Setting Dash down, Strider worked to clean a small spot for them to camp for the night. As he worked, Dash let out a small yawn, surprising herself at how tired she was. Her mind wandered to her friends, wondering what each of them might be doing; Pinkie would be dealing with the the last customer rush before, Fluttershy would be tucking all manner of small critter into bed, Twilight probably wouldn’t be aware of the time and lost in some book, AJ and Rarity are probably trying to get their sister to turn in for the night, Scootaloo would be…
A sudden rustling in a nearby bush snapped Dash out of her musings. She took a quick glance over at Strider, who was scrutinizing the bush as he slowly made his way over to her. Taking his cue, Dash slipped further into the bag and braced herself. As Strider gripped the bag’s straps, both he and Dash watched the bush intently.
Dash’s anxiety grew as the bush shook again. She could sense Strider’s muscles tense as he waited for what ever it was in the bush to show itself. The seconds dragged on as the thing in the bush seemed more content with tormenting them rather than show itself.
The bush gave one last shudder as the creature sprang forth.
Strider didn’t move, or flinch, or react in any way other than freezing in place.
Dash stared, unblinking, at the creature as it made its way towards them.
Both Strider and Dash watched as the creature stopped in front of them, and started to eat the clover they were on top of.
Dash and Strider looked at eachother then started to laugh.
The sudden outburst spooked the creature and it darted off into the undergrowth.
“A jackalope.” Dash said, trying to collect herself. “We were scared of a jackalope.”