Mistaken Priorities

by Pegasus-skip

Story

Pinkie Pie looked about the library that had been her home for the past three years, tears falling from her face.

“Twilight, I’m going now.” She said. “Hmm” was all the response she got from the Alicorn sat at her workstation, nose buried in a book as she read on – it was more of a response that she expected anyway.

Her heart clenched at the thought that she was truly leaving. Spike was stood near her offering his silent support. The Dragon boy had only once tried to stop her after she told him she was leaving.

Lifting her hand to her face she scrubbed the tears that tracked either side of her muzzle away.
She would cry no more, she was the Party Pony, she only ever smiled.

Spike pulled on the sleeve of her t-shirt prompting her to look down to him, seeing the sorrow in his eyes that she was leaving was almost too much to bear and she nearly decided to try once more to keep hers and Twilight's relationship alive, but she wouldn’t. Couldn’t – it would be a lie, a lie in which only one pony knew it was.

Spike handed her a scroll.

“Read this before you decide what else to do.” He said quietly.

Holding back her quiet sobs she nodded, taking the scroll she looked once more to Twilight, who was still lost in her research. Knowing that books would always come before her finally forced Pinkie’s mind as her mane drooped to a near flat.

“Goodbye Twy, I still love you.” She said aloud, hoping beyond hope that the words would register.
Twilight didn’t even look up from her notebook as she answered.

“That’s nice.” Pinkie had to get out of there, she couldn’t take it anymore, but instead she collapsed to the floor, keeping her cries silent as Spike went to the door and opened it beckoning in another pony.

Rainbow Dash stepped in and silently helped Pinkie up and guided her out the door as a blue glow surrounded Pinkies suitcase as Rarity levitated it from outside.

As they stepped out Rainbow looked back to see Spike gently close the door to the library before she looked once more to Pinkie who had completely broken down and was crying into her shoulder.

Rainbow looked to Rarity for help as she wrapped her arm around Pinkie, she had never seen Pinkie like this and she was lost.

Rarity beckoned her to follow down the path. Rainbow recognised which it was; it was the path that went around the outskirts of town to where the Boutique sat on the edge near Sweet Apple Acres.

Rainbow nodded as she supported Pinkie, their steps sounding unnaturally loud on the quiet path, the only sound otherwise being Pinkies quiet whimpers and hiccoughs.

Rarity looked back as they got to the door of her boutique and she was disheartened it had come to this. She had tried many a time to warn Twilight not to neglect her marefriend, not to put her studies before her, but it was to no avail.

To be fair she was surprised they had lasted this long together before Pinkie finally had enough – even now though it was obvious, Pinkie never wanted to take this step, never wanted to leave, but no pony, not even Pinkie – as constantly cheery as she was – could take being side-lined indefinitely, sooner or later they would either crack or leave.

Pinkie allowed herself to be guided up the stairs to the spare room that had once been Sweetie Belles, as Rainbow guided her to the bed she numbly collapsed on it, pulling Rainbow down with her. She finally spoke, words escaping around her cries.

“why. . .why c. c. c. cant . . . Why . . .doesn’t she . . .l. . .love me?”

“Hey, that’s not true Pinkie, she does, you know she does.” Rainbow said, gentle words to her sister-in-all-but-blood.

“I’m tellin’ you now she does, she just doesn’t realise how she’s hurtin’ you.” She continued, her whole demeanour completely quiet and opposite to what most people would expect. Only Pinkie and Rarity knew this side of Rainbow.

“B. . .but I tried . . to tell her. . .I trieeed!” Pinkie cried tears falling unchecked to her white t-shirt.
Rainbows arm tightened as she supported her.
“I know Pinkie, I know.” There wasn’t much more to be said for either of them, Rainbow just sat there holding her.

Rarity stepped in quietly before perching sedately on the edge of the bed, tugging at her skirt to keep it from riding up.
“Pinkie Darling, is there anything I can do for you?”

Pinkie held out the scroll Spike had passed her, intent obvious, she wished for Rarity to read it aloud.
Rarity took the scroll and unfurled it before speaking.

Dear Pinkie Pie,

I have received word from Spike about your planned departure from the Golden Oaks Library.

I know it won’t help much but if you feel that staying in Ponyville will be too much, feel free to join myself and my sister
here at Canterlot Castle, there will always be a room for you here.

We hope you will feel comfortable accepting such an invite. If you do, there is a ticket waiting for you at Ponyville Train
Station – I will be informed instantly by Unicorn Messenger Spell should you use it and one of us will be waiting for you
at Canterlot Station,

Your friends
Princess Celestia & Princess Luna

Pinkie Pie was looking to Rarity surprise on her features, Rarity could understand this quite well. Pinkie loved to make people smile, but until Twilight had come to Ponyville all those years ago, she had just been ‘that Pink Party Pony’ who organised parties, but no pony was truly friends with aside from Rainbow Dash.

To hear now the Princesses considered her a friend would be quite shocking Rarity thought.

“I. . .I think I’ll go.” Pinkie said quietly. “Would, would one of you keep me company on the train? Please?” Pinkies wide eyes that should be full of laughter, not the sadness that was prevalent in them now pleaded with them.

“We both will Pinks” Rainbow said quietly. Rarity just nodded before standing gracefully, making sure her blouse wasn’t wrinkled as she turned.

“Of course we will, I can close the shop for a day or two. Now, while you get yourself a shower and changed I’ll see about a nice cup of tea and dinner.” Rarity said before leaning forward and squeezing Pinkies hand gently and leaving the room.

Pinkie looked up to the mare who had held her steady throughout her emotional storm.

“Thanks Dashie, I’ll be down for dinner soon.” Rainbows magenta eyes met Pinkie’s blue as she nodded.

“Okay, an don’t worry, I’ll join you on the train tomorrow too. Spitfire owes me a favour or two so I can get the days off.”
With that she tightened her hug with Pinkie once more before getting up to go and take a quick flight to the Wonder Bolt’s base.

Pinkie looked to the window Rainbow had jumped out of, wings snapping open, arms to her sides as she soared to the skies, Sighing Pinkie wished she could fly, fly away from her thoughts.

Twilight set her book down with a sigh before looking up to the clock, her eyes suddenly widening when she saw it was 10:30am! She’d pulled an all-nighter.

“Dammit I told Pinkie I wanted to see that documentary last night!” She said with an exasperated sigh.

“PINKIE!” She called out too her marefriend hoping she hadn’t already gone to work.
No answer.

“Great” she sighed once more standing, being careful not to catch her wings – she still had trouble years on with them and thanked her lucky stars she was friends with such a wonderful clothes designer as Rarity.
The unicorn had managed to alter all Twilights clothes to account for the new appendages.

Shaking her head she looked about the library lower floor. Something wasn’t quite right – it didn’t quite feel right.
Shrugging her shoulders she went to head to bed, thinking to set her alarm so she could return to her studies on the sun based magic rituals that unicorns practiced millennia ago.

All her thoughts stopped as she got to the bedroom. There on the empty double bed, on Pinkies pillow was a single pink envelope.

Twilight looked about the room and was suddenly very concerned, pictures were missing from the walls, pictures of Pinkies family, some pictures of her and Pinkie.

Looking quickly to the open fronted wardrobe Twilights blood ran cold, all of Pinkies clothes were gone!
Whirling around she ran to the bed grabbing the envelope and tearing it open, pulling the letter that was written in. crayon, Just like Pinkie would do.

My dear Twilight,

I am so, so sorry I have to write my goodbyes to you, but I need to. I can no longer take the hurt of staying within these
walls.

I love you, but it seems that you have forgotten that you love me – Just three days ago I tried to talk to you. Tried
to ask you out for a meal at that new restaurant you said you wanted to try, yet without even looking up from your book
your answer was “not now, I haven’t got time to go out.”

Do you know how much it hurts when the one who holds your heart says they have no time for you?
I came to bed that night and cried myself to sleep – only spike being there stopped me from leaving that night. He
begged me to give it one more chance. He knew how much I love you.

Then yesterday, I cooked us a meal for two – your favourite, carrot and alfalfa soup with dandelion garnish. I called
you three times for dinner, eventually I had to sit and watch you get lost in your book again – the books that have
replaced me.

You only seem to leave your books now for sleep or some documentary.
I haven’t fallen asleep with you in my arms for months, never mind waking up to a cold bed every morning.

I’m sorry Twilight, I had to leave, I couldn’t take the pain any more, I’m going to stay at Rarity and Rainbows tonight,
early tomorrow I will be taking the earliest train away from Ponyville, it would be too painful staying here while I still love
you but can’t be with you.

Goodbye my Twi,
I will always Love you
Pinkie Pie <3

4 Years past.

“Pinkie!” Twilight called to the pink pony skipping through the park, running her pink hands through the long stemmed grass, poufy tail swishing just under the miniskirt she was wearing.

As Pinkie turned the light from the sun caught her just right, the sunlight glowed her body beautifully.
white tank top dyed pink from the fur beneath it.

“Hiya Twi, what’s up?” Pinkie asked with a broad smile as twilight drew close.

“Er heh, yeaah, can we sit down and talk?” Twilight asked, nervousness evident in her voice.

Pinkie just nodded and led them to a bench before taking a set, curling her legs underneath her.
“So whatsup?” She asked again.

Twi sat next to her, looking straight into those blue eyes that had never known any sadness before she spoke.

“I. . .like . . .like you Pinkie.” Twilight murmured.

“Aww I like you too Twi, that’s why your my friend.” Pinkie said with a big grin across her features, obviously missing what Twilight meant.

“No Pinkie, I like, like you, as in. . .” She took a deep breath before continuing. “would you go on a. . . date with me.”
Pinkies smile faded from her face before she finally answered, uncharacteristically quiet for her.

“I’m sorry Twi, but I . . .I can’t.” She said looking down to the floor.

“B . . .but why?” Twilight asked, heart breaking at being rejected by the one pony she’d come to care about more than a friend.

“You’ll love me for a while Twi, but as time goes on, you’d forget about us, always be in research for something or other. An. . .and I won’t be able to take it, you’ll blank me out. I’d have to leave then, there’s no way I could stay if it failed with you, I couldn’t not when I lo-“ Pinkie stopped herself before she could finish.

Twilight however had caught the slip.

“Pinkie, Pinkie look at me.” Twilight all but demanded taking her hand, continuing only when their eyes met.

“I promise you will NEVER come after my studies, books, research or anything.” Pinkie looked deep into Twilights violet eyes before her face lit up.

“Okie-dokie!” She said with a big smile. Twilight practically squealed with joy at this, startling Pinkie by pulling her into a passionate kiss, arms around her.

“Pinkie was right. What have I done!” Twilight gasped out her cries as she collapsed on the bed, Pinkies side of the bed. She pulled the Pillow to herself, the pillow still held the faint scent of cotton candy, sugar and something else that was distinctly Pinkie.

Spike opened the door to the library at 11:30 with his key, not surprised it wasn’t open, he expected it after yesterday. Looking about his old home from when he was a youngling he sighed.

Making his way to the kitchen he prepared a stack of pancakes and a glass of milk for Twilight. He could hear her cries from upstairs and knew she’d found the letter.

Sighing he stacked the tray with the supplies before he made his way up the stairs, dreading what he would find when he got there.

Opening the door he saw her. She was lay on the bed clutching a photo of her and Pinkie together, smiling, happy.
She looked up at the noise Spike made coming in before her red rimmed eyes looked back to the photo.

“Come on Twi, it’s time you had something to eat.” Spike said quietly as he set the tray on the table by the bed.

“Why Spike, why didn’t she tell me!” Spike shook his head astonished at the question as he sat down on the bed, pulling Twilight into his arms. Yes it was her fault the relationship had ended, but he wasn’t heartless.

“She tried Twi, really she did, I had to watch as every time I was here and she tried to talk to you, you brushed her off. She’s been trying for months Twi.” He finished as she fell into his side body shaking with the tears.

‘I should have known, should have done better!’ Twilight screamed in her head as she cried into her assistant/friend/brother’s shoulder.

“I’m sorry, make it ok, please, I’m sorry. Spike what do I dooo!” Spike just held her as her storm of emotions struck once more.

As her cries echoed through the library spikes own eyes watered, he knew just how much Twilight loved Pinkie, it had been at his urging she’d confessed her feelings.

“Come on Twi, let it out.” He whispered moving his draconic snout near her ear drooping down the side of her head.

Applejacks head shot up at her cart as she heard the faint cries while she and Applebloom were serving customers from their stall.

Applejacks customer at the time happened to be Fluttershy, looking to the yellow furred mare opposite she said three words.

“It’s finally happened” Fluttershy and the young teen Applebloom just nodded. Turning to her sister Applejack asked her.

“Can you tend the stall fer a bit, ahv a feelin’ Twi needs her friend’s abaht fer a bit.” Applebloom just nodded shooing her sister away.

Pinkie stepped on to the 06:30 to Canterlot with Rainbow and Rarity. She had hardly slept, alternating between crying and staring at the celling of the room while Rainbow and Rarity stayed with her, offering what little comfort they could.

The dawn had finally arrived and she’d listlessly showered and eaten. She hadn’t even unpacked her suitcase last night thanks to Rarity giving her a set of clothes and sleepwear.

As the train pulled out the station she looked out the window to see Ponyville disappearing in the distance, another tear slipped down her face as her beloved town she’d come to call home left her sight, possibly for the last time.

She felt her pink hand being squeezed by Rainbows blue one as a tissue courtesy of Rarity floated in front of her, gently drying her tears as they continued to fall.

“There now Pinkie, it’ll be ok, you’ll see.” Rarity tried to comfort her as Pinkie turned her head and sought the comforting arms of Rainbow once more as her emotions still wrought havoc with her heart.

Rainbow held on to her, one wing wrapping about her, a gesture known throughout Pegasi culture as one only done when comforting family.

Pinkie tightened her grip on rainbows top as her quiet cries were the only sound in the compartment, other passengers looking on in sympathy, and others with more than their share of concern, being residents of Ponyville their selves, but to try and give the Pink Pony a tiny bit of dignity refrained from asking.

Most from Ponyville knew of the open secret that her relationship with Princess Twilight was on the rocks, so they all knew what this meant – it had finally ended.

Pinkie managed to pull herself together a little when the beverage car came round and the steward spoke to Rarity.
“Ma’am, the gentlecolt car has stopped me and said anything that you three need on this journey in the way of refreshments should be billed to him. Pinkie looked up to see Rarity nodding her thanks to Fancy Pants of all Pony’s!

Pinkie managed to mumble her own thanks as she turned once more to stare out the window.

The rising sun stained the sky a beautiful purple, the same purple as Twilights soft coat.
Drawing in a shaky breath Pinkie looked away from that to the floor, it had a rich pink carpet, the same shade as Twilight's mane high. . .
Pinkie could feel her eyes watering up again, this was going to be a long train journey.

Rarity looked on as Pinkie finally cried herself to sleep against Rainbow. She looked up to Rainbows worry filled eyes.

“Darling love, try not to worry so. She will be ok with time.” Rainbow nodded back – surprised at the public endearment Rarity used to try help tone her worry down, the two didn’t hide their relationship per se, but they were very private about it.

“I know Rare, but still, she’s my little sis – you know, I know she ain’t really but. . .” Rarity nodded.

“I quite understand Rainbow dear. But you must try to hide how worried you are, for Pinkies sake – you know if she realises she’ll bottle her feelings which is just not healthy for her.”

Rainbow nodded, understanding flitting across her cyan features.

“Say Rare’s how long you stayin’?” Rainbow asked switching topics fast on the fashion centric mare.
“At least a few days, I wish to be sure she settles ok before I return to the boutique.” Rainbow nodded.

Rarity was understandably curious as to the direction of questioning, so ventured forth a question of her own.

“Why do you ask?”

“Well” Rainbow started. “When I told the Captain why I needed the time off she told me not to come back for at least a week.” She said sheepishly. Rarity smiled as she looked out the window.

Spitfire, Captain of the Wonder Bolts, only flier better than Rainbow Dash in the team was also known for her stance on family.

Those you’re related to and those who you choose. She had been there once when a Drill Sergeant was berating a Private in the courtyard at Canterlot Castle for being late on duty repeatedly.

“PRIVATE! WHAT TIME DO YOU CALL THIS?!” The drill sergeant called out as Rarity was leaving the castle causing her to jump.

She turned her head to see the Private mumble something to his superior before he was blasted back by the force of the Drill Sergeant.

“SO YOUR FOAL BROTHERS SICK! THAT’S NO EXCUSE!”

“Well I never!” Rarity exclaimed turning to go and give the sergeant a piece of her mind, unfortunately she didn’t get chance as a mare dropped out of the sky from where Rarity had spied Pegasi practicing.

Her feet slammed into the ground as she called out.

“SERGEANT! FRONT AND CENTRE!” The Sergeant jumped, span in the air and turned to see Captain Spitfire in front of him, even from how far away she was Rarity could see his red coat pale.

The dressing down he received that day became known to the Wonder Bolts as ‘Spitfire’s Special Sergeant Speech’

Within the space of 5 minutes she had him squirming, after seven he looked like he wished to flee, and after 10 when she commanded “DISMISSED” the dust trail he left was impressive.

“Indeed” Rarity said quietly as she looked on to the youngest member of their company with fondness.

Even now completely asleep the heartache Pinkie was feeling was obvious on her face, her mouth was still slightly turned down, mane lack-luster, not holding its usual ‘spring’, and her ears were permanently drooped down.

They stayed like that until the train finally pulled into Canterlot at 10:30, looking out the window Rarity spotted not just one but both the Princesses waiting.

Pinkie stepped off the train to suddenly be enveloped in a dark blue pair of arms, with a further alabaster arm wrapping about her shoulders.

“Oh Pinkie, I’m so sorry this has happened to you and my student.” Princess Celestia said.
The care in her voice and support she could feel through Luna’s embrace caused a fresh flood of painful emotions to hit her.

This may not be the love and care of a lover, but this paternal love she could feel still struck the rawness of her feelings causing her to lose her control once more.

It was only Princess Luna’s strength that kept her upright as her legs buckled underneath her when she couldn’t fight her tears.

She didn’t notice when a squad of guards surrounded her cutting off the publics’ prying eyes.
“Come on my little pony, the castle doth await.” Luna’s gentle voice commanded as she half led half carried Pinkie to the royal chariot.

As she got herself under control Pinkie looked up to see Rainbow Dash getting into one of the body harnesses that pulled the carriage, it was then Pinkie noticed the other ‘Guards’ with them were the Wonder Bolts.

Rainbow looked back to them obviously checking she was ok. Pinkie nodded a little as she fought for control, she didn’t realise how much it would still hurt the next day.

Rarity looked to one of the unharnessed Wonder Bolts as the chariot took to the air and Pinkie managed to listen in even as she was looking to the golden floor.

“I must say, I am somewhat surprised to see your team pulling the carriage.” Rarity said.

“Are you kidding?” Spitfire’s voice came back and continued. “When RD told me what was going on there was no way we weren’t going to do what little we could to help. That lovely pink mare has brought more joy to the Wonder Bolts with her bubbly personality during the monthly parties she throws for us than any 5 stadiums full of fans – We consider her a friend, and we watch out for our friends.”

Pinkie couldn’t quite process what she’d heard – she had more friends than she realised, more ponies who actually cared about her? she managed to look up from where Luna had an arm about her keeping her safe on the carriage and smiled a small smile of thanks.

Spitfire caught it and just nodded her head as they started to descend to the castle courtyard.

Once they’d landed and stepped off the platform Spitfire approached her.

“Hey, I promise it’ll get better over time, trust me I know, and who knows.” She continued glancing to Soarin’

“You might still get a happy ending, but no matter what, if you need any of us all you gotta do is call.”
She finished passing Pinkie a card that had hers, Soarin’s and Rainbows office numbers on and the main message board should they be out.

“t. .thanks” Pinkie managed to mumble out as Spitfire nodded once more and the Wonder Bolts minus Rainbow Dash took to the air, heading back to Cloudsdale as Luna and Celestia guided her to her room in the castle.

Luna looked down to the Pink pony she had a hold of, three times she’d felt her emotions flair since they entered the castle. As Princess of The Night she was more in tune with those emotions of one pony for another.

Pinkie may have been trying to put on a brave face since they landed, but every time they passed a window that detailed the Elements’ Exploits or a picture of Twilight a fresh wave of heartache would echo across the ethereal plane.

As they got to Pinkies room Luna guided her to the couch before Celestia started to speak as Rainbow stood guard just inside the door. Kneeling down in front of Pinkie Celestia took one of her hands and started talking quietly to her, forcing eye contact with the force of her presence alone.

“Pinkie Pie, this suite of rooms is yours for as long as you want, be that a day or decades, you will always have a place here, and ponies who care about you – myself and Luna’s quarters are just down the corridor should you need some pony to talk to – the guards will be instructed to let you in no matter the time.”

Pinkie couldn’t believe the kindness and care the rulers of Equestria were showing her.
They had dispensed with titles between the bearers and them in private years ago yes – but this.

She couldn’t help when she started to cry small whimpering sobs again, she may not have Twilight anymore, but she did have ponies who cared for her.

As the emotions became too much for her she blindly reached forward and Celestia rose up to hold her in a motherly embrace.

once more Pinkie cried herself to sleep.

Celestia looked to the sleeping form she held, slightly surprised at how Pinkie Pie had not only let her comfort her, but had reached for her. Looking to her sister she pointed towards the bedroom of the suite with her horn as she carefully lifted Pinkie up.

Rarity and Rainbow followed as they carried Pinkie to the bed, while Celestia put her in the bed Luna cast a light spell that surrounded Pinkie for a moment, Celestia, Rainbow and Rarity all looked at Luna.

“Just a little good dream spell, nothing more, I promise thee” Luna said quietly. Celestia nodded turning to see Rarity had brought Pinkies bag from the train along with three others – and was busy unpacking Pinkies things and a few extra’s out one of the other bags into the wardrobe.

Finally single picture frame hovered over to the bedside table, it contained a picture of three Ponies.
Pinkie as a little filly, and her parents. It was unfortunate that her parents had passed away a few years ago Celestia thought.

Pinkie could certainly use the support of her family now.

‘We will just have to do our best to support her.’ Celestia thought as she ran her fingers through the pink mane of the pony lay in the bed she was sat upon.

Hoping that they could do enough Celestia and Luna got up to leave, unfortunately they still had court to hold.
Rarity and Rainbow both promised they would stay with Pinkie today as the two princesses left the room, only time would tell if Pinkie would recover from the heartache.

A week had gone by since Pinkie Pie’s departure and Twilight wasn’t faring well at all. Applejack, Fluttershy and Spike were visiting every day taking it in turns to make sure Twilight at least had some food and drink as well as keeping herself clean.

She hadn’t spoken since the day she had found Pinkie had left, her eyes sore from all the tears she’d cried as she stared at the same photo all the time.

They at least knew where Rarity and Rainbow were courtesy of Princess Celestia sending spike a scroll letting them all know they had arrived at Canterlot safely, Applejack was glad that Pinkie had some pony looking out for her, as looking after Twilight in her depression was no easy task.

She stepped into the library after a long day at work and was surprised when she saw Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Applebloom in the main area working on the shelves.

Sweetie-Belle even being here was a shock as the last Applejack knew the young mare was off recording her second album ever since she’d got her big break – and her cutie mark – in singing.

“Oh hey Applejack.” Scootaloo said as she finished organising the shelf she was hovering in front of.

“Fluttershy said the library needed looking after and Spike could only do so much so we volunteered.” Applebloom told her as Sweetie Belle went to the pile of – what else – music books that needed sorting.

“And as I was paying Scoots a surprise visit I thought I’d tag along” Sweetie Belle said.

“Well ah thank ye girls – ah wasn’t lookin’ forward to tryin’ to sort this but you sorted it all. Thanks” Applejack said relieved that she could concentrate more on trying to get through to Twilight this afternoon.

Next thing she knew though was Spike running in holding a scroll.

“Pinkie Pies really ill and the Canterlot Doctors can’t stop what’s killing her!” He shouted not realising it.
“WHAT!” Twilight's voice shouted from upstairs with a slightly quieter “Eep!” from Fluttershy echoing down before a purple blur landed on the floor in front of him, snatching the scroll from him.

Applejack watched as Twilights’ eyes scanned the parchment before she turned to Spike.

“Take a note.

Dear Celestia,

I will be on the evening arrival along with the other two bearers of the Elements and Spike

Twilight

Send it.”

Twilight turned to Applejack and spoke loud enough for Fluttershy who was making her way down the steps to hear.

“Pinkie needs us all – especially me.” She finished collapsing to the floor in a flood of tears.

“what have I done” She whispered as Fluttershy came up next to her, picking her up off the floor and guiding her to the couch as Applejack closed the library door and flipped the sign to closed – it was going to be a long afternoon.

That morning the servant took away yet another cold, untouched plate of food from Pinkie Pie’s quarters.
The Pink Pony had stopped eating the second day into her stay, and only drank when her body compelled her too.

Rarity watched the tray being taken away as Pinkie stared out the window, clothes a looser fit than they were this time last week.

“Pinkie darling, please – you must eat.” She implored, as Rainbow stood staring out the window, face a mask – one that slipped off every night she was out of Pinkies sight. How she did it Rarity didn’t know, but she was glad.

“What’s the point.” Pinkie’s emotionless voice asked the room.

“If I eat I’ll get stronger, if I get stronger I’ll feel again.” She carried on in a monotone, her mane hung straight and the spark of life that used to be in her eyes was gone.

“Pinkie, I know it hurts, but you must eat, you need it to survive.” Pinkie nodded – but Rarity could tell it was a nod of acknowledgment nothing more. Standing up she went to the side and poured herself a glass of water.

She had her back turned as she drank therefore she only heard Rainbows gasp when Pinkie passed out forwards.
Rarity turned as Rainbow called Pinkies name and caught her before she hit the floor.

“Oh no.” Rarity gasped as she ran to the bed pulling the covers back as Rainbow lay her down.

“Guard! GUARD!” Rarity called when they couldn’t wake Pinkie.
The guard ran in looking about for the trouble before turning his attention to Rarity once he’d ascertained there were no intruders.

“Quickly, get a Doctor!” Rarity shouted near hysterical as Rainbow came round and pulled her into her blue arms.

The Guard nodded and ran as fast as his legs could carry him. He returned a few minutes later with a team of doctors and they went to work straight away with their diagnostic spells as Rarity heard the distinct Clicks of high heels striking the floor in a rapid beat before the two princesses ran in.

Celestia was once more tending court with her sister when a call out over the loudspeakers went out.

“All Physicians To The Element Of Laughter’s Room” Celestia looked to her sister as she got out her seat, unsurprised to see Luna’s seat already empty as she was rushing to the door.

“Well I never” The Pony who was petitioning them at the time.

“Second fiddle to a commoner pony!” Those words stopped Celestia in her tracks for a moment before she and Luna turned and bore down upon the Pony.

“WE BEG THY PARDON!” Luna all but demanded in Royal Canterlot Voice. Celestia although every bit as angry as her sister, managed to moderate her voice – just.

“That ‘commoner’ is more noble than you could ever TRY to be – now get out of my sight, and never come before me or my sister again.” She commanded before turning on her heel and striding rapidly from the room, Luna hot on her heels, neither caring they’d effectively ruined the pompous pony’s social standing – who just happened to be Blueblood at the time.

The moment they were in the private corridors they ran to Pinkies quarters.

As they entered they looked about to see Rarity in Rainbow’s arms, both their faces filled with concern as the doctors did their scans, until the head doctor turned to them.

“There is nothing we can do for her – she may never wake again. It is simply as if she has lost the will to continue on. I know not what we can do now for her.”

A short gasp was heard and Celestia looked over to see Rarity’s hand had shot up to cover her mouth as the implications settled in.

Rarity turned in Rainbows embrace, shoulders shaking with suppressed sobs as the blue Pegasus looked out the window before she seemed to decide something.

“Get the others here, Pinkie would want her closest friends here.” Was all she said, yet it was enough, as Celestia’s horn lit up summoning parchment as Luna passed her a quill.

Spike,

We need you, Applejack and Twilight to come to Canterlot immediately, Pinkie Pie has been taken ill and the Doctors
cannot cure her. We feel that she would want all her friends near at this time, yes maybe most importantly – even
Twilight

Celestia

Moments later the scroll disappeared in a puff of green flame.

The train pulled into Canterlot station and had barely stopped when Twilight flew out of the train wings spread speeding through the air to the castle, spike in her arms.

To Applejack’s surprise Fluttershy took to the air as well and without a moments warning had a strong grip about her and lifted her from the floor.

“Whoa Nelly!” Applejack called out as she realised how high and fast they were going.

Applejack twisted her head up to look at Fluttershy and received the second shock of the evening when she saw no trace of the shy Pegasus she knew – instead was a mare with determination on her face, and somehow, even though she was only a Pegasus, with a heavier load, she was keeping pace with Twilight.

As they approached the castle the Guard opened the door ready for them, now Fluttershy let Twilight take the lead as they flew through the corridors until they got to a room in the private wing that had Pinkie Pie’s cutie mark engraved upon it.
No sooner were they there and landed than they ran through the door.

Twilight ran through the receiving area and straight to the bedroom where she saw Pinkie Pie was lay on the bed, looking underfed and wan. Her mane straight and eyes closed, her breathing looked shallow as if her body was fighting for every breath.

Rainbow was sat on the bed holding one of Pinkies hands while Rarity was stood behind her, offering what support she could, as the princesses were stood to the side, both looking up at Twilight's intrusion.

Twilight let out a choked sob and stumbled her way across the room to the free side of the bed and collapsed near it, pulling Pinkies free hand into hers, as tears rolled unashamedly down the Princess of magic’s cheeks.

“Oh Pinkie. Oh no.” She muttered out between sobs as the others came closer.
Celestia moved around and crouched down to talk to her student.

“Twilight, look at me.” The tone of command in her voice forced Twilights watery gaze to meet her mentors.

“Pinkie has lost the will to live, she feels there is nothing here for her anymore. Now you have a choice before you – you can try to bring her back, it’s proven that people in comas like hers still hear what’s happening, but if you do pull her back, be prepared for her to push you away, and if she doesn’t – you need to take better care of her than you have. No promises, just simple fact – I will not allow you or her to hurt the other like this again.”

Twilight nodded before she collapsed against Celestia her wails echoing through the room.

“I. . .I. . .I neeeed heer! I ca . . . can’t be without her!” She cried out, the sheer pain in her voice bringing the others to the edge of tears.

Twilight didn’t know what to feel anymore, her heart felt shattered, seeing Pinkie in the state she was in, Knowing SHE was the cause of it pulled at her.

Turning away from Celestia, tears still streaming Twilight stumbled to the bed, pulling herself up next to Pinkie before she pulled her into her arms and held her close and tight.

“Pinkie please, come back. I don’t care if you hate me; I need you to come back. Please don’t go, come on please”
She sobbed out begging for Pinkie to wake up, over and over again she spoke, pleading with all her heart but nothing happened, Pinkie Pie remained Comatose.

As time went on Pinkies breathing started to slow and the doctor who remained quietly shook his head.

“Pinkie NO! PLEASE!” Twilight called out Praying that somehow her voice would be heard, but Pinkie continued to deteriorate. Twilight her eyes unable to see properly anymore, leaned forwards, resting her forehead against Pinkies as Pinkie breathed out her last breath.

“Pinkie, I love you.” Twilight whispered quietly, placing her lips against Pinkies as her shoulders shook with the cries she was suppressing.

As she pulled away she looked down to her peaceful pace and cried out Pinkies name.

*GASP*

Pinkie drew in a breath, then another, stronger, more regular breaths came to her as Twilight cried in relief as the Doctor smiled on whispering “It’s a miracle”

“Tw-igh-light?” Pinkies voice broke the near silence of the room.

“Oh Pinkie, I’m sorry, I’m so so so sorry, Please, I love you, I need you” Twilight said looking down into Pinkies beautiful blue eyes.

A pink hand came up to cup Twilights cheek.

“Love you too” Pinkie whispered before Twilight held her close in her arms.

All the others in the room were all in similar states of emotional release with what had just happened.

“Pinkie, I’ve just nearly lost you, I need you. Please come back home with me – I need you.” Pinkies smile was all the answer any pony needed.

Two weeks later after Pinkie Pie had made a full recovery the whole group were headed back to Ponyville, Pinkie and Twilight hardly leaving the others side, the entire time.

As they got off the train in Ponyville the entire town had come to welcome Pinkie Pie back, she was surprised a bit however when Twilight led her a different direction than to the library, until they stopped in front of a modest two story house and Twilight put a set of keys in Pinkies hand.

“Welcome to our new home.” Twilight said looking her in the eye.

“If we stayed in the library again I could lose you” Was all she said, but Pinkie understood the message.

As they went in Pinkie looked around the new house until she had toured the whole place and finally came upon the kitchen, there on the table was the explanation of why Twilight was late to bed last night, she read Twilights latest report.

Dear Celestia,

Sometimes when you have something with you for so long you fail to fully appreciate what you have, and your priorities
get mistaken.

These past weeks have taught me never to have Mistaken Priorities ever again, Research can be useful, beneficial
and educational – all things I have come to love, but none of those are worth losing the one closest to my heart, not a
book, not a spell, but. . .

Pinkie Pie, I only hope to prove worthy of the second chance we have been given

Your faithful student
Twilight

Smiling Pinkie leaned up to pace a tender kiss on Twilights lips, but Twilight surprised her by turning it passionate.

Pinkie fell in love all over again, She truly had her Twilight back.