Something stirs upon the borders of the Everfree Forest, something that does not belong.

Led into the forest with a bunny as their guide, Fluttershy and her friends will be confronted by a figure of masked intentions and hidden motivation. As they struggle to unravel whether this wandering stranger can be counted as a friend or must be dealt with as a foe, what will they learn of the world's wild places? What withheld nature of the Everfree will be unmasked? And what will the elements of harmony discover of themselves and their relationships?
What lies beneath the thorns of a vine?

Cover art by Mewball, used with great appreciation. Go check him out

Update: This story will be on temporary hold while I write some smaller projects and regain some of my waning confidence. Thank you for understanding.

My sincere and unending gratitude to Loopy Legend and Danger Beans for their advice and extensive editing work.