//------------------------------// // Pinkie Pie // Story: She Kills Monsters // by chiko //------------------------------// Rarity held the gift bag close to her chest as she waded through the crowds of partygoers. It seemed that Pinkie Pie had invited the entire city to her birthday party. The amount of people in the backyard had to be a fire hazard. An even bigger fire hazard was the awe inspiring mountain of presents dedicated to Canterlot’s legendary party girl. Intimate get together my— “Hey there,” Rarity called, waving her wrist to greet a somewhat familiar face from high school. She didn’t plan to be here long anyway. All she really wanted to do was see the birthday girl, catch up, and then she’d be on her way back home. Though, she didn’t have much waiting for her there. She always felt aimless after finishing a project, yet this time felt especially empty. Emptiness was a feeling she was used to. However, she couldn't really process how she felt when she saw her friends sitting at the table at the edge of the backyard. Her body went rigid. She considered joining them for a moment but hid back into the crowds and returned the way she came. She made her way through the house, a modest little building that did not seem large enough for Pinkie's lifestyle, let alone her siblings and parents. She took a free spot on the couch, squeezing in between a couple making out and a guy on his phone. She let out a long sigh as she dropped her head into her hands. “There you are, Rarity. I thought I sensed you… oh.” Rarity looked up to find Pinkie Pie kneeling at her side. “I thought you said this was a small get together.” “It is,” Pinkie squeaked. “I usually rent out the whole block, remember?” Rarity laughed. “I suppose you’re right.” Pinkie took her friend’s hand. “C’mon, the girls should be out back. You look like you could use some cutting loose.” “N-no thanks.” Rarity shook her head. Pinkie pouted. “Pretty please!” “I don’t think I’m ready for a big party.” Rarity held out her gift bag. “I just wanted to give you this. It may not be as spectacular as your other gifts, but…” Pinkie Pie took the bag and pulled out a little silver bracelet. She slipped it on, eyeing the four tiny gemstones at the sides. “Whoa.” “It’s your birthstone.” Rarity pinched the emerald. “It’s not the finest quality, but—” “This is the prettiest rock I’ve ever seen!” Pinkie squealed. She shook her wrist, watching the stones jangle. “What about the other ones?” “Your sisters,” Rarity answered, pointing at the gems. “Topaz, garnet… diamond.” “Diamonds!?” Pinkie gasped. “Rarity, you shouldn’t have.” “Oh, it’s nothing. It’s my own birthstone, so I had a spare.” Rarity hummed. She rubbed at her own bracelet. “Besides, I still have another stone that matters more.” Tears welled up in Pinkie’s eyes. “Rarity, you’re the best.” Pinkie dove in and smothered her friend in a hug. Rarity hugged back, losing herself in her friend's arms.