To fly with your own wings.

Chapters

Prologue: My name is Jolly Thinker
Chapter 1: Scootaloo
Chapter 2: How to earn a Cutie Mark

Prologue: My name is Jolly Thinker

One week ago I arrived in Ponyville and bought a small house not too far from the centre of the town. There I installed myself and built my own office. I didn't see the point in renting a building when the other ponies could get their appointments with me in my house instead. Anyway I always felt like ponies would be more at ease in a house rather than in a building meant to work. It felt more friendly.

This house wasn't anything big. It had five rooms in all and a bathroom. After all I couldn't afford the luxury yet. I decorated every room to make it like you were at home. The entrance would greet you with a sympathetic small red rug to let you put your hooves on something soft and warm as you enter. The view you had when entering my house was leading you to the living room. Nothing too special there, I placed a great brown and red designed rug in the centre of it with two cushions, a couch and a small table was in the middle as well. It's pretty useful when you have guests and simply want to have a nice chat in the living room with them while having a nice drink. As for the colours, I wasn't very picky about them. I decided to leave everything as it was for now, but later I would need to retouch a few things here and there where the colour is wearing off. This red wouldn't last for very long. Yet I was too impatient to start my work. I couldn't wait to have my first clients so I could find a solution to help them smile.

The next place in the house would be the kitchen. Here again there wasn't anything too special as well. I liked the drawers on the counter siding to your right as you entered the piece. Just above it, wooden cupboards were installed. They were a little old, but very robust. The doors were opening well and the shelves inside were still very sturdy. Facing the counter we could find my pantry. A simple, rectangular box made of strong wood with four shelves inside each with a lot of space to put many things in. It wasn't full at the moment. I still needed to do my shopping for that and for now I was eating outside at the restaurants around or simply bought a few things to prepare myself a small meal. I was too busy making preparations for the opening of my office.

Then as we walk through the kitchen we land in the dinning room, which is very small to say the least. Since I was alone, I had only a round table there. At least the walls were adding some life to this little room. Their gentle blue colour gave a calm atmosphere so much that I couldn't wait to sit there and relax with my meal. Unfortunately it was one of the places in the house I didn't have the time to decorate. Other rooms had priorities.

Which leads us to the next one that I love very much! Ah, my own office. My place of work, the room of joy, the smiling piece. As a psychologist I needed to give this place a bright green colour and the great window there was doing a perfect job at lighting the place with the radiant light of the sun. The white curtains made of tissue were letting the light come through without blinding us. My desk was placed on the right side at the other end of the room as you entered it. It's three drawers being placed one over another contained my files and other important papers while the other one left over the empty space of the desk contained my material such as pens, pencils and notebooks. I had my black soft armchairs to let the clients sit comfortably while they tell me their stories as well as one long chair for those who needed to lay down and so I could help them perform relaxation exercises. The wooden floor had been reworked already. I had put all of my efforts in this one room so I could begin to work early. I wanted to add paintings to the walls, but I didn't have any at the moment.

That would lead us to the next and last place of my house, if we skip the bathroom that is, my own bedroom. All I could say about the bathroom anyway would be that... there is a toilet and a shower as well as a sink. It's not like details on this kind of room are too important. The piece is pretty small anyway.

As for my room, I liked the colours there already. They resembled those of my office, only a little bit darker. My simple bed was very comfortable. The sheets and blanket let me drift off to sleep very fast when my mind was clear. Other than that I could simply enjoy the softness of it all. As for when I go to sleep, I always put my glasses on the desk of my room. A simple enough wooden structure with a few drawers. A picture of me and my family was decorating the top of it and the rest was empty. I yet had to put more things in this house, but I'd need more bits for that.

And with all of that, I was finally ready to open my office... that is, if I was still at home.

*
**

I walked around in Ponyville, exploring more of its areas, but mostly because I was looking for a shop where I could buy and make a signboard to, let's say, advertise my office. I never really liked to use this word since I always preferred to be helping for free, but I had to pay for my things as well.

It's no longer than after thirty minutes that I found what I was looking for. I had to ask somepony, but now I was inside the shop. Looking around for something simple and efficient, I stumbled upon the owner who looked at me with a smile. ''Is there something I can help you with, sir?'' he asked me joyfully. I smiled back at him and explained to him my situation and what kind of job I was doing. The pony merchant and I discussed a little and I used of this opportunity to try and spread words about my house and who I was.

Along with the wooden board and a few materials to make my sign, I paid at the front, nodded to thank the merchant and headed outside with the things in my saddlebags and held the signboard's bag in my mouth. How else would I be bringing it?

*
**

I made it back home with my stuff. On my way back I had crossed a few of the residents of the town. I kindly nodded to them to say 'hello'. They responded positively, some waved and some spoke, I even heard a few talk about the colour of my dark blue and dark cyan mane, but there was a special pony who neither said anything nor did she gestured at me. Instead she glanced at me and looked confused. That pink pony then trotted away as if nothing had happened. I watched her go and went back to my business until I reached my home.

After putting down my purchases I immediately started to work on my sign. I was far from being the good artist and my creativity could be off at some times too, but I wrote in blue painting my name, my job and the hours I would be opened during the week. With my clumsy writing I tried to write the best I could. I was careful in my movements as I wrote since I didn't want to create a mess with the painting, but mostly because I wanted the whole thing to be readable... In the end the letters appeared well and clear! It looked a little something like this:

JOLLY THINKER THERAPIST
OPENED FROM:
MON TO FRI: 9:00 AM TO 5:00 PM
ON APPOINTMENT

After taking a look at the signboard on the floor of my living room I cocked an eyebrow and I honestly thought that it could be a whole lot better. How I was supposed to do it, I had no idea, but for now it would have to do. I deposited the brush on my table and waited for the painting to dry before taking it outside in front of my house.

Grabbing the hammer, a few nails, the board's post and the board itself I trotted outside and finally could put my sign in front of my house. I began hammering the nails and made some noise in the quiet area. It didn't take long to make, but all that manual work was tiring me. I was sweating already under my purple coat in the heat of the sun, and it wasn't even that hot on this day. At least I could relieve myself once I was done. I turned the sign around to see what it looked like and smiled with the hammer in my teeth. There was only one more thing to do. Plant it right in front of the house and then I could finally be able to open.

Of course that moment only asked for less than a minute to do, but in the end I was all done and ready! I couldn't wait to start! I was so eager to enter inside and wait for the first person to knock. I had done my studies only for this day! Yet before I could step back inside, I was quickly interrupted in my movements. All I could do was lift my front leg before I heard a loud and cheerful 'Hi!' behind me. I turned around and to my great surprise it was that pink pony who stared at me back then. That look on her face seemed to be full of joy and energy. I couldn't help but smile back at her.

''Hello!'' I began to say to her as I completely turned around. And before I could ask her something, she started to speak without giving it a rest.

''I've never seen you around before! Earlier today I saw you and I was all 'I've never seen him before. He must be new!' because I know everypony in Ponyville and then I went away because I wanted to prepare a 'Welcome to Ponyville' party just for you! So I went back and made all the preparations and everypony is already there for you! Now all that's missing is you! By the way I'm Pinkie Pie!''

All that restless speech and gestures with such enthusiasm left me without words. I stared at the pink pony to try and follow what she wanted to tell me. In a moment of silence and of her smiling widely at me, I thought and tried to assemble the words in my head to understand. So what she told me was that she made a party in my honour for being a new resident of the town. Quite original! I liked the idea!

''I'll be pleased to attend it!'' I told her. Without any more waiting, the mare grabbed my hoof.

''Okey dokey lokey!'' she let out as she dragged me about quickly. I didn't try to resist, but it felt odd to be pulled by the sort like this.

*
**

The party thrown by Pinkie Pie at the Sugarcube Corner was pretty amusing and moving. There were drinks, a lot of sweets, balloons and streamers everywhere! The music was very entertaining too! I had fun out there even for my first time going to such an event in the town. Pinkie Pie kept saying how she felt terrible that she didn't make it sooner since it's been a week. I tried to reason her that it was fine, that I was very busy with all of my things that needed to be unpacked and installed. Nothing could be done... Pinkie Pie was still making a huge story out of it so I decided to let her do so. She'd get over it. At least that's what her friend Twilight Sparkle told me. Aside from that this evening was very entertaining and different from all the things I had done in this week. I could have fun for once instead of working on opening my clinic. It was my passion, but I had to have fun once in a while too and I even met a lot of other ponies, young colts and fillies included.

In the course of the evening Pinkie introduced me to her best friends Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity and a very shy one named Fluttershy. The poor filly had some trouble communicating, but she had gotten over it pretty quickly. All in all it was great to meet them all and they were all different and unique. Many other mares and stallions were there and I had a great time meeting them all as well.

I had taken part of this party to talk about myself a little and mostly about what I do. I also thanked Pinkie for this amazing party. I noticed that Twilight was paying attention to what I was saying. I didn't know her very well, but I could tell we would talk again eventually. At the same time, many asked me what my cutiemark was standing for. I was happy to tell them that this picture of a brown book with a heart on its cover was representing the positive thoughts I liked to share with everyone. It was what lead me to become who I am today and I am very proud of it. I loved this party. But everything must come to an end at some point.

*
**

Arriving at my house, I took one last look at the signboard and shook my head disappointed at it, but I let a smile form on my face too. Everything went better than expected and it was all thanks to Pinkie Pie. Tomorrow I was expecting some visits that it was for an appointment or not. I simply expected somepony at my door.

Chapter 1: Scootaloo

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

I heard the noise coming from the door the very next day after the party at Sugarcube Corner. I went and opened. Three ponies were standing there. A mare, a stallion and a young orange coated pegasus filly with a pinkish purple mane and tail. ''Hello!'' I greeted the three equines.

''Good day, sir Thinker.'' The mare answered with a smile. ''We heard about you yesterday. Our daughter went to your welcome party and we thought we could use your services. After all you are the first official therapist in the town.''

''Please come inside then,'' I said as I moved out of the way. The ponies all walked inside and I could see the filly entering with not so much enthusiasm as her head was hanging low. The mare had looked around a little while standing where she was and left me a small compliment about my house which I took with gratitude before leading them to my office.

Once inside I invited them to sit on the chairs, which they did except for the filly who decided to stand away. ''Now what may I help you with today?'' I asked.

''Our daughter Scootaloo... We think she could spare some time to talk about a few things.'' The mother said. I listened to her words and took a look at Scootaloo who didn't look happy at all. Something was on her mind at that moment and she was disturbed.

''What did you have in mind today, Scootaloo?'' I suddenly asked the filly. At first she looked at me with an angry look, then turned away.

''Certainly not coming here!'' Scootaloo let out after she turned. She sounded angry and deranged. We started to talk to each others for the first time.

''I'm almost certain it would be better for you on a different day, am I right?''

''How about never? I don't need help!''

''I won't force you to anything, Scootaloo, but if your parents are here with you then they must have a reason to it.'' I explained.

''I don't care! I don't have any problem!'' the filly insisted. I turned to the parents instead since I didn't want to resort to anything authoritarian.

''Does she have school today?'' I asked them. Her father answered positively and the mother agreed with a nod. I suggested to the two parents that she should go attend class for the day so I could discuss with them. It might be rough since she was already not in the mood, but at least she could be with her friends if she had any. I supposed she did. The parents looked at each others before giving me back their look.

''It's a good idea, sir Thinker.'' The father smiled. ''Scootaloo?'' he turned to his daughter who looked at him. ''Go attend class for today, dear. We'll give you more time.''

The young pegasus found back a smile as she sat there. She might not be totally convinced, but I was certain that she had plans today. I remembered that I had seen her at Pinkie Pie's party the previous day and she was with two other fillies. She probably was spending a lot of time with them and didn't have any time to receive help from a therapist, believing that everything for her was fine. I wished she was right, but I would only find out with the help of the parents.

After the leaving of Scootaloo, I began to chat with her parents about the problems she had.

''We feel our daughter is not satisfied with what she has right now. We tried to talk to her, but she doesn't want to tell us anything. She keeps saying that she wants her cutiemark to appear. We're thinking that she's becoming too desperate...'' the mother explained to me. I sensed in her the energy she had already spent trying to help her daughter. Her husband was holding her close to him with his wing. They simply wished the best for their child. They told me about how she idolized Rainbow Dash, who I had met at the party, and how she wished to be able to fly, but wasn't able to do so yet.

''We've also tried to get more time with her,'' the father added. ''She loves us, but it's as if we were unable to give her what she really needs.''

''I see...'' is all that I could say at this point since I needed to think of something. I looked down with my eyes as they were scanning the ground while my mind was at work. At this point there wasn't much that could be done. I understood what they wanted me to do. I would need to work with Scootaloo for that. The filly was already refusing any session of therapy. I also couldn't just walk to her and convince her. The ponies had to have the will to come here.

''I may have an idea.'' The father began to say. I was all ears to hear this idea. ''Can you come and meet us at her school after class? Maybe we could try and speak with her then.'' Yet I had to refuse this proposition and showed my disagreement with a shaking of my head.

''I have to say no to this. Your daughter must have the will to come. I won't force her to see me even if I can get her to speak.'' I explained. ''Give her some time.''

Before agreeing with me, the father looked a little away. His wife didn't seem to know what to say and I wished I could help them with that, but I can't satisfy them when it's their daughter who seems to be needing my help. From this point we didn't have anything else to tell each others. I didn't know Scootaloo enough to be giving them any good tips. The two ponies got up and were about to leave. ''Well... Thank you anyway.'' The father told me and began walking away with his wife. It's then that I remembered something. I made a step toward them to speak.

''I forgot to mention something!'' I hastily said. The parents stopped in their track and looked back at me. ''I think it's important for you to know that sessions with me are thirty bits per hour.''

''Uh... do you want us to pay for today?'' The father asked.

''Oh, no no!'' I laughed. ''It's only on appointment. I just wanted you to at least know the price. I hope it's fine with you.''

''Yes, of course.'' The father answered.

''Oh, and I'm sorry I can't do anything for now, but if there is anything you can always come see me again and we can try to discuss it out. I won't charge for that.'' I told him and his wife. With this, he smiled and nodded before crossing the doorway to step outside.

*
**

Not any later than only one hour I heard someone knock and call my name ''Sir Jolly?'' That voice sounded familiar. I was certain I had heard that voice at Pinkie's party. Though there were many voices there, there was one I was able to recognize. I answered at my door after I got to it and smiled at the sight of Twilight Sparkle.

''Hello, Twilight Sparkle.'' I greeted.

''You can call me just Twilight if you wish. I see you've already opened your clinic!'' She said. ''But that's not why I'm here. Actually I think I could use your help.''

''What can I do?'' I asked her with a bit of a confused look. I couldn't think she would need a therapy since to me she seemed to be in order.

''Somepony in town is being desperate right now.'' Twilight told me with a worried look. I could already tell that the unicorn tried to help the pony in question.

''And what exactly is happening?'' I asked trying to get more information.

''She's panicking. She's scared of everypony right now.'' She explained. I took the time to think a little as I rubbed my goatee on my chin.

''Take me to her.'' I decided firmly.

Twilight Sparkle hurried and showed me the way to where this mare was. When I got there Twilight pointed with her hoof a pony who was laying down with her head under her legs. ''It's her. I told her I'd get some help.'' Twilight said.

''I'll handle this. How long as she been like that?'' I asked.

''For about ten minutes. I tried to be as fast as I could to get you.'' She answered.

''What's her name?'' I asked.

''Snow Breeze.'' Twilight answered simply. Just with that I could begin my intervention. I walked to the white pegasus with her light pink mane, but kept a certain distance with her. When she saw me she reacted immediately and tried to back away while crouched.

''Snow Breeze?'' I called calmly.

''G-get back!'' She replied with fear.

''Don't worry, Snow Breeze. I'm here to help. Twilight Sparkle came to me.'' I said. ''You know her, right?'' I asked. Snow Breeze nodded with her eyes closed. ''Can you trust her?'' again she nodded the same way. ''She's with us right now. I'm Jolly Thinker. You can look at me, I promise nothing bad will happen to you.'' I said. Slowly, Snow Breeze opened one eye while shaking and looked at me with it. I didn't want to approach yet. I was afraid I'd only scare her by doing so. I waited some more as I stood there. Then Snow Breeze could look at me with both eyes and even raised her head a little. I looked behind briefly ''Twilight?'' I called calmly before looking back at the poor pegasus. The unicorn advanced and came to my side with a smile. Instantly Snow Breeze began to shake less. She felt reassured that Twilight was there.

''Do you mind if I come next to you?'' I asked, hoping for a positive answer.

''N-no... I'd rather stay distant...'' Snow Breeze answered with a shaking voice. I expected it, but at least I wanted to give it a try. The process would have been faster.

''Then do you accept to tell me and Twilight what is making you like this?'' I asked. It took some time and Snow Breeze looked away, but she began to say something.

''I'm scared...'' She began to say. I waited a moment. ''I think... I'm being stalked...''

''Do you have an idea of who or what could be stalking you?'' I asked calmly.

''It's... I think it's a stallion...''

''Do you know him?''

''... No.''

''How long do you think he's been following you?''

''Maybe... a week.''

Then I went on to proceed with a big question. ''Snow Breeze. What I'm going to ask you may be personal, but it could help me find out what's happening. Do you think you could answer a question like that?'' I needed to know if it came from her past or if it was a recent event. She looked at me briefly before sighting the ground. She nodded very slowly.

''Feel free to remain quiet if you want to.'' I told her then I asked my question slowly. ''In your past, did something happened to you that was involving a certain stallion?'' She shut her eyes half and I could see them watering. I had my answer. We all remained silent. I needed to think of something. Yet, as I was about to get lost in my thoughts I heard Snow Breeze who began to breath faster and faster as well as louder.

''Snow Breeze!'' Twilight called seeing the same thing as me. I looked at Twilight and gestured to her to get next to Snow Breeze. It was risky, but she needed to be assisted right away. Twilight went next to the pegasus and put herself at her level. As for me, I decided to stand where I was. All I could do was talk to her.

''Snow Breeze, listen to me. Look at me!'' I said raising my tone a little so my voice would reach her effectively. Snow Breeze did the best she could and looked at me. She was indeed entering a panicking state and was having a panic attack. ''You're not in danger. Twilight and me are here with you. Everything will be fine.'' I told her, then I quickly drew a line on the ground with my hoof. ''Focus on this line and listen to my voice.'' I said. She did as I told her and looked at the line. ''You are not in danger. Everything here is safe. You are in security. Breath in deeply and let it all out slowly, all right?'' She nodded quickly as she kept breathing fast, but already began to do it slowly and deeply. I kept on speaking to her to reassure her. I kept telling her she was safe while she was breathing in and out deeply. In less than a minute she had already calmed down and could breath normally. She had let out a sigh at the end. Twilight got back up.

''Are you able to get up?'' I asked.

''Yes... I think I can now.'' Snow Breeze answered me. She did what she said and stood up slowly on her four legs. She seemed a little weak, but it was normal after such an attack. ''Thank you.'' She said then looked at me with a smile on her face.

''It was nothing. It's thanks to Twilight that I got here in time,'' I smiled back at her. ''I see you're not having it easy with your life.''

''I'm not... and maybe it'll be a good thing for me to visit you from time to time. Jolly Thinker, was it?''

''Yes.''

''Words are spreading fast here. I've heard you're a therapist.''

''Yes, that's what I am. I'll be glad to have an appointment with you anytime,'' I smiled. ''Twilight?'' I asked as I looked at her. She looked at me. ''Are you free today?''

''Well, I have some work to do at the library. What is it?'' she asked.

''I wondered if you could spend some time with Snow Breeze just to make sure things will be fine for her.'' I answered. Immediately, Snow Breeze reacted and even giggled.

''Oh it won't be necessary! I'll be fine by myself, thank you very much.'' She said.

I looked back at her ''Are you sure?''

''Yes, definitively.'' She answered as she opened her wings.

''Take it easy then. If there is anything, don't hesitate to come to me if you can. Else I'm sure somepony will come to your aid.'' I told her. Then she left in just a few flaps as Twilight and me watched her go away.

''You did a great job.'' Twilight told me not getting her eyes off of the pegasus.

''Thanks. It's not always easy, but I just love to see the good results. It's always satisfying.'' I replied.

Twilight giggled some before laying her eyes on me. ''I guess so. Well maybe you should go back to your place now. Who knows, maybe somepony is standing by the door?''

''Haha!'' I exclaimed ''I hope not.''

''I guess we'll see each others some other time then. Gotta go!'' Twilight said before trotting away. I turned back and as I looked around I quickly noticed that there was a school nearby. I could see in the schoolyard. The kids were having their recess it seemed, but as I took a closer look I saw Scootaloo who was looking this way. Did she see the whole thing? Her attention was taken away when two other fillies came and almost dragged her away to play a game. I didn't know much about the young orange pegasus, but her curiosity was enough to tell me she was maybe considering something. I couldn't force her to come see me, but maybe her parents wouldn't have to try either. Only time could tell.

*
**

I opened the door to my house with a few things I was carrying. It was fortunate that no one was waiting for me earlier. My clinic was closed and I took the time after to make a few purchases. I was very hungry.

I deposited everything inside my kitchen on the counter and took the necessaries to prepare myself a tasty dandelion and mushroom soup. I placed the mushrooms on the counter and picked a knife to begin chopping everything.

While I was finishing slicing the ingredients I had started to boil some water. Shortly after, once the temperature was high enough, I put everything in the pot. It's then that I heard more noise at my door. I looked straight at it from the kitchen. ''I'm coming!'' I said loud and clear. I pulled to open only to see Twilight Sparkle again. ''Hey.'' I said grinning.

''Good evening, Jolly.'' She said. ''Can I come in?''

''Of course, of course!'' I said as I got out of the way. Twilight walked in and waited for me to close my door. She took two sniffs at the air.

''Am I interrupting? You seem to be cooking.'' Twilight said.

''I'm in the middle of that, yes, but I don't mind. It's always pleasant to have company. Besides I need to wait.'' I explained.

''Oh then I guess we can talk.''

''Of course. You can go have a seat over there.'' I said and pointed at the cushions and the couch. Twilight didn't hesitate to pick any pillow there and waited for me to join her.

''I was thinking about what you did today again.'' She said as I was getting over to join her. ''I read a lot of books, but I don't think I could have handled that one by myself.''

I sat down in front of her ''Are you stressed over something?'' I asked.

''Well, I do have a lot of work to do.'' She answered.

''What kind of work do you do?''

''I work at the library in Ponyville, but I was sent here because of Princess Celestia who asked me to study the magic of friendship.'' She said.

''Really?''

''Yes. And thanks to that I've made a lot of friends, but mostly my five best friends here who you met yesterday at Pinkie's party.''

''Ah I see. That's one interesting concept.'' I said and let out a small chuckle.

''So did you have any clients today?''

''No.'' I said. ''Well, unless two parents who came to have a bit of information to help their daughter counts,'' I paused ''Scootaloo, was it?''

''Scootaloo?''

''Yes. According to her parents she would be becoming desperate about getting her cutie mark.'' I answered.

''She and her two friends are testing their talents everywhere around Ponyville.'' Twilight giggled. ''They get in trouble often, but they never stop.''

''Do you know her well?''

''Her friends Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle are the sisters of AppleJack and Rarity.''

''That I didn't know.'' I said. ''One thing was certain though. Today was not the best day for her to come over here. She didn't want to hear anything and pretended everything was fine.''

''Well maybe her parents are overreacting?'' She wondered.

''I doubt it. She was disturbed.'' I began to say. ''Earlier today we crossed sight again after you left when we helped Snow Breeze. She seemed curious, but then her friends got to her.'' I paused again for a second. ''I wish I could help her.''

''Have you thought about approaching her?'' Twilight asked.

''I did, but it's out of the question with me. The ponies who come here must come by will only. I want them to make the first step.'' I explained with a more serious tone.

''Well...'' Twilight began and turned her head away for a second. ''Maybe I can tell you a little about her. That could be helpful if she ever comes here,'' but I shook my head to refuse this offer and smiled at Twilight.

''It's no use. Why getting this information if she never comes? Besides I don't want to stress myself over nothing if I'm wrong. Scootaloo has to live her childhood right now. If something bothers her she will talk to those she trusts. If she really wishes to come here and talk to me because of the help I'm offering to all the ponies, then so be it,'' I paused to stare at Twilight while keeping my smile. ''And I'll be very happy to give her everything she needs.''

Twilight contemplated my face for a moment and responded with a small smile. ''Maybe I should get to study this more.'' She said.

I chuckled ''Well if you're interested in psychology then yes! If you need to understand anything you can always come to me.''

Knock Knock Knock

Both of us turned our heads toward the sound of the door. ''Now I'm very curious to know who that is.'' I wondered. Twilight remained at her place and watched me go open the door. I kept having a questioned face until I opened the door. I looked in front of me then downward when a purple and orange colour caught my eyes. ''Why good evening there.'' I said as a smile formed on my face.

''Evening sir uh...'' Scootaloo said.

''Jolly Thinker. Call me Jolly if you want.'' I reminded her.

''Okay. Evening then Jolly.'' she replied.

''Is there anything I can do for you?''

''Well I wanted to talk to you about something.'' She told me.

''Of course, just come in and we'll talk.'' I said as I moved out of the way to let her walk in. After getting inside she walked and turned toward the living room where Twilight was.

''Twilight? What are you doing here?'' She asked surprised.

''I just wanted to pay Jolly a small visit.'' Twilight replied. ''What about you, Scootaloo? I never thought you'd come here alone.''

''Yeah well... I wanted to talk to him about something. But I guess I'll come back since you two are busy and...'' she stopped to smell the air ''Are you cooking?''

''I am.'' I answered. ''But it's nothing, Scootaloo. If you want to you can talk to both of us.''

''Um, I think I'd rather come back some other time.'' Scootaloo said as she turned back to go toward the door.

''I get that you want it to be private.'' I made her notice. The young pegasus stopped in her track to put some thoughts into it. ''Now would be the best time before you forget.''

''No I'm fine, really. I'll just come back another time.'' Scootaloo defended. Twilight got up and walked to us then toward the door. I watched her do so and guessed she wanted to leave us alone, not leaving a choice to Scootaloo.

''Well I have a few things to do and I have to make sure that Spike did what I asked him to do,'' she winked.

''I won't hold you any longer then, Twilight.'' I replied. She left after saying good-bye to Scootaloo and me and closed the door behind her. ''We're alone now.'' I told Scootaloo. The filly turned around and I showed her the way to the living room where she could take a seat. She went to one cushion and I went to the kitchen telling her it wouldn't take long. I just needed to check on my soup a little if I wanted to eat tonight. After a small check-up I could say that everything was in order.

I went to the living room and sat in front of Scootaloo on the other side of the table. ''What was it that you wanted to ask me?''

''It's about today,'' she began. ''I saw you help a mare when we had recess. I was curious as to know what happened exactly.''

I chuckled at the sound of that. It was cute. ''Well, yes I did help her.'' I said. ''But her life is a private matter. All I can tell you is that she needed some help from me. Twilight came here to ask me.'' I explained. I bent my head to get just a little closer to Scootaloo's level. ''Do you know what a therapist does, Scootaloo?'' I asked.

''Not exactly...'' she admitted ''I know you help ponies feel better, but I don't know how.''

I raised my head back. ''A therapist is a pony who is able to help the others who need it, yes, but they offer their help with psychological problems.'' I explained. ''Do you know a little about psychology?''

''Not really.'' She answered feeling a little ashamed of it.

''Don't feel bad about it.'' I reassured her. ''Psychology is the study of behaviours and psychic facts. They are related to our emotions and sentiments. Sometimes we can live atrocities that will leave a scar inside of us. Not the kind of scar you find once your body heals a flesh wound, but a scar that affects the way you behave and live your life.'' I explained and paused for a few seconds to let her get the information right. ''It's not only about bad things though,'' I continued. ''Happiness and sadness are both part of it and will both develop us as one unique pony.'' I said. ''Yet these inner wounds need to be treated. Else they can cause damage for as long as you live and some ponies go through a lot just because of it.'' I added. ''You're still very young though and you're not done with your own development.''

''I think I get it.'' Scootaloo said, but the small frown she did made me believe she didn't quite get all of it.

''Is that all you wanted to ask me?'' I asked.

''Yes.'' She slowly said.

''I wonder though,'' I took on before she could move. ''Why are you so interested in what I do when just this morning you didn't want to hear a thing about it?'' I asked. ''You even claimed you didn't need any help.''

''Actually that's...'' she paused to think. ''... because I need to pick a subject for schoolwork!'' she said as an excuse and finding back her confidence.

I just went along with it. ''Well then I'll be glad to help you with anything you need!'' I said joyfully. ''If you want to you can come back tomorrow after my clinic is closed and I'll answer any question you need.'' I said. ''Is that all right?''

''Oh uh... sure, well maybe not tomorrow.'' She precipitated to say. ''I told my friends I'd join them after school so we could try to find our cutie marks!''

''How about this week-end then?'' I asked. ''You'll have plenty of time, no?''

''Yeah...'' She answered almost defeated with a fake grin. ''It'll be uh... awesome. I'll see if I can.''

''Just come by whenever you need to.'' I said. Scootaloo stood up and walked toward the small hall then turned around to look at me.

''Well then see ya!'' she smiled and ran off. I went to my window to watch her run away and smiled. I didn't expect her to be here this week-end, but I expected her to put some more thoughts in what she wanted to do for herself. In only one day she went from not interested at all to very curious. Like I said I'll be happy to help her with anything.

Chapter 2: How to earn a Cutie Mark

Chapter 2: How to earn a Cutie Mark.

''And it's because of this that you broke her vase.''

''It was an accident! I didn't mean to!''

''I believe you.'' I reassured. Today was my fourth day since I opened my clinic. It was already Friday. My client, a brown earth pony with a blond mane, had anger issues and was very desperate to try and calm himself. He was working in constructions so he had a strong body for that. I went on to explain him a little what I thought with all of the information he gave me. ''From what I get you have been punished a lot in your childhood, but not only that, you've also contained all of your anger inside for all these years. Your parents didn't allow you to express yourself. Therefor today you have a lot more difficulties to hold back your anger.''

''Yeah...'' He sighed.

''We'll do something together. I'd love to let you express yourself as much as you need to when you're angry, but the results could be very bad. That's why I want to offer you an exercise to do to help you lower your stress.'' I told him. He nodded to me in agreement. ''All right. It's a breathing exercise that will help you breath correctly.'' I said then raised my hoof in front of me. ''When I do this,'' I slowly went up with my hoof ''You will breath in deeply. Not with the lungs though, I want to see your tummy inflate.'' I explained, then I began to go down slowly as I reached a certain point. ''And when I do that, you let it all out until I go up again so you can breath in. All right?''

''Yes.'' He said.

''Perfect then. Let's begin.'' I said. ''Breath in,'' I commanded as I went up with my hoof. My client followed well. ''Let it all out.'' I said calmly when I began to go down from the top. He did as I said again and we did it for approximately five minutes together. At the end I asked how he felt.

''Much better.'' He answered honestly. ''I feel like it all came out that way.''

''That's very good to know.'' I smiled. ''I suggest that you do this at least twice a day for five minutes each time. It'll help you evacuate some of the stress and anger that you keep in, but it'll also help you endure more if you need to. The next time you come here I'll be able to tell you more.''

''Thank you very much!'' he exclaimed.

''Was there anything else you wanted to discuss about today?'' I asked.

''Nope. Nothing else for now.''

''Good!'' I smiled. ''Would you like to take the next appointment right now? It could be next week at the same time as today if you want to. For one hour.''

''Yeah, I think I'll do that. I really feel like I need it.'' He answered and got up from his place then came next to me with a small pouch of bits that he deposited on my desk while I wrote down his next appointment. ''Again thank you very much.''

''It's not a problem. I'm happy I could help.'' I said as I finished writing.

''I'll tell all of my friends. I think some of them would like to have a session with you. It'd be good for them.'' He added.

''Hehe,'' I laughed a little. ''Well it's up to them really. I don't like to force anyone to meet me. It's not everypony who needs it even when you feel like they should.'' I said as I walked to him.

''Yeah, haha.'' He laughed while I was accompanying him to the exit. ''Well anyway, I'll be on my way now. Have yourself a nice day, sir Thinker. We'll see each others next week.''

''Yep. Next week it is. Enjoy your week-end and take some rest.'' I said and he went away whistling a song. It was already a good day. My agenda was starting to fill up with a few names. It was a pretty empty week, but the weeks after were starting to give me something to do. Most of them were adults so far. When I was thinking about it, Ponyville is a pretty nice town to live in. Not because of my job, of course! I don't like to think that I take advantage of the ponies' problems, but the citizens were all so nice. I was getting along with most of them with ease. It had been only two weeks and I didn't have any difficulties to speak with anypony. Of course it's impossible to say that ALL of them were nice to speak with, but it was safe to assume that most of them were and I wasn't afraid to approach any of them. I thought I had made a very good move with moving in here.

I had enough time to do other things today. I was seeing my next patient only in four hours and I wouldn't have any other after that. So I decided to take my lunch time to walk around in Ponyville.
And when it was lunch time for me, it was also lunch time for the students and teachers at the school.

*
**

By taking my little walk outside of my house I decided to quickly pass by the schoolhouse of Ponyville. They were having their lunch outside and their teacher was with them all. I stopped by the fence and took a look at the schoolyard. I just wanted to see the fun they were having is all and I began to walk again, but I was quickly interrupted by the teacher. ''Sir Jolly?'' she called. I turned and followed the sound of her voice to find her. I remained silent while she was making her way to me. ''Well hello, there. I didn't think I'd see you here.''

''It's lunchtime for me too and I thought I'd use this time to have a walk around the town. I never really came here before so I wanted to at least see the place with a closer look.'' I explained.

''Then why don't you come and join me?'' She asked me.

''Well...'' I hesitated. ''Why not?'' and I made my way around to find the entrance. The teacher waited for me there. ''How are the students?'' I asked as soon as I entered.

''They're all doing fine. Today's a special day for them.'' She told me.

''Really? What's so special about it?'' I wondered.

''We're viewing the many possibilities of what our little ponies can do later in their lives.'' She said.

''You mean careers?''

''Yes, that's exactly what I mean.''

''Is that why you wanted to talk to me?'' I asked, then a sudden thought hit me. I didn't remember her name... I remembered she was at Pinkie Pie's party, but remembering all of the names there was an impossible task for me. ''I'm sorry to ask, but could you remind me what your name is?''

''It's Cheerilee.''

''Ah yes, now I remember. Thank you.''

''To answer your previous question, yes it is why I wanted to talk to you while I have the opportunity.'' Cheerilee replied. ''And I'd like to know if you're free this afternoon so you could tell the students about what you do?''

I looked up to think about my schedule. ''I don't really have any patients this afternoon and it's Friday.'' I thought out loud. ''I think I'll be able to make it.''

''Great! I'm sure they will all be happy to hear about what you do. We don't get many of your kind around here.'' Cheerilee said cheerfully. I guess it'd give her a break and it would be different for the students to have somepony else talking to them. They wouldn't have to worry about Maths and English. We continued to talk about this and that, nothing too important other than the weather and such. Sometimes Cheerilee was speaking to me about the students, how each of them were unique. She told me that once they had a talent show and she was impressed with everything the students had done. It was really nice to hear about all of these things and I was interested in hearing more. She then talked about the 'Cutie Mark Crusaders' who had made a very funny 'comic show'.

''The Cutie Mark Crusaders?'' I repeated.

''Yes, that's what they call themselves.'' She said.

''Who are they?''

She pointed with her hoof a table where three fillies were talking and eating together. When I looked I instantly recognized Scootaloo in there. ''The three of them. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.''

''I had no idea Scootaloo had talent in comedy,'' I smirked.

''Oh you already know Scootaloo?'' Cheerilee asked a little surprised.

''I can't say I totally do, but we've talked to each others a few days ago.'' I said taking my glance back to her. ''The first time we 'talked' was at the beginning of the week. Her two parents came with her and they tried to get her an appointment believing she is being desperate.''

''Have they?''

''This is why she was probably late for class that day.''

''Now that you say it... I remember she was late, but that wasn't the reason she told me.'' Cheerilee said thoughtfully.

''Maybe it was too embarrassing for her.'' I said. ''Yet in the evening of the same day, she came back at my house because she wanted to talk to me about something she saw that I was doing.''

''And what were you doing?''

I decided to put my sight on the trio again. ''Twilight Sparkle came to find me because a pony needed some help. It happened to be not too far from here and Scootaloo noticed during recess.'' I explained. ''So I told her a little about what I do,'' I then looked at Cheerilee with a small grin. ''After I tried to understand why she wanted to know all of that, she said that she needed to pick a subject for a work you gave them.'' I said then laughed a little. Cheerilee laughed a little as well.

''Oh the things they can say.'' She said. ''But when I think about it, it's not a bad idea! It would be interesting to know what they have in mind about their future.''

''I agree,'' I chuckled. We kept finding things to talk about until it was time for everypony to get back inside. Class had to continue for them and I would be part of it for a short time. I was eager to start explaining everything I could. I could already imagine the questions the students would ask me! I was certain I would have a lot of fun.

*
**

''All right class! During lunch I was able to have a special guest to come and talk about his profession.'' The teacher said. I was standing at the entrance of the classroom and waited for Cheerilee to introduce me in. ''Say hello to Mister Jolly Thinker!'' she said as she pointed at me.

I walked forward while hearing the whole class say ''Hello Mister Jolly Thinker!'' in unison. I scanned the class quickly with my eyes as they spoke and I could notice that Scootaloo was not very eager to see me. She even seemed a little afraid, but I brushed that off my mind. I wasn't here for that.

''Thank you, Miss Cheerilee.'' I said looking at the teacher before turning my head to the class, ''and hello to all of you. Your teacher and I have been speaking together outside and she told me that you were talking about your future careers.'' I explained and took a short pause before continuing. ''Well, she proposed that I'd tell you a little about what I do. Would you like to hear about it?''

Most of the class answered positively, but I overheard one who didn't have the same enthusiasm as the rest. A small pink filly with a purple and white mane wearing a tiara supposed that I wasn't going to be interesting at all. Well trying to please everyone was impossible, after all. Anyway, I had to begin with something now. ''I am what we call a therapist,'' I paused. ''What does a therapist do?'' I waited a few seconds again. ''Well, they help other ponies with different problems. But not just any kind of problem.'' I was looking at the class from left to right to look at all of them while I was speaking. ''I can help with mental problems.''

''Like what?'' a young white unicorn asked. I turned my sight on her and smiled.

''It could be depression.'' I told her and the rest. ''Or anger issues.'' I added. Then I went on looking at the whole class again to tell them more. ''You see, through our lives we live many, many things that will affect the way we behave.''

''Oh, oh!'' a young colt with a grayish opal coat did while waving his hoof in the air. When he got my attention he went on with his question. ''Did you get to meet any strange ponies?''

''Snips!'' Cheerilee called with authority.

''Don't worry.'' I laughed a little. ''I wouldn't say 'strange', but troubled.'' I corrected. ''In fact nopony here in this town is strange, Snips. It's because of the way we grew up and the differences that we have with the others that can make one seem strange to your eyes.'' I explained. ''But to answer your question, then yes. Yes I have met a few ponies with problems.''

''Who?'' Snips asked quickly.

''Ah, but that is a private matter!'' I answered instantly. ''I will never tell the life of my patients to other ponies. Only they can do so. It is their things to them and only them. Getting in the private life of others is not respectful.''

I looked more at the back of the class when an orange leg was raised. ''Could you tell us more about what depression is?'' Scootaloo asked still seeming a bit embarrassed. I looked over at Cheerilee. She nodded to give me the permission to talk about it, but I decided to stay simple with it.

''Depression is when a pony lives great sadness. Most of the time they have a loss of motivation and may even think they are not worth anything.'' I simply explained. I didn't want to scare them with further details since I knew that this kind of illness was tough to live with.

''How can you cure it?'' She asked me right away.

''Well doing exercises regularly can be a good way to help it.'' I said.

''That's it?''

''Oh, there is more to it.'' I chuckled. ''For example, one who feels depressed shouldn't be shy about his problems. Talking about them is an excellent way to be helped. There also exists a medication that doctors can prescribe to help one with depression while they try and find a way to cure it efficiently.'' I explained. ''But there is also another thing that can help.'' I paused as I looked at them all. ''Being surrounded by our friends or families is very important. They can be there for us when we need to be comforted.'' I winked at Scootaloo subtly at the end. I felt that she was asking these questions for more than just general knowledge. It was probably for personal matter. In her case I didn't have to worry about depression. Just the other day she told me she was seeing her friends to try to get their cutie mark. She was already surrounded and motivated in doing things. ''Does anypony else have a question?''

''I have one!'' this time it was the turn of a light amberish gray coated filly with a brilliant scarlet coloured curly mane and a pair of purple glasses to ask something. ''So the medications won't cure depression, but why do the other things you said do? Aren't medications made to heal ponies?''

''That's an interesting one we've there.'' I said before chuckling. ''What's your name?''

''Twist.'' She answered.

''Well you see, Twist, the illnesses we cure with medications are caused by viruses and bacterias that attack our body. Medications taken for that will destroy these microscopic beings, but depression is a mental illness.'' I said and took a few seconds to let the information get to them. ''The difference is that mental illnesses are caused in our brain. Certain parts of it can be affected by different events, like I explained earlier. Medications can't really suppress that, but they can temporarily help with it.'' I explained. ''Do you understand?''

''Oh, yes! That's really interesting!'' Twist nodded.

''I'm happy to hear.'' I smiled. ''Does anypony else have a question?''

The class remained silent and Cheerilee took the place. ''Well, how did you like to have mister Jolly talk about his job?'' She asked. We heard a few of them show their interest, especially the young filly unicorn and Twist. ''Very good!'' their teacher went on. ''We will be able to continue with more different choices of career now, but first we will thank our special guest for his explanation of his profession.'' And with that I heard the whole class say 'Thank you Mister Jolly Thinker' as a whole again. I smiled even more hearing this.

''Thank you all for listening and enjoy the rest of your day!'' I said and waved before stepping outside of the class. I could hear Cheerilee behind me who went back to teaching. It was very pleasant. Maybe short, but pleasant. I could now go back to my place and get prepared for the next appointment.

*
**

My day ended when my last patient left my office with hope written all over her face. I accompanied her to the door and she left. After our final good-bye I closed the door and went in my office to take some time and think. I thought back about my short time in the schoolhouse. I smirked at the thought of it. All of the students in there, some more interested than others and all of them listening to me. I didn't know if Ponyville had any therapists or psychologists before, but I was happy to share my profession with others, even if they were very young. Maybe some would anticipate it and go that way too.

I loved to answer their questions too, some of them were really fun to answer. I liked how the young Twist and her other classmate the unicorn were interested. That unicorn... I had forgotten who she was already and yet Cheerilee had showed me who it was in the schoolyard. She was a friend of Scootaloo... it was either Apple Bloom or Sweetie Belle.

And yet again I thought of Scootaloo, who also asked me a question in class. ''Could you tell us more about what depression is?'' her question echoed in my head. That young filly had something special to me. I didn't know what it was exactly. I felt like I really wanted to help her and even get some time with her. I always liked youth. I always loved to see children be happy and their curiosity was so strong.

Now the more I was thinking about it, the more I realized that I was giving Scootaloo a few hints when talking to her, but at the same time I wanted to believe she was fine. Anyway, there was no way that I would force her to come over here. I shook my head to try and get these thoughts away from my mind. All in all I had a great day and now the week-end was here. I'd be able to have more time around Ponyville.

But still... For some time I kept thinking about Scootaloo. If I was somewhere in a crowd of ponies, I could notice Scootaloo. When I helped Snow Breeze I saw Scootaloo. When Cheerilee introduced me to the trio called the Cutie Mark Crusaders I saw Scootaloo first. Why did I want to help her so much? She approached me and I knew she wanted to answer a few questions she was asking herself, but I wanted to lend her a hoof too. Well only time would be able to answer my questions. For now, maybe I should enjoy the week-end.

*
**

Sunny day on a Saturday afternoon! The pegasi cleared the sky of all the clouds for the whole week-end apparently and because of that I was enjoying a good meal outside of Ponyville's café. A dandelion and tomato sandwich was on my table and I began to take just a few bites before I got interrupted by a young voice. ''Sir Jolly!'' I turned my head toward that voice and before me were standing the Cutie Mark Crusaders. The young unicorn was the one who spoke.

''Hey, how are you three doing today?'' I smiled.

''We're doing great! We actually wanted to talk to you about something.'' She said.

''Of course, of course, but first you'll have to tell me your names.'' I replied. I'd get on with knowing who's who.

''Oh, I'm Sweetie Belle, this is Apple Bloom and-''

''Scootaloo.'' I decided to interrupt.

''You already know her?'' Sweetie asked.

''Well, your teacher and I did talk to each others before I went into your class. She told me about the famous Cutie Mark Crusaders.'' I answered.

''She did?''

''Yep. She spoke about the talent show and-''

''Oh, that's nothing. We're onto something else now.'' Sweetie Belle said cutting me in the middle of my sentence. ''Actually I thought it was really interesting to know about what you do. We wanted to know if you could show us a few things.''

''Show you a few things? What could I show you?'' I asked a little confused. ''Psychology isn't that easy to understand, you know.''

''Well, it's kind of really new for us and we thought maybe we could try getting our cutie marks that way.'' Sweetie Belle replied. Oh how cute that was.

''You see, Sweetie Belle,'' I chuckled ''Earning a cutie mark isn't the same as working to get what we want. A cutie mark represents who we really are and what our special talent is.''

''Yeah, yeah, we already know all about that.'' Apple Bloom spoke.

''Then if you do, why aren't they there yet? I'm sure something's missing.'' I said.

''Well...'' Apple Bloom looked away. ''We're testing all sort of things to discover our special talent, but it doesn't always end well.''

''Maybe you're looking too far? What about the things you like?'' I asked.

''Again with that!'' Scootaloo threw. ''We've already checked that one and it didn't work.''

''Like I said, I'm sure something is missing.'' I repeated. ''When did you check that possibility?''

''At the talent show. We got the best comedy award, though!'' Sweetie Belle jumped as she said that.

''Girls, I'll be serious here.'' I said to get their attention focused on me. ''I'm touched that you came to me to know more about what I do, but it's nothing to play around with. It needs a lot of understanding.'' I explained. ''Besides, don't you girls already bring something important to those you love?''

The three of them looked at each others with questions all over their faces before coming back to me with a shrug. I took a moment before answering. ''Love. I am mostly certain that you're all able to bring support and love to those close to you. I'm already sure that you do it between the three of you, am I right?''

''Well, yeah. We would never leave any member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders behind!'' Scootaloo said with determination. ''We've formed that club so we could all find our cutie marks together!''

''See?'' I smiled. ''If you can do that between the three of you, then you can do it with all of the others that you love. You can do a part of what I do, but it's important to remember that you must respect others' private life. If they don't want to be helped, then maybe it's best to leave them alone.''

''Oh... well that makes sense.'' Sweetie Belle said looking at the ground, then back at me.

''Hey, blank flanks! Needing a session of therapy?'' a voice said followed by two laughters. All of us looked over to see a silver coated pony with light blue glasses and her friend from yesterday who wasn't interested in knowing about what I was doing. They came closer to us and stopped to look at me, then at the trio.

''Well good afternoon.'' I told them.

''What do you want, Diamond Tiara?'' Apple Bloom angrily asked.

''Oh, nothing. We just wanted to encourage you in seeing a therapist, because, you see, you still don't have a cutie mark. Maybe you've got a problem.'' Diamond Tiara said ignoring my greeting.

''Well, that's not very nice to say, you know.'' I dared to say.

''Hm. I'm sure they understand. I don't want to be mean, I really care for them, right Silver Spoon?'' She said and turned her head to her friend.

''Yeah, like totally!'' her friend answered.

''That's not what your body languages says though.'' I replied.

''Yeah, we know you're lyin'.'' Apple Bloom said with a smirk.

''Now if you don't have anything nice to tell them or me, then I'll politely ask you to leave us.'' I told them with a bit of authority.

''Hmph! Fine, we'll leave the three of you have your session!'' Diamond Tiara dared to say before leaving the place with a laugh that was accompanied by the one of Silver Spoon. I watched them walk away easily with their 'fun', but I didn't like how they were.

I wondered if they were always like that, so I turned my sight back to the Cutie Mark Crusaders to ask them. ''Is it always like this with them?''

''Yeah...'' Apple Bloom answered sadly and annoyed.

''They never leave us alone, not even at school.'' Scootaloo replied.

''Even when Miss Cheerilee interferes they still pick on us just because we're blank flanks...'' Sweetie Belle explained. So that's where their obsession on finding their cutie marks came from. I had to make sure though.

''Girls, why do you want to find your cutie marks so badly?''

''Because we're the last ones of our class who don't have it!'' Apple Bloom answered instantly almost desperately.

''And since these two got theirs, they never miss an occasion to make fun of us!'' Scootaloo said with an angry air and tone.

''I see...'' I said lowly and a thoughtful look. ''Well, would you like to have an advice then?'' After I said that the three fillies stared at me with their eyes wide opened and wide grins, forgetting all of their problems. Right now they wanted to discover their special talents. Yet I felt that I would maybe deceive them. ''Maybe that first you should stop trying to earn your cutie marks that way.''

''What?!'' the three of them almost screamed in unison. I backed away a little so much it was loud.

''What I mean, girls, is that now you're not doing it for yourselves, but simply to stop being the last ones behind and so you can gain their respect.'' I explained. Again they reacted together by lowering their ears and looking down. Did they realize something?

''Then...'' Apple Bloom began, ''does that mean we created the Cutie Mark Crusaders for nothing?''

''Oh ho ho!'' I laughed. ''Of course not! By all means, your little club brought you all together and you've developed an incredible friendship relation.'' I said. ''You can all keep looking for your cutie marks together, but do it for yourselves, not for those two,'' I touched the tip of their noses with my hoof gently, with each one slightly reacting with their eyes following it. It made them smile at least.

''That's awesome!'' Scootaloo exclaimed and made her wings flap rapidly with that. She even hovered for a second. ''You hear that, girls? Now we know how to find our cutie marks!''

''Yeah! Let's get to it then!'' Apple Bloom said next.

''Thank you very much, Mister Thinker!'' Sweetie Belle said happily while looking at me. Then all together they high-fived each others while saying out loud 'Cutie Mark Crusaders, always together! YAY!' and they ran away happily, already ready to try anything they could to get their cutie marks. In their race, Scootaloo looked behind her at me with a smile. I was happy that she was grateful for what I told them, but it's because they wanted to try something new that it happened.

*
**

I was finally back at home after a day in Ponyville. I quickly reviewed all that I did today. I remembered, of course, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo who came to see me so they could try to get their cutie marks.

After that I ran into Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle. Twilight explained that she was helping her friend with her little critters. It seemed to be true since I saw a white bunny on Fluttershy's back. They were together so they could find ingredients for a giant meal that all of the small animals could eat. Shortly after AppleJack joined us since she was passing by. She greeted us with her southern accent and we began to talk. I was able to tell them about the three fillies with who I spoke during my lunch. AppleJack made sure to know if her sister Apple Bloom did any trouble or not, though it seemed to be more of an habit than anything serious. Anyway, I reassured her that the three of them were real little angels. I explained what I told the girls about getting their cutie marks as well. The three mares agreed with it and AppleJack and Twilight told me that they tried to explain the same things to them, or close to it. We had a very good discussion, but it was kept short since they all were busy doing something. After saying good-bye, I made it back home, which is where I was now. And while I was in the process of remembering what I did today, I heard someone knock at my door, so my attention went on the sound of it.

I got to the entrance of my house to open. Who did I find there? The young Scootaloo was staring at me. ''Hello again.'' I greeted, but the young pegasi didn't seem to be all that happy. She was uncertain, undecided. She looked here and there, down on the ground, then on the sides before coming back to me. Had she made the right choice by coming here? She wasn't too sure, I thought.

''Can I come in?'' She then asked. I allowed her to step inside the house by moving away.

''What's wrong?'' I asked. It was obvious that something was off.

''I...'' she paused. ''No, it's nothing...'' she turned her back to me, looking defeated.

''Scootaloo... I doubt that you came here just to tell me that. You can keep it for yourself if you want to, but the purpose of your visit would be rendered useless.'' I told her. ''You can speak to me, you know.''

''It's just that...'' she turned around to face me, '' I think I'm in depression.'' She said looking at me straight in the eyes. Her eyes were starting to fill with tears. I stared at her as well, my eyes being semi-closed.

I smiled a little only to say with a soft voice. ''No you're not.''

''How can you tell? I've got everything you told us in class!'' She insisted raising her sad tone.

''I doubt it, Scootaloo,'' I shook my head from left to right slowly, ''do you truly think that you aren't worth anything? Name me one thing that you're good at.''

''Well I can easily ride my scooter...'' She answered.

''And what do you do during your days?'' I asked.

''I usually hang out with my friends...''

''Do you have fun with them?''

''A lot.''

''See. You recognize that you have others around you and you even know at least one thing you're good at.'' I said, then I crouched down to get at her height to look at her. ''But I think there is something inside of you that isn't satisfied.'' Scootaloo looked down and sniffled once. ''Can you tell me one thing, though?'' I asked. She looked back up at me with her teary eyes. ''Can you explain to me why I'm the first pony you would ask help from?''

''It's because...'' she looked back down again. ''Well you seem to know a lot about these things... I thought maybe you could help me.''

''And what would you like to do?'' I asked.

Scootaloo remained silent for a few seconds before looking back at me. ''I'd like to have an appointment with you.'' She said. I couldn't help, but smile and even laugh just a little. I got back up and rubbed her hair gently.

''See, it wasn't that hard to ask. I promise you it's not scary at all.'' I said. Already she smiled and laughed under my gesture. ''But first I want you to ask your parents and come with them, all right?''

''Okay, I'll ask them.'' She said and already began to walk back to the door.

''Wait.'' I said before she could get out and she turned around. ''Tell me, why did you refuse the first time we met?''

''Uh... I thought that it sounded really lame, to be honest.'' She said, then lowered her ears in embarrassment. ''Then during the day it made me realize that I wasn't feeling too well and well... you look like a pretty cool guy who can help ponies with all sort of problems.''

''All right, that's enough of an answer.'' I laughed. ''Go advise your parents and come back with them. They'll surely want to hear a few things.''

''Okay! See ya, Mister Thinker!'' She said before galloping away. So in the end I was really going to have a few sessions with her.