Chapter four: A price of friendship; suffering a loss.
Plunk lay in hiding form her mother in a tree on the edge of town. She wished things to be better between them. She just didn't know how to tell her mother this.
She saw Misty fly by and not see her. Plunk took a breath of relief and turned her thoughts to her two new friends.
She could tell she was slowly winning Trooper over. And she knew much of that was due to Dazzle.
Plunk admitted she liked Dazzle a lot. Dazzle is one who was a little too clingy at times, as Plunk saw it. But at the same time Plunk enjoyed that attention as well. Just not when she felt like getting into some mischief on her own, and didn't want Dazzle and Trooper around to interfere.
Even Plunk had her moments she wanted time to herself, for other personal reasons. Reading is one of those reasons Dazzle had gotten her into wanting time alone to herself for.
Dazzle had not been like Plunks mother to her but tried to be an understanding and fairly non judgmental friend to her, and Plunk didn't feel Dazzle was to her. Plunk felt the best kind of friend she could ever hope for is Dazzle.
Though Plunk herself could not understand why Dazzle insisted on being her friend at all, to begin with, and why Dazzle felt the need to help to change her for the better. Plunk did feel Dazzle has been changing her for the better. Even if Plunk didn't exactly want her to, to start with, she now feels grateful to Dazzle to care enough to try, and not be angry at her while trying.
Aside from Dazzle getting Plunk to see better as to how she had been badly effecting those in town, and giving her a chance to personally repent and wish to change and do better on her own.
Dazzle had introduced Plunk to reading. Dazzle though this would bee a good distraction for Plunk when she did have some time to herself, rather then thinking of some fun to have, that in turn would only get Plunk into more trouble.
Dazzle did this about three weeks after having gained Plunks trust as a friend and an interest in what Dazzle might have to show her. Meeting with Twilight and Spike at the library was one such outing Dazzle's made plans for them both to do one day.
As Plunk sat in the tree she thought about that day the two had that outing together.
~~~~~~
Some time ago, Plunk headed out on a weekend to stretch her wings and find something to do. After a brisk fly around town to see what might be new going on this morning, she saw Dazzle walking about on her own along a trail leading out to White Tail Forest. Plunk thought she might surprise Dazzle by sneaking up on her.
Plunk hid behind a small bush, then took a quick glace to see if Dazzle was looking her way. Dazzle wasn't. So Plunk slowly crept closer to Dazzle, sneaking from bush to bush. As Plunk got within eight feet form Dazzle. Plunk snuck another peek at Dazzle. When she did Dazzle was still looking the other way.
Without making a sound Plunk started to make her move to another bush sitting right next to Dazzle. As she did, and while Dazzle was still facing away from her Dazzle said out loud, "Hi Plunk!"
Plunk stopped instantly. Plunk knew she was very good at sneaking around, and was sure she didn't make a sound. And even if she did, Plunk could not understand how Dazzle knew it is her that was making any noise.
Dazzle turn to face Plunk with surprise on Plunk's face. Dazzle smiled to this look on Plunk. "I'm glad to have found you Plunk. I thought I might find you here. I have got someplace for us to go today. I think you might enjoy it, if you give it a chance."
Plunk walked up the Dazzle. "You know Dazzle, you can be a little creepy the way you do that."
Dazzle tried to look innocent. "Do what?"
Plunk rolled her eyes. "Oh' don't give me that. You know. Just tell me what you got planed for us today."
Dazzle chuckled. "OK. But pleas tell me you will give this a chance."
Plunk said. "All right. I promise I will give what ever you got in mind a try. So, what is it already?"
Dazzle smiled even more. "Just follow me."
This lack of explanation filled Plunk with anticipation as to what Dazzle wanted them to do, and Dazzle knew this. Plunk hoped this would be a trip to the party store. And possibly play a gag on some pony. Plunk knew Dazzle liked doing such things at times. And that Dazzle in her own way idolized Pinkie Pie.
Dazzle lead Plunk to Twilight's library. Dazzle turned to Plunk after arriving and gestured to the door with a hoof, "We are here."
Plunk gave Dazzle the confused and disappointed look Dazzle was expecting. Dazzle wished to squash what she knew Plunk must be thinking. "Now Plunk, you said you would give this a chance."
Plunk sighed. "Yes, but the library! Why? Not that I can't read or anything. But books are boring. I look at enough of them at school to know"
Dazzle smiled again. "You just have not been shown the right books, that's all. And I am willing to bet with all that you had been up to before you came here to Ponyville that you have not given them much thought. Well, I think now is the time. Don't worry. I am not going to give you some boring school books. There is a lot more in there than that. And Twilight is just the pony to help us look for them.
"And I think you will find Spike to be quite friendly and helpful as well. I tell you it is so neat to see a friendly dragon living in town. He is not anything I had imagined a dragon wold be like. That is when I first heard we have one here now."
Plunk shrugged her shoulders. "OK, let's do this then. Could be neat to see a dragon up close for once. That much seems neat."
Dazzle nodded. "Right. And I promise you wont be disappoint with what we can find in there for books either."
Dazzle is the fist to the door. She knocked after Plunk joined her side.
The fist to answer is Spike. Plunk took a gasp as she saw him. Spike looked to Dazzle. "Oh' hay Dazzle. So, who is this? This is your new friend Plunk isn't it. Didn't you tell her about me? She looks kind of surprised. Or was that the point of not telling her. I tell you, both you and Pinkie both get a kick as to how some ponies react to seeing me. Though none had reacted like Fluttershy did. If Twilight had let her, I'd think Fluttershy would have taken me home with her right there and then."
Plunk quickly explained. "No, That's not it this time Spike. Dazzle did tell me. And yes, my name is Plunk. Not making fun of you but I didn't think you going to be so small. I was expecting something bigger and well, more apposing looking."
Spike just shrugged his shoulders. "Nope, this is what I am. Sorry to disappoint."
Plunk shook her head. "No, Spike. I'm not disappointed. I just didn't know what to expect."
Spike tuned to usher the two fillies in. "Well, OK. Come on in you two. Twilight is out, and I am tending to the library today."
As the three got to the center of the main room Spike turned to face them both. "So, what kind of books are you looking for today?"
Dazzle decided to explain the situation. "Well, I brought Plunk here to introduce her to some reading. Nothing boring. Something that might get her into reading. She has not done much of that out side of some school assignments."
Spike Looked over to Plunk. Then he leaned over to her and did some whispering to her. "I'm with you Plunk, I'm not exactly all that fond of reading myself. So I think you came to the right dragon. I am sure I can find something for you that even I have enjoyed looking at."
Plunk gave a nod. "OK' sounds good. So, what you got?"
Spike held up a finger. "Wait here. I think I got just the thing. It's from a stash of my own books. I don't got many. I mean, who really needs to collect books anyway, when you live in a whole library? Am I Right?"
Plunk felt she is liking spike already. "Yea, right."
Spike took off up the stares as the two waited for him to return.
It didn't take long for Spike to return. He handed the book in his little claws over to Plunk. "This is it. Tail Of The Sleepless Ghost. Despite it's name, it's more of a comedy. Though it is a mystery horror as well. But one that will leave you laughing more than anything else."
Dazzle smiled to this, and added her opinion. "Yes, I read that one before myself. Spike you picked up the perfect first read for her. Thank you."
Spike nodded. "Well, just doing my job. Anything else I can get for any of you two?"
Dazzle though for a moment. "Seeing that I am here, is the Doer Of Dastardly Deeds here? I would like to check that out again."
Spike shook his head. "Sorry Dazzle. That went out a day ago, and I don't think it was retuned yet. But I can check just the same."
Spike went over to the checkout book. The book was already opened as usual. He turned back a page. "Nope, still out. Funny, Bon Bon has it. She likes the mystery stories. This one is a comedy as well. She doesn't often check out any comedys. I guess she was just in the mood for one this time. Or she was picking it up for Lira. Lira is the one usually picking up any new comedy she has not yet looked at. Either way it's not here. Sorry"
Spike hoped down off the stool. Dazzle walked over to him. "No, problem Spike. Do you think Mad Memories Of Mimes might be here?"
Spike grimaced. "You want that book? I tell you Dazzle, you heave some odd tastes in books sometimes. And yes, we have it. It's not something often taken out, so it is usually here. I'll go get it."
As Spike went for a latter and pushed it to where he needed it, Plunk leaned over to Dazzle. "Mad Memories Of Mimes? What kind of story is that?
Dazzle smiled with a big goofy grin. "It's a story where a circus came into a town called Wheyville. In the circus was a group of circus preforming mimes. There was a lot of them though. About eight. Anyway, Those mimes was up to no good. They were thieves. All of them, and they travailed with the circus.
"The law had a hard time dealing with them after finding out they were stealing from the town. The mimes used their circus tricks to get away and taunt the law enforcement at the same time. It got a little crazy near the end. It ended tragic for one of mimes though. Things just got out of hand and someone in the law enforcement got scared over what one of the mimes was doing, and the mime got killed. It was an accident. But it happened just the same."
Plunk felt confused. "Dazzle. I had no idea you read such stories. That one actually sounds sad. So why do you read it, and even more importantly, why would you want to read it again? By the look on Spike, and what you just told me, it doesn't seem like a fun story to read, and it just doesn't seem like you to go looking at something like that."
Dazzle continued to smile, mostly over Plunk's misunderstanding. "Well, that part is sad, yes. But most of it is just full of funny antics by the mimes as they try to get away."
Plunk tilted her head slightly. "Do, I remind you of them in any way?"
At this Dazzle stopped smiling. Then she looked down. "A little, yes."
Dazzle looked back up to Plunk, and looked her in the eyes. "It's not nice what you do here in Ponyville sometimes. I am afraid that you or another might get hurt someday due to some of your antics. It's not just a few harmless pranks you pull sometimes. As your friend I worry about you and what you do."
Plunk frowned and nodded. "I think I understand. I was thinking, do you mind if I barrow that book from you after you are done with it?"
Dazzle smiled again. "I got an even better idea. Why don't you come and have asleep over with me, and I can read it to you. I know the story already, so I shouldn't have a problem reading again, but out loud for you."
Plunk felt a little surprised by this invite. "You, you are asking me to have a sleep over?"
Dazzle continued to smile. "Yes! I would like that a lot if you did."
Plunk suddenly felt odd. She was happy, but didn't think she would be welcome for a sleepover. Plunk decided to just go with the moment and agreed. "I, I think I would like that as well. Do you think your mom would be OK with this?"
Dazzle gave Plunk a goofy grin again. "What! My mom not like the idea of me asking a friend to stay the night? Now that's just silly."
Plunk just giggles a bit. "I guess so. I think it will be my mom we will have to convince. My dad on the other hoof, he will be happy with it either way. He won't say no. This much I do know. He will just what to know what I am doing is all."
Dazzle giggled as well. "All right. After we leave here, let's go find your mom and ask her then. And after that, if she says OK, we need to set things up at my place. We can get a bed set up for you in my room. Trooper's dad Kindle can help with that."
Plunk looked confused. "Your going to ask Trooper's dad to help set up a bed for me in your room today, just like that? And you think he will do it?"
Dazzle was about to burst out laughing. And Plunk could see her holding back. Plunk leaned over. "What? What's so funny?"
Dazzle finely stared to laugh. But quickly stopped. "Sorry, you don't know yet. You do know that Trooper is my colt friend, but Kindle, his father is like a second father to me as well. He will do about anything I ask him to. And he will be happy to do it. You see Trooper's family is, well, my extended family. Trooper and I did tell you that we did at one time live together in the same home, a few years back. Well, we are still family to each other, even if we don't live in the same home anymore."
Plunk's eyes went wide. "Oh' I see. So that's how it is then. But you and Trooper are not brother and sister. I can see you both don't exactly treat each other that way. And yet his father is a father to you as well. Humm... That's kind of cool!"
Dazzle smiled some more. "That is right. He is my colt friend, not my brother, even though we lived like brother and sister for a short time. Both our families are like one bigger family to each other. And one day both Trooper and I expect to be more when we get older. We intend to stay together always. And at that Trooper's mom and dad will be even more so my mom and dad as well. Or, I guess, in a way, none of that really changes."
Spike, showed up with the book. "Sorry, could not help overhearing. But I think a sleepover for the two of you is a great idea. Plunk, you will both get to know a lot more about each other that way. And Plunk, this is one crazy story Dazzle intends to read to you. It's not bad, but, well, you'll find out soon enough. You just might like this one as well."
He tuned to Dazzle "Here is your book."
Dazzle still with a smile took the book. "Thank you Spike."
Plunk felt concerned and looked to Dazzle. "Am I going to be a problem for the two of you then? You and Trooper I mean."
Dazzle shook her head while feeling confused by this question. "No. I don't see why you would be, or could be. And please don't think that way."
Plunk decided to just go with what Dazzle said. "All right. If you say so. Mmmm... Let's go find my mom. She maybe out with my dad having some coffee. My mom sure loves her morning coffee. And she likes to try different kinds at a coffee cafe."
Dazzle agreed. "OK"
She turned to Spike. "See you later Spike."
As the two stared to leave Spike gave his farewell. "Sure, and come back anytime we are open. Maybe Twilight will be here next time."
The two departed the library.
~~~~~~
Dazzle nor Plunk at that time had any idea how Dazzle introducing Plunk to reading would indeed affect the relationship between Dazzle and Trooper, or the relationship of all three of them as a whole.
This stared after Plunk went back to check out some more books on her own.
Plunk moved from the tree and sat on a cloud while she thought more on how this turn of events changed on how she herself thought of Trooper.
~~~~~~
She went back to the library a few days after her first visit, and found Twilight there this time. She got the chance to see Twilight some, but Twilight seemed too lost in thought that second day over for Plunk to get much out of her. And this time Spike was not there to help her out.
Plunk took it upon herself to fly around and brows for something that might get her interest. And she did fined one.
She came across a book marked For The Love Of Mine.
This, she almost passed by, but her time being around Dazzle and Trooper, made her stop and rethink. Also seeing how other couples are with each other, even her own parents, that is when her mother was in a good mood, she went back too that book and took it out of the shelf.
She looked at the back of it. It had has written; The long road two lovers take towards finding the happiness they seek with each other.
One mare Pine Forest finds herself in the midst of a decision of one stallion Dusty Mile who she is destined to merry, and a new stallion in her life Torrent Stream who she feels is the one for her.
In an attempt to flee the life that has been picked for her, she takes off to find a new life of her own with the one she chooses to be with.
As Dusty Mile goes in search for her, Pine Forest's love for Torrent Stream grows as they make their escape together to distant lands, hoping to go beyond the reach of Dusty Mile and his determination to bring Pine Forest back to him.
Plunk felt in awe over what she saw. Her heart pounded over the chance to read about such an adventurer, and a chance to read her first love story ever.
She looked about the library to see if Twilight was looking. Twilight had her own head in a book.
Plunk felt she might not be aloud to take this book, so she decided to try and sneak it out. She quickly flew to the door and opened it. At that moment Twilight spoke. "Did you find anything interesting this time Plunk?"
Plunk swallowed hard. "No Twilight. I might come back and look again another day."
Twilight responded. "OK' but you do know that any book you do find and take must be checked out first right?"
Plunk felt uneasy, but kept her cool. "Aaa. Yes, Twilight. I think I will be going now. Thank you."
Plunk quickly went out and closed the door. Then she raced back home to hide the book she took, before anyone knew she had it.
Twilight continued to sit looking over her own book when she remembered what she heard around town on Plunk's reputation to take things, among other things Plunk has done wrong in town.
She sopped her reading feeling bothered by this though. She could not concentrate on reading feeling something might be out of order. The growing need o check if something was missing ate at her.
Twilight got up from her position and went over to the spot she knew Pluck was at. Twilight saw the empty spot she knew a book was at. She even knew what book went missing. At fist Twilight was about to go find Plunk and get her to confess taking it. But instead decided to just let it go, and confront her about it when Plunk came back. Twilight went back down and just checked the book off as borrowed and left it at that.
Two days later Plunk came back to try and sneak the book back in. She found both Twilight and Spike is there this time. As they saw Plunk enter Twilight spoke to Spike. "I will handle this Spike. I need to let her know she can't just sneak books in and out as she wishes. Is both the principle of the matter, and not so good for my book check logs either."
Plunk tried to sneak over to the spot she took the book as Twilight was talking to Spike. She flew up to the spot the book was taken from. Twilight came up behind her. Plunk got startled by Twilight's shadow and drooped the book. Plunk faced Twilight and tried to explain. "I, I was just looking to see what it is about. I'll put right back."
Twilight was not angry, but she was not happy with Plunk either. "Plunk, I know you took that book with you last time. You can't be doing that. What if another pony wanted it, and I thought we still had it here and wasted time looking for a missing book?"
Plunk lowered herself down to the floor and Twilight did the same. Plunk held her head low after. "I'm sorry Twilight, but I really wanted to read that book."
Twilight spoke softly. "That is fine. You can take it. That is what these books are here for. You just need to let me know what you take before you do OK? That way I know and can check it off. I like to keep my library in order if you don't mind."
Plunk looked back up to her after picking the book up. "You know what book I took, yes? And it is OK for me to take it?"
Twilight smiled. "Of course it is. I think it is a fine love story. And a daring adventure as well. Why did you think you couldn't take it?"
Plunk chuckled a bit, mostly to herself. "I guess I was just being silly. Sorry I took it without telling you first. I won't do it again."
Twilight nodded as Plunk continued. "I did like that twist end, or I though of it as one. I had thought Dusty Mile might try and take Pine Forest back by force. I thought he was suppose to be like a bad guy in this story, but he wasn't. He just wanted Pine Forest to admire his determination to not give up on her so easy and follow her wherever she may go.
"But at the end of it when she continued to refuse him in favor of Torrent Stream as her chosen love, even after all that time, he let her go. He felt that if you love someone, you must be willing to let them go in order for that one you love to be happy. Even if not with you."
Then Twilight's smile broadened. "I see that you leaned something from that then. Good for you. I am glad that you enjoyed it as well. As I said, it's a fine love story."
At this Plunk smiled back, but frowned some after. "I did like the story, but part of that at the end seemed a little sad to me. I mean Dusty Mile proved to be better than I thought he might be, but was rejected just the same. In a way it didn't seem fare."
Twilight gave a nod. "No, perhaps it was not fare. But that is how life goes sometimes. Not even the best of us always gets what they want, even if deserving."
Twilight could tell Plunk looked a little troubled. "Is there something the matter?"
Plunk pulled herself out of thoughts about having to deal with life not always going as smoothly as she wished it could, nor having all that she may want. She spent a very sort moment questioning herself as to what it is she does want or feels is missing in her life.
She did not feel like talking about it, not to Twilight who she barely knew. So, she shook her head and smiled again to try and reassure Twilight that everything is fine. "Na, I'm fine, Just some silly thoughts is all."
~~~~~~
From that time on Plunk continued to take books out regularly, and plenty of love stories among them.
As she read them, her emotions towards the idea of having a colt friend like Dazzle does begin to change in her. Seeing that she already was one who didn't like being on her own, she now started to long for a more personal companion to spend her time with, someone she too could be close to.
She now wants to have what Dazzle has. And Trooper is the only colt she knows all that well, and such thoughts she has on having a colt friend like him made her change on how she felt about him as well. She wonders what it would be like if Trooper was to look at her as he looks at Dazzle.
After she felt these where some silly thoughts after all, but could not shake them just the same.
Plunk saw her mother on the move in her direction. So she bolted from her spot.
~~~~~~
The three on their way to Fluttershy's home just made it out of the main streets of Ponyville and was now on the path they needed. In the distance, they could see Fluttershy's home. It was not all too far but was still going to be a walk to get there.
About half way there Dazzle spoke up. "Twilight, that is where Fluttershy lives, right?"
Twilight looked to her feeling curious. "Yes, why?"
Dazzle lowered her head and looked to the ground as they walked. "I don't like what I am feeling while I am looking over that way. I think the creature we are hoping Fluttershy can help us with was already there."
Twilight felt a ping of worry. "What makes you say that?" As far as Twilight could tell Dazzle could not see over a distance to know, but could feel other things just the same. Concern rushed to her as she waited for Dazzle to answer.
Dazzle kept her head low as she answered. "It feels as if everything is now too quiet." She now looked back up to Twilight. "I don't know what that means. What I don't like either is the feeling of fear, hate, anger, sorrow, pain, and suffering, that was there all once for a moment, but is now gone. I kind of wish I knew what happened. I now think it was her he was angry with. I don't think we are going to like what we find once we get there. And I don’t feel anything or anyone is there now.”
Twilight was now very concerned. "That makes me worried to hear you say that. Let's hurry." The three moved in a moderate gallop the rest of the way.
Indeed, Twilight could see something she wishes she didn't. Before getting too close Twilight halted. Twilight started to take deep breaths. "No. It can't be."
Her breathing got heavier as she was taking in what she thought she was looking at. She blurted out in a low shrill wine with tears forming. "Fluttershy?"
She felt a tingling along her skin and body. Her body started to tremble, and her breathing got more erratic. She took three steps forward then screamed. "FLUTTERSHY!"
In a flash of light, she disappeared then reappeared more near the pile of bones, ripped flesh, scattered hair, and feathers Twilight knew was all of Fluttershy. She again took a few more steps to get closer but did not want to touch anything.
Flower told Dazzle to stay, as she approached Twilight slowly. Both Dazzle and Flower could see the mess form where they stood. The two felt the sadness and horror of the moment. The two knew Twilight was feeling it the most.
None of the three has seen anything like this. The moment was far more unsettling for them than they thought such a sight could be. It made each of them feel sick, scared and saddened. The nightmare Dazzle was having was now real. A pony was ripped apart and eaten, and it was a friend.
Twilight fell in despair. She lowered herself near the tattered remains that were resting in a small mud puddle of blood that is now mostly dry. She pulled herself a little closer to nearly touching. Her body shook harder as she cried. "Fluttershy... I didn't know... I didn’t think this would happen... It's my fault... I should have done more about this. I should not have waited. And now I have lost you." Twilight tucked her head between her hoofs.
Flower could hear Twilight sobbing as she approached closer. "Twilight..." Flower sat down next to her with her own face wet, while crying herself.
Twilight for a moment looked up at Flower.
To Flower, Twilight looked like a lost and scared child. Flower gave an offer of support to her.
Twilight turned to flower and reached out to her and held her. "She's gone! I was too late! She suffered as Dazzle felt someone would. I can see it. It wasn't quick. She struggled against it. There was a fight between them. She couldn't handle him like I thought she could. I was wrong, she had no control over it. And she was all alone with it!"
Twilight put a hoof to her own mouth in disbelief and grief at what she was seeing and saying. All while tears were flowing more and her voice shook as she talked. "OH! Celestia! That thing. It ripped her APART! and no one was here to help her." Twilight cried even harder over Flower's shoulder.
Dazzle couldn't take standing where she was any longer. She ran to Twilight while crying her little heart out as well. "I'm sorry Twilight! I really am. I wish I could have told you sooner about this."
She reached Twilight then stopped. Her own face drenched, with sad eyes looking up as she continued. "I didn't know her, not like you, but I feel so badly that she died at all. From what I did know of her, she was a real sweet and kind pony. I am so so sorry that you lost a close friend this way."
Twilight held her close. "You did what you could. It's my fault alone. I already knew of this thing. I saw what it was like. I saw it get up after hitting it with a blast that should have knocked it out. I did next to nothing about it then but ran.
I am the one that should have done more, knowing that it was that dangerous. Now I lost her for looking at some books instead of taking action, instead of hoping it would have gone away on its own.
Twilight placed Dazzle next to Flower. "I want you both to go now! And go quickly. It's not safe here. Go tell the mayor what happened. I will- I have something to do. And I want to be alone. I will be back when I can."
The two turned and galloped away back to Ponyville, leaving Twilight to do what she felt needed to be done, without any disturbance.
Twilight slowly got up on all fours. She went to the back of the house looking for a shovel. There was a shed where Fluttershy kept her gardening tools.
Twilight knew she had never looked inside it before. Seeing just how many animals Fluttershy took care of and feed, it was no surprise it was a rather big shed. She felt uneasy about going into someone else's personal property without asking. Would Fluttershy mind if anyone were to go into her shed Twilight asked herself.
To intrude did not feel right somehow, even now. However, concerning the current circumstances, no one was likely to complain.
Once having a look she saw quite a collection of tools and something surprising. A few unusual cut out's tacked to the walls. There were many. Twilight did not expect to see anything like this in here. She had no idea that Fluttershy had such an unusual hobby.
It was of ponies dressed in high fashion designs. Cutouts from some magazines.
Her eyes caught sight of two boxes full of magazines. One had a neat stack. The other had discarded cut up pages. She decided to have a look at the neat stack. The top one was much like the rest. Ponies dressed in fashion.
Twilight thought it an odd place to keep such a collection, but also thought nothing wrong with it either. She thought somehow Rarity likely knew of Fluttershy's little hobby.
Twilight felt saddened that it was only now and in this way she found out another one of Fluttershy's interests.
The shed itself, was full of other things one would expect to find in one, and were placed in there neatly. Twilight was able to find a shovel easily.
Twilight moved to the front of the house again, and she looked about for a good area to start digging. There was a nice patch of land near a trail that lead out to the Everfree along the path. It was an out of the way spot but could be found without any trouble.
Twilight started digging. She first neatly removed the grassy sod and set it aside. Her heart sank with the first few scoop full of dirt she scraped out after. The realization of what she was doing was a lot for her to handle. She was having to bury a friend. It was getting harder to do with each scoop. She stopped for a bit to console herself that this had to be done.
It was done for two big reasons. So the dead was not to be left out for others to see, and out of respect for the dead, not to leave the body to be picked at by passing animals. At that, it was helpful as well. It prevented many predators from getting a taste for ponies and get the idea to hunt them.
Though, in this case, that last one was a moot point, seeing now this thing that killed her is after ponies. So she continued while keeping her mind on the task. She still hurt inside just the same.
With a sizable hole made, Twilight used her magic to gather each and every piece of Fluttershy she could find, and placed them in the hole gently.
Next she used the shovel to scoop up the blood made mud and put that in the hole as well. She smoothed the ground where the mud was. She gave herself a rest when she thought all the darkened mud was clear.
She next went over to the stream. Using her magic, she scooped up some water and used it to wash up any other blood spots she could find, like the spot on the wall next to the door.
She gave one more appraisal, to see if something was missed. The place looked as if next to nothing had happened when she was done. So she turned back to the hole.
She picked up the shovel. While looking in the hole, she dropped the shovel aside and started crying again. "I can't believe this. I will never get to see you again. This was the last time. This, shouldn't have happened. I am going to miss you Fluttershy. We are all going to miss you."
Twilight fell to the ground facing the hole. Her body shook as she poured out her grief. "I so much don't want to be doing this. I feel like I am just letting you go. I don't want to let you go! I wish I could bring you back somehow. Of all the magic in Equestria, And I can't undo this!"
She lay there for some time just looking in the hole. Letting what happened burn in her mind. She wanted to kill that hare. "By Celestia. I will not let this happen again." She got herself up and started filling the hole.
Twilight once finish, she laid the sod over the mound. The edges would fill in naturally in time and as the mound settled.
Twilight walked over to the stream again to have a look around. She found what she was looking for. A foot long dark smooth stone she saw earlier. She lifted it out and placed it on the mound. With much concentration, she used her magic to etch an image of a butterfly in the stone. One just like the ones found on Fluttershy's cutie mark. It was a temporary marker, till something better would replace it.
Once all was done she sat looking over everything. Her eyes settled on Fluttershy's resting spot she put together. So many emotions were running through her mind. Overpowering sadness do to the loss of a friend. Despair at not seeing this situation before it happened. Anger at herself and even more for that creature that killed Fluttershy. Twilight felt so upset; she had half a mind to go out and find this thing and kill it right now.
A memory hit her from this morning while talking with Dazzle. She at first felt confident that she could handle this thing if she ever seen it again. However, that was only if she had seen it. She knew Fluttershy's control over creatures. This thought did not go unconsidered.
There was the thought that this thing might have caught Fluttershy unaware. And Twilight knew just like the thought she had while taking with Dazzle that it could do the same to herself if not careful. She might not be able to fight it if it snuck up on her as it likely did to Fluttershy. If so, it might kill her while she was on her own with it, just like it likely did to Fluttershy.
She made her decision, she would not go hunt it alone. She would need her friends for this, and possibly more.
For now she felt it was just best to head back home and think on how she was going to tell the rest about what had happened.
Going out now and trying to get revenge was not a good idea she reasoned. She knew she would be too angry and upset to think straight.
She also knew revenge would be on everyone's mind once told, mostly Rainbow Dash. She would need to find a way to keep each from panicking, or rushing off to go after it. They would need to be calm and focused. But the first task is to tell them. Twilight felt she had no idea how this would end.
~~~~~~
Trooper held the plate of iron in place just as his father told him to. Moving it slightly to one side as Kindle hammered away. It was repeatedly fired again and again to keep it hot and pliable enough to shape.
This was not the first time Trooper did something like this kind of work with his father. So he has an idea of what he was doing. Most of the time, it was just for some fun learning. It paid off now that he was getting a chance to work on his own suite of armor with his father's help and guidance.
Clank after clank rang throughout the shop. Turn by turn the helmet took shape. The place was hot. The work made them both hotter. Yet, they both trudged on with diligence.
A wooden dummy was used to test the shape against, to see how it would fit. Then back to the anvil to fine tune the form, so it fit right.
Steam rose from the water trough as the helmet was dunked in the water slow to harden the metal, and cool it.
It was made a little bigger than his head to accommodate the padding added for comfort and protection. As it cooled more, Trooper fitted the padding to his head. Once it seemed the finished helmet was ready, he put it on.
It fit snug, but not too snug as it should. Some of the padding would be removed or replaced with thinner padding as he grew into it. All in all, not a bad job both him and his father thought.
It was hard to shape such a thick plate of iron. With the new helmet forged, Trooper went out with it on to show it off to his mom. He was excited to have the first piece to his armor complete.
~~~~~~
As Flower and Dazzle slowed to walking back into town, they saw Plunk being followed by Misty through the air. Misty caught sight of them both and turned around. She landed before them, out of breath. "I can't ketch her! How can I discipline or talk to a filly that can out fly me?"
Flower was not sure how to respond. Despite the situation Flower and Dazzle came from she did not wish to simply ignore Misty’s question or her current situation. She felt she has something more important to tell her, but also felt she should at least answer her.
She came up with a thought and decided to answer Misty's question. "I don't know. How can one handle a filly with magic that can throw you out of a room when upset?"
Misty looked to Dazzle with her face a little contorted. "My word!" Then looked back to Flower. "Got me there."
Dazzle glared at her mom with a pleading look. "Mom! I did that once. And I said I was real sorry and would never do that again. I didn't mean to! It just happened. Besides this is not the time."
Flower gave a weary glance down at Dazzle and sighed. "I know sweetie. I will let her know what happened."
Misty was now curious about both of what she felt Flower had to say. They both seemed upset about something. She wondered if they had a hard time finding someone to help Dazzle or if they got some bad news from someone on it.
For the moment she was more curious about what Dazzle did to her mother. An adult pony getting tossed by an little filly was quite the news to her and quickly asked, "What made her do something like that? Tossing you out of a room. And how? If you don't mind me asking."
Misty continued to take stock of the way Flower and Dazzle looked. "The two of you don't look all too well. What happened to you both? Where you not able to find anypony that could help Dazzle? What did she mean by, this is not the time? What did happen that got you both looking so upset? You both look positively dreadful."
Flower gave this some more thought before answering. "Something horrible has happened. Dazzle and I-" Then Flower was cut off.
Mr. Kicker showed up seeing the three of them together while out to get some fresh air, and interrupted without taking full stock of them. "Any luck getting a hold of Plunk?"
Misty hung her head. "No."
"I'm not surprised." He finished with a grin. "She is young, and as you told me this morning, before running out the door, she is getting faster all the time. As for us, we are just getting older."
Misty got defensive. "What? Are you now calling me old?"
Kicker couldn't bring himself to answer. He knew answering that would get him in trouble.
Plunk circled overhead.
Dazzle looked up. "There she is! I'll get her down."
Dazzle was not in the mood to put up with any of Pluck's shenanigans. Plus she thought it best Plunk was made aware of what just happened, and now.
The three adults turned to her wondering what she was going to do.
She walked away and surveyed the area. Once she found what she was looking for she lit up her horn. Plunk wavered a bit in the air than with a slight turn she came crashing down in a pile of hay. Everyone went running where Plunk had landed.
After they had stopped, Flower looked down at Dazzle with a frown. "That, wasn't a very nice thing to do young lady. How often do you do this to her?"
Dazzle kept her eyes fixed on the pile of hay. "Trust me, not often enough."
Misty gave her thoughts. "That’s a nice trick. I must remember to come get you whenever I need to catch Plunk."
Flower shook her head. "Don't encourage her. That's terrible, pulling ponies out of the air like that. Dazzle! Please, tell me, do you do this a lot to her or to any other pony?"
Dazzle still felt this was not the time, but answered her mother just the same. "No. Only a couple of times to her, and only while playing around at the pond. I would never wish to hurt her. This time I just wanted to get her down quickly and without more of a chase so we could tell her what happened. I didn’t want to wait to see if she would come down on her own if asked."
Kicker Stifled a laugh while thinking of this happening at the pond. "Good thing she can swim." He grinned after.
It tickled Cloud Kicker's fancy of mirth, to see what in Equestria the little ones would get into or do on their own. For him, it was the best part of having children. That is, after his part in making them.
Plunk was no exception to him. She was definitely daddy's little girl, and he spoiled her good. He was never over protective, however. He did not feel right in denying her some life experiences. Mostly when it involved her friends.
Flower turned to him. "Don't you be encourage her in this behavior either mister. It is your daughter Dazzle has been doing this to. Are you not concerned about that? I know I am. This, is not the sort of thing I wish to see my daughter doing to another pony. Not like last time."
This got Misty curious about what Flower had told her on what Dazzle did to her. Misty asked again, "You still didn't tell me why Dazzle tossed you out of her room, or even how! I know she is no foal and soon to be a young mare just like Plunk, but she is still a little filly just the same."
While Not wishing to talk about it at the moment decided to do so anyway, just to get it out of the way. "Okay. It had to do when Dazzle was real little. Before she got her cutie mark. She was being teased by another young filly. One about her age named Prudence.
"Prudence got her cutie mark, and it was of flan pudding. Not sure what it meant. She is not such a sweet young filly. It was some foolish teasing on that she got her mark and Dazzle didn't.
"Over time Dazzle did get her mark after creating some simple light spell. She could make a spray of colors burst from a sphere of light.
"You have seen her do this before." Misty nodded to Flower. "A bunch of little unicorns gathered to show off what each could do. Dazzle was so happy she had something she could show them, and so proud of herself she could not wait to show everyone. She was at her most happy when she could do this trick.
"Prudence was there. When she saw the only thing that Dazzle could do at the time was a light spell, she scolded Dazzle for it. Prudence called her stupid because a silly light spell was nothing special or to be all that happy about.
"To prove her point, Prudence cast a bright light spell of her own right into Dazzles eyes. That hurt Dazzles eyes and blinded her for a moment. Then Prudence pushed Dazzle down for showing off what Prudence called weak and pointless magic. I am sure most know a light spell is helpful when needed, and not so pointless to have.
"Dazzle came running home after that. I went to her room to see what was the matter with her, and when I walked in she cast me right out.
"It surprised me as much as her. She came running out to see me and apologized for what she did. From that day, she had been spending much time learning how to control her magic. She was never able to do what she did to me again since or attempted to. But she did get better at control and got a little stronger than most fillies of her age, do too so much practice.
"A year later Prudence found this out the hard way. She went back to teasing Dazzle again. She had been in trouble for it the last time by her father Jules, but that didn't stop her. Jules has had problems with Prudence much as Filthy Rich has had with Diamond Tiara. Prudence may be his little princess, but has also proven to be a royal pain at times.
"Dazzle got so angry with Prudence for more of her teasing, Dazzle picked up a rock with her magic and tossed it at Prudence. Prudence stopped the rock with her magic and tossed it back hitting Dazzle with it. This made Dazzle explode with more anger and picked up about seven or eight rocks and pelted Prudence relentlessly all over for some time until Cheerilee got her to stop.
"By then Prudence was in such a shape with bruises and bleeding all over she was sent to the hospital for treatment. She never spoke to Dazzle ever since. That happened over three years ago. You can see why I worry. She is at times more than I can handle. I am just an earth pony. I can't keep Dazzle from doing things like that. I can only try to impress upon her that doing such things is wrong.
"Prudence and Jules now live in Canterlot. Jules wished to find someone to teach Prudence how to be a proper lady. He felt this was also the right move so he could concentrate on his work with electronics. He moved here for the peace and quiet. But Prudence has been out of hoof, and he just can't work. The fight she had with Dazzle was the last straw for him. So they moved."
Dazzle looked to her mother. "I am real sorry about all of that too. I don't hurt ponies anymore. I want to help them."
Flower shook her head. "And you think what you did to Plunk just now was helping?"
Everyone turned to the pile as it moved. Plunk popped her head out after listening to Flower's story about plunk also. She looked around, then stared down at Dazzle, once she spotted her. With a frown, she spoke in a low tone. "Traitor."
Dazzle looked to the ground with a frown of her own. She knew she deserved what Plunk just called her. Not fully realizing Plunk was just joking and not really angry, or mad at her, but still not happy with what she did just the same. Having been pulled out of the sky and right back into having to deal with her mother again so soon, was not a fun thing for Plunk.
Even with the little connection Dazzle has with Plunk these types of conflicting emotions confused Dazzle as to how Plunk was really feeling, and didn’t know Plunk was not really upset with her.
Misty moved in, and stepped close to Plunk, who was still in the hay. "Now you will be coming home with me. We have a few things to discuss."
After having her attention on Misty, Plunk turned to Kicker. "Dad! Tell Mom you didn't get fired from work at the factory!"
Kicker stood up straight. "I didn't get fired from the factory," and had a sly grin over something he remembered.
Misty looked over to him. "Don't be telling her and I that. I overheard your plant manager Quicksilver say to you that you seemed do for a permanent vacation! Before he looked over at Plunk and I. That was when the two of you were discussing the situation after Plunk and her so called friends were caught stealing. I was called from my plant to take her home."
Kicker just smiled again. "Yes, he did say that. But he was talking about what he thought I would be going through when I got home. The next day he offered to give me some overtime during the night shift. So I could get away from home for a while. He was even willing to give me light duty, so I would not be overworking myself. I told him I wouldn't do that. I love spending time with my pretty and crazy wife."
Misty got all flustered. "You- you- What!"
Kicker's face was full of amusement. "Yes, you should have seen his expression. It looked something like that!"
Everyone but Misty was doing there best not to burst out laughing.
After Plunk had a moment she asked, "Dad did you, and Mom have a hard time getting the new job here?"
Kicker shook his head while still snickering. "No. All it took was a word from Quicksilver to Rainbow Dash, and we had a new job once we got here.
"I told him before leaving his office that we are moving to Ponyville. He said he was sorry to see me go and good luck.
"Seems he did more than that to help ensure our luck. Because shortly after we moved in, I got a visit from Rainbow Dash. Dash told me Quicksilver asked her about your mom and I joining the weather team in Ponyville. I told her that would be great! With her acceptance, she gave there and then, we were in."
Misty had a look of confusion, and just had to ask. "So, what was that trial all about Rainbow Dash put us through? She said it was a placement test. I thought it was to see if we would place well enough to be a weather pony for Ponyville. To see if we were good enough to join her team.
"I worked hard to make sure I was going to make it! I was sure you did too. I watched you. You had gone all out before I had to go. So, I thought that was the test to get in. I was so worried I might not pass! Rainbow Dash is like the best! I thought she would only take in and work with the best."
Kicker remembered and told her what she missed was going on. "Oh, that! That was just to see what we could do and where she might want to place us. It was just a placement test as she said.
"If we did extra good, one of us might even have been able to work alongside her. As a sort of a wing pony.
"It is kind of like you thought. She would only work directly with the best who has any chance to keep up with her. That was what I was shooting for. But I would not have taken the offer unless we both made it. And we didn't. Neither one of us did.
"Funny thing is, she can take care of a few clouds for the whole town all by herself anyway, like today. She mostly only needs help on any full weather changes. Like setting up for a rainy day or a change of seasons. The more that she can get to help for such times, the faster she can get to doing what she wants to do. Like sleeping or training. For small stuff, like today, she is a one pony whether team all by herself.
"Everyone else is just standby help for on days she feels she may need it. For those of us that are on the team, we get paid either way, as a kind of a retainer. As you know, we do get paid a little more if a real big change is needed."
Plunk turned back to her Mother. "See mom, none of it was as bad as you thought it was. If you didn't overreact in the first place and had not bugged dad about it, we would not have had to move. And the move was not all that bad either. You just need to lighten up like Dad does."
Misty looked to Plunk with a frown. "Yes... Well, you still should not have been stealing. That is what really got us in this mess in the first place."
"I told you I wasn't stealing! My friends were. And I am not doing anything like that anymore. I promise."
"Well, you shouldn't have helped them with that just the same, even if you were not stealing it personally."
Kicker looked at plunk. "Your mother is right. You should not have gotten yourself involved. But we did discuss this a while ago. Even after the move. I thought it was settled then."
Kicker dropped his head. "I mostly blame that disturbing Rainbow Factory story some have been passing around, like some kind of scary ghost story. Some have even been using it to scare little ones into behaving themselves. Thinking that would work."
Plunk turned her head with eyes closed in annoyance. "Mom."
Kicker heard this and chuckled before continuing. "We never had any break-ins till after that story came out. Not many, but a few.
"The story did scare some of the young. A story that disturbing would. And not the kind of story to tell to little ones, but some do tell it to them just the same.
"Some of the older youths like Plunk had used it as a test of bravery or something. They started to get into the factory and try to steal spectra. That was not so much a problem. There was none to steal. Some of the others were getting in to mount a rescue attempt for any young ponies that might have been trapped there.
"That part was funny. The problem was none of them were suppose to be in there. It was an interruption in work to deal with them and get them out. It was that story that likely got her and her friends to try such a thing, as others have."
Flower cleared her throat trying to get everyone's attention. "As interesting as all that may be, we have a much more pressing and as Kicker put it, disturbing! issue."
Everyone turned their attention to her in puzzlement, all but Dazzle who knew what was going to be said. "Dazzle and I just got back from going to see Fluttershy with Twilight. I can hardly say it, but Fluttershy was killed by some big monster rabbit."
Kicker fell on the ground rolling onto his back laughing. "Wow! Flower, That is about the funniest thing I ever heard. But sounding a little morbid, even for you." He kept laughing some more.
Flower stomped her right hoof and glared at him. "It's not funny! It's true!"
Flower was starting to get angry with him when he didn't stop. "That thing! It completely tore her apart. I saw what was left of her myself. It was a mess. It looked like timber wolves picked her apart. But Dazzle said she could feel it was that monster rabbit or hare as Twilight called it, that killed her."
Then Kicker stopped laughing while realizing this might be true. Flower did not sound like she was joking to him anymore.
Plunk jumped out of the hey and ran to her Father. "Dad! It's true. It must be! It's that thing I told you Twilight and the others found in the cave. Remember? It must have gotten out as Dazzle feared it would. She told me herself this very morning! She thought something like this might happen."
Kicker got back up quickly. "Oh! Forgive me Flower. I'm so sorry. This is serious!"
Flower continued. "Yes, quite. I intend to see the mayor about what I saw. Twilight suggested I do so. Everypony must be warned! It killed once. It likely will do so again. The mayor may know what to do, and how best to spread the news."
~~~~~~
Twilight walked into town while heading back to Golden Oaks Library. She didn't at all feel like seeing anyone. Her mind was filled with guilt at not doing something more. Now she was the one to face the other girls and tell them.
She questioned herself "Should I tell each one in private, or all together?"
She had decided it best to tell them all at once. Having to tell of it more than that felt like dragging it on to her. Plus it would be easier to have everyone together for mutual support when she gave out this bad news.
She couldn't face them right now however. She just did not know if there even was such a thing as a good time for giving out such heart breaking news.
One of the last of them she would ever want to face right now came straight to her.
Rainbow Dash flew down. She did not pay much attention to Twilight's state as she was thinking of what to say. "Hi, Twilight. I just got back from seeing Applejack and Pinkie off. They are on their way to a pastry food tasting at one of the other towns. They asked me if I wanted to join them after Applejack found me and knocked me out of a tree. Again!
"I tell ya, I got to find a way to hide better in those things. Anyway, I told them-"
Rainbow Dash noticed that Twilight was barely paying attention. She could see on Twilight's face she had been crying about something, and looked greatly bothered by something "Hay Twilight. You don't look so good. Pinkie told me you were off to see Fluttershy, and that's where I was headed. Did something happen? Are you OK? Is Fluttershy OK? Will you say something!?"
From the way, Twilight looked to her and not saying anything, started to make Rainbow Dash panic.
Twilight didn't know what to say, She knew what she needed to say, she just couldn't bring it out. She also worried that Rainbow Dash may go looking for this thing on her own once told. She couldn't let that happen. She made up what she could as fast as possible. "No, Things are not OK. And Fluttershy is not home. So you can't see her now."
Rainbow Dash was now concerned much more the before. "I was supposed to go on a picnic with her today at noon. She never skips out on that. What happened? Where did she go? Did the two of you have a fight?"
Rainbow Dash was about to jump out of her skin, as it seemed more was wrong than Twilight was willing to tell. Twilight usually was so eager to say what was on her mind or what was bothering her. If she was keeping quiet about what happened, it must have been bad, real bad.
While willing herself to fight back her tears, Twilight blurted out with frustration. "No! We didn't have a fight!"
She calmed herself down as she saw she was just upsetting Rainbow even more. "Please, I don't want to talk about it right now. And just let Fluttershy be as well. It is not a good time to go see her. It's best not to. You can't see her now anyway."
Twilight could see Rainbow was getting more inquisitive. She needed a way to redirect her attention quickly. To keep her from flying off to Fluttershy's place, to check on her. "Look. Why don't you go join Applejack and Pinkie Pie on their outing? You could even surprise them by getting there first."
Rainbow sat and thought on it for a minute. She knew that Twilight could get very upset about minor things. Still this did not seem like one of those times. Rainbow could see it in her eyes.
Whatever happened, she could tell it was indeed bad. She also knew when Twilight got stubborn about something it would be best to let it go. At least until she was willing to talk or else, no one would get anything out of her. But when she did, look out!
While still feeling concerned, she decided to humor Twilight. Twilight seemed upset enough as it was to her. "Well, Okay. If you're not going to tell me what is going on, and I can't, or you think I shouldn't see Fluttershy. I guess I could join the other two. The idea of a pastry tasting did sound tempting... Alright Twilight, I am going. I guess I will see you later. Hope you can settle whatever happened. I am going to trust you. Fluttershy means a lot to me. Remember that."
Twilight replied, nearly under her breath. "I hope so too, and soon."
Rainbow Dash took off up in the air, did a little loop then headed back in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres to join Applejack and Pinkie Pie.
Twilight hated herself for having to deceive Rainbow like that. It was for her own good, she thought. At least she did not actually lie to her. That thought made her feel not as guilty about it.
Then it hit her, She should have had Rainbow Dash get the other two rather than spending the day away with them. She wanted them all together. She sent Rainbow Dash off in haste. Now she would have to wait till they got back, seeing how she did not get from Rainbow Dash what town they were heading off to. She did not have the time to go looking for then now, and she had too much on her mind to go looking now.
She felt a need for more time to think. She felt she could do that back home. Running into another pony was not high on her list. As she walked, she did anyway. It was Derpy of all ponies. Twilight was not looking where she was going, and it seemed neither was Derpy.
Derpy dropped her bag she was holding. "Oh, Sorry about that Twilight. Oh, wow. Are you OK?" Derpy looked at her inquisitively. Noting Twilight looked like an emotional mess.
Twilight thought. Great, another one asking what's going on.
In an effort to divert Derpy, she told her what she hoped would be enough. "No. I am not OK. I am just trying to get home. I don't feel like talking right now."
Derpy felt saddened by Twilight's mood. To her eyes, Twilight more than not wanted to talk. She looked like she was in one bad funk.
Derpy did not want to question her further, but did want to cheer Twilight up a little if she could. Derpy dug into her bag on the ground and pulled out a muffin. "I'd like you to have this. It's not much, but they always make me feel better when I am feeling down. It's a real good one too. It's a Cran-Apple-Blueberry with chocolate bits inside."
Without accepting a no, Derpy handed it over to Twilight quickly.
Twilight looked at the muffin then back at Derpy with surprise and more guilt. "I can't take this."
Derpy stated with a tone sounding of concern. "Yes, you can. I have plenty, and I want you to have it."
Twilight not wanting to argue with Derpy further over a muffin, Twilight kept it. "Thank you Derpy."
Derpy smiled. "I got to go. I'm do to be home for Dinky. She's expecting me." She picked up the bag and started to walk away.
Twilight had to admit, she did feel a little better now. Not so much for the muffin, but for the show of Kindness.
Kindness. It reminded her of Fluttershy. The pang of that memory hit her hard. She felt like she was going to start crying again right there and then. She needed to get home now before she attracted everypony around to her.
No sooner than she started to move she heard Spike calling to her, while running to her from the direction of the library. "Twilight, there you are! I was expecting to find you at Fluttershy's home. I got a message from the Princess. It doesn't look good. What do you make of it?"
"Well, read it to me Spike."
Spike cleared his throat, before beginning. Derpy had not gone far and stopped to eavesdrop, even though, she knew she shouldn't. It was not only rude, but she really didn't have the time. She just felt the need to know what this was about. Seeing how this was something from the Princess, it must be important.
"Dear Twilight Sparkle. I have some unfortunate news on the elements of harmony pendants. They have reverted to their stone state. I don’t think you have any power over them anymore. It would seem I am the only one that can make use of them for now. Do you have any idea why this is?
"I am also following up on some magic disturbance as well. I would like for you to inform me if you know anything about any of this. I may call for you to come to the castle if I feel I have need of your help.
"Princess Celestia."
Spike looked to Twilight when finished.
Twilight looked up with tearful eyes. "I think I... No. I have a very good idea what happened. I will need to have a letter written to the Princess immediately.
Spike pulled out a blank parchment from behind the one he was reading, and a quill. "I thought you might need to, so I brought these just in case."
Derpy still feeling she should leave well enough alone could not help but stand there. Neither Twilight nor Spike seemed to notes she was even around.
Twilight let out a deep breath. "I so wish I had more time to think."
Spike questioned. "Think about what?"
"What it is I am going to say... Put this down Spike. The Princess must know."
Spike raised the pen. "Ready when you are."
Twilight began.
"Dear Princess Celestia. I have news of the worst kind to tell you. Fluttershy was killed by some unknown creature. The same one I asked about the books on earlier for looking into what it could be."
Spike dropped the pen and parchment to his sides looking to Twilight with tears in his eyes. "No! Not Fluttershy."
At this Derpy gasped, dropping her bag again. Then shook her head slowly as tears of her own started to form. "This can't be true!" She happened to blurt out.
Twilight for the first time noticed that Derpy was still there. Twilight just lowered her head, sobbing and shaking in place. "It's true... Spike write it. Please."
Spike put the pen to the paper and continued to finish putting the rest down. "OK." Spike did his best to do what was asked, despite how he felt. But he knew Twilight was right. Whatever it was Twilight had to say was something the Princess must know about.
Twilight gave the rest of her report without any further interruptions. "This creature may have something to do with the magic disturbance you are looking into.
"I can't find any record of it. It might not even be from Equestria. Fluttershy's death is likely the cause of the elements to change as well.
"I am not sure what to do about any of this. I have just lost one of my closest friends, and am trying to decide on what to do about this creature before it kills another pony. I fear it may have to be destroyed, if it will not go away, or we can't detain it somehow.
"Waiting for it to go away on its own does not seem to be an option anymore. It also seems it may be smart, fast, and strong. We might not be able to capture it alive. Doing so might be too risky. I intend to kill it. Not just for what it did, even though that is enough for me. It is to protect the rest of us. I await your opinion on the matter."
Twilight spoke softly. "Send it Spike."
Spike rolled up the parchment and with a poof of green fire, blew it into the air as a trail of magic on its way.
As Spike moved to give comfort to Twilight, as she was still shaking and sobbing. Derpy took a few steps closer. "I am so sorry Twilight. Fluttershy was a very good friend of mine and Dinky as well. I am sorry, but I got to go!"
Derpy turned around quickly, picked up her bag and ran. Twilight could hear the sorrow in her voice and knew she was hurting inside. It seemed she needed time alone as well.
Twilight got up and continued back on her way home. Spike followed along close by.
It was not long after they both walked in the door when Spike coughed up a new scroll.
Twilight felt a little more calm from the walk and put the muffin Derpy gave her on a small table. She told Spike to read the scroll.
Spike unrolled it and noticed two parchments. One with a letter, another behind it with strange writings. Spike could recognize a spell scroll when he seen one but could not read it. So he turned back to the letter. To him, it was a long one.
Twilight took the letter with her magic and started to read it herself.
"Dearest Twilight, I am very sorry for your loss. Fluttershy was a wonderful pony and a very good friend. I too will miss her deeply.
"This death of Fluttershy is indeed troubling news. From what you have told me I might be able to make sense of this unusual magic I came across. If it is what I think it is, I don’t have time to help you with finding and doing something about this creature you spoke of.
"I hope you can get past your grievances to find a resolute solution on how to deal with this creature. I also request that you not have it killed."
Twilight's eyes went wide after reading this. "No. She can't be serious!" Twilight continued to read more.
"That may be important. I know you are hurting right now and considering revenge."
Twilight's brow furrowed with some anger, then spoke under her breath. "You bet I do."
She looked over the rest of the letter. "As much as I might be willing to give you that. I feel it would not be the best solution for this situation. Once I have more to tell you on this, I can better judge the fate of this intruder in Equestria.
"I may allow it to be destroyed then, just not at this moment. Unless you truly feel there is no other choice. I leave that up to you.
"Until then, do what you can to keep everyone safe and away from it for now. I will send some of my guards to assist you in protecting Ponyville. They will set up a perimeter watch, and help you try and catch this thing if seen.
"You can give them the details of it, so they know what to be looking for. They should be there later today. Possibly mid afternoon. That is the best I can do for now. I hope I can give some better news and options soon.
"I would hate to burden you with more, during your hardship, but I have another important task to give you. I will need you to find a sixth bearer of the elements of harmony.
"If what I think has happened, we may have a much bigger problem. If I am unable to solve it in time, we may very well have need of all six elements working to their fullest. I know this will feel like replacing a friend. But the circle of six has been broken. You must find a way to mend it.
"I highly regret giving you this task at all. Never mind doing so, so soon after you have lost someone close to you. But this is important. I have faith you will come through, for the sake of all in Equestria. Trust in your friends to help you. You are their center, but they make you complete.
"I can’t spend time to bring you the element stones personaly, and you may need them right away. So I have enclosed a spell scroll that will teleport them to you when you feel you need to have them. This scroll will only work once so that it is not found and misused by another after you use it."
After Twilight had finished, she put the letter aside and Spike held up the other scroll. "I think this is what she was saying is the scroll to teleport the Element stones."
Twilight grabbed it in her magic to have a look. "Yes, it is. I am not sure when I am going to need it."
She floated both over to the table where the muffin was sitting. She looked at the muffin with some consideration.
Grasping the muffin in her magic she floated it over and started eating while thinking. Her first thought was. "This does taste good." And as Derpy suggested, it did help her feel a little better.
Spike feeling like needing something to do in order to occupy his mind spoke to Twilight. “Aaa. Twilight, do you need me for anything?
Twilight thought for a moment. “No. Not right now. I just need to think on what to do next. I made the mistake of sending Rainbow Dash off with the others for the day. And I need to wait till they get back and wait till the guards arrive.
"I would like to take care of this creature now but I don’t feel it would be a good idea to do it alone. So for now I must think on what to do about the Elements of Harmony. The Princess feels I must find a solution and soon. That much is up to me now. I just can’t think of anything. Are you feeling alright Spike? I know this is hard on you too.”
Spike just shrugged. “I guess I will be okay. I know we take some risks, you and I. And the others as well. I just never thought any of you would be killed by something. I wish I was there. To have done something about it.” Tears started to form in his eyes again.
Twilight put out a hoof to him, and spike came to her. She gave him a hug. “I do too Spike. I wish I could have done something to have prevented this as well. I know it is going to be very hard dealing with her being gone now.”
Spike tuned to head for the stairs again. I guess I will go pick up the room upstairs. It is still a mess from you looking for answers on what that thing is. I take it you are done trying to find out?”
Twilight nodded. “Yes, I spent too much time looking for what it could be. Right now it does not seem to matter. It is dangerous, and deadly. It must be dealt with and soon. And I don’t need a book to tell me that. So I am done with them for now.”
Spike ascended the stairs. He turned half way up. “Well, if you do need me, you know where to find me.
Twilight gave another nod. “Yes, Thank you Spike.”
Spike headed upstairs to have time to himself, and give twilight time to think as he cleaned up.
Twilight felt Spike was handling this very well, or so it seemed. She also felt he was doing his best to be understanding and supportive for her sake.
She knew he was feeling much worse than he was letting on. He was always a big help to her. He was no hatchling, but for a dragon he was still just a child. Yet, he has proven himself, many times. One of the most recent, was at the Crystal Empire. He saved the lives of the ponies there. He brought Cadence the Crystal heart. He was named a Hero after by them.
He even saved Applejack from one real big timberwolf from what she was told. This was after they were all trying to stage a fake timberwolf attack that Spike could save Applejack from. Twilight thought, if I bring him along he would surely try and stand up to this thing we will be going after just to try and protect us from it. I can’t let him do that.
She felt unsure on what to do about him in all this mess. She did not like to leave him behind, and he does help when he does come along. Though this time she felt it best not to take him with her on this next outing when she and the others go looking for the creature. He is too important to her, and she doesn't want to risk losing him to this thing. Though she also doesn't want to leave him here alone either.
She gave a big sigh and said, “Why is such decisions never easy?”