The Desert Spiritby Cmdr BrohoofChaptersThe StoryMeeting the Spirit The Spirits TaleRescue PartySacrifice RecoveryThe Story“Hurry up Apple Bloom” the orange filly yelled “I don’t want to miss any stories!” “Hold your horses Scootaloo I’m coming” Apple Bloom replied. Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell were waiting on Scootaloo’s scooter in front of the Sweet Apple Acers fence. Apple Bloom was rushing through her home when she slammed into her big sister Applejack. “Woah there sugar cube, where’s the fire?” AJ said as she adjusted her signature cowgirl hat. “Sweetie, Scootaloo and me are going to listen to the stories a new pony in town is telling” Apple Bloom explained as she began picking up various items that fell out of her bag. “Alright got my binoculars, map, paper, quill I think that’s everything.” “Apple Bloom you’re listening to stories what do you need these things for and who is this new pony you should be careful around strangers?” “His name is Artie Fact and don’t worry Applejack Twilight will be there and she worked with him in Canterlot. He’s been all over Equestria going on cool adventures and discovering new things all the time. We hope he can give us some ideas on how to get an adventurer cutie marks.” “Well ok so long as Twilight says he’s ok have fun.” Apple Bloom ran down to a waiting Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell. “Sorry I’m late girls” “Just hop on and let’s go so we’re not any later” Within a few minutes Scootaloo had the ponies outside the Ponyville library where there was already a crowd of other ponies lined up out the door. “Awwww we’re already too late” Scootaloo sighed “I’m sorry again” Apple Bloom said sheepishly ‘Over here girls” a familiar voice called out It was Twilights assistant Spike leaning out of the first story window. “Hey Spike” Sweetie Bell called back “Busy day for the library huh” “Boy you’re not kidding it’s been like this all morning everypony just loves Arties stories” Scootaloo let out a loud sigh. ‘You know I could bring you in through the back” Spike said “You’d do that for us” Scootaloo said as she perked up ‘Sure thing all I want is one little favor, Sweetie Bell next time Rarity gets a shipment of rubies from Canterlot think you could let me get a few?” “No problem” Sweetie Bell answered. “Well then we have a deal meet me behind the library in a few minutes” Spike had brought the Crusaders through a door he and Owlicious used when Twilight was away. The girls moved through the crowded library to get a better view of the Adventurer Artie Fact. When they finally pushed their way forward they saw a sand colored colt wearing a pith helmet sitting amongst many strange objects and pictures of faraway places. The young colt was in the middle of a story by the time they settled in. “The strangest thing I’ve seen huh that’s a difficult question” he said as he brought his hoof to his chin. “Well I’ve seen many things in my travels from vast oceans with the fabled sea ponies, to the temple that the Daring Do series is based on, to the volcanic homeland of the dragons but the strangest thing I’ve seen was the thing I didn’t see.” A light chatter filled the room at his odd answer. “It was on my first expedition, it was also the expedition where I got my cutie mark.” As he gestured to the treasure map on his flank. “You hear that maybe we can get our Cutie...” Sweetie Bell squeaked before she was shushed by Appleblom and Scootaloo both staring intently and Artie Fact. “It was 10 years ago I had just been accepted to the Royal Canterlot Historical Society. I was part of an expedition sent out to find safe passage through the southern deserts. While spending time in a local village I was told the story of the Spirit of the Desert. The story goes that when ponies got lost or were in danger out in the dunes a mysterious creature would appear and guide them back to safety. We immediately wrote it off as local superstition or an just an old ponies tale, but the deeper we continued into the dessert and each local we ran into gave a similar account and almost all the stories gave the same description of the “Spirit”. The creature would walk on its back legs and use its arms much like a dragon would use its claws. It was said that it was the color of sand from its head to toe with the exception of its single black eye. Others have claim to have seen it carrying and using strange tools never before seen in Equestria. Some stories show evidence of magic one native who was surrounded by Diamond Dogs claims the Spirit used thunder to scare them away.” “Did you ever see it yourself?” a pony in the back room asked “I was just getting to that part” Artie said, “We were returning back to Canterlot when the expedition was hit with a violent sandstorm. I was separated from the group alone and ill prepared. I wandered for days without water I collapsed on the fifth day. When I awoke I was in a village the villagers all said they saw the Spirit carrying me on its back and dropped me off at the outskirts of their village. By the time they reached me it had disappeared again into the dunes.” At the end of his story Artie Fact smiled at his audience. They all began at once with questions about the Spirit and his desert adventure. At this moment Twilight came into the room to quiet everypony down. “All right everypony” Twilight said as she began to shoo them out the door. “That’s enough stories for today Artie and I have work to do.” Reluctantly all the ponies slowly trotted out the library doors with the exception of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “Now girls that means you too?” Twilight began to lecture. “Awww but Twilight we want to hear more stories we missed all the others.” Apple Bloom pleaded. “Yeah can’t we stay for one more” Sweetie Bell joined. At the moment Artie Fact trotted over to the girls “Listen girls instead of listening to my boring old stories why don’t you go on your own adventure. If you think listening about them is fun just imagine how great your own will be.” “You may be on to something there mister” Scootaloo said “Let’s go girls we’ll go have our own adventure we’ll get a cutie mark for sure. Thanks Mr. Fact” While the three fillies rushed out the library Twilight glanced at Artie and said “You have no idea what those three are most likely going to come up with for an adventure” “What…What possible trouble could those three sweet little fillies get into?” Arite said with a puzzled look. Meeting the Spirit Meeting the Spirit “I don’t think this is a good idea” Apple Bloom stated over the whistle of the train. “Don’t worry about it” Scootaloo said in a comforting voice “Nothing can go wrong we told our families that we are having a sleepover at each other’s house right?” “Right” Sweetie Bell and Apple Bloom said in unison. “So they won’t even realize we’re be gone. We’ll be back from the southern deserts, found the Spirit and gotten our totally awesome adventurer cutie marks before any pony notices.” “I don’t think it’s that easy Scootaloo remember Artie Fact he was a skilled adventurer and he got lost in the deserts.” “Right but that’s when it WAS dangerous” Scootaloo reassured “Remember why he was there they made it safer for ponies to travel there.” “I guess” Apple Bloom said reluctantly “Besides it will be nice to get a cool Cutie Mark” “All aboard last call for the southern deserts” A conductor pony yelled from the platform. The three Cutie Mark Crusaders quickly dashed aboard the train and set off on the long journey to the southern deserts. The further the train took the crusaders the drier and drier it got. Eventually the scenery turned from the deep forests and rolling grassy fields they were used to. Trees were replaced with sparse palm trees the grassy hills now vast stretches of scorching sand. The train came a stop in a small village on the edge of the vastness that was called the southern deserts. “End of the line” the conductor said as he watched the trains’ passengers depart. “I didn’t think it would be so hot here” Apple Bloom said as she was panting from the sun’s rays. “Well what did you expect?” Scootaloo questioned. “I always thought desserts were cool and sweet” Sweetie Bell added “We’re in a desert not dessert. One is a sandy hot place the other is a tasty treat. Did you think we were going to a place filled with food?” Scootaloo said while bringing her hoof to her forehead. “I was hoping we were” Sweetie Bell muttered “Enough of this” Scootaloo demanded “We don’t have any time to lose if we’re going to find the Spirit we have to get started right away.” “Yeah but we don’t have any leads, where do we even start?” Apple Bloom asked. “Looking for the Spirit are you?” An unknown voice said from behind the ponies The three little ponies immediately jumped around to see where the voice had come from. “Over here” the voice said again. The ponies this time saw where the voice had come from. A dark figure was standing in the shadows just barley visible to the three fillies. “It just so happens I know where it is.” “Really” Scootaloo beamed “Can you tell us where?” “I don’t know if we can trust this guy Scootaloo.” Applebloom muttered into Scootaloo’s ear But before any more protest arised from the ponies the voice started again. “Of course my sweet little ponies you just go east out town to the oasis on the outskirts.” “Thanks mister” Scootaloo said as she dashed off in the direction of the oasis. “Wait for us” Sweetie Bell yelled chasing after Scootaloo Apple Bloom started running after her friends, before she left she took a quick glance back to the ally where the voice had been coming from. She could have sworn she saw the slight glimmer of a jewel of some kind. Scootaloo had reached the oasis before either of her friends and was already searching the area around the oasis. Sweetie Bell and Apple Bloom were not far behind both out of breath stopped just behind Scootaloo. “So what are we looking for exactly?” Sweetie Bell asked “I don’t know Spirit stuff” Scootaloo said as she looked under a fallen palm leaf. The young fillies looked over the tiny oasis for hours not finding anything leading them to the Spirit. “Let’s just go home Scootaloo” Sweetie Bell whined “There’s nothing here I think that creepy voice was just messing with us. “Yeah” Apple Bloom began to say as she did she felt the ground beneath her hoofs began to shake. “What the?” Within the blink of an eye Apple Bloom had disappeared from view of the two other crusaders. “APPLE BLOOM” Sweetie and Scootaloo yelled. They both ran over to the hole where Apple Bloom had been standing. They peered down into the darkness yelling for Apple Bloom getting no response. “Only one?” a voice said in the darkness “I thought you said there was three.” Apple Bloom stirred slightly still feeling woozy from the fall. “It was boss I’m sure of it” a familiar voice responded. “The voice from the alley” Apple Bloom thought. “What is he doing here?” “Well one is better than none load her into the cart and take here to the mine” the first voice said “Sure thing boss” the alley voice responded Apple Bloom could feel a net being placed over her and it was becoming more and more difficult to move. “Oh No I’m being filly napped!” she thought. Still powerless from the fall she sustained earlier she was unable to fight or even call for help. She was then lifted off the ground and placed onto another hard surface after a while she was jostled again this time she could tell that she was moving. By this time she was regaining her senses the darkness was beginning to fade. She could make out shapes of barrels and crates, she was in a cart. Toward the front she could see two figures bobbing up and down in the darkness. After more light began to fill the cave she could see the sparkle she saw in the ally earlier. Suddenly she was outside she looked back where they came from and made out a small cave. She looked to see who the two voices from earlier belonged to. “Diamond Dogs!” she said aloud. At this the Dogs stopped and looked back. “Oh awake are we?” the alley voice said “You’re quicker than most the fall usually keeps them out till we get to the mine.” “Hehe you not one of those magic ponies but you’ll do fine pulling our minecarts.” The boss dog said poking Apple Bloom in the flank. “Please let me go” Apple Bloom pleaded “I want to go home” “Awww poor pony wants to go home well in that case…NO” the boss dog said continuing to poke Apple Bloom. Both dogs began to laugh as tears welled up in Apple Blooms eyes. The laughing was broken by a crack of thunder. The boss dog fell to the ground. “Boss you ok?” the other dog said looking down at his friend Another crack of thunder the other dog fell. Apple Bloom could hear the thunder echoing in the emptiness of the desert. Then all she could hear was the wind. After a few minutes she noticed a blur in the distance a two legged creature was coming toward her. As it got closer she could see its features better. It was wearing odd clothing she had never seen before. Its color blended in with the sand. Its one black eyed looked like a large pair of goggles with a sand colored cloth protecting its face. It was carrying a black object that she couldn’t make out. Its head was rounded and had the same pattern of its clothes. As it got closer it stopped knelt down and looked at the two dogs. Apple Bloom stared at the creature not even taking a breath. It reached up and clicked something on its head and took off what Apple Bloom thought was its head it was a helmet. With its helmet removed a light brown patch of fur was revealed. It placed a hand on its goggle looking eye and took it off in its place was a pair of eyes much like a pony but smaller. It pulled down the cloth on its face and brought a bottle to its exposed mouth and took a deep drink from it. It placed the bottle into a pouch on its back. It walked over to Apple Bloom who was still starring in awe at the creature. It placed the black object against the cart. It leaned down bringing its face close to Apple Bloom. It opened its mouth and said, “You alright kid?” The Spirits Tale“Hello can you understand me?” the Spirit asked “I said are you okay.” “Ye..yes” Apple Bloom managed to say. “Good sometimes those dogs go a little too far when they try to catch you ponies.” “Who are you?” Apple Bloom asked “Whats the name your kind has for me The Spirit right?” The creature smiled when he said that last part. “You sure don’t look very Spirit like” “We’ll talk about that later for now let me get you outta there we can’t stay out to long a sandstorm is coming” “How can you tell?” Apple Bloom asked “When you’ve lived out here as long as I have you can sense these kinda things. Can you walk?” The Spirit pulled a knife from a pouch on its chest and cut the net holding Apple Bloom open. She immediately jumped of the cart and fell over from a pain the shot through her back left leg. “Owwwww” Apple Bloom squealed “Here let me look” The Spirit said has he gently checked her leg. “I don’t think it’s anything serious, probably just a sprain from the fall just stay off of it for a while it should be fine.” “But I’ve got to get home my big sis is gonna be out looking for me” Apple Bloom began to sniffle. “Don’t worry about that here you can ride in here and I’ll take you home” The Spirit took a large pack off its back and gestured to a pouch where Apple Bloom could sit in. “You can be like a kangaroo.” “A what?” Apple Bloom sated with a puzzled look. “Never mind” The Spirit quickly said Apple bloom jumped into the pack and the Spirit hoisted it onto his back. After gathering up his belongings he began walking away from the Diamond Dogs cart. “What about them?” Apple Bloom asked glancing toward the dogs. “Don’t worry about them, so what’s your name little pony” The Spirit said quickly changing the subject. “I’m Apple Bloom and what’s your name?” The Spirit paused for a second then started walking again. “Just call me Spirit that’s what everyone calls me anyway.” Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow at the word everyone. “Okay so where are you from? I’ve never seen anything like you before not even in Zecora’s and Twilight’s books.” “I’m from very far away, I guess you could say I’m the last of my kind.” The Spirit said sadly “So if you’re not from here how did you get here?” “I wish I knew” “Wait last of your kind so there were others like you?” “Yes” “Where are they?” “They…they left” The Spirit said in a somber tone Apple Bloom sensed that the Spirit didn’t want to talk anymore and began to slowly drift asleep to the gentle rocking of the Spirits steps. She awoke to the rumbling of a sand storm. She was in a strange cave she was laying on a pile of straw with a blanket the same color as the clothes the Spirit wore. She looked around the new area she was in. There were crates with odd markings and words she had never seen. Many strange objects were sitting all around she saw the black object that the Spirit had carried she recognized one word on the side and picture on it. ”Colt” she read aloud. The picture was a stallion on its hind legs “Awake again I see.” The Spirits voice startled her Apple bloom turned to see the Spirit was no longer wearing the sand color clothing. In its place was a green shirt with black shorts. “I figured you were hungry and since your name has Apple in it I thought you might like this.” The spirit sat a bowl down in front of Apple Bloom The bowl contained tiny pieces of apple covered with a honey colored syrup with small brown spots. Apple Bloom brought here head down to the bowl and took sniff of the contents. She took a nibble out of it and immediately went in for more. “This is delicious!” she exclaimed “Tastes like some of Granny Smiths desseret” “Good I’m glad you like it” the Spirit chuckled “I have more if you’re still hungry.” “Where are we?” Apple Bloom said as she finished her meal. “My home” the Spirit said “you’re the first visitor I’ve had” “What do you mean you said earlier you’ve been here awhile why would no pony vist you?” “I try to stay out of your kinds business only intervening when I have to.” The Spirit explained “But the others of your kind they don’t live here?” “As I said I’m the last of my kind here.” “So why stay?” “I don’t know how to go back home.” “How did you get here?” The Spirit let out a long sigh “It happened over ten years ago myself and five others were in a helicopter flying through a desert.” “A heli-what?” Apple Bloom interrupted. “A flying machine.” The Spirit answered “You have a flying machine?” “Not any more now let me finish.” The Spirit continued his story “We were flying through a desert and suddenly a violent sandstorm came out of nowhere. The flying machine we were in crashed when. We came too we were here. After a while we realized we were somewhere new, your home land Apple Bloom. Our leader decided that we stay hidden until we figured out what was going on. That changed within a month we came across one of your kind stranded in the desert alone. Much like you had never seen my kind I had never seen yours. We didn’t know what to make of your kind were you aggressive towards us, friendly? We followed him for a day until he collapsed our leader changed his mind and he carried the lost pony to a nearby village and left him on the outskirts.” “Artie Fact!” Apple Bloom yelled “What?” the Spirit said “Artie Fact that’s the name of the pony you rescued. He is the one that told me the story about you.” “Huh I always wondered how he turned out. So ever since then we made it our job to protect your kind when they got lost out here.” “So what about the others, where exactly did they go?” “Out of the five I came here with two said they wanted to go home. They walked into the desert and we never saw them again. One got bitten by a snake and never recovered. The last to go was our leader he was taken by those Dogs when I found him it was too late.” “I’m sorry” Apple Bloom said “It’s ok kid because of him many of your kind got away from the Dogs he would have wanted it that way.” The Spirit explained “That’s how he was” The Spirit was silent for a moment “Get some rest tomorrow I’ll take you to the village and they can get you home.” “What about you?” Apple Bloom asked “What will you do when I leave?” “I’ll be here and do what I’ve always done keep your kind out of trouble in the desert.” “Why don’t you come with me why I bet Twilight could find a way to get you home and if she can’t well…I’ll take you to see the Princess she can do anything.” “We’ll see” the Spirit smiled “Just get some rest okay it’s a long journey to the village.” Rescue Party“APPLE BLOOOOOM” Scootaloo yelled down the dark hole “She’s not there Scoot come on we have to go get help.” Sweetie Bell said as she pulled Scootaloo from the edge of the hole Apple Bloom had just fell down. “But…But then they will know we left home and then we’ll be in trouble” Scootaloo managed to say as her eyes began to water. “I know but what if Apple Bloom is hurt we have to go back” Sweetie Bell assured Scootaloo “You’re right” Scootaloo said as she started to walk away from the hole then jumped back and yelled “Don’t worry Apple Bloom were going to go get help don’t go anywhere!” The two ponies made it back to the station just before the train left. The ride back was a silent one both fillies contemplating what laid ahead when they arrived in Ponyville. The sun was starting to set by the time Rarity had reached Sweet Apple Acres. She walked through the gate up to the home of the Apple family and knocked on the front door. “Good Afternoon Big Mac is Applejack around” she asked when the large Colt opened the door. “Eeyup” he replied “She’s in the barn” “Thank You” Rarity replied as she gracefully made her way to the barn. Rarity walked into the barn the musty smell of hay filled her nose. “Ugh why anypony would want to live like this I’ll never understand” she muttered to herself “Maybe you should give a try Rarity you might actually like it” Applejack replied looking down on Rarity from the loft in the barn “Never” the white pony stated “I’m far too ladylike to spend my days in a musty old barn.” Rarity said with a smile “Whatever you say” Applejack said with a smile back “What brings out here anyway?” “Oh I just realized that Sweetie forgot her brush and I didn’t want her to have a mane emergency.” “Well what did ya bring it here for?” Applejack laughed “Are they playing at their clubhouse I assumed they would be back here for dinner by now.” Rarity said “Back here for dinner? Why come here when they are staying with you.” Applejack said. “With me? I’m far too busy to watch over three little fillies. I was overjoyed when Sweetie said she would be staying here for a few days.” “Why that little filly, Apple Bloom said she was staying with you.” Applejack said with a slight angry tone. “Come on they are probably staying at their clubhouse again.” As Rarity and Applejack headed toward the entrance to Sweet Apple Acres they met Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo running up to the entrance. “There you girls are.” Rarity said “I’m disappointed in you Sweetie lying to your big sister.” “Yeah and where’s Apple Bloom I need to give her a piece of my mind?” Applejack demanded “That’s why we’re here” Sweetie Bell said as she looked at the ground. “What ya mean?” Applejack said a little annoyed Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo explained the entire situation while fighting back tears. From the story Artie Fact told them. To the plan to find the Spirit and earn their cutie marks. How a stranger told them to go to the oasis. Then how Apple Bloom had fell down the hole and disappeared from sight. “MY LITTE SIS!” Applejack yelled “We gotta go Rarity we have to go get her! My little sis is hurt and alone oh no!” “Don’t worry Applejack we leave right away as for you two” Rarity snapped at the two younger ponies “Go inside and stay with Big Mac and don’t you dare leave his sight!” “Yes ma’am” they said in unison. Within a few minutes Rarity, Applejack, Twilight, Artie Fact and Spike were on the train headed to the southern deserts. Applejack was sitting in the back of the train car silently looking out the window. “Poor Applejack” Twilight said “I can’t imagine how she feels.” “I know” Artie Fact responded “I can’t help but feel this is somewhat my fault.” “What are the odds Apple Bloom is still ok Artie? You have the most experience with the deserts.” Rarity asked “Well…assuming she feel down an abandoned well she should be safe from the creatures that roam that area.” “So she’s gonna be ok?” Twilight asked again “Hard to say” Artie continued “That’s the thing about the deserts you never know what is out there. I’m sorry I can’t give a better answer.” “I wish Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash hadn’t been called away to Cloudsdale we could sure use them.” Twilight said aloud “And with Pinkie Pie taking care of the baby Cakes” Spike included “We should be fine” Twilight interrupted “With Rarity’s and my magic and Arties experience well be fine.” “We’ll just have to hope for the best when we get there for both Apple Bloom and Applejacks sake.” Rarity said as she glanced back at the still silent Applejack Applejack still looking out the window muttered under her breath “Hang on little sis I’m coming for you.” Apple Bloom yawned and stretched she stood up on the small bed the Spirit had made for her. The sandstorm had passed the cave was now filled with the bright sunshine coming in from the desert. “Spirit?” she said aloud looking around the room Apple Bloom headed toward the entrance to the cave. Outside she could see the Spirit standing in front the same black object he carried. The object was stuck into the ground with a helmet placed on top of it. She could also see a silver necklace glimmering in the sun hanging down on it. The Spirit was standing silent his eyes fixed on the collection of object. “Whats that?” Apple Bloom said startling the Spirit “Ah I didn’t hear you” the Spirit said as he turned to face Apple Bloom. “Do you remember when I told you about our leader?” “Yes” “This is a memorial to him its kinda of a tradition to honor people where I’m from.” The Spirit said as he turned to the memorial again. “That black thing…I noticed you carry one just like it. What is it? It says Colt on the side but it doesn’t look like any colt I’ve ever seen.” Apple Bloom asked “This is uh” The spirit said as if searching for words “It’s my people’s version of magic I guess.” “Like that thunder I heard when you saved me.” “Right…how about breakfast before we head out?” The Spirit said hastily “Oh yeah I saw you have these funny looking green eggs!” Apple Bloom exclaimed “Green eggs?” the Spirit thought “WAIT” he exclaimed “You didn’t touch those did you?!” “No” Apple Bloom said startled at the Spirits outburst The Spirit let out a relieved sigh “Good those aren’t eggs Apple Bloom that’s…uh…more magic a very dangerous magic.” “I’m sorry” “It’s ok you didn’t know now I think I might have some oats stashed somewhere.” After breakfast the Spirit and Apple Bloom began the long trek back to the village. “You should probably ride in my pack again Apple Bloom.” The Spirit said as he placed his pack on the ground. “Why my leg is feeling much better?” “The sand” the Spirit stated “It get very hot during the day and without protection it can be very uncomfortable.” The Spirit lifted the pack along with Apple Bloom inside and continued on. Apple Bloom placed her front legs over the Spirits shoulder so she could talk to him as the journeyed through the desert. “So did you think about it?” She asked “About what?” “About coming to Ponyville with me” Apple Bloom reminded him “Oh” the Spirit answered “I don’t think so.” “What! Why you want to stay out in the desert all alone? “No” “Then why don’t you won’t go with me?” Apple Bloom questioned “Will you at least think about it more?” “Fine I’ll think it over” The Spirit said “No promises” They continued for hours Apple Bloom asking various questions about the Spirit, telling him stories about her times in Ponyville. Sacrifice Sacrifice “Getting thirsty back there Apple Bloom?” The Spirit asked over his shoulder. “Yeah a little bit.” “There’s a small spring up ahead in that canyon we’ll take a break there and move on.” He said as he gestured to a group of rocks sticking out of the sand. As the Spirit walked into the canyon Apple Bloom could hear the faint noise of moving water echoing all around them. The Spirit turned a corner revealing a small overhang with a spring beneath it. The Spirit took off his pack and gently placed it on the ground allowing Apple Bloom to hop down. “Is it safe to drink?” she asked peering into the crystal clear water “Probably the cleanest around” the Spirit assured Apple Bloom began to take large gulps of water from the spring. The Spirit propped himself against a rock relaxing under the shade of the overhang. “So have you thought about coming with me to Ponyville?” Apple Bloom asked as she walked over and sat by the Spirit “Yes I have and I would like to, but I can’t leave here who would watch over the ponies then?” He said scratching Apple Bloom behind the ear. “I understand” she said “It just makes me sad that you will be all alone.” “I know Apple..” The Spirit was interrupted by the sound of voices echoing in the canyon. “Crap” the Spirit muttered “I was too carless, Apple Bloom I want you to hide behind that boulder” he pointed her toward a boulder a few yards from them. “and if I tell you to run I want you to run as fast as you can in that direction. The village is maybe thirty minutes from here and don’t stop till you get there also whatever you do don’t look back.” “But” Apple Bloom started to say “No buts promise me” The Spirit said with a determined look on his face. “Okay what about you?” Apple said confused at what was going on “Don’t worry now go” The Spirit said as he pushed her toward the boulder. Apple Bloom ran to the boulder and listened to the voices growing louder and louder. “Well look what we have here boys” an unknown voice said aloud “The Spirit trapped and outnumbered.” “Yeah not so powerful when you aint got the jump on us!” another voice called out. Apple Bloom recognized the voices as Diamond Dogs “Just leave dog and no one will get hurt.” The Spirit said calmly “I don’t think so” the first voice said “We’re tired of you.” Apple Bloom slowly peaked out from her hiding place. She saw the Spirit surrounded by at least 10 Diamond Dogs slowly advancing on him. “I didn’t want to have to do this” the Spirit said as he pulled two of the green eggs that he had warned Apple Bloom about earlier that day. “Back up boys” one dog grunted “That’s right you remember these don’t you” The Spirit said with a grin “Yeah I also remember that we are too close for you to use those you’ll be hurt too.” “Maybe” the Spirit said “All I need is a little time anyway” The Spirits eyes quickly batted to Apple Blooms hiding place. “NOW APPLE BLOOM GO!” The Spirit yelled Apple Bloom ran as fast as she could in the direction the Spirit had pointed out. She could hear yelling as she ran but was too scared to make out any of it. “This is the place” Applejack said “This is where the girls saw Apple Bloom last” Applejack immediately began to pace around the area looking for any sign of her sister. “Over here” Spike yelled “I think I found the hole” The group ran over to the dragon’s location. Applejack stuck her head into the hole. “APPLE BLOOM” she yelled the only response was her own echo “I’m going down” she said “Now hold on Applejack” Twilight said as she held her hoof in front of Applejack “We don’t know how deep that is and also you’re too big to fit.” “I’ll go Spike” interrupted “Ok Rarity, Artie you get Spike ready to lower down. I’ll try to illuminate the hole.” “Right” Artie said getting rope from his saddle bag Before the purple pony could concentrate on the spell to illuminate the hole two large booms ripped through the sky. “What was that?” Spike exclaimed “That was louder that Rainbow’s sonic rainboom” Rarity added “I think we should go check it out” Artie said looking in the direction the sound came from “What!” Applejack yelled “Who cares about that we came for Apple Bloom” “What if she’s there?” Twilight said to the upset Applejack “Alight but if she’s not there we come right back here” Applejack stated “Agreed” Twilight said. The ponies took off at full sprint toward the source of the boom. As they got closer they saw a small yellow speck coming toward them in the distance. “Whats that?” Spike said as he stood on Twilights back “IT’S APPLE BLOOM!” Applejack yelled as she began to outrun the others. “Applejack” Apple Bloom said catching her breath as the two met in the middle Applejack pulled Apple Bloom closer to her “Don’t you ever worry me like that again. I was so afraid we would find you.” Applejack said as tears filled her eyes “We have to go back the Spirit is in trouble.” Apple Bloom said as the others joined them “What are you talking about Apple Bloom?” Applejack said putting her hoof on Apple Blooms head “You’ve been in the sun too long let’s get you home.” “No” Apple Bloom said as she pulled away from Applejack “The Spirit of the Desert he saved me and now he’s in trouble.” “The Spirit” Artie whispered “You met it” “Yes now come on he’s in trouble.” Apple Bloom, sitting on Applejacks back, led the group to where she had left the Spirit and Diamond Dogs. They stood atop the canyon looking down on the canyon below. “What happened here?” Rarity said looking down on the scene below. The canyon had changed from when Apple Bloom left. The overhang with the spring had collapsed. Two craters were now in the canyon with scorch marks going outward from the center. Large rocks and boulders had been thrown from the area and were now scattered in new places. “Over there” Twilight gestured toward movement by a boulder. The group ran down to the boulder where they saw the movement. The Spirit was slouching against the boulder his vest was removed exposing the tan clothing underneath. His helmet was missing the goggles he wore were cracked. Red stains appeared in various places on his clothing. All of the ponies but Apple Bloom stood back from the strange creature. “Spirit?” Apple Bloom said as she slowly approached the wounded spirit “Hey kid” he strained to say “Thought I told you not to turn back.” “I wanted to come back to help you.” “I don’t need any help” the Spirit allowed himself a weak smile. “You’re the Spirit?” Artie said as he trotted forward “I’ve been called that” the Spirit answered “Thank You” Arite said “For saving me all those years ago. I’ve wanted to tell you that for so long.” “I appreciate that...” The Spirit began but began to cough into his hand. Both Twilight and Rarity noticed him quickly hide his hand from Apple Bloom. “I appreciate that but I didn’t save you. It was a friend.” The spirit said as he drew another pained breath. “There are more of you?” Arite asked “Not any more it’s a long story” the Spirit stopped and looked at Apple Bloom “Hey Apple Bloom go find my pack real quick “Ok” Apple Bloom trotted off in search of the Spirits pack The Spirit watched to see Apple Bloom walk out of earshot. The Spirits breathing was already becoming more labored. “Listen I don’t have much time left you need to get Apple Bloom out of here before she gets even more traumatized than this experience will probably already done to her. You” The Spirit pointed to Artie “Help me up and take me far away from here tell Apple Bloom I…” Before the Spirit finished his plan Apple Bloom was already back. “No Spirit you can’t leave.” Apple Bloom said as she began to cry “You have to go to Ponyville with me.” Apple Bloom ran to the still sitting Spirit and latched on to him. “Kid” the Spirit said as he placed his hand on Apple Blooms head. “I’m sorry” Apple Bloom buried her head into the Spirit chest. She felt his hand go limp and fall from her head. “Spirit?” Apple Bloom whimpered Apple Bloom began to cry even louder. “I’m sorry” Applejack said as she pulled Apple Bloom to her. “What’s going on here?” A kind but regal voice said behind the group The group besides Applejack and Apple Bloom turned to see Princess Celestia flanked by several Royal Guards. “Princess” Twilight exclaimed the group made a slight bow as the princess approached the fallen Spirit. “That’s the Spirit” Apple Bloom said between her tears “He saved me and now he’s gone.” “Well now” the princess said “Stand back I haven’t used this spell in a while.” The group all took a few steps back all eyes were fixed on the pure white alicorn. She knelt down bringing her horn to the Spirits forehead. Light began to form at the point where her horn and the Spirits head met. The light became brighter and brighter until everpony around had to look away. As the light subsided the group squinted to where the Princess and Spirit were. The Spirit was again conscious looking around. “Spirit” Apple Bloom said as she jumped grabbed the Spirit’s neck. “Careful” the Princess said smiling at Apple Bloom “Hey kid” the spirit said patting Apple Bloom “Thank You” Apple Bloom said turning and bowing to the Princess “Think nothing of it” the Princess responded “It’s the least I could for this brave hero.” “I really appreciate that the Spirit” said as he tried to stand “Easy” the Princess said signaling her guards to help the hero “It’s been a very long time since I’ve used my magic on a human I couldn’t fully heal you. You still need to rest.” “Sure…” The Spirit stopped and stared at Celestia “How did you know…” “That is for another time” she added “For now we are to take you to Ponyville for rest.” RecoveryIt had been a week since the events in the desert. The Spirit had been moved to Ponyville General Hospital. Princess Celestia had ordered a celebration in honor of the heroism displayed by the Spirit to be held once he was well enough to attend. “Will you please let me leave Doc?” The Spirit groaned to a unicorn colt wearing a stethoscope “You will stay put until I’m satisfied” The doctor replied “And stop calling me Doc my name is Doctor Cure.” The Spirit let out a long drawn out sigh as the Doctor began looking over his paperwork. “Do you even know what to look for you’ve never treated my kind?” “I don’t have to know anything about your kind to know that you were in very bad shape when you came in here.” The doctor said in a matter of fact tone. “I keep telling you I’m fine see!” The Spirit began to get up out of his bed. Almost immediately a pain went through his side “OW!” he exclaimed falling back into bed “Hmph” the doctor began “I would say I told you so but that’s just too easy” “He still being ornery toward you doc?” A voice in the doorway interrupted “Ah Ms. Applejack” the doctor turned to speak to the Spirits visitor “Still as stubborn as the day he was brought in. Wait oh no are you calling me doc too?” “Sorry it’s kind of catchy” Apple Jack said with a smile “Well I have to go check on my other patients I will see you later Ms. Apple Jack and as for you” the doctor turned to face the Spirit “Stay off your hooves” “Feet” The spirit replied “OH just stay in bed!” The doctor said fuming as he left the room Applejack laughed at the misery Spirit was putting his doctor through. “So what brings you by?” the Spirit asked “I promised Apple Bloom she could come by and see you before school. She hasn’t seen you since the desert and was starting to worry.” Apple Jack looked toward the doorway “Come on in Apple Bloom” Apple Bloom hopped into the door way then dashed to the side of the Spirits hospital bed. “Are you alright” Apple Bloom began rattling off questions “Are you getting enough food? Are the beds comfy? Want me to bring by some apples? When are you getting out…” “Woah slow down Apple Bloom” The Spirit said as he patted her on the head “First off I’m fine and I should be out of here soon. How have you been?” “Me? I’m good I just want to help you get better it’s the least I could do since you helped me and all.” “I appreciate it Apple Bloom but I’m in good hands err… I mean hooves just you stopping by is enough.” “Come on Apple Bloom you’re going to be late for school.” Apple Jack said to the small filly “You go wait outside I want to talk the Spirit alone for a second.” “All right.” Apple Bloom said sadly “You will come by the farm when you get better won’t you?” Apple Bloom asked the Spirit as she trotted to the door. “Sure thing” The Spirit assured Apple Jack watched her leave the room then turned back to face the Spirit. “She’s really taken a shine to you” “She’s a good kid” Apple Jack looked around the room awkwardly “She uh told us about you and your friends” “I see” “I just wanted to say I’m sorry about what happened and I wanted to thank you for what you did for Apple Bloom. If you hadn’t been there I might of…” Apple Jack stopped as she began to think back to the outcome she feared “ahem I just wanted to say if there’s anything you need you can count on the Apple Family.” “Thank You” The Spirit said humbled by the ponies words. Three days had passed before the Spirit was well enough to leave the hospital. Applejack, Apple Bloom, Twilight, Rarity and Spike were all headed to the hospital to escort him to the celebration. When they entered the room they found Artie Fact questioning the Spirit on his life in the desert. “Amazing” Arite exclaimed as he wrote furiously on his notepad “If you follow those directions it will lead you straight to my cave inside there is a map of the entire desert along with safe travel routes and the locations of water. Oh and don’t touch anything else until I can go with you” “This is extraordinary with that map the southern deserts will be a much safer place Thank you." Artie quickly bolted out the door pass the group. “Well he is certainly in a hurry” Twilight laughed “I think I just gave him the find of a lifetime.” The Spirit grinned at the group “Are you ready go?” Spike asked “I believe so. Rarity did you bring what I asked for?” The Spirit asked looking at the white pony “Yes I did as best as I could from your description and what was left of your old pair.” Rarity pulled a tan colored set of clothes from her bag. “These are perfect” the Spirit replied “They look exactly like the originals great job Rarity” “Why thank you” Rarity said “It was quite the challenge” The Spirit, wearing an exact copy of his old clothes, began the walk into Ponyville with the others to attend the celebration in his honor. “So everyone knows I’m coming right they aren’t going to freak out or anything?” The Spirit asked nervously “Relax” Twilight assured the Spirit “They know you are coming and besides you’re with us.” As the group crossed a bridge into Ponyville the Spirit saw a large group of Ponies gathered around the town square all facing a stage. “Ah here comes our hero now.” A gray maned pony announced from the stage. The crowd all turned to face where the Mayor had gestured. The Spirit then realized how much he really did stick out amongst the ponies with the exception of Celestia he was much taller than all the ponies. The group led him through the middle of the silent crowd. When the Spirit and group had reached the stage trumpets sounded. The trumpets were immediately followed by a golden chariot pulled by four colts dressed in golden armor. The crowed as well as the ponies on stage all bowed as Princess Celestia gracefully walked toward the stage. “Hello again” she said as she walked up to the Spirit “Hello” the Spirit managed to say as he awkwardly bowed The Princess giggled “How are you feeling?” “Compared to the last time we met…much better.” “Good” Celestia beamed “Well then let’s get started” Celestia faced the audience of anxious ponies and began to speak “My loyal subjects we are here today to recognize the bravery and kindness of a visitor to our land. He has time and time again put himself at risk to save us ponies in the southern deserts. The most recent being one of Ponyvilles own. He has never asked for anything in return on the contrary he has kept his identity secret from those he rescues. It wasn’t until recently I was made aware that it was more than a myth that was behind the stories. I would like to take time today to personally thank him.” Celestia then turned to face the already nervous Spirit. At the shock of the entire crowd the Princess bowed to the Spirit. The other ponies all followed the example of their princess. “Thank you Princess it was my honor to help your people” the choked up Spirit managed to say. The Princess then rose and began speaking again “I would like to bestow the honor of being the first non-pony as an Honorary Knight of Equestria.” The Spirit knelt on one knee “It would be my honor” “For your service to the land of Equestria and her people I dub thee Sir Spirit.” Princess Celesita said in a loud booming voice as she touched the tip of her horn on the Spirits shoulders. The entire crowed erupted in cheers and began to trample their hooves on the ground. “Well with the formalities out of the way let’s celebrate.” The crowed broke up into smaller groups some ponies were setting off fireworks, others huddled around Sugarcube Corner to eat various desserts. Most were trying to get closer to speak the the Spirit. As the Spirit was walking around the crowd a mint green colored unicorn grabbed him by the hand and looked intently at his hand. “Uh hello there” He said to her The pony looked up at him in awe and ran away yelling “I KNEW IT BON-BON I TOLD YOU!” “These ponies sure are strange” the Spirit said to himself As the celebration was drawing to a close Twilight found Princess Celesita getting ready to depart. “Princess” Twilight called out “Ah hello my student” the Princess responded “There something I’ve been meaning to ask you” “And what is that?” “When I wrote my letter to you on the train I never said anything about the Spirit. How did you know about him being what was that you said…a human?” “Ah caught that did you” The princess face turned serious “I cannot elaborate here and now but for now enjoy the party and I will explain all to you soon. “Thank You Princess…have a good night.” Twilight said as she bid farwell to her teacher. The Princess was already in the air headed back to Ponyville. When a dark colored Alicorn flew beside the golden chariot. “Everything go well sister?” the dark pony asked “Yes it did Luna I’m sorry you couldn’t attend” Celesita stated “It’s just as well” Luna said “I don’t have fond memories of the last human” “This one is different I believe” the elder sister insisted “I believe he might have it with in him” “I hope you are right sister, because if he doesn’t it will happen again and this time we may not be so lucky. You are going to have to tell them soon” “I know” Celestia said sadly “Not tonight this may be the happiest moment for them for a very long time” “Where did they go?” Apple Jack asked “I don’t know” Spike said with a lampshade on his head Applejack walked around an empty Sugarcube Corner “Now where in tarnation…” Apple Jack found what she was looking for. A sleeping Spirit was leaning back in a chair with Apple Bloom curled in his lap. Apple Jack smiled to herself as she placed a blanket on the sleeping duo.
The Story“Hurry up Apple Bloom” the orange filly yelled “I don’t want to miss any stories!” “Hold your horses Scootaloo I’m coming” Apple Bloom replied. Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell were waiting on Scootaloo’s scooter in front of the Sweet Apple Acers fence. Apple Bloom was rushing through her home when she slammed into her big sister Applejack. “Woah there sugar cube, where’s the fire?” AJ said as she adjusted her signature cowgirl hat. “Sweetie, Scootaloo and me are going to listen to the stories a new pony in town is telling” Apple Bloom explained as she began picking up various items that fell out of her bag. “Alright got my binoculars, map, paper, quill I think that’s everything.” “Apple Bloom you’re listening to stories what do you need these things for and who is this new pony you should be careful around strangers?” “His name is Artie Fact and don’t worry Applejack Twilight will be there and she worked with him in Canterlot. He’s been all over Equestria going on cool adventures and discovering new things all the time. We hope he can give us some ideas on how to get an adventurer cutie marks.” “Well ok so long as Twilight says he’s ok have fun.” Apple Bloom ran down to a waiting Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell. “Sorry I’m late girls” “Just hop on and let’s go so we’re not any later” Within a few minutes Scootaloo had the ponies outside the Ponyville library where there was already a crowd of other ponies lined up out the door. “Awwww we’re already too late” Scootaloo sighed “I’m sorry again” Apple Bloom said sheepishly ‘Over here girls” a familiar voice called out It was Twilights assistant Spike leaning out of the first story window. “Hey Spike” Sweetie Bell called back “Busy day for the library huh” “Boy you’re not kidding it’s been like this all morning everypony just loves Arties stories” Scootaloo let out a loud sigh. ‘You know I could bring you in through the back” Spike said “You’d do that for us” Scootaloo said as she perked up ‘Sure thing all I want is one little favor, Sweetie Bell next time Rarity gets a shipment of rubies from Canterlot think you could let me get a few?” “No problem” Sweetie Bell answered. “Well then we have a deal meet me behind the library in a few minutes” Spike had brought the Crusaders through a door he and Owlicious used when Twilight was away. The girls moved through the crowded library to get a better view of the Adventurer Artie Fact. When they finally pushed their way forward they saw a sand colored colt wearing a pith helmet sitting amongst many strange objects and pictures of faraway places. The young colt was in the middle of a story by the time they settled in. “The strangest thing I’ve seen huh that’s a difficult question” he said as he brought his hoof to his chin. “Well I’ve seen many things in my travels from vast oceans with the fabled sea ponies, to the temple that the Daring Do series is based on, to the volcanic homeland of the dragons but the strangest thing I’ve seen was the thing I didn’t see.” A light chatter filled the room at his odd answer. “It was on my first expedition, it was also the expedition where I got my cutie mark.” As he gestured to the treasure map on his flank. “You hear that maybe we can get our Cutie...” Sweetie Bell squeaked before she was shushed by Appleblom and Scootaloo both staring intently and Artie Fact. “It was 10 years ago I had just been accepted to the Royal Canterlot Historical Society. I was part of an expedition sent out to find safe passage through the southern deserts. While spending time in a local village I was told the story of the Spirit of the Desert. The story goes that when ponies got lost or were in danger out in the dunes a mysterious creature would appear and guide them back to safety. We immediately wrote it off as local superstition or an just an old ponies tale, but the deeper we continued into the dessert and each local we ran into gave a similar account and almost all the stories gave the same description of the “Spirit”. The creature would walk on its back legs and use its arms much like a dragon would use its claws. It was said that it was the color of sand from its head to toe with the exception of its single black eye. Others have claim to have seen it carrying and using strange tools never before seen in Equestria. Some stories show evidence of magic one native who was surrounded by Diamond Dogs claims the Spirit used thunder to scare them away.” “Did you ever see it yourself?” a pony in the back room asked “I was just getting to that part” Artie said, “We were returning back to Canterlot when the expedition was hit with a violent sandstorm. I was separated from the group alone and ill prepared. I wandered for days without water I collapsed on the fifth day. When I awoke I was in a village the villagers all said they saw the Spirit carrying me on its back and dropped me off at the outskirts of their village. By the time they reached me it had disappeared again into the dunes.” At the end of his story Artie Fact smiled at his audience. They all began at once with questions about the Spirit and his desert adventure. At this moment Twilight came into the room to quiet everypony down. “All right everypony” Twilight said as she began to shoo them out the door. “That’s enough stories for today Artie and I have work to do.” Reluctantly all the ponies slowly trotted out the library doors with the exception of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “Now girls that means you too?” Twilight began to lecture. “Awww but Twilight we want to hear more stories we missed all the others.” Apple Bloom pleaded. “Yeah can’t we stay for one more” Sweetie Bell joined. At the moment Artie Fact trotted over to the girls “Listen girls instead of listening to my boring old stories why don’t you go on your own adventure. If you think listening about them is fun just imagine how great your own will be.” “You may be on to something there mister” Scootaloo said “Let’s go girls we’ll go have our own adventure we’ll get a cutie mark for sure. Thanks Mr. Fact” While the three fillies rushed out the library Twilight glanced at Artie and said “You have no idea what those three are most likely going to come up with for an adventure” “What…What possible trouble could those three sweet little fillies get into?” Arite said with a puzzled look.
Meeting the Spirit Meeting the Spirit “I don’t think this is a good idea” Apple Bloom stated over the whistle of the train. “Don’t worry about it” Scootaloo said in a comforting voice “Nothing can go wrong we told our families that we are having a sleepover at each other’s house right?” “Right” Sweetie Bell and Apple Bloom said in unison. “So they won’t even realize we’re be gone. We’ll be back from the southern deserts, found the Spirit and gotten our totally awesome adventurer cutie marks before any pony notices.” “I don’t think it’s that easy Scootaloo remember Artie Fact he was a skilled adventurer and he got lost in the deserts.” “Right but that’s when it WAS dangerous” Scootaloo reassured “Remember why he was there they made it safer for ponies to travel there.” “I guess” Apple Bloom said reluctantly “Besides it will be nice to get a cool Cutie Mark” “All aboard last call for the southern deserts” A conductor pony yelled from the platform. The three Cutie Mark Crusaders quickly dashed aboard the train and set off on the long journey to the southern deserts. The further the train took the crusaders the drier and drier it got. Eventually the scenery turned from the deep forests and rolling grassy fields they were used to. Trees were replaced with sparse palm trees the grassy hills now vast stretches of scorching sand. The train came a stop in a small village on the edge of the vastness that was called the southern deserts. “End of the line” the conductor said as he watched the trains’ passengers depart. “I didn’t think it would be so hot here” Apple Bloom said as she was panting from the sun’s rays. “Well what did you expect?” Scootaloo questioned. “I always thought desserts were cool and sweet” Sweetie Bell added “We’re in a desert not dessert. One is a sandy hot place the other is a tasty treat. Did you think we were going to a place filled with food?” Scootaloo said while bringing her hoof to her forehead. “I was hoping we were” Sweetie Bell muttered “Enough of this” Scootaloo demanded “We don’t have any time to lose if we’re going to find the Spirit we have to get started right away.” “Yeah but we don’t have any leads, where do we even start?” Apple Bloom asked. “Looking for the Spirit are you?” An unknown voice said from behind the ponies The three little ponies immediately jumped around to see where the voice had come from. “Over here” the voice said again. The ponies this time saw where the voice had come from. A dark figure was standing in the shadows just barley visible to the three fillies. “It just so happens I know where it is.” “Really” Scootaloo beamed “Can you tell us where?” “I don’t know if we can trust this guy Scootaloo.” Applebloom muttered into Scootaloo’s ear But before any more protest arised from the ponies the voice started again. “Of course my sweet little ponies you just go east out town to the oasis on the outskirts.” “Thanks mister” Scootaloo said as she dashed off in the direction of the oasis. “Wait for us” Sweetie Bell yelled chasing after Scootaloo Apple Bloom started running after her friends, before she left she took a quick glance back to the ally where the voice had been coming from. She could have sworn she saw the slight glimmer of a jewel of some kind. Scootaloo had reached the oasis before either of her friends and was already searching the area around the oasis. Sweetie Bell and Apple Bloom were not far behind both out of breath stopped just behind Scootaloo. “So what are we looking for exactly?” Sweetie Bell asked “I don’t know Spirit stuff” Scootaloo said as she looked under a fallen palm leaf. The young fillies looked over the tiny oasis for hours not finding anything leading them to the Spirit. “Let’s just go home Scootaloo” Sweetie Bell whined “There’s nothing here I think that creepy voice was just messing with us. “Yeah” Apple Bloom began to say as she did she felt the ground beneath her hoofs began to shake. “What the?” Within the blink of an eye Apple Bloom had disappeared from view of the two other crusaders. “APPLE BLOOM” Sweetie and Scootaloo yelled. They both ran over to the hole where Apple Bloom had been standing. They peered down into the darkness yelling for Apple Bloom getting no response. “Only one?” a voice said in the darkness “I thought you said there was three.” Apple Bloom stirred slightly still feeling woozy from the fall. “It was boss I’m sure of it” a familiar voice responded. “The voice from the alley” Apple Bloom thought. “What is he doing here?” “Well one is better than none load her into the cart and take here to the mine” the first voice said “Sure thing boss” the alley voice responded Apple Bloom could feel a net being placed over her and it was becoming more and more difficult to move. “Oh No I’m being filly napped!” she thought. Still powerless from the fall she sustained earlier she was unable to fight or even call for help. She was then lifted off the ground and placed onto another hard surface after a while she was jostled again this time she could tell that she was moving. By this time she was regaining her senses the darkness was beginning to fade. She could make out shapes of barrels and crates, she was in a cart. Toward the front she could see two figures bobbing up and down in the darkness. After more light began to fill the cave she could see the sparkle she saw in the ally earlier. Suddenly she was outside she looked back where they came from and made out a small cave. She looked to see who the two voices from earlier belonged to. “Diamond Dogs!” she said aloud. At this the Dogs stopped and looked back. “Oh awake are we?” the alley voice said “You’re quicker than most the fall usually keeps them out till we get to the mine.” “Hehe you not one of those magic ponies but you’ll do fine pulling our minecarts.” The boss dog said poking Apple Bloom in the flank. “Please let me go” Apple Bloom pleaded “I want to go home” “Awww poor pony wants to go home well in that case…NO” the boss dog said continuing to poke Apple Bloom. Both dogs began to laugh as tears welled up in Apple Blooms eyes. The laughing was broken by a crack of thunder. The boss dog fell to the ground. “Boss you ok?” the other dog said looking down at his friend Another crack of thunder the other dog fell. Apple Bloom could hear the thunder echoing in the emptiness of the desert. Then all she could hear was the wind. After a few minutes she noticed a blur in the distance a two legged creature was coming toward her. As it got closer she could see its features better. It was wearing odd clothing she had never seen before. Its color blended in with the sand. Its one black eyed looked like a large pair of goggles with a sand colored cloth protecting its face. It was carrying a black object that she couldn’t make out. Its head was rounded and had the same pattern of its clothes. As it got closer it stopped knelt down and looked at the two dogs. Apple Bloom stared at the creature not even taking a breath. It reached up and clicked something on its head and took off what Apple Bloom thought was its head it was a helmet. With its helmet removed a light brown patch of fur was revealed. It placed a hand on its goggle looking eye and took it off in its place was a pair of eyes much like a pony but smaller. It pulled down the cloth on its face and brought a bottle to its exposed mouth and took a deep drink from it. It placed the bottle into a pouch on its back. It walked over to Apple Bloom who was still starring in awe at the creature. It placed the black object against the cart. It leaned down bringing its face close to Apple Bloom. It opened its mouth and said, “You alright kid?”
The Spirits Tale“Hello can you understand me?” the Spirit asked “I said are you okay.” “Ye..yes” Apple Bloom managed to say. “Good sometimes those dogs go a little too far when they try to catch you ponies.” “Who are you?” Apple Bloom asked “Whats the name your kind has for me The Spirit right?” The creature smiled when he said that last part. “You sure don’t look very Spirit like” “We’ll talk about that later for now let me get you outta there we can’t stay out to long a sandstorm is coming” “How can you tell?” Apple Bloom asked “When you’ve lived out here as long as I have you can sense these kinda things. Can you walk?” The Spirit pulled a knife from a pouch on its chest and cut the net holding Apple Bloom open. She immediately jumped of the cart and fell over from a pain the shot through her back left leg. “Owwwww” Apple Bloom squealed “Here let me look” The Spirit said has he gently checked her leg. “I don’t think it’s anything serious, probably just a sprain from the fall just stay off of it for a while it should be fine.” “But I’ve got to get home my big sis is gonna be out looking for me” Apple Bloom began to sniffle. “Don’t worry about that here you can ride in here and I’ll take you home” The Spirit took a large pack off its back and gestured to a pouch where Apple Bloom could sit in. “You can be like a kangaroo.” “A what?” Apple Bloom sated with a puzzled look. “Never mind” The Spirit quickly said Apple bloom jumped into the pack and the Spirit hoisted it onto his back. After gathering up his belongings he began walking away from the Diamond Dogs cart. “What about them?” Apple Bloom asked glancing toward the dogs. “Don’t worry about them, so what’s your name little pony” The Spirit said quickly changing the subject. “I’m Apple Bloom and what’s your name?” The Spirit paused for a second then started walking again. “Just call me Spirit that’s what everyone calls me anyway.” Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow at the word everyone. “Okay so where are you from? I’ve never seen anything like you before not even in Zecora’s and Twilight’s books.” “I’m from very far away, I guess you could say I’m the last of my kind.” The Spirit said sadly “So if you’re not from here how did you get here?” “I wish I knew” “Wait last of your kind so there were others like you?” “Yes” “Where are they?” “They…they left” The Spirit said in a somber tone Apple Bloom sensed that the Spirit didn’t want to talk anymore and began to slowly drift asleep to the gentle rocking of the Spirits steps. She awoke to the rumbling of a sand storm. She was in a strange cave she was laying on a pile of straw with a blanket the same color as the clothes the Spirit wore. She looked around the new area she was in. There were crates with odd markings and words she had never seen. Many strange objects were sitting all around she saw the black object that the Spirit had carried she recognized one word on the side and picture on it. ”Colt” she read aloud. The picture was a stallion on its hind legs “Awake again I see.” The Spirits voice startled her Apple bloom turned to see the Spirit was no longer wearing the sand color clothing. In its place was a green shirt with black shorts. “I figured you were hungry and since your name has Apple in it I thought you might like this.” The spirit sat a bowl down in front of Apple Bloom The bowl contained tiny pieces of apple covered with a honey colored syrup with small brown spots. Apple Bloom brought here head down to the bowl and took sniff of the contents. She took a nibble out of it and immediately went in for more. “This is delicious!” she exclaimed “Tastes like some of Granny Smiths desseret” “Good I’m glad you like it” the Spirit chuckled “I have more if you’re still hungry.” “Where are we?” Apple Bloom said as she finished her meal. “My home” the Spirit said “you’re the first visitor I’ve had” “What do you mean you said earlier you’ve been here awhile why would no pony vist you?” “I try to stay out of your kinds business only intervening when I have to.” The Spirit explained “But the others of your kind they don’t live here?” “As I said I’m the last of my kind here.” “So why stay?” “I don’t know how to go back home.” “How did you get here?” The Spirit let out a long sigh “It happened over ten years ago myself and five others were in a helicopter flying through a desert.” “A heli-what?” Apple Bloom interrupted. “A flying machine.” The Spirit answered “You have a flying machine?” “Not any more now let me finish.” The Spirit continued his story “We were flying through a desert and suddenly a violent sandstorm came out of nowhere. The flying machine we were in crashed when. We came too we were here. After a while we realized we were somewhere new, your home land Apple Bloom. Our leader decided that we stay hidden until we figured out what was going on. That changed within a month we came across one of your kind stranded in the desert alone. Much like you had never seen my kind I had never seen yours. We didn’t know what to make of your kind were you aggressive towards us, friendly? We followed him for a day until he collapsed our leader changed his mind and he carried the lost pony to a nearby village and left him on the outskirts.” “Artie Fact!” Apple Bloom yelled “What?” the Spirit said “Artie Fact that’s the name of the pony you rescued. He is the one that told me the story about you.” “Huh I always wondered how he turned out. So ever since then we made it our job to protect your kind when they got lost out here.” “So what about the others, where exactly did they go?” “Out of the five I came here with two said they wanted to go home. They walked into the desert and we never saw them again. One got bitten by a snake and never recovered. The last to go was our leader he was taken by those Dogs when I found him it was too late.” “I’m sorry” Apple Bloom said “It’s ok kid because of him many of your kind got away from the Dogs he would have wanted it that way.” The Spirit explained “That’s how he was” The Spirit was silent for a moment “Get some rest tomorrow I’ll take you to the village and they can get you home.” “What about you?” Apple Bloom asked “What will you do when I leave?” “I’ll be here and do what I’ve always done keep your kind out of trouble in the desert.” “Why don’t you come with me why I bet Twilight could find a way to get you home and if she can’t well…I’ll take you to see the Princess she can do anything.” “We’ll see” the Spirit smiled “Just get some rest okay it’s a long journey to the village.”
Rescue Party“APPLE BLOOOOOM” Scootaloo yelled down the dark hole “She’s not there Scoot come on we have to go get help.” Sweetie Bell said as she pulled Scootaloo from the edge of the hole Apple Bloom had just fell down. “But…But then they will know we left home and then we’ll be in trouble” Scootaloo managed to say as her eyes began to water. “I know but what if Apple Bloom is hurt we have to go back” Sweetie Bell assured Scootaloo “You’re right” Scootaloo said as she started to walk away from the hole then jumped back and yelled “Don’t worry Apple Bloom were going to go get help don’t go anywhere!” The two ponies made it back to the station just before the train left. The ride back was a silent one both fillies contemplating what laid ahead when they arrived in Ponyville. The sun was starting to set by the time Rarity had reached Sweet Apple Acres. She walked through the gate up to the home of the Apple family and knocked on the front door. “Good Afternoon Big Mac is Applejack around” she asked when the large Colt opened the door. “Eeyup” he replied “She’s in the barn” “Thank You” Rarity replied as she gracefully made her way to the barn. Rarity walked into the barn the musty smell of hay filled her nose. “Ugh why anypony would want to live like this I’ll never understand” she muttered to herself “Maybe you should give a try Rarity you might actually like it” Applejack replied looking down on Rarity from the loft in the barn “Never” the white pony stated “I’m far too ladylike to spend my days in a musty old barn.” Rarity said with a smile “Whatever you say” Applejack said with a smile back “What brings out here anyway?” “Oh I just realized that Sweetie forgot her brush and I didn’t want her to have a mane emergency.” “Well what did ya bring it here for?” Applejack laughed “Are they playing at their clubhouse I assumed they would be back here for dinner by now.” Rarity said “Back here for dinner? Why come here when they are staying with you.” Applejack said. “With me? I’m far too busy to watch over three little fillies. I was overjoyed when Sweetie said she would be staying here for a few days.” “Why that little filly, Apple Bloom said she was staying with you.” Applejack said with a slight angry tone. “Come on they are probably staying at their clubhouse again.” As Rarity and Applejack headed toward the entrance to Sweet Apple Acres they met Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo running up to the entrance. “There you girls are.” Rarity said “I’m disappointed in you Sweetie lying to your big sister.” “Yeah and where’s Apple Bloom I need to give her a piece of my mind?” Applejack demanded “That’s why we’re here” Sweetie Bell said as she looked at the ground. “What ya mean?” Applejack said a little annoyed Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo explained the entire situation while fighting back tears. From the story Artie Fact told them. To the plan to find the Spirit and earn their cutie marks. How a stranger told them to go to the oasis. Then how Apple Bloom had fell down the hole and disappeared from sight. “MY LITTE SIS!” Applejack yelled “We gotta go Rarity we have to go get her! My little sis is hurt and alone oh no!” “Don’t worry Applejack we leave right away as for you two” Rarity snapped at the two younger ponies “Go inside and stay with Big Mac and don’t you dare leave his sight!” “Yes ma’am” they said in unison. Within a few minutes Rarity, Applejack, Twilight, Artie Fact and Spike were on the train headed to the southern deserts. Applejack was sitting in the back of the train car silently looking out the window. “Poor Applejack” Twilight said “I can’t imagine how she feels.” “I know” Artie Fact responded “I can’t help but feel this is somewhat my fault.” “What are the odds Apple Bloom is still ok Artie? You have the most experience with the deserts.” Rarity asked “Well…assuming she feel down an abandoned well she should be safe from the creatures that roam that area.” “So she’s gonna be ok?” Twilight asked again “Hard to say” Artie continued “That’s the thing about the deserts you never know what is out there. I’m sorry I can’t give a better answer.” “I wish Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash hadn’t been called away to Cloudsdale we could sure use them.” Twilight said aloud “And with Pinkie Pie taking care of the baby Cakes” Spike included “We should be fine” Twilight interrupted “With Rarity’s and my magic and Arties experience well be fine.” “We’ll just have to hope for the best when we get there for both Apple Bloom and Applejacks sake.” Rarity said as she glanced back at the still silent Applejack Applejack still looking out the window muttered under her breath “Hang on little sis I’m coming for you.” Apple Bloom yawned and stretched she stood up on the small bed the Spirit had made for her. The sandstorm had passed the cave was now filled with the bright sunshine coming in from the desert. “Spirit?” she said aloud looking around the room Apple Bloom headed toward the entrance to the cave. Outside she could see the Spirit standing in front the same black object he carried. The object was stuck into the ground with a helmet placed on top of it. She could also see a silver necklace glimmering in the sun hanging down on it. The Spirit was standing silent his eyes fixed on the collection of object. “Whats that?” Apple Bloom said startling the Spirit “Ah I didn’t hear you” the Spirit said as he turned to face Apple Bloom. “Do you remember when I told you about our leader?” “Yes” “This is a memorial to him its kinda of a tradition to honor people where I’m from.” The Spirit said as he turned to the memorial again. “That black thing…I noticed you carry one just like it. What is it? It says Colt on the side but it doesn’t look like any colt I’ve ever seen.” Apple Bloom asked “This is uh” The spirit said as if searching for words “It’s my people’s version of magic I guess.” “Like that thunder I heard when you saved me.” “Right…how about breakfast before we head out?” The Spirit said hastily “Oh yeah I saw you have these funny looking green eggs!” Apple Bloom exclaimed “Green eggs?” the Spirit thought “WAIT” he exclaimed “You didn’t touch those did you?!” “No” Apple Bloom said startled at the Spirits outburst The Spirit let out a relieved sigh “Good those aren’t eggs Apple Bloom that’s…uh…more magic a very dangerous magic.” “I’m sorry” “It’s ok you didn’t know now I think I might have some oats stashed somewhere.” After breakfast the Spirit and Apple Bloom began the long trek back to the village. “You should probably ride in my pack again Apple Bloom.” The Spirit said as he placed his pack on the ground. “Why my leg is feeling much better?” “The sand” the Spirit stated “It get very hot during the day and without protection it can be very uncomfortable.” The Spirit lifted the pack along with Apple Bloom inside and continued on. Apple Bloom placed her front legs over the Spirits shoulder so she could talk to him as the journeyed through the desert. “So did you think about it?” She asked “About what?” “About coming to Ponyville with me” Apple Bloom reminded him “Oh” the Spirit answered “I don’t think so.” “What! Why you want to stay out in the desert all alone? “No” “Then why don’t you won’t go with me?” Apple Bloom questioned “Will you at least think about it more?” “Fine I’ll think it over” The Spirit said “No promises” They continued for hours Apple Bloom asking various questions about the Spirit, telling him stories about her times in Ponyville.
Sacrifice Sacrifice “Getting thirsty back there Apple Bloom?” The Spirit asked over his shoulder. “Yeah a little bit.” “There’s a small spring up ahead in that canyon we’ll take a break there and move on.” He said as he gestured to a group of rocks sticking out of the sand. As the Spirit walked into the canyon Apple Bloom could hear the faint noise of moving water echoing all around them. The Spirit turned a corner revealing a small overhang with a spring beneath it. The Spirit took off his pack and gently placed it on the ground allowing Apple Bloom to hop down. “Is it safe to drink?” she asked peering into the crystal clear water “Probably the cleanest around” the Spirit assured Apple Bloom began to take large gulps of water from the spring. The Spirit propped himself against a rock relaxing under the shade of the overhang. “So have you thought about coming with me to Ponyville?” Apple Bloom asked as she walked over and sat by the Spirit “Yes I have and I would like to, but I can’t leave here who would watch over the ponies then?” He said scratching Apple Bloom behind the ear. “I understand” she said “It just makes me sad that you will be all alone.” “I know Apple..” The Spirit was interrupted by the sound of voices echoing in the canyon. “Crap” the Spirit muttered “I was too carless, Apple Bloom I want you to hide behind that boulder” he pointed her toward a boulder a few yards from them. “and if I tell you to run I want you to run as fast as you can in that direction. The village is maybe thirty minutes from here and don’t stop till you get there also whatever you do don’t look back.” “But” Apple Bloom started to say “No buts promise me” The Spirit said with a determined look on his face. “Okay what about you?” Apple said confused at what was going on “Don’t worry now go” The Spirit said as he pushed her toward the boulder. Apple Bloom ran to the boulder and listened to the voices growing louder and louder. “Well look what we have here boys” an unknown voice said aloud “The Spirit trapped and outnumbered.” “Yeah not so powerful when you aint got the jump on us!” another voice called out. Apple Bloom recognized the voices as Diamond Dogs “Just leave dog and no one will get hurt.” The Spirit said calmly “I don’t think so” the first voice said “We’re tired of you.” Apple Bloom slowly peaked out from her hiding place. She saw the Spirit surrounded by at least 10 Diamond Dogs slowly advancing on him. “I didn’t want to have to do this” the Spirit said as he pulled two of the green eggs that he had warned Apple Bloom about earlier that day. “Back up boys” one dog grunted “That’s right you remember these don’t you” The Spirit said with a grin “Yeah I also remember that we are too close for you to use those you’ll be hurt too.” “Maybe” the Spirit said “All I need is a little time anyway” The Spirits eyes quickly batted to Apple Blooms hiding place. “NOW APPLE BLOOM GO!” The Spirit yelled Apple Bloom ran as fast as she could in the direction the Spirit had pointed out. She could hear yelling as she ran but was too scared to make out any of it. “This is the place” Applejack said “This is where the girls saw Apple Bloom last” Applejack immediately began to pace around the area looking for any sign of her sister. “Over here” Spike yelled “I think I found the hole” The group ran over to the dragon’s location. Applejack stuck her head into the hole. “APPLE BLOOM” she yelled the only response was her own echo “I’m going down” she said “Now hold on Applejack” Twilight said as she held her hoof in front of Applejack “We don’t know how deep that is and also you’re too big to fit.” “I’ll go Spike” interrupted “Ok Rarity, Artie you get Spike ready to lower down. I’ll try to illuminate the hole.” “Right” Artie said getting rope from his saddle bag Before the purple pony could concentrate on the spell to illuminate the hole two large booms ripped through the sky. “What was that?” Spike exclaimed “That was louder that Rainbow’s sonic rainboom” Rarity added “I think we should go check it out” Artie said looking in the direction the sound came from “What!” Applejack yelled “Who cares about that we came for Apple Bloom” “What if she’s there?” Twilight said to the upset Applejack “Alight but if she’s not there we come right back here” Applejack stated “Agreed” Twilight said. The ponies took off at full sprint toward the source of the boom. As they got closer they saw a small yellow speck coming toward them in the distance. “Whats that?” Spike said as he stood on Twilights back “IT’S APPLE BLOOM!” Applejack yelled as she began to outrun the others. “Applejack” Apple Bloom said catching her breath as the two met in the middle Applejack pulled Apple Bloom closer to her “Don’t you ever worry me like that again. I was so afraid we would find you.” Applejack said as tears filled her eyes “We have to go back the Spirit is in trouble.” Apple Bloom said as the others joined them “What are you talking about Apple Bloom?” Applejack said putting her hoof on Apple Blooms head “You’ve been in the sun too long let’s get you home.” “No” Apple Bloom said as she pulled away from Applejack “The Spirit of the Desert he saved me and now he’s in trouble.” “The Spirit” Artie whispered “You met it” “Yes now come on he’s in trouble.” Apple Bloom, sitting on Applejacks back, led the group to where she had left the Spirit and Diamond Dogs. They stood atop the canyon looking down on the canyon below. “What happened here?” Rarity said looking down on the scene below. The canyon had changed from when Apple Bloom left. The overhang with the spring had collapsed. Two craters were now in the canyon with scorch marks going outward from the center. Large rocks and boulders had been thrown from the area and were now scattered in new places. “Over there” Twilight gestured toward movement by a boulder. The group ran down to the boulder where they saw the movement. The Spirit was slouching against the boulder his vest was removed exposing the tan clothing underneath. His helmet was missing the goggles he wore were cracked. Red stains appeared in various places on his clothing. All of the ponies but Apple Bloom stood back from the strange creature. “Spirit?” Apple Bloom said as she slowly approached the wounded spirit “Hey kid” he strained to say “Thought I told you not to turn back.” “I wanted to come back to help you.” “I don’t need any help” the Spirit allowed himself a weak smile. “You’re the Spirit?” Artie said as he trotted forward “I’ve been called that” the Spirit answered “Thank You” Arite said “For saving me all those years ago. I’ve wanted to tell you that for so long.” “I appreciate that...” The Spirit began but began to cough into his hand. Both Twilight and Rarity noticed him quickly hide his hand from Apple Bloom. “I appreciate that but I didn’t save you. It was a friend.” The spirit said as he drew another pained breath. “There are more of you?” Arite asked “Not any more it’s a long story” the Spirit stopped and looked at Apple Bloom “Hey Apple Bloom go find my pack real quick “Ok” Apple Bloom trotted off in search of the Spirits pack The Spirit watched to see Apple Bloom walk out of earshot. The Spirits breathing was already becoming more labored. “Listen I don’t have much time left you need to get Apple Bloom out of here before she gets even more traumatized than this experience will probably already done to her. You” The Spirit pointed to Artie “Help me up and take me far away from here tell Apple Bloom I…” Before the Spirit finished his plan Apple Bloom was already back. “No Spirit you can’t leave.” Apple Bloom said as she began to cry “You have to go to Ponyville with me.” Apple Bloom ran to the still sitting Spirit and latched on to him. “Kid” the Spirit said as he placed his hand on Apple Blooms head. “I’m sorry” Apple Bloom buried her head into the Spirit chest. She felt his hand go limp and fall from her head. “Spirit?” Apple Bloom whimpered Apple Bloom began to cry even louder. “I’m sorry” Applejack said as she pulled Apple Bloom to her. “What’s going on here?” A kind but regal voice said behind the group The group besides Applejack and Apple Bloom turned to see Princess Celestia flanked by several Royal Guards. “Princess” Twilight exclaimed the group made a slight bow as the princess approached the fallen Spirit. “That’s the Spirit” Apple Bloom said between her tears “He saved me and now he’s gone.” “Well now” the princess said “Stand back I haven’t used this spell in a while.” The group all took a few steps back all eyes were fixed on the pure white alicorn. She knelt down bringing her horn to the Spirits forehead. Light began to form at the point where her horn and the Spirits head met. The light became brighter and brighter until everpony around had to look away. As the light subsided the group squinted to where the Princess and Spirit were. The Spirit was again conscious looking around. “Spirit” Apple Bloom said as she jumped grabbed the Spirit’s neck. “Careful” the Princess said smiling at Apple Bloom “Hey kid” the spirit said patting Apple Bloom “Thank You” Apple Bloom said turning and bowing to the Princess “Think nothing of it” the Princess responded “It’s the least I could for this brave hero.” “I really appreciate that the Spirit” said as he tried to stand “Easy” the Princess said signaling her guards to help the hero “It’s been a very long time since I’ve used my magic on a human I couldn’t fully heal you. You still need to rest.” “Sure…” The Spirit stopped and stared at Celestia “How did you know…” “That is for another time” she added “For now we are to take you to Ponyville for rest.”
RecoveryIt had been a week since the events in the desert. The Spirit had been moved to Ponyville General Hospital. Princess Celestia had ordered a celebration in honor of the heroism displayed by the Spirit to be held once he was well enough to attend. “Will you please let me leave Doc?” The Spirit groaned to a unicorn colt wearing a stethoscope “You will stay put until I’m satisfied” The doctor replied “And stop calling me Doc my name is Doctor Cure.” The Spirit let out a long drawn out sigh as the Doctor began looking over his paperwork. “Do you even know what to look for you’ve never treated my kind?” “I don’t have to know anything about your kind to know that you were in very bad shape when you came in here.” The doctor said in a matter of fact tone. “I keep telling you I’m fine see!” The Spirit began to get up out of his bed. Almost immediately a pain went through his side “OW!” he exclaimed falling back into bed “Hmph” the doctor began “I would say I told you so but that’s just too easy” “He still being ornery toward you doc?” A voice in the doorway interrupted “Ah Ms. Applejack” the doctor turned to speak to the Spirits visitor “Still as stubborn as the day he was brought in. Wait oh no are you calling me doc too?” “Sorry it’s kind of catchy” Apple Jack said with a smile “Well I have to go check on my other patients I will see you later Ms. Apple Jack and as for you” the doctor turned to face the Spirit “Stay off your hooves” “Feet” The spirit replied “OH just stay in bed!” The doctor said fuming as he left the room Applejack laughed at the misery Spirit was putting his doctor through. “So what brings you by?” the Spirit asked “I promised Apple Bloom she could come by and see you before school. She hasn’t seen you since the desert and was starting to worry.” Apple Jack looked toward the doorway “Come on in Apple Bloom” Apple Bloom hopped into the door way then dashed to the side of the Spirits hospital bed. “Are you alright” Apple Bloom began rattling off questions “Are you getting enough food? Are the beds comfy? Want me to bring by some apples? When are you getting out…” “Woah slow down Apple Bloom” The Spirit said as he patted her on the head “First off I’m fine and I should be out of here soon. How have you been?” “Me? I’m good I just want to help you get better it’s the least I could do since you helped me and all.” “I appreciate it Apple Bloom but I’m in good hands err… I mean hooves just you stopping by is enough.” “Come on Apple Bloom you’re going to be late for school.” Apple Jack said to the small filly “You go wait outside I want to talk the Spirit alone for a second.” “All right.” Apple Bloom said sadly “You will come by the farm when you get better won’t you?” Apple Bloom asked the Spirit as she trotted to the door. “Sure thing” The Spirit assured Apple Jack watched her leave the room then turned back to face the Spirit. “She’s really taken a shine to you” “She’s a good kid” Apple Jack looked around the room awkwardly “She uh told us about you and your friends” “I see” “I just wanted to say I’m sorry about what happened and I wanted to thank you for what you did for Apple Bloom. If you hadn’t been there I might of…” Apple Jack stopped as she began to think back to the outcome she feared “ahem I just wanted to say if there’s anything you need you can count on the Apple Family.” “Thank You” The Spirit said humbled by the ponies words. Three days had passed before the Spirit was well enough to leave the hospital. Applejack, Apple Bloom, Twilight, Rarity and Spike were all headed to the hospital to escort him to the celebration. When they entered the room they found Artie Fact questioning the Spirit on his life in the desert. “Amazing” Arite exclaimed as he wrote furiously on his notepad “If you follow those directions it will lead you straight to my cave inside there is a map of the entire desert along with safe travel routes and the locations of water. Oh and don’t touch anything else until I can go with you” “This is extraordinary with that map the southern deserts will be a much safer place Thank you." Artie quickly bolted out the door pass the group. “Well he is certainly in a hurry” Twilight laughed “I think I just gave him the find of a lifetime.” The Spirit grinned at the group “Are you ready go?” Spike asked “I believe so. Rarity did you bring what I asked for?” The Spirit asked looking at the white pony “Yes I did as best as I could from your description and what was left of your old pair.” Rarity pulled a tan colored set of clothes from her bag. “These are perfect” the Spirit replied “They look exactly like the originals great job Rarity” “Why thank you” Rarity said “It was quite the challenge” The Spirit, wearing an exact copy of his old clothes, began the walk into Ponyville with the others to attend the celebration in his honor. “So everyone knows I’m coming right they aren’t going to freak out or anything?” The Spirit asked nervously “Relax” Twilight assured the Spirit “They know you are coming and besides you’re with us.” As the group crossed a bridge into Ponyville the Spirit saw a large group of Ponies gathered around the town square all facing a stage. “Ah here comes our hero now.” A gray maned pony announced from the stage. The crowd all turned to face where the Mayor had gestured. The Spirit then realized how much he really did stick out amongst the ponies with the exception of Celestia he was much taller than all the ponies. The group led him through the middle of the silent crowd. When the Spirit and group had reached the stage trumpets sounded. The trumpets were immediately followed by a golden chariot pulled by four colts dressed in golden armor. The crowed as well as the ponies on stage all bowed as Princess Celestia gracefully walked toward the stage. “Hello again” she said as she walked up to the Spirit “Hello” the Spirit managed to say as he awkwardly bowed The Princess giggled “How are you feeling?” “Compared to the last time we met…much better.” “Good” Celestia beamed “Well then let’s get started” Celestia faced the audience of anxious ponies and began to speak “My loyal subjects we are here today to recognize the bravery and kindness of a visitor to our land. He has time and time again put himself at risk to save us ponies in the southern deserts. The most recent being one of Ponyvilles own. He has never asked for anything in return on the contrary he has kept his identity secret from those he rescues. It wasn’t until recently I was made aware that it was more than a myth that was behind the stories. I would like to take time today to personally thank him.” Celestia then turned to face the already nervous Spirit. At the shock of the entire crowd the Princess bowed to the Spirit. The other ponies all followed the example of their princess. “Thank you Princess it was my honor to help your people” the choked up Spirit managed to say. The Princess then rose and began speaking again “I would like to bestow the honor of being the first non-pony as an Honorary Knight of Equestria.” The Spirit knelt on one knee “It would be my honor” “For your service to the land of Equestria and her people I dub thee Sir Spirit.” Princess Celesita said in a loud booming voice as she touched the tip of her horn on the Spirits shoulders. The entire crowed erupted in cheers and began to trample their hooves on the ground. “Well with the formalities out of the way let’s celebrate.” The crowed broke up into smaller groups some ponies were setting off fireworks, others huddled around Sugarcube Corner to eat various desserts. Most were trying to get closer to speak the the Spirit. As the Spirit was walking around the crowd a mint green colored unicorn grabbed him by the hand and looked intently at his hand. “Uh hello there” He said to her The pony looked up at him in awe and ran away yelling “I KNEW IT BON-BON I TOLD YOU!” “These ponies sure are strange” the Spirit said to himself As the celebration was drawing to a close Twilight found Princess Celesita getting ready to depart. “Princess” Twilight called out “Ah hello my student” the Princess responded “There something I’ve been meaning to ask you” “And what is that?” “When I wrote my letter to you on the train I never said anything about the Spirit. How did you know about him being what was that you said…a human?” “Ah caught that did you” The princess face turned serious “I cannot elaborate here and now but for now enjoy the party and I will explain all to you soon. “Thank You Princess…have a good night.” Twilight said as she bid farwell to her teacher. The Princess was already in the air headed back to Ponyville. When a dark colored Alicorn flew beside the golden chariot. “Everything go well sister?” the dark pony asked “Yes it did Luna I’m sorry you couldn’t attend” Celesita stated “It’s just as well” Luna said “I don’t have fond memories of the last human” “This one is different I believe” the elder sister insisted “I believe he might have it with in him” “I hope you are right sister, because if he doesn’t it will happen again and this time we may not be so lucky. You are going to have to tell them soon” “I know” Celestia said sadly “Not tonight this may be the happiest moment for them for a very long time” “Where did they go?” Apple Jack asked “I don’t know” Spike said with a lampshade on his head Applejack walked around an empty Sugarcube Corner “Now where in tarnation…” Apple Jack found what she was looking for. A sleeping Spirit was leaning back in a chair with Apple Bloom curled in his lap. Apple Jack smiled to herself as she placed a blanket on the sleeping duo.
