Return

“Are we there yet?” Vera asked looking over the sides.

“No, you need to learn to be patient,” Synth said playing with his hooves.

“What about now?” Vera asked.

“Now what?” Synth said.

“Are we there now?” Vera asked.

“No. Are you going to be like this until we get there?” Synth said.

“That depends, will we be there soon?” Vera asked.

“I don’t know, does it look like we’re almost there?” Synth said.

“I see lights over there, is that Ponyville?” Vera asked.

Synth stood up to look at the approaching lights. Even in the middle of the day he could see lights from a brown stand. There were fireworks that flew higher than the chariot was flying. Synth also noticed a giant color palette of ponies in front of the brown stand.

“It looks like Ponyville, but something might be happening right now,” Synth answered.

“Well we’re landing, I hope it’s something fun,” Vera said pointing at the strip of grass where the guards were going to land.

The chariot landed gracefully onto the ground. Synth had to commend the guards that were chauffeuring the chariot. Synth jumped out and landed onto the grass. Vera also jumped out and took a look around. They didn’t land too far from the town, and there was a significant lack of ponies in the area.

“We’ll be going now,” The chariot guard said.

“Oh sure, thanks for the lift,” Synth said to the departing ponies.

They didn’t respond and flew away without a sound. Synth felt like they were acting rude for Canterlot Guards. He didn’t care very much though, as he looked around the barren outskirts of the town. It was unsettlingly quiet. Synth didn’t know if it was because of his recent stays in one of the loudest cities in Equestria, or because it was just that quiet, but it was odd.

“Where is everypony?” Vera voiced the question had on his mind.

“Maybe they’re at that light show we saw earlier,” Synth suggested, though he thought it was unlikely the entire town would go to that.

“Then let’s go, I want to know what they’re all watching,” Vera said walking towards the direction where lights could be seen.

“All right, I just hope I didn’t come back at a wrong time,” Synth said following Vera towards the display of lights that were slowly dimming down.

Synth looked around at the town he now called home. It looked peaceful. Walking by the houses he barely remembered, he knew that soon he’d be able to tell who lived in each house. He could barely remember when he was first entering the town. He had been nervous then, meeting an entire group of ponies for the first time always had that effect. Hell, even meeting one royal figure made him feel nervous. It was probably something he’d picked up from his parents, but he’d learned that eventually that nervousness would go away.
He just never realized when it would though, as he would always be more preoccupied with other activities. When he had visited some of the northern jungles with his teacher, he’d entered a village shaking. The residents thought he’d succumb to one of their native diseases, but it turned out he only had a crush on some mare he met. It was like a Romeo and Juliet story, if Romeo didn’t accidentally spill wine on her on accident and ruined her dress; she never forgave him for that. He left after two more days. His professor wanted him to make up with the mare, but Synth decided from then that he’d keep his attention on the task.
Synth only remembered a few vague details about her, but something about that memory clicked in Synth’s head. He couldn’t tell what, so he decided to think about it later. He could hear talking now, and it was a voice he didn’t recognize. He turned the corner to see a large stand showcasing a blue pony wearing a pointed hat and a star patterned cape.
‘Is that…?’ Shade started a question but decided to stop.
‘What, do you know her?’ Synth asked walking up to the crowd containing the entire town minus a few here or two.

‘I’m not sure, she just looks familiar,’ Shade said.

‘Well I don’t know her; I don’t even remember seeing her around town. I wonder who she is,’ Synth said.

Synth joined the crowd and stood on the left side of the crowd. He looked around to see if he could find any friendly faces, but the only ones he recognized were at the front. He decided to stay quiet as the blue coated mare began to speak. After he heard a few sentences in third person, he tuned her out and focused on the reactions of the crowd.

Surprisingly nopony noticed his return. They were all focused on the ‘Great and Powerful Trixie’s’ boasting. Synth felt if there was anyone to compare the boasting to, it’d be Rainbow Dash; although, Synth still felt Trixie had her beat there. The crowd cheered for Trixie and her magical feats. Synth didn’t feel he had to listen to this. He was about to walk away until he heard one of his friends speak up.

“So Great and Powerful Trixie, what makes you think you’re so awesome, anyway?” Rainbow Dash asked getting close to Trixie.
“Why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded Ursa Major,” Trixie said performing a small puppetry in the air with her magic.
‘Ursa Major? Aren’t those like, huge?’ Synth asked Shade looking at the puny picture in the air.
‘Hell yeah, their paws are probably bigger than this town,’ Shade said.
‘Damn, it looked pretty small on the chess board. Do you think she got her information mixed up?’ Synth asked.
‘No, I remember her now. People were always dreaming about challenging her. It was usually a nightmare, they always lost. She travels the country pretending to be a powerful unicorn, and Celestia doesn’t do anything to stop her,’ Shade said.
‘Wait, pretends?’ Synth asked.
‘Shh, this is getting good,’ Shade said making Synth pay attention to what was happening.
“Well, little hayseed?” Trixie said to Applejack.
“That’s it, ah can’t stand for no more of this,” Applejack said jumping onstage with her rope that appeared out of nowhere.
“Can your magical power do this?” Applejack asked before performing stunts and tricks with her ropes.
Synth was surprised she could do that. He knew that if he tried he’d end up tripping over the rope. She managed to grab an apple with the rope. Synth didn’t know if she had rehearsed this, but the performance went smoothly. The crowd cheered when she finished, and Synth was curious as to what Trixie would do.
Trixie’s reaction wasn’t what Synth expected. She managed to hogtie Applejack and put an apple in her mouth. Synth’s stomach rumbled and he realized that he hadn’t eaten in a while. He was about to walk away to find an open store, until he remembered that most of the town would be here. He was going to look back to what was happening, but there was a tug on his cloak.
“I’m hungry, is there anywhere we can eat?” Vera asked. Synth had to admit, he already forgot about Vera.
Synth was about to answer, but his stomach once again rumbled. He sighed, hunger would win this battle. He really wanted to watch what would happen, but both his own body and his sister were pulling him away. His thoughts drifted off to food, and he remembered the amounts of apples he had in his fridge.
“Yeah I’ve got food at my house, let’s go,” Synth said starting to turn away.
‘Wait, I want to see how this turns out,’ Shade said.
‘Well I’m starving, so I’m getting something to eat,’ Synth said.
‘Here, let me watch as a rabbit, I’ll tell you how it turns out,’ Shade said.
‘You must really want to watch this,’ Synth said looking towards a spot away from the crowd. He didn’t have to worry about the crowd seeing it though, as they were preoccupied with something in the sky. Vera was also looking up and Synth took his chance to let Shade activate his magic.
‘Let’s just say I’ve got a feeling that today will be a fun day,’ Shade said as his magic shot out away from the crowd.
‘If you say so,’ Synth said before walking away.
“Wait for me,” Vera said catching up to him.
“I can show you my house now. Maybe later I can give you a tour of Ponyville, I’ve heard it’s not very big,” Synth said.
“You heard?” Vera asked confused.
“Well, I’ve never walked through the town without getting a little lost,” Synth admitted.
“And you’ll be the one giving me a tour?” Vera asked.
“Okay, maybe I’ll get one of my friends to give you that tour,” Synth said remembering he still could barely find his way to his house, which he thought he was getting close to.
“I wanna meet your friends, how many are there?” Vera asked.
“Well, there’s more here than I ever had in Canterlot. The whole town is pretty friendly now that I think of it… But anyways, I met seven of them on the first day I got here. And I also met a dragon, one that doesn’t eat ponies though,” Synth said.
“Dragon? Doesn’t that seem a little weird for a pony town?” Vera questioned.
“It’s perfectly normal for this town. You’ll see when you meet a certain friend of mine. She’s a little weird at times,” Synth said.
“She…? Are all your friends mares?” Vera asked, hitting the bullseye.
“Oh, yeah I guess they are. I didn’t really think too much about it. Although if I count the dragon that makes one guy friend,” Synth said.
“Does the dragon have a name?” Vera asked.
“Yeah I can’t remember what it is though; it was a long time ago,” Synth said realizing he forgot Spike’s name.
“How’d you meet him?” Vera asked.
“Twilight’s party… It was the day we both got there. But I guess she got there first, so she got a party. Well long story short, she has a dragon assistant that’s half her size,” Synth said.
“So, where’s your house?” Vera asked looking around.
Synth looked up to find he’d been wondering aimlessly in town. When he looked around, he could only see the same looking house in every direction. He chose to pretend he knew where he was going and kept walking forward. After another few minutes that were filled in silence, he noticed a familiar looking tree ahead of him.
“There it is, behind that tree,” Synth said pointing forward at the tree with a hole in its side.
“Great, I’m starving,” Vera said trotting over to the house.
Synth shared in her enthusiasm and also quickened his pace. When they reached the door, Synth opened it to hear a noticeable squeak. He didn’t remember hearing that before, but his mind was on food at the moment. He went over to the fridge and took out a good amount of apples. Vera looked them over, but her hunger must’ve been at its peak because she devoured apple after apple Synth brought out.
“Wow, these are great!” Vera said swallowing her last apple chunk.
“I see that,” Synth said grinning when she burped.
“I didn’t know apples could taste that good, the ones in Canterlot aren’t very…” Vera said.
“Fresh?” Synth finished for her. Vera nodded and Synth understood. “Yeah, these came from the apple orchard in town. One of my friends works on the fields,” Synth said.
“But, these aren’t exactly fresh either. They’ve been here since I went back to Canterlot last week. I’m surprised they’re still good,” Synth said starting to eat his own apples.
Synth ate the rest of his apples in silence while Vera took a look around the house. The look didn’t take very long, considering the house was a small two story. She only gave his journals one glance before returning.
“Can I go look around outside?” Vera asked.
“Yeah go ahead, just don’t get lost,” Synth said taking another bite.
Vera left and Synth was left in peace to finish his meal. He could feel something weird in his house. It didn’t feel like he was alone, but he knew that everyone would be in the center of town. Vera also just looked everywhere and it looked clear, so he didn’t know why he felt like this. His thoughts were interrupted by a cricket chirp near the door.
Synth stretched his limbs before walking over and opening the door. The sun was still high in the sky, but he could tell it was starting to go down. His eyes drifted over to the lawn, and he remembered his mailbox. He walked over and opened it to find two letters inside. He pulled them out, and noticed one was marked with a golden seal, while the other was marked with a dark blue seal.
Synth opened the golden seal first, expecting something formal from Canterlot or Luna. He was surprised to find one side blank. He turned it over and read:
Dear Synth,
When attending a formal gathering, formal attire is required, as well manners and etiquette.
Your Princess,
Celestia
P.S: Don’t forget, Mandatory.

Synth groaned, Celestia really went all out in this time. Now he’d have to find something formal to wear. He’d probably ask Rarity to make him something, although he would have time. It would be a long time before the Gala. Synth looked at the other note, and prayed that it wouldn’t be anything like the first. He undid the seal, and pulled out a letter that he knew instantly was from Luna.
Dear Synth,
Thou are welcome to return at any time. If thy nightmares are ever a problem again, please contact us. We wish thee the best. As well as Vera, we know she will be good company for thee. Just like the Canis Minors, family should not be lost.
Your Princess,
Luna
P.S.: What do these initials mean?

Synth smiled at the last part. Luna would take some time to get used to the present, but she’ll adapt. He looked to the letter again, and reread it. It’s something he always did, just for good measure. When he finished, he put them inside with the other letter he’d gotten. He walked back out and remembered something. She’d even called Vera his family, and that family shouldn’t be lost.

‘Shit,’ Synth said realizing he didn’t see Vera anywhere.
He looked around his entire house, but he didn’t see any sign of her. His first thought was that he was right when he thought he was being watched. He decided against that idea though, because he didn’t think anyone in town would do that. Not to mention they were all in the center anyways. Synth sighed and sat down to see if she’d come back. After a few minutes his patience wore out and he stood up.
‘Way to go, first day back and she’s already running away from home,’ Shade said.
“Well it’s not like she can just disappear, she has to be around the town somewhere,” Synth said walking towards the town.
‘Or she could be exploring the whole town,’ Shade said.
“Then she’ll still be around here somewhere,” Synth said.
‘The whole town,’ Shade said slower.
“Right, she’ll be ar-,” Synth started.
‘The forest!’ Shade interrupted , clearly annoyed.
“Oh, why didn’t you say so?” Synth said turning around to walk towards the forest edge.
Shade didn’t reply. Synth made it to the forest edge in the silence. He looked into the forest to be met by yellow eyes looking back at him. He could make out a shape of a wooden face. He turned around to run, but realized he was surrounded. They snarled at him and made him back up farther into the forest.
“Nice Timberwolves… you don’t want to hurt me, do you?” Synth said quietly. The Timberwolves snarled their reply and Synth gulped. He turned and dodged the one Timberwolf in the way. He kept running through the forest as they gave chase. He ran around trees and over rocks. His breathing was getting faster, and he could feel his heart beating. He chanced a look back to find them gaining on him.
Synth felt pure pain as he collided with a tree when he turned back. The impact stopped his momentum, and the Timberwolves didn’t prepare themselves. They tried to stop but were going too fast. Their paws skid across the grass and into a river. The current quickly took them forward and further down the coast. Synth was looking at the tree tops when he realized he was still conscious.
“Synth?” Synth heard an echo. He couldn’t tell what was happening, but apparently he was still awake. He expected it to be Shade, although it sounded different.
“Yeah?” Synth said his head now throbbing after the adrenaline left him.
“What are you doing here?” The voice asked. Synth definitely remembered the voice, just not who it belonged to.
“Just taking a stroll, what about you?” Synth said, still in pain in his head.
“I live here, but that’s beside the point. Why are you alone?” The voice said. Synth now remembered the voice. It belonged to Steven.
“Oh hey Steven, nice seeing you. Well I don’t see you yet, but you know what I mean,” Synth said.
“It’s nice to see you too, Synth. But please tell, why were you being chased?” Steven said.
“Ambush, my cover was blown,” Synth said.
“What?” Steven asked confused.
“Oh no reason, they just thought today was hunting day, but that’s Thursday,” Synth said.
“Today is Thursday,” Steven said.
“Well shit, that explains it,” Synth said feeling his head start to relax.
“Now can you please explain what you’re doing here?” Steven said a little annoyed.
“Okay, so I was looking for someone and those Timberwolves found me. I ran in here to lose them, but I hit that tree,” Synth explained.
“I saw that, are you alright?” Steven said now sounding more concerned.
“Yeah, just a little headache, nothing I can’t handle,” Synth said rubbing his head.
“Well who were you looking for?” Steven asked.
“My sister, her name’s Vera,” Synth said.
“That is worrisome, do you have any idea where she is?” Steven said.
“Either in town, or here in the forest,” Synth said.
“Well I have not seen anyone but you today. Would you care to join me for some tea? I’m sure she’ll turn up eventually,” Steven said holding out a cup of tea that Synth didn’t realize he had.
‘Oh by the way, Vera’s in the town square, she’s talking to Trixie,’ Shade said matter-of-factly.
‘Since when?’ Synth asked.
‘Since she left,’ Shade responded.
‘Fuck you,’ Synth said.
“Sure, I’m okay with that. Who knows, maybe she was in the town the whole time,” Synth said taking the tea cup in his magic.
“Delightful, I rarely get any company other than these pesky animals. And any company I do get want to cross this river without paying me any heed,” Steven said taking a sip out of his own tea that he pulled out from somewhere.
“They probably haven’t gotten to know you. I’m sure they’d stop and talk if they did. Or maybe they’re scared that there’s a talking Sea Serpent inviting them to stop in the middle of the deadly forest?” Synth said before taking a slow sip.
“You may have a point, but that doesn’t matter right now. As long as someone stops every now and then, I’ll be content in this river,” Steven said.
“I could stop by every few days if you want. I don’t really have much going on right now. I don’t mind,” Synth said.
“Oh could you? That’d be lovely, I have so much to tell you. But first, tell me a little about what happened with you,” Steven said.
Synth talked with Steven for a few hours. He didn’t realize that much time had passed. He was telling Steven about his adventures with Blossom after they met him, and what he learned. He also told him about his training in Canterlot. Steven had a lot of questions, but none pertained to why. It was usually questions on how he felt about things.
“So how did you feel about training in your hometown?” Steven asked.
“It was okay, although I had a run-in with my parents, it didn’t go very well,” Synth said.
“And why not?” Steven asked.
“Well it ended in them calling me a monster…” Synth said.
“Why would they ever do that?” Steven asked.
“Well… can I ask you something?” Steven nodded and Synth continued. “Am I a monster?” Synth asked.
“Of course not, why would you think that?” Steven said.
“Well… I’m going to tell you something that you have to promise not to tell anyone…” Synth said.
“I promise, and this Sea Serpent always keeps his word,” Steven said.
“Okay well…” Synth started.
Synth told him about Shade and how he can get out on occasion. He told him about his problems and Shade’s personality. Steven was shocked at first, but eventually understood. Synth finished by saying how Shade was the one who tricked him into coming into the forest, and how Vera was actually fine in the town.
“My, he is certainly troublesome. It must be a big burden to deal with him alone,” Steven said.
“Well other than Luna, you’re the only one I told,” Synth said.
“Well I’m sure that those friends of yours will help you if you need it, although I understand if you want to keep this fact hidden. Sometimes it’s best to hide the truth to not hurt those you love,” Steven said.
“Very well said, I’m glad we had this talk,” Synth said standing up.
“Yes, it is getting late though, would you like me to show you the way out?” Steven asked.
Synth looked up to see it had gotten really dark. He didn’t notice though, as the darkness didn’t look too dark anymore.
“No, directions will be okay. Enjoy your slumber, Steven,” Synth said.
Steven gave him directions which were simple. Take a turn right and then when you get to a path, follow it to town. Synth waved goodbye as the serpent went back into the water. Synth began his trek into the darkness. He noticed many plants around the trees, and decided to take a few of them with him. He ate a plant that he was sure would help him recover his headache.
Synth followed the plants left and into a grove of trees. Synth felt a cold chill on his back. He turned around but didn’t see anything, it didn’t help that his vision was little as the darkness increased. He eventually resorted to using Night Eye to look around. It helped a lot. He followed the trees and kept a close watch on his surroundings. He could feel he was being watched.
When Synth heard something growl, he used his magic and made himself invisible. He turned around to stare at a single Timberwolf looking around. Eventually the Timberwolf turned around and walked away. Synth remembered that he needed to be quiet in this forest. He walked slower but continued to follow the trees. He thought that he might have gone the wrong direction. The directions were so simple though, that he decided against it.
Synth came across a clearing with sleeping Manticores, and walked right by one. It heard something, but didn’t see anything and went back to sleep. Synth decided not to push his luck, and walked a few feet around the next few of them. Of course, he felt his spell wear off and he was wide open. Synth felt his Night Eye starting to wear off too, so he made a dash for the edge of the clearing.
The Manticores stirred, but none actually gave chase. Synth considered himself lucky, and leaned against a tree. He concentrated and managed to activate both spells again. He continued walking, following the trees to the direction he thought was correct. He noticed another clearing up ahead, and quickened his pace. When he made it out of the trees, he realized he was staring at a cave. He looked at it, and realized that whatever was inside would be huge. The opening was huge, and Synth felt like an ant at its size.
Synth gulped and walked into the cave, completely forgetting about common sense. If he had turned around from the cave entrance, he would have noticed the buildings in the distance. Instead, he walked into the cave.
There was a banging on the walls that echoed in the entire cavern. Synth gulped as he looked around. The entrance was nothing compared to the rest of the cave. The cave expanded after a few feet inside. The ceiling was out of Synth view as he looked around. He regretted coming in there, and didn’t even remember why he was coming in here. When he was about to turn around and go back, there was a growl.
The growl bounced on the walls and filled the entire cave with the sound. Synth looked towards the very back of the cave and realized that they were not purple rocks. A giant purple-bear-looking-thing walked slowly towards him. Synth realized that the Canis Minors looked like that too; except they were blue. It was an almost see through coat, with stars on it as well. It was an Ursa Major.
Synth remembered the chess piece that was on Shade’s board. It looked a lot smaller there. In person, he didn’t think anything was bigger. Its head almost hit the ceiling, and its pinkie claw was larger than Synth.
“Uh, hi,” Synth said as softly as he could. His voice echoed all over the cavern.
The Ursa Major held out his paw above Synth and let it fall where Synth was standing. Synth managed to use his magic and jump out of the way. He ran out of its reach, or where Synth thought it couldn’t reach, and tried again.
“Listen, I’m just trying to find my way out of this forest. I don’t mean any harm,” Synth said. He noticed the Ursa hesitated, but then it sent another paw in his direction.
“What do you want from me?” Synth asked.
‘My son,’ The Ursa said in a motherly voice. Synth was surprised, and almost got hit by another strike.
‘Well I don’t have him, but I can help you look…’ Synth said.
The Ursa Major stopped and looked at him. She nodded and sat down, trusting Synth.
‘Okay well when was the last time you saw him?’ Synth asked. He had to admit, the whole talking in his head thing was pretty awesome at times.
‘It was earlier today, he was sleeping when he suddenly disappeared.
‘That’s weird; would there be any reason for him to leave?’ Synth asked.
‘Well he likes to go out and play, but he always comes back before nightfall. It’s almost his bedtime too,’ The Ursa said.
‘I think I found him,’ Shade said.
‘You have? Where is he, I’ve been worried sick,’ The Ursa said.
‘He’s in town, and he doesn’t look too happy,’ Shade said.
‘I’ll go get him, he won’t be able to find his way back,’ The Ursa said.
‘Actually, I think it’d be better if you stayed here. The townsfolk aren’t exactly friends with you, are they?’ Synth said.
‘Oh, I guess you have a point. Well then how will he find his way back?’ The Ursa asked.
‘It’s not too dark, I think Shade could lead him back,’ Synth suggested.
‘Fuck that, he’s not stopping for shit,’ Shade said.
‘Well then wait for him to calm down, I mean he can’t rampage forever,’ Synth said.
‘So about that calming down…’ Shade said.
‘What?’ Synth asked.
‘He’s about to eat Trixie, should I do something?’ Shade said.
‘One, You can’t do anything, and two, no,’ Synth said.
‘Are you sure he’ll be alright on his own?’ The Ursa asked.
‘I’m sure he’ll be fine, I’m more worried about the town,’ Synth said.
‘Does vanquishing an Ursa start with them falling asleep?’ Shade asked.
‘No, it starts with a flash of light,’ The Ursa said.
‘Oh, then your son’s fine. We’re on our way back,’ Shade said.
‘We?’ Synth asked.
There was a movement at the entrance to the cave and Synth looked up to find an Ursa Minor float in. He was sucking on what Synth thought was the Town’s Water Tower. Shade was on the Ursa Minor, and he jumped off and onto the ground looking around blindly. Synth was shocked as the Minor floated into the Ursa Major’s arms. She cradled him as he softly snore, which bounced off the walls. The purple aura around the Minor disappeared.
‘Thank you pony, we are grateful for your help,’ The Ursa said.
‘Thanks, name’s Synth. This here is Shade, we’re happy to help,’ Synth said.
‘We will remember your kindness, may we meet again,’ The Ursa Major said as Synth walked out of the cave.
Synth levitated Shade onto his back and walked back into the dark forest. He looked around and frowned. The exit was in front of him the entire time. He walked forward and noticed the buildings in the distance. He walked a little faster as he remembered that Vera was still in town. Shade was quiet, and Synth was glad for the silence. He was still checking for anything that would attack, but it looked like this forest wasn’t part of the Everfree.
He saw the road leading to Ponyville, as well as the blue spot heading his direction. He could make out a light mane, and realized it was Trixie. She slowed down when she got closer, but didn’t pay much attention to him.
“Watch out, Ursa cave up ahead,” Synth warned as they passed. She twitched, but she didn’t stop.
Synth kept walking and made it to the edge of the town. Instead of taking the path, he walked the outskirts of the town. He found his house easily enough, and walked up to the door. Before he entered, he noticed the mailbox had more mail. He opened it up and saw a white card inside. His Night Eye was about to fade, but he flipped it over to read what it said.
Welcome Back,
How was your week away?
- Anonymous
Synth didn’t understand, but he was feeling a little tired already. He took the card with him as he opened the door and stepped in. His eyes fell on Vera first, and then on the rabbits next to her. Lastly, he noticed Fluttershy holding a few more rabbits. They were all looking at Synth who shut the door behind him.
“Sup?” Synth asked casually.
“Uh, where were you?” Vera asked.
“Just out for a walk, why?” Synth said.
“You look like you were mobbed by Timberwolves,” Vera said.
Synth looked down to his body to find sap and tree leaves. There were even some sticks in his mane. He didn’t know if it was from the chase with the Timberwolves, the collision with the tree, or the trek through the forest, or even all three. Frankly, he was just glad he made it back alive.
“That was one good guess,” Synth admitted.
“Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked.
“Yeah I’m fine, they didn’t catch me,” Synth said.
“Wait, so you really did get mobbed by Timberwolves?” Vera asked.
“More or less, one almost got me, but I outmaneuvered him,” Synth said.
‘Hitting a tree isn’t outmaneuvering. It’s called luck, and yours is about to run out,’ Shade said.
“Whatever, it’s all right now,” Synth said.
“Okay, well we wanted to talk to you about something then,” Vera said.
“Sure, what is it?” Synth asked.
“Well when we left Canterlot, I didn’t see Shadow. So I decided that I’d get you a new bunny. Fluttershy told me she could find you one,” Vera said. “I found her and Angel and they brought over the bunnies to see which one you like,” Fluttershy nodded and held up a white rabbit.
“I don’t need a rabbit for a pet, besides…” Synth said. He levitated Shade off his back and onto the floor in front of him.
“How did he get here?” Vera asked, surprised.
“I guess I should tell you, he’s not really a rabbit, I just like to think of him as a real rabbit,” Synth explained.
“What do you mean?” Vera asked.
“Let me show you…” Synth said. ‘Okay, undo the spell and then redo it.’
‘I don’t take orders. I do what I want,’ Shade said. The white rabbit crossed his arms.
“Actually first, let me show you something else I can do…” Synth activated his own spell.
A green aura surrounded a figure that appeared next to him. The figure opened its green eyes and looked down to the white bunny. His lips dripped sap and his jaw opened. The others’ eyes in the room went wide, except for Synth. He was chuckling at his idea. Timberwolves were the highlight of the day, at least for him it was.
“Meet the Leader,” Synth said grinning to it.
‘I won’t say it again, undo the spell,’ Synth said.
The white rabbit nodded his head and changed into a puff of smoke that retreated into Synth’s horn. Synth nodded to the Leader who looked back to him and nodded. The Leader turned to a puff of smoke and also returned to Synth’s horn.
“What was that?” Vera asked, her eyes still large.
“Just a little magic, sometimes Shadow doesn’t do what I say, so I have to persuade him. But let me show you what I was talking about,” Synth said.
“Is it gone?” Fluttershy asked from underneath the pile of rabbits that she was using as a hiding spot.
“Yes Fluttershy, it’s gone. You can come out now,” Synth said.
“Okay,” Fluttershy said getting up off the ground. The rabbits jumped off and started sniffing the air.
Synth felt his horn go warm, and magic was cast out. A burst of dark magic came out and began to form something. A white bunny popped out and landed face first on the floor. He got up and looked back to Synth.
‘Happy?’ Shade said.
‘Yes, I am,’ Synth said.
“So you can make animals?” Vera asked.
“Not exactly, I can only keep them out for a little bit, and only a few different kinds,” Synth explained.
“But that’s still pretty cool,” Vera said.
“I guess, but it takes a lot of magic,” Synth said.
“Oh that reminds me… did you see Twilight when she took the Ursa out of town?” Vera asked.
“That was her? She must have a lot of magic,” Synth said.
“Yeah, she does… but so do you,” Fluttershy said.
“Thanks, I’ve been practicing… so was there anything you needed Fluttershy? Do you need some help getting home?” Synth asked.
“Oh no that’s alright… Angel Bunny was going to walk me home… He’s around here somewhere,” Fluttershy said shifting through the bunny pile.
A white paw stuck out of the pile and waved in the air. Fluttershy used her teeth to pull him out and place him on the floor. He squeaked something that Synth could guess. She apologized and led him and the rest of the rabbits out the door. Synth shut the door behind them, and turned to Vera.
“So, who else knows I’m back?” Synth asked.
“Only her and Twilight, Twilight saw me when I was in town and asked about you. She wanted to talk to you about something,” Vera said.
“Oh ok, I guess it can wait until tomorrow. I need some shut eye,” Synth said while yawning.
“I feel fine,” Vera said.
“Well I had a rough day, so I’m going to get myself cleaned up and then I should be out like a light,” Synth said walking out the door.
Synth went to the back of the house and looked for the hose. It would take high tech machinery to get rid of this sap and sticks. He was about to turn it on, but Shade stopped him.
‘Here, I’ll do it,’ Shade said.
Synth felt a warm spot around his horn, and magic was cast around himself. The sticks and sap were slowly rotting away. The remains fell to the floor, and Synth felt his body was a lot smoother than before.
‘What did you do?’ Synth asked.
‘It was an Environmental Takeover, just a different use for it,’ Shade explained.
‘Oh, well I guess that works, at least this way I don’t have to dry off,’ Synth said.
Synth walked back inside. He placed his mail card with the envelopes and went upstairs. He noticed Vera had fallen asleep on his bed. She was passed out, and Synth didn’t feel like moving her to make room for himself. The bed was also smaller than the ones in Canterlot, so he probably wouldn’t fit anyways. He went back down the stairs and took off his cloak and necklace. He laid down on the couch and closed his eyes.
Synth could faintly hear a sound in the distance. It sounded a like a screech, but he didn’t think that it was that important. He found the couch to be very comfortable. Maybe he wouldn’t need to get another bed, this couch was awesome. His eyelids grew heavy as the amount of magic he had used that day took its toll on him.
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Synth’s eyes opened. He thought he heard a sound, but he didn’t see anything. Nothing at all. Synth looked around frantically but only found darkness in every direction. He activated his Night Eye, but he still could see nothing. He tried to relax. Synth laid his head back down, only to find wood where the soft fabric of the couch used to be. Synth stood up and looked into the darkness, squinting at something he thought he saw. He felt his muscles tense up when he heard a voice behind him.
“So, how’s it going?” Shade asked from the shadows. Synth turned around to at least face Shade’s general direction.
“I don’t know if I should be delighted or frightened to see you,” Synth said relaxing.
“I don’t know, can’t you do both?” Shade asked.
“Fine then… what are you doing here?” Synth asked.
“Enjoying some time to stretch, rabbits can’t pop their backs properly, you know?” Shade said.
“Okay, so why are you really here?” Synth asked not caring about Shade’s knowledge on rabbit anatomy.
“What, can’t I just chill out with my bro?” Shade asked.
“I’m not your bro,” Synth said.
“Close enough, we’re like twins,” Shade said.
“Okay seriously, what are you doing here?” Synth asked getting impatient.
“Well, I wanted to talk to you about something…” Shade said shuffling his hooves.
“And that something is…?” Synth asked.
“You’re weak,” Shade said plainly.
“Well that was a nice talk. Glad to see you have manners,” Synth replied.
“Okay, let me finish. You’re weak, and I think I know a way to fix that,” Shade said.
“And why would you help me?” Synth asked, intrigued by Shade’s proposal.
“Well if you die, I’m a goner too. I’m just looking out for myself… and if I get stronger by helping you, that’s a bonus,” Shade explained.
“I’ll pretend you’re doing this from the bottom of your heart; It’ll help me sleep at night. So, what’s your plan?” Synth asked.
“Okay, well it’s more of a theory, but it should work,” Shade said.
“I’m listening,” Synth said.
“Well you know how Split could use Environmental Takeover to make things darker, right?” Shade said.
“Yeah, he uses a lot of night magic, so it makes sense he would use dark spells,” Synth said.
“But he didn’t have to,” Shade said.
“It’s what he’s been doing though, I don’t know if he can use other types of spells,” Synth said.
“Exactly, that’s where my theory comes in. If you can use plants or grass in your spells, it should be easier to do. It is your special talent after all,” Shade said.
“Actually my talent is to talk to plants. That’s what my cutie mark says,” Synth said.
“It’s a fucking flower, for all we know you might be hallucinating when you talk to them. You could easily have been an alchemist. Now listen, I think there might be a way to make your spells stronger,” Shade said.
“And how might that be?” Synth asked.
“There should be something in that book that Luna showed you. That’s the only way I see you getting stronger,” Shade said.
“Well then I’ll have to check it out the next time I go to Canterlot,” Synth said.
“Or you could go to the library and look for a copy there…” Shade suggested.
“Oh right, I knew that,” Synth said.
“Sure you did… now if don’t mind, I need some shut eye,” Shade said.
“I do too, I’ve had a tough day,” Synth said.
“No kidding, that Ursa almost had you for dinner,” Shade said.
“I don’t think I’d have tasted that good,” Synth said.
“Great, now shut up and go to sleep, my head’s killing me,” Shade said.
“Fine, it’s not like my head’s any better off,” Synth said.
Shade backed away into the darkness without a sound. Synth saw the darkness recede. He looked around now, and saw his living room. He could tell it was still a dream, because there were energy waves coming from the walls. He found the couch he slept on, and laid back down on it. He felt weird going to sleep in a dream, but he fell asleep all the same.
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(Earlier that day, Synth had arrived.)

“Boss! He’s back. And he’s not alone,” The voice said on the other side of the door.

“Excellent… go retrieve the bugs and continue to watch him. I’ll need to make sure my strategy is foolproof before I put it into action,” The boss said from his sitting position. He was writing down some notes on a sticky note.

“Uh okay… but why get rid of the bugs? Can’t we keep watching him?” The voice asked.

“I don’t want him to get suspicious; if he finds the bugs the plan is ruined,” The boss said.

“Okay, but what about the filly he brought with him?” The voice asked.

“Filly? Interesting, I’ll have to think about that... Just go, make sure you don’t get seen,” The boss said writing the new information down with the rest of his notes.

Author's Notes:

Short and Simple… Actually I thought there would be more words than this, and there probably would have been if I didn’t cut some parts out. Also I think it would have been longer if I added details, but I don’t like reading a paragraph of details and it’s worse when you have to write it.
Next Time: DragonShy, One of my favorite episode titles.