//------------------------------//
// Chapter 7: "Sundown, Adventure Awaits." 
// Story: Lost 
// by MLPTMNTPegasister 
//------------------------------//

"Hmm.. It says here that Sun Sticks are few and far between," Sundown observed. "And Alicorns are the only ponies that can directly look at them without getting eye damage." 
"Where can we find one?" Ruby asked eagerly. 
"Either on the tree in the Canterlot Royal Garden where Solana grows golden apples, or in a faraway orchard beyond the Everfree Forest." Sundown replied. 
"Beyond the Everfree Forest?! That would take ages to get to." Scarlett complained. 
"Well, it's actually our only option." Sundown said. "Lunar Eclipse and Solana temporarily banned me from Canterlot until they've confirmed I've made life-long friends." 
"Well, then." Elusive said. "I'm not happy to say this, but it looks like the Everfree Forest is awaiting our arrival." 
"I'm not sure," Hummingbird cowered. "My mum says that even though she and Dad have been there before, it's the scariest place in Equestria. Animals that can swallow you whole; plants that could kill you with a drop of pollen; more animals, like cockatrices, that can turn you into pure stone with a tiny glare. She says that unless it's a life-or-death situation, she's never going back into the Forest again." 
"Well, she can't say the same for you," Sundown said. "Because we're going. Otherwise Equestria will be dark forever." 
Everyone shuddered again, even Sweetie Drops and Lyra. 
"I think I could be of use," Sweetie Drops stepped forward. "In our days, your parents' friend, Applejack, had a sister, Applebloom. This little filly, who moved to Manehattan just a couple weeks ago, befriended a zebra who lived in the Forest. Word is that she had a foal, and after she died, the foal grew into a zebra stallion and vowed to protect his mother's belongings. I'm sure he will have a map on which you can find this orchard you're looking for." 
"That is useful," Scarlett nodded. 
"Thank you, Sweetie Drops, Lyra." Sundown said. "Please inform us in any way possible if something bad happens." 
"You got it." Sweetie Drops winked. "Bye!" 
Lyra pulled Sundown close for a moment before the group left PonyVille. She said, "Sundown, adventure awaits."