> Twilight adopts a foal. The adventures of Comet Dust
>  by Itztli FP
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1 The last is the good one
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Comet Dust, please report to the interview room”. Someone called through the megaphone, hoping it would be heard by whoever they were looking for.

A few minutes passed, no one appears.

“Comet Dust, report to the interview room”. It was heard again throughout the building, but now with a tone of annoyance.

Another ten minutes passed. Hoping they finally gave up.

To his bad luck, the room’s door opened and a one of the caregivers appeared. A little overweight, pale pink fur and purple mane gathered in a bun, wearing her typical white apron with pink lace.

“Comet, I’ve told you a million times don’t lock the door, besides, they´re calling you” Said the mare, knowing that he heard perfectly his name on the megaphone. However, she spoke to him in a very calm and kind mood, as she used to be.

Inside a large room, in which there were two rows of five beds, there was a foal reading alone, sitting on the bed closest to the door, who even move a single muscle by the presence of the caregiver.

“Hi, Cary. I´m not going. Can you tell the others? Tanks.” He said reluctantly, without even turning to look at her.

“You don´t decide that.” Cary replied trying to still speaking calm. She knew very well that working with children wasn’t easy and she specially knew how difficult Comet can be at times. On several occasions, she’d gotten into trouble covering up her antics or giving in to his whims, yet this was something she couldn't give in on.

“I already did it. I’ve already told you: no more interviews. I´ve had enough of those. I won´t be rejected again.” Comet replied, without even leaving the book he was looking at.

“Perhaps, you haven’t had luck finding a family, but this time could be different.” She said, trying to convince him. “It’s a very important pony who is waiting for you, maybe, you could give her an opportunity…”

“Cary, any pony that comes her, “surely” is someone important.” He said with a mocking giggle, downplaying his caretaker comment.

Cary didn’t know how to answer in response to the foal, he actually was right. Being located in Canterlot, almost every pony who went to the institution was wealthy ponies, be they diplomats, big merchants or some public figure. Leaving the mare without her best weapon to convince the foals.

“So, if that’s all you’ve have to say, you can go. Please lock the door when you leave.” He said proudly.

The comment upset Cary a lot. She was already too busy taking care of the other foals on her own to bear with Comet.

“I didn’t come here to argue with you.” She replied authoritarian. “So, get ready and come down, now.”

“No.” He answered sharply, thinking that she was just bluffing.

Comet knew he was putting his hooves on the fire, being the foal who was stayed the longest time in the orphanage, he knew perfectly each caregiver, how to deal with them and how far he could get and Cary wasn’t the exception. She was calm and patience almost every time, but, she was the kind of pony you didn't want to make upset, however, he can’t afford to lose this battle, so he tokes the risk.

Without saying another word, the mare started to glow his horn, with a clearly angry face.

“¡Hey!” Comet yelled when Cary pull him out of the room by his ear, taking him with all and book.

“I tried to be nice, I wanted you to come for the good, but you didn’t listen, you leave me no choice” She scolded him while she was trying to comb his hair without success to make him look more presentable. “Now, stay still.”

Comet just grumbled under his breath, following the same route he’d traveled back and forth numerous times. The path that every foal in that place do with a smile, he did it reluctantly. His enthusiasm had gone since the tenth time he walked in the same direction.

He hated to have to do the same old charade again. A couple of would ponies arrive, they would sit in the interview room waiting for Comet, they would look at him with contempt just the moment he entered the room, they would talk a little pretending to be interested in him, and then, leaving saying that they would think about it and never be seen again. The only thing that comforted him and stopped him from being arguing with Cary was his book, which he had already read at least five times before, but, at least, it would be more interesting than the fifteen to twenty minute chat with the arrogant visiting pony and, by the way, avoided adding fuel to the fire with Cary.

“We´re here. I’m very sorry for the delay, the interview tokes him by surprise and he was getting ready.” Cary said when she opened the room’s door with a forced smile, taking the responsibility for the inconvenient that Comet had caused, again, hoping that the pony that was there wasn’t too upset.

“Don’t worry, I understand how nervous foals can get in this situation, so, there’s no problem” Answered gently the voice of a mare, which Comet didn’t bother to put his book down to see.

“Uff… What a relief.” Cary muttered. “Well, I´ll leave you alone, so you can know each other. Be good, Comet.” She said the last thig under her breath with a threatening tone to Comet, who just gave her a disgusted look.

Cary closed the door, giving a sigh behind it, wishing Comet good luck, like other times before. She was the one who accompanied Comet to all of his interviews and she hated the deception and frustration in the eyes of the foal every time he got rejected. She understood perfectly why Comet didn’t want to come back to that room, but she would hate more if Comet never gets a family, she couldn’t never forgive herself. Comet had been in the orphanage for six years, most of the foals who arrived there didn’t last more than twelve months before being adopted, thanks to the good reputation the pace had, in addition to being under the supervision of Princess Celestia herself, like many other ones she had inaugurated throughout all of Equestria; he had exceeded the average length of stay at the institution, and as much as she had grown fond of him, she knew it was time for him to leave.

The room was very cozy. It was a small room, with a couple of puffs under a window through which a lot of sunlight came in; in the middle, there were a little table with its chairs, painted in different colors, the decoration was very cheerful. There were some story books and coloring books near some crayons in a corner, and there were toys spread over the entire room. On a small table, in one corner, there was a phonograph, which Comet never find out if it worked since he had never used it.

“Let´s finish with this as far as we can, all right?” Comet said suddenly, in the moment Cary closed the door, moving toward one of the puffs as far away from the visiting pony as possible.

The mare was stunned. She never expected that kind of reaction from a foal she even hasn’t seen, the book he was holding covered him completely. But that wouldn’t be enough to take away her optimism. 

“You must be Comet Dust; I’ve heard a lot of you.” She said with enthusiasm.

“Mmm… I see.” He answered indifferently, trying to be the as rude as possible to, whoever this was, would leave as quickly as possible.

The mare couldn’t understand the foal’s attitude. She sat down on the puff next to Comet’s, unsure if the reaction of the foal it was a signal that he doesn’t like her.

“I’ve heard that you’re very independent, you like to read a lot and you’ve learned how to use magic by yourself…” The mare said, trying to find a topic to start a conversation.

“Thanks to telling me things about myself that I already know…” He interrupted her sarcastically, making the mare even more nervous.

She didn’t know how to act in that situation. She knew that some foals could get nervous o timorous and she prepared herself for that, but she never expected such a show of apathy. Still, something inside her told her not to give up, that she must keep trying.

“Could you, at least, let me see you?” She asked gently. “It’s kind of awkward speaking to a book.”

“Why does she insist so much? Didn’t she get the message?” Comet thought.

Comet turned with weariness, hoping that if he gave her a disdainful look, she would go away.

“Agh… Ok.” He said while he was putting his book down to see the stranger. “I don’t know what do you expect this would do but… P-P-Princess!” He yelled in surprise, hiding the left side of his face immediately.

What was SHE doing there? Cary told him that it was an important pony, but he thought it was another haughty rich pony from Canterlot, not that he would be in front of the Princess of Friendship herself, Twilight Sparkle.

“Now you made it big, Comet.” Thought the colt.

“Princess, I’m… I’m very sorry for what I said… I-I shouldn’t have…” Comet stammered crestfallen, unable finding the words to apologize. “…knowing it was you… I never…” He sighed. “I’m sorry.” Comet said al last, thinking that he just made a fool of himself in front of the princess.

“Don´t worry about that, it´s not a big deal.” She answered giving him a very nice smile, while the colt was trying desperately to hide his face from her. She thought it was for the shame. “It´s not necessary to call me princess, you can call me Twilight.”

“Ok, Miss Twilight.” Comet answered.

“Just Twilight. ”she said with a giggle.

Comet didn’t understand what was happening. He’d behave in such a rude way towards one of the highest authorities of Equestria and the only thing he would hope would be an exemplary punishment, however, the princess was calm and understanding. That the princess was who had come to look for him was a surprise, but, the fact that she wasn’t furious at his attitude was another bigger.

“What are you doing here, Prince… Twilight?” He asked fearful.

“What do you think I’m doing here?” Twilight answered kindly with another question, seeing that the colt, although fearful, finally dare to chat.

“Are you coming to teach a magic or friendship class?”

“You might think that, but if that was the case, the other foals would know I’m here, plus I wouldn’t be in this room with you.”

“So, are you coming to see the place?”

“Sort of…”

“And, why did you were looking for me for?” Comet asked, still hiding part of his face, but with a face that reflected nervousness.

“Is there any problem?” Asked Twilight a little confused by the colt’s sudden change of attitude.

“It’s just that there are another foals that you will surely like more than me.” He answered sadly.

“Why wouldn’t I like you?” Twilight asked even more confused.

“Because I’m the oldest here.” He lied.

“That doesn’t make any sense, why I wouldn’t like you because of your age? There must be another reason for you to think that.”

“It’s just that it’s always been like this.” Comet said on the verge of tears in a barely perceptible murmur, but one that Twilight heard.

“I don’t understand, what has always been like this”

“The ponies…”

“What happen with the ponies?”

“…They don’t like me because I’m… different” He said with teary eyes and a brittle voice.

“But, every pony it’s different, that’s what makes us unique, even you and me, just because you’re different doesn’t necessary mean that they don’t like you…”

“No, Princess, you don’t understand…”

“I know that meeting another ponies can be scary, but if you give them a chance and give yourself a chance, you’ll see that the impression you though they had of you is not true…”

“I know that, what I’m trying to say is…” Comet said, increasingly frustrated that the princess wasn’t listening to him.

“I understand that you’re nervous and because of that you thought that hiding behind a book was a good idea, believe me, I know for experience, but if you put the book aside and just relax…”

“Princess…”

“You just have to be yourself…”

“LOOK AT ME!” He yelled, throwing the book away hard. Annoyed, frustrated, sad to know how this would end. A sea of emotions that was only expressed in a weak cry and a slight sob, as he stood in front of Twilight.

Twilight was speechless, more from Comet's outburst than her appearance, which was what Comet wanted her to notice.

“You wanted to know me?! Well, here I am!” He screamed between tears “Now you know what I am! A monster!”

Comet started crying, venting all the accumulated frustration, anger and sadness from the many times he had been rejected by a family or another foals who just saw him without even taking the time to meet him.

Twilight was saddened to hear Comet´s self-loathing words. Just thinking on all the times he had to endure the jokes, insults and the nicknames the others gave him, to think that he was a monster himself, that he didn't deserve a family or love, it caused a lump in her throat.

Although the appearance of the colt was similar to that of many other, it could be noted that the little one suffered from a medical condition. His grayish blur fur was stained with large white patches, which would be anything out of the ordinary, were it not be for the fact that the affected areas were so pure white, that it seemed to have no color; perhaps, in fact, it would be say that it was transparent, even Rarity couldn’t compete with such clean white; in addition, the hair in that areas grown longer and shaggy than normal, resembling more of a scratchy beard than the soft and smooth coat that ponies possessed.

One of the white spots that’s crossed the left side of the foal´s head and face, just the one he covered with the book, affected his horn, leaving it half grayish blue, half white; a part of his mane, turning it into a tangle of stiff white hair; and also his eye, taking away its natural orange color, as his other eye, from a milky blue that affected even de pupil.

Twilight, without knowing what to do or what to say to help him, just took the colt in his hooves and hugged him, trying to comfort him. After all, at first he’d hidden behind that façade of disinterest, deep down there was a little foal, insecure and scared of what might result from that encounter.

“I can’t see any monster.” Twilight said tenderly once Comet had calm down a bit, who just keep quiet, letting out a slight sob “Here, you should clean yourself.” She said making pop in front of him a tissue.

Comet did what Twilight said, still in her arms. He didn’t want to get out from the safety that that warm hug gave him.

“I’ll tell you what I see.” She continued. “I see a colt, like many others and like many others, deserves a family.”

Comet got out of Twilight’s arms, looking at her with hopeful eyes. Wishing those words would steer the conversation in the direction he believed.

“Tell me, would you like to come home with me?” She finally asked.

The moment Twilight said those words, the eyes of the colt were filled with joy and happiness and huge smile was drawn on his face. After so many years trying and dozens of unsuccessful interviews, it was happening. Finally, some pony had accepted him, asking the question he had long been waiting to hear.

The tears start to welled up in his eye again, but these were different, they weren’t loaded with sadness and anger, on the contrary, there were the kind of tears every pony wanted to see, of pure happiness.

Driven by it, Comet jumped again toward Twilight, rounding her neck with his arm, as a show of affection to the only pony who hadn’t flown away from his strange appearance, the only one who had gave him a chance.

“Thank you…” Was the only thing Comet could say, burying his face in his new mother’s fur.

Comet woke up. A little dizzy. He couldn’t recognize the place where he was at first.

As his body was waking up and his mind was slowly clearing, he remembered the dream he had, the same that had repeated some nights before. All that happened a little less than a week ago and he still couldn’t believe that that really happened. But he was there, lying on a makeshift bed in one of the many rooms of Twilights castle. Woke up every morning after that dream, remembering how he had met the Princess of Friendship and she had accepted him in her life, was the happiest thing in his life.

However, he wasn’t very sure what happened after that, all he could remember was some fragments and scenes. He remembered how bored he was when Twilight was filling the paperwork, the envious glance his partners had when they saw him leaving with the Princess and, above all, being hugging Cary. She was crying, the fact that she had to say goodbye to the colt she had taken care all those years made her sad, although she was happy too, because Comet finally had found a family which will love him as much as she did.

Thinking in Cary made him a little sad, he knew that she was happy wherever she was in Canterlot, but having to say goodbye hadn’t been easy at all, after all, she was the pony who Comet had gotten to be closest with, she practically had raised him, she knows him and understands better than any pony. She was who, actually, had taught to use magic, though she liked to say that he had learned by himself.

He got up from the bed, ready to go downstairs to the dinner room, Twilight and Spike must had been there an d he didn´t want to be late for breakfast.

Before he closes the door, he gave a quick look to his only properties he had taken with him, a little book of basics spells Cary gave him, an alarm clock with the form of an parasprite and, on a box next to his bed, kept with love, a photograph of him next to Cary and the other caregivers from the orphanage, taken the same day he left to Ponyville with his new family.
> Chapter 2 A start with ups and downs
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 2. A start with ups and downs.

So, here it is, the second chapter of the history of Comet. Thanks to all who told me my errors, I hope I can keep improving.
I hope you like it.





Twilight was in the dinner room next to an exhausted Spike.

The last three days were quite hectic to her. The adoption of Comet had been the quietest, along with the return to Ponyville, in which both Twilight and Comet had fallen asleep on the train. Since then, all had been quite moved.

The moment they arrived to the castle, it seemed that Comet had forgotten all the tiredness of how exited he was. He ran into the building, marveling at the peculiar crystal structure he was in, it seemed even bigger inside than outside.

Having Comet running and yelling everywhere it was the least she needed, she was tired of the trip and there was still a lot to do. And if that was not enough, Spike started to question her for the decision she has taken, while she was doing all in her hooves to not lose her mind and explain the best she could what was happen and she had all under control.

Then, she had to stop a little argue between Spike and Comet because he called Spike lizard. Spike started to plead, offended by the colt´s comment, even if he hadn't meant it maliciously. He had never seen a dragon before, much less a baby dragon.

After separating those two and clearing up the misunderstanding, they had a quick dinner and then got ready to sleep, at least in Twilight´s head that would happen. But, unfortunately, dinner had only activated Comet even more.

"Where is this child's switch?" Twilight thought as she chased Comet around all over the castle.

Exhausted and unable to stop Comet in any way, she lay, exhausted, on a couch in her library and gradually fell asleep.

The next morning, she woke up, still in the same couch, accompanied by a sleeping foal hugging her.

That day, they decided to choose a room for Comet, something easier said than done. The castle was full of empty rooms and, of course, Comet wanted to see all of them to make a decision, but Twilight understood that coming from a foal that had slept all its life in a room with another children, having a room of his own was something special and he wanted to make sure he had a place that he liked.

The entire day they were seen dozens of rooms without Comet deciding on one, so he slept with Twilight that night.

The next morning, Comet decided for a fairly large room that received a lot of sunlight through the large windows it had, it couldn't be other one that a room full of boxes and stuff that Twilight had sent to bring from her old room in Canterlot. Piles of books, boxes, scrolls and objects they had been left in that room because they had no time to place them in anywhere else.

Without convincing Comet to choose another of the rooms that were left free, they began the arduous task of remove every box and object to replace them in other room large enough to store them all.

Even with Spike and Comet's help, it took an entire day and a half for them to free up all the space, only leaving a few boxes and blankets to make Comet a makeshift bed. Despite being a very organized and meticulous pony, adopting Comet had been rather improvised, she done it more on impulse, so she had nothing with which welcome the foal, at least, not until she buys some furniture for him.

The rest of the day, they clean and dust off the room so he could sleep there that night. They put a thin mattress above some boxes they had left, they put some blankets on it and Comet borrowed a pillow from Spike to be more comfortable.

After such hard work, even Comet seemed to be tired, he hadn't gotten up yet. However, she couldn't let herself rest that day. They still needed buy a bed for Comet, a bureau, some booksellers, a desk a closet and maybe a dresser with mirror. Also, she was excited to tell the good news to her friends, family and, why not, to Princess Celestia.

"Good morning". Comet interrupted her thoughts as he greeted them with a yawn.

"Good morning, Comet. Did you sleep well?". Twilight answered.

"Kind of, that mattress makes me miss the orphanage bed". He joked as he sat next to Spike ready to eat his breakfast.

"That was what I wanted to talk to you about". Twilight said. "We're going to buy you some things for your room, so you must hurry up".

"What kind of stuff" He asked while he was tackling his mouth with pancakes Spike had made.

"Don't talk with your mouth fill". Twilight chided him. "Well, you need a bed and some other furniture, decorations, books…"

"Oh, I see. Sounds good to me" He said eating another pancake. "This is delicious"

"I'm glad you liked them. It's a recipe Pinkie Pie gave me, she is a great baker, but I'm still having the feeling they're missing something, I just can't found out what's her secret". Spike said.

"Pinkie Pie". Comet asked a little confused.

"It's one of our friends, if you hurry up maybe you could meet her". Twilight explained.

"Great". He said eating the last pancake on his plate. "Finished. I'll go get ready for…

"Where do you think you're going? You still missing that" Twilight stopped him as she pointed a bowl full of sliced fruit which Comet hadn't even touched.

"But…". He tried to reply when he noticed Twilight had found him out.

"No buts. Sit down and eat it". Twilight finished the discussion.

Grumbling under his breath he returned to his seat, watching what in his eyes was a disgusting jumble of apple, banana, something that he wasn't sure if it was melon, some blackberries and mango. The last two days he had avoided eating it, leaving the dinner room before Twilight could notice him, but everything indicated that she wasn't going to allow him a third time.

"Twilight…" The foal said, not very sure if it was correct to call her mom, since, after all, she had adopted him, but she was still the princes, besides, she had told him to call her Twilight.

"¿Yes?". She answered waiting for Comet's reply.

"This has mango"

"Mmhmm". She answered by not paying much attention to Comet's complaints.

"I'm allergic to mango". He said making up an excuse to not eat.

"Oh, I didn't know that, well, don't eat it". She said disconcerted.

"But, everything is whipped with mango". He said plaintively, hoping Twilight would set him free.

"Don't worry, take mine". Spike said innocently, passing him his own bowl. "I'm not a big fan of mango, so I don't usually eat it, but I can make an exception today. Don't worry I'll remember not to serve you tomorrow".

"Thanks Spike, how nice you are, don't you think, Comet?" Twilight said with his normal voice, as if she really had believed Comet's allergy, too well to believe her.

"Yeah, thanks Spike" Comet said with a fake smile, trying to hide his annoyance and frustration with the little dragon for ruining his plans.

With no more excuses to make up, he reluctantly ate the fruit. To his surprise, it wasn't that bad he had expected, actually, it was incredibly delicious, specially the apples, sweet and juicy, nothing compared to the tasteless and dry found in Canterlot.

In the end, he finished the entire bowl, leaving only the berries, too sour to his taste.

"Finished". Comet said, leaving the bowl on the table. "May I leave now?"

"You missed the berries." Twilight said, more disconcerted than upset.

"I didn't like them." Comet said, telling her the truth this time.

"Alright, you can go." Twilight finally said with a smile, seeing that other than that, he had eaten the rest.

Comet ran out of the room, ready to take a bath, with all that had happened the last days, he hadn't had a chance to do it, so this was his best opportunity before the day was gone again.

"Twilight…" He stopped at the dinner room's door.

"¿Yes?" She answered, turning around so she could see the foal.

"What I said before, about being allergic to mango, wasn't true." He confessed ashamed. "I said it because I didn't want to eat the fruit."

"I Know" she answered, giving Comet a kind smile.

"¿What?" He exclaimed surprised. "How could you even…"

"I saw your medical reports the adoption day and it didn't say anything about allergies." She answered calmly, still smiling to Comet. "But I'm glad you'd been honest with me."

"I don't understand. I you knew I was lying all the time, why you didn't say anything?

"It's true, I could have said something at any time, but I preferred to wait for you to do it. Tell me, don't you feel better now you said the truth?

After thinking of it for a moment, Comet realized that Twilight was right. After trying and realizing that the fruit cocktail wasn't as bad as he thought, he started to feel bad, guilty for having lied to the mare who had trusted him and ashamed for the way he had acted. Which had prompted him to tell her the truth. Now he felt like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders.

In response, he gave Twilight a tender look and a sincere smile.





Comet was very excited to finally get out of the castle, not only wanting to go shopping with Twilight, also he was eager to explore the new place. In Canterlot, he hadn't had much time to see the city, he spent most of his time in his room and wasn't allowed to leave the building, except for his visits to the library in he was always accompanied by Cary. The few times he did escape he didn't go more than a couple of streets, so touring the town was a new experience.

The moment they arrived at the market, all excitement turned into nervousness. He was paralyzed when he saw the large numerous of ponies there were, too many for his liking. He had never seen so many ponies in one place, the thought of having to walk between all of them and pass by them sides was enough to make him cold sweat.

He walked very close to Twilight, behind her, with his head down, turning his head nervously everywhere, trying to hide his white eye. Maybe it was just his imagination, but he felt every pony staring at him, watching him, in the same way other ponies did it before; some ponies might think he looks great, others were indifferent, but the most of them did it with dislike, like a freak, always muttering about how horrible he looked.

Comet hit Twilight when she stopped in front of a store which only sold beds, something rare, he'd always thought a furniture store would sell all kinds of furniture, not just one.

"We're here." Twilight said, immediately noticing the change of Comet's humor, who was still trying to hide behind her. "Is everything alright?" She asked him.

"Ah… yeah, everything's fine." He answered forcing a smile, trying not worry Twilight. "let´s go in…" He indicates, walking as fast as he could.

Inside the store, he hadn't had time to relax and calm his nerves, the salespony greeted him surprisingly, making him jump in fear.

"Hello there, welcome to…"

Quickly, he went to hide behind a surprised Twilight, she hadn't saw Comet act like this before.

"I'm sorry, kid, I didn't mean to scare you." The salespony kindly apologized. It was a pony of brown fur, dressed with a suit and a tie.

Comet didn't say anything, he just kept shyly staring at him behind Twilight, preventing him to see his left eye.

"He's a little shy." The salespony muttered for himself.

"I'm sorry, he is new in the town." Twilight said, making the salespony stopped paying attention to Comet, so he could relax.

"Princess… It´s a great honor to have you here in my store." Said the pony bowing. "I'm Feather Pillow, feel free to check and prove all the beds you want. If you need anything, just call me and I'll be there immediately."

"Thanks." Twilight said, feeling strange for the special attention he was giving her. "Actually, we're looking for something for him." She said pointing to Comet.

"No problem." He answered making another bow. "Follow me. We have a great variety of individual beds, I'm pretty sure you'll find one you like it."

Feather Pillow lead them to the center of the store, where there were exhibit a great variety of individual beds, since the simplest, which were literally a mattress with four legs, bunk beds, to the most elaborated and expensive ones.

Twilight indicated the pony he could leave and they would call him when they made a decision. It wasn't until he was several feet away that comet dare to step out, proving Twilight suspicion thus, Comet was afraid of interactive with other ponies.

Actually, Comet wasn´t afraid of ponies, but rather his reaction to seeing him. Ha had always received ridicule and nicknames from the other children, being rejected by them, which is why he avoided socializing and preferred to stay alone, thus preventing that part from developing. The time when spent with most ponies was the meals, ignoring all his companions and finishing as quickly as possible to get out of there.

Luckily, the store was almost empty, except for the salespony, who was already far away and a couple of mares in a corner of the store, vaguely seeing the beds while gossiping. None of them was close enough to see him, thus everything was under control.

Thus, Comet started to see the different beds, completely forgetting about the other ponies there, avoiding the conversation with Twilight about what had just happened. Slowly he was relaxing, acting more normally and speaking with a little more fluency.

He was testing a bed he really liked. A wooden bed, not too soft, not too firm. It had a simple design: the headboard, the support and the mattress. He was concentrated in his own thoughts and how it would look in his room.

"How awful. Look at his eye." One of the mares yelled, taking Comet by surprise.

He hadn't seen when they had approached, not even when they had started to mom from the corner, ha was so immersed in his mind that he had completely forgotten they were there.

"Let´s get out of here, it could be contagious." The other mare said with disgust. "Now they let anyone in."

They quickly leave the building, without even giving Twilight time to react and reprimand them.

In less than a blink, Comet´s spirit fell suddenly from a happy gaze, that was beginning to recover, to a sad one, almost on the verge of tears; her lip trembled a little and he instinctively covered his eye with his hoof and lowered his head, hiding himself.

"Don't listen to them, they don't know what they're saying." Twilight said trying to comfort the colt.

"I wanna leave." Comet replied with a brittle voice without even looking at twilight, doing his best to not cry.

Then, Comet got off the bed y started to walk towards the exit, still covering his eye with his hoof.

"Comet, wait…" Twilight tried to stop him. "You don't have to listen to them, those two always exaggerate everything. What about your bed?" She said trying the impossible to convince him.

"Choose one, I'll wait outside." Comet answered as a tear started to fall down his cheek.

In the end, Twilight chose the las bed they had seen, since, apparently, it was the one Comet had liked the most. Once the purchase was finished, the salespony, very ashamed, apologized for the behavior of the two mares, implying that he had seen Comet's condition as well, but he preferred to spare his comments.

Without giving more importance to the matter, Twilight went in search for Comet, she needed to fix things with him, she had to show him that he wasn't alone, now he had her to support him o or simply comfort him.

It didn't take too long to find him; he hadn't gone too far. Comet was sitting in the shade next to the store, hiding behind some pots with his back to the street.

"Comet, how you're feeling?" Twilight asked automatically, noticing how silly the question had been.

"Why I'm so different?" He asked with a weak voice, showing his sadness, as he stared at his reflect on the window with contempt.

"You're not different…" She replied, feeling his heart sinking at the colt´s question.

"Then, why everypony looks at me that way? What have I done to be treated like that? Why does it bother them so much how I am?" Asked the colt starting to cry.

"Comet, listen to me." Twilight said to get Comet's attention while hugging him. "You hadn't done anything wrong, you don't have to feel guilty for anything. You're not different from anypony. If they don't want to see it, then they are the ones with the problem, not you"

Comet stayed between Twilight arms for several minutes until he managed calm down, partly venting the discomfort the mares had made him feel and a little of everything he had to endure all those years.

"So, my eye doesn't bother you?" He asked shyly.

"Not at all." She answered. "I think is cute. It's something special that only you have." She added giving him a smile.

Thanks to Twilight's words, Comet was able to draw a small, but sincere, smile on his face. He was still afraid that other ponies would see him, but knowing that Twilight didn't care about his appearance and, moreover, she liked it, was all he needed for the moment and it was more than enough to calm his nervousness, at least for a while.

"What do you have on your head?" Twilight asked when they pulled apart, trying to change the subject.

"Ouch¡ Careful…" He screamed, complaining of the pain when Twilight started pulling what looks like a little branch tangled in his white hair.

"It doen't come out. It's stuck." She said still pulling it trying to get it out of his hair. "How did this get there?"

"It must be from those plants." He replied, making Twilight stop, as this only make his hair tug and tangle even more. "Leave it. Is useless. You will only make it worse. It will come out someday."

"We can´t leave that tangled up in your hair." She replied, reluctant to follow Comet's indications. "There must be a way to remove the branch without having to cut your hair and, also, helps you untangle it so this would never happen again, and I know the perfect pony for the task."

"It's impossible, Twilight, I've already tried"

"Not for her." She answered with an arrogant gaze. "Let's finish our shopping so we could pay her a visit.

"To who?" Comet asked intrigued.

"To Rarity."
> Chapter 3 Mane problems
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 3. Mane problems.

After spend the resto of the morning buying at Ponyville’s Market, with a hidden Comet every time they got close to a stand, although, not as nervous as before, they made a little stop at Sugarcube Corner to rest a little bit, eat something and, perhaps, dink a milkshake.

Twilight was amazed with Comet’s magic ability. Although his short age, he could easily carry several of the bags and boxes they carried with theirselves, some quite heavy, just with the force of his horn. Remembering Cary told her that Comet had learned by himself.

“Yeah, she liked to say that”. Comet answered with an unconvinced tone when Twilight told him about it. “Actually, she helped me a bit. She told me the basics to cast a simple spell, the rest, I deduced it by myself”.

“Then, why did she say you leaned by yourself?” Twilight asked in dismay.

“I don’t know. I guess she tried to amazed the prospective parents”. He answered trying to not giving to much importance. “… or maybe she thought she hadn’t taught me well”.

“I see. How may spells do you know”.

“Not many. There weren’t too much places where I could practice, so I’ve only learned the basic ones; levitation, teleporting and manipulating objects; nothing any other pony can’t do”.

“It’s true. But, not many ponies of your age could carry so many objects and so much weight, it requires a lot of concentration”.

“I spent a lot of time on my own in my bedroom, practicing with my partners’ beds. It’s easy to concentrate when no pony bothers you”.

“On your own? What about your friends?” Twilight asked, thinking she knew the answer.

“The majority of the other foals just bothered me or avoided me, also, many of them leaved a few months later since them arrive, so, it didn’t make any sense make friends if they weren’t going to last”.

“Then, you didn’t make any friends?”

“Not really. Actually, the pony I became to talk the most was Cary. The rest didn’t want to stay with me, thus the books and the magic were my only company”.

“I’m so sorry. I know how hard could be being alone”

“You don’t have to. Over the time I got used to not needing the company from the others. Although, sometimes…”

Comet interrupted himself when momentarily he turned to the entrance of Sugarcube Corner, when a group of fillies entered laughing into the bakery. Twilight, noticing that, told Comet to go to talk to them. That would be a great opportunity to start with friendship.

Comet flatly refused, claiming that was only going to cause the same thing to happen as many time, mockery and rejection by his contemporaries. For that, he preferred to be alone. He didn’t need friends.

Twilight sighed resigned. She knew how important friends were and even more in a foal’s life, but, Comet had his point to avoid get close to somepony. His previous experiences worked against him and Twilight couldn’t force him to talk to anyone if he didn’t want it. The better was, by the moment, leaving the topic aside and giving Comet time to get used to the life in Ponyville and let him to make friends when he would be ready, at the moment, she would have to wait.

“Did you learned any other spells besides of the basic ones?” She asked, returning to the previous topic, being something Comet seemed to be interested in, and that would work to not make him tense.

“Umm… well… I learned how to dememorized some pony… Oh, and I can make some illusions and holograms”. He said a little proudly of himself, feeling flattered by Twilight by showing interest in his magic abilities, making him forget about friends and friendship.

“Wow. That’s very impressive, I would never imagine…” Twilight stopped, and started thinking a little about what he just heard, hoping it would be just a misheard. “What did you say? Again”. She said with a nervous voice.

“Eh?... Oh, I can make some illusions and holograms, wanna see them? They aren’t very good yet but with a little of…

“No, no, no, the other. What was the other thing you said?”

“Oh, I know how to dememorized somepony”. He said again proudly and a little excited. “But, I can only erase specific memories about an event, object or situation. Also, I tried to make a pony sleep in sometime, but it didn’t work very well, the pony started meowing and acting like a cat for a whole week, I guess I made a mistake on…”

Comet was so abstracted in his own thoughts he didn’t noticed the horror face Twilight was making, just from hearing he knew how to use one of the direst spells that existed. There were few ponies who could use dememorizing spells and for that a special ability was needed in legilimency, being so, how a pony of that age could use such dangerous magic.

“How is that you can do that? When did you learn it?” She asked a little frightened.

“A few months ago in the Canterlot library. I sneaked into the restricted section and toke the first book I found, it was one about spells of the mind or something like that; it explained with detail how to cast them, I started for the easiest one, I think it was called Momemtum Obliviscetur...”

“But, you hadn’t used it on anypony, right?” She interrupted him with a vague hope the colt would mistake that knowing how to cast a spell didn’t mean he could really cast it.

“Well, let’s just say that nopony remember the day I broke the hot water tube”. He said proudly.

“What?! Are you crazy”. She yelled at the foal’s revelation and all the problems he would have by used that kind of magic. “Do you know how dangerous it could be?”

“Nope”. He answered innocently. “They caught me and took me out of there before I could get to that part, who put the advertencies after the spells, anyway? I was lucky they didn’t expulse me from the library, they just scolded me. I suppose they thought I was too young to understand magic and took me to the children’s section. As if the “three little pigs” was a gripping read”. Saying the latter sarcastically.

“And it seems little to you?” Twilight said, upset by the irresponsible way he was taking all the matter, taking Comet by surprise, he thought all the time Twilight was flattering his ability. “A pony mind isn’t something you could play as your wish. Those spells are restricted for a good reason. If you erase the wrong memory the results could be disastrous, it isn’t something to rake careless. I don’t want you to use that spell anymore, that kind of magic is forbidden. Besides, how did you know what memory erase?”

“Don´t worry, Cary made me promise the same when she found out. And, about knowing what memory erase, I just concentrated in erase the memory I knew they knew. I don’t know how to read minds, Twilight, I´m only six years old, that magic is way too advanced”.

Twilight couldn’t help but do an expression of wonder and disbelief of how absurd that heard coming from the pony who learned to use a dememorizing spell after read once about it, a basic one, true, but it was something Twilight never could do and Comet had used it more than once.

“Besides, Twilight, that kind of magic isn’t forbidden, not if you know how to use it. The laws only state that it should be used with caution”. He added, giving Twilight a malicious and playful glance, getting up of his seat going to toss the trash of his food.

The alicorn couldn’t help but stay still as a shiver ran through his back from seeing that different look on Comet’s face. She didn’t know how to interpret what Comet just said, could be something he just added after promising he won’t use that spell or a subtle way to say that he would use it at his whim. Although, he never said he promised.

“Where do we going now?” He asked, returning to his innocent and sweet expression, waking up Twilight from her thoughts, confusing her even more by his sudden change of mood. It was that innocence which made what he said before even creepier.

“Ah… With Rarity”. She answered, shaking her head, thinking she was just overthinking the matter. “We need her to help you with that”. She said pointing the stick still stuck on his hair, making look he has two horns instead of one.





The road to Rarity’s house was very calm, being sited in a low-traffic area of Ponyville, Comet hadn’t problems relaxing, he even dares to play around Twilight a bit, getting a few feet away from her when something called his attention.

They got into a peculiar building of two or three floors height, adorned in a very feminine and showy way with crystals, gems and some mannequins on the higher parts simulating a carousel, like the ones in the fairs.

“Hello?” Twilight called a little confused to see there was nopony in there, even though the signboard in the door said it was open.

“Welcome to the Carousel Boutique, how can I hel…?” Said a unicorn of white fur, stylized purple mane and blue eyes, speaking in an elegant and pompous tone of voice. “Ah, Twilight, I´m glad you are here. Sorry about the mess, I’ve been a little busy lately. Did you arrive from Canterlot today?”

Comet felt curious about the familiarity the mare talked to Twilight, unlike the other ponies they met that day, who always spoke in a very respectful way and referred to her as “Princess””

“Hi, Rarity”. She returned the greeting while both of them hugged each other. “Actually, we arrived a few day ago, but we were a little busy, so I couldn’t visit you earlier”.

“Well, It seem both of us had a lot of work this days”. Rarity giggled. “Wait, ¿we? If I remember, Spike didn’t go with you.

“No”. Twilight said with a nervous giggle, containing the excitement of telling her the good news. “Rarity, let me introduce you to Comet Dust”. She said moving aside to uncover Comet.

Rarity, just stood there, confused. She didn’t understand why Twilight was introducing her to somepony who wasn’t there.

“Twilight, is this a kind of joke?” She said, confused. “Because I don’t get it”.

“What? No. It´s not a joke”. She replied confused as well by Rarity’s answer, turning to where she thought comet would be. “Comet! Where are you? She said searching for the foal.

“I’m right here”. He answered a little confused, being standing, literally, next to both of two of them. Surprising them.

“There you are”. Twilight said, excited. “Comet, I want to introduce you to my friend Rarity, the best fashionista in Ponyville. Rarity, he is Comet Dust”.

Twilight approached a nervous Comet to her friend. He tried to trust in her, since she was friends with his mother, trying to give her a slightly forced smile.

The moment Rarity saw him, she dramatically screamed, for Twilight surprise, although not for Comet. He expected that reaction from almost everypony he would met.

“Darling, what happen to your hair?” Rarity said immediately after scream, confusing him.

Of all things she could had screamed for, even the most obvious, she did it for the hair. Leaving Comet with an expression of “Are you serious?” in his face.

“It’s just a little tangled and messy”. Comet replied, still confused at the mare’s unexpected reaction.

“Comet, darling, Twilight’s mane is a little tangled and messy…”

“Hey…” Twilight replied a little offended by her friend’s comment.

“…this is a disaster”. Rarity answered Comet comment.

“That’s why we came here. We need your help”. Twilight said.

“Well, you came to the right place. I’m not going to allow a colt like him to walk around looking that way”. She answered heroically.

Rarity started to get a lot of brushes, combs and hair products from a little room next to the lobby they were, which one she used as her store, and finally, she carries with herself a pair of scissors, a hair dryer and some towels.

“Tell me, Twilight, who’s this charming little gentlecolt?” She asked while she was accommodating some stuff she will going to work with. “Is it a relative of yours?”

Charming little gentlecolt? Did Comet heard well? It was the first time somepony called him in that kind –and corny- the moment they knew each other, even Twilight had been surprised a little, but this mare has accepted him without even judged him, who would do that?

“Well, yeah. Something like that”. Twilight said, making Rarity guess it.

“Is he a kind of distant cousin or nephew?” She asked again a little confused by his friend’s strange answer.

“Nope”. Twilight answered playing with her.

“Then, who is he, Twilight?” Rarity replied, a little annoyed at her friend’s tricks.

“Well, it could be say that he is my son”. Twilight answered with a big smile on her face as she pulled Comet closer to her, also happy just because Twilight said she was his mother.

In that moment, all the objects Rarity was levitating fell due to her loss of concentration at the surprising news.

“Ah… ¿What?” That was the only thing Rarity could say, trying to process what she had just heard.

“Well, he is not my son, my son…” Twilight explained, not noticing Rarity wasn’t paying attention to her.

“This is a joke, right, Twilight? When did it happen? Who’s his father?” Asked Rarity hysterically.

“What? No. Rarity, he is not my son”.

Both ponies, Comet and Rarity, tuned in surprised at Twilight by his new affirmation, realizing the mistake she made in her choice of words.

“But, you said he was your son…” Rarity said, very confused.

“Yes, I did”.

“I… think I’m confused”. Rarity said not understanding a single word.

“Me too, and I was there”. Comet agreed.

“He is not my biological son”. Twilight explained, thinking better her words. “I adopted Comet in Canterlot a few days ago”.

“You didn’t’ tell us anything about it, I thought you went to Canterlot on royal business”. Rarity said, offended by the fact that her friend hadn’t told her about such an important decision.

“It wasn’t something I had planned”. She explained, for both ponies’ surprise, more for Comet, he thought that wasn’t something he didn’t want to hear. “I went to Canterlot for royal business with Princess Celestia. Luckily, we finished earlier than we thought, so I went for a walk around town. Then, I passed near the orphanage and I felt a strange sensation, like if something was calling me from the inside. First, I thought it was just my imagination, but that night, I couldn’t sleep, I still felt the calling. I don’t understand very well what happen, but it felt like something inside me wanted me to enter that place.

The next morning, I decided to follow my instincts and went to the orphanage again. I talked to someponies there and stayed with a lot of foals and fillies, but any of them couldn’t calm the sensation. It was then when they took me to a secluded room, where I met Comet. I fell in love with him in the instant I saw him and, without noticing it, the sensation stopped”. She said while hugging Comet. “Thus, I decided to take him with me and rise him as my son”. Twilight finished, omitting the parts about the problems of Comet, as she thought it was something very personal end he should share them when he chooses to do it.

“Aww. What a lovely story, Twilight”. Rarity said giving them a tender look. “It seems like both of you were destined to know each other”.

“Perhaps”. The two ponies answered as they were looking to each other.

“But, are you sure about this? Raising a foal is a great responsibility”

“Absolutely. Besides, after had raised Spike, how hard a foal could be?” She said, forgetting one of the most important differences, Spike was a dragon, lonely creatures by nature and with a faster growth than a foal, also, Twilight hadn’t raised Spike by herself, she had a lot of help from his mother and Princess Celestia.

“Well, Twilight, I think we can trust that you’re going to do the better for him. Even so, you know you can count on us when you needed”.

“Thanks Rarity”. Twilight said with a sincere smile on her face.

“Who else knows about this?” Rarity asked.

“Beside you, just Spike”. Twilight answered. “I have no idea how I’m going to tell my family”.

“Well, you should hurry up. Time’s over you”. Rarity indicated, returning to pick up some of the stuff she had brought with. “Now, where we were on? Ah, yes, we were about to fix up your mane, dear Comet”.

“Good luck trying to”. Comet mumbled, unconvinced getting up on a chair.

“Don’t challenge me, darling”. Rarity said arrogantly. “I’ve got a lot of tricks up my sleeve”.

Ipso facto, Rarity sat Comet on an elegant chair as she analyzed Comet’s hair, seeing how severe it was the problem. It would seem the hair with a dark blue color wasn’t that bad, with a few brushes it will be ready, on the other hand, the white hair in the left side of his head was another matter; it looked dry, it was completely tangled and there might be other things trapped in it than just the branch.

Rarity started levitating the brush near Comet´s head trying to find where she should start. She was surprised. She couldn’t imagine how careless the colt must have had to reach that state. She had been in uncountable capillary crisis before, but nothing like this one. In the meantime, Comet started to be impatient at the mare’s doubting.

“It’s rare we haven’t seen Pinkie Pie in all they”. Twilight said, trying to make conversation with Rarity in a tend to not get bored. “We were through all town and she didn’t appear anywhere, even in Sugarcube Corner. At this time, she will be planning Comet’s welcome party”.

“It’s true, darling”. Rarity answered, without looking away from Comet, brushing his dark blue hair. “Although that would be if Pinkie Pie were in Ponyville”.

“She left?” Twilight answered concerned.

“Oh, don’t worry, she will come back in a few days. She went to his family farm, a problem with parasprites if I remember. But she wasn’t the only one, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy also left. They went to Cloudsdale to visit Fluttershy’s parents, they’ll will be back for tomorrow”. She said finishing coumb the easiest hair of Comet.

“That explains why I didn’t see anyone of them. What about Applejack?” Twilight asked, curious.

“In the farm, working. She said they’re having a good harvest this month, so she hadn’t gone a lot to town this week”.

“Wow, Rarity. You know of everything”. Twilight said with a slight mockering tone.

“Well, darling, a lady has to know what happens around her, over of all if it’s about his friends and, in my job, it’s useful to entertaining the clients”.

“Gossip”. Comet mumbled in the middle of a giggle, so Rarity would be the only one who heard him.

Rarity blushed in embarrassment to heard the way the colt had called her. It was obvious she got all that information gossiping with other mares at town, but she’ll never accept it because it wasn’t proper from a lady.

“Darling, it is not gossip, it’s more like a …”. She answered.

“You don’t have to be ashamed, everypony do it, even those idle mares of high society in Carterlot”. Comet interrupted her with a sarcastic tone with the clearly intention of teasing Rarity.

“You know, little one, it is rude to intrude on somepony else’s conversation”. She said trying to keep composure.

“It’s a little bit hard to not intrude if I can hear everything you’re talking about. Besides, I’m just sitting here, I’m boring”. Comet claim.

“Oh, don’t worry about that, darling, the fun it is just about to start”. Rarity said giving him a malicious glance, making comet felt a shiver though down his back. Maybe he had gone too far with Rarity.

Then, Rarity tried to give the first brush on Comet’s mop of white hair. The moment she dug the brush bristles on his hair, it got stuck not moving an inch no matter how much Rarity pulled.

“Wow, what did you put on your hair, it is completely…” Rarity stopped when she saw Twilight making her signs to keep in silence. “Ahem… you’ve got a very rebel hair”.

“It grows like that… Ouch!... but just in the white patches… Ouch! It hurts!” The colt explained, complaining at the pulls Rarity was giving him, even he knew it was a little excessive for how upset Rarity was.

“I’m sorry, darling”. Rarity sincerely apologized. “My brush got trapped in your hair and I can’t even pull it out”. She explained as in his voice it could be notice the struggle she was doing. “Twilight, could you help me?”

The lavender alicorn united the strength of his magic with her friend’s. pulling with all of his strength the brush that Comet’s hair didn’t want to release.

Clink!

A crystalline sound was heard making the two of them stop pulling. When Rarity saw what was happen she almost fainted. She brought the handle of the brush to her face, though without the head.

“My brush!” She yelled horrified. “I brought it from the Crystal Empire, it cost me a fortune”.

“I´m sorry Rarity, I should’t have pulled so hard”. Twilight apologized, feeling guilty.

“Well, there goes another one”. Comet said appearing a hologram with several groups of four lines slashed by a fifth one.

Twilight and Rarity got close to Comet to see the hologram he had created, watching how he draw another one in a group of three and then disappeared it.

“Another what?” Rarity asked a little annoyed.

“Another brush”. Comet answered.

“Say what now” Twilight said.

“See this?” Comet said reappearing the hologram. This is my count of broken brushes when somepony tried to “fix” my hair. You don’t think I had my mane like this just because I liked it? I’m sorry Rarity, but I tried to warned you”.

“Darling, the difference is that I don’t give up so easily. I’m not goig to let a mane beat me”. She said determinately. “Now, if strength is not enough, I will have to use heavy artillery”. She raised behind her a lot of bottles and jars of hair products with her magic, so differents that it was difficult to say what was the purpose of each one, meanwhile she looked at him with a dark glance.

Comet, intimidated by the mare’s stare, tried to run away, being captured by her magic, sitting him again on the chair and starting to make an extremely perfumed mixture on the foal’s head.





The time passed. Rarity had already made a good progress, all the products had managed to make Comet’s hair more malleable, making the branch and the brush finally free from their capillary prison, unfortunately, those would be the easiest to remove. Inside that tangle of hair Rarity found a crayon, a strange kind of green putty, seeds, lots of plants trash and bubble gum, which was taking her forever to clean up. It was taking so long that Twilight fell asleep on Rarity’s drama’s couch.

“You have been so quite the las minutes, Comet, something is happening?” Rarity asked when she noticed how calm he was.

“Eh?... I was just thinking. From all the things you could get scared at me, you did it of my mane, why?”

“What do you mean, darling?”

“You could be scared because the spots of my skin, my horn and my eye, the ponies always got scared when they see my eye, but, why my hair? Nopony had ever noticed before”.

“Oh darling, I noticed everything you’ve said, but besides your color, you are not different from me or another pony”. Rarity explained. “It’s true that your eye is very impressing when you see it the first time, but it’s just appearance. There’ is nothing to be afraid of. But I have to admit I’ve never have seen hair like this before, It’s too… shaggy”. She said trying to not sound so rude. Working with that hair was like trying to untangle a scourer”.

“It grows like that…”. Comet replied a little tired. “…but only in the white spots, the rest is normal. Also, it grows longer than the rest, so I have to constantly trim it. It’s annoying”.

That explains the uneven hair strands. Rarity thought.

“It’s not a big deal if you asked me”. Rarity said.

“It isn’t”. Comet agreed. “The biggest problem is the eye”. He turned to Rarity so she could see it better. It was the first time he did that without fear of being rejected. “The rest is not important until they don’t see my eye”.

“Like I said, it’s impressing the first time you saw it, but it’s nothing to be afraid of. I think it suit you very well, it gives you a certain distinctive”.

“That wasn’t what my partners on the orphanage thought or the mare’s in the furniture store”.

“Those mares, were an orange Pegasus and a minty unicorn?” Rarity asked, intuiting who he was talking about.

“Yes, did you saw them?”

“Oh, you don’t have to worry about them, they exaggerate everything. Twilight didn’t tell you?”

“I think she mention it”.

“About the other foals, I think they were afraid of something they couldn’t understand”.

They continued talking a long time while Rarity continued her job on Comet’s hair. He was speaking with more fluency and quickly learned to trust in her. After hours of hair pulls, dozens of hair products and uncountable rinses, his mane was finally free of tangles. Although, it was still impossible to comb due to its rigidity, Rarity managed to make it see acceptable, trimming and matching the tips, all with the help of a powerful conditioner Zecora had given to her. It was in such good conditions now that was possible to see beneath that shaggy white hair, some thin strands of smooth and silky mint and aqua green hair, which she arrange to stand out among all that white.

His tail wasn’t a big problem, the with hair on it was on the top and it was short, probably by Comet’s work, and it wasn’t as bad as his mane.

“Bye Rarity, see you this weekend”. Twilight said goodbye leaving his friend’s house. It took more time than she imagined, it was evening and they have to go home for dinner, arrange furniture and stuff they bought. At least, she had managed to rest, Comet’s mane was mucho better than before and he looked happy, so it was worth it. “Remember, not a word to the girls”.

“Bye, Miss Rarity ant thanks”. Comet wave his hoof.

“Good bye, see you soon”. Rarity wave her hoof as well. “Don’t worry Twilight, mi lips are sealed and Comet, remember to brush your mane at least once per day so it doesn’t get tangled again”.

She entered again to his home just to see the mess there was. Now she had to clean up. No matter how tired she was, she couldn’t overlook it, so she started to pick up the empty bottles and towels from the floor. Then, in the chair Comet had been sitting, she found his brush, the same one she broke when she tried to comb Comet. The foal had tried to repair it with his magic, leaving the handle a little crooked, but the intention was what counted. He left it on the chair on purpose so Rarity would find it, near a note that said “One less”. By reading it, she couldn’t help but draw a smile in her face.

“What a lovely boy”. She mumbled.
> Chapter 4 An unorthodox presentation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Four ponies entered running into the thrones room. They looked worried. None of them were very sure why they had been called so sudden. But, that was one of the reasons they though it would be important.

“Twilight, when did you came back? What´s happening?”. Aked an earth pony of orange fur and blond mane.

“What´s happening? Is everything ok?” Asked a blue Pegasus with rainbow mane.

“I’m glad you came that quick. There’s some…” Twilight said with a serious expression as she stands of her throne.

“Wait a minute Where´s Fluttershy?” A Pink earth pone interrupted.

“She will be here in a few minutes Until then, I think it would be a good idea Twilight tells us what is going on”. A white unicorn answered her.

“We have a very important matter on our hooves. I can’t find Spike anywhere”. Twilight continued.

“What?!” The four mares screamed at same time.

“How did this happen?” Rarity asked a little frightened.

“We need to find him”. Applejack suggested.

“I don’t know. This morning, when I woke up, he was already gone… and last night, I’ve heard some noises… I-I think, somepony entered the castle”. She answered concerned.

“That´s impossible, who would do that?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I-I… Now what? “Twilight couldn’t finish because in that moment, every light turned off.

“Did you remembered to pay the light bill this month, Twilight?” Pinkie Pie asked innocently.

“I can’t see anything”. Applejack said.

“It’s midday, it is not supposed to…” Twilight’s voice got interrupted by an unknown reason and, instead, a desperately muffled shout was heard.

“Twilight!” Pinkie Pie screamed.

“Twilight, are you all right?” Applejack asked.

Twilight didn’t response.

The four mares started to freaking out. None of them couldn’t see anything, but they all expected the worst to happen. Then the lights turned on again, revealing their greatest fears. Twilight was gone.

“What just happen?!” Rainbow Dash yelled.

“How could this happen? We all were here” Applejack said with wide eyes.

“Didn’t you feel anything with your Pinkie sense?” Rarity asked.

“No, nothing at all”. Pinkie said in panic.

The four friends didn’t know what to do. Suddenly, a new sound putted them on alert. It was like a pounding and a whining coming behind one of the doors. Cautiously, they approached to the door, each one in a position so they could jump on whoever was the guilty. Nopony messed with her friend. They count 1, 2, 3 and…

“Spike!” They shouted when they saw the little dragon tided up and gagged behind the door. He was struggling against his ties. Watching with fear to his four friends with fierce looks in their eyes.

They quickly took the litthe dragon and freeing him of the ropes that impeded his movement and the handkerchief that prevented him to emit any sound.

“Spike, we were so worried about you. Where were you? What happen?” Rarity said exaggerating his voice like she was about to start crying.

“Quick, you gotta get out of here!” Spike warned them in panic.

“Why? What is happening?” Applejack asked worried.

“Who is responsible for this?” Rainbow Dash said pretending to be brave.

“I don’t know. Last night, when I was about to go sleep, someone attacked me from behind and dragged me to nowhere and…” He interrupted to himself. “Oh no, Twilight! We have to warning Twilight!

“She’s already caught”. Pinkie yelled hysterical.

“What?!” Spike yelled terrified to notice he was too late. “Oh no, if he already has her, that just mean that… We need to get out of here! As fast as possible!” The little dragon said as he pushed his friends to the exit.

“But… What about Twilight?” Rainbow Dash asked not wanting to leave a friend behind.

“There’s no time!” He growled. “Hurry! It won’t take long for him to notice I’ve escape!” At the time he just finished to say that, all the doors slammed shut. Locking everyone in the room.

“Oh no, he caught us!” Spike screamed.

“I can’t open it!” Rainbow said trying frantically to open the door to the exit.

“I can’t either!” Applejack screamed helping her friend.

“It´s useless! This is the end! We all are going to…” Spike said fatalistically.

The light started to flashing, now faster than the last time and irregularity. Taking the four mare by surprise, frightening even more with every second. Twilight was the only one with the most powerful magic among them, without her, they feel helpless at whatever was happening.

“This is the part in horror movies when the killer appears…” Pinkie said, thinking aloud.

“Shut up Pinkie! Rainbow Dash indicated her, fearing by the comment of the pink pony. “I’m not afraid of you! Come on and fight like a pony!” She said Punching the air with his hooves, trying to show more courage than she was feeling.

“NO. HELP ME…” Spike screamed, disappearing in a second they just turned to Rainbow, leaving the scratches of his claws in the floor. “SPIKE!” They shouted.

The light started to flashing even faster.

They even hadn’t had time to process what just happen when a second shout was heard, now from Rarity, who disappeared as fast as Spike before. Leaving the three remaining ponies perplexed by losing two of their friends is just few seconds, terrified of being the next.

All the courage Rainbow could have felt in that moment, fade. Making her returning to the other two, getting as closer as possible to feel more safety.

A lot of noises started to be heared in the room, like if something was trying to get out of the floor, breaking it and crawling under it. The flashing and dimed light blinded them, confusing them. The only they can see were shades swirling around them.

They started to step back, getting back to back, very close from each other, fearing that was the end, as the sound of broken stuff, collapsing or being destroyed by an unknown force they couldn’t see were even harder every second.

Then, they heard a sound behind them, very close. This wasn’t like the others, this one was more like a bump, like if someone just landed behind them.

Shaking in fear, they turned to see what was that they had behind. What they saw freeze them up. In front of them, there was a shadow, staring at them with a terrifying shining white eye. They were all terrified when the shadow draws a maleficent grin on its face before it pounces on them.

The three mare scream helpless, hugging each other.

“GOTCHA!” Four voices shouted.

Still scared and a little stunned by the experience, the open their eyes confused to see who were there with them. They were nothing more and nothing less than their friends, which were supposed to be captured.

“You should see the look on your faces”. Rarity said giggling, trying to contend the laghing. At the same time, the four of them remove a kind of shadow from them with a movement of his arm.

“Everything were a joke?” Applejack said shaking.

“Of couse! And I may say it worked perfectly”. Spike commented, laughing, as he jumped to high five an unknown foal.

Pinkie, being Pinkie, started to laugh out loud as if nothing of above was happened.

“Good one, Twilight”. She said between laughs. “I didn’t expect that one”.

“That is not done!”. Rainbow Dash replied. “I really got scare… worried”. She said with tears in her eyes. “I thought you were in danger”.

“Are you crying?” Twilight asked mocking.

“Of course not”. She shout.

“Well, maybe that would teach you to not play me jokes when I am delivering an important job to Sapphire Shores”. Rarity claimed.

“Or giving me dragon sneeze when I’m carrying important documents”. Spice continued.

“Or when I’m in conference with Princess Celestia. Besides, Pinkie laugh at it”. Twilight said.

“Pinkie laughs at all”. Rainbow answered annoyed. She knew best that her friends were right; Applejack, Pinkie Pie and her had done all that jokes to them a few weeks ago, but she didn’t expect they would payback. “And who is this?!” She said pointing at Comet, making Pinkie stop laughing, remembering about the other pony there was with them, someone she didn’t know.

“It’s true! The new pony!” She exclaimed, getting closer to the foal with an incredible speed, surprising Comet and making him step back. “Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie. You should be new in town. I know because I know everypony in Ponyville and I’ve never seen you before, and that only means that you are new here. What’s your name? Where are you from? What are you doing here in Twilight’s castle? When did you met her?”

Pinkie started to asking questions to Comet far too fast to him to be capable to answer all of them. When he was about to answer one she already had asjked him another three. She just talked and talked non-stop. Comet couldn’t understand how she managed to not runout of air.

“Then…” Rainbow said. “I understand you played us a joke, but what does he have to do with all of this?”

“That’s true, Twilight, who is he?” Applejack agreed with rainbow, who decided to calm herself before speaking in order to prevent an outburst like Rainbow did.

“Are you kidding? He planned everything”. Twilight answered.

“He what?” Applejack exclaimed in surprise.

The three of them, even Pinkie, turned to Twilight, amazed by her affirmation. Immediately, the same glance turned to the foal next ho them, who had an arrogant smirk in his face as he pumped up his chest proudly.

“Then, who is he?” Applejack asked even more surprised, ‘case she knew Twilight wasn’t lying.

“I promise I will tell you everything at time, but by the moment, you’ll have to wait”. Twilight said. “Until then, Comet, go clean yourself, it´s time for lunch”.

“Ok, Twilight”. The colt answered obediently, not before giving Twilight a tender look.

“I’ll go to the kitchen”. Spike said with a big smile on his face, giggling.

This left the three friends open-mouthed, without understanding even a little of what was happening. First, Twilight called them for an emergency; after that, the emergency and the terrifying scenario results to be a joke she planned with Rarity and Spike; then, results that the joke was planned by a little foal they had never knew; and finally, he treated Twilight like they were very close. They didn’t know what they were missing or if all of that was a strange dream.

“Um… Hi, girls. Am I late?” A soft voice broke into the room. “I got this note saying to come here at this time and…”

“Fluttershy. Of course not, you are just in time”. Twilight interrupted her. Come in, Make yourself comfortable.

“Oh, thanks”. She answered with her typical kindness. “Huh… What happened to you three?” She asked when she saw her friend with incredulous faces.

“It´s a long story”. Twilight answered. “I´ll tell you in a moment. Could you come with me? I need help setting the table, I’m a little late.

“Sure, Twilight”. Fluttershy answered cheerfully, following her friend, also being followed by Rarity.

The rest stayed these, sitting on the floor, still trying to understand what just happen, everyone but Pinkie, who was thinking about the best decorations for the welcome party she would make to the newcomin.




“I can’t wait to tell our friends the good news”. Rarity said very excited.

“And, what do you think if we don’t tell them?” Twilight said with a mysterious air.

“What do you mean, dear?

“Do you remember the jokes they played to us a few weeks ago?”

“How not to doing it, Rainbow Dash had so much luck Sapphire Shores was in a good mood. If she had ruined my job…” Rarity said, getting anger just to remember it.

“Well, I think it is time for a payback”. Twilight said with a malicious glance.

“What do you have in mind?” Rarity said interested in the idea.

“I don’t know yet, but if we work together, we can…”

“If you want to make a joke, I can help you with that”. Comet interrupt her.

The two mares looked to each other a little unsure about Comet’s suggestion, but then, they grin thinking in giving the foal a chance, after all, who’s better to plot a mischief than a foal.

“Tell us, what’s your plan?” Twilight asked him.

Comet smiled machiavellically and made them a signal to get close to him. “It´s kind of difficult and it will require a lot of coordination, but if everything goes well…” He started to explained his plan.

“…and that’s how all this perfectly synchronized farce arose. We had been preparing it for three days, but I think it was worth it”. Twilight happily finished narrating the story. She was sitting on the head of the table, enjoying her lunch with his friends, Spike and Comet.

-So, let me get the straight, everything was an illusion?” Pinkie Pie asked amazed.

“Yup”. Comet nodded. “Nothing was real. Every shade, every figure, was a trick. Everything is in knowing how to play with the shadows”. 

“And you did it all by yourself?” Applejack asked still can’t believing it.

“Well, I had a little help”. He answered turning to look twilight.

“I’m glad I wasn’t there; it must have been terrifying”. Fluttershy said, shuddering just thinking about it.

“And you say it”. Applejack agreed.

“You have to admit it was funny”. Pinkie Pie added. “It was a good joke”.

“Well, I was not scared”. Rainbow Dash said.

“Well, I have a picture that says the opposite”. Comet said showing a photograph with a terrified Rainbow Dash on it, screaming and hugging her friends.

“Hey, give me that”. Rainbow dash said very blushed, flying toward Comet in a tent to take the picture, but Comet moved it before she could reach it, playing with her like one will do with a cat and a laser pointer. But disappearing it at the end.

“If you dare to tell somepony about this…” Rainbow threatened.

“Rainbow Dash, control yourself. He is just a foal”. Rarity scold her.

“Anyway, the joke is over, why you still having make up?” She said ignoring Rarity, pointing at Comet’s eye.

“It… It is not make up”. He answered lowing his head, covering his eye with his hoof.

“Oh…” Rainbow said, ashamed because she knew she messed things up.

“Rainbow Dash, how can you be so insensitive?” Fluttershy reproached her, looking at her disapprovingly, like the rest of her friend.

“You didn’t have to making fun of him like that”. Rarity scold her again.

“Don’t listen to her”. Twilight said kindly, getting closer to Comet. “Rainbow usually is very impulsive when she is upset. I am sure she didn’t mean it.

The rest of her friend got closer to comet to try to comfort him. Rainbow, in the other hand, she just stared how she had become the bad guy of the story. Even though she tried to remain angry with the foal for making her look bad, she couldn’t. The only thing she only could felt was regret. She knew she was wrong, despite having spoken out of ignorance.

“It is true he played us a joke…” Pinkie Pie said getting closer to Rainbow, pulling her out of her thoughts. “…, however, no one was hurt, but making fun of other, Rainbow, is not fun”.

Driven by Pinkies words, Rainbow knew perfectly what she had to do. Even though that meant to swallow her pride. She flew to stand in front of Comet. “Hey, kiddo, listen”. She said to get his attention. “I’m sorry about what I said, I didn’t mean to. I really thought it was a kind of Rarity’s make up…”

“Although I’m flattered, darling, there is no way I could do that”. Rarity replied.

“I know that now”. She continued. “I was upset and I didn’t think about what I was doing. What I’m trying to say is… I’m sorry”.

Comet listened every word Rainbow said, a little hesitating about the truth on his words, but as she continued speaking, he could notice there wasn’t any hint of falsehood on her voice, indeed she was being very honest. So, Comet looked at her with a smile on his face, nodding in agreement, indicating he accepted the apology.

“What you did was so awesome”. Rainbow added in a better mood. “You did a great job with your eye there. That was really scary”.

“Thanks”. Comet said sincerely, feeling proud that someone complimented his work.

“I would like to ask something about your eye…” Fluttershy said. “If that doesn’t bother you, of course”

“What?” Comet replied.

“Can you see with it?” Everypone, except Comet, tuned to Fluttershy with a surprised and awkward expression because it was the same question they had in mind, but only she dared to ask, making Fluttershy shrink.

“Yes, I can see with it”. He answered with a tone that denoted he was tired of hearing that.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you”. Fluttershy apologized.

“It´s not your fault. But, if I had a bit every time I’ve even heard that question…”.

“There’s still something I don’t understand”. Applejack said. “You’ve already told us about all this thing about the joke, but you haven’t told us who is he yet.

“True. How could I forget about the most important thing?” Twilight said giggling. “Girls, I’d like to introduce you to Comet Dust, he is, basically, my son.” She said happily.

Everypony were speechless, everypony but Rarity –obviously-, trying to understand what they just heard. The confusion could be seeing in their faces, specially Pinkie. She was open-mouthed, not knowing if feeling happy or confuse, so her face stayed in an intermediate grin a little weird.

That explained the familiar form –and motherly- Twilight spoken to the colt and the obedience he had at her indications. But that wasn’t enough, it hadn’t cleared all their doubts.

“Did you know about this?” Fluttershy asked to Rarity.

“Well, of course”. She answered feeling a little superior of knowing something the rest of her friends didn’t. “I’ve met him a few days ago; they went to my boutique for a mane emergency”.

Twilight gave them the same explanation she had told Rarity, since her arrive to Canterlot, why she decided to enter the orphanage, how she met Comet, until her decision of adopting him. Once she finished, her friend couldn’t help but look with tenderness to the pair of ponies and the little dragon which formed a family now.

“Is the loveliest story I’ve ever heard”. Fluttershy said with tears in her eyes, moved by the tender action of Twilight.

“A little cheesy if you ask me”. Rainbow said, reverting to his rude facade.

“What a dumbs the Canterlot ponies could be”. Applejack said. “Rejected him just because the look of his eye. If they only knew what he can do”.

“That’s right”. Rainbow agreed. “To make a joke like that requires talent, a lot of talent. Besides, I think that eye makes him look 20% cooler”.

“I agreed with you, darling”. Rarity said. “It is very distinctive”.

Even though Comet knew they all were just empty compliments, the fact of knowing that six ponies appreciated him just because how he was and not because how he looked, made him feel comfortable, that al last he belongs somewhere.



“Welcome to the family, Comet!” Pinkie Pie shout hugging him so tight. “I’ll make you the most spectacular welcome party. There will be cakes, sweets, music, games and tons of fun. All ponies in town will be there, you will meet a lot of interesting people and you’ll make lots of friends…”

“Pinkie, wait… I… I don’t want a party –Comet rapidly said with an uncomfortable expression.

“What? Why?” Pinkie asked a little sad of hearing all his planes destroyed.

“Introduce me to you five is a thing, but doing it in front of dozens of ponies I… I can’t… I’m not ready”. Comet said nervously, letting him go from Pinkie’s arms. “I think we should postpone it”.

“Don’t be afraid”. Fluttershy told him. “I know being under everypony’s eye could be frightening, but you’ll see it will worth it when you make some friends”.

“That’s what I’m worried about”. Comet said, freaking out just to think about all the ponies’ reaction when they see him.

“It’s all right, I understand”. Pinkie replied a little depressed, but she understands Comet rejected his party not because he wanted to despise her effort, but he was afraid of being the mockery of everyone.

“Are you sure about this?”. Twilight asked him, knowing how much how the others saw him affected Comet. Comet just nodded keeping a nervous look.

“Well it’s a shame. I was hoping I could give you this in the party, but since It won’t happen, I think you can have it today”. Rarity said, pulling out a huge box wrapped in a shining red paper, decorated with a blue ribbon, from a closet.

“What is this?” Comet asked when he saw the box Rarity putted in front of him.

“It’s for you, Comet. It’s a present”. Rarity answered.

“A present?” He asked to himself as the excitement started to arise on his eyes.

“It’s not the only one”. Twilight interrupted. Pulling out a box too, apparently heavier, from the same closet.

“Awww, you should have told me”. Pinkie said pitifully. “I’d like to give him something too”.

“If we had done it, the joke wouldn’t have worked”. Twilight said giggling.

“What are you waiting for?! Open it!” Rainbow yelled, excited to see what was in the boxes. Not just Rainbow, the rest of the friends were curious to know what was inside too, spreading this enthusiasm to Comet.

He started to rip the paper uncovering the first present, Twilight’s. When he ripped the last piece of paper, the face of the foal shine with happiness when he saw what was beneath. Unlike Twilight’s friend, which couldn’t help but show the obviously that Twilight couldn’t give anything else but books, staring at her as if it was the worst gift in the world.

“Yay! Books!” The foal screamed very excited. “Thanks Twilight”.

Twilight snorted as a victory sign as she gave an arrogant look to her friends, who couldn’t believe that someone could be that excited for receive paper. It has to be Twilight’s son after all.

“Open mine, now”. Rarity said, anxious to see the colt´s reaction. Rapidly, Comet untied the ribbon that hold the wrapper. But he hadn’t had to rip the paper this time. Skillfully, Rarity arranged the paper so that this will open like a flower when he remove the ribbon, keeping the beautiful wrapper she chose intact.

When he opened the box, the excitement became to confusion. Within the box there wasn’t toys, candies o books, as he thought; there were a lot of fabrics, perfectly folded and meticulously arranged inside.

“Rarity, what is this?” He asked.

“It is not obvious? Is your new wardrobe”. She said proudly. “Made it by nothing more and nothing less than me”.

“Oh… Thanks”. Comet said trying to smile, a little unsure.

“Didn’t you like it?” Rarity asked when she saw his reaction.

“It isn’t that… It’s just… I don’t know what to think…” He answered choosing very well his word to not sound rude.

“Oh is that so? That’s because you haven’t had proven it, darling”. She said understanding what he was trying to say, she had seen that reaction dozens of times before. “Come here, let me help you”.

Without even gave him time to answer her, Rarity pulled Comet toward her and appeared a screen with his magic, only their shadow could be seen through it it, Twilight and her friends watched Rarity dressing up Comet against his will, as they could hear some complains from him.

“Oh, you look divine”. Rarity said, disappearing the screen and appearing a mirror in front of Comet. “The perfect attire for a handsome little gentlecolt like you”.

For everyone’s surprise, even Comet, Rarity was right. Talking about fashion, she knew best what was better for everypony just to see it.

Comet was spellbounded in how good he looked in that attire Rarity made. It was a Bordeaux dress vest –very elegant-, a kind of white shirt without sleeves and, as complement, a dark turquoise bow tie and handkerchief.

He really looked like royalty now or, at least, like a high society pony. A foal worthy of being called the son of the Princess of Friendship. “It’s incredible”. Comet said non-stop watching his reflect. “I look incredible”.

“I’m so glad you like it”. Rarity said.

“Like it?... I love it”. The foal said, with shining eyes in happiness. “I’ve never had such fine clothes, actually, I’ve never had new clothes. I… I don’t know what to say… Thank you”. He hugged Rarity.

“Aww, I’m sorry not having anything to give you this time”. Fluttershy said. “I promise to give you something nice the next time”.

“And you will look fabulous in the school too”. Rarity added. “You will be the best dressed colt around”.

“School?” Comet and Twilight asked simultaneously.

“Of course”. Rarity replied. “Don’t you remember Twilight? The vacations are ending and Comet has to assist to school like the other foals.

“It’s true. You can agree with me, Twilight, when I say that learning is very important for everyone.” Applejack added.

“You are right, nopony should miss their studies”. Twilight solemnly say at what she thought was the most important thing in foals’ life.

“I don’t need to go to school”. Comet replied. “I can learn evrething I need here in the castle, after all, Twilight is the most intelligent and wise pony in all of Equestria”. He put baby doll ayes.

“I´m flattered, Comet, but I’m not the indicated pony to do it”. She answered him, erasing the smile in his face. “I can always help you with your studies if you need it, but you must go”.

“But…”

“No need to worry. Miss Cheerilee is good and very kind”. Fluttershy said to convince him.

“And I can see you don’t have your cutie mark yet. I know three fillies who will be very happy to know you”. Applejack commented. “You’ll see; you’ll be better than a swine in the mud in a hot day”.

“And you will know a lot of foals of your age to be friends. It will be fun!” Pinkie Pie said.

“With your cunning and your awesomeness, you’ll have them eating from your hoof, I can assure you”. Rainbow dash finished.

“Yeah… Friends…” Comet said with a forced smile and a tone of voice that indicated concern.

Comet turned around and walked away from the group of mares, which continued talking to each other, while all the excitement Comet felt moments ago slowly fade away, leaving him with only his fears overwhelming him.
> Chapter 5 The school started... and the problems too
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 5. The classes are starting… and the problems too.




Morning. The first beams of sunshine started to enter through the huge windows of the castle. The birds were giving life to the new day with their trills and a fresh breeze help the ponies to bear the warm hug of the summer sun.

“Raise and shine!” An excited purple alicorn entered into the piece of a colt wrapped among his blankets. It was unusual that the colt didn’t wake up by himself, he always did it at dawn, with an exception the days after he move to Ponyville, so she had been surprised when he didn’t go to breakfast. Thinking he probably had problems to sleep due to his excitement for that day.

“It’s morning, Comet.” Twilight said moving the curtains to allow the sunlight lo enter the room. “Today is a big day. You don’t want to be late in our first day.”

Comet moaned when the sun hit his face, covering itself completely with the blankets. “It´s too early yet.” Comet complain. “And be late for what?”

“Itsn’t it obvious? School starts today, you must hurry or you’ll be late.”

Comet just turned, turning his back to Twilight with annoyance. “I’m not going.” He said reluctantly.

Twilight put a severe glance and pull the blankets discovering the foal, who stared at her in surprise. “Comet, we have spoken about this already and we decided this was the best.”

“You decided that.” He said irritated, taking back the blankets and covering again.

Twilight, tired of the foal’s stubbornness, ignited her horn making disappear the blankets from the room. She expected that behavior already. The caretakers from the orphanage had warned her that Comet could be foolish and inflexible when an idea got into his head, making difficult to change his mind. So she’d has to be pretty firm in her position if she wanted the colt to take her seriously.

“Hey, that´s cheating.” Comet screamed when his “shelter” was gone.

“I’m not going to discuss this again, young foal.” Twilight said with a severe look in her face, intimidating him a little-. “You must go to school. And like it or not, I take the decisions here.” She started to move to the door. “So prepare yourself and go down to breakfast.”

Twilight closed the door with a big sigh. She wasn’t pretty sure if she had went too hard with Comet, maybe she should have stopped to talk with him and clear all this matter, but at that point, she couldn’t taking back. Plus, Comet could have used it to delay them even more.

Comet stayed for a while on his bed, raging in silence. Forcing him to accept the idea of him going to school, something he considered useless an unnecessary. He thought that there was nothing there he couldn’t learn in the castle and insisted in Twilight being his mentor. He couldn’t understand why she refuses on doing it.

When he understood that he wouldn’t get to anything by being angry, he stood down from the bed, an went to his closet. Then, there, he found, next to his bed, a lot of stuff he didn’t remember leaving them there or even seeing them the night before. Among them, there was a simple, Prusia Blue, saddlebag; it has a personalized buckle of aqua blue color and crescent moon shape. There were some notebooks, scrolls, pencils, color pencils and other stuff he would need in his scholar life.

Now he understood why Twilight was going out frequently all the week. The saddle bag was made by Rarity, obviously, it has her fir on it everywhere; the rest, probably she bought them in the stands of the marketplace. Twilught was really excited with the idea of him assisting to school, so much that she had taken the trouble of buying him more than the necessary for it.

Comet went down to breakfast once he was ready. Resigned to obey Twilight. When she saw him, all her body fulfilled with joy by seeing Comet carrying the saddlebag she bought for him. She draws a smile on her face as she gave a tender look to her foal, who looked like a student now. Ready for a new adventure.

After embarrass Comet with lots of compliments and kisses, the foal walked to his seat. Since it was a “special occasion “, Spiked had prepared, with a little help of Twilight, a big number of dishes, among them, a cake, an assortment of cupcakes from Sugarcube Corner and, how could it be missing, a great variety of fruit on the table, which Comet already had taken a liking, except for berries, of course. However, Spike and Twilight were a little overreached, since the quantity of food there was enough to feed an entire hoofball team.

The breakfast was as quite as usual since Comet came, that is to say, nothing. They talked and joked all the time it lasts, sometimes even more, and that day weren’t the exception. As it couldn’t be possible in other way, the topic in this occasion was Comet’s first school day. Twilight non stopped talking about how excited it would be, the things he will learn and the friends he’ll make. In the other hand, Comet wasn’t very convinced with the idea, it wasn’t the encouraging thing to him. However, seeing Twilight so happy and excited gave him security; besides, if schools in Ponyville were similar to in Canterlot, or at least what he heard about them, he will be in a big room with a few foals, nothing to be worried about.

“Alright, I’ll go.” He accepted, but instantly giving Twilight a serious look. “But with one condition. I’ll go alone.”

“What? Why?” Twilight said, eardropped, disappointed by the foal’s petition. She really wanted to go with him.

“If I’m going to make friends, I want them to be real friends, that they appreciate me for who I am, not just because I´m the son of the Princess.” Comet lied, hiding that the truth of the history was he was afraid of Twilight realizing de overcoming of all the situation.

Twilight thought for a moment, trying to find something to counter argue because Comet had his point. She trusted that Comet could identify a real friend from a fake one, but if he thought that would give him security about his friends, then who was she to impeding him. Sooner or later the secret will be revealed. Until then, he would have time to tighten the ties with his friends and knowing about her wouldn’t influence in Comet´s image they would have about him.

Regretfully, Twilight agreed, if that meant that he was going to go to school.




Comet walked all the way to school, in the opposite side of the town, nervously. A lot of ponies, not just foals, returned to their jobs after vacation, so the streets were full even since early in the morning. All the way he went hiding on the shadows and avoiding making contact with others.

As he got closer to school more foals could be seeing, but it wasn’t until he arrived to his destiny when he saw all the classmates he will have. The Schoolhouse wasn´t very big, just a modest red with white ornamentation cabin with a bell tower on the roof. Around it, there were at least thirty foals and fillies playing around or saying goodbye to their parents.

Comet started to cold sweat, he didn´t expect he will be surrounded by lot of foals and in such small place. He starter to thing that leaving Twilight at home was a good idea. He didn’t know any of them, but they seem to know each other perfectly perhaps, because some of them entered the building accompanied with others laughing and talking about how much fun they had had on vacation.

Comet froze, even the idea of going back or hiding somewhere else until the classes ended cross his mind. But what would happen if Twilight discover him, she trusted him, he couldn’t lay her down. He didn’t want to disappoint Twilight. Still terrified, he tried to find the courage to getting closer, but every time he attempted to walk, his legs didn’t respond.

The bell rang, calling everypony to go inside. Classes were about to commence. All the foals out there, quickly walked to go inside as a fuchsia fur, pink mane and green eyes pony, probably the teacher, went out to corroborate nopony was left outside.  That was enough to make Comet move, his fear of disappointing Twilight was bigger than his fear of people.

The fuchsia mare was starting to walk inside with a look that comet couldn’t say if it was of worrying or tiredness. “Wait!” Comet yelled in order to call the mares attention so she will not close the door.

The mare turned around to see who was yelling, because there wasn’t anypony out already. In a first sight, she couldn’t see anypony until she low his head a little and saw a little colt running towards her. “Oh, you must be Comet.” She said gently.



Miss Cheerilee was staying a lot of time in the door. Maybe she was talking with one of the parents who still out there, nopony could say it with certain, the teachers body and the door prevent them to see. However, nopony gave them importance apparently, surely it was one of those boring talks the adults usually have and that gave them more time to talk with their friends.

“…yeah, I had a lot of fun with Babs in Manehattan.” Said a filly with yellow fur and red mane wearing a big pink bow on it to her two friends. “We went to the park, went all the way up of a huge statue in an island and she showed me the Manehattan division of the Cutie Mark Crusaders.”

“What a coincidence. I went to Manehattan too.” Said a little unicorn with white fur and pink-lavender mane. “It´s a shame we didn’t see each other there.”

“Yes, I bet Babs would had loved it.” She answered. “What about you, Scootaloo? What did you do on your vacation?

“My mother took me to camp. It was awesome. We paddled in a canoe, jumped down a zip line, went climbing and met a lot of animals.” Answered a Pegasus of orange fur and magenta mane.

-Good morning, students.” Cheerilee greeted cheerfully, finally entering into the classroom followed by a stranger colt. “I’m glad to see and having all of you one more year…” She said starting a speech the most of the present know very well. “…and I’m even more glad to anunce that we have a new student with us, so everypony give a warm welcome to Comet.”

Immediately, all looks were for Comet, especially the ones from five fillies who saw instantly at his flank, were a cutie mark was missing. Three of them watch him with enthusiastic while the other two smile to each other deviously.

Comet was petrified to feel all those eye upon him, the only thing he was moving was his own eyes, turning nervously everywhere, looking for a spot where nopony where paying him attention. Always takin care of showing the right side of his face. Probably somepony had already saw him; soon, all of them would know about his eye; nothing will change, everything will remain the same as in Canterlot… All those thoughts were clouding his mind, giving him no other response than run away.

“You don’t have to be nervous.” A sweet and kind voice told him. It was Cheerilee, trying to calm him when she saw he was having difficulties. “Why don’t you introduce yourself? Tell us about yourself.”

“I-I’m…” He tried to speak, but that was the only he could say. In a las attempt to calm himself, he closed his eyes and breathed slowly. Then something came to his mind, something that he couldn’t see until then: Rarity had said that he would be the best dressed pony at school, well, she was right. In fact, he was the only dressed pony. 

The funny of that situation were enough to calm his nerve a little so he could thing more clearly. Gaining some courage, Comet finally was ready to speak. “I-I’m Comet Dust. I’m six years old. I moved from Canterlot with my mother a few weeks ago.”

“It’s a pleasure, Comet. I’m pretty sure everypony here are hoping to know more about the life in Canterlot. But that would have to wait until school break.” Cheerille said, taking some pressure off Comet. “Now choose your seat, we have three available. Feel free to choose whatever you like.”

Comet gave a sight to the seat Cheerille was talking about. None of them were convenient for him. One was in the center line, just in the middle of the classroom, where everypony could see him; the second one was in the right side of the classroom, leaving his eye uncovered; and the last one was in the back of the room in the left side, he won’t be able to hear very well what the teacher said, but at least his eye won’t be on sigh, choosing this one.

He walked nervous between the lines of seat where his classmates were siting, cunningly using his saddlebag to hide his eye, levitating it with his magic, amazing some of his classmates, who, having the same age, they didn’t know how to use magic yet.

He was so distracted covering his eye form his classmates sight that he didn’t see where he was stepping, tripping on something he never knew what it was or if somepony had tripped him, face-falling to the floor. Some snickers began to be heard while other ponies stared reproachfully at the pony who was sitting next to where he had fallen. A gray fur with dark gray mane Pegasus, Rumble.

It was known to everypony that Rumble liked to play joke on his parners, becoming very irritating sometimes. Rumble, feeling the sights of his partners, put an indignant expression by being accused unfairly.

Comet got up with a slight wail of pain. A little confuse, he got on four hooves again. In that moment, some gasps and murmurs began to be heard as miss Cheerilee tried to calm down her students, but it was late already. The fall had deactivated Comet´s magic, leaving his saddlebag on the floor. Noticing this and the fact that everypony was looking at him now, he took his saddlebag again and ran frightened to his seat.

Miss Cheerille managed to calm down all of her students after a while and Rumble could convince his fellows he hadn’t done anything. But the damage was done, due to that unfortunately accident, everypony had seen his eye, all of them know what he was now.

Fortunately, nopony looked at him again the rest of the boring class, one of the advantages of being behind everyone. Everypony were paying attention to the lesson except for three: two fillies, one of gray fur and silver mane and, the other, of pink fur and lavender with white mane, who were gossiping behind Miss Cheerilee’s back; and Comet, who pull out his pencil, one of the few things he brought with him, and a notebook. He pretended was taking note when he really was making lines and scribbles on the pages. The lesson was about orthography, something Comet knew perfectly due all the book he had read, making the thought of had gone there was waste of time came back.

It was a lucky the break will come soon. A rest from that somniferous class, eat something and a great opportunity to continue reading the books Twilight had gifted him since he hadn’t finished more than one.

Break was already started and while the rest of their fellows were excited to play with his friends, for Comet meant a little space of time to relax and being on alone. He found a clam place under a tree, a little far from his classmates running and yelling everywhere.

He sat down laying on the trunk, giving his back to the rest of his class, leaving his lunch next to him. Nothing ostentatious, an apple, a daisies sandwich and a little of hay and, of course, a bottle of water. He was very excited of finishing his book, a fictional story about four brothers who manage to enter into a strange snowy world through a closet. Ha had never had special interest in fantastic stories, but he gave a chance to this one because Twilight gave them to him, and the story was really good.

Rapidly, he got absorbed by the paper he had in front of his eyes. As usual, he was too into the pages of the book that he forgotten from everything else, all of his problems disappeared, nothing existed between he and his book. Cary knew this perfectly, when for some reason Comet didn’t went down to eat or helping in the orphanage, probably he was reading. It was his favorite escape. 

He made a few chews to his lunch when his body reminded him he was hungry, but for the rest, he didn’t quit his aye from the paper, he barely blinked. For the first time in all day, he was tranquil, at least for the thirty minutes of the brake.

Meanwhile, near the other foals and the furniture of the playground, three foals were greedily looking for Comet, with the excuse of welcome him. The few foals who saw Comet where he was going, guided them pointing the tree. At fast pace, the trio walk to their encounter with an unaware Comet.

“So, there you are.” A colt said with a tone as he was surprised of see him there. “You and I have some things to resolve…” Comet didn’t move, in fact, he didn’t even notice the precence of the three colts next to him. “Hey, I’m talking to you.” He said again, a little irritated, but with the same effect.

The three colts look to each other in confusion, Comet didn’t move even a millimeter, all what he did was staring at his book. Then, one of them got close to him and gave him a poke on his shoulder, taking Comet by surprise, ‘cause he thought he would be far enough to not be disturbed.

“Huh? What? Oh, sorry. I didn’t see you there. What were you saying? Comet say a little confused, turning to see the same colt of gray fur and mane with other two, a bulky one with cream color fur and blue mane in a military haircut; and the other, little and scrawny, of orange fur and red mane. The here of them look intimidating, but not as much as the entire class.

“You and I have to talk about what happen in the classroom...” The colt said again, apparently the leader.

“Rumble, right?” Comet interrupted him, trying to not sound nervous. “Don´t worry about that, it wasn’t a big deal.” Comet said gently. “And I don’t blame you, I really don’t think you have something to do with that.” He added, thinking that with that everything will be solved.

“True. In the end, I think everypony forgot about it.” Rumble said moderating his voice to make Comet think he wasn’t giving too much importance to the matter. “It was a surprise when everyone saw that eye of yours. It´s kind of… peculiar, now I’m interested.

Comet couldn’t help but get annoyed by the last comet the colt said. It was almost the same thing Twilight´s friends told him, but there was something in the tone of his voice that made him believe that Rumble didn’t say it with good intentions.

“If you still upset for that, I’ve already told you I have no regrets toward you. So please, leave me alone.” Comet said trying to not be rude as he could, struggling to not fall in Rumble’s provocations.

“Now listen, you freak! Your little joke almost got me in trouble and someone has to pay for it.” Rumble said, finally bringing to light his true intentions.

“I have no idea what you are talking about.” Comet said, returning to his book, giving his back to them three. “HEY! GIVE IT BACK! THAT’S MINE!” Comet yelled when the scrawny pony snatched his book.

“Good job, Blink.” Rumble flattered him.

“Give me my book back.” Comet said angrily as he got dangerously close to them while he ignited his horn.

Rumble rolled his eyes. “Bull…” He ordered. In the act, the bulky one charge over Comet, tacking him, painfully knocking him off on the floor, preventing him from using his magic. Once he was on the floor, Bull sat on him, impeding to Comet to get up.

“While you are there, pay attention.” Rumble said threatening. “If you thought just because you’re new or weird we’ll threaten you different, then you’re wrong. I ruled this school, and if you mess with me you´ll pay dearly. Understood.” Then, Rumble noticed the half eaten lunch of Comet, who just saw him with anger, and smirked maliciously. “We´ll take this as an apology. Let´s go.” He said and ordered to his lackeys. Rumble take Comet´s lunch and leave, followed by the other two, not without before Blink threw the book on him.

Comet got up in pain. I was hard to breath, having that colt sitting on him was like been squashed by a vending machine with legs, imagine being rolled by him now, he can still fell the hit.

He turned to his now damaged book. Those brutes threated it in a way a book has never been treated. Several pages were now creased, and other ripped; with the fall it got dirty, staining some several pages and parts of the beautiful golden decorations on the cover were ruined. The ripped pages could be fixed with magic, but the rest of the damage were irreparable. The’ had ruined his precious book Twilight had given just a few days ago.

The remaining time of the brake, Comet spent it fixing and cleaning his book, flattering the corrugated pages, uniting the ripped ones and dusting of all the dirt he could. Everything with his body aching yet, due to the hits and scratches that had been made, continuingly to silently insult the three of them who had done that to him.

The bell rang again and everyone walked again inside the classroom, except for three fillies who were waiting at the door, searching for somepony among his classmates. Then the Pegasus, Scootaloo, pointed to the end of the line. There he was, Comet Dust.

“Comet, we’ve been looking for you. I’m Apple Bloom, and they are Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle; we want to know if you are interested…” She stopped when she saw Comet limping. “Are you ok?”

Comet didn´t answered. He passed them without even noticing their presence. He was too busy bearing with the pain to pay attention to someone else.

The three fillies were speechless when they saw that comet had completely ignored them. Also, they could notice the angry expression on his face and that he was muttering something they couldn’t understand. They watched him entering to the classroom without even a sight or gesture from him. They followed Comet. The followed him into the classroom, they were the last ones who had to enter, to restart the lessons. Still worried for him, they couldn’t stop following him with the look, feeling a little sorry for him.

Comet limped toward to his seat, passing next to Comet again, who gave him an arrogant glance, but Comet didn’t care to turn to see him, something that irritated the colt. Finally, Comet made it to his seat, sitting heavily on it and putting his book away so nopony would take it again.

Miss Cheerille entered too and the classes started again, this time math. Finally, something interesting, if it weren’t for the fact that Comet couldn’t concentrate as he couldn’t get all that happened in the schoolyard out of his mind and how much he hated Rumble at that moment. He must have done or said something to defend himself, he must have faced them, but they outnumbered him, further, he wasn’t the most athletic colt in the world and without useful defense magic, there weren’t any way he could beat them. Even if he’d ask for help, his fellows won’t help him, he was alone, as always.

“Comet, class is over. Everypony has gone.” A kind voice from a mare talked to him, waking him up from his thoughts. He was so deep into them he didn’t notice the pass of the time. “Are you ok?” The mare asked to him. It was Cheerilee, who had a consternated look on his face by the sad expression of the foal. 

“I´m ok, Just a little tired.” Comet said looking away.

Comet got down from his seat, took his saddlebag and walked toward the exit. The sun was still in its zenith yet, blinding him for a moment when he walked out of the classroom. Fortunately, Rumble and company were far away from there, so the path home will be more calmed. In his way, he encountered with the crusaders again, ignoring them one more time when they tried to greeting him.

He looked down. His first school day had been a completely fiasco. He didn’t do anything interesting, didn’t learn anything new and didn’t do any friends, on the contrary, he had made an enemy without even had done anything to him. At least his limping was less notorious, the sitting in the class had been enough to decrease the pain. However, that didn’t do any good in raising his spirit. He felt he had failed. Thinking about in what Twilight will would say if she found out that he failed in the only thing he asked him to do, didn’t do anything but depressed him.

Twilight will be disappointed. She really hoped he will make friends, that he will be as good in friendship as she. If she discovered he did all the contrary, that he had frozen in front of their classmates, that he was too terrified of talking with them, that he had been victim of the mocking from the others and he had done the only thing he knew to take refuge, hiding from everyone and isolate into his books, even worst, having destroying the gift she gave him with all her love; it’ll break her heart.

Giving a sigh, he tried to relax himself and, putting his best smile, opened the door.

“I’m here!” He yelled, pretending being excited.

“Welcome home, Comet.” Twilight answered leaving the dining room. “Go wash your hooves, meal will be ready soon.” Comet started to run, happy of hear those words. Maybe school had been horrible, but he will always have a place where he could feel safe, where neither the jokes nor the insults could enter, his home. “Wait…” Twilight stopped him, getting closer to him with certain consternation in her face. “What is this? What happen to your face?” She asked as she raising his face to see that it was full of scratches, something difficult to hide due to his white fur.

“Um… Well, you see… I-I… We were playing and kind of fell when I step on a rock.” He lied.

“We? Is that mean that you made a friend?” Twilight said sparckling of happiness.

“Ah… y-yes.” He answered trying to smile.

“Oh, I knew it. I knew you could do it.” She said excited. “Oh, I’m so proud of you.” She took the colt in her arms and gave him a big hug.

Comet couldn’t help but make an expression of grief, ‘cause he couldn’t feel the same way. The hug it was supposed to be warm and comforting, he felt it empty and insignificant, product from a lie and, thus, fake. But, he didn’t dare to tell her the truth, he didn’t have the courage to break Twilight’s heart after see her so happy to believe he had friends. So he just stayed there, receiving a hug he felt he didn’t deserve it, containing the tears.

“I want to know them already.” Twilight said.

“Um… It is a little soon for that, don’t you think.” Comet said, avoiding the answer.

“I know, but I’m too excited right now.” She said lovingly. “Go clean yourself, you must be hungry.”

Comet just nodded and run as fast as he could to his bedroom, couldn’t containing the frustration anymore. The moment he entered the room, he layed on his bed and cry for some minutes until he let all out.




Meanwhile, in Sweet Apple Acres, three fillies were running to his clubhouse, in the middle of the orchards, encountering a certain pony of country accent and a cowboy hat.

“Hello, girls. How was school today? Something interesting happened?” Apllejack said, obviously talking about Comet.

“Hi, Applejack.” His little sister answered. “There is a new pony at school.

“Really? And how is that pony?”

“Well is a colt of our age, It’s called Comet… Comet Dust.” Apple Bloom answered.

“He said he moved from Canterlot. Who would so crazy to move from Canterlot to Ponyville? –Scootaloo commented.

“Did you see his clothes? It is obvious Rarity made it.” Sweetie Belle added.

“How can you be so sure about that?” Scootaloo askes a little confused.

“I know my sister’s work. That outfit had her sign everywhere.” Sweetie Belle said, proud of her older sister.

“Who would say it?” Scootaloo said as she and Apple Bloom share a confused look.

“It seems that you had a lot to talk with him.” Applejack said kicking a tree.

“Well, no. Not really. It was a little…” Apple Bloom answered, thinking what word cold be the one she needed.

“..strange.” Scootaloo completed it.

“Yes. He didn’t talk to anypony and he ignored us when we tried to greet him.

“Maybe he’s just a little shy. Maybe you just have to give him time.” Applejack said a little confused, that didn’t sound like the Comet she met the past week.

“We think the same.” Apple Bloom agreed. “He doesn’t have his cutie mark either, so we thought it would be a great idea if we invite him to our club.”

“Cutie Mark Crusader Comet Dusk. I like how it sound.” Sweetie Belle said.

“ANOTHER MEMBER FOR THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! YAY!” The three yelled at unison.
> Chapter 6 Problems continue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Second day of classes. Comet didn’t manage to recover from yesterday’s fiasco yet. And, even if was just passed one day, he didn’t want to return anymore. But he promised Twilight he’ll go, so he had to keep his word.

This time, Comet could wake up at time, something not as easy as it sounds because he didn’t sleep well last night. He couldn´t take Rumble out of his mind. He was used to nicknames and some insults from his contemporaries, but none of them has ever physical attacked him. That was new to him and had no idea how to respond to it. Words could be easily ignored, but a hit. He felt defenseless.

It would be correct to say something? Who should he talk to? Will he be bullied even more if he does that? Will it be worth doing? Questions rounding his mind all night until he woke up and while he prepared himself to go down for breakfast; they refused to leave him. It doesn’t matter how long he thinks about it; he didn’t get a convincing answer.

He convinced himself it probably was just a slip and everything would be in the past. This day would be calmer.

He wasn’t as nervous as yesterday. What he was afraid to happen was actually happen. His classmates reacted just as he expected. So, if everything goes as in Canterlot, they would ignore him so he will get the peace he wanted. Despite everything, his humor had no improved, after all, there was nothing to expect.

Breakfast was as normal as could be, except because Comet was notoriously in a bad mood. Twilight and Spike asked him if something went wrong, but Comet didn’t say anything. He blamed his lack of sleep as the cause of his bad mood, in part true.

Without more to say or do, Comet left to school, but first, he hugged Twilight to get the strength he will need to face the day.




When he got to school, certain colt was waiting for him at the entrance. He didn’t say or do anything, he just stared Comet with mockery eyes containing laughing with the other two. By seeing this, Comet was suspicious about what Rumble could have made. He obtained his answer as soon as he got to his seat. In his table was a piece of paper with a draw of Comet on it, obviously just to make fun of him.

Angrily, Comet took the paper, crumpled it and threw it in the trash. He decided to not let Rumble disturb him by a stupid draw. He saved some of his stuff in the drawer under his table, ignoring two fillies getting closer to him.

“So, you are the new blank flank.” Said a filly of pink fur and lavender with a white lock mane, taking comet by surprise. Startled, Comet quickly closed the drawer, thinking it would be Rumble again. When he saw there were two of his classmates, he changed his expression to one more indifferent.

“And you are…” Comet asked without understand that blank flank was really an insult.

The two fillies were astonished, speechless by the audacity of the colt. It took a few seconds to them to react, but, before they could say anything, the bell rang.

“We´ll talk latter…” Said the pink filly with an angrily tone.

“See you, blank flank.” The second one said, a filly with gray fur and silver mane wearing sky-blue glasses and a pearl necklace, emphasizing the last part.

Please don’t. Comet thought-

“Alright, students, before classes start, please everypony bring your homework to my desk.” Cheerilee said.

Homework? What homework?  Come thought, open widened eyes.

Apparently, Cheerilee gave homework yesterday, something Comet didn´t notice because he was too busy thinking in Rumble. Another thing those three had ruined. He worried when he saw all his classmates leaving papers on Cheerille’s desk. He didn’t know what it was about. If it was grammar then there wasn’t any problem, but it was math, he was in trouble. He can barely add and substract, don´t even say multiply and divide.

“Comet, where’s your homework?” Cheerilee asked standing next to him.

“I-I… didn´t do it.” He said shamefully.

“Why, Comet?” the teacher asked a little worried, it was even the second day and the colt was actually missing.

Comet remain in silence. He couldn’t say that he hadn’t done his homework because he wasn’t paying attention and he couldn’t think in an excuse either.

“Comet, I know that being the new could be a little difficult, but that is not an excuse to not doing your responsibilities.” Cheerilee said when he saw Comet avoiding eye contact embarrassed. “I’ll let it pass this time, but there´s no going to be a second one, ¿understand?”

Comet nodded, feeling a little relieved, although it doesn’t last much longer, all foals’ eyes were on him, specially from five ponies in specific, Rumble and company and the two fillies from before, who saw him with satisfactory glances.

Forgetting about the rest, Comet paid a lot of attention hoping to not missing anything, preventing that would happen again. Maybe he hasn’t had a lot of friend, or any, but if there was something he could replace them was study. This wasn´t like studieng with Twilight perhaps, but if he amazed Twilight with his school performance, maybe she would forget about friends.



A few hours pass, the classes continued. This time, the natural history of the ponies, a fascinating topic for some and boring for others; for Comet, it was both of them. He didn’t know much at respect, but he wasn’t too excited either.

Inevitably, with the topic they reach the part of the cutie Marks, but just as a mention. But it was just enough to make some foals to start presuming theirs and make some jokes to the ones who didn’t get their own yet or blank flanks, how they called them. And for some foals, I meant the same fillies that tried to provoke Comet moments ago. Apparently, their name were Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, presumably, fillies of wealthy families due to the expensive accessories they had, a diamond tiara and a pearl necklace, respectively.

The bell rang, interrupting the lesson and the fillies’ jokes. Everypony ran out to the school yard to their deserved brake, only remaining Comet the last.

“Come, can I talk with you?” The teacher said to him before he left the classroom.

A little confused, he approached to his desk, curious to know what she had to tell him. “Is there something wrong?” he asked gently.

“It´s about your homework. I think I know why you didn´t do it.” Cheerille said trying to not sound too authoritarian and empathizing with the colt. “Tell me, do you need me to change your seat?”

“Say what now?” Comet said confused. Yesterday, she told him to choose the seat he wanted and now she was asking if he wanted to change.

“I suppose that it’s a little difficult for you to see the blackboard, so I think if you seat closer to it would be easier despite your eye.” 

When Cheerille mentioned his eye, he understood everything. He put a tired and a little upset expression, not for his teacher’s comments, they were with good intentions, she was even careful to speak to him in private since it was a delicate matter; his upset was more by hearing that somepony thought that he was blind in his affected eye, but he didn’t blame them.

“With all respect, Miss Cheerilee, you are wrong. I can see perfectly with both eyes.” Comet Said.

“Oh. I see. Soo…” Cheerilee said expecting an explanation.

“I don’t have any excuse why I didn’t do my homework, but my condition didn’t have to do anything in that.”

Cheerilee nodded, understanding, and kindly made him a gesture to indicate him that he could leave. Comet nodded in response and walk to the schoolyard holding his stuff, specially his book, very firmly this time so Rumble couldn’t take it from him again.

Fortunately, he wasn´t in sight; who knows where he was in that moment, but he didn’t really care as he stays far from him. He sat down the same tree hoping he could finish the chapter this time.

“Hi!” Someone greeted him energetically, making him jump scared and deactivated his magic throwing all his stuff to the ground, his book and his lunch. At least nothing was spilled on his book this time.

He stared angrily at the guilty, a unicorn, a Pegasus and an earth pony. They had ruined his lunch, again. The unicorn flinched.

“I’m sorry, we didn´t mean to…” The unicorn apologized, apparently the only of the three who noticed the accident. 

“What do you want?” Comet interrupted, upset.

“Hai, I’m Apple Bloom and these are Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. We, couldn’t help but notice you don’t have a cutie mark yet…” The earth pony started to talk, maybe the leader of the three.

“So what?” Comet said expecting a joke.

“Well, you see, we wanted to ask you if you…” Scootaloo spoke, but she couldn’t finish the phrase because another two fillies appeared behind them.

“Well. Well. Well. So all the blank flanks are reunited here” The leader mocked.

“Diamond Tiara.” The trio said at unison with suspicion, making said filly gave them an arrogant and devious glance, like if hearing her name gave her more importance to her presence.

“What are you doing here?” Apple Bloom asked as if she didn’t know that.

“Isn’t it obvious?” She said mocking. “We’re here to welcome the new pony.”

“Yes. We wanted to tell him how glad we are to have him here with us.” Silver Spoon added.

“We’re not gonna let you bother Comet.” Scootaloo pointed.

“Bother him? We would never think in do anything like that at all.” Diamond Tiara faked indignation. “What´s more, we are willing to forget that he is a blank flank and let him join us.”

“Besides, you have already did that.” Silver Spoon pointed to Comet’s ruined Lunch.

The time the five of them started to fight, Comet was left background, but that was useless if they were too loud to let him concentrate and to top it off, he couldn´t lunch again. To Comet´s eyes, those five were as annoying as rumble, at least the other foal preferred to ignore him.

Knowing they didn’t go to stop in a long time, Comet decided that move to another place was the most convenient. So he did with a tired expression in his face, he took his book and left. He walked to the grove that surrounded all the school. Comet knew he didn’t have to go there, but by the moment it was the most peaceful place to be alone. 

“Not at all, Comet will join the Cutie Mark Crusaders.” Sweetie Belle, assured facing the two fillies.

“That losers club of yours?” Diamond Tiara faked surprise. “Oh please, since you created it none of you had gotten yours. Why Comet will join a club that promises something his own creators couldn’t do by themselves?”

That comment managed to hurt the Cutie Mark Crusaders’ feelings. They had tried by a lot of ways to discover their talent and gain their cutie marks and, until now, none of them could obtain theirs, but it was true that it wasn’t too long since its foundation, just a few months ago, just before vacation started.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon grin to each other with a triumphal expression, the had nailed it.

“Oh yeah? Well… Why Comet would prefer to be with you? You just messed with other ponies.” Scootaloo said trying to save some of her hurt honor, but without any arguments to counter, really.

“Have you seen the way Comet always wear? It is obvious that he is a rich pony.” Silver Spoon Said arrogantly.

“What dos that have to do with anything?” Apple Bloom asked, furious.

“What is better for a rich pony than hang out with his kind. But sure, that is something you can’t understand.” Diamond tiara started to laugh.

“Well, I haven’t seen Comet show interest in you.” Apple Bloom answered viciously.

Diamond Tiara was in shock of Apple Bloom’s daring. “Well… I… You… He hasn’t shown interest in you three either.” She babbled not knowing what to say.

After that, the five fillies stared to each other angrily, killing the other with the stare, Diamond Tiara and Apple Bloom more intense than the other three. They two were face to face, one very close to the other.

“Let Comet decide who will he join.” Apple Bloom said in a tone that seemed to want to hit her.

“Fine.” Diamond Tiara responded in the same way.

“Comet…” The two ponies said at the same time, turning to where Comet was, but, for their surprise, Comet was gone.

“He’s gone.” Apple Bloom exclaimed with her eyes wide opened.

“That´s perfect. You annoyed him and made him run away.” Diamond Tiara said, really upset.

“We? He was perfectly fine until you appeared.” Scootaloo sharply answered.

After a short discussion. Both groups went for their side. But something was clear, who find Comet first keeps it, a non-talked agreement but everyone there understood.



Break continue its course until the bell rang again. Out of the discussion of the fillies, it was actually really calmed; Comet could read his book, Rumble and company hadn’t had appeared in all brake and anypony else bother him again. That new hide he found was really useful, the problem was he couldn’t use it frequently or he would get in trouble. Nopony went there, but someone can see him and give him away.

Comet returned to the classroom.

There, in the first places, there were five fillies looking to each other with animosity. The five looked tired, dehydrated and, especially the crusaders, their hair were messy with some leafs in it. They had been looking for Comet for all sides trying to win to the others.

Rumble didn’t appear yet and he wasn’t in the classroom, a little break for Comet. But when he arrived to his seat and he was up to take out his stuff, he realized what Rumble and his henchmen were doing, again. All the drawer was full of mud wetting and soiling all its content; his notebook was soaked, so when he tried to pull it out it teared. All his notes from that day were lost, his quill and his inkwell as well, only his pencil was in good conditions to be used, but without paper it was useless.

Comet was grateful he had his book with him all the time. He thought to leave it there in the classroom so it wouldn’t get more damage; leaving it there it could be meaning its end.

It was obvious who was the guilty. But Comet doubted. The crusaders had their fur so dirty he didn’t know if they had something to do with this; as a revenge from ignore them in the brake. When Rumble entered the classroom, his doubts disappeared. His and his friends’ hooves were filled with dry mud to the elbows. Comet was frustrated, he should have known it, but he wanted to believe that Rumble would leave him alone after yesterday; he was wrong.

Without anything to take notes or write down the homework, he had to turn to his memory. It was a lucky that the class focused on the history of Equestria, Twilight had dozens of books about it; it would be easy as pie.



Comet returned to the castle, not without being bothered by Rumble, the crusaders, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon again; Rumble was the most cautious to doing it out of the sight of everypony.

-I’m here! –Comet yelled when he entered in the castle, faking a smile like yesterday.

When he didn’t get an answered, he thought that Twilight and Spike had went out. Feeling relief that he doesn’t have to pretend, he walked upstairs to his room with not the best mood- It was a big surprise to find the door open and encounter Twilight and Spike in there.

“Twilight… Spike… What are you doing here?” The colt exclaimed siprised.

“Oh, hi, Comet. I didn’t hear when you arrive.” Twilight said surprised as well.

“Uh… we live here.” Spike said, answering the strange question.

“I meant here, here… in my bedroom.” Comet cleared.

“I can ask you the same question about this.” Twilight showed an old and ramshackle violin.

“How did you find it?” Comet ask exalted and nervous. “I had hidden it.”

“We were saving some things I bought to you when I found it behind your closet. Care to explain where did this come from? I’m pretty sure this wasn’t in the castle.” Twilight said with a serious tone, like if she was pursuit a crime.

Comet knew that that voice tone of Twilight meant that she wanted the truth. There wasn’t a lot to hide although, there wasn’t any reasons to hide it anymore, but the voice of Twilight made him nervous.

“From Canterlot. I-I found it…” Comet said ashamed, but he wasn´t pretty sure why.

“Comet, did you… steal it?” Twilight asked worried.

“What? No, of course not.” Comet denied, feeling offended by what Twilight said.

“Whose is it then?”

“It’s mine.” Comet assured. “Somepony got rid of it and I recued it.”

“How are you so sure about it? Where did you get it from?”

“Of the trash, near the orphanage.” He scratched the back of his head embarrassed.

“Why would somepony just drop it?” Twilight was confused and not very convinced of the story, waiting for Comet to let out something.

“You’re asking me?” Comet said confused as well. It was in better shape when I found it, but some of the other kids discovered its hiding place.”

“Hiding place… The caretakers didn’t know about it?” Twilight said suspicious.

“Ah… No. I may have escaped when I found it.” He said nervously. “If they found out, they would take it from me and now “it would belong to everyone”.” He said imitating the voice of one of the caretakers, exaggerating his voice tone to ridicule the phrase. “Look what they did to it with just a few foals who found it, now imagine the entire orphanage playing with it.”

“If other foals had actually found it, how is that they didn’t say anything?” Twilight asked, but she already knew the answer.

“I… erased their memory.” He smiled nervously, because he knew how much Twilight disliked that he knows that spell.

Twilight face hoofed.

“Do you know how to play it at least?” She asked resigned. She can’t erase all what the colt had done.

Without saying a word, he picked the instrument and started to play awkwardly a very known melody and one of the first pieces a pony who is learning to play an instrument learn to play, “Ode to harmony” from Bridlethovven. It wasn’t the best interpretation, the colt missed some notes and sometimes he forgot what string he had to press. Also, the instrument condition didn’t help either. But they could see how much the little one liked to play, putting all his effort in it.

“I know I’m not the best, but I didn’t hat much time for practice.” Comet blushed a little to see the incredulous faces of Twilight and Spike.

“Where did you learn how to play?” Spike asked, who kept in silence until now because he thought that was a discussion he didn’t have to interfere.

“In Canterlot, the filly who lived in front of my window. Her parents paid her lessons with a private curmudgeon instructor.” He laughed a little just to remember that, finally something lifted his spirit a little. “His yelling and screaming could be heard up to my room. Thanks to that I could learn something.”

“Did you lern just by hearing?” Twilight was amazed.

“Not at all. In the orphanage there was a book with some musical scores. Three of them were the ones the filly was learning; I just follow her. The notes were the most difficult, I could only guide with the screams of the instructor and he wasn’t very helpful in that.” He added, trying to make Twilight understand all the situation. “So… Can I keep it?” He was unsure.

Twilight smiled in agreement, because, if the foal wanted to learn how to play, who was she to interfere. Besides, that would help Comet with his personal enrichment. “Well, we’ll have to find somepony to give you lessons.” She answered.

Twilight’s words made comet really happy; that violin was one of Comet’s most precious treasures and being able to keep it without having to hide it meant that he could practice longer and improve much faster. Comet run toward Twilight and gave her a hug.

During the hug, Spike was able to see better the violin, without thinking about all the damage it had.

“Wouldn’t you prefer a new one?” He innocently asked.

“Are you crazy. It’s a Chords, there isn’t any better than these.” Comet was surprised and indignant by his suggest.

When he saw it closer, it stills seemed an old and cheap instrument. It had a fey ornaments hoof-painted, but many others too. The poor condition of the cover, the scraping of the varnish and a hole on the edge depreciated it greatly. If it was a Chord, knew to be the best of Equestria, it didn’t look like one at all.

“He is right Spike.” Twilight agreed. “Those are the best you can find. I’ve heard some ponies say that there’s no other violin that can compare to a Chords. All great musicians have one.”

“But look how bad is it, practically it’s falling apart.” Spike was hesitant about the authenticity of the instrument. “How can you be so sure it is actually a Chords?”

“Easy.” Comet showed them the pegbox. “It’s a little scrapped, but it still can be seeing the logo in the pegs and, if you look here…” He shewed them the ribs. “…it still can be seeing the mark where the insignia was.”

Spike and Twilight tuned to the instrument. The marks Comet was pointing were just scrapings and a spot without form in the wood, nothing they could recognize as a logo.

“Are you sure about that, Comet?” Twilight said not very convinced trying to look closer.

“One hundred percent.” He assured.

Spike was right, she had to admit that it was in a deplorable condition; but you don’t find a Chords violin every day, much less free, and is Comet’s defense, it wasn’t his fault to end like that.

¿Can’t it be restored?” Comet asked.

“What?! You want to restore it? Do you know how much it will cost?” Twilight said in panic, like if the colt was asking to her to buy the Canterlot Castle.

“C’mon Twilight. Please.” He put baby-doll eyes as a puppy will do it to obtain some food, his best weapon to get what he wanted.

Twilight tried to avoid eye contact with the foal, but, as much as she tried she, couldn’t resist to Comet’s eyes who saw her with hope, hope she didn’t want to take away from him, so she gave in.

“Alright. Alright. But you have to promise you are going to take good care of it.” Twilight pointed.

Comet, smiling gratefully, made a cross on his heart with his hoof and cover his eye with it after, indicating he was doing a Pinkie Promise; something that pony taught him after know her.

“I don’t want to interrupt so tender moment, but I have to insist. Those violins are made in Canterlot, hoof-made. Assuming it really is a Chords and they accept repair it, it would take weeks to be ready. When do you think you are going to be able to carry it?” Spike said.

“I had thought about it already, Spike. We could go next weekend.” She said nonchalantly seeing how the eyes of Comet sparkled to know that he wouldn’t have to wait longer to have his violin ready. “By the way, can you send a letter to my parents? I want to tell them that we are going to visit them.”

“I’m on it.” Spike ran to the door. Twilight made it clear that she planned to go to Canterlot before knowing about the violin.

“Letter…” Comet remembered something. “Now that you mention it…” He pulled out something of his saddlebag. “This was in the mailbox.” He gave Twilight an envelope with the return address of the Crystal Empire. Spike stopped, curios to know what was on it.

“Oh, finally!” She exclaimed excited. She took the envelope opened it and pulled out a letter and started to read. In her eyes it could be seen the excitement growing with every word she read.

“What does it say?” Comet and Spike asked at same time.

“It’s a letter from Cadence and my brother, Shining Armor. They answered the letter I send them a few days ago. They want to meet Comet.” She said while she was reading.

“Me?” He was surprised.

“Yeah, I told them about the day we met, the adoption and about you. They can’t wait to see you.”

“When are they coming?” Spike asked.

“They didn’t say a date, but I hope it is soon.” Twilight said spreading her excitement to Comet and Spike. “For now, prepare your bags, Comet, we’re going to Canterlot to meet your grandparents.”

Comet was a little thoughtful, he wasn’t very sure about the reactions they’ll have to see him. But he calmed down quickly; everypony who were close to Twilight had been good with him and who didn’t, were more alien to her, for example, his classmates. So, if they parents were as good as her, there wasn’t anything to worry about then.
> Chapter 7 Back in Canterlot Part 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 7. Back in Canterlot (Part 1).

After an exhausting week full of school, homework, the unpleasant company and jokes of Rumble and company and the annoying Cutie Mark Crusaders, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, which often were importuning him about his Cutie Mark; finally, it was weekend. Two days of relax, far from the school, his classmates and the routine. Just he, Twilight, Spike and the calm of the castle. But maybe another time.

Comet were pretty anxious all week for this day to coming, and not for enjoy his books as everypony thought; it was the they they’ll travel to Canterlot to meet his grandparents instead and, what was more important by the time, repair his mistreated violin. It wasn’t he didn’t want to meet her grandparents, but that made him more nervous than excited, compensated by the excitement of the trip.

They woke up early, ate their breakfast quickly ant started to carry their baggage to the door. Comet were finalizing preparations for the long trip in the train, which were bringing some books with him, when twilight called him. It was time to leave in order to reach the morning train.

They leave home just when Celestia started to raise the sun in the horizon. Ponyville’s streets were to calm, just a few ponies were outside at that time in weekend, unlike the schooldays when the sun wasn’t even seen and the streets were crowded; something that gave Comet a little confidence, he won’t see his classmates on the way to the station.

They made a stop in Sugar Cube Corner to pick a special order and some snacks for the trip. They took the first train to Canterlot so they will arrive for lunch.

The “road” on the train was very calm, both Twilight and Comet had the same idea to spend time during until they arrive to their destiny, because both the moment they were seated on their seats, they pulled out a book from his saddlebags and, without saying anything, started to read, losing reality.

The wagon was almost empty. Besides the three of them, there were three other ponies inside, ignoring the presence of the rest and remaining in silence; the only thing it was heard was the rattle of the wheels in the rails and the snoring of Spike, who has the habit of sleeping during the train trips.



They arrived to Canterlot without too much setbacks, just a little delay because a herd of goats that decided to browse on the tracks on the mountainside, a few kilometers from Canterlot. Nothing the train whistle couldn’t solve. In the station, there were two ponies waiting for them already, Twilight Velvet and Night Light, Twilight parents.

“So this is my new grandson.” Twilight Velvet said as she walked to Comet and hugged him. “I see we have another unicorn in the family.” She took a better look of the foal. “We were so anxious to meet you.” She hugged him again.

“He is a very handsome foal, sure it is. Just like me when I was his age.” Night Light said proudly.

“And a very good looking.” She added. “That outfit makes him look like a royal already.”

“Hello, I am Comet Dust. Nice to meet you.” He cordially greeted, not as nervous as before, but a little embarrassed for all the flattering.

“It is not necessary so much formality, Comet. We’re now family.” Twilight Velvet giggled. “You can call me grandma.” Comet nodded happily. He quickly become fond on both ponies who accepted him without doubting. Twilight had warned them about his appearance probably, but in their eyes he couldn’t see any trace of doubt or concern about him, on contrary, he could see the joy in them.

“Let me help you with your baggage.” Night Light offered.

“Oh, it is not necessary, dad. We didn’t bring much.” Twilight said.

“But you must be tired from the trip…” He insisted, but interrupted himself when he saw Comet lifting the three suitcases with his magic, releasing Spike from his weight, who went to look for them from a cart the employees of the station put the luggage of all the arriving passengers.

“Wow. Seeing a foal lifting all that weight is impressive, but knowing the great teacher he has, I’m not surprised.” Twilight Velvet said giving her daughter a glance and a smile.

“Sure it is.” Twilight agreed. “I was surprised the first time I saw it. But I can´t say I taught him anything.” She rejected the flattery gently. “He learned that on his own.” She added without noticing she just said the same Cary told her a few weeks ago.

“A prodigy in magic. Just as his mother.” Twilight Velvet muttered loud enough so Twilight could hear her, who blushed and smiled a little embarrassed.

Comet, who didn’t hear what were they talking about because he was talking with Spike about the best places to visit in Canterlot, couldn’t understand why she was so red.

When Twilight explained her relationship with Comet, she always did it saying she was “like her mother”, because she thought it was too early to fill that position. Even more, Comet had never called her “mother” or “mom”, but she assumed it was because the foal thought that, by being a Princess, he should show more respect. That was the first time somepony said bluntly she was his mother and, thinking about it, she liked the idea.

Something that surprised Comet was the fact almost everypony in Canterlot were unicorns, there were a few pegasi and earth ponies of course, but they were minority; unlike Ponyville, where the three species were seeing in equality numbers –remember that Comet never explored the city far from a few squares from the orphanage-. Another difference was that the ponies in Canterlot were colder and more distance; even though Comet didn’t get along with them, he could feel the warmth on Ponyville habitants, but here, everypony look at each other over his shoulder with arrogant glances or they even care in look at you if you greeted them. “I don’t understand why so many ponies want to move here.” Comet thought.

“I hope you’re hungry.” Twilight’s mom said opening the house door. “I prepared a delicious hay and berries stew specially for the occasion.”

They entered into a modest house compared with the luxurious and pompous mansions all around the city, but it was cozy. You could easily feel in home in that house, contrasting with the rest of the city, and Comet loved that.

“Great. I’m Starving.” Comet yelled running into the house.

“Comet, don’t run inside the house…” Twilight reproached him, being interrupted by his mother. “It´s ok.” She told her.

“Let me bring your baggage to your room. You two, make yourself comfortable.” Night Light indicated.

“Thanks, Dad.” Twilight said him putting the two packages they picked up in Sugar Cube Corner on a table. “Be careful with that one. It’s fragil.” She pointed at a small suitcase he was levitating with his magic.

“What inside?” He asked curious.

“My violin.” Comet answered quickly with enthusiasm.

“Why did you bring a violin?” He asked in response a little confused.

“Do you know how to play it?” His grandmother asked him.

“A little. But Twilight promised she will find an instructor for me.” The colt said happily.

“He call you for your name.” Twilight Velvet whispered to his daughter with confusion.

“Yes. But I think is because he doesn´t feel confidence enough to call me “mom”. Twilight whispered back.

“Is this?” Night Light said with surprise, seeing awkwardly the instrument. “You should be more careful with it.” Ha added emphasizing the state it was.

“I didn’t leave it like that, those were the other foals, I would never treat a Chords like that.” Comet said indignant by his grandpa suggestion.

“It´s a Chords.” Both ponies, Twilight Velvet and Night Light, exclaimed at Comet´s revelation.

“That’s the reason we brought it.” Twilight explained. “I know they are made here in Canterlot; we want to see if it can be restored.”

“You know that would cost a fortune.” Her mother said in response. “Don´t you think it would be better buy a new one?”

“I know. But Comet doesn’t want any other. He wants that one.” Twilight answered with a little tone of giving up.

“I know the place you are looking for.” Night Light pointed. “They moved to the main street a few years ago. We were going to go to the marketplace to buy groceries anyways. We can go after meal.”

Agreeing with the plan, they prepared to eat. Besides the stew Twilight´s mother made, which was really delicious, there were salad, not that good though, but you couldn’t ask much of the Canterlot crops; fruit water and, for desert, one of the cakes they bought in Sugar Cube Corner. Twilight Velvet was a pretty good chef; it was a shame Twilight didn’t inherit those abilities. In the castle, Spike was who took care of those chores and, even it was a heavy task sometimes, he said it was better that way, because, in his own words, “he proved Twilight’s cook once and it was enough for a life.” Something Twilight didn’t take so well, but she knew better it was right.



Arriving to a square where it was a huge fountain, near the downtown of the city, Twilight and Comet separated from Twilight´s parents, who continued their way to the marketplace. They walked in the direction of an establishment elegantly decorated with a fine and glossy hardwood floor, with impeccable glass display cabinets where were exhibit different kinds of violins, violas, cellos and contrabasses that were made there; all of them of the highest quality and an exorbitant price. Twilight hoped that the price of the repair wouldn’t exceed that of buying a new one.

“Hello, good afternoon.” Twilight greeted, hoping somepony was there by the fact there wasn’t anypony in sight.

“I’ll be there in a moment. What do you need?” Answered an old and raspy voice, although kind, from behind the store, where probably it would be the workshop.

“We need some help with a violin…” Twilight said as Comet was pulling out the instrument from the suitcase he kept it so it wouldn’t get more damage and putting it on the bar they had in front.

“Are you here for shopping?” The voice interrupted her. I could be heard in his voice that he was busy. “In the cabinet in the front of the store are the most popular models, you can ask for anyone you like.”

“No. It’s rather a repair.” Twilight cleared looking at all the instruments in the store.

“I see… Give me second.” The voice said.

A few moments later, a water green with sky-blue graying mane pony came out from a swing door. He was wearing a pair of glasses and a brown leather apron. All his fur war covered with dust and sawdust. Cleaning his hooves with a damp cloth, he approached to the bar, adjusted his glasses and look at the instrument.

“Alright, let’s see how sever is the damage.” The pony said without looking at them.

By having the instrument in his hooves, he was horrified to see how bad it was. The scraped and tarnished wood, the strings all tangled in the pegs, a hole in one of it sides, the bow stick repaired with some tape, where some of the most noticeable details.

“Hey kid, how dare you to treat such a fine instrument like that?” The pony scolded Comet the moment he saw him. “You should be ashamed to look down my father’s work like that.

“What?... It wasn’t me who mistreated it.” Comet argued, upset by always being blamed for it.

“Who was, then?”

“Other foals. I recued it from the trash.”

“What?!” The pony exclaimed completely surprised. “Who would throw away one of our instrument as if it were worthless?” He said indignant and completely confused.

“So, can you repair it?” Twilight asked calling the pony attention who didn’t notice her presence.

“P-Princess… It is a great honor having you here in my humble workshop.” The pony said while bowing, making Twilight a little uncomfortable, she hadn’t gotten use to that kind of attention. “Of course I can. I couldn´t call myself otherwise.” He assured proudly.

“AChords?” Comet asked, still upset, but curious too.

“My family has made violins for generations, but it wasn´t until my great great great mother, Viola Chords, when our work started to gain renown, becoming the best of Equestria.” He explained.

“And you say that this one was made by your father?” Twilight asked curious as well.

“Not just saying; I know it.” He asserted.

“How do you know that?” Comet asked, now intrigued by the backstory his instrument could have.

“I never forget any instrument that comes out from this doors, not even one. This in specific, was one of the last my father, Cello Chords, made before die; it has his signature everywhere. I was just an apprentice in that time.” He said with nostalgically. “It was ordered by a rich merchant, who bought it for his son. After the delivery, we never see them again. We thought they moved. My dad used to call it his “Magnus opus”, since he thought it was the best and finest instrument he had ever made. We accepted we would probably never see it again, but I’d never though it would end in the trash. It was a fortune you were there to rescue my father’s work. Thanks.” He finished giving a sincere smile to Comet.

“You are welcome… I guess.” Comet said. “Mister…”

“Bass. Double Bass Chords” He introduces himself.

“Tell me, Mr. Chords, how much will it cost to repair it?” Twilight asked still nervous about the cost.

“For you, Princess, I’ll give you a special offer. You’ll pay only the restoration ant I’ll include our Royal Pack as gift.” Bass said smiling at the time he gave them a brochure with information about the pack.

It included a personalized case, made of hardwood and varnished; an extra set of strings, an extra bow and a care and cleaning kit to keep the instrument in perfect conditions. The case was more expensive than any violin in the store, so you can imagine the price of the all set.

“We couldn’t accept it.” Twilight rejected, feeling a little awkward for so generous gift. “You are too gentle, but…”

“I insist.” Bass interrupted her. “I the least I can do for rescuing my father´s work. I won’t accept a “no” in response.” Twilight sighed. She couldn´t fight back the pony’s determination.

“Alright, if you insist.” Twilight said resigned. “When will it be ready?”

“Tomorrow you could pick it up.”

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed. “I mean, I know you are happy for all the memories this brings back to you, but you don’t have to press yourself.”

“It is no pressure at all. I’m doing because I want to see this artwork back in his glory. My team an d I will work all night long If it´s necessary. We’ll make it look just as the day it came back from these doors.” He said with resolution.

“I think it can´t be helped, Twilight.” Comet said, trying to contain his excitement.

I’m sorry, I got carry away by emotion. What name will I should put on the certificate?

“Which certificate?” Both asked at unison.

“Every instrument we sold have its own certificate of authenticity to demonstrate that is in fact a Chords and who is its legitimate owner. Since the simplest violin to the highest contrabass; everyone has its own. It is part of our signature and guaranty.” Bass explained. “And, since the original owner threw I away and the original certificate may be who knows where, you are the owners now. So, what name should I put on it?”

Twilight indicated Comet with her head for him to say his name; after all, the violin it was going to be for him. Comet understood the message, nodded and smile.

“Comet Dust.”



Before meeting again with his grandparents and taking advantage that the castle wasn’t far from there, the two of them decided to take a walk around. The plan was to meet Princess Celestia so she could meet Comet. It worked perfectly, they found her while they were having a stroll through the castle gardens. Comet, in the second he was in front of her, bowed by the fact he was in front of the highest authority and one of the most respectable ponies in all Equestria. It was funny, he couldn´t remember when was the las time he had to do that, maybe de day he met Twilight, but, thinking about it, he didn’t remember doing it that day either. When Twilight introduced him, he was too nervous he barely could talk, not because he was afraid of, he knew Princess Celestia where one ok the kindest ponies in Equestria, but because she was a pony who inspired respect wherever you see her instead.

After several minutes of talk and spending time with the princess, the two ponies returned to the fountain square, where Twilight´s parents were waiting for them. They walked back home while Comet and Twilight told them what happened in the Chord workshop and how crazy the things turned there, finishing in that his violin will be ready for tomorrow.

“That Bass Chords, surely was excited to see that violin again.” Night Light commented.

“Who would say it has a backstory within.” Twilight Velvet added.

“Yeah and he was very inflexible about giving us all the set.” Twilight said.

“Well, you know what people said: on a gift horse, no tusk can be seen.” Her mother said.

Comet, on the other hand, wasn’t paying attention to the adult’s conversation; he was debating with Spike about the best Power Ponies Character –a comic Spike showed him and quickly got caught by it-.



Back in home, they spent the afternoon talking, joking and laughing together as his grandparents chatted with Comet in order to know him better, there wasn´t much to say before meet Twilight though. Among the few things he could told them were how he found his violin, how he learned to play it, more or less, some of the mischiefs he did and the spells he knew, included the one that erase the memory, but unlike twilight, his grandparents weren’t as paranoiac as Twilight, they just amazed.

They ending plying a board game which consisted in made words with some pieces with letters on them they picked; game Twilight and Comet dominated due to all the books the read. A few rounds later and tired of losing against those two, they decided to play a card game so they could have a chance to win and chat more easily.

They enjoyed a hot drink while they were playing; Twilight’s parents were drinking coffee, Twilight, Comet and Spike had cocoa instead.

“You know, Comet, Twilight learned to play when she was younger too.” His grandma told him. “I think we still keeping his old clarinet.”

“That was long time ago. Besides, I’d never been that good.” Twilight giggled just to remember how awful he used to play.

“Oh, you just need some practice.” Her mother answered her. “You could do it with Comet and learn together.”

“Sounds interesting.” Comet agreed. “It´s curious though, I never thought Twilight was a pony into the music.”

“Music was a compulsory subject in Princess Celestia’s school. I chose clarinet because I thought it would be easier, I was wrong.” Twilight laughed. “With time and practice, I started to liking, but I stopped some time and the rest is history.”

“I won!” Spike yelled proudly showing his hand and taking all the candies they were gambling.

With certain displeasure for losing, everypony started to complain to the little dragon as he was just laughing. He knew that none of them liked to lose –nobody likes to lose-, whatever the game was, so that was pretty funny.

“So… You would like to be a musician?” Twilight Velvet asked to Comet at the same time she shuffled the mallet.

“I haven’t decided yet. I like music, but I’m interested in magic too, perhaps a little more.” The foal answered.

“Oh, You’d like to follow Twilight´s steps then. Do you have in mind qualify to the Princess Celestia’s school?” Night Light asked.

“I’m not sure. I’m going to Ponyville’s school and I have learned some magic with Twilight. We’ve been focused on improve my illusions by the moment, and It´s easy to learn with her, it´s a good teacher and I know that, as a Princess, she could be my mentor. I’d like to continue like that.”

In that moment the wall clock rang, making all of them turn to it. Interrupting the conversation.

“It´s too late.” Twilight said without takin her eyes off the clock. “Time to bed, Comet.”

“But, we can play one last round. I still can win Spike.” He answered trying to convince Twilight.

“I your dreams.” Spike mocked, making Comet stare at him with disgust.

“Actually, we were going to sleep too already.” His grandmother said.

“And you must get some sleep if you want to visit her tomorrow.” Twilight responded him. “So, prepare yourself for sleep.”

“Alright.” Comet said a little disappointed, but happy for the next day.

From a sip, he drank all the cocoa remaining in his cup and left it in the sink. He went upstairs to brush his teeth and then go to his room. Just a few minutes passed when Twilight and Spike entered the room to see comet fast asleep, spread on the bed, and in a not very comfortable position, at least to their eyes.

Twilight accommodated Comet and clothed him again, making him to one side of the bed so she could have some space. The house didn´t have more rooms and being that the only free bed, two of them will have to share it and the other will have to manage to find where to sleep. Spike and Twilight improvised a bed with a basket and some pillows and blankets, something that made him remember the time when they lived in the Golden Oak Library, which still working, but they didn’t live there for some time.

When everyone was ready, they turned off the lamp that was next to the bed and went to sleep.
> Chapter 8 Back in Canterlot Part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 8. Back in Canterlot (Part 2)

Next Morning. The sun was starting to rise, but none of the guests were wake up yet. Twilight was sleeping peacefully when she fell down from the bed due to a strong push in her back. It happened so suddenly she didn’t have enough time to scream, just groaned when she hit the ground. It was loud enough to wake up Spike, who saw un confusion Twilight on the floor. 

“Comet, do you think it fun…?” Twilight complained, but she interrupted herself when she saw Comet. He was fast asleep spread all over the bed, reason why he’d thrown her.

“Twilight, what´s happening?” Spike asked sleepy.

“Comet Threw me out of the bed.” She answered rubbing his right shoulder, where she hit the ground.

Then, a delicious smell started to filtering through the room. A soft and sweet smell of mass that caught anyone who smell it.

“Do you smell it?” Comet said unexpectedly, surprising both of them. He was fast asleep a few seconds ago and now he was even more awake than them.

“The only thing that can wake up Comet that easy, breakfast.” Spike laugh. His stomach growled a few seconds later.

“He is not the only one, it seems.” Twilight said laughing as well.

“Well, what are we waiting for?” Comet jumped down the bed and opened the door to go running downstairs.

“That´s why he wakes up” She said feeling a little offended.

“Your mom is doing waffles, who wouldn’t do it? –Spike walked toward the door.

“You never did it when I cooked them.”

“That´s different. Your waffles could wake a corpse.” He mocked and quickly followed Comet to the kitchen.

“Hey, what´s that supposed to mean?” She exclaimed annoyed.

After breakfast, Comet took a bath, cleaning himself and matching his with fur on his chest; he brushed and untangled his mane and tried to comb it the best he could. Tan, he went to his bedroom to dress up; there wasn’t going to be school that day and there wasn´t anything to hide to who he was going to visit that day, but he got used to wearing cloths and cleaning himself, being part of his diary routine. Besides, he knew how good he looked wearing them.

“Where are you going so trim?” His grandmother asked when she saw him. “Who are you going to see?”

“Cary” He said smiling and too excited.

“Who’s Cary?”

“Cary was Comet´s caretaker in the orphanage. When I told Comet we were coming to Canterlot, he insisted paying her a visit.” Twilight explained.

“Why is that important this Cary?”

“She raised me before Twilight. She was like my first mom.” Comet answered with a melancholic smile.



They went out of the house in midday since they spent the rest of the morning packaging his baggage, they’ll return to Ponyville later that day. They took their way to the orphanage in the west side of the city, carrying the second package they picked up in Sugar Cube Corner with them. However, there were two unexpected accompanists. Twilight´s parents wanted to meet Cary too, because she seemed to be a good and kind pony by the way Comet talked about her.

They got to a secluded area of the city, where the huge building the orphanage was stood out from the rest of houses around. An enormous mansion of three floors adapted to it new function several years ago surrounded by a large garden with bushes of flowers and a large backyard, where the foals went out to play.

The moment they trespassed the bushes fence, Comet made them signals to keep in silence and gave twilight the box. Carefully, he got close to the corner of the house to investigate. If Cary adhered to her customs, she would be in her personal garden taking care of her flowers. She was actually there indeed, watering some bushes Comet didn’t remember they were there when he left.

Comet made signals to his family to get close and, speaking very low so he wouldn´t be dicover, he said them to stay still and be quite. After a little glance to corroborate Cary didn’t notice them, he slowly walked close to the unaware pony, with the help of the noise of the grass and the water spilling out of the hosepipe covering his steps; just as a cat hunting a mouse.

When he was just behind her, he stopped for a moment. He was close enough to heard that Cary was humming very low a song they used to listen sometimes. When he was sure she was completely distracted, he prepared himself. His family were hiding behind the corner, carefully watching what Comet was doing. They didn’t understand what he was planning, except for Spike and Twilight, which had already guessed it.

“HEY, CARY!” Comet yelled.

The mare jump and let out a short, but loud, scream because the surprise. Due to the scare by such sudden attack, she lost control of her magic, inactivating her horn, making the hosepipe shake violently, hitting Comet in the face with a waterjet as a just punishment for his joke.

There was only one colt who would dare to do that to her. So, instinctively she turned back and yelled. “Comet! I have told you a billion times that…!” Then she interrupted herself in confusion. That was impossible. But he was there. “Comet?”

Comet spat out a little of water that entered in his mouth with an ironic expression. “That went better in my mind.” He exclaimed.

“Comet… Is that you?” She asked unbelieving what she was seeing.

“Hi, Cary.” He said with a loving smile.

“Comet! I´m so glad to see you back again.” She took the foal between her arms and gave him a big hug. “Wait a minute. What are you doing here? Don’t tell me you escaped again.”

“No. I’m not alone.” He indicated his family to come out of hiding.

The three ponies and dragon got close to them. Twilight and Spike were smiling but Twilight Velvet and Night Light had a confused expression mixed with a smile in it, making a rare and funny face to see.

“Comet insisted to come here.” Twilight said. “He was too excited with the idea of seeing you again. I hope it wouldn’t be a bad moment.” She added.

“Of course not, Princess.” She bowed to Twilight.

“I wat you to know my new family.” Comet said happily.

“Your new family?” She repeated looking behind him to meet the ponies he was talking about, greeting kindly and introducing herself to all of them.

“You already know Twilight, my… new mom.” He said a little embarrassed. He didn’t know yet if it was correct call her that way. But in the moment he said that word, he felt happy. “He is Spike, my dragon brother; and these are my grandparents, Twilight Velvet and Night Light.

“Cary! We heard screams. Is everything ok?” Two mares came out of the building with worried expressions, one of them carrying a bat. But this one changed to one of confusion when they lowed their eyes and saw the foal next to her. “Comet?” The two of them asked at unison.

“H-hi, Morning. Hi, Lullaby.” He greeted nervously to one of the other caretakers and the headmare of the orphanage respectively; two ponies that didn’t take his jokes as well as Cary.

After explaining them what happened and the scream was because one of Comet’s occurrences, both ponies went back inside the building with reproachful glances to Comet, as if he actually was interrupting something important.

“Look at you, Comet.” Cary said lovingly, continuing with the interrupted conversation. “I can barely recognize you. I’ve never seen you so happy in my life; that new outfit and I never thought the day would come when I would see you combed. You look very good. Much things have changed in a few weeks, it seems.

“And it’s all thanks to you.” The foal said giving the mare a tender glance.

“Me?” She asked confused.

“Yeah. If you had never obliged me to go to that interview, I won’t be here. You encourage me to keep trying. You had faith in me when I already lost it. That´s why I want to give you this.” He picked up the box from Twilight and put in front of Cary. There was a cake in it that said “Thank you” in big letters on the cover with her Cutie Mark as well. A hearth shape protected by two wings as if were hugging it.

Comet’s words touched everyone present, specially Cary, who can’t help but let out some tears. Even though he had a new family and a better life she could ever gave him, she gained a special place in his hearth.

Cary and Comet brought a table, dishes and cutlery to enjoy the cake they brought. As chairs, they used some cut logs Cary save from the time they had to cut down an old and death tree in the backyard. While they were eating that delicious desert, Cary told them about all the antics and “adventures” Comet had with him. Much of them got Cary really angry in that moment, but now they were just anecdotes to laugh at it.

The time was over them, so they couldn’t stay for any longer, they still have to pick up Comet’s violin before take the train back home. Even though, Twilight find the time to talk with Cary alone about the personality of him, since she knew him better than anypony, and about his dememorising spell. Among all facts she gave her, Cary mentioned something that make Twilight uneasy: “Comet is very cunning, especially to evade promises. If he didn’t tell the words “I promise”, probably he won’t keep his word; but when he promises something, he never let you down, and that´s a problem too.” Those were her words. Instantly, the conversation he had with him when she found out about the spell came to her mind, increasing the doubt and concern. After that, they said goodbye, Comet promising to Cary visit her every time he were in Canterlot.

With just one thing left to do, they took their way to the fountain square of the last day, where the Chords’ workshop was. Since Twilight’s parents knew the city better than they, they leaded the way so they arrived easily.

The five of them entered into the store. All of them were so anxious to see how it was after seeing it in that deplorable state. They had high expectative, and it wasn’t for less, the reputation of the Chords preceded them.

“Ah, Princess. I was waiting for you.” Bass said cleaning his sideboards. He looked tired, probably from being working all night, but his face shine with satisfaction of a well done work. “Allegro, bring me the special order, please!” He asked to a pony that wasn’t in sight.

A few seconds later a young colt, maybe younger than Twilight, of slate blue fur and water green with white mane came out from behind the store carrying what looked like a suitcase, putting it on the bar. Because it was too high to see it, Comet climbed to his grandfather’s back and Spike on Twilight Velvet’s, excited to see the results.

When Bass opened it, they were speechless. The suit case resulted to be the violin case, but they left it aside for a good reason; it was hard do believe that this one was the same old and mistreated violin they saw yesterday. I was completely different. The wood was now smooth and lustrous; the hole disappeared, with a little plate with the emblem in its place; and the scroll, that was chipped, was smooth and shiny now. It was tinted in a tone a little bit darker than walnut and the varnish was that polished that reflected like a mirror. Aa an added touch, on the front cover, in a place where the chin ward didn’t cover it, standing out in an metallic emerald green color and impeccable calligraphy the letters CD, Comet Dust’s initials.

Letting the initial excitement pass, they started to inspect the case, which didn’t was leave behind. It was crafted with hardwood, but it was padded and velvety inside, in the same color of Comet’s fur, to protect the instrument. In the base, there was violin´s place, using almost all the space, with a little place to the replacement strings in the right side of the neck and, on the other side, there was a golden metallic plate with the letters C, D and S emulating the shape of a treble clef graven on it and under this, a pentagram with the word “CHORDS” in capitals. In the top there was places for the two bows, both of them with his initials as well; the maintenance kit; a transduced amber color stone Comet didn’t know what it was until Bass explained him; and, behind everything a little envelope with the authenticity certificate that showed it was a Chords and Comet was its legitimate owner.

“Incredible. I can´t believe is the same violin.” Comet said opened wide eyes, sparkling with emotion.

“Believe it. Almost everything is my father´s work, except some parte we had to replace them.” Bass explained.

“Wanna play it?” The pony named Allegro asked.

“Can I?” Comet asked. He thought it was to beautiful to be played, it should be in a museum.

“Of course. It´s yours now.” He answered him.

Following Bass instructions, Comet rubbed the bow with the amber stone, apparently called colophony, before start playing. He started to play the first chords of one of the few melodies he knew. When the sound commenced to be emitted, he could hear instantly the difference. It was a softer, cleaner and more melodic sound than the older strings. Even though it wasn´t the best interpretation, it was obviously Comet had more practice with this one than the one he played in the castle.

Comet had no word to express how happy an excited he was in that moment. But he didn’t have to say anything, his family and the Chords could see it in his eyes, taking his big smile as a “Thanks”.

Comet put back the violin in its case and Bass helped him to close it. Then everyone could see that on the top of it there were the initials of comet as well in the same metallic emerald green, matching with the other accessories.

“Do you like them?” Bass asked. “That´s my son’s work. Normally, wue put the cutie mark of the owner, but the Princess had the idea to put your initials.

“I love it.” Was the only thing Comet could say.



After pick up the Comet’s “new” violin, they had few hours to prepare everything before go to the train station. The train arrived just in time. They left their luggage in a cart so the employees of the station could place it in its correspondent wagon, where they will be kept until they get to their destiny, except for Comet´s saddlebag, where there were his books, and the case with the violin in it, not wanting to be far from it.

After a long goodbye, they got up to the train after hearing the whistle that indicated the train was about to leave.

The convoy moved at constant speed with the typical rattle of the wheels on the rails. There were more ponies than the last trip. Lots of ponies were on his way to Ponyville like them and the other cities further south. But Comet were too excited to worry about what other ponies thought about him. Besides, being next to Twilight, it was less probably that anypony say anything, one of the advantages of being princess son.

The son was setting on the horizon. As usual, Spike was already asleep and Twilight and Comet reading their books. Everything was going very tranquil. The wagon wasn’t in silence at all, but it was expected taking in count all the ponies there. There was still a good stretch to get to town and by the speed they were, probably they would arrive for dinner, just as they anticipate. Trains in Equestria rarely were delayed.

Suddenly, the train abruptly braked, throwing everypony from their seats. With quick thinking, Comet ignited his horn to hand the case and prevent it to fall down on the floor.

Among all the confusion and dizziness inside the wagons by all the ponies who ended in the floor, it could be hear that everypony was doing the same question: “What was happening?” The same question Spike asked when he woke up by tremendous fall he recived.
> Relative calm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 9. Relative calm.

It was middle of the week. Comet was back in school after being trapped in the train with Twilight and Spike one and a half day due to a failure within the train they were in middle way, keeping all passengers stranded in the mountains out of Canterlot.

Try to return wasn’t an option, the pegasi programed rain for that night, and boy did they show off, the tremendous storm they let fall there was incredible. Tons of water fell form the sky every second; blinding lightning bolts lighten the dark night; and the sky roared every time a thunder sounded, making all the train rumble.  The rain was that heavy that you only can see a few feet outside, and in the night, the darkness was total. He missed a whole days of classes in the time somepony could call someone for help and a new convoy came to pick up the helpless passengers.

Explain all of this to Cheerilee had been a feat by itself. She din´t believe a single word, but his detailed explanation and a little chat with Twilight latter that day were enough to convince her.

Now he was in art class. The task, paint the things most important for him. Comet made his biggest effort to portray Cary, Twilight and Spike in his canvas, but when he thought he had finished he gave a look to his work, then a frustration and estrange glace was in his face.

I really suck at this. He thought, without quitting his eyes of his rare work.

But nothing that could happen could take away the excitement he felt that day, his violin lessons started that afternoon. Not even Rumble jokes and company had effect, leaving the three colts upset and perplexed by the positivism he had, they thought they were losing control over him.

When Twilight said she were going to find an instructor for him he never thought it would be that soon, it wasn’t pass a week and she had already found one. Obviously, comet was really happy for this.

Not too far away from him, a fully was really happy to see him again. Since the incident last week she wanted to fix things up with Comet, but didn’t have the chance to do it because she always found him with rumble or was hiding somewhere and this week he missed a day. But he seemed in a very good mood that day, so she wasn’t afraid of talking to him and he didn’t want to hear her. Plus, he didn’t seem to have a book with him today, so he wouldn’t be distracted.



Brake finally came. It was the perfect moment to talk to Comet and, why not, invite him to their club. Unlike other days, the filly separated of her friends to walk toward the tree Comet surely was, carrying to lunch boxes with her.

In effect, Comet was there, sitting down the tree, out of the sight of everypony. But she noticed she had made a mistake, he actually had a book with him. It wasn’t as big as the last one, this was smaller and thinner, with the pictures of three foals holding a book with amazed expressions on their faces. She almost could read part of the title, Spider-somethig... She was now unsure if her plan was going to work, maybe Comet could get upset if she interrupted him, but she had come this far so she couldn’t quit now.

“Um… Hi, Comet.” She greeted a little nervous, touching gently his shoulder to call his attention.

Comet jumped nervous as well, thinking it would be Rumble and his friend again, but he relaxed the moment he saw the filly in front of him. “Uh… Hello?” he greeted back a little confused and curious to know what was she doing with him.

“I’m sorry I interrupted your book…” She apologized.

“No problem. I have already finished it.” He showed her he was in the last page.

She sighed. “What a relief.” She exclaimed.

“How can a I help you…?” He said formally but suspiciously, making a signal with his hoof to make her understand he didn’t know her name.

“Oh, Sweetie Belle.” He said happily, maybe she could get close with Comet after all. “I was wondering if I could stay and have lunch with you?” She said hopeful.

“Why?” Comet was puzzled.

“Well, I want to give you this.” She pulled out one of the lunches she made and showed him. Cut vegetables, almost smashed, something cut in small cubes Comet didn’t know if it was cheese, some vegetable he didn’t know or something else; and a cocked vegetable, if could call it in some way, because it apparently was melted but charred in some parts.

“Um.., Thank you?” He said even more puzzled. He didn’t understand the reason of her generosity, and it wasn’t the most appetizing thing to see, but Cary and Twilight had told him that it was rude not accept a kind offer from someone so he took it. It was obvious she made it by herself, but he didn’t want to say something that could hurt her because of her effort doing it, it was strange, it was the first time he cared about the feelings of somepony he didn’t know.

“Take it as an apology of ruined your lunch last week.” She said rubbing nervously her scruff, but making Comet understand the situation. “Maybe we started with the wrong hoof, so I would like to start over.” She said with a smile that seemed sincere.

Comet quickly remember the day she, her friends and the other two fillies make him toss his food when they surprised him. Besides their noisy discussion didn’t let him focus on his book, making him move away.

Still doubting, Comet accept the kind offer she was giving to her. She really seemed to be convinced in what she was saying, so he decided to take the risk ant trust in her, inviting her to sit next to him.

“What’s your book about? It seems interesting.” She said a couple of minutes later after seeing Comet so quiet, trying to break the ice and start a conversation with him.

“Oh. Well, it’s about three siblings that move to an old house from a distant family along with their mother. They found a secret room with an old field diary about unknown magic creatures there and, with the help of a little elfin that live with them, try to understand and…” Comet explained, feeling surprisingly comfortable by Sweetie Belle’s gesture; happy that someone finally was interested in something he likes.

Sweetie Belle pay attention to Comet, who happily and passionately explained her about his book. It could be heard the fascination he had for that marvelous and fictional word he described. She felt really happy she finally makes contact with him, the next step was closer.

“There you are, Sweetie Belle.” A voice interrupted from behind, a voice that, un fortunately, Comet know very well. “Apple Bloom and Scootaloo are looking for you.” He explained.

“Oh, thank Rumble.” She said naively. “I’ll be right back” She said to Comet, who stay there, wishing Sweetie Belle didn’t have to go, hiding his book. If he were more astute or assertive, he probably would offer to accompany her, but he didn’t think that because his nervousness of Rumble.

The moment Sweetie Belle was far enough; the trio gave him a dark glance while an evil grin was placed in their faces.





“Rumble, you fooled me. They weren’t looking for me.” Sweetie Belle reproached him upset when they crossed their ways while she was going back to the tree after a few minutes searching for her friends.

“Oh, really? Maybe it was just my imagination.” He said mocking, giving less importance to the matter, passing by herself.

Sweetie Belle stared at him while he passes by, really upset with him; he deliberated interrupted her for nothing when she already had made a connection with Comet. Thinking it was just one of his stupid jokes, she continued her way, hoping she could continue her conversation where they left it. To her surprise, she found comet laying on the ground, coughing and holding his stomach in pain, bleeding from the nose; next to him were their lunches, all stomped and ruined. His clothes were dirty and scruffy, his tie untied and he was covered in Dust and dirt, something strange in him since he was as vain as Rarity and prevented get dirty over all.

“Comet!” She yelled anguished. “Are you ok? What happened?” She was worry to see Comet in that state, not wanting to belief that rumble had something to do with that, he never got that far, but everything appointed that he was the responsible.

“As if you care about it.” He said with regret as he tried to stand up weakly, surprising Sweetie Belle.

“Need help?” She asked a little frightened.

“I’m ok.” He said sitting down with all his body aching, giving her a disdain glance.

“Are you sure? Can I do something or…?”

“I SAID I’M OK! Don’t you understand?!” He yelled in anger, scaring her. “Why don’t you leave me alone? I just want to be alone! Why don’t you go to laugh with your friends, surely you have a lot to mock at me after this!

“Why are you saying that? I didn’t…” She said almost crying, feeling hurt that Comet thought she had something to do with this.

“Get away from me! I don’t want to see you again!” He yelled while her horn started to sparkling due to the rage he was feeling. Sweetie Belle, scared, run out away from there thinking Comet was about to attack her.

Comet sat down still holding his aching tummy, the punch Bull gave him was really strong. But this was even surpassed by the ire he felt in that moment. He was furious with Sweetie Belle for cheated him that way; furious with Rumble and his friends for hitting him; and furious with himself for that stupid to believe that somepony would be interested in him and wanted to be his friend. They set him up, and he went straight to it.

With all this anger clouding his mind, he ran towards the grove. He didn’t know why he was running or where he was going, but he didn’t care, he just continued running without any reason. With the time, his emotions started to whirl his mind, passing form anger to frustration, to sorrow, to fear and back to anger over and over again, showed in a crying that blurred his vision.

In his no way race, branches, bushes and brambles scratched his clothes and her fur. Reaching a deep part of the grove, Comet stumbled, falling through a hillside he would have noticed if he were paying attention. He rolled until the roots of some shorter trees, less leafy and more spacing one from other. Among them, it could be seeing light from the other side.

Comet painfully stood up, turning to see from where he had fell. With crying eyes, he started to walk to the light, a little more calmed. When he went out of the trees he saw a beautiful scenery; a large spot where a crystalline and calm small lake called his attention. It uses almost all the space, sparkling with the sunshine; next to it there was a huge solitary old weeping willow standing right on the edge of the pond.

All the place spread a calm sensation; the soft water swell, the mumbling of the wind and the waving leafs of the willow make the place the perfect description of serenity. All that quiet got into the foal, who forgot all his worries and his sob slowly faded away.

Comet went closer to the willow, curious to know what it was hiding beneath that curtain of leaves characteristic of its species. The tree was leafy, his leaves reached the ground and some of them even scratched the surface of the lake, creating a small room inside of them. The floor was covered in the fallen leaves of the willow, a thick layer of moss and fungus that grew thank to the humidity and the little light the willow let pass through its curtains, making it have a slight green tone under it.

With the only company of the birds and his trills, and the coo of the nature around him, Comet started to feel sleepy. Snuggling between the leafs and the willow roots, he slowly closed his eyes while his mind was getting blank.





The school bell rang, making all foal walk back to the classroom. In the end of the line, there was a crestfallen Sweetie Belle along with her best friends, who tried to lift her spirit after she told them what happened before with Comet and that now he hated her without doing anything to him, and what Rumble has to do with that. Bit, without proves, she couldn’t say something at respect.

When everypony were inside, Miss Cheerilee came in and started to talk to start the lesson, but she stopped suddenly when she had a strange sensation. Something was wrong. She turned to all sides to make sure what it was, as his students stared at her with expectant or confused glances by his teacher attitude.

“Has anyone seen Comet?” She finally asked when she noticed the absence of the foal.

Immediately, everypony turned to Comet’s seat, where he should be, noticing that, actually, he wasn’t there. Mumbling all over the classroom starter to be heard while worried or confused expressions were on the students faces, so as in their teacher’s. Most of them said “no” with their heads, increasing Cheerilee’s worriedness. For being so quiet and lonely, nobody had notices his absence.

“Anyone? Nobody?”

“Maybe he’s still in the playground.” A brown fur and mane colt wearing a cap with a pinwheel on it suggested.

“Maybe he felt asleep and didn’t hear the bell.” Rumble said with a fake concerned tone, something that make the crusaders stare at him.

“Someone was with him during break.” Cheerilee asked.

Everypony shook his head except for Sweetie Belle, who were the only one who raise his hoof.

“Me.” She said nervously. “He was sitting under the tree.”

“Can you go to see if he stills there.” Sweetie Belle nodded pretty unsure it was a good idea, she was probably the last pony Comet wanted to see. She walked fast toward the tree, but, what she saw when she surrounded it left her perplexed while the fear started to creep in her face.

Sweetie Belle ran back to the classroom, yelling in concern. “Miss Cheerilee!” She said when she opened the door. “Comet is gone!”

“What?!” She screamed terrified. “How could that be possible?”

“He is not there, when I went looking for him I only find this.” Sweetie Belle show her Comet’s book.

Cheerilee’s face paled in that moment, so as much of the students, because, even though they didn’t know comet for so long, they knew he never got separated of his books. That he left it alone was worrying. Terrified of thinking that something bad could have happened to him, Cheerilee ordered his students to stay inside the classroom and went out looking for Comet.

She called his name everywhere with the slight hope that he could hear her and answered her finishing that nightmare, but the foal never appeared. The rest of foals saw his teacher through the windows desesperately looking for their missing classmate. As the time passes, the consternation of every pone grew, even Rumble’s, who started to feel worried and guilty.

After large minutes of unworthy searching, Cheerilee went back to the classroom. Fearing for his students’ safety, maybe something dangerous was outside, she finished the classes for that day and walked with the foals to the town again. Then she had to do the unpleasant and horrible duty to tell Comet´s mother the bad news, something nopony wanted to do never in its life.

She walked nervously to the castle door, doubting on how she must start or what word use to make the situation the less difficult, but there wasn’t. If it was difficult to anyone to tell somepony that his/her child was missing, now imagine doing the same to a Princess. But she didn’t want to make the wait any longer, the longer it takes to tell her the worst it would be for everyone, even for Comet if he was in danger; so, knowing that this was risky for her too, she knocked the door.

Spike opened up the door, surprising of see Miss Cheerilee there so early or sudden. Twilight appeared a couple seconds later, curious of seeing who was it. She greeted kindly giving her a smile, a little surprised to see her. But his smile quickly disappeared when she saw the worry in Cheerilee’s face and not seeing Comet with her. With a lot of shame and nervousness, Cheerilee told Twilight all what happened.

As fast as they could, Twilight trying to controlling herself in order to not get crazy, She and Cheerilee went to the city hall, not without ordered Spike to stay at home if Comet returned and sending a message to Princess Celestia for help. Spike follow her indications, even if he wasn’t really comfortable with them, because he wanted to join in the searching of his “brother”, but it was necessary.





Seconds tuned into minutes and minutes into hours. How many? Comet couldn’t say it. He woke up under the willow’s shadow at afternoon. The heat was hot, but the tree kept the ambient template. When she went out of the curtains of leaves, he could see that the sun was in its zenith and by the heat, he could say that it was passing the two in the afternoon. That meant, he lost the rest of the class.

Now he needed to went back for his saddlebag and explain all what happened, even his dispute with Rumble. The fact of remembering again made his blood boil. If he actually who was messing with, if he only had the slightest idea of who he was son, he should’ve gave him the respect he deserves. But he promised to himself not telling that secret, because they would respect him because they admired or feared Twilight, but not because who he was. Besides, how could he call himfelf the Princess’ son if he couldn’t stand on his own?

Remember the path back to school wasn’t easy at all. In his commotion he didn’t really pay attention where he was going, so he only could guide by the few things he could remembered. While he was walking, he couldn´t help but think about the calm of that place, it wasn’t seemed to be touch by someponys’ hooves in a long, long time. Few ponies, or even any, probably knew of its existence; he didn´t went too far, almost a few minutes walking, but nopony appeared in all the time he was there. Finally, he reached the starting point, the school.

It was weird, the school was completely deserted. He knew it was late, but he didn’t think it was late enough even for Cheerilee to leave and there were some royal guards near to the place, something rare to see since Ponyville was a quiet town and the Royal Guard it wasn’t needed except for special situations.

Carefully, se walk close, hiding quickly behind his tree. When he saw that no one noticed his presence, he walked toward the building and took a look through one of the windows. Empty, completely empty. Trying to get in would be a waste of time, he didn’t have the skills to open a lock and his stuff wasn´t there, somepony took them.

Comet thought it would be better to leave before some of the guard see him. But a shadow got close to him from behind. He turned nervously, seeing one of the guards standing right there, watching at him pretty serious. “What are you doing here, kid?” He asked in an authoritarian mode, scaring Comet. “What is your name?”

Comet couldn’t answer. His mouth was dry and his mind was in blank, only babbling nonsense noises. When the guard indicated him to accompanied him, he fell in panic. Scared of probably being arrested, he did the only thing he could think it was the only way to scape. He called the guard attention so he could stare at him, then he ignited his horn casting a spell that stunned the guard momently. Comet used this precious seconds to escape.

The other guards saw that flash of light and ran to see what was happening. They find his companion with a dizzy look and confusion. When they asked him about what was happened he couldn’t remember it.

Comet ran as fast as he could in town’s direction. That was too close, but his best spell had saved him again, or not. The moment he was far enough of the school que notice that he just attacked a royal guard, something really serious. What if somepony else saw him? What should he do if they catch him? There weren´t more guards in sight, but he couldn´t trust in that, he didn´t see the guard that talked to him. If someone knew about it he would be in serious problems, not only for miss the class, but for this now too. What should he do? Twilight would be angry and didn’t want to spend the rest of his life in the dungeons.

Trying to convincing himself that his spell would work and the guard won’t remember their encounter, he continued walking home.In his way, he passed in front of Sugar Cube Corner and his stomach growled, reminding him that he couldn’t have lunch because those bullies, returning the anger and frustration sensation. From a pocket on his vest, he took out some bits, the necessaries to buy a milkshake. He doubted for a second, finally deciding to buy something to eat. He was already in troubles, what would make a few more.

It was strange not seeing Pinkie Pie in there, but he didn’t give it too much importance, she was way too random for being predictable. However, the Cakes’ attitude was weird, he couldn’t say why or what it was, they were just weird.

Passing the hungry and the anger, Comet returned to thing how bad the day turned in just few minutes; that day that was supposed to be perfect went ruined again for the same ponies. He didn’t want to go home; he didn’t want to see the disappointed expression on Twilight’s face; he didn’t want to deal with the shame for let Twilight down. But he didn’t have another choice. The most he delays, the worst would be for both of them.

Comet got into the castle a little depressed. Thinking what would be better to tell Twilight.





Twilight was flying frantically all over the town. After Cheerilee told her that Comet was missed, the went as fast as they could to the city hall, where Mayor Mare started to move ponies to help in the searching. Thanks to the letter Spike sent to Princess Celestia, she sent back a garrison of guard to help. Sounds a little exaggerate, Comet was missed just a few hours, but there weren’t any missed foals in Ponyville in decades, so they took the matter really serious.

Always counting with the help of her friends, the search and rescue of the foal started. She and Rainbow Dash patrolled the town and its surroundings; Fluttershy and Applejack searched in the perimeter and the forest and orchards neighboring for any signal of Comet; and Pinkie Pie and Rarity were in charge of the town.

Twilight were starting a new round searching for Comet; she already lost count on how many circles did she do all over the town without any sight of Comet, just as if he just disappeared, but that doesn’t matter to her, she would do over and over again, back and forth, the times necessary until she found his child. She was flying over the school terrains hoping to see something she missed the times before. She was desperate. Tears started to fell down her face thinking that he probably did something wrong and she didn´t was going to see his foal again.

Then, a sparkling smog cloud appeared in front of Twilight and from it appeared a scroll. She quickly opened it hopefully. In it there were written four words, but the four words she wanted to see. “He´s back. He´s ok.” Without wasting any second, Twilight ignited her horn and lots of lights were shooted to the sky that explodes as fireworks spreading sparks all over town. Then, she flew at fast speed towards the castle, to fast some ponies could think that was Rainbow Dash instead of Twilight.

“Where is he?” She said slamming open the castle door. She was exhausted and very troubled, but her state was the less she mattered in that moment.

“He is upstairs; in his room.” Spike said bluntly. “He didn’t say anything, he just locked himself there.” He said a little concerned.

Without sayind anything else, Twilight ran upstairs to the foal’s room.





Comet where attempting to clean herself and trying to hide the bruises since he was back in the castle. Twilight wasn´t in home, he didn’t remember if she had told him she where going out in the afternoon, but that was better for him, that only gave him a little more time to think in something. If he managed to convince Twilight that all was about an argue with his friends, maybe everything will be solved easier, even if that meant he would lie to Twilight again. He didn’t like to do it, but if Twilight was happy with that, it will worth, even if that meant he will have to keep all to himself again.

Comet had already finished to clean himself the best he could, the rest will depend of how he handled the situation. He was about to play his violin to calm his nerves, when someone slammed open the door.

“Comet!” Twilight exclaimed with a crying voice and run toward the foal hugging him with love. “Oh, I’m so glad your back, safe and sound. Where were you? Are you ok? Why didn’t you come back?”

Comet didn’t understand that show of sentimentalism o why Twilight was crying, but that hug was all what he needed.

“Calm down, Twilight. I’m ok, I’m just late for a few hours.” He said a little confused; confusion he spread to Twilight with that words.

“A few hours?” She exclaimed incredulous. “comet, you were missing a whole day.”

Comet was about to stumble due to the surprise. He knew it pass some time while he was sleeping, but he didn’t think it would be that much. He slept for a whole day. Reminding it, now everything make sense; the empty school, yhe royal guards, the Cakes’ attitude and the absence of Pinkie Pie in Sugar Cube Corner.

He felt his stomach turning over and starting to make strange noises, maybe that milkshake hadn’t been a good idea after all. He ran to the bathroom before his body expel it in his room. When he felt better, he went back to his room, where Twilight was waiting for him. Comet sat on the bed next to her, still feeling a knot in his stomach, but nothing in it that his body could expel.

“Are you ok?” She asked calmly, seeing that he was as shocked as she.

“I… I don’t…” He tried to follow with his plan, but words simply didn’t come out as he started to cry by the lots of emotions he felt in just one day, Throwing himself into Twilight’s arms.

Twilight returned the hug, waiting for Comet to calm down so she could talk to him.

“Comet, please don’t do this again.” She said calmly, but with a tone that showed anguish. “I was really worried for you. I know it was just a day, but I think I’ll never going to see you again. I was afraid something could happen to you or I did something wrong.” She started to cry again, hugging him tighter. “What happened, Comet?”

Comet took his time to answer, he didn’t know what to do. Hearing all the pain and sorrow his actions had made to Twilight made him think that maybe it would be better if she just “forget” everything. But Comet didn’t have the courage to do that, after all, he still could feel the love and care in her words, he couldn´t take the risk of losing them.

“I’m sorry…” He finally said. “I had an argue with my friends and… I was so upset I just… left… I felt asleep and when I woke up… I though it just passed a few hours… I didn’t want to make you worry… I just… I’m really sorry.”

“You argue whit your friends? Why?” She asked a little concerned. What would be so important to absent a whole day?

“That doesn’t matter now” He say couldn’t thinking a reason. “It was just a stupidity.

“If they are really your friends, they will understand this just as you did, and they will forgive you so as you. But run away of the problems never solve anything.” Twilight suggested, thinking she could understand Comet. Discussions and fights are common in friendship, and they used to be nothing serious, but being inexpert in the matter, Comet may had thought that would be the end.

Twilight had taken the bait. She believed every word Comet said; too easy. He, much to his regret, decided that would be a better explanation than saying that other foals hit him or harassed him at school. He repeated over and over to him that all was worthy if Twilight was happy believing in a lie than disappointed and sad with the truth, encouraging him to continue it. But for how much longer?
> Plummeting
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 10. Plummeting.

The same story was repeating over and over again; Comet was bullied in school, he returned home in a terrible mood and lied to Twilight to not worry her; keeping all his anger and resentment to himself.

Someday, Comet forgave Sweetie Belle about the discussion they had weeks ago. He saw that she didn´t get along with Rumble; they didn´t even talk to each other, so he understood Rumble had also cajoled her. She was part of his ruse but she didn´t know that until it was too late. But he didn’t tell him to her. He was ashamed of the way he acted with her, maybe she didn´t want to see him again.

Day by day, the time passed. And for Comet, things didn´t go better, actually, it went worse. After some time, Rumble stopped caring if someone saw him bulling Comet, starting to do it in front of everypony sight in a plethora of ways than just mocking or “little” pranks. In lots of occasions Comet´s notebooks and scrolls speared ripped or shattered, preventing him from turning in homework and assignments; his pencils and quills disappeared, his stuff ended fallen apart and his homework constantly appeared scratched or stained so they couldn’t be read.

Hits, jostling and insults were his daily routine in school. And, with every day that passed, his abuses were scaling, especially in breaks. Rumble liked to hitting him with balls, mud or everything he could use to humiliate him in front of everyone. His lunch never made it to his mouth, Rumble and his friends always stole it, not without first giving him a beating. He didn´t have a chance against those three on his own, every time he tried to do something that Bull one just needed one hoof to have him in the floor. And, even his eyes begged for help, neither of his classmates move a single hoof to do it, they were too scared of Rumble or, others, were laughing of everything they did to him. Compare to them, everything Diamond Tiara or Silver Spoon could say it was just verbiage. As he expected, he was on his own. Like always have been.

One day, Miss Cheerilee decided to reassign the seats of his students, putting Comet in the middle row, two seats behind Apple Bloom, who was in front of everyone now. Well, Rumble didn´t hesitate in throw him out of it to be closer to his friends.

Back in the castle, things didn’t go better. Comet was having problems continuing with his farce. He hadn’t recovered of his last injuries yet when he returned home with new ones. His lies were less and less convincing and his spirit were getting lower. But that wasn´t everything, his habits were changing too. With his violin lessons, he could improve surprisingly in a few months, but, in a moment, he just stopped practicing and not playing his instrument ever again, being he loved it, getting to practice daily; he slept a lot but he couldn’t rest properly because he was tormented by nightmares every time he closed his eyes. In a tent to help him and to know what was happening to him, Twilight asked Princess Luna for help, but she didn´t could do much. She said that Comet´s dreams were violently storms and darkness, making impossible to find the foal among all that chaos.

Comet was feeling bad all the time. He constantly ran away to the lake he found, making it his own secret sanctuary. But, instead of giving him the comforting sensation like the first time, it was just a reminder of how miserable and lonely he felt, now; transforming it in just a place where to cry alone.

His appetite had decreased, sometimes skipping meal or dinner, or both, losing weight notoriously; so that, that in an occasion Comet fainted in the middle of a class because he skipped dinner, breakfast and couldn´t eat anything in lunch time because of Rumble; the rest of that week rumble stopped bulling him scared of overdoing it, but returning a few days later.

Magic lessons with Twilight also has to be interrupted. He couldn’t concentrate. His emotions, specially anger and frustrations, made his magic unstable and erratic, provoking some accidents when he tried to cast a spell. Due to that instability, Twilight decided to postpone the practices until Comet feel better.

Twilight knew something was terribly wrong. Since some time she noticed the change in Comet personality. He was in a terrible mood most part of the time; he was irritable and used to have violently and explosive huffs; it was rare seeing him smile. His glance was sad, he disregarded his appearance, was afraid of going out, his scholar development was poor and didn´t want to go to school.

She tried to ask Cary for help, maybe she could figure out what was happening and know how to fix it. But it was in van, that attitude was completely unknown to her.

Even Shining Armor and Cadence visit wasn´t worthy to lift his spirit. When he returned home that day, one of the worst he had, the only idea in his mind was lay in his bed and sleep until tomorrow, or never, it didn´t matter. He couldn´t do it, the moment he entered the castle he was received with an effusive welcoming. The less he needed was the company of anypony and now he had two strangers obstructing his way to his bed, he didn´t care if they were saying they were his aunt and uncle. Comet already pissed out for all that happen that day, but it wasn’t until Shining armor lifted him and touched in one of the sites where had being beaten earlier when he exploded.

-UNHAND ME! PUT ME DOWN IN THIS INSTANT! –he yelled, leaving everypony openmouthed whit an expression of surprise.

Stunned, Shining armor put him back in the floor, still shocked by Comet´s reaction. The moment his hooves touched the floor, he started walk to his bedroom. Mumbling and hating everyone in that moment; his classmates, Rumble; his uncles for came so unexpected; Twilight for bringing him to Ponyville, not even his life was that bad when he lived in the orphanage; and himself for thinking bad about her and retaliating with who didn´t have nothing to do. He slammed the door so hard the hit has heard all over the castle.

“What is happening to him?” Cadence asked, not upset, but worry instead.

“I´m not very sure. He’s been acting like these lately. There are better days, but almost every day is like this. I hope your visit would cheer him up a little, but…” Twilight said frustrated.

“Have you talked with him?” Cadence asked.

“I tried, lots of times. He didn´t want to tell me. Every time I asked him he said: nothing is happening, everything is okay. I tried everything and I still not knowing what is happening to him. I don´t know what to do.” She covered his face with his hooves with frustration.

After a few minutes, the three of them go upstairs to Comet´s room. Shining Armor and Cadence convinced Twilight to let them talk to him, maybe they could find out something. Not pretty sure it would work, Twilight guide them there. She didn´t had nothing to lose, she was empty of options.

“Comet, can we talk?” Twilight said after knocking the door. But, when didn´t get an answer, she knocked again. One more time, nopony answered. Everyone look to each other confused. Then Twilight decided to open de door.

“He´s gone.” Cadence said.

“Where could he go?” Shining Armor asked.

“Oh no, he did it again.” Twilight said.

“Again?” Both ponies said at same time.

“Comet used to escape to somewhere else when he´s upset, something that is common lately. I don’t know where he’s going nor what does he do. Normally, he come back at sunset.”

Shining and Cadence keep watching at the window a few seconds with concern. Then, Shining Armor turn to see Comet´s room. There was a lot of stuff in there, but something called his attention. A wooden case covered in dust next to the closet. “What is that?”

“That´s Comet´s violin.” Twilight answered. “It´s been a while since he stop practicing. I don´t know why, he loved it.”

Both ponies stayed in Ponyville for a week, in which they barely could spend time with Comet or see him; he didn’t talk too much or look at them, actually, he kept his distance from them. He spent most of his time locked in his room, very quiet. Occasionally, they saw him going downstairs to eat something or going to the library, always crestfallen and red eyes.

In the end, they returned to the Crystal Empire without helping Comet in any way and without him saying goodbye to them.

During winter vacations, Comet had a little improvement in his mood, he was more calmed and relaxed. His mood wasn’t the best, but it was better than other days and Twilight could see him smiling a few times. During winter, there wasn´t classes or school so Rumble as well. He could spend all day in home, tranquil, and far away from all his problems. Still, Comet lie to Twilight when he told her his friends would be out of the town, that would prevent Twilight from asking why he didn't go out and play in the snow with them.

They spent Hearth’s Warming in Canterlot, with his grandparents, Shining Armor and Cadence, the last two were notorious surprised to see Comet so happy, he was like a foal completely different from the one they met months ago, making the three –Twilight, Shining Armor and Cadence- thought that it would be just a phase.

That idea banished the moment the vacations ended. Just the moment Comet went back to school, he decayed again, but worse this time. The stories he invented for his injuries were less consistent. She asked her friends for advice, but none of them could say what could be his problem since none of the other fillies –Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo- seemed to have problems, they were as cheerful as always been. And talking to Cheerilee was as useful as the other tries.

The breaking point came a day when Comet was returning home, he found one of his books laying out of the school lands completely ruined; ripped pages, the binding full of cuts and, if it wasn´t enough, the remaining pages were stained with the ink that had been stolen from him just a few days ago. That book was the gift Twilight gave him in Heath’s Warming. A beautiful copy of the adventures of an astute detective and his assistant in Eagleland. He couldn’t have the chance to started to read it yet, now he could never do it.

Comet didn´t know how to feel in that moment. He was used to Rumble steeling his books, they always ending appeared a couple days later, but this was far away over the line. He felt his heath shrink. For years, the books had been his only friends and company; the only ones who stay with him in his loneliness; the only ones who told him wonderful adventures and stunning new places without judging him, now, not even they were save from Rumble’s claws.

Not far away, he could hear Rumble and his friends laughing. Making fun of having taken the only thing left that could bring him a little trace of happiness from him.

Broken, Comet ran away, not to his secret garden this time but in the public park instead, crying is sorrow. There, she kept sitting on a bench far apart enough so nopony could see him crying until he couldn’t do it anymore.

A couple of hours passed. It was hellish heat, but nothing matters to Comet, he didn´t care about anything in that moment. He just was still sitting in the bench, looking the horizon with a blank expression on his face. He was already delayed to go home, but that was common at this point. However, this time, he didn´t wanted to return. His mind was a mess. He felt depressed; he reached the lowest he could fall, and having Twilight worried and making lots of questions was the less he needed. He just wanted to disappeared from everypony’s sight so they could leave him alone.

Rainbow Dash was flying around after being sleeping in a branch of one of the trees of the park when she saw the foal sitting alone apart of everyone.

“Hi, Comet. It´s been a while since the last time I saw you. How is it going?” She greeted him while she was landing.

Comet just gave her a glance, with the same inexpressive eyes he had when he was looking at the horizon. It was impossible not notice how red and puffy they were due to being crying a long time. Rainbow, noticing this, got close to the foal carefully, sitting next to him.

“Are you okay?” She asked.

“Yeah, I´m okay.” He said without any emotion, just like the voice you expect to hear from a machine.

It was obviously a lie; you didn’t need to be Applejack to figure it out. Taking a close and carefully look of the foal, she could see some of the bruises and scrapes Comet had all over his body, being the most notoriously the clack eye he has, hard not to see it due to his white fur.

Rainbow wasn’t pretty sure what should she do or say, or if it was correct so it, because that would be Twilight’s job. But Comet’s conditions and the fact that he had old and new beats made her think that probably it wasn’t a recent problem and, if that was the case, Twilight didn’t know anything about it, she was surprisingly clueless and stupid sometimes for a wise and intelligent pony like her. So, Rainbow finally get encourage and started talking.

“Somepony bother you in school, right?” She asked.

Comet rise her ears and give Rainbow a surprised glance. He didn’t tell her anything. “How did you…?” He asked. It was hard to him believe that Rainbow, the most distracted of Twilight’s friends, would figure it out. Not even Twilight had a clue.

“It’s hard not to see it.” She pointed to his black eye. “Besides, I know how you feel, Futtershy and me were bothered at school to.” Comet kept seeing Rainbow stunned, he couldn’t believe that such a though and self-confident pony like her could be bullied. “Tell me, what happened?” She moved Comet closer to her.

For the first time, after months of endure and keeping the abuses of those three foals, Comet opened up and let everything out; all his anger, anguish and sorrow that was holding on his mind like a pressure cooker about to explode it was released at last. He told her about how everything had started, how things had been increasing and how he had reached at these point. He remembered every trick, joke, prank and hit Rumble had ever given him. Rainbow listen carefully everything single word he was telling her, astonished of how much he had endure. When he finished speaking about all he kept to himself, he felt better. Free. A huge weight had been lifted off him.

“That Rumble. I can’t believe he is a bully like that.” Rainbow commented.

“Do you know him?” Comet asked with certain regret.

“Not him personally. But I know his brother, Thunderlane; he is a good pony. I don’t understand why he is acting like these.”

“I don´t care. That doesn’t matter.” Comet reply.

“But there is something I don’t understand. Why did you stop doing what you like because them?”

“I was me or them all the time. They were always there, even when I was home, they never leave alone; never left me.” “He said frustrated. “Whatever was the place or the situation, they always win.”

“They only win if you allow them and I think you have already gave them too much advantage. If you give up now, this will never end, you’ll their prey forever.”

“Easy to say for you.” Comet said with disdain.

“Of course not, aint never easy. But is something you must do.”

“But, what can I do?”

“Put them in their place. Show them that you are not somepony they should mess with. Make them understand that they will not bully you again without consequences.”

“It’s three against one. Have you ever seen Bull? He is three times my size.”

“Are you kidding? I don’t remember have seen any trace of fear in you when you decided to play a prank to three adult mares. You planed one of the most terrifying experiences we´ve ever been all alone. You are stronger than you think. How many foals of tour age have you ever seen that could cast such illusions? How many foal can lift all the weight you can with its magic? Even more, how many foals of your age have you ever seen that can actually use magic?”

“But them…”

“Stop thinking about them and focus in yourself. It´s time for you to open up your eyes and teach them a lesson. The only one who can allow them to harm you is you. It is your decision. You can let the other take advantage of you and make a fool of you for the rest of your life… or you can put an end to all of this.” She said standing up from her seat, walking a few steps.

Comet didn´t say anything, he kept in silence thinking over Rainbow’s words. “I’ll let you alone so you can think about it.” She said at the speechless foal. “I gotta go, I have to finish my climatic job. By the way, I’ll tell you a secret. The ponies who bother you, they do it because they are afraid of you.” She winked him and then lift off the ground.

Afraid of me… What does it mean? Why would they be afraid of me? Comet though. He stayed sitting on the bench for a little more, thinking about everything. Rainbow was right. He knew he must do something at respect, he already had let Rumble go so far. But, what? After meditating it for minutes, he got up, picked up his stuff and walk toward the castle.

In the way, lots of thoughts crossed his mind, among them, one made him especially fun: from all Twilight´s friends, he never expected Rainbow Dash would be who gave him emotional support; maybe Flutteshy, Rarity, even Applejack, but Rainbow. However, it was good that it was so. Second thought, maybe she was de most indicated.

“I’m here!” Comet yelled when he entered the castle, surprising Twilight and Spike, because it had passed months sin the last time Comet announced his arrival.

Without leaving his stuff in his bedroom as he usually did, he went directly to the dinner room, where there were Twilight and Spike picking up the dirty dishes, and picked up an apple from the table.

“What is for meal? I’m starving.” He asked as he devoured the apple in large bites.

Twilight and Spike look at each other in confusion. Since it was good see Comet with so much energy again, it was unexpected such abrupt chance. Quickly, Spike walked to the kitchen, coming back fey seconds later with a dish for Comet. The second he had it in front, he started devouring it, leaving the dish completely cleaned, he asked for another portion then.

Twilight couldn’t stop looking at the colt she had in front of her. It was someone completely different from who he was hour ago; it was hard to believe he was completely depressed just that morning. Now he had a fiery look in his eyes, it wasn’t an angry or upset glace, but a resolute one instead. What could had happened to provoke that change?

“Comet, are you feeling okay?” Twilight asked.

“Sure, why wouldn’t I be?” He answered with his mouth full, but Twilight decided to ignore it. It was a while since Comet had a proper meal.

“Something interesting happen in school today?” She kept trying to figure out what put Comet in such good mood.

“No, it was as always.” He answered.

“So…”

“So… What?” Comet said a little confused, he didn’t understand what Twilight wanted to mean.

“Never mind.” She said thoughtful.

“I’m finished!” He said satisfied.

Then, he let the dishes in the sink and ran upstairs to his room and, after leaving it several weeks scrapped gathering dust, he picked up his violin to start practicing again. But first, he needed to tune it again; before leaving it, he loosened the strings to prevent the instrument to break. In wasn’t too difficult, he knew perfectly the tone of every string, so he could tune it with just the hearing.

When he started playing again, a little clumsy due to the lack of practice, he could remember why he loved it that much. All the sound swirling and working together to form a beautiful melody capable to transmit sensations and emotions to other ponies. He understood that he had been a fool to stop doing it just because he had been busier thinking about those three then. That when he understood part of Rainbow’s words; he gave them to much importance. He let them took control of his life, it was time to take it back. He knew he had to do something at respect. What? That was a good question, he didn’t know that. But something told him that was one of those things you can plan, he would figure it out when the moment comes.

He was too concentrated in its music and thought that he didn´t notice the alicorn and the little dragon spying from the door. They ran upstairs when they heard the almost forgotten Comet’s violin sound again. Hoping that won’t be just their imagination, they opened carefully he door of his room and saw the little pony playing with the same enthusiasm he had when he started his lessons again.

Smiling to each other for having recovered the real Comet, they closed the door slowly to not be noticed and let the foal continue with his music.
> Ascension
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 11. Ascension.

Another sunrise; another day started. As always, Comet got up from the bed, but this time was different. He had new motivation and resolution. For the first time in a long time, he wasn´t scared or freaked out of going to school, he was anxious instead. Excited to know what would happen. Rumble will be a problem anyway, as always, and he had to deal with it when the time comes.

Comet dressed up and get himself cleaned the best he could, showing again the vanity he acquired from Rarity. He put all the thing he will need for school in his saddlebag and went out of his room to breakfast, encountering with a surprised Twilight the moment he opened the door in a pose that indicated she was about to open the door as well.

She was completely stunned to see comet woke up and ready. She thought she will need to wake him up and convince him again to go to school. But he was there, standing in front of her, ready for the day, with the same expression las day when he came back.

“Good morning, Twilight.” He said before surround her and quickly go downstairs.

“Good morning.” She said still trying to process what was happening. She shook her head to snap out and follow the foal downstairs.

After an awkwardly quiet breakfast, Comet said goodbye to Twilight and Spike and take his path to the school. He stopped and thought for a moment that would be a good idea to invite Twilight with him this time, maybe it could help with Rumble, but he discarded the idea. He had to do it on his own. He had to probe himself he could do it.





Arriving to school, he stopped for a few second and took a deep breath to give him enough courage to face the day. He entered. As he expected, the trio of foals were waiting for him. They said a lot of jokes and nicknames he didn’t care about, they were the same he heard all his life, nothing new. He passed them by ignoring them.

The three ponies were shocked, their words didn’t have the expected answered in Comet, he didn’t even bother to see them. The moment he got to his seat, he took out a notebook and started to write some strange symbols in some lines. Rumble was upset. He started to clench his teeth in anger. But, before they could do something at respect, a pair of fillies, who noticed the good mood Comet was and the way he ignored them, they couldn´t help but say hello and flattered him, in their own way, and bothered him about his absence of Cutie Mark, getting back an awkward and indifferent “thanks”.

They left him alone just in time when Cheerilee entered in the classroom and started with the lesson. Once again, history; a class Comet specially liked. He had a special interest in all the ancient and archaic ponies. However, it was way to more interesting all the ancient magic and the old magical artefacts. The class went as always. Something didn’t change a lot, even with the attitude of Comet, was that he kept in silence most part of the call. If Cheerilee didn’t ask him explicitly to speak, he didn’t say a word. Who wasn’t paying attention, however, has one foal of gray fur and mane, which was watching with resentment to Comet. Comet was still not giving him importance.

The bell rang. Break was commencing. Before the foals could get up from their seats, Cheerilee ask them to leave their homework on his desk. Every foal did wat she ordered and leave it without paying too much attention in their way to the schoolyard. Rumble and his friend were ones of the first ponies to do it, and quickly a line formed behind them, leaving Comet among the lasts. While most of his classmates delivered two or three pages, some of them has illustrations or photographs, everypony got speechless when Comet left a thick work of almost fifty pages in front of Cheerilee, taking even her by surprise.

“Comet, what is this?” She asked a little nervous of the work he gave her.

“It’s my homework, Ms. Cheerilee.” Comet answered a little confused by the question. That was what she asked them to do.

“I just asked you to explain the Summer Sun Celebration.” She said a little overwhelmed, leafing the work.

“I know, but I didn’t want to made a coarse explanation about it. So, I decided to add it a little more.” Ms. Cheerilee and his remaining classmates in the classroom were in shock. If this was «a little», how much would be «a lot»? “It´s an analysis about how the celebration started, how was celebrated the first one, the changes suffered with the time, the host cities, its meanings, the preparations and traditional decorations and the participation of the Princesses. Oh, and I added an interview with Princess Celestia at the end, after the bibliographic references. I think you’ll find it interesting.” He said proudly.

Everypony were openmouthed of the extension of Comet’s homework. Even Cheerilee hadn’t done such a large work until she got graduated from her career. Comet thought about everything, even he took his time taking care about presentation, he bound it so it will look like a book. But, unlike his other students, he didn’t put a single image. 

“I-I see, Comet. Thanks. You can go out now.” She said nervously. She already had enough work with the other foals’ homework and she had to read a complete dissertation now.

Comet got out from the classroom and took his way to his tree. As strange as it sounds, he didn’t bring a book this time. He wasn’t pretty sure what will happen with Rumble, so he didn’t want to take any risk. This day was pretty calm, anyway. Besides the mocking of those three earlier, they didn´t do anything else. Rumble didn´t planned anything for this day, or he was going to giving up of seeing that he wasn’t affected by them anymore, perhaps.

Paf!

His walk, also his thinking, were suddenly interrupted when something hit him in the face, knocking him out. It had been too fast he couldn’t see it coming, but, by the consistence and the sound of the object, surely it was a ball.

Not far away, three laughs started to be heard. As it couldn’t be anypony else, were Rumble, Bull and Blink, sat under a three, bigger and leafier, nearer form the building. Everypony knew how those three treated Comet, but besides those three, nopony was laughing. Even the foals who found some of the jokes they did to him funny in the past, looked to Rumble in disapproval. That was such a treacherous attack, even for him.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t see you there.” The Pegasus mocked.

The foals started to mumbling. Then, Comet started to get up, a little dizzy for the hit and staggering, but refusing to fall down and head down again. In that moment, everypony could see his face. He gave them shivers. He had his lip swollen, and a blood thread down his face from his nose, but what stunned everypony was his stare, a cold and fiery stare; there wasn´t fear in it, just anger, something even Rumble could notice.

Comet´s blood boiled. At first, he only felt the strength of the ball pushing him, but just a few second latter the pain came and, while he was standing up, his face started to burn. Making no other thing than pissed him up even more. This was the drop that spilled the glass. The last thig he’ll allow Rumble to do. He endured him for so long time. This ended now. There wasn’t fear left in his mind, that was gone the last day, the only thing within him was pure anger. Anger that gave him the necessary strength for what he was about to do.

After seeing Rumble for a while, Comet turned to the ball, the one that hit him, on his left. He ignited his horn and turned again to Rumble with an assassin glance.

“Give me that back. I don´t want you to get hu…” Rumble tried to mock of him, but couldn’t finish the sentence because the pitch Comet gave him, knocking him out too, sending him against the tree. Gasps sounded around the foals. In all the time Rumle made a fool of Comet, this was the first time he was fighting back; even Rumble’s minions were astonished.

“Ups.” Comet said, but in such cold way that could froze even dragon’s blood, as he smashed the ball with his magic until it exploded. This will be enough to dismay anypony around, but not Rumble, or that was the message he wanted to express, at least. He sat painfully and, in the middle of a groan, he ordered to one of his minions: “Bull…”

Obedient as always, de huge foal charge toward Comet. But, without even flinching, Comet threw the ball on Bull'’ face, making his trip on a rock. Comet step aside to avoid Bull. Then, ignited his horn again, lifting the colt from the floor and throwing him to the bushes, where he got stuck. Everypony around was surprised and a little scare of Comet magic power.

“Blink…” Rumble ordered to the other pony. But Blink didn’t move. A frightful stare was enough to petrified him. Being watched for his white eye, the same white eye they joke lots of time before, gave him a terrifying sensation. He didn’t know if he actually could see with it, but he felt that Comet was crushing his soul with his stare. What can he do against that? “What are you waiting, Blink, an invitation? Move now.” Rumble insisted.

Blink was trembling in fear, and see Comet starting Walking toward them made it worst. “A-are you crazy… I’m not gonna fight with that monster. Do it yourself –he said freaked out and run away.

“Coward!” Rumble yelled standing up. “Do you think you already won just because you defeat those two? I’m still standing. I’m not afraid of you!” He said to Comet, but it seemed he tried to show more courage than he felt in an attempt to deter Comet, who speeded up when Blink fled away. What was coming was imminent. Both colts were pissed up with each other. Comet because everything he did to him, and Rumble for lost his two minions and his injured ego. They wanted to settle accounts.

Without hesitate, Rumble walked towards Comet with firm step. Suddenly, a filly interposed in Comet´s way, Apple Bloom; encouraging all she could to prevent those dissuade the encounter. The atmosphere was really tense, the crowd was holding their breath, expectant of the inevitable. 

“Wait!” She yelled. “You prove your point. You don´t have to….”

Without stopping, Comet used his magic to make Apple Bloom aside, leaving her with a confused look when he did it. He didn´t want to hurt her, but he didn’t want her to interfere either. When the way was open, the two ponies started to run to each other.

A cloud of dust rose when both colts collide and started to fight and roll on the floor. It was hard to say who did the first hit, some say Comet, some say Rumble. They were in equal circumstances. By being a Pegasus and a unicorn, neither of them had the strength nor the stamina of an earth pony, instead, Rumble had the agility and speed of pegasi and Comet the quick thinking and cunning of unicorns. The weir of all was that none of them was using their innate abilities, such as his wing and horn, to fight. Hits, bites, kicks and punches were what thy used; only the brute force. It was hard to say why they did it, maybe for honor or because they were blinded by their anger to notice it. Until a pair of ponies tried to separate them, Comet used his magic to create a pulse to push them away. In that moment Rumble tried to fly, but Comet didn´t allow him, using his magic to put him back on the floor.

The rest of the foals made a circle around them, moving with the fight, giving them their space. They made a fuss; among cries of anguish, gasps, cheers or some foals yelling “Fight, fight, fight” over and over again. Some them tried to separate them, but thy were received with some hits as well, dissuading them instantly.

“What’s going on here?!” An upsetted voice called everyone attention in just an instant. When the foals turned, they saw what they feared. Ms. Cheerilee was standing just behind them with a severe and angry look in her face. In the moment, everypony took a step aside showing her the two ponies fighting. By seeing this, she quickly walked toward them. “You two, that´s enough, stand back.” As it was expected they didn’t obey, so Ms. Cheerilee has to intervene pushing away the foals from the other. The two were staring angrily to the other. The other foals could see the results of the encounter. Both ponies were completely dusty and dirty; their manes and tails were disheveled and matted; they had bruises and scratches all over their bodies, marks of hooves and teeth and their fur were stained with little splashes of blood. The clothes of Comet were completely ripped and his bow tie was lost, he has a huge black eye and a broken tooth; Rumble, on his side, wasn´t in a better state, he lost a tooth and a lock of hair from his mane, leaving him a bald spot on his head. In some moment of the fight, Comet had snatched a watering can from the hooves of a filly who liked to taking care of the schoolyard flowers, floating it above Rumbles head, with the intention of hitting him.

“Put it down, Comet.” Ms. Cheerilee ordered. But Comet didn´t answer neither obey. “Comet, this is not a game, put it down now.” She said with an even more authoritarian tone. Then, Comet turn to her and gave her a defiant glance, filled with anger. “I’m talking serious. Don’t do it…”

Just like talking to a wall and defying all the authority of the mare, Comet, hit the head of Rumble with the watery can, getting stuck inside of it.

“That’s it. I want to see your mothers after class.” She said completely angry as well now due to Comet´s disobey. “The rest of you will stay the rest of the break cleaning the mess they made. And if I hear any complain or any of you attempt to disobey, will join these to. Is it clear?” Every foal nodded with a nervous expression. Cheerilee took Comet and Rumble back to the classroom with her.





“I´m so sorry, I´m late. I was busy in some paperwork I didn´t notice what time it was.” Twilight entered heavy breathing into the classroom. She went the fast as she could from the castle to the schoolhouse. In it, there were the two fals, sitting at distance from each other. They looked upset. Comet constantly gave Rumble a stare just to continue drawing some symbols in the same notebook of that morning. Ruble still had the watering can stuck on his head, it was made of metal, so they couldn´t take it off. It was a comical image to see. Bothe were dirty and bruised, they had their bodies covered in scratches and bruises, an Comet’s clothes were irreparable. Thunderlane, Rumble’s brother, were there as well, watching his brother trying to figure it out how to remove the watery can. Ms. Cheerilee was seating behind his desk, watching over the two foals. But there wasn’t anypony else.

“Don´t worry about that. We aren’t waiting for too long.” Cheerilee answered.

Comet turned to look at Twilight for a moment a little surprised. Thunderlane went to the school almost every day to pick up Rumble, that explained why he was there, but Comet retuned home alone, Twilight had never gone to the school, how did she know that Cheerilee wanted to talk to her? Maybe he didn’t notice it, but he didn´t remember had seen Cheerilee move from his desk or ask anypony to send a message for her.

When Thunderlane saw Twilight, he made a reverence, completely surprised of seeing who actually was the other foal’s mother. Rumble didn´t follow this action, he couldn´t see who else was in there with them and the voice wasn´t familiar for him; nor Chereerilee because Twilight ask her to treat her like another parent.

“What is happenin, Ms. Cheerilee?” Twilight asked a little confused by the situation, but she could sense the answer.

“Wll, you see. I´m ashamed to say this word, but Comet and Rumble were involved into a fight.” She explained, but not much for their surprise.

“How did this happened?” Twilight was curious.

“Do you have any idea what could started it?” Thunderlane asked a little worried.

“Not really. I was checking homework when I heard a lot of noise out in the schoolyard. When I went out to see what was happening, I found these two fighting. None of them wanted to say anything after separate them.” She explained. “It puzzles me. Comet used to be quiet and tranquil, he had never gotten in troubles and, despite his notes had been lowering with the time, his not a bad student; pretty dedicated if he proposes it.” She showed them the homework Comet have her that day. “Rumble is a little restless, but he had never done something like this. “She added.”

“Wow, Comet did this.” Twilight exclaimed taking Comet’s work starting to leafing it. “How impassive. Now I understand what he was doing in the library until late…” She said excited to see how mucho he effort in School. He was so similar to her. But, a few second latter, she noticed de serious glare they gave her for getting out of the topic, indicating her to focus on what matters in that time. Twilight cleared her throat and returned to her serious mood, turning to Comet. “Comet, care to explain?” She said with a severe tone.

“And you, Rumble, what do you have to say at respect?” Thunderlane said to his brother.

None of the colts say a word. Comet just stared at Twilight with an annoyed glare while Rumble turned to his brother, maybe with the same expression of Comet.

“Well…?” Twilight and Thunderlane say at same time expecting an answer.

“I have nothing to say.” Comet said upset, making clear he wasn´t going to say anything.

Rumble tried to said something as well, but the can muttered his voice and prevented him to move his mouth, making everything he tried to say unintelligible.

“And why Rumble have this on his head’” Thunderlane asked.

“It was Comet.” Cheerilee said. “I have no idea how he put his head inside of it and I don´t know how to remove it either. We tried to force it and cot it, but we couldn´t, not without hurt him. And Comet didn´t want to tell me.

“Doesn’t he suffocate from having that on his head?” Twilight asked a little worried.

“Fortunately, it has holes to breathe through.” Thunderlane pointed.

“Comet, you better tell me how did you put the can on his head, or else…” Twilight said trying to sound intimidating. 

“Or else, what?” Comet dare, surprising everypony for his irreverence.

“Well, I-I…” Twilight doubted, she didn´t expect that answer from Comet. He normally was obedient. Actually, she didn’t have anything to threaten him-. You will not enter in the library for a month.

“How will I do my homework?” Comet answered without frightening.

“Well… No more violin lessons.”

“I haven’t had one in months. I can practice by myself.”

“No more comics, then.”

“I already read them all.”

“No more cupcakes.”

“I can live without them.”

“Oh, c’mon! What do I have to say to you to tell me how to take that can off him?” Twilight said without ideas, Comet had an answer to every threaten she said. Comet didn’t say anything, he remained in silence. After giving another annoyed glance to Rumble tuned back to his notebook. Twilight could see that he was writing some musical notes of some melody in the pentagrams.

“If you allow me…” Tunderlane said clearing his throat, interrupting their argument which wasn’t going anywhere. “…This is just a children lawsuit, maybe the reason behind it isn´t that big. Maybe, an apology will be the better solution here.”

Comet got tense, breaking his pencil tip. Did he hear right? They wanted him to apologize.

“If both of you agree.” Ms Cheerilee said.

“I guess… If that solves the problem…” Twilight said.

Then, they make both reluctant foals to stand up in from the other in front of Cheerilee’s desk with bod adults behind them.

“Alright, Rumble…” Thunderlane indicated to his brother.

With his head low, and hating to say that words, his voice was muttered by the can once again, but it clearly could be understood that he said “I’m sorry”. His brother was satisfied now. Even though they couldn’t see his face, it was probably he had an angry expression.

“Now is your turn, Comet.” Twilight ordered him giving him a little push. But Comet didn’t say a single word, he just stood seeing with an assassin glare to the foal he had in front. “What are you waiting, Comet? Say you are sorry.” She ordered again, a little impatient.

Comet turned his head to Twilight to give he an angry stare, then turning back to Rumble again. He couldn´t believe it. Twilight, who was supposed to support him, was asking him to apologize to Rumble, the pony who made his life impossible since months, because he give him what he deserve. Never. Not in a billion years. Finally, he gave Rumble a lesson; finally, he did something at respect. Rumble would think it twice before mess with him again. Comet won giving all that and put his proud aside to “apologize”. Rumble doesn’t deserve that pleasure. He won never law his head never again.

“Comet…” Twilight said again.

“No.” Comet said firmly and loud. Every pony was speechless.

“What did you said?” Twilight said irritated.

“I said: NO. I’m not going to apologize.” Comet made it clear, turning to Twilight. “He deserves everything I did to him and more. I’m not going to apologize, not now nor never.

“Comet, I’m not playing. Apologize right now.” Twilight ordered.

“Let me made it clear to you.” Comet turned to Rumble and walk toward him. “I am not going to apologize!” Comet gave a punch to the watery can, making Rumble tumble. Then, he picked up his saddlebag and stuff and started walk to the door.

“Comet, you are not going anywhere until you apologize with Rumble.” Twilight interpose in his way.

With a look of tiredness and annoyance, Comet ignite his horn an thed disappeared and reappeared behind her, next to the door. He opened the door and gave them a last glance. “Never!” He yelled, slamming the door.

“Why did I teach him that spell.” Twilight regretted his magic lessons. “I’m so sorry. I don´t know what´s happening to Comet.

“You must talk with him. I think there’s something he is hiding.” Cheerilee suggested.

“I´m sorry, Thunderlane.”

“Don’t worry. We have to leave anyway. We must find out how to take this off Rumble.

Twilight nodded and she run out of the classroom looking for Comet immediately. She took flight so she could find him easily, because, even though he just left a few seconds ago, Comet could be pretty elusive. She didn’t have to search for too long, she found Comet sitting beneath a tree a few hundreds of meters from school. Ha had taken off his ripped clothes, leaving them next to him. He was watching to nowhere. Twilight land slowly a few steps from him.

“Comet…” Twilight called him.

“Don’t insist. I’m not going to apologize.” Comet interrupted, guessing what was she was going to say.

“I know. I know.” She said a little annoyed for his stubbornness. “What I want to know is why.” She said gently.

“Because he deserves it.” He said coldly. “So he will learn to respect me.”

“Respect you? That’s what this is all about? There are better ways to gain his respect without violence.

“You don’t understand. You don’t know him.”

“Maybe not, but what you did isn’t right. It is not correct hitting other ponies.”

“Nor correct…?” Comet repeated feeling his anger increasing again. “That he insulted me and mess with me every day was correct?! That they stole my lunch every day until I faint was correct?! That they hit me and abuse me every buking time they wanted was correct too?! It was correct that they stole and ruin my homework and three of my books just for fun?! Their stupid pranks were correct?!” He said louder every time as tears started to run on his face due the anger he felt. “That they made my life miserable was correct?!

“Uh… Well… No” Twilight was surprised about everything the foal was confessing, she barely had time to process it. Thinking it a little bit, all fit now. The bad humor of Comet, his bad school performance, his fear of going to school and his low spirit; everything made sense. “But, what about your friends, didn´t they help you?

“My friends?” Comet was surprised as well. He couldn’t believe Twilight didn´t figure it out all was part of the same lie. But he decided to take care of one problem at time, he will continue with the friends lie so Twilight would leave him alone for a while-. We distance ourselves when Rumble started to bully me.

» “I’ve had enough of Rumble.” Comet Continue. “He made my life impossible for months. I’m tired to have to endure his crap. I’m tired of hiding and run away from him. And, specially, I’m sick of not doing anything. I’ve finally put him on its place; I gave him what he deserves. And if you think I’m going to put all that aside and apologize, you are you are very wrong. I’m not going to low my head again. Never. Nor in a billion years. I prefer to give up my magic for the rest of my life than humiliate me in front of him. Not anymore.”

“Months…?” Twilight couldn’t stop surprising. “Why didn’t you say anything? Why did you wait until things got out of control?”

“These are my problems, not yours. I know all these things about school were a bad idea. I know this would happen. I tried to warn you, but you didn’t listen. You were too excited with this idea that… I didn’t want you to worry with all these things.”

“It’s my work to worry of all these things.”

“You have better thing to do than take care of my problems.”

“My work is take care of you; guide you, help you and give you the support you need. That´s I accepted to adopt you and made you part of our lives. You are more important than any royal duty. I could have help you with this if you just had told me.

“Not everything can be fixed with sermons. Rumble doesn’t understand words.”

“And who told you fight was a good solution?”

“Um… Well… Was Rainbow Dash.” He said nervously.

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed angrily, but he couldn´t be sure if it was the fact that Comet hadn’t had trust in her to tell his problem or because of Rainbow’s advice Comet was now in troubles. “Rainbow Dash!” She yelled igniting her horn and making a confused Rainbow Dash in front of them.

“What just happened?” Rainbow asked eyes open wide. “Comet…? Did they hit you again?” She said the moment she saw the foal. “We just talk about this yesterday, I thought you understood it.

“On contrary, Rainbow, you should feel proud of yourself.” A sarcastic and annoyed voice sound behind her, making her feel a shiver down her back knowing who was this voice. “Thanks to your wonderful advices is why Comet is in that state.”

“My advices?” She asked nervously.

“Yes, your advices.” Twilight affirmed. “I’ll be grateful if you talk with me before you derail my son. Comet had never act like this before, why did you told him he should fight with Rumble?”

“He was bullied in school, what should I do instead?” Rainbow was trying to be firm avoiding upsetting Twilight ever more. “But he must get me wrong, I didn´t tell him he must firth.

“Oh, really? What did you tell him then?” Twilight didn´t believe her.

“I told him he must teach them a lesson, that he must show them he wasn’t a pony to mess with…” She then stopped and think about a few seconds, then put a silly smile on her face. “Now that I mentioned it, maybe I used the wrong words…

“You think?” Twilight said sarcastically.

“So what? If that makes nopony bother him again, let him fight the times necessary then. Not everything could be solved with sermons.” Rainbow answered.

“Told you”

“Keep quiet, Comet.” Twilight ordered.

“Look, Twilight, maybe you think all problems could be solved if you just speak about it, but it’s not like that. Prove of that are all the times we had to use the Elements of Harmony.” Rainbow said with a firm posture. “I don’t expect you understand this; you had never had to put up with a bully. But I did, and sometimes the only choice you have is to fight. I hope the other foal end worse than you –this last thing was for Comet, she said with a proud tone.

“The other? There were three of them.” Comet was glad someone was giving him the reason.

“Did you fight three to one?” Rainbow was a bit surprised.

“And I won.” Comet said proudly. “One of them flew away the moment I defeated the fist. But Ms. Cheerilee interfered before I could finish with Rumble. But I put his head inside a watery can.” He laugh.

“Aww, I would like to see that.” Rainbow lamented. “What did I told you? I knew you had strength.”

“I have a photograph. Wanna see it?”

“Sure.”

Comet pull out the photograph from his saddlebag and show it to Rainbow. Both of them couldn´t stop laughing, something Twilight disliked because Comet didn’t show a little bit of regret about what he did.

“It’s not fully.” She said. “You could hurt him.

“It’s a little bit late for that.” Rainbow defend him still laughing.

“And where did you get that photograph anyways?”

“Featherweight. He’s in school newspaper. He takes pictures of everything.” Comet said laughing as well. “C’mon, Twilight, calm down. You had to admit it’s funny. He put the picture in front of Twilight, couldn´t contain a little giggle as a smile showed on her face, something they won´t let pass, giving them the reason. With the can in his head, Rumble looked like an elephant with a can head.

“Alright, maybe a little.” She admitted. “But that doesn’t justify your actions. We still need to talk about.”



Next morning, Comet was going to school. He managed to convince Twilight about his point respect Rumble and, even though she still didn’t approve his behavior, she resigned Comet wasn’t going to apologize. Like it or not, Comet had valid reasons and was stubborn enough and wasn’t willing to give up.

As usual, some foals were inside the classroom and others playing outside. Everypony had his friends and they congregated in the same groups, however, the topic that was in mouth of everyone was the same: the defeated of Rumble against Comet, something that certain trio of foals didn’t liked at all. It has been humiliating. Lost in a three to one fight and, if that hadn’t been enough, Rumble had the can in his head for an entire day. But he had a little consolation prize, he just had to wait for it.

“Do you think Comet would join us now he’s in a better mod?” Apple Bloom asked to his friends.

“How are you that sure Comet is in a better mood? We haven’t seen him since yesterday, and it was after seeing him fight with Rumble.” Sweetie Belle was unsure if it was a good idea to stay close to Comet after what happened moths ago.

“Exactly. He finally got rid of Rumble, he doesn’t have anything to worry now, that’s why he’ll be in a better mood.” Apple Bloom assured.

“We’ll know when he arrives.” Scootaloo said.

As she just foresight it, Comet entered the classroom in that instant, with a higher energy as usual and with a slight smile on his face.

“See? I told you, better mood.” Apple Bloom boasted. “Maybe Rumble will be calmer too. I may say he let us all free of him.

“Now you are exaggerating.” Sweetie Belle warn her, as they follow Comet with the sight.

Comet passed by them without giving them too much attention, walking directly to where Rumble was, which put a smile on his face the moment he saw him. However, this didn’t intimidate Comet, continuing until he gas stand just in front of him and Bull. Blink wasn´t with them anymore, he was rejected by them after being a coward last day probably.

Comet gave a quickly glare to the classroom, checking Ms. Cheerilee wasn’t there. It was his lucky day, she was talking and laughing with some parent outside and the classroom was almost empty; besides them three, the Crusaders and a pair of fillies where inside.

“Are you going to apologize? I’m still waiting.” Rumble mocked.

“You’re in my seat, move out.” Comet ordered in a cold and frightening way.

“Don’t even think I’m going to…” Rumble answered, a little surprised by Comets dare.

“I said, Move!” Comet said a second time, taking Rumble with his magic this time and throwing him painfully toward the seat Ms. Cheerilee gave him time ago. With Bull it wasn´t necessary to do anything else, a fiery stare had been enough to make him low his head and walk backward to his seat like a scolded dog. The message was clear: he didn’t fear him anymore.

The other fillies present were astonished. This new aggressiveness was new on Comet, being able to intimidate the biggest foal in the class.

“Ms. Cheerilee!” A filly of fur and mane of color blue exclaimed, stopping his chat with her friend to warn the teacher Comet was fighting again.

With a quick thinking, Comet grab her with his magic and put her back in her seat. Being immobilized by his magic, she turned frightened to Comet, feeling scared by Comet’s glance.

“Not a single word, is it clear?” He threatened her. He didn’t have anything against her, but he couldn’t take the risk of getting in problems again.

The filly, freaked out of what Comet could do to her, frantically nodded with her head. Convinced with his classmate answer, and not wanting to intimidate her, he let her free. Immediately, the filly sight in relief that didn’t scale anymore for her.

“What are you looking at?!” Comet said turning to the crusaders when he felt their stares.

The moment Comet turned to them, the three fillies looked away with a frightened sight in their faces. Then, Comet sat on his seat and started to read his book.

“I won’t say he set us free.” Sweetie Belle said with a concerned expression.

“I think there’s new pony in charge.” Scootaloo added with the same expression.

Finally, Comet gave him his place among his classmates and he didn´t need to reveal the secret about Twilight; he did it by his own merits. Everypony would think it twice before even look at him. He didn´t have any friends yet, but his classmate will give him the respect he deserves now. If they didn’t want to give him for the good, the fear will obligate them to do it. For the first time, he felt big, important, self-sufficient; he felt the strength Rainbow Dash talked about. Nobody will mess with him again. He felt powerful, and he loved it.
> A master class
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 12. A master class.

Getting rid of Rumble had been a double-edged sword. On one hand, they stopped bothering him and he earned the respect of his peers, even when Cheerilee asked him if he had already apologized to Rumble, a simple glance at him was enough to make him nod, thus acknowledging that he was now in charge; but on the other, he was now feared by others, fleeing from him in his wake. At first he did not dislike the idea, sometimes taking advantage of the situation, taking it out on many of them and, especially, on Rumble.
Over time, the other foals began to move further away from Comet, as they came to consider him worse than his predecessor. Rumble was calm as long as you didn't mess with him, but Comet was more irascible and responded more aggressively to the slightest provocation, even if it wasn't intentional. But what other treatment could he give to those who had humiliated him in the past?
Comet felt more alone than before. Even Rumble being a bully had friends; but he was still not accepted by his contemporaries. What was he doing wrong? Why couldn't he fit in with them? The day he tried to apologize to the blue filly he had bullied in the living room, she ran away out of fear that he was going to do something to her. Even the Cutie Mark Crusaders had given up trying to join him in their club. The only company he had were once again his books and, sporadically, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, of which it was difficult to know their intentions, because sometimes they would annoy him and others to try to flatter him if they could tell him about it. somehow.
“Wait Scootaloo!” He heard a scream that brought him out of his thoughts, as he drew some notes in his notebook.
Previously he would have ignored the shout, but for a moment now, Comet had switched his lunch spot to one closer to the group, hoping, perhaps, to accomplish something.
"Catch it, Sweetie Belle!" Exclaimed the Pegasus at the moment of throwing a ball that inevitably hit Comet, as the little unicorn stumbled when trying to reach it; spilling his drink on his notebook, sweeping the ink with it.
The other foals that were there could not help but gasp when they saw the scene, beginning to murmur fearful of the outcome.
After the surprise, and after looking at his notebook, he gave the crusaders an angry look. He had been working on that melody for weeks and had already achieved about five chords, it wasn't much, but he had put a lot of care into them; and now all his effort, all his progress, was gone.
The crusaders took a step back, except Sweetie Belle who was still on the ground, surprised to see who had hit the ball. Comet got up slowly, which made them more nervous, catching the ball with his magic and taking a few steps toward them. When Comet stopped inches from Sweetie Belle. She covered her eyes, crouching as low as she could as she began to shake. However, he ignored her.
“C-Comet ... I-I'm so sorry ... you're not hurt, right?” Scootaloo said shakily, laughing nervously.
"Sounds funny to you." Comet replied, breathing heavily and in a voice that gave both of them chills.
"What? ... No. It was an accident." Apple Bloom answered, just as nervous as her friend.
"It wasn't my intention…" Scootaloo said trying to explain himself.
"She warned you!" He interrupted her, pointing at Sweetie Belle.
"I know; I should have listened to her." Scootaloo agreed with him, thinking that it would be better for them. Please, Comet, forgive me.
“Could you give us the ball back? It won't happen again, I promise.” Apple Bloom added, believing that everything had been fixed.
"Yeah, I'll take care of that." Comet said coldly.
Immediately, Comet's horn glow, squeezing the ball so hard it burst. He then simply dropped her to the ground as he walked away under the stunned gazes of the three fillies.
An expression of sadness began to draw on Apple Bloom's face as she approached the shapeless mass of rubber on the floor.
"I spent my entire money on this ball." She said pitifully.
“Sorry, Apple Bloom. I'll get you a new one.” Scootaloo apologized, feeling guilty.
Sweetie Belle finally got up, moving closer to her friend to try to comfort her as well.
"Yeah, so you know, don't bother Comet." Said a voice that made Comet stop dead.
When he turned around, there was none other than Blink, Rumble's scrawny colt henchman. Seeing him sticking their noses where they didn't call him, all the colts, including Comet, looked at him with contempt.
“And what do you think you're doing?” Comet scolded him, now directing all his fury at him.
"Well, as the new chief of the school, you need a friend and lackey to support you and follow you and ... well ... I thought I could be that friend." He said, getting more and more nervous at Comet's inquisitive gaze. “I-I'm on your side.” He added.
Blink's words only increased Comet's anger. The crusaders had been forgotten. How dare this liar think he could be his friend? His horn began to flash and emit much energy from the rage he felt at that moment.
"Friend? ... From you? ..." He said in a tone of voice that made everyone present shudder as Blink flinched when faced by Comet, again feeling tiny before the intense look he gave him. “After everything you said; after everything you did to me; do you have the nerve to believe that I am going to be friends with someone like YOU? Many sparks began to come out of his horn. You're lucky I didn't give you what you deserve before and I'm not doing it now. Now get out of my sight before I regret it.
Completely terrified, the colt ran away from everyone. Once he was away from everyone, Comet turned and walked away as well. The rest, terrified, watched the colt move away directly to the trees and disappearing behind them, grateful that they were not the ones who were in that position. Comet really scared them, they had never seen him so angry, the crusaders at least had the consolation that with them he had been softer.



As he calmed down and his mind cleared, aided by the sound of the water and the billowing willow leaves, Comet began to feel terribly ill. He had done it again. He let his anger take control of him again. Without realizing it, he had become one of the bullies he had so disowned. He couldn't say that Blink hadn't earned it, but the crusaders didn't deserve that trade. Yeah, they bothered him before, but they didn’t do anything but telling him about his Cutie Mark. Nothing compare to Rumble. Everything had been an accident; none of them would have done it on purpose and he knew it. And what Apple Bloom said only made things worse. If he wanted something, he just had to ask Twilight, she would give it to him, in addition to her generous allowance; but he knew that others were not so lucky and many of his classmates had to save the little money that their parents gave them. But he was so frustrated with himself, jealous of his classmates; he was so envious of what others had and he couldn't get, that he ended up taking it out on them. How to get friends if nobody wants to be?
“With Celestia as my witness, I promise never to be a bully again; never again.” He told himself.
Seeing what time it was, since Twilight had bought her a pocket watch at his whim, she hurried back to school. Lunch would be over soon. On his way back, he found the crusaders not far from where he had left them, still looking sad.
The bell rang and the three of them headed for the classroom. Comet was the last to enter, staring at the deflated ball for a few moments. Not knowing quite what to do, he took it and carried it to his saddlebag, where he put it without anyone seeing him.
"Very well, students, I hope you enjoyed your recess." She said Cheerilee cheerfully as she started her class again. However, the faces of some of the foals present there could say otherwise. “As you know, we do some excursions to important or historical places as part of school activities…”
As soon as Cheerilee said the word excursion, all the ears of the students perked up and their eyes turned to her very attentive to what she would say, completely changing their mood to a more enthusiastic one. An excursion meant a day without classes, leaving the town, something that many normally did not do, and an experience full of games and fun.
“This time, we´re going to Canterlot. It will be a long trip; we will be there for two days. The first, we will take a tour of the city and the castle of the princesses; And on the second day, we will visit the royal gardens and will culminate in attending the famous Canterlot Flower Festival.
Voices of excitement and amazement began to be heard throughout the classroom, even Comet shared the feeling with his classmates, although for different reasons. Visiting Canterlot meant nothing more to him than seeing Cary again.
"So I need your parents to sign these permits." The teacher continued, showing some sheets in which she explained in more detail what the trip would consist of, where they would stay, what will they do, etc. “It is very important that you do not forget to give them to them, because whoever does not have your signed permit will not be able to accompany us. It is understood?”
All the colts nodded fervently, making everyone, even the crusaders, momentarily forget about the bad taste in their mouths from the altercation in the schoolyard.
Cheerilee went to the seat of each colt to hand them a copy personally. The vast majority, as soon as they had the paper in their hooves, immediately put it away except for Comet, who began to read it quickly. The school trip would be until the following week, I would not have much time to give the permission to Twilight, it would be best to do it as soon as possible.



“Ma ...! Twilight! Twilight!” The colt entered the castle very excited, trying to start calling her mother, although he still did not feel very used to it.
“Comet, you're finally here.” She said excited. 
"I have something important to tell you ..." They both said at unison. “How? You too?” They both started laughing.
"You first." Twilight said.
“There's going to be a school trip next week; they’ll take us to Canterlot, the castle and the Flower Festival. I just need you to sign this paper to be able to go.” He said very excited, giving her the permit.
"What a coincidence…" Twilight exclaimed, taking the sheet. “Princess Celestia had just sent us invitations to attend the ceremony.” She said, showing Comet the letter. “I must leave a day before you…” She noticed as she read. I suppose we will meet there.”
"That means…" Comet said, sensing the answer.
"Mhmm, you can go on the trip." Twilight replied smiling as she signed the authorization. One way or another, I think you would have gone to the celebration.
Comet, unable to contain his excitement, hugged Twilight tightly and then ran to his room and put down his things. However, no emotion was enough to make him forget the hunger he felt, making him go down immediately to eat.



The next morning, back at school, Comet was among the first to arrive. I was a little nervous, not so much because of the trip, since that was already insured, but because of a mission that had been done that day. Just a couple of chairs in front of him, there was a lone ball waiting to be picked up by a certain pony.
The reason for her nervousness was to know what reaction she would have. He had been very hesitant about leaving a note apologizing to the owner, in the end leaving nothing more out of shame than anything else, only repairing the ball with his magic and inflating it again. However, his plans were about to be ruined.
"Wow, look." One of his classmates exclaimed. “Someone must have forgotten it. Do you think the owner would mind if…?” He said to his friend.
"Leave that there." Comet interrupted.” It is not yours.”
"Oh come on, as if you hadn't thought of taking it." The filly next to him snapped.
"If it had, that ball wouldn't be there." Comet said. “Now leave her where it is.” Comet added seriously.
“Okay. Okay. Take it easy” Said the filly, somewhat alert. Not stopping to think about how strange the situation was. Comet upset by something that did not involve him and defending the interests of another, who would have said it.
Shortly after meeting her, the three fillies he hoped to see entered. Immediately, he picked up the book he had with him, pretending to read. He hid behind it so he could listen to the three without them noticing.
“What is this?” Apple Bloom said at the moment she payed attention to her seat. “Girls, look. It's my ball. It's repaired.” Apple Bloom exclaimed happily.
Comet couldn't help but smile by hearing her as well. He had sorted out his mess yesterday, more or less. But that made him feel good.
“Who left it there?” Scootaloo asked, looking around.
"I don't know; it was already here" Apple Bloom replied.
“Do you think it could have been Comet?” Sweetie Belle asked innocently, something that surprised Comet.
“He was the one who broke it in the first place, why would he repair it?” Scootaloo said skeptically.
"Well, maybe he regretted doing it and wanted to make things right." Sweetie Belle suggested.
“Oh please. Sweetie Belle. It is nice that you think that about Comet, but that colt gets upset for the least of reasons and doesn't care how many he hurts. I highly doubt he has any regrets.” Scootaloo rejected the idea again.
“Yes. I think you're right.” Sweetie Belle agreed.
Behind the book, the colt's smile faded upon hearing the talk. Sweetie Belle, the only one who had given him the benefit of the doubt, also accepted that Comet would not have done such a thing. Perhaps he had gone too far. Was this how they all saw him now? A heartless colt that didn't mind hurting others. Although he didn't like hearing that at all, much less from the crusaders, who never stopped teasing him about his Cutie Mark until just a couple of weeks ago, it made him understand the seriousness of the situation.
"Good morning, students." Cheerilee greeted as she entered after the ringing of the bell. “Before class begins, does anyone already have their permission signed? If so, please put them on the desk.”
Immediately, about half the room got up to deliver the paper, including: Comet, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon. 
Sweetie Belle, on the other hand, had to ask Miss Cheerilee something about her permit. As her parents had gone on a trip, again, and she was staying with her sister Rarity, who had been taking care of her lately. But I would wait until the end of class for it. For the moment, she only stared at Comet for a moment, still having her doubts about the colt, looking quickly away when the colt turned to her upon feeling her gaze.
Once the last permit had been collected, the class began. Today's topic, Cutie Marks, again. There were already several times that the subject was aired in class, Comet did not understand why so much fascination and there were three fillies who listened with special attention to the explanation. But for Comet it was very different, it was getting boring and somewhat tiring to be listening to the same thing over and over again, not being able to prevent the dream from beginning to beat him, nodding repeatedly.
“Comet, are you paying attention?” A voice next to him called his attention that was heard was annoyed, making him wake up quickly from his lethargy, a small disadvantage of being almost in the front and not in his previous place at the back of the room. “I understand that the subject is not as interesting as the others, but do not fall asleep in class” Cheerilee scolded him.
“With all due respect, Miss Cheerilee, this is about the fifth time you've explained this topic. What else can I learn from him?” Said Comet, causing some gasps of astonishment among his classmates for the boldness in his words.
“Oh, so you already consider yourself an expert. All right, Comet, why don't you teach the class then?” Cheerile snapped, irritated by his insolence.
Comet sighed somewhat annoyed, but then smirked. He would make Cheerilee regret those words. This would be a good opportunity to surprise both her and her classmates, educate them a bit and show off, of course.
He got up from his seat and walked to the front of the room, much to the surprise of Cheerilee, who believed that the colt would hesitate with that words, as would any other of his students. But no Comet, with much confidence he planted himself in front of everyone, ready to give his explanation.
"We hear you, Comet." Cheerilee said, returning to her desk, somewhat doubtful.
Comet took a deep breath to mentally prepare himself. So, it started:
“The Cutie Mark or Beauty Mark, as it is called in other regions, is one of the best known topics and, contradictorily, the least known about it.”
“There are many unanswered questions and few are the data obtained from the little research that has been done in an attempt to better understand something as common as a cutie mark is.”
“But what is a cutie mark? The simplest description we can find is: A mark that appears on the flank of a pony, which can vary from individual to individual. This tells us that it is characteristic of our species, because, despite the fact that there are other magical creatures, such as griffins, hippogriffs, dragons, sea serpents; it has never been seen that any of them can have them.
»We have always been told that it represents the special talent of a pony, which is what it is destined to do, this being the explanation that Clover the Clever gave them from times before Celestia, remaining as the valid acceptance for millennia, and which it will appear at some point of our lives. But if so, why aren't we born with it instead of having a blank flank? Why do we have to wait to find such talent for it to appear? And, if this is destined to appear, why is it not programmed to appear at a certain age like teeth? The most accepted theories that explain this are: 1) It is linked to the magical maturity of the pony; 2) The pony decides when it appears and what appears; and 3) It is because of a task with which you have a lot of practice and mastery.
»However, each of these theories has its limitations and counterarguments, as there are ponies that do not know how to use magic or are very young and get their cutie mark; there are ponies who spontaneously get a cutie mark and don't know what it is or why; and there are those who obtain it the first time they do something and discover that they like it. There are even those who say that it is a mixture of these or more factors, but they can never sufficiently substantiate or describe the other influencing factors.
»All this without leaving the idea that the Cutie Mark represents the talent of the pony.
“Without leaving that idea? So are there others?” Asked a filly with cream-colored fur and red hair that wore glasses and braces.
"It's a very good question." Comet replied, feeling flattered that they were paying attention to him. “Yes. There are many other acceptances about the meaning of the cutie mark. As I already said, the explanation of Clover the Clever, has been the most widespread everywhere, even outside of Equestria. But, currently, it is an archaic reasoning and to continue using it would be incorrect, despite the simplicity with which it is understood.
“And what would those other explanations be?” Apple Bloom asked somewhat skeptically, since that is what her entire club was based on, putting aside her conflicts with Comet, at least for a moment.
“That's what I was going to. There are those who say that they represent our affinities; others, that they are our destiny to follow; some authors suggest that cutie marks are inherited as a kind of family magic; a few believe that they are influenced by our environment or where we live; there are even those who claim that they appear randomly.
“Which of all is correct?” Said the blue-furred pony that Comet had bullied long ago.
"Couldn't come up with an answer" Comet said. “They all have their backing. There are ponies that have Cutie Marks for things they like to do...”
"Like Rainbow Dash, she likes to win." Scootaloo said.
“...there are entire families that have theirs with the same theme...”
"Like mine." Apple Bloom interrupted. “My whole family has Cutie Marks about apples.
“…and ponies have been known to have Cutie Marks from living in the mountains, for example, or that theirs has nothing to do with what they do or like.”
»Of these theories and many others that did not gain greater importance, it is that they began to make classifications to try to group them, describe and explain the Cutie Mark in a faster and less confusing way.
»The first was given by Saddle, who classified them by the number of drawings they are, as simple, if he only had one drawing; and composite, if they were a set of several.
Another would be Greathoof, focusing more on races. Classifying them into only pegasi, only unicorns, only terrestrial and any race. The problem with this classification is that it does not explain much, it only focuses on breed and there are many Cutie Marks that different breeds of ponies can share.
Trotten tried one in which he divided them into objects, plants, animals, and ambiguous. Their biggest problem was the number of sub-ratings that could get out of them; tools, music, planting, weather, among many others; which, in turn, were subdivided into many others.
»The last classification that has been tried to introduce is that of Glowing. Which I consider the most appropriate and correct.
“Why?” Asked Miss Cheerilee now.
“Because, unlike the previous ones, it does not focus on a single idea or acceptance of the Cutie Marks. Part of three of the previous postulates, modifying one. Glowing put aside the idea of ​​a single explanation for its meaning and stopped focusing only on the drawing to go to the interpretation of it. Thus reaching the categories of talent, since it is still valid and the most common; personality, when a trait of it is very dominant or marked, the affinities also entering there since they can determine one's personality; and, finally, those of the destination type, being the least common and confusing for those who obtain them.
»The advantage of this classification over the others is that the rest can fit in it and it gives us a general and concise idea of ​​the Cutie Mark that one has.”
“For you, what do the Cutie Marks mean?” Asked Miss Cheerilee again.
Comet think for a moment. “Nothing.” He said.
Several of the foals present there gasped at such assertion of the foal. After all that explanation, the ideas that he said he agreed with and how entrenched the idea of ​​Cutie Marks ponies had, that he said it in a way that seemed like a minor thing, completely collided with their ideas.
"Those are harsh words for a blank flank." Diamond Tiara sneered, followed by a laugh accompanied by Silver Spoon's.
"Diamond Tiara.” the teacher chided her. But the filly didn’t seem to take the teacher seriously. “Comet has his own way of thinking and he's not...”
"If I may, I'd like to answer." Comet interrupted with a shrewd look.
"Huh...? sure." Cheerilee said somewhat confused.
“Thanks. I'm in no rush to get my cutie mark, like many other ponies. At some point it will come, because it has to come. This is how our species works, there has not been a single pony that has not obtained it. What you contemptuously call "Blank flank", is not an insult to me, but a reminder of the almost infinite potential of what I can become, as well as an ironic way of calling me since I have a white spot on my side, like many others in my body.
"Then why do you say they don't mean anything?" Diamond Tiara replied, annoyed at feeling humiliated that Comet did not see her nickname as something bad, leaving her in a fool.
“After what I have read about and the different ways in which it has been tried to explain the existence and meaning of Cutie Marks, I came to that conclusion. A Cutie Mark doesn't mean anything. It's just a image on your flank. The meaning is given by the pony to whom it belongs. He and only he can interpret and decide what it represents. Taking Miss Cheerilee for example, her Cutie Mark is three smiling flowers. Anyone who does not know her would say that her talent is gardening, but she interpreted it as seeing us flourish as her students. It gave it its own meaning.”
"Continuing with that idea, I can get whatever Cutie Mark and I would make it mean whatever I wanted it to mean and it still would fit into the classifications and theories I mentioned." Comet finished with a proud smile and an arrogant look for having left Cheerilee speechless, who couldn't believe Comet had exceeded her expectations of a colt teaching. “Did I forget to say something?” Said Comet, already being pedantic.
The bell rang.
“No, Comet. I think you've explained it very well.” Cheerilee replied, still stunned. “You can go out.” She told them all.
All of the foals enthusiastically walked out into the yard, some still commenting on the class Comet had given them, others surprised that instead of using the blackboard and chalk, Comet created a series of holograms and images with his magic as he explained. Leaving a pensive and somewhat embarrassed Cheerilee inside the classroom.
Note to myself: never tell Comet to teach the class again. She thought to herself. He was Twilight's son, for Celestia´s sake, when it had occurred to her it was a good idea. It was obvious he was going to be a cocky know-it-all; his past homework must have warned her.
“Watch out!” Someone yelled as, coincidentally, the same ball headed back toward Comet.
Everyone was silent, expectant, when it hit him again, although this time none of his books or notebooks were damaged. Thus closing an incredible and cruel irony of fate. The same Pegasus watched fearfully that she would be in trouble again, and this time Comet would be less considerate.
“Scootaloo! I just got my ball back.” Apple Bloom scolded.
“Comet… sorry… again. I-I didn't mean to... I swear…” The pegasus said nervously.
“I thought you said it wouldn't happen again.” Comet said, obviously annoyed, but trying to control himself.
“Yes… I'm so sorry. I got carried away and I didn't see where I was throwing the ball.” Scootaloo closed his eyes at the end, leaving one ajar, believing that now he would take it out on her.
"Be more careful." Comet said, throwing the ball at her again.
Scootaloo caught her, not without putting on a look of disbelief and confusion that the rest of the colts shared. Was it possible? Comet did nothing? No one could understand the reasons for the colt, it was completely strange behavior for him. Something very good must have happened to him to put him in such a good mood that day. But since you have to learn to accept things as they come, no one asked any more questions. Even with their minds somewhat distracted by Comet, they all went back to business.



“Very good, students, since everyone has already given me their signed permits, I need you to choose a partner. They will be with you the whole trip and will share a room, so make sure you choose well.” Said Cheerilee just a few days later.
As expected, many got together with their friends to spend the trip together; the crusaders, being three, had to decide who of them would go together and who would have to go with someone else, finally deciding that Sweeetie Belle and Scootaloo would go together and Apple Bloom would go with Twist, a friend she had since before the crusaders; someone very nice and knowing her, would share many of the delicious sweets that she made.
Comet, on the other hand, lagged behind in finding a partner. With no friends or ponies to talk to and many of his peers still fearing him, it was a very difficult task. For a moment, he was about to be paired with a lavender-haired, blonde-haired unicorn, Dinky Hooves, if he remembered correctly. She hardly knew the filly, they had never spoken, but she was one of his few companions who had never done anything to him; he'd never had a problem with her, so being with her wouldn't be either. However, in the end, she decided to team up with a pink-furred Pegasus, leaving Comet alone.
This disappointed him a bit, but it was better this way. It would be easier to go visit Cary without a partner who was dragging behind him constantly telling him that what he was doing was not right. Also, that would mean he would have an entire room to himself, without any noisy to disturb him while he read. It had its advantages and disadvantages.
> Apple time
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 13. Time with the Apples.

“What?!” Comet exclaimed, somewhat annoyed.
"Understand that it's also very sudden for me.” Twilight explained, trying to calm Comet down a bit. “I have to go to Canterlot earlier to help with the preparations for the Celebration.”
"But why can't I stay here? It's not the first time I've stayed at home alone” Comet Replied.
“Yes, with Spike. This time, he's coming with me and I don't feel comfortable leaving you here alone without a supervision. The Apples will take good care of you. The farm is nice and quiet. You will have plenty of time to read and there will be plenty of room for you to play. Also, you know Applejack, I'm sure everyone will love having you.
"You could have told me earlier." Comet said.
“It'll only be a couple of days. And the two of us will return together after the festival. What do you say?”
“Do I have option?” Comet asked resignedly.
“Not really” Spike exclaimed thinking out loud, only to be immediately struck by Twilight's glare.
“Okay…” Comet said, rolling her eyes.
Reluctantly she went up to her room and after a few minutes, he came back downstairs with two suitcases, one that would be taken to Sweet Apple Acres and the other with what she would take on the trip. She had only just gotten home from school and now she would have to leave again.



“Apple Bloom, hurry up. We must have everything clean and tidy.” Exclaimed a mare with orange fur and a country accent.
"Why in such a hurry, Applejack?" Asked the filly somewhat confused.
“Because we´re having visitor. We must show them the hospitality of the Apples.” Answered the mare running from one side to the other.
“Visits… Who is it? I hope it's Goldie Delicious or Uncle Apple Strudel, they always have good stories. Oh, oh, I know… It’s Babs. She’s coming to Ponyville again.” Said the filly enthusiastically.
"It's not any of them, sugar cube." Applejack said with a giggle when she saw her little sister's emotion. This time it is someone different.
“Whose?”
*Knock Knock*
Someone knocked on the door. Applejack hurried over to her, ready to greet the visitor.
“I think you'll find out in an instant.” Applejack said to her sister.
As soon as she opened the door, Apple Bloom's face went from excited to surprised to disgusted at the unexpected visitor.
“You?!” She exclaimed when she saw him.
In front of her, standing at the door, was none other than Comet, the least agreeable colt in the entire school. Of all the ponies who could visit the farm, why did it have to be him? And it seemed that Comet's face suggested that he thought the same. He looked upset.
“Welcome, Comet. Come in and make yourself comfortable.” Applejack said, ignoring the animosity with which her sister was watching him and Comet's unfriendly face.
"Thank you. Sorry for the intrusion.” Comet said politely.
“Not at all, you can stay as long as you want. Our house is your house. By the way, where is…?
"She's already gone.” He interrupted her, guessing the question she was going to ask him. “They were in a hurry. They took the first train to Canterlot.”
“Oh I understand. Well, I hope you enjoy your stay at Sweet Apple Acres. Let me introduce you to the family. This is Granny Smith...”
"My pleasure, young colt" Granny Smith greeted.
“…Big Macintosh…”
The huge pony with reddish fur nodded in greeting without uttering a single word.
“...he's a pony of few words…” Applejack explained. “…and you must already know Apple Bloom.”
“Yes, somewhat.” Comet said with indifference, but glaring at her.
“We've met a few times at school.” Said Apple Bloom in the same way as Comet. Both putting on a forced smile at the end.
“Why don't you take Comet to his room and help him settle in?” Applejack asked his little sister, more as an indication than a suggestion.
“Follow me, Comet.” The filly instructed, speaking as if she hated saying every word.
She led him upstairs, a look of disagreement clear on her face, into a room not very large, maybe half the size of Comet's. Maybe smaller. In it there was only a bed and a wardrobe. Despite how rustic the whole place looked, nothing to do with the sumptuousness of the castle, it was strangely cozy.
“This is where you're going to sleep, I hope you're comfortable.” She said as she opened the door, groaning on each word. “Make yourself at home, but not that much. And don't come into my room.
“Which is?” He asked feigning interest.
“As if I were going to tell you.” Replied the filly.
“It's the bottom one, right?” He said pointing with her eyes to the last door of the corridor.
“What? How did you know?” Apple Bloom asked somewhat surprised.
“I guessed.” He explained as he indifferently entered the room to which he had been taken, leaving Apple Bloom somewhat confused and suspicious. She knew it wasn't true. On several occasions he had seen Comet be able to see or "guess" things that others wouldn’t notice, he heard some things that others couldn't and he knew when someone was hiding things, which was a bit unsettling. You can’t hide anything from him. “Look, Apple Bloom, I don't like the idea of ​​spending two nights here either, but we both don't have choice. So, we better get along for as long as I have to stay here. And don't worry, I have no intention of going into your room” He left his things next to the wardrobe and sat on the bed.
“To get along? Why would I? How do I know you're not planning to do something to me here?” Apple Bloom said suspiciously raising an eyebrow.
“I have no reason to do that, do I?” Comet replied with a flat tone of voice.
“You don't need reasons. You annoy and torment others for fun, or have you already forgotten my ball? That's why you're always alone” She provoked him, touching one of Comet's sensitive points.
“If you were observant, you would see that I never move a hoof first. Every time, it was someone else who started it. I have no interest or gain anything by intimidating others. Trying to provoke me won't get you anywhere.” He settled down to read for a while, trying not to lose control, letting her know that he knew what Apple Bloom's intentions were. “With you I exceeded myself, I admit it, but I fixed your ball and returned it to you the next day.” He added.
“So… Sweetie Belle was right?” She was surprised.
“And if I'm alone it's because I want it that way. I'm not interested in socializing with my own age.” He said as he picked up her book to start reading.
“Well, I doubt very much that someone wants to spend their time with a colt as spoiled as you.”
“That's not what it seemed to me when I gave you the Cutie Marks class.” He said with a sly look and a smirk that made Apple Bloom look away. Again, Comet was right. “As I remember, I saw you very attentive to what I was saying.” Comet mocked.
“That's different.” Apple Bloom claimed.
“Yes, of course” Comet answered sarcastically. “You can't fool me Apple Bloom. It's disappointing that you're still trying to do it.” He said to desist. “I can't believe you're Applejack's sister.” He muttered the last thing hoping she wouldn't hear him.
“My name didn’t tell you anything?” Answered the filly somewhat offended by Comet's comment, because she was able to hear it despite the low volume in which she said it.
“I thought it was a coincidence.” He said without giving it to much importance.
“How do you know my sister?” She asked suspiciously.
“She's a friend of my mom's. I was inevitably going to meet her, but I never imagine she had a younger sister; much less than it was you.”
“Well, she has never mentioned you.” She snapped to annoy them, feeling a little offended.
“That’s good. I don't like being talked about.” He answered in a cold way, although Apple Bloom thought she could perceive a bit of pain or sorrow in Comet's words for a moment, although she wasn't quite sure. “I know you don't trust me, but at the moment, you have no choice. Neither of us have it.”
Apple Bloom sighed resignedly. Even if she didn't like the idea, Comet was right. His stay with them was already a fact and she couldn't do anything about it. They had to learn to get along one way or another to avoid problems.
“Well, it seems that it's a truce.” Apple Bloom accepted, handing a hoof to Comet.
Comet turned to her with a slightly flat expression, leaning in with a bored expression, pondering for a moment what the filly was saying and smiling at the end.
“You talk to me as if I were your enemy.” Comet laughed, but giving it very little importance. “But I accept.” Comet disappeared from the bed and appeared in front of Apple Bloom, who backed away a little from the shock. Then, both shook their hooves, while more sincere smiles were drawn on their faces and the tension in the atmosphere was relaxing.
“Kids! Come down to Eat!” Applejack yelled.
“Coming!” Apple Bloom replied. “Are you coming, Comet?”
“I ate already, thank you.”
“Sure? There's apple pie for dessert.”
“Okay, you convinced me.”
They both ran down the stairs and sat down at the table. The food couldn't be simpler than the family that had prepared it, but that didn't mean it was bad. On the contrary, it was delicious, so much so that Comet devoured full portions despite having already eaten in the castle.
“Hey Comet, what do you say if after eating, Applejack shows you a bit of the work here on the farm?” Granny Smith invited him.
“I don't think so. That's more work for an earth pony.” Comet said.
“Excuse me?” Applejack exclaimed, trying not to feel too offended. She knew that Comet came from Canterlot, but she didn't expect that he already had the class ideas that the unicorns there used to have.
Comet, seeing his mistake, quickly tried to correct himself before the inquiring gaze of the Apples.
“Don't get me wrong, I didn't mean it that way.” The colt explained. “I didn't mean that because you are earth ponies that was your job. What I wanted to say is that: I am a unicorn; I don't have the strength, stamina or magical connection to the land like you do. Besides, I'm still very young, I can't be of much help to you. Have you tasted what is grown in Canterlot? It’s horrible. I never liked apples until I came to Ponyville.”
“Well, sugar cube, that's because we have the best in Equestria here.” Applejack boasted, more relaxed, seeing that Comet spoke sincerely. “If your concern is your size, it is not very important; Apple Bloom helps us with some chores.”
“I think Apple Bloom is still stronger than me.” Comet exclaimed, surprising said pony, since it was a compliment that not even Comet had realized she had paid her.
“Maybe, but your strength is in your magic.” Applejack pointed out. “What are you saying? You could help Apple Bloom with his chores so she would finish faster.
“There's always room for a couple of extra hooves on the farm.” Grandma Smith added, walking over to the window, where they'd left a pie to cool off.
“Eyup.” Big Mac said.
“Well, I guess it's okay.” Comet accepted somewhat hesitantly, more thinking that it was a form of retribution for his hospitality than for mere pleasure.
“That's what I wanted to hear.” Applejack exclaimed. Nothing like a little hard work after a good meal.
“Very well, dessert is served. Who will want?” Granny Smith said, putting the pie on the table.
Without delay, everyone served themselves a generous slice. But Comet, to the surprise of the others, had served himself one almost as big as Big Mac’s. Making them doubt if he could eat that whole portion.
“Comet, are you sure you can finish that whole slice?” Asked Applejack a little unsure.
“Of course he won't, it's too big.” Apple Bloom assured.
“Do you want to bet?” Comet challenged her with an arrogant look.
“It depends. How much are we talking about?” Apple Bloom took the bait, playing along.
“Twenty bits, I can eat the whole slice; if I lose, they are yours.”
“And do you have to pay?” Apple Bloom hesitated.
At that moment, Comet made a small sack appear with the twenty coins inside.
“And you?” She asked him.
Immediately, Apple Bloom ran up the stairs. She came back a few seconds later carrying twenty coins from her savings, determined to get on with the game.
“Apple Bloom, are you sure about this?” Applejack tried to dissuade her. “If you lose, you will have to pay him those twenty coins.”
“Don't worry, Applejack, I know what I'm doing.” Apple Bloom assured her. “There's no way he can eat all that, I've got it all figured out.”
“So, do we have a deal?” Comet said. Very tentative.
“Go ahead.”–Apple Bloom affirmed, pretty sure of her victory.
After those words, Comet began to eat calmly. There was no time limit, so he wasn't in a hurry to finish either, nor did she want to get indigestion from eating too fast. Besides, she would savor the delicious dessert that the Apples had prepared for longer.
At first, Apple Bloom was very sure that she would win without a doubt because of how slowly Comet was eating. But as time progressed and Comet continued, her face began to show concern, because the colt did not seem to have any intention of stopping. They were almost the same height, where did he put so much food?
“Ah, that was delicious” Comet said triumphantly.
Apple Bloom had a shocked expression, like the rest of the Apples, mixed with defeat. He couldn't believe that he had actually been able to finish the huge portion she had served herself. It couldn't be true, they were the same age, she could never eat that much without nauseating her, but Comet was as if nothing had happened.
“I think I've won.” He said pedantically to Apple Bloom, holding out his hoof to claim his prize.
“Take them.” She groaned, pushing the coins towards Comet disdainfully.
“Thank you very much.” Comet said mockingly as he took all the coins, including them in the sack where his were and making them disappear in the air.
“I warned you it was a bad idea.” Applejack said, feeling a little sorry for her little sister.
“I do not understand. I can't eat that much. How could he?” Apple Bloom exclaimed, frustrated.
“It's true.” Granny Smith agreed. “But I think you forgot something very important; Comet is a colt and you are a filly. His stomach is bigger than yours.
“Eyup.” Big Mac nodded.
“And I'm a unicorn. Casting magic uses a lot of my energy, making me need more food, and I've been using it all day.” Comet added, thus revealing the last detail of her ruse, leaving Apple Bloom's mouth open.
“You cheated on me!” Apple Bloom exclaimed, annoyed. “You are a cheater.”
“Just a little.” Comet said. “But you were the one who decided to ignore the most important thing.”
“You went straight into his trap, little filly.” Granny Smith told her.
“Give me back my money!” Demanded the filly.
“I won't do that Apple Bloom; you accepted the bet.” Comet clarified. “Everyone seemed to notice there was a hidden trap, you were the only one who didn't.”
“It's true. Maybe he wasn't very righteous, but you accepted.” Applejack said, not being able to avoid agreeing with Comet and feeling empathy, although it was true that he had taken advantage of his naivety.
Resigned, Apple Bloom accepted her defeat, grunting in annoyance. Soon, everyone returned to their usual tasks, Applejack and Big Mac went out to buck some apples, take care of the orchards and take the product to the barn to prepare it for sale, while Granny Smith took a nap; as for Comet, he wanted to go to read, but he had said he would help Apple Bloom with her chores, so he went out with her to work too.
They first went to feed the pigs, something Comet was initially reluctant to do. He didn't want to get mud on his clothes or himself, finally giving in when Apple Bloom compared him to Rarity when he didn't want to do something for fear of getting dirty. Comet knew that he was not the “manliest” colt to be found, physically speaking, but he was not going to allow her to taunt him and get away with it, not realizing that now he was the one who fell into her trick. Then, they went to check the freshly harvested apples, separating them by color, maturity and eliminating those that were rotten, wormy or crushed, something that Comet did much faster than Apple Bloom thanks to his magic and his white eye, with which not only he didn't see well, as he used to say, but he had slightly above average eyesight, always keeping this fact as a secret, only having revealed it to two ponies, Cary and Twilight. This allowed him to classify them with just a glance. Something good had to come with his condition. They washed some windows, cleaned Big Mac's plow, and collected some eggs from the chicken coops. Comet had serious problems in this task because the rooster they had kept chasing him and attacking him without even stopping to see Apple Bloom, who couldn't stop laughing when he saw Comer run away from a chicken. Getting revenge on her, Comet ran closer to her, causing the rooster to chase after her as well.
After a lot of running, some pecking and scratching, they finally finished the last of the tasks. Tired and hot, they went to the well to soak a little and cool off. Comet's clothes were a mess, mostly because of the dirt on them. But at this point, he hardly cared.
After shaking off the water a bit, Apple Bloom turned to Comet.
“Thank you for your help.” Apple Bloom told him, leaving aside the animosity she used to feel towards him, perhaps due to exhaustion or gratitude.
“Don't even mention it.” Comet answered, trying to fix her mane. “I wouldn't have done it if didn’t say I would.”
“What? Would you have let me do all those by myself?” Answered somewhat annoyed and confused by the colt's sincerity.
“It's your farm, not mine.” He stated. “It was fun, but this kind of work is not my thing.”
A good time we had and he had to ruin it. Apple Bloom thought, believing that he didn't mean at all, while giving her a skeptical look.
“Just a "you're welcome" would have sufficed, you know?” She said trying not to give it too much importance.
“Whatever you say, Apple Bloom.” Comet said, taking her side, returning to the disinterested attitude that used to irritate all the foals in the school.
Comet started walking, turning her back on Apple Bloom. However, just a few steps ahead, he stopped, as if he had remembered something.
“By the way, Apple Bloom…” He spoke with his back still to her.
“What?” She answered, not knowing that he now wanted the colt.
“Catch.”
Comet turned half his body, smiling, and threw a bag at her, which fell on the hooves of the filly, who did not understand what he was plotting now. As soon as she opened it, he saw that there were several coins inside, leaving the filly with an expression of confusion and surprise, but happiness too.
“I thought you said you weren't going to give me back my…” she said taking out the coins and starting to count them.
“My intention was never to keep your money…” He said trying to sound indifferent. “…just to have a little fun.” He explained without letting Apple Bloom finish speaking.
“Here are twenty-five coins. I only gave you twenty.” Apple Bloom said when she finished counting.
“Oh really? That’s weird. Where did the others come from?” Comet asked with a tone of unbelievable astonishment. “Take it as compensation for the hard time I put you through.”
Apple Bloom didn't answer, she didn't even thank him, but a small smile on her face took care of it. Not far from there, through the orchards, a pony saw the scene and she couldn't help but smile as she continued with her work, thinking that both foals had become good friends.
“It's so hot.” Comet said, quickly changing the subject. “Do you want to go to Sugar Cube Corner for a milkshake? You pay.”
It was then that Apple Bloom found the trap of the extra coins. A milkshake cost two to three coins, covering the five he'd given her and leaving her twenty intact. But, instead of protesting, he gladly accepted the invitation, as he believed it was the least she could do for his help and generosity. And if she thought about it, the milkshakes practically came out of Comet's pocket.
Shortly before leaving, Comet entered the house and took off all his dirty clothes. However, he would not change into clean ones as he normally would; he had his clothes just for the days he would be with the Apple and in Canterlot, so he couldn't afford to dirty others. Before going back out, he picked up the book he was reading, so he could continue it on the way to town and while they enjoyed their drinks. It felt a bit strange to go out again with nothing on. He had already gotten used to always wearing the outfit that Rarity had given him that he had even forgotten how the breeze felt on his fur and how refreshing it was. For Apple Bloom it was a similar feeling. She had never seen Comet without his suit. And the big white spot on her chest was something completely new to her. She knew that the colt had several, he said it before, but it was jus a surprise see the colt with his fur messy and looking more like a farmer or another colt than the hoity-toity pony of everyday.
“Where are you two going?” Applejack stopped them just before going through the arch of the entrance of the farm.
“To Sugar Cube Corner.” Apple Bloom answered.
“Have you finished all your chores?”
“Yes…”
“And Miss Cheerilee didn't leave homework, so we have the rest of the afternoon free.” Comet interrupted, answering at once the next question he thought Applejack was going to ask.
“Okay, you can go. Just come back before sunset.” She told them.
“Okay.” They both nodded.



Sugar Cube Corner was packed, not uncommon for that time of day. They waited a few minutes in line, until they could make their order, Apple Bloom a chocolate milkshake and Comet a strawberry milkshake. As soon as they had them, they sat down at a table. Apple Bloom was hoping to have a conversation. Maybe she could learn more about him. Since he didn’t talk to anyone in school, he was a mystery. But Comet seemed to have other plans; he did what he would be expected to do. As soon as he sat down, he opened her book and started to read.
After a few minutes, Apple Bloom began to get bored and desperate for the monotony of the situation. Comet didn't do anything, he just sat there motionless while he read.
“Where in Ponyville do you live?” She asked, hoping to break the ice. Everypony knew that interrupt Comet’s reading was a bad idea, but he looked a completely different pony that day that she wasn’t nervous to do it. 
“In the northern part of the town.” He answered with the characteristic indifferent voice and the brevity he had when he was reading. But at least he was answering her, it meant he was paying attention to her.
“Oh, near Twilight Castle?” She said showing some interest.
“Yes, something like that.”
“You know, she and Applejack are very good friends.”
“Yes, I've seen them a few times.”
“It must be great to have a princess as a neighbor.”
“Yes. It's good. She’s a nice pony. Very kind and gentle. She's one of the few ponies that didn't judge me or was afraid of me as soon as she saw me.” He said what he thought of her, being careful not to talk too much.
“Judge you? Is that why you're usually alone?” Apple Bloom asked, thinking she had connected some points.
“I don’t want to talk about that.”
“A while ago you said you didn't want to socialize with ponies of our age, does it have something to do with that?” She insisted.
“Apple Bloom, I don't want to talk about it.” He said out dryly, lowering his book as he spoke to her, something he didn't normally do, but it meant he was serious.
“I always see that you bring a book with you, have you visited the Golden Oak Library?” He obeyed Comet, he knew it was better not to upset him.
“No. I don't usually go out of my house much. We have an extensive library at home and my mom constantly buys books for me. So, I don't have to visit the library since I arrive from Canterlot.”
“When you talk like that, it seems like you live with Twilight.” The filly joked, not knowing how close she was to reality. “She also has a huge library in her castle and used to live in Golden Oak before.”
“What a coincidence.”
“You said you lived in Canterlot before living here. How is?”
The bell attached to the door rang. Someone entered the building. Two voices, a little acute, were laughing pompous and loudly.
“Well, it's... it's... pretty...” Comet said, turning to the side, lowering the book and sighing with a little annoyance seeing that Apple Bloom was not going to let him read in peace, opening his eyes wide and staring at a point almost instantly to do so.
“Pretty? That's not saying much, could you be a little more speci… Hey, are you listening to me?” She asked when she saw the colt distracted, with a lost look. But Comet was no longer paying attention to him. He was staring to the right, completely ignoring Apple Bloom or anypony else in there. Somewhat annoyed by Comet's impoliteness, she turned to where he was staring. As soon as she could figure out what it was, she couldn't believe it. She was looking at somepony and not just any pony.
“Silver Spoon! You like it Si…!” She shouted in astonishment.
Quickly, Comet put his hoof over her mouth to shut her up. He blushed, hoping no one had noticed. Fortunately, due to the number of ponies present, the yell was lost in the noise and the pony in question they were talking about didn’t notice their presence.
“Why don't you shout it louder? That way the whole town will be able to listen to you.” Comet reproached her, blushing.
“Sorry.” She removed Comet's hoof from his mouth. “But Silver Spoon… Seriously?” She said in in a whisper. “You know how she is. What do you see in her?”
Comet didn't reply, just tried to hide behind his book again. She didn't like people discovering his secrets or his private life and now, due to an oversight, Apple Bloom knew one of the biggest ones he had.
“You better not say anything,” He warned.
“If I do, what will you do?” She replied, joking about the advantage of her situation, but only as a game.
“I will be forced to erase your memory.”
“Oh, come on. As if someone like you knew how to do that.” She scoffed.
“I don't like being made fun of.” Comet said, standing up menacingly, leaning firmly on the table, misunderstanding the joke.
“Alright, alright. Take it easy. It was a joke.” Apple Bloom said nervously, hoping to calm Comet down; for a moment she had forgotten how scary and impulsive he could be sometimes, which was why everyone preferred to stay away from him.
Although it was a joke, much later she could understand, in part, why he reacted that way. Rumble had made him the center of all her teasing and meanness until Comet got tired and put an end to it. By mistake, he had misunderstood her joke, making him think that she was making fun of him again, reacting that way to prevent it. But for the moment, to her he was just the same old school bully.
Despite everything, however, Comet sat back down and continued with his book. Surprising Apple Bloom again, who believed that the colt would do something to him as punishment, but he just sat there as calm as he could be.
“You were going to tell me about Canterlot…” Apple Bloom said, resuming the conversation a little nervously.
“Oh, right. There is not much to say. It's a big city; many restaurants, ostentatious buildings, and a lot of opulence” Comet summarized.
“Life must be good there.” Apple Bloom guessed.
“Not really.” Comet disagreed. “It's a nice city, but I don't consider it a good place to live, I prefer Ponyville.”
“Why?”
“The ponies there are…cold. Very distant from the others. The vast majority are high-class unicorns, which makes them very prejudiced and classist with those who are not at "their level". They all look over their shoulders and strut like they're the best thing in the world. They are only interested in frivolities and superfluous things.”
This left Apple Bloom with a expression of rareness. Comet had just described himself. But if he, being so, criticized the ponies of Canterlot in the same way, what would they be like then?”
Soon after, they both ordered another round of milkshakes, this time paid for by Comet. He must have spent his money on something.



“Can I ask you a personal question?” Apple Bloom said on her way back to the farm.
“What is it about?” Comet answered, believing that it would be about his reluctance to be with ponies of his age.
“Can you see with your eye?” She pointed to his white eye.
Comet's expression changed again from being indifferent to the typical one of annoyance every time someone asked him the same question.
“You know, that question is becoming a recurring theme every time I talk to someone.” He said somewhat irritably. “Yes, I can see with my eye.”
“I’m sorry, I didn't think that would bother you.” She said thinking she had said something she shouldn't have.
“It doesn't bother me, not at all. I'm tired of hearing the same question over and over again. Every time I meet someone, they have to do it.”
“You can't blame them, they don't know. Gives a little curiosity.”
“It's more because of the color than anything else.” He corrected her. “It's the only thing that makes them think I can't see with him. If it wasn't completely white, no one would ask that question.” He turned her gaze to the front and lowered her head a little. “No one would be afraid of me.” He murmured with a sad countenance.
Apple Bloom couldn't quite hear what Comet said, but she understood that it was also something about her eye, however, it didn't seem to be something he wanted to share. As much as she wanted to ask him, Comet would try to divert the conversation or maybe she would be annoyed that she was getting his nose where she shouldn’t. It was best to leave him alone.



"So, you're telling me that's all what you did yesterday?" Scootaloo asked Apple Bloom.
They were in their clubhouse, hidden among the thousands of trees in the orchard, together with Sweetie Belle. They had met shortly after lunchtime and Apple Bloom had finished her homework. This time Comet didn't help her because they put him to work in the kitchen, where she was struggling with the pie dough and apple pies.
Apple Bloom nodded. She had told her friends everything, omitting the Silver Spoon part, it wasn't certain that Comet knew how to erase memories, but he knew many powerful or strange spells; she wouldn't risk it.
“Who would have thought that you would spend two days living with Comet.” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.
“He hasn't done anything to you, has he?” Scootaloo asked.
“It was unexpected for both of us. In fact, he didn't know that Applejack and I were sisters.” Apple Bloom answered. “And strange as it may sound, outside of the bet, he hasn't done anything. Actually, he's pretty tranquil.” She added.
“Comet... tranquil?” Scootaloo said surprised. “Are you sure we are talking about the same colt.”
“He doesn't want to hang out with his age, did he really say that?” Sweetie Belle asked, incredulously.
“Yes. I don't really understand his reasons and I know he's still hiding things, but I think it has to do with something that happened in Canterlot.”
“Why don't we ask him?” Sweetie Belle suggested.
“You lost your mind? It's a bad idea. He doesn't like us.”
“I tried to do it, but he got upset when I did it.” Apple Bloom explained. “But I don't think he dislikes us, not entirely. Yesterday we were working together for a while and he seemed to enjoy himself. But for a moment, when we got back to the farm, he seemed to look sad. I do not know why; it was a bit strange.”
“I still can't believe it's the same Comet. At school he is a bore, or have you already forgotten your ball?” Scootaloo said skeptically.
“He fixed it. He even admitted that she overdid it that time.” She tried to convince her. “Maybe he had a bad day that time.”
“Then Comet must have a lot of bad days.” Scootaloo snapped. “Not that I don't believe you, Apple Bloom, but I have a hard time believing that Comet is a softer pony. He just became a monster after Rumble.”
“Where is Comet now, by the way?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“The last time I saw him, he was reading in the guest room.”
“That colt… Doesn't he know how to do anything than read?” Scootaloo said, thinking how obvious the answer was.
“I guess he likes to read.” Sweetie Belle guessed.
“It'll be the only thing she likes.” Scootaloo said.
Suddenly, a small explosion was heard, not far from where they were. Looking out the window, they could see hordes of birds moving away from the place while a small cloud of dust rose a few meters above the treetops.
“What was that?” Scootaloo asked, staring at the dust cloud.
“I don’t know. Let's go find out.” Said Apple Bloom.
The three of them ran towards the place where they saw the cloud of dust. It didn't take them long to find the exact spot, a small open area among the apple trees, where Comet was sitting in the middle of it all, coughing from the dust he had breathed in. Around him was a circular area in which the grass had turned yellow, like when it is scorched by the sun, with all the blades pointing away from it. Beside him was a somewhat weathered book, which Comet dusted off after him.
Comet stood up, said something the three of them couldn't quite hear, and dusted herself off. Ignited his horn creating a breeze so that it carried away all the dust that had been kicked up, hurling it directly at the crusaders. Without time to move, the dust reach them, beginning to cough as well. Comet was surprised to hear them, approaching them to see who was there spying on him.
“What are you doing here?” She asked with a tone that was more curious than intimidating.
“We could ask you the same question.” Replied Apple Bloom with a slightly scratchy voice due to the dust.
“I was practicing a spell.” He said in a normal tone, giving little thought to the fact that the three of them were there. “I thought I was far enough away not to disturb anyone.”
Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle couldn't believe how naturally the colt spoke, it was nothing like the coarse and arrogant tone he used to speak at school.
“We heard the explosion from our clubhouse, and we came to investigate.” Apple Bloom explained. “What spell are you trying to do?”
“A Magic Bullet. I was trying to hit that barrel.” He pointed to an old wooden barrel a few feet away, full of little holes.
“Well, it looks to me like it’s still in one piece.” Scootaloo commented,
“I wanted to see how much power I could accumulate before I fired.” He explained. “I accumulated too much and it blew up in my face. But it helped me to know the limit, now I know how much I can accumulate without losing control.”
He walked back to the circle of burned grass and, after revising the spell a bit, he prepared to do it again.
“You'd better get away a bit, it could be dangerous.” He told them.
The fillies thought about going back to their clubhouse and leaving Comet alone, lest she get upset, but on the other hand, they wanted to see how he cast a spell. They finally decided to stay, hiding behind the trunks of the apple trees for cover.
Once everyone was ready, Comet began to concentrate. Her horn began to glow brighter and brighter until a quick, luminous projectile of energy was fired. In just the blink of an eye, she hit the barrel, blasting it into a million pieces. Splinters and bits of wood scattered all over the place, giving the crusaders barely time to take cover.
Once everything calmed down again, the three looked out again to see what had happened to Comet, since he was in the ideal place to be hit by any debris, but he was no longer there.
“I got it! Did you see that?” Comet said from behind them, startling them. “I've been practicing that spell for weeks.”
“Why would you want a spell like that?” Scootaloo asked with a bad feeling and an expression of fear on his face.
“I'll let you answer that question yourselfs.” Comet said with a mocking smile and a somewhat somber tone. He then began to walk towards the farm, leaving the three fillies somewhat scared. If he was already to be feared with the spells he knew, what could be expected now that he knew how to use that one.
“He was joking, right?” Sweetie Belle finally spoke laughing nervously, with a lot of insecurity and a trembling voice.
“I hope so, I don't know anymore.” Apple Bloom replied in the same way. He told me that he also knew how to erase memory.
“And you think he had changed.” Scootaloo snapped.