It’s nearly sundown by the time you, Rarity, and Applejack make it back to the boggie cave. Applejack hauls behind her a large cart, with a blanket draped over the top to conceal its contents. As you approach the cave, the Ceanntighern trundles out, flanked by guards.
“Well, well, well,” he drawls, “It looks like you were able to find the gold after all. I thought a deadline might encourage you to be resourceful.”
You hang your head and tell him, “Sadly, we failed. We tried and tried, but we just couldn’t come up with enough gold in time.” With a flourish, Rarity pulls the blanket off the cart, revealing a massive mound of gemstones, shining with every color in the rainbow. “All we have is this cartload of rubies and topaz and emeralds, which I’m sure doesn’t interest you in the least...”
The boggie tries to keep his poker face, but the greed in his eyes is evident. “Weeellll... perhaps as a token of my great generosity and benevolence, I could be persuaded to release the foal in exchange for the cart and its contents.”
You smile at Rarity. “I think that’s very generous of you.” Although the boggie puffs out his chest and nods when you speak, you and Rarity both know who your words are really aimed at.
*****
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