It's not real

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The door to Sugarcube Corner creaked open ever so slowly, as to reveal a bouncing hyperactive pink mare. She wore her usual ear to ear smile, as she bounced over into her bedroom. Pinkie, yawned loudly, her eyes becoming heavy as she moved over to the bed in the center of the room. She Leaped into the bed, the mattress receding slightly under her weight. Pinkie let out a small giggle as she rolled over snuggling into the bed. She began to think about her whole day. For Pinkie Pie, every day was always great in her eyes. Everyday, was worth getting up for, and what made it all worth while was her friends. she couldn’t imagine her life with out them, That and gummy, Pinkie though Glancing over at her pet Alligator asleep in the corner. She gave a small smile her eyes now lidded as she began to close them.

“Mmm nighty night Gummy.” Pinkie murmured as she drifted off to sleep.

Pinkie’s eyes suddenly began to open as she felt something irregular in the room. Pinkie shifted in the bed slowly, she found that her hooves where stiff, almost as if her movements were restricted. She laughed inwardly at her self, figuring she’d wrapped her self in the blanket. Pinkie let out another Yawn smacking her dry lips together. She froze, as she noticed her lips felt noticeably different. Pinkie attempted to raise her hoof to examine her muzzle, but she still couldn’t move her upper body. She began to wonder how the blanket, could completely stop her from moving her hooves. Pinkie attempted to move her back hooves as to get out of the bed, only to receive a strange sensation. Flicking at the tips of her hooves. Was there something crawling on her she thought, or was it Gummy having a midnight nibble ? Pinkie decided to try and pull herself up to look. With all her strength Pinkie brought her self to sit upwards, her eyes now staring through the long hair now covered a part of her face. Squinting through the darkness Pinkie found the cause of the sensation in her hooves. No not hooves. What were these ?

“Wha-what ?” Pinkie began to mutter as she saw what appeared to be long, well she assumed that they were legs, and at the end of them were what she could only described as very weird claws, similar to what Spike would have, but still noticeably different.
Pinkie let out a small yelp as she felt her self lean to the right, tumbling off the bed onto her bedroom floor. Or at least what she thought was her floor, Pinkie’s eyes darted around the dark environment, as she found that she was no longer in her room. Due to the lack of light it was hard to tell, but Pinkie could make out a white coloring on the walls. The room seemed smaller than her bedroom, containing nothing but the bed she just fell off of.

Pinkie let out a groan of pain as she tried to pick herself off the floor. However, as she tried to move her front limbs, she found her self still restrained. Pinkie began to slowly look down towards her new limbs, what she found was a short of white clothing restraining her arms, Pinkie recognized what it was, she just couldn’t bring her self to say the word. She was in a straight jacket. The ones they put bad or crazy ponies in, but she hadn’t done anything bad, had she ? Pinkie then thought about her changed appearance, what if that was something to do with it ? What if she was a monster now ? A monster that needed to be locked up. A tear rolled down Pinkie’s cheek, as she then began to wail. She violently thrashed on the floor, trying to break free of the jacket, but it was useless. She merely squirmed on the floor, tear drops staining the ground beneath her. Pinkie’s body began to ache, as she saw finally her escape attempts weren't working. beginning to panic, she began to do the only thing she could do. Reach out to somepony.

“Help ! help me please ! somepony help me.....” Pinkie wailed her voice cracking from the strain. “I didn’t do anything...I.” Pinkie collapsed onto the floor, as she let her emotions flow out. She began wailing louder, fresh tears flowing freely from her eyes. She occasionally gasped for air in between sobs. Pinkie squeezed her eyes shut, she kept wishing this was a nightmare, but no matter how many times she wished, she felt the same cold floor beneath her. Pinkie’s sobbing continued, as she began to sniffle, snot dripping out of her nose. Her new hair was now disheveled from the constant thrashing. Pinkie felt helpless. She just wanted to see her friends, she wanted to see Gummy. Why was she here, she just wanted to be home. Pinkie suddenly heard the creaking of metal, she looked upward, squinting her red puffy eyes from the unexpected light. Pinkie saw a figure standing over her. She cowered, as this shadowy creature began to move towards her.

“Diane ! oh no. are you okay ?” The figured moved next to her.” What are you doing on the floor ? did you have a bad dream ?” Pinkie looked up through tear stricken eyes. She recognized the voice, but it couldn’t be her, this thing looked nothing like her. “T-Twilight ?” Pinkie croaked, the lining of her throat sore from her screaming. She glanced at the creature, there was some resemblance to Twilight. Her voice, the way her mane was styled, the only difference was it was brown. She was also wearing what appeared to be clothing a doctor would wear. Pinkie thought this was odd. Twilight was smart, but she was never a doctor. This wasn’t Twilight. It couldn’t be.

“Umm yes it’s me, I don’t suppose you remember my real name ?” The woman asked. Pinkie looked at her with accusing eyes.

“T-Twilight is your real name, isn’t it ?" Pinkie asked.

"Well no, that's only what you call me sometimes." She replied.

"No, your not Twilight, your not her, who are you ? Where are my friends !” Pinkie shouted angrily, the tears welling up in her eyes once more. The woman claiming to be Twilight, knelt down to Pinkie’s side.

“Diane it’s me, it’s Tessa. Doctor Tessa Sparks remember ? Now please let me help you up.” Tessa spoke in a clam soothing voice, however to her disappointment Pinkie was unfazed by this.

“I-I..No, I don’t know you, I never seen you before ! Where am I tell me where I am, why am I in this thing !”

“Diane you need to calm down” She spoke a bit more sternly.

“No ! my name is Pinkie Pie ! let me out of this thing !” Pinkie began once again thrashing in a vain attempt to get out of the straight Jacket. Tessa tried to hold her still, but could not get a grip on her.

“Diane, Please stop this, If you don’t I’ll have no choice but to make the orderlies give you another sedative, please just let your self calm down !” Tessa said raising her voice ever so slightly.

Pinkie was taken back by her tone, and began to cease her thrashing, she winced in pain at her aching upper body, as she lie prostrated on the floor. Pinkie looked up at the woman with red puffy pleading eyes, Pinkie didn't want to talk with her, but what else could she do. Tessa let out a sigh, wrapping her arms around Pinkie’s upper body, lifting her off the floor. Tessa put her arms around Pinkie supporting her as to allow her to sit on the bed. Tessa sat right next to Pinkie who remained silent looking downwards.

“Are you ready to let me talk to you, I promise I just want to help.” Tessa said in a soothing voice. Pinkie simply nodded.

“Diane could you tell me what happened ? is there anything you can remember ?” Tessa asked calmly.

“No. I remember going to sleep, in Sugarcube Corner, and when I woke up, I couldn’t move. I was in a straight Jacket and, I turned into what you are !” Pinkie said exasperated.

“Diane what do you think you are ?” Tessa asked concerned.

“I’m a pony, you should know that Twilight, or is it Tessa now !” Pinkie responded, in an accusing tone.

“Diane, I have to tell you that you are human. You never were a pony.” Tessa said gravely.

“Of corse I’m a pony, I...I’ve been one my whole life growing up !” Pinkie said her voice shaking.

“Diane, do remember anything about your family, where you were born ?” Pinkie looked at Tessa as if she was nuts, did she really think that she’d forget her family, her fillyhood.

“How do you think I could forget something like that ? I was born in Equestria. I lived on a rock farm with my parents and three sisters.” Pinkie responded.

“Diane, you have to understand, theres a reason why your.” Tessa paused, clearly reluctant to continue. “this Equestria, your life as a pony that you keep talking about, there....” Tessa was cut off.

“There what exactly ? What is this place, why exactly am I here hmmm ?” Pinkie asked angrily. Tessa sighed putting her hand over Pinkie’s shoulder, this caused Pinkie to recoil, she didn't want to be touched, by her.

“Diane, this is not going to be easy to hear. Please try and remain calm about it.” Tessa said uneasily.

“Why am I here !” Pinkie shouted, causing Tessa to Flinch.

“Your in a hospital. You’ve been sick for quite sometime, and we’ve been trying to treat you.” Tessa said sadly.

“A hospital ? A hospital that locks you up ? Why was I locked up I’m not a bad pony!” Pinkie insisted.

“No Diane, your not a bad person, and it’s not your fault that your sick.” Tessa said in an apologetic tone.

“I’m not sick I feel fine !” Pinkie snapped.

“Diane, you suffer from a sever case schizophrenia ,where one of the symptoms has been delusions of grandeur. These memories you have of Equestria, and you being a pony, are, delusions.” Tessa saw Pinkie’s face turn completely emotionless. “Diane I know this is hard to hear but...” Tessa was off again by Pinkie giggling to her self.

“So what am I supposed to believe, that I’m some Crazy pony, thats made up my entire life ?” Pinkie smiling uneasily.

“No no Diane your not crazy, like I said your just sick, just please try and relax.” Tessa said sympathetically.

“Relax. I’m relaxed, I’m perfectly relaxed, hehe, It’s not like any of this is real !” an erie smile grew on Pinkie’s face as her laughter became more audible.

“Diane...please.” Tessa pleaded.

“I mean this isn’t real, this is all a dream, I’m back home in Sugarcube Corner with m-my” Pinkie’s voice broke, as her laughter turned into gasps. She was hyperventilating. This was all a dream, it’s all just a dream. Pinkie kept repeating the same thing in her head.

“Oh no.” Tessa whispered, as she turned to the door. “I need assistance quickly.” Tessa shouted, a large figure came through the doors which startled Pinkie, causing her to get up from the bed.

“Diane you need to slow down your breathing.” Tessa said trying to remain calm.

“N-no, don’t touch me, I’m not crazy, this isn’t real, y-your not..real..I-it’s” Pinkie collapsed onto the floor, crawling into the corner as attempt to get away from her captors. Pinkie, finally tensed up as she felt unable to breathe..

“Diane ! please breathe you need to Breath slowly.” Tessa’s words faded as Pinkie felt her throat heave. she vomited onto the floor in-front of her, she continued this for six more seconds before dry heaving. Pinkie’s vision blurred as the room begin to spin around her. she collapsed onto the floor. "I-i-it's n-not real...." Pinkie muttered, as the whole room went black.

Suspicions.

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Pinkie’s eyes began to slowly open, as she heard, voices muttering over her. Though she could barely hear them, she recognized Twilight’s voice, or was it Tessa’s, she couldn’t tell.

“ait....she’s waking up.”

Pinkie opened her eyes. Her throat was drier, and sorer than before. Upon smacking her lips together, she almost gagged at the sick taste in her mouth. Probably an after taste from the vomit she thought. Pinkie tilted her head upwards seeing the room she was in was now fully lit. This room however was noticeably different. The walls were now a very light tan color. Upon turning her head to the side she saw Tessa kneeling down next to her, giving a very concerned look. Next to Tessa was another human, who was much larger than Tessa, dressed in white clothing. Pinkie looked at him uneasily, as he turned and exited the room. She let out a sigh of relief, leaning backwards to find a comfortable surface supporting her, to which she realized, she was lying in a bed. She slowly brought her self to sit upwards, on the bed, when she noticed it. Pinkie glanced down to see her upper body was free. The straight jacket was gone. She saw herself wearing a light blue gown of some sort. Her limbs were still stiff aching, moving them felt like lifting an immense amount of weight. Still, she was at least glad to move her upper body. Pinkie raised her hands, and glanced at her new appendages, flexing them. The feeling was alien to her, but at the same time felt natural, she couldn’t explain why.

“Diane? How are you feeling?” Tessa asked, her voice still identical to Twilight’s.

“W-what happened?” Pinkie croaked, the lining of her throat burning when she spoke.

“Well I did warn you that it wouldn’t be easy. You must not have been able to cope with what I told you, and it caused your body to react. I shouldn’t have been so up front with you. I’m sorry.” Tessa said looking down.

Pinkie, slowly glanced down, to see her upper body was free. She saw herself wearing a light blue gown of some sort. Her arms were still aching, but she was at least glad to be able to move her upper body. Pinkie glanced at her new appendages, flexing them. The feeling was alien to her, but at the same time felt natural, she couldn’t explain why.

“I thought you might want that off, so I got the orderly to remove it.” Tessa said giving Pinkie a small smile.

“Thanks Twi...I mean Tessa.” Pinkie said remembering this wasn’t Twilight. She then got a good look at the room she was in. The walls of the room, as she suspected, were the same tan coloring. The only difference was the fact that this room came with a small room, but it was too small, and too high for Pinkie to even think about escaping through. ‘Wait, maybe I could, If I could make the hole larger. Wait no, that’ll never work.’

“Diane? You’re being very quiet, is something wrong with the room?” Tessa asked breaking Pinkie’s train of thought.

“Huh? Oh nothing, just...looking at the room.” Pinkie replied her clearly showing disdain for having to talk to Tessa.

“Well, I thought you might want to be back in your old room after what happened earlier. While you were unconscious I asked the orderlies to bring you here.” Tessa said giving a nervous smile. Pinkie raised an eyebrow.

“Where was I before? And why was I in that straightjacket?” Pinkie asked, causing Tessa’s nervous smile to fade.

“Well, you were in solitary confinement. It’s where we place patients who act out or...”, Tessa paused biting her lip, before continuing, “Or pose any danger towards the staff, or to themselves.” Tessa finished. Pinkie’s eyes began to widen, did she hurt somepony? Or did she hurt somebody? Is that why she was in there? Wait. No. This isn’t real.

Of course you didn’t hurt anypony. You didn’t do anything.

Pinkie’s let out a sigh turning to Tessa. She didn’t want to humor her on this belief that she was some mental patient, but the curiosity began to burn inside her, as to why she would be put in solitary confinement. “So what exactly did I do? It wasn’t anything too bad was it?” she asked getting Tessa’s attention.

Tessa shook her head. “No no, you just acted a bit irrationally in your room, when one of the orderlies came in to restrain you. Well you ended up giving him a broken nose.” Tessa said uneasily. Pinkie flinched, she’d never hit anyone before, she’d never hit any pony. She must have been lying.

You’re not a bad pony Pinkie, she must be trying to make you think it.

Pinkie’s eyes narrowed “Y-your lying, I would never hurt anyone. I’m not a bad perso-I mean pony.” Tessa’s facial expression changed to that of mild amazement at what Pinkie had just said. Pinkie then began to panic, as she saw Tessa had noticed her slip in vocabulary.

“Stop staring at me, all this talking to you is beginning to make me sound like you. I’m a pony. A PONY!” Pinkie screamed in anger. She then coughed due to the strain on her throat. This prompted Tessa to pat her on the back, to help pinkie with her coughing fit.

Pinkie seeing this nudged her away. “N-no don’t touch me! I-I want to be alone. Please.” She finally said, her voice now a whisper from her dry throat. Tessa nodded, getting up from her kneeling position. Pinkie made occasional glances in her direction out of suspicion.

Tessa’s hands began to dig in the pockets of her white coat. “I can see that you need some time to calm yourself, maybe this can help.” Pinkie looked at her in confusion, as she pulled out something green, holding it out to her. Closer inspection showed it to be a stuffed animal. Specifically an alligator. Pinkie carefully took the toy out of Tessa’s hands. She eyeballed it, noticing the alligator had a small smile sticked on where it’s mouth would be. Pinkie turned to Tessa confused.

“W-what is this?” She asked, her voice shaking.

“It’s yours, you call it Gummy, if I remember correctly.” Pinkie’s eyes shot open at the mention of the name. “Yup, you take it everywhere with you, the two of you are inseparable. Unfortunately I had to confiscate it for when you went to solitary confinement, but I figured because you don’t see many other patients, you probably needed an outlet.” Tessa said, giving Pinkie for the first time a genuine smile.

This is another trick. She’s just trying to trick me again. This isn’t gummy, gummy’s real he’s a living breathing creature. However, despite Pinkie’s protests, she couldn’t help but crack a faint smile at the plush animal. She actually thought it was kinda cute. Pinkie slowly began to curl her new arms around the toy to give it a small hug.

No! what are you thinking, this is not Gummy!

Pinkie immediately shot up, releasing her grip of the plushie. “N-no, you. You’re just using this to try and earn my trust, well it’s not going to happen. I’m not going to believe I’m crazy.” Pinkie stated, causing Tessa to frown.

“Diane, please. I don’t like the use of that term, and if you don’t want the toy, I can always take it back-”

“No! I, uh.” Pinkie hugged the plushie keeping it out of Tessa’s reach. “I-I want to keep it.” Pinkie said keeping her head down. She couldn’t bare to look Tessa in the face, the embarrassment was too much. Tessa gave Pinkie a sympathetic smile as she walked over to door. Upon pulling the handle, she glanced back at Pinkie who was still sitting on the bed, the plush alligator held tightly in her arms.

“I’ll have one of the nurses come by to give you some food and water, maybe after your done eating, we can talk.” Tessa paused waiting for a response that never came. She frowned, and walked out the door without another word.

Pinkie was finally alone, the only thing to keep her company was her stuffed alligator that merely shared the same name of her pet back in Equestria. Still, it was better than having nothing at all. Pinkie leaned back laying down into the bed. She then raised up her arms, getting a good look at the plush alligator now clutched between her hands. Pinkie stared back at the smiling face of the doll. The real Gummy didn’t smile. Still, when she saw this toy she couldn’t help but imagine Gummy staring back at her. A tear began to roll down pinkie’s cheek.

“Oh Gummy.” Pinkie sniffled. “You must be so worried, you and all of my friends. I left without even saying goodbye, what if they think I left on purpose.” Pinkie held the toy against her chest, as she began to cry into her pillow. Crying was all Pinkie could do, here she was locked up in a hospital, where everybody around her considered her crazy. Pinkie then paused, knocking herself in the head for saying “everybody.” Why was she becoming so accustomed to this new lingo, she had been speaking equestrian her whole life, why did it suddenly seem so distant. Then she said it out loud.

“What if they’re right about me, what if I really am-”

Don’t even think about saying it, I’m a pony, I’ve always been a pony, theres no way I could make up my entire life, thats just silly.

“Y-yeah, you’re just being silly Pinkie, you’re not crazy, those humans are just trying to mess with my head, I’m not going to fall for it.” Pinkie said in a huff. It was then that there was a click from the door to the room. Pinkie let out a yelp, quickly sitting upwards to see who was entering the room. It was another young woman like Tessa, and she was carrying a tray of what pinkie assumed was food. However, there was something very odd about her, something very familiar. Her hair was blonde and much longer than Tessa’s, but the hair style reminded her of... Fluttershy

“Oh Diane, I’m sorry if I woke you up, Doctor Sparks just asked me to bring you some breakfast.” She suddenly paused upon seeing Pinkie’s shocked expression.

“F-Fluttershy?” Pinkie stuttered, causing the girl to give her a concerned look.

“Oh dear, I forgot Doctor Sparks said you probably wouldn’t remember my real name. I don’t suppose you have an idea?” She asked to which Pinkie shook her head. “Oh well, my name is Fiona Shea, or you can call me Fiona or Nurse Shea, if you want.” She said giving a shy smile. Pinkie was absolutely dumbfounded, this couldn’t be real, the name, the way she acted. Just like the similarities Tessa shared with Twilight, Pinkie could clearly see the similarities Fiona shared with Fluttershy.

“Diane? Is something wrong?” Fiona asked placing the tray down on the other side of Pinkie’s bed.

Pinkie looked up at Fiona. “No you just-” Pinkie paused knowing it was pointless, Fiona probably wouldn’t believe a single word that came out of her mouth. “It’s nothing. You’re just like the rest.” Pinkie responded coldly, much to her own surprise. Fiona looked at Pinkie with an uneasy smile, obviously startled by her cold attitude. Pinkie saw this, her cold expression turning to that of guilt. Did she have to be that harsh?

“Oh um, well um you can eat now, if you want I could go-”

“Wait Fiona, you can stay, I guess I could use the company.” Pinkie replied sheepishly. Fiona, gave Pinkie a small nod, as she let herself lean against the wall in front of Pinkie.

Pinkie took the tray placed on her bed and rested it on her lap. A look at the food in front of her caused her to grimace. She stared down at what honestly could have passed for what she vomited earlier in the day. Warm steam, emanated from the goop, causing Pinkie to realize that it was hot. She gulped as she slowly picked up the plastic spoon that sat beside it. She plunged the spoon into the indistinguishable goop, slowly lifting it up to her mouth. Pinkie quickly gulped it down, it passed down uneasily, due to her sore throat, but generally it wasn’t to bad, it was edible at least. Pinkie turned her attention to the water, taking a huge gulp of it before continuing to eat. The water washed through the lining of her throat, relieving her of the dry burning sensation, that came with trying to talk. Pinkie let out a satisfied breath of air, before turning back to her food.

“Oh my. You must really have been hungry.” Fiona finally spoke out. Pinkie nodded scooping some more of the edible goop into her mouth. After swallowing she turned to Fluttershy, who was smiling meekly while watching her eat. Pinkie decided she might as well make some form of idle conversation, the silence was becoming as painful as watching paint dry.

“So Fiona how long have you worked here as a nurse?” Pinkie asked, swirling her spoon around in her food.

“Well, it’s been around four years now. I actually studied to be a nurse in the same university as Doctor Sparks, and coincidentally we ended up working together here. Also, you were actually the first patient I really talked to Diane.” This got Pinkie’s attention. “You always were interesting to have a conversation with.” Fiona said giving a small giggle. Pinkie gave her a shy smile, as she too giggled slightly. Pinkie then scooped the last bit of food into her mouth, putting down the spoon. She’d actually enjoyed her conversation with Fiona, even if she was a knock-off of Fluttershy, but for some reason she didn’t feel like it. One part of her actually wanted to trust Fiona.

No don’t forget that they’re not real. They’re just trying to make you forget Equestria.

“Diane?” Pinkie looked up to see Fiona in front of her. “Are you finished with your food?”

Pinkie, handed Fiona the tray. “Yeah um thanks for the food, Fiona I uh enjoyed it.” Pinkie said forcing a smile.

“Your welcome Diane. I hope we get to talk again.” Fiona turned to exit the room.

“Wait! Um when is Doctor Sparks coming back?” Pinkie asked, a bit concerned.

“Oh, she should actually be coming back for you soon, for your daily session.” Pinkie simply nodded turning to lie on her bed. “Well, good day Diane, it was good to see you again.” She said leaving the room. Although Pinkie noticed, she didn’t close the door. Curious she pulled herself up to make sure she wasn’t imagining things, then she heard footsteps. Pinkie watched as the orderly that accompanied Tessa entered the room, with a glass of water, and what appeared to be a very small white Jar, that rattled when shook.

“Um w-what’s that?” Pinkie asked fearfully. The man turned to her, his body posture clearly showing he was nervous.

“This is just an antipsychotic. It’s the medication your prescribed to take.” He held up the plastic capsule. “Don’t worry there just tablets. You just have to swallow them.” He replied motioning to the water in his hand.

Pinkie crawled on the bed backing herself up to the wall that it sat against. Pinkie didn’t know what this medication was, and she definitely didn’t want to find out.

“Thank you, but I-I don’t need any medication, I’m perfectly fine see.” Pinkie said waving her arms in a playful fashion. “See. Perfectly fine.”

“Miss, please, I’m required to give you your medication and that is by any means necessary.” The orderly replied sternly, causing Pinkie to jump. “Am I going to have to give it you by force?” He held the glass of water out to her.

Pinkie narrowed her eyes at him, snatching the glass out of his hand. The orderly unscrewed the cap off the container, handing Pinkie two circular white tablets. She inspected them carefully.

“Ahem.” Pinkie glanced up to see the orderly standing over her, waiting for her to swallow the tablets. She grumbled something incomprehensible before putting one tablet, into her mouth. She took the water taking a sip to make the swallowing process easier. She repeated the process with the second tablet.
“There you see, now was that so hard, was it?” The man said in a patronizing tone, which only caused Pinkie to become irritated.

“Yeah whatever.” Pinkie spat. The orderly took the glass of water from her, moving over to the door.

He turned his head to Pinkie. “Doctor Sparks will be along to see you shortly.” The orderly stated, before he closed the door. Pinkie rolled her eyes plopping back into her bed. She pulled Gummy close to her once again, snuggling up to the stuffed animal.

After a few minutes, the door opened to reveal Tessa. Pinkie’s head shot up upon hearing the door creak open. Tessa was carrying a clipboard, a tan folder and a small fold up chair. She wondered if it’s contents had anything to do with her.

“Hello again Diane, sorry if I’m a bit late, I had to give a report on how you were doing to my superior.” Tessa said as she turned and closed the door.

“It’s not like I was going anywhere.” Pinkie grumbled. Tessa didn’t respond, probably because she could hear Pinkie’s remark.

Tessa walked over to the bedside, unfolding the small chair. She took a seat, setting down the folder on her lap and taking a small pen from the clipboard.

“Now, lets begin. How are you feeling since I last saw you Diane, I’m assuming you met Nurse Shea when she came to serve you breakfast?” Tessa asked as inquisitively as Twilight would.

“Yes.” Pinkie answered.

“Did you remember her at all?”

“No, I don’t.” Pinkie finally decided to get it out. “When I saw her, when I see you. All I think about is my friends from Equestria.” Pinkie said sternly. However Tessa was quiet maintaining a calm sense of professionalism, as she began scribbling down several notes. Pinkie saw this as slightly irritating but ignored it.

“Diane?” Tessa began, halting her writing. “Do you think perhaps your friends in Equestria may have been influenced by real people that you’ve met, example me and Nurse Shea.” Tessa stated. Pinkie scoffed at her answer.

“Well, if I did that I’d be giving in to you thinking that I’m “sick.” Pinkie remembered using the word crazy, kinda set her off. “I mean, do you expect me to believe that my family in Equestria exists here?” Pinkie said letting out a sarcastic laugh.

“Tell me about Equestria.” Pinkie froze at Tessa’s request.

“What?”

“Tell me about Equestria.” Tessa repeated politely. Pinkie was suspicious of this, but at the same time, she actually had so much to say.

“W-what do you want to know?” Pinkie asked meekly.
“Just about your family, some of your friends, whatever comes to mind.” Tessa said giving a reassuring smile.

“Alright umm...” Pinkie glanced up to make sure Tessa was listening. “Well I was born on a rock farm, and raised with my three sisters, Maud, Limestone, and Marble.”

“Was it a happy childhood-”

“Fillyhood.” Pinkie corrected.

“Sorry was it a happy fillyhood Diane?”

“Y-yes of course it was, me and my sister’s always got along and my parents did a great job of raising us.” Pinkie said exasperated. “What are you trying to say here?” Pinkie inquired.

“Well, it’s actually the reason I have this.” Tessa held up the same folder. “This is your personal file, and I got permission to let you have a look at it.” Tessa said uneasily, handing it over to Pinkie. Pinkie took it cautiously.

“The reason why I was asking about your family, was that I needed to know how much you actually remembered, and truthfully most of what you described is the truth about them.” Tessa said causing Pinkie to give her an odd look.

“I thought you didn’t believe me?” Pinkie asked still confused by Tessa’s statement.

“Well, these delusions you have created a mirror of your actual memories. It’s in a way your mind integrating aspects of your real life, with this life you have created in Equestria.” Tessa finished causing Pinkie to laugh.

“Seriously, you expect me to believe my parents are here, my real parents.” Pinkie said trying to maintain her composure.

“Diane, I’ve found that in order to make progress with you, right now, I have to show you the truth.” Tessa motioned for Pinkie to open the folder now in her hands. Pinkie rolled her eyes opening the folder.

Pinkie’s eyes darted through the first page she found. Her face slowly turning into that of shock as she read the information on the paper.

She read out her full name in her head “Diane Philomena Pie.” below the name was her age. Age 17. No this wasn’t right. She was 20 last time she checked. Further still below the descriptions, was a photograph. It was of a young girl. Her hair was long and chestnut brown, with what looked like faded pink highlights. She wore a stoic expression on her face, which was partially hidden by one side of her face being covered by hair. Pinkie looked over at Tessa.

“I-is this me?” Pinkie asked weakly, receiving a nod from Tessa. She turned back to the document. She read further down the page to find descriptions of what she was suffering from. Schizophrenia and delusions of grandeur. Below was her prescribed medication which was called clozapine. The description next to it said it as an antipsychotic. Pinkie recognized the word from what the orderly used. Pushing onward at the bottom of the sheet were two signatures.

“Whose signatures are these?” Pinkie asked Tessa her eyes still fixed on the document.

Tessa took a breath “Your parents.”

“W-what?” Pinkie’s lip quivered.

“Your parents signed you in here at the age of 14, I wasn’t there for some of those years, but you’ve been in our care ever since that age.” Tessa said sadly.

It’s all lie, your parents are in Equestria silly filly.

Pinkie let out a weak laugh “N-no my parents aren’t here. There back in Equestria. I only came here today. You expect me to believe I have a family living in this messed up world.”

Tessa nodded. “Turn over the page.”

Pinkie did as Tessa instructed. She turned the page over, what she found was a photograph. Pinkie gasped as she got a good look at it. It was a picture of six human beings. The four shorter ones of the group were all girls, while the other two were a man and a woman. The woman’s hair was brown, tied in a bun, while the man had shaggy light brown hair and a beard. Pinkie’s eyes then focused on the girls. She saw that the three girls had identical hairstyles to her sisters, but it was the fourth that really stood out. In the middle of the photo, was a little girl with long bright pink hair.

Her family.

Confliction

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Pinkie’s hand trembled furiously, as she struggled to keep the folder from falling from her grasp. What she saw was clear and real. If the picture was a forgery, they did a very good job at it. Pinkie removed the one hand from the folder, pinching her fingers around the edge of the photo. She held the photo up to her eyes, getting a good long look at it. Pinkie looked at the four girls in the photograph, at first glance it could be easily dismissed, but as she took a closer look, she saw these girls were the spitting image of her and her sisters.

The tallest out of them, she identified as Maud, her mellow expression, her hair the same style as her mane in Equestria. The same could be seen from her other two sisters. Marble and Limestone. Marble was slightly smaller than Limestone, which led Pinkie to believe that she was the youngest of the group. Finally Pinkie’s eyes fell on herself. Or what doctor Sparks claimed to be her. Pinkie noticed a goofy smile on the girls face, which she could definitely admit was one of her most noticeable traits. She also noticed the girl’s hair to be shorter than the hair she had now, and probably the most striking difference was the color. Pinkie thought back to the patient file photograph, remembering the pink streaks left in the hair. The girl must have dyed her hair pink. Pinkie broke out in a cold sweat. She could see the evidence piling up against her. What if Tessa’s right she thought.

No! Listen to yourself, they’re just trying to fool you again!

Pinkie snapped back to reality as she heard a familiar voice. “Diane, are you okay, or do you need a minute.” Tessa said looking at her with concern.

“N-no it’s just...” Pinkie knew she wanted to say it. “The girls, they look almost like my sisters in Equestria.” Pinkie said putting the picture down.

Tessa sighed, “I actually thought they might. I thought showing you the picture might have jogged actual memories of your real life.” Tessa confessed. Pinkie flipped over to the first page of the file, once again taking a look at the patient photo.

“When was that photo of my family taken?” Pinkie asked, her demeanor surprisingly calm.

“It was taken about eight years ago, you were only 9 years old”, Tessa replied almost sadly. Pinkie decided to persist with her questions.

“Why was my hair pink back then?” Pinkie asked sternly.

“You dyed your hair pink frequently back when you were that age. However, after the-” Tessa paused. Pinkie raised and eyebrow seeing she was uneasy. Tessa continued, ”A-after you were brought here, you continued to insist on dying your hair, but we had to put a stop to it whilst you were in our care.” Tessa said, adjusting nervously in her seat.

Pinkie clearly saw Tessa was hiding something, but truthfully, she didn’t feel like persisting. She knew that she wouldn’t get a straight answer. Pinkie closed the folder, holding it out to Tessa. Tessa slowly took the folder, laying it onto her lap. Pinkie pondered what to say, should she accuse the doctor of lying, or should she try to learn more? Despite her strong belief that this was all a trick, Pinkie still felt a need to know about this family, whether it was hers or not.

“What are they like?” Pinkie asked quietly. Tessa turned to her with a small smile on her face.

“Well If you really want to know, your family lives in the mountains. Your father’s actually a geologist, while your mother is an artist.” Tessa paused, as she saw the surprised look on Pinkie’s face, but continued. “I don’t know an awful lot about your siblings, although your older sister Maud used to make very frequent visits.” Tessa said looking down sadly.

Pinkie froze at the name, Maud still had her own name, but Pinkie did recall it didn’t sound very equestrian to begin with. She’d always wondered why her parents gave her the name.

“Why did she stop visiting?” Pinkie asked, her tone very passive.

Tessa maintained a calm posture as she spoke. “Well Diane, we had to stop visits from your family as your conditioned worsened.” Pinkie’s face went into that of disbelief. “Your delusions became more severe, to the point where you couldn’t remember many of the staff, or your family.” As Tessa finished, the room went quiet.

Pinkie simply hung her head low. She didn’t want to believe it. How could she? Every memory of her life in Equestria was so vivid, so clear. Pinkie lifted her head towards Tessa, their eyes meeting.

“How? How do you expect me to believe my whole life was a delusion?” Pinkie asked, her voice cracking slightly.

“Diane, I understand how difficult it must be. It’s the same for many who suffer from illnesses such as yours.” Tessa said, receiving a stern look from Pinkie.

“Do you really understand? Do you know how vivid these memories are?” Tessa went silent allowing Pinkie to continue. “I can remember everything. From my first birthday, to the day I got my cutie mark.” Pinkie’s eyes began to tear up “To when I met my friends.”

“Diane-” Tessa was cut off.

“I don’t want to be here!” Pinkie broke out in sobs. “I-I don’t want to be here.” Pinkie felt warm tears flowing down her cheeks. She sniffled, raising her hand to wipe them away.

“Diane?” Pinkie slowly raised her head at the sound of Tessa’s voice.

“W-what?” Pinkie asked through sobs.

“Do you want to see them?” Tessa asked. She looked up at Tessa through puffy tear stricken eyes.

“S-see who?” She asked. Tessa gave her a sympathetic smile.

“Your family.” Tessa rested the clipboard on her lap on top of the folder. “I will need to ask if you can of course, but I honestly think it may just be what you need.”

Pinkie pondered this for a second. She was being offered a chance to meet her family, assuming they really were her family. Pinkie then mentally slapped herself. Of course they weren’t her family, she thought, they were just another product of this bizarre world she was in. She figured seeing them would only make her feel worse. However, Pinkie’s curiosity began to overshadow her concerns. Even if they weren’t her real family, could it really hurt to just meet them?

Pinkie let out a sniffle. “S-so they’ll be able to visit me?” Pinkie asked regaining her composure. Tessa nodded at her.

“Like I said, I will need to ask, but I have a feeling that you’ll be allowed to see them.” Tessa said Taking the clipboard and folder, tucking it underneath her arm. She got out of the chair moving over to Pinkie.

“You’re leaving?” Pinkie asked in an upset tone, which surprised her.

“Sorry Diane, my time is up for now.” Tessa said placing a hand on Pinkie’s shoulder. Pinkie didn’t flinch or protest, she simply looked over to Tessa.

“It must be nice. Being able to leave whenever you want.” Pinkie stated. Tessa’s expression turned to that of concern.

“Try and get some rest Diane, I’ll have a talk with my superior about letting you see your family.” Tessa said, moving over to the door. Pinkie watched her the whole way, up to when the door clicked shut. She heard the locks begin to clank, almost serving as a reminder that she couldn’t leave. Pinkie slumped into her bed, reaching over towards her plushie. She hugged it tightly, trying to imagine that she was actually hugging her pet alligator. Pinkie let out a sigh, shifting into a more comfortable position in the bed. To her surprise, her eyes actually began to drift, she began to secretly hope that when she awoke, it would be back in Equestria, though part of her knew it was a silly thought. Pinkie’s eyes closed, as her body embraced the much needed sleep.

“Pinkieeeee ?”

Pinkie’s eyes began to float open at the sound of her name. She shifted up in the bed feeling something brushing up against her chest. Pinkie looked down realizing it was just the plush Gummy. She sighed, realizing she hadn’t gone anywhere and pushed herself to sit up in the bed. She then observed the room around her, noticing it was now dark. The only light shined through the small window positioned on the top of the back wall. Pinkie then froze as she heard the voice again, it was a voice she was all too familiar with.

“Pinkie, what's wrong you silly filly?” She saw in the corner of the room a small pink figure. It was herself.

“Well it’s about time, I never realized I was such a heavy sleeper.” The pony said, her voice upbeat and booming with happiness.

“Wha-what, how can you be here?” Pinkie asked cautiously.

“The same way that you're here silly.” The other Pinkie answered giving a cheery smile.

“Okay, um why are you here then?” Pinkie asked, causing the pink mare to frown.

“Hrmp, and here I thought you’d be happy to see me.” The pink pony walked towards her. “I’m here because you're choosing to abandon Equestria.” The Earth pony stated, causing Pinkie’s eyes to widen.

“I-I haven’t abandoned Equestria, it’s not my fault I was brought here.” Pinkie said exasperated.

“Nope, it’s not.” Pinkie finally got a look at the stern expression on her other self. “But you’ve started to give up.” Pinkie hung her head low at this statement.

“I-I...” Pinkie was cut off.

“Pinkie what would our friends think, hmm? They probably wouldn’t recognize you, with your quitter attitude. I don’t even recognize you, and I am you.” Her pony persona said giggling slightly at her last sentence.

“What am I supposed to do, I can’t leave, theres no way out of here. How can I smile when theres nothing to smile at!” Pinkie retorted.

“You're the element of laughter, now look at you, having nothing but a big frowny face.” The mare crossed her hooves. Pinkie looked at the mare with pleading eyes. Was she really giving up on Equestria? Pinkie shook her head, placing her palms on her head.

“Stop it! I haven’t given up, I-I just-”

“I know why, it’s because part of you wants them to be right about you. Maybe you want to be Diane Pie.” Pinkie, gasped at this statement. “Well? Is that it Miss Diane?” The mare’s frowning face turned into a smirk. Upon seeing this Pinkie’s eyes narrowed.

“Stop it!” Pinkie’s voice became agitated. The pony however was unfazed.

“Awwww, don’t be like that I’m only trying to help.” The Pinkie pony said in a tone that dripped with deception.

“I don’t want your help.” Pinkie grumbled

“Why? Because I’m actually telling you the truth?” The pink mare gave Pinkie a once over. “Or do you think I’m just one of those little itty bitty delusions they say you have. Well Diane? Am I?” A grin formed on the pony’s muzzle. Pinkie’s eyes flared with anger.

“Shut up! I don’t have any delusions!” Pinkie shut her eyes tightly. “I’m not crazy! I-I’m not-” Pinkie opened her eyes again, to see the her other self was gone.

Pinkie noticed that she was breathing heavily. She surveyed the room, trying to find the pink pony, but it really had vanished. Pinkie’s mind began to race. She couldn’t for the life of her come up with an explanation for what she just saw. Was it all just a dream, it sure didn’t feel like one. Or was it some kind of hallucination? Pinkie mentally slapped herself again for even suggesting it. Saying that was a hallucination, meant admitting that everyone in this hospital was right about her.

“It must have just been some kind of dream.” Pinkie whispered to herself, laying back down into her bed hesitantly. She pondered her own statement, and questioned whether she actually believed it. Even though she didn’t want to admit it, her other self had said truthful things. Pinkie couldn’t get away from the nagging feeling. That they are all telling the truth about her. If that was the case, was she just prolonging her own freedom by resisting? By trying to get back to a place that may have been a mere delusion created by her mind. A single tear rolled down Pinkie’s cheek as she stuffed her face into the pillow. She didn’t want to think about it anymore. She only wanted a small measure of peace.
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Pinkie felt her eyes begin to burn, as a bright light began to flood the room. Opening them, she saw the room was lit from the morning sun streaming in from the window. Pinkie slowly sat up, feeling the crust build up in the corners of her eyes. Pinkie rubbed her eyes slowly, cleaning them out. She then took a look at the room around her. The other Pinkie had not come back. She let out a sigh of relief, she really didn’t want to see her again. Pinkie turned to the plush Gummy that sat next to her. She picked it up, holding it up to her face.

“You probably got more sleep than I did.” Pinkie said receiving silence from the stuffed toy. Though Pinkie couldn’t help but smile at it. Remembering her pet wasn’t really a conversationalist either. Pinkie plopped down, laying prostrated on the bed, the plush animal left to lay on her chest. Pinkie let out a loud yawn looking up at the ceiling pondering the previous day’s events. She remembered Tessa’s offer to see her family. From what Pinkie could tell Tessa generally cared for her well being, and if she was lying, she must have been very good at it.

Pinkie suddenly jolted upwards, as she heard the door to the room creak open. Pinkie calmed down, as she saw a familiar face walk into the room. It was Fiona. Pinkie looked to see her carrying a tray in her hands. She could only assume it was her breakfast.

“Good morning Diane, I hope I didn’t wake you.” She said in a polite tone.

Pinkie shook her head giving her a small smile. “No no, um I’ve actually been awake for a little while.”

“Oh, well I hope I didn’t keep you waiting.” She said setting the tray down next to Pinkie on the bed. Pinkie looked down at the white goop that lay on the plate.

“Ummm-”

“It’s oatmeal.” Fiona said easing Pinkie’s mind slightly. Pinkie picked up the spoon provided to her, scooping the so called oatmeal into her mouth. She noted, the last time she ate the food wasn’t as bad as it looked. Just a bit bland. After scooping the last of the food in her mouth, Pinkie downed the plastic cup of water that lay next to it. The water brought a refreshing sensation to her body.

“Oh my, you do eat rather quickly Diane.” Fiona said giving a small giggle. Pinkie simply shrugged her shoulders.

“Alright, well we better get you to the showers.” Fiona said holding her hand out for Pinkie to grasp. Pinkie stared at her confused.

“Showers?” Pinkie asked curiously.

“Well you didn’t expect us to neglect basic hygiene when it comes to our patients, did you?” Fiona asked jokingly. Pinkie gave a nervous chuckle, as she allowed Fiona to help her out of bed. However, as Pinkie began to move towards the door, she felt anxious. This was the first time she was going to leave her room. She really didn’t know what to expect. Fiona went out the door first, beckoning Pinkie into the hallway. Upon stepping into the hall Pinkie was met with two orderlies standing at her sides. She looked at them with unease.

“Don’t worry Diane, they're not going to hurt you, there just-”

“Here to make sure I don’t run away.” Pinkie interrupted her. Receiving a sad nod from Fiona. The nurse then began to walk down the left of the hall, motioning for Pinkie to follow, the two orderlies following closely behind them. Pinkie took this time to look around at her environment. On each wall there were several metal doors, which she assumed were other patients rooms. She shuddered at the thought of what kind of people lay behind them. Pinkie continued onward, eventually reaching the end of the foreboding hallway. Pinkie exited to find another set of halls. Each having huge windows occupying the space on the walls.

She squinted her eyes as she was bombarded with natural light coming from the huge windows. Taking a quick glance, she could see what appeared to be green fields, in the distance appeared to be buildings. Very tall buildings, Pinkie thought. However her thoughts were interrupted by one of the orderlies forcing her forward. Pinkie frowned at him, mumbling under her breath as she turned back to Fiona. Fiona suddenly stopped in front of a door. Pinkie glanced up to see a sign that read “Patient Showers.”

“Here we are. Come along Diane.” Fiona said leading her into the room. She entered reluctantly. Looking around, she found a shower head, lined up against the wall. The whole area being equipped with a curtain.

“Alright Diane, you can go and get showered, I’ll be waiting right here.” Fiona said causing Pinkie to look at her confused.

“W-wait, you're going to be watching me?” Pinkie asked stuttering.

“Oh no no, the curtain is there for your privacy, but the rules are that patients should not be left alone, excluding their own rooms.” Fiona said giving an uneasy smile. Pinkie simply nodded going behind the curtain.

After a minute Pinkie was finally able to take her clothes off. This wouldn’t have been a problem if she was still a pony, Pinkie thought. Upon taking off her gown, Pinkie was met with the sight of her new body. She inspected it briefly, taking in the noticeable differences. Particularly her more private areas, the most notable change being on her chest area. Pinkie rolled her eyes and decided now wasn’t the time to be investigating her anatomy. Turning on the shower, she felt cold water fly onto her exposed skin. Pinkie flinched at the temperature, but slowly began to embrace it. The water felt rejuvenating, almost like all her worries were being washed away with it. Pinkie felt each droplet trickle down her body, the cold tingling making her let out a relaxed sigh. She didn’t want to leave. However, after a couple minutes Pinkie heard a familiar voice calling her.

“Diane. Your time is up.” Pinkie saw the silhouette of Fiona pass something under the curtain. She looked down, seeing it was a change of clothes and a towel. Pinkie groaned, turning off the shower. She moved over to the towel and took it in one hand, rubbing it over her smooth skin. Once sure she was completely dry, she took the gown and weird underwear provided for her, remembering just to reverse what she did, when taking the clothes off. Pinkie, now fully dressed, stepped out to see Fiona waiting for her. She frowned as she saw, the orderlies waiting behind Fiona.

“Don’t worry Diane, they're just making sure your done as you're told.” Fiona replied uneasily, seeing Pinkie’s disdain towards the orderlies. Pinkie simply walked behind Fiona following her out of the bathroom. She silently followed Fiona as she was led to a small staircase. She followed Fiona down, taking care not to fall. Upon reaching the bottom, she saw a pair of double doors. Looking left to right, she saw only more hallways. Pinkie shrugged it off figuring the place was probably very big.

“Diane.” Pinkie turned to Fiona as she spoke. “Alright, lets head out for your morning walk.” Pinkie perked up upon hearing this.

“W-walk? I get to go outside?” She asked trying to contain her excitement. Fiona gave her a kind smile nodding to her question.

“Yep, you're scheduled for a 10 minute walk outside.” Fiona said, opening one of the two doors. She motioned for Pinkie to follow her outside, to which she did with surprising enthusiasm. Being stuck in that room, just had Pinkie craving fresh air. Upon looking outside, Pinkie found she was in a garden, enclosed by the walls of the hospital, above was the bright morning sun, shining onto the garden. Pinkie followed Fiona, as the two walked side by side each other.

Pinkie turned to see the orderlies standing by the door. “Um why aren’t they following us?” She asked.

“Oh, they don’t need to follow us in here, it was made so patients could wander around without the worry of them trying to run away.” Fiona said with a smile that soon turned into a look of guilt from basically referring to the hospital as a prison. Pinkie brushed it off continuing her walk.

“Um, Nurse Shea, why haven’t I seen any other patients since I got here?” Pinkie asked curiously. Fiona gave her a nervous smile.

“Well Diane, were in the high security wing. It’s for patients that need special care above the rest. We don’t usually allow many of the patients here to interact, for safety reasons.” Fiona said trying to make her answer sound better than she was making it. Pinkie took this as a friendly way to say “this is the ward for dangerous patients.” She decided not to retort, as she actually liked talking with Fiona. She reminded her too much of Fluttershy.

“So um where is doctor Sparks?” Pinkie asked curiously.

“I’m actually not sure, she must be tending to other patients at the moment.” Fiona replied politely.

“Oh, um, she said yesterday, that she’d organize for me to see my family.” Pinkie said meekly. Fiona’s face brightened.

“That sounds wonderful Diane, you must be very excited.” Fiona said enthusiastically.

Pinkie gave her a nod. “I guess.” Pinkie mumbled, trying to hid her inner conflict on the subject.

“I don’t suppose you remember any of your family members?” Fiona asked. Pinkie pondered the question.

“I kind of remember them It’s...” Pinkie paused. Her eyes fixed forward.

What she saw caused her to tense up. On the other side of the path way, was her pony self. Next to her was a yellow pegasus, whose eyes were fixated on Pinkie. It was Fluttershy. Pinkie’s anxiety began to build at the sight of her other self glaring at her. She looked at Fluttershy who began to speak.

“Traitor.”

The word cut Pinkie like a knife. Tears began to form in the corners of her eyes.

“N-no, please, just go.” Pinkie mumbled under her breath. Fiona seeing this knelt down to Pinkie’s side worriedly.

“Diane, what’s wrong?” She asked concerned. Pinkie ignored her, as the other Pinkie began to speak.

“Now’s your chance, try and escape! Or would that be interrupting your walk?” The pink mare yelled in a mocking tone. Pinkie began to began to panic, she turned to Fiona with pleading eyes.

“I-I want to go back.” Pinkie said frantically. Fiona simply nodded escorting Pinkie to the exit. Pinkie glanced back one more time. The two ponies were gone.

Fiona escorted Pinkie back to her room, setting her down on the bed. Pinkie kept her head down the whole way. She sat on the bed staring blankly at her knees.

“Diane what happened?” Fiona asked in an almost motherly tone. Pinkie looked up at her with confused eyes.

“I-I-I don’t-” Pinkie paused she didn’t know how to explain this. Saying she saw two imaginary ponies, would only be adding to the evidence that she was mentally ill.

“Diane it’s alright, you can tell me.” Fiona pleaded. Pinkie shook her head.

“I-It’s nothing.” Pinkie whispered. Fiona gave her a suspicious look.

“Diane, were only trying to-”

“Really!” Pinkie gave a forced smile. “It was nothing, don’t worry.” Fiona knew Pinkie was not telling her the full story, but decided it best not to push her. She nodded, heading towards the door.

Fiona turned back to face Pinkie. “Doctor Sparks will come later for your daily session.” Without another word Fiona closed the door.

Pinkie huddled against the wall next to her bed, her eyes darting around her small room. She wondered how she kept seeing her other self. Pinkie began to rationalize it being a dream, but this time she knew she was awake. A tear trickled down Pinkies cheek, as she began sobbing softly at a terrifying thought.

Was she really sick?

Trust

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“Who am I?”

It was all Pinkie could mutter, as she sobbed quietly in the corner of her room. She had been crying non stop after the incident involving her Equestrian self. Or whatever it really was. Neither the pink pony nor Fluttershy had come back since her walk outside, but somehow she knew they would return, their accusing eyes boring into her soul, taunting her. Judging her. Pinkie sniffled, wiping away the crust build up along her eyes. She was crouched into the fetal position, gazing upwards at the light seeping through the open window, its warmth relaxing her to a point, but not enough for her to feel safe. She then began to contemplate, the same question that had made her burst into tears. Was she really sick? Pinkie had thought previously, that the only reason she tolerated being here, was for the sake of eventually finding a way back to her home. However, with all the evidence piling up on her, she couldn’t help but consider the fact that she was in fact unwell. The young girl shook her head in frustration, slamming her fist onto the tan floor, the pain in her hand making her wince.

“It’s not true, it can’t be true.” She whispered, holding her throbbing hand up to her view. Flexing the different joints, she began to wonder, why this felt so natural to her. She had hooves her entire life, so why did they suddenly feel alien to her. Almost as if she was born this way. The door to the room suddenly opened, interrupting her chain of thought. She jolted out of her seated position to meet who was entering the room. It was Tessa. Despite her distrust towards the doctor, she was actually relieved that she finally had some company. However, closer inspection revealed that she did not have her clipboard from the last session.

“Good afternoon Diane, I didn’t expect to see you in the corner.” Tessa gave a nervous laugh. “Anyway I supposed I should tell you we’re not going to have a regular session today.” Pinkie’s ears perked up at this.

“What do you mean?” She croaked, before letting out a small cough. She assumed her throat was dry again. Tessa motioned her to sit on the bed. Nodding Pinkie made her way over slowly taking a seat. Tessa took a seat in the small fold up chair from the last session. Pinkie kept her head down, not wanting to make direct eye contact with her red puffy eyes. The doctor glanced over towards Pinkie, a look of concern growing on her face.

“Well it’s going to be cut short, I’m going to have to take you over to Doctor Summers, I don’t suppose you remember her?” Tessa saw Pinkie shook her head as to say no.

“Thats fine Diane, I didn’t expect you to, but we’ll be visiting her today, to discuss your family.” Pinkie simply nodded still trying to resist making eye contact.

“However, Nurse Shea has told me about the incident that happened while you were on your morning walk.” Pinkie felt her anxiety begin to rise at the mention of the event. “Diane. Is there anything you want to talk to me about before I begin?” Tessa asked, noticing a small jolt from Pinkie’s body.

“No. There’s nothing.” Pinkie muttered, knowing fine well what Tessa was asking about.

“Diane, please. You can trust me, I only want to help you. I can’t help if you don’t let me.” Pinkie shook her head to Tessa’s offer. The doctor frowned. She leaned forward to put her hand over Pinkie’s shoulder. The sudden feeling of Tessa’s hand caused her to flinch. She glanced over at Tessa, revealing her red puffy eyes to the doctor.

“What’s upsetting you?” Tessa asked in a reassuring voice.

“What's not upsetting me, thats the better question.” Pinkie snapped. She let out a sigh as she figured Tessa wanted her to continue. “I-I’ve been seeing things!” She finally said fearfully.

Tessa gave a concerned look. “What things have you been seeing?”

Pinkie lowered her head. “Myself. I’ve been seeing myself from Equestria!” Pinkie let out a sigh before continuing “She talks to me...” There was a small silence before Tessa spoke up.

“What does she say to you Diane?” Tessa asked curiously.

Pinkie continued to glance downwards. “She asks me why I’ve abandoned my home. She taunts me, because of you!”

“Why do you think she would do that?” Tessa asked calmly.

“Because you might be right about me! Everytime I saw her she’d just disappear. She was in the courtyard, with another one of my friends. Fluttershy.” Pinkie took a breath. “They just keep Staring at me, taunting me, calling me a traitor. Saying that part of me wants you to be right!” Tessa merely stared at her for a second before nodding. Pinkie seeing this glared at her.

“What, thats it? Aren’t you happy, now that I said you might be right about me?” Pinkie got up from the bed, pointing an accusing finger at Tessa. “Isn’t that what you want? For me to be wrong, for me to be CRAZY!” Pinkie began to breathe heavily as warm tears streamed down her cheeks. Glancing at Tessa she could only feel anger. Tessa hadn’t even flinched, she was so calm. Why? Shouldn’t she be happy?

Collapsing on the ground Pinkie began to sob softly. She had basically just admitted she was ill, she was starting to doubt her entire existence and that doctor just stood there, as if it was nothing. After a long moment, Tessa stood up, and to Pinkie’s shock began walking over to her.

“W-what are you doing, s-stop- ” Pinkie stopped as she felt Tessa’s arms wrap around her, in a small hug. She wanted to protest, but at the same time. She was confronted by the doctors warm embrace. She simply slumped down, crying into Tessa’s shoulders.

“Shhh it’s okay. It’s okay Diane.” Tessa whispered. Pinkie hugged her tighter, as she let her emotions flow. She couldn’t believe what she was doing. In her mind there was a voice screaming this was wrong. So why didn’t she let go?

After a good two minutes, Tessa finally let Pinkie go, seeing that she had calmed down. She sniffled wiping the tears from her eyes. Glancing forward her eyes met with Tessa’s. The only thing in this world that mirrored her friend Twilight Sparkle.

“Why did you do that?” Pinkie croaked.

“Because you’re scared. I can’t imagine what it’s like for you to wake up, being told you’ve had a whole different life from the one you remember.” Tessa took Pinkie’s hand. “I know you may not trust me, but just know that you don’t have to be scared of me.” Tessa then helped Pinkie get to her feet. Pinkie stood up with a slight wobble before finding her footing.

“Where are you taking me?” Pinkie asked her voice wavering.

“Doctor Summers simply wants to see you about having your parents visit. I told her I thought it would actually do some good for you. Possibly to help you remember certain aspects of your life.” Pinkie thought about Tessa’s statement. She couldn’t deny she wanted to see her family, she wanted answers. Maybe seeing them would give her the answers.

“You think you're feeling up to seeing Doctor Summers?” Tessa asked her tone of voice calm and soothing. Pinkie sniffled again before giving a nod.

“Alright, I suppose we can go then.” Tessa said leading Pinkie over to the door.

__________________________________________________________________________

The walk towards Doctor Summers office was as uneventful as Pinkie’s first visit outside of her room. As before she was followed by two orderlies that walked behind her and Doctor Sparks. One of them she actually recognized as the one who gave her the medication. He was actually nice enough to say ‘Hi’ to her. They walked along continuous hallways, lined with doors leading to other patients. The foreboding feeling of walking down those halls still gnawed at Pinkie’s mind, she could only imagine some of the other patients that resided in the high security wing.

Focusing her attention back to the halls, she noticed that they took a different route than the first time she went outside. This time they had gone through a set of steel doors, where two orderlies stood by the exit. Seeing Doctor Sparks approaching, they moved aside, opening the huge doors. Pinkie flinched at the sound of the large metal being moved. Tessa gave her a reassuring look urging her to move forward. Pinkie gazed behind her, to see the sign that almost made her stop in her tracks. It read “High Security Wing”. Swiftly she turned her head back facing forward. She was actually leaving high security.

Continuing on, Tessa finally stopped at a wooden door. It had a window on the top, with the words “Doctor Tia Summers” written in very small lettering. Pinkie raised an eyebrow, the name sounded very familiar. Her thoughts were interrupted by a sudden knocking. Glancing over, she saw Tessa was knocking on the door. After a few seconds a voice finally answered.

“Come in.” Pinkie eyes widened as she recognized the voice. She glanced at Tessa who opened the door, leading her inside. Pinkie slowly entered the room. In the center was a large desk, behind it, a woman with long auburn hair, that was wearing a white coat similar to Tessa, and a small pair of glasses. She was noticeably older than Tessa, and possessed a very calm and professional demeanor. Still for reasons she couldn’t quite place, Pinkie felt slightly intimidated by her. However, what really disturbed her was the voice. It was just like-

“Princess Celestia.” Pinkie whispered to her self, careful not to let anyone hear.

“Ah, Doctor Sparks, Diane. Please have a seat.” The doctor said motioning to the two seats in front of them. The two sat down, Tessa noticeably more comfortable being in the room than her patient.

Doctor Summers turned over to Pinkie. “Well Diane, you probably don’t remember me, but I’m Doctor Summers.” The doctor gave Pinkie a warm smile. “Now I’m sure Doctor Sparks, told you why I called you in here.” Pinkie nodded in response. “Well, regarding what's happened the past two days, Doctor Sparks informed me of a significant change in your behavior, since the last time I saw you.”

“Oh. She did?” Pinkie hung her head low, which caused Doctor Summers to become concerned.

“Oh no no, I’m not upset Diane, but you must understand your case has been difficult, and it’s because of that we’ve had to take certain liberties from you.”

“Like visits from my parents.” Pinkie stated, getting a look of sadness from Doctor Summers.

“Well as you know, thats why you're here.” Doctor Summers took out a manila envelope, resting it on the desk. “Now, I have discussed with Doctor Sparks about the visit. I’ve taken into consideration your change in behavior and lack of knowledge pertaining to your stay here at the institute.”

“So, whats going to happen to me?” Pinkie asked reluctantly.

“Well, Diane.” Doctor Summers took off her glasses “You have been here for a long time, and seeing even a small amount of change in your symptoms, shows me there is a possibility for progress. So after much consideration, I’ve decided to allow you to once again have visitors.”

This caused Pinkie to perk up, her lips contorting into a small smile. “Th-thank you Doctor Summers.”

Doctor Summers gave a small smile herself. “You’re very welcome Diane. However, because of your past history at the hospital, I won’t be allowing you in a room alone with your visitors, I hope you realize that.” Pinkie cocked an eyebrow at this. Was she really that dangerous? Why was she in high security in the first place?

“Excuse me, Doctor Summers?”

“Yes Diane?”

Pinkie adjusted herself in the chair. “I’d like to know why I was put in high security.” The room fell silent from Pinkie’s comment. Tessa, looked over at her nervously, while Doctor Summers maintained her calm composure, giving Pinkie a small nod.

“Well Diane, believe me, it will not be the easiest thing to hear.”

“No.” Pinkie’s eyes narrowed “I’d like to know why I woke up in a straightjacket, on the floor.”

Doctor Summers let out a sigh before nodding. “Diane, your behavior through the course of your stay here, has been irrational. The nature of your schizophrenia, prevented you from being able to... well, tell what’s real around you.” Doctor Summers opened the manila envelope, taking out two documents. “You were diagnosed with schizophrenia and delusions of grandeur. You must understand w-we have many schizophrenic patients.” Pinkie noticed Doctor Summers pause, a sad look on her face.

Tessa began to show concern. “Doctor Summers are you-”

“Yes, um sorry about that. As I was saying, because we have many patients with similar diagnosis, we felt your case didn’t merit intensive care in the high security wing. However, your condition worsened, you began to become more and more agitated and attacked the orderlies. At that point we had to move you to high security.” Doctor Summers let out a sigh. “By that time I assigned Doctor Sparks to look after you. Your delusions grew till you would only refer to some of the staff, and quite frequently Doctor Sparks as characters created by your delusions. It’s as if you’d created your own little world to escape from your own life.”

Pinkie let out a sigh, hanging her head “Yeah, I’ve heard it already. My whole life in Equestria has been a lie apparently.” Pinkie kept her eyes on her lap, not wanting to express the fear in her eyes. She didn’t want to admit it, but what she originally thought made no sense, was actually starting to make sense.

Doctor Summers shook her head sadly. “I can’t imagine this must be easy Diane, but understand, that your mind is capable of so many things, but it is also something very fragile. Your mind merely gave you an escape from your old life. The result was this land you call Equestria.” Doctor Summers put the documents back into the envelope. “However, with what I’m seeing now, I may think about moving you out of high security. I may just allow you to interact with other patients, but that will depend on your continued behavior.” Pinkie simply nodded. She then felt the urge to ask.

“S-so when will I be able to see my family?” Pinkie asked quietly.

Doctor Summers gave a small smile. “Hopefully in the next two days, I just have to make some phone calls.” Pinkie didn’t quite understand the last word Doctor Summers said, but she didn’t feel like questioning it.

“Alright.” Pinkie said giving a small smile.

Tessa got up from the chair moving over to Pinkie. “Are you feeling a bit better Diane?” Tessa received a nod from Pinkie causing her to give a hopeful smile, towards Doctor Summers.

“Alright Doctor Sparks, you may take Diane back to her room.” Doctor Summers then turned to Pinkie. “She must be tired.” Tessa simply nodded, motioning Pinkie to the door. Turning around Pinkie gave Doctor Summers a once over, before leaving the office.

__________________________________________________________________________

Tessa opened the door to to the room, allowing Pinkie to enter. She frowned, she wasn’t that happy to be back in high security. The girl flopped onto her bed, grabbing her Gummy plushie. This gave way to a giggle from Tessa.

“You really do like that plushie.” Tessa said, causing Pinkie to turn away with an embarrassed blush.

“Well when you’re stuck in a room by yourself, a stuffed animal for company is better than no company.” Pinkie said in a snappy tone.

“Well you get to see me.” Tessa pointed out, causing Pinkie to shrug.

“Yeah I guess.” Pinkie paused, as there was a particular question she wanted to ask. It was regarding Doctor Summer’s moment in the middle of their conversation.

“Well I’m going to have to leave for now.” Tessa turned towards the door but was stopped.

“Wait! Um, Tessa?” Tessa turned to Pinkie.

“Yes Diane? Is there something wrong?” Tessa asked concerned.

“It’s about, Doctor Summers.”

Tessa gazed at Pinkie, before sighing. “You want to know what caused her reaction?” Pinkie simply nodded.

“I’m just curious.”

“Well, you see Doctor Summers has a family member that is a patient here. Specifically her sister.” Pinkie’s eyes widened at this statement.

“H-her sister?”

Tessa nodded. “Yes, her sister Luna Summers. Schizophrenia, with nyctophobia.”

Pinkie gave a confused look “What's that?”

“It’s the fear of the dark.” Tessa, gave Pinkie a sympathetic smile. “She developed it at a young age, her schizophrenia only made it worse, as she became increasingly paranoid.” Pinkie couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“I-is she in the high security wing to?” Pinkie asked nervously.

“Oh no. She’s actually one of my regular patients, you and her actually know each other.” Tessa said, getting a shocked response from Pinkie.

“W-we do?”

Tessa nodded “Oh yes, you always used to enjoy her company, at least till you were moved to... Well, you know.” Pinkie nodded sadly.

“Don’t worry yourself Diane. Doctor Summers was pleased with what she saw and she really does want to help you.” Tessa moved towards the door. “I’ll see you for our next session Diane.” With that Tessa exited the room. Pinkie heard the familiar door locks clicking seconds after the door closed.

Pinkie sighed letting herself fall back onto the bed. She couldn’t deny part of her was happy, but at the same time, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was making the wrong decisions.

“Are you happy now?” Pinkie shot up out of the bed recognizing the voice.
“N-no not you!” Pinkie stared in fear a the pink pony grinning.

“Yes yes yes.” The pink pony bounced over to Pinkie’s bedside. “Did you miss me?”

Pinkie stared at the pony petrified, she couldn’t find the words. What came out was a whisper.

“G-go away.”

“Awww, seems you didn’t miss me.” The pony crept closer. “I thought’d you’d be happier, Fluttershy came all this way to see if you were alright?” Pinkie’s eyes narrowed.

“Y-you expect me to be happy about that?” Pinkie snapped. This only caused the pony to giggle.

“It’s all for your own good silly. I’m only trying to make you realize where your real home is.” The pony jumped onto the bed causing Pinkie to recoil. “You’re just so quick to give up on all our friends in Equestria.”

“B-but they might be right, what if there’s no Equestria to go back to!” Pinkie said exasperated.

“And then what, you’ll just stay here! There are no parties in this place Mrs Saddie Pie.” The pony’s eyes narrowed. “Here everyone just thinks you're a crazy pony. A crazy pony that needs to be locked up! ”

Pinkie’s face contorted in anger. “Shut up! ”

The pink pony giggled. “Hehe you’re so easy to tease.”

“Why are you doing this?” Pinkie said gritting her teeth.

“Why are you giving up on your friends?” The pony retorted.

“Because theres a possibility, they never existed, for all I know you're also just one of these delusions I have in my head.” Pinkie said motioning to her forehead.

The pony scoffed. “Honestly, I can’t believe you're buying some of stuff those meanie doctors say.”

Pinkie hung her head low. “They're only trying to help.”

The pony’s eyes widened. “Ooooh and what is it exactly you need help with?”

Pinkie gave a nervous glance. “I-I..”

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were admitting they’re right.” The pink pony smirked, which only agitated Pinkie.

“I never said that, I just-”

“You just what?”

Pinkie let out a long sigh, turning away. “Just leave me alone. Please.”

“Is it because of your family? You think that they're going to give you answers, they're just going to lie to you! Lie like every other pony in this place.”

“I’m not listening to you anymore. I’m done!” Pinkie snapped.

“You think you can just ignore me?” The pink pony leaned over Pinkie, almost breathing down her neck. “I’m not going to leave you, I’ll be here as a reminder. A reminder that you're a pony, you’ll always be a pony.” The pony turned to show her cutie mark. “Does this mean nothing to you? Th-this is who you are! You think you can just run away from that!”

Pinkie simple gazed at the pony through saddened eyes. “I… I don’t know.” The Equestrian counterpart simply frowned at this statement.

Pinkie honestly didn’t know what to say. Maybe she had given up. Is what she’s been told her whole time in this hospital so unrealistic? There were so many facts that she just couldn’t ignore. It was her word against piles of evidence and even if Equestria was real, how was she going to get back? Maybe it was just best to let go.

The pony shook her head. “There’s just no getting through that noggin of yours, is there?” the pony hopped off the bed. “Just think about what you're giving up Pinkie Pie.”

Pinkie simply layed back down on the bed ignoring her babbling counterpart. Squeezing her eyes shut, she continued to whisper the words go away and after a minute, the room was silent. Her counterpart was gone. Pinkie let out a sigh, thinking about the pony’s last comment. “Just think about what you’re giving up Pinkie Pie.” The words rang through her mind. She knew exactly what she was giving up.

Mornings of waking up in Sugarcube Corner. Baby sitting the twins, throwing Parties, and spending time with her five best friends. She was giving all of this up. For a new life she couldn’t even remember. Where she had hurt people. Pinkie’s thoughts were interrupted by the door suddenly opening. It was Fionna, behind her was one of the orderlies.

“Hello Diane, I hope I didn’t wake you.” Fiona saw Pinkie shaking her head as to indicate no. “Well I’m just here to bring you your medication for the day.”

Pinkie simply gazed at her, a look of sadness in her eyes. She watched Fiona as she handed her a glass of water and the two familiar pills.

“Here you go. It won’t take long.” Fiona said her voice soft and gentle. Pinkie nodded taking the cup. Putting the two tablets in her mouth, she swallowed them, one after another. She shuddered, as she swallowed the last pill. Fiona patted Diane on the back before turning to the door.

“Fiona?” Pinkie whispered. Fiona turned to face the young girl on the bed.

“Yes Diane?”

“I… I’m sorry I didn’t tell you what happened in the courtyard. I-I shouldn’t have shut you out.” Pinkie gazed at Fiona with pleading eyes. Fiona gave her a sympathetic smile.

“Oh, Diane it’s alright, I know you just wanted time to yourself, there’s no need to apologize. Pinkie simply hung her head in response. Fiona thought she should change the subject. “Oh um so are you going to be able to see your family?” Fiona asked causing Pinkie to perk up.

“Y-yes I am.” Pinkie said giving a small smile, which seemed to falter.

Fiona gave a look of concern. “You seem a bit nervous.”

Pinkie turned her head away in embarrassment, truthfully she was nervous. She had completely forgotten she was going to meet her family. Though she was partially excited, there was a growing knot of anxiety that built within her.

Pinkie finally sighed giving Fiona an answer. “I guess, I’m just worried, I can barely remember them, what if I make a mistake, what if I-” Pinkie stopped, as she felt warm arms wrapping around her. She gazed to see Fiona giving her a small hug.

“You're going to be fine Diane.” The soothing words made Pinkie relax, as she allowed Fiona to hug her. The hug lasted a few seconds before, one of the orderlies let out a grunt, upon this Fiona let go.

“Sorry, we aren’t supposed to have that much contact with our patients. I honestly think it’s a stupid rule.” Fiona said in a huff.

Pinkie let out a small laugh. “It’s alright.”

The nurse gave a small chuckle herself before moving to the door. “I guess I’ll see you early for breakfast. Have a good night Diane.”

Pinkie gave her an awkward smile. “Yeah. Thanks Fiona.” With that, Pinkie heard the familiar click of the door locks. She was once again alone with her thoughts.

She thought back to what her counterpart said. About what she was giving up. This place was far from Equestria, but it was people like Fiona and even Tessa that made it tolerable. Pinkie sighed figuring she wouldn’t dwell on it any longer. She grabbed her stuffed alligator, lying back on her bed. The only reminder of her pet alligator, held closely to her chest. Her eyes closed, as she drifted off into a deep sleep.

Making a friend

View Online

Pinkie squinted from the light sunbeams that penetrated the familiar small window above her room. Letting out a groan she rolled over in her bed, feeling her plushie rub against her chest as she moved. She glanced down letting out a small giggle.

“Oh, sorry Gummy, didn’t see you down there.” Pinkie held up the stuffed animal giving it an uneasy smile. “Although I really wish you actually could respond. No such luck I guess.” She sighed putting the toy down on the bed.

Getting up she stretched her arms up in the air, feeling the joints in her bones loosening. She suspected her breakfast would be brought soon. However, not really having many other means of entertainment, she plopped back in the bed and decided to just wait quietly.

It had been two days since her meeting with Doctor Summers, and through those two days she had met with Tessa, regularly. Mostly discussing how she was coping with the idea of seeing her family. Although she was actually anticipating this session, as Tessa mentioned that there would be a change, though she wouldn’t actually say what it was. It was because of that, that Pinkie was still wary of this place. She never got a straight answer on anything, and it was really starting to get on her nerves. Still, she couldn’t help but admit her trust in the doctor had grown, even if it was on a small scale.

A sudden knocking made her sit up slightly, focusing on the door of the room. It creaked open all the way, but to Pinkie’s surprise, it was actually Tessa instead of the expected Fiona. She was carrying one of the familiar food trays the nurse always brought.

The doctor walked over to the bed and set the tray down. “Morning Diane. I see you’re up early.”

Pinke let out a small yawn. “Um yeah, didn’t feel like sleeping in. Why exactly are you here? Doesn’t Fiona bring my breakfast?”

Tessa put her hand behind her head, giving an awkward smile. “Oh. Well Doctor Summers asked me to personally watch you for the day. As I said yesterday, your session with me today will be a bit different.”

Pinkie rolled her eyes a bit while picking up the tray. “Yup, I remember.” She took a look at the food, noticing that today she was actually being served apple slices.

Tessa sat down on the other side of the bed. “Straight from the mess hall, I thought you were probably tired of oatmeal.”

Pinkie’s lips curled into a wide smile as she began to take one of the slices, almost stuffing it into her mouth. The sweet juicy taste flooded her mouth, as she began to chew the piece of fruit. It definitely wasn’t Sweet Apple Acres good, but it wasn’t bad either. Unable to resit the urge, she proceeded to eat the rest one at a time

Tessa gave a slight giggle. “I take it you're enjoying that.”

“Mm hm.” The girl responded through a full mouth before taking a moment to swallow.

“You sure you’ve been fed properly Diane?”

She gave the psychologist a bemused look, that slowly turned to mild awkwardness. “Yeah don’t worry, I just find the oatmeal to be... bland.”

Tessa gave a nervous smile. “It is, isn’t it?.”

Pinkie put down the plate on the tray handing it to the woman, who simply shook her head.

“Oh, theres no need. Just leave it there, one of the orderlies will take care of it.” The girl nodded putting the tray onto the bed.

Tessa slowly stood up, motioning her to the door. Pinkie hopped off the bed, following her down the familiar foreboding high security hallway. As they continued onward, Pinkie noticed the familiar guarded metal door. The orderly opened the door, letting both of them exit. The two left the high security wing, into the brightly lit hallway.

Pinkie turned to Tessa. “My family isn’t here are they?”

“Oh no, not today.” Doctor Sparks gave a small smile. “I guess I should probably tell you why you’re being brought out.”

“Yes, that would actually be nice.” Pinkie responded, trying to sound polite.

“Well, Doctor Summers has contacted your family and they should be arriving tomorrow.”

Pinkie’s whole body nearly froze up. “R-really?”

“Yup.” Her guide said smiling back happily.

“So why am I being brought out today?” she asked, noticing Tessa had stopped in front of a familiar door. She recognized it as Doctor Summers office and followed her inside as she unlocked the door.

“Oh, Doctor Sparks. You’re earlier than I thought.”

Pinkie stood next to her psychologist, who hadn’t moved from her spot. She took this as an indication to stand.

“Good morning Diane. I’m assuming Doctor Sparks told you about your parents.” The head physician received a nod from Pinkie before continuing. “Now, considering this is your first bit of interaction with others beyond the staff, there are certain precautions I want to take.”

Pinkie raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

“Well, as you know Diane you’ve been in the high security wing for a very long time, and in that time you have had no interaction with any others minus the staff.” Doctor Summers replied, taking off her glasses to wipe them.

“So, what are you going to do?” Pinkie’s eyes suddenly widened. “Are you moving me out of high security?”

Doctor Summers shook her head. “No Diane, I’m afraid that kind of decision is yet to be made. However, the reason I’ve brought you here, is you’re going to be monitored on how you react socially with, other patients.” She said and adjusted her glasses.

“So I’m going to see the rest of the hospital?” Pinkie asked feeling a bit reluctant.

“Yes, well, you’ll be able to see a great deal of it, as we walk to a certain destination.” Tessa said adding to Doctor Summers comment.

“Well. I suppose that should be explanation enough for now.” The woman turned to Pinkie. “You will only be out for a certain amount of time, after that Doctor Sparks will escort you back to high security.” The girl simply responded with a nod.

Tessa then moved back to the door motioning for her to leave. Pinkie waited before she saw her closing the door to the office.

“Well, shall we?” The doctor said and began to walk down the hallway. Pinkie simply followed her without question. Honestly she couldn’t deny she was curious. Being in high security for only a couple days can make you keen to explore your surroundings.

Leaving the hall Tessa lead her through two wooden double doors, entering what lay behind them. Pinkie saw what were doors along the hallway’s walls. They were similar to those in high security, only they weren’t made out of metal. Instead these were made out of wood, with very simple door knobs on the front. She had never been to a psychiatric hospital once in Equestria, but she knew they didn’t look anything like this.

Walking further down Pinkie held in the urge to speak up, seeing one or two patients being escorted by doctors. One wore the familiar gown that she herself was wearing, but the others clothing looked casual. She walked past them giving a quick once over of the closest patient. Turning back to Tessa she finally found the courage to speak.

“Um, Tessa?”

“Hm?” She glanced at Pinkie.

“Why was one of those patients wearing, well you know, not this?” The girl said motioning to her gown.

“Oh well, you must understand, many patients here are allowed when checked in, to actually bring personal belongings. Of course as long as they are approved by security.” Tessa said noticing the girl’s confusion.

Pinkie gave a slightly stern expression. “Then why do I have to wear this?”

The doctor gave her a saddened look. “Well Diane, we don’t usually allow people who have not been self checked into the hospital, or are a danger to either themselves or others to have that choice.”

Pinkie resisted the urge to roll her eyes, knowing fine well Tessa was once again sugar coating the undeniable fact that they considered her dangerous. She decided to change the subject feeling the awkward atmosphere setting in.

“Okay, so what do people check themselves in here for?” Pinkie asked, attempting to put on an inquisitive attitude.

“Many patients check themselves in for common occurrences, such as depression and suicidal thoughts. They simply come seeking therapy and help for their symptoms.” Tessa said proudly.

Pinkie understood what she was saying, being someone who encountered many ponies that suffered from depression. Of course she wondered how much of that was true.

“What about patients who don’t check themselves in. Patients like me.” Pinkie said giving a slight frown.

“Well Diane, I’m sure you know you’re not the only patient in this facility who suffers from schizophrenia. Believe it or not, some do come willingly for treatment, but unfortunately there are some that need more extensive treatment than others. You remember, my discussion with you about Doctor Summer’s sister.” Tessa last comment made Pinkie freeze up.

“Is she down here?” she asked quietly.

The psychologist nodded. “Of course, like I said, she is one of my other regular patients.” Tessa finished leading Pinkie down through another corridor. At the end was another set of wooden double doors with glass windows above each. Light was streaming through the top of them. She followed her guide as she pushed the doors open. Inside was a brightly lit room, caused by the natural light pouring through three large windows on the walls.

Pinkie gazed around the room, noticing the other patients scattered around. She looked in awe, she hadn’t seen so many of, well, human beings in one place. There were many sitting at tables, while others were standing up, talking to one another. She glanced to see one or two that were very isolated from the rest, having rather dull expressions on their faces. She brushed it off and glanced back at Tessa.

“As you can see Diane, this is our day room, it’s where many of our patients spend their free time in the morning after breakfast in the mess hall.” She said moving in front of Pinkie.

“You allow them just to wander around freely?” She asked curiously.

“Well within reason.” The psychologist lead her further in. “Many of these patients are very trustworthy, almost all of them as I said before being self admitted.”

Pinkie still couldn’t wrap her head around why you’d want to be here, but she didn’t feel like making a big fuss. She gazed at some of the other patients in the room, noticing a few were looking at her curiously. She quickly turned away, not wanting to make direct eye contact. Glancing away from them over to the far corner of the room, she saw a couple patients gathered around something. She honestly didn’t know what it was. It looked like a black box, in the front, were moving images similar to that of what you’d find at a movie theatre back in Equestria.

“Um, Tessa?”

“Hmm?”

“What is that thing over there.” Pinkie asked inquisitively.

The question caught the doctor off guard. “Oh um, well thats a television Diane. We allow the patients to watch it in their free time, although they can abuse it at times.” She answered, giving a slight giggle, before turning back to the girl concerned. “Diane. You really can’t remember what a television is?”

Pinkie simply shook her head. “Nope. I never saw one of those in Equestria.” She paused. “But for some reason it seems, familiar to me...”

“Well, perhaps this a discussion for a later session.” Tessa said, awkwardly biting her bottom lip. “Anyway, we should probably be moving on now.” She continued leading the girl towards a door on the other side of the day room.

Before leaving, Pinkie gave the room a once over, glancing over to see a small boy staring at her. She stared back, beginning to wonder if she had done something to upset him. However, the boys face turned into a nervous glance, as he waved at her. Not knowing what else to do, Pinkie returned a nervous smile, waving back as she exited the room.

Doctor Sparks lead her down another long hallway. She began to wonder how big this place actually was. How was Tessa able to know where everything was? Pinkie shook it off, this place probably wasn’t as big as she was thinking. Perhaps they just went around in circles. She suddenly felt Tessa motion her to one side of the corridor. She raised an eyebrow in confusion, before she heard the sobbing. Further up the hall was a patient, curled up in the fetal position. From what she could tell it was a girl, due to the long hair, but she couldn’t get much else from one glance. A female doctor knelt down next to her, seemingly trying to comfort the poor girl. She quickly followed Tessa, keeping her distance from the two. When they were far enough away, Pinkie slowed down her pace.

“What was going on there? Why’d you want to avoid them?” She asked exasperated.

“I’m sorry about that Diane, but when patients are in that state, it’s best for them not to be crowded around, it can fuel their anxiety.” The psychologist said in a tone that was both stern and calm.

“But what's going to happen to her?”

“She’ll receive the care she needs, that is what we as the staff are here to do. Help our patients.”

“I know but, still…” She wondered what more she could say. Honestly, she knew there wasn’t much she could do. She was a patient here and wasn’t in the position to do anything, if she didn’t want to lose the chance to seeing her parents. Pinkie let out a soft sigh. “Where are we going now?”

“Right here.” Tessa said stopping in front of a wooden door.

“Okay, and what's in here?”

The doctor simply smiled. “Let me to show you.”

Tessa pushed the door open and motioned for the girl to follow her inside. Pinkie began to inch slowly forward. Upon entering, she realized that this was a patients room, only it was a bit bigger than the one she was used to in high security. What quickly caught her eye, was how well lit it was. There were two windows on the right side wall. To match the natural light, Pinkie found a ceiling light that she could only assume was to brighten the room during the night. However, the most noticeable aspect was it’s occupant. In front of Tessa, Pinkie made out the figure of a girl, sitting idly on her made bed. She assumed she was a patient due to the gown. The girl turned to face Tessa, a small smile on her face.

“Good morning Tessa. I was wondering if you were coming today.”

Her voice. She knew this voice.

Only now did the girl notice Pinkie standing in the doorway. Her look of excitement, turned to one of uncertainty.

“Who is that?” Pinkie flinched as she made eye contact with the girl.

“Luna, I know it’s been a long time.” The doctor stepped to the side so that the pink haired girl could come forward. “This is Diane.”

Pinkie looked at Luna, noticing her eyes going wide. She stepped forward to get a better look at the girl in front of her. She had long raven black hair, however, unlike her own, it was a bit more well kempt. But the most prominent feature were two piercing brown eyes, that only continued to stare at Pinkie in awe.

“Diane?” Luna asked softly. Pinkie broke out in a cold sweat unsure of what to say.

“Um, yup it’s me.” She mentally slapped herself for such a dumb response. For a good couple seconds, both of them just stared at each other before the girl embraced her in a hug. She let out a gasp feeling her skinny body being constricted in Luna’s grip. After a second the other teenager let go, leaving Pinkie to inhale a good amount of oxygen.

“Tessa I… I thought she was in high security? H-how is she here?”

“Well Luna, there have been recent developments in Diane’s symptoms. So many that Doctor Summers brought her here for the two of you to interact.”

Luna’s face brightened up. “My sister did this?”

Tessa nodded. “But theres something you have to understand.” She bit her lip. The sudden pause indicated to Pinkie what she was going to say. “Diane, as you know, has suffered from schizophrenia similar to yourself. However, she has most recently not been able to remember the world around her clearly.”

Luna gave her a look of confusion, turning back towards Pinkie, who was standing with a nervous look on her face.

“Do you… remember me?” The black haired girl asked uneasily.

The other girl shook her head. “Not in the way you’d think.”

Luna hung her head sitting back down onto to the bed on the left side of the room. Pinkie felt a bit bad for her, she probably remembered so much about her, but she herself could remember only her Equestrian life, and how Luna was once royalty to her. She saw Tessa beginning to walk over.

“Luna, I know this may be disappointing to hear, but Diane has her family coming to visit her tomorrow. I think the two of you reconnecting may be good for her personal development.”

Pinkie honestly was at a loss for words, she felt like the only one in the room that didn’t have a grasp of what was going on around her. In a certain sense it was true, as she was the one in the room who’d apparently imagined most of her life. She turned to face Luna. She figured that there was really no running away from this.

“Luna, I know there are some things I may not remember, but I’d like to get to know you, even if it is for a second time.” Pinkie said in a vain attempt at humor, which almost came naturally to her back in Equestria.

Luna’s look of uncertainty, turned to that of a very small smile. “I… I would like that.” She went back over to her bed, patting the mattress as an indication for Pinkie to join her.

Pinkie glanced in Tessa’s direction, receiving a nod of approval. She walked over to the bed, plopping herself right next to Luna. The bed surprisingly felt softer than the one she slept on every night.

Luna gave a slight chuckle at Pinkies awkward nature. “You look very nervous.”

“Sorry about that, I haven’t really been very social since I woke up in this place.” She replied, causing the other girl to frown in confusion.

“What do you mean? You honestly can’t remember how you got here?” Luna asked cocking her eyebrow, while Pinkie simply shook her head.

“I don’t know really know if I want to discuss that!” She said rather suddenly causing Luna to have a bit of a shocked expression on her face. “Sorry, it’s just maybe a bit too soon. How about you tell me about how we met?” Pinkie said forcing a smile.

Luna’s face brightened a bit at this. “Oh well. We were actually a bit younger, about 15 I think.” She paused shortly. “At the time you just had such a bubbly personality, I guess I just gravitated to it.”

Pinkie grimaced a bit. “What exactly did I do?”

“Well you always seemed to have a smile on your face, but you also got into trouble quite a bit, particularly with the other doctors and orderlies. You were quite the troublemaker.” Luna said with a slight giggle.

Pinkie’s cheeks flushed red with embarrassment. “Hehe, yeah they told me.”

“I knew it wasn’t your fault, you couldn’t help it.” Luna said giving a reassuring smile.

“Yeah.” Pinkie replied solemnly. “Why don’t you tell me a bit about yourself since you seem to know so much about me.”

The black haired girl paused, starting to look uneasy. “Well… I”

She immediately regretted her question. “Oh I’m sorry. You don’t have to if you don’t...”

“No no, it’s fine.” She said cutting Pinkie off. “I just don’t talk about anything personal to anyone else except Tessa very often.”

The girl gave a bemused look. “Don’t you have any friends here?”

Luna shook her head. “Not really, I don’t trust other people.”

“Why?” She asked, taking a quick glance at Tessa, who stood at the doorway uneasily.

“I don’t know. I just feel like they’re all against me, like there always saying bad things about me.” Luna let out sigh. “So I don’t talk with them, I just ignore them.”

Pinkie felt like she may have struck a nerve, but wasn’t entirely certain. “I’m sorry to hear that, I know being here for this long with no one to be with must be frustrating.”

Luna nodded. “It’s not all bad, Doctor Tessa visits, she’s been helping me with my problems, but I sometimes wonder if it’s enough.”

Pinkie leaned in. “Why is that?”

“I know it’s not real. I try to tell myself the things I see and hear are not real, but they just don’t go away.” Luna said in a whisper.

The pink haired girl paused, internally knowing exactly how Luna felt, the same thing seemed to be happening to her with the Equestrian counterpart. Knowing it can’t be there, yet being able to see it as clearly as she could see a real person.

“I know how you feel.” Pinkie replied softly.

“I know. I guess it comes with the schizophrenia.” Luna said giving a sad giggle.

The girl shook her head. “Hehe, yeah I guess. It’s just...” Pinkie felt the need to mention her counterpart, maybe her new, or old, friend could help her understand it.

However, she pushed these thoughts back, for Luna was really no different to her, she perceived things that weren’t there, having no explanation for them.

“I know this may be hard to answer, but what exactly do you see?”

Luna froze, her look of unease was now gone replaced by that of fright. Pinkie grimaced at the sight, knowing she’d said something to set her off. “I-I, I don’t… I don’t...”

“Alright Diane, I’m afraid thats all the time you have.” The girl glanced up to see Tessa. She was moving over to Luna a look of concern on her face. Pinkie glanced behind her to see two orderlies standing watch, obviously waiting for her to come along.

Luna still looking unnerved, glanced at Pinkie. Her look of fear was beginning to change into sadness. “I’m sorry Diane. Am I gonna see you again?”

Tessa gave a reassuring smile, to both Pinkie and Luna. “Yes of course, don’t you worry about that.” The doctor turned to her. “Diane, these orderlies will escort you back to your room. I’m going to have my session with Luna.”

Pinkie nodded, waving goodbye to the other girl, who returned the goodbye, shaking her hand weakly. She looked up at the two large orderlies frowning. She really disliked them. She was lead out the door slowly. Giving the room a once over, Pinkie noticed, something next to Tessa and Luna. The one thing she dreaded everyday since she’d come to this place. Her equine self, simply glared at her, as she left the room.

Meeting the Pies

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An eerie calm had settled over Pinkie’s room, as she awoke that morning. The usual sunlight, beaming through the small barred window, was replaced by a faint gray light. This atmosphere actually reminded her of being back on the desolate rock farm she once called a home. Pinkie twisted herself out of the bed, hearing the sound of rain hitting the outside of the building. The sound was faint, so she could tell it wasn’t raining heavily. She let out a small yawn, before moving herself into a seated position on the bed.

She had been told by Tessa that her parents would be arriving very early in the morning, so she wouldn’t have much time to sleep in. Pinkie gazed above her through the small window, wondering what the events of today would bring. She couldn’t deny the small twinge of excitement that had built up inside her upon hearing the news of her family’s visit. Though, at the same time, there was a coil of anxiety in her chest. She had no idea what to expect, the family she had remembered her whole life, was apparently nothing more than a delusion. She wondered if this one would be any different. Pinkie turned over to see her plush alligator, giving it’s usual stitched grin. She picked it up, giving a small smile.

“Don’t worry Gummy I’m sure everything will be fine.” Pinkie knew the toy wouldn’t respond, but at this time she was willing to take any reassurance she could get. Snapping her head to the door, she heard the familiar clicks, that indicated someone was entering. The door opened slowly, revealing two familiar faces. Tessa stood in the doorway, accompanied by Fiona.

“Good morning Diane. I hope you slept well.” Tessa said cheerier than usual.

Diane greeted her with a half smile, “Well I wasn’t going to sleep in even if I was tired.” Pinkie turned to face Fiona, who gave her a small wave. Pinkie returned the gesture.

“Well, there’s not really much time to waste. Come, we’ll escort you to the visitors room.” Tessa said motioning for Pinkie to get off the bed.

She nodded, getting off the bed.

Upon leaving her cell, Tessa and Fiona made a quick detour towards the showers. Pinkie herself, felt she needed one. She took her shower quickly, all the time Fiona supervised her. After drying off, she put on a clean gown, and rejoined with her escorts. The journey continued down the familiar hallways that had been shown to her the previous day. Pinkie however saw Tessa take a different route. She was lead down a separate hallway from the one that led to the day room. From here she could see the hospital being a lot more crowded. Orderlies and different members of staff walked past them, possibly getting ready for their shifts. Pinkie stuck close to Fiona the whole way. The sudden increase of individuals began to put her on edge. The group suddenly stopped in front of a single door. Pinkie glanced upwards reading the words over the door. “Visitors room”.

This was it.

“Diane, I’m going to have to ask that you wait in here for a few minutes, okay?” Tessa said giving her usual reassuring smile.

Pinkie simply nodded. She honestly didn’t have much to say at this point, she was saving that for her family. Tessa opened the door, and with a growing curiosity, Pinkie stepped through the door.

What awaited her was a white room. The room itself had a several different tables, silver chairs were placed neatly around them. In the very back of the room were two windows which only gave off a dim light due to the overcast outside. The rain continued to pour outside rolling down the glass pane, the small light beams causing the droplets to glimmer.

Pinkie stepped over to the window observing the weather outside. Taking a closer look outside, she observed the landscape that surrounded the hospital. Despite the grey weather Pinkie made out the green hills that dotted the landscape. Since waking up in the hospital, she’d always wondered what it was like beyond it, but never actually had the time to think about it thoroughly, but seeing it now, she could only stare in awe.

The creaking of the door, pulled her away from looking at the window. Pinkie froze at the sight.

In the doorway stood the exact same characters seen in the photograph. Only there was obviously a slight age difference, but still, this was them. This was her family. Behind them was Tessa, who gave a small smile, allowing the family to come in. Their faces a mixture of shock and awe. Pinkie noticed the older woman trying to hold back tears. The two younger girls, seemed to have a slight expression of excitement. While the oldest, simply stood with a small smile on her face. Then finally Pinkie glanced at the older male, who she could see like the woman, was also trying to hold back tears.

The woman was the first to speak. “Diane?”

Pinkie’s eyes began to water, as a wave of emotions began to build inside her.

“M-mom?” Pinkie uttered the words without even thinking. The family’s expressions turned to that of joy, as they began to move towards her. Pinkies younger sisters were the first to run forward. Bracing herself Pinkie felt two sets of arms wrap around her. She let out a gasp from the impact before taking a look at the two girls.

“Diane you’ve gotten so big!” the youngest one said.

“It’s been so long”, the older one added.

Pinkie gave a nervous smile. These two girls looked like Marble and Limestone, but were those actually their real names?

“Mable, Lilly, try not to throw your sister over.” Pinkie’s father cautioned, at the same time answering Pinkie’s question on her sisters names.

“Woops, hehe sorry sis.” the youngest said, who Pinkie assumed was Mable.

“It’s, uh, it’s okay.” Pinkie said giving a nervous smile.

The two girls let go of their sister, backing up for Pinkies mother and father to see their daughter. Pinkie’s mother moved over to her. The two were almost the same size. Her mothers eyes were streaming with tears as she embraced her daughter, tightly. Tears began to run down Pinkie’s face too, as she returned the embrace. All her previous anxieties began to fade away, she knew that she was in safe hooves. Or in this case hands. They finally pulled apart after a couple seconds.

“Honey you’ve… you’ve grown so much. I’m sorry it’s been so long.” Her mother said through sobs. Pinkie honestly didn’t know what to say, the best she could do is try to comfort her.

“Mom it’s okay, I-I’m here now.” Pinkie said giving her mother a reassuring smile, before turning to her father. He too was crying but was holding it in better than her mother.

“Well, I can’t call you my little girl any more can I.” He said his voice cracking slightly.

“Oh, stop being so stubborn and give your daughter a hug!” Pinkie’s mother scolded, pulling her husband and her daughter into a group hug. Pinkie let out a small laugh wrapping her hands around her father, who returned the hug giving a small chuckle.

“Who am I kidding, you’re still going to be my little girl.” Her father said teasingly rocking her back and forth. Pinkie gave a small giggle.

“I wasn’t that small was I?” Pinkie and her father broke the exaggerated hug. She turned to find her two younger sisters giggling at her father.

In the midst of all the excitement, Pinkie didn’t see the hand that had placed itself on her shoulder. She turned around to find her older sister who she recognized instantly. It was Maud. Her calm expression was unmistakable. The two of them stared at each other for what felt like the longest time, before Maud finally spoke.

“You probably want a minute, to sit down.”

Pinkie paused for a moment then nodded. “Yeah this is… a bit much to take in.”

“Oh, don’t worry Sweetie we can sit down if you want.” Her mother held out a chair from one of the nearby desks for her daughter. “Here take a seat Diane.”

Pinkie slowly took a seat in the chair. The rest of her family followed suit getting comfortable around one of the tables. Pinkie couldn’t hold this in any longer, she had been waiting to meet her family for days.

She cleared her throat. “Um, I can’t really express how happy I am to see you but...” She knew that she had to say this from the get go. “There are some things I can’t remember. I can’t really remember what my life was like before, well, a couple days ago.” Pinkies comment made her mother cover her mouth. Her father gave a saddened look.

“I… it’s okay Diane, we were told by Doctor Sparks about your condition, at the moment. She did say we’d have to jog your memory a bit.”

“Hey, but you remember us a little, right sis?” Lilly asked curiously.

“Yeah I do, I remember all of you. Just not in the way you might think.” Pinkie said lowering her head.

Pinkies mother, gave her a reassuring smile. “Honey, if there’s anything you want to ask just ask away, no matter how silly it sounds.”

The last comment made Pinkie give a half smile. “I think I’d like to know more about you. I can only remember snippets of you, I’d kinda like to know more, if thats okay.”

Pinkies mother gave a bright smile “Of course it is hun, I’d be happy to tell you. Your father is a geologist, do you know what that is?” Pinkie gave her a nod. “Oh good, I was afraid I’d have to explain it, your father always gives the most complicated explanations.”

Her Husband scoffed. “Hey, half of the time when I’m explaining you don’t listen.”

“Love you to dear.” Pinkies mother giggled giving her husband a small peck on the cheek, receiving a grumble from him.

Pinkie tried to hold in a laugh at the display. “So mom, what do you do?”

“I’m an artist. I mostly do painting, but I do like to experiment from time to time.” Pinkies mother said giving a cheery smile.

Pinkie was shocked to say the least, she never remembered her mother being an artist. They were rock farmers!

“Ooo, sis’ come on we wanna speak.” Mable said raising her hand.

“You don’t even have a job Mable.” Lilly joked poking her sisters side.

“Hey, neither do you!”

“Girls!” Their mother’s voice caused them to stop. “Now don’t you have something to say to your sister?” The two girls nodded.

“Weelll, I’m just finishing middle school.” Mable said cheerily.

“And I’m in highschool”, Lilly added in, “and Maud’s in college.”

Pinkie actually wasn’t too shocked at that, she turned to her older sister. “What are you doing in college Maud?”

“Geography, I want to go into a similar field as dad.” Maud replied calmly.

“Wow, I don’t know what to say.” Pinkie said in disbelief.

“I know it’s hard to take in Diane, being away from us all this time.” Pinkies mother looked down. “I still can’t believe how long it’s been.”

“Mom, I know this may be hard to answer, but, why am I here? What caused you to put me in here?” Pinkie asked reluctantly.

Her mother gave her a saddened look. “Diane… you must understand how much we love you. It ruined me and your father to send you here, believe me.”

“Things became complicated and we were beginning to worry about you.” Pinkies father added in, placing a hand on his wife's shoulder.

“No no, mom, dad, I’m not mad at you. I just want to know how I developed my illness. When did it start?” Pinkie, paused giving her parents a stern expression. “Please, I want to know.”

Her parents exchanged glances, occasionally glancing at Pinkies sisters, who simply listened to the conversation, having worried looks on their faces.

“Diane, I’m sorry for being sorry for being so hesitant. You have a right to know.” Pinkie mother said, receiving a nod from her daughter.

“Thank you.” she said in a whisper.

“Well honey, you have to understand. When you were younger, we brought you to this hospital before. At the time Doctor Summers had told us that you were suffering from schizophrenia, but that it wasn’t a serious case. She recommended we keep an eye on you, while also giving us medication. We didn’t think much of it at the time. You acted for the most part, as any normal little girl would.” Her mother paused. “Nothing happened for a couple years after. You were just always so happy.” She choked on the last word. Pinkie saw the emotions beginning to overwhelm her mother.

“Hun?” Pinkie’s father asked worriedly.

“No, it’s okay.” She took a breath. “There was an accident, at your school. You used to come home bruised from what other little girls did to you, and one day things got out of hand.”

“What happened?” Pinkie asked

“These group of girls, those monsters, used to tease you, and hurt you. We talked to the school about it many times, but that only seemed to make things worse. You used to come home to me bruised, paranoid, and with your condition it only made things worse. You began to refuse going to school, and slowly began to talk to your self on many occasion. You said you could see things that weren’t really there. Anytime we tried to even suggest leaving the house you would panic, saying you didn’t want to leave this world you called Equestria. You were losing yourself Diane” Pinkie’s mother let out a sob. “We were afraid, that we were going to lose you permanently. So despite our objections we checked you into the hospital under Doctor Summers care.”

Pinkie couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Her whole life, was the product of her own mind. She had accepted it days ago, but to actually hear it from her family, provided a sense of truth. Tears began to well up in Pinkie’s eyes.

“W-why didn’t they let you visit?” Pinkie asked her lip quivering.

“They told us that your condition was beginning to worsen, that it would be dangerous for us to visit you at that time.” Pinkies father hugged his now crying wife. “We had no control over it, they found it best to take our daughter from us, not even allowing visits.”

Pinkie felt the tears dripping onto the table in front of her. It was her fault she’d couldn’t keep herself together, she did this to her family.

“It’s my fault.” She whispered a second after she began to cry. This whisper caught ear of her mother, who quickly moved over to her daughter. Putting her arms on her daughter’s shoulders, the two made eye contact, where Pinkie could see closely the resemblance her mother had to her.

“Now you listen to me. This isn’t your fault, none of it, don’t you ever say that, don’t you ever say it.” Pinkie mothers said still sobbing.

“M-Mom- I want to go home with you, I want to leave, I don’t want to be here.” Pinkie sobbed into her mother's shoulder.

“We’re trying sweetheart, we’re trying.” Pinkies mother cooed in her daughters ear. The two sat like that for a little while. All the while Pinkie’s sisters and her father watching, saddened by the sight.

After a few minutes, a knock came from the door. Too Pinkie’s surprise. It was Doctor Summers.

“Mr and Mrs Pie? I’m going to have to speak with you.” Doctor Summers said, a twinge of sadness in her voice.

Pinkies father nodded pausing for his wife to get up. Pinkies mother nodded, breaking the hug with her daughter. She reached down giving Pinkie a kiss on the cheek before moving over to her husband. Maud at this point had gotten up and walked over to her mother. She whispered softly in her ear, which caused her to call Pinkie’s other sisters.

“Girls come along with me and your father for now.” Pinkie’s mom said softly.

The two girls nodded, moving over to give their big sister a hug each. Pinkie embraced them both, the tears now drying onto her face. As the group left the room, Pinkie and Maud were all that was left. Pinkie stared at her sister, who pulled up a chair next to her.

Maud sighed. “You know, after you were checked in here I didn’t think I could function properly.”

“I wish things had been different, I wish this never happened to me, I’ve caused you all so much pain.” Pinkie said sniffling.

“Diane. You need to stop blaming yourself.” Maud advised in her monotone voice putting her arm around her little sister.

“I… I know but.” Pinkie hung her head.

“Diane, you have to realize that mom, dad, Lilly, Mabel and me don’t care how long it’s been, we’re happy to see you now.” Maud turned to face her. “You have to understand that what happened was out of your control. We missed you.”

Pinkie gave a small sigh, wiping stray tears from her eyes. “I know, I know. I’m just sick right. Thats what they’ve been telling me, at least since I woke up in this place.”

“You honestly can’t remember anything from a few days ago?” Maud asked.

Pinkie sniffled “Yeah. Well not exactly. It’s a bit hard to explain, I’m not sure you’ll be able to understand.”

Maud gave a small smile. “I haven’t seen my little sister, in a long time. I’m happy to hear anything you have to say.”

Pinkie thought about it for a second, and decided maybe it was best to let Maud know what was troubling her, afterall, she was her older sister. Even in her delusions, she could always remember her family being there for her.

“Well, I don’t really know how to say this but, according to Doctor Sparks, I’ve been living a whole different life in my subconscious, where I was a… pony. Pinkie paused to see Mauds reaction but it hadn’t changed. “Um well in this world, all of you existed, as well ponies. Thats how I remember you all, but everything else, my childhood in my memory was completely different to the one your telling me.”

Maud stared at Pinkie for a couple seconds, before giving a small nod. “I understand.”

Pinkie blinked a few times. “Huh, just like that?”

“Like I said what happened in the past couldn’t be less important.” Maud sighed. “I remember when you used to come home crying. You were a confused little girl, who had no idea why certain things were happening to you. Honestly, maybe it’s best you don’t remember, your real past.”

Pinkie’s eyebrows shot up. “I don’t understand, why would I want to forget my real past.”

Her sister sighed. “Because I want you to go into the future happy. The same goes for everyone else. Maybe it’s just best going forward, that you don’t have it on your shoulders.”

Pinkie was speechless. What Maud was telling her, was actually making sense, her life in the past seemed to have scared her mind, in turn putting her in this institution. Would she really want to remember these scaring memories. Had Equestria possibly given her a fresh start ?

She gave her sister a small smile giving her a small hug. “Thanks Maud, I guess I have something to think about.”

Maud returned the embrace. “I’m always glad to help you. I want the best for my little sister.”

The two broke the hug, hearing the door open again, Pinkie’s family had come back in the room, walking over to the two sisters.

“Maud Honey, we have to go.” Pinkies father turned to Pinkie. “But before we do Diane, we have something to tell you.”

Pinkie’s attitude perked up, “What is it?”

“Well we had a talk with Doctor Summers. Over the next month, they're going to start monitoring you, to see if your fit to be checked out of the hospital.” Pinkies mother said giving a half smile.

“Y-you mean, I might be let out of here ?” Pinkie nearly shouted.

Pinkies mother nodded. “We can only hope.”

“Don’t worry Sis, I think there gonna let you out !” Mable said cheerily, which made Pinkie smile.

Pinkie gazed over to Maud who had given her a thumbs up behind the rest.

“I really do hope so.” Pinkie stared at her family. Her real family. She got out of the chair moving in to embrace all of them.

The Pies, all locked into a group hug around Pinkie. For the first time being in this place, she didn’t feel alone anymore.

“I-I love you guys.” Pinkie said quietly. “I’m glad to have talked to you.

Pinkies mother caressed her daughters hair. “We love you too Sweetheart. Pinkies mother’s eyes began to water “Just hang in there, you’re not going to be here forever.”

The group broke apart, each family member saying there separate goodbyes. Maud was the last to leave, giving her little sister a wave. Pinkie returned the gesture, feeling happier than she ever felt. Maybe this was a fresh start. Maybe it was time she stopped looking for answers in the past, and tried thinking about the future.

Pinkie was escorted back to her room by two orderlies. Tessa apologized, saying she had other sessions to attend. Pinkie understood, allowing the orderlies to escort her back into high security. Upon entering her room, she heard the familiar locking of the door, before throwing herself, onto her bed.

Today had opened her eyes, and to learn that she could possibly get out. Only excited her even more. Pinkie laid on her back staring at the white ceiling, her stuffed alligator in hand. She hadn’t felt this happy since she was in…

“Aww look, Mrs. Saddie Pie, is finally giving me a smile.”

Pinkie’s eyes widened. She knew that voice. She turned to face the source of the sound. “No, not you.”

The pink pony smiled maliciously. “The one and only.” The Pink Pony hopped to Pinkie’s side, causing her to recoil in fear.

“We have to talk, Diane.”

Revelation

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Pinkie stared at the pink pony, her eyes narrowing. She hadn’t seen her other self since the incident with Luna, and even then all the pony did was stare at her. She had come to despise it. This pink pony had become a reflection of what she wanted to let go. She wasn’t Pinkie Pie anymore.

“I don’t want to talk to you.” Pinkie snapped.

The pony let out a sarcastic sigh. “Tell me something I don’t know. Honestly getting through to you is like slamming my head into a brick wall, and not in the good way.”

“There's nothing you can say that actually matters, you're not real !” Pinkie raised her tone of voice. “Why can’t you just leave me alone, I don’t want to see you anymore, I want to try and get better !”

The pink pony gave a giggle. “Awww, you're acting as if there was something wrong with you in the first place.”

“There is something wrong with me, and that something is you ! It’s all these crazy thoughts of Equestria being a real place !” Pinkie began taking a deep breath. Glaring at the pony angrily. It didn’t move. It simply stared back at her with a calm expression.

“What makes you think that you're better off here ?” The pony asked, causing Pinkie’s expression to soften.

“What do you mean ?” Pinkie asked quietly.

The pony approached her. “I’ll humor you. hehe get it humor” The pony giggled causing Pinkie to groan in annoyance. “Sorry I had to, but in all seriousness. Perhaps you wanted to get away from this world for a reason, maybe in your mind, you were better off in Equestria than you were here.

Pinkie’s eyes widened in shock. “Well that was then, I don’t want to go back. I-I want to be with my real family.”

“You don’t seem so sure.” The pony smirked.

“Shut up ! I…” Pinkie wanted to say for absolute certainty that she wanted to stay, but a small part of her remembered Equestria, the friends she had there, the freedom. There were no schedules no boundaries. Still, she knew it wasn’t really life.

“Think about it. You still have your family in Equestria. How are they any different from the ones here. The only difference is you’ll be able to see them, you won’t have these nasty white walls stopping you.”

Pinkie gazed at the pony with uncertainty before her face changed to that of anger again. “ Go away !.” Pinkie threw herself into the pillow on her bed, in an attempt to block out her pony self.

“Ah you do miss it, don’t you ?”

Pinkie didn’t answer, she tried her hardest to ignore the pony. Clenching her eyes shut, she felt a tear squeeze through her clenched eyelids. She just wanted it to stop, she wanted all of this to stop. Why couldn’t she just live a normal life.

“It’s your fault I’m here. It’s because of you I can’t have a normal life.” Pinkie whimpered.

“Hmm actually you’re wrong about that.” Pinkie heard hooves approaching. “Truth is you’re doing this to yourself. I’m merely offering you a chance to be happy. To express who you really are inside.”

“I-I know who I am.” Pinkie whispered.

“Now we both know that's not true Miss saddie pie. You’ve never been more confused.” Pinkie heard the cheery voice easing ever closer to her. “You’re going to make a choice, whether you like it or not” The pony’s voice whispered, in her ear.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Pinkie’s body flared with anger ! “Shut up !” She sprung out of the bed to confront the hallucination, but it was gone. She gasped as realized that the it wasn’t the only thing gone. The entire room she once resided in had changed. Her hospital bed had been replaced with a large comfy queen sized bed. The once dull white room she slept in with a single window, now replaced with a brighter and bigger room. Pinkie’s whole body tensed up, she knew where she was, but it was impossible.

“It-It’s my room, In Sugarcube Corner.” Pinkie whispered. Pinkie moved around in the bed to pull the covers off. She then gasped fining her hands were now gone, replaced with a familiar pink hoof. She slowly began to glance across the room, spotting a familiar mirror in the corner. Pinkie sprang out of the bed, hearing a clopping noise as she hit the wooden floor. Her fears were confirmed. Running over to the mirror, she could only stare petrified.What stared back was what she expected. She was no longer human. She was a pony again. Pinkie began to back away from the mirror, shaking her head. This couldn’t be happening she told herself. She was getting better, she couldn’t go back.

“no, no no no. I don’t want this. I don’t want this !” Pinkie began to scream. She collapsed onto the wooden floor, of her room, wailing. She honestly couldn’t think to do anything else. Pinkie continued to scream, hoping it would wake her up in someway. She suddenly quieted down as she heard the door to her room burst open, the sound of clopping hooves approached her.

“Pinkie Dear what's wrong ?” A female voice spoke in panic.

Pinkie quieted down, looking up at who had approached her. She recognized the blue mare, and yellow stallion. Two faces she felt like she hadn’t seen in ages. It was the Cakes.

“Mrs Cake ?” Pinkie whispered.

“Easy there Pinkie you gave us quite the scare there. What were you screaming about, are you hurt ?” Mr Cake asked.

Pinkie felt disoriented, she knew that his couldn’t be real. This had to be here mind hallucinating. “I-I can’t be here. I need to go.

Mrs Cake gave a confused look. “Oh ? go where dear ? you live with us, why would you think you couldn’t be here ?”

“No you don’t understand ! I’m not who you think I am, I’m not Pinkie Pie.” Pinkie mentally slapped herself, she was talking to a hallucination, of course it wouldn’t understand. At least, she thought it wouldn’t. Even though Pinkie knew this world couldn’t be real. She could smell hear, and touch things as if they were there. She could feel the warmth of the sun, seeping through the windows, and she could smell the scent of pastries that filled the bakery.

“Um Pinkie Pie maybe you should lie down, I think you may have had a kind of bad dream maybe.” Mr Cake offered with concern in his voice.

Pinkie shook her head. “No no you don’t understand.” Mrs. Cake put a hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder motioning for her to sit on the bed. Pinkie couldn’t for the life of her understand why she did it, but she used her hooves to climb onto the bed.

“I...I.. wait Mr and Mrs Cake !”

“Shh it’s okay Pinkie, just get some rest. If you need anything we’ll be down stairs.” Mrs Cake reassured, before leaving the room with her husband.

Pinkie sat in the room dumbfounded at what had just happened. One minute she’s in high security at a psychiatric hospital, the next she’s back in sugarcube corner. As if the last couple of days have all been.

“A nightmare ?” Pinkie shook her head. “No no, that was no nightmare, what's happening now, this is the nightmare, and she needed to wake up. Then it hit her, the last words spoken by her pony counterpart

“You’re going to make a choice.”

Pinkie contemplated what it meant. She thought the most obvious answer was choosing between, Equestria and what she had come to know as reality. She knew it couldn’t be that simple. Pinkie looked around her room, she had to get out without the Cakes knowing. Pinkie suddenly felt something grab her tail under the bed, causing her to gasp.

“Ah Gummy !” Pinkie nearly screamed.
The small alligator, was latched onto her tail, and merely blinked in response.

“look Gummy I can’t play right now. Can you let go of my tail.” Pinkie said in a pleading tone. The alligator responded by letting go, letting himself fall to the mattress with a small bounce.

She, paused, turning around to inspect her pet. After being with the plush Gummy she held near her each night, she’d almost forgotten this one. Pinkie shook her head, turning away from the blinking Alligator, she didn’t want to be reminded of him on the off chance she fell back into her delusions. Gummy was a stuffed animal, that's all he is.

Gazing over to door, she noticed the Cakes had cracked it open. Pinkie hopped out of bed quietly doing her best not to alert anypony that she was leaving. She began to quietly, make her way over to the door, opening it with her pink hoof ever so slightly. The door creaked open, to her relief, the door hadn’t creaked very loudly. Peering out she found the familiar upstairs hallways of Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie began to inch out of the doorway, trying to keep her hooves from making too much noise. It probably would have been easier getting out through the window she thought sarcastically. As she inched ever closer to the staircase. She gazed down, feeling the aroma of freshly baked pastries hit her nostrils. She assumed the cakes must have been working in the kitchen, she wouldn’t get a better chance to leave. Pinkie quickly trotted down the stairs, hearing the faint sound of the Cakes at work.

Pinkie then focused her attention on the unguarded front door. giving the entrance to the kitchen a once over, she bolted towards the front door, using her hoof to push it carefully, as not ring the bell that indicated someone had entered the bakery. Seeing no one had noticed her she proceeded to walk out the door into Ponyville.

Though to her surprise, she was thrown backwards, feeling herself slam into something hard. something alive.

“Ow ! Pinkie, you should really be more careful when walking !”

Pinkie recognized the voice, turning to see a familiar lavender unicorn.

“Twilight…” Pinkie whispered under her breath. She watched as the unicorn got back onto her hooves, resting her front hoof on her head.

“Where were you going in such a hurry ?” Twilight asked, in a slightly irritated voice.

“Um why do you want to know ?” Pinkie asked trying to hide the nervous tone in her voice.

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “Um no reason, I was just curious. I was actually coming to see if those cupcakes I placed an order for are ready..”

The two ponies stood quiet for a few seconds, before Pinkie found the motivation to actually reply to Twilight. “Um no, I don’t think they’re ready yet.” Pinkie lied. She honestly didn’t even know the real answer, but she was willing to lie if it meant keeping Twilight away from the Cakes at that moment.

“Oh, okay I suppose I’ll come back later then.” Twilight said a little disappointed.

“Yeah I suppose you’ll have to.” Pinkie said beginning to walk off. Seeing the conversation reaching it’s end. “ I gotta go Twilight, I’ll talk to you some other time.”

“Wait Pinkie, you still haven’t told me where you’re going ?” Twilight said halting her.

“Just walking.” Pinkie answered through clenched teeth. She honestly didn’t feel like dealing with one of her many hallucinations. “Once again why do you want to know ?”

Twilight’s ears lowered apologetically. “S-sorry, I was just wondering. I’m not busy today, I guess I could use some company.” Twilight lowered her head. “I didn’t mean to pry Pinkie, but what's with this attitude. You're not really acting yourself. ”

The pink mare’s expression softened. She admitted that she’d responded a bit harsh, and regretted being so hard on Twilight. Though at the same time how could she not. Twilight technically wasn’t real. She feared the more she interacted with the hallucinations, the more she’d begin to think of them as real things.

“Look Twilight I’m uh sorry, I didn’t mean to sound so harsh but…” Just tell her the truth Pinkie thought. Maybe it could help her wake up.

“Okay um look Twilight, I’m kinda in a situation right now and I honestly can’t expect you to understand. It’s complicated”

“Okay. Complicated how Pinkie ?” Twilight asked.

Pinkie took a breath “Twilight what would you do if you knew everything around you wasn’t real, everything around us right now. ” Pinkie motioned her hoof to the environment around them.

“Pinkie. what are you talking about. Are you trying to describe one of your dreams again ?” Twilight said with a small laugh.

“No I’m serious Twilight. I’m not describing a dream.” Pinkie snapped.

“Then what are you describing ?” Twilight asked reluctantly.

“Will it matter Twilight ?”

“Of course it matters. I’m your friend Pinkie, I’m here for you if you need help. Why can’t you just tell me what’s bothering you.

“It’s you alright ! the dream is you. The dream is everything around me !” Pinkie exclaimed. “This ground we are standing on, it isn’t real Twilight. My whole life here in Equestria, even Equestria itself, isn’t real. All of it, it’s all just one big huge fantasy story in my head. You are not real. Do you hear me you're not REAL ! Y-you, never were...”

Pinkie slumped onto the ground, covering her face with her hooves. As she began to feel her eyes welling up. Though no tears came. She was at a loss. She knew that what was around her wasn’t there. Yet she couldn’t wake up. Pinkie lowered her hooves glancing up at the unicron, who stood over her bemused.

“Pinkie. come with me.” Twilight spoke softly.

It was in those words, that Pinkie found the urge to get back onto her hooves. She stood up meeting Twilight’s gaze. After her freakout she expected the unicorn to be more shocked, but her expression was as calm as ever.

“Come on we’re going back to the Library.”

Pinkie hesitated, wondering what was going to happen. Twilight couldn’t be trusted. No one here could be trusted. So why did she feel the need to follow. In the past, she always trusted Twilight, if there was anypony that could be trusted it was her. Pinkie let out a deep breath. This was her mind, no harm could come to her. She hoped.

Pinkie nodded, slowly. She began to trail behind Twilight slowly. None of them said a word to each other, even as the golden oaks library came into view. Twilight walked ahead, approaching the front door of the library cautiously.

Twilight stopped in front of the door, motioning for Pinkie to enter. Pinkie eyes narrowed at the unicorn, as she reluctantly pushed open the door. Pinkie’s eyes widened at the sight of her four ponyville friends standing in the middle of the library. Applejack and Rainbowdash wore serious expressions on their face, whilst Rarity and Fluttershy seemed more sympathetic.

Pinkie’s equine body became stiff. The large crowd in the library catching her off guard.

“What is this ?” She turned to Twilight. “Answer me what is this !”

Twilight simply walked over to the group silently, not bothering to face Pinkie. Finally Joining the rest of the group, She turned to face the now startled pink pony.

“Pinkie. We are your friends, we just want to talk.” Twilight spoke softly

Pinkie still fighting the urge to bolt out of the library, reluctantly retorted. “No, I don’t want to talk to you, I don’t want any of this !”

“Any of what Pinkie Pie ? a happy life ?” Rainbow Dash shouted.

“No a life of lies !” Pinkie argued back.

“Pinkie Pie, if you honestly didn’t want any of this, why did you follow me.” Twilight finally spoke up again. “Why aren’t you running right now ?”

The question had Pinkie stumped, as she thought about running several times in the last minute standing there. She turned her gaze to the door, then back at the group. She could leave, it didn’t look like they would stop her, though at the same time, how could they ? This wasn’t real. That was the only rational answer Pinkie could use to reassure herself at this point. Finally calming down, she decided to humor Twilight, maybe it would help her wake up.

“You just want to talk ?” Pinkie asked reluctantly.

Twilight nodded “Pinkie, were your friends, you can’t possibly think we’d want to hurt you.”

“Then why am I here ?” Pinkie snapped.

“Because this is your home dear.” Rarity said stepping forward.

Pinkie Shook her head. “This is not my home !” Pinkie took a deep breath, trying not lose her head. “Maybe I thought it was once, but now…”

“But now you have a choice.” Twilight interrupted. “Pinkie you said we weren’t real, but even if that’s true, were you ever unhappy in Equestria.
“I….Well..”

“Ya we're always happy here Pinkie Pie, they ain't any time where I ever saw you unhappy here.” Applejack added in.

“If you did have a problem, you always had us. You always had someone to be there for you.” Fluttershy spoke in her usual quiet tone.

Pinkie was rendered speechless, she didn’t have a retort. Though she didn’t want to admit it, what they said had truth to it. She was never unhappy, if anything she could imagine a better life. Her problem was that life, never happened.

“What's your point ?” Pinkie said, not able to look at them.

“Our point, is that you need us Pinkie.” Twilight said walking towards her. “The reason you were happy in Equestria, is because you feel at home here. It’s where you want to be.”

Pinkie turned to face Twilight, shocked by her statement. “What do you mean ?”

“Pinkie Pie you say that we aren’t real, but truthfully you want us to be real. It’s that simple” Twilight finally said placing a hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder.

Pinkie, felt the hoof brush past her fur. Once again she noted how lifelike it felt. Her life as Pinkamena Diane Pie, she could remember it so vividly, but in the short time at the hospital, she had been told a completely different story.

“Listen to us Pinkie Pie, we are giving you a chance to be happy. No more nights locked in a room. You can go back to your old life.” Twilight gave a hopeful smile “Isn’t that what you want Pinkie.

Pinkie pie remained silent, for the longest time. There was no more doubts, she understood what she had to do. using her hoof to remove Twilight’s off her shoulder, she motioned for the unicorn to step back

“Yes Twilight, that is what I want.” Pinkie looked into her friend's eyes. “I want my old life back. My real old life.”

Twilight frowned. “Pinkie, I don’t understand.”

“Of course you don’t, because maybe there's some part of me that doesn’t understand.” Pinkie turned her gaze to the group. “I can’t live a lie, no matter how good it makes me feel. I need to let you go !”

“But Pinkie Pie we are your friends !” Twilight nearly shouted.

“No Twilight, you’re Pinkie Pie’s friends !.” Pinkie interrupted her. “But I need to let you go. I need to let her go.”

“You really are a silly filly.”

Pinkie turned to face her Equestrian other, standing in the doorway.

“I made my choice, these are your friends, not mine.”

The counterpart’s expression saddened, her hair had drooped losing it’s poofy nature. “I did give you a choice didn’t I ?”

Pinkie Pie shook her head. “I’m not falling back. I don’t need Equestria anymore.” Pinkie approached her other. “I don’t need Pinkie Pie anymore.

The counterpart’s eyes began to well up with tears. “No ! you are Pinkie Pie, can’t you see that !”

Pinkie shook her head. “No, Pinkie Pie’s just in my head.”

“Stop saying that !” The Counterpart began sobbing. “Your…..”

Pinkie walked over to her counterpart, bringing her into a hug. “ I want to be Diane now.” Diane spoke in a quiet soothing voice.

“But... You can’t just wish this all away.” The Pinkie Pony whispered.

“I know.” Pinkie said letting her go.

“But it’s about time I went home.”

The pony counterpart stared at her her with a look of disbelief. Tears were still streaming down her face. Diane knew she had found the answer. The two pink ponies stared at each other, before the counterpart decided to break the silence

“You really are a big party pooper aren’t you ?”

Diane let out a small giggle, that shocked her slightly. “I guess I am.”

The two once again stared in silence, before Diane began stifling a laugh, the counterpart followed suite. Within a few seconds the two were laughing at each other. Joyful, high pitched laughter. Diane felt with each laugh, all her doubts just float away. She was ready to let go.

At that point, she heard a voice call her name.

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“D...iane ?”

“Sh….is waking up.”

Diane awoke to find two figures towering over her. Her eyes squinted as she tried to focus on, on the figures silhouetted by the bright light behind them. Diane reached forward, feeling another hand grip her own. Sitting up, her vision returned to normal, she turned to see the two figures. It was Fiona, and Tessa. Diane gazed past them, to find she was back in her room at the hospital.

“Diane, oh thank goodness you're awake. How are you feeling ?” Tessa asked in a worried tone.

“What happened to me ?” Diane asked in a hoarse voice.

“Well I came in to check on you.” Fiona sat next to Diane. “You were passed out on the floor of your room.”

Diane, still dazed raised her appendages, up to her eyes. with her vision now clear, she could see that they were hands. her hooves were gone. Equestria was gone. She sighed, realizing that she must have been right. It really was in her mind. So why did she still not feel satisfied. Diane lowered her hands, turning to face Tessa. Diane could see the concern in her eyes. So much like Twilight, yet so different. The same could be said for Fiona.

“Tessa. Will things ever be normal for me again. Can I really get better.?” Diane asked, her voice shaking.

Tessa’s face turned to that of shock, then slowly softened. “Diane, of course you can. Why would you think you couldn’t ?”

“I...I want to get better Tessa. I want my life back.” Diane, croaked tears welling up in her eyes.

Tessa knelt down in front of her, resting a hand on her cheek. “Diane, don’t be so upset. I know it’s hard, but you’ve made incredible progress.” This caught Diane’s attention.

“Y-you really think that ?” She asked in a whisper.

Tessa nodded. “Yes. For once we are actually able to talk to you, and I mean actually talk to you.” Tessa stood back up. “I can’t say for certain yet, but personally I don’t think you’ll be staying with us as long as you think.” Tessa said giving a hopeful smile.

Diane though mildly excited by the news, decided not to get her hopes up. After All there was no guarantee. Still, she’d gone this far why stop trying.

“Well I want to get better. I do, I just….” Diane stopped as she felt a hand on her shoulder. She glanced over to see Fiona giving her a sympathetic smile.

“You will get better.” She said simply. Diane, stared into her green eyes. Once again she noted how alike she was to Fluttershy. She still couldn’t grasp how all this time she had created beings based on real people she hardly even remembered. Yet they knew more about her, than she did. Diane smiled. She wasn’t Fluttershy, but is sure was a good substitute. Diane glanced over at Tessa.

“I..I guess I’d like to go back to sleep. Just for now.”

“Oh, that's alright Diane. I was going to recommend that anyway.” Tessa turned to Fiona “Nurse Shay, can you stay with her, just till she falls asleep ?”

Fiona nodded. Moving over to help Diane get into the bed.

Diane laid her head back down onto white pillow, feeling a sense of relaxation. She casually glanced to her side, seeing a familiar green plushie. Diane picked up the gummy plushie, bringing it into a hug.

“I will get better.”