Colder than Fiction
*Note: This chapter changed since I posted the last one, and I’ve redone the events within. That being said, it’s not disastrous as I had planned.

The sound of hooves and wooden wheels entered his room. Synth tried to ignore the sound, but it was getting closer. Then, he heard the sound of the wheels skidding across the ground. Finally, the crash gave him motivation to open his eyes.

Synth quickly rushed outside to see what was going on. It was still early in the morning and the air was freezing, but what was more chilling, was the wreckage in front of his house. There were the remains of a carriage and items scattered around the crash. Synth tried to piece together what had happened from the icy road that the carriage came from. He noticed a hoof poking from under the wreckage and rushed over.

“Hey, are you okay?” Synth asked the pony as he pulled away wood from atop the body.

“Yeah… I think so,” Came the male reply.

Synth managed to take the wood off of him, but there was a piece that lodged itself in his other hoof. It might have been too cold to feel, but it could still be infected. Synth pulled him out, careful of the bad hoof.

“Oh, what happened?” Synth realized a crowd was starting to form and the lights in nearby houses had been turned on with faces looking out the windows.

“It was an accident. I tried to turn, but I must have slipped,” The injured pony said, being examined by the doctor who had just arrived.

“We need to get you to the hospital. Synth, could you help me with the stretcher?” The doctor asked. Synth nodded and together, they managed to drag the pony into the stretcher that they started to carry away.

“Thanks, you really saved me there,” The pony said.

“No problem,” Synth said, trying to hurry up and get him to the hospital that was probably four blocks away.

Synth was about to give in to the cold, until he saw the looming shape of the hospital in front of him. They took him through the entrance and directly into one of the operating rooms. Synth was pushed out the room as they locked it and prepared to remove the wood.

Synth decided it was too cold to go home, and asked the nurse if he could stay to make sure his ‘friend’ was okay. She allowed it, and Synth fell asleep on one of the couches. He didn’t know how long he slept, but it was a dreamless sleep.
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“Synth, go home,” The voice in the sky said. Actually it wasn’t in the sky, and the voice had a body. It belonged to his doctor who was looking at him quizzically.

“Hey Doc… morning already?” Synth asked.

“Yes it is. We finished the surgery, and the pony will be okay. He’ll just need to stay off his hoof for a few days. You on the other hand, should get going,”

“Alright, good to see you again,” Synth said, stretching and getting ready to leave.

“Wait Synth… the nurse said that pony had a friend out here. That wouldn’t be you, would it?” The doctor asked.

“Could be, but I wouldn’t count on it,” Synth said.

“It’s just, when we finished the procedure, the patient was excited when she told him somebody wanted to talk to him. I don’t want to get his hopes up for nothing, he’s been having it rough lately,”

“Oh well, when you put it that way, I guess I can chat with him a while. I don’t think I’ve seen him before, so maybe he’s new around here,” Synth said.

“He is, he told me he didn’t have any relatives nearby and that he was traveling through when that happened,”

“A traveler, that sounds like fun,” Synth said, walking into the room where the patient was. The doctor shook his head before leaving.

Synth stepped in to the dim lighted room and shut the door behind him. He looked at the bed where the pony lay, his head rising as he noticed Synth entered.

“Hey, feeling better?” Synth asked.

“My leg hurts, but otherwise I’m fine,” He said, a smile showing on his face.

“Well my name’s Synth, I thought we could talk while you’re stuck in this hospital,” Synth said.

“Synth… Well my name is Artemis. You can call me Arty if you like,” Artemis said.

“Well Arty, you sure had some bad luck on that icy road. Where were you headed anyways?” Synth asked.

“The Everfree Forest, or more precisely, the Freegrounds of the Everfree Forest. And that was no accident,” Artemis said.

“What do you mean? And what are the Freegrounds?” Synth asked.

“Why would the road be icy when it hasn’t rained or snowed in days? The Forest was trying to keep me away, and its plan worked. As for the Freegrounds, let’s say there is a rumor I heard that the Everfree Forest is not aggressive. Some say it’s defensive, the way it keeps ponies out. The freegrounds is the safe area in the very heart of the forest,”

“But that’s not likely, the Forest wouldn’t let something that peaceful into its heart,” Synth said trying to remember the information he read on the Forest weeks ago.

“Although, the rumor could be backed if you add in the size of the Everfree Forest, well the perimeter. Thus, it came to my attention that such a place could exist. So, why did nopony find it yet?” Artemis asked.

“They don’t try?” Synth asked.

“Close, but it’s because if they do find it, they’d want to keep it for themselves,” Artemis said.

“Would you?” Synth asked.

“Of course not, I have no intention of living in a place like that. It’s my duty to travel and find new rumors to explore, not to settle down,”

“What about your friends? Or your family?” Synth asked.

“Dead, but I’d rather not relive those stories. Ask me again later,” Artemis said.

“So you’re alone?” Synth asked.

“I’ve got you for now. Don’t suppose you’re gonna go off and die soon, would you?” Artemis asked with less of a playful smile than Synth expected.

“No… So what are you going to do after you get out? Your carriage was totally wrecked,” Synth said.

“Oh, I nearly forgot. Would you care to fetch me my things from the carriage? They mean a lot to me. The most important things, of course. I had a scarf from my mother, a drawing from my little brother, a lucky horseshoe from my father, and this strange artifact my great grandfather gave me, it looks like a slab of rock,” Artemis said.

“Alright, I’ll get those for you. I just hope they didn’t clean up the wreck yet,” Synth said, stepping out of the room. He shut the door behind him and quickly trotted out of the hospital and onto the road.

Synth made it to the wreckage and found it to be the way he saw it earlier that morning. The difference he noticed though, was that the road was no longer icy. The air still had an early winter feeling, but not nearly as cold as in the morning. Synth inspected the wreckage.

Synth found the scarf underneath a board and pulled it away. He heard a slight rip and found that it had caught the edge of a piece of wood. The middle of it was ripped away and Synth remembered what Arty said. It was from his mother.

Synth located the drawing nearby and the horseshoe was a few feet away on top of some leaves. The strange looking rock actually resembled a stone medallion, and it had a symbol on the front of it. The small writing under the symbol was illegible, but it looked familiar.

Synth looked once again at the scarf and decided he should make it right. Synth put the objects in his bag and walked into the town. Walking straight down his street, he saw the Carousel Boutique coming into view. Synth hurried his pace a little and opened the door. He heard the bell above signal his presence.

“Welcome to the Carousel Boutique, where every-, Synth! Oh it’s nice to see you,” Rarity said, noticing it was him.

“Hey Rarity, I was wondering if you could-,”

“Come, sit down. I’ll make you some tea,” Rarity said, motioning to the couch before leaving the room. Synth took a seat on the couch and waited for Rarity to return. She came back with a teapot and two cups.

“I came by to ask if you could fix this scarf for a friend of mine,” Synth said.

Rarity looked at the scarf Synth was holding. “Yes, that should be fairly simple, I’ll have it done in no time,” Rarity said.

“Alright, I’ll wait here then,” Synth said, taking a sip of his offered tea. He had to admit he enjoyed it. It was soothing and warm, something he needed.

“That’s nice, we haven’t sat and talked in so long. Well, I suppose this wouldn’t be a casual talk either if I’m working,” Rarity said.

Rarity brought her sewing machine over and sat herself down to work. She put her glasses on and turned it on. Synth could see that she was concentrated but not too concentrated.

“So, what would you like to talk about, dear?” Rarity asked.

“Well, this scarf was for somepony I met recently. There was an accident outside my house and now we’re the best of buddies,” Synth said.

“Oh, is she special enough for you to bring her scarf to me?” Rarity asked. Synth thought he saw a grin on her face, but it disappeared quickly.

“It wasn’t a mare. He said that scarf belonged to his mother, and so I didn’t want to tell him that it was damaged,” Synth said.

“Oh, and here I thought you’d found somepony special. Well, at least you’ve learned how to make new friends,” Rarity said.

“A lot’s changed since I first got here. I feel like I’m a new pony now. All thanks to you girls and the rest of this town,” Synth said.

“Don’t give us credit for everything. You’re the one who can change yourself. We just inspired you to make that change, dear. I mean, do you honestly think the world changes ponies? I think it’s the ponies who change the world,” Rarity said.

‘You’re rubbing off on her, that’s not a good thing,’ Shade said, rising from his unconscious state.

‘I didn’t think you’d ever wake up after that last one,’ Synth said.

‘I’m starting to get the hang of it though, a few more and I think I can withstand it,’ Shade said.

“Doubt it,” Synth said.

“Everypony’s entitled to their beliefs. So, if you think that your friends did all the work, why don’t you go see them as well? I see them all the time, and they never mention much about you. I suppose you’ve just been busy with other things, but you should still see your friends,” Rarity said.

“I- uh… thanks. I think I’ll take your advice,” Synth said, when Rarity handed him the repaired scarf. He couldn’t even tell it had been damaged. Synth downed the rest of his tea, grateful for the warmth.

“Who knows, maybe friends can turn out to be better than you think,” Rarity said.

“They already seem like a good idea, how could they get better?” Synth questioned.

“I’m not going to spell things out for you, just go enjoy your day. Have some fun,” Rarity said, pushing him out the door.

Synth couldn’t ask anything else before she pushed him outside and shut the door. Rarity chuckled as she walked back to her room.

‘I do hope we were the right friends for him. I don’t want him to end up regretting his decisions. Especially if he ends up feeling alone,’ Rarity thought to herself as she sat down to work on a design she’d been working on. The winter edition should reflect the season.
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Synth put the scarf in his bag with the rest of the things and decided that he should visit one of the others. It was still early, so Fluttershy would still be asleep. He couldn’t figure how to get up to Cloudsdale, and Sweet Apple Acres was so far away. Deciding between Pinkie and Twilight, he decided that he’d had enough weirdness for today and started walking toward the library.

Synth once again felt the wind blowing. It made him shiver, and he wished he brought some clothing. Synth picked up his pace and made it to the library. He could see the lights on inside and shapes moving inside. Synth pushed against the door and looked inside.

Twilight was on the ground, looking at multiple books at once. She had a quill and paper next to her. She didn’t notice him enter, and turned the page in two of the books and put aside the other two. She pulled two more off the shelf and opened them to the middle. Spike was pacing in front of her and stopped when he heard the door shut.

Synth was about to ask something until Spike put his finger to his lips and said “Shh”

Synth mouthed ‘What’ and Spike motioned for him to enter the kitchen. Synth followed and waited until Spike spoke first.

“She’s studying about winter in case the Princess tests her on it. Don’t ask why, and don’t try to stop her. She said she didn’t want to be disturbed, so what did you want?” Spike asked.

“I was just coming by to visit. If it’s a bad time, I’ll just come back later,” Synth said.

“Take me with you… if you don’t mind, I mean,” Spike said.

“W-why?” Synth asked, taken off guard.

“I’ve been walking around the room all morning and she’s only just started. If I put the closed sign on the door, do you think I can go with you? Please?” Spike asked.

“Yeah, I guess. As long as Twilight doesn’t mind,” Synth said.

“She’ll never know I was gone,” Spike said, pushing him toward the backdoor. Spike sure was strong for a little dragon. Err, for his size.

Synth went out the door and shut it behind Spike. He started walking away, when he noticed the white flakes falling down. At first, he didn’t know what they were, but then Spike reminded him.

“Snow? The pegasi weren’t supposed to let it snow yet,” Spike said.

Synth looked up at the sky, and the area where the flakes were falling. He noticed what was behind the library. The Everfree Forest had a fog around it. The snow was already piling on the ground and in the trees around the forest. In the town however, the snow was melting when it hit the ground.

“You think we should tell Twilight about this?” Spike asked.

“With all that studying, I doubt she’d notice, or care,” Synth said.

“But this isn’t bad, is it? I mean, I always liked the snow. Besides the cold part,” Spike said.

“Maybe not, but I should figure out what to do now. I thought I could spend some time in the library, but I guess not,” Synth said.

“Hey, what are they doing over there?” Spike asked, pointing away from the tree.

Synth looked where he was pointing where the snow was falling. There were two figures in the snow. One looked to be older than the other, and Synth could make out the light coat anywhere. It was Pinkie, and the filly next to her would most likely be his sister. Synth didn’t respond, and instead started to walk in the direction. Spike followed.

Having made his way over, Spike looked at the snow that was piling around them. Before Synth could say anything, Spike was already in the snow stacking some of the icy frost. Pinkie noticed him and went over.

“Hey Spike, wanna help me and Vera build our snow fort?” Pinkie asked.

“Actually, I was going to build my own fort. Then, we can have a snowball fight,” Spike said.

“Ooh, that sounds like fun. I’ll make my fort big enough to withstand anything you throw at me: snow, snowballs, cannonballs, anything!” Pinkie said, before going back to build the fort that was as tall as her. Vera was on top, adding more snow. She noticed Synth approaching.

“Hey Synth, look how big it’s getting. At this rate, it’ll be bigger than your house,” Vera said.

“How long have you two been out here?” Synth asked.

“About five minutes,” Vera said, sliding down from the top.

“Impressive,” Synth said, looking at the five foot tall structure that was longer than him. He noticed Spike also building his own fort, although not as quickly.

“Want to help us? Or do you want to help Spike?” Vera asked.

“I think Spike needs all the help he can get,” Synth said.

Synth approached Spike’s beginning of a fort and began to pile snow on top of it. They quickly made a mound of snow and began to shape out a wall. When Synth looked up he noticed Pinkie’s fort was almost doubled in size. Synth tried not to think too much about it and continued to bring more snow from around him.

“Hey, what are you four up to?” Synth heard from above. He looked up to find Rainbow Dash sitting on a cloud that was bringing snow down.

“We’re gonna have a snowball fight, want to join?” Spike asked.

“Snowball fight, huh? Count me in. You two might not know it, but I’m undefeated when it comes to snowball fights,” Rainbow Dash said.
“Come help us build this fort then, we’ll need all the help we can get to catch up to Pinkie,” Spike said.

Rainbow Dash looked over Pinkie’s fort with admiration. It was almost as big as a house now, and it even had a roof. Don’t ask how, but it also had a working door.

“Looks like I’m going to have to defend my title,” Rainbow Dash said.

Synth was going to say something, but she kicked the cloud she’d been on. The snowfall accelerated and she positioned it directly above Synth’s fort. The snow piled on top, and Rainbow Dash flew around the fort to keep in aligned. When she moved the cloud, the fort was almost as big as Pinkie’s. Almost.

“There we go, that should do it,” Rainbow Dash said, brushing off her hooves.

“That was awesome, how’d you do that,” Spike said.

“I’d tell you, but I don’t reveal my tricks to anypony. Unless of course, if they can prove they’re just as awesome as me,” Rainbow Dash said.

“So, are we gonna get started soon?” Synth asked, getting himself some shelter in one of the windows he made in the fort.

“Let’s get this started!” Pinkie said, lobbing a snowball that landed near Synth’s window.

Rainbow Dash started her own assault of snowballs. She would have her wings forming the snowballs while her hooves were busy throwing them. Synth decided against using magic, and followed Spike’s procedure of forming the snowballs in his claws. Synth looked out his window for where he could throw the snowball and got a face full of snow.

“Bullseye!” Vera cried from the other fort.

“Oof!” Synth heard the sound of snow hitting something solid. He saw Rainbow Dash giving herself a prideful cheer.

“Keep your head down, kid. Didn’t you see what just happened to Synth?” Rainbow Dash asked Vera.

“Let’s see how you like it,” Pinkie replied.

Rainbow Dash jumped to cover as snowballs fell on the spot she was just at. Synth could hear snow hitting the walls without pause. Rainbow Dash pulled his head down before he could look out the window.

“She’s using a snow cannon, wait for her to run out of ammo,” Rainbow Dash said. Spike collapsed next to Synth. His face was filled with snow, and his claws were trying to remove the snow. “Or that’ll happen,”

“But how did she-,”

“Don’t ask,” Rainbow Dash said, hearing the sound of snowballs stop. “Now’s our chance,”

Rainbow rose with multiple snowballs made and was getting ready to throw them until she caught a snowball to the face. She fell backward and skid out of the safety of the fort. Synth ran over and dragged her back in as she brushed the snow from her face.

“Nice shot Vera, you’re a natural. I just finished reloading,” Pinkie said.

“There goes our chance,” Rainbow Dash said.

“Are we losing then?” Spike asked.

“We’re not out yet, it’s two versus three, we can still turn it around,” Rainbow Dash said.

Synth heard a thump on the other side of the wall and felt it start to break apart. Rainbow Dash had a look of disbelief as she poked her head out of the fort. She brought it back down before a snowball could hit her.

“She upgraded the cannon,” Rainbow Dash said.

“What?” Synth asked.

Synth felt another shot hit the wall. The poorly made walls fell down and the snow fort became a snow pile. Synth shook the snow from his coat and looked to see if the others were okay. He saw Spike brushing off his legs and Rainbow Dash was shivering next to him.

“Looks like we win,” Pinkie said, sliding down the victorious fort. Vera came after her, laughing the whole while.

“Yeah, y-yeah, w-whatever. N-next time W-we’ll see who’s l-laughing,” Rainbow Dash said, shivering even more.

“You okay?” Synth asked, seeing her hooves twitching.

“y-yeah, I’m fine. Just a little, co-,” She said before sneezing and sniffling her nose.

“Maybe you should get inside,” Synth said.

“You don’t want to get a cold, those are hard to lose. Unless you’re good at gambling, and then it’s pretty easy, even if you don’t try,” Pinkie said.

“Yeah, what she said…” Spike said.

“I know, let’s go to Sugarcube Corner! I can get us all some hot cocoa,” Pinkie said.

“Yeah sure, l-let’s go then,” Rainbow Dash said.

They walked in the direction of Sugarcube Corner. It wasn’t snowing in town, but it was definitely still chilly aired. Synth more or less followed them and watched Rainbow Dash as she seemed to be drained of energy. She was constantly shivering, and she would twitch her head every few seconds, but play it off like she was looking somewhere.

“Here we go, I’ll go make us some cocoa. Vera, want me to show you how to do it?” Pinkie asked.

“Okay!” Vera said, following Pinkie to the backroom. The others seated themselves at one of the counters and waited. Synth noticed Rainbow Dash was shivering less, but she still didn’t look comfortable.

“You sure you’re okay?” Synth asked.

“No, I’m not okay, alright? I. Don’t. Lose. What Pinkie did back there… is that fair?” Rainbow asked.

“I don’t think so, but it was made out of snow…” Synth said.

“I was undefeated, but now look… I think I need some time to think,”

“Alright, but remember, it’s all in good fun,” Synth said.

“Yeah, you’re right. I shouldn’t care, but it bugs me, you know? Anyway, I did have fun, and it’s been a while since we’ve had time to chat. I’ll be seeing you,” Rainbow Dash said before getting up and walking out. Pinkie came in a few seconds later bringing a tray with five cups of cocoa.

Pinkie set the tray down and looked around, her smile lessening to a degree. Synth decided to answer her question before she asked.

“She had to go, but she said thanks anyways,” Synth said, editing her words to something completely different.

“Alrighty then, more for us,” Pinkie said, grabbing a cup and chugging down the liquid.

Synth reached for his own cup, but found it steaming hot. He levitated it over and looked inside. The steam was burning his face, and he wondered how she could drink it. Vera attempted the same thing, but she nearly spilled the cup when she tried to take a drink.

“Hot!” Vera said, setting the cup back down.
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After Synth and Vera departed and left Pinkie to do some chores, while Spike decided it was best to make sure Twilight didn’t need him, it started to snow in the rest of the town. Synth followed Vera as she led the way back to their house. She was shivering slightly, but she said she could handle the cold. Synth himself felt slightly chilled, but like his sister, it didn’t bother him too much.

Synth remembered the scarf and other items he had. He told Vera to continue on home while he finished an errand. Synth went to the hospital and found Artemis’ room. Synth entered, and saw his face light up with recognition.

“Ah, so you’ve returned,” The Artemis said.

“Yes, and I’ve brought the items,” Synth said, pulling everything out and piling it on the nearby table.

“That’s great, it’s a good thing nothing was damaged,” Artemis said, inspecting the drawing.

“So, do these things have a lot of sentimental value?” Synth asked.

“Oh yes… very much indeed. It’s been so long since my family… passed,” Artemis said.

“How long ago was it?” Synth asked.

“…” Artemis looked away from Synth’s face for that question.

“Do you… think you could do me a favor? Could you keep this a secret?”

“Keep what a secret?” Synth asked, feeling curious about his answer.

“You see… it’s been one hundred years since they had the accident,” Artemis said, looking up to see Synth’s reaction.

Synth was confused at first, but he decided to hear him out. “How is that possible?” he asked.

“Let me begin from the beginning…” Artemis said, recalling events from his past.
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“I was only about 8 years old. I was just a young colt back then. I was raised in a family that constantly moved. We moved almost every year. My father was a researcher who was intrigued about a mystery that year. We moved to Neighbraska and my father asked around for the rumors. There was a house on a hill that was haunted.

Nobody believed that it was haunted, but all the same, nobody went near it. My father, he took the whole family to the house to see if the rumors were true. Back then, my brother was about 15, his special talent was in navigation, and wanted to help my dad. I was dragged along because he didn’t want to leave me at home.

When we entered, it was a really creepy place and I could see why people thought it was haunted. After an hour of looking around, my dad told us to split up and search the bedrooms. I went with my brother, and when we found nothing wrong with the room, we heard a sound in the other room.

My brother, he told me we should check it out. When we went in the next door room, I saw something I still find in my dreams today.”
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“You don’t have to tell me if it makes you feel uncomfortable,” Synth said.

“No, it’s fine. It happened so long ago anyways…” Artemis said.
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“My parents, they were sprawled on the couch. The windows let the light streak in and hit the red liquid that covered them. I didn’t know what it was at first, but my brother did. He pushed me out of the room and told me to leave. I didn’t know why, but the look on his face… it told me something was wrong.

I tried to leave. I ran for the exit, but by the time I got there, I heard a scream. When I tried to open the door, I didn’t budge. It was locked, even though the door didn’t have a lock. I sat next to the door, when all of a sudden, there was a white smoke entering the room. It came in from the direction I did, and the rest of the house was quiet.

Then, I saw him. In the mist, there was a silhouette of a pony. He took his time stepping out of the mist, and got to where I could see him. His mane, was blood red with deep scar on the left side of his face. His eyes were a darker shade of red, with a pale white coat. He frowned when he reached me. I could see something was off about this pony, but I was too young to feel scared of him.

He said a few words to me, and I remember those clearest of all. He said,”There is no Haven for the Damned, Nor a Hell for the Angels,” Then he went to the doors and opened them. He gestured for me to leave, and following my brother’s request, I left. I noticed as soon as the doors shut behind me, my Cutie Mark appeared. A cross with a pointed bottom resembled a sword. I wasn’t excited, and I went to ask for help.

It was months later, after my parents were presumed missing and me being put into a foster home that I learned what he meant. I spent years in foster care until I was old enough to leave. I took the first opportunity and followed my parent’s course and line of work.

I started to travel and learn things from people. Not normal things, they were myths, mysteries, even complete lies. But I kept listening, for something that could sound like what I saw when I was younger. Finally, that day came.

My travels brought me to the Griffin Kingdom. One of the townsfolk heard I was looking for stories and told me of the Forsaken Mal. Mal was short for something else, but I couldn’t remember it for the life of me.

He said that the Mal were corrupt ponies who had died with a burden on their heads. They were resurrected after death and given deadly powers. Their flaw, however, was that they were bound to the area in which they died. He also said that if they were killed, the curse would be transferred to their killer. When the newly cursed died of unnatural causes, they too would be resurrected and turned into a Mal. Before you died, however, you could live forever until your heart stopped beating.

After learning this, I decided that the best thing to do was to give the Mal I met a proper burial. I traveled to Neighbraska and located the house. When I entered, the Mal appeared before me. He must have remembered me, because he didn’t attack immediately.

He said to me,”Why did you come back? Why does the Angel turned Damned return to the Hell he escaped?”

So I told him why, ”To cleanse you of your curse,” His face registered something, like confusion and happiness at the same time.

“Then I shall give you my best wishes,” He said before jumping at me. I pulled out my newly bought blade made of silver. Before he could react, I slashed his hooves and he tumbled to the ground.

“Finally, rest may come. Thank you, you damned Angel. May you take your spoils of war and find peace. I leave with you, one relic,” He said before he stopped breathing.

I can’t describe what happened next, but it felt like something was flowing into me. I felt power and sorrow and every other emotion at once. Before I knew it, Mal’s body was turned into ashes and blown into every corner of the house. What was left behind, was that strange object you got for me. Ever since then, I’ve traveled the world. I’ve been to every country, and I’ll continue to do that until something horrible happens to me,”
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“That’s not a very happy ending,” Synth said.

“Well, not everything is. Some things… are better left alone,” Artemis said.

“This is… a lot to take in,” Synth said.

“That’s alright; you can have some time to think about it. I need to get some rest anyways; that crash really did a number on me,” Artemis said.

“Okay then, I’ll see if I can’t come see you again before you get released,” Synth said, before leaving the room. That story made him feel weird. A part of him thought he was lying, but a bigger part knew he was telling the truth. Synth shook his head and set his destination to the apple trees to thing about things.
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“So what kinda pony was he? I bet he had an accent, like most of them other Neighbraskans,” Applejack said.

“He seemed like you or me, not that different really,” Synth said.

Synth had just gotten to the apple trees until Applejack found him and convinced him to tell her what was wrong. Synth didn’t know how she knew something was up, but she did. Now, he was leaned against a tree and had just told her what he knew about Artemis. He kept out the story details, but he did explain it was weird enough to make him question it.

“I don’t get it, why would a pony like you or me be travelin’ the country?” Applejack asked.

“I bet he has his reasons, but I’d rather not question him too much,” Synth said.

“Alright, then I won’t either. But, like I said earlier, it’s great to know you’ve been strolling around town. I ain’t seen you in a while, and I bet the others were glad to see you too,” Applejack said.

Synth had also mentioned that he’d been in town and told her a few of the details of what he did.

“I thought it was about time since I stayed coped up with myself. I felt like Vera was driving me crazy,” Synth said.

“Oh that reminds me, I was wondering if Vera wanted to meet my-,”

“Applejack! I’ve been lookin’ for you everywhere. Yer brother wants you in the barn to help with some storage,” Granny Smith said, starting to nudge Applejack in the direction she wanted.

“Oh alright, duty calls. I’ll be seeing you then, Synth,” Applejack said, starting to walk in the direction of her own accord.

“Yeah, see ya,” Synth said, turning to get back into town. It felt like forever since he woke up. The sun was already starting to descend, although he knew that meant it was still about five.

Synth realized that he’d visited almost all of his friends, whether he wanted to or not. He’d only left out one, considering Lyra had visited him on a few occasions. Fluttershy was bound to be unoccupied considering some animals had already hibernated while others would wait until the last moment.

Synth made his way in the direction he thought would bring him to her cottage. Almost as if by a miracle, he saw her cottage directly in front of him. Synth went around to the front door and gave it three knocks. After a few seconds, he heard some commotion inside and the door opened.

Fluttershy stood in front of him, her mane frizzled and she had small bags under her eyes. She also tried to hold back a yawn that Synth caught. Synth had to admit, she didn’t smell very pleasant either.

“Hey, Synth… how are you doing?” Fluttershy asked.

“I’m doing good, but what about you? You don’t look very… presentable,” Synth said.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I just haven’t been getting much sleep lately. I’ve been busy getting the animals ready to hibernate. I’ve been gathering food and digging holes… and…-,” Fluttershy was starting to sway, and Synth couldn’t stop her before she hit the floor.

Synth tried to shake her awake, but she didn’t stir. She was mumbling something, but there was no way she’d wake up if she didn’t feel anything from hitting the floor. Synth dragged her over to the couch and tried to lay her down on it. It wasn’t a bed, but she shouldn’t be on the ground in her condition.

Synth managed to set her down and stood back to make sure it was comfortable. He heard a noise of footsteps and turned to the kitchen doorway. Angel entered the room, carrying with him a wooden spoon. He looked up at Synth first, then at the sleeping Fluttershy. He seemed to go berserk, for a bunny. Synth looked from Fluttershy to Angel and put his hoof up.

“I don’t know what this looks like, but it doesn’t look like that. She just-,”

Synth ducked as the wooden spoon stuck into the wall. Angel went back into the kitchen. Synth didn’t want to stay and explain when the rabbit came back with bigger and sharper objects. Synth was opening the door, until he heard Fluttershy mumble something behind him.

“It’s…nice meeting… you, Synth,” Fluttershy said, she had a smile on her face, and Synth had to wonder what she was dreaming about. He heard something fall in the kitchen, and it sounded sharp, so Synth went out the door and shut it behind him. He left at a quick trot to put as much distance between him and that psychotic bunny as possible.

Synth walked back in the direction of his house. He started to wonder how his day had been going. It was nice he saw all of his friends today, but it hadn’t gone like he wanted. It’s been weeks since he saw them all at once, and he had to imagine that they did things without him considering how close they were to each other. On the other hand, Twilight seemed to get along just fine considering she’d known them just as long as Synth.

Synth realized that he’d been preoccupied with life in Ponyville, and he hasn’t gone back to visit his friends in Canterlot. He decided that the next time he felt lonely, he’d go see them. Synth looked up when he noticed the mail pony passing him by. She hadn’t dropped in (literally) for a while, so Synth wondered what kind of mail he’d gotten.

Synth approached his mailbox and opened it. He looked inside at the old looking package that was considerably light. He took it inside and set it on the table. Just then, Vera entered with Luna by her side. Luna had a smile on her face, and she looked like she’d just been laughing.

“Ah Synth, tis a great evening, wouldn’t thou agree?” Luna asked.

“A little cold, but not bad,” Synth said.

“But the cold, it signals a great time. When our night shall lengthen and worries are lost in ice. Our sister does not agree, but she does not understand the power that the frost contains,” Luna said.

“So, what brings you here, then?” Synth asked.

“There is something that troubles us deeply. Although we may not go into details, it is safe to assume that something is amiss in our forest. We would like thee to investigate the problem in a few months. Thou are not needed for the Winter Wrap Up, and we have given thee a pardon for the event. See to it that thou are in the forest to watch over the… magic,” Luna said.

“Why are you telling me now?” Synth asked.

“During these upcoming months, we will be exhausting ourselves with the night rotation. Tis best we inform thee beforehand,”

“Okay then, was that everything you came here for?” Synth asked.

“Actually, there was something else…” Luna said, indicating Vera’s direction.

“Anything said here, stays here, alright Vera?” Synth asked.

“I get it, keep secrets,” Vera said.

“Very well, we have received information of a traveler that has stumbled into thy town. Thou may not knowest this, but he is wanted under the most notorious list in Canterlot. There is a high bounty for his head, and we’d like to know if thou knowest where he is lodged,” Luna said.

“Arty? What could he have done?” Synth asked.

“Arty… is presumed a menace to society and labeled a witch, having lived for longer than any normal pony,” Luna said.

“Last I saw him, he was in the hospital. He had this weird story you should ask him about that should; it clear things up,” Synth said.

“We have searched the medical clinic, he has vanished recently, and we needed to find him before he has disappeared once again,” Luna said.

“Then I don’t know where he went. He did say he was going for the freegrounds, but it was just a rumor. It sounded like a strange place, so I doubt it exists,” Synth said.

“The freegrounds… let us assure you… the truth can be a bit strange,” Luna said, before starting to leave. She noticed the package on the table, and stopped in her tracks.

“This package… the material has not been used in decades. Where hast thou acquired this?” Luna questioned.

“It was in the mail,” Synth said.

“Open it,”

Synth went over and opened the package. Before he even pulled it out, he could tell what it was. A slab with a symbol appeared in front of him as he once again tried to read the inscription below it. Luna leaned closer and read it.

“Feast,” She read, pointing to the symbol.

“What does the rest say,” Synth asked.

“We have not the slightest clue. That writing is older than even us. For now, keep this on thee. We may return for it, but it seems befriending a convict has rewarded thee,” Luna said, before walking out the door.

“You helped a criminal?” Vera asked.

“He wasn’t a criminal, he was just misunderstood,” Synth said.

‘Sounds like somepony you know,’ Shade said.

‘But you actually were a criminal… say, where’ve you been?’ Synth asked, although grateful for the quiet.

‘I’ve been watching… mostly because I’m feeling pretty bad right now. I can’t explain it, but your welcome for the day off,’ Shade said.

“It’s getting late, I think I’m going get some sleep. I’ve had a long day,” Synth said.

“I’m going to stay up a little bit, watch the snow fall,” Vera said.

Synth went to his room, quickly getting ready for bed and lying down. He looked up at the ceiling, feeling Shade’s unrest in the back.

‘Tomorrow, we’re having a field day in the forest,’ Shade said.

Synth agreed, knowing that if he didn’t, Shade could easily take control for a few minutes and cause some uproar in the town. This way, he could practice his spells and get Shade to blow off steam at the same time. They’d only done it two other times, and one of them involved breaking down a few trees and making a kebab of some of the more hostile woodland creatures from the fallen branches. (They agreed not to ever tell Fluttershy they had gotten a squirrel on accident. Even Shade knew when Life or Death was not an option.)

‘So, what was up with Artemis? He seemed kind of weird, even for a future Mal,’ Shade said.

‘You believed his story?’ Synth asked.

‘It’s true, and what he told you about the Mal, all true,’ Shade said.

‘I thought the cold had just gotten to his head,’ Synth said.

‘Nah, he’s pretty wise, although the cold gives him some troubles when he travels. Like the accident this morning,’ Shade said.

‘Well if you can vouch for him, then the truth really is Colder than Fiction,’ Synth said.

‘Shut up,’

Author's Notes:

Side chapter, hope nobody minds. But I wanted to put something about the cold before Winter Wrap Up, coming up next. I didn’t realize the giant skip in between these episodes until I started prepping for this chapter. Also, I was bored waiting for my editor to edit these chapters, so I typed up some random stories that sounded interesting. One’s a LoL crossover(More or less) and the other is based off the Organization, and gives background. It might detract a little bit of time from this story, but I’m only working on them when my editor won’t edit.
Next Time: Eversnow Tundra, The Everfree has more to hide than even Luna can imagine.