Party of One

Pony's Log Number 125: I always knew there was more to Pinkie than just randomness and smiles, but...I never thought I'd learn about it like this...

It was another lovely day in town of Ponyville as Twilight and Mario were just busy doing their quiet routine study session. They were taken by surprise when they heard a knock on the door. They looked around a bit before they saw who it was.

"Oh! Hi Pinkie Pie..." said Twilight.

And now it is once again time for silly songs with Pinkie Pie, where Pinkie gets the delusional...

"JUST LET ME SING THE SONG!" Pinkie screamed.

Okay...okay...eesh...

Twilight and Mario just watch her with stunned faces, now GO!

[Pinkie Pie]

Sings and dances wearing a yellow and blue party hat and red nose as Gummy stood next to her with a blue and orange splatter pattern party hat.

This is your singing telegram
I hope it find you well
You're invited to a party
'Cause we think you're really swell

Pinkie continues singing at Rarity's house, now wearing a Top Hat and black tail coat and Gummy is also wearing a tux and top hat. Rarity just looked stunned as well.

Gummy's turning one year old
So help us celebrate
The cake will be delicious
The festivities first-rate

Pinkie continues for Applejack, now wearing a confettit cannon on her head as well as a pair of dual cannons on her body. Gummy catches one of the falling streamers in his mouth. Applejack just watches stunned.

There will be games and dancing
Bob for apples, cut a rug

Pinkies shoots off her confetti canons.

And when the party's over
We'll gather 'round for a group hug

Pinkie is now at Rainbow's home using a hot air balloon, but her singing and energy has started to slow down and she begins to sweat a little. Gummy is trapped in collection of smaller balloons above her. Rainbow watches in the same manner as the others.

No need to bring a gift
Bring there will be enough
Birthdays mean having fun with friends.
Not getting lots of stuff

By the time, she reaches Fluttershy, her singing has slowed down even more, she is now sweating more heavily and her dancing has very little energy. It didn't help she was wearing a birthday cake outfit with gummy on top of her. Fluttershy was more concerned with how exhausted Pinkie looked to be surprised by her singing telegram.

It won't be the same without you
So we hope that you say yes
So, please, oh please R.S.V.P.
And come, and be our guest!

Pinkie then plopped to the ground in front of her door. It was several minutes later when Pinkie had the strength to make it back to Sugarcube corner. She had her own party room upstairs and it had already been set up and decorated as she slowly made her way to the top of the stairs.

"Next time, I think I'll just pass out written invitations," Pinkie told Gummy in a raspy voice before passing out at the top of the stairs. Gummy just stood there blankly, as usual.

(theme song)

It wasn't much longer before everyone was at Sugarcube Corner for Gummy's birthday party. Pinkie, Twilight, and Mario were dancing to some music. Applejack and Rainbow were chatting just behind the large bucket where they could play "Bob for apples". Fluttershy and Rarity were just chatting near the table where a giant birthday cake and bowl of punch was located. It was then Applejack then went to bob for an apple, she grabs one with ease and then gobbles it up.

"Nice one!" said Rainbow, "Now, let me show you how it's done!" Rainbow went to open her mouth and dive in when Pinkie arrived.

"Hey, girls!" said Pinkie cheerfully.

"Hey, Pinkie Pie!" said Rainbow.

"Howdy!" Applejack replied right after. Pinkie gave a happy squeal.

"Just wanted to tell you how happy I am that you could make it to Gummy's party," said Pinkie.

"Are you kiddin'?" said Applejack, "I wouldn't have missed it for the world."

"Me, neither," said Rainbow, "When Pinkie Pie throws a party, I'm there!" Rainbow then took her turn to bob an apple. Like Applejack, she grabbed out without any trouble.

"Ta da!" the blue pony exclaimed.

"Aw! It's just a boring old apple," said Pinkie, "Don't worry, there are plenty of other surprises on there." Rainbow then spat her apple at Applejack.

"What kind of surprises?" Rainbow asked excitedly as Applejack smiles in the same manner.

"I can't tell you that, silly," said Pinkie, "Then it wouldn't be a surprise." Pinkie then walked away as Rainbow and Applejack then dunked their heads into the water. Applejack had grabbed a green apple that was attached to the bottom of the bucket with a spring. She tried to pull it out but the spring pulled her head back into the water. Rainbow pulled her head out only to have Gummy trying to bite her entire head. Applejack just laughed as Rainbow twitched her head so Gummy went flying off. Rainbow couldn't help but look a little embarassed.

Meanwhile, Rarity was just enjoying some of the punch and was sipping it contently thought a straw as Mario had been chatting with her. Rarity had just emptied her cup when Pinkie refilled it for her. Mario looked at the punch, feeling rather thirsty.

"This punch is simply divine," said Rarity to Pinkie as the pink pony arrived, "Is this the same recipe you used for your "Spring has Sprung" party?"

"Nope!" said Pinkie, "Something new." Mario and Rarity looked at the punch bowl as Twilight was walking in the background. There they saw Gummy swimming in the punch bowl. Rarity looked stunned for a moment before she spit out the punch in her mouth and into Pinkie's face.

"It's Gummy's favorite," said Pinkie happily, unphased at getting punch spat into her face. Mario and Twilight both made nervous faces as Pinkie smiles. Rarity, with much reluctance, gulped and continued drinking the punch. Mario wasn't thirsty anymore and slowly scooted away to avoid having to drink any and Twilight just watched in the background. It was then the music began to play.

"Ooh, this is my jam!" said Pinkie as she took off. Once Pinkie was looking away, Rarity spat out the punch in her mouth into a nearby potted plant. By now Twilight, Mario, and Fluttershy were dancing together and enjoying themselves.

"Never pegged you as a dancer big brother," said Fluttershy.

"I've got some skills," Mario replied.

"Show me!" Fluttershy challenged.

"Fine," Mario replied, accepting her challenge as he began did the snake, the moonwalk on both four hooves and even with just his hind legs, the worm, a back flip, then he spun in a ball and dropped to the floor, did a hind leg windmill, followed by a fore-hoof spin, and then made a pose as he reclined on the floor.

"Woo-hoo! Yeah! Go Mario Go!" Twilight and Fluttershy cheered before they went back to dancing together. It was then Pinkie got in between Twilight and Fluttershy.

"Having fun?" Pinkie asked.

"A blast!" said Twilight.

"Totally!" Mario added.

"You always throw the best parties, Pinkie Pie," said Fluttershy as the three ponies kept on dancing.

"They're always the best parties 'cause my best friends are always there!" said Pinkie and joined in the dancing.

"Yah!" Twilight and Mario shouted as Pinkie smacked her flank into Twilight, sending her into Mario and they both flew away from the pink pony. Pinkie then did the same to Fluttershy, making her yelp as she flew away as well. All three ponies were sent crashing on opposite sides of the room and into the walls, leaving indents in them. Twilight just smiled a bit woozily as she tumbled out of her indention.

"That...didn't hurt as much as I thought," Twilight said, still a bit woozy.

"That's because I hit the wall and you smashed into me," said Mario as Twilight noticed Mario float out of the crack and onto the floor, flat as a pancake.

"Momma mia..." he groaned.

"Aww...I'm sorry," said Twilight, feeling rather bad.

"Easy fix!" said Pinkie as she put a tube into his mouth and pumped an air pump to restore him. Unfortunately, she pumped a little too much air and now he was floating a couple of feet in the air looking like an overinflated balloon.

"If anypony says I'm fat they are gonna get it!" Mario muttered annoyed.

"You just fine," Twilight squeaked, trying and failing miserably not to laugh as Pinkie bounced away as the excess air caused Mario to fly randomly about the party room. By now Fluttershy had peeled herself off her wall indention and was just recovering when Mario crashed right into it stomach first before sliding out and onto the floor.

"How was your flight, sir?" Fluttershy asked with a smirk.

"Bleh!" said Mario, his body back to normal and feeling rather worn out.

"C'mon, everypony" said Pinkie shortly afterward, "Gummy wants to dance. Go Gummy! It's your birthday! Go Gummy! It's your birthday." The little alligator just stood there blankly as everyone pony began to dance around him.

It was very late when the party finally came to an end, Pinkie just watched everyone make their leave from outside her upstairs window.

"Hoo-wee!" said Applejack, "I am beat! I haven't danced that much since...Well, since your last party. Thanks again for your invite!"

"See ya later, birthday alligator!" Rainbow added as she walked with Fluttershy and Rarity.

"Bravo for hosting yet another delightful soiree," said Rarity.

"It's been lovely," said Fluttershy. Right behind the threesome were Mario and Twilight. Once Mario had recovered, he was able to still have a good time at the party.

"You sure you don't wanna stay?" Pinkie called as Mario and Twilight looked back, "There's still some cake left."

"Uh, I think I'm gonna pass," said Twilight.

"Yeah, but despite you making me a balloon, I still had a lot of fun," said Mario.

"Great party though," said Twilight, "we should do this again soon." Pinkie just watched her friends head for their homes when Pinkie gasped and got an idea.

"We should do this again soon!" said Pinkie excitedly.

The sun began to slowly rise into the sky as Twilight was woken up by the sound of someone knocking her door. Twilight just slowly made her way towards the door with a few of her mane and tails hairs were sticking out. She opened the door to see Pinkie at her door wearing a basket on her head with some letters inside of it.

"Oh! Hi, Pinki-"

"It's soon" said the pink pony as she got into Twilight's face.

"Pardon me?" Twilight asked puzzled.

"You said we should have another party soon, and...it's soon," said Pinkie as she bounced up and down excitedly, "Here's your invitation!" Twilight pick up one of the letters with her magic.

""You're invited to Gummy's 'after-birthday' party"," Twilight read aloud, ""This afternoon at three o'clock"."

"All our bestest friends are invited," said Pinkie, still bouncing on her hooves, "and there's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice cream, and punch!" Twilight smiles...until she realizes something.

"This afternoon?" said Twilight, "As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon?"

"Yes, indeedy!" said Pinkie.

"Oh, gosh," said Twilight sheepishly, "I wish I could make it, but I've gotten a bit behind on my studies." Twilight used her magic to quickly summon a huge pile of books. By the time Pinkie was able to peek inside, the large stack was a big as a mountain.

"I really gotta hit the books," said Twilight as she allowed Pinkie to see the book mountain.

"I understand," said Pinkie, "your studies come first. But don't worry, we'll be sure to save you some cake."

"Please do," said Twilight as Pinkie gave a wink and made her leave, but then reappeared walking in the opposite direction from a short distance away.

"Oh! And Twilight, you shouldn't hit the books," Pinkie pointed out, "You should really just read them."

"I'll keep that mind," said Twilight as Pinkie bounced away towards Mario's house. Pinkie reached into her mane and grumbled.

"I bet I'm the only one in our group that doesn't have a spare house key," Pinkie muttered as she knocked on the door and put on her happy smile. Mario just opened the door.

"What's up Pinkie?" Mario asked.

"I'm here to give you an invite to another party," said Pinkie as Mario quietly took out an invitation with his magic and read it quietly, "it's for this afternoon."

"This afternoon?" Mario asked, "as in "this afternoon" this afternoon?"

"Correct a mundo," said Pinkie, bouncing on her hooves.

"I'm sorry Pinkie," said Mario, "I've got a slow freight train today."

"A what kind of freight train?" Pinkie asked puzzled, "Why would you wanna go slow making deliveries? I've seen you deliver fragile items going super duper fast!"

"Slow freight doesn't mean that I have to move slowly," Mario explained, "it means that I have to stop at over a dozen places to pick up and set down cars. I hate these types of freight trains!"

"Why?" Pinkie asked as Mario headed next door.

"Because ponies leave me dirty freight cars in dirty sidings! BLEH!" said Mario as he pulled away some freight cars that were left in some mud as he took his leave towards another building and picked up some more cars that were left near some scarps of garbage.

"UGH!"Mario groaned irritably as he pulled his train away to the next location, getting his coat and hooves covered in mud and grime. Pinkie just watched him leave with a sigh.

"It's okay," said Pinkie, "A party is still a party, even if there are only four guests." Pinkie then headed towards Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack followed Mario's little train idea and had hooked up several of her smaller wagons together to make a three car freight train loaded with tall piles of fresh apples. She is then taken by surprise when Pinkie jumps out of a trio of haystacks laying near the barn.

"Huh? Oh, hi, Pinkie Pie!" said Applejack, "What brings you 'round these parts?"

"Who's ready to shake their hoof-thang?!" said Pinkie excitedly, getting into Applejack's face and shakes her flank, "It's an invitation to Gummy's "after-birthday" party this afternoon. There's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!" Pinkie bounces excitedly as she tells Applejack about the party. But then Applejack realizes something.

"This afternoon?" said Applejack wearily, "A-as in, "this afternoon" this afternoon?"

"That's funny," said Pinkie, putting a fore-hoof to her chin for a moment, "That's just what Twilight and Mario said, and the answer is, "Yes! It's this afternoon!"

"Uh, well, I...I..uh...I don't think I can make it 'cause...uh..." Applejack stuttered. Being the element of honesty made coming up with a good excuse to not go to Pinkie's part very difficult. She had to look at her freight cars loaded with apples for a few seconds to think of an answer. Pinkie just looked at the apples from behind her.

"I have to uh...uh..." Applejack continued to stutter before she finally came up with something to say, "you know what? I...uh...pick apples! Yep, apples! 'Cause that's what we do! With the...apples. We, uh...pick 'em!" There was a long pause as Applejack gave Pinkie a toothy smile. Pinkie slowly begins to stare at her as Applejack tries to hold her smile, but grows more nervous as Pinkie narrows her eyes at her. Applejack gulps. Just as she can see her own reflection in the center of Pinkie's eyes. Pinkie stands down and smiles.

"Okey-dokey-lokey!" Pinkie replied in her cheerful manner, "A party is still a party, even if there are only three guests." Pinkie then leaves. Only when the pink pony is a safe distance away does Applejack release a sigh of relief.

Back at the Carousel Boutique, Spike was assisting Rarity by taking out a loaded garbage can out of the building and near the front of her property for pick up. (Don't ask if they do have a garbage day and where Rarity's property line is. Even I don't know.) Spike grunts since the garbage can is bigger and heavier than him and then sets it down.

"Anything else I can do you for you, most beautiful one?" Spike asks like a lovesick dragon as he kneels beside her. Rarity get a sniff of the odor coming from Spike due to working hard and being around the garbage and whimpers as she leans away from him in disgust.

"Hmm...perhaps you could take a bath," said Rarity as she pondered, "How can I put this delicately?" Rarity realizes she can't and just goes with being honest.

"You smell like a rotten apple core that's been wrapped in moldy hay and dripping in dragon perspiration," said Rarity upfront. Spike just sighed in a lovesick trance and begins to float into the air as hearts float around him. Though anypony else who heard that could tell that wasn't a complement. Rarity just give him a concerned but annoyed look as she lightly pushes Spike away so he literally floats back to the Library. Rarity watched him float away as Pinkie appears beside her.

"Ooh! I love the new hat," said Rarity as she looks at the basket on Pinkie's head, "Very modern. What's the occasion?"

"Gummy's "after-birthday" party is this afternoon," Pinkie explained, "I'm delivering the invitations."

"The party is this afternoon?" said Rarity in shock, "As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon?"

"It's so strange," Pinkie pondered, "Everypony keeps saying that."

"Oh... do they?" Rarity asked her innocently.

"I know it's short notice," said Pinkie, "But we had such a great time at his birthday party, I thought we could have even more fun at his after-birthday party."

"And I'm sure that we would, but I'm going to have to decline," said Rarity as she played with one of the curls in her mane, "I have to...wash my hair."

"Don't be silly," said Pinkie, "your hair doesn't look dirty."

"It doesn't?" Rarity asked as her mane sparkled a bit.

"Nope!" Pinkie answered. Then Rarity did something rather...rash. She stuck her head into the garbage, getting her mane covered in grime and trash. (Eeww)

"See?" said Rarity, then made a face that showed she was gonna be sick, but was able to quickly recompose herself, "Dirty! I have to go!" Rarity then made a mad dash into her boutique and slammed the door. Pinkie was left rather surprised.

"Huh... No Twilight, no Mario, no Applejack, no Rarity," Pinkie thought before going back to her cheery mood, "Oh well, a party is still a party even with only two guests."

However, Pinkie soon found that she was getting the same reaction from both Rainbow and Fluttershy, who were just hovering in the air when Pinkie told them about the party.

"This afternoon?" Rainbow said stunned.

"As in..." Fluttershy tried to add.

"Yes! As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon!" Pinkie snapped.

"On, man!" said Rainbow, "We'd love to, but...we're...house sitting this afternoon." Fluttershy nodded in agreement.

"Both of you?" Pinkie asked with a sigh of disappointment.

"It's...uh...big house," Fluttershy added as she glanced over to Rainbow, who literally drew a wrist watch on her left fore-hoof.

"Uh, look at the time!" said Rainbow, looking at her hand drawn watch, "we'd better get going." The two Pegasi went to leave.

"Wait!" said Pinkie, causing Fluttershy and Rainbow to come back, "Maybe I could bring you some after-birthday cake and ice-cream. Who're you house sitting for?"

"Harry," said Rainbow quickly.

"Harry?" said Pinkie puzzled.

"Yeah, I don't think you know him," said Rainbow.

"That's strange," Pinkie pondered, "I know just about everypony around here."

"He's...a bear," said Fluttershy.

"A bear?" Pinkie exclaimed. Even Rainbow looked rather stunned until Fluttershy gave her a discreet wink.

"Yup! He's a bear all right," Rainbow replied, "and he'll be pretty upset if we don't get over to his house soon." The two Pegasi get ready to fly away again.

"Wait!"

Only for Pinkie to call them back a second time.

"There's a bear around here who lives in a house?" Pinkies asked in confusion.

"It's, uh, really more of a cave," Fluttershy answered.

"But he's fixed up the place so much," Rainbow added, "it feels like a house."

"And, uh, he wants us to look after his house...uh, cave...while he's, uh..." Fluttershy was running out of things to say.

"A-at the beach!" Rainbow announced.

"He's vacationing at the beach?" Pinkie said stunned. According to the current maps of Equestria, the beach going either west or east is very far away.

"Yup!" Rainbow answered, "He loves to..."

"Collect sea shells!" said Fluttershy, waving her fore-hooves about.

"Play beach volleyball!" said Rainbow at the same time, waving her fore-hooves before they both looked at each other.

"...Play beach volleyball!" said Fluttershy, waving her fore-hooves again.

"...Collect sea shells!" said Rainbow at the same time, making the same gesture. They looked at each other again.

"...Collect volleyballs!"

"...Play sea shells!"

By now, both pegasi looked at each other nervously. They knew that they need to leave and leave now.

"Gotta go!" said Rainbow before she and Fluttershy both took off at high speed. How Fluttershy could fly that fast was anyone's guess! Actually, it was the fact Mario had created a new horseshoe power-up that lets a pony fly or run at high speed for 20 seconds, which was more than enough time for them to get away from Pinkie. Pinkie is left rather baffled at first, but then begins to feel suspicious as she sits in the floor of her home with her hooves crossed.

"Something strange is definitely going on around here, Gummy," Pinkie told her alligator as Gummy was just pushing a ball of yarn across the floor, "Sure, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had to house-sit for that vacationing bear, but what are the chances that all my other friends would have plans this afternoon too? Rarity had to wash her hair? Applejack has to pick apples? Mario has to take a slow freight train to...where he was gonna take it? He never told me actually..., and Twilight is behind on her studies and has to hit the books?" Pinkie then stands looking outside her window when she comes to a realization.

"The more I think about it," said Pinkie, "The more those are starting to sound like..." Pinkie gasped, "excuses!" It was then she noticed that Twilight was hiding behind a house, standing on her fore-hooves with her back against the wall. The purple pony then tip-hooves into a nearby bush. She then gestures towards someone else. Pinkie barely sees a blur that she knew was Mario's. She could her some whispers before the blur zipped away from the bush. Twilight looks around as she tip-hooves over the entrance of Sugarcube corner and heads inside, closing the door.

"That doesn't look like studying...or hitting the books," said Pinkie suspiciously. She then noticed Mario peeking out from behind a building.

"Oh yeah...Mario time," he said quietly thought Pinkie could barely hear him before he suddenly summoned a yellowish-colored glow around himself, giving his body a faint yellow aura as he then took off in the distance.

"And that's no slow freight train," said Pinkie in same tone, "or any kind of train for that matter!"

Twilight wasted no time quietly walking up to the front counter and gave a light ring of the bell. Mrs. Cake came out of the kitchen area.

"Ooh! You must be here for..."

"Shh!" Twilight hushed before asking quietly, "Is Pinkie Pie around?"

"Oh, I don't think so," said Mrs. Cake, who apparently had been too busy in the kitchen to realize that Pinkie was there, just upstairs. Neither of them noticed a can on a string appear between the two from above as Pinkie began to eavesdrop on the conversation.

"Good, I don't want her to know anything about this," said Twilight.

"Yes, of course," said Mrs. Cake, "I'll be right back." Mrs. Cake made her way into the kitchen as Twilight waited for the blue and pink pony to return. Pinkie was a little puzzled as Gummy rolled across the room trying to balance on the ball of yarn.

"But...we're friends," said Pinkie, "What wouldn't Twilight want me to know anything about? " Pinkie gasped as she heard some hoof steps below, "She's coming back!" Pinkie went back to listening quietly, feeling rather worried.

"Thanks," said Twilight from below, "and remember, not a word to Pinkie Pie. Hey! What's with the tin can?" Pinkie cringed as she tried to pull the can back up, but the rope broke and the can on the other end landed square on Twilight's nose. Twilight looked stunned until she shakes the can off, but her nose is now shaped like cylinder.

Once Twilight get her nose back into shape, she continues to sneak about the town with a white package at hoof, peeking out of some bushes before continuing to tip-hoof past the flower shop. Pinkie and Gummy poke their heads from behind the flower stand. Twilight just continues to sneak forwards, looking around to see if anyone was following her. Pinkie then pokes out again from the background and then again in the foreground.

"Time to get to the bottom of things!" said Pinkie as she put on a pair of Groucho glasses and continued her pursuit of the purple pony and her white package. Twilight then quietly sneaks past a nearby apple stand, but then hears something and looks back. Pinkie quickly and quietly hides behind the side of the cart with her back against it. Gummy then fall off of Pinkie's head and out into the open. Pinkie wastes no time, scooping him up and pressing his back against the stand as Twilight continues on their way.

"I think our cover has been blown," said Pinkie to Gummy, "We'll need a new disguise." It wasn't much longer before Twilight arrived at the Carousel Boutique and rang the doorbell. Rarity quietly opened the door and peeked out, looked around, and the they stood side by side facing away from each other.

"She didn't see you at the sweet shop, did she?" Rarity asked quietly.

"I don't think so," said Twilight, not wanting to mention the can on a string.

"Oh, good," said Rarity, "I'd hate for her to ruin everything."

"Me too," said Twilight before letting the box land softly on the grass next to her and then walked away without another word. Rarity just looked at the box, stood in front of it, picked it up in the curls of her tail, then began to slowly tip hooves away. Pinkie then emerges nearby inside of a haystack, still wearing her glasses and now had a teal coat on her backside, and has gummy standing on the top. The little alligator gave a light sneeze before Pinkie went after Rarity.

Rarity continued to head deeper into town. It wasn't long before Fluttershy peeks out from behind a wall. Rarity cautiously looked around before giving Fluttershy a smile and an eye wink. Pinkie, still in disguise, was just inside hearing range as she stood behind another building.

"Have you seen her?" Rarity asked the yellow Pegasus.

"Not since this morning," Fluttershy replied.

"Me neither," Rarity said quietly, "Can you believe she was planning on throwing an after-birthday party today?"

"I'm just glad I was able to come up with an excuse for why I couldn't be there," said Fluttershy. Pinkie, who was still eavesdropping, looked hurt.

"Me too!" Rarity added, "This is obviously going to be so much better."

"As long as we keep her from finding out about it, it will," Fluttershy told her.

"See you later!" Rarity whispered before making her leave. Fluttershy began to look around before grabbing the package by the string with her mouth and began to sneak forward with her head low. Pinkie was feeling rather upset and turned to leave when she bumps into something. Pinkie was so startled as she began bouncing backwards and right into Fluttershy. Fluttershy gasps when she sees the weird looking haystack before screaming and flying off with the package.

"I thought everypony loved my parties," said Pinkie sadly as she stood there feeling depressed. Gummy then popped out of the haystack now wearing his own pair of Groucho glasses. Then Rainbow walked by.

"Hi Pinkie Pie," said Rainbow, seeing right through the pony's disguise. It then clicked in her head.

Pinkie Pie was nearby.

Rainbow froze stiff for a second in shock.

"Uh-oh!" said Rainbow and then immediately took off at high speed.

"Rainbow Dash! Wait!" Pinkie shouted by Rainbow turned a corner and tried to lose her before slowing down and coming to stop.

"Phew..." said Rainbow with relief, until Pinkie popped out of a random barrel behind her.

"Where're you going?!" Pinkie demanded.

"Ah!" Rainbow yelped before taking off into the skies once again. Rainbow took a detour towards a collection of trees...on purpose.

"Mario! Help!" she called out as she passed by a tree Mario was waiting behind. Mario just stayed hidden until the moment was right. Earlier he had made his body glow with a light yellow aura around his body. This was the result of a new spell he called: Hero's sight. It was a targeting spell that allowed him to shoot a blast of magic at any threat that went past him at a certain range. Time slowed down as Pinkie looked like a blur as she passed Mario's hiding place. Mario popped out of his hiding place at normal speed, used his horn to fire...the shot hit Pinkie directly, smothering her body in gooey, sticky honey.

"ACK!" Pinkie yelped as she suddenly couldn't move and came to a complete stop. Mario then returned behind his tree before she could see him.

"Nailed it," Mario mouthed before taking off and hoping Rainbow has escaped. Rainbow had managed to leave the forest and ducked behind the bell above the schoolhouse. She quietly peaked out from behind it and ducked inside, trying to catch her breath. Rainbow then shrieked when she saw Pinkie dangling upside down inside the bell. Rainbow knew that Mario's honey blast wouldn't stall her for more than a few seconds, but she had hoped it would have guaranteed a getaway.

"What's the real reason you didn't want to come to Gummy's party?" Pinkie yelled, making the bells ring as Rainbow took off at high speed. Rainbow then tries to fly up to the top of mountain and just barely grabs the edge leading to the summit as her wings gave out. Somepony extends their hoof to help her up, but Rainbow grunts as she pulled herself up, but gasps again when she sees a very angry and agitated Pinkie Pie at the top. Pinkie then glares at Rainbow's clearly full saddle bag.

"What's in those bags?!" Pinkie shouted, now furious as Rainbow takes off again in a rainbow blur. Pinkie grits her teeth and take off after her as a pink blur.

Applejack was taking a walk as she approached the barn when she sees both a blue blur flying over some hills towards the farm...with a pink blur not too far behind her.

"Applejack! We have a problem!" said Rainbow anxiously as she approached at high speed. Pinkie wasn't too far behind, gritting her teeth and Gummy hanging onto her tail with his mouth. Mario had been prepared for this since his spell allowed him to take a second shot before it wore off and needed to recharge. Time slowed down as Pinkie passed his hiding place as Mario stepped out and prepared to fire. But, typical Pinkie, she broke momentum and zoomed right up to his face.

"Don't even think about it!" She threatened. Mario glared, his horn still glowing before...

SPLAT!

Mario fired at her from close range, covering her in honey again and took off to catch up with Rainbow.

"You're gonna PAY FOR THAT!" Pinkie screamed with fury as she tried to get herself un-stuck. Rainbow and Mario zoomed right inside of the barn. Applejack looked back, jumped in the air with a gasp and frightened look on her face as Pinkie had already broken free of the honey and was approaching fast. Applejack quickly slammed the door as Pinkie arrived, gritting her teeth and looking furious, before using her forehead to knock on the door. At first there was no answer.

"I know you're IN THERE!" Pinkie screamed angrily. Applejack cautiously cracks open the top half of the door a bit to peak outside.

"Oh! Howdy pardner!" said Applejack casually.

"Mind if I...take a look inside the barn?" Pinkie asked with an angry smile.

"No! Uh, I mean, yes, I mean...you can't come in here!" Applejack stuttered, getting in her face, but as she spoke, Pinkie starts to stare her down, making the orange pony very nervous.

"Rainbow Dash went in there," said Pinkie sternly, "Mario too. And I'd like have a word with him about shooting honey AT ME!" A rather loud whimper was heard among everyone inside. They had at first thought it was Fluttershy, until she pointed to the colt trembling as he lay low to the ground.

"Oh, well...uh...Mario was...helping Rainbow," Applejack stuttered as Pinkie began to lean her face into AJ's with an angry look on her face, "they were just bringin' in some...supplies! yup, supplies for the...renovation! Fixin' up the whole thing, top to bottom...uh, lots of construction goin' on in there right now!"

"You heard her!" Rainbow whispered inside as Pinkie continued to glare, "Construction!" Everyone inside began doing their best to make it seem like actual construction was taking place. Pinkie's just narrowed her eyes as Applejack just continues to smile nervously. Pinkie then tries to stretch her neck to see around Applejack, but the orange pony is able to keep using her head to block her view. Pinkie then get right into Applejack face so their noses are pressed together as she tries to stare Applejack down. Just as Pinkie starts to push her head into the door. Applejack slams it shut, squashing Pinkie's head between the door and the side post. Pinkie pulled away, feeling rather dazed as Applejack reopens the door a bit to keep talking.

"Yup! Construction!" said Applejack, "That's my story, and I'm sticking to it." She laughed nervously as Pinkie continued to stare. Applejack gulped as she tries to remain calm and keep smiling, but Pinkie's staring continued to intensify as the orange pony began to sweat. Everyone inside was holding their breath.

"Okey...dokey...lokey," said Pinkie slowly, still glaring as her face started to pull away from Applejack's. The orange pony went to exhale when Pinkie got into her face again, stared sternly for another second before slowly pulling away and finally leaving. Once she was a good distance away, Applejack gave a large sigh of relief and leaned against the bottom half of the barn door in exhaustion. The others poked their heads out from behind her, breathing a collective sigh of relief as well.

Pinkie had returned back to Sugarcube Corner, steaming with fury as she paced back and forth across the floor as Gummy just watched her while standing on his hind legs.

"Secrets and lies!" Pinkie fumed as she got into Gummy's face, making him stand on all fours again, "It's all secrets and lies with these ponies! They're up to something Gummy! Something they don't want me to know about! Well, I'm gonna know about it! I'm gonna know about it big time. And I know just who's gonna tell me all about it. Tell me all about it big time!" It didn't take Pinkie too long to invite Spike over to Sugarcube Corner as she seated him at a table with a bowl of gems in front of him.

"Wow! Nice spread!" said Spike. Pinkie just glared at him until she starts to put her plan into action.

"It's all yours, Spike," said Pinkie in a sweet tone, "All you have to do..." Pinkie then sets up a small lamp and makes it act like an interrogation lamp as Gummy grabs Spike's tail between a hole behind the chair to prevent him from escaping, "...is talk!" Pinkie give him a smile, but the smile was not a happy one, but a smile that warned him that he would be in trouble if he didn't cooperate.

"That's it?" said Spike simply as he stood up on the chair, "Okay...uh, beautiful weather we're having eh? I love a sunny spring day, don't you? The birds chirpin' and the flowers bloomin'." Pinkie was taken aback for a second before getting irritated, especially when Spike tries to reach out for the gems and Pinkie pushes the plate out of his reach.

"No, no, no," said Pinkie a she focused the light on Spike, "Talk about our friends."

"Oh, okay. Let's see," said Spike as he pondered or a second before continuing, "There's Twilight Sparkle. She's a unicorn. Good with magic. Real brainiac. Mario, whose has had a huge crush on her since...since I was a baby. Thinks she's the most gorgeous pony in the world. Whatever you say bro. And then you got Rarity. Total knockout. Twilight seems to think I don't have a chance with her, but...eh, what does she know? She can't even see her own soulmate is right in front of her face. Let's see. There's...there's Fluttershy, a Pegasus who's afraid of heights. Heh, what's up with that?" As Spike continued to babble, Pinkie grew more and more agitated. Her anger seemed to flare especially after Spike mentioned Mario's crush on Twilight. Gummy was now standing just above the chair as Spike continued to talk.

"GRR! No!" Pinkie snapped angrily, "You're not understanding me! I want you to confess!"

"Confess?" said Spike stunned.

"Confess!" Pinkie yelled, getting into Spike's face, grinding her teeth. Spike grew rather nervous.

"I'm the one who spilled juice all over Twilight's copy of "Magical Mysteries and Practical Potions!" said Spike, flinching as Pinkie kept glaring.

"And?" Pinkie demanded.

"And I'm the one who used up all the hot water in Ponyville yesterday when I took a seven hour bubble bath," Spike added, flinching again.

"Aaand?" Pinkie repeated in the same tone.

"And sometimes...when no one's around...I do this," said Spike as he grabbed a tall vanity mirror and begin to flux his arms, "Lookin' good, Spike! Lookin' real good!" Pinkie just blinked twice before her temper had reached its limit. While Spike was being completely honest with his answers, Pinkie thought he was beating around the bush like the others. She had enough.

"No! No! No! No!" Pinkie yelled in rage as she shoved the mirror away and gets into Spike's face again.

"W-what do you wanna hear?" Spike pleaded fearfully, "Tell me what you want me to say, and I'll say it!"

"Tell me that my friends are all lying to me and avoiding me because they don't like my parties and they don't want to be my friends anymore!" Pinkie yelled, panting heavily from being so angry.

"Your friend are all lying to you and avoiding you 'cause they don't like your parties and they don't want to be your friends anymore!" Spike repeated.

"Aha!" Pinkie exclaimed, "I knew it!" but then...

POP! SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!

In all respect, Spike only said that because that is what Pinkie had asked him to say, not because it was actually the truth. But Pinkie believed him. As soon as what was said set into her mind, Pinkie's mane and tail deflated, making them completely straight. Her pink coat had grayed considerably as well, and she had the face of a pony who just had all the happiness taken from her and left her with nothing.

"On no," Pinkie said sadly, "my friends don't like my parties and they don't want to be my friends anymore." Pinkie just sat down on the floor looking absolutely depressed as Spike turned off the interrogation light.

"Uh...so..." Spike asked curiously, completely oblivious to the fact Pinkie was now in complete depression. Pinkie said nothing and pushed the bowl of gems over to Spike who just munched on them loudly. Pinkie just sighed to herself sadly.

It wasn't much longer before Pinkie entered the first stage of complete depression.

Denial

Pinkie had decided to host her little party for Gummy creating some "guests" using inanimate objects, such a giant piece of lint, a bag of flour, stack of three rocks, and a bucket of turnips. Gummy sat in the middle with two of the imaginary friends at his sides. Despite her attempts to be cheerful, Pinkie's mane and tail stayed straight and her coat a dull shade of pink.

"Thank you all so much for coming" said Pinkie, trying to be cheerful, "It means so much to Gummy!" Nobody said anything as Pinkie smiled before rushing over to the bucket of turnips, narrowing her eyes brows a she tries to make it talk.

"Could I have some more punch?" said the bucket of Turnips.

"Well, of course, you can have some more punch," said Pinkie as she brought the turnips a glass of punch. Her faces give a twitch before she heads over to the stack of rocks.

"This is one great party!" Pinkie make the rocks say, using a deep voice and making a similar face as she made them talk, "You really outdone yourself."

"Why, thank you, Rocky," Pinkie replied giving the rocks a side hug.

"I'm having a delightful time as well," said Pinkie, giving the clump of lint a sophisticated voice.

"I'm so glad, Sir Lintsalot," Pinkie answered before her face made a twitch again.

"Might I trouble you for anozer slice of cake?" Pinkie made the bag of flour say, using a light French accent.

"Anything for you, Madame le Flour," Pinkie answered as she placed a slice of cake in front of the flour bag.

"I'm just glad none o' them ponies showed up," said Rocky as Pinkie nudged tapped a hoof against them.

"Oh, they're not so bad," said Pinkie as she gave a smile, but then her eye pupils shrunk and widened apart as a low string instrumental whine was heard. Pinkie was now suffering a full mental break down.

"Not so bad?" said Rocky, now talking on its own, "Puh-lease! They're a buncha losers!"

"Oh c'mon now," Pinkie answered, looking dumbfounded at first but then sheepish, ""Losers" might be a little strong, don'tcha think?"

"After the way they treated you?" Sir Lintsalot replied as it hopped about, "I say "losers" isn't strong enough!"

"Well, it was pretty rude..." Pinkie thought aloud with a hurt look on her face.

"Pretty rude?" put in Madame Le Flour using the tips of the bag as arms, waving them about and then slamming one bag corner to the table, "It was downright, deespicable!"

"It was, wasn't it?" said Pinkie an agreement.

"If I were you," Mr. Turnip added, jiggling about its bucket, "I wouldn't speak to them every again."

"You know what?" said Pinkie, "I'm not gonna speak to them ever again. And I'm not gonna invite them to another party as long as I live! They don't deserve to be invited to my parties..." Pinkie made another twitch, "...not after the way they've been acting." Pinkie just sits with a bitter look on her face as her imaginary friends support her decision.

"Deeespicable!" Madame Le Flour replied as it clapped.

"Such losers!" Sir Lintsalot added.

"Yes, zat's right," added Madame le Flour.

Back in reality, Pinkie was the one doing all the talking, as she jigged each imaginary friend and mimicked their voices with wide eyes.

"Well done," said Mr. Turnip.

"Yeah!" cheered Sir Lintsalot.

"You show 'em!" Rocky added. Pinkie's moment was then interrupted as she heard a knock on the door.

"Who could that be?" Pinkie asked curiously. Rainbow and Mario were waiting outside and the former opened the door.

"Hey there, Pinkie Pie!" said Rainbow cheerfully, "Sorry I was in such a rush earlier. Had some places to be and couldn't slow down to say, "hello." You know how it goes." Pinkie just glared as she made her way from the table.

"I know how it goes, all right!" Pinkie muttered through her teeth.

"Yeah..." said Mario, feeling a little worried and disturbed at Pinkie's current appearance, "and I hope you know I wasn't trying to upset you with the honey. I figured you wouldn't mind if I did a little target practice if it meant you could get hit with something you liked. I know how much you like eating fresh honey."

"I knew how much you like eating fresh honey," Pinkie repeated in mock tone. Now both Rainbow and Mario were feeling a little awkward, especially at the sight of the party and her "guests".

"Yeah..." said Rainbow sheepishly as she leaned her head low to show her discomfort, "so why don't you come with us over at Sweet Apple Acres?"

"I'm sure you've been wondering why we've been so busy and all of it will make sense once you come with us," said Mario, "You'll feel much better too."

"No thanks," said Pinkie snootily and returns to her seat next to the bag of flour and hugs it, "I'm spending time with my real friends. Isn't that right, Madame le Flour?"

"Oui! Zat iz correct, madame and monsieur," Madame le Flour answered as Pinkie animated her before the two ponies. Both ponies looked rather disturbed.

"Uh...Pinkie Pie?" said Rainbow awkwardly,

"Another slice of cake, Sir Lintsalot?" Pinkie offered.

"I'd love one," said the lint as Pinkie animated it. Both ponies just feel more and more disturbed as Gummy bounces past them on a pink balloon, starling Rainbow Dash.

"Pinkie, I know we've been ignoring you alot today," said Mario gently, "But I speak for Rainbow, myself, and everypony else when I say that we are very sorry if we hurt your feelings."

"Hurt her feelings huh?" said Mr. Turnip as Pinkie animated it, "You have no idea how much you've hurt our friend!"

"Wuh?" said Mario, not seeing that attack coming.

"You are zee most despicable!" said the animated Madame le Flour, "wasting zee time over zee purple unicorn, you miss zee love right in front of zee nose!"

"Now hold on..." said Mario, now feeling Pinkie's attacks were getting personal.

"Pinkie, he's already said he's in love with Twilight!" said Rainbow sternly, "Get over it!"

"Get over it? Get over it!" the animated Rocky snapped, "You trying falling in love with a pony who doesn't take you seriously and just sees you as nothing but an annoying little pest and YOU tell us how she should feel right now!" That struck a chord as Mario suddenly felt his throat dry up. Even Rainbow was taken aback. Sure they had been ignoring and avoiding Pinkie all day, but...since when did that have to do with Mario? Sure, Mario admitted that he couldn't stand Pinkie at times, but he never expressed wanting to end their friendship over it. He even admitted not too long ago that he was growing to like Pinkie, as a friend of course, but the point was she mattered to him. Rainbow could tell Mario was deeply hurt and it was troublesome to see Pinkie just looked at him angrily and not seeming to care that she had been so harsh. Was Pinkie enjoying the fact she made Mario feel bad?

Rainbow need to put an end to this...whatever it was...now and get Pinkie to Sweet Apple Acres.

"Aaalrighty," said Rainbow slowly, "What do you say we get out of Creepytown and head over to Applejack's..." Pinkie took offense at Rainbow's comment and shoved Mr. Turnip before the blue pony.

"She's not going anywhere," said the animated Mr. Turnip.

"I most certainly am not," said Pinkie snootily, "I'm having a wonderful time right here. And I wish Mario would get lost!"

"Pinkie just because I didn't fall in love with you doesn't mean I..." Mario tried to explain, but Pinkie refused to listen as she ducked under the table.

"Save it for somepony who cares!" Sir Lintsalot retorted, "She doesn't need you!"

"Now get lost, Loser!" Rocky added sternly. Mario was fighting not to cry.

"Pinkie," said Rainbow slowly, "You should really just stop attacking Mario and just come with us. It's not fair to blame him for being angry at us you know."

"You heard the lady!" Rocky said sternly, "She ain't goin' nowheres, chump!"

"Who you calling a chump, chump?" Rainbow challenged until the rocks fell to the floor. Rainbow then realized that she had just gotten defensive over a pile of rocks.

"Ugh...that's it. Party's over," said Rainbow, "Come on, Pinkie Pie!"

"No!" said Pinkie as she got out from under the table and sat down, sticking her nose in the air.

"Pinkie Pie, Let's go!" said Rainbow. Pinkie just smirked.

"I said No!" said Pinkie firmly. Rainbow then gets behind her and tries to push her forward with her head.

"You...have to...come with...us!" Rainbow grunts as she continued to push Pinkie forward, but the pink pony began to hold her ground.

"No...I...Don't!" Pinkie yelled sternly as she lifted her back end and smashed it on top of Rainbow's head. Mario then helped Rainbow pulled her head out from under Pinkie's back end, only to send them crashing into Madame le Flour and Rainbow got a piece of cake on top of her head.

"Oh, you wanna do this the hard way?" Rainbow challenged once she recovered, "Well do this the hard way! Mario, grab her fore-hooves. I'll get her back hooves and we'll carry her to Applejack's!" Mario just nodded and went to gently grab Pinkie's fore-hooves.

"Don't Touch me!"

SNAP!

"YIKES!" Mario jumped as he ran behind Rainbow and trembled nervously.

"Seriously?" Rainbow asked annoyed, "Guess I'll take the fore-hooves."

"Rainbow, don't," said Mario gently but firmly, "Do you want to risk getting bitten by Pinkie?" Rainbow looked annoyed by the idea until she suddenly had a vision of herself in her cloud home, hair and eyes in the same state as Pinkie's as she had a party with her Wonderbolt toys. Rainbow's whimpered.

"Split the tail?" she asked quickly.

"Deal!" Mario replied.

All that could be said afterward was that Pinkie really did not want to move. Even with two ponies dragging her by the tail, it had taken a good half an hour before they finally arrived at the front of the barn door. Rainbow and Mario grunted as they got her close enough. Gummy just enjoyed the ride as he sat comfortably on Pinkie's flank.

"We're...here..." they panted together before they opened both of the barn doors. Pinkie just glared at she looked inside.

"SURPRISE!" said Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy, all wearing party hats. Pinkie looks surprised at first, but then just glares as Rainbow and Mario reluctantly push her inside. But Pinkie doesn't stop giving them angry looks.

" I really thought she'd be more excited," said Fluttershy worried as Twilight looked concerned and Applejack was, once again, just smiling nervously.

"Excited? Excited?!" Pinkie barked, making then flinch twice, " Why would I be excited to attend my own farewell party?"

"Farwell party?" said Twilight in shock.

"Yes!" Pinkie answered, making the flinch again as she stood on her hind legs, "You don't like me anymore, so you decided to kick me out of the group and throw a great big party to celebrate! A "Farewell to Pinkie Pie" party!" Pinkie then demonstrated getting kicked out, landing on her back end, and waved her arms angrily as she looked away from them sadly. Gummy just stood nearby watching Pinkie.

"Why in the world would you think we didn't like you anymore, sugarcube?" Applejack asked Pinkie as she walked up to her.

"Why?" She asked, getting into Applejack's face.

"Why?" Pinkie repeated as she got into Rarity's face.

"Why?!" Pinkie yelled again, causing Fluttershy to topple over.

"Ask him!" Pinkie yelled as she pointed a fore-hoof at Mario, "He's been wanting me gone since day one! He NEVER wanted me around and he doesn't even like me! And also because you've been lying to me and ignoring me all day, that's why!" Pinkie jumped into the air as she yelled, waving her hooves, and landed on the ground panting heavily.

"Pinkie, Mario doesn't want you go away," said Rarity, "I mean sure, you are a tad overbearing at times with your feelings, but Mario says that he cherishes you as a very dear friend."

"He told me that he can't see his life without you in it," Fluttershy added as Mario nodded in agreement with a smile, "and as for the lying and ignoring, yes we did do that..."

"Uh, yeah!" Rainbow continued, "because we wanted your party to be a surprise!" Pinkie just keeps glaring but is still listening.

"We'd been planning this party for such a long time," Rarity explained as a she pushed away a falling yellow balloon, "we had to make excuses for why we couldn't attend Gummy's party so that we could get everything ready for yours." Pinkie said nothing, but was still listening.

"If this is a farewell party," said Twilight as she looked at the cake, "why does the cake I picked up from Sugarcube corner say "Happy Birthday, Pinkie Pie"?" Pinkie just looked around, feeling rather puzzled, until she notices the presents, all the party streamers and decorations, and then her birthday cake. She just looks blankly for a moment before.

SQUEAKY TRUMPET BLAST!

Pinkie's tail and mane got their cotton candy likeness again and her coat was back to being a bright pink.

"Because it's my birthday!" said Pinkie excitedly, back to her peppy old self, as she stretched out her fore-hooves and grabbed everypony for a group hug, "Ooh, how could I have forgotten my own birthday?" Pinkie just hugged them as everypony else just sighed in relief.

"And you like me so much you decided to throw me a surprise party!" said Pinkie as she bounced around the area happily.

"That's what we've been trying to tell you, darling," said Rarity.

"You girls and Mario are the best friends ever!" said Pinkie before feeling rather embarassed, "How could I have ever doubted you?"

"It's okay, Pinkie Pie," Twilight reassured her, "It could have happened to any of us."

"Uh-huh! It sure would," said Rainbow.

"Don't worry about it," Fluttershy replied.

"No worries," said Mario, wanting to just forget what she had said earlier.

"I'm just glad we haven't been replaced by a bucket of turnips," said Rainbow as Pinkie shrugged her shoulders and smiled sheepishly.

"Huh?" said Twilight puzzled.

"You don't wanna know," said Rainbow and Mario together.

"All right, girls and Mario! Enough of this gab," said Applejack as she started up the music player, "Let's party!" The music began to play as Pinkie, Rarity, and Rainbow dance. Applejack and Fluttershy enjoy pushing a balloon back and forth. Twilight just smiles as she observes everyone just having a good time.

"Dear Princess Celestia," Twilight later recited in a letter that night,

"We are writing to you from the most delightful party. We're not only having a good time with our friends, but also was given the opportunity to learn a valuable lesson about friendship. Always expect the best from your friends, and never assume the worst. Rest assured that a good friend always has your best interests at heart.

Your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle and Mario Star."

As Twilight recited her letter, Rainbow Dash and Mario enjoyed some cake together, Rarity and Spike shared a short conversation as Spike begins to dance, but then finds that he is dancing alone as Pinkie and Twilight start a conga line. Rarity joins, followed by Fluttershy, and then Applejack. Meanwhile Gummy is just playing with a balloon as they conga by.

"You guys wouldn't mind if we celebrated Gummy's after-birthday party too, would you?" Pinkie requested, "His party got cut short, and he's pretty upset about it."

"Oh definitely," said Fluttershy.

"Aww, he was upset?" Rarity replied.

"Uh-huh, sure!" said Applejack.

"For Gummy, yeah!" Rainbow added.

"Of course," said Mario.

"Yeah, why not?" said Twilight, "Let's have a party." Gummy was just trying swallow an entire balloon. Mario then rushed to get the balloon out of his mouth.

"Easy there buddy," said Mario as he set the balloon next to him, "Don't want you choking on that." Gummy said nothing as the balloon just rested near him as Mario just headed back towards the conga line. As the sun was seting outside, Mario was hanging by the punch bowl and used his magic to refill his cup. That was when Rainbow arrived.

"Hey Mario!" said Rainbow.

"Hey Rainbow," said Mario as he sipped his punch with a straw. Rainbow just looked at him with concern.

"Are you okay?" she asked gently. Mario just sighed with his straw in his mouth.

"For now," said Mario, "Pinkie is happy again. No need to bring up what happened before right now. Let her have a nice birthday."

"Okay," said Rainbow, "but I asked if you were okay? What she said was pretty harsh to you, even if she wasn't herself." Mario looked away for a second and then back at Rainbow.

"It hurt, but maybe I had it coming," said Mario, "I knew she would be hurt that I don't return her feelings, but...I had always thought I would be able to soften the wound you know. I mean...I can't love more than one mare."

"True," said Rainbow, "But I still think..."

"Hey Mario!" said Pinkie as she arrived at the punch bowl and Rainbow stopped talking.

"Hey birthday pony," said Mario cheerfully. Pinkie giggled.

"Thanks," said Pinkie, "Say...can I talk to you alone for a sec?" Mario looked at Rainbow as she gave him a smile.

"Alright," said Mario as Pinkie tilted her head for Mario to follow her. Pinkie lead Mario just outside the barn as they left the barn door a little open. The sun was nearly setting outside as Pinkie sat down and Mario did the same to watch it disappear over the horizon.

"Mario..." said Pinkie insecurely, "I...I just wanted to say...about before..."

"It's okay," Mario said quickly, "I mean...sure you know that have a crush on Twilight, but that doesn't mean that your feelings don't matter. I'm sorry if I made you feel like I didn't care about how you feel." Pinkie just looked at her sadly.

"Just tell me Mario," Pinkie asked, "Why am I not good enough for you?" Mario looked at her surprised.

"That has nothing to do with it Pinkie," said Mario, "You are good enough for me."

"Then what is wrong with me?" Pinkie asked curiously.

"Nothing. I've been falling for Twilight since way before I ever met you," said Mario, "For me to love another mare...they would feel like a second choice to me. And you deserve the very best Pinkie Pie."

"I see," said Pinkie, "I guess I just wished it was me who captured your heart instead of Twilight." Mario just smiled.

"You don't need capture my heart to be special to me," said Mario, "You're my best friend Pinkie Pie and that means you have a special place in my heart."

"Really?" said Pinkie.

"Of course," said Mario, "I know I might get a little annoyed at you from time to time. And you can drive me crazy..."

"You're going somewhere with this?" Pinkie asked annoyed.

"Yes," said Mario with a smile, "Despite all of that, I just can't see my life without you being part of it. You really know how to make me smile, even when I feel sad or blue. You always brighten my day. I'm so happy because you're my best friend." Pinkie smiled, feeling her eyes sparkle as she gave Mario a hug. Mario then made a little wrapped package appear.

"Here, I wanted you to open the birthday present I got you with me," Mario told her. Pinkie squealed with excitement as she tore through the wrapping and opened the box. Pinkie gasped as she pulled out a key.

"Is this my own?"

"Yes it is," said Mario, "I realized that as much I don't like you leaving all those love notes and memos all over my house, it wasn't fair of me to close my door to you. After all, you are my best friend too. Even I knew before all this happens that just because you're happy all the time, doesn't mean that you don't have feelings, worries, or concerns. You should be able to reach out to me when you need a friend too. Now you can whenever you need me." Pinkie felt her eyes water as she hugged the key and then embraced Mario.

"I hope you know," Mario added as he returned her hug, "that if you ever need a friend that you can come and talk to me about anything. I don't want to see you look so...depressed like you were today ever again. It was scary seeing you like that."

"I couldn't help it," said Pinkie sadly as she held him, trying not to cry, "I mean...my cutie mark is all about making people smile. When all my friends suddenly didn't want to come to my party, I suddenly felt like my whole meaning of life...was gone. I really begin to think...maybe I really am just...an annoying pest to everypony...that ponies really don't want to be friends with someone like me. Or I really am no good at making ponies happy..." Pinkie let a few tears stream down her face as she pulled away. Mario gently used a fore-hoof the dry them for her, bring back her smile.

"That isn't true at all," said Mario, "and I can speak for everyone else that we are very sorry that we made you feel that way. As you can see, it was all because we wanted to give you the best birthday party ever! It's hard to surprise you after all."

"I know," said Pinkie, "Guess I'm just..."

"Afraid of being alone?" Mario finished and Pinkie just smiled.

"Yeah..." she replied, "thanks for hearing me out Mario. And I'm sorry for being so pushy and for yelling at you like that. I guess I just wanted to know you liked me."

"I do like you Pinkie," said Mario, "You are my best friend after all." Pinkie smiled as she leaned against his shoulder. Unlike previous attempts, Mario let her stay.

"Tell me, Mario," said Pinkie, "Does Twilight make you happy?" Mario was surprised by the question as he blushed a little, but then smiled.

"Yes...she does," said Mario, "We have so much in common in both are interests, behaviors, and even our insecurities. I can relate to her so well and she's just...so beautiful, inside and out. I really want to be her special somepony someday. I...really hope I can show that I can be good enough for her. I love her." Pinkie smiled.

"You are good enough," said Pinkie, "And I'll help you. As your best friend, I want to make you smile. And I know helping you and Twilight get together is what will make you happy. I'll do whatever I can to make her fall in love with you. Pinkie promise. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye."

"Just...don't go overboard trying to help, okay?" Mario asked, nearly pleading. Pinkie laughed.

"Mario you know me by now," Pinkie remarked. Mario made an annoyed face and they both shared a chuckle. But little did they know that just behind the door, a certain purple pony was leaning against it literally hyperventilating and sweating. She had heard everything.

"Mario...has a crush on me?" Twilight squeaked to herself, "He's...in love with me?!"

The truth seemed like too much for her mind to accept and she passed out behind the door.

Interesting twist to this episode, but it always bugged me that the Mane 5 never tried to help Pinkie with her mental breakdown and just dismissed it as her being random and jumping to conclusions.

Plus I bet none of you expected to see a move from the lastest Mario & Rabbids game.

Peace Pony Fans!