Down in the market, Synth's shifting eyes were rapidly flickering neon-red as the memories of his Laguna's birthday mishap kept swimming through his mind... that is, until he felt a familiar Troll's hair brushing up against his shoulder, prompting him to turn and see a confused and concerned Branch.

  Synth: Heh-Hey, (crouching down to hug Branch) Dubstep! (springing back up, lifting Branch off the ground) Always great to see you, bro!

  Branch: Uh, yeah, great to see you too, Synth. (Synth setting him down) So, I just saw you there and thought you might—I dunno—need some help?

  Synth's smile quickly faded from his face.

  Synth: A'ight, truth time, bro- I kinda do. You see, every year, I contribute two things to Laguna's birthday- the perfect party and the perfect present. But now it's tomorrow, and get this- she's no-go on the party, yo!

  Branch: Well, that means you just need to focus on one thing, so... that's a good thing, right?

  Synth: What it means is that her perfect present needs to be twice as perfect! One book about the science-y stuff she likes ain't gonna cut it! And if I can't get her somethin' better than that, then...

  Before Synth could finish what he was saying, he spotted a stall that was selling Seacorn plushies of various colors. Upon seeing this, the Techno ambassador's face immediately brightened.

  Synth: That's it!

  Branch: A Seacorn snuggle toy?

  Synth: Not just a Seacorn snuggle toy. Back at Techno Reef, Laguna had one named Whinny. She had them since she was a baby, and they were just the cutest little thing... but she hasn't seen them since Queen Barb straight-up wrecked the reef.

  Branch: Are you suggesting what I think you are?

  Synth: R-R-R-R-Road trip- except it's technically not on the road 'cause we'll be travelin' through the water!