A Mirrored Beetle Shell

I followed the dry gravel path a little further past the steps, pausing whenever a tiny stone rolled underfoot. Resting beside a damp patch of green moss was a tiny, vacant green jewel beetle shell. I stayed still for a moment, waiting to see if it breathed. It was only quiet. Leaning down gently, I nudged the smooth shell with my soft hoof so it rolled onto its flat side against the dark slate. The high noon light caught its glossy back, scattering brilliant emerald and bronze flares across the grey stone. I tucked my hooves in and watched the tiny glow stay perfectly still.