“You know what it doesn’t matter.“ Cory said bluntly. “Because now I have the best teacher anyone could ask for right in front of me. And she has helped me in more ways than one. And that goes the same for her friends. Thanks to them I’m going to pass that stupid exam that I wasn’t able to finish.”

“What exam?” Asked Shining Armor.

“When I was in my world, every year, we had this special exam that would determine which school we could choose to go to. If we passed, We would get to go to whatever school we wanted to.  But if we failed we had to stay. I wanted so badly to get out of that horrible Academy, I didn’t care which school It was as long as it wasn’t that one. So me and my friends studied our butts off to pass that exam, hoping  there would be more to our lives then Stiffson academy.” 

“On the day of the tests, we buckled down and answered every question as fast as we could. But there was this one question that just stumped us. Tried as we might, we just couldn't figure it out. And just when we thought we knew the answer, the test was over. We were once again doomed to stay put in Stiffson. And with my friends now gone, where was I to go to get confidence? But not this time."

"Now I have a new lease on life. I have a great home, a great teacher, and though I might never see my old friends again, I got great new ones, and they're gonna make sure I pass that test!! I'm gonna go to a new and better school get a job, save up my money, go to college and get an amazing degree!! What's more, I might even find a beautiful wife, have some healthy kids and start a family of my own!! And I'll be a better parent than mine ever were!! Because there aint a damn thing those two deadbeats can tell me to let me know that I'm worth something!!!!!!" 

With that final word, tears started to fall down Cory's angry eyes. He sat on the bed, bowed his head in shame, and started to quietly weep with his hands covering his face. A minute or two later, a hoof gently lifted his head up to reveal Cadence, who was giving him now a mother look of affection. 

"Why did they hate me Cadence?" He asked pitifully. "Why did they?" 

In an instant, he wrapped his arms around Cadence as Shining armor and Twilight soon joined in. 

"Shhhh. It's Ok Cory." Said Cadence. "Just let it out. Let it all out." 

And for the next few minutes, he did. Soon after, the four of them walked back downstairs to gobble down on dessert. 

“ Sorry about losing my cool back there.” Cory said solemnly.

“There is no need to be.” Cadence replied. “You had the full right to let out your emotions.” 

“Yeah.” Shining Armor added as he gave him a little noogie. “For a kid, you are one tough champ.”

“I couldn’t agree more.” Twilight added affectionately. “Let’s go downstairs. Are your mom and dad are very nice to Paris delicious hearts warming treat.”

And with that, the four of them trotted down stairs. 

As the night went on, and Luna  raised the Moon, Everyone was getting ready for bed.  Twilight was found in her old childhood room, unpacking her suitcase. It was at that moment Cory tapped on her door. 

“No need to be shy Cory.” Said Twilight. “Come right in.”

“I just wanted to explain a little bit further about you being a great teacher and all.” Said Cory.

"What do you mean?" Asked Twilight. 

"Twilight, You have been so much more than a teacher to me. In fact, you and your whole friends and family have been more than that. In fact, you practically all saved my life. I don't know where I'd be if I hadn't stumbled into your world. I probably would have ended up in some juvenile hall with a noose tied to my neck." 

"Wow, thats..." Twilight tried to think of the right words to say. "That is one of the deepest comments anyone ever told me." 

Twilight offered Cory a place on the bed as the two of them sat down on the edge. 

"You know," Twilight continued. "Sometimes when I felt sad or insecure, mom would let me rub her tail. Would you like to Cory?" 

"I wish I had a nickel for every time I saw little kids doing that with their toys." Said Cory, to which Twilight made a look of confusion. "Never Mind. Sure I'd love to." 

Cory then proceeded to gently squeeze on Twilight's tail and stroke it up and down. It felt soft and silky to the touch. 

"Hey Cory." Said Twilight. "Did you really mean that, what you just said?" 

"Of course I did." Cory replied. "I have such a deep regard for you guys. In fact, I'd like to go deeper than that. I really, really like you guys. Aside from my old friends, you are the closest I ever had to a family. I know you might think I'm blowing this out of proportion...but...I love you. I love you the same way a child would love his parents. I really, really, love you. I'm not afraid to say that." 

The two of them looked each other in the same way a mother would look at her son. And then, after a few moments...

"Well..In that case..." Twilight said softly, to which she wrapped her hooves around his back. "I love you too Cory." 

After a big hug and a kiss on Cory's forehead, the two headed to their separate bedrooms and hunkered down to a good night's sleep.
> Birthday Party
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was the beginning of spring. Winter wrap up had already commenced and everypony was welcoming the new season with blooms and sunshine. On the Apple Family farm, Cory was found in the barn studying a few notes on the history of the Wonderbolts while Applejack and her siblings were doing a little spring cleaning. 

"How ya doin with those spark notes Twilight gave ya Cory?" Asked Applejack. 

"Fine." Cory replied. "Though I'm still a little confused between Admiral Fairweather and Commander Easy Glider and which was was more important than the other." 

"I'm sure there's a note in there that'll give ya some useful hints." Said Applebloom. 

"EEYUP." Big Mac commented. 

It was at that moment a pink haze have sprinting through the door. 

"GOOD MOOOOOOOOORRRRNING AJ!" Said Pinkie Pie with a singing voice. 

"Oh Hey Pinkie." Said AJ. 

"Just was stopping by to see if those cinnamon apple cider jugs are ready for the market." Said Pinkie Pie. "Mr. and Mrs. Cake are getting kinda antsy on their spring bake sale." 

"Right over here." Said AJ. "If you want, you can try a few samples out." 

Applejack escorted Pinkie to a section of the room where large cartons of jugs were on display. There were a few dozen with open caps, so Pinkie began to chug down a few with just her mouth. Cory was still amazed how she could gulp down a carton in just one second. But he just shrugged it off and continued with his studies. Today he seemed to be a little more reserved than usual, which caught Applejack's attention. 

"What's the matter Cory?" She asked. "Cat got your tongue." 

"Oh, it's nothing." Cory replied. "It's just my birthday and..." 

Pinkie Pie, over hearing this, spewed out a fountain of cider onto the barn wall, and sped over to Cory, leaving a fiery trail behind her. 

"Its...Your...BIRTHDAY!!???" She asked with her face pressed to Cory's 

"Uh, yeah." Cory replied. "It's no big deal..." 

"No big Deal?!!" Pinkie replied. "This changes everything!!!"

A few seconds later, Pinkie spewed out of the barn, leaving a large hole in the wall. Seconds later she appeared with a large cannon in her hooves and smacked it on the ground. 

"We need to celebrate your birthday!!" Said Pinkie Pie. "I need to get everything ready!! The balloons, the streamers. the cards, the invitations, the cupcakes. gasp I gotta get the cupcakes ready!!!" 

And with that she galloped right outside again like a speeding bullet. 

"Woo-Wee!!" Applejack cheered. "I didn't know it was your birthday! How hold are you?" 

"Ummm, 16?" Cory replied shyly.

"Well, Happy 16th birthday sugarcube." Applebloom said. "You should be getting ready fro your big birthday party." 

"But, I still have this wonderbolt report to finish." Said Cory. 

"Don't worry." Applejack commented. "You still got all week to memorize them all. I think it wouldn't hurt for ya to skip on this day of all days. Now go upstairs and get ready for the most spectacular party you've ever had!!" 

Cory nodded back and ran back to his room in the attic. It had been so long since he had a proper birthday party. The last one was with his friends back home. They were usually simple, taking place in their shack with a few decorated streamers and blankets to lighten up the interior. Each would give him a simple gift (Shirt, ball, drawing paper), but nevertheless, he was always grateful. The only other birthday parties he witness were those of his old friends, and even they were quite simple. Cory had no way of what to expect from this party, and he was very nervous. 

As he finished putting on his Sunday best, rushed downstairs, and headed out the door, he noticed something peculiar around Ponyville. Everyone was waving at him and giving him a 'happy birthday' greeting. Cory was amazed at how Pinkie was able to spread the news of this day so fast. That was when he saw it, in the middle of the town square. It was the largest party event he had ever witnessed. Everypony was decorated the buildings and trees with balloons, streamers, and signs that read "Happy 16th, Cory!!" and "WISH YOU A HAPPY BIRTHDAY" in giant letters. a vast assortment of snacks and desserts were aligned like a feast in a royal castle. From pastries and pudding, to cupcakes and icecream, to popsicles and pies of every flavor. In the center, on top of the city hall steps was a DJ pony testing out some beats and rhythms on her machine. It was there, Cory found Pinkie inflating a huge float of himself whilst at the same time, checking out the spotlights for the evening's festivities. 

"CORY!!" she shouted. "There you are!!" 

She then galloped towards him and gave him a huge hug that almost crushed his spine. When, she released, him, her look turned serious. 

"Cory Agees." She proclaimed. "You have my solemn, undivided, inexcusable, or your money back guarantee pinkie promise.." To which she smacked an unseen cupcake into her eye. "That you will have the most super, duper, extravagant, amazing, stupendous, birthday party ever!!!! Do I make myself clear?"

To which Cory nodded back in bewilderment. Apparently Pinkie took her parties seriously. 

"Okie dokie lokie then." She replied as her face turned back to cheerful and carefree. 

As the day grew on, the festivities began. There were a few rounds of drinks and toasts to the birthday boy, followed by an appetizer of baby carrots, chips and dip. Singing and dancing, and an occasional drunk yet merry pony were involved. At first, it all seemed strange to Cory. He had never witnessed a festivity for one person of this magnitude before, even more so, that certain person was he alone. But, as the morning turned to afternoon, Cory got into the swing of things. He started to enjoy these few moments of attention that was all centered around him. For back home, hardly anyone paid attention to him at all. 

Now, the real festivities were getting started. The DJ Pony (Whose name Pinkie introduced as Vinyl Scratch), kicked a beat on her music set and threw a jam everypony could dance to. There were games, music, sideshows, presents, lights, colors, sounds, and laughter of all kind, surrounding Cory in a galaxy of celebration and exuberance. At the center of it all was a giant, 5 tier cake decorated with the finest icing anypony could think of. On top were 16 candles with a huge statue in the shape of the same number in the middle. Knowing the difficulty, Rainbow Dash flew him up to the top and had him blow out the candles, to which everypony cheered. 

"Say where's Twilight?" Cory later asked as he was handed a huge slice of cake and started to open presents. 

"Oh, she's off doing some princess duties." Applejack explained. "But don't worry, she hasn't forgotten about you. In fact..." 

Applejack whistled as two burly looking earth ponies brought in a huge present box on a wagon. With their assistance, Cory climbed a ladder and unwrapped the bow on top. The Box opened to reveal a large easel and paint supplies for him to create even greater masterpieces. Cory knew in his heart that Twilight would honor his passion in the best way possible. As a few tears streamed down his eyes, he could only what she was up to now. But he just having too much fun to even worry. So he joined the crowd below and was hoisted up and down into the air, like a boat on a sea of ponies. 

While the celebrations were continuing, Twilight could be found in the everfree forest, searching for the spot where Cory first came to this world. On her back was a large satchel filled with bits, just enough for her to travel to wherever she needed to go. After an hour or two of scourging and estimation, she reached the boulder portal. With the greatest of ease, she grabbed a nearby stick and made a boomerang out of it, to which she magically tossed it towards the portal. As expected, it went through. Then, a few seconds later, it flew back out. Twilight took a deep breath, and stepped into the portal, ready to find Cory's parents.
> Research/Destination
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight came out on the other side of the portal. She looked at her new hands to indicate that she was now in her human form. With her ribbon coated button down shirt  and her nicely purple blouse, she took a small sigh. 

“All right girl,” she said. “You did this before, you can do it again.”

After adjusting to two legs and practicing walking around, with the assistance of a wedge in the wall, she took a moment to notice the shack that she had found herself in. The walls were coated with a few drawings and quilts made by Cory and his friends. Some were crude, others were masterful, a few were colorful, and a couple were hung from the ceiling like mobile objects from a museum. She looked below to notice a round carpet that nearly filled the floor, coated with the names of Cory's friends. On one wall was a shelf that had a few knick knacks from birthdays and seasons past. The whole place looked like a cavern of memories and forget-me-nots, which caused a small tear to roll down Twilight's cheek. 

"Alright." She said to herself as she wiped her eyes and propped herself up. "You just need to get some information. Go to a nearby library, and figure out where his parents are. Ask them why they abandoned him, and hopefully things will turn out for the better. But first, you need to get to a library. Remember, you are doing this for Cory.

Then Twilight grabbed her satchel and headed out the door, but not before taking a rope out of the satchel's pocket and throwing it into the portal, just in case it might close while she was gone. Once outside, she reached an open road in the middle of an empty field. to her left she saw a rest stop with a word that read "Bus Station." Figuring this was a mode of transportation for these creatures, she walked towards it and sat down. Moments later, a rather large, wheeled vehicle called a bus pulled over, with doors that opened to the side. With a curious ease, she stepped in and looked inside. The operator made a sharp cough and tapped on a box where bits were to be placed. She took out one from her satchel and placed it in the slot. 

"Where to miss?" The driver asked. 

"Ummm," She thought. "The library sir." 

The driver nodded back, closed the doors and drove off in that direction. As the bus breezed into town, it swung past a humanized version of Sugarcube corner. It was then Twilight looked out her window to notice that her five friends from this world were sitting outside, underneath an umbrella, sharing a sweet drink and a few laughs. Twilight wanted so badly to step off the bus and say hello to them. But she knew that there was amore important task at hand. 'Maybe some other time' she thought to herself. 

Before she knew it, the bus went to a complete stop and opened its doors to reveal a building that read "Canterlot County Public Library" up above in huge font. Twilight stepped off the bus, thanked the driver and headed inside. The interior was standard for a library of its size. Stacked with shelves of books and papers of all kind, it was typical and adequate for hub of knowledge and information. As Twilight skimmed down each aisle and hallway, she came across a section that read "Historical Records." She knew that this was the place. With her skills in book keeping and paper sorting, she ran her finger around the section, searching for just the right article: " Standard History of Canterlot" nope, "Past mayors and Electorals from years past" na eh, "Contests" "Bridges" "Buildings" "Businesses" no where to be found. Then, she finally came across a special package of articles at the very end of the shelf: "Condemned Organizations and Institutions."

Twilight grabbed a ladder from nearby and carefully grabbed the package to read. As she skimmed through the old pamphlets and leaflets, she saw at the very end a folder that read "St. Thomas Home for Young Boys." Inside were the photos names of many young children who had no where to call their home, including such a name as "CORY AGEES." Each one had either a bruise on their cheek, an unkempt haircut, or a tooth missing from their mouth Along with these names were pictures of a rundown orphanage, with poor living conditions, unsanitary food, and medical service that was nothing more than inadequate. 

"What kind of people would send a child to such a place?" Twilight asked herself. 

At that moment, small newspaper article fell out of the edge of the folder. It read: 'St. Thomas condemned and shut down; children relocated as owners arrested for negligence.'

"Well, that's a relief." She said. 

It was then she noticed there was one missing child in their records. The child's image was printed on a large pamphlet with some information on the back. She already knew who this child was as she checked for his height, age, hair and eye color. At the bottom, she saw what she was looking for. It read:  PARENTS: BLUEBLOOD and SURI POLOMARE AGEES. With the carefullest of ease, she took out the picture with her mouth and walked over to the librarian.

"excuph meh mamph." Said Twilight with the paper in her mouth, to which the librarian gave a confused look. Twilight, realizing she was in a different world, spit the paper out into her hand. 

"Could you help me in finding out about these two people?" She continued to ask as she pointed her finger on the couple's name. 

"Can't you just use one of our computers?' The librarian asked.  

"The town I come from isn't too familiar with those things." Twilight replied. 

"sigh Alright. Let me see what I can do." 

The librarian typed the names Suri and Blueblood into the computer system, to which it displayed several articles that read: 'Meanest couple in the U.S.' and 'Suri and Blueblood; Least Liked Company' and 'Reports of Work Abuse at Agees Household.'

"Gee," Twilight commented. "I never realized how notorious they were around here." 

"Yeah, they are a pretty nasty couple." Said the librarian. "Given the name of Miami, Florida a bad rap lately." 

"Miami, Florida. How do I get there?" 

"Well you head to the airport for any upcoming flights." 

"You mean like a hot air balloon flight, a zeppelin flight, or a pegasus chariot flight?" 

"Um...Pegasus chariot flight?" 

"Never mind, thanks." 

With that, Twilight grabbed the folder nearby, stuffed it in her satchel and headed outside. She hopped on the next bus and requested to head toward Canterlot County Airport. Upon arrival, Twilight rushed inside and gaped at the scope of this strange place. It looked like one of those Daring Do conventions Rainbow Dash had talked about. 

"Attention." Said a voice on an intercom. "Flight DJPON3 to Miami will be boarding at gate 30." 

Twilight sped down a  hallway and approached a ticked booth. She reached into her satchel, scooped out a handful of bits and dropped them onto the countertop. 

"Will this cover for a Miami flight?" Twilight asked, to which the booth lady nodded back and gave her a ticket.

Twilight then rushed towards the gate, through the security clearance, onto the boarding dock, and into another peculiar vehicle called an airplane. Once inside she noticed how the interior looked like the stomach of  a whale with rows of seats on each side. As she sat down, the plane started to take off. She clung tightly to her seat against the rumbling sounds of the engine outside. She felt like being shaken by a large bear during one of its long naps. 

"First time on a plane?" Asked a familiar voice next to her. 

"Ha, ha." Twilight laughed nervously. "Yes." 

"Don't worry. I've heard they're the safest way to travel." She assured her. 

"Well, if you're not counting trains, carts, and bikes." 

The two of them giggled for awhile and looked at each other with the friendliest of faces. 

"I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight introduced herself as she extended her hand.  

"I'm Coco Pommell." The other girl replied, to which the two of them gave each other a firm handshake. 

It was then Coco took out a pencil and drawing pad and opened it to reveal dozens of sketches for some unknown fashion catalogue.  

"So," Coco said as she started doodling. "Are you heading to Miami for a fun vacation?" 

"Not really." Twilight replied. "I'm actually heading over to see a couple." 

"Who?" 

"Oh, Suri and Blueblood Agees." 

Pommell's pencil snapped at the sound of their names. 

"Oh dear," Said a worried Coco. "I hope you're not looking to be employed by them." 

"Oh, goodness no." Twilight replied. "I'm heading over to ask about their son and whether they want him back." 

"They had a son? But I thought they hated children." 

"Not according this folder I found in the library." 

Twilight reached into her satchel and took out  a photo of young Cory. Coco took a moment to look at the the picture with deepest sympathy. 

"Oh, poor little guy." A sad Coco commented. "I hope he's alright." 

"Don't worry." Said Twilight. "He's been living with me and Applejack for the past several months."

"Well, that's good to know."

"So, how exactly do you know Blueblood and Suri."

"Well," Coco explained. "I had the misfortune of working for them. It was a very harrowing experience. All my life I wanted to open my own clothing store but didn't have the money to buy any retail. Being the desperate girl I was, I took a job opening at one of those fancy, first rate mansions as a maid. Unfortunately, the only opening available at the time was at the Agees mansion. Oh, how I was forced to do such degrading things." 

"Like what." 

"Well, besides doing most of the house and yard work, I was forced to pose for one of their erotic pictures almost 3 times a week. I also had to watch them in one of their sex acts each day while serving them drinks. I even had to partake in several unprotected S&M orgies. Everyday when I go into the shower, I can still see the remaining markings as a reminder of my time there. But I was so determined to get the money for my store, I would do just about anything, even if it meant sacrificing my dignity. Then one day, I heard news about a certain girl at a high school who was able to turn it around and unite the entire students and faculty together. And it wasn't because she forced them to bow down to her, but because she inspired others to stand up with her. I became inspired by that news, so I quit. Finally, with the right kind of connections and willpower, I managed to rent a small space in the city and open my own clothing store in the end. I suppose it was a happy ending for me after all."

Knowing who and what Coco was talking about, Twilights cheeks blushed in pride. So for the next few hours they chatted and conversed about their hobbies and likes until the plane landed on the Miami airstrip. 

"Say, if you're wondering how to get to their mansion, I can hail a taxi and we can go together." Coco offered as the two of them de-boarded the plane. 

"That sounds wonderful." Twilight replied. "I am running low on bits anyway." 

After a few moments of checking for their belongings, the two of them quickly stepped out of the airport called a cab and before they knew it, went off to their destination.
> Finding Out
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coco and Twilight arrived at the gates of a huge mansion in the middle of a rather luxurious neighborhood. The building stood out among the palm trees and shrubbery as it was more decadent and erotic looking than the rest, like something that popped out of an intimate romance novel. 

"Are you sure this is the place?" Twilight asked. 

"I can never forget destinations." Coco replied. 

After paying their bits to the driver, The two of them approached the gates.

"What do you want?" Asked a sharp, cold voice from a hidden camera. 

"Uhh..." Twilight tried to think of the right words. She had only really planned for everything until this moment. 

"She's the new chambermaid you called for." Pommell intervened, to which Twilight shoved her aside. 

"What do you think you're doing?" She asked.

"Trust me." Pommell assured her. "The Agees are always looking for new servants, since no one really wants to work for them. Just play along." 

"Oh, yes that little slut we found at the bar." The voice replied. "Do come in." 

And with that, the gates opened. Both Twilight and Coco stepped inside to observe the enormous scope of the front yard. Not much was to look at. Just a huge, grassy knoll with an elegant fountain for a centerpiece. As they walked up the driveway and towards the giant front doors, Twilight took a deep breath and gave the golden handlebars a firm knock. 

"Say Twilight?" Coco asked, "Would you mind if I had a look some of those documents you have?" 

"Why? Twilight asked. 

"Just cause they might be important later on." 

Twilight shrugged and gave her a few of the library documents from her satchel. It was then the two large doors opened. 

"Good luck." Said Coco with a thumbs up, to which Twilight gave a nervous nod back. 

As she entered the mansion, Twilight took a moment to admire its decor. The theme was a cross between an erotic chic and upper class elegance. Above her was a huge chandelier that twinkled its luminescence around the rouge colored entrance hall, which itself was complemented by a marble floor and staircase that spiraled into infinity. But what most intrigued her (or in this case, disturbed her) were the pictures on the walls. Each had figures in a  sexual position. Some were gagged and bound, others were spread out and chained to a bed, a few were just naked and making a pose, and there was even one that looked like a mass orgy in a linen room. 

"Coco wasn't kidding about those favors." Twilight murmured to herself. 

Suddenly, she heard an argument at the end of a long hallway to her left. 

"What do you mean they couldn't give us cherry champagne?!!" Shouted a shrilling voice. 

"I apologize Mrs. Agees." A timid voice replied. "We're all out." 

"They're not out!! YOU'RE OUT!!! GO FIND YOURSELF ANOTHER JOB!! YOU'RE FIRED!!!!" 

It was then a small tray of glasses was thrown outside a door at the far end, followed by a weeping servant in a small suit and tie. As he wailed down the hallway and out the front door, Twilight looked at him with a look of guilt. She wanted so badly to run over and comfort him, but knew there was a more important task ahead of her now. So she walked down the hallway and towards the room. 

When she approached the door, she realized she was face to face at what looked like a lavish office space with a glass desk to her right facing a set of windows that substituted for a wall. To the left was a large fireplace with a large portrait of the owners of the household. The floor was tied with a huge, fur rug which housed an easy chair, sofa, and coffee table with a large ming vase on top. 

"There you are." Said a voice to her left. "Where have you been?" 

From out of a pair of curtains emerged a beautiful looking woman with a perm to die for and a face that looked like she had been to the plastic surgeon one too many times. Her attire was an elegant magenta dress with a hole that exposed her leg. 

"Maam." Twilight began as she mustered up the courage. "My name is Twilight Sparkle. I'm here to..." 

"Blueblood Darling! our new chambermaid is here!!" Suri called to the back curtains. 

With that, a rather handsome, but emotionless looking man emerged from the curtains. His physique looked like the cover of one of those romance novels, only with a few nips and tucks. The attire he wore was a robe and ascot with silk pajama pants and slippers to compliment his lavish lifestyle. 

"Well we can't be wasting time." Blueblood insisted as he went to a nearby closet. "Come in and we'll put you into your attire." 

"I am not here for a job." Twilight insisted. "I am here to talk about..." 

"What size do you prefer." Blueblood interrupted as he took out two uniforms. "Personally I recommend the extra small, since it exposes more of the body." 

"Will you just listen to me please?" Twilight asked. At this point, she was growing irritated. "I have these documents here that prove..."

"We don't have time to talk about tax returns or IRA'S whatever your name is!!" Suri snapped at her. "Now, Blueblood will direct you to the dressing room and..." 

"I don't want a job!!!" Twilight shouted. "I'm here to talk about your son." 

"Listen bitch." Blueblood said to her. "We don't know what you're talking about. We hate children, and we've never been associated with children in our life." 

"Well that doesn't seem to be the case from these documents." Twilight replied with a bit of anger as she reached into her satchel and waved out a folder. "You had a son by the name of Cory Agees? Do you remember?" 

"Look!" Said Suri. "We told you we have no idea what you're talking about." 

"Yes, now either you fit into this outfit or get the hell out!!" Blueblood insisted. 

"Cory Agees!!" Said Twilight as she began to read the documents. "Abused by parents for the majority of his childhood. Abandoned at airport the age of 10, taken to rundown orphanage, suffered immense amounts of cruelty from staff and peers, at the age of 15, he ran away where he was never seen again. During investigation, prosecutors say that his parents are to blame for..." 

"WILL YOU JUST SHUT UP!!!!" Suri shouted at her with a pair of grinding teeth. "Alright, it's true!! We did have a son!! We abandoned him, and we couldn't be more happy to be rid of him!!"

"Why?" Asked a shocked Twilight. "Why would you want to rid of him? Do you know how long his heart has been hurting?" 

"Do you know how long THIS was hurting?!!" Blueblood snapped back as he pointed towards his crotch. "We were going to have it all Suri and I. We were going to be having an endless paradise of money, fun and sex! We had it all carefully planned out!! It was the dream for any couple!" 

"But our childhood friends just begged us to be surrogate parents for their baby!!" A sarcastic Suri added. "I would've said no on the spot. But my friends puppy eyes just caught me in the lure. So we reluctantly said yes. Barf! That was the worst choice I had ever made in my entire life!"

"But, within Nine months it would be over!!" Blueblood added. "The child would be gone. Our couple would be back to their miserable lives, and our plans would remain untouched. Then just as cruel as fate can be, we turned on the news and saw that the two of them were killed in a car crash!!" 

"I was going to have an abortion, but it was too late!" Suri added. "We had blow our cash for that shit of a boy, move into a crappy apartment, and spend our honeymoon looking at a billboard of a beach outside a factory!! On the day that little shit was born, I just looked at his face, and wanted to slap that chubby, stupid smile off his face. But being surrounded by nurses, I just had to hold him till we got home."

"Don't you see?!!" Said Blueblood. "We didn't hate him because he was stupid, scrawny or puny. That was just a symptom. We hated him because his coming into existence killed our chances of ever having a single moment of happiness ever again!! After that, it was another hungry mouth to feed. I had to sell all my belongings and work in a bunched up cubicle just to pay my rent. All our hopes and plans went down the drain because of him."

"My body was ruined, and my physique was all but demolished!!" Said Suri. "You don't know how many times we tried to bring an end to it all. Every meal I would force feed him till he was, hoping he would choke on the spoon!! Whenever it was time to give him a bath, or bring him to the pool, I would dunk his head in water till the bubbles stopped, hopefully for the last time!! We even left him home alone on many nights, praying to got that he would start a fire and burn with the rubble..." 

"How dare you!!" Asked a Twilight, who was now shaking with anger. "How dare you try to kill your own child!! He is your responsibility. A piece of you that should be filled with love and desire!! And you have the nerve to obliterate it all? Let me ask you this. If you hated him that much, then why hold onto him for so long? Why?.......ANSWER!!" 

"Because we wanted his college money alright?!!" Blueblood snapped back. "We knew that when he reached a certain age, about 10 or so, his money would be enough for us to start our dream all over again!!" 

"So, on his 10th birthday," Suri added. "... we all pretended to go on a stinkin family vacation!! We dragged him to the airport store, and then, when the time was right, we turned our backs on him and headed for the next plane to Miami!! We both shouted, we're ditching our kids and never going back, to everyone's glee!!" 

"We flew first class, rushed to a taxi, went to the nearest first hotel and made love for the first time in over 10 years..." Blueblood reminisced. "Now we have an amazing future, a life without children, filled with the sex and pleasure you could ask for. Do you understand now?!!" 

"Yes I do." Twilight said coldly. "I understand that you are what's wrong with your species. You throw away a perfectly good human being, with so much promise, and so much talent, and you act as if you're the victims in this. Well, you're not! You are just as unlikeable, and uncaring as could ever be. Do you know what it's like to not be wanted? That no one seems to care if you're dead or alive? Everywhere you go, you have the feeling that your life is hopelessly meaningless? Do you even know that feeling?" 

"I'd expect that kind of behavior from someone as needle minded as you!" Suri scoffed. "Why, your parents would've had a ball if didn't make the same mistake of..." 

"ENOUGH!!!!!!!" Shouted Twilight. It was at that moment her eyes glowed a blinding light and grew a pair of wings. Her body lifted off the ground, with the very force causing the room to shake like an earthquake. 

"YOU HAD YOUR TIME TO SPEAK!!" Twilight commanded in a booming voice. "NOW IT'S MY TURN!!!" 

"Who are you?" Asked a perplexed Blueblood. 

"I AM CORY'S SOON TO BE MOTHER!!" She responded. "AND IF YOU THREATEN MY SON, YOU THREATEN ME!!" 

The very vibration of her tone caused the ming vase on the coffee table to shatter to pieces. 

"You just love to whip at people who can't fight back." She continued to deliberate. "You have no understand of what it means to have a true soul. All this time I was listening to you, I learned that there are some people in this world that are just too stubborn to learn from their own mistakes.

I thought I was able to take it, because I know of someone who used to tear everyone apart and step on other people's necks! However, she changed and has the best friends to help her along the way. But you, not only did you step on your former son's neck, you bruised it for life!!! You made him wonder every day why he was still alive, up to the point where he just wanted to end it all!! 

Thankfully, he ran into me and my friends and now has a better future than ever, and lives somewhere where you can't hurt him ever again. You may not be able to see anything in that boy. But I see so much more than just a boy! I see a caring, talented, creative  and SMART human being who will amount to so much more than you ever will!! He has been taught things including courage, perseverance, and above all, the will to live!!

And as for your clients, should get more treatment than this, if you were giving them any treatment for them at all. That includes the servant you just trashed at..." 

"How dare you question our.." Suri Tried to intervene. 

"NO! I'M TALKING!!!" Twilight barked back, to which she caused the windows to vibrate and nearly shatter. 

"I have one of your former clients waiting right out the front door!! We got to know each other on the flight here to Miami, And I heard her harrowing story all the way through. I'm pretty sure you said things to her like 'You'll never amount to anything' and 'Why even try in the first place.' But despite everything, she persevered, and finally realized that this job here was a waste of her time and energy. Now she owns her own store AND clothing line!! I'm not going to brag or anything! I'm just telling you like it is!!

"And just like her, your son is going to achieve great things. His friends back where I live are so proud of him, as you should've been for his efforts!! He is one of the bravest students I have ever met! Even more than some of the classmates I had in my old school!" 

You need to love your own son, love him as your own, because one day, he's not going to be here, and you will wonder how and why you weren't there to cheer him on. All the best things a child has comes from their parents. They can serve as window into their world. What you showed him was a world of sorrow and hopelessness. A move like that scars a child for life. I can only imagine why he came to my hometown all tattered and broken up on the outside and the inside. 

My parents didn't ask for me or my big brother, but they loved us all the same. They supported us every step of the way, scrambled whatever money they could and guided us when we needed them the most. Your son needed you, and you were never there! You were just selfishly scheming about your own primal instincts and wants, not realizing that there was another human being living in your apartment!!

If you gave him the chance to shine, if you gave him the wings to fly, maybe he would have lifted your spirits up, and put you all in what could've been the right direction. Because not only should parents teach kids. Kids should teach parents as well. Maybe he was trying to teach you something. But you didn't notice a damn thing!! Well I do notice. I notice that some of the most beautiful things can come from the most unlikely of places. Cory is a fine example of them. He is a sweet, adorable and intelligent man who only wants to be loved, and that's what I'm going to give to him! That's what all of my friends are going to give him!! Love!!

It's people like you that make this world dark and cruel!! Cory's wasn't the problem! In fact, I just realized you were his problem!! You got in the way with what really mattered to him!! Friends, Family, Trust, Love, Creativity, Imagination, Support and above all Courage. And from what I've seen in him, he is the most courageous boy I've eve met. 

You are thoughtless, cruel, unsympathetic, and no one deserves you're kind of attitude. Everyone is sick of it, including your employees!! Now, if I were you, I would contact your son, go onto your knees and apologize for what you did to him, What you did to his confidence and what you did to his will to carry on. Because frankly, I wouldn't give two bits for you right now."

With a deep breath, Twilight de-levitated towards the ground, as her wings disappeared and her eyes turned to normal, yet her face was still riled with anger. 

"That was a rather amusing speech Twi-Twi." Said an uninterested Blueblood. "But we need to get back to work. Please leave." 

The couple strutted to the desk at their window and started to write some paperwork, as if nothing happened. It was then Twilight marched up to them and slammed her hand on the paper, covering them from her view. 

"Blueblood, Suri." She stated with the sternest face she could. "If you walk out of Cory's life right now, don't you ever come back for him." 

"Fair enough." The two said together. 

With a look of disgust, Twilight turned and around and slammed the door behind them. It was at that moment their phone rang with a voice that read 'Urgent message' 

"What is it Janice?" asked an exasperated Suri. 

"Maam," Janice replied. "There is a lady and gentleman who wish to see you outside." 

"Probably a few investors for our new sex club."

"These are gentlemen from the law maam, it is out of my hands." 

"What are you talking about?" Asked a worried Blueblood. 

"Well, apparently one of your former clients is suing your for unjust pay and unfair treatment, which I have to agree on this end. She has reported multiple accounts of work abuse and unsanitary working conditions."

"That's preposterous!" Shouted Suri. "You know we followed the strict guidelines of the labor manual." 

"Not to these documents it wasn't." Said  On top of their recent allegations have come into light that you emotionally and physically abused your own son and deliberately abandoned him at an airport several years ago, taking his college money with you." 

"Tell them that that's utter nonsense." Said blueblood. "We'll hire the best lawyers in town and that will be the end of it." 

"I'm afraid that is beyond your lawyers power Mr. and Mrs. Agees." Janice replied. "Under the state laws, you will need to pay a hefty fine of over $3,000,000 in damages or face 10 years jail time." 

"You don't expect us to have that kind of money up and center!" Suri shouted on the phone. 

"By the way, because of my involvement in your affairs, I will say that I need to be looking for another job myself. It was nice working with you!!" 

"NO, NO!! Don't you dare leave.." But before Blueblood could finish, the receptionist hung up on them. 

"What are we going to do!!" Blueblood panicked as he pulled out his hair. "I wont survive in prison. I don't even know what they do in there." 

"I am not going to..." But before Suri could finish her sentence, she felt a slight pain in her face. With that, she opened a cabinet drawer in the desk and muscled out a small hand mirror, to which she saw the left side of her face drooping like a bag of mold.

"Oh no." She shuttered. "My facelift is wearing off. I can't go outside looking like a hag. What do we do!!?" 

Blueblood thought for a moment. "Twilight." 

They both panically nodded as they rushed out the door, down the hallway and towards the entrance hall. It was there they saw Twilight about to open the door. 

"Help us please!!" Shouted Blueblood as the couple went down on their knees and grabbed her skirt. "Tell them it was all a joke. We don't have a son. We have all the money in our account squared away for some...charity of some sort. Just tell them that and we'll give you anything you want." 

Twilight calmly took their hands off of her and brushed off any residue. 

"Take back what you said about your son." Twilight commanded calmly. 

"NEVER!" Suri replied in a demonic whisper. 

"Then you are on your own. Goodbye." 

And with that, she went outside and shut the door behind her, giving the police the ok to raid the house. As she walked back down the drive way and through the gates, she saw Coco talking to a few former employees about business ethics and adequate working environments. 

"Hello Twilight." Said Coco. "How did it go." 

"As you can see." Twilight replied with a sigh. "Not well." 

"Well at least we can know that the law can handle this from here." 

"I guess so." 

The two of them looked on as Suri and Blueblood were dragged out of the house by police, screaming hysterically and moving erratically, so much to a point that they had to cuff them by both their wrists and ankles. As they were pushed into the police car, Twilight gave a very sad look and turned away with her head bowed down. Though she was a little glad Cory didn't see this unfold. She and Coco hailed for the next cab and hopped inside. 

"What's wrong Twilight?" Asked Coco as they drove off. 

"I just..." Twilight tried to think. "I just don't know what to tell Cory." 

As they arrived at the airport and hopped on the next plane to Canterlot, the two of them chatted for awhile and talked about a few things to get their mind of the drama that had just unfolded. When the plane landed, they both wished each other the best of luck and parted their separate ways. Twilight hopped on a bus, paid her last bits and gave the driver directions to the shack. When it arrived, Twilight gave her thanks, hopped off, re-entered the shack and stepped back into the portal. 

When she came out the other side, she looked at herself to make sure she was back in her pony form. As she looked up at the sky, she noticed it was still daytime. She thought for a moment and got an idea.

"I need to send a letter to Cadence and Shining Armor." She said to herself. "Tell them that it's a family emergency." 

And with that, she rushed back to her castle, after which she would tell the Apple Family the news.
> The Decision
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was the end of a long day. Cory had just come back to Sweet Apple Acres, from the best party he had ever experienced. Some streamers and confetti were still dangling in her hair, while a bazooka was hanging in her mouth. He looked up at the sky and saw that Princess Luna was already calling in the night. Now it was time for a good nights rest. After all, he had a Wonderbolts history exam to study tomorrow. 

With a yawn and stretch of his arms, he approached the Apple Family barn and opened the door. There, he saw Twilight, Cadence, Shining Armor, and the Apple Family, seated at a long table, with serious, yet sympathetic looks on their faces. 

"There he is." Said Cadence solemnly. "Come in and have a seat Cory." 

"What's this about?" Cory asked as he took a seat. 

"Cory," Twilight said with a sigh. "I went into your world and met your parents." 

A look of shock filled his face. He couldn't believe Twilight would find time in such a short while to even contact them. 

"You really didn't have to do that." Said Cory solemnly. 

"Well, I did, and..." Twilight tried to think of the words. "It...didn't go as I hoped it would." 

"How did you manage to..."

"The time span kind of fluctuates between your world and ours. But that's not the point. I was able to talk with them and...well." A tear or two fell down Twilight's cheeks. She could not get out of her had what she had witnessed back in the mansion. 

"I'll handle this Twi." Applejack said with guilt as he approached Cory and rubbed her hoof around his back. "They...they still don't want you. They aint fit to be your parents." 

Cory bowed his head in remorse as Applejack continued to comfort him, hugging him in the process.

"It's alright." He said quietly. "I'd expect that from them." 

Then he looked back up and grabbed a tissue from the table, wiping his cheeks with it's texture. Now he was truly alone in the world, with no one to call his own. He always felt alone, but never before like this. 

"So," he said with a sniff. "Why are you all here?" 

"Um," Applejack began. "We know you don't have a family and uh.."

"The Apple Family is only one of the biggest in Equestria..." Granny Smith added. 

"With kin spreadin from Manehattan all the way to Las Pegasus." Applejack added. 

"But we always got room for one more in our apple clan." Applebloom added. 

"Eeyup." Big Mac added. 

"Plus, I always wanted to have a nephew to call my own." Princess Cadence added. "Plus it might help us if we ever decide to have a baby." 

"Also, I'd love to be an uncle." Shining Armor added. "You know, so I can teach someone the ways of the royal guard." 

Cory was a little perplexed at what they were saying. 

"So to come directly to the point." Twilight concluded. "We were wondering if Applejack's family and mine could jointly adopt you." 

It was then Cory's face changed from bewilderment, to near excitement. He had always wanted to hear these words spoken to him. It was almost as if he was in a dream and never wanted to be waken up.

"A...Adopt me?" He asked in a kind of crying whisper. "You mean, be my family?" 

"Yes," Twilight said affectionately. "Applejack could be your sister, and, well, I could be your mom." 

"Plus I always wanted another big brother on my side." Applebloom stated as she hopped on his lap. "Big Mac always wanted one too." 

"Heh, Heh. Eeyup." Big mac replied sheepishly.

"AAAAAAAND!!" Said Pinkie Pie as she appeared out of nowhere. "Since I'm technically Applejack's fourth cousin twice removed by a fifth cousin, I'll sort of be your family too!!" 

Cory thought for a moment. He had waited for this moment since the day his old parents abandoned him. He just couldn't think of the right words to say. His mind tossed and tumbled in pure joy and excitement, trying to sort out the right sentence to come out of his mouth. 

"Well, you are the closest I ever had to a family." He said shaking on the verge of tears. "So why stop there?" 

"So is it a yes?!" Applebloom asked excitedly as she wagged her tail.

Cory nodded back as tears rolled down his chin, and the whole room went into an uproarious applause. Soon, he found himself in the middle of a great group hug. The feeling was like a warm blanket and pillows caressing him with love and compassion. It was then Applejack opened the back door and rushed outside. 

"He said yes everypony!!!!" She shouted. 

Cory looked outside to see a huge crowd of earth ponies and unicorns cheering in uproarious celebration. The crowd was so huge, he could barely see where it started and where it cold end. 

"Wha..What is this?" Cory asked. 

"Welcome to the family Cory!!" Applejack stated, after which she took a good whiff of air. "You smell that sweet apple air?" 

"Uhhh." 

"That's rhetorical, of course you smell it!! You're an Apple now!!" 

"And a Twilight as well." Twilight added.  

Cory was overwhelmed with the crowd of individuals stretched out before him. Of all the families that decided to choose him, he never expected it to be one of a different species. And yet, it was the best family any one in this world or his could ever ask for. Suddenly Applejack threw him on her back with Applebloom still on his head. 

"Where are we going?" Cory asked. 

"To the adoption ceremony of course." Applebloom replied. 

"Or should we say: BIRTH-A-DOPTION!!" Said Pinkie Pie.

"Come on Y'all!!" Applejack shouted to everyone in attendance.  "Let's go down to Apple Farm to celebrate our new kin!! YEE-HAW!!!" 

And with Cory and Applebloom on her back, she galloped down the dusty road and towards a large campfire, with Twilight, Shining Armor, Cadence, Granny Smith, Big Mac and everypony else following suit.
> Birth-A-Doption
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was a starry, starry night. The sky glistened with twinkling celestial objects that filled the upper landscape in a circular dome. Below them stood a large campfire surrounded by 100's of happy earth pony and unicorn faces. Some were playing on guitars and violins, others were laughing and telling a joke, and a few were playing a game or two. But  in the center of all the commotion and excitement stood a lucky young man by the name of Cory Agees. Today was the day he had always dreamed of. Today, he was going to be adopted. 

On a podium nearby was a small desk with a set of adoption papers ready to be signed, and Twilight and Applejack were standing right next to them. In front was an old vintage microphone with a few speeches attached to the pole.

"ALRIGHT Y'ALL!!" Said Applejack as she and Twilight went to the mic. "We're here to celebrate the birthday...."

"And Adoption.." Twilight added. 

"OF CORY AGEES!!" They both said together. 

Everypony in the audience cheered in celebration as Cory came out of the crowd. He was greeted with hoofshakes and pats on the pats. Some said "Welcome to the family." and "Glad to have you here." Cory's cheeks blushed as he walked closer to the stage. 

"HEY CORY!!!" Pinkie Pie shouted from out of the crowd. "I hope you don't mind, but I brought my sister Maud from out of town to congratulate you on becoming one of us."

It was then Pinkie introduced Cory to a rather bland and grey looking Earth Pony with a darker grey dress on. Her expression was very neutral, as if she had no emotion at all. 

"I am very honored and excited to meet you." She said in a monotone voice, after which she sniffed him a little bit. "Oh, and you smell like a hint of calcite." 

"Are you sure she's excited?" Cory asked. 

"Are you kidding me?!!" Pinkie Pie replied. "I haven't seen her more excited in my entire life." 

Cory shrugged and gave Maud a huge hug. 

"Now go on up there new cousin!!" Said Pinkie Pie. "There's a new family waiting for you." 

Cory smiled as he ran up the wooden stairs and onto the podium, to which she gave Applejack and Twilight a big group hug.

"Cory," Applejack began as she started her speech. " When I first met you, I couldn't whether to make heads or tails of your predicament. But then I watched you work and create here on the Apple Farm and knew that you'd be someone special. Then when you had the courage to bring up your sad past, I knew that love was the one thing that was missin in yer life. Well I'd just like to tell you that you are in good hooves now. You are gonna love bein an apple. I mean, you got the playful ones..."

She pointed her hoof towards several fillies playing jump rope. 

"The Strong ones..."

She pointed to Big Mac and a few other burly stallions who were flexing their muscles. 

"And of course, ya got yer elderly ponies, who know just about everything about everything..."

"We discovered our first filly fritters all the way back in Fillydelphia." Granny Smith commented, who was surrounded by other elders. "When we was just fillies." 

"Who knew?" Cory replied. 

"And of course there's me." Applejack continued. "Your new, loyal, big sister."

It was then she wrapped her hoof around Cory's arm and gave him a serious look. 

"Cory, as part of the family, You have the most honest, single minded, purely guaranteed protection from me and everyone here on the Apple Farm. So for those who done you wrong and left you out for nothin, this is what I have to say to them: YOU MESS WITH ONE OF US, YA MESS WITH ALL OF US!!!" 

The entire Apple family cheered as she closed her sentence. 

"We welcome you with open hearts and open minds here in a family as big as this!!" Applejack continued. "And when your enemies and bullies come back for ya, will be there to fight on your side!! And they gonna wish they never messed with an Apple like you!!"

Everypony cheered again as Applejack wrapped her hooves around Cory's back, and caressed her in a big embrace. 

"I'm glad to have you little brother." She said. 

"And I'm glad to have you too...Big Sister." Cory replied in tears. 

"Ma and Pa would be very proud to have a son like you." 

Next, it was Twilight's turn, as she turned to the mic, picked up her speech with magic, and turned towards her new son. 

"Cory." She started with an affectionately motherly voice. "When i first met you, I knew there was something special glowing inside your soul, just waiting to burst out. As a shy but brave young man, you had a gift that was worth sharing to the whole world. Then, as I took you under my wing and taught you the ways to succeed in the world, I began to learn things myself. I was taught that you are a fast learner, an athletic spirit, and most importantly, a courageous individual. Don't let anypony else make you think otherwise. Because what I see, is a creative, smart and compassionate being who's gift in the field of arts does not deserve to be taken away from you. Just unwrap that bow and open the box, because inside is a kind of pandora worth taking the risk. Don't ever be afraid to express yourself. And as your new parent, you can totally trust me. Because I promise to support you, your work, and your career choice every hoof step of the way!!" 

It was then Twilight's unicorn family went into uproarious applause. 

"I love you son." Said Twilight as she hugged Cory. 

"I love you too...Mother." Cory replied in tears.

Now was the big moment. Twilight and AJ gathered all their nearest relatives onto the podium and faced the papers on the table. The entire audience fell silent in anticipation. With the carefullest of ease, Twilight, Shining Armor and Cadence picked up a quill and placed it gently on the parchment. 

"Care to help me do the honors?" Twilight asked Cory. 

"With Pleasure." Cory replied

And so the four of them grabbed the quill and signed on the dotted line both of their names. Next, it was Applejack and her family's turn. All five of them gathered around Cory like comfortable couch and grabbed the quill together with their limbs. 

"This is so amazing." Said Applebloom in an excited whisper.

"I've been waiting for this moment for all my life." Cory replied quietly. 

Before they knew it, they all placed the quill on the dotted line, and slowly signed each other's names. For what seemed like an eternity, everything was deaf silence. But strangely, it wasn't disturbing. For Cory, it was relieving, as if the last moments of loneliness and desperation were finally going away without a word or a whimper. It was then he looked down at the parchment, and saw both his name, Applejack, Big Mac, Applebloom and Granny Smith written neatly in their handwriting. 

"NOW..." Applebloom proclaimed. "YOU ARE LEGALLY ONE OF US!!!" 

As she broke that silence, the whole crowd burst in uproarious cheer and rah. Some hats flew in the air, other horns spewed out magic dust, A few even clopped on the floor with their hooves in applause. Cory looked around and saw nothing by smiles and tears of joy. For the moment, he felt like he was on top of the world. It was moment he wished would go on forever. 

"Now let's move on to the naming ceremony." Applejack suddenly said.

"The What?" Cory asked in puzzlement. 

"Well, now that you're part of the family," Twilight exclaimed. "We thought it would be fitting to give you a pony name as well." 

"That sounds right." He replied. 

"Everypony step back!!" Explained Pinkie Pie through the mic. "Twilight and Applejack will need some personal space to choose the new name for this lucky boy."

Cory peered over to see that there was book of names AJ and Twilight were skimming through. It was rather old and covered with dust, as if it had not been used in a very long time. Cory wondered what his new name would be, whether it would become a simple change in his middle name, or a new outlandish name entirely. Needless to say, he was grateful for whatever title he would be given. Then, after a few more minutes of deliberation...

"Alright youngun!!" Applejack stated as she turned to Cory. "After much talk and debate, we have given you your new name." 

AJ and Twilight both nodded at each other. 

"From this moment on.." Said Twilight. "You will now be known as..." 

A drumroll could be heard in the background. 

"CAPRICORE!!" AJ and Twilight said together. 

Everyone cheered at the sound of his new name. 

"Because you're an apple to the core.." Applejack said. 

"And you shine as bright as the Capricorn in the sky." Twilight added. "And don't worry, your nickname is still Cory."

"Well that's a relief," Cory replied. 

And so the party began. A few desserts, fruits and vegetables were shared around a big table. Each was more delicious than the last. Hugs and kisses were being thrust on Cory by his new cousins, like bundles of love latching onto his body. Some balloons and toys were being handed out to fillies and colts for some reason. Probably to lighten up the festivities a little more. Some of the Ponies were sitting around the campfire, playing a few songs with their makeshift or handed down instruments. The music wrung through the crowd and cascaded each pony into laughter and dance. 

"Say Twilight?" Applejack asked after a few hours of celebration and fiesta. "Since you're the new mother of this lucky young guy right here. Do you happen to have any songs you could tune up for us to hear for this special occasion." 

"Well," Twilight replied. "There is one song my family likes to sing when we welcome a new family member."

Twilight whispered something into the ear of an earth pony with a fiddle in her hooves. She nodded back and began to play a song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTy3-QkhBpA

Then, with Cory standing in the center on top of a stump, Everypony gathered around and gave him the hugest hug anyone could give. It was then Cory looked up at the sky and saw two shooting stars gliding across the constellations. It was the warmest he had ever felt. 

"So you're going to keep me this time?" Cory asked in a pool of joyful tears. 

"Kid," Applejack replied as she placed her hat on his head. "You're stuck with us for life." 

"Hey cut with the mushy stuff!!" Pinkie Pie intervened. "This is supposed to be a celebration!! LEEETS PAAARTYYY!!" 

Everypony then cheered once again, so much so Cory could swear the earth was shaking, and began to dance around the fire, while Applejack picked up her guitar and started to sing a favorite song in the Apple Family. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtbdIjm6vC0

Then, Twilight took Cory to the side and gave him a new golden locket shaped like a heart. He opened it to see that it contained the drawing he intended to give to his old parents. 

"I guess I didn't waste my time making this picture after all." Cory said. "You really are a miracle in my life mother." 

"Oh Cory," Twilight replied. "I didn't do anything. It was your own actions that led to this moment. Your courage, wits and determination were what pushed you through. And you deserve every minute of it. In short: The Miracle is you."

Cory dripped a few more tears again and wrapped her arms around Twilight's back, to which she responded by wrapping her wins around his. 

At that moment, Pinkie Pie gave the signal to gather everyone in a huge huddle. She then took out a camera from inside her Mane and prepped it for a big group photo. 

"Say, Best Birth-A-Doption Ever!!!" Pinkie declared.

"BEST BIRTH-A-DOPTION EVER!!" Everyone replied. 

She then took the picture of everyone at the party, with the new family member right in the center of it all. Cory was home at last.