“I think it would be best if all of my friends and I worked together,” you tell Danneltuft. “If you tell me where the boggies are keeping Applebloom, then the other ponies and I can all go and try to rescue her.”

Danneltuft nods his head. “Then listen carefully. If you walk a half-mile through the Everfree down the west road, you will come to an ash tree whose five boughs spread over the trail like a parasol. From there, head due north until you reach a limestone ridge running parallel to you. Follow the ridge until you find three caves, each large enough to admit one of your kind without trouble. In one of these caves will you find the boggies’ lair, and your missing filly.”

“Which of the caves are they in?” you ask.

“Alas, I do not know. I can tell you only what the birds of the sky and the beasts of the field have seen. The boggies have concealed from my friends the exact place where they reside.”

You deflate slightly, but this information is better than nothing. “Thank you, Danneltuft. I’m sure that we’ll be able to help Applebloom now.”

“One more thing before we part. The boggies are clever and full of mischief; be wary as you come near the caves, for there will surely be traps there to catch the unwary.” And with that, the brownie turns on his heels and heads towards the back door.

“Wait!” you call out. Danneltuft turns and looks at you quizzically.

“Yes? Have we some unfinished business?”

“Well, it’s just... you aren’t going to leave forever, are you? I mean, Fluttershy really didn’t tell me you were here... and besides, she only told me your name because of Applebloom! You’re going to stay, aren’t you?”

Danneltuft sighs and hangs his head. “The lady of the house has been kind to me, as she has been kind in all her dealings with the creatures of the woods. And it is sooth that I have never had a more worthy one to serve, for my humble tasks free her to tend to the birds and the beasts, rather than waste her time in constant cleaning.” He chuckles, and for a moment the laughter returns to his eyes. “I mean, have you any idea how much mess they make, all the animals which she brings into this home? Without me, she’d be buried under bird droppings and shed hair in a week!” He grows serious again. “But I cannot stay, whatever my will. A brownie must leave if the secret trust is broken; it can be no other way.” He bows to you. “Farewell, pony. Tell the lady that it has been my pleasure to serve her. And please,” he adds, “Do what you must to stop the boggies. I would hate to think that the lady’s sacrifice were in vain.” And with that, he vanishes out the pet door.

You stifle a tear and start galloping back towards town. Fluttershy was willing to do whatever it took to help Applebloom, even if that meant losing her brownie friend. You’re going to make sure her noble deed doesn’t go for naught.

1. If you go straight to AJ and the others to tell them where the boggies are, go to page 33

2. If you want to get Twilight first, go to page 29