Equestria, an almost perfect world where peace and harmony coexist ceremonially, inhabited by all kinds of extraordinary creatures: dragons, hippogriffs, griffons, dogs, centaurs, and the creature that is the supreme inhabitant par excellence, the ponies.
There are three types of pony breeds: Earth ponies, Pegasi ponies, and Unicorn ponies. And if it were possible, a fourth breed could be added, considered by far the most powerful and important of all: Alicorn ponies. And they have good reason to be important.
Like any inhabitant of a nation, everypony has the obligation and duty to know the history of his place of origin, and according to history, it tells us the following:
In the beginning, those three races did not live in harmony. Every day was a constant rivalry, mostly due to their differences. The reason for this hatred stemmed from the fact that the earthlings blamed the pegasi for preventing their crops from growing, blocking sunlight with dark clouds and creating increasingly severe storms. After all, the pegasi were responsible for ensuring everyone received their daily sustenance.
The pegasi, not receiving these foods, frustratedly blamed the earthlings for supposedly conspiring to keep the crops for themselves without sharing them, but they also blamed the unicorns, because the way this weather affected those times was unnatural and too strong for a cloud created by them to create something like that, so they deduced that it was caused by their magic.
But the unicorns were not far behind either; besides demanding food to sustain them through day and night, they threatened the pegasi with destroying the floating city if they did not stop this storm, which already indicated that as the day progressed, everything was getting worse, and the colder it got, the more the crops died and the more days without food there were than the constant arguments.
Unbeknownst to them, all of this was the work of Windigos, spiritual beings or deities strongly associated with cold, hunger, and starvation. Creatures that feed on hatred and negative emotions, producing a hellish magical snowfall, so much of this blame was brought on by the ponies themselves.
So the leaders of each tribe decided to hold a meeting to discuss the issue, because the lack of food is just the tip of the iceberg; hypothermia, suicides, and aggressive fights are ending the lives of their inhabitants, and something has to be done now.
Instead of resolving things and fostering a more open-minded atmosphere, that meeting ends badly and with more disharmony than usual, so they make separate decisions and head off to find new lands to govern in order to start from scratch.
They find a very fertile land teeming with life, and each tribe claims it as their new territory. The earthlings call it "Earth", the pegasi "Pegasopolis" and the unicorns "Unicornia". Because each tribe claims the same land, they argue and fight over who will keep it. This, in turn, causes the Windigos to once again unleash their infernal cold upon this new land.
To escape the storm, the three tribes hide in a cave. Inside, the arguments continue, with no regard for their well-being or common sense. This causes the cold to freeze them and the cave completely, until they are encased in a solid layer of ice that kills them instantly.
The only ones left alive were the companions of these leaders, three humble ponies consumed by terror and fear. Knowing they were going to die, they didn't hesitate to stay together and embrace each other. Despite the fact that these races hated one another, these three companions nevertheless tried to maintain good relations. Regardless of the tribes they came from, they realized that hating each other for being different was ridiculous and pointless.
Despite knowing they are in their final moments of life, they will not be overcome by sadness, so they begin to tell stories and sing songs that are remembered as the Christmas carols of Equestria.
All that coexistence, that friendship and that harmony, provoke a strange magic that manages to melt the ice and make the Windigos disappear with fire, of what is now called: "The magic of Friendship."
In the end, the tribes learn that they can conquer with the warmth of harmony and love instead of with hatred and cold.
After resolving their differences and all conflicts, they decide to live together in harmony and found a new land, which they name Equestria .
Following that event, two alicorn sisters prospered thanks to the harmony and love of all the inhabitants. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, with the aim of maintaining order and discipline among their people, but above all, peace from any threat.
It was the golden age the nation needed to become what it is today. A magical world...
However. As in life, no matter how well things go, there will always be something that brings everything back to darkness, and you never know when, but it will happen.
Although everything may seem rosy for this nation, everything has its flaws. Those wars, the Ice Age, and the resulting deaths left society with devastating scars, a terrible legacy that affected them not only emotionally but also economically. And unfortunately, many families who didn't have the opportunity to live in Canterlot 's capital haven't been able to lead a decent life, but every effort has been made to help them.
The strategies were useless, because that meant more losses than the gains obtained, and there was no longer room to build new properties like Ponyville or some other large city like Manehattan , so the poor society had to make do with what they had and carry on with their lives, in this case, starting to live in places quite isolated from the population, and closer to the mountains.
Among those families was a humble married couple living among the rocks of Western, a place called Rockville. Fortunately, they supported each other and did everything possible to acquire a home of their own after so many moves and paying rents that made it difficult to buy food, not to mention medication for anxiety and depression, which they suffered from constantly. This was the home they were able to find where they didn't have to worry about paying rent; after all, it was all rock, and local businesses helped with the construction of a more modest house. A small farm was the best thing they could have obtained. While it wasn't the best thing that had ever happened to them, they were more at peace than ever.
Cloudy Quartz and Igneous Rock are the names of this couple who were married in the moon of 1974, just two moons after their wedding.
Cloudy was born in moon's 1952, has pale gray fur, a grayish-green mane and tail which are tied up, light blue eyes, and wears small gold-colored glasses that dangle from his nose. His cutie mark is three rocks.
Igneous was born in moon's 1949. He has light brown fur, a light gray tail, and honey-colored eyes. He also has sideburns and a shaped face. His cutie mark is a peak.
So yes, something they both have in common is precisely that they work with rocks and are very professional and strict about it, in addition to being born in the same lands of course.
Despite sharing similar things, they have completely different attitudes.
For example, Cloudy always displayed a delicate, shy, and introverted attitude, which caused problems in relating to others, making it very difficult for her to find a partner since she was not as outgoing and extroverted as her friends.
Igneous, for his part, had a complicated childhood, and from the beginning maintained a dominant and serious attitude, which caused him to have a somewhat rough and rude way of being where he often failed to control his anger, this due to the way he was raised... and although he had no problems finding a partner, it goes without saying that they almost never lasted long due to his attitude that often caused panic in the mare with whom he tried to establish a relationship.
So he felt the need to improve his attitude, more to be a better pony not only for others but for himself.
The day they met was the moment their lives changed for the better. She overcame her shyness and fear, becoming more open with others and revealing herself to be incredibly sweet and kind. He, on the other hand, became less rough and uncouth, but maintained his seriousness and respect, remaining a hardworking and demanding man, guided by the belief that trust leads to respect.
They acquired their current residence in moon's 1979, a small rocky farm somewhat removed from the nearest town, where they could use their rock-working talents to start a business and earn a living.
Those were complicated and challenging ,moons. Being an isolated area, far removed from any technology, makes it seem like something out of the Middle Ages or the Wild West, albeit without the elegance. This makes it difficult for those who don't know how to live a prosperous and healthy life. Health was another problem, because anxiety and depression were constant struggles, and they had to take medication to alleviate their inner turmoil.
In addition to the food they had to get in that nearby town, which was a 20-minute walk away, making the daily routine more of an extra job to survive.
But as long as they supported each other and with love and harmony above all else, no obstacle would affect them from now on.
From that moment on, beginning the 1980s, a prosperous era for Equestria in general, with increases in the economy and harvests, but especially for the Rocky marriage, since it was precisely the moment when the family expanded, when fallen angels began to arrive in their lives to make them colorful...
Born in moon's 1980, Maudileena Daisy Pie, affectionately known as Maud Pie, was the first mare born at this stud farm. She has a gray coat and a sleek, drooping, pale purple mane. Her eyes are unique, resembling those of crystal ponies. Her cutie Mark's cutie mark is a rock cut in half, similar to a diamond. This is because she specializes in moving and breaking rocks with his bare hooves. She astonished his parents the first time she managed to break his first rock with his bare hooves at just two years old. That's when she got this cutie mark, and from a very early age she started working, which in itself is not very unusual to see, for this type of family it is the most normal thing in the world to see someone who is not over 10 years old start working to survive.
It can be said that she is the daughter with the strangest tastes and attitudes, because she appears to have a very cold, curt and discouraged attitude, especially since she is never seen with emotional expressions on her face, and her beautiful gray eyes are almost always half-closed and very rarely have a different expression.
But that's just her attitude, because when they took her to the pediatrician, he indicated that this was normal in some children. The fact that she's like this doesn't mean that she's never happy or that she doesn't feel any other emotions. It's a strange condition that prevents her from making expressions according to her emotions, but she's a happy and normal pony who simply expresses her feelings through words.
Sometimes she likes to play with mud and rocks; they're her only form of entertainment. She even raises little pets, but not pets as we know them... just small stones she finds. And although it might sound like a joke, she takes it very seriously and even feeds her rock pets. Nor should she be underestimated, because by the time she was nearly seven, she had a knowledge about rocks that would put any adult to shame.
Limestone Pie was the second daughter born to these rocky parents, and although she's the same age as Maud , she only took a month to arrive in this world. Her mane is also straight, light gray like her tail, and her eyes are mustard-colored. Her skin is a rather pale violet, and her cutie mark is made from a lemon with two limestone stones, which obtained when she learned to build when she was only 4 years old, which benefited the family and the work a lot.
She even learned to make medicines and other substances using these elements at the age of 5, which helped the family in case someone got hurt while working.
Unlike Maud , this one did manage to express emotions, having an attitude as similar to her father's, since more than once they have felt tremendous sorrow and shame to see that a girl started to be rude to others just because she didn't like being told things or because she wanted to correct them, or she simply did it to annoy for fun.
She was also taken to the pediatrician, who indicated that this is common in children as well. This means that she doesn't worry about anyone but herself; that is, she thinks about being better for her future and for the future of others without depending so much on a third party, which in short means that... it's almost as if she were a very small adult.
She's a good daughter and listens to her parents. Her father's hard work and demands didn't seem to bother her at all, and she proved to be proactive and hardworking. While she doesn't worry too much about her loved ones, she cares for them deeply, but as long as they don't disturb or bother her, she'll be in good spirits.
It's worth mentioning that Igneous was utterly astonished by what he had just created...
Marble Pie came in moon's 1981, just 7 months ahead of its two sisters, just a little before both turned one year old.
She has gray skin and gray hair, although a little darker and duller, violet eyes, and a cutie mark who had three violet marble rocks acquired when she was four years old, specialized in moving the smallest rocks and finding anything the family could use to sell or recycle. But above all, she was the one who helped the most when it came to cooking. In a way, with these rocks, she provided their daily bread, in this case, rock soup. She gave it that special, flavorful touch that made it taste and look better (because let's be honest... it's not the most exquisite food you'll ever taste).
She came out with an attitude similar to her mother, someone delicate and shy, of few words, and since she also did not have a school education that helped her to say many words, it was difficult for her to express herself beyond simple short words.
The therapist said that although it's unusual for some children, it's normal for some to be shy and introverted; that's because they prefer to protect themselves and wouldn't allow anyone to hurt them. And despite her introverted nature, she's quite happy with her family. She also doesn't mind working to help others, and while her father was less demanding of her, he helps her learn to strive and overcome her fears.
As we can see, each one had a different personality, unlike the skin color of the daughters and the mother compared to the father, their appearances were not so different , since the family commonly had long, straight, and always gray hair, and a gray life, so to speak.
And what they all had in common were the rocks and their passion for them; after all, it was the only thing they lived with every day. While in other cities some ponies live with other ponies, they live with rocks, and the few ponies they usually see are only there to work, and those they do see momentarily are when they go to the city to look for food or resources for the home.
But as I said before, as long as there was love and harmony, things were going to turn out very well, especially since the three of them obtained their talents before reaching adolescence, and above all, before the age of 10, setting a record for being the youngest to achieve them, at least as far as is known and recorded.
But what is quite strange about all this is the surname Pie, since neither of the parents shared that surname... but the explanation was simple: it was in honor of the children's grandmother, specifically Cloudy 's mother , who decided to give it to her daughters so as not to let that legacy and surname die out. It was a decision they both made and considered right, even though neither of them shared it. They didn't mind being called Mr. and Mrs. Pie by some of the workers and neighbors they occasionally interacted with.
Everything became exciting and joyful with the arrival of these 3 daughters.
But actually, we're getting a little ahead of ourselves in these events... because before these fillies got their cutie marks, the things changed for the better with the arrival in moon of 1983...
Pinkamena Diane Pie, the fourth daughter and last member of this family to arrive, took two and a half years longer than the others. She was born in May, and in this month, Maud and Limestone were already 2 years old, and Marble was 1 year old.
It was extremely strange, since they hadn't planned on having a fourth daughter, because they were honest about not having intimate relations during that time, so this was a surprise to both of them, it literally fell from the sky like a box full of surprises.
It is considered a unique and special blessing, not only because of its unexpected birth, but also because of details that differentiate it from others.
Her skin color was a pastel pink, her mane was a duller, less vibrant pink, as well as being smooth like her tail, and her eyes were light blue.
A rather astonishing detail considering the appearance of the others, which surprised them as much as their parents.
When she was taken to the pediatrician, he could only say that it was probably due to some genetic trait inherited from an ancestor, since it's rare for family members to be completely different from the norm. And no... before anyone believes any nonsense, neither of them was unfaithful and they had no reason to do such a terrible thing... the DNA tests have already been done and it was confirmed 100%.
But we're only talking about her appearance and everything that can be seen about her, but what about her attitude?
If Maud was expressionless, Limestone was conceited, and Marble was shy, and yet, they were happy... Pinkamena was like a combination of all of them... She showed no other feelings than sadness, therefore always maintaining a dejected expression, like Maud but much more depressing, an indifference, thinking pessimistically about everything like Limestone but much darker and sadder, and a delicacy like Marble , but to more extreme levels...
To say that this was a challenge for the parents would be an understatement, because they tried everything to try to discover what was bothering their little pink one so much, and many times, either she didn't say anything or she simply responded with a "Nothing's wrong... I'm fine..." always showing a downcast and sad attitude.
The male pony with the pills did his best not to be demanding whenever she was around because he knew it would upset her. He had to be, though... to keep the business afloat and avoid bankruptcy, had to push himself hard. But his daughter suffered from this too, and he knew deep down that she didn't enjoy it. And that was another problem to add to the mix: she wasn't very good at the job like they were; she simply couldn't do it, or she was quite clumsy. So the only solution was that she could only help by carrying small portions after the hard work and collecting a few small items. But nothing changed, and her attitude remained the same.
Even the green-haired pony decided to have a closer relationship with her daughter, but everything remained the same and nothing seemed to satisfy her. You could say that they had to accept her as she was; she's their daughter and regardless of her attitude, they have to support her. But it was quite worrying to see her always like that. At least Marble showed a smile when she knew things were going well.
But they suspected something too, and it might be true. She's the only one who hasn't gotten her cutie mark, already at 7 years old in moon's 1991, has not obtained it like the others at a very early age, and perhaps none of them have noticed, but she feels less and like a black sheep for being the only one to feel different... I know that for some this is not something important and perhaps absurd.
But just think about it, a child feeling like that wasn't nice at all, especially when she kept it hidden from her parents. Perhaps out of shame, or perhaps because she was just a child, she didn't tell them her complaints and problems. She was a very well-behaved, very kind daughter, always obedient, and never saying no to anything her parents told her to do. This made them think that she only wanted to obey to be a good daughter, but never to be happy, because, well, she never refused... but that was the reality everyone ignored: that no matter what the little pink-haired girl did, nothing made her feel special, and she felt quite useless at everything she did.
A trusted friend who was aware of the situation told them he knew a psychologist who specialized in treating depression and anxiety, and suggested they could take advantage of this to help not only her but also themselves, as they might be going through something similar. He said the psychologist was very professional and, despite being in private practice, had achieved great success with his patients.
They didn't hesitate for a second to go see this psychologist; obviously, they needed to meet him in person to see if he was trustworthy and worth the visit. After attending the first session, they got to know him better, and it was more than enough to convince them.
His residence was not far away, it was only 35 minutes from the house and across the town.
It's not because the parents are unable to care for their daughter, but sometimes parents need the help of a third party so that their children can feel good about themselves, and by wanting to make this decision they already demonstrate the concern they have for their youngest daughter.
So, with her daughter's appointment with the psychologist already set for the next session, it was the perfect time for little Pinkamena to have a chance to at least seek what she has not yet achieved... happiness.
βΈ»
That day arrived. While the rest of the family was at home, doing their chores, there was that little pink pony doing what she does best all the time: staying completely alone in silence, playing with some rocks. Well, actually, she was just moving them around for no reason... she didn't have the imagination and ideas that Maud has with any rock she finds.
It was a rather sad scene because it showed how truly lonely this daughter's personal life was, a daughter who is really special, because while the others didn't have other activities, at least they had things to do to have fun and each one had a different way of having fun, but little Pinkamena found it very difficult to adapt to this.
They had even offered him some books as entertainment and his only means of distraction, and although reading was a good activity, it wasn't entirely healthy, especially for someone his age if that's all she had. She really needed something to express his emotions with, or at least something that would distract him beyond just reading. Needless to say, being in this place didn't help much either, since this family, as far as anyone could remember, had never left these lands. The parents rarely went out, and only to places just blocks away. None of them had ever visited another town. Besides the poverty, running the business was a necessity; they had no reason to be distracted.
None of them had any friends, they didn't go to school, and they never experienced anything that an average child sees or experiences. Do I need to explain that? But I insist, with the other daughters it wasn't a problem, but with her it was, and although it sounds very cruel, it was another burden for the parents, which is why they made this decision even more.
– Pinkamena! –her mother's voice called from the house , urging her to come immediately. The little pink pony turned her head and, with sweet obedience, hurried to the farm, where she met the older pony with a green mane and gray coat–. Daughter, your father and I are taking you on a date with someone special. I'm sure you'll enjoy seeing him. After all, we want the best for you. What do you say? Cloudy said with a small smile, not mentioning that she was taking her to a psychologist so as not to alarm her. Besides, she knew her daughter wasn't crazy; it was simply a matter of helping her. If she were, the most logical thing would be a psychiatrist, which wasn't entirely worth it.
– O-okay mom… The little pink filly said as she always did, she didn't make any excuses and only responded correctly to what her parents always told her, demonstrating amazing manners but with a delicate tone.
With nothing more to say, she continues to smile at her daughter to show positivity and just wanted things to go well.
A short while later they were getting ready to leave, but not before the mother spoke with her eldest daughter.
– We'll take your sister on her date with the pony I mentioned a few days ago. We won't be long. These neighbors are here for anything you need. Meanwhile, you take care of the house and make sure everything is in order.
– Okay mom, don't worry. Maud Pie replied in her typical expressionless tone, but she was still happy that the day had finally arrived. As the older sister, she was also somewhat concerned about her pink little sister's attitude, and all she wanted was to see her smile for once. She knew her family well and knew that of them all, the only one who never smiled, or at least never showed any enthusiasm, was Pinkamena .
– Please take good care of yourselves. Added the brown horse after seeing his daughters and leaving with his wife.
Without further ado, Pinkamena 's parents took her on this short outing, the first time in her life as a filly that she would leave home to visit another place. For this reason, during the journey she spent her time observing her surroundings, things and places she had never visited or even seen, like that town with its ponies roaming about daily, both adults and youngsters and children her age or close to it.
The population of Rockville wasn't exactly very large, but for someone like Pinkamena, she saw quite a few ponies compared to her family members and including the neighbors.
The journey wasn't long, it didn't even take 10 minutes to walk, so they didn't speak the whole way, but to avoid making the moment awkward they decided to break the silence.
– Are you nervous, daughter? The father asked, watching her from behind them. She had been walking with her head down, but looked up after his question.
– No... I'm not...
– I'm sure you'll like it. You'll see what her house is like; she even has a beautiful garden. Just think of this as a lovely outing, your first time leaving this house. Cloudy says with a small smile, standing next to her daughter to give her good vibes.
She couldn't really feel nervous since she wasn't sure where they were going or how she should feel, but she was intrigued and curious to know. Deep down, though, she knew all of this was happening because of her, and she couldn't help feeling somewhat guilty about it.
They managed to reach the residence where this psychologist worked, which was none other than his own house, and indeed it was very beautiful and had a lovely garden, and yes... to be realistic it looked much better and more beautiful compared to the rocky farm... but oh well.
They knocked on the door, waiting for him to open it, and in less than a minute he opened it.
This pony had straight but not limp brown hair, blue eyes where he wore glasses, a dark red skin tone, and a cutie mark which has the symbol of Psychology, is evidence of his talent and how professional he was in this field.
– Good morning, Mr. Igneous and Mrs. Cloudy. It's an honor to have you here. I've been expecting you. He said with a pleasant smile.
– As promised, at 8 o'clock today.
– Is my little patient here? –Upon asking this, he noticed someone behind them, and when the two men stepped aside to reveal her, his eyes fell upon the small pink filly, and a wide smile spread across his face, for he had never seen such a beautiful pony with such striking colors –. You must be Pinkamena, right? Your parents have told me a lot about you; you must be a very obedient girl. My name is Dr. Psycho, but you can call me just Psycho if you like.
– H-hello sir... Psycho?... And yes... my name is Pinkamena, Pinkamena Diane Pie... it's a pleasure to meet you... She didn't want to say much, so she was as polite as possible.
This moved him deeply and made him feel even more tender.
– The pleasure is all mine, little one. –Psycho said with a beautiful, wide smile–. Well, you'd better come in and take a seat, please.
The doctor gives way to the family and they sit down as he asked them to.
He had been in this profession for approximately 6 moons; to say that his career was successful would be an understatement of the achievements he has made and the number of successes with his patients.
He attended to anyone regardless of whether they were young, adult or elderly, for him everyone was special and every time he was successful with one, it was like a step forward in life, he knew that was doing good to society by choosing the perfect job.
He had slightly different attitudes towards his patients. When it came to infants, he did his best to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Rather than seeing them as strangers, he befriended them and even offered them gifts for their cooperation and/or good behavior. With adults, there was no need to make much of an effort; he was the same as his own age and held conversations as any adult pony should, although that didn't mean he didn't befriend some of them, including the teenagers. With the elderly, he was a bit more affectionate and gentle. He had enormous respect for them and, above all, a great deal of patience. Although he didn't manage to become as close to them, he did manage to get along well.
And if we talk about who he got along best with, it was with the younger ones, since they were easier to convince and he helped them more quickly to diagnose their problems and then find the cure for their ailments.
Therefore, his new patient assumed she wasn't a major obstacle; he'd already seen several patients with depression, some even more severe than hers, because some weren't even willing to see him. Especially coming from a family he'd treated just a few days prior.
– Well , Pinkie , could you come with me to my office for a moment? It'll only be a few minutes, then I'll take you back to Mommy and Daddy He said affectionately, referring to Pinkamena by a much more humble name or nickname. The little girl hesitated a bit, glancing at her parents to make sure they would allow her to go alone with him, until they both nodded in approval. Her parents then watched as their little girl slowly left the waiting room with the doctor, heading towards his private office where the tests would begin. Once the door closed and they were alone, they felt a surge of hope, praying to anyone who would help that everything would go well.
– Take a seat, little one –Psycho said, gesturing to where she should sit as he went to his own chair to begin the tests. Once there, he noticed she was already seated–. It's normal to feel nervous, but don't worry, Pinkie , there's nothing to fear. I'm just going to take notes on everything you want to tell me. Doesn't it bother you when I call you that, Pinkie? I think it's very nice.
– No... don't worry, I'm not nervous, Mr. Psycho... and d-don't worry... call me whatever you like... She could barely see his face directly; her gaze was fixed on the ground as it was most of the time.
– Hahaha, just call me Psycho, little one, you don't have to be so friendly. This will be a piece of cake. They're simple questions I'm going to ask you, and you'll answer them honestly questions someone asks a friend when they first meet. He said with a big smile as she took out a sheet of paper to take notes during the session.
– Well... I've never had any friends... but I'll do my best...
– I understand... let's do this: I'll be your friend, and as your friend, it's my duty to know about you so I can get to know you better and help you with whatever you need, because a good friend cares deeply for those they love. He proposes this arrangement to make her feel better.
It is then that a doubt arises in her, considering everything that is happening.
– Psycho, am I... sick...? She wanted to know if she'd been brought here because she had an illness or something that indicated it was necessary for her to be there. She was too innocent and didn't understand the seriousness of the situation.
– What? –He asks, surprised by the question, but laughing at the same time–. Oh no, hehehe, of course not, little one, you're not sick. If you're asking because I'm a doctor, well, my profession is quite different. I'm not a doctor, I'm a psychologist. Doctors are the ones who treat patients who, in this case, are sick, unwell, or injured, but a psychologist like me helps people with deeper wounds... well, hehehe , if you don't understand it that way, but basically, I help those who feel sad or have a problem. I help them see the bright side of things and give them hope, because you surely know that there are two kinds of wounds: external and internal. External wounds are the ones doctors can treat, like when you fall or get a scrape, but internal wounds can be healed by people like us, through kind words and communication. –He gives a very simple explanation so she can at least understand–. It's a little more complicated, but it works.
– Ohhh, I see… I think… I understand… –actually, shebarely understood, but that's the gist of it considering what he's been going through–. Then he'll help me …with my inner wounds…and he'll heal me…
– Exactly! I see you're very intelligent, Pinkie , and I'm happy about that –He said with a very noticeable smile. It was clear she was off to a good start and was getting along with her much better than he'd expected–. Well little one, it's time to ask you a few questions. One very simple one: How old are you, and when is your birthday?
– I'm 7 years old... my birthday is next week... on Wednesday... She was a little embarrassed, but she said it anyway. Specifically, that day was May 3rd.
– That's great, you're about to turn 8! You're growing up so fast, hehehe . If you want to know my age, I'm 27 and my birthday is in 3 months, specifically on August 17th. I'd love to be there to congratulate you, but since I'm a bit busy, you can visit me that day so I can do it in person. I'm sure you'll love it! You'll have a great time at your birthday party, eating a delicious cake. Psycho said the last part accidentally; knew the little pink girl's family was poor because her parents had told him, but he hadn't realized how bad things were.
– P-party? Cake...? What is that ? A little confused, she wondered what he really meant.
The red pony stared in surprise, his blue eyes widening behind his glasses. The mere thought that he'd never had a birthday party in his short life was quite sad. It's true that not everyone is fortunate enough to have something special for the happiest day of their lives, but it was quite another thing to not even know what a birthday party was, especially when you had a family. But he couldn't blame anyone else. If you're curious about his birthdays, for absolutely everyone, it was simply something like: "Oh, happy birthday", and then on with their lives, eating rock soup and going back to work...
– Has your family never thrown you a party or offered you a cake?
The little pink pony responded with a sincere denial, confirming that it was all true. If that was the case, she wondered how she could make her smile, perhaps a little, as she took notes on everything she was hearing and seeing.
– Well, you see... parties are... well, sort of, a kind of gathering and celebration that families and friends have. Several ponies can attend a party; the number doesn't matter, but the important thing is that there has to be more than one pony to get together. Parties also help you meet more ponies and become friends with them. You can have fun playing games, and they also have all kinds of food to fill your stomachs, because a full stomach gives you energy and enthusiasm to continue the celebration. Basically, a party is about feeling good and smiling. As for the cake, it's the most important thing at a birthday party because it's like a special gift for the birthday person and all their guests. The cake can have all sorts of ingredients, but it usually has to be something very sweet, and it has candles that you blow out to make your wish come true. You can wish for whatever you want. Finally, the birthday boy or girl cuts the cake into pieces to share with their guests and friends. It's the final stage to end a party in a wonderful way. And of course, there's also the music, but the important thing here is that you enjoy yourself.
Pinkamena could barely understand everything he said, but what she understood most of all was fun, happiness, food and friends, things she knew very well in her short life but never had, except for food which was what she barely saw in her day to day.
– I see... it sounds like a lot of work... but it also seems like it's something good... It barely sparked her interest, because as was typical she was never going to see that thing called a party in a place like the one she lives in.
– And indeed it is... –He gave a small laugh before a few awkward seconds of silence, then sighed before continuing–. Tell me, are you an only child or do you have siblings? He only knew that his parents had mentioned "one of our daughters" when they first visited him, but he wanted to be sure and hear it from the sweet pink filly's voice.
– Yes… I have sisters… 3 in fact… I was the last to be born so… I'm the youngest in the house… She said it in a way that, if you really thought about it, was like feeling inferior or the black sheep of the family.
– Can you tell me about them, Pinkie ? What's your relationship like with your sisters? Do they get along with you?
– Well… my sister Maud… the oldest… she's 10 years old… she always seems expressionless… but she's a very good sister to me and very obedient… she helps Mom and Dad with the rock business… she clearly enjoys it… I get along well with her but… she has strange tastes in games… I mean, I like playing with her but it's not really my thing…
Limestone is my second sister, she's also 10 years old... she's a bit arrogant and sometimes strong-willed... but I like her... she's always telling me to be careful or what not to do so I don't disobey my parents... but she cares about herself and about being better...
As for my sister Marble, she's 9 years old, she's a bit shyer... she doesn't talk much... and she's not very talkative... which makes it hard to have conversations with her... because she looks similar to me but at the same time she doesn't... because at least she seems excited about what she does... and she's not worried about trying to fit in, she knows what she has to do and she's happy with it... that's why I like her so much...
– Mmmm... I see, Pinkie. And what about your mommy and daddy? Tell me about them. He took notes while asking at the same time.
– My dad… well… he has a strong personality…I always see him serious most of the time when he's working… he knows what he's doing and he gives the orders at home…sometimes he's even a little scary… but he cares about us… he's always looking out for us… he's even been kind-hearted in trying to make us feel better… he's a really good guy…
And my mom... she's so sweet to us... she always takes care of us... she cooks for us... she keeps us warm... she gives us a goodnight kiss... and she's always helping Dad when he needs it... I really love my mom...
The psychologist took detailed notes on what the little girl was saying about her family using her lips; everything seemed to fit together, only one important detail was missing.
– I see, little one. Despite everything, you really do love your family very much, don't you?
– O-of course...I love them very much...they are my family and they are the reason why I am living...
– You're absolutely right, Pinkie. From what I can see, each member of your family has a different personality and tastes than your own, but you still love them for who they are, and that's wonderful. You seem like a fantastic daughter and a fantastic sister. But you know, you spoke highly of everyone, except for someone very important you left out. He said with a smile, hoping she knew who was talking about.
– W-whose?
– You.
– Me? She is surprised, because she has never in his life mentioned the important or good things she has done as a member of the family, or rather, as a member of his own family.
– Of course! You're the fourth daugther, and you're family too. Don't forget that. You're the most important member in your family. Although, of course, sometimes it's hard to recognize our own strengths and we only see those of others. But now you have to tell me about yourself: something you're good at, what you'd like to be when you grow up, and what goals you want to achieve. Whatever it is, it has to be something you enjoy little one. With all this written down, Psycho could give the complete diagnosis. Now just wait to hear what her have to say.
– W-well... it's just that... I honestly... I don't know what I like to do... I don't even know what I want to be when I grow up... I don't know if you've noticed... but I'm the only one who hasn't gotten their cutie Mark , like my sisters... I've tried to do something, but... nothing works... nothing makes me feel worth the effort... I'm not very good at the family business either... I just watch and get distracted by looking at the sky... or the rocks... I'm not like my sisters... I wish I could be like them... who are good and enjoy what they do... if they have their cuties marks is because they got their talent... For the first time in a long time she expressed his feelings, although they were not virtues, it was a step forward to mention how she felt.
– But you don't have to be like them to find your talent. You can have your own, one you haven't yet discovered. Perhaps your calling isn't rocks, little one, but something much better that you haven't yet uncovered. Even though you think you have no virtues, I'll tell you that you do. First of all, you're a very pretty pony , and you really should take care of that beauty. Second, you're very polite and kind. You speak well of others, like your family, and that makes you a great, kind-hearted pony. And third, even with your shyness, you had enough confidence and courage to tell me all this. These are many virtues I've learned from you, and I'm sure you're a wonderful daughter and sister, so you shouldn't feel this way, little one. You have so much good to offer. He said this with a smile, hoping to make her feel better; it was the best solution could offer.
– I am this way… because my parents raised me this way… and so did my sisters… I know I have these traits and that I'm a good pony … but what I want is to do something that makes me… special… to feel like I'm worthwhile… sometimes I feel like I'm… just an ornament…
– Oh no, no, don't say that little one. You're not an ornament or anything like that. –he leaned in slightly, expressing concern at her own tone–. You're special to your parents and your sisters. You don't have to prove anything to them to try and be special because you already are, especially with Mom and Dad. You're their daughter, and that alone makes you special. You're going to get your cutie mark, like I told you, that takes time, and if your talent isn't rocks, it'll be something different.
– I'm the fourth daughter... the only thing that makes me special is that I'm the youngest in the family... even if I were an only child... nothing would make me feel like I was worth anything...
The latter was quite intense, coming from someone who was only 7 years old… it was something to worry about, because if she were a teenager she would probably understand since that age marks puberty and most feelings arise, but a child? Things got more complicated than she could have imagined.
Psycho was more than impressed; now he knew this was more serious than he'd thought. If he'd dealt with childhood depression before, this could definitely take the cake. And you'll see why...
Shortly after the treatment was completed, the parents approached the doctor to find out what the results were.
...
– So, Dr. Psycho, has there been any progress on Pinkamena's depression? Igneous inquired with an intrigued tone.
Because to assume then that not only did they not like the answer at all, but that the resentment affected them more than normal.
– It was actually more than I expected. My younger patients who suffer from depression often have it due to some personal problem, whether it's bullying , feelings of helplessness, apathy, stress, or they feel they need to be heard. Depression in a child is quite delicate, but it's much easier to resolve compared to an adult. Even so, Pinkamena 's case surprised me . I've never really had one like it before for someone her age. The things she said left me more than a little thoughtful. Psycho was a little worried, but compared to Pinkamena's parents, that was nothing.
– What's wrong, doctor? What's the matter with our little girl? The mother asked, sounding a little scared by what she was saying.
– From what I could gather from my analysis, Pinkamena is going through a pretty intense phase for a pony her age. If this were happening during adolescence, it would make sense, but it's what's worrying me a bit because it's not so common in children. All I could tell from her is that she's unhappy in her surroundings, she doesn't feel useful in the things she does, and she says that no matter what she does, nothing makes her feel special. To put it simply, it's as if she feels like the black sheep of the family, just there for show.
– What!? Th-that...it can't be true... –The mother gasped, a hoove covering her mouth–. No... my little girl would never think such things. She knows very well that we love her very much. There must be an explanation, doctor... Has she felt uncomfortable around us? Has she had a problem with her sisters? Something that might make her feel this way.
– That's the problem, ma'am... she doesn't have any issues with any of you. She loves you all very much, she loves her family so much, and she's happy to have you, happy to have sisters by her side, and happy to have parents like you who care for their daughters. She's truly a sweetheart of a pony. But even so, she can't help feeling... like she's a burden to everyone else. She even told me that even though she's an only child, she won't feel as special as her sisters do. Perhaps the problem lies in the fact that she hasn't found her life's gift that would allow her to have a cutie mark . But the way she said it was like... –he took off his glasses to say something quite sad and worrying–. I know it will sound harsh, but it's as if she feels she doesn't deserve to exist, although she doesn't say it literally, her way of expressing herself is the clear example of someone who doesn't see the point in being in this world if she's not good for anything.
This last thing was the last straw that made them hysterical; for the first time, the father had a very frightened expression on his face, and the mother, who was more delicate, couldn't take it anymore and started to cry, unable to believe the seriousness of the matter.
– In all this time we've spent together, we've worked hard, and I've been very firm with everyone. But even so, I've had to be more humble and understanding for my daughters. I never thought it would affect Pinkamena in any way, and if she feels this way, perhaps it's our fault... Igneous said, feeling responsable; his typical grumpy demeanor had changed drastically.
– Even though you might see it that way, I already mentioned that it's nobody's fault. I understand the situation you're in, and you shouldn't feel guilty about what's happening to her. She just needs something to make her feel better, to learn new things, see more ponies, and maybe that will help. Otherwise, this could affect her a lot. And I really apologize if I mention this; it's not my intention to worry you... but I think it's better to tell the truth than to spread false stories. When things like this happen, it's better to inform people beforehand. And from what I understand, she didn't have the courage to tell you, so it was a good idea to bring her with me.
– N-no worries, doctor...it's okay...you're a professional and you know what you're doing better than anyone, we appreciate you helping us with our problem...if we need to bring her back, we will. Cloudy said , wiping away her tears to try and maintain her composure.
– You don't have to thank me, it's my job and my duty as a psychologist. If you need anything, you can count on me. Psycho said with a small smile to put the two gentlemen at ease.
– Okay doc , thank you very much anyway, hope to see you soon, have a good day.
βΈ»
Later that same night, after dinner, which had been... you guessed it, rock soup, well, what more could one ask for since it was the only thing this family could eat, and they loved it. It was time for the daughters to go to bed.
They all shared a single room and a single bed, but it was enormous enough for all four of them to fit comfortably without feeling cramped. All were asleep, except for one: none other than Pinkamena herself . The reason was simple: she was a little thirsty. Sometimes you wake up wanting a drink; her throat was dry.
So she went to drink some of the water in the buckets, which were always cool because the water came from the rain and, since the weather is cold here, it helped to not feel too lukewarm or too hot; it really refreshed his body.
She put her snout in the water, drank, and once she was hydrated, she headed upstairs to her own room to sleep. Once upstairs, she was about to enter her room when, as she was passing by, she heard voices in the background. It took her less than five seconds to recognize them. They were her parents talking, and judging by the direction they were coming from, she knew they were behind a door on the left, none other than their own bedroom.
She didn't like spying on others, but this happened by pure chance, so she decided to get a little closer and to her surprise she saw that the door was ajar, so she could see what was happening inside.
She didn't need to use her sight to hear and notice a detail... That her mother was sobbing while talking to her husband... That worried the little girl, but she decided to stay and listen to what was happening to her.
– Calm down my dear, please don't cry anymore... I don't like seeing you like this. He tried to comfort her as much as he could while gently stroking her head with a hoof.
– I don't know what to do anymore, Igneous ... sometimes I feel like I don't even know my own family... I've tried everything, and nothing seems to work... my little daughter, we spent so many moons with her and never even stopped to talk about her problems, we always focused on our work believing that everything was normal. Cloudy was truly hurt, more than she had ever been. She felt that all of this was her fault, and that didn't stop her from crying more and more, because it's doubtful that a mother who loves her children would feel comfortable knowing such truths.
– I know, but we shouldn't get like this and blame each other. You know it's not our intention, and we're doing our best to help the family. I promise you things will be different from now on. If our daughters need us, we'll be there for them for as long as it takes to help them, all for their sake. They deserve a better future than we do. The brown pony made his wife look up and meet his eyes, even though she was still crying.
– But you heard Dr. Psycho... this is all about our daughter Pinkamena... no matter how hard we try, nothing seems to help her. We give her everything, and she still feels sad. She needs to go out and see the world. When was the last time we took her to meet another pony? That never happened. I know it's not our fault... but we have to do something for her... if things continue like this, it will affect her too much, and by then it will be too late...
– Are you suggesting we should put her up for adoption so someone else can take care of her for us? –He was taken aback by the way his wife was saying things–. Darling, you can't make a decision like that. She's your daughter. She needs a mother to support her. Like the doctor said, we can't let her feel like an ornament, because she isn't one. And now that we know how she feels, we're going to support her like never before.
– I'm not saying that's the way it is... I know she needs me, and you, we're her parents and we have a duty to help her... but... I don't see any other way out, sweetheart. What I want most in this world is to see my loved ones smile... and if my little girl doesn't smile after everything we've done for her... I don't know what else to do...
– And I want that too, my dear... but we can do it together, like we always have...
The conversation stops, and all that can be heard are Cloudy 's cries ; her husband, like a good husband, comforts her and gives her a strong hug to accompany her in her sadness, hoping that she will calm down.
Pinkamena felt at this moment... but what was clear was that the issue was with her and that this was the source of the problems her parents were having. Perhaps it was a bad idea to have listened to them, but she supposes that perhaps it would have been better because they would surely never have told her so as not to make her feel bad.
Very stupid or perhaps clever when she dared to enter her parents' room, causing the door to open and her voice to be heard entering.
– Mommy... are you crying...? She pretends she's just arrived.
They see her and are surprised to see her awake.
– Princess, what are you doing up at this hour? The father asked, awaiting an explanation.
– I-I went to get some water... I was thirsty... I was going to sleep but I heard Mom crying... and I decided to see what was wrong, if you were okay... please forgive me, I didn't mean to intrude and spy on you... She feels very bad and looks at the ground, very depressed.
– O-oh...no, no, darling, don't apologize... –she says, wiping away her tears and trying to appear calmer–. Everything's fine, it's nothing. It's just something your father and I...we were talking about that made me feel a little unwell, but it's nothing, darling. Thank you for your concern. You can go to sleep peacefully. She gives her little girl a sweet smile.
– O-okay... –Pinkamena prepares to leave, but temptation gets the better of her, so before she leaves…– Hey, Mommy…
– Yes, daughter?
– About what happened today… when I visited Dr. Psycho … I was thinking a bit about myself… and I know I worry you all a lot because of my attitude… I really don't want to be another burden for you… you have a lot of work ahead of you without having more problems… please forgive me…
– My love, don't say things like that... –She approached, feeling a little bad about those words, and stroked the small head of the pink filly–. You're not a burden to us... it's just that you're our daughter and we're very worried to see you like this, but we would never consider you a nuisance. We love you very much and you always make us very happy.
– Your mother is right, daughter. Besides, we understand that this work and the demands it places on you aren't good for you at all. So from now on, I won't force you to do anything you don't like. If something is bothering you, just tell us. All I want is to see you happy. Like her mother, her father stroked the little girl's head.
– O-okay, Mom and Dad... thank you very much... She feels at least a little better after hearing those words.
– Can I tell you a secret? –she said, making her look her in the face with those beautiful, bright blue eyes–. The day you were born was a miracle for your dad and me, because we really didn't think we'd have another child. It was like a blessing from heaven. But you were born, and you, Pinkamena , are our blessing. This is something that will stay just between you, your dad, and me. You are the most beautiful daughter we've ever had, the most well-mannered, and the most special. It doesn't matter if you don't have a cutie mark, being our daughter makes you special and nothing will change that, my little pony.
– Do you really believe that...? Her small, beautiful blue eyes open wide like never before.
– Of course, sweetheart, and no matter what, you'll always be our little blessing. The father kisses her on the cheek.
And here a small and beautiful miracle happens, for the first time in a long time... little Pinkamena shows a smile, perhaps very small, but a smile... and that is worth more than gold.
– Thank you, Mommy...thank you, Daddy... I love you both so much. She goes and gives them a hug.
– And we love you too, daughter.
– And we love you too, daughter.
They both give her a tight hug as if there were no tomorrow.
Surprisingly, that smile the parents saw, even if it wasn't obvious, touched them deeply, and it was reflected in that hug. It wasn't meant to overshadow their other daughters, who were very important to them.
But something had to be done to make the little girl feel better, and that anecdote from Cloudy's mother was more than enough...
The origin story of Pinkamena Diane Pie during her childhood in Rockville and her descent into madness prior to the events in Ponyville in Season 1. Pinkamena's family will play a very important role in her life and in the story.
